USWNT Tops Japan 2-0

On Saturday, the USWNT played in their first of a two game series against Japan. The USWNT came out on top 2-0, and showed evident progress after April's match-up against England. Seems like that training camp helped the group focus on some weknesses, as the USWNT were more effective in dealing with pressure from the opposing players, were not as stretched, and were able to establish an attacking rhythm.

Game Summary- The game went well for the United States. They not only outshot their opponents, but had a higher percentage of their shots on goal, in comparison with the Japanese. The first goal in the match came off a set piece. Ali Krieger sent the ball into the 18, where Wambach in one graceful, fluid movement, rose to the ball just feet from the GK, wound up, and snapped forward, making contact with the ball which soared into the net shortly after. A perfect execution and a beautiful header marked the USA's first of the match, and Abby's first since November. Only a little bit later, Wambach had a run towards goal, and she cut a ground cross to A-rod who put it home, however, it could have just as easily not gone in, as it hit the post, and crossed the line thanks to the backspin on the ball. Although I thought that this game would end 4-0 now that the game was in our hands, it stayed at that score for the remainder of the match. The USA could easily have walked away with 5 or 6 goals in that match however. Wambach, along with a few other players, had chances on goal that were squandered away. However, they got 2 and got the win.

Injury Whammy Strikes- I hoped that the Injury curse would leave the United States and eveyone else alone, but it looks like the WNT just couldn't avoid it. It loomed over Columbus Crew Stadium Saturday night, and landed on someone who has had terrible luck to begin with. Tarpley, a player who many people were happy to see finally return to the WNT, and especially in time for World Cup, entered the game in the 2nd half. After she went up for a ball and landed hard on her right foot, she limped off the pitch and left on crutches. The news everyone was hoping not to hear was delivered. After having her first game back in a while, and after suffering an ACL tear and making her comeback, Tarpley would be missing the World Cup due to an injury, having been named to the WWC roster only 5 days earlier, and playing the first of 3 friendlies before leaving for Germany with the rest of the team. Some things are just really messed up. Its also been reported that Mitts, who suffered a hamstring injury in February and recovered to make the world cup roster, may not make it because of complications/a possible injury. I wonder who they'll get to replace Tarp, and possibly Mitts. Wishing the speediest recovery to Tarpley, and to Mitts if she is in fact injured.


Denise

Over Men and Horses, Hoops and Garters, Lastly Through a Hogshead of Real Fire! In This Way Mr. B Will Challenge WPS!

Hello all! For anyone here who is a Beatles fan, I'm sure you enjoyed the title of this post, as it was a witty use of the lyrics in the circus-themed song "Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite." Of course, I altered some of the words to fit Mr. Borislow's circus-like antics involving magicJack. The club was already a joke, as the identity and location was completely changed due to one owner's whims, and as they have not communicated anything to the public at all. But its gotten more ridiculous in the three-ring circus known as magicJack. Besides embarrassing attendance numbers which fans in DC would likely have topped easily (seeing as it was the team's home fan base...), the team has now lost its head coach. And, there doesn't seem to be any efforts to replace him. In fact, since the team has not been complying with the league rules in a number of different ways, they have been penalized. the team lost their 3rd and 4th round picks in the 2012 Draft, and have been docked a point in the league standings. And now, as for the whole coaching situation, Mr. Borislow is leaving it up to the players, in particular, probably team leaders/captains. Mike Lyons quit his post after magicJack's last match, and it was reported that he had an argument with the refs and also a verbal confrontation with Abby Wambach. He used more personal reasons in explaining his resignation as head coach, but nonetheless he is no longer their coach. He is now only a consultant. The coaching is left to the players. This could be a good or bad thing. Sky Blue FC's 2009 championship team won after going through coaches constantly, and then having Rampone as the player-coach. Maybe player-coaches are better for them. they can do things they way they want, and maybe its a more effective training and game environment. Not only that, but maybe there will be less stress on the players. However, a situation like this could be potentially distracting and could maybe make some players lose focus. But, I'm confident they'll be able to work well in these circumstances. There a few players from Sky blue's '09 winning team that have experiencd this type of situation, including Rampone, who was the player coach. Also, magicJack is loaded with World Cup roster players, and many other highly talented and professional athletes, who I'm sure will be able to handle the situation smoothly.

Best of luck to magicJack! Let's not forget, they're the only team still undefeated! It'll take a lot to knock them down.

Denise

USWNT Women's World Cup Roster Announced

A few days ago, the World Cup roster for the USWNT was finalized and released to the public. Here's the team:


GK: Solo, Barnie, Loyden

DEF: Rampone, Sauerbrunn, Cox, Krieger, Mitts, Buehler, LePeilbet

MID: Boxx, Heath, Lloyd, Rapinoe, Lindsey, O'Reilly, Tarpley

FWD: A-Rod, Cheney, Morgan, Wambach

The roster delivered no real surprises. I'm happy with the selections. The only thing I would have done differently is picked Harris as the third string keeper. but honestly, it doesn't matter, since 3rd string keepers normally sit the bench the whole time. still, as a young and talented keeper I feel she deserved it. Loyden however, is also a skilled keeper who will do just fine. There's no doubt in my mind that these players deserved their spots and worked hard to get them, and I'm sure they will make the USA proud.

Don't forget, there are 2 matches coming up for the USWNT. They will be playing a double header against Japan on May 14th, and May 18th. Here's the TV schedule in case you forgot:

May 14th
USWNT vs. Japan
Fox Soccer Channel- 6:30pm ET

May 18th
USWNT vs. Japan
ESPN2- 7pm ET

Be sure to catch these games! The new USWNT jersey will make its debut for the first time in a match. After May 14th, the jerseys will be available for purchase with customizing options.


Mark your calendars if you haven't already!

Denise

Official Song for Germany 2011 Announced

You know you're getting really close to the kick-off of the Women's World Cup tournament when the official song is announced. Come to think of it, we are only about 6-7 weeks away from the competition! And as we get closer, more and more aspects of the tournament are being announced/completed. The official song of the WWC 2011 is Sean Kingston's "Ready or Not." I hope the song sounds just as good as the song title! I'm not sure if the song has actually be released, but it was mentioned that it will be used in stadiums and clubs in Germany very soon.

We just keep getting closer to the World Cup! Only a little more than a month away! I grow more excited by the day. June 26th will be here soon enough.

Denise

The Pre-World Cup Injury Whammy

Before all major competitions, whether it be a World Cup or an Olympics, there is always some poor soul hit with what I like to call "The Injury Whammy." Its described as a bunch of bad fortune/luck, or a "black cloud", and it lands on a player/number of players, prohibiting them from playing in said competition. This whammy and bad luck always floats around before these major competitions and it always lands on someone. And, this time is no different. There seems to be a trend happening right now, where many top/key players are falling prey to the curse. So far, Kate Gill of Australia, Segerstrom of Sweden, and Maroszan of Germany, have all been reported as having sever knee injuries (ACL tears) and will subsequently miss the World Cup. Also, a friend of mine who is a fan of England's squad said that both Faye White and Fara Williams are/might be injured. The evidence is clear that the whammy is in fact making its rounds. Four teams have already been hit. Let's hope and pray that no other players have to miss the competition! Its a dream to play in the World Cup, and these players work incredibly hard to get to the tournament. It is a shame to see these players miss it, and it would be a shame to have to see any more players become injured and miss the competition. I'm wishing all the teams luck, in hopes that their players stay healthy.

Denise

News Aplenty

Hey everyone. I've been away from this blog for a long time! Didn't even realize it, but its practically been a month! College work has kept me busy, along with other day to day things, and the blog has taken a backseat. But, its time we catch up on some important news. I plan to have the first post in my "WPS Review" series either later today on Week 4, or at the latest by next week based on Week 5. First though, let's do a general update.


USWNT Action Kicks Off- The USWNT will be playing a number of friendlies quite soon. On May 14th and May 18th, the USWNT will face off against Japan. Both games will be on TV. The game on the 14th will be aired live on Fox Soccer Channel at 6:30pm ET, while the game on the 18th will be broadcast on ESPN2 at 7pm ET. Also, the USWNT's World Cup send-off will be played against Mexico, in Red bull arena, located in Harrison NJ. That will be live on ESPN2, with coverage starting at 2pm ET. Also to note, the USWNT will debut their new World cup jerseys in the first game against japan. In fact, if I have the time, I'll write a post on the jerseys.


WPS Is Back- That's right, the WPS is back, and its already going on Week 5! Week 4 just finished up, with 3 games having been played on Sunday alone. Here are this week's scores:

magicJack 2-1 Philly independence (Wambach and DeVanna scoring for Freedom, with diMartino netting one for Philly.)

Boston Breakers 1-0 Sky Blue FC (Goal for Buehler)

WNY Flash 3-0 ATL Beat (2 for Sinclair and 1 for Marta)


And the standings of the league are as such:

WNY flash GP: 3 PTS: 7

magicJack GP: 2 PTS: 6

Boston Breakers GP: 4 PTS: 6

ATL Beat GP: 4 PTS: 4

Philly Independence GP: 2 PTS: 1

Sky Blue FC GP: 3 PTS: 1


-Note that some teams have played more games than others. WNY Flash has 7 points accumulated over 3 games. MagicJack has only played in 2 games and is only a point behind, and is the only team who remains undefeated. Boston has played in 4 games, but has only won 2 of them. The Beat have played in 4 games, and only have 4 points. Sky Blue is doing the worst after playing 3 games and only having one point. An order is starting to establish itself already, however, as we've seen in past seasons, teams fall into slumps halfway through, or even towards the end, and also take into account that the world cup will have a huge effect on many of the teams in the league. During World Cup, teams will be relying on youth players for the most part, which can turn the tides and cause some changes to take place within the league table.


I haven't watched the WPS' FSC Sunday fixture between sky Blue and Boston yet, and I will try and squeeze in a Week 4 review soon if possible. If not, expect one on Week 5.

Thanks for reading! I will try my best to keep up with the blog despite being rather busy! Summer vacation is almost here so then I'll have plenty of time to focus!

Denise

WPS Gets Ready To Make Its Return Once Again

The 3rd season is upon us! With only about 2 days left until the start of the season, its hard to believe that much time has passed. I look back and realize just how much time has elapsed since the 2010 Championship final, and here we are again, about to witness a new season and a fresh slate for all the teams. Time to witness new rivalries, more outstanding goals and players, and more exciting matches! Let's take a look back and a glimpse ahead of what's to come. First, let's take a look at the league's biggest off-season events.


FC Gold Pride collapses and Chicago Red Stars suspend operations- This off-season was rather tumultuous, in that a few teams across the league suffered financial problems, and only one came out alive. FCGP and CRS were not so lucky. Gold Pride completely shut down after the investors could no longer support the team. This in particular led to major upset and shock from the fans, and the harsh reality hit that in a growing league, even the Champions aren't exempt from folding. Chicago also suffered from not being able to find investors. However, instead of ceasing operations completely, they simply suspended them in the hopes of finding an investor in time to rejoin the 2012 season.


The rescue and identity change of the Washington Freedom- The Freedom were also in danger of folding, and had difficulties finding investors as well. Washington did find an investor just in time, however, and that salvation proved pivotal in the future of the WPS, since losing 3 teams would have been more than enough to put the whole league under. Dan Borislow, the inventor of the magicJack, and current owner of the Washington Freedom, likely saved the league the day he decided to rescue the DC based team. However, this change of ownership did not come without consequences. Borislow changed the name of the team to magicJack, and also changed the location/base of the team from DC to Florida.



Season Preview

Now that we've addressed some of the big league-wide events, let's take a look ahead! What are the teams and what can we expect from them? Who are the front-runners? Who experfienced the most change? Let's start in order of the teams we'll see:


Boston Breakers- For the second year in a row, we'll see Boston play in the first match of the season. Over the offseason, Boston acquired Buehler, who will further strengthen the back line, forming a strong tandem with National teammate LePeilbet. Also acquired was the young Kelley O'Hara, who will add more depth and speed to Boston's attack. O'Hara formed a deadly trio when playing alongside Marat and sinclair. She could hang with the big girls and will no doubt bring her capabilities to the Breakers, who in past season have shown a strong defense, and an at times average offense. Boston hasn't changed much, and it seems they followed the philosophy of "if ints not broke, don't fix it." In the past Boston have always been top contenders. In '09, they just missed out on a spot in the play-offs, and in '10, they hosted the Super Semifinal. As in the past, I think Boston will be in the upper half of the table. I see Boston as a contender, but not a champion.


Atlanta Beat- During the off-season, it seems that ATL did nothing but lose key players and generally get worse. As if that was possible! I know I poke fun at the seemingly pathetic Beat squad, but they have something that pretty much no other team in this league does. The fact that the Beat will be virtually unaffected by National team call-ups in light of the WWC, means they will maintain chemistry and be together for the majority of the season. This bond cvould prove vital for ATL to take advantage of other teams who are missing key players and gain some points. Underdogs are a force to be reckoned with in WPS, and its safe to say ATL is likely the biggest. They picked up a few good players, such as Whitehill and Lloyd, but that's about it. Probably thei most devastsating loss was their relinquishing of Solo. Losing the best keeper in the world when your defense isn't exactly reliable means more problems. They don'tuch of a roster to boast of, but despite the fact that the chemistry will be there throughout World Cup, I predict another bottom-feeder position for them.


Sky Bue FC- Sky Blue is a team who balanced a loss of key players with an equal gain of skilled and youthful ones. While sky Blue lost Rampone, Kai, and Averbuch, they acquired Nogeuira, Heath, and Long. It seems they traded experience ofr youth. With a new coach, Jim Gabarra, the team will likely have a new outlook and even a style of play. also, some more solidarity since the team has gone through numerous coaches in the past 2 seasons. The '09 Champions will be looking to land a play-off spot after a disappointing finish last year in comparison to their '09 season. The new players can either help or hurt the squad, since losing some experience could prove to be a wekness. However, these new players are very talented and have excelled with the national team as well, so this change could be what Sky Blue needed. I was able to watch Sky blue play in one of the games in the Tournament of champions held in Turkey through a webcast, and they played excellently. They were on their game, and if they play like that this season, they will be a threat to anyone. Don't expect Sky blue to be chumps. I think they'll be right there with everyone else.


Philadelphia Independence- Just on paper this team looks like a huge contender. With a star-studded squad, these ladies are likely to go far. If they reproduce the form they had in their extremely successful inaugural season, and combine it with some new talent, this team looks good quite good to repeat and maybe even take it all. Joining the cheesesteaks are Tasha Kai, and the stellar flank middie Megan Rapinoe. After losing Seger, one of the most important midfielders of last season, Rapinoe will do well to link up with national teammate Lori Lindsey. Kai's speed and nose for goal will no doubt help Philly's forwards, particularly A-Rod and Sanderson, up front. These additions bring speed, and that's one of Philly's strongest points. The Indy maintained most of the talented squad responsible for last year's great success, and they simply added more stars, while only losing a few key players. All I can say is this: watch out for Philly.


Washington Freedom (magicJack)- Probably the most notable series of events that took place in the past few months was the management snafu that plagied the team for the majority of the off-season. After Dan Borislow took over ownership of the team, he made drastic changes. He changed the team's name to "magicJack", and ripped the club from its DC home base (where its been for about 10 years now) and moved it to Florida. Originally he was going to split the home games, but now the team is situated in Florida. The negligence of the fans and messy aspect of the business end did not permeate the actual squad management however. The Freedom has only lost a few key players, in long, McLeod, and Bompastor, but they've more than made up for it in acquisitions. Solo, Rampone, Masar, Loyden, etc. are just a few examples of the players joining the Freedom in 2011. Also, 2011 marks the return of forward Lisa DeVanna, who was absent most of last season due to a broken leg. In the past, the Freedom have always been top contenders, making it to the play-offs both in '09 and '10. I am a biased Freedom fan, but you'd have to be ignorant to say this doesn't look like a Championship squad. I think the Freedom will be in the top 4 as in the past years. I think they have a good chance to win, however, like a few other squads in the league, WWC call-ups will take a toll. Washington will be hit hard since many of their players are national team players, so they'll have to rely on draft picks Klingenberg and Press. Like almost every other team, they will have to rely on inecxperienced players to get the job done. Despite the rather poor business and organization management going on within the club, the team has still benefitted in the off-season and is looking strong.


Western NY Flash- Last but not least, we have rookie franchise Flash. While the flash may be a new team to the league, their squad can be labeled anything but a rookie roster. They may be newcomers to the WPS, but this squad is packed with experience and talent. Just to name a few of the highlight players, we have Riley, Harris, Seger, sinclair Averbuch, morgan, Marta, and the list goes on. This is a star-studded squad that mirrors the now defunct FC Gold Pride. This team is going to be a huge contender, and despite it being their inaugural season, will be favorites to win.


There you have it folks. Of course, its impossible to tell this early on, especially without seeing any teams play a bit first. What looks like a good team on paper may lack organization and chemistry on the field. However, as we've seen in past years, sometimes the squads don't lie. I'm super excited for a new season, and I can't wait to see all the teams and players back at it again! After a long wait, WPS is once again here.


Denise