Highlight Archives -- GOLD

Blue and White First in Their Divisions, Gold Second

• WHITE: In its final match away in Warrenton, White started slowly but finally shut out the Mustangs 5-0, with Maddie having her second hat trick of the season and Shanquelle and Keia knocking in one apiece. With the win, in its second season as a team, this hard-working group captured first place in ODSL D2 with an UNDEFEATED season. What an accomplishment! Congrats to the 13 players and Coach Bob for a fabulous season.
• BLUE: Away at Duff Park to face the friendly but feisty SASA Fusion White in its final match of the season, Blue controlled possession and four different players knocked in goals -- Jessica, Gillian, Sarah, and Charlotte -- for the season-ending victory. Together, Hannah, Kaitlyn, and Cookie kept a clean goal and preserved the shut-out. Blue ended its season 7-1-1, with 31 goals for and 11 against. Way to go, Blue!
• GOLD: With other games complete, Gold -- who lost only one match all season, and that one only by a goal -- landed a solid second in its division, with the one narrow loss to the division winner! Fantastic job, Gold!

WAY TO GO, WILDCATS!

May 2009 --

Strong End of Season for Gold

The Wildcats Gold team finished up a great season with an incredible win over the SSA Red Hornets on their home field today!  With a tremendous effort by the defense, a spectacular save by Brady during the second half in goal, and all the Wildcats playing to the best of their ability, the girls pulled out a decisive 3 - 0 win.  The teams were evenly matched during the first 10 minutes of play but then the Wildcats took control of the game and never let it go.  With great passing, getting the first touch on the ball and never giving up, the Wildcats were patient and finally found the back of the net before the end of the first half.  That first goal came on an assist from the backfield by Allison who sent the ball forward where Julia was waiting to run onto the ball and finish the job.  The second half was total domination by the Wildcats and Monica scored the second goal after several passing combinations in front of the Hornets net.  The final goal came on another passing combination that ended with Julia sending the ball to Monica for the big finish.  What a great way to end a fun season!  Thanks Coach Tim, Coach Manuel, Coach Eileen, Coach Bob, Coach Diane and Coach Davis.

-- reported by Tracy Davis

Solid Virginian Showing for the Academy

All three teams participated in the Virginian over Memorial Day weekend, with Blue and Gold playing 11v11 and White in the 8v8. Overall, the Academy had a solid and promising showing, with the following highlights:

• In 8v8 play in the Bronze Division, White went three for four, with 10 goals for and just 4 against, including a hard-fought 1-0 victory versus the ODSL D1 team Loudoun White (a game in which Shan took one for the team and ended up with stitches). What a great showing for this hard-working group!
• Gold, in 11v11 play in the Silver Division, started out with a strong Saturday of 8 goals for and 0 against...an unlucky Sunday morning in which, despite tremendous effort and a clear victory in possession time, the net proved elusive kept them out of the semi-finals. Thank you to Kyler and Isabelle for your help!
• For Blue in 11v11 play in the Gold Division, a strong start on Saturday with 2-1 and 3-0 wins provided momentum into a tough match against WAGS D1 MSC Elite, a closer match than the score suggests, with both teams creating opportunities. Emotionally and physically drained, Blue still had hope for a Wildcard semi-final berth through a PK shoot-out, but it was not meant to be. Thank you to Meg, Allie, and Colleen for your help!

April 2009 --

GOLD -- 4-1-1 in The Middle of the Season

Over the past two weekends, the Wildcats Gold team has faced three formidable opponents and came out of those matches with a win, a loss and a tie. On an extremely hot day in at Dickinson Park in Maryland on April 25th, the girls faced the tough TSC Thunder Extreme. In a game that the Wildcats dominated and out shot their opponents, the Wildcats were only able to find the back of the net once on a pass from Allison to Monica who took it on for the goal. While Julia had several beautiful crosses and Nancy seemed to always be on the ball first, the Wildcats fell 2 – 1 to the Extreme. On Sunday that same weekend, the Wildcats faced the GRFL Mystics on another hot day on the Draper turf. 30 minutes into the first half, Caroline expertly juggled a throw in ball and then crossed it to Kate for the big finish, ending the first half 1 – 0 Wildcats. The Mystics were able to score in the second half and the game ended in a 1 – 1 tie. On Saturday, May 2, 2009, in weather more suitable for soccer, the Wildcats went down 0-2 to the SYA Inferno early in the first half. The girls did not get defeated but rather stepped up their play and were able to tie the game up before the half ended. Meg scored on a beautiful shot from her center defense position and Virginia soon followed by intercepting a goal kick and then taking a shot that found the back of the net. In a well played second half, the Wildcats exhibited great passing and communicated well on the field. They took the lead on a ball passed from KK to Leah who finished with the game winning goal. The Wildcats secured a 3 – 2 victory!

--reported by Tracy Davis

March 2009 --

Gold: Three Wins in A Row to Open Spring WAGS Season

After its decisive win against ASA Magic Classic opening weekend 3-1, Gold's second game of the season was against the Waldorf Storm at Draper Drive Park.  It was a beautiful day for soccer and the Gold players looked great on the field.  Within the first three minutes of the game, Gold had its first score with a passing combination from Nancy to Kaitlyn (KK) and then to D'Erika for the finish.  The Cats defense switched the fields on a number of occasions which created scoring opportunities and the Gold got its second goal on a pass from Ariana on defense to Caroline and then to Leah for the finish.  The Wildcats went up by three goals when Monica stole the ball from a Storm defender and found the back of the net.  The Wildcats made the most of their shooting opportunities and the fourth goal came on a combination started by Nancy, then went to Caroline, with the finish by Julia.  The players kept the ball on the Storm side of the field for 90% of the first half.  Meg anchored an outstanding defensive group along with Kate as goalie; only one goal was let in, just before the first half ended.  The second half began and the Wildcats used the goalie by passing the ball back and allowing Allison to clear the ball out of the backfield.  There was a great moment in the 2nd half when D'Erika came close to scoring on a header from a pass from Julia.  The fifth goal came when KK intercepted a goal kick and immediately found the back of the net.  It was all Leah finding the net for the 6th goal of the day, while the final goal of the game started with Allison clearing the ball from the goal to Monica, who passed it to Kate for the finish.  There were numerous passing combinations along with the defense switching fields throughout the game which led to the team victory, 7 - 1.

Wildcats Gold earned its second victory of the weekend against the DAA Sharks on Sunday at noon.  The game was hard fought by both teams with no score in the first 20 minutes of play.  There were many great saves by Brady in goal and Gold finally found the back of the net on a play that was started by Allison, Nancy and Ariana on defense.  The defense forwarded the ball to Leah.  Leah beat the last defender with her incredible speed and scored the game's first goal.  The Wildcats second goal came soon after with a corner kick from Leah that Monica was able to finish making the score 2 - 0.  Just before the end of the first half, the DAA Sharks scored on a header from a corner kick.  Midway through the second half, Caroline threw the ball in to Leah, Leah passed it back to Caroline who crossed it to Virginia for the finish.  The Sharks were able to put another goal in against the Cats on a corner kick but the Wildcats tough defense held them and came out ahead 3 - 2 in the end.  Today's game was a great team effort with many scoring opportunities that were created by the defense. 

--reported by Tracy Davis
  

Academy Goes 6 for 9 at Liberty Cup

Despite the rainy weekend, the Academy was able to get in 9 of the 12 scheduled FPYC Liberty Cup Invitational matches, all played on turf. In the end, the 37 Academy members (and one guest) showed their familes that all their hard work, dedication, and determination is paying off., with the Gold team putting in 4 goals in 2 games and giving up 3, going 1 for 2.

Tourney summary>

November 2008 --

Both Gold and White ended their seasons on a high note, with each team playing very well in their end-of-season tourneys: Gold narrowly missed out on the finals in the Bethesda Thanksgiving Tourney, and White secured a semi-finalist berth in the FCSC Hunt Country tourney.

 

First, on an absolutely frigid weekend in Maryland over the November 15 weekend, Gold continued its solid season with a second place finish in its flight -- over two very strong teams, the Great Falls Real Force and Herndon Heat -- in the Patriot Division at the Bethesda Tourney, falling only to eventual finalist MSC Magic in the final minutes on Sunday morning (yes, our toes were numb!). With 10 goals for and 6 against, and facing very strong competition, the 12 Gold players had a weekend of which parents, fans, and the players themselves should be very proud.

 

Second, the following weekend (equally cold!), the 13 White players traveled to the FCSC Hunt Country tourney and, in their first early morning game, faced the D1 ODSL home team for a challenging match. Despite a valiant effort, White was unable to take the 3 points, but made up for it in its noontime match with a shut-out against the LFC Raiders to secure a berth in the semi-finals on Sunday. Facing the SYA Inferno WAGS team, White knew it would be a tough match and did not make it easy for the eventual finalist, keeping the score to 1-2 at the end.

 

Way to go, Wildcats!

October 2008 --

Gold: Solid Play, Weekend Split

The Wildcats started the weekend off with a win over the GRFL Mystics.  The offense of the Wildcats was strong with several team members taking shots on goal.  Kate, Caroline, and Kaitlyn (KK) gave strong offensive efforts in the first half with Allison, Monica, Nancy, and Meg pushing hard to block scoring attempts made by the Mystics.  After a 0-0 score in the first half, the Wildcats pushed ahead in the second half when Meg attempted a direct kick into the goal and D’Erika finished it off with a header, bringing the score to 1-0, where it would stay.  The Wildcats maintained their strong defense keeping the Mystics from scoring and securing another win for the team.

Unfortunately, the Wildcat’s winning streak did not continue on Sunday despite a spirited effort against the top team in the division.  It was an exciting and tense game against the SYA Titans at Draper.  Gold demonstrated excellent foot skills in the first half with solid passes and great control over the ball when playing against the Titans.  The undefeated Titans knocked in an apparent goal midway through the first half but the Wildcats breathed a sigh of relief when the goal was deemed no good due to an off-sides call against the Titans.  Brady made several saves in the first half; however, the Titans were successful in their next scoring attempt 26 minutes into the game.  The Wildcats answered the Titans’ goal when Meg passed the ball to Kate who drove it into the goal making the score 1-1 just before the halftime whistle sounded.  The Titans quickly advanced the score 2-1 in their favor 3 minutes into the second half.  The Wildcats drove the ball down the field 9 minutes later with a combination from Caroline to Brady to Monica who nailed her shot, taking the score to a 2-2 tie.  The Wildcats and Titans were a solid match for each other but the Titans got the final tally 20 minutes into the second half making the final score 3-2.  Gold will close out the fall regular season next Sunday against the CYA Galaxy at EDS field. (reported by Caldwells)

Gold has a Winning Weekend

The Wildcats started out strong Saturday against SYC Thunder Blue at Oak Marr. Meg, Virginia and Caroline drove the ball down the field in the first minutes of the game giving Thunder an indication of the aggressive offense of the Wildcats. The Thunder came back with a fast drive towards the Wildcat goal which Allison cleared and put the Wildcats back in control. The Wildcats had consistent shots on goal in the first half with Ariana taking a corner kick and then knocking the rebound over the defensive heads and into the far corner of the goal for the score 8 minutes into the game. Kaitlyn followed up with another goal 14 minutes into the half thanks to an assist from D’Erika. The Wildcats maintained their lead due to the consistent pressure they placed on Thunder’s players and Brady’s solid performance in goal. The Thunder did manage to score just before halftime, taking the score to 2-1. Kaitlyn and Caroline had several attempted shots on goal in the second half and worked hard to keep the lead. Allison and Leah secured the lead for the Wildcats with a picture perfect play 14 minutes into the half. Allison set the ball up for Leah who drove the ball into Thunder’s goal for a final score of 3-1.

The winning streak continued on Sunday against TSC Thunder Extreme in Columbia Maryland. The Wildcats showed great passing ability early in the game when Nancy made a strong pass to Virginia who drove the ball to Caroline for a clear shot on goal. The Wildcats were up 1-0. Thunder Extreme made several attempts on goal but the Wildcats defense did not allow them to finish. A key play was made by Kaitlyn in the middle of the first half when she sprinted to break up a close range opportunity by a TSC player who had broken free. Brady also made a nice save when she recovered the ball stretched off the corner of the goal. The Wildcats offense kicked in towards the end of the first half when Caroline assisted Virginia in scoring the last goal of the half making the score 2-0. The Wildcats maintained their usual pressure on the opposing team which thwarted several scoring attempts by the Thunder Extreme. The opposing team was able to score once against the Wildcats with a high kick into goal making the score 2-1 with 6 minutes left in the game. After that, the Wildcats turned up the pressure to make sure that the Thunder did not have another attempt and walked off with a well-earned victory. I do not think Coach Tim could ask for a better birthday weekend! Congratulations Wildcats.

September 2008 --

Gold Heats Up Draper with A Solid Match

The Wildcats once again heated up the new turf field at Draper Lane coming away with a 1–0 win over the DAA Sharks. With a beautiful display of soccer, every one of the Wildcats had a great game as they worked together and fought hard for today’s win. The Wildcats displayed incredible ball movement early on which continued throughout the entire game. The girls were communicating with one another as they moved the ball up the field by way of various passing combinations that included several give and go plays. After some missed scoring opportunities, the Wildcats finally found the back of net 30 minutes into the first half as Virginia landed her foot on a great cross from Leah (with great support from help from Meg and Monica). The second half started with a plethora of shots by the Wildcats. One highlight included D’Erika’s huge volley in the Shark’s goal box keeping the ball in play, allowing the Wildcats to once again have another close opportunity. Brady played a solid full game at goalie, shutting out the Sharks on every opportunity they had. Those opportunities were few and far between as the Wildcats unyielding defense cleared the ball to allow the rest of the team to dominate the entire game. It was a beautiful day with a fine display of soccer skills by the entire Wildcats squad.

-- reported by Davis family

Gold Grabs Win at Draper Field

On Sunday, the Wildcats Gold were excited to play their first game on the new turf fields at Draper Park against the Olney Lightning.  Gold took charge a few minutes into the game with a balanced effort.  They maintained pressure at both ends of the field throughout the game to walk away with a 4-1 victory.  The first excitement of the game was on the Olney offensive end as they created two close-range scoring opportunities in the first five minutes.  However; each opportunity was thwarted by a Wildcat defender hustling and stepping in to clear the ball before Olney could get their shot off - Meg the first time and then Caroline the second.  Gold got on the board first when Kaitlyn (KK) played a cross to Virginia who sent it past the Olney keeper for the score.   Ten minutes later Virginia dished out the assist to Monica who used nice footwork to sidestep the one defender in her way to give her a clear shot on goal which she finished to give Gold a 2-0 lead.  Monica scored again two minutes later on an assist from Nancy.  Also providing strong offensive efforts and some nice shots in the first half were Caroline and Leah.  On the first half defensive end, Meg and Allison played with energy and cleared most everything that came their way.

Olney opened the second half with a near breakaway but Allison kept stride and pressured the Lightning dribble allowing GK Kate to jump on and cover the ball, preventing a shot.   The fourth and final Gold score came 18 minutes in as passes by Virginia and Meg set up Monica to finish.  Olney’s only score came a few minutes later as the Lightning showed some nice footwork to get on the board. Great effort Gold!!  Gold is looking forward to another double-header next weekend as they take on the Great Falls Mystics Saturday and the DAA Sharks Sunday.

-- reported by Caldwell family

Gold Takes Home the Win against a Quick SASA Fusion White

On a steamy Sunday afternoon, Gold made its way to Stafford County to face an undefeated SASA Fusion White. Down a player (with second half keeper Kate away), Gold put in a solid performance highlighted by strong defense, including a PLAY OF THE GAME last-second clear by Meg from behind Brady, who put in a great full game in goal. Kudos to the solid finishing, including a great PK by Ariana in the waning moments that gave Gold the 3-1 edge. (Davis would be very proud of the players' much-improved accuracy in shots on goal!) Way to go, Gold!!! On to BRYC Fusion (away) and Olney Lightning (home) next weekend!

A Strong Second Half Proves Insufficient for Gold to Come Back against Strong Seneca Hornets Squad

On a humid Sunday evening wearing their new white uniforms, Gold got off to a slow start against a feisty and skilled Seneca Hornets squad at home at Oak Marr, despite the Patriot Cup momentum. With an unlucky PK call against Gold resulting in a quick 0-1 deficit ten minutes in, Gold survived a rather sloppy first half without any further breaches of the goal despite some nice drives by the Hornets (keeping Brady very busy), one of which Nancy cleared (behind Brady) from the goal at the last second in an great heads-up performance (and the PLAY OF THE GAME). With Kate taking charge in the goal in the second half (without the sun in her eyes), a new more organized Gold team emerged, and with the first half imposters banished Gold began creating its own chances. Monica put in a strong offensive performance at center mid and forward, with great support from Kaitlyn (KK), Meg, Allison, D'Erika, Nancy, Ariana, Leah, Caroline, and Virginia. Defensively, Gold held strong in the second half, with Allison, Meg, D'Erika, and others putting in solid performances, until a lapse in the 15th minute or so resulted in a 0-2 deficit. Undaunted, Gold put in a dominating last twenty or so minutes, with the ball rarely leaving the Hornets end of the field, until they were rewarded after a persistent effort -- coordinated by Monica and Virginia -- with ten minutes remaining. Parents, coaches, and fans were proud of the Gold players never-give-up attitude resulting in a narrow 1-2 loss against a very strong and skilled team, and are looking forward to the rest of the season!

August 2008 --

Academy Takes Champion Spots in Blue and Gold Division, New White Team Has Great Showing at FPYC Patriot Cup

Wow! What a weekend! On a hot and humid Labor Day weekend, facing strong opposition, the Academy went 10-1-1 (with 29 goals for and 6 goals against), with Blue and Gold both undefeated, and White in a tie for second and missing out on a spot in the finals on a tie-breaker! Results now available. Click here>

Coaches, parents, and fans are very proud of these players, and looking forward to an exciting season.

 

Academy Gets Ready for Fall Season with a Day at the FC Frederick ScrimmageFest

Blue and Gold spent a fun day in Buckeystown, MD, taking one more step toward getting ready for the upcoming WAGS season by attending the FC Frederick ScrimmageFest, a great opportunity to dust the cobwebs off and face solid competition...The weather was spectacular and, while many were sunburned by the end of the day, we all can agree that we saw Blue and Gold play some enjoyable-to-watch, competitive soccer. A big thank you to Maddie W, Meg R, and Briana F for their help on a fun day!!!

 

July 2008 --

FPYC Wildcats Academy Has a Blast at Preseason GMU Camp.... The Academy -- Blue, Gold, and White -- met up at GMU camp and had a blast the final day with the "team spirit" theme....Congrats to

• Virginia, who won the juggling challenge for the Juniors (and to Jessica, who placed second);
• Charlotte, who took MVP honors for the Juniors;
• Brady, who took the Coaches' Award; and
• Sam, whose team won the camp-wide 4v4 tourney (and Cookie and Lora, whose team took second)...

June 7, 2008

• Gold Schooled by Top Ranked Stafford Fusion Blue in Season Closer...On a sweltering 95 degree day, Stafford Fusion Blue was not the kind of opponent that Wildcats Gold needed for a moral-boosting season closer. The Fusion Blue exhibited skills on set plays, in the air, and on the ground.  Three of the Fusion’s 6 goals were off set plays (corner kicks).  They were very comfortable heading the ball and they were first-to-the-ball on the majority of occasions.  By the end of the first half Gold was down by only 3-0, thanks to wonderful saves by goalkeeper Brady.  Second-half adjustments resulted in more aggressive play by Gold.  At times there were flashes of brilliance from Gold—beautiful crosses from Kate, exquisite give and goes between Christina (CW) and Kate, good combinations from CW, Kate and Monica, and gutsy defensive stops by Allison, Ariana, and D’Erika.  Late in the second half Gold’s offense hooked up on a series of passes that resulted in a beautiful right footer from Monica that found the upper right corner of the nets.  It was enough to avoid the shut-out, but little too late to change the outcome of the game, a 6-1 loss.  However, this does not detract from the great effort that Gold exhibited all season.  They have poured their hearts into every game and left it all on the field.  Thanks for giving parents, family, friends, and fans an inspiring season.

June 1-2, 2008

• Defense Dominates Wildcats Gold Season Penultimate Game...Under midday sun and 78 degree temperatures, Gold came up against the formidable Loudoun 96G Black.  Within the first 3 minutes of the game, Loudoun Black’s speedy offense found the nets.  This was a wakeup call for Gold’s defense, who responded with an incredible effort that would last the rest of the game.  With outstanding saves from both of Gold’s keepers -- Brady and Keia, the rest of the defense (Allison, Nikki, Monica, Christina (CW), and Virginia) played with gusto to prevent further goals from the blistering offensive attack of Loudoun Black.  Spectacular saves by Keia from 3 short-range shots on goal were noteworthy. Midfield efforts from Kate, Leah, and D’Erika were also commendable.  On a day which was not one of the better games for the offense, Gold did well to end the game with a 0-1 loss.  It was indeed an outstanding effort by Gold, who exhibited improved levels of play in every aspect of the game.  Great job Gold!!!

May 24-25 (Memorial Day Weekend Tournaments)

• FPYC Wildcats Gold -- Virginian Semi-Finalists...Way to go, Gold!!!
• Congratulations to Wildcats Gold, Virginian semi-finalists with 16 goals for and only 4 against!!! The Virginian tournament started on the Saturday of the Memorial Day weekend as a chilly, breezy but mostly sunny day.  The well-rested, carb-loaded Wildcats Gold girls were ready to play. Against their first opponent, HYS Power, Gold made some very good crosses and several shots on goal. The entire defense was very good and Christina’s (CW) excellent work in the backfield stood out. Goalkeeper Brady’s alertness and flexibility kept HYS Power at bay.  Caroline scored the first goal, which was a picturesque shot from just around the goalie box.  Kate scored the 2nd goal and Leah, the 3rd, from an assist by Nikki.   Gold’s great teamwork and footskills propelled them to a 3-0 lead by the end of the half.  Although the second half produced only one goal, Gold's teamwork, tenacious defense and determined offense were still alert and strong.  Abby, the 2nd half goalie, skillfully prevented HYS from scoring.  The final goal, a close kick in by Monica, came when Monica and Leah, well positioned in front of the net, both tried to score as HYS unsuccessfully tried to block a goal.  Gold ended the first match with a 4-0 shut-out over HYS Power.
• In game 2, the Gold players returned from lunch to face FCF Academy Grey refreshed and confident after their first game win and determined to repeat their stunning performance.  The rejuvenated players continued to dominate both defensively and offensively.  They kept up the momentum, with Brady in goal, assisted by her defensive players; their teamwork kept FCF Academy Grey from finding their nets.  Monica scored the 1st goal after remarkable teamwork by a few players.  The 2nd goal resulted by a close kick in by Abby who took advantage of a fumble by FCF’s keeper.  Superb teamwork continued throughout the game as seen in the 3rd goal when Kate placed the ball at the back of the net after a stunning cross from Leah.  Leah scored the 4th goal from a combination cross by Keia and CW demonstrating glorious teamwork.  Monica scored the 5th goal for the Wildcats resulting in a score of 5-0 at the half.   The second half continued with Gold’s dominant play with Keia replacing Brady in the goal. They had several shots on goal and great crosses from the wing.  D’Erika had two beautiful shots on goal, but they did not result in any goals.  Keia made a nice save of an air ball further preventing FCF Academy from scoring and preserving the shut-out.  Caroline, Virginia and Kate scored the 7th, 8th and 9th goals.  Gold’s grit and determination shut out FCF Academy Grey in the 2nd match resulting in a score of 9-0. 
• Wildcats Gold began day 2 of the Virginian tournament match with an evenly matched game against Arlington Dynamo.  After day one’s performance, all Gold needed was to avoid a shutout to be first place in its flight.  The Dynamo was quick and aggressive, but Gold, brimming with confidence from its resounding victories on day one was equally as aggressive.  The defense was stellar and the midfield and offense were clicking on all cylinders.  Gold got on the board early with a lovely goal by Leah.  The Dynamo responded quickly with a goal, tying the game at 1-1 at the half.  The Dynamo’s offense was on the board with its second goal early in the second half.  Strong defense prevented Gold from finding the nets despite a flurry of great runs and shots on goal.  However, in the waning seconds of the game a costly mistake by the Dynamo’s defense resulted in a penalty kick by Gold.  CW easily converted the kick, tying the game at 2-2 and sealing Gold’s first place position in its flight.
• Snagging a berth in the semi-finals, Gold’s second game was against the SYC Thunder Blue, a team that defeated them 2-1 in the regular season, so it was time for revenge.  Most of the half was uneventful with the defense on both sides dominating the game (with particularly solid defense by CW, Allison, and Monica in particular), causing few offensive opportunities by either team. It was not until the final minute of the first half that a lovely run up the right wing by Keia resulted in a cross to Caroline, whose shot on goal caused the goalkeeper to bobble the ball, which rebounded, and Monica launched her shot from ten yards out to give Gold a 1-0 advantage at the half.  A determined Thunder Blue responded with 2 quick goals early in the second half and despite Gold’s spirited attempt, they were able to hold on to win the game 2-1, ending Gold’s strong showing in the Virginian tournament. Way to go, Gold -- Virginian Semi-Finalists!!!

May 17-18 -- Gold Falls in Two Well-Played Nail-biters

• Gold loses 1-2 to SYC Thunder Blue in a Nail-biting Finish, Strong 2nd Half Defense Limits Alexandria Thunder to a 4–2 Win on Sunday. Wildcats Gold suffered a 2-1 defeat to the SYC Thunder Blue in an intense, up-tempo, and downright thriller.  After giving up a goal less than a minute into the game (third time for the season), Gold settled down and played some solid defense.  Both Allison and Christina (CW) were unflappable in their defensive roles and were able to neutralize any further first-half offensive threat from Thunder Blue.  Thunder Blue exhibited great quickness, but Gold was equally as aggressive.  The offense had a quiet first half with only 2 convincing shots on goal—a right footer from Keia that just sailed wide right and one from Caroline that was beautifully saved by Thunder Blue’s goalkeeper.
• The tempo picked up in the second half with both teams exhibiting great quickness and agility.  Gold’s passing game came to life and its good ball distribution began to pose problems for Thunder Blue.  The equalizer came 10 minutes into the second half when a well executed play, built from the defense up, created a well timed right-wing cross from CW that resulted in a run-on and tap-in for goal by Caroline.  This appeared to energize Gold who exhibited great all-round play for the rest of the game that resulted in several shot opportunities.  Even Gold’s parents and fans became excited and animated in the last 15 minutes of the game, but it was Thunder Blue who prevailed in the end with a goal in the last two minutes of the game. It was a great team effort, of which all -- players, parents, fans, and friends -- should be extremely proud.
• On Sunday, Wildcats Gold began its Patriot Park home match against Alexandria Thunder under a drizzling rain-threatening sky, but ready to thrill the crowd.  Thunder was equally ready to put up a strong fight by scoring early into the game.  The Gold players were determined to match that and Caroline skillfully scored the equalizer from 8 yards out.  Defensive breakdowns by Gold complicated by a wet ball and field resulted in a flurry of first-half goals by Thunder.  The first half ended with Gold down 4-1.
• Gold returned to the field for the second half after their enthusiastic cheer ready to score and ready to put up a strong defense against their opponents.  Gold’s defense was alert and strong, the offense quick and nimble as they all exhibited a harmonious team effort in the 2nd half.  Their second goal was realized when Brady scored off a corner kick by Ariana.  The team was elated!   They continued to attempt to score but were unable to. Gold put up a very strong defense in the 2nd half and limited the Thunder to the first-half scores.  On to the Virginian for Memorial Day weekend!!!

May 3-4, 2008 --

• Gold Downed by NVSC Jr. Majestics 96 Blue 3-1. A confident Wildcats Gold suffered a 3-1 loss to an aggressive Majestics.  Less than 1 minute into the game Majestics struck when a Gold defensive breakdown resulted in an easy tap in for goal.  For much of the first half, Majestics kept up a blistering offensive attack, exhibiting aggression both on and off the ball.  Gold was forced to play defense for most of the first half.  Allison, Ariana and Virginia worked tirelessly in defense to prevent further goals.  Abby had some great saves in goal before she was unfortunately kicked in the head by a Majestics offensive player going after a ball deemed a fifty-fifty ball by the referee.  Abby left the field and had to be replaced in goal by Keia.  Gold gave up their second goal from a set play just outside the penalty area.  It was not until the last 2 minutes of the half that Gold generated some offense when Monica had a good run and shot on goal that sailed over the crossbar.  Caroline quickly followed with a shot of her own that was beautifully saved by the Majestics keeper.  Gold, however, finished the half down 2-0.
• It was apparent that Gold benefited from the halftime strategy session, as their offensive attack picked up steam in the second half.  Monica and Leah had a series of give and go sequences, one of which resulted in a nice, easy finish by Leah who caught the Majestics keeper badly positioned.  Caroline also had a few offensive opportunities, but Gold’s late offensive spark was not enough to prevent a 3-1 loss to the Majestics.
• A Rested Gold Dominates LMVSA Patriots 96 in a Comfortable 4-2 Victory. After a week break from match play, a rested Gold dominated the game between LMVSA Patriots 96 with a comfortable 4-2 victory.  Gold was clicking on all cylinders throughout the game.  It began in the third minute when a midfield pass from Allison resulted in good run up the right wing by Ariana who produced a wonderful right footer that eluded the outstretched hands of the Patriots keeper and found the lower right corner of the goal.  Although Patriots responded with a goal 5 minutes later, Gold kept up the offensive attack and had several opportunities. Monica, Allison, and D’Erika in the midfield created a string of outstanding passes that resulted in shot opportunities for Ariana and Kate.  Kate had a few great shot-opportunities in quick succession.  Her first shot barely went wide left and her second shot was beautifully saved by the Patriots keeper.  Sweet redemption followed shortly thereafter when a midfield pass from Monica to Kate caught the Patriots keeper off her line, resulting in a beautiful finish by Kate.  Before the half Gold had several other shot opportunities.  Monica joined the action and had a few good shots from long range.  The shot of the day, and indisputably the goal of the match, came when the Gold offensive players, well guarded by the Patriots defense, passed the ball back to Allison in defense.  Allison unleashed an amazing long-range shot on goal from 25 yards out that ended up in the top left corner of the goal.  It was a textbook display.  Gold ended the half with a comfortable 3-1 lead.
• Both teams traded a goal in the second half, but Gold always looked in control.  A beautiful display of shot passes at the 18 yard line yielded Gold’s fourth goal.  At least 5 girls were involved in these passes before Ariana finally finished the play.  It was obviously a sign of their confidence. The defense was not to be outdone. Allison, Virginia, and Ariana (when she played defense) offered solid defensive support.  It was indeed a solid and commanding display by Gold.  Go Wildcats!!!

April 19-20, 2008

• Gold Downed by CYA Chaos under Difficult Field Conditions. Under bright sunny skies, 78 degree temperatures, and a slight westerly breeze, Gold was set for a good day of soccer, but the CYA Chaos had other ideas.  Like its sister team Blue encountered last weekend, Gold faced rugged field conditions (although the grass was mowed!), making it difficult for Gold's passing game to gain momentum.  Eight minutes into the game, Chaos drew first blood.  A defensive breakdown and an unlucky touch by the goalkeeper resulted in an easy tap-in by the Chaos.  Gold responded 3 minutes later when a through ball from Christina (CW) resulted in indecision by the Chaos goalkeeper while coming out for the ball.  Caroline was able to make a great interception and tap-in to an open goal.  Chaos quickly responded with goal number 2 and defensive breakdowns by Gold resulted in a third goal before the half. 

• Much of the second half was uneventful.  Good regulation saves by goalkeeper Abby prevented further bleeding for Gold.  It was not until the last 5 minutes of the game that Gold exhibited some offensive spark.  Another great through ball by CW gave Monica a good opportunity but she was unable to get off a shot on goal.  Leah quickly followed with a cross from the left wing to Keia, whose shot sailed over the goalpost.  Gold threatened again with another left wing pass into Caroline but she was unable to penetrate the Chaos goalkeeper.  It was Chaos who later sealed the game with a goal in the last minute of the game to defeat Gold 4-1.
• All in all, Gold played well under tough field conditions.  Allison was solid in defense and exhibited great ball distribution.  CW also exhibited great ball distribution and is slowly becoming a master of the long ball.  A 1-2 Gold take on SYC Thunder Blue on Sunday April 27 during week 3 of the season.

April 12-13, 2008

• On Saturday, FPYC Wildcats Gold made good of a delayed season opener with a 2-1 win over the LMVSC Patriots 96 on Saturday. Gold scored late in the first half when Christina (CW) received a cross from Allison from about 30 yards out and was able to stave off the LMVSC pesky defense with a good run and tap in from 12 yards. Early in the second half, it was CW who scored again to put Gold up by 2. The LMVSC Patriots 96 responded quickly with a goal, but tenacious defense and solid overall team-play by Gold prevented them from finding the nets again. Gold threatened again late in the game but shots from CW and Brady sailed wide right, and one by Caroline went over the goal. CW exhibited outstanding play from both the offensive and defensive end of the field. Monica and Allison made a number of great crosses from the wings. Good mid-field play was also exhibited by Ariana and Kate, while Allison made some very good defensive stops in the second half. Overall, a very good team effort and a great start to the season by Gold.
• On Saturday, Gold's 4-0 loss to a physical PWSI Courage White is no indication of the grit and determination displayed by the team.  Three of the 4 goals were on set plays from just outside the box.  For the first 10 minutes of the game, time of possession clearly favored Gold, but fortunes changed when the goalkeeper stepped outside the goal area during a punt.  The infraction yielded a goal for PWSI.  Inspired by this goal, the PWSI offensive attack had more than 20 shots on goal which resulted in some fine saves in goal by Keia. PWSI managed 3 more goals by the half.  A rejuvenated Wildcats Gold dominated the second half but was unable to find the back of the nets.  Very good ball distribution by D’Erika, Monica and Christina in the midfield gave good opportunities to Caroline and Ariana who both had 3 shots each on goal, Brady who had 2 shots and Monica and D’Erika 1 shot each.  A solid defensive effort was also exhibited by Virginia.  It was a tough game, but Gold left it all on the field.  Great team effort! Way to go Gold!!!