Mustang takes first loss in ECNL Group A

Mustang takes first loss in ECNL Group A
June 1, 2010

ZAREPHATH, New Jersey – It was a victory that was needed on both levels psychological and logistical.

The U16 FC Stars of Massachusetts needed to beat the Mustang FC Rampage on Monday, and just as importantly they needed to know they could beat them.

Both were accomplished in a 1-0 triumph on the final day of the ECNL PDA Invitational Girls College Showcase. The win qualified the Stars for the ECNL National Finals next month in July, helping them finish second overall behind the Mustang in the Group A Division.

What Monday’s outcome also did was hand the Mustang their first division loss of the season – they had been 8-0 – an important development considering the teams could always run into each other down the line when the stakes are at their highest.

“They’re one of the best teams in the country,” said Stars of Massachusetts coach Jason Dewhurst. “They’re aggressive and physical and tough to play against – and they had not lost a game. We wanted to prove something.”

The Stars proved patient in a match they controlled early. Striker Hayley Dowd was active all over the field as she’s lightning with the ball at her feet and a tireless worker.

The Stars connected well up front with Dowd, Emily Nasuti and Keksey McQuaid. Attacker Corey Persson had a few really good looks at scores but needed a couple attempts before she would cash in.

On a penalty kick that was set up by Dowd’s run, Persson had her attempt saved on a great play from Mustang goalkeeper Dorsa Ansari.

Persson also had two shots on a free kick service sent into the box, but it wasn’t until the second half where Dowd set her up from out wide on a ball right in front of the net that she was able to finish.

“Hayley did a great job chasing down the ball and she always hustles great for us. All I really had to do was turn and she completely set it up for me,” Persson said. “We knew Mustang was a great team and that we had to win. It was a fun game to be a part of.”
 
The Rage played a tough and gritty game that has helped them run roughshod over the league. Players like Jasmine Nickelberry, a strong holding player who always holds her own on the ball, give the team an edge.

Although, the Stars may have just chipped away at that edge with a win that might just have implications clear into nationals.

U16 FC Stars of Massachusetts

GK: Leah Dominique
D: Mia Mitsuyama, Kayla Shea, Nandini Mehta
M: Elizabetha Loring, Hayley Katkowski, Emily Nasuti
F: Hayley Dowd, Corey Persson, Keksey McQuaid

U16 Mustang SC Rampage

GK: Dorsa Ansari
D: Shannon Hennessy, Madison Bickel, Tiffany Geer, Amanda Davis
M: Kylene Hill, Cassidy Nicks, Cori Davis
F: Samantha Schrakamp, Celeste Boureille, Jasmine Nickelberry

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