Before the week 6 of the 2010 WPS season kicked off, former Pali Blues were already making headlines. With the United States Women’s national team set to take on Germany next Saturday (ESPN 2 at 3pm local time), coach Pia Sundhage called upon 22 players to report for training camp. Among the 22 players, was none other than former Blues and current Boston Breakers defender, Amy LePeilbet. Her teammate on the Breakers, Lauren Cheney, will not be able to participate in the match however due to “a personal commitment”.
Speaking of the Breakers, they welcomed FC Gold Pride to the friendly confines of Harvard Stadium. Seeking to end their 4-game winning streak, the Breakers came on strong. While Cheney was able to assist on Boston’s first goal, it wasn’t enough as Marta scored a brace to lead FC Gold Pride to its 5th straight win of the season.
“They play hard, it’s a physical game and someone was on my back and I just reached for it a little and got a toe on it, it’s not a pretty goal,” commented Cheney on the Breakers goal. “We worked for it and we got it.”
The victory marks a new winning streak record for the young league as well. Other Blues participating in the historic win include Carrie Dew and Ali Riley who played throughout all 90 minutes, and super sub Kandace Wilson who entered a lot earlier than normal in the 62nd minute. Despite a studs up challenge from a Boston player in the 70th minute, Wilson was able to finish out the match.Other Saturday night action also included the Philadelphia Independence visiting “that toddlin’ town” known as Chicago. Unfortunately for the Red Stars, Philadelphia did the toddlin’ as they emerged victorious by the score of 1-0. Valerie Henderson backed up Karina LeBlanc, while Danesha Adams continued her new role as super sub, entering the match at the 88th minute mark for US international Amy Rodriguez. On the other side of the field, Whitney Engen played all 90 minutes in the loss, while Britney Klein was an unused sub.
On Sunday, the St. Louis Athletica and Sky Blue FC played to a 2-2 draw. Kendall Fletcher started the match for the Athletica, but came off at halftime for Anita Asante. Speaking of Asante, she was involved in a trade with Sky Blue FC that sent former Blues India Trotter from St. Louis to New Jersey.
“We need someone like India, who is versatile and able to play in the back as well as up front as an attacker,” commented Sky Blue FC coach Pauliina Miettinen. “I’ve known India for a long time. She has a great attitude and willingness to work."
Trotter (playing mostly as sub for St. Louis while she was there) played the full 90 for Sky Blue FC along with goalkeeper Karen Bardsley.
Respecting the international FIFA calendar, the WPS will take next week off in order to have its players ready, should they be called up by the national team coaches.
