Standings/Schedule/Recap Archive

United Pounce Early, Hold Off Crush

Alexandria, VA -- Ashburn United met old rival Annandale Crush on Sunday on a beautiful turf field. There would be no excuses of poor bounces or not enough space. The team who wanted it more and played better soccer would prevail. At first, it didn't appear like it was going to be much of a contest, but this heated battled ended in a one goal difference with United winning 3-2.

United scored in the first minute when Katie dropped into the midfield and slotted a through-ball to Chrystal running off the right flank. Chrystal slid it past the Crush keeper for an early lead. A few minutes later, Hannah played long to Jaimie who went around the left fullback and hit the far corner of the net for a 2-0 lead.

The halftime score was 2-0 and this lasted until about the 60th minute when Chrystal laced a 30-yard direct kick into the top corner. The Crush did score two late in the game to get some momentum but United held on to win.

Coach Sheehan said, "In the first half, we moved the ball around very well. We looked more creative and purposeful than we had all year. The turf and space certainly helps, but the mindset has to be there. It was nice to see. The midfield was very effective. Brittani was all over the place. Alyssa, Brooklynne, and Karli were very efficient passers. Julia and Michelle worked very hard to get back on defense. And Chrystal created many crossing opportunities."

Man U Gets Its Revenge

Ashburn, VA -- LUYAA Man U fell to ASC United in the final of the PWSI Icebreaker in March, but easily handled United in the WAGS rematch, 4-0. They scored two goals in each half. United forced the Man U keeper into a few saves, but managed only a few corners and quality chances.

Coach Sheehan said, "To be honest, we didn't play with much heart overall. Some individuals tried hard. We never got into a groove. The team is probably a bit tired, mentally and physically, from a long spring. But one team needs to step up and go after it. That was not us today. If we take on this last weekend coming up, like we did in the PWSI tournament, we could pull out a winning season for the 8th straight time."

United Spirit Prevails

Ashburn, VA -- SYC Fury came west to face Ashburn United on Sunday. United was coming off two disappointing losses to start the season and did not want a third. The hungrier team would come out on top. The result was a hard earned 2-1 victory to United.

United won most of the 50/50 balls and played more delibrately and with more spunk than they had the last few games. SYC did however get the first goal against the run of play. But United came back immediately with a great build up for a goal. It ended with Chrystal heading through to Jaimie who took it to the goal line and crossed in low and hard to Michelle who punched it into the roof of the net.

United should have been up 2-1 before half when Chrystal made a great run on her own and chipped the keeper for a brilliant finish. But the goal was called back for a phantom foul. United would have to keep up the pressure in the second half.

The second half contained a few SYC chances that were either missed wide or snuffed out by Aneesha in goal. United started to build up chances but didn't get the go-ahead goal until Katie fought on into the box and volleyed past the keeper. United kept the ball the rest of the way and finished off the win.

"We deserved the win," said Coach Sheehan. "We could have won by more but a win is a win. I like the desire we showed today. We were particularly dominant in the midfield, winning a lot of balls and keeping better possession than in the recent past. Chrystal had another impressive performance in every way. Karli was also particularly outstanding."

United's win should help them up the standings as the season's midpoint approaches.

Be Champions!

Woodbridge , VA -- One year ago, United entered the PWSI Icebreaker with one injured substitute and a backline with little experience. Some timely goals and career performances at all positions led to a tournament championship. In this year's version, United had a deep bench, but faced stiff competition from the start. But once again, adversity bred resilience and ASC United once again held the first place trophy, defeating LUYAA ManU 2-1 in the final.

Coach Sheehan had this to say afterward. "You must expect to win and believe. We were up against it with an opening game against McLean. But if you rally around each other and know your opponent, good things can happen. A draw could be enough with a little luck. Well, we got more than that! There was no doubt that we could win this whole thing."

United had to win the group in order to advance to the final. The first match pitted them against the #1 seed, WAGS Div 1 powerhouse Destiny. The Destiny clobbered United in August, 6-1. Outside the United huddle, there wasn't much reason to think this score would be any different.

"Our game plan was to let them get outside. They do that so well. So fine, go ahead. But you will have to bring it into the middle to score and we will be waiting. Discipline was critical against such quality and we displayed that discipline better than we had all year. Perhaps it was out of fear of their potent attack. I don't care. But except for one brilliant goal by them, we were strong. We outchanced them, hands down."

United gave up the first goal, but equalized when Brooklynne calmly slid one in to Jaimie for a left-footed finish. With ten to go, Chrystal buried a loose ball from about 18 yards out to take the lead. United held on though tough midfield pressure and finished the upset win.

"They took us lightly and paid for it. I was very proud of everyone's performance."

United clinched the group's final berth in the second game by beating division rival ABGC Crush 2-1, coming from behind once again. Katie fooled the keeper on the near post for the first goal and Amber crashed in a volley for the second, all before half. The game ended 2-1 in favor of the girls in black.

Sunday's last group game was a warm-up for the final. United came out very active from the start against SYC Xplosion and got a goal from newcomer, Leila. But after that, both teams took the foot off the gas and Leila's goal stood alone.

"I wanted to see a little more creativity and attacking risk out there, but ultimately we just wanted to escape injury free and winning was nice. And how about Leila's finish!"

The final had two undefeated teams square off for a late afternoon start. The first 12 minutes was a feeling out period before a 30 minute delay due to lightning. Things would heat up after that.

"We were dreadful in the first part of the final. Discpline and focus seemed to be fading away. The break was an opportunity to regroup and get a second wind."

But like both of Saturday's matches, United gave up the first goal to a powerful, opportunistic ManU striker. Jaimie finally got loose down the wing but her shot went just wide. Later, Amber found Stephany in the box but her shot was reached by the ManU keeper. Aneesha kept United in the game by emphatically extinguishing a breakaway that looked like the death blow for United.

"Big save! This gave us life going into half."

The second half became a battle of will over skill with each team scrapping away at each other. With about 20 minutes to go, United got a second chance cross into Stephany who met it brilliantly on her head and suddenly the game was tied. The game went through momentum changes with both teams hustling and fighting but not really putting together anything dangerous or formidable. But in the waning minutes, Brittani, who had been getting a piece of nearly every ball in the last 15 minutes in the midfield, pressured the sweeper on a loose ball at the edge of the box. The kick/deflection off the United captain looped over the keeper's head and fell into the net. Aneesha held onto a hard low shot in injury time and that was it. United had once again comeback...and they were now champions.

"There is a lot to be said about hustle. We had moments of break down in the final, but made a gutsy play here, or a hustle play there. Brittani's goal was pure determination and hustle and those goals are as gratifying as any, especially in a game like that with the trophy on the line."

And it took a little bit of luck. Stephany is very good with her head, but how was she so open and how did that ball get through all that traffic?"

But despite a little luck, there was a little swagger.

"For me, I think the snapshot I will always have is Aneesha making the diving save at the end and getting up to give the ball a couple bounces before punting the championship into the books."

A Comeback Weekend

United Roller Coaster Tournament Ends on the Ascent

Virginia Beach, VA -- After a month off, United traveled to their favorite away spot for a tournament against some new opponents. The team expected to win and set their sites on the first place trophy, facing teams of comparable talent. United's lack of form based on the lack of practice time may have been the deciding factor in United's elimination during pool play. However, the girls in black battled back to win the consolation match.

In game one, United faced the Chesapeake team with one win already. Chesapeake jumped out 3-0 and took the lead into halftime. But United made some adjustments, including a loud wake-up call, and came out firing. In the beginning of the second half, Chrystal smartly lurked beyond the last fullback on a United throw. She got it into the box where Brooklynne calmly buried it from 15 yards out. Chystal followed three minutest later with a 20 yard free kick goal to get United within one in just eight minutes of the first half. Karli got into the midfield and overlapped to find herself alone and on a breakaway. She finished nicely and this extra-ordinary game was level. United kept knocking but their corner kick was cleared out and the very dangerous Chesapeake striker took the ball the distance and finished near post to win the game with 10 minutes left.

Game two put United in a must-win situation. Chrystal headed Julia's cross inside the back post to give United the early lead. But after that, United was exhausted and barely held on for several minutes. The Churchland Fury's size and speed eventually wore them down and the game ended 3-1. It would have been worse, had Aneesha not played her best game with several nice saves.

So United moved on to play the Legacy, who lost to both eventual finalists in pool play. The conditions were extremely windy and cold. United were reminded of all the time they spent on keeping possession of the ball and how they want to show that when given a good, wide field. United did just that with beautiful movement off the ball. Frigid muscles and rusty first-touch let them down at times, but United's domination in possession would become the difference. In the second half, Julia hit the crossbar and Brittani's goal was mysteriously called back. But Chrystal's direct kick from 30 yards left no questions and the win was theirs.

Coach Sheehan said afterward, "I truly feel that we are good enough to win this tournament, but we haven't played together...or at all in a while. The comeback on Saturday was as fun as any half has been all season. It's too bad that we didn't finish it, but the heart displayed was memorable. We can score big with our backs to the wall. That team we played had a high, offside line. My old United teams used to play that way. It is a great way to make it difficult for the opponent to possess the ball. But we were able to exploit this team in the second half not with speed, but with recognizing that they were not getting pressure in the midfield. That is a big key to playing an offside trap."

"Unfortunately, the big comeback was an energy drainer and we fell apart in the second game. But I'm happy with our Sunday response. I leave the tournament very hopeful that we have the patience to possess the ball and wear down opponents this spring. We are 100% committed to winning some type of first place trophy this spring."

Everyone Loves a Happy Ending

After falling on Saturday, United win 5-2 on Sunday

Boyds, MD -- On Saturday, United faced the top team, PWSI Courage, in the division and traded punches for the first hour. The defensive game plan was working and positive adjustments were made to the attack. But United let their guard down just once and the Courage capitalized. A poor non-call on a handball a few minutes later cost United a chance on goal and a counter-attacking goal against. As a result, United fell apart and lost 3-0.

"We had to talk more," said Coach Sheehan. "It can take care of a lot. If we can keep learning from mistakes and focus on the task at hand at each moment, we will be champions soon. The more we play together, the sooner that day will come. Let's see how we respond on Sunday."

Sunday had United facing the SSA Eagles. The Eagles were clipped by United at home earlier in the year. However, anybody can beat anybody on a given day so the team that showed up with more desire and intent would be victorious. This proved to be United's day.

The turf of MD Soccerplex was a blessing for a team that has struggled to be consistent on an awful home field.

"We are still learning how to build from line to line and keep our shape, but we were excited to show what we have developed without having to worry about defenders AND bad bumps."

Hannah's 8th minute shot to goal was rebounded in by Chrystal. Chrystal launched another one in about 8 minutes later. Several more United shots whizzed by or off the posts until Stephany and Brooklynne finished solid volleys before half. The Eagles caught us napping and did finish one goal to make the halftime score 4-1.

In the second half, United came out with "2-touch" soccer in mind and looked very good with some nice passing and moving. The Eagles were first to a loose ball in the box and made the game interesting for a few minutes at 4-2, but speedster Meghan broke away 50 yards from goal and nicely buried the back-breaker.

"We've had a crazy season with rainouts, bizarre rescheduling, etc. I'm really pleased with the team's attitude on Sunday. Often times during warm-up, a coach can get a feel for what he will see from his team. We were brimming with positivity and hunger for a big, season-ending win...and we got it."

So Many Shots, So Few Goals

Legend score early, hang on to top United

Sterling, VA -- The Sterling Legend were pounded by ASC United in the first match up of these two rivals. The sloped field and rugged conditions, once again, made it very difficult for either team to develop possession or rhythm. It became a slug fest and the team with more poise in front of goal would win. The Legend benefited from an unlucky bounce, but finished nicely for a 1-0 win.

Coach Sheehan said, "The first twenty minutes were unbareable as we did anything we could to just survive. After that, we got the momentum and nearly all the chances...many chances. We just have to execute in the final third."

United are still among the top teams in the division and have two more games left to make a run at promotion.

Steppin' Up

ASC's Senior Team Win Two Out of Three on the Weekend

Ashburn, Springfield, and Winchester, VA -- After suffering a disappointing loss on Saturday to the Patriots, United dug deep and won two squeakers on Sunday on the road. The wins jumped United to the top half of the table with three games left to play. Their goals are in sight.

"I wonder if any team in the history of WAGS had to play three league games in a weekend, with two of them being on the road in a single day...and a long road at that," said Coach Sheehan. "We had to respond to taking a punch in the gut on Saturday...and we did."

Saturday's match brought the 2nd place Patriots to the rock hard turf of Bles Park. United played hard but never got a rhythm. This could be partially credited to the Patriots desire to kick the ball out of bounds as much as possible. But midway through the second half, the Patriots got a 20-yard free kick from a soft call and took advantage of it by driving it in under the bar. They added an insurance goal on a similar situation and United never responded despite trying. What should have been a scoreless draw, ended with United pointless on the day.

Sunday's first match had ASC United travel to Springfield to play the SYC Fury on a beautiful pitch. The Fury started off fast and scored early. United finally got some possession going and nearly got on the scoreboard through several efforts. Finally, Julia launched one from deep and wide that fell into the back of the goal beautifully.

"Julia's goal was huge! It gave us inspiration when we needed it most."

The Fury did come back and take the lead before half but United knew that they were still in it. After about ten second half minutes of United defending in their own half, the momentum turned. Chrystal began to win every SYC clearance and United attacked relentlessly. The Fury wore down and did as much as they could to hang on. After a few missed opportunities by United, they finally equalised in the 84th minute when Chrystal dished to Amber and the little assassin finished high over the keeper's arms. The 2-2 draw was broken in the final moments when Amber busted down the right flank and attempted to cross to Julia running in. The ball drifted toward the net and the SYC keeper couldn't keep it out. United defended enough in injury time to seal the comeback.

After traveling to Winchester for game two, United jumped out to a lead. Amber scored on a clinical finish against a very good keeper. Then, Natascha scored after combining with Brooklynne to put United up 2-0. Winchester's playmaker pulled one back before half to make it 2-1. In the second half, Brooklynne poked in a loose ball to make it 3-1. Winchester made it interesting with a second goal as United's legs wore down but three goals was enough to hold the win.

"We talk about the scoring a lot and we should since Amber tallied three times on Sunday and Natascha scored one of the goals of the season. It really showed our potential realized. But on a weekend like this, we needed everyone to produce at a high level in all facets of the game. It wasn't always pretty, but it was determined and at times, was quality soccer. We definately deserved at least two wins this weekend. We got 'em."

United Remain Unbeaten

But chance for two wins caught in the breeze

Ashburn, VA -- The October Sprint began with United facing two teams that were struggling in the standings. Saturday's result was true to form as United beat the Eagles 3-1, but the FCSC Fury had other plans and battled United to a 1-1 draw.

"United is still searching for that killer instinct to put teams away in the second half," said Coach Sheehan. "As a matter of fact, we can put teams away in the first half, but haven't done so yet. We are disappointed despite not getting beaten yet, however, we don't just want to be good enough."

On Saturday, United had some dicey moments and were not in sync consistently on offense or defense, but were able to jump on the Eagles early with two nice series on the right wing. The first came through a ball from Chrystal in the middle to Julia on the wing. Julia played it in to the box where Katie scrapped to win possession back. The ball fell to Amber, who volleyed it in with style. The other goal through the run of play came when Natascha crossed in to Katie who patiently set up Chrystal for a surgical one-timer from 12 yards out. The other United goal came when Chrystal's shot was handled by an Eagle defender in the box. Hannah converted the penalty kick. The Eagles pushed in the second half and scored when United failed to secure a bouncing ball. But United were the better team on this day.

On Sunday, United had multiple chances on a field that should have been a huge advantage for the girls in black. But United did not use the wings enough. Katie was able to score before halftime amidst all the United chances. The Fury got a second half free kick goal to draw level. Despite repeated, dangerous attacking down the flank from Jaimie, United could not convert her crosses and the game ended even on the scoreboard.

Start with a Bang

United get the first goal...and the second...and the third...

Ashburn, VA -- ASC United had been putting many hours into practice and were hungry to show what they have learned since the August Cup. Sound defending and early goals helped put away the Sterling Legend 4-1 on Saturday. If not for a gift penalty kick awarded to the Legend, it would have been a well-deserved shutout for the girls in gold.

Coach Sheehan said, "We opened up confident and strong today. Chrystal's first minute goal was a product of high energy and motivation coming into the game. Our captains got the team focused during warm-up and the second goal came soon after with Jaimie floating one over the excellent Legend keeper. At this point, the team just became even more hungry and confident."

United coaches and players learned a lot about positions and shape after playing a league opponent with such hard work and focus. The key to our shape was the midfield play. It had to be alert and well-communicated. United got that and it helps to build the tempo in one's favor.

United's third goal came from a classic Amber shot and Chrystal took away any drama that may have lingered by heading home a rebound in the second half. Aneesha made her best save of the young season, coming out to stop a seemingly sure goal in a 1v1 situation.

"We were solid all over the field, especially in the first half. Despite the fact that I expected us to play well and win, I'll admit that I was very giddy at the half. The Legend came out hard in the second half but could only match our quality. We meet them again later in the season and I'm sure they will come out hard like the second half today. They will get better, but so will we."

A Learning Experience

United Drop Three, But Fight to the End

Boyds, MD -- The prestigious August Cup pitted a young ASC United against three formidable WAGS opponents that increased in strength each game. The opponents' experience playing together in big games showed and United were unable to get a win despite some good moments. The more consistent teams prevailed 2-0, 4-0, and 6-1.

Coach Sheehan said, "We started off flat in game one, but nearly won anyway. We had the ball more but were not as purposeful as PWSI. They made the most of their few opportunities. We were robbed of a goal on a poor offside call that would have tied it, but I can't say that we were robbed of the game."

"In the second game against BRYC, we started off well and had chances. We had some poor luck when we conceded a penalty on an accidental handball when Hannah was playing sound defense. But that can happen when you let a team get the ball in the box. The other goals were a result of our lack of possession and decent marking and cover."

United entered Sunday's contest against the eventual champion from McLean. Like BRYC, they were a division 1 side. We started off well, but gave up 2 goals after about 13 minutes. Brooklynne found Stephany for a goal for United to make it 2-1. Chrystal nearly got United level for halftime, but instead, BRYC countered and scored a header to make it 3-1 before the break. It ended 6-1 but would have been worse had Aneesha not stuffed a few breakaways.

Coach Sheehan wrapped it up by saying, "I knew this weekend would be a major challenge when the schedule was released. I expect us to win and the players should as well, though we must realize that we have work to do before we can compete consistently with a division one team. That's only fair. But even though it is miserable to get beat so soundly, it can be one of the best things to happen to this young team if we learn from it. We had an excellent practice today (Monday) and plan to show our improvements in the WAGS season."

United Unbeaten, but Eliminated on PK's

Both Top Seeds Dropped in Semi's

Clifton, VA -- The Cardinal Cup opened the fall preseason for many teams this past weekend. Despite the fact that ASC United was the team with the most turnover of players, their goal was simple--prepare for the WAGS season and win while they're at it.

On Saturday, United did so by handling the VYS Storm with relative ease. The Storm got an early goal due to a defensive breakdown. But United quickly gathered their nerve and attacked relentlessly for the rest of the match. Chrystal immediately matched the Storm goal with a downward header off Brittani's corner kick. Amber followed with a beautiful volley from Katie's cross. Amber doubled her tally with an opportunistic volley and then completed the hat trick with a penalty kick. The match ended 4-1 but could have been much more lopsided considering how well United got behind their defense.

Saturday's second match had BAC Fusion play conservative, bunch ball that held United scoreless until late in the first half when Brooklynne hit a daisy-cutter that found the back of the net. In the second half, the speedy BAC forward got loose and blew past everyone to finish one and tie the score. But United mixed urgency with purpose and scored the game-winner when Hannah alertly threw in to a checking Stephany who laid it off to Chrystal. Chrystal beat a defender and played through to Katie who came running out of the midfield. The through pass was perfect and Katie beat her defender and slotted it home inside the far post. 2-1 to United.

The Sunday semi-final seemed to be there for United to grab from the start with three terrific chances in the first few minutes. But this day belonged to the opposing goalkeeper from DCST Storm. She saved several "sure" goals from shots by United attackers. Chrystal hit some "nearly perfect" bombs that she came down with. The Storm scored first on a fluky ball that was not cleared. Stephany opened her United scoring account before half by sneaking in on a confused Storm back line and touching past the Storm keeper.

The second half was scoreless despite many chances, mostly from United. Overtime flew by as United pounded away but could not break through the many red-shirted bodies in the area. The Storm advanced on penalties 4-3.

After Saturday's results, most would have had the Fire and United in the final but as it turned out, the final had the DCST Storm defeating the BAC Fusion 4-2. Soccer, especially in preseason, can sometimes surprise us.

The Coaches reflected on the tournament. "Looking at Saturday, a win is a win. We were probably 6 goals better than the teams we played. I chalk it up to nerves and a difficult playing surface. The field cannot be an excuse when both teams have to deal with it, but it does throw off your rhythm when you want to move the ball with quickness, accuracy, and timing. When it looked like we had a great combination play on, it broke down due to that extra touch needed to gain control of the random bounce. Nonetheless, we had enough chances to win."

"I felt that Sam, Dani, and Karli teamed up very well with Hannah to complete our new tandem of backs. Our midfield is loaded with aggressive running and defending from Chrystal, Brooklynne, Julia, Alyssa, and Natascha. New signings, Jaimie and Katie give us talented, hard-working, attacking options up front or in the midfield. Stephany, Brittani, and Amber give us striker experience and a finishing touch inside the box. When Meghan returns, we will get even more speed. And finally, Aneesha is a tremendous shot stopper and very hard to beat on breakaways.

"Overall, it was still a nice way to see what we have. I expected to win, as always, but we need to learn from it. The team made it easy for Coach and I because they played with heart. We were very happy with the play of our new additions, especially in concert with the returning players. I see a lot of trust and belief in one another. That's big. We have room to improve but there is a very good foundation. The August Cup and WAGS season will provide stiffer challenges and that will raise our game."

United Put Out the Fire

Ashburn, VA -- Sunday gave United's seniors one more game...one more opportunity to show what makes them great, as individuals and as teammates. On Sunday, with the help of a young, committed, and talented supporting cast, the greatest club in the history of soccer clubs wiped out the DSC Fire 6-1. Goals came from Chrystal, Brooklynne, Amber, and seniors Candice, Jackie, and Laura.

Coach Sheehan said afterward, "This has been such a fun year. We weren't sure a year ago if we'd have a team after graduating 10 players, but we did assemble a rag-tag bunch that followed the lead of our magnificent returning seniors. The result was a tournament championship and two apparent third place finishes. That's pretty remarkable for a U19 team that really only has a few girls that are in that age group."

More exciting was the fact that United had two sister combinations on the team (three if you count guesting). Also, several players came from ODSL and were key contributors. And I love having a handful of high schools represented on our team.

"I have to credit the seniors with this too but I'm so proud of the fact that our team is so committed to my philosophy of attack. You can sit back all you want and defend but teams that don't take risks don't taste victory as sweetly. No matter what our shape, we go after it."

"I look at Laura coming back from two years of knee rehab to play solid keeper part time for us and give us that threat from the wing. There's Candice who is absolutely beguiling on the ball and our silent killer. Jackie, who is naturally a midfielder, adjusted to the back nicely and took total command when we needed it. Britt, who can plug in anywhere, give you every ounce of hustle she's got, solid captaincy, and a few goals taboot. Katyna, now nicknamed "the Action Figure" for her amazing athleticism and knack for scoring clutch goals. When you need relentless pressure up front and a nose for goal, you call on Kara. And finally, Liz (LC), who nearly quit soccer her freshman year, was our Superwoman this season. Her play up front was always good for at least a goal a game, but she took the responsibility of midfield play maker this year and showed how naturally free flowing and beautiful this game can be."

"Coach Pat and I had so much fun coming along on this ride and can't wait to see our returning players continue to improve so I can write the same things about them after their last one."

United Hit the Wall 4-0

Lusby, MD -- The CSA Collision got an early lead against United and didn't look back in a 4-0 drubbing on Sunday evening. CSA took advantage of subs and more focused motivation in passing United in the division 3 standings. United also had to deal with a 2 hour commute to CSA's home turf.

Coach Sheehan said, "We had one sub and suffered two injuries again. We've been playing amazing soccer for much of the season but hit a few let down games in the middle of the season. We need to brush ourselves off and get stuck in for two more games. We have too much pride (and talent) to go down easy."

United Keep Fighting, but Run Out of Time in 3-1 Loss

Springfield, VA -- When the odds stack up against ASC United, it brings out their best. Unfortunately, it was not enough to get points in the standings this week. But the girls in white took a deep breath at half-time, made a slight tactical adjustment, and dominated the second half. However the Patriots held on to win 3-1.

United were on the heals a bit in the first half and then went down 2-0. It would have been 3-0 if Laura and Jackie hadn't recovered enough to stop a breakaway. At this point the legs should be feeling even heavier, but they dug deep and a hurt Katyna found the net just before half.

"Things were not going well due to tired legs and not moving the ball out of the dangerous middle," said Coach Sheehan. "But we came out in the second half, unfortunately with no subs, but started moving the ball efficiently. We had them on the ropes the whole second half."

What made this more amazing for United was the fact that they were doing it on a hot turf field and Brittani went down with an injured knee. United were really pressing for the equaliser and Brittani was gone to goal by herself but she was taken down and couldn't return. United really rallied with a player down and nearly got it done.

The win still keeps United in at least a points tie at the top.

Cool Heads Always Prevail

Sterling, VA -- Annadale Crush came to Sterling to play Ashburn United on Saturday, hoping to get three points and knock off the division table toppers. But a short-handed team in black hung in the contest long enough to get inside the heads of the Crush and get three goals in the final 20 minutes to win it 3-0.

Coach Sheehan said, "We had fewer subs than expected and were dealt a blow when Katyna went down with an ankle injury. But we hung tough in the heat and started to use our heads to get to balls first and earned a lot of foul calls against us. We really dug deep today and made the best of what we had."

United had trouble offensively on a bumpy pitch and congested midfield, but played great team defense. The bumps obviously affected the Crush as well. But when things get tough, one team steps up with class and the other does not. The one with class ended up with the goals again today.

Chrystal got United on the board first with a cracking right-footer from at least 25 yards out. Amber crossed a ball in later that the Crush couldn't handle cleanly and their fullback had an own goal off her hand. A third back-breaking goal came when Amber kicked a high, bouncing ball toward goal that the keeper couldn't find a handle on before it was too late.

United fullbacks, Alyssa, Brooklynne, and Hannah played another full 90 minutes of gutsy, effective soccer. United made shots difficult for the Crush and Brittani did an excellent job of concentrating on balls on the bad turf in her box.

"We were far from sophisticated today, but we got it done. We let the scoreboard do the talking...and as it turns out, the scoreboard was pretty loud today."

"It's Ours to Win!"

Ashburn, VA and Columbia, MD -- At the start of every sports season, there's always a team that comes out early and sets the tone. ASC United took the double header weekend as an opportunity to be that team. After disposing of an unprepared Arlington Blue Demons side 2-0, they held off a fiesty CSC Explosion 4-3 to take control of the division and establish themselves as the team to beat this spring.

"It's ours to win!" said Coach Sheehan. "I give the girls a lot of credit. They are tired from the week but play with desire and creativity, eager to show off their skills on the pitch. And when things break down, they band together and defend with strength and grit."

United ball movement overall was very good. On several occasions, ASC moved the ball with quick touches or timely dribbling runs. Chrystal once again did the work of many in the defensive midfield while young backs Hannah, Alyssa, and Brooklynne kept things in check.

United goalkeeping was called on in the Sunday game versus the Explosion. Brittani was fabulous. She stopped several fast breaks with powerful, suffocating stops. She used her head by running seconds off the clock with the ball at her feet while United nursed a one goal lead with tired lungs.

"Laura was not challenged in goal in the Saturday game, which really helped her run so much and create scoring chances in the Sunday game. The Explosion posed much more danger and Brittani stepped up. She saved us on several occasions. I know we were the better side overall for much of the game and could have won by more goals, but if it wasn't for some of Brittani's stops, we could have lost by two or three!"

Scoring touch came mostly from Amber, who had 5 on the weekend. She scored both in the Saturday game. She didn't miss a beat on Sunday by scoring the first two and added one more for United's fourth goal on the day. New striker, Meghan, opened her ASC scoring account on Sunday as well.

"Amber was unstoppable, but I don't want the work of her supporting cast to go unappreciated. And Amber would be the first to point that out. Many made courageous runs, painful flick-on headers, and gutsy passes to get us in position to score or stop counter-attacks. This is what makes soccer so great!"