The Ohio Elite Soccer Academy U18 girls captured their second Region II Championship today with a 1-0 defeat of the Michigan Hawks in the Region II Final.
A goal from Ally Berry in the 19th minute and some stout defending were all that was needed to secure the win. South Dakota has been good to the U18 girls as they captured their first Region II title there four years ago. The team has advanced to four Region II finals in six years. The win secures the team a place at the USYS National Championships next month.
"We scored early and just fought to the end," said Ally Berry. "This was a huge emotional rollercoaster, but we did it."
Ohio Elite started the match strong controlling much of the play in the first 20 minutes. The break through came on a header from Berry. The Michigan Hawks took control of the match to end the first half. The second half saw Ohio Elite grab control again with Alyssa Rich creating a couple of good chances. The Michigan Hawks pressed for the tying goal, but some timely goalkeeping from Tara Campbell and the OE defense secured the 1-0 victory.
The team had been on a roll leading into the match scoring 28 goals in their first four games while allowing only two. A convincing 5-0 victory over Minnesota Thunder in the semi-final propelled OE into the final. Goals in the semi-final came on a three goal outburst by Rich with Kate Biggerstaff and Elizabeth Burchenal chipping in for one each. Rich led the team in scoring with nine goals in the five games. In the end it was the defense that secured the title.
"I am so proud for the players," said Head Coach, Doug Bracken. "I have seen a different look in their eyes this year. They have been very motivated to win this thing. You could see the determination in our performance today. With them being U18 and going off to college we talked about being able to spend another month together. The final whistle went and there was a lot of emotion."
The team advances to USYS Nationals in Boston, Mass. July 21-26, 2009.
For Region II Championship information and videos click here.
