Vancouver Whitecaps FC News Release - www.whitecapsfc.com
Friday, June 29, 2012
LOS ANGELES, Ca. - In their second match of a three-game road trip in California, the Vancouver Whitecaps FC women played to a 3-3 draw against LA Strikers on Friday night at Occidental College in Los Angeles, California.
After a tough 2-1 loss against first-place Pali Blues on Wednesday, the ‘Caps looked to respond with a strong performance. The match did not start in the visitors favour, as the Strikers took the lead on 14 minutes through Christina Murillo.
Vancouver responded ten minutes later when Jenna Carosio sent in a free kick from 40 yards out that was headed down by Mary Kate MacLaughlin and shot into the back of the net by Jenna Richardson – who scored for the second consecutive match.
In full control, the ‘Caps took the lead in the first half when a nice passing play ended with Richardson crossing in to Jaclyn Sawicki. The Coquitlam, B.C. native then finished the play to put her team up 2-1 at the break.
The second half saw the ‘Caps extend their lead when Sawicki returned the favour to Richardson, sending her in on a breakaway as she slotted home her second goal of the night for a 3-1 lead.
It looked as if the Whitecaps would secure an important victory, but a handball was called on Danielle Johnson in the 89th minute, allowing the Strikers to score on a penalty kick and pull within 3-2.
Then, with only seconds remaining, the Strikers hit a 35-yard free kick to the back post which was headed in for a dramatic 3-3 draw.
“It was a bit of mismanagement on our part, we gave up chances which we shouldn’t have,” said Jesse Symons, Whitecaps FC women’s head coach. “But overall, we played at a high level and stuck to our game plan.
“We’ll look to keep the energy high on Sunday. The team is in good spirits, so we’ll focus on ending the road trip with a positive result.”
Next up for the ‘Caps is the final match of their three-game road swing on Sunday against Santa Clarita Blue Heat at Valencia High School. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. PT.