Colorado Force News Release -- www.forcesoccer.org
Friday, May 20, 2011
GREELEY, Colo. -- With two matches already to chalk up to experience, the visiting Los Angeles Strikers showed their seasoning Friday night with a 1-0 victory against the Colorado Force in the Force’s 2011 debut.
The Force, making one of two appearances this season at Jackson Field in Greeley, were stung in the first half when Los Angeles forward Cherelle Khassal registered the game’s only goal. Khassal, a recent member of Ireland’s U-19 national side, struck for the winner in the 31st minute of play. She found herself with a one-on-one opportunity against Force keeper Kirstin Salminen after a teammate delivered a well-placed pass through the middle of the defense.
Colorado (0-1), which features just two members back from last season’s side, will have two weeks to regroup for its next match. The Force will return to its regular home pitch at Loveland Sports Park when it hosts the Victoria Highlanders at 1 p.m. on June 5, the first of five consecutive home matches in June.
While Los Angeles (2-1) won the statistical battle, recording 11 shots to just four for the Force, the match was largely played in the midfield.
The Force then raised the pressure late, creating scoring opportunities in the 75th minute and the 83rd minute. In the 75th minute, midfield Erin Gunther sent a crossing ball into the box. Two Force players lunged to head the ball, but it was pushed away by L.A. keeper Erin Frushon. And Frushon made a stout save in the 83rd minute when Lisa Kosena Forbes fired a left footed shot from just outside the penalty area.