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It's Showtime

August 16, 2002 - Women's United Soccer Association (WUSA)
Philadelphia Charge News Release


In less than 24 hours the Philadelphia Charge are hoping to be packing their suitcases for Atlanta, as the much-anticipated WUSA semifinals commence at 1:30 p.m. tomorrow at Villanova Stadium against the Washington Freedom.

A week's worth of practices in plus-90 degree temperatures culminated today with another sweltering session on the blistering turf with players' thoughts on tomorrow's battle.

Practice was conducted at a focused but relaxed pace. The Charge are happy to report having gotten through this past week's heat wave healthy and do not anticipate any players missing tomorrow's action.

Krikorian is likely to remain with the personnel and strategy that proved so successful after the season-ending injury to Kelly Smith. Five midfielders and just one forward have enabled Philadelphia to control possession, cut down lanes and impose its own style on opponents.

After practice, the Charge players stopped to chat with a number of reporters, who have been regularly attending practice all week. Among those interviewed were Lorrie Fair, Heather Mitts and Marinette Pichon. All three spoke about the intensity and motivation it takes to win a championship.

Also, Fair, Mitts and Melissa Moore were interviewed by PAX-TV, which is telecasting the game live. Four other Charge games this season were seen on PAX. Check your local listings for the PAX channel in your area.

Washington, which practiced almost immediately after Philadelphia, also enters the match-up with a healthy roster. Mia Hamm paused after practice to chat with reporters and a throng of autograph-seeking kids.

Practice Times

The Charge public relations department will continue to put out daily releases on the Charge playoff run until the club wins it all or is eliminated. In an effort not to jinx the run, the Charge PR department will not be releasing the possible practice schedule for next week until after Saturday's game.

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Women's United Soccer Association Stories from August 16, 2002


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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