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San Diego Spirit's Season Ends in 2-1 OT loss to Atlanta

August 17, 2003 - Women's United Soccer Association (WUSA)
San Diego Spirit News Release


ATLANTA – The San Diego Spirit, who were making their WUSA debut on Sunday in Atlanta, were within a 90 seconds of advancing to Founders Cup III at Torero Stadium, but a Conny Pohlers goal in second minute of stoppage time tied the mach and then Charmaine Hooper's tally in the 94th minute won the game for Atlanta before 8,123 at Herndon Stadium.

San Diego controlled play for most of the first half, creating several quality chances, but failing to convert them until the 38th minute. Jen Nielsen played a ball to Kerry Connors down right flank. Connors bent a ball on the ground that Julie Fleeting and Nancy Augustyniak clash for about 10 yards out. The ball is poked off the toe of Augustyniak right to Aly Wagner, who slammed a first-time shot into the right corner from 15 yards out past the diving Beat goalkeeper Briana Scurry. It was the first goal by a Spirit player other than Fleeting or Christine Latham since June 29 (10 goals - 10 games).

The second half was going as planned for San Diego, as they would apply offensive pressure to slow down the Beat, constantly making Atlanta start from the back with their attack. The Spirit defense kept its form, continuing to repel Atlanta's offensive chances. However, the Beat would not be denied as in the second minute of stoppage time, Pohlers poked in a loose ball in front after a Joy Fawcett and Hooper collision inside the box set the ball free. Pohlers shot beat a charging Jenni Branam, who was kneed in the face, to tie the game. On the play, Fawcett hurt her ankle, which would play a factor in the game-winning goal. Branam, who finished with two saves, would also play in overtime.

Four minutes into the extra session, Leslie Gaston sent a ball from the midfield through to Hooper, who managed to gain a step on the hobbled Fawcett and tuck the ball away from nine yards away for the game winner.

Atlanta will meet Mia Hamm and the Washington Freedom on Sunday, August 24, 1 p.m. P.T. in Founders Cup III at Torero Stadium. Founders Cup III tickets are available through all Ticketmaster outlets or for group ticket information, please call the Spirit at 1-877-4SOCCER.



Women's United Soccer Association Stories from August 17, 2003


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