Wambach's Goal Stands Up
July 27, 2002 - Women's United Soccer Association (WUSA) News Release
WASHINGTON, DC - A goal by Abby Wambach in the 67th minute moved Washington three points closer to a playoff spot as the Freedom (8-5-5, 29 pts.) defeated the San Diego Spirit (4-9-4, 16 pts.) 1-0 on Saturday afternoon at RFK Stadium.
Washington got on the scoreboard in the 67th minute with a goal by Wambach. The play began with a beautiful run by Ann Cook down the middle of the field. Cook, who came into the match in the 58th minute, penetrated the San Diego defense then pushed the ball to Mia Hamm just outside of the penalty area. Hamm sent a pass to Wambach in the area. From 11 yards out the Washington forward blasted a shot over Spirit goalkeeper Carly Smolak to give the Freedom a 1-0 lead. The goal was Wambach's ninth of the season. Both Hamm and Cook were credited with assists on the play.
The best scoring chance of the first half took place in the seventh minute. San Diego's Sherrill Kester sent a cross into Washington's area. Freedom goalkeeper Siri Mullinix tried to punch the ball out of the area. However, the ball went to Shannon MacMillan. From eight yards out and with Mullinix on the ground and out of position, MacMillan took a shot on net. Washington defender Jennifer Grubb cleared the ball off the line, saving what was sure to be a goal for the Spirit.
Shannon Boxx nearly got San Diego on the board in the 71st minute. On a throw-in, Boxx blasted a shot on net from 20 yards out. The ball ricocheted off the crossbar after Mullinix had gotten a hand on it. The ball was then cleared out of the area.
The win extended Washington's undefeated streak to a team-record five games.
The game was part of a doubleheader with D.C. United (Major League Soccer).
• Discuss this story on the Women's United Soccer Association message board...
Women's United Soccer Association Stories from July 27, 2002
- Beat Erases the Courage Curse with 1-0 Victory Over 2nd Place Team - Atlanta Beat
- Wambach's Goal Stands Up - WUSA
- Kemp's Late Goal Gives Breakers Tie - WUSA
- Beat Shut Out Carolina - WUSA
- Boston Rallies to Tie Charge - Philadelphia Charge
- Power Fall to San Jose - New York Power
- CyberRays Batter Power - WUSA
- Spirit Falls to Freedom, 1-0, at RFK Stadium - San Diego Spirit
- Freedom Blanks San Diego - WUSA
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.
