Tonight, the two teams appeared headed for a scoreless tie until the Flash scored twice in the final nine minutes — one on an own goal — to defeat Sky Blue, 2-0, before 1,441 at Rutgers University’s Yurcak Field.
“It’s mentally kind of tough at our level but we’re professionals and we need to be able to separate our emotions from that and be able to step on the field and bring a little bit more from both sides,” Sky Blue captain Brittany Taylor said. “(The game) was lacking energy. It’s obviously a tough loss for all the people rooting for the U.S. There was a letdown right before (our) game, but we’re professionals and we need to put out a little bit more.”
Sky Blue (3-5-4) had its chances, the best coming in the 37th minute when Spanish forward Adriana had a breakaway that was stopped by Flash goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris.
The positive thing for the Flash (7-2-2) was that they won without Marta, who was expected to be back following Brazil’s World Cup quarterfinal loss to the United States July 10.
“We ran into some unexpected immigration problems that are being resolved (Monday) morning,” Flash coach Aaran Lines said. “It was disappointing to not have her here, but in the same vein, we’re over the moon to come here and pick up the three points.”
In the 81st minute, Flash defender Kandace Wilson crossed the ball from the right. Sky Blue defender Carrie Dew went to clear it but the ball glanced off the side of her foot for an own goal. Five minutes later, Becky Goebel redirected a cross from Christine Sinclair to make it 2-0.
With the United States expected to retool the team following the World Cup, Taylor and Flash midfielder Yael Averbuch are expected to be in the mix.
“The biggest thing is being confident and being comfortable and believing you can play at that level,” said Taylor, who has had one international appearance. “With our league, all the top players in the world are playing in it. If you can compete and play at this level then this league only helps me get to that next step.”
Averbuch, an Upper Montclair native, was the last player cut by U.S. coach Pia Sundhage prior to the tournament.
“I was very disappointed. I wanted to be out there,” said Averbuch, who has 16 caps. “Watching was great for me. That was an amazing tournament for women’s soccer and I was so proud to see how many countries played a great brand of soccer. It was very exciting for me as a spectator and someone trying to help women’s soccer.”
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