Match number two of the 2007 PDA Girls College Showcase brought the Western New York Rochester Junior Rhinos to play the Commack Blasters. On the strength of two goals in the opening six minutes, the Rhinos recorded a 5-1 decision over the Blasters.

The fourth minute goal was a result of a four-on-two break-in by the speedy Rhinos team. The sixth minute score was the result of an intercepted clear for a 2-0 score very early. The Blasters steadied for the next twenty minutes, but a third goal just before the half made the score 3-0. Defensively, Alyssa, Liz, Amanda, LB, and Jen were working hard in front of Sara, but we were not winning enough midfield and forward challenges in the first half.

The second half saw goals against the Blasters in minutes eight and fifteen. It seemed as if the Blasters got mad at their performance at this fifth goal (never happened before in two games at a tournament like this). Suddenly, the offensive pressure and midfield pressure started to gain traction. This relieved the defensive pressure and Diane had the chance to make some quality saves. In the twenty-fourth minute, Carly scored on an assist from Gina which only closed the gap to 5-1, but showed the character of the girls to keep pushing. In the final ten minutes, a revised defensive alignment included Rebecca with Amanda and LB which gave some new ideas for Sunday's action.

The game's biggest downside came in the closing minute as Gina took a header in the top-to-back head area that nearly knocked her out on her feet. Fortunately, ambulatory support came quickly and tests proved negative although the concussion would retire her from the tournament. Injury aside, fine efforts were recorded by Jen and Alyssa. Saulty returned the pitch this week and along with Katie pushed on top. Brooke and Meredith were on the outside midfield flanking a midfield that came back to life in the later second half. Tori played minutes at various points in her first time on the pitch in more than one month.

Date: May 26, 2007     Venue: Rutgers University - North Brunswick, NJ