The stage was set for the JAGS White Division Championship as the Plainedge Blasters took their 2W-0L-1T group play record into the game against the 2W-0L-1T record of the Middletown Tornadoes representing the JAGS Premier League. Overcoming a devastating five minute let down at the end of the first half that yielded two Middletown goals, the Plainedge Blasters countered with two second half goals of their own to send the match into golden goal overtime. In the second overtime session, it was Carly's perfect placement over the keeper from twenty-five yards of an Alyssa pass that sent the Blasters home with the JAGS Championship trophies, 3-2.

The road to that celebration was one that required a great deal of patience. Two very unlucky plays in the final five minutes of the first half left the Blasters in a huge 2-0 hole. The first goal was the result of a back pass that was played under tremendous pressure. Sara released the ball well, but it was intercepted about thirty yards from the goal by Middletown who quickly took advantage as the defensive formation never recovered before the 1-0 score. With just one minute remaining, a forty yard strike by Middletown was a rocket that was just under the crossbar in the left corner for a 2-0 halftime score.

The players and coaches all felt that we could get the equalizing scores, but we needed to apply more focus on possession and playing the ball to our feet rather than competing in an aerial game while behind. Eight minutes into the second half, Katie placed a left footed shot into the lower right corner to close the gap to 2-1 with the assist going to Gina from the midfield. This was a huge goal as it brought the Blasters back into the match and there was a tremendous momentum switch at this point. The equalizer came in the twentieth minute as Alyssa earned her first assist with the Blasters. Her corner kick was placed just one yard off the goal line inside the far post which Liz headed home for a 2-2 tie. Time expired and two five minute overtimes were scheduled. The first overtime saw about three minutes of playtime with the third Middletown injury of the match that required coaching attention taking time off the clock.

As the teams switched ends for the second overtime, final substitutions were made in anticipation of a shootout showdown. However, Carly's goal proved to be the game and tournament winner.

Campy, Alyssa, and LB did terrific job in front of Sara, particularly in the second half. Mere, Liz, Gina, Jen, Nicole, Saulty, BriAnn, Mollie, and Hannah all worked hard in this game and tournament. Everyone accepted their well earned championship trophies as this was literally the final awards ceremony at the Bordentown Fields for 2005.

Date: June 19, 2005     Venue: Bordentown Friendship Fields - Bordentown, NJ