xksandiegonews
Posted: Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:29 am
SD United continued its back-to-back weekend road trips in Los Angeles with another gutsy team effort on Sunday, defeating the feisty first-place Rampage, 2-1. To mark Father's Day, several team members had the support of their families in the stands in an important match in the Pacific South standings.
Former Wake Forest/UCLA star Jayme Cargnoni contributed a goal to give United a 1-0 lead, as well as tenacious pressure in the forward line. The Rampage responded with a sharp direct set piece to even the score at 1-1. United matched the intensity of the Rampage with tough defensive work in the midfield from Rebekah Patrick, Lindsay Browne and Karly Larsen.
With the match at a draw, USD 's Leigh Ann Robinson sparked up her game with a key assist, as she set up former collegiate teammate Rocky Garcia with an impressive first-time strike to give United the 2-1 advantage. Robinson’s team-first approach has set up her teammates in scoring positions throughout league play.
Sophia Perez, Vanessa Valentine, Katie Miyake, Natalie Vinti, Ashli Sandoval and Kelly Steele contributed as a solid defensive unit for United to lock down the victory. Valentine's consistent leadership in the back and Perez's hard work in the net have contributed to a Pacific South-leading three goals allowed for the season. Perez holds five shutouts over seven games so far this season.
United returns home to train this week in preparation for Saturday's rematch with the San Diego Sea Lions at Cathedral HS at 6 p.m. On Sunday, United will host the visiting Claremont Stars at 4 p.m. on its home turf, Valhalla Stadium.