NEWS NEWS

SEALIONS WIN HISTORIC FIRST DERBY!
Saturday May 31, 2008
SAN DIEGO – The San Diego WFC SeaLions proved they have what it takes to win the WPSL – Pacific South Division when they beat SD United 2-1 in the first ever San Diego Women's Derby last Saturday at Valhalla High School.

"This was a win that took not only teamwork and skill, but guts and determination," said a pleased WFC Coach Sean Bowers.  "This win was a turning point for us."  Although the SeaLions lost to rivals LA Rampage in Ventura on Sunday, the Derby win gave WFC (1-2-1) 4 points, keeping them apace with the division leaders.

The game against United was everything a derby should be: fast-paced, competitive, and packed with fans.  In this historic match, each team fought to disrupt the other's rhythm until the final whistle.

The first goal came in the 29th minute from forward Sherice Anders (WUSA Boston Breakers).  A half-hour later, the SeaLions' win was secured when Tessa Lennala (UC-Riverside) chipped United's goalkeeper, Sophia Perez (Mex. WNT/SDSU), with a head-flick off of a cross by Annie Kadota (Rice University) from the left sideline followed by a one-touch pass from Jen Neilsen (WUSA S.D. Spirit).  United fought hard to catch up, with Amy Epsten (USD) earning a late goal in the 75th minute, but the SeaLions' defense remained strong.

WFC goalkeeper Lu Snyder (SDSU) made several key saves in the last ten minutes, including one point-blank with just seconds remaining, to preserve the win.

The SeaLions travel to Sacramento this weekend to face arch-rivals California Storm, before returning home to Manchester Stadium to face United in a Derby Rematch on 6/14.