By Tommy Kane

Published: June 13th, 2018

Volume II: Issue XXXIV

The United States National Women’s Team defeated China, 2-1, on June 12th. A goal by Megan Rapinoe and Tobin Heath pushed the US to victory in the friendly that took place in Cleveland, Ohio. The US was fortunate enough to see the return of a few key players. Julie Ertz, Tobin Heath, and Rose Lavelle are just some of the players that have been out for a long period of time due to injury. The US looked strong in this match, but had some weaknesses on the defensive side of the ball that caused Goalie, Ashlyn Harris, to allow a goal.

Rapinoe Scores on Her 100th Cap:

Midfielder, Megan Rapinoe, scored on her 100th appearance for the United States from a great cross by Christen Press. The goal came in the 35th minute, and gave the US a first-half 1-0 lead. This all stemmed from the frustration of the off-sides call against Julie Ertz’s would-be goal. China responded well and started to play a bit more aggressive than before, almost leading to multiple chances that could have brought in a few goals. Nonetheless, the US went into halftime with a 1-0 lead against the Chinese.

Heath and Lavelle Return:

The US Supporters saw a great scene in the second-half of the match. Forwards, Tobin Heath and Rose Lavelle, returned after injuries that kept the two out for a long period of time. They both looked to be playing in great form as well. In the 72nd minute, the US defense buckled and allowed a two-on-one to occur, giving China a prime opportunity to tie the match. Li Ying received the pass and put one in the net to draw the game at 1-1. Thankfully, the US was able to rebound and score another of their own. In the 75th minute, Heath headed the ball over the keeper and into the net. The US was very satisfied with her performance. With that goal being scored, it became the ice-breaker that gave the US a 2-1 win. The Chinese played well the rest of the match and didn’t back down, but they were unable to make any more magic against the US defense. With the US winning the match, it makes them perfect in the last 16 games (14-0-2).

Tournament of Nations:

The United States will compete in an annual summer tournament between Brazil, Australia, and Japan. This tournament is played on US soil and tests each team against worthy opponents. It also is a great preparer for the World Cup, which will take place in France next summer. Starting on July 26th, the US will take on Japan in their first match. They will then play Australia on the 29th, and Brazil on August 1st.

The United States are clearly still in the Jill Ellis experimental stage. She is still trying to put the pieces together to create the ultimate team and bounce back from the 2016 Olympics exit. The use of Alex Morgan and Carli Lloyd will also be evident, as well as utilizing Julie Ertz in that midfielder role. The US has all the pieces to be another World Cup winner, but will they come together when it is all said and done? The only way to find out is to watch the Tournament of Nations and see how they develop. Go USA!

Stats:

http://www.espn.com/soccer/matchstats?gameId=511228