ECNL Girls U14 Final: PDA Blue Redemption

ECNL Girls U14 Final: PDA Blue Redemption
by Victor Olorunfemi
July 18, 2023
Players featured in this article:
D | PDA
D | PDA
F | San Diego Surf
Makena Lee |  2027
F | PDA
F | PDA
D | San Diego Surf
D | San Diego Surf
D | PDA
MF | PDA
Cali Smith |  2027
MF | PDA
MF | PDA
D | PDA

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Two early goals determined the game as PDA Blue held on late to defeat a relentless San Diego Surf team 2-1. It marks the end of an epic redemption season as PDA Blue completes an undefeated season after losing in last year’s National final.

The first goal came just two minutes into the final as Amari Manning expertly created space wide and floated in a cross that Deus Stanislaus finished with great composure. The second score came just a few minutes after that as Makena Lee showed great proactiveness to reach a deflected Cali Smith through ball before finishing past the onrushing keeper.  

With a two-goal lead early, PDA Blue held on as San Diego Surf dictated the tempo in search of an equalizer. A few injury stoppages halted their momentum until Citlali Reyes scored a consolation goal with a few minutes left in regulation. That goal was the first PDA Blue conceded through the playoffs, displaying just how impressive their defensive fortitude was.  

The play of the game was made by MVP and leader of that PDA defensive unit, Sandra O'Neill. With seconds left, Reyes beat two defenders and lined up a shot inside the six that O’Neill charged down with impressive athleticism to secure the 2-1 win.  

Jordan Reigrod was also outstanding in goal throughout, particularly in the first half on an exceptional double save that kept the two-goal lead. Danica Tsapatsaris, Maggie Averell, and Quinlan Donahue made up the rest of the back four as Smith and Elizabeth Rubin did well to protect the defense from the midfield in a game where San Diego Surf had the bulk of possession. 

Reyes, A’Rianna Ellis, Alessia Mirhashemi, Royal Ruby, and Elle McMurrey all were outstanding for San Diego Surf.

Player of the Match: Sandra O'Neill, PDA Blue

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