West Mont United Fury Capture EPYSA State Cup Championship

West Chester, PA – The West Mont United Fury squared off against defending state champions HMMS United (Harrisburg, Pa.) in a battle of top-five teams to determine the 2009 Pennsylvania U10 Girls Division State Championship.

The first half saw great ball-control action by both teams, highlighted by United’s cross-field passing that led to the first shots of the game. The Fury defense of Grace Gvodas, Missy Moore and Gabby Kane recovered well and moved the ball upfield, allowing the offense to place shots on net, nearly missing a high corner shot. Strong midfield play by Avery Cotter gave Hannah Thomas, Camryn Jones, and Juliana Alessandroni more opportunities, but the United goalie stood strong. As the half wound down, the United mounted another strong charge on net, but great play by Tierney McDonnell kept the game scoreless at the half.

In the second half, Alyssa Conway and Lauren Mensch joined the defensive fray and continued passing the ball upfield.  Assisting the midfield and offense were Amanda Byrd, Mikayla Teets, Jackie Gonda and Elise DiGuiseppe, each of whom battled United for position and ball control across the field.

Both United and the Fury created rush after rush through excellent passing and through balls. With approximately 12 minutes left in the game, the Fury mounted a flurry of shots on net before Gabby Kane sent a rebound to the back of the net to give the Fury the lead. The United would not go quietly, however, mounting a few final rushes of their own. One dangerous shot clanked off the post, while the others were deterred by the Fury defense and a few spectacular saves by McDonnell.

The Fury, though, held on for the 1-0 win, giving the West Mont United Soccer Association its second champion in program history.  It would also give Head Coach Brian Jones and Assistant Coach Greg Alessandroni a title in their final game. Congratulations to all the players, parents, coaches, administrators and volunteers who were a part of this championship!