Head Coach BJ McGrane and Assistant Coach Mike Paolini led the U18 girls in battle against the defending national champions and league champions. In the first game of the US Youth Soccer National League season, the U18 girls opened up in Atlanta, Georgia against stiff competition. NSA Premier of Illinois, gave quite a competition. Empire came out strong with their gritty style, yet keeping much of the possession early on. Half way though the first half, Emma Firenze broke through along the left flank and slotted a ball across where Kaelyn Gamel put it away. Christina Sarokon had two great saves in net to end the first half of play. Several new players (Eva Gordon, Sam Crane and Sarokon) made quite an impression with their first time playing with the team. The lone goal proved all that was needed.

On day two, Empire played LaRoca PT, a soccer club out of Utah. Once again, the girls possesed the ball most of the game, but could not finish on goal. Fine goaltending proved key as Stephanie Senn and Christina Sarokon both recorded yet another shutout. Empire finished the match with a 0-0 tie.

The final game of the weekend proved to be Empire’s finest match. The game was against the Lady Renegades of Florida. Empire came out very strong despite the fact that Florida had 2 National team defenders and one National team forward. Once again, Emma Firenze found a seam and split the defenders with a through ball where hard working Tessa Devereaux finished the ball to take the lead just 5 minutes into play. Just 15 minutes later, right-outside back, Sam Crane, made a fantastic offensive run beating opponents around the outside and served a ball onto the 6 where Eva Gordon tucked it away to make the game 2-0 leading into the second half. Empire’s tough defending by Crane, Taylor Haenlin, Kim Murphy, Kathryn Busa & Michelle Wiese shut down any offense Florida would attempt. Physical midfield battles by Kelly Ristoff, Jackie Firenze, Gamel and Devereaux sisters caused Florida to make many turnovers. With 20 minutes left in regulation, Empire continued to break down Florida’s defense, when Jackie Firenze pounded home a shot just outside the 18, to finish the lead to 3-0.

Empire United stands in first place after their first round of National League play. The team will travel to Disney for the second round (12/31-01/02/12) of National League play.

Congratulations coaches and players!