By: Heidi Price

GIRONDINS USA 99S WIN MARYLAND STATE CUP CHAMPIONSHIP

The Girondins USA 99 squad competed in the Maryland State Cup competition during May and June.  Advancing to the semi finals with a 3-1 overtime win against Maryland Rush 99, the Girondins USA 99 squad faced local rival FC Frederick on Saturday June 2, 2018.  The match began with two competitive teams fighting for a chance to play in the championship match the following day.

Girondins USA 99 players began the match with a dominating offense scoring the first goal.  FC Frederick responded shortly with a goal of their own. Before the end of the first half, Girondins USA 99 had taken the lead 2-1.  It was all Girondins USA 99 in the second half of the match.  Scoring three more goals, including a header by midfielder Olivia Paolucci, the Girondins USA 99 squad came away with a 5-2 victory.  Forward Heather Markiewicz contributed with one goal, and forward Megan Baker tallied three goals in the match.

Sunday’s Championship match saw the Girondins USA 99 squad facing the 2017 State Cup winners and local rival OPSA Magic.  Losing to this same team in last year’s final match, the Girondins USA 99 players were determined to secure the victory this year.

GIRONDINS USA 99S PLAY THROUGH RAIN TO WIN STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

The championship match began with a delayed start due to rain, but saw both teams fighting hard to control the momentum of the game. Girondins USA 99 scored first with a powerful shot by midfielder Caroline Koutsos.  Before the end of the first half, OPSA Magic had tied the game. Both teams regrouped during the half and came out strong in the second.

Goalkeepers for both teams kept the score tied at one goal apiece with some amazing saves. With less than five minutes left in the match, forward Leanna
Choo received a pass and placed the ball in the far right corner of the net to take the lead and win the U19 Maryland State Cup Championship.

Additionally, the Girondins USA 99 squad will represent Maryland in the 2018 US Soccer Eastern Regional Championship June 30 – July 4, 2018 in Spotsylvania, Virginia.

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