The last week has been an international whirlwind for Vernon United Under 18 Girls Euro travel team. Before it’s over, they will witness a new soccer champion crowned today in Frankfurt as Japan takes on powerhouse U.S. in the gold-medal game of the Women’s World Cup.
United, coached by Ron Krause, got its first taste of overseas action last weekend, bowing 6-0 to the Blackburn Rovers Soccer Academy in Manchester, England.
Having to play just 17 hours after arriving in the U.K., United, who donned stylish red Canadian jerseys, struggled on the field. Keeper Aynsley Orobko was spectacular in net as she prevented the score going into double digits. Ashley Krause had Vernon’s best chance when she deflected a shot from Sachiko Ouchi, just missing the post.
Off the pitch, the Vernon girls toured Liverpool, and followed that with a visit to historic Old Trafford, home of Manchester United.
In their second international friendly, United bowed 5-1 to Urmston Meadowside LFC, another English girls squad.
Krause recorded her club’s first international goal by curling a corner kick directly into the net. Katie Annand and Lindsey Krause also had solid games. Holly Ketter suffered a groin strain, and had to be used sparingly.
Later in the week, United flew to Frankfurt and travelled onto Viernheim, Germany.
After some sightseeing Wednesday, the girls took in the World Cup semifinal between Japan and Sweden. The team supported Ouchi in cheering for Japan, who earned a 3-1 decision to advance to the final.
United visited Heidelberg, Germany Thursday to play their third international against TSV Amicita Viernheim. They visited Europa Park Friday, and played their final international match against FC Starkenburgia Heppenheim Saturday.
United returns home Monday.
