July 18, 2011
Looking for their first three points of the tournament, Canada ‘A’ came out in full control in their final match of the first 4 Nation Classic. Numerous opportunities were generated in the Trinidad & Tobago circle, however, Canada was unable to capitalize. Trinidad & Tobago’s defense successfully packed the middle areas of the circle shutting down several of the attacks with low, indoor-style, flat stick tackles. Frustrated by the lack of result, Canada ‘A’ continued to press and counter-attack off Trinidad & Tobago turnovers. Finally, Canada was awarded a series of penalty corners that resulted in the game winning goal. The ball was pulled to the top of the circle and layed off to Ali LEE, who passed the ball to Marian DICKINSON. DICKINSON, with her second of the tournament, received and pushed the ball towards goal. The ball slid just under the goal keeper, bouncing its way across the goal line. Trinidad & Tobago did have one fast break where and unmarked foward was found alone in the circle but she deflected the ball wide of the goal.
Trinidad & Tobago continued to try and outlet the ball and upped their physicality in the second half. Whethering the storm but still unable to earn a second goal, Canada ‘A’ continued to maintain control of the game. Clearly frustrated by the scoreline, Canada’s inexperience began to show in their impatience to posess the ball during attack. Regardless, it was the DICKINSON penalty corner goal that would give Canada ‘A’ their first 3 points of the tournament. This capped a great end for the young, spirited team that definitely added some great competition to the first 4 Nation tournament.
Following this tournament, one roster of 18 will be selected to represent Canada in the second 4 Nation tournament. Only one Team Canada will be participating and recent Champions Challenge participants, Japan, will take over the fourth spot for Canada ‘A’. Games for Canada’s women’s team will resume on July 20th at 4:00pm (vs. Japan) and July 21st (vs. T&T).
Canada ‘A’ Starting Line-up: Bea FRANCISCO, Mary NIELSON, Katie COLLISON, Ali LEE, Rachel DONOHOE, Maddie SECCO, Emma PLASTERAS, Shannon ELMITT, Sara McMANUS, Alex McCAWLEY, Brienne STAIRS
Substitutes: Marian DICKINSON, Michelle WEBER, Amanda WOODCROFT, Kate THOMPSON, Kim SCRAPER