The Western New York Flash wasted no time securing a playoff berth Saturday night. The Flash only played three defenders to take care of the Boston Breakers by a 4-0 scoreline at Jordan Field. Jessica McDonald’s second minute goal from a low cross inside the six yard box set the urgent tone.
Western New York Flash Clinch Playoff Berth After Win Over Boston Breakers
Lynn Williams scored a controversial goal 21 minutes later. A shot on goal hit a Boston Breaker player’s arm. As the Flash players protested, causing the Breakers to pause as well, Lynn scored the second goal.
McCall Zerboni’s low left cross assist to Samantha Mewis gave her a goal in the 44th minute.
Jessica McDonald, being six feet tall, went down easily for a penalty scored by Abby Dahlkemper in the 68th minute.
Boston had the luxury of at least possessing in their defensive third when they last played the Flash. Western New York wouldn’t let the Breakers play at all in the first half of this game.
Natasha Dowie’s header that was saved by Sabrina D’Angelo in the 52nd minute was Boston’s best chance to score.
The Breakers, in front of the second largest crowd in franchise history, took only five shots according to www.soccerpunter.com. The Flash got off 15 total shots during the match.
The Flash can breathe the playoff air now. Their all out attacking play against Boston gave them a rare shutout. That game plan will not work playing in the semi-finals. Western New York only has five clean sheets this season.
If Western New York wants to raise the trophy, they have to balance their attack with their defense. They have not done so all season. Even when the Flash wins they give up goals. A team like Portland can make them pay for a loose defense at the worst time. Is it too late for Western York to learn now?
