May 2nd: Breakers 2, Sol 1

A crucial victory for Boston, and an inspiring recovery from last week's humiliation, but an odd match.

Boston played much more agressively than last week at both ends of the pitch. Last week we gave Carney and Rapinoe too much room in the box: yesterday we were all over the Sol forwards, particularly Marta, whenever they touched the ball. Our offense returned to its former high level with Kelly Smith back in the lineup.

Marta seemed frustrated and not in her best form, although she did have brilliant moments. She sent a low cross through a crowd of players within ten yards of the goal that really scared me. Around 80 she sliced through three defenders in the box and nearly scored.

A-Rod came on late and looked much more confident than she did in earlier outings. I was really glad to see that.

I thought the level of play was not particularly good. There were many sloppy sequences of just knocking the ball around. The Sol did not seem to use the width of the field particularly well (maybe they were distracted by all the markings on the field -- I know I would be.)

I am glad for the win. Watch out for the Sol next week, though. They will be on their home turf, and it is their turn to be angry and out for vindication.