KICKERS STARS SHINE IN FRIENDLY VICTORY OVER JUNIORS SQUAD

Miami Concludes 2010 Season with Successful Fundraising Effort

Lauren Reilly (11) had 3 assists in Thursday's scrimmage

PLANTATION, FL -- The offensive talent was on display Thursday night as Miami Kickers F.C. made its final appearance of the 2010 season in a fundraising scrimmage against the Kickers Juniors.  Miami came away with an 8-1 victory in the 80 minute friendly, behind three goals from Chrissy Gratz and two each from April Perry and Laura Weinberg.

Perry opened the scoring with a goal in the 18th minute, assisted by Gratz.  Gratz, Weinberg and Jen Martin all scored in the opening period to give Miami a 4-1 half-time advantage.  Lauren Reilly (pictured above), Martin, and Amanda Detterline each tallied an assist.

In the second half, the Kickers got back to work quickly.  Gratz and Weinberg each collected their second goal of the match before the 60-minute mark, with Reilly assisting both to bring her match total to three.  Perry added her second goal in the 64th minute on an excellent find from Alexis Hernandez, and Elanna Brady connected with Gratz for her hat-trick in the 72nd minute.

The purpose of the friendly was to raise funds for the girls' soccer program at American Heritage School and its trip to California this season.  American Heritage serves as the home field and training ground for Miami Kickers F.C.  The Kickers also feature several former American Heritage standouts, and current stars Martin and Haleigh Stremanos.

Miami finished the 2010 season with a 3-2-3 mark (12 points), taking third place in the Sunshine Division of the WPSL despite an impressive plus-9 goal differential.  The Kickers had a chance to repeat as Sunshine Division champions heading into the final match of the season, but fell 3-1 to FSA Freedom in Orlando on July 17. 

Article by Jonathan Keeney, 2010