Yesterday, July 22, 2012, our U16 Girls Red squad took on a strong FC America side that ended in a five-goal-thriller. Sadly, despite their best efforts, our young lady Lions fell short, losing to FC America 3-2.

In the opening minutes of the first half, Orlando proved the more dominant side. Putting on an excellent display of ball movement and possession, our girls found themselves with several opportunities on goal within the opening moments of the match. Unfortunately, none of those chances were converted into goals.

Ten minutes before halftime, FC America struck first through Brianna Camargo. In the 34th minute, Camargo was left unmarked at the top of the 18-yard-box. With acres of space, the FC America player reared back and converted her chance into a goal.

Despite going down a goal just before halftime, City came out with a fury after the second half whistle. With a blitzkrieg-like attack, Orlando scored a short five-minutes after the start of the second half through Natalie Fouque.

The attack began with Orlando’s Ashley Krienbring after she dribbled right through two FC America defenders in the attacking third. Distraught and confused by Krienbring’s excellent ball skills, the FC America defenders were unable to block the service to Fouque. Calm and collected, Fouque leveled the score at 1-1 in the 50th minute.

Catching City on the counter attack, FC America regained their one-goal advantage in the 58th minute through Casey Brown. Winded from the counterattack, Orlando conceded another goal just seven minutes later, making the scoreline 2-1.

With plenty of time left in the match, our girls fought hard to try to level the scoreline. The U16 side came close after Emily Koybryn pulled off a Messi-like move which split two FC America defenders, opening up an open path on goal. With ease Koybryn converted her chance, sending the ball straight into the side netting.

After Koybryn’s goal, Orlando maintained possession and controlled the pace of the match. However, even with the momentum on their side, our girls were unable to find that all-important equalizer. The match would end 2-3 FC America.

One final note regarding this squad.  Members of the Red squad were also part of the Disney Cup team that captured the U16 title, going undefeated through the tournament.  For those players this was their sixth match in as many days.

Other OCYS Super Y-League Results

7.21.12 U12 Boys (Purple) 3:4 VSI West Florida Flames
7.21.12 U14 Boys (Purple) 3:0 Ocala Stampede
7.21.12 U15 Boys (Red) 1:2 VSI West Florida Flames
7.22.12 U12 Girls (Red) 0:8 FC America
7.22.12 U13 Girls 1:0 West Pines United
7.22.12 U14 Girls 0:1 West Pines United
7.22.12 U17 Boys (Red) 4:3 FC America

For more on Orlando City's youth programs, visit www.orlandocityyouth.org.