September 26, 2006 > Palmeiras win back-to-back in GSSL

by Karin Diamond

The Union City Palmeiras, Girls Under-14 Division I soccer team, started strong in the Golden State Soccer League (GSSL) Gold Division. The Palmeiras won back-to-back games on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 23 and 24.

Currently ranked number 10 in Northern California, the Palmeiras beat number 2 ranked Diablo Valley Soccer Club (DVSC), 1-0. In a tough battle between the two teams, the Palmeiras offense prevailed when Sara Brathwaite crossed the ball to the front of the net and Khyra Conerly finished it off to score the only goal of the game. DVSC was held scoreless with outstanding goalkeeping by Megan Kufeld, and a strong defense which included Sabrina Alvaro, Ashley Flores, Cris Garingan and Valeria Wuest.

Another win was added to the Palmeiras record on Sunday when they beat Lamorinda United 92, 4-0. Conerly had a "hat trick" by scoring three goals late in the second half, with assists from Mariah King, Sol Luna, and Brathwaite. In addition, Brathwaite scored the last goal on a breakaway just before the final whistle. The Palmeiras' midfield of Nina Arrescurrenaga, Paige Diamond, Joana Lopez, Natasha Springer, Johanna Blackwell and Mariah King controlled the pace of the game, seldom allowing the ball into its end of the pitch.