[Official FC Gold Pride Press Release]

FC Gold Pride Keeps Playoff Hopes Alive, Shutting Out SOL At Home

SANTA CLARA , CA (July 23, 2009)- A lively crowd of 3,873 filled Buck Shaw Stadium Thursday night to watch the mid-week match-up between the Pride and the first place Los Angeles Sol. The game resulted in a 0-0 tie, both teams walking away with a one point apiece. With the tie, the Sol was able to lock up the WPS Regular Season title and ensure the advantage of hosting the WPS Championship Match.

The Pride came out strong in the first 45 minutes of the match, holding true to the tough mentality and confident play they said they were looking to deliver. The first half proved to be evenly matched between the two California rivals, exchanging attacks and tough stops on defense.

Pride keeper, Allison Whitworth, saw the entire 90 minutes of competition against the Sol and demonstrated her control and prowess in the back. This was Whitworth’s third career start, and second time leading the Pride defense against LA.

I just want to do everything I can do get our team to the playoffs and then hopefully meet up in the playoffs again,” said Whitworth.

The second half was a crowd pleaser, both teams stepping up the passion and intensity on the field. The teams were able to create a handful of fierce attacks going in both directions. The Pride defense was able to contain the quick feet of Brazilian star Marta, shutting her out for a second time at home. Once gain Pride forward, Tiffeny Milbrett displayed her world class talent, fighting her way through the Sol defense, creating numerous opportunities for the Pride.

I think the players really refocused themselves and whether you win or lose we’ve got to be able to bring it for ourselves, for the fans, and for the respect of the game,” said Milbrett.

With the tie, the Pride remains in seventh place with a 3-9-4 record, but gained ground in race for a WPS playoff berth, now only nine points out of fourth place.

The Pride will close out a tough week of competition and travel to St. Louis for with their third game in eight days to face the Athletica on Sunday at 7 p.m.  The Pride will make its final trip to the Midwest on the team’s shortest amount of down time, having only two days between matches.