After a neck and neck battle with Bloomsburg University, the PNG U-20 Women’s team is on the home stretch in their tour of the United States.
Washington born coach Lisa Cole scheduled seven matches against American university sides to give the squad more experience playing as a team ahead of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Port Moresby.
It was back to the drawing board after losing 5-0 in match three against Bucknell University last week, a tough loss for Papua New Guinea after having more attempts than Bucknell in the second half. While PNG proved their dominance on the pitch during that second period, it also highlighted shooting accuracy as a key area of improvement.
The same area of improvement was also noticeable in this week’s match against Bloomsburg University, which finished with the score tied at 1-1.
Cole said there were many attempts at goal but the team couldn’t get the ball in the back of the net again to take the lead.
“Plenty of good chances were created by the team but we still need to finish,” she said.
Cole was impressed with the effort put in and proud to walk away with the draw.
“The team put in a good fight at the end of the game looking to get the win,” she added.
PNG have had mixed results so far, losing their first game against Seattle Pacific University but redeeming themselves with a 2-1 win against Lock Haven University in their second match.
Outside of football training and matches, the squad has worked closely with Centre Soccer Association, participating in a CSA Youth Clinic at State College and attending 50 Fest, the 50th anniversary celebration of Centre Region Parks and Recreation. These extra-curricular activities have allowed the young team to meet and inspire other young athletes and immerse themselves in the American culture.
The squad has three matches left in their tour of the United States before Cole will select the final squad to compete at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in November.
For more on Papua New Guinea football visit www.pngfootball.com.pg