It was a near-perfect weekend for FC Pali, a local AYSO girls U14 Extra team, which took first place at last weekend’s Pony Express Soccer Tournament in Corona. Anchored by goalkeeper Colleen Baskin and center back Caroline Flintoft – both Palisadians – the squad won all six of its games, outscoring the opposition 18-0 en route to the championship.
Pacing FC Pali’s offense were Palisadian Ava Button and Malibu’s Collette Aldrich, each of whom had four goals. Both girls scored in the final, a 2-0 victory over host Corona.
Coached by Gary Truman and Jeff Marks, the team displayed excellence at every position. In addition to Baskin and Flintoft, the impenetrable defense included Palisadian Sadie Bernstein, along with Karen Lopez, Dulcie Morris, and Rivers Redclay. Controlling the midfield were Nina Gonzalez, Tessa Luini, Jenna Marks, and Sarah Rosenblood. Joining Button and Aldrich up front were Tess Feldman and Lailee Connell. Nine players scored at least one goal during the tournament.
FC Pali will next compete in the Area P Regionals on Feb. 7.
— Steve Galluzzo
This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.