By Pieter Brown - Miami Kickers FC traveled to West Palm Beach to take on Palm Beach United this past Friday, July 3rd. Our first place Kickers strolled into Palm Beach riding high and maybe a little overconfident, falling to United 3-2.

Miami had to overcome injuries to important starters. Coach Miceli says, “I was missing my starting left back Kristin Chenault due to a reinjuring to her knee in the Puerto Rico Capitals game and Sam Wright a very versatile player.”

Injuries didn’t stop the Kickers from going straight at United early in the game when April Perry scored off a pass from Tamara Kochen in the 6th minute. Olivia Elias scored the Kickers second goal in the 16th minute. The teams went to the half tied 2-2.

The game continued on this terrible excuse for a field in the second half. Both teams had to overcome a pitch that was made up of mostly dirt and weeds. United dealt the final blow to Miami in the 91st minute when Palm Beach managed to score between the legs of Kickers goalkeeper Christine Hy.

“The Miami  Kickers F.C. played their worst game and Palm Beach United played their best game. This was a good lesson for us and it came at the right time. Being over confident can hurt a team. We will regroup and return to the pitch with greater intensity and determination.  I am confident that the Kickers will prevail in the next four games” said Coach Miceli.

Miami Kickers will suit up again this Saturday, July 11th at 7pm on their home field American Heritage High School. Kickers will face Clearwater Galactics for the first time this season at home. The Galactics are sitting in 2nd place and well within striking distance of the Kickers. Needless to say, the Miami Kickers need all their fans to show their support and rally behind the team.

Coach Miceli said, “By losing to Palm Beach United the Sunshine Division has gotten life back. The first place position is up for grabs to the team that is playing in the zone.  We hope we can get many of out supporters to attend the game on 7/11 @ American Heritage School in Plantation @ 7:00 PM. We will also have the raffle drawing at half time.”

Kickers Staring Lineup against Palm Beach United

Keeper - Christine Hy

LB - Deidre Bass

CB – Rochelle Wills

RB – Alexis Hernandez

DMF – Joanna McCaughey

DMF – Elanna Brady

RM – April Perry

CM – Stephanie Quinones

LM – Olivia Elias

F – Tamara Kochen

F- Stacy Payne

Substitutions

1 - Melony Poviones

2 - Rachelle Bueno – Came in the game at the 20th minute of the first half

3 - Liana Miller - Keeper

4 - Natalie Simon