This past weekend the Crush traveled to the Oak Brook Polo grounds to participate in the Eclipse Select Spring Classic. This was the first tournament experience for the team. On Friday night they opened against division rival Bolingbrook. The Crush played a very strong first half protecting keeper Kara Blasingame. With strong winds playing against the girls, they kept the Raiders scoreless. After a few position changes at the half, the Crush were ready to go on the attack. Unfortunately the weather would not cooperate and the game was ended in 0-0 tie.
Still battle strong winds and colder temperatures, the girls returned to action against the Chicago Magic on Saturday morning. Good passing was accompanied by more shots on goal. In the end though, the Magic proved to be a stronger team with a 8-0 win.
Sunday brought the finally to tournament play and provided the Crush with another attempt at a win. Matching up against the Libertyville Premier White, the girls dominated control of the ball throughout the game. Megan Rasmussen and Maya Trichardt turned in solid performances as keepers. Cori Welch and Emily Brandt player outstanding as defenders to really set the tone of the game. Jessica Sendef and Nicole Kraemer played aggressively at the midfield and in rotations as strikers. Scoring came initially from a solo shot by Kacie Moran and was followed by Abby Fioresi's hat trick. Fioresi was assisted once by Brandt and once by Rasmussen. The Crush ended victoriously 4-1.
