In their final league matchup of the spring season, the Stampede faced Sacramento United, a team they had previously tied 1-1 at Norcal's Playdate #2 in Rohnert Park. This time, however, the Stampede were able to capitalize on improved team play to defeat Sacramento 3-1 and secure first place in the final standings.
The Stampede started the game with Brazil-style passing combinations that sent Sacramento scrambling. Before long, Lily Byrne found Anne Ayotte in the goal box, who in turn drove a hard high one making it 1-0 Davis. The Stampede's offensive attack resulted in several more shots on goal but Sacramento was able to even the score later with a goal from the top of the penalty area. Sacramento then threatened to take the lead when one of its players took a Ronaldo-like direct free kick from well outside the penalty area. But as the ball rapidly approached the top of the goal it ricocheted hard off the crossbar as keeper Mckenna Lutzker whirled around to catch it preventing any damage and maintaining the 1-1 tie into intermission.
In the second half, Ayotte sent a cross into the box from the right corner which Byrne collected from the Sacramento defense and netted for Stampede's second goal of the match. As usual, strong defense led by Yasmeen Dmeiri shut down any further threats from Sacramento. As the game clock winded down, Ayotte found space outside the penalty area and drove a 20-yarder through the Sacramento keeper's hands for the third and final goal.
Congratulations, Stampede!
