May 15-16, 1999
Torrance, Ca
"Hands Down", They Said
Everyone seemed to be expecting a very tight weekend for the Midnight Express. There was that thought that it could be games going down the wire. But one thing's sure, the weather was fine, sunny and complimented by a nice breeze. The first game against Palos Verdes was somehow guarded. The opponents playing with just 9 players, yet being the taller kids-the Walnut gals manage to produce just a goal 1-0. The afternoon was a routine appearance for the girls. They glided pass the opponents from Irvine and North Torrance, and sending them home knowing they were 2 games before their 6th gold.
A second three-peat is in the making. The day was nice and relaxing. With their usual mood, serious and determined, they went charging through their game with West Torrance in the semi-final with a 7-1 victory. Vivi, in her brave attempt to defend the goal allowed 1 goal (her 1st and hopefully the last hahaha). This victory featured the first goal of our solid defender and goalie-Christina. Playing as center forward, at this time, gave her the oppurtunity to give her all, showed her skills and determination. She almost scored her second goal as she released the ball with all her right leg's power- only to hit and shake the top bar. It could have been an 8-1 game.
The finals with Chino's In da Net team came with no surprise. Chino had proved they really wanted the Midnight Express to even up some scores by playing the first half of the championship with ungiving defense. Though the locals dominated the offense, the locals had to content themselves with a domineering offense from Janessa and Renay. Find teamworks from Jennifer and Vivi proved to be futile as well. Though it was quite close in the first half, the second half was just a different ballgame. Lauren went into action. She went on to score two quick goals from the middle, breaking the hope of the opponents. As in previous games, the gate was opened- she managed to score 1 more goal and closing the afternoon and securing the sixth gold for the WALNUT MIDNIGHT EXPRESS.
Jennifer
Christina C.
Elisa & Tiffany
Theresa