U12 Lightning Strike, Win Annual Parsipanny Pride Invitational Soccer Tournament During Columbus Day Weekend

The Newtown Lightning U12 girls’ travel soccer team won the 20th Annual Parsipanny Pride Invitational Tournament in Parsipanny, NJ over Columbus Weekend. The Lightning competed against premier teams from several states en route to taking home the championship trophy.

Lightning 1, Maryland Thunder Pride 1 - Kelsey Muniz scored Newtown’s only goal during a hard-fought game. Kate Fallon was strong in the goal in the first half, and Emily Riley had a great save in the second period. Megan Weber helped pace the offensive effort, and Meghan Korchman and Helene Sorensen provided solid defense. Megan Meyer was a force in the midfield.

Lightning 3, NJ Rangers Lynx 0 - The second game of the tournament featured strong play and excellent teamwork by all of the Lightning players. Sarah Lynch led the scoring efforts with two goals, while Amy Martinelli added a goal. Siena Cicarelli notched an assist, and delivered a strong showing as goalkeeper in the second half. Cassie Fischer was strong in goal for the first period. Kailee Dunnigan had a nice overall game as she consistently helped set up offensive play. Kate Fallon also played well on offense, and Dale Shearin had excellent hustle all over the back end of the field.  

Lightning 5, Chatham (NJ) United Strikers 2 - Jessica Keller scored two goals for the Lightning, one on a penalty kick and the other on a direct kick.  Siena Cicarelli put one in from the midfield, and Kelsey Muniz and Sarah Lynch also scored one apiece. Raquel Crespo and Emily Riley worked well to keep up the offensive pressure. Meaghan Brophy was outstanding on defense, and Kate Fallon and Dale Shearin played well in the nets.

Lightning 1, Real Southeast (CT) 0 – In the Championship game Newtown emerged victorious after a tough battle for the title.  The lone goal of the game came off a throw-in by Megan Meyer, which bounced in front of the goal and was deflected into the net for the score. Forwards Sarah Lynch and Kelsey Muniz refused to back down as they withstood some physical play by their opponents. Jessica Keller was tireless at both ends of the field, providing aggressive play on offense and critical support on defense. Cassie Fischer and Shelby Tolla displayed good speed and ball control in the midfield, and Michelle Zarifis was tough on defense. Kate Fallon and Emily Riley played well in goal for the shutout.