Today’s championship match should have been a classic. It was a matchup between the top two teams in the conference, both of whom had demolished their semifinal opponent. The D.C. United Women though had other ideas.
In another showing of their dominant play this season, United won the Eastern Conference Championship by a tally of 3-0. After an incredibly sluggish first 25 minutes D.C. found another gear and left the Charlotte Lady Eagles in the dust.
In the 28th minute Lianne Sanderson added another highlight to her already stellar season. On a deep cross in from Molly Menchel, Sanderson broke the tie with a rocket past the keeper. It was a great play all around with the beautiful deep ball into Menchel, who gave Sanderson the perfect pass.
In an almost identical play from yesterday’s match, Hayley Siegel scored on another incredible free kick. From the left side of the box again she bent the ball to the right corner of the goal and it sailed past the outstretched hands of the Eagles keeper.
Keeper Didi Haracic played a wonderful match as well, saving multiple shots that would have turned the game dramtically. It was the 3rd straight shutout for Haracic despite facing 3 playoff teams.
Taking the 2-0 lead into the break the lead was still in some doubt, with the high flying Charlotte Lady Eagles having the ability to score quickly. But all those doubts were put to rest in the 53rd minute by the British superstar Lianne Sanderson.
Off of a free kick into the box from Jerica DeWolfe Sanderson really just directed the ball into the back of the net for her second goal of the match. At 3-0 up United were in control and weren’t threatened for the final 40 minutes.
Next up United will head to Ottawa for their final four matchup against the hosting Fury. The winner of that match will play in the championship game against either the Quebec City Animal or the undefeated Pali Blues.
