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Sky Blue FC Breaks Even With 1-0 Win Vs. Chicago Red Stars

Kerri Hanks tallied a 90th minute goal to lead Sky Blue FC to a 1-0 win over Chicago. With the win, Sky Blue reached the .500 mark for the first time this season.

Jul 20, 2009 7:53:01 PM

WPS: Natasha Kai, Sky Blue FC, May 2009 (ISI)

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WPS: Natasha Kai, Sky Blue FC, May 2009 (ISI)

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PISCATAWAY, NJ – Sky Blue FC is one step closer to the playoffs. In Sunday evening’s match vs. the Chicago Red Stars, Kerri Hanks tallied a late goal to lead the New Jersey club to victory.

Sky Blue (6-6-4, 22 points) has been strong over the last month, posting a 3-1-1 record. After this weekend’s matches, Sky Blue moved into fourth place. The Chicago Red Stars (4-8-5, 17 points) remained in sixth place. Both clubs are still in the playoff hunt, with just a few weeks left in regular season play.

The first half ended with limited chances for both sides. But in the second half, both teams turned up the heat. Chicago’s Chioma Igwe’s header just missed the post in the 57th minute.

Hanks entered the match as a substitute in the 62nd minute and helped bring some life to the offense. But it didn’t pay off until late in the match.

Chicago’s best opportunity happened in the 89th minute when Cristiane crossed a long ball to Ella Masar. Masar headed the ball toward goal. Sky Blue goalkeeper Jenni Branam made the save.

Moments later Sky Blue took control. Hanks drilled a Keeley Dowling pass into the net for the 1-0 win.

"It's very exciting," Hanks said. "It's not only great for me but great for the team coming out with a win. We go into every game looking for three points and I'm glad I could provide help for the team. Keeley played a great ball and I took a touch and just hit it."

Hanks tallied her first goal of the season for Sky Blue FC, but second overall. She tallied her first goal as a member of Saint Louis Athletica.

With the win, Sky Blue FC reached the .500 mark for the first time all season. Chicago dropped its second match of the season. But with three games left, they’re not completely out of the playoff scene.

“Losing is never easy, whether or it's a first-minute or last-minute goal. Unfortunately we got a bit disorganized at the end since we were chasing a goal so hard. Obviously both teams needed to win this game,” Red Stars Head Coach Emma Hayes said. “I don't think that the team was good enough today in the attack. We weren't able to create a great deal of chances - Sky Blue FC deserves credit for that.”

Goal.com

For more on Women’s Professional Soccer, go to Goal.com’s women’s soccer page.

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