The match between the USA and Mexico started amongst loud cheers from the Mexican fans in the stands. In the opening minutes of the first half, play was mostly in the midfield. The USA started to gain offensive momentum and Katie REINPRECHT scored first to give the USA a 1-0 lead over Mexico in the 9^th minute. Only two minutes later, K. REINPRECHT scored again to make the score 2-0. Despite more play in the USA’s attacking half, Mexico’s defense held strong to prevent the USA from scoring. Around the 24^th minute, Mexico successfully blocked a couple USA penalty corner plays. Later in the first half Mexico battled for possession, but the USA persisted on attack. The USA’s Shannon Taylor made the score 3-0 over Mexico in the 31^st minute. Mexico withstood last minute USA pressure and the halftime score remained USA 3-0 Mexico.

The second half started like the first ended, with the USA on attack. USA took a four goal lead over Mexico off a penalty corner goal by Claire LAUBACH. Mexico’s keeper CASTILLO MARIN continued to block USA shots of penalty corners and midway through the second half the score remained USA 4-0 Mexico. In the 52^nd minute, the USA’s Katie O’Donnell put the USA head 5-0 over Mexico. Soon after, the USA’s Caroline NICHOLS had an opportunity to increase the USA’s lead, but did convert the penalty stroke. With Mexico able to withstand USA pressure in the final minutes, the score remained 5-0 in favor of the USA.

Match Quotes

USA’s Coach Lee BODIMEADE

On the match …

It was our first game of the tournament. I am very happy. I thought we played stronger in the second half especially in comparison with the first half. A five-nill score to begin the tournament is a good start. And to play in front of an enthusiastic crowd is always fun for our players. It was a good start for us.

USA’s Katie REINPRECHT

On her two quick goals to give the USA a 2-0 lead…

I just put the final touch on both. First was a good feed from Katelyn FALGOWSKI to the right spot that I just deflected. The other was also just a good deflection. It was good to just put them away and good to get up by two goals rather early.

Mexico’s Coach San Yusen ZULETA SANDOVAL

On the match …

We were calm coming into the match against the United States. We committed more errors. We are a young team and we will continue to grow.

On playing at home in Mexico…

I was happy with the public (fans). I am content playing at home.