Lightning puts on good showing in Sweden

The Lightning, a local Commonwealth Football Club girls’ Under-17

team in the Coast Soccer League, returned home with four victories at

the Gothia Cup tournament held in Gothenburg, Sweden.

With a 4-2-1 record in a 38-team bracket, the Lightning placed

third overall.

The international event involved 1,200 teams representing 60

countries.

Prior to arriving in Gothenburg, the Lightning played two practice

matches in London and went on a sightseeing tour that involved visits

to Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Tower of London and the House

of Parliament.

Once in Gothenburg, an Olympic-like ceremony, which drew

approximately 40,000 spectators was held and featured flag

ceremonies, team introductions and a fireworks display.

In tournament play, the Lightning took on seven Swedish opponents.

They defeated Moheds RF (2-0), Nkyvarns (2-0), Stattena (2-1) and

downed Hammarby, 4-3, in a shootout.

The Lightning tied Kallered, 2-2 and lost to Hudik, 6-5, in a

semifinal round shootout.

Jessica Abdou and Janet Peterson led the Lightning in scoring with

four goals apiece in tournament play.

Abdou also led with three assists and Gena Johnson recorded two

shutouts in goal.

Coached by Jack Peterson, the Lightning consists of Abdou,

Johnson, Peterson, Megan Bell, Tara Fox, Nikki Frieborg, Danae Lucas,

Caitlin McGinnis, Hilary Pohlman, Lindsey Rodgers, Elizabeth

Santiago, Samantha Serrano, Lauren Stimmler, Courtney Taniguchi and

Krista Thompson.