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The Portland Rain finally decided to reward themselves with a few goals in a 5-1 win over the visiting Okanagan Predators on Sunday. The first few games of the season had Portland mostly dominating possession of the ball and wining most of the 50/50 balls, but unable to finish chances on goal. This offensive explosion might be the breakthrough that they were looking for. Time and time again the Rain laid down a relentless assault on the Okanagan net, successfully finishing 5 of the uncountable chances. The first goal was scored by Mary Cascio who masterfully settled a through ball at the top of the box, finishing past the charging keeper with a Predator defender tugging and breathing down her neck. The second Rain goal of the half came from newcomer Janine Drake. Janine was able to clean up a rebound off of a Megan Cecchini shot from about 30 yards out that the Predator keeper was able to stop but not control. 2-0 Rain…their first 2 goal lead of the season! Portland didn't stop the pressure at all before the half, scoring again on a Noelle Miller left footed strike that beat the diving Predator keeper to the far post from the top of the box. 3-0 Rain at halftime. Okanagan showed great character in the second half, scoring first to make the score 3-1. The Predator forward was able to cut a Rain defender and place a shot just inside the far post past the diving Denise Hutchinson. Portland, at that point, apparently decided that a two goal lead was not enough. Mary Cascio scored her second of the game as she settled another through ball, this one on the ground, and was able to pass it easily past the charging keeper. 4-1 Rain. Portland kept up the offensive pressure on Okanagan, taking advantage of a tiring Predator squad and totally dominating the game for the last 20 minutes. Portland's last goal was scored by outside midfielder Keegan Hughes who was able to step in front of a misplayed ball by the Okanagan keeper and finish with a bending shot with her left foot. 5-1 Portland when the whistle sounded. Too bad there aren't bonus points for goals scored! The Okanagan goal keeper saved numerous Rain shots on goal in this game, including some from point blank range. Sometimes she was in the right place at the right time, others she made some very athletic diving saves. All in all this score could have been much more uneven than it was. The Rain hope that this new found offense will last the rest of the season. |