Congratulations to the U13/14 Girls "Danger," coached by the husband and wife team of James Sullivan and Joan Smith, for their undefeated Fall 2011 season, winning the Red Division of the two-division league before entering the season’s final game against the Springfield Youth Club (SYC) Cobras, coached by Jon Rucker, winners of the Blue Division, who were also unbeaten but once tied by another SYC squad.

In a game every bit as exciting as you would expect based on their records, after a scoreless first half that was dominated by the Cobras, Danger took a 1-0 lead on a blistering shot from the right wing by Julia S. past the defenseless Cobra goalie. It was the first goal scored against the Cobras in eight games, putting them back on their heels (for at least a few minutes) and giving Danger renewed spirit. But after catching their breath the Cobra squad once again took charge with several strong forays into Danger(ous) territory, eventually resulting in a tying goal that slipped under the outstretched arms of goalie Katelyn H. as she dove to the ground, and into the bottom corner of the net, just barely inside the post.

As the clock wound down, both teams had several more scoring opportunities but both goalies were up to the task and the game ended in a 1-1 tie, only fitting for two such talented squads. In a game played for "bragging rights", both teams had a lot to be proud of as the game ended.

Click "Continue" below for lots of photos to accompany the team photo above.