May 2003
Crossfire Premier Takes 2nd at 2003 Rainier Challenge
Puyallup, WA - Crossfire Premier '91, coached by Dick McCormick, finished in 2nd place today in the 2003 Rainier Challenge for GU-13, losing to the tournament host FC Royals '90 squad 0-2 in the championship game. Crossfire earned the right to play for the championship by winning their semi-finals game earlier in the day against FC Willamette Pride '90, 2-1.

Willamette scored early in the semis game before Crossfire got their offense rolling. Crossfire scored late in the first half to take a 1-1 tie into the break. The hard fought game stayed even for much of the second half before Crossfire connected on a far post shot after repeated earlier attempts. The Willamette squad displayed the best offensive attack that the young Crossfire squad saw in the tournament - and Crossfire's defense did a tremendous job in shutting that attack down in the second half. Congratulations and thanks, FC Willamette, for the tremendous game.

After a few hours rest, Crossfire faced the tough FC Royals '90 squad for the title. While the Royals kept ball control for much of the contest, Crossfire showed determination and a 'never give up' spirit in keeping the Royals from scoring in the first half and throughout most of the second half. Royals scored twice late in the contest to secure the W - congratulations, FC Royals '90 for your superb play and for winning the championship!
Crossfire Advances to Rainier Challenge Semi-Finals
Tacoma, WA - Crossfire Premier '91 advanced to the semi-finals of the 2003 Rainier Challenge tournament today after tieing Shooting Stars '90 3-3. The game was close the entire way...1-0, 1-1, 2-1, 2-2 (half), 2-3, 3-3. Congratulations, Shooting Stars, on the great game! Crossfire plays FC Willamette '90 at 8:00AM Monday.
Crossfire Premier Takes Opening Games in Rainier Challenge
Tacoma, WA - Crossfire Premier won their opening two games of the 2003 Rainier Challenge - beating an outstanding NWN Allegra squad 1-0 in the morning, and ending the day with a 4-0 victory over Columbia Timbers. Both games were battles the entire way. Crossfire's only goal in the first contest was a free kick from 20+ yards out - midway through the second period - which was good enough to secure the win. Congratulations to NWN Allegra on a great and very strongly played game! In the evening contest - another closely matched one - Crossfire earned a 2-0 lead at half and doubled it in the second half to earn the win. Congratulations Columbia for the way you battled!

Crossfire's next contest will be at 2:00pm Sunday against Shooting Stars.
Crossfire Takes 6th Place in Coast2Coast Classic
Lake Zurich, IL - The Crossfire Premier '91 squad had an awesome experience at the recent Coast2Coast Classic tournament hosted by the ELA Tigers of the greater Chicago area. 16 of the top teams in our age group competed and showcased a high level of soccer proficiency. Nearly all of the games in the tournament were won by a narrow goal margin, or were determined in golden goal overtime or a shootout.

Crossfire defeated a fine MSC Sparks team from Maryland by a 1-0 margin in their first contest. In the second game, Crossfire lost 0-1 to the ultimate tournament winner So. California United on an own goal. Busch SC from St. Louis was defeated by the Crossfire squad 2-1 in golden goal overtime in the third contest. And, the Crossfire team lost to Colorado GSA (Girls Soccer Academy) 1-2 in a shootout with the seventh player.

Many new experiences were had by all team members, chaperones, coaches, parents and relatives. The Crossfire team appreciated all of the quality competition, excellent accomodations and host arrangements provided for our team. It was a quality experience for everyone.

Congratulations, So. California United on your championship! Thanks to all the teams who traveled to come together in what surely will be remembered as a great tournament!