Neil Scores Three Goals to Earn Canada a Win

Ottawa, Ontario – Canada’s Women’s World Cup Team easily defeated Scotland 3-0 today in Group C action during the first day of games of the 9th Algarve Cup in Quarteira, Portugal. Andrea Neil, national team veteran, scored all three goals for Canada and Canadian goalkeeper Nicole Wright, earned her first shut out of the 2002 season.



Canada started strong scoring three goals in the first 30 minutes. Neil slotted home a cross from Christine Sinclair to open the scoring in the 18th minute. Canada’s and Neil’s second goal came in the 24th minutes when Neil rose above a crowd of players to head home a free kick. Neil’s third goal was a carbon copy of her first. Neil out jumped the defence to head another past Scottish goalkeeper Clare Johnstone.



Even Pellerud selected four new players for his starting line-up against Scotland. Making their World Cup Team debut against was Amber Allen, Cindy Tye, Patricia Bourcier and Under-19 team member, Candace Chapman. Also making their first appearance on the World Cup squad were substitutes Melanie Booth, Sasha Andrews and 15 year old Kara Lang. All of which are on the Under-19 team.



“I was pleased with the players’ desire and passion to win this game,” said Even Pellerud. “We expected Scotland to be stronger, however, Canada was physically stronger and continually beat Scotland to the ball. I was pleased with the seven players making their Canadian debut. This was a good win for us.”



Canada’s next match takes place Sunday, March 2 in Lagoa, Portugal at 14.00h (local time) against Wales.



March 1, 2002 – Quarteira, Portugal

9th Algarve Cup – First Round

Canada tt3 (3)

Scotlandtt0 (0)tt

Goals: Canada – Andrea Neil (18, 24, 31)

Canada: 1. Nicole Wright (GK), 2. Patricia Bourcier (3. Noel Trepanier, 15), 4. Cindy Tye (10. Melanie Booth, 77), 5. Andrea Neil, 7. Isabelle Morneau (6. Sasha Andrews, 70), 8. Christine Sinclair, 9. Candace Chapman (15. Kara Lang, 77), 11. Randee Hermus, 12. Clare Rustad, 13. Amy Walsh (captain), 17. Amber Allen (16. Wanda Rozwadowska, 62). Coach: Even Pellerud

Scotland: 12. Clare Johnstone (GK), 1. Gemma Fay, 2. Michelle Kerr, 3. Stacey Cook, 4. Nicky Grant, 5. Michelle Barr, 6. Julie Smith, 7. Joanne Love, 8. Karen Penglase, 9. Donna James, 10. Julie Fleeting, 11. Debbie McWhinnie. Coach: Vera Pauw