Liu Ailing Puts Philadelphia Charge Atop WUSA Soccer League

Liu Ailing and Mandy Clemens each scored a goal with an assist as the Philadelphia Charge won an away game 2-0 against the Washington Freedom Thursday night.

From four wins against 2 draws and one loss, the Charge accumulated 14 points, had their first two-game winning streak and moved past the idle Atlanta Beat into the first place in the Women 's United Soccer Association (WUSA) league.

On the other hand, the Freedom dropped to third place on 3-2-2 for 11 points and had their three-game unbeaten run end as their forwards nevered staged any real challenges against the Charge with poor passes and a confused midfield.

Philadelphia took advantage of a sloppy clearing attempt to take a 1-0 lead in the 20th minute on Clemens' first goal of the season. Liu intercepted the clearing pass and looped a shot from 20 yards out that glanced off the underside of the crossbar. The rebound bounced to Clemens who beat surprised goalkeeper Siri Mullinix easily with a header.

In the 51st minute, Clemens and Liu teamed up again and honored the favor in return. Rukel Karrvelsson made a run down the right side and sent a cross into the penalty area. Clemens gathered the pass and kicked back to Liu who scored her team-leading third goal with her left foot.

Charge goalie Saskia Webber needed to make only one save for her second shutout.






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