Manchester mesmerizes at Carlsbad Cup

The Carmel Valley Manchester GU-12 White team took home the championship at the fourth annual Carlsbad Cup on July 17 through 19.

With coach Sean Bullock guiding the way, the girls went on to an undefeated victory, having scored a whopping 16 goals with only one goal scored against them the entire tournament.

Playing in the silver bracket, the CV Manchester girls faced competition from Encinitas Express, Carlsbad Lightning and Scripps Ranch United. On day one, CV Manchester beat Carlsbad Lightning 3-0.

Later in the day, they grabbed a second victory by defeating Encinitas Express 2-0. On Sunday, they dominated Scripps Ranch United with a 9-1 win taking them into Monday’s Championship round where they were victorious over Encinitas Express with a 2-0 win.

The dangerous and continuous offensive attack from CV Manchester brought goals from various players. Leading scorers were Bella Bullock, Gaby Maas and Haley Cano. Alex Calegari and Cecilia DeFrancesco also put points on the board. Equally strong was sweeper Emma Hansen and center-mid Emma Casey.

Special recognition goes to Ashley Christensen for great goalkeeping especially during the championship round where she had some extraordinary “World Cup-like” saves.

Formerly the Poway Vaqueros, Bullock and nine players moved to CV Manchester in February 2010. After adding players including two strikers and a goalie, the second CV Manchester GU-12 team was formed.

When asked about winning the tournament, Coach Bullock said, “It meant a lot to us since we suffered a winless season last year. We also took a leap of faith by moving clubs, which ended up being a positive decision since Manchester Soccer Club has been extremely supportive of us. I am very proud of the parents and players for their dedication to our team and am elated to have finally received results long overdue. I have very high hopes for my girls this coming season.”