March 12, 2012

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Three University of Memphis women's soccer players helped their respective countries qualify for the U20 World Cup scheduled for August 18-September 9 in Japan.

Kylie Davis, Christabel Oduro and the Canadian U20s went 4-1 with wins over Haiti, Jamaica, and Mexico in the early rounds and a 6-0 win over Panama in the semifinals, before falling 2-1 to the United States in the finals. Against the U.S. yesterday, Canada led 1-0 with 15 minutes to play before surrendering two late goals.

"I was very impressed by all their performances at the tournament," head coach Brooks Monaghan said. "All three played key roles for their respective teams. Christabel and Kylie were asked to play out of position compared to what they play here, but I thought they played an important role in Canada's success. Then, to have Natalia lead the CONCACAF in scoring, is great."

Natalia Gomez-Junco led all players in the CONCACAF U20 event with six goals and the Mexico squad gathered a third place finish to seal the bid to the U20 World Cup. Mexico finished 3-2 in the tournament with wins over Panama, Haiti and Jamaica. Gomez-Junco scored twice on Sunday in Mexico's 5-0 victory over Panama.

"I am delighted for these three ladies and this is great not only for them but for our program," Monaghan said. "Moving forward to the World Cup, we'll miss these three players our first few games and we'll have to have other players step up. At the end of the day, this experience will make these three stronger players."