The Inaugural Transatlantic Challenge

San Jose Cyber-rays 2 - 1 Arsenal Ladies

Tulsa USA, June 11th 2002

Arsenal Ladies lined up against the WUSA league champions, the Cyber-Rays, in the Transatlantic Challenge, apparently the first time women’s teams from the USA and England have played each other. The venue was the Broken Arrow High School stadium in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Arsenal lined up with a full strength squad. Although I’m no expert, I recognized Marianne Spacey and Angela Banks. The Cyber-Rays looked and are professional, and included world cup winner (and shirt-remover) Brandy Chastain.

A strong wind at Arsenal’s backs in the first half looked like it might have an impact on the game but as it turned out most of the half (actually most of the game) was spent with San Jose camped in Arsenal’s half. Good midfield inter play led to San Jose scoring in the second minute through Chastain, who sadly opted not to remove her shirt in celebration. The Cyber-Rays were fitter, more committed and more aware than Arsenal and a severe thrashing looked likely. However, after a shaky opening 10, Arsenal started to get some control of the game, mostly building from the back but with the occasional long ball. This latter tactic almost led to a goal when Banks broke through midfield onto a 40 yard pass from the left wing but her touch let her down with only the ‘keeper to beat. Arsenal finally did score when Spacey curled in a 25 yard free kick. Spacey looked only half interested, but was still a cut above the other Arsenal players.

The second half consisted mainly of strong San Jose pressure. Several times the Arsenal defence (a back three) was stretched in the full back positions. San Jose eventually scored the winner on about the 75th minute, a strong shot from about 18 yards, from Sissi (I think), one of the Cyber-Rays two hard working and skillful central midfielders. Arsenal created one or two more chances, with some late goalmouth scrambles but couldn’t apply the finish. On 89, the ref gave San Jose a penalty for a clumsy challenge on Sissi. But capping an excellent performance by the Arsenal keeper, the pen was saved.

A creditable performance by Arsenal though, and the gap between the sides should narrow with the development of the professional game in the UK.