Girls soccer: PHU keeps eye on prize

The 'Canes are strong from start, shutting down Seminole for county championship.

By BOB PUTNAM
Published January 12, 2008

CLEARWATER - Palm Harbor University's only loss came nearly two months ago, but there have been times recently when the team appeared lethargic.

That changed Friday night.

Using short, crisp passes on the ground, ornamental footwork and an effervescent spirit, the Hurricanes beat Seminole 2-0 to win the Pinellas County Athletic Conference title.

"For some reason, we haven't been as focused the past couple of games," PHU's Catherine Brinkman said. "We wanted to show more effort and determination this time."

The Hurricanes took control early on and scored the winning goal off Thara Salam's penalty kick 10 minutes into the first half. Brinkman added an insurance goal later in the half.

PHU 14-1-2 kept applying the pressure in the second half, playing mostly on Seminole's side and outshooting the Warhawks 14-5 for the game.

"You always worry playing games like this against strong competition," Hurricanes coach John Planamenta said. "But I thought we came out with high pressure and played well."

In three games against the Warhawks (14-2-1), PHU won two and tied the other.

"It's nice to have games like this down the stretch because it helps you get ready for districts and the rest of the postseason," Planamenta said.

Bob Putnam can be reached at putnam@sptimes.com or (727) 445-4169.

[Last modified January 11, 2008, 23:35:00]