There was no doubt that a party was happening at Lents Park on Sunday evening, in the first exhibition name for Portland's newest soccer team, Cherry Bombs FC.
Young soccer players were practicing their skills on small goals, fans of CBFC were in the back of Anatomy Tattoo's van getting inked, and an all female rock band was setting the soundtrack for the pregame.
Before the game even started, the vibe was being set in the concourse around the field. From pets and kids to the families of the players, Lents Park was packed with people buying merch and exploring the new amenities of this stadium. Despite this being a quick 6-week season, the team behind Cherry Bombs has put in the work to make this a memorable first showing in Portland.
Highlights of the Match
Although the Cherry Bombs spent the first few minutes trying to find the rhythm of the match and more literally find and complete their passes, they found their confidence and their voice in the lead up to the opening goal.
The bench was loud the whole game, making it clear that despite having just a few weeks to create a team identity, they clearly have developed a culture of support and belief in what they're building.
The first goal came in the 9th minute by Carolyn Ruoff with a banger from outside the box to the top bins. From there, the attack didn't let up. The Cherry Bombs were finding their way through the middle and in wide areas, leading to their front line who would driving into the box. There were some real highlights during the run of play including some phenomenal first touches, great runs cutting through the defensive lines.
18' Header goal off of the corner by Audrey Dizon who was waiting on the back post seemingly unmarked.
39' Lily French picking up a bouncing ball in the box and heads it in to make it 3-0 for the Cherry Bombs.
90' late game stunner to seal the deal by #9 Olivia Bariao-Arce. Ball driven to the top of the box and dished off wide to Bariao-Arce who slotted it far post. Cherry Bombs win 4-0.
The second half was dominated by the Cherry Bombs, although the second half starting lineup was mostly new. Despite those changes, the team had a great sense and drive to find opportunities in the attacking third.
Definitely not winning MVP are the lights around the field. For the amount of investment put into this brand, the least they could do is give proper lighting for these players. Playing in dim lighting can lead to delayed ball tracking and ultimately, more errors and injuries. With the number of late night games they'll be playing this season, I hope some changes can be made for the safety of the players.
Standout Players
Carolyn Ruoff was by far the most impactful player of this opening match for the Cherry Bombs. Playing as an attacking central midfielder, Ruoff had the speed and composure to control the start of the attack for her team. Her relentless movement in the midfield allowed for multiple opportunities for her team to find her and play out of the midfield.
Lily French proved to be integral to the tone of the game as she provided leadership and stability as an outside defender. Her game play was dynamic and she often found herself moving up the wing or driving the ball into the middle.
KG Malefo was another player to watch with the speed and agility she brought to the front line. Although she wasn't able to complete as many passes as she intended, her individual play on the pitch was bringing some much needed confidence and fire to her teammates.
Lucy Quinn played the first half and most of the second half in the central midfield. A Portland native, Quinn was unfazed at the top of the box and threatened the net with multiple shots outside the box. Her speed and tenacity were memorable and she'll be one to watch this season.
Not a fan yet? Here's your chance!
The next home match is this Thursday, May 21st at 7pm. They're celebrating Pups on the Pitch night where all dogs get in for free!
