“The team had a wonderful time playing Keio University,” said WNT’s Megan Herber in an email to Marianas Variety.
Another player — Lyvette Lacsina from Marianas High School — felt the same way.
“It was an awesome game. The weather was fantastic, the crowd was very energetic, and supportive, and the charity event was successful,” noted Lacsina. “It was also great to see my team working hard out there, plus deepening the relationship between the CNMI and Japan through the love of football.”
Keio University’s Nami Onishi scored the game’s first goal in the 14th minute, followed by Shiho Hara. Akane Nakayama hammered back-to-back goals in the 31st and 44th minutes to push the team ahead.
“The second half was much more organized and relaxed. The team was able to find a rhythm and showed much better. We were able to make a few attempts in our offensive half and felt much more confident,” said Herber.
Keio University capped the game with two more points — one apiece from Nakayama and Mikako Arita.
“The speed at which Keio plays is incredible and the constant movement kept us on our toes. We were more prepared coming into the second half knowing the opponent,” Herber added. “It was great [that] we, as a soccer community, were able to help the victims of the Japanese disasters. It was an enjoyable experience.”
Samantha Birmingham-Babauta, who helped keep the Women’s National Team alive in the first half, recalled the game as a “tough match.”
“These ladies were fast on their feet, quick in direction change, and sharp shooters,” she said. “In the end, both teams agreed that the score wasn’t the point of the game, but rather the connection and friendship between the CNMI and Keio University.”
Other activities, such as 4-on-4 small sided game challenges, were held last Sunday to help fundraise for Japan’s disaster victims.
“Awesome turnout,” said NMIFA general secretary Ed Salas when describing the day-long affair.
“Our guests from Japan were very impressed with the number of people that came and the event participation. I estimate we made about $1,500.
Both our Women’s National Team and Keio University Women’s team contributed a significant amount,” he continued. “Thank you to all the people that came and also Ed Cho, general manager of Saipan Grand Hotel, and his staff for helping us in the logistics and BBQ after the event. The Keio team will always remember this match.”
