Philadelphia Independence Physically Fit, Despite 2-1 Loss to Rutgers

There in the middle of several shoulder high snow banks, sits a green oasis, 85 yards wide 120 yards long. Not quite the oasis one would hope for after three days in a desert, but for Philadelphia Independence head coach Paul Riley it serves the same purpose.

For the past six days, Riley and his coaching staff have taken advantage of the field turf here at the United Sports Training Center in Downingtown, Pa., guiding his players through some much needed  technical work.

“I think  the most important thing, is I was worried about was players not coming in fit,” said Riley. “But they arrived in great shape, their fitness level is very, very good and the fact they are in  great condition gives us a great start.”

At the moment only 18 players are in training as the team awaits the arrival of nine others who are currently returning from National team duty at the both the Cyprus Cup and Algarve Cup in Portugal.

Among those players expected to join the team for the official opening of preseason training next Monday (March 8) are Heather Mitts, Amy Rodriguez, Karina Leblanc, Caroline Seger, Lori Lindsey, and Lianne Sanderson.

Once Riley has his full complement of players on hand,  he will look to increase the tactical work load and begin molding the team into form.

“I want players who can handle the ball who are technical,” said Riley, “If they can’t handle the ball then they can’t play for the Philadelphia Independence, it’s as simple as that.”

On Saturday March 6, the Independence traveled to Somerset, NJ and lost a 2-1 decision to the Rutgers University Women’s team in an informal scrimmage.

Again this was not the full Philadelphia Squad, but it  did give the coaching staff a chance to futher access, which of the current players do and don’t belong.

Remember, starting Monday, March 8, there will be 27 players battling to secure 22 roster spots; 18 on the active roster plus four optional development players.

The Independence will officially kick-off their inaugural season April 11, at home against the expansion Atlanta Beat, an historical day for both franchises.  Before first kick however, there is still much work to be done as evidence by Philadelphia’s preseason schedule.

Independence Preseason Schedule Highlights

March 6
Public Training Session Followed by  Autograph Session
United Sports Training Center
11:15-12:15

March 8
Remaining Players arrive and Full Club Training Begins
United Sports Training Center
3:00 to 5:00pm

March 11
Meet-The Players and-Autograph Session
United Sports Training Center
3:00pm-5:00pm 

March 15
Roster trimmed from 28 to 24

March 18
Meet-The Players and Autograph Session
United Sports Training Center
3:00pm-5:00pm

March 20
Game vs. UNC
United Sports Training Center
3:00pm 

March 25
Meet-The Players and Autograph Session
United Sports Training Center
3:00pm-5:00pm

March 27
Friendly vs. Washington Freedom
Maryland  Soccer Plex
2:00pm

March 31
Final Roster Announced (22 players)   

April 1
Game vs. Penn State
United Sports Training Center
7:30pm 

April 9
Meet The Players and Autograph Session
United Sports Training Center
3:00pm-5:00pm

April 11
Home Opener vs. Atlanta Beat
West Chester University
6:00pm