G12: IK Stanstad – Älvsjö AIK 5-3 after penalties (2-2)
Finals day in Valhalla hardly began before Älvsjö AIK had taken the lead against NS Stanstad in the girls 12 final. This was when no. 11, Oliva Dog Ersmark, in an attack found her team mate No. 9, Elisha Eriksson, that with a direct shot started the scoring. After this initial cold shower for Stanstad, the playing in the match evened out though, and both goalies showed up a really good play. Älvsjö then took hold of the match and scored two goals, but both were disallowed due to high stick and kicking. The first period was an even fight between two teams where the goalies kept the numbers down.
Second period’s opening looked a lot like the first, with both teams creating goal chances. After nine minutes Älvsjö increased their lead to 2-0 by No. 11 Oliva Dog Ersmark, that scored on the return after a shot from No. 9, Elisha Eriksson. Approximately two minutes later Stanstad ran up when No. 7, Elaine Larsson, fired a high shot reducing the score to 2-1. After the goal the tension was high and Älvsjö got an opportunity where the ball rolled along the goal line but wouldn’t go in. Instead Stanstad initiated an attack and as the ball was about to find it’s way into the goal cage is suddenly got swept away of an Älvsjö player. The judge extended two hands in the air indicating for penalty shot. The talanted Älvsjö goalkeeper Michelle Helenius saved though. Shortly thereafter Stanstad got a golden chance to equalize in a power play and took it. 2-2 was made, also this time, by No. 7 Elaine Larsson, through a long shot that found its way past both players and the Älvsjö goalkeeper . The match ended a draw and had to be decided by penalty shots. Stanstad was the more focused team and could finally, after a tough start, lift this day’s first trophy in Valhalla Center .
The Gothia Cup congratulates NS Stanstad to their victory and thanks all the teams and leaders for this year’s tournament. Welcome back!
The MVP in the final:
NS Stanstad, No. 7 Elaine Eriksson.
