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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Thursday, October 18, 2007

Kai scores a goal for U.S. in 4-0 win over Mexico

By Anne M. Peterson
Associated Press

Hawaii news photo - The Honolulu Advertiser

Hawai'i's Natasha Kai, left, of the United States, battles with Mexico's Rubi Sandoval during the second half of their exhibition soccer match.

RICK BOWMER | The Associated Press

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PORTLAND, Ore. — With some 10,000 fans braving chilly and damp conditions on a school night, Kristine Lilly was happy the U.S. women's team gave them a win.

"This is Portland, you guys are used to this, right?" she joked after last night's 4-0 exhibition victory over Mexico.

Lilly scored at the end of the first half, and the Americans extended the lead with three late goals for their second victory over Mexico in a three-game tour.

Abby Wambach, honored before the game for her 100th international appearance, scored in the 76th minute off an assist from Lindsay Tarpley. It was her 20th goal of the year.

Not long after, Kahuku High and University of Hawai'i alum Natasha Kai added a goal in the 82nd minute, and Carli Lloyd capped the scoring with three minutes remaining.

Afterward, young girls squealed for Wambach's autograph.

"It says a lot," Wambach said, obliging her admirers despite the rain. "The weather was questionable."

Nicole Barnhart was in goal for the United States, which was upset as the favorite in the World Cup amid a goalie controversy. It was her first start of this year.

Temperatures were in the low 40s and the turf was soggy from periodic showers during the day.

The United States won the opener 5-1 in St. Louis on Saturday with Briana Scurry in goal.

Hope Solo, who was dismissed from the team, after blasting coach Greg Ryan for starting Scurry in the World Cup semifinal loss to Brazil, watched in street clothes after rejoining the team before the game in St. Louis.