After eight games played in the 2021-22 WE.League season, Filipina-American striker Sarina Bolden and the rest of Saitama finally enter winning ways thanks to a 1-0 victory over Nagano, Sunday afternoon at the Kumagaya Athletic Stadium in Saitama.
The result raises Chifure AS Elfen’s points tally to four. They remain in 11th place in the standings.
“We continued to struggle to score points, but today was a match where players, technical staff, club staff, and supporters were able to play together,” said a translated version of coach Etsuko Handa’s comments.
Bolden came on in the 79th minute by Handa in place of forward Juri Kawano to freshen up the attack with the game hanging in the balance.
The home side then found the breakthrough.
Bolden was able to find midfielder Riko Yoshida who was able to put the ball at the back of the net in the 80th minute.
In front of 705 live fans, Chifure AS Elfen were able to defend its one-goal cushion until the final whistle. This, much to the relief of the players, coaches, and supporters as their run of futility finally ran its course.
“Instead of matching ourselves, we have been working hard for the past week to sort out what we have to do and what we can do, and to win three points at home,” added Handa.
AC Parceiro Ladies dropped to seventh place with eight points after seven matches played.
Bolden and the rest of Saitama hope to build on this result when they take on Omiya Ardija Ventus on November 13, 2021. The game is at the NACK5 Stadium Omiya in Saitama, Japan. Kickoff is 1:00 PM Manila time.
