Independence defeat Sky Blue

PISCATAWAY, N.J. - Danesha Adams made the most of her first bit of extended playing time for the Independence.

The 24-year-old forward had a goal and two assists as the Independence defeated defending Women's Professional Soccer champion Sky Blue FC, 4-1, Saturday evening at Rutgers University.

The Independence moved to 5-3-2. Sky Blue dropped to 4-4-2.

Entering the game, Adams had played just 29 minutes in four cameo appearances, but she showed a penchant for creating offensive chances with her speed and ability to take on defenders.

The goal was the first of her brief WPS career, which includes 12 games (two starts) last year for the Chicago Red Stars.

Each team was playing without four players who had international commitments. Nobody benefited from her chance at extended playing time more than Adams.

"She trained so hard for 14 weeks and never complained about not playing much, and I told her this was an opportunity to show I was wrong," Independence coach Paul Riley said. "She proved me wrong, and I'm happy for her."

"It's huge for my confidence," Adams said. "We're 10 games in and I didn't have much playing time in the first nine, and to get this opportunity and produce will really help me."

Delran graduate Carli Lloyd remained out for Sky Blue. She is back running after suffering a broken ankle in the third game of the season April 25 at Chicago. There is no timetable for her return.