2002 record: 3-17-1 (didn't qualify for playoffs).
SCOUTING REPORT
Hard to believe the Power was into its third game before surrendering a goal – in the inaugural season, of course. Last year's group gave up goals like that was the point, 62 in all, more than New York has scored in two seasons. Everything went wrong in 2002, from inaugural MVP Tiffeny Milbrett's struggles to that inability to halt opposing attacks. New coach Tom Sermanni used a trade with San Diego, a pair of foreign signings and a productive draft to begin the rebuilding process, and he's certain to field a bigger, tougher, more complete side. Whether that will be enough to compete in this league isn't certain. Depth will be a problem: The Power must operate with 18 players, rather than 20, because of Sara Whalen's and Kristy Whelchel's knee injuries. The additions of Australian national team captain Cheryl Salisbury and defensive midfielder Shannon Boxx should make things more secure. A rejuvenated Christie Pearce will add dimension to the attack, which could flourish with a healthy Milbrett, increased presence from Anita Rapp and the addition of Aussie Joanne Peters. How well Milbrett and Christie Welsh mesh will be critical.
ROSTER
GOALKEEPERS 13 Carly Smolak, 1 Saskia Webber.DEFENDERS 4 Lauren Orlandos, 3 Christie Pearce, 19 Jaclyn Raveia, 8 Cheryl Salisbury*.
MIDFIELDERS 5 Shannon Boxx, 11 Emily Janss, 14 Joanne Peters*, 10 Anita Rapp*, 7 Sara Whalen (IR), 2 Kristy Whelchel.
FORWARDS 15 Tiffeny Milbrett, 16 Tammy Pearman, 0 Christie Welsh.
RESERVES 12 Krista Davey, 17 Justi Yamada-Baumgardt, 9 Lindsey Jones.
DEVELOPMENTAL 18 Meghan Frey.
COLLEGE DEFERRAL Heather Beem.
COACH Tom Sermanni.
by Soccer America Senior Editor Scott French