Click here to watch Julie Johnston's first career goal!
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Competing in the Algarve Cup Final on Wednesday, Julie Johnston scored her first career goal while wearing the red, white and blue for the United States Women's National Team, propelling the Americans to a 2-0 win against France.
"Julie continues to make the most of her opportunities," said Santa Clara head coach Jerry Smith. "Today's match was one of the most important matches the U.S. has played since London 2012, and perhaps the most challenging match they'll have prior to this summer's World Cup. Julie not only started, she played the entire match, she helped the team play well offensively and defensively, she was also able to score the opening goal which helped the team settle in a bit."
In the seventh minute, Lauren Holiday fired in an in-swinging free kick from 23 yards out. The former Bronco made a darting run into the box, jumped into the air and headed the ball, redirecting it into the right side of the net to give the Americans a 1-0 lead.
During the four match tournament, Johnston started and played at center back in three of the fixtures.
"She's had an amazing tournament," said United States Women's National Team head coach Jill Ellis. "Opportunity has knocked and she's responded really well. It makes our job hard but in a way makes our job easy because now we've got great depth at that position and now she's gained experience that she didn't have in these games. I'm really, really proud of her and happy for her. "
Christen Press' breakaway score just before halftime put the game away and sealed the 10th title for the American squad at the Portugal-based event.
The Americans will return to the pitch on April 4 when they welcome New Zealand to St. Louis, Mo. for a pre-World Cup match at Busch Stadium.
"Julie has worked hard to create these opportunities for herself, and once again, she's making the most of them," said Smith. "I am so proud of her and happy for her!"
