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Gators soccer coach weighs in on success of the U.S. women's soccer team

Monday the U.S. women's soccer team won its match, 4-3, in extra time, over the Canadian soccer team in the Summer Olympic Games in London. Many watched the two teams fight it out on the field. One of those watching was current Florida Gators Soccer Coach Becky Burleigh, who says the match was very exciting.

http://www.wuft.org/media/audio/BurleighFP1.mp3

Former Gator standout Abby Wambach has scored five goals thus far in the London Games. Burleigh coached Wambach in her time at Florida and says she has been a big part of the USA's success.

http://www.wuft.org/media/audio/BurleighFP2.mp3

There was a bit of controversy in Monday's match, when the Canadian goalie had a penalty called for holding the ball for more than six seconds. Burleigh says that while the call may be rare, rules are rules.

http://www.wuft.org/media/audio/BurleighFP3.mp3

This is the second straight event for the American team making it to the final round, with the first being the 2011 FIFA Womens' World Cup. With the USA continuously winning on such a big stage, Burleigh says this may raise interest in the sport of women's soccer.

http://www.wuft.org/media/audio/BurleighFP4.mp3

While interest in women's soccer may not be at an all time high, Burleigh says there has been no shortage of female athletes wanting to play soccer.

http://www.wuft.org/media/audio/BurleighFP5.mp3

The United States and Japan will play their gold medal match on Thursday at 2:45 at Wembley Stadium in London.

Blake is a reporter for WUFT News and can be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news@wuft.org.