From the Minneapolis Star Tribune.
This is the tournament that the Northside Fightin' Koalas U-13 Girls are participating in this week.
Last update: July 19, 2005 at 9:34 PM
St. Paul teenager charged with assault at USA Cup July 20, 2005
A 17-year-old St. Paul soccer player who allegedly punched an opposing player in the face during a game at the Schwan's USA Cup soccer tournament Monday was charged with fifth-degree assault Tuesday, according to the Blaine Police Department.
The altercation took place during a Monday afternoon game at the tournament, which features almost 1,000 teams from around the world.
Police Chief David Johnson said the fight between the two players came near the conclusion of a game between a team from Arden Hills and one from Blaine. No other injuries or arrests were reported.
Johnson said the two players got tangled up as they went after a ball and the St. Paul teenager, playing for the Arden Hills team, punched the Blaine player. The alleged assailant walked away, then came back and punched his opponent again, the chief said.
The Blaine player suffered several facial cuts, including one over his right eye that needed nine stitches, Johnson said.
His department issued a citation to the St. Paul teenager and are handing the matter over to Anoka County authorities for possible prosecution.
Tournament officials said Tuesday that the St. Paul teen has been kicked out of the tournament.
Heron Marquez
