By Luciano Marano, Contributor

The area heat wave abated slightly and gave way to a picturesque summer evening July 3 as the Kitsap Pumas defeated the Washington Crossfire 2–1, just in time for Independence Day 2013, and ending their recent losing streak.

After an uneventful first half, the Pumas came back strong and scored two goals in rapid succession. The first, made by defender Ben Gardea at 48 minutes of play, was followed almost immediately by the second goal made by forward Andrew Stirling with an assist by midfielder  Kasy Kiarash.

The Crossfire did manage a slight rebuttal later in the game when, at 82 minutes of play, Nick James scored the team’s first and only goal of the game.  Whatever momentum the Crossfire gained from the point was not enough, however, to change the outcome of the match.

Approximately 462 people were in attendance, including several members of the “Blue Guard,” the unofficial Pumas’ booster club. They could be heard singing their own variations of popular songs infused with Puma-themed lyrics.

The Pumas will finish their season in a match against the Sounders U23’s July 13.

For more, visit www.blueguardkitsap.com.

For all official Puma-new including a future game schedule, visit www.kitsapsoccerclub.com.