Breakers Put Away Courage

Dagny Mellgren scored in the 79th minute to help the Boston Breakers clinch at least second place in the Women’s United Soccer Assn. by defeating the Carolina Courage, 1-0, Wednesday in front of 6,587 at Boston.

Because of Washington’s loss to Philadelphia, the Breakers (9-4-7) are assured of playing host to a semifinal on Aug. 16.

The loss eliminated the Courage (7-10-3) from the playoffs.

After San Jose’s tie against Atlanta, the San Diego Spirit clinched the fourth and final playoff spot.

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Atlanta 1, San Jose 1 -- Katia scored for the CyberRays (7-9-4) against the visiting Beat (9-4-7) in front of 5,244 at San Jose.

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Philadelphia 2, Washington 0 -- Marinette Pichon scored twice to lead the Charge (5-11-4) over the Freedom (9-7-4) in front of 9,208 at Villanova, Pa.