Wambach’s Hat Trick Gets U.S. Past Norway

Abby Wambach scored three goals and set up another Saturday, leading the United States past Norway, 4-1, for its second consecutive Algarve Cup title at Faro, Portugal.

Lindsay Tarpley had the other goal for the Americans, who this month qualified for the Athens Olympics.

Wambach recorded her second hat trick for the national team, with the first against Scotland in 2002.

The U.S. and Norway had finished first in their groups during a schedule of four games in seven days.

France took third place, beating Italy, 4-3, in a penalty-kick shootout.

Wambach headed in her first goal in the 30th minute off Mia Hamm’s corner kick.

Hege Riise tied the score seven minutes later with a free kick, but a minute later Wambach executed a slick move to make it 2-1.

Tarpley tapped in a cross from Wambach before halftime. Five minutes into the second half, Wambach completed her hat trick, scoring from short range off a loose ball.

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Tim Howard’s lapses have cost him his place as Manchester United’s No. 1 goalkeeper before the club’s two most important matches this season.

The U.S. international was on the bench as United beat Tottenham, 3-0, at Manchester in the English Premier League.

Roy Carroll played instead -- against Spurs’ American goalkeeper Kasey Keller -- and recorded United’s first shutout in two months.

Carroll will guard United’s goal for its next two matches against league-leading Arsenal -- in league play March 28 and in the FA Cup semifinals April 4.

“I wanted to give young Tim Howard a break mentally,” United Coach Alex Ferguson said. “He has been sensational for us since we signed him last summer. He’s going to be a top goalkeeper in years to come.

“Roy deserved a chance. I asked him to show us what he could do....Perhaps he’s a lucky goalkeeper for us. He will certainly play the next two games.”