Goleros advance to Division Championship with a Memorable Defensive Effort

Your captain and a leader on defense

Today's 4-1 result versus DC Divided was emblematic of the season overall.  We came together as a team and played as a cohesive unit from front to back.  In recent weeks, our positive results have been largely due to a resurgent defense that is making tackles at the point of attack, taking away space, and getting the ball upfield, where we have sufficient numbers to create opportunities.

Our defense today integrated new people and made some key tactical adjustments - each and every person made great plays. Scratch that.  We made some spectacular plays, both this week and last week as well.  Here are but three examples: Jon's incredible goal-line clearance over the cross bar (from my perspective upfield, the geometry just didn't work on that one) and De's creative spin to play the ball to safety in the second half.  And going back to last week, let us not forget when Adrian went to ground in the box to seal the tie.  These are memorable moments and they make my Sunday.

In both games, DC Divided was solid.  They play a competitive game, and their tall players can cover a lot of ground quickly.  Each time I cover one of those guys, I am surprised by how I fall behind a half-step every few yards.  The loss today wasn't a just result due to the success they've had and the product they put forward.  If memory serves, I believe DCD has 1 loss in just the past two season (to FC Arlington).  Compare that to our 1 loss this season and 5 last season.

It's all about your form

It was hard to prepare for the rematch this week.  In our last game, both teams battled to a 1-1 tie.  In this game, we needed some new pieces and a new set if we wanted to improve.  Thankfully we had both.  We had some players they hadn't seen and we moved some of the players around who they were familiar with.  For example, we were pretty sure they would have their eye on Adrian, based on his defensive effort last week, so we unleashed him upfield instead.  As it turned out, I think his skillful dribbling before the pass was a major factor in wearing down their defense and midfield.  Chris N.'s play had a similar effect.

Credit DCD for putting in the first goal, like last week.  Even though it was a fluke play, it was consistent with the run of play up to that point.  We were slowly yielding to pressure.  After the goal, the defense made a tactical adjustment to create depth and fill space.  It paid off quickly and featured our more possession-oriented midfielders.   Chris D, Cat, Elyse, Carolyn and others went to work, applied pressure, and won what seemed like every 50-50 ball.  Up top, Pam was a constant threat, which kept their defense honest.  Ermy was very good on this day, and brought us back to even keel in the 35' with a strong shot that deflected in the goal.  Nate, Chris D., and Chris N. followed with more goals.

What I will remember most about this game is the tactical adjustment by the defense and the almost uninterrupted focus of the defensive players including George, from kickoff to full time.

Thanks to Jamie and Bucky for activating as reserves and making critical contributions.  Thanks also to DC Divided for yet another competitive match.

This was our fourth semi-final appearance in CCSL.  We are 4-0 thus far.  More about our next game and opponent as soon as possible.

Griz is there! (Note: Why is #11 running the wrong way?)

Notes: 4-1 playoff semi-final win versus DC Divided on 11/12/11.  Goals: Ermy (Pam), Nate (Chris N.), Chris D. (Ermy), Chris N. (Chris D.).  GK: George.