Far Post is Next Up

Your captains were on edge yesterday because we were missing a lot of pieces.  In fact, for the first time in a few seasons, it was clear before game time that we would not have a full squad for the entire match.  We started and finished with 10.

Unfortuantely for our opponent, Two Left Feet, they started with nine!  We were equal strength, 10 v 10, for most of the game, but 2LF went back to nine in the last 15 minutes.

Our quarterfinal matchup turned into a rout.  Two Left Feet didn't have an aggressive posture and they had their third and fourth-string goalies in net.  The result was 7 goals against.

We didn't get on the board for a while, but then scored two nice goals at about the 30' mark.  The first goal was the kind of scrappy goal-line battle that we have been losing.  The tide is finally turning and things are going our way.  Ermy and Jon put it over the line.  The second goal - Anna's fast cross to Ermy for an emphatic one-touch finish, set the tone.

The goals got better after that.  Ermy had two more; Griz showed some confidence with a hard shot off his right foot that froze the keeper; Anna finished nicely; Nate was there.  And who am I forgetting?

Oh yeah, George.  George is now in competition with Adrian for goal of the year.  Adrian scored on a set piece.  Harder angle but no one chasing him.  George scored from the two and half yard line in the corner.  Bender into the net.  He's a goalkeeper.  Where or where did that come from?  There were some kids up on the hill.  They were hooting after that goal.  Gollllllllllllllllll.

That game was penance for our loss to Far Post.  They got to sit home and watch the Euro while we played a quarterfinal game.  But now we're through to meet Far Post again.  They are motivated to advance too and will want to prove that their win last time was deserved.

Notes: 7-1 win versus Two Left Feet on 6/10/12 at George Mason HS.  Goals by Ermy, Ermy, Ermy, Anna, Nate, Griz, George.  GKs: George (1 GA), Peter (no GA, entered 75').  Assists to be updated later.

Stumbling into the playoffs

Oh, what could have been!

We missed an opportunity to finish in at least second place today, as we lost our last regular season game.  The score versus Far Post was 3-1; Far Post claims second on points.  We will finish in third or fourth depending on how DC Thunder finishes its last two matches.  If they collect six more points, they finish third and we take fourth, which would be a disappointing finish given our expectations.

We are stumbling into the playoffs.

With injury issues up and down the roster, we are banged up.  And we haven't shown well against quality competition.  We have given up the first goal against every team in the top half of the table.  In the second half of the season, we were 1-3, with a -7 goal differential.  Ugh.

Today's game was a good one despite the score line.  While the odds were stacked against us at the beginning of the match, because we didn't have any subs, we were the better team in the first half.  We dictated the pace, passed to feet, and showed confidence in all 11 players.  That didn't, unfortunately, yield any goals, which is how the season has gone for us.  Several cross bars and near misses.

But it was a different game in the second half as the defense got caught in space - without any goal cushion.  We gave up a first, then another, and then another when we changed shape to press forward.  They were each one on one's. Incredibly, Far Post even missed two sure things when they beat the defense and got behind George at the 18.  We did get a goal on a cross from Nate to Adrian, but we didn't pose any direct threats otherwise.

There is good news.  We have two weekends of rest.  We'll use the first (Memorial Day) to recuperate and the second (June 3rd, makeup date, we don't have a game) to return to form in a scrimmage against Little Urban Achievers.  There should be no thinking about "the finals" or anything of that nature.  We haven't earned that yet. There is only one game and that is our the first round of the playoffs on June 10th.  I foresee...victory!

Notes: 3-1 loss to Far Post, 5/20/12, Ridge Field.  Goal: Adrian (Nate), George (3 GA).

For Gema

The one and only Silver Fox

She was born in Havana.  She had an amazing son when she moved to Miami to start a new life.  Her name is Gema Ginoris Maceo.

I know she is proud of her son, Carlos, a guy who puts his heart into everything, especially football.  Today, Carlos scored the winning goal to end our two-game slump and book our ticket to the playoffs.  That one was for mom on this Mother's Day.

Carlos exemplified our team approach today.  We were pretty good all game, although our offensive struggles followed us well into the second half.  Nevertheless, a goal down, we kept pressing and got some goals that had been really eluding us.  

The first was the result of sustained pressure - we finally got a break after several games.  The second goal was a piece of magic by Jon.  While I approached the area unchallenged, my options were diminished.  Jon made a fantastic slashing run.  I found his feet in a small piece of real estate.  His first touch on the run was amazing.  He made a move and bent it around the keeper to the far post.  That was a piece of skill alright.  Carlos' goal - he was well positioned for a rebound and took his shot nicely across the goal - felt like insurance when it happened.  But when we surrendered one more with about 12 to play, it turned out to be crucial.  Carlos played end to end today.  [Nate added this explanation: I took the ball to the left corner, cut back and meant to cross into the box - I screwed up big time and crossed all the way to the other side of the field. Lindsey was there, crossed to Carlos who was on sides despite the outcry from Gang Green and Carlos did put his shot in off the post from six yards out. Similar to the first goal, we scored the last goal because people attacked at the right time and were persistent. ].

So, with good play by everyone and a nice introductory performance by Lindsey, we finally earned a win.

The previous two weeks were disappointing.  Our match versus DC Thunder was a killer (4-1 loss).  George saw red for allegedly denying a goal scoring opportunity (he made a great and clean play!) and our defense was completely broken down.  DC Thunder's goals were generally unmarked "tap ins."  And we couldn't put much on the board to counteract those issues - you can't expect to blank DC Thunder.  We've never done it.  Even though we had the right formations and made the right tactical moves, we couldn't make an impact.  There were two small positives.  Cheryl assumed a huge responsibility as central midfield and shined brightly.  She was the only player with an answer to Roland.  And Suzie was back from injury, looking pretty good.  That's a big deal.

Our match versus DC Divided was much better.  We had about 5 heart attack moments in the first half when last ditch saves were necessary after repeated jailbreaks, but we escaped with only 2 goals against at the half.  Nap led the team to make a critical tactical adjustment by stacking our midfield and taking their #10 out of the match.  We didn't give up any real opportunities after that.  Nap and Elyse were field marshalls who returned the better possessions and opportunities to us - Nap plays slightly deeper than Elyse.  It's a 1-2 punch and fun to watch.  It must harken back to the college days.  Anyway, Adrian had subbed for George in goal and kept us in it with some killer saves off his line, but with 20 to go and nothing on our score sheet, we needed his possession.  We brought him out of goal and he made an immediate impact in the field.  He forced a keeper error and scored.  It wasn't enough in the end as we couldn't find that last pass.  DC Divided is the presumed winner of the division at this point, and that win will have a lot to do with it. 

This coming weekend is going to be interesting.  I think the pressure is off us. We have 15 points already and we're going to the playoffs.  First place isn't likely and won't be in our hands.  I will look at scenarios a bit later.  I can imagine we will likely take 2nd with a win.  That would be good enough for a bye.

We looked great today everyone, let's enjoy the week and get ready to finish out the regular season.

This post has been updated since publication.

Notes:

3-2 win versus Gang Green on 5/13/12 at Ridge.  Goals by Jon? (Bucky), Jon (Peter), Carlos (rebound).  GK: George (2 GA - a new stat, I may try it - George's GA figures are pretty impressive this season).

2-1 loss to DC Divided at 5/6/12 at Galludet U.  Goal by Adrian (NK).  GK: Adrian (2 GA), Peter (0 GA).

4-1 loss to DC Thunder at 4/29/12 at Galludet U.  Goal by Chris N. (NK).  GK: George (1 GA), Peter (1 GA - a PK), and Adrian (2 GA).  Discipline: George (Red, 60', denying goal scoring opportunity), Nate (yellow, unsporting conduct), Mike (yellow, unsporting conduct).

80th minute header is decisive [edited]

After our 2-1 victory on Sunday, I texted a few players who were absent but who had asked to know the results.  Nate texted me back saying that our game "sounded a lot like Liverpool's game" this week.  He's right.

Liverpool had slugged through most of its FA semi-final cup match versus Everton.  Everton conceded a foul in the corner and Craig Bellamy sent in a nice cross, which the big man Andy Carroll just kissed into the goal with his head - in the 80th minute.



Look familiar?  That's exactly how our game played out this week - and it was won in nearly identical fashion when Bucky rose above his defender to just deflect Adrian's cross into the goal.  It was a fair result for our team and also for Bucky, who had hit each post and the crossbar in the first half.  As Bucky himself put it at halftime, the only part of the goal left to strike was the back of the net.  And he did it.

Folks, that was one of those games you look back on during the season and appreciate.  We were not particularly well prepared going into it, but we had all the necessary tactical answers as the match progressed - we sustained pressure, we made a quick strike to equalize, and then we gained control with possession and holding the ball, biding our time until the second and winning goal was possible.  I think from a team perspective, it was an efficient game.

Keep in mind that we had not played in a highly competitive match yet this season and we were a little out of sorts attendance wise.  The defense took some time to jell - we yielded three dangerous breakaways in the opening minutes, at least one of which should have resulted in a goal, and then the goal itself.  While both keepers were outstanding, George earned the win with his brave saves off the line.  He has also earned his incredible goal differential thus far this season.

We were down in the match after a difficult sequence.  Funky Town diced our back line and managed to sneak one just past the line from my perspective.  Mike's sliding clearance was allowed by the referee, but ultimately we couldn't clear the area.  Funky Town finished on a deflection and we were trailing for the first time all season.

Still in the first half, we battled back with some good teamwork that began with Mike's back pass at midfield.  I received, held the ball, and found Mike at his feet about 20 yards deep.  Mike went out to Adrian on the wing, who made a strong move to goal and shot across the goal.  A defender was forced to deflect the ball and it fell to Heather, who slotted it in.  Heather, incidentally, had a big impact on this game too, scoring the tying goal and playing as an effective outlet late in the game.  She and Carlos were great about "coming to" the ball as we looked to get it upfield to safety since we had just about everyone parked behind the ball towards the end.

All in all, I thought it was a great outing.  Every single player made contributions.  It's no skin off our backs to recognize Adrian, though.  As Carlos said, he worked incredibly hard.  Just when you thought he was dribbling into a cul-de-sac, he would break through with nifty footwork and set us up for a big play.  He was an indispensable piece that made the whole machine work and he gave the other team fits.  He can do things that the rest of us can't - and he does them for the team.

Super winger

Funky Town was much improved from last season, when we beat them 3-0.  They deserved more goals.  We may see them again in the playoffs.  If that happens, let's not forget about #27 (scored their goal) or that little speedster woman who had great tenacity.  FT has some quality.

Notes: 2-1 win versus Funky Town at 4/15/12 at Ridge.  Goals: Heather (Adrian), Bucky (Adrian).  GK: George.

Bruiser

No joke - we enjoyed a 5-1 win versus unAthletic DC in our last outing, which was on April Fools day.

With that win, we have a legitimate winning streak of 3 games.  However, when we stepped off the pitch, we were probably more focused on the fact that we got out of there with our ankles in tact.

It was a bit of a bruiser.  See the photographic evidence to the right.

From the opening whistle, we were in control.  While we weren't all that consistent throughout the match - note the soft goal we gave up late in the 2nd - we had more than enough plays to win. 

The signs from above were unmistakeable when Adrian opened up the tab in the 12th minute with...wait for it...a direct score from a corner kick!  Somewhere in Baltimore, Chris N is fuming because, unlike his solo game winner in a divisional semi-final several years ago, which deflected off the post and into the goal, Adrian bent his ball directly into the side netting.  It was stunning, and I say that having seen it go over and around me in the box.  The keeper would have had to abandon the near post completely to have any chance. I can't believe our team has scored twice off corner kicks in the past few years!  I'm telling you, even though we've missed out on some big games, we have quality.

The other goals were all very well deserved because unAthletic didn't have a cohesive defense on this day.  Bucky had a really strong shot just eight minutes later.  Nate finished on one of his patented full-field runs from defense, arms swinging the whole way.  They simply couldn't account for him and his surprising pace.  Chris had a brace to finish the game.  The next time I miss an open goal, please note that I did, in fact, put the ball over the line in this one but it was called back on a foul.

We're approaching the halfway mark.  Let's keep this up!

Notes: 5-1 victory versus unAthletic DC on 4/1/2012.  Goals by Adrian (direct off corner), Bucky (Adrian), Nate (Jon), Chris N (Jon), and Chris N (unknown).

First win at Blair High School [updated]

We produced six goals in a great outing, including two from Adrian in his first game after returning from Europe.  But it was Pam who stole the show with two sensational goals that displayed strength, skill, and finesse.

All of it equals a 6-0 win versus Red Devils, against whom we are now 2-0 lifetime.  We had a mixed record versus the old Red Devils who moved between 2nd and 3rd division for years.  Relive an important game versus the Old Red Devils here.  I remember losing a prized new recruit who came out for the first time that day, presumably because she wasn't happy with the loss.  Of course, starting in the very next game, we went on an incredible record-setting hot streak that lasted two seasons.  Anyway, the new version of the Red Devils was reconstituted only last season when a team suddenly folded and the Commissioner stepped up to organize a wholly new team.

In Sunday's game, we did what we needed to do.  We started with 10 and had the better chances but lacked finishing.  Pam scored the lone goal of the half at about the 25' mark with a perfect far post header off the corner kick.  I had the best angle as I jumped for the same ball.  I saw Pam with a superior angle and better height.  She managed to direct the ball down enough to come in well under the crossbar.  The corner kick or free kick header is one of the best plays in sports!

After the half, many good plays were made.  Bucky was all over the field, the defense was strong, George made another incredible chest save, etc.  The scoring played out like this:

• Pam's 25' header (Adrian)
• Adrian's 60' solo effort through the midfield
• Chris N.'s finish (Mike)
• Pam's flip over the keeper as he came off his line - was this even more skillful than her header?  Perhaps! (Kelly)
• Bucky's upper ninety long distance strike (Adrian)
• Adrian's tap in (Chris N.)

We finally got a win at Blair High School.  We are now 1-2 on that pitch, having lots two season openers to Tsunami (I fell down) and FC Arlington (that one got out of hand).

It's not all good news though.  Anna picked up an injury in the game that will keep her out for at least a week. With a trim female roster, this will be a challenge to manage.  Plus, we can look forward to harder games in the coming weeks.

Congratulations to Red Devils for a well-played game.


Notes: 6-0 win on 3/25/2012 vs Red Devils at Blair High School. Goals: Pam (Adrian), Adrian, Chris N. (Mike), Pam (Kelly), Bucky (Adrian), Adrian (Chris N.).

Annoying streak snapped

Harken back to the last year of the George W. Bush presidency.  The war in Iraq raged on and the seeds of the Great Recession were sown.  Eli Manning and the New York Giants had just made an improbable run to the Superbowl, beating the New England Patriots.

It was Spring 2008.  It was also the last time that the Goleros won their opening game of the season.

The most annoying streak in the world has been snapped.  We enjoyed a decisive victory over Two Left Feet today at Galludet.  We are now 4-10 in CCSL openers, an aberration in an otherwise solid period for the team.

This game was not in doubt once it got underway.  2LF started short and didn't have as much chemistry as they would have liked.  It was clear they were integrating new players so I'm sure they will grow stronger each week.  We know they have quality.

We didn't have a full complement for the whole game either, because we had only a minimum number of women involved. Nevertheless, it was enough.  We were not outstanding, but we dealt with the conditions and scored 4 earned goals.

The game winner was scored in the 15th minute by the guy who deserved it most: Nate.  He's been working hard all off season and looked sharp from the get-go.  Nate's goal was set up by Bucky, newly signed to our full-time roster.  Both he and Cheryl, the other newbie, got points today, which is impressive.  There were three other goals:

• Jon's left footed follow up after the keeper blocked his near-post bid (assist: Anna).
• Griz's easy follow through, because he was in the right place (assist: Ermy)
• Carlos' deft and finessed deflection past the keeper from 15 yards (assist: Cheryl).

Two things stand out.  First, we had a clean sheet and were somewhat lucky in that regard.  We let our guards down on several occasions.  On one such occasion, the Red Sea parted and 2LF's fastest player took advantage and made the break.  George made a fantastic chest save at the 18, but he had to come way off his line.  2LF was in position for a seemingly easy follow up.  De's clearance on the line was memorable, and the perfect complement to George's bravery.  Even then, though, we still had to clear the ball out for good.  But it was fun to watch, clearly a sign that we deserved the win.  The second point I have in my mind is Griz's steady play on the back line.  He made some great slides and tackles today that kept us in it.  He closed on the ball well and distributed nicely.

Well done.  Now let's get ready for next week.

Notes: 3/18/12, 4-0 win versus Two Left Feet at Galludet.  GK: George.  Goals: Nate (Bucky), Jon (Anna), Griz (Ermy), Carlos (Cheryl).

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.

Goleros earn hard-fought point; rematch coming

For the last match of the regular season, we showed really well.  We all would have all preferred the win, but the way in which we played to a tie was quite satisfying.  We had to come from behind, we stayed composed despite some changes to the game plan on the field, and we did what was necessary to earn the result that guaranteed us a second place finish in the division.  That's the highest we've finished in years, potentially going all the way back to our first stint in Third Division.  We have been fighting for 1st or 2nd going into that final week a number of times, but often we have lost that last game and tumbled a few spots.  Not this time.  Our failure to win turned out to be insignificant anyway.  FC Arlington took care of business and won their game, so they would have topped us no matter what.

We played hard.  It was a competitive match throughout.  DCD proved to be every bit as refined and talented as we thought.  All of their men seemed like 6'4" to me.  They got the first goal at the end of the first half.  I lost my mark by ball watching and Sanjay, their captain and the league commissioner, headed the ball into the goal.  Kelly was almost able to clear it off the line though so it was close.

Same was true when we struck.  Following a great run of possession, Chris D dribbled with purpose deep into the box and took a powerful shot.  It was deflected twice by defenders, though not very cleanly, before rolling across the line.  Both goals in the match were scored by thin margins.  It was the essence of competition, a great game to be a part of on a beautiful day.

So, that's it, right?  We enjoy the result and rest on our laurels?  NO, NOT GOING TO HAPPEN.  We have to play these guys again this week.  And it's gonna get harder.  They will be bringing their two best strikers, who we did not see in the regular season game.  They are going to be hungry.  Look at it from their perspective.  They "lost" a close one, as they will surely be unhappy with the tie that sent them to third place and an extra playoff game.  They are in the groove right now and will have a chip on their shoulder.  We will need to be even better to win.


Notes: 1-1 tie vs DC Divided on 10/30/11 at Ridge.  Goal: Chris D. (Ermy).  GK: George.

Goals in Droves

We extended our win streak to 5 with a high powered 9-4 victory over a new opponent, Our Kicks Don't Lie.  Strangest game I ever played.  It was quiet on the field.  We played with 10 at times, we had a new defensive set, we gave up 4 goals...yet we scored nine and never trailed.  Chris scored F-I-V-E goals, a shiny bounty.  Believe it or not, he's done that before!  Wow.

No really, I scored five times

We scored our first quickly and I am willing to cop a plea to being a bad teammate and failing to come into the game soon enough.  When we were still a man down, we gave up our first.  In fact, the whole first half our defense was just off.  Thankfully, theirs was non-existent.

The second half, we made some smart adjustments.  We played a tighter line in the back and got it together quickly, while still keeping the pressure in the offensive half.  Adrian played a great two-way game and ultimately came back unselfishly to mark their only threat.

Well done everyone.

Game balls go to Chris N. for an incredible goal scoring frenzy and to Percy, not just for his goal, but for his stellar play (accurate passes) and willingness to come help out.  Without him, the game may have turned out completely differently.  We didn't have a lot of bodies for this one.

On to the next challenge: DC Divided.  Big game.  More on that later.

Notes: 9-4 win vs Our Kicks Don't Lie on 10/16/11 at Trinity.  Goals: Adrian (not known), Anna (Chris N.), Anna (Chris N.), Chris N. (Adrian), Chris N. (Anna), Chris N. (Griz), Chris N. (not known), Percy (not known), Chris N. (not known).  GK: Nate (1st), Pete (2nd).

We extended our winning streak to four games on Sunday, defeating Unathletic DC by a score of 4-1 on a perfect fall day.

We had only seen one of Unathletic’s players before.  They have a lean and talented all-purpose player who reportedly played for Tsunami for years.  Anyway, he burned us for one goal and could have had 1-2 more, but he lacked support.

Speaking of more goals, we could have had a lot more ourselves.  While the result was never in doubt once Mike struck decisively from distance in the 20^th minute, we should have finished a number of other chances.  We hit the woodwork 3 times, relatively hard each time, and we were close on a few other plays too.  Nate found the back of the net in the first half, but the goal was disallowed on an offside call.  But Mike had a brace and Elyse and Anna picked up two other nice goals.

One notable aspect to this win is that we inserted several new pieces without any hiccups.  We called up Bucky for his first league match – we hadn’t seen him since the 2010 Cherry Blossom Tournament.  At the last minute, we also signed and played Jamie, who came to us via Maggie and Chris D.  We were able to do this due to an injury substitution, which is allowed under league rules until the 5^th game.  Jamie was great out there at right back, and quite flexible to play with us under these circumstances.  Hope to see her back soon!  We also had Chip back after a lengthy absence – but it’s not like the guy is new to the club.  He was here for our first game in 2000 and is still getting it done.

Game notes: 4-1 win versus Unathletic DC on 10/9/11 at Ridge.  Goals by Mike (Nate), Elyse (rebound), Anna (PK earned by same - very well taken), Mike (not known).  GK: Bucky.

Post updated 11:00 a.m. 10/12/11

On a Roll

Well, we have our first legitimate win streak in a while, at 3 games, and we are enjoying a record of 4-1.  It will take a lot to keep it going, and we certainly expect Unathletic DC to try to spoil the party this coming Sunday.

Last week’s win was enjoyable.  We managed a 6-2 decision versus the former #2 team in the division, Far Post.  Far Post is a fun, sportsmanlike team that has been around longer than us, keeping some continuity among its regulars and recruiting new players.  Certainly their tall striker, who buried their second goal is good, but my favorite has always been Sara, the #22 midfielder who is elusive and skillful, with fantastic movement both on and off the ball.  While many may have been focusing on our goals and finishing in this game, the difference to me was actually Chris D, Nap, and particularly Elyse, who made critical adjustments to mark Sara and take her effectively out of the game in the second half and keeping the ball in our possession.  Once we did that, Far Post was much less threatening and things opened up for us.

Far Post scored first on some questionable goal keeping by yours truly.  A ball skirted free off the corner and Far Post was at the goal line to kick it in.  I credit the defense for taking it in stride and not retreating.  We pushed and got a very similar goal of our own when Mike managed to roll one over their goal line in a confusing sequence.  Later in the half, Adrian made some great moves and sent in a great cross to Maggie, who finished a nice ball to give us the lead. 

We never relinquished the lead from that point forward, and the goals kept coming.  Chris N scored twice, the second shot coming off of the best play of the game when Cat sent in a dangerous ball from an advanced position.  Adrian got one and then I was able to get some field time and score one myself – off my left foot!

On to the next game.

Notes: 6-2 win versus Far Post on 10/2/11.  Goals: Mike (not known), Maggie (Adrian), Chris N. (Chris D., Cat), Chris N. (Cat), Adrian (Maggie), Pete (Nate).  GK: Pete, Adrian in 80’). Discipline: Mike? (yellow, hard foul).

Second straight shutout

Sunday's 4-0 victory was not your average game.  The insanely early 8:00 a.m. start proved to be one of many competitive advantages for us.  Most of you crazy people were there at least 15 minutes prior to kickoff.  How motivated are we right now???  What is more, we had six fans not to mention Mike & Denise's dog.  The tried-and-true fanbase was quite vocal in support of the Orange & White.  I heard Nap's dad shout out from the stands, having arisen that morning around 4:00 a.m. according to sources, and I think it was De's dad that razzed the refs for blowing the offside call in the second half.  I don't blame him.  Elyse's volley to Anna, which would have resulted in a goal, was quality.

Despite that early start, you have to admit the following.  Once you arrive at the pitch and see the open space and your teammates warming up, things start looking up for the whole day.

From the start, we gained control of the match.  We had the personnel and the attitude to get it done.  Meanwhile, Red Devils struggled to integrate their pieces and had players trickling in throughout the game.  Red Devils were a last-minute add to the league when we lost a team that folded.  They are a patchwork from several teams brought together by the Vice Commissioner so we haven't seen nearly their best yet.

In terms of scoring, Nate got on the board in about the 20th minute with another one of his long runs.  Pam found him on a cross and Nate finished confidently with his head from the far post.  Pam continued her breakout game about 10 minutes later by creating a seam on a diagonal run, which Anna found easily.  Pam's excellent cross found Ermy.  Anna's persistence paid off with a goal in the second half and Ermy picked up another goal as well.

The defense yielded but two chances the entire match and was fully deployed in distributing to the attack.  I came off my line as reserve keeper on a number of occasions, but I only had to make 1 save.

Well done.


Notes: 4-0 win vs Red Devils on 9/25/11 at Galludet U.  Goals by Nate (Pam), Ermy (Pam), Anna (Nap, Chris D.), Ermy (unassisted off the crossbar).  GK: Pete.  Shutout.

Trending up [updated]

With the forfeit victory in Week 1 and the weather and holiday events in the following weeks, we didn’t play our first game in months until Sunday, September 11^th.  It wasn’t pretty.  The upstart new team, FC Arlington, beat us 6-1 in a game that was reminiscent of our first match in this league years ago.  We came in from the middle division in Montgomery County.  We were young and rearing to go.  We beat Far Post 6-0, leaving our opponents frustrated.  That game is referred to in this old post.

Following a rainout in Week 2, we had the pieces in place in Week 3 - but they didn’t fit together well.  We had new players, new formations, and rust, all of which was compounded when we started short-handed.  Just as we were getting things under control, FC Arlington took advantage of some confusion and sent a long ball over the top, which bounced above Carlos and George, for a header into the net at speed.

We never recovered, stuggling the rest of the match.  The defense was outmatched by their young and tall strikers – no one on FC Arlington looked above the age of 27 to me – who had better service than we had answers.  One mismatch after another moved the scoreline from 2-0, to 3-0 and so on.  We finally got on the board with Suzie’s layoff to Anna.  But we yielded yet another goal late in the game.

It was sufficient motivation to return to form for Week 4.  Even though we faced a Funkytown team that was shorthanded for much (but not all) of the match, and not very speedy, for the first time in a while we absolutely did what needed to be done.  We made the broad range of plays that are necessary to win – we had defensive stuffs, long runs on the wing, possession, and counter attacks that resulted in shots and goals.  No one will tell you that we were perfect, but that worked well.  It was fun and it represented the proper integration of the various pieces of our arsenal.  Pam and Maggie had good games.  Nate and I earned the shutout in goal – we’ll have to teach George a little something.  Chris D. was the engine that kept us motivated.  De was back in a big way.

From my perspective, I want to point out a few plays that I rather enjoyed watching.  First, early in the second half, when I received the ball as goalie, I was looking for an outlet.  The off the ball running that we have been lacking came back to life.  Kelly got wide and deep on my left wing to create options.  Jon recognized the situation from midfield and came back to split Funkytown’s players.  He gave me a great, direct outlet that spread the field and got the ball not just to safety but to a threatening point in our attack – quickly. 

There were three other plays – little plays – that I remember.  One involved Jon coming back for the ball again.  But on this one, he received the ball then just made a simple and completely unnecessary back pass to Carlos. It reset the offense, allowed Carlos to distribute effectively from the middle of the field, and again allowed us to build a full field attack.  We had people in front of the ball!  It was an example of that trust, possession, and Barcelona style that we need to get back to.  A similar play happened when Elyse and Nap made a series of 1-2 passes on the wing that just unraveled Funky’s defense.  Lastly, I’ll note a play in which Griz saw an attack coming and stepped up quickly to the opponent from central defense.  He forced a mistake and was able to reset the ball quickly.  It took away space and created the underlying conditions for a nasty counter attack that resulted in the second goal.

So, we’ve got something to build on in the coming weeks.  We're trending up.

Game notes:  

 6-1 loss to FC Arlington on 9/11/11 at Blair High School.  Goal: Anna (Suzie).  GK: George.   

3-0 win versus Funkytown on 9/18/11 at Galludet U.  Goals by Jon (Chris D.), Chris N. (Chris D, Maggie), Nate (Chris N. Elyse).  GK: Nate (1^st), Pete (2^nd).  Shutout.  Discipline: Carlos (yellow, unsporting), Nate (yellow, unsporting).

Game canceled tomorrow

As I mentioned on email, our game tomorrow is off.  Two Left Feet had to forfeit due to lack of players.  Some of us are still planning to get together and play though.

Game report: that's a 3-0 win for us on the books.  8/21/2011 vs Two Left Feet.

Ball in!

Nap is taking on new roles this season

The floodgates finally opened and we salvaged our season last weekend with a well-earned 5-2 victory over Armory.    The patented multi-faceted Goleros attack reared its head.  We had five goals, scored by five different players, with an additional three persons earning assists.  That's eight players on the score sheet, including two women, plus George with a number of key saves.  That is making coed soccer look good.  Call me crazy but I care more about that aspect of our game than the win-loss record.

We were focused at the kickoff, and this, I would say, was the biggest contrast versus previous weeks.  We got organized on defense and fended off a few quick challenges.  We waited for the best moment to mount our first attack and it was immediately effective.  The first two goals may have been overshadowed by late-game theatrics, but they were beautiful and ought to be appreciated.  Jon had something to prove after last game and took it to the hole.  Nate, who had tallied the early assist on Jon's goal, had a smooth finish to the right post for the second goal.  Nate's runs in the first half were clinical.  I had a good view from the defense.  He proved quite effective as a withdrawn and holding forward.

Goals 3, 4, and 5 kind of seemed to one-up each other.  Mike's free kick was painful...for the other team.  Adrian earned the foul at the 20 yard line, left side of the field.  Mike bent a low and hard free kick around the wall and into the far side of the net.  Even if the keeper had gotten a good step, I don't think he could have seen the ball or reached it.  As I told Mike on g-chat, that would have scored in a pro game.

Carolyn stole the show though.  In her first game back this season, she scored a high arching goal in the Upper 90.  Left footed golazo, her first successful strike for our team.  Wow.

Grizzy's goal should not be left out.  He was due, and he wasn't to be denied on Jackie's well-placed cross.  Griz displayed excellent technique in heading the ball down to ground.  Even though the goalie was close, the shot was unpredictable and too tough to handle.

We have a deep bench

It's fun to talk about the goals, but I'm not sure that tells the right story.  There were lots of people running off the ball, giving their all, clogging the middle, and frustrating their attackers.  Also, what happened on those two goals that we gave up?  We were diced despite playing a strong defensive game through most of the match.

So, we're now 1-3-1.  We need to take it one game at a time.  One game does not a win streak make.  We take nothing for granted this week.

Notes: 5-2 win versus Armory on 5/1/11 at Trinity.  Goals by Jon (Nate), Nate (Chris D.), Mike on free kick (Adrian earns the assist on the foul), Carolyn, Griz (Jackie).  GK: George.  Discipline: Ashley (Yellow, pushing).

We're moving on

Not much to report in this week's game report.  It was a difficult 4-0 loss, the fourth goal being a junk goal (if onside) in which we were fully committed upfield.

Clearly, we've got a lot to work on to return to form.  We're on it!

Man of the Match is Adrian for his stellar goalkeeping.  That was absolutely no issue in the game.

Notes: 4-0 loss to Diplomats on 4/10/11 at Trinity. GK: Adrian.

Slow start

It's not an L4, but it's a run of four games without a win, dating back to last season.  So far, this season, we've left 8 points on the table.  Look at how that makes Ally feel.

Ouch, I think we're all feeling the pain.

We're just not productive or lucky at the moment.  But we are putting forth the effort and it's still fun.  I wouldn't trade any of the minutes.  So we'll talk about a few adjustments and we'll get this ship righted.

So, quick game reports.

In the Geezers game, we gave up an early goal (again).  Their guys were much improved versus last season, and somewhat quick.  The scored on a corner.  They were extremely physical on the play and we weren't able to hold off the score.  They did well to make contact with the ball off the shoulder.  They had several other threatening plays so it's not like it was a fluke goal, to be honest.

Our goal was the result of a great run of play.  I think it was Mike that served a free kick, and perhaps then Nate who made the shot.  The goalie spit it up and Anna was there to finish.  Kudos to Mike for serving up a dangerous ball.  Things happen when we do that.

In the Lost Tourists game, we took it to the final whistle, but to no avail.  We were drowsy on the first goal, which seemed like it happened in slow motion.  Towards the end of the half, we had energy but not that last pass.  Nap was outstanding as our martial in the midfield, dicing their guys and searching for an angle to propel the attack.  Lost Tourists went up by a second goal on a golazo from the outside flank.  We weren't beaten though.  We finally got some momentum when my shot was blocked by a female defender with the aid of her arm.  Not sure if it was a penalty or not, but the referee pointed to the spot.  Mike drilled the PK to the corner.  He did it again about 15 minutes later when Chris D. received a pass at the top of the box and dribbled his way to the goalie, who was the last man.  The goalie took Chris out AFTER he was beaten, which correctly resulted in a PK.  In all likelihood, we were also due a red card on the play, but you can't dwell on these things when you get the PK.  The game was pretty well called otherwise.  We had our opportunities as time expired, but we couldn't get it done.  Griz had two excellent attempts off his head, among other things.

More about this game in our next huddle.  This is a pretty lame game report - off the cuff and lacking insights.  The game was a lot of fun, and let's not forget our lady Jackie gracing the back line again.

Jersey Girlz

Keep up the spirits and go team!


Notes: 1-1 tie with Geezers on 3/26/11.  Goal: Anna.  GK: George.


Notes: 3-2 loss to Lost Tourists on 4/1/11.  Goals: Mike (PK earned by Pete - maybe credit for an assist), Mike (PK earned by Chris D. - definitely credit for the assist as that was gonna be a goal). GK: George.

Old game report

I neglected to post our last game report last season.  We do them for posterity.

Having beaten Tsunami in the quarterfinals, we advanced to face top-seeded Taz Devils.

Taz went up two goals.  Although we struggled a bit, we fought through it and managed to pick up a goal about halfway in the second half.  Suzie did some nice work in the corner and sent me a cross, which I headed in.  That got us going.  A bit later, we earned a foul in a dangerous spot.  Mike stepped up and hit the shot of the season into the back of the net directly off the kick.  We were back, and in fact forced overtime.

Unfortunately, Taz found inspiration. They beat us on an amazing trap and volley that was practically unstoppable.  A bit deflated, we did allow another goal before the OT was over.  So, it ended up being a 4-2 loss.  Taz was in high form.  That continued as they rolled past DC Thunder in the finals.  So they won the regular season and the playoffs.  We lost to the best.

We played great on this particular day.

Notes: 4-2 loss to Taz Devils in semifinals, November 2010.  Goals: Pete (Suzie), Mike (not known who earned the foul).  GK: George.

Goleros suffer 3-1 loss in the opener [updated]

Congratulations to Buena Vista Soccer Club, who pick up a 3-1 win.  Each of their three goals was well earned as they out dribbled the defense, kept us on our heels, and took some very well-placed shots.

We have a miserable record on opening day.  We are now 3-9 in CCSL, having last won our opener in the spring of 2008 when George Bush was still president.  THAT HAS GOT TO CHANGE!

I had fun in the game, but my play was symptomatic of the team effort.  We had good ideas, but we lacked sharpness and concentration.  Too many failed or weak passes, not enough possession, poor distribution from the back line.  That said, we have high quality defenders so don't be surprised to see your defense start leading the team at some point!

BVSC was a challenge to defend.  They were smart.  If you challenged them, they made a move.  If you gave them time, they drew you to them and sent a through ball into the box.  Their men were relatively quick and accurate with both feet.

We weren't half bad in some aspects of the game.  Even though we didn't have many points to show for it, we did have an attack.  Several of our players penetrated the box and we had 2-3 crosses that had a chance of scoring.

Adrian was a strong presence in goal - an attribute for a field player that should not go unnoticed!

My favorite play of the game was Elyse's disruptive body check against their 6'2" defender.  She pushed him off the ball and took the foul call.  Nice job, Elyse, that was good stuff.  Very tough.

Anyway, if you have thoughts on ways to improve, let's talk!

Have a great week!


Notes: 3-1 loss to Buena Vista Soccer Club on 3/20/2011 at Roosevelt.  Goal: Chris N. (Jon). PK earned by Chris N., taken by Griz (miss).  GK: Adrian.  Discipline: Yellow (Carlos, sliding after warning).