Big Rivers Conference Update: September 10

Big Rivers Conference play is well under way with two weeks completed.  How is it looking and what is in store this week.  I know you want to know!

Here is a quick update on the Big Rivers Conference after the second week of play.

Week of September 4th Games:

River Falls @ Memorial    Memorial 9-0

Hudson @ Menomonie     Hudson 4-1

North @ Rice Lake    Rice Lake 2-0

Memorial @ North    Memorial 3-1

Chippewa Falls @ River Falls    River Falls 4-1

Rice Lake @ Hudson    Hudson 6-0

Big Rivers Conference Standings

W-T-L

Hudson                           3-0-0  9 Points

Memorial                        3-0-0  9 Points

Rice Lake                       3-0-1  9 Points

River Falls                      2-0-2  6 Points

North                              1-0-3  3 Points

Chippewa Falls             0-0-3  0 Points

Menomonie                   0-0-3  0 Points

Quick Take Aways:

-Hudson put 6 goals on Rice Lake which is impressive.  I called this the game of the week as we needed to know if Rice Lake would be a contender.  Tough for them to step up against a very good Hudson team.  Hudson is claiming the early favorite position with this statement win.

-Memorial putting 9 goals on River Falls was also impressive.  The young Abes are starting to find their way.  A HUGE conference game against Hudson Tuesday.  Memorial still short-handed and missing a few key players, but I am excited to see how they deal with their first big conference game of the year.  They showed well in their first test against Green Bay Preble so that was encouraging.

-Thought North would be in contention for the top half of the conference.  Curious how they play this week.  They have two games that should be W’s. It is time for them to step up and win the games they should win.

Games for the Week of September 10th

Tuesday Games: Rice Lake @ Menomonie, Hudson @ Eau Claire Memorial, Eau Claire North @ Chippewa Falls

Thursday Games: River Falls @ Eau Claire North, Menomonie @ Eau Claire Memorial, Chippewa Falls @ Hudson

Game of the Week: Hudson @ Memorial

This is the first big clash with Conference Title implications.  These are likely the best two teams in the conference and it should be a good one.  Hudson with more experience and a dynamic offensive team against the young and improving Old Abes.  Can Memorial overcome missing a few key players.  Can their young defense hold up against the pressure from Hudson.  Will Hudson get revenge for Memorial dominating the conference recently.  I am predicting 3-2….and just hope it is Memorial with the 3.

 

 

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Memorial Building Some Momentum as Hudson Looms

Sorry for the delay on the updates….sometimes work gets in the way….sometimes coaching U13 Girls takes priority….I know, I know, what am I thinking.  I should not make you wait for updates, but hoping you can give me a break and will enjoy a few of the videos from the River Falls game.

Let’s catch up on a busy few days.

Memorial vs. North

A great article in the Leader telegram on the game.  Link below.

http://www.leadertelegram.com/Sports/2018/09/07/div-class-libPageBodyLinebreak-Turnaround-div.html

I was not able to attend the game but did get updates from a few in attendance I trust.  North came ready and played fast and aggressive the entire first half.  It is always interesting in rivalry games, but in reality, Memorial has owned the series against North.  Not sure North’s last win, but I do know it has been awhile.  Likely 10 years or so.  North had some nice teams about that time and I think took down Memorial.  The article showed the last goal scored by North in the series was back in 2013.  I am pretty sure I was at that game.  Austin was playing defense against Dan Kron when the goal was scored, but at least he did not give up the goal!  On Thursday, that streak was broken when All Conference performer Logan Podolak scored to give North a 1-0 lead.  North is not off to a great start this year, but they always seems to play really well against Memorial.  The lead was deserved.  North was playing well and had the Abes on their heels.  They out shot Memorial 5-3 in the first half and maybe left a few goals on the field due to some good work by GK Hanson.  A late equalizer on a Brenner PK seemed to settle down the Abes.  PK’s are always tricky.  Sounds like this one was deserved and Memorial really needed that goal.  1-0 at half and North is energized.  1-1 at half and North thinks maybe we let this one get away.

Memorial was a different team in the second half for sure.  Possession, passing, energy, shots….all favored Memorial.  They were able to get 12 shots in the second half but were not able to find a break through goal for the first 30 minutes.  North was finding a way to survive.  As usual, the game got chippy between the two and a few more PK’s could have been called.  Always physical when these two get together.  The pressure finally flipped the game when a cross was not collected by the North GK and fell right at the feet of Brenner who tapped it in for the 2-1 lead.  With North pressing for a goal to tie, Memorial struck late with Verduzco getting his first goal this season for a 3-1 final score.

Quick Thoughts:

-Young teams need to learn to play hard regardless of the opponent.  It’s a hard lesson to learn.  The coaches pushed the right buttons at half and they gain a win while getting to coach up the team on coming ready to play from the start.

Memorial vs. River Falls

What the heck….where did that come from.  Memorial wins 9-0.  After an early season with score lines of 1-3, 3-1, 3-1….not too many people would have predicted a 9-0 thumping by Memorial over River Falls.  9 Goals.  Playing on back to back nights due to an early week rain out, the Abes were ready to go from the opening kick.  Playing fast and aggressive and pressing hard early, Memorial maybe found some confidence on Friday.  Four goals in the first half and five in the second was a welcome relief to the two 3-1 wins so far this year.

I was able to attend the first 30 minutes but saw plenty of goals and a young team starting to find their rhythm.  Players are understanding their roles, understanding where teammates will be and learning how to break down defenses a bit.  Let’s take a look at two of the goals.

Mitch Brenner continues his early season hot streak.  He is filling in very nicely for Jack Longville this season.  7 goals in 4 games and he has scored in every game this season.  This might be his best one so far.  As we discussed, the ball just finds his feet.  He seems to always be in the right spots.  When Peloquin gets fouled in a dangerous spot, you kind of felt like this one might go in.  Lets take a look.

The GK gives it a good try, the shot is just placed too precisely. Great goal by Brenner!

The biggest development for me in this game is that Luke Rosenberger is starting to score goals.  I think it is critical the team finds a second scorer to take some pressure off Brenner.  I thought Rosenberger was that player, but slow start to his season in the score sheet with just one goal in the first three games.  Two goals tonight is a great sign.  With Luke getting more offensive, this team becomes much more dangerous.  His first goal was a rocket shot that the GK thought he had…but the short hop and power surprised him a bit.  Rosenberger’s second goal is pure class.  A great surging run by Will Hartman, a well placed cross as well and then Luke does his thing….a really nice volley to the corner of the net.  Well done sir!

Quick Take Aways

-Rotations are Making the Team Better.  I love that the coaches are increasing their bench and getting more players onto the field.  I also think it helps their play.  Fresh bodies are helping their press.  Fresh wingers are creating chances.  Players are stepping up and playing well when they get time on the field.  Good Stuff.

-Rosenberger Warming Up.  I think he is really important to their success this year.  Two goals today really increases his confidence.

-Young Guns Getting Some Goals.  Jared Nunez tallied two goals and Justin Smith tallied one to get their scoring started this year.  Both goals from wingers is a good sign.  Peloquin also opened his scoring account for the season.  He works so hard and good to see him rewarded with a goal.

Two PK’s Today.  Does not happen often, but two goals from PK’s.  A good sign they are putting teams under pressure in the box.  A PK goal against North as well to get them even before the half.

Hudson on Deck

So….a really big game is looming on Tuesday.  Hudson comes to town in the first real battle for the Big Rivers Conference title.  Hudson is 3-0 so far this season with wins over North (7-1), Menomonie (4-1) and Rice Lake (6-0).  Beating North by 6 and then shutting out Rice Lake 6-0 are two pretty impressive wins.  Memorial will be coming off their best win of the season against River Falls.  Feels like Hudson should be and will be favored.  Can Memorial build on their momentum from Friday and keep it going.  Will Hudson’s experience and dynamic offense cause the young defense of Memorial problems.  Should be a great game.  I am predicting a final score of 3-2….and just hope that somehow the Abes find a way to score 3.  Go Abes!

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Premier League Week 4 Update: September 3

So, are things now finally going to calm down for Manchester United. After a week or turmoil, fan unrest, and Jose Mourinjo crazy press conferences where he claims to be the greatest manager of all time, Manchester united stepped up and had a solid 2-0 win over Burnley.  Romelu Lukaku scored two and Man U withstood a red card and some second half pressure to buy themselves some relief.  Not much though, 4-0 Watford is on the schedule next, so right back int the fire for the Red Devils.

The pressure shifts this week to Tottenham Hotspur.  Tottenham battled Watford this past week and took a 1-0 lead in the second half, only to give up two second half goals off set plays and suffer a 2-1 defeat.  First time they have lost after taking a lead in over two years.  Last week this was the game of the week prediction and it did not disappoint.  The question to be answered was if Watford was the real deal or just a pretender.  Well, after the 2-1 win, let’s put Watford in the real deal column.  Another huge test and likely the game of the week in Week 5 in Manchester United v. Watford.  If Watford can pull off two wins against Top 6 sides from a year ago in back to back weeks….watch out.  Could we have another Cinderella story on our hands in 2018/2019.  Tottenham has some questions to answer after a blah performance against Watford.  Having just defeated Manchester United…did they come into the game a bit too confident, a bit too sure of themselves.  They did not play well and will need to rebound to keep their title hopes and Top 4 plans on track.  Highlights from the game.

Match Week 4 Recap

-Liverpool make it four straight wins to start the season with a solid 2-1 win over Leicester City.

-Watford continues their hot start with a win over Tottenham to secure 4 wins in a row to start the season.

-Chelsea overcome Bournemouth with 2 second half goals to win 2-0 and become the third team to start the season 4-0.

-Manchester City gets back into the win column after last weeks tie, with a solid 2-1 win over Newcastle United.

-Other winners include Southampton, Wolverhampton, Arsenal and Manchester United.

Race for the Title and Champions League Top 4

There are still 3 teams all tied at the top of the table with 12 points.  Liverpool, Chelsea and Watford.

1. Liverpool    4-0-0   12 Points

2. Chelsea     4-0-0   12 Points

3. Watford     4-0-0   12 Points

4. Manchester City  3-1-0  10 Points

5. Tottenham    3-0-1   9 Points

Relegation Zone

West Ham has not earned a point after Week 4 and is on the bottom of the table.

Huddersfield and Cardiff City with 2 points each.

18. Newcastle 0-1-3  1 Point

19. Burnley    0-1-3   1 Point

20. West Ham   0-0-4  0 Points

Match Week 5 Preview

Game of the Week.

Two big clashes in the Top 6 this week, so a double Game of the Week.

Watford vs. Manchester United.  Is Watford the real deal.  This is their second clash against a Top 4 team.  A win by Manchester United gets them back on track.  If Watford prevails, their stake claim to a Top 4 finish contender.

Tottenham v. Liverpool.  Liverpool has started the campaign as the early favorite and looks dominating so far this year.  Tottenham is coming off a disappointing defeat.  An early season statement game.  Back to back losses would be a tough pill for the Hotspur to swallow.  Teams can’t let Liverpool run away to gain too much momentum.  The first big game for Liverpool this year.

In Case You Missed It.

Goal Keepers….here is a good lesson for you.  Don’t attempt fancy dribbling when being pressured near your goal.  Sometimes it turns out bad.  Just kick it out and clear the danger.  There is a reason you are a GK!!!

 

 

 

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Big Rivers Conference Update: September 2

So, I don’t know why, but it turns out it is hard to get updates on the Big Rivers Conference.  Some teams report scores, some don’t.  The Big Rivers Conference website does not show Memorial in the conference standings page? Scores are not updated frequently so I have learned to snoop around the internet for updates.  But hey, I figured you would want to know so I put in a little extra time….all for you!  I knew you would appreciate it!

Here is a quick update on the Big Rivers Conference after the first week of play.

Week of August 27th Games:

Hudson @ EC North.  Hudson wins 7-1

Menomonie @River Falls.  River Falls wins 4-0

Rice Lake @ Chippewa Falls.  Rice Lake wins 3-1.

Rice Lake @ River Falls.  Rice Lake wins 2-1.

Menomonie @ EC North.  North wins 5-0

Memorial @ Chippewa Falls.  Memorial wins 3-1.

Big Rivers Conference Standings

Rice Lake                        2-0-0

Hudson                           1-0-0

Memorial                        1-0-0

North                              1-1-0

River Falls                      1-1-0

Chippewa Falls             0-2-0

Menomonie                   0-2-0

Quick Take Aways:

-Hudson put 7 goals on North is impressive.  Albrecht typically has a stout defense.  It felt like Hudson was an early conference favorite based on returning players and this game would certainly support that theory.

-Surprise Team to Watch Out For: Rice Lake.  Rice Lake has quietly put together a nice tun the past 2-4 years and is building a nice program up north.  They have a few appearances at State and are well coached with solid players.  Don’t sleep in Rice Lake.

-Thought North would be in contention for the top half of the conference.  Curious how they play this week.  They have teams on both ends of the Conference, how will they fare against teams they need to beat to improve their standing.  Can you throw out the Hudson game?

-There does not appear to be a dominant team in conference this year.  Hudson has lost several non-conference games already.  Memorial lost to GB Preble (no shame there). Only Rice Lake is currently undefeated overall.  I think the conference may be more wide open this year.  Can someone shake up the Memorial-Hudson grip on the conference championship.  The upcoming week will give us some clues.

Games for the Week of September 3rd:

Tuesday Games: River Falls @ Memorial,    Hudson @ Menomonie,   North @ Rice Lake

Thursday Games: Memorial @ North,   Chippewa Falls @ River Falls,   Rice Lake @ Hudson

An interesting week.  We will find out if Rice Lake is the real deal this week. Wins against North and a Win or Tie at Hudson would shake up the conference hierarchy a bit.  Can North step up and get a win against one of the top teams in the conference this year?  Can Memorial’s young squad win both their games to set up an early season clash with Hudson the following week.  This is a big week for Memorial to develop some consistency and build some positive momentum for the season.

Game of the Week: Rice Lake @ Hudson

 

 

 

 

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Memorial Starts Big Rivers Play With a Win at CF

Memorial kicked off their Big Rivers season with a solid win at Chippewa Falls last night.  Nothing too fancy, not a dominating performance, still trying to figure things out….but a win is a win, especially for a young team finding their way.

So, let me get this out of the way quickly.  I am not a big fan of the field at Chippewa.  Feels a bit too big.  Too wide, too long, too bouncy.  Especially too bouncy!  I always found it hard to evaluate a team after playing at Chippewa.  It’s hard to find a rhythm.  Hard to get the passing game going.  The turf is not your friend.  So, a bit hard to evaluate the Abes last night.  Plus, doesn’t it strike you that the Chippewa players could use just a little bit more discipline on the field and sidelines.  I will leave it at that and move on.

I also have to share that I missed most of the first half.  I was able to get to the game around the 30 minute mark of the first half.  It was already 1-0 when I arrived and as I was sitting down to get ready….bam….2-0.  So sorry about that, but I do have some highlights to share. Let’s talk about the flow of the game.  Memorial looked solid in all phases for most of the night.  The ball was moving around the pitch.  The defense was shutting down most attacks up high, the midfield was controlling possession and the wingers and forwards were getting plenty of opportunities but……it did just feel a bit sloppy at times.  See above for Chippewa Field issues!!  Bounce…Bounce…Bounce!!  I also would share that for a young team, a big challenge is to bring it at all times, regardless of the opponent, play at your very highest level.  But that’s hard, even for experienced high school teams.  Maybe Memorial played down to their opponents level a bit.  Certainly, this was nowhere near the challenge they faced against Green Bay Preble last week.  Only Game #2, and still without some senior leadership on the field, so no surprise really.  They were able to manage thru these issues and secure the win.

Key Take Aways from the Game

Mitch Brenner seems ready for a break out season.  After watching Jack Longville for two years, we all wondered who, and if, someone could fill those shoes and take the scoring pressure for the team.  Seems like Brenner is up for the task early.  He scores a double and increases his scoring tally to 3 with 1 assist.  He has been involved in all 4 Memorial goals so far this year.  The ball seems to find him in dangerous spots.  On corner kicks and free kicks he is looking very dangerous.  The ball seems to end up on his head or feet no matter where the play starts out.  Some players just have a sense for scoring.

Rosenberger opens his scoring account for the year.  I have been waiting for this.  I think Luke is really important to the team’s success this year.  He seemed more involved offensively tonight.  Really important he scores and shares the burden with Brenner.  Right now he is playing a bit deeper as the team needs his presence in midfield keeping possession.  I think he pushes forward later in the year and starts to take on a key scoring role.

Defense still a work in progress.  Be patient, it will come, but a few wobbles still on the back line.  I made the mistake of checking an e-mail to start the second half and when I looked up, 17 seconds into the half, Chippewa had a one on one with Hanson and a nice slotted ball was in the net, the lead cut to one quickly.  There is no time to get comfortable for the back line.  Stay focused and ready.  One ball over the top, one big bouncing long ball, and trouble is lurking.  See above for Chippewa Field issues!!  Bounce…Bounce…Bounce!!  I counted 3-4 times big bouncing balls made it into the 18 and things could have been a bit different if not for sweeper keeper Hanson.  That will get cleaned up soon.

Memorial Responds.  At 2-1, 17 seconds into the half, their could have been a little panic, but I didn’t see any.  Memorial just continued to play their possession game and stick to the game plan.  They were rewarded with a goal in the second half to re-establish their 2 goal lead and kill off the game with only a few more threats.  Experience gained.

A busy bench tonight.  I am pretty sure all 20 players who suited up tonight, saw some game action.  That was pretty cool to see.  And they all played well and contributed.  At one point, there were 11 players on the field and none of them were starters from last years team and none of them played significant minutes last year.  I have seen that a few times when Memorial was winning 8-0 or 9-0 late in a game, but not sure I have ever seen that when it was 3-1 with 10 minutes to go in the conference opening game.  Kudos to the players for performing well and to the coaching staff for trusting their bench and their players.  I have seen a kinder and gentler bench this year.  No surprise with a young team.  A lot of encouragement coming from the sidelines.  Keeping the players focused and applauding their effort.  A great move in my opinion and I enjoyed watching it last night.

Game Highlights

Brenner makes it 2-0 with a nice shot off a corner kick.  As I said, the ball seems to find his feet.  If you are wondering about the video quality, I can’t take any credit.  I am certainly still a rookie at taking video, but I got this from someone even more of a rookie than me…and that’s hard!  I really appreciate the video though, since I missed this goal while not paying attention in the first half.  I will expect much improved performance in the future though….increase that resolution mister!!

Rosenberger opens his scoring account with an early entry into  the Goal of the Year.  Four players touch the ball.  Last weeks videos showed all the offensive players pushing forward across the field.  It was great to see.  I thought it would certainly create some goal scoring opportunities on the back side….so here you go.  As predicted.  Really nice sharing of the ball and trust among the players.  This will continue to improve and it should lead to many more goals.  Nice one touch finish Luke!

And look at the quality of that video…amazing….especially when compared to the previous clip.  Go Abes.  Trust the process!

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Wisconsin High School Coaches Poll: Week of August 27th

The first poll of the season is out and no surprise, Marquette sits atop the polls at #1.

A familiar name sits at #2, Green Bay Preble, yes, that same Green Bay Preble that Memorial played this past week in a very competitive 3-1 loss.  Two pings off the post and cross bar and it’s a possible 3-3 tie.  Those darn two minutes when Memorial gave up back to back goals.  So, feeling any better about the loss.  We said in the Game Report that Preble was good and no shame in losing to a quality opponent, we just did not know at the time they would start the year ranked #2.  I am telling you, Memorial is not that far away from Preble.  A bit of seasoning, a bit of game experience, the young fellas growing up a bit during the year, add in a few senior starters and maybe the next time we face them it is a different story.  Likely, the State qualifier will need to go thru Green Bay Preble.

3. Neenah

4. Kettle Moraine

5. Verona

6. Sun Prairie

7. Brookfield Central

8. Appleton North

9. Sussex Hamilton

10. Homestead

 

 

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Premier League Match Week 3 Recap (Update)

Week 3 Update:  Tottenham 3 Manchester United 0

Yes–you read that correctly.  Manchester United is shut out at home and loses back to back games and two of their first three games for the first time in….well, it has been a very long time.  The club with the most Premier League titles ever and the most famous club in soccer is in a funk.  They actually played really well in the first half and had a few massive opportunities.  It could easily have been 1-0 or 2-0 at the half.  The second half was dominated by Tottenham Hotspur….I just love that name.  Three goals.  Manchester had a few defensive collapses and Tottenham pounced.  With the win, Tottenham joins Liverpool, Chelsea and Watford with three wins in three and 9 points to start the Premier League race.  Manchester United now sit in 13th. I know it is early, only 3 games our of 38….but an early season wobble from Many U.  Fans are anxious, players are not happy, the so-called experts are predicting Mourinjo will not be coaching in January.  The atmosphere is not good.  They need a win desperately to calm the waters.  Their next two games will be a big challenge.  No shock if they lost both given their current form.  Hang on….it might get a bit rocky for United fans.

Highlights from the game.

 

So, are you a Manchester City fan….if so….you are probably a bit disappointed with the weekend.  Last year was magical.  A record number of points in a season.  Winning the Premier League going away and in style…never challenged…massive gap between first and second.  Significant winning streaks.  Best coach, best players, best team.  Easy peasy right…well….maybe not.  Week 3 of the Premier League and Manchester City is playing newly promoted Wolverhampton.  The best team in the league against a newly promoted team from Championship Division, one level down.  A mismatch on paper.  An easy win for Manchester city…but this is the Premier League.  Toughest League in soccer.

How do you compete against Manchester City.  Well, hope they get a little too comfortable.  Hope they relax and just play their okay game…not their best game.  Hope for a little luck, well, change that, hope for a bunch of luck!  Then and maybe you still get smacked, but at least maybe then you have a chance.  Wolverhampton got that and more.  Highlights below, but lets recap.  A goal on a hand ball, and likely offside as well.  No call on either, GOAL stands.  Off the woodwork three times for Manchester City.  A pretty clear penalty in the box not called.  Add it all up and you have a 1-1 tie and Manchester City drops points this year in Week 3, and shows just the slightest wobble from last year.  The other big clubs were smiling a little on Saturday night.  Maybe there is a chance for the rest of the league.

Match Week 3 Recap

-Liverpool make it three straight wins to start the season with a solid 1-0 win over Brighton.

-Watford continues their hot start with a win over Crystal Palace and also win their first 3 games.

-Arsenal secure their first win of the season under their new coach with a 3-1 win over West Ham.

-Chelsea overcome Newcastle United with a late goal for a 2-1 win.

-Other winners include Leicester City and Fulham with their first win of the year.

-One game to play tomorrow with Manchester United taking on Tottenham.  Big game for Manchester United.  After losing in Week 2 and now playing a top 4 side.  Another loss would put them at 3 points after three matches and in a bit of a mini-crisis.  A solid win puts them right back on track.  Will they rebound?  Will they go deeper into Funk city?  Will Mourinjo spontaneously combust if they lose two in a row?  Must see TV next weekend!

Race for the Champions League Top 4

There are 3 teams all tied at the top of the table with 9 points.  Liverpool, Chelsea and Watford.  Tottenham with a chance to join them if they can take down Manchester United on Monday.  Bournemouth and Manchester City just behind with 7 points.

Relegation Zone

West Ham has not earned a point after Week 3 and is on the bottom of the table.  Huddersfield Township, Burnley, Southampton and Newcastle United with 1 point each in places 16-19.

Match Week 4 Preview

Game of the Week.

Watford vs. Tottenham.  Is Watford the real deal.  This is their first test against a Top 4 side from last year.  We will find out if they are contenders or pretenders!

 

 

 

 

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Memorial Season Kicks Off Against GB Preble (Updated )

Quick Update for those interested.  Green Bay Preble defeated Hudson today 3-0.  1-0 Game for most of the game.  pretty even possession game and Hudson had some nice moments where they put Preble under pressure.  Similar to yesterday, Preble scored two goals quickly late in the game.  Goals in the 86th and 88th made it 3-0.  Looks like Green Bay Preble is good!  I have a feeling the Hudson game is going to be very competitive!

 

Another season of Memorial soccer is off and running as they squared off against one of the state’s best programs in Green Bay Preble on Friday afternoon.  Their last game was an incredible match up, won late by Memorial in the Sectional Finals last year.  Remember the Martinez goal in the final minutes!   Quite the way to start the season for a young team trying to find their way after losing a strong senior class last year.   Right into the fire as they say.  It was a bit strange for me….watching a Memorial game without one of my kids in the program or on the field playing.  Just a fan.  No nerves, that was cool.  No anxiety…that was cool as well.  Just enjoying a great game and being a soccer fan.

First observations.

-Memorial is quick, athletic, great feet, great skills, tactically strong, well coached……but a bit smaller than I am used to seeing on the pitch.  Gone are many of the big, physical players from last year.  No more Beasts in the midfield or back line.  Memorial could really physically dominant teams last year, this year they will need to use their skills and knowledge of the game.

-Memorial is young.  Four underclassmen started the Preble game, including dynamic Freshman Jared Nunez.  Toss in four junior starters and that leaves just three Senior starters currently.  That will change in a few weeks as a few Seniors should get back into the line up.  But regardless, it is a team that will need to learn to play together and develop some chemistry.  Preble had only two sophomores on their varsity squad.  Memorial started 3 Sophomores and a Freshman.  You could feel the difference in experience.  Preble was loud and talkative all game.  Lots of communication and chatter on the pitch.  Memorial will get there, time and patience.

-Are those new uniforms.  Very sharp….love the new look!

-Style of play.  Apologize for the comparisons, but it’s my first time seeing them play.  Not as much possession as I am used to for Memorial.  A lot of balls over the top or thru balls into space.  Not as much build up in the final third.  Not as many overlapping, deep runs by the outside backs on either side as last year.  We got used to Jolley and Free bombing down the sidelines and getting into the final third and whipping in crosses for Longville to knock home.   Lots more touches in the Midfield and out wide with Wingers.  Great to see the ball being shared up top.  All the wingers and forwards are dynamic.  When the ball moves up field, everyone is moving forward as a unit.  Opportunities to have combination play and find players free on the backside are there.  No more reliance on a single forward.  A few more games and the offensive players will start finding each other.  More goals are coming.  I love how they are sharing the ball and trusting each other.

Game Recap

So, soccer is sometimes difficult when it comes to results. Sometimes you dominate a team but win 1-0.  A bit of a deceiving score.  Sometimes you get killed but manage to make some saves and earn a tie.  A bit of a deceiving score.  And sometimes it is a very even game, and just a few plays make the difference.  This game felt pretty even to me for big chunks of the game.  Preble’s physicality and Memorial’s youth showed up in the first 30 minutes of the second half and Preble did exert their will on the Abes during that period of play.  But the Abes were still finding a way to keep the Hornets out of their net.  For 87 minutes this was a really close well fought match.  But there are those other 3 minutes…..just three I know, but they were a fateful three in the result.  Let’s end the drama….Green bay Preble 3  Memorial 1.  But that is a bit of a deceiving score!

It was a very competitive game of soccer.  The first half saw both teams compete hard and show strong play on both the offensive and defensive side of the field.  I would say the possession was pretty even.  Both sides had good spells and found good moments.  Memorial came out flying and had a strong first 20 minutes.  They were the better team in that stretch.  The ball was moving quickly, they were finding space on the wings.  They were winning back possession quickly after a turnover.  The defensive line was stepping hard and winning balls.  When pressed deep, they were up to the task to chase down a run and clear out balls from the 18.  GK Hanson, a likely All Conference player this year, is a nice safety blanket in the back.  He made a few very nice saves in that spell.  A leaping, one hand poke over the top on a hard drive was especially impressive.  Memorials possession paid off about 15 minutes into the game.  After a string of nice passes and working the ball into space down the left side, Memorial struck first.  An attempt to clear a ball was intercepted in Midfield by Woodworth who played it forward to Nunez, who played it forward to Mitch Brenner.  His first touch and trap was really the key here.  A hot ball in from Nunez, but controlled nicely.  A turn into space, a touch and a nice left foot finish in the side net.  1-0 Abes.  Notice two more players in the box.  I really like how they are attacking the net.

Preble responded after the goal and the game settled into a tight match.  No real advantage.  Preble did put some pressure on the Memorial defense but Hanson was up to the task.  He played sweeper keeper on a few balls and made that one nice save.  Unfortunately, later in the half, Preble evened up the score.  A ball out near midfield came free to their captain, Lindsley, who found the top corner from distance.  Not much Hanson could do on this one.  A shot from distance that just finds the one spot it can get past the keeper.  A pretty fortunate score from there, the kid may not have a nicer shot all season….but well done, a nice shot.  1-1 at the half.

I am pretty sure the Preble coach told his players at the half to take advantage of the one key difference in the game.  Preble’s size and strength.  It was noticeable in the first 30 minutes of the second half.  Preble was much more physical.  Bodies were flying around.  Tackles and pressure were increased a bit.  I think maybe the physical play took a toll.  Preble had a significant edge in possession during this period.  But hey, Memorial was finding a way to keep the game tied.  and then there were those 3 minutes we talked about.  Just three, I know, but it was the difference in the game.  A nice spell of possession lead to a ball down the left-wing, a cross came flying into he box, and the Preble forward out-dueled the Memorial defender in the air for a nice header goal.  2-1.  Quickly, Preble was back on the attack.  A little wobble on the back line and midfield allowed a ball to be played into space in the 18 and a quick turn and shot and it’s 3-1.  Just three minutes, I know, but man, bummer dude, those three minutes hurt a bit.

Memorial responds.  Maybe that settled them down?  Maybe down two they said, what the heck, let’s just play a little loose and free.  Not sure, but the final 15-20 minutes looked much better.  Memorial had their best spell of the game in this period. They really did not put much pressure on Preble until the two goals.  Then they had a bunch of chances.

So back to the deceiving score idea.  Zumwalt with a great chance.  And notice Jacob in the box ready for a pass or tap in goal.  Sometimes the woodwork is your friend and sometimes the woodwork is your enemy.  Today…it was our enemy.  A pass to Jacob and a shot had the GK beat.  A nice powerful shot, headed for the goal and ….ping….off the post.  Notice all the players in the box available for a pass.  Then later, a nice free kick from Junker and Brenner rises above everyone for a header.  The GK is out of position and beat, the ball is headed for the net….ping….off the cross-bar.  But there is Jacob with the volley finish and the ball is headed into the net when….stab….the GK makes a one-handed lunging save.  No goal.   What?  How did we not score there!!  Come on man!

So back to the deceiving score idea.  Pretty easy to envision both of those plays turning into goals,  finding the net and the game ending in a 3-3 tie.  but hey, that’s soccer.  The team is young, and they are working hard.  I love their energy.  I love all the forward players in the box ready to pounce.  I love how they are sharing the ball.  I loved that they came back from 3-1 to put a scare into Preble.  I love the possibilities of how good they can be with a few more games and a little more experience.  I love they have two seniors who will likely make a big difference in the physicality of the team coming back soon.

No shame going down to Preble and the quality of their squad.  Just three minutes…..just two pings off the woodwork….and this is a different article.  Go Abes.  Trust the process!

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Premier League Match Week 2

So, are you a Manchester United fan….if so….tough week for you coming up.  In the first significant upset of the new season, Brighton & Hove Albion took down mighty Manchester United 3-2 today.  A shocking upset really.  Any way you look at it, quality of the players, coaching pedigree, team payroll….Manchester United were clear favorites.  But as we have discussed many times, the Premier League is hard….top to bottom is full of quality teams.  If you don’t bring it on a certain day, expect to get beat.  Brighton finished 15th in the table last season, 3 spots clear of relegation zone, while Manchester United finished 2nd in the table…and qualified for Champions League.  Manchester upgraded their team and spent big money over the summer.  MU did not play with passion or energy today.  Brighton was flying around the pitch all day.  Maybe a few fortunate goals, but really, a well-earned victory.  You never felt Man U were in charge and dominating the game.

Jose Mourinjo is now officially on the hot seat, 2 weeks into the season.  A great coach, but he has the reputation of wearing out his welcome with players and fans.

His coaching career has many short stints..Porto for 2 years, Chelsea for 3 years and then rehired later and lasted 2 years, Inter Milan for 2 years, Real Madrid for 3 years, Manchester United now in his third year.  He has many titles, many trophies but also many crash and burn years as well.  Big clubs, big ego, big results, but as well, big disappointments along the way.

Match Week 1 Recap

-Tottenham Hotspur make it two straight wins to start the season with a solid 3-1 win over newly promoted Fulham.

-Bournemouth and Watford also score back to back wins to start the season.  Both teams looking dangerous and are sides the top clubs do not want to play right now.

-Manchester City looked dominating in their 6-1 win over Huddersfield Township.  Sergio Aguerro is fit and off to a blazing start to the season.  He hit for three goals today and is off to an early lead in the Golden Boot competition.  Even without their best player, Kevin DeBruyne, who is out for 3 months with an injury, Manchester City look unbeatable.  Mark down Match Week 8 game with Liverpool as the first real chance to take down the Champions.  Very likely they enter that game 7-0.

-Chelsea withstood their early season test with Arsenal to log a 3-2 win.  A tough game for both teams trying to re-establish their place in the top echelon of the Premier League.

-Other winners include Leicester City and Everton.

-One game to play tomorrow with Liverpool taking on Crystal Palace.

Race for the Champions League Top 4

There are 5 teams all tied at the top of the table with 6 points.  With Manchester City and Chelsea leading the table based on Goal differential.   Watford, Tottenham and Bournemouth round out the top 5.  The Liverpool vs. Crystal Palace winner will join this group at 6 points.

Relegation Zone

Four teams have not earned a point after Week 2 and are tied for the bottom with West Ham United and Huddersfield Township in the last two spots, joined by Fulham and Arsenal.  A few teams just unfortunate to have a really tough 2 week schedule swing.  Arsenal and Huddersfield having faced both Manchester City and Chelsea to start their seasons.

Week 1 Highlights

Game of the week. Chelsea vs. Arsenal.  A really great game to watch.  Action all over the pitch.  Great goals. Great almost goals, lots of shots and a little drama as well.  This one could have had a lot more goals.  Chelsea fortunate on a few misses, but also left a few goals on the pitch as well.  Their second half dominance earned them a well deserved 3 points.  Arsenal with a bit a bad luck so far this year.  A very dangerous team and Chelsea happy to get the win and move on.

Match Week 3 Preview.

Game of the Week.  Manchester United vs. Tottenham.  This is a big game for Manchester United.  After losing in Week 2 and now playing a top 4 side.  Another loss would put them at 3 points after three matches and in a bit of a mini-crisis.  A solid win puts them right back on track.  Will they rebound?  Will they go deeper into Funk city?  Will Mourinjo spontaneously combust if they lose two in a row?  Must see TV next weekend!

Another update tomorrow after Liverpool’s game.

Check back in!

 

 

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Premier League and High School Soccer

The summer lull is over.  The posts are about to heat up, so please accept my apology for the limited soccer updates.  Keep checking as between Premier League action and local High School action as well as a few ECU updates, the activity will be picking up significantly. Let’s get started with Match Week 1 of the English Premier League.

 

As we have discussed many times, the best soccer in the world is played in the Premier League.  Every team in the 20 Team league has quality.  Every game there is the chance for an upset.  There is no taking a game off and coasting to victory.  Other top leagues are top-heavy.  The Budesliga in Germany is dominated by Bayern Munich.  The Serie A in Italy is dominated by Juventus.  LaLiga in Spain  is dominated by Real Madrid and Barcelona.  Athletico Madrid is a distant third but improving.  Ligue 1 in France is dominated by PSG.  But the Premier League has 6 strong clubs and the Title has moved between Chelsea (5), Manchester City (3) and Manchester United (7) with Aresenal having 2 titles and Leicester City 1 since 2000.  There have been 4 different Title winners each of the past 4 years.  That doesn’t include Champions League clubs Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur.  It is a very hard league.  Great teams, great players, great fun to watch!

Match Week 1 Recap

-Liverpool takes the early lead at the top of the Table with a 4-0 win over West ham United.  Liverpool has the best attack in the league and they look in mid-season form already.  Salah got his first and Mane had a double.

-Chelsea 3-0 over Huddersfield Township.  Sarri-ball started the season with a successful debut.  New coach, new 4-3-3 system, new players leading the charge.  It may take a few months to see the real system in place as the players adapt to the quick passing, vertical attack of their new coach.  Jorginho looks to be a great addition to Chelsea.  Cant wait to see Kovacic in midfield.  Kante is still a beast and Hazard is the best dribbling/attacking player in the Premier League.

-Manchester City 2-0 over Arsenal.  Manchester City started their defense of their title with a convincing 2-0 win over Arsenal.  They looked dominating at times and could easily have scored 4.  But as well, there were moments where they looked shaky, GK Ederson gave away a few balls in his third and I was really shocked that Arsenal did not pounce and make him pay.  Arsenal could have scored a few goals and either tied or made it interesting.  Solid win, but a few nervy moments for Man City.   Is there hope for the rest of the league?   When Man City is good, there are unbeatable.

Other winners include Manchester United, Tottenahm Hotspur, Bournemouth, Watford, Crystal Palace

Race for the Champions League Top 4

The eight winners from Week 1 are all tied with 3 points with Liverpool and Chelsea leading the table based on Goal differential.  Liverpool (+4) and Chelsea (+3)

Relegation Zone

Eight teams did not earn a point in Week 1 and are tied for the bottom with West Ham United and Huddersfield Township in the last two spots courtesy of their large losses to Liverpool and Chelsea.

Week 1 Highlights

Check out Chelsea v. Huddersfield.  The PK by Jorginho is so cheeky and cool.  Wow.  Hazard came into the game for the last 15 minutes and produced some incredible driving runs and assisted on the third goal.

 

High School Soccer

High School soccer is right around the corner.  August 13 marks the beginning of the season as high schools across the state can start tryouts and practicing.  Most teams will get formed over the course of the week and by Friday, Varsity squads are set and will start a week-long practice and friendlies to prepare for the Conference season.  We will be following Memorial very closely again this year while also looking to feature the other local teams, North, Regis and maybe some Altoona updates.

This will be my first year in the past 9 years that I have not had a player involved in Memorial Soccer.  I must admit, it feels a bit sad.  About this time of year, my excitement kicks up a notch, my nerves pick in a little.  I am ready for some high school soccer.  I am still feeling pretty connected to this group of players and will do my best to track all the games, provide highlights and some great insight.  Memorial lost some great seniors.  I still remember being up 2-1 at half of the State Semi-Finals.  I will get over it, I promise.  Still stings! Who will step up this year to fill the holes??

A quick reminder from last years State Semi-Finals.

 

Will North take another step up the Big Rivers conference ladder?

Can Regis keep their momentum and challenge for another trip to State?

Can Altoona develop a program as their join the ranks of the Independent League?

Season previews on the way this week.

 

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