- East Bay Prep Corner
East Bay Boys Soccer Brackets, Rankings, Standings, Stats
By Matt Smith
Sunday, February 14th, 2010 at 2:40 pm in Boys soccer.
As I stated in the comments, it was a shame to leave Freedom out.
I’ve seen both Freedom and Arroyo this year, and they are evenly matched teams, but when you compare resume’s it’s not really that close. I will agree that Arroyo was a fringe team, but the No. 11 seed is too high. And at the expense of Freedom makes it stand out this much more.
No disrespect to Arroyo, they are a fine team, but I feel like Freedom deserved to get in. The BVAL as a whole was disrespected with Antioch, Deer Valley and Liberty getting the No. 14, No. 15 and No. 16 seeds respectively.
I won’t disagree with seeds two through six, I thought that could have gone anyway. Apparently league finish was very important. Seeding Newark ahead of a Castro Valley team that won a head-to-head game is confusing. If it were more than one spot ahead, then fine, but you should flip-flop those two teams if you have them next to each other.
Enough about Division I, on to Division II thoughts.
I am shocked at Las Lomas getting a No. 8 seed. That’s just ridiculous. I’m not going to call any teams out, but I think the BSAL was valued too high in comparison with the DFAL.
And I’m also confused about YV hosting Kennedy-Richmond as the No. 6 seed. YV is not a league champ. Sure, they were the highest finishing D II team in that league, but not the champ.
I also don’t get Campo being one spot ahead of Dougherty. If you have them separated by two spots, fine. But one spot, I think the two Dougherty Valley wins should have equaled a flip-flop.
I’m not surprised Albany got the No. 2 seed. We’re about to find out if Boise State is a BCS buster, right?
Let the message boards blow up!
Division I
First Round
Wednesday, Feb. 17
No. 1 De La Salle (14-5-3) v. No. 16 Liberty (8-5-7) 5 p.m.
No. 2 San Ramon Valley (12-3-8) v. No. 15 Deer Valley (11-6-6) 7 p.m.
No. 14 Antioch (9-7-7) v. No. 3 Granada (15-3-5) 7 p.m.
No. 4 Berkeley (16-3-2) v. No. 13 College Park (12-7-5) 7 p.m.
No. 5 Richmond (14-1-9) v. No. 12 Logan (14-9-4) 7 p.m.
No. 6 California (13-3-6) v. No. 11 Arroyo (13-9-1) 7 p.m.
No. 7 Newark Memorial (19-4-4) v. No. 10 Clayton Valley (16-3-3) 7 p.m.
No. 8 Castro Valley (17-3-4) v. No. 9 Amador Valley (7-5-12) 5 p.m.
Division II
First Round
Wednesday, Feb. 17
No. 1 Bishop O’Dowd (18-0-5), bye
No. 2 Albany (21-0-3) v. No. 15 Salesian (8-9-1) 5 p.m.
No. 3 Dublin (17-3-2) v. No. 14 St. Mary’s (12-7-3) 7 p.m.
No. 4 Acalanes (17-3-3) v. No. 13 Concord (7-8-4) 7 p.m.
No. 5 Piedmont (15-4-3) v. No. 12 El Cerrito (7-9-1) 7 p.m.
No. 11 Ygnacio Valley (12-5-2) v. No. 6 Kennedy-Richmond (14-7-2) 7 p.m.
No. 7 Kennedy-Fremont (9-7-2) v. No. 10 Dougherty Valley (10-8-3) 7 p.m.
No. 8 Las Lomas (15-4-3) v. No. 9 Campolindo (12-8-4) 5 p.m.
Rankings
The good thing about the rankings this week is that the playoffs are about to start, so they will all get sorted out once and for all.
Again, I struggled with who to put at No. 1 but I valued De La Salle’s tie against California than O’Dowd’s tie against Tennyson. And I was all set to go with the Dragons this week. Still, they stay at No. 2.
Small changes in the bottom half of the rankings. Things are about to become very clear.
1. De La Salle (14-5-3)
2. Bishop O’Dowd (18-0-5)
3. Granada (15-3-5)
4. Richmond (14-1-9)
5. Berkeley (16-3-2)
6. San Ramon Valley (12-3-8)
7. California (13-3-6)
8. Albany (21-0-3)
9. Dublin (17-3-2)
10. Acalanes (17-3-3)
11. Amador Valley (7-5-12)
12. Castro Valley (17-3-4)
13. Newark Memorial (19-4-4)
14. Las Lomas (15-4-3)
15. Clayton Valley (16-3-3)
Others considered: Deer Valley (11-6-6), Logan (14-9-4), Antioch (9-7-7), Liberty (8-5-7), Ygnacio Valley (12-5-2), College Park (12-7-5), Dougherty Valley (10-8-3), Campolindo (12-8-4), Freedom (10-6-6), Piedmont (14-4-4).
League standings
ACCAL
Team Overall League Points
Berkeley (16-3-2) 10-1-1 31
Richmond (14-1-9) 9-0-3 30
Alameda (6-12-4) 5-3-4 19
El Cerrito (7-9-1) 5-6-1 16
Pinole Valley (6-14-1) 4-8-0 12
De Anza (3-14-6) 1-8-3 6
Hercules (1-12-1) 1-10-1 4
BSAL
Team Overall League Points
Albany (21-0-3) 15-0-1 46
Piedmont (14-4-4) 12-3-1 37
Kennedy (13-9-2) 10-4-2 32
St. Mary’s (12-7-3) 10-4-2 32
Salesian (8-9-1) 8-7-1 25
Encinal (5-17-1) 5-10-1 16
Swett (4-13-0) 4-12-0 12
St. Joseph-Notre Dame (3-17-0) 3-13-0 9
St. Patrick-St. Vincent (1-16-0) 1-15-0 3
BVAL
Team Overall League Points
Antioch (9-7-7) 7-3-5 26
Deer Valley (11-6-6) 6-3-6 24
Liberty (8-5-7) 6-3-6 24
Freedom (10-6-6) 6-4-5 23
Pittsburg (6-13-4) 3-8-4 13
Hertiage (3-12-2) 3-10-2 11
DFAL
Team Overall League Points
Dublin (17-3-2) 8-2-2 26
Acalanes (17-3-3) 8-3-1 25
Las Lomas (15-4-3) 6-3-3 21
Dougherty Valley (10-8-3) 4-6-2 14
Campolindo (12-8-4) 4-6-2 14
Alhambra (6-7-5) 3-6-3 12
Miramonte (0-7-5) 0-7-5 5
DVAL
Team Overall League Points
Clayton Valley (16-3-3) 10-1-1 31
Ygnacio Valley (12-5-2) 8-3-1 25
College Park (12-7-5) 7-2-3 24
Concord (7-8-4) 7-3-2 23
Northgate (4-19-1) 3-9-0 9
Berean Christian (2-19-3) 1-9-2 5
Mt. Diablo (1-12-1) 1-10-1 4
EBAL
Team Overall League Points
De La Salle (14-5-3) 10-1-3 33
San Ramon Valley (12-3-8) 7-2-5 26
Granada (15-3-5) 7-3-4 25
California (13-3-6) 7-3-4 25
Amador Valley (7-5-12) 3-2-9 18
Monte Vista (5-13-5) 3-9-2 11
Livermore (3-12-2) 2-10-2 8
Foothill (5-13-5) 0-9-5 5
HAAL
Team Overall League Points
Bishop O’Dowd (18-0-5) 12-0-4 40
Castro Valley (17-3-4) 12-1-3 39
Arroyo (12-9-1) 9-6-1 28
Mt. Eden (11-10-1) 8-7-1 25
San Lorenzo (7-7-5) 5-6-5 20
Tennyson (4-8-5) 4-7-5 17
San Leandro (6-11-6) 4-9-3 15
Hayward (6-12-3) 3-10-3 12
Moreau Catholic (2-14-3) 1-12-3 6
MVAL
Team Overall League Points
Logan (14-9-4) 9-1-2 29
Newark Memorial (19-4-4) 8-1-3 27
Kennedy (9-7-2) 7-4-1 22
Mission San Jose (10-10-1) 6-6-0 18
Washington (4-13-2) 4-7-1 13
Irvington (6-12-3) 4-7-1 13
American (0-14-0) 0-12-0 0
Statistics
Here is the list of the players in the East Bay who are top ten in goals and assists.
Goals
Littleton, Piedmont 48
Borges, Albany 25
Tieku, El Cerrito 20
Chen, Las Lomas 17
Fuentes, Newark 17
Foster, Granada 16
Ramirez, Albany 16
Rietz, BOD 16
Menezes, Dougherty 15
Huang, Deer Valley 15
Assists
Gomez, Clayton 22
Borges, Albany 20
Montes, Richmond 20
Shiluck, Castro Valley 16
Thomas, Granada 15
Lopez, YV 15
Swafford, BOD 13
Martin, Deer Valley 13
Ornstil, BOD 10
Menezes, Dougherty 10
Arzate, Newark 10
For questions, comments, to report scores, update standings or statistics, please email Matt Smith at mhsmith78@gmail.com.
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February 14th, 2010 at 2:53 pm
Matt- are you going to put up the final NCS goals and assists leaders? Or are you going to wait until after NCS?
February 14th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
oh nvm lol
February 14th, 2010 at 2:55 pm
For the YV v. Kennedy Richmond game. All I can think of is that Kennedy cannot host a night game or did not fill out hosting paperwork.
February 14th, 2010 at 2:58 pm
Since Newark beat Logan twice in a row to win the league playoffs, i assume that means they get the home-field advantage even if they are the lower seed. By the looks of it Newark and Clayton Valley are the only teams to win their league on that half of the bracket.
February 14th, 2010 at 3:16 pm
Matt,
The reason why the JFK Richmond game is at YV is because JFK did not put in the paperwork to host a match.
February 14th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
shouldnt clayton valley host its ncs game? they were league champs and newark wasnt.
February 14th, 2010 at 3:42 pm
Kennedy at #7 over Las Lomas? Not even double digits achieved in wins? Clearly shows that seed committee didnt have much respect for LL or that they consider MVAL stronger then DFAL. Seems a joke to me
February 14th, 2010 at 3:45 pm
Newark is also considered the league champ, for winning the MVAL Tournament.
February 14th, 2010 at 3:52 pm
SRV has a decent path to a potential rematch in the finals. If the seedings hold, they get the survivor of a Granada v. Cal battle at home.
Every team should be on their field right now practicing PKs.
February 14th, 2010 at 3:59 pm
Matt, are you going to do predictions for each round?
February 14th, 2010 at 4:00 pm
Should I? Do you think people would be upset?
I could just imagine a post-game interview with a coach that I picked to lose and ends up winning!
February 14th, 2010 at 4:06 pm
matt, well done all season. your rankings have been very accurate and fun to follow, and they bring up some great discussion topics. i have a couple of questions…
1. What do you think about five teams from the BSAL making the DII playoffs? Many people say that it is a weak league, yet they are tied for having the most teams in the playoffs…
2. Do you have any predictions as to who will get offensive and defensive MVP, and coach of the year awards in each league?
3. How in the world will you choose which playoff games to attend?
February 14th, 2010 at 4:06 pm
Curiosity: how do Logan and Newark get in with 27 games played? Teams are allowed 22 matches and 2 scrimmages for a total of 24…didn’t Deer Valley get kicked out of the playoffs for playing a 25th match with Concord. How come?
February 14th, 2010 at 4:18 pm
A potential 2nd round matchup for De La Salle vs. Amador Valley seems like a much more difficult test than SRV will face vs. either Newark or Clayton. If DLS is truly going to earn their #1 seed this year they’ve got a tough road to the finals…..
February 14th, 2010 at 4:18 pm
I think you should. You’re too highly respected for anyone to truely get mad.
Or you could do side by side comparisons of the matchups with categories and then pick a winner based on who wins the mos categories.
Example: (fake game)
Las Lomas vs. Acalanes
Offense
LL: X
Aca:
Defense
LL:
Aca:X
Keeper
LL: X
Aca:
So here Las Lomas would win. There’d be more categories hopefully. I’m just drawing a blank.
But just an alternative idea instead of straight up predictions.
February 14th, 2010 at 4:19 pm
I do think that four of those BSAL teams were very deserving. Salesian probably wouldn’t make it in a year with more teams eligible, but give them credit for doing what it took. But I do think that those four BSAL teams are good enough to give trouble to anyone. I do think that Piedmont and Kennedy-Richmond were seeded a bit too high.
My predictions on offensive and defensive MVP of each league. Let me think. I’ll do what I can off the top of my head and then fill in the rest later.
ACCAL: Montes offense, I’m gonna say one of the Berkeley kids for defense. Not sure which one Phil regards higher.
BSAL: Littleotn offense, Pereira defense.
BVAL: Huang of DV or Macias of Liberty on offense, and I don’t know who I would go with on defense, maybe Raul Lopez of Freedom.
DFAL: Cody Hoster offense, Logan Spittler defense (if a goalie can win that).
DVAL: Happy Avila of Clayton for offense, Nick Sharapata of Clayton for defense.
EBAL: Wes Moar offense, Ryan Thomas defense.
HAAL: Taylor Reitz offense, Drew Ranahan defense.
MVAL: Kristian Fuentes of Newar offense, and maybe Alex Abeyeta or another Logan kid. I would need to see them again to be sure.
And as far as picking playoff games to go to, it is always hard.
February 14th, 2010 at 4:23 pm
Matt,
Moar, and Thomas both play very similar in my eyes. Both play a holding mid position. Not so sure I agree there.
February 14th, 2010 at 4:27 pm
If not Moar, then Garrett Foster. But I picture Moar on the attack a little more and running the offense, while Thomas plays very strong in the midfield and in the back defensively.
But you bring up a good point.
February 14th, 2010 at 4:31 pm
They are both very good players, Moar ball wins and distributes from the holding mid as where Thomas is more of a defensive player. Foster and Rivas are better options along with Howard.
February 14th, 2010 at 4:32 pm
I totally agree with you. I just have a feeling the league champ is going to get one of the MVP’s. So I was trying to keep that in mind.
February 14th, 2010 at 4:44 pm
Las Lomas at #8? that’s the biggest joke i’ve ever heard of. they should be at #5 at the lowest. whoever made that decision really needs to find another day job.
February 14th, 2010 at 4:48 pm
Predictions for round 1
DLS 3 – Liberty 1
Amador Valley 1 – Castro Valley 0, either in OT or PK’s
Berkeley 4 – College Park 1
Richmond 2 – James Logan 1, OT or PK’s (possible upset alert)
SRV 2 – Deer Valley 1, will be closer game than most believe
Newark 3 – Clayton Valley 1
Granada 3 – Antioch 0, all goals could come from Long Throw in’s on this narrow field
Cal 4 – Arroyo 0
February 14th, 2010 at 4:56 pm
Matt
Just for fun, here was your preseason picks. I consider it not too bad considering not knowing about the injury and soccer academy factor. also, the younger classes taking over for the graduated seniors from last year.
« Poll: Open or closed door meetings?MVAL FINAL football stats — 11/16 »East Bay Boys Soccer pre-season rankings
By Matt Smith
Monday, November 16th, 2009 at 10:26 am in Boys soccer.
Soccer season is set to start this week, therefore I have put together a pre-season ranking.
Things will definitely start to sort themselves out, so this should at least make for some good conversation.
1. Richmond
2. De La Salle
3. Newark Memorial
4. Acalanes
5. San Ramon Valley
6. Amador Valley
7. Granada
8. Monte Vista
9. Albany
10. Bishop O’Dowd
11. Pittsburg
12. Piedmont
13. Berkeley
14. Hayward
15. Clayton Valley
February 14th, 2010 at 5:02 pm
Seriously, 5 teams from the BSAL seeded in the top 10 ? Whats up with that? Were they serving beers at the NCS seeding meetings today? No way Kennedy or St Mary’s played a tougher league or non league schedule than LL or Campo ( or Dougherty for that matter)
February 14th, 2010 at 5:03 pm
Sorry, 3 teams not 5 in the top 10
February 14th, 2010 at 5:18 pm
BSAL mvp to me should be either Borges or Ramirez from Albany
im not Saying i dont like Littleton its i think
for a person who top assists and goals?also Albany got waht theyve been wanting
the whole year..
Matt i think you should make prediction doesnt matter i personally believe being
underdogs pump up teams and also makes everybody happer if or when they win..
So my question is are you going todo it?
February 14th, 2010 at 5:33 pm
I agree with Soccer Fan. How does Piedmont get ranked higher than a team like Las Lomas?
February 14th, 2010 at 5:36 pm
Matt, thanks for all your hard work and great job on the coverage all year. Each post provides for great discussion, comments, and insight into what is happening around the NCS leagues. I personally look forward to each post.
A couple of things…If I were Clayton Valley I’d be upset. They should be hosting, NOT Newark. Newark won the tournament for the automatic (kudos) but they are NOT the league champs and should not host over a true league Champ. Also, SRV and Albany should feel pretty fortunate because the top half of the tables following the number 1 seeds (Both Div I & II) are much tougher roads to the finals.
February 14th, 2010 at 5:50 pm
Every year Piedmont makes it to the NCS finals and every year they get handled by a DFAL team. There is no comparison between them and LL. This is an outrage. what was going on in the ncs meeting today? unacceptable.
February 14th, 2010 at 5:56 pm
LAS LOMAS #8!?!?! ARE YOU F**KIN KIDDING ME!?!?!
WHO THE HELL IS KENNEDY-RICHMOND and KENNEDY FREEMONT???
HOW THE HELL A TEAM THAT IS 15-4-3 IS RANKED LOWER THAN TEAMS THAT ARE 9-7-2/14-7-2
AND PIEDMONT WHO DIDN’T DO ANYTHING TO DESERVE SUCH SEED!
LL JUST BY WINNING AGAINST ACALANES AND DUBLIN THEY DESERVE BETTER SEED THAN PIEDMONT WHO DIDN’T WIN AGAINST NO ONE OF THE TOP 4 SEEDS!!!
SOMEONE IN THE NCS COMMITTEE IS GONNA HAVE TO FIND ANOTHER JOB
February 14th, 2010 at 5:58 pm
D1 predictions
DLS 4 – Liberty 0
GHS 3 – Antioch 1
CAL 3 – Arroyo 0
CV 1 – AV 0
Richmond 1 – Logan 1 PKs
Berkeley 3 – College Park 1
Newark 2 – Clayton Valley 2 PKs
NCS final DLS vs GHS.
February 14th, 2010 at 6:02 pm
Someone must be a las lomas player….
cough*Bboy*cough
February 14th, 2010 at 6:07 pm
HELL YA I AM!!!
and seriously we worked way too much to get a 8th seed!!
right now i’m speaking as a player and as an soccer analyst, if u catch most of my comments i’m unbiased but in this case is just a freaking joke.
it’s like same thing if u put dublin as a 5th seed.
they don’t deserve it and everyone knows it!
what amazes me more is the fact that both kennedy teams came out of nowhere to their seeds.
if u don’t agree with me and the rest of the world in this i think u should review your concepts of soccer.
February 14th, 2010 at 6:23 pm
LOL Bboy I’m totally on your side. I never said I wasn’t. Now, I’m not a Las Lomas fan, but I totally thought they would have been 4th. I’ve seen you and your team play. It was fantastic. Just think of the positive. When you win your first game, notice the “when”, then you’ll be up against #1 Bishop. What better a role than to be the team that knocks out the number 1 seed?
February 14th, 2010 at 6:27 pm
The division 2 seedings are ridiculous!!!!!!!! The committee must have been drunk when they were making this decisions!!! That’s why they shouldn’t have closed door meetings! worst idea ever by ncs. It sucks for Las Lomas… They had a great year and that’s not a seed they deserve. The BSAL is the worst league. I predict that all teams from BSAL (Besides Albany) will be out in the first round!! Piedmont should also win. El cerrito is not too strong.
February 14th, 2010 at 6:34 pm
Las lomas deserves wayyy better! This is crazy they had an amazing season an now they are probably gonna lose second round against bishop!
February 14th, 2010 at 6:35 pm
Tack you prove a strong point, but Las Lomas went to Bishop for the semi finals of NCS last year and it was a super tough game. I think LL can beat anybody but they should have had an easier draw then this.
February 14th, 2010 at 6:36 pm
Salesian a 15 seed what a burn,ha ha, El cerrito plays in D1 but is in the D2 playoffs?
February 14th, 2010 at 6:40 pm
What was the score when when Albany beat Little Sisters of the Poor in December?
February 14th, 2010 at 6:45 pm
That is funny, but the score of the first game was a respectable 0-2, 0-0 at half on the strengh of great goalkeeping. A very rainy second game went down 6-1. Just glad we get a third shot at a weak Albany squad.
February 14th, 2010 at 7:00 pm
Indeed Tack, let’s not forget that Campo has a pretty strong team too, but soccer is a surprise and LL can beat campo and o’dowd, but campo can beat LL and odowd too. Crazy stuff happens at the playoffs
February 14th, 2010 at 7:08 pm
I think if Elias and Jarret played before Christmas, Las Lomas couldve got a higher seed
February 14th, 2010 at 7:11 pm
Matt –
Will you have an opportunity to talk to NCS committee members to understand their logic behind the seeding?
February 14th, 2010 at 7:25 pm
I stepped out for a little sushi, and I come back and the blog is abuzz. I really have enjoyed this season.
Bboy, you have every right to be upset. I didn’t know you were a Las Lomas player, so working as hard as you did and not getting the seed you deserve must have been a horrible feeling. You guys should have been a No. 5 seed at the very least. Sorry man. The committee really did a bad job in Division II. Someone brought up a good point to me about them doing D II boys last. By that time they are tired and their decision making is bad. Sorry guys.
Somebody was asking about El Cerrito. They are Division II. They play mostly D I teams because of league, but they are D II.
I’m still deciding on predictions…maybe, if I get enough pressure. Haha.
P.S. Bambam, that is too funny you finding my pre-season rankings. Looks like I was a little off on a few things. But not bad considering the season hadn’t started yet!
February 14th, 2010 at 7:44 pm
Now really analyzing it is very true tha leaving division 2 boys for the last is kind of a mistake.
Although they made some bad decisions it still going to be one hell of a playoff.
Imagine a final with the defensive power of Acalanes against the high octane offense of Albany!
Or a semifinal with the solidness of O’Dowd against the strategist Las Lomas.
Not being biased herre but THE GAME to watch in the first round is going to be LL vs Campo.
Both teams in the last 3 years are playing against each other on the playoffs and last year the winner was LL coincidentally to play later on O’Dowd.
February 14th, 2010 at 8:52 pm
As an alternate topic of conversation – how different would the rankings be right now if it weren’t for Academy teams stealing players from their high school clubs?
February 14th, 2010 at 8:53 pm
Matt Re; Preseason rankings. No that was pretty good especially since the teams haven’t shown any true patterns yet.
Matt I’m seeing some predictions and ask only one thing about the DLS vs Liberty. I know DLS beat Antioch in the 1st game of the season 5-1 but 4 of the goals came in the last 5 minutes. That is the only team that DLS had faced in the league so my question is the following. Liberty was beaten by 3 teams in that league by at leat 2 goals early in the season then they turned around and stayed unbeaten in 8 of the last 9 games. Some of those games they turned the table on Antioch and Pitt by at least 3 goals. Did Liberty figure something out or did the other teams falter? Just wondering as two posters predicted DLS over Liberty 4-0 and 3-1.
February 14th, 2010 at 9:00 pm
Manatee,
SRV would have Berkeley bound McGaw, Cal would have Walcott and Fagenson which I think would make a big difference. Cal was more affected than SRV.
February 14th, 2010 at 9:06 pm
I think that Liberty just figured it out. Whatever it was.
I haven’t seen Liberty at all. I’m interested to see if they can match the speed, intensity and organization of De La Salle.
February 14th, 2010 at 9:13 pm
Here are my D2 predictions (W-L only)
BOD – BYE
Las Lomas Wins – Campo Lose
Concord Wins – Acalanes Lose (Upset)
Piedmont Wins – El Cerrito Lose
Albany Win – Salesian Lose
John Kennedy MVAL Win – Dougherty Valley Lose (if the DV Scoring leader is out due to injury)
Dublin Wins – St Marys Lose
Ygnacio Valley Wins – JFK Lose (Upset)
February 14th, 2010 at 9:17 pm
Ebal fan –
I agree with you, especially in EBAL. The entire league would have been different if all the players for each school took the field. I fear Academy will continue to strip quality players from high school squads under the guise of “Olympic Development” or increased college exposure. Seems like an expensive scam from my perspective….
February 14th, 2010 at 9:29 pm
Las Lomas needs to focus on the opportunity to catch O’Dowd in a lull. O’Dowd ended the season with a lackluster tie, and with the bye in round 1, they will have no playoff momentum. Don’t look past Campo, use it to gain momentum and then challenge #1.
By the way, if LL had been seeded #5, they would get a slightly easier 1st round match, but then would face Acalanes and then O’Dowd. This scenario would allow O’Dowd to gain some playoff momentum.
Beating O’Dowd in the 2nd round would give LL the #1 seed path to the championship, with Acalanes likely after O’Dowd, not before.
Buck-up Knights and turn lemons into lemonade. And demonstrate a little humility after scoring goals: do away with the belly slides and knees slides at the feet of the head coach. LOL!
February 14th, 2010 at 9:35 pm
Matt and all,
What is surprising to me is that the NCS Winter Bulletin states that the committees follow the competition throughout the season. The following is dated 12/09:
“The selection and seeding meeting will be conducted as a closed meeting. NCS member schools have authorized the use of one committee comprised of representatives from NCS Conferences. Each committee will be responsible for the selection of the at-large teams and seeding of each tournament. The committees have been selected and committee members are currently monitoring the soccer competition of NCS member schools. ”
It seems to me that the errors the committees made today are not compatible with this assertion, but would be more acceptable from the one-day committees such as they were up to last year.
February 14th, 2010 at 10:24 pm
#47-SoccerAR, good “prediction” on the O’Dowd bye.
Seriously, on your Concord over Acalanes prediction, give us some more insight. Concord lost to Campo 3-1, and Campo lost twice to Acalanes 0-1. What is the real scoop? Low scoring or lots of offense?
February 14th, 2010 at 10:44 pm
Since some people have posted their DII first round predictions I’m just going to skip to the semis. Now they may be a bit bold, and some might not agree, but after watching many of these teams play, I could make strong arguements for my decisions.
Semis DII:
Las Lomas vs. Acalanes
(Sweeper’s point about Bishop’s momentum after such a long rest is huge. Las Lomas is going to be fired up over their seed and will be determined to justify their anger. For an example, take the first round of the NFL playoffs between the New York Jets and the Cincinatti Bengals. The previous week, Cincinatti played horrible and Lost to the Jets 37-0. The next week, they faced the Jets again in the playoffs, and got crushed. The benals ha NO momentum, along with the Jets determination to prove everybody wrong about even being in the playoffs. Bishop O’Dowd will have no momentum and Las Lomas will have something to prove.
Acalanes being in the semis I don’t see as a suprise. Unlike SoccerAR, I don’t see it being possible for Concord to keep up with Acalanes.
Albany vs. Dublin
Just as in the Acalanes pick, I don’t see anyone standing in the way of these two teams. This game would be the highlight of NCS DII, with the Albany offense facing off against the Dublin defense.
February 14th, 2010 at 11:10 pm
If both berkeley and richmond win there game where would they play at and what would the score be??
February 15th, 2010 at 12:19 am
#53-Wagawaga (I don’t even like typing that so get a new handle). Richmond wins at Berkeley 2-1. Take it to the bank. Sorry Yellowjackets.
February 15th, 2010 at 12:37 am
Sweeper
Thanks for supporting my call on the BOD bye…
As for Acalanes, call it a hunch but they seem to have struggled a little bit in their last 5 matches. This has been a very strong team that relies soley on theor defense. If you exclude the St Joe forfeit, they tied 2 of their last 5 games and gave up 3 goals in their last 4. Very unusual for them. Don;t know if they have injuries or just dead legs but if they get behind, concord they do not have the offense to make it up.
This is all a lot of fun, and i am looking forward to the results this week.
Matt we need your predictions soon so we can disagree and debate
February 15th, 2010 at 12:39 am
#52-Tack. Great job finishing the thought. Spot on.
But, LL must bring their AA-game against O’Dowd (the 2 wins against Dublin game) and not bend or break on defense. Otherwise, O’Dowd watches Albany and Dublin beat each other up on the way to the ship.
BTW, Albany v. Dublin (at Dublin, a league champ) if it happens, could be one of the purest soccer matches of the season, ala Richmond v. SRV. Possession, bob-and-weave, lots of back passes and long crosses, timely attacks, vicious counter-attacks, but not too much grabbing, back-kicking, or diving: just pure soccer without small field throw-in goals. If that match happens, it is one to see.
February 15th, 2010 at 12:48 am
that match would be at Albany because they won league too, and they are higher seeded than Dublin
February 15th, 2010 at 12:54 am
Soccerislife,
Thanks for the correction, Albany would host Dublin. Still a “can’t miss match.”
February 15th, 2010 at 9:20 am
Since Tack beat me to the punch with semi-final predictions, I’m skipping right to the finals.
D1 – Richmond 1 – DLS 0 in double overtime thriller.
D2 – O’Dowd 2 – Albany 2 in double overtime game called a draw after 21 PK’s when the referees have to leave for eyeglass convention in Vegas.
February 15th, 2010 at 10:06 am
Hey DBL…I enjoyed your predictions but Richmond and DLS can only meet in the semi-final. I will predict that Granada will play DLS in the final. DLS will win due to home field advantage. I would imagine the narrow sideline on DLS stadium side will limit the effectiveness of Ryan’s long throw-ins which is a big weapon in GHS scoring arsenal.
February 15th, 2010 at 10:17 am
Ebal Dad,
OK, the D1 prediction is the same except Richmond wins the semi against DLS and then the final against whoever. Too bad they’re on the same side of the bracket.
Also, usually the finals are held at a neutral site. Is it different this year?
February 15th, 2010 at 10:18 am
As far as I know, it’s at Dublin High. But the bracket doesn’t indicate that for some reason.
February 15th, 2010 at 10:29 am
Matt, thanks for all your help this season. You have been a blessing to soccer in East County. I agree with your comment regarding Freedom and the Dis-respect the committee showed at the BVAL by not including Freedom. I guess, we just have to prove on the field that the BVAL has become a strong league capable of challenging any team in any other league. I just love the fact that soccer has become more competitive in all the leagues. We can not longer assume that a champion from the past will be crown the champion this year or any other year.
February 15th, 2010 at 11:17 am
where is the neutral site for D2? and if its at Dublin, and Dublin makes it to the finals, do they have to change it?
February 15th, 2010 at 11:26 am
The neutral site thing is still up in the air, for both D I and D II. I just spoke to an NCS official.
February 15th, 2010 at 11:58 am
Hopefully they will play the DI finals at Dublin. It is a Great venue and Neutral, making for an Extremely Fun atmosphere.
February 15th, 2010 at 1:03 pm
I am disappointed that the committee seeded Clayton Valley at #10 matching them up with Newark in the first round. Those boys worked hard to win their league and this seems like a slap in the face by the committee to not give them at least one home game. It looks like Newark will have home field advantage in every game as the highest seeded league champ on the bottom half of the bracket even though they are the 7 seed.
February 15th, 2010 at 2:26 pm
The DVAL mvp on offence should be Gustavo Lopez from YV. His the best overall player in that league. He has 14 goals and 15 assist. I seen them both play and I can tell you that Lopez is more dangerous and teams in NCS need to keep him away from the ball. His fast and has great ball skill. Have you seen them both play Matt? What do you think?
February 15th, 2010 at 2:39 pm
I Spoke to the AD at Dublin a couple weeks ago. They filed to host the finals and have been told they will host the finals. The School has already ordered all supplies and gear needed for the match
February 15th, 2010 at 3:44 pm
matt who do u think the best player in the bay is???
February 15th, 2010 at 3:46 pm
SoccerAR, r u talking about both finals or just he D1 finals?
February 15th, 2010 at 3:51 pm
Has anyone been to Albany’s field? Is the field in good shape?
February 15th, 2010 at 4:17 pm
Right now just the Div 1 Mens final will be at Dublin. Most likely the Womens Div 1 also.
February 15th, 2010 at 4:22 pm
Okay, I am stuck on the notion that by the time a goal is scored all eleven players on the scored upon team have failed. The opposite is true then when a goal is scored: all eleven have succeeded (keepers do get assists from time to time). So how can one player be “most” valuable? I simply don’t get the MVP thing in soccer although it does make for good chatter.
I suppose one could make an argument in favor of the keeper with the most saves and fewest goals allowed being the MVP. After all, each save is a goal unscored.
No disrespect to offensive players, they certainly play an important role to a team’s success. But I see more of a premium in keeping the ball out the net. Teams that advance in tournaments generally do this better than teams that do not (yes, they have to eventually score to move on), and often it’s the keeper who’s called upon to make a game saving stop (during regulation or PK).
And so it seems that I just countered my own position and worked myself right into acknowledging how important (valuable) a keeper (player) is to a team. And I can’t even blame bad sushi…
Good luck to all the NCS playoff bound teams.
February 15th, 2010 at 5:40 pm
#71 Condor, Albany’s field looks like a modern turf field. Go to google maps satellite view and take a look.
The 3A finals have been at a neutral field since 2007, including doubleheaders at Dublin in 2007 & 2009. Prior to 2007, one of the finalist hosted the game at home.
The 2A finals have been a doubleheader since at least 2004, generally at either Bishop O’Dowd, Acalances or Miramonte, but not necessarily a neutral field. BOD was the #1 boys and #1 girls seeds in 2005 and 2009, and hosted a doubleheader those two years.
I think that they should experiment with both boys finals at one field and both girls finals at another field. I am sure that college coaches would prefer that as well. Ya think?
February 15th, 2010 at 6:12 pm
#74 I think Albany’s field is synthetic and under 2 years old. It’s in fine shape.
Anyone know why Albany is Not hosting both the Girl’s and Boy’s Div II games on the 17th? The Girl’s team (seeded #3) is playing at Piedmont (seeded #14).
Seems to me that the girl’s could play at 5pm and the boys at 7pm with both games being at Albany.
February 15th, 2010 at 6:38 pm
#67 –
Antioch and Logan also probably worked hard to win their league and they too will not host their opening games. Unfortunately, certain leagues don’t command much respect. DVAL, BVAL and MVAL all have their champions at #10 or below. Lesson – gotta beat teams outside your league to get the love.
February 15th, 2010 at 6:57 pm
Hey Sweeper is the albany field wide or narrow. Are the sidelines outside the football field.
February 15th, 2010 at 7:03 pm
the albany field looked a little narrow when i was there
February 15th, 2010 at 7:18 pm
Asnwering Pelota man Albanys Light have to be shutdown early because of Neighbors and other poeple complaining Albanys field its not very wide but its long its very good turf new field.
February 15th, 2010 at 7:27 pm
Im just a fan of playing on a nice wide field because it creates more ways of attack.
February 15th, 2010 at 7:43 pm
Correction – looks like Antioch is hosting. Good for them.
February 15th, 2010 at 7:48 pm
Hssfan,
Technically, Logan did Not win their leagues automatic NCS birth, Newark did.
Also, If Clayton Valley wins their first match, then they would host any match until the finals.
February 15th, 2010 at 7:55 pm
EBALDad – Yeah, I forgot that the MVAL has their own postseason to determine their league winner. Which makes it all make sense.
February 15th, 2010 at 8:00 pm
Socceris life – The will host both D1 and D2. The Albany field is a little narrow but not to an extreme. The turf is in good shape and the facility is well maintained
February 15th, 2010 at 8:39 pm
D1 prediction
DLS gets ups set by Richmond and loses to SRV in the finals
February 15th, 2010 at 9:45 pm
Idk y all ya ppl b talkn bout who is gana win n whos gana lose.soccer o lyk i lyk to call it futbol is a 50% 50% game. Yu never knw whos gana win is lyk yu never now when yu gana die. Records dont mean nothing . A low ranked team is allways gana come out tryn to beat a high ranked team. Who cares bout da field n how it looks a soccer(futbol) field is a soccer(futbol) field. Just let da teams go out der n do dey thang!!
February 15th, 2010 at 11:23 pm
I just want to say that I am think the CAL parent that posted the What the H video on YouTube has no class. As humorous as it may have been to hear the guy drop a blooper which happens….it is another thing to post the video on YouTube at the expense of one of their own players. I’m sure the player did not appreciate it.
February 15th, 2010 at 11:33 pm
#85 EBAL Spektator,
I do not agree with your calls, but…
In my mind, Richmond beating DLS would not be an upset, other than pulling it off at DLS. If you saw the first match, it was clear that DLS hardly dominated Richmond, despite the 1-0 score on the road. Richmond controlled the ball 60%+, but lost on a height issue. I suspect that the Richmond coach will make appropriate adjustments.
With respect to losing to SRV in the final, Richmond did come from behind to tie SRV at SRV on an “own goal” but the shot was a WICKED shot from 35 yards out that bent the crossbar, went down sharply and glanced off the SRV keeper’s back.
I have previously told Matt that in my mind the best rematch in the final would be Richmond v. SRV because they each play a purer form of the game, and are evenly matched in all aspects of the game. PERIOD.
February 15th, 2010 at 11:35 pm
Cokito,
Who do you think Richmond would rather avoid in the final: Granada or SRV or Cal or…?
February 15th, 2010 at 11:38 pm
CORRECTION to #87 posting…DOH!
#85 EBAL Spektator,
I DO agree with your calls, but…
February 16th, 2010 at 12:27 am
#86 – Ebal Dud er Dad…Which Cal player are you referring to??? The “embarrassed” keeper for making the ill-advised ground pass with 20 seconds to go in the half? Just kick it deep…DOH! OR were you referring to the “embarrassed” CB who put the rest of the play in motion, perhaps not expecting the keeper to make such short kick.
AND, get a grip regarding the “H” bomb…W-T-Heck? In real time it was FUNNY, VERY FUNNY. Too bad you missed the brevity: and nobody else was embarrassed (except perhaps your son(?), who should not be in any way embarrassed: dumb things happen and Cal did not pay in this instance). Holy Political Correctness or “HPC”…
I was the first to comment on this blog regarding the announcer’s “COMMENT” and was rightfully corrected that it was a full on “What the hell was that?” The whole play originated because the keeper made an extremely questionable ground kick to the CB late in the half setting up a risky situation.
HELL, HELL, HELL, HELL, HELL… There I said it, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah…PC, PC, PC, PC, PC…give-me-a-break.
Oh, and by the way, KUDOS to the Youtube poster…best Cal highlight posting of the year. TRUE.
It is still the call of the year on my list. I will pray for you. Peace out.
February 16th, 2010 at 12:42 am
Regarding the picks against DLS
I seen your types before at the roulette tables in Las Vegas. It comes up black 20 times in a roll so you feel the need to bet heavy on red. It then comes up black 10 more times.
That’s ok though, because it will eventually will come up Red. I would probably take the positive percentages on going with green though.
February 16th, 2010 at 12:54 am
Sweeper, I believe what Richmond is interested in is in beating Logan on Wednesday. Got that from the horse’s mouth.
February 16th, 2010 at 12:55 am
The horse’s bearded mouth…
February 16th, 2010 at 12:58 am
Bambam,
Great weigh-in. DLS is clearly the odds-on-favorite to win the NCS, but the semi match-ups will be the moment of truth for 4 teams.
I am on record as preferring to see Richmond v. SRV in the final, and this is solely based on the 1st game match-up, which was a pure play match.
DLS has some match-up advantages against Richmond, mostly height, but they do not play a balanced/pure strategy. Granada has some match-up advantages against SRV, mostly the throw-in, but they do not play a balanced/pure strategy. SRV has tied all three, and if they execute their plan, then they have an equal claim to the battle for the BIG PRIZE.
SRV v. Richmond in the final. Cokito???
The crow is on the grill…
February 16th, 2010 at 1:02 am
Cokito,
Way to stay focused. I hear you loud and clear.
You’re the man.
I hope to see your team in the finals against whoever…
February 16th, 2010 at 1:11 am
Sweeper what is the Cal You Tube listed as. it was funny as heck listening on the sideline. I wanted to hear it again
Thx
February 16th, 2010 at 1:11 am
Sweeper what is the Cal You Tube listed as. it was funny as heck listening on the sideline. I wanted to hear it again
Thx
February 16th, 2010 at 1:11 am
Sweeper what is the Cal You Tube listed as. it was funny as heck listening on the sideline. I wanted to hear it again
Thx
February 16th, 2010 at 9:51 am
Sweeper,
I have no issue with the word hell being stated. I’ve say much worse on a daily basis. If the CAL people don’t care…than great post the video everywhere. Again I did state on my original post it was humorous…just felt bad for the players that were looking silly. I doubt they will include that video clip in any recruiting video. Looking forward to some great NCS games tomorrow.
February 16th, 2010 at 10:01 am
Do not count Berkeley out against Richmond or DLS, lots of talent, offensively and defensively, strong bench.
Prediction
Granada vs Berkeley in the final.
February 16th, 2010 at 12:34 pm
Matt,
In the second round, do the higher seeds get the home field? Or, do the league champions still hold that over the higher seeds?
February 16th, 2010 at 12:35 pm
League champions will get to host all the way through to the finals.
February 16th, 2010 at 12:50 pm
Matt, when do OPOY, DPOY, POY, and COY get announced?
February 16th, 2010 at 1:13 pm
Do you mean for league, or the All-East Bay stuff that I do for the newspaper? All-League stuff should be starting to be announced. I’ve received the all MVAL stuff already.
All-East Bay stuff usually comes out a few weeks after the season.
February 16th, 2010 at 1:25 pm
I just saw this comment on another thread:
“hey matt…how about getting more involved in the girls soccer…better yet, scratch that idea because your “thoughts” or “predictions” are usually about as right as the weather man!”
Looks like I have an actual, harsh critic. More than just someone disagreeing. Haha!
So is he saying that my predictions are inaccurate because the NCS’ committee’s are correct? If that’s the case, I’d rather be wrong, if that is who you are comparing me to. Seriously, who decides who is right? Who are you comparing me against?
Great stuff. This oughta give us something to talk about for at least a few comments, right?
February 16th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
Matt, Actually, the “poser”, oops, I meam “poster” is saying how accurate you really are…..
Bay Area weather, “Fog at the coast, perhaps burning off by mid day, warmer, the further in land you go. San Francisco will see a high in the 60′s, once the fog burns off, Easty bay in the could reach the low 70′s, etc. etc. etc.
I CAN predict the weather in NoCal…..but I cannot predict NCS…..too close to call.
Keep up the good work.
Memo to Girls Soccer fan, have your team schedule a game against Truckee. They have won THREE straight Nevada State Championships.
Matt, feel free to forward to that “poster”.
February 16th, 2010 at 1:37 pm
oops, typing too fast.
“East Bay could reach the low 70′s once the fog burns off”
February 16th, 2010 at 2:10 pm
Matt, I recall the accuracy comment. I thought the poster was referring to your preseason rankings which was a very good effort. Maybe the poster was referencing the NCS seeding…don’t know.
Ranking 16 teams in preseason you are bound to miss a couple. You would do better than the bookies in Vegas that picked the Colts over the Saints.
February 16th, 2010 at 2:25 pm
Matt, your rankings have been as near to perfect as anyone could determine. I have a lot of respect for all the time you put into this. It’s really great.
On another note, my DII first round predictions are as follows:
Albany 4 Salesian 0
Dublin 3 St. Mary’s 1
Acalanes 2 Concord 0
Piedmont 3 El Cerrito 2 (OT)
JFK (R) 1 Ygnacio Valley 2
JFK (F) 1 Dougherty Valley 3
Las Lomas 2 Campolindo 1
February 16th, 2010 at 2:35 pm
LETS GOOOO! SM ALL THE WAY!!!!!!!!!!
February 16th, 2010 at 3:23 pm
what are the 1st and second teams all-league. Or where could they be found?
February 16th, 2010 at 3:40 pm
So I think our blog has had some problems over the last couple of days, and I just received a bunch of comments from a day and two days ago. So if I didn’t respond to your question, I’m sorry. I usually try my best to respond to everyone when they ask a direct question and address it to me.
Someone, I can’t remember who, asked who I thought the best player in the Bay is. Talent wise, I’m gonna say Chikiz Montes from Richmond. If he was healthy all year this year, he’d probably be my player of the year. But also Ryan Thomas, Nikolai Littleton, Gabriel Borges, Wes Moar (please don’t get upset at me for leaving anyone out! haha) etc… There are a bunch of players that I like and those ones jump out at me without even thinking about it.
Littleton is a guy I want to talk about for a minute and I think this blog should weigh in on this. I think the fact that the kid has nearly 50 goals is amazing, I don’t care who he is playing against. Albany, St. Joe’s or the Blind Sisters of the Poor, it’s very impressive. All these teams are trying to stop him, and they don’t for the most part.
What do you guys think of his season?
Also, who do you guys think the best and talented player or players are?
Also, if I didn’t answer your question and you still don’t have an answer, feel free to ask me again.
February 16th, 2010 at 4:12 pm
Matt,
I agree the 48 goals that Littleton scored is amazing regardless of competition. with that said, it would be interesting to see how many goals an Edwards, Howard, Rivas or Sjorell from EBAL might have if they had the same competition. Regardless caps off to Littleton.
As for top players I can only comment on EBAL since that is what I get to see. Here is my list of 1st Team EBAL. My apologies if I miss players since there are many great EBAL players….these are the guys that stood out:
Foster, Bobby Edwards, Sjorell, Justin Howard, Wes Moar, Ryan Thomas, Eric Cavalli, Rivas, Trevor Tao, Tyler Copeman, Salazar and Cory Thomas
February 16th, 2010 at 4:58 pm
Bambam, Unfortunately, the video has been taken down by the poster. Too bad and “What the hell?”.
FYI, here is the YouTube link to the Cal announcer, with credits to u-mustbeinsane for the original reference. It worked on Saturday.
===============================
# u-mustbeinsane Says:
February 13th, 2010 at 10:47 am
#137 et al,
the video of the “what-the-hell” call is posted at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrHwgL9Q8so
February 16th, 2010 at 5:29 pm
video removed by poster. did not realize that there were people out there like Ebal Dad who would not just enjoy the humor of the announcement but use it as an opportunity to criticize the boys. the “blooper” was not in the play but in the announcer’s reaction. OMG … get a clue!!!
February 16th, 2010 at 5:30 pm
Sweeper – It’s not like DLS scored on that play. The incident did not have an aout come in the game.
Matt – I have yet to hear any DLS backs mentioned for all league and since DLS gave up the fewest goals in EBAL, here goes my thoughts. again again again
We didn’t have a often mentioned top goalie in the league although you mentioned that he has exceeded all expectations. (Rogers)
Sweeney and Decosta certainly held their own on the back line. Sweeney dealt with a concussion for a few weeks but he is as solid as they come. This is besides Moar and Bernardi. (Bernardi has an offer from Cal Poly as a junior) Howard up front is hard nose and makes everything else go up front.
Ebal dad has the rest pretty much right on. This is just mentioned names as their are so many players on each team in this league that should get honors this year.
February 16th, 2010 at 5:33 pm
Corrected version sorry
Sweeper – It’s not like DLS scored on that play. The incident did not have an outcome in the game.
Matt – I have yet to hear any DLS backs mentioned for all league and since DLS gave up the fewest amount of goals in EBAL, here goes my thoughts. again again again
We didn’t have an often mentioned top goalie in the league although you mentioned that he has exceeded all expectations. (Rogers)
Sweeney and Decosta certainly held their own on the back line. Sweeney dealt with a concussion for a few weeks but he is back and as solid as they come. This is besides Moar and Bernardi at Mid. (Bernardi has an offer from Cal Poly as a junior) Howard up front is hard nose and makes everything else go up front.
Ebal Dad has the rest pretty much right on. This is just mentioned names as there are so many players on each team in this league that should get honors this year.
February 16th, 2010 at 6:00 pm
I agree with Bambam. Sweeney is easily one of the top backs in the area – he is fierce on tackles and is deadly accurate on long balls. He loves getting up in the attack as well. If he didn’t need to miss a few weeks he would be in the MVP discussion for EBAL….
February 16th, 2010 at 7:37 pm
EBAL All League selections will be interesting since there are many excellent players that deserve recognition. I am pro AV of course and think Briggs, Copeman, Torquato and their keeper are tops. I also think that SRV, GHS and DLS have excellent defenses equal to AV.
February 16th, 2010 at 7:44 pm
Matt,
Littleton’s goal scoring prowess is very impressive, especially in this day and age where soccer is very competitive.
Back in the day, and I mean back, a rival high school brought in an exchange student from Brazil, and the kid scored 44 goals in 14 matches: amazing when you consider that he had not previously played one minute with his teammates. He won the league scoring title by one goal over another top team’s goal leader, who had an all-American dishing to him. The overall skill level was not as high as it is today, but the slide tackling was rampant and brutal on grass fields only. But, I digress…
February 16th, 2010 at 7:45 pm
Matt,
Which NCS game are you planning to cover tomorrow night? Lots of great choices. I think CV vs AV, Richmond vs James Logan and Newark vs Clayton Valley will be lowest scoring matches that could see OT/PK action.
February 16th, 2010 at 7:50 pm
I will be at Las Lomas v. Campolindo. I think we’ll also have writers at Castro v. AV and Newark v. Clayton.
February 16th, 2010 at 7:51 pm
Sweeper,
Livermore had a exciting player 3 or 4 years ago that was fun to watch. Don’t remember his name. He lead the league in scoring 20+ goals as a freshman or sophomore. He supposedly left HS early to play professional soccer in Mexico. Does anyone how he is doing in Mexico?
February 16th, 2010 at 7:58 pm
Bambam #121/122,
I am removing my posts on the subject. It wasn’t funny and it wasn’t even a risky situation. It never happened. What was the question?
Gotta go pick a match or perhaps doubleheader to attend tomorrow. 31 matches to select from…nice!
February 16th, 2010 at 8:08 pm
Sweeper
You will probably be at the SRV 5p.m. game and the 7 p.m. game right!
I will be at the DLS 5 p.m. game and the 7 p.m. Northgate girls game.
February 16th, 2010 at 8:30 pm
Bambam,
The SRV games are not compelling per se, but I would like to see Deer Valley (7pm), just to measure the delta talent landscape.
Las Lomas (5pm) is just up the road and they may play with some serious vengeance at the #8 spot, and I have not seen Campo (the only DFAL playoff team I have not seen). The battle to see who plays O’Dowd. Decisions decisions.
Enjoy your matches.
February 16th, 2010 at 8:57 pm
Matt,
The Blind Sisters of the Poor? Where are they located? I have not seen them play this year.
LTG
February 16th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
Congradulations Cody Hoster for being MVP of DFAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 16th, 2010 at 9:12 pm
REALLY GUYS? Littleton scored like 25 of those goals against Berean Christian and the worst teams in the bay. He is not even comparable to the other top scorers, Borges from Albany, Tieku from El Cerrito and Chen from Las Lomas. Who play in actual competitive leagues. He is a good scorer but can’t be compared to the rest, Sorry that’s just the truth.
February 16th, 2010 at 9:14 pm
Matt,
Will you have a “new” Blog page up for tomorrow night’s updates?
LTG
February 16th, 2010 at 9:17 pm
I think I am going to keep the same thread going right here so people aren’t wondering where to post. So tomorrow, everyone, update and comment here. Should be a big day.
February 16th, 2010 at 9:32 pm
Matt,
What game are you covering?
February 16th, 2010 at 9:35 pm
Ptown,
His name is Polo Morales i believe. Im not sure how he is doing but he left high school to tryout for the chivas usa reserve team and got in. Im guessin he got transferred to a mexican team named Tigres if my sources are correct.
February 16th, 2010 at 9:35 pm
I will be at Las Lomas. I expect a very good game out of that one.
February 16th, 2010 at 9:35 pm
My spoiler alert for tomrrow is arroyo. just saying.
February 17th, 2010 at 12:09 pm
How many goals does littleton have against teams that have a .500 record? My guess it is less than 20% of his goals. 7 of them came in one game against St. Joseph. That to me is a hug disrespect to an opponent and to the game. After 3 or 4 sub the guy and have some respect.
February 17th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
I agree–7 goals against a weak opponent? Maybe someone can justify why a coach would allow this because I don’t get it. Seems shameless to me, even if all of the goals were scored by different players. In this case it was one player. I’d have pulled my own kid off the pitch for such bad manners. Surely there was some kid sitting on the bench who could have benefitted from the play time.
February 17th, 2010 at 1:59 pm
Matt,
You do a great job, don’t let anyone tell you different
February 17th, 2010 at 6:00 pm
Las Lomas 0, Campo 0 at half. Very even first half.
Just heard YV beat Kennedy-R 1-0.
February 17th, 2010 at 6:20 pm
Campo just went up 1-0 halfway through second half. Scored off a free kick.
DLS up 4-0 on Liberty.
February 17th, 2010 at 6:32 pm
Matt, thnk you, keep scores coming! Looks like 2-0 so far Amador Valley over CV?
February 17th, 2010 at 6:36 pm
Campo 2-0. This one appears over. Under 5:00 to go.
Amador up 2-0? I’ve been waiting on that one so thanks!
February 17th, 2010 at 7:11 pm
Matt, just got back from the LL vs CAMPO game,
and LL played way better than CAMPO. Not taking merits away from CAMPO, but playing the way they played they won’t win against O’DOWD.
That CAMPO keeper is unbelievable! Without him I seriously think that Campo would suffer an elastic defeat.
Campo won’t go pass by O’DOWD, and everything sets for a final between O’DOWD against DUBLIN.
February 17th, 2010 at 7:12 pm
Oh, forgot to ask your impressions on the game
February 17th, 2010 at 7:24 pm
DLS easily beat Liberty 4 – 0. That was the filthiest game I’ve seen in a while – one red card and multiple yellows for Liberty, who clearly had no right to even be in this tournament. They would’ve gone 0-14 in the EBAL. Classy stuff, and even their coach got carded.
Remind me again why expanding the field to 16 teams was a good idea?!?!
February 17th, 2010 at 7:25 pm
Albany beats Salesian 2-0
February 17th, 2010 at 7:27 pm
Ohh, and did I mention the ref just ended the game with over 2 minutes still on the clock?!? Even he knew it was a waste of time…
February 17th, 2010 at 7:28 pm
Manatee..
ya man those 4 more teams just mess up stuff!
LL got screwed today by a series of factors
one of them being the seed system that really screwed us.
No excuse for loosing, but we definitely played better the whole game.
February 17th, 2010 at 7:28 pm
Ref told me SRV girls 4-0.
SRV boys 1-0 @ 20 min.
February 17th, 2010 at 7:30 pm
cal 0
arroyo 0
February 17th, 2010 at 7:35 pm
Was LL looking past Campo?
Good luck to Campo against BOD.
This just in, BOD 1, BYE 0 @ half.
February 17th, 2010 at 7:36 pm
any update on the granada-antioch game?
February 17th, 2010 at 7:36 pm
Was LL looking past Campo?
Good luck to Campo against BOD.
This just in, BOD 1, BYE 0 @ half, a clean half.
February 17th, 2010 at 7:39 pm
Granada is up 2-0 late in the first half. The first goal came on a throw-in, by Ryan Thomas I assume. I’ll keep you posted as I get updates. And keep the updates coming from games you guys know.
I’ll give my LL v. Campo impressions a little later tonight.
February 17th, 2010 at 7:42 pm
I was at the LL vs. Campo game tonight. Campo’s goal keeper was the man of the match. Las Lomas had some good chances, but it was Campo who dominated possession and was the better team tonight.
February 17th, 2010 at 7:51 pm
3-0 Granada at half. The EBAL is really taking it to the BVAL tonight. Thomas has two assists.
Any other scores?
February 17th, 2010 at 7:52 pm
Matt & Sweeper
It looks like EBAL has been well represented in tonights matches so far. The goals scored vs against, I count 11 EBAL 0 against.
Defense is solid
Keep the scores coming guys
February 17th, 2010 at 7:55 pm
To #148 Michael….
Is it so hard to admit that LL was outplayed tonight? Up until Campo’s first goal Campo controlled the tempo of the game. It was no fluke Campo beat LL the last time they met in league and it was no fluke they won tonight. Add in the fact the goalie had his usual stout defensive play and the result was a good win by Campo.
Campo may very well lose to a rested BOD, but then again, I’m sure you predicted LL was going to beat Campo so it wouldn’t surprise knowledgeable DFAL fans that Campo just might give BOD a competitve game.
I look forward to Matt’s account of this game in the paper tomorrow!
February 17th, 2010 at 7:57 pm
The field of 15 (this year) created a great game in Albany where Salesian gave the Cougars everything they could handle. Salesian missed many chances in the second half. Well played on both sides of the ball. Albany did not score in the second half.
February 17th, 2010 at 7:59 pm
SRV 2 – DV 1 @ half
February 17th, 2010 at 7:59 pm
Kennedy-Fremont beat Dougherty 1-0. I’m guessing DV played without Menezes and that obviously makes a big difference.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:00 pm
I was at the Castro Valley vs. Amador game and that score did not reflect the true match. Castro Valley dominated the entire game until a horrible PK call with 20 minutes to go. It’s sad when a ref takes the game/momentum away from a team.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:01 pm
I live right down the road from Berkeley High. I might take a spin up there real quickly to get a score.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:01 pm
Hey 2cents, did it end up being 2-0 Amador final?
Castro really held their own, huh?
February 17th, 2010 at 8:02 pm
SRV 2-1 @ half
February 17th, 2010 at 8:04 pm
MY ASSS that Campo was the better team!
everyone there saw who played better, everyone there saw who deserved it more! and it DEFINITELY wasn’t campo. Sorry “anonymous” but let’s face the truth, campo got dominated, if wasn’t for their keeper they would not even be in NCS.
I couldn’t count more than 2 shots for campo on the second half. Two shots that were two goals.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:05 pm
It ended 2 nil, and the 2nd goal was legit, but only after the wind was taken out of CV’s sails by a BAD call. The 2nd goal came off of a long throw-in to the 6yard box. CV had the better of the play, better opportunities, just failed to find the back of the net. It could’ve been 3 or 4 nil in the 1st half. That’s soccer.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:10 pm
SRV 2 DV 1 half
February 17th, 2010 at 8:18 pm
Srv 2 DV 1 w 30 left
February 17th, 2010 at 8:20 pm
Any update on Dublin vs St. Mary’s ??
February 17th, 2010 at 8:21 pm
Nothing on Dublin v. St. Mary’s yet. And I’d really like to know about that Cal/Arroyo game that was 0-0 early on.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:22 pm
Srv2 Dv1 24left – att sux
February 17th, 2010 at 8:22 pm
Piedmont 1 El Cerrito 1 at the half.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:32 pm
I’d say two shots and two goals is much more impressive than many shots no goals. Still i am definitely a Campo fan but i agree with both sides. LL definitely had better plays but Campo did seem to win possession.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:33 pm
Hey Matt ..did you make it to the Berkeley game?
February 17th, 2010 at 8:35 pm
Srv3 DV1 12left
February 17th, 2010 at 8:36 pm
The wind was taken out of CV’s sail at the half, 18 minutes before the first goal would be scored against them by AV. True, CV pressed hard for the first 30 minutes and came up with at least 5 corner kicks in the 1st half. But AV turned them away each and every time. The momentum was already shiting when the whistle blew at the half.
And the 2nd half was all AV.
That’s right, AV dominated the entire second half. The PK? (and I hate PKs), was the most legitimate PK call I have seen all season. The attacker, from inside the box, pulled the ball toward the goal and split two defenders, who then collectively pulled him down. It was the right call and great to see the AV defender come up and nail the kick.
It was a hard-earned and well-deserved win for AV.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:38 pm
Just walked back into my house from driving by Berkeley High really quickly. It’s 2-0 Berkeley with less than five minutes. Seems to be pretty much over.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:41 pm
Dfal..
dude.. I don’t know what game you watched or where were you, but definitely Campo didn’t have more possession.
off course i’m a LL player, but if we played worst I would not be here commenting on the game!
in soccer the better team not always wins!
recent international example : Spain vs USA for the confederation cup.
props for the guys that put the ball in the net,
but don’t fool yourself just cause u guys won.
who saw the game saw who played better. and also saw that the score didn’t reflect the intensity of the game.
and once more i say, O’Dowd on the final against Dublin
February 17th, 2010 at 8:46 pm
Granda 3, Antioch 0 F
February 17th, 2010 at 8:46 pm
cal 1
arroyo 0
final
February 17th, 2010 at 8:48 pm
Sorry Out of Pocket, but I respectfully disagree. CV dominated the entire match until the PK and it was very soft. Sure there was some contact, but it was from both sides…It should not have been called in such a high quality contest. CV clearly had the better of the play and was the BETTER team all around. No If’s And’s or But’s about IT.
February 17th, 2010 at 8:58 pm
Srv3 Dv1 final
February 17th, 2010 at 9:00 pm
Looks like Dublin beat St. Mary’s 4-2
February 17th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
Piedmont 2, El Cerrito 1
February 17th, 2010 at 9:01 pm
Cal 1
Arroyo 0
Game started off a little slow but halfway through the first half Cal really controlled the tempo of the game. Goal by Anderson midway through and Cal had 3 or 4 other good chances, the Arroyo goalie made a great save on a Rivas shot.
February 17th, 2010 at 9:03 pm
Richmond 3, Logan 0
February 17th, 2010 at 9:03 pm
Never said anything about whose the better team. Try again. But what I DID say is that from what i saw Campo had better possession.
February 17th, 2010 at 9:06 pm
Hey,2cents. No problem. We agree to disagree.
I thought the center forgot his whistle for the first 30 minutes: maybe only two calls the entire 1st half. So I was surprised that he made the right call on a very hard foul, of which there were simply too many to count that did not get called. Up until that time he had allowed a very physical match to go on without much notice.
CV no doubt has quality players, and they played very tough in the first half. In the end, however, it simply was not enough against AV tonight.
February 17th, 2010 at 9:07 pm
Acalanes 1, Concord 0
February 17th, 2010 at 9:10 pm
Clayton Valley 3, Newark 1
February 17th, 2010 at 9:12 pm
Cal 1 Arroyo 0.
Cal dominates the game entirely, Arroyo keeper comes up with about 7 huge saves. Rivas was clearly the best player on the field again. He was a non factor in the first half but in the second half, he guided the Cal team.
February 17th, 2010 at 9:18 pm
Hey Out of Pocket, No problem. That’s Soccer. Anytime the higher Quality team (in this case CV) allows the other team to hang around, by not finishing their opportunities, they’re asking for trouble. CV was cleary the higher quality team, but hats off to AV for not folding. However, they did get a lucky/questionable/soft PK and that proved to be the difference!!
February 17th, 2010 at 9:26 pm
Here’s DII action:
(9) Campolindo 2, (8) Las Lomas 0
(4) Acalanes 1, (13) Concord 0
(5) Piedmont 2, (12) El Cerrito 1
(2) Albany 2, (15) Salesian 0
(7) JFK Fremont 1, (10) Dougherty Valley 0
(3) Dublin 4, (14) St. Mary’s 2
(11) Ygnacio Valley 1, (6) JFK Richmond 0
Saturday’s games:
(9) Campolindo @ (1) Bishop O’Dowd
(5) Piedmont @ (4) Acalanes
(7) JFK Fremont @ (2) Albany
(11) Ygnacio Valley @ (3) Dublin
February 17th, 2010 at 9:46 pm
My take on the the Campo Vs LL game is simple. the Campo keeper is the the one dominant player they have and is the reason that Campo moves on. My stats show 12 saves for the Campo keeper and 3 for the LL keeper in total.The Campo keeper manned up and proved himself to be a force.To BOD: shoot low and to the corners
February 17th, 2010 at 9:59 pm
Matt,
so what are the D1 matchups for Sat’s quarters?
February 17th, 2010 at 10:09 pm
Amador at DLS
Richmond at Berkeley
SRV at Clayton
Cal at Granada
February 17th, 2010 at 10:11 pm
The boys DV keeper kept the score against SRV from being 5-1 or 6-1. Kudos to the DV keeper. Not that SRV was dominant ala EBAL competition. The closing line on this game is SRV never took 3 off the forward position, but they had a brain cramp allowing the DV goal. Credit also to the DV team and fans, as they played hard and rooted loud for 80 minutes.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:18 pm
Granada dominated Antioch. First goal was off a Thomas throw in, 9 minutes in. Second goal was off another Thomas throw in, just 4 minutes later. Third goal was the result of another Thomas throw in, but the keeper punched it out into the box and VanFossen sent it home. It could have easily been 5 or 6 goals, as there were many other close calls on corners and throw ins.
Antioch almost scored on a late PK that Granada’s keeper stopped.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:23 pm
berkeley had a decent win over college park altought it didn’t seem to impress alot of people. An early lead gave the yellow jackets freedom with the ball and the midfield. the second goal(second half) came in from a rebound and the midfield was there to put it away. college park had very good control in the midfield second half with a 3-5-2 formation, they gave the the yellow jackets a hard time, unfortunatly the could’t find the net. End of the game was 2-0, a very nice win for the jackets who are coming out strong for their next game coming up. they need to improve switching the ball and have a better connections between the midfield and their forwards. give very good props for college park who didnt give up and came out strong the second half, time was their worst enemy.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:23 pm
EBAL dominant once again.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:25 pm
Just getting in after the Granada (3) vs Antioch (0)game. Granada played a very good game back on their A game!! It seemed like the ref was getting tired towards the end and started handed out bad calls he even game Antioch a chance for a PK but the shot was blocked by the goalie (peter). Yes… we had 2 of those goals off of the throw ins for those who are wondering….lol… Our defense line played a great game.
congrats to all of the EBAL teams who have advanced to the quarter finals..
February 17th, 2010 at 10:30 pm
predictions for sat
DLS vs Amador – toss up- Amador is a dark horse in my eyes, but home field advantage will be tough at dls
Richmond and Berkeley – should be Richmond but Berkeley can play and they are equally fast, they just need to keep their shape to stay with Richmond
SRV at Clayton – SRV should come out on top
Cal at Granada- should be Granada, but they did tie once…
February 17th, 2010 at 10:30 pm
Looks like the Santos boys will be in action against in each other again.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:33 pm
Ebal spektator,
both games between Granada and Cal were 3-2. One won by each team. Granada won on two own goals. Should be a great game.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:35 pm
Saw the Dublin / St. Marys game. Dublin dominated from the start. The two goals by St. Marys came when the subs were in. No injuries. no red cards.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:43 pm
ALL Three Granada goals came as a result of throw ins.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:45 pm
Granada and Cal split during the season, by equal scores of 3-2.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:46 pm
DLS vs Amador – home field is a huge factor here. DLs is gona take that game.
Richmond at Berkeley – richomnd loves to attack those wings. wihtout their wide home field that’s going to be a challege. close game, they are both fast…we might see some overtime.
SRV vs Clayton – SRV offence is too dangerous. i agree they’ll come on top.
Cal vs Granada – granada has it in the bag. they’ll finish cal with theit fast breakaways and counters.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:47 pm
Oops, Ebal Fan beat me to the “punch.”
February 17th, 2010 at 10:48 pm
Complete domination by Dublin tonight. The score could have easily been 7-0 if the coach had not played his bench. 4 goals and 4 assists. Scoring came from Forwards, Outside backs, center backs…A very balanced attack.
Looking foward to Saturdays matches.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:49 pm
Oh, by the way, the “own goals” in the regular season Granada win vs. Cal were once again on throw ins…
February 17th, 2010 at 10:49 pm
Should be a great game at Granada friday. best of three series for them.
February 17th, 2010 at 10:58 pm
“Predictions for round 1
DLS 3 – Liberty 1
Amador Valley 1 – Castro Valley 0, either in OT or PK’s
Berkeley 4 – College Park 1
Richmond 2 – James Logan 1, OT or PK’s (possible upset alert)
SRV 2 – Deer Valley 1, will be closer game than most believe
Newark 3 – Clayton Valley 1
Granada 3 – Antioch 0, all goals could come from Long Throw in’s on this narrow field
Cal 4 – Arroyo 0″
Did I call the long throw ins or what? so proud of myself.
missed on Clayton Valley, congrats Rory
and Cal let me down with only 1 goal vs Arroyo
otherwise call me “jimmy the greek”
February 17th, 2010 at 11:03 pm
EBAL dad,
you’re the man. Cal had about 20 shots. Arroyo keeper comes up huge. if not you would have been right on. Can’t wait to hear next set of predictions.
February 17th, 2010 at 11:04 pm
Berkeley College Park game was not even that close,
Jackets had three times as many shots on goal.
Defense has not given up a goal in the last 7 games.
February 17th, 2010 at 11:05 pm
ALBANy is goin to win it all. BOD cannot stop its offense. Plus alb defense is underrated. WATERFRONT!!!
February 17th, 2010 at 11:10 pm
Several have predicted Dublin will face O’Dowd in the boys 2A final. Dublin will have to step up the defense to get by the next 2 rounds, including a potential match-up at Albany.
February 17th, 2010 at 11:12 pm
Second Round Predictions
Amador 1 at DLS 2
Richmond 3 at Berkeley 1
SRV 4 at Clayton 1
Cal 1at Granada
February 17th, 2010 at 11:15 pm
Second Round Predictions
anyone notice ALL EBAL Teams moved on?
Amador 1 at DLS 2
Richmond 3 at Berkeley 2, Berkeley wins league but does not move on
SRV 4 at Clayton 1
Cal 1 at Granada 2 long throw ins strike again
February 17th, 2010 at 11:15 pm
SRV seems to have the easiest path so far.
You forgot a number in the Granada predicton.
February 17th, 2010 at 11:17 pm
fixed and predictions adjusted
good soccer and no injuries to all!
February 17th, 2010 at 11:21 pm
Dublin is not as good as Albany I play goalie on St. Mary’s and even though it was 4-2 they scored twice in the first 10 min on two defensive miscues on free kicks. They aren’t as talented as Albany. If Albany is healthy their midfield will control the game and their fowards are ly in the final third. They also have an unde defense that is way better on the wings than Dublin’s is. Not to take anything away from Dublin who have their own duo of ly fowards I just don’t see them having the defense and midfield to handle Albany. But who knows anything can happen in the playoffs.
February 17th, 2010 at 11:23 pm
Granada Vs Cal will be on Saturday not Friday ebal fan….
We officially gave our Ryan Thomas a new nick name well at least my cousin did we are calling him STRETCH….. that boy can throw!!
Yes the Santos players will be teaming up against each other once again the funny thing is we all know each others plays and weaknesses so lets get it on Saturday.. our other Santos boys on Dublin DII advanced too gotta love that.
February 17th, 2010 at 11:27 pm
Fun fact: Each bracket boys and girls had two “upsets” in the round of 8. Does that mean the seeding committee is 75% correct? OR 25% off? OR what?
That is a “C” grade in my book. We probably get what we “pay” for. All kidding aside, the seeding should determine who hosts matches, not league champions.
Comments are welcome…
February 17th, 2010 at 11:43 pm
Ebal Fan #223, I agree with you, dating back to post #9. Luck of the draw, but it should have been Granada in that slot, but for the loss to the Cowboys. Doh! Instead the Mats get the guys in the Halloween costumes. LOL!
BTW, I do not think that throw-in induced goals are pure soccer. It is an anomaly (f-r-e-a-k) of HS soccer, is extremely rare at the ODP level, and is non-existent at the highest levels of the sport. It reminds me of dunks on 8 foot baskets, or home runs with short fences. I cannot recall a college coach giving a full-ride for the throw-in deal. Anyone??? Matt???
February 17th, 2010 at 11:47 pm
I agree with the sweeper that the Dublin defense needs to tighten up. Tonight they did play without 1 starter do to a red card given last week. This will be a good weekend of soccer in both Div’s.
February 17th, 2010 at 11:51 pm
Sweeper, I totally agree with you on the long throws. Throw-ins were actually introduced to prevent situations such as we now have with the long throw-ins (replacing kick-ins at the time.)
February 17th, 2010 at 11:58 pm
Sweeper,
Is a corner kick induced goal not pure soccer? What about a free kick goal? Are they not all “set plays” and a part of the game?
February 18th, 2010 at 12:07 am
My only predictions are at least two of the four games will be decided after 100 minutes by PK’s for the D-1 quarter finals.
February 18th, 2010 at 12:10 am
Matt,
Have you even had a chance to figure out which game you are going to attend on Sat.?
I am predicting you take in AV @ DLS. As I said recently, AV is one of the hottest teams of late.
LTG
February 18th, 2010 at 12:13 am
LTG,
A corner kick induced goal is indeed pure soccer, and far purer from a throw. The practice that your are suggesting is not even tried in the UK, Brazil or Italy because the skill prevents it.
Soccer is in fact all about the feet and head, and not about the hands, except for the keeper. Again, show me a college coach recruiting the throw-in assist and I will defer.
Championships in soccer are won at the highest level with foot-speed and timely headers, not heaves from the sideline. TRUE.
February 18th, 2010 at 12:19 am
Soccer posters, apologies for the “Paydirt” posting, my handle for American football postings. I stand by my point that throw-ins to the box are not core strategies at the highest level of soccer. Corner kicks and free kicks are core to soccer.
February 18th, 2010 at 12:28 am
Cokito,
Thanks for weighing in regarding the origination of the throw-in eliminating the kick-in. Again, it is about the skill of the game. I would wager that the throw-in trend is non-existent outside the US, because it is not successful at the highest levels of the game.
Again, soccer is about touches with: 1)the feet, 2)the head, 3)the knees/upper legs, and 4)the torso. Not the use of the hands on offense.
February 18th, 2010 at 12:36 am
Trust Me,
Thanks for adding your comment regarding the missing Dublin defender due to the red card last week. Each level of the bracket gets tougher, so Dublin needs to step up the defense. I am pegging the Dublin @ Albany match in the semis as can’t miss.
February 18th, 2010 at 4:51 am
#197, Dominating a Game means winning by more than one goal. Cal was at home and beats Arroyo by one goal, where’s the domination? Give Arroyo some Props…Geez
Nice Job Arroyo and First year Head Coach Joe Delucchi!
February 18th, 2010 at 6:25 am
The long throw-in is often utilized as a weapon in women’s college soccer, where numerous teams have a player who can perform the “flip” throw-in and get the ball 30-40 yards downfield.
At the high school level, the narrow fields make it imperative that if a team has a player who can get the ball into the box every throw-in, they’ve got to use that weapon, whether it’s “pure soccer” or not….
February 18th, 2010 at 8:09 am
Amador 1 at DLS 3
Richmond 3 at Berkeley 1
SRV 2 at Clayton 0
Cal 2 at Granada 1
February 18th, 2010 at 8:11 am
Granada has proven that their best offensive weapons are their throw-ins and set plays. You can’t stop them but you can minimize them. What’s the old joke… if it hurts when you do it then stop doing it! Well, it hurts when you give them throw-ins and free kicks inside the 25. Then find a way to stop doing it!!!
Keep their throw-ins and free kicks outside the 25 and Cal will have a chance.
February 18th, 2010 at 8:33 am
Groundskeeper, perhaps more than in any other sport, in soccer the final score is not a true indicator of who dominated the game. Surely in a blowout it is. However, in a close game dominated by excellent goalkeeping there are many other ways to determine dominance.
I’ll let you decide where you think Arroyo dominated. shots on goal? offensive possessions? offensive threats (set plays, corners)? The only meaningful stat that Arroyo dominated Cal in is the number of saves; however, what does that tell you?
February 18th, 2010 at 8:59 am
Manatee,
You are incorrect about the coach, there was no card given. The game was pretty scrappy, I agree. The problem is the referee already figured DLS would win the game so everytime they were touched a foul was called. Similiar play was happening all over the field, only fouls were being called against Liberty and not for them.
1st goal looked like volleyball inside the 6 yard box, a decent keeper would have taken that no problem. Not to mention Lib lost their starting CB to a red card in the last game of the season vs Deer valley. 6’1″ Sophmore who would have cleaned it up easily.
2nd goal was a flat out mistake by the keeper. Yes the DLS player who scored showed discipline and continued his run. If the keeper would have cauhgt the ball instead of trying to punch it out, easliy caught.
3rd goal was a free kick from 25 yards out on the touch line. It was an inswinger bent to the back post and the keeper pushed it into the net. An easliy saveable ball.
4th goal was a deserved goal. DLS had plenty of build up made some good passes and puta nice ball into the box. That forward went up over the CB and headed in a nice finish.
The game was scrappy and DLS was clearly the better team, but they are not 4-0 better. The coach was not carded but was frustrated with the one sided calls to DLS so he decided to walk himself away to cool down then returned to the bench.
The DLS parents anf fans were quite discraceful. Actuly getting a copy of the roster and jeering players by name. These are still high school kids who pour theit heart and soul into this game. Weather or not they are lucky enough to attend DLS or Liberty, they should be respected for their efforts…
I look forward to your response…
February 18th, 2010 at 9:36 am
“The DLS parents anf fans were quite discraceful. Actuly getting a copy of the roster and jeering players by name. These are still high school kids who pour theit heart and soul into this game. Weather or not they are lucky enough to attend DLS or Liberty, they should be respected for their efforts…”
aren’t there supposed to be administrators at the games to deal with this? Is this “Pursuing Victory with Honor”?
shameful, on a few levels
February 18th, 2010 at 9:58 am
DLS vs Liberty
What you have is one team, DLS, where the majority, if not all the players play at the club/tournament/travel level year-round.
While the other team, Liberty, has four or five players whose parents have the money/ability to pay thousands of dollars for their child to play high-level competitive soccer all year round.
That’s the basic reason that the game/skill level was so lopsided.
Two players stood out for me on the Liberty side: #9 and #11.
9 was all fire and heart and hustle. Fun to watch play. Very aggressive but with commensurate skill to match.
11 was smoother and controlled. He played the edges well and made some excellent passes with touch and precision.
Beyond that, it was DLS who played and looked like a machine.
February 18th, 2010 at 10:26 am
don’t forget about the classy display by the swimmers or water polo players or just a bunch of speedo clad spartans at half time of soccer matches.
The playing field in all contests is supposed to be limited to contestants and officials, not juvenile HS antics that reek of disrespect for their opponents
Does DLS, outside of Football, even care about their image?
February 18th, 2010 at 10:32 am
Here are my predictions:
If DLS is as good as people say, they will handle Amador Valley. Amador got dominated last night, but got a lucky PK which completeley changed the game. They did not deserve to advance.
DLS 3 AV 0
Richmond 2 Berkeley 1
SRV 1 Clayton Valley 0
Grananda 2 Cal 1 possible OT winner
**Watch out for long throw-ins, sounds like that is the EBAL’s main weapon.
February 18th, 2010 at 11:03 am
Bboy – If Las Lomas is such a better team than Campolindo, then why have you lost to them twice in a row on your home field? To lose once could be a fluke, but twice shows you are outmatched.
Also, looking forward to an Albany-Dublin semi in DII.
For Granada, does anyone know what percentage of their goals are scored on throw-ins? It seems like every recap I’ve heard of their games this year talks about how all of their goals came on throw-ins.
February 18th, 2010 at 12:17 pm
# From the DFAL
I tell you why, Second game playing with one man down the whole second half.
And in that game even one of your players talked to me how we outplayed them even with 1 man down.
the second match i have no excuse for it, we committed two stupid mistakes. and got two goals scored on.
like i always say and is an absolute true in soccer “the better team doesn’t always win”
I’m not arguing who won, I’m arguing who should have won by the gameplay displayed on the field.
February 18th, 2010 at 12:24 pm
Dublin will have a hard time with YV. Don’t count Dublin in the semis just yet. The speed and touch of YV is a lot of problems for teams to match up well against. They returned one of the better players in the area who scored the game winner last night. His a 15 year old player who plays club soccer with a U18 team. Jose Romero wasn’t playing so i’m guessing he might not be at the next game. It will be a great match to watch.
February 18th, 2010 at 1:01 pm
Follow-up to #251, I also wonder how many goals that Granada has scored on throw-ins as well as how many on corner kicks. Strange as it sounds, it may make sense to force Granada to take corner kicks rather than throw-ins, if a defender has a choice when handling a deep ball. The corner kick is clearly a tougher angle and the spot is defined, whereas throw-ins are taken from an “area” along the touch line. Cal fans, let us know if this happens on Saturday.
February 18th, 2010 at 1:41 pm
ive seen other players besides this ryan thomas have long throw ins. infact, berkeley seems to have 2 kids capable of throwing the ball in pretty far. cant wait to see richmond play berkeley!!
February 18th, 2010 at 2:00 pm
Matt (or anyone for that matter),
any quarterfinals predictions?
February 18th, 2010 at 2:12 pm
Here are my predictions again, now including DII also:
If DLS is as good as people say, they will handle Amador Valley. Amador got dominated last night, but got a lucky PK which completeley changed the game. They did not deserve to advance.
DLS 3 AV 0
Richmond 2 Berkeley 1
SRV 1 Clayton Valley 0
Grananda 2 Cal 1 possible OT winner
**Watch out for long throw-ins, sounds like that is the EBAL’s main weapon.
BOD 2 Campo 0
Acalanes 2 Piedmont 0
Albany 3 JFK Fremont 1
Dublin 2 YV 1
February 18th, 2010 at 2:24 pm
Everyone seems to have an issue on the throw ins that is soccer in all countries! Corner kicks, indirect kicks & penatly kicks or a throw in is the rules of the game too many haters for granada and thomas becuase he has the long thrown ins get over it!!
What about the San Ramon Valley player that has just as much of a throw in??? I can’t remember his number but Thomas is not the only one who can throw a ball in.
Yes the girls to the flip but lord and behold a male have a long throw in and now its an issue. Pleaseeee focus on the upcoming events and the match ups.
February 18th, 2010 at 3:06 pm
Whoa #259. You are out of line! Get civilized or stay out.
February 18th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
First of all there is no call for using that kind of language. It seems that using the excuse that if you have the money your team will be better. Every club team has a fund to help kids who don’t have the money to play club soccer. As far as what happened at the DLS game that should be brought to the attention of the AD & Principal. i assure you that if what happened is true those boys will be paying a price.
February 18th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
alb=champs is talking bout waterfront?banging on da net he from albany he a snitch too.
February 18th, 2010 at 3:12 pm
Predictions for NCS Round 2 for D2
Odowd 2, Campo 3 (upset)
Acalanes 3, Piedmont 1
Albany 2, JFK 0
Dublin 3, YV 1
February 18th, 2010 at 3:13 pm
sweeper shutup watever school u represent will get bat down by DLS..fasssssssssssssssssst
February 18th, 2010 at 3:14 pm
muhamad a snitch
February 18th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
i am not a snich i am a hardworking taxi driver that loves the game please do not comment on me in such way because my feelings tend to get hurt easily.ok dls thnx..i think amador is going to win
February 18th, 2010 at 3:20 pm
Defense_mom,
Please do not take the discussion about long throws as directed towards a player or a team. For the good of the game, scoring goals with ones’ hands, be it by Thierry Henry or by any long-throwers, is not a positive development. I think this sums up what anti-long throw posters meant to say.
February 18th, 2010 at 3:21 pm
d1 and d2 final predictions: granada v. berkeley
albany v. o dowd
February 18th, 2010 at 3:30 pm
if you had any knowledge of DLS you would know that they lost to Granada during the season so really DLS cant beat everyone everytime!!!
February 18th, 2010 at 3:33 pm
I doubt he is from DLS
February 18th, 2010 at 3:39 pm
wat do people think about the clayton san ramon game? am i the only one tha thinks this will be a dog fight? predictions anyone?
February 18th, 2010 at 3:40 pm
wat do people think about the clayton san ramon game? am i the only one tha thinks this will be a dog fight? predictions anyone? matt?
February 18th, 2010 at 3:52 pm
Hey delasallealltheway, I truly appreciate your passion, but just keep it a little cleaner, okay? No worries, and you are more than welcome here.
As far as the Clayton v. SRV game, I am not going to count out Rory Gentry’s team this post-season. On the road at Newark is a tough place to play. I think they make it an absolute dog fight with the Wolves.
As far as predictions, I haven’t been suckered into making them yet
I did make one with a coach in private, and I got it right.
February 18th, 2010 at 4:20 pm
Hey Matt
What to you think of the Berkeley Richmond game?
I know you came to the first game when Berkeley was easily handled by Richmond and you saw Berkeley loose to Acalanes, both bad games for Berkeley.
Everybody is counting them out, but I think this is going to be a good one.
February 18th, 2010 at 4:22 pm
To Cokito, Sweeper, paydirt or any other hater of the Long throw. Next time you watch Sunderland of The EPL, keep your eyes peeled for Rory Delap. His long throws are identical to Ryan Thomas of Granada. They are line drives with a ton of pace that will generally induce a defense and keeper to watering his pants on more than one occassion.
To say that it is not part of the beautiful game because your limited viewing capacity and short term attention span has not allowed you to bare witness to this modern marvel is just plain Ignorant.
Last time I checked, the throw in was just another way to re-start the game after the ball went out of bounds. Using it as a set piece is just another bonus because you have a guy who has the ability to get it in the 6 yard box.
Your comments of coaches not scouting a kid for this skill and this skill alone may be part truth. Ryan Thomas does many other things well though ( good in the air, tough defender, leadership skills, powerful shout, etc…). So if you add this skill to other terrific skills then maybe you should be recruited.
My point is, it’s a very dangerous part of the game that is perfectly legal. You are all hating because he’s not on your team. You’d be lovin’ it if he was.
Maybe more college coaches should look to add this to their arsenal. Maybe the U.S. national team should find someone who can get it into our big forwards who are great in the air. Last time I checked the U.S. had 0 World Cup championships.
Maybe 12 years from now this will be a huge part of the game. Ryan Thomas is just ahead of his time.
Keep on chuckin’ it!!!
February 18th, 2010 at 4:22 pm
DI predictions:
De La Salle 2 Amador Valley 1
Berkeley 1 Richmond 1 (Richmond wins in PK’s)
San Ramon Valley 1 Clayton Valley 2 (OT)
Granada 3 California 2
DII predictions:
Bishop O’ Dowd 2 Campolindo 0
Acalanes 1 Piedmont 0 (OT)
Albany 3 JFK 1
Dublin 1 Ygnacio Valley 2
Any comments?
February 18th, 2010 at 4:29 pm
Matt,
Were there any OT matches (boys or girls) on Wednesday? Will we have another round without PKs? How about predicting which games will likely go to PKs, without picking the winner?
BTW, I truly do not appreciate dlsatw’s passion. “It” is tainting DLS and Albany.
February 18th, 2010 at 4:29 pm
sure doesn’t look like anyone has an easy road to the finals this year. one side of the tournament has DLS v. Amador and Richmond v. Berkeley, all quality teams, just about all with NCS champ potential, not to mention league opponents, then on the otherside is SRV v. CV and Granada v. Cal, three strong EBAL teams and a, in my opinion, very well coached Clayton Valley team (kudos to my old coach Rory). i don’t think there’ll be a single bad/lopsided game left in NCS.
February 18th, 2010 at 4:34 pm
It doesn’t look like we had any OT games. I am going to say we have at least two boys games that come down to PK’s. Things are about to tighten up.
And to touch on the Berkeley v. Richmond game, you guys are right, Berkeley isn’t getting much respect. I saw these two teams play both times, and Berkeley will be able to hang, especially at home.
February 18th, 2010 at 4:35 pm
#246 Soccer fan
I know your goal keeper made a few mistakes but he did make some pretty good saves too. Just worth noting on his defense
I didn’t here the heckling from our student section, so I will not comment on that. I do know the referee was right in stopping the game. My son said that he heard from more than one of the Liberty players on the field that “they didn’t care about getting a red card as it was there last game anyway” Aggressive high pressure play can’t or shouldn’t be confused with an intent to harm. The last play of the game a DLS player was slammed into the wall on the sideline.
The Liberty team came out challenging every play and ball. They showed that they came to play but after the 3rd goal it looked like their game plan changed to the other style. I’m sure that frustration settled in for them as they had more calls against than for them. They did have two fouls called for them just outside DLS’s 18 in the first have, so it wasn’t totally against them.
Overall, Good job to Liberty for making the playoffs.
February 18th, 2010 at 5:42 pm
as a former student-athlete at DLS there are a few things you should know.
1. The DLS admin does not tolerate any cussing or personal attacks on players of the other team. Any such action is met with discipline by deans aliotti and gould as well as brother chris. i remember several classmates not being allowed to attend games for things said in the cheering sections as well as getting detentions and saturday cleanup duty.
2. The guys in the speedoes is something that has happened at DLS for years. It has happened at soccer matches and lacrosse games. Kids having fun. How did it offend you? Did they jeer at you or flip off the opposing fans? When I was a student they just ran through the field during halftime. Just like the lancers in football.
February 18th, 2010 at 6:31 pm
To Bambam and Renegades 10
I was just noting what happened and responding to manatees attack on Liberty. De La Salle was definetly the better team on the night. Yes, some of the players were getting frustrated and going in maybe a bit harder. The foul at the end of the game was a bit excessive and the coach met the player on the field and spoke to him about it. The keeper did make some good saves no doubt, but those are definetly offset when you make a mistake, especially as a keper.
Renegades, I too went to a school similiar to DLS, you may have heard of it, Sacred Heart in San Francisco. We got away with many many things right under the eye of the Brothers and Dean. I was on the Liberty side, quite close to the action because of the small venue, and I heard it quite clear many many tiems. The jeering and chastising of players, by name when they took a bad toch or made a mistake.
The DLS players and coaching staff were very classy complementing Liberty for the accomplishments they made. Not all are as good as some and they should be respected for thier efforts.
February 18th, 2010 at 6:42 pm
hey waterboy,
do u happen to be a parent of a berkeley player? And if so does your son play baseball too?
February 18th, 2010 at 9:47 pm
Rory Delap plays for Stoke City..FYI.
And saw Berkeley vs. CP last night and came away impressed by Berk. They have a plethora of attacking options and great team speed. However, I’d say their sub par back line and gk will dampen their chances of going all the way.
I think SRV handles CV on the road, DLS takes care of business at home. Cal/Granada goes to OT and Richmond comes away with a 3-2 win in the game of the weekend! Best of luck to all…
100
February 18th, 2010 at 10:11 pm
delasallealltheway shutt yo trapp up DeLaSalle weak school get yo head popped cuddyy.
February 18th, 2010 at 10:34 pm
Hey Scoreboard
Berkeley’s “sub par back line and GK” have given up only 13 goals all year and none for the last 7 games.
February 18th, 2010 at 10:57 pm
We are all wondering what game matt will be on.
February 18th, 2010 at 11:00 pm
I will be in Berkeley to see what goes down with the Yellowjackets and Oilers.
February 18th, 2010 at 11:48 pm
looks like the ncs committee did a good job after all.
d 1 boys – they got 6 of 8 with one of the losses in the #8 v #9 game
d2 boys- 6 of 8 with one of the losses in the #8v#9 game
d 1 girls – 6 of 8
d 2 girls – 6 of 8 with one of the losses in the #8v#9 game
Overall, 24 of 32 with 3 losses in the #8v#9 tossup
Plus, you are dealing with weather and high school age kids.
Kudos to the NCS committee for trying to get it right
Last time I checked, the games are won on the field, not in the committee room or on the internet
February 19th, 2010 at 12:12 am
And now the real story on long throw-ins. My sources in Europe tell me that it will remain an anomaly of small football field venues with running tracks, mostly dual-purpose fields such as U.S. high schools and low-funded college stadia. The skill is not as important at higher levels per se, but is not ignored. The reason? Stadia in Europe and South America are generally custom build for seating close to the pitch, AND FIFA allows advertising panels within 2 yards of the touch-line: the almighty currency rules. Unless the sidelines are enlarged, the importance of the long throw-in has limited value at higher levels of soccer, and always will.
February 19th, 2010 at 2:12 am
Sweeper, You are assuming that a player needs more than 2 yards for the “long throw in”. The long throw in can also get the ball out of one’s own end, down the sideline…..as I have witnessed many times this season.
February 19th, 2010 at 2:28 am
Oh wait…….what were the Antioch fans yelling….
Granada is nothing without #11.
Scoreboard!!!!
Granada 3 – Antioch 0
Guess what, Granada has a little bit of defense too…
Granada gave up the fewest goals in EBAL, and not only that, they also scored the MOST goals in EBAL….
Predictions:
GHS 2 – CAL 1 (Very tough match)
DLS 2 – AV 1 in OT
Richmond 3 – Berkeley 1
SRV 3 – Clayton Valley 1
February 19th, 2010 at 6:22 am
Soccerfan –
I wasn’t “attacking” Liberty, but do you really think those tackles and challenges were only “a bit excessive?” The clock was stopped five times in the 2nd half for injuries! That final tackle, the DLS player flew airborne into the side of the bleachers and did a complete flip! And the ref stopped the match – that doesn’t happen when tackles are only a bit excessive…
I get really tired of hearing people say that DLS wins because they have more money. Some day I’d like a study done on the “per capita” incomes of DLS families vs. all the other schools in the EBAL – I have a hunch people would be surprised to find out that almost every school – excepting maybe Livermore – has many more rich families than DLS.
Clearly, there are also many schools from poorer neighborhoods who find athletic success in a number of sports, so money is not the key factor in determining success. Is it A factor? Sure, but to write off a school’s success or lack thereof solely based on finances takes a lot away from the student-athletes and coaches.
Soccerfan, I will agree with you on this – other than Richmond fans, I am usually turned off by almost ALL soccer parents and fans! So much whining and complaining…
February 19th, 2010 at 8:09 am
Look, I don’t think any of you should get defensive about the long throw-ins per se. I’ve seen a couple teams score on it in the EngPremLeague, so it does happen on occasion at the highest level.
The difference is that the majority of their goals don’t come this way and yours DO!! So, maybe for you people you should be defensive if that is your ONLY weapon. It would be nice to hear of some quality goals coming from the run-of-play, but for the most part I don’t hear that!
Any team who has a weapon and doesn’t use it is crazy. Whether it be a Free-kick specialist, Speedy Forward/Winger, skilled mid-field, or size advantage on crosses…or Long Throws. In my opinion if the D/Keeper can’t control their 6to8 yrd box by beating the attackers to the ball in the air, then they deserve to be scored on. It’s the same on corners!!
However, if the majority of your Goals do come from Throw-ins, then maybe you really aren’t as good as you think you are.
Predictions round 2
SRV 1 Clayton Valley 0
DLS 3 AV 0 -shouldn’t be close
Granada 2 Cal 1
Richmond 2 Berkeley 1
February 19th, 2010 at 8:31 am
Manatee –
The fact that DLS/CAR may not have the most affluent parents may be true, but public schools cannot recuit like DLS has been accused of in the past. I’m sure we can all tell stories about the best atheletes in our public schools going to DLS/CAR and getting “grants” so they can play there. The parents don’t always need money, when you have an alumni that wants to keep a winning tradition….to be honest I wish I could have sent my kid there. Great athletic department and an alumni that some colleges would wish for. But I digress..
Unfortunately I think everyone wants to hold DLS to a higher standard, why I don’t know…
February 19th, 2010 at 8:35 am
Waterboy – don’t get so sensitive. I do think Berkeley’s best defender is their attack. Teams have to pay attention to the forwards and mids coming at them, they have to sacrifice a little bit in the attack. 13 goals against is a great job but it is WAY more than just saying their backs and gk are good buddy. However strength of schedule helped with that too-DLS, Granada, Amador among others would give up 13 or less playing that fixture list. They have 2 wins against CP, and 1 against Antioch-aside from that they didn’t beat any 3A NCS teams according to maxpreps. Have a nice day!
100
February 19th, 2010 at 9:04 am
2cents,
FYI, according to MaxPreps, Granada has 68 goals so far. The long thrower, #11, has 17 assists, (I am assuming those are all on throw ins).
Since when is 17 out of 68 a majority?
Granada fans can only hope that their opponents would believe your summation, however, I believe their EBAL opponents know better.
My prediction: An EBAL team wins NCS.
(Yeah I know, that was too easy.)
February 19th, 2010 at 9:34 am
Hey LakeTahoeGuy,
My comments were not directed at any team in particular, just my take on some of the posts that have been flying around here.
But now that you brought it up, Please re-read your #212 post: 3 of 3 goals in NCS came as a result of Throw-ins…Your words, not mine. I’m pretty sure last time I checked 3 of 3 is a Majority.
February 19th, 2010 at 9:45 am
soccerfan- yes i know of sacred heart in the city, i actually applied, was accepted, and did the day where they have students show prospective students around and found it very similar to DLS. But didn’t feel like commuting to the city every day. Anyways, I am not saying that the Deans catch the students for everything, but sporting events really draw a lot of attention from Brother Chris and the Deans and one of them usually attends home games and especially playoff games of any sport.
February 19th, 2010 at 9:52 am
Most of Granada’s goals do seem restricted to the throw in goals, especially during their last 3 weeks of play. I think most of us can agree that it doesn’t seem to fall in line with playing true soccer. I gurantee that all of our coaches and us wish that we had that weapon on our teams though. He has a special skill which a San Ramon had a player last year with that skill but comitted to the academy this year. Like somone posted earlier, when possible have your backs kick it out the end line, instead of giving them the long throw in.
February 19th, 2010 at 10:36 am
LTG #291
For the record Granada did not lead EBAL with least goals allowed. Granada allowed 16 goals during EBAL games.
#1 DLS with 11 GA,
#2 SRV 13 GA
#3 was AV 14 GA
#4 was GHS 16 GA.
Just for the record I am a big fan of Granada’s #11 and enjoy watching him play. He is an all-round great player.
Good luck to GHS and all the teams in the NCS playoffs.
February 19th, 2010 at 10:45 am
All
Anyone know why Ygnacio Valley’s Jose Romero did not play in the match against Kennedy High? Is he injured or sick?
February 19th, 2010 at 10:54 am
I’ve put an email in to the YV coach. I’ll try and find out for you.
February 19th, 2010 at 11:05 am
PTown, I was just going with what MaxPreps has.
They show DLS giving up 22 goals, along with SRV, and Granada giving up 21. All games, not just league.
February 19th, 2010 at 11:24 am
I feel like giving some thoughts on Saturday’s games.
Starting with Division I:
No. 1 De La Salle v. No. 9 Amador Valley
I’m not going to count out Ken Villegas and the Dons for the rest of this tournament, but De La Salle at home is a different animal. By my count, DLS has allowed only eight goals in home games this year. One of those goals was against Amador Valley, however, in a 3-1 win. It will take a colossal effort from AV to knock off the champs.
No. 10 Clayton Valley v. No. 2 San Ramon Valley.
I’ve gained more and more respect for Rory Gentry as the season has gone along. His team has come a long way, bounced back from a late-season lull and handled a very good Newark team on the road in their first playoff game in a really long time. SRV is so, so solid in all aspects of the game, so they present matchup problems for everybody. I expect this to be an absolute dogfight.
No. 3 Granada v. No. 6 California
This will be a one-goal game, either way. I am anticipating OT, and maybe even PK’s. Cal coach Chris Faidley knows what it will take… “we’ll have to defend those throws like our season depends on it, try to contain Foster and Long, and find a way to score 2-3 goals. A little luck wouldn’t hurt.”
Everyone on this blog knows about the long throw of Ryan Thomas by now, and the speed of Garrett Foster and Trevor Long. Cal has a shifty player of its own in Guillermo Rivas. This game will be a battle.
No. 4 Berkeley v. No. 5 Richmond
The game of the night, in my opinion, and it is the game I will be at. Can los Aceiteros find the consistency they found in a 3-0 win over Berkeley, or will playing at B-High be enough for the Yellowjackets to prevail with their solid D and quick forwards?
“I am very excited about this game,” Richmond coach Rene Siles said. “Berkeley is an excellent team and they are playing at home. I think they are the favorite.”
Division II
No. 1 Bishop O’Dowd v. No. 9 Campolindo
The Cougars will need to use the same formula to upset Bishop O’Dowd as they did to beat Las Lomas. They will have to counter size with speed and they’ll have to get fantastic keeping again from Alex Mangels. O’Dowd is very similar to Las Lomas, except bigger and faster. The Dragons are huge, the Cougars are tiny. We’ll see which style prevails.
No. 2 Albany v. No. 7 Kennedy-Fremont
A bigger test for the Cougars than I think a lot of people are realizing. Kennedy played in a Division I league against D I competition for most of the year. Kennedy has only allowed more than two goals three times this year. It’s up to the Albany offense in this game.
No. 3 Dublin v. No. 11 Ygnacio Valley
The organized and stout defense of Dublin against the open attack of YV. This should be a good game. If Dublin gets up a goal or two, then I think it will be hard for YV to come back. Cody Hoster is too good in the middle and can play lock down defense as well.
Will YV have Jose Romero? That is the question.
No. 4 Acalanes v. No. 5 Piedmont
This is the most intriguing D II matchup in my opinion. It’s the amazing (I mean amazing!) defense of Acalanes against the tremendous goal scoring ability of Nikolai Littleton, who now has 50 goals.
The Dons have only allowed nine goals this year. All year! Here’s the kicker… three of them are own goals and one of them was a PK. They have given up only five goals during the standard run of play. Incredible.
These two teams tied 0-0 earlier in the year.
Chime in everyone.
February 19th, 2010 at 11:37 am
LTG –
I think PTown thought that you were talking about EBAL league as that would be the best judgement when comparing common opponents. Granada has a very good defense, which it could very well be the best but a true stat would be league if comparing EBAL teams vs EBAL teams stats. Take for Instance, DLS gave up 7 goals in the 3 games played in San Diego. that is almost 1/3 of their total goals given up in the 23 total games played. While Granada gave up 2 goals against vs Mission San Jose/Leadership Hayward/Castro Valley. So when stating that Granada gave up the least amount of goals in EBAL, that’s sort of a very grey non comparable stat to thow out there. Unless you were talking about league play only. Like I said Granada might have the best defense in EBAL but DLS,SRV and Amador had less goals scored on them in league play. The first round of NCS showed that EBAL teams play defense and that only EBAL teams can slow down an EBAL team offense.
Good luck to Granada this Saturday
February 19th, 2010 at 11:46 am
Side note
Props to the Cal High School and parents. On senior night they put up signs for the DLS senior players and their parents sent over a rose for each DLS senior mom. That was in my opinion very thoughtful and classy on behalf of the CAL High program. Of course and their anouncer recognized our seniors and unfortuntely had his blooper of the night. I found it funny and nothing wrong with it, he just showed that he was into the exciting part of the game at that moment.
February 19th, 2010 at 11:57 am
Bambam….#305 agree with you 100%. Yes, I was referring to EBAL games only which is what LTG referenced on #291 post.
Should be great games this weekend. I wish all the games were at different times so we can enjoy each one.
February 19th, 2010 at 12:14 pm
I say the winner of NCS gets to stay at Lake Tahoe Guys cabin or house. I’m assuming it is in Lake Tahoe though and not Livermore.
Can we all agree with that?
February 19th, 2010 at 1:24 pm
Matt, I agree with you that DLS @ home is a totally different animal. Offensively, ball control / possession will be paramount for AV. Defensively, it’s simple: keep DLS out of the net. No doubt easier said than done. They’re the defending champs for many reasons. A great team, skilled players, solid program. Look forward to seeing these two square off for the 3rd time this season.
And I agree with Bambam: we should all thank LTG for the Tahoe house just in case…
February 19th, 2010 at 1:58 pm
Matt, Any info on Jose Romero?
I just found out that the new player for YV is Roberto Calixto. His a sophmore. He plays club for Heritage Knights U18 team. He plays 2 ages up in club. Hoster and Calixto will face each other in the midfield. Should be a great battle between them.
If Jose Romero is able to play I predict this game will end in overtime. Romero is YV’s leading scorer so if they don’t have him it will be a big lost.
February 19th, 2010 at 2:00 pm
Thanks for reminding me. Romero is hurt, though Chavez didn’t specify what the injury was. Today’s practice will determine if he can go. Sounded iffy at best.
February 19th, 2010 at 3:34 pm
Hoster does not play midfield. He plays forward
February 19th, 2010 at 3:47 pm
Fulwiler has him play in the middle and lock down on D when they are leading late. That’s what I meant.
February 19th, 2010 at 6:16 pm
Hoster is a stud, wherever he plays. Lots of forwards play like inside forwards, as contrasted to stereotypical center-forwards. An attacking midfielder is like an inside forward, and in “total football” EVERYONE’s an attacking midfielder. So? All the rest have 31, except February which has 28; example of everybody should be sitting at the head table: EBAL incredible goalkeepers (who all should get all-league?), like examples Austin Rogers, Cory Thomas, Andre Rawls, Jeremy Tanti, etc. Hey, give ‘em ALL all-league – don’t limit it by position. It’s a team game, anyway. And if you don’t vote for them – YOU get in there and do that what they do, see how you like it….
February 19th, 2010 at 9:21 pm
just to chime in, Granada has won many of their games not only from just “long throw ins” that are mentioned so much, but also from a super strong defense that has stopped so many goals and from the speed on top with Garret Foster and others. So Please lets not give all the credit for goals to the throw ins for Granada…There is a lot of talent on the team… Mid Field, Defense and up on top! Go Granada!!! and congrats to all that advanced to playing Saturday!
February 19th, 2010 at 9:44 pm
Bambam- gotta laugh and agree with you on post #308-must be a lot of #11(thomas) relations on this site-lol cause that is not all the talent on Granada that causes their wins-their defense rocks! and oh yeah, referring back to past posts-I’d vote for coach Salazar!
February 19th, 2010 at 10:02 pm
In comment to manatee post #292
I dont think that it is the DLS “money” people complain about, but the fact that DLS can recruit excellent players from all areas to play for them. (It isn’t money that makes a talented player,it’s just the fact that the number of talented players they can recruit from all the surrounding cities.) Public schools can not recruit and kids that eveb live within the same city can’t even go play for their other city’s high schools without a long waiting period and if at all. Just think what the East Bay could do if a public school say in San Ramon could recruit from the surrounding schools in Livermore, Dublin and Richmond etc. DLS has great talent and coaching, but no,it’s a unfair comparision for all the other public schools out there.
February 19th, 2010 at 10:07 pm
Acalanes has 3 own goals and 2 PK goals for their 9 goals against. A PK from Berkeley and a PK from Dublin the second time around.
February 19th, 2010 at 10:08 pm
Matt Smith …. You said you would be at the Richmond vs Berkeley game on Sat – 7pm. Will you be at either of the Albany home games? The undefeated Albany girls will be playing at 12 pm in ALbany and the boys will be playing in Albany at 2 pm.. You’ve indicated that you’re located in Berkeley.
February 19th, 2010 at 10:23 pm
Acalanes packs it in defensively; come to think of it they actually they play a pretty boring although effective style.
February 19th, 2010 at 11:35 pm
hoster goes back to stopper usually, from the games ive seen. i personally think dublin is more deadly on the attack when hoster is playing up front and the whoever the midfielders are seem to do a good job of holding the middle
February 19th, 2010 at 11:59 pm
Soccerfun – I’m not going to fight the perception that DLS recruits because people outside of DLS will always want to believe that is the reason for them being so good in every sport. They do have players from outside their one block of so called territory before they hit the property of the closest public school which is YV High. Many families chose to go their for a multiple of reasons. (Good Education,Good sports programs,Religion and because it is smaller than most high schools, also note that almost every young man wants to be there rather than having some kids that the school is forced to take)
Joe Montana for instance brought hit two boys there. Did DLS recruit them, I believe Joe brought them there because he wanted what he thought was the best way for his son’s to excell in football. One never started there and the other was pulled when he wasn’t going to start as a junior. Joe also wanted to help coach and change to offense to a different scheme. Lad said no and Nick went south. Another thing to consider when thinking of P-Town to Danville bounderies and schools. Not everyone can afford to live in Danville or Pleasanton but still want their child to get what they believe is the best education for their child. So rather than trying to buy a $$$ million dollar + home, they stay in their current reasonable home and try to just pay for a DLS for 4 years. Trust me that is much cheaper. One last thing to consider. DLS isn’t recruiting 13 year old boys but rather taking 14 year old boys and making them into men. I’ve seen it and every year the freshman class looks tiny but through hard work and dedication they will more likely than not succeed by senior year. Teron Ward for example worked very hard on a very good team but can anyone tell me why no colleges wanted him but we are supposed to believe that DLS had a magic mirror 4 years ago and knew how good he was.
Believe me or not, it is the coaches, system and tradition more than what people realize. My son tried out for 4 clubs and none of them wanted him this year yet he has started every game for DLS. System????
February 20th, 2010 at 12:00 am
Soccerfun – I’m not going to fight the perception that DLS recruits because people outside of DLS will always want to believe that is the reason for them being so good in every sport. They do have players from outside their one block of so called territory before they hit the property of the closest public school which is YV High. Many families chose to go their for a multiple of reasons. (Good Education,Good sports programs,Religion and because it is smaller than most high schools, also note that almost every young man wants to be there rather than having some kids that the school is forced to take)
Joe Montana for instance brought hit two boys there. Did DLS recruit them, I believe Joe brought them there because he wanted what he thought was the best way for his son’s to excell in football. One never started there and the other was pulled when he wasn’t going to start as a junior. Joe also wanted to help coach and change to offense to a different scheme. Lad said no and Nick went south. Another thing to consider when thinking of P-Town to Danville bounderies and schools. Not everyone can afford to live in Danville or Pleasanton but still want their child to get what they believe is the best education for their child. So rather than trying to buy a $$$ million dollar + home, they stay in their current reasonable home and try to just pay for a DLS for 4 years. Trust me that is much cheaper. One last thing to consider. DLS isn’t recruiting 13 year old boys but rather taking 14 year old boys and making them into men. I’ve seen it and every year the freshman class looks tiny but through hard work and dedication they will more likely than not succeed by senior year. Teron Ward for example worked very hard on a very good team but can anyone tell me why no colleges wanted him but we are supposed to believe that DLS had a magic mirror 4 years ago and knew how good he was.
Believe me or not, it is the coaches, system and tradition more than what people realize. My son tried out for 4 clubs and none of them wanted him this year yet he has started every game for DLS. System????
February 20th, 2010 at 12:25 am
Good news for NorCal soccer fans: any significant rain is off the forecast for Saturday and headed for SoCal, and there are 16 quality matches slated. Enjoy the day and good luck and health to the teams.
High-point campuses (boys and girls combined records) at this point:
Albany 43-0-4 = 133pts boys#2/girls#3
O’Dowd 34-1-10= 112pts boys#1/girls#1
SRV 30-6-11= 101pts boys#2/girls#3
DLS/Caron.28-9-6 = 90pts boys#1/girls#2
Cal 26-7-12= 90pts boys#6/girls#5
Congrats to these campus/complexes for excellence achieved by both team.
And, of course, do not forget the Castro Valley girls who are undefeated and ranked #5 nationally by ESPN RISE.
February 20th, 2010 at 12:40 am
Sweeper -
you forgot to give us the wind MPH and what time the sun will set.
Oh, don’t forget to do my finances, since you seem to be great with numbers too.
What games will you be at? with your old A’s hat on.
February 20th, 2010 at 12:42 am
My predictions,
DLS 2 Amador 0
SRV 3 CV 1
Cal 2 Granada 2 (Overtime where its a toss up and pks advantage to cal with Rawls in goal) Granada still 3-2
Richmond 2 Berkeley 1
February 20th, 2010 at 12:50 am
Bambam, Congrats to your son for his success at DLS. That is commendable in a very academically challenging and athletically competitive environment.
However, you cannot ignore basic statistics. All things being equal, if one group can draw from a population of 50K with few restrictions, compared to a population of 1K-2K with relatively small boundaries, statistically there is not much of a comparison. While I agree that DLS does not recruit per se, there is no screening at public schools and the enrollment is the enrollment, compounded by private schools attracting the elite athletes.
Taking nothing away from the DLS coaching staffs who clearly know what they are doing and run a superior teaching program, there is no comparison. It is not a level playing field.
Many states are going to public championships and private championships after mixed league play. I am not in favor of this as all elite athletes should get equal exposure.
Unless, of course, you play basketball in Fremont/Newark/Union City, where recruiting is rampant, just read the blogs. LOL!
February 20th, 2010 at 12:57 am
Bambam,
If I can get away from work early enough, I hope to make it to Albany at 2pm and then to Granada at 7pm, though I will be in disguise this weekend due to an upcoming feature piece.
I hope to see if Cal will opt on defense for goal line outs for corner kicks vs. touch-line outs for long throw-ins.
February 20th, 2010 at 2:55 am
Pretty sad the preconceived notions a lot of ignorant people have on DLS’s soccer team.
February 20th, 2010 at 5:10 am
i havent read the entire thread but lets not forget that there are alot athletes in public schools that dont live in that particular district,too
February 20th, 2010 at 8:25 am
You’re right Soccer fan, Acalanes is a totally one-dimensional team. If you like defense, you’ll love Acalanes. Watching one of their games is like watching paint dry. But it works. They have a system, all they need is a goal and then they shut it down. Great goalie, great defensemen and defensive mids. It doesn’t resemble “the beautiful game”, more like Monty Python’s Long John Silvers versus the Gynecologists. Defending NCS Champions. You can’t argue with success.
February 20th, 2010 at 8:57 am
Sweeper
I certainly agree when stating that a private school has an edge over most public schools. After reading most of your posts this year, I think you keep it real and you most likely get it but some people don’t and just want to throw out “well they recruit, so that is why they win” I feel confident when I say that my son would not be starting for any EBAL team this year. He has this brotherhood drive in him that most of these boys have there. I know that most schools have players with that same pride and drive in them but unfortunetely many times it’s not the whole team but just part of the team.
You have seen more soccer games than most this year, of course other than Matt and maybe Cokito. I’ve seen
maybe 8 games outside of DLS play and noticed that some teams seem to get up for the Spartans more than other teams that they play. The bullseye is there and it is understood why. I believe that it helps EBAL more than hurts it but I know most believe different.
BBFan – Even more so, I’ll bet. The challenges are more difficult for children/atheletes at schools outside of the EBAL than inside. A child in Danville or DLS and can go to school with no outside distractions and in some areas that just isn’t true.
That HS athelete is dodging a multiple of challenges that he or she shouldn’t have to worry about. (Funding,Coaching,transportation,Gangs,Support by parents,having to possible work part time, ect)
February 20th, 2010 at 8:58 am
RE: #317
If you have a team that recruits from all over, you end up with a Club team called Mustang, in Danville. They have players from Amador Valley, CAL, Granada, Richmond, San Ramon Valley and other teams that are still playing in NCS. They won the State Cup last year, and have a good shot to do it again this year.
February 20th, 2010 at 9:14 am
This past football season, Bishop Gorman of Las Vegas went undefeated and won the 4A State Championship in Nevada. I think they ended up having 9 D1 signees. The 4A is the largest division in the state. BG will be playing DLS next season. That should be a good game to take in.
In the 3A, schools with an enrollment of approx. 480-1200, Truckee girls soccer (a public school with about 850 students) have won the State Championship THREE years in a row. Boys soccer lost in the semi’s, after winning State two years in a row.
The football team went 12-0 and won the State Championship for the 4th time in the decade.
There is something to be said for “the system”, and coaching.
(While being in Calif., Truckee plays in the Nevada Interscholastic Athletic Assoc., as travel down to Sacramento area schools would be too difficult for Winter sports.)
February 20th, 2010 at 9:20 am
Bambam,
DLS AND Carondelet being in the EBAL is a good thing for all. I’m not sure who would disagree with that. I’d be curious what DLS and Carondelet think. They play matches, games, contests that for the most part are competitive each and every time they play a league contest. That certainly wasn’t always the case with the last league lineups.
I respect the DLS soccer program. Do I sometimes think they are overly cocky, yes. Do I sometimes think they don’t uphold the standards that a Catholic HS should, yes. Do I think that the behavior of the student section is reprehensible and crosses the line of decency? definitely yes.
Do these traits exist at other schools? Definitely yes.
However, being a Religious (Catholic) School, the student body and the Administration have higher standards to meet than other schools.
The behavior that is being tolerated does not, in my opinion, come close to meeting these appropriate standards.
In an earlier post it was noted that it was a Public School, Cal High, that showed the class of recognizing DLS Seniors and their parents at Cal’s Senior Night. Can I assume the same thing happens at DLS?
But I digress. I certainly respect the energy and determination that DLS Soccer brings to every contest. Perhaps having that target continually on their back is a good thing for them.
Best of Luck to the Spartans and to all the NCS Boys Soccer teams still competing.
February 20th, 2010 at 9:24 am
Oh, in case you didn’t know, Bishop Gorman is a private school that also gets accused of “recruiting”.
Just saying there are arguments for both sides of the issue.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:05 am
Seems like everyone is ready for this Saturday’s action. I can’t wait.
I just wanted to address what Pelota Man asked. I won’t be at Albany today. Unfortunately I don’t have time to pull double duty. And I don’t cover girls. Sorry that the girls side doesn’t get as much coverage, but I definitely don’t have time to do both. If I did, it would certainly draw a lot of attention, I think.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:40 am
who is responsible for the girls?
February 20th, 2010 at 10:43 am
doesnt Moreau have the same “advantage” of open enrollment as DLS?
February 20th, 2010 at 11:02 am
de la salle does have an advantage for a single reason. it is a great school and it has great sport teams so ppl r attracted to go to it. if de lA was a public school it would only let ppl from the area but the advantage that dela has is that it is private and can take students from anywhere.
February 20th, 2010 at 11:08 am
I think a lot of people forget about another private school that happens to be ranked in the top 2…
February 20th, 2010 at 11:16 am
exactlyy. the same thing applies to bishop odowd. good point jimbo.
February 20th, 2010 at 11:23 am
Bambam,
I hear you regarding the DLS coaching and system: the perfect model at the high school level. A family friend has a son who played center on the football team a few years back and the kid weighed under 180 pounds. Tough as nails and worked well in the system. Not bad for the center of a state championship team.
Separately, I have a feeling that something strange is going to happen during the Cal v. Granada match tonight. I think one of these teams is due for a breakout, something like a game changing 10-15 minute flurry. Who will it be? Who will step up?
February 20th, 2010 at 11:35 am
post #340- 80-85% of DLS’s acceptance is from Catholic grammar schools. Are Catholic grammar schools doing a better job of training athletes than their public counterparts?
February 20th, 2010 at 11:44 am
and the other 15-20% is athletes or great students that are attracted to go to the school for its academics and sports. Plus these “catholic grammar students” have a choice of going to many catholic high schools around the bay area, but if the kid is good at a sport, he is much more likely to go to Delasalle than to lets say moreau.
February 20th, 2010 at 11:52 am
ok so the aproximately 35-40 great athletes (assuming they get thru the blind admission) admitted to the school every year are leading DLS to athletic success?
thats amazing
ps: is it possible that it is more convenient for a family who resides in CC county to send their kid to Concord vs Hayward?
February 20th, 2010 at 11:56 am
Talking from experience kids that go to Catholic grammar schools are taught respect and disapline. These are two very important traits to being a good athlete. If you look at all great teams these are two very important factors.
February 20th, 2010 at 12:11 pm
5 great athletes at each sport? thats all u need to lead u to success
February 20th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
no league has more great athletes than the OAL- care to alter your last statement?
February 20th, 2010 at 12:58 pm
there are 14 sports at DLS BTW- less than 3 per team.
February 20th, 2010 at 2:42 pm
Albany boys 1-0. Backpass touch, indirect kick, pinpall header. 13 before half.
February 20th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
Anyone out at O’Dowd this afternoon?
February 20th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
Albany 2-0 @ half. Kennedy has had its chances, but A has capitalized.
February 20th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
1-0 O’Dowd at half
February 20th, 2010 at 3:16 pm
Albany 3-0 and taking contol
February 20th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
Sweeper,
That game sounds like it’s well in hand. Albany looks good, huh?
February 20th, 2010 at 3:37 pm
Albany 4-0, 20 left, and now dominant. Good tuneup for the semis.
February 20th, 2010 at 3:38 pm
Albany 4-0, 10 left, and now dominant. Good tuneup for the semis.
February 20th, 2010 at 3:50 pm
Albany 4-0 final
February 20th, 2010 at 4:01 pm
O’Dowd 1-0 final
February 20th, 2010 at 4:15 pm
apparently O’Dowd scored on a PK
February 20th, 2010 at 4:22 pm
yep a PK in the first half. foul called after the keeper took out the forward. Beautiful PK that hit side netting and beat the keeper who guessed correctly. Campo threatened late but came up empty.
February 20th, 2010 at 4:25 pm
was the PK a good call?
February 20th, 2010 at 4:26 pm
O Dowd dominated and probably should have scored at lest one more( on another PK in the first half- terrible non call by the referee) The run of play for 75% of the game was O’Dowd.Campo really struggled in the first half but came out and played better in the second.They put O’Dowd on their heels for al little bit, 5-10 minutes, but could really never generate much of an attack.Campo had,at most for the entire game, 2 decent shots on goal and several long balls into the box which were easily covered.
February 20th, 2010 at 4:47 pm
Final Albany 4-0. Kennedy played tough but it could have been 5 or 6 for the Cougars.
February 20th, 2010 at 5:06 pm
I just heard that Albany has until some point tonight to find a place to host on Wednesday night, or the game will be moved to Dublin. That is if Dublin wins. No idea what happens if YV wins, they don’t have lights.
I guess Albany has a city ordinance that doesn’t allow them to have their lights on past 8:00, and the NCS won’t let them start the match before 7:00.
I’ll update the more I hear.
February 20th, 2010 at 5:09 pm
Okay, so I guess Albany is going to host at Richmond High, but they’ll have to use the Salesian locker rooms.
Props to my co-worker Jimmy Durkin for getting the scoop on this and passing it along to me.
February 20th, 2010 at 5:17 pm
Matt Smith … Albany is constrained by their wonderful neighbors in EL Cerrito who have a problem with Lights. I bet if El Cerrito had a night game at their field there would be no problem.
February 20th, 2010 at 5:20 pm
That just seems silly. They should let them play at night.
Just got an update from De La Salle. The Spartans are already up 2-0 in the first 10 minutes, and I guess they had a shot just miss inches wide, which would have made it 3-0.
February 20th, 2010 at 5:23 pm
Good coverage guys….
February 20th, 2010 at 5:42 pm
Albany is forced to pay for El Cerrito police officers to patrol the area if there is a night game. They have to patrol during and for two hours after the game with a cost of around $2,000 or so I believe.
February 20th, 2010 at 5:51 pm
3-1 DLS at half.
I’ll be heading up to Berkeley High very soon.
Thanks again to Jimmy for all the info.
February 20th, 2010 at 6:54 pm
DLS up 3-1 about to make it final.
February 20th, 2010 at 7:01 pm
Cal Granada game starting soon. Can’t make it out there, but I have a friend who’s gonna text me updates!
February 20th, 2010 at 7:07 pm
@soccer fan
You must have graduated from bishop odowd. just like the ref. Even the ARs thought that the ref made horrible calls. just like you.
February 20th, 2010 at 7:22 pm
0-0 at Granada after 20 and G contolling play but Cal defending well.
February 20th, 2010 at 7:33 pm
Cal 1-0 with 10 left in half
February 20th, 2010 at 7:34 pm
Sweeper, do you happen to be at the game? Who scored?
February 20th, 2010 at 7:39 pm
Don’t know but it was a long throw in pinball play. Go figure.
February 20th, 2010 at 7:55 pm
1-1 at half here in Berkeley. Berkeley scored on a goal to the far post. In the 40th minute Richmond scored from about 25 yards out on a ball that barely snuck in.
February 20th, 2010 at 7:57 pm
1-0 Cal at half.
February 20th, 2010 at 8:02 pm
Any scores from Dublin or Acalanes???
February 20th, 2010 at 8:10 pm
Cal still up 1-0 with 30 left, but Granada is turning up the heat.
February 20th, 2010 at 8:12 pm
DFAL- The center did a generally good job with the exception of that call.I would have called it however given that the game was”young” and,given the way BOD was dominating , calling it would have iced the game. It didn’t matter anyway did it? LOL
February 20th, 2010 at 8:16 pm
2-1 San Ramon leads Clayton Valley in 50th minute
February 20th, 2010 at 8:19 pm
Cal still 1-0 with 20 to go. A Cal defender chose a corner over a throw. HAH!
February 20th, 2010 at 8:35 pm
4-1 San Ramon over Clayton Valley with 10 to play
February 20th, 2010 at 8:42 pm
Cal 1-0 final
February 20th, 2010 at 8:43 pm
Cal still 1-0 with 2 to go…
February 20th, 2010 at 8:44 pm
Dublin won 2-0
February 20th, 2010 at 8:48 pm
Dang Sweeper, you are fast….
I guess that is why you are “The Sweeper”.
February 20th, 2010 at 8:49 pm
4-2 San Ramon over Clayton Valley
final
February 20th, 2010 at 8:50 pm
Berkeley and Richmond are heading to OT. Great second half.
February 20th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
DLS won easily 3 – 1. Scored all goals in a 25 minute span in the first half, then packed it in and defended in the 2nd half. One of DLS’s forwards was injured by Amador keeper on a very physical play and never returned to game – could be an issue on Wednesday.
Weren’t people talking about Amador’s keeper as a possible all-league selection? He looked sub-par tonight…
February 20th, 2010 at 9:11 pm
Oh man the DII Semis:
(1) Bishop O’Dowd vs. (4) Acalanes
(2) Albany vs. (3) Dublin
Can it get any better?!
February 20th, 2010 at 9:16 pm
Acalanes 2 Piedmont 0 final
February 20th, 2010 at 9:22 pm
It says on the NCS website that the Dublin vs. Albany match is at Pinole Valley at 7pm? Matt?
February 20th, 2010 at 9:47 pm
Manatee, yes AV keeper misplayed a ball early in the game that led to a DLS goal. He also made a couple big plays late in the 1st H that prevented goals. DLS was the better team tonight.
February 20th, 2010 at 9:54 pm
Berkeley and Richmond had the game suspended due to light failure. They’ll pick up in the first overtime on Monday at 6:00 p.m. in a 1-1 game.
February 20th, 2010 at 9:55 pm
What’s going on in Berkeley? It’s been a long time since the last report.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:02 pm
DLS does the little things well, and in so doing they become better able to capitalize on even the slightest of mistakes. Their first two goals tonight underscore this fact. Their third goal was just good fundamental soccer.
To AVs credit, they did not pack it in down 3-0. Rather, they maintained their composure in the half, scored a goal and nearly had one before it on a nice cross and header just over the crossbar.
It was a good match and I wish DLS well throughout the tournament.
Manatee, you might consider offering an apology to the AV keeper. Really, there’s no reason to show disrespect toward any player, indirect or otherwise.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:02 pm
I have never seen a team like Dublin get dominated so bad in a game and pull out a 2-0 win. Dublin and all their fans know that YV WAS A SUPERIOR TEAM.
If it wasn’t for the starting goalie for YV getting hurt Dublin would have lost this game. Possesion was 80% for YV and 20% for Dublin. Shots YV 9 Dublin 3. If Hoster is the best player in DFAL Gustavo Lopez from YV will easily be the best player in DVAL and all of NCS.
This Just shows that DVAL teams are just as good or better then DFAL.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:16 pm
Out of Pockets
Amador came out in the 1st 10 minutes as though they had jitters. Thomas is and will be one of the top keepers in the league. He is one of the main reasons why Amador was even playing in the playoffs tonight.
Congrats to Amador for making the playoffs after a ruff start due to injuries.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:18 pm
Oh, DLS looked like a team on a mission at least until they got up 3-0. Then it looked more like hold mode with some counter attacks when available.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:27 pm
I was at the Dublin game and there is no way that YV had possession 80%. I will agree that YV has very good ball control but as far as shots on goal they had 3 on frame. As soon as Dublin scored on a free kick from 30 yards out that bent in upper V they dominated the rest of the game. Dublin was flat tonight but the better team won. There is no was way the DVAL is as strong as the DFAL.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:40 pm
Cal v. Granada was a well-played match that was very tactical. The officiating was up to the task with a B+ grade, all things considered.
Granada controlled the first 15 minutes straight up with each team playing 2 forwards, and Cal mostly defending and countering. Play evened out with 25 to play in the half. Cal scored with 13+ left to play in the half on a long throw-in into the box (not on the order of Granada’s signature play but somewhat ironic), the Granada keeper never had a good chance at the throw-in 10 yards from the goal, and after a few minor touches in the box, a Cal player found himself inside the penalty spot with a clear shot that he buried. Granada outplayed but did not dominate Cal in the first half, and found themselves trailing.
The second half was all about Granada playing a 3rd forward and taking chances, while Cal generally played defense and counter-attacked. Despite Granada’s effort in the second half, they had only 4 or 5 quality chances and did not convert.
In summary, 2 EBAL teams battled well tonight and the ball fell Cal’s way.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:40 pm
Hate to say it as a fan of the mats this season, but all the second half league surge didnt get them far enough in the seeds or ncs as they would have liked. im sure in retrospect it looks good they got #3 but they could’ve been 2-4 and the match with cal was just not theirs tonight. good luck grrizz in the next match i think vs srv? thats another great ebal game for ebal fans everywhere lol
February 20th, 2010 at 10:43 pm
Okay Chino. Here is how the DFAL teams fared against the DVAL.
Dublin 3 Northgate 0
Dublin 7 Berean Christian 0
Dublin 5 Berean Christian 1
Dublin 2 Ygnacio Valley 0
Acalanes 2 Clayton Valley 0
Acalanes 3 College Park 0
Acalanes 3 Northgate 0
Acalanes 1 Concord 0
Las Lomas 2 Concord 1
Las Lomas 2 Ygnacio Valley 1
Las Lomas 3 Berean Christian 0
Las Lomas 3 Northgate 0
Las Lomas 3 Clayton Valley 1
Campolindo 3 Concord 1
Campolindo 3 Mt. Diablo 0
Dougherty Valley 2 Northgate 0
Dougherty Valley 3 Northgate 0
Dougherty Valley 6 Berean Christian 0
Dougherty Valley 4 Concord 4
Dougerty Valley 4 Mt. Diablo 1
Alhambra 0 Concord 0
Alhambra 4 Berean Christian 0
Miramonte faced no DVAL opponents
So DFAL is 20-0-2 against the DVAL with only Concord drawing two ties. The DFAL also outscores the DVAL 68 to 10. You make the decision which league is better.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:46 pm
Had heard rumors of DLS fans using opposing player rosters to heckle and verbally abuse the visiting players by name, but doubted that was really happening. Imagine my surprise when I heard it for myself tonite.
It was coming from the section of the stands closest to the gate – mostly students?
DLS should show more class than that…
February 20th, 2010 at 10:47 pm
I have to agree with Condor. With being a fan of DFAL and not being able to make it out to Acalanes, I had to settle for Dublin vs. YV. After watching the game as a spectator in the stands, there’s no way it was 80%. Yes, YV possessed more, but they had no true chances at goal. The best shot the had was the shot taken after an offside call. Dublin’s shots tallied way more than 3, and all challenged the keeper. Then blaming it on the keeper? One, the first keeper wasn’t all the great. Short, stocky, he was lucky no shots challenged him. Two, Dublin’s starting keeper didn’t even play. The back up was in the whole game, who played great also. So you can’t make any point about keepers, Chino. Now Im not trashing YV or favoring Dublin. YV played amazing and possessed incedibly, just the Dublin defense shut it down. It was a fantastic and climatic game put on by YV, just Dublin capatilized. Effort by both teams made me forget about the Acalanes game and actually enjoy the game I chose. No bias, just facts
And sorry I couldn’t do in-game updates. For some reason I had no service whatsoever. Strange since there was a cell tower in the Dublin stadium.. Must be that AT&T coverage.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:53 pm
in response to the manatee post. The AV Keeper is coming off a concussion one week ago….he may have hesitated on a couple of balls that DLS was able to finish well. If you have watched the plays the AV GK has made through out the season…you would not post your sub-par comment. Give the kid credit for not sitting out an NCS playoff game…he is a gamer.
From all the posts I’ve seen throughout the season I have not seen any AVHS parents say negative comments about a DLS player this year. We have nothing but the highest regard for the DLS Soccer Team. DLS play great soccer and deserved to be advancing to the semi.
As for the physical play made by the AV Keeper that injured a DLS player…that was not his intent. It was a 1 v 1 in the box and he came hard. It was unfortunate. If you noticed the AV Keeper also had a collision with Howard with less than 2 minutes to play in the 1H and he showed good sportsmanship by pulling Howard up off the ground.
We wish the injured DLS player a speedy recovery for the semifinal game.
February 20th, 2010 at 10:54 pm
Tack I’m pretty sure you play for Dublin…
February 20th, 2010 at 10:59 pm
DLS was also playing quite physical tonite. Luckily everyone kept their tempers in check. 2nd half had alot more contact than first.
February 20th, 2010 at 11:00 pm
Chino – A ridiculous statement. Get your facts together. Dublin had 18 shots on goal to YV’s 6. The second half found Dublin’s Forward #7 with 4 break away shots alone. Dublin’s defense completely dominated YV’s vaunted offense. After Hoster scored the second goal for Dublin, he went back and played central defense and YV did’nt get a shot off for the final 22 minutes of the match. Dublin’s starting keeper was hurt so the back up played the entire game and YV couldn’t score a goal on him. YV goes home and Dublin goes forward. YV may score a lot (27 goals)against soft teams like Northgate, Diablo Valley and Concord but this is DFAL team, real defense is played in DFAL..And Ygnacio Valley just got shut out.
February 20th, 2010 at 11:13 pm
Today, I saw Albany play for the 1st time this season. They played the classic small ball triangle for 20 minutes and then opened up their game. Kennedy tried to counter with physical play, but Albany dictated the terms of play and generally avoided Kennedy’s tactics. Kennedy’s mid-fielders are highly-skilled (belying their record) so Albany resorted to a counter-attack style, and very effectively. The 4-0 final score could easily have been 5-0 or 6-0 or more, even before subs came in for the final 10 minutes.
After reflecting on the match (while watching the Cal v. Granada match), it came to me that Albany does not play a physical style because they do not have to play a physical style. They have the goods to dominate any 2A and most 3A teams. My money is on Albany v. Dublin. AND, the Albany fans were great to sit with: encouragement first and complaints were at a minimum.
February 20th, 2010 at 11:15 pm
Sweeper well put on the Cal vs Granada game. I swallow my words picking against Cal twice so far. Granada dominated the entire second half, Cal saved two off the line but they also had two breakaways that weren’t converted. Props to the entire Cal defense and mostly Rawls who is just fabulous what a game he had. In addition, Rivas was a non factor on the ball as Granada was quick to close on him, yet I think what makes him a top player in the league is his will to work on defense, he hustles, marks and wins.
February 20th, 2010 at 11:31 pm
Matt,
We need WEBcam coverage of the Richmond/Berkeley finish on Monday. If you have WiFi available at the stadium, you can literally broadcast the OT and PKs. Talk to your IT gurus. You can break broadcasting ground on Monday.
The downside is you may have to provide live commentary…is your voice internet-radio ready? Seriously, you could take YOUR reporting game to a new level, but talk to the NCS muckity-mucks first.
February 20th, 2010 at 11:37 pm
My husband and I were watching today’s game Albany / Kennedy . There was an amazing goal, the ball bounced and the player kicked it while in the air and BLAST ! scored. He has an incredible speed !!! Can you provide his name for us? great player, great team, congratulations to the coach, great team work, grat game !
February 20th, 2010 at 11:48 pm
Sweeper, I was not able to make the GHS/Cal game, but I heard there was one very close call, that even the Cal coach thought was in…..Any thoughts on that one?
February 20th, 2010 at 11:48 pm
Ebal Fan,
Good addition to the prior comments. Granada did a good job neutralizing Rivas, but Rivas did spread the field by playing the 18s diagonally and executing numerous crisp 1-touch passes.
There was one play near the end of the match where a deep Granada signature throw-in was somehow headed by Rivas, hardly the tallest player on the field, and I heard a Granada-parent say “That is what he does,” …go figure.
February 20th, 2010 at 11:57 pm
the albany player is manuel ramirez. the boy has wheels!!!!! once he gets on his horse no one stops him. and he has a wicked shot. teams, beware of albany
February 20th, 2010 at 11:59 pm
LakeTahoeGuy,
it was indeed very close but it didn’t go in. It was saved by a Cal defender.
And Sweeper yes I heard that as well, he plays club with a couple of those guys. The kid will do whatever it takes for the team to win. He is for sure the smallest player on the Cal team. Hats off to him as well as the entire team. Granada great year for them a little disappointing.
On a quick note, Thomas and his throw ins are insane. The cal defender clearing off for a corner I think was a right choice.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:00 am
TLG #420,
I need more color on your question. There were two well placed “side of the net” shots by Granada in the last 20 minutes, but no “over the goal line” shot controversies that I saw. As far as game changing saves by the Cal keeper, he had at least 3 effective punch-outs in the 2nd half.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:06 am
I think it’s due time that all the critics who doubted Campolindo acknowledge and respect the fact that Campo is a legitimate team. All I’ve heard from reading these blogs about Campo is how lucky they’ve been throughout this season. Campo has had to overcome a lot of adversity this season, from injuries, to inexperience, a terrible start to the season, and competing in DFAL, the toughest league in the East Bay. Despite all of these odds against Campo, they were able to win when it mattered. Winning 9 of the last 12 games in the regular season to qualify for NCS is not a fluke. Neither is beating Las Lomas squarely, nor losing to the top team in the Bay Area in Bishop O’Dowd in the quarterfinals because of a penalty kick. All of this, despite the fact that there were only two starting seniors for the majority of the regular season. My point: It’s time the critics recognize and respect the abilities of Campolindo.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:07 am
Ebal Fan, Thanks.
Sweeper,I think Ebal Fan answered the question. I had heard that even the CAL coach thought it was in, from his post game comments. He apparently also coached his players to send the ball over the end line, rather than risk a “signature” throw in. Props to CAL and their Coach. Good luck to all EBAL teams.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:09 am
#419, John and Linda,
If memory serves me, this was Albany’s 4th goal with more than 20 minutes to go. The play unfolded such that a waist-high cross ten yards out from the left was directed slightly away from the goal and passed perfectly to the striker’s sweet spot, and he executed a clean score from 16 out. The defenders and keeper had no chance. It was a beautiful goal.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:12 am
Campolindo is a good team. i acknowledge that. but now theyre out. and ncs goes on. both semi games r going to be nail biters. good luck to all.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:13 am
Re: Amador Keeper…not to worry, he will soon be back on the field helping “Mustang” win another State Cup, along with several other EBAL and other great East Bay soccer players.
Matt, perhaps when NCS is all said and done, you could mention all of the players that are on the East Bay club teams, and keep everyone updated on the Juventus tournament in early March, and the State Cup tournament.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:14 am
Albany also had there main player hurt the first 5 minutes 10 was hurt ive seen alot of Albany games and its with the three up to 10 20 and 9 there so goood..
The semis are the top 4 seeded for D2 how better can this get
Matt Albany plays at Pinole at 7.
I Also went to the Berkeley Richmond game what a great game it sucked that they have to reschedule.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:15 am
can you dig it- are you high? Do you know anything about soccer?? You need to be watching the olympics! 18 shots on goal??? I don’t even think Dublin crossed the half field 18 times!!! Is kicking the ball out for a throw in a shot?? That’s the only way Dublin could of had 18 shots. Maybe you guys playing kick ball is considered a shot… YV was dribbling the ball around all your players… Do you remember Gustavo Lopez who’s 5’5 doing rainbows over #10 who’s at least 6’2?? condor- you are ridiculous! The best team won tonight?? YV didn’t win so i’m sure the best team didn’t win. All of our freshmens were even walking around your players! By the way we start 5 freshmen!!! I feel sorry for teams that have to play them next year. By the way Jose Romero wasn’t playing at the game tonight due to an injury!! Which would of done more rainbows over your defenders! By the way we only lose 2 players next year. I would want your coach to come and leave a comment here saying that they had 18 shots or that they were the better team! We also had one of your parents come up to us after the game and say that we were the best team he has seen all season. So maybe you should give the best team some credit!! (YV)
February 21st, 2010 at 12:17 am
Anonymous,
Campo certainly deserves the kudos you present: the first round NCS win at Los Lomas, and then losing on an awarded PK to O’Dowd. Either O’Dowd is a questionable #1 team, or Campo is the real deal. I opt for the latter.
February 21st, 2010 at 1:17 am
Congratulations to all round-of-8 teams. You are all champions!!!
February 21st, 2010 at 6:59 am
I’m assuming that Berkeley knew their lights were going to go dim at 9:00, right? Paper said they were on a timer that must be set to always go off at the same time. With that knowledge, shouldn’t NCS have allowed time adjustments to start the game earlier and avoid this scenario? Less than ideal for both teams to have to come back on Monday, go through an entire warm-up, and then “start” a game in the middle of OT!
Thoughts and prayers going out to Amador Valley students and parents, who lost a member of their school community on Friday afternoon. Let’s continue to commit to taking care of our young people
February 21st, 2010 at 8:49 am
As I stated in an earlier post O’Dowd dominated that game yesterday.The PK was legit and the keeper was lucky not to get red carded.He clearly took out the player with his elbow up and extended.That was not accidental.Oh,by the way, the second foul in the box a bit later was an absolute gift to the Campo side in that the PK was not awarded AGAIN. The game was not as close as the score indicated.
I give Campo credit for playing hard and to the whistle on every play and that is a real positive because effort triggers opportunities.
February 21st, 2010 at 10:48 am
What a game last night Granada vs Cal Matt you were right it was going to be a battle and it was. I give much respect for the Granada players going to the quarter finals and the success they had all season. Cals goalie saved them last night what a player I too give him and the team much luck next week. I’ll be routing for Cal as we play with 4 of the boys in league.
February 21st, 2010 at 10:59 am
Tack and condor- I disagree with your comments about YV.
YV was a much better team last night who dominated 60 minutes of the game. The skill that those kids had was incredible, it was the best soccer I have seen from a high school team.
All the parents on our side(Dublin) were shocked at how good YV was… We didn’t expect them to be that good.
Dublin dominated the first 10 minutes of the game and had a few chances. YV dominated the last 30 minutes of the first half and almost scored on about 3 opportunities. #17 from YV was an amazuing player!
There is no way we had 18 shots on goal. we had about 3 or 4 and YV had about 5 or 6.
YV deserves a lot of credit is a well coached team that will do great things! I’m glad we get to move on and thanks to the YV coach for helping one of our players while he was hurt. Great sportsmanship!!
February 21st, 2010 at 11:24 am
what happened to all those people saying berkeley was going to lose by 2 or 3 goals..theyre the ones doing the dominating from the start against richmond. they had easily 5 scoring chances in the 1st half and were up on the board first.richmond is a good team and it showed when they came out in the second half and started to dominate but the goal they scored was a bit contreversial..they are both great teams one controlled the 1st half clearly and the other controlled the 2nd eventhough berkeley kept it strong on defence well see what happens in the rest of OT
February 21st, 2010 at 11:37 am
Sweeper you pointed it out earlier with the success of the same schools. DLS and Carondelet in semis along with Cal’s men and women.
February 21st, 2010 at 11:44 am
And Acalanes’ men and women.
February 21st, 2010 at 11:49 am
I know many of you focus on teams east of the hills, but what a game between Berkeley and Richmond.
Berkeley had three break aways in the first half that resulted in one goal, but could have easily been at least two.
Richmond tied just before the half, and came out in the second as well Oiled(pun) speed machine pounding the back line and goalie over and over again, to no avail.
It is a shame that one will have to loose, because like many of you feel about Cal and Granada, Berkeley and Richmond could be a Semi or Final NCS Game.
Also it was good to meet Matt before the game on the sidelines.
WB
February 21st, 2010 at 11:56 am
Just a quick comment to everyone. It is not loose, it is lose. Loose is the opposite of tight. Lose is the opposite of win.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:11 pm
all the rules with lights and home field are terrible. apparently NCS will not allow teams to switch the game time due to lights. why couldn’t the berkeley richmond game have started earlier? all they needed was another half hour. and about the albany game being in pinole… they wouldn’t allow albany to host the game because they couldn’t start at 7 thanks to ec neighbors. by default if albany couldn’t find another field the game would have been at dublin because they have a field suitable for play at 7. however, if ygnacio valley had beat dublin, they would have played at albany at 5 becauce yv doesn’t have a suitable field… what is so different? a team who has a higher seed should get home field advantage. period. they earned the higher seeding, they should get home field regardless of their lights shutting off
February 21st, 2010 at 12:19 pm
Dear Anonymous
Thanks for catching my error, where were you 35 years ago when I was taking bonehead English at Cal.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:21 pm
By the way I should have ended that sentence with a question mark.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:24 pm
I have seen a couple posts on this and have noticed it when I saw De La Salle play. Their fans (fans as in student fans, not parents) either get a roster of the other team or get the players on De La Salle to tell them the names of players on the other team. They then heckle them, calling them out by name. I have not seen any other EBAL team’s fans heckle, and De La Salle does it by calling players out by name. I find this very odd seeing that DLS parents and fans pride themselves on their morals and how classy they are. In my mind, they are the most unclassy fans I have seen at a high school soccer game.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:36 pm
Well said Footy Fan.
February 21st, 2010 at 12:49 pm
as a few have commented, Cal GK was in the zone last night. 12 saves including 5 punchouts of Thomas’ laser throws.
Kudos to Cals’ defenders. Granada came at them hard and strong but they stood up to the challenge. Strategy to minimize throw-ins worked ok although Thomas still had too many opportunities (one is too many for that guy!).
Note to teams remaining in competition… make sure your underwear matches your uniforms
Refs are VERY strict at this stage. Game was delayed for bench infractions, wardrobe problems and other misc nonsense which obviously has something to do with the purity of the game.
February 21st, 2010 at 1:30 pm
Sweeper, regarding your request for webcam coverage of Monday’s game and breaking ground, it is possible and has been done recently. They broadcast via a webcam the NCS baseball finals last year from the Oakland Coliseum when Freedon topped DLS. I caught the last couple of innings. Of course, they had a pretty nice setup in the pressbox at the coliseum and it may be more difficult on the sideline of a HS field, but hopefully they’ll come up ith something.
February 21st, 2010 at 2:31 pm
What was the controversy with the berkley goal?
February 21st, 2010 at 3:07 pm
In the 40th minute Richmond took a shot from 25 yards. The ball barely snuck in. A decision was made to award the goal based on the fact that the entire ball was in the goal before being retrieved by the GK. Calls like this are almost always contentious but awarding the goal was the correct call.
February 21st, 2010 at 3:26 pm
There was no controversy on the Berkeley goal. The controversy centered on the Richmond goal. In the 40th minute Richmond shot from 25 yards and the shot barely snuck in before the GK retrieved the ball. The goal was awarded. Calls like this are always a bit contentious but they made the correct call. To not award the goal would have been a travesty.
February 21st, 2010 at 5:36 pm
Can you dig it- Dublin had 18 shots on goal? Do you know anything about soccer?? I saw the newspaper today and saw that the Dublin coach gave the goalie from YV 12 saves.. That coach must be crazy. The first goalie for YV didn’t make one save at all! The 2nd goalie made 1 save after the defender tried to head the ball back to him. If you take 18 shots on goal at YV’s backup keeper you would of had 18 goals. The keeper was horrible. You guys need to give a young YV team credit for dominating the game. You guys weren’t expecting them to dominate you the way they did. BTW YV has 5 freshmen starting including the goalie who got hurt. Is Hoster the best player DFAL has? Cause he sure didn’t show much in this game. Lopez is easily 3 times better. The only thing Hoster has over Lopez is size. Other then that Lopez is faster,great skill,touch, and its smarter. Jose Romero didn’t play due to an injury. He is YV’s leading scorer. Way different game with him on the field.
February 21st, 2010 at 6:52 pm
Did Lopez score? I don’t think so. If you’ve seen Hoster play through out the year then you would know he plays some amazing soccer. The difference between YV and Dublin was that one scores when its needed. And if you were at the game, you would know that Dublin possessed ball much more in the second half. All I’m saying is that its sad when someone has to be a sore loser.
February 21st, 2010 at 7:08 pm
We played yv and there only good player was Romero. i was not at the YV Dublin game but if i was to guess, YV probably got dominated because Romero was out with an injury. Lopez was not even the best player in DVAL. In big games, he did not perform.
February 21st, 2010 at 7:44 pm
Just to let you guys know, I am going to wait until after the conclusion of the game in Berkeley to put up the new rankings, standings, stats, etc…
I’m also looking into some type of live chat from Berkeley. A wireless connection is the problem right now.
February 21st, 2010 at 8:36 pm
matt will you be at the berkeley v. richmond part 2??
February 21st, 2010 at 8:36 pm
Matt – Tell CC Times that I still get the paper delivered even though I’m only reading the web. They can buy you an air card. Tell them it’s an invention that came out about 7-10 years ago. I’ll bet it will help you cover more sports and have to work on vacation though. It did for me anyway. I was also doing work using their lap top and air card while watching my kids games on the weekends.
I guess that isn’t a great endorsement. I guess you shouldn’t get an air card for those reasons only.
February 21st, 2010 at 8:39 pm
Haha, thanks Bambam, that was ringing endorsement! Lol.
An air card would be good. I do indeed wish they’d give me one. I hope I can figure something out, because as of right now I am scheduled to start live blogging from Berkeley at 5:30.
February 21st, 2010 at 8:42 pm
Matt – My wish list would be for you to broadcast
the shooters # and what direction they were shooting during each pk shot. Lol
February 21st, 2010 at 8:43 pm
Lol, I’m far too ugly and my voice is too obnoxious to be broadcasting.
February 21st, 2010 at 8:46 pm
What game will you cover on Wednesday Matt?
February 21st, 2010 at 8:50 pm
Trying to decide between De La Salle or Cal at SRV. It will most likely be Division I. I will cover both games on Saturday, that’s without a doubt.
February 21st, 2010 at 9:00 pm
Matt –
Isn’t DLS at 5:00 pm. and SRV at 7:00 pm. I could be wrong as I haven’t checked yet. I know Corondelet is playing SRV after the DLS game.
February 21st, 2010 at 9:04 pm
They actually have the boys scheduled at 7:00 on the NCS site. If that changes to 5:00, then I could make a second game.
February 21st, 2010 at 9:12 pm
I will indeed Striker. I’m hoping to get a live blog going starting at 5:30 and going through the end of the game.
February 21st, 2010 at 9:14 pm
Matt you’re right! Thye have been playing DLS at 5 pm and Corondelet at 7 pm. They switched up on me.
February 21st, 2010 at 9:50 pm
what do people think of the dublin v albany game? who is going to win and why? can bishop handle one of these two teams?
February 21st, 2010 at 10:04 pm
I go for Albany !!!! 3-1
February 21st, 2010 at 10:14 pm
Yes the Pk for Odowd was legit. and yes the goalie is definitely lucky to not have gotten a red card. But im talkin about the plays thats the ref didn’t call right. Don’t get me wrong. That game was very much dominated by Bishop Odowd. But is Campo really suppose to play a much bigger and aggressive team without the ref callin both sides evenly? Bishop Odowd had 9 free kicks from fouls. Campo had 3. Campo fought back size and they get called. How many ARs do you see disagreeing with the main ref? i always see them sticking to them. BOTH the ARs were absolutely suprised about some of the calls. One of them even looked at the audience and said “whoa, whoa, whoa what was that?”
February 21st, 2010 at 10:17 pm
Dublin 1-0. Defense will step up.
February 21st, 2010 at 10:20 pm
Hey DfAL was the center ref bald with grey hair?
February 21st, 2010 at 10:28 pm
i saw albany dublin goes 2-2 and then into pks. dublin wins on pks
February 21st, 2010 at 10:28 pm
i call albany dublin goes 2-2 and then into pks. dublin wins on pks
February 21st, 2010 at 10:50 pm
Albany 3-0 Dublin
Albany’s explosive offense and solid defense wont pose much of a problem. Albany and O’dowd final!
February 21st, 2010 at 10:50 pm
Dublin will be overwealmed with Albany’s speed. There are too many speedsters to contend with. No PKs will be needed.
February 21st, 2010 at 10:57 pm
What are people’s thoughts on the other games? DLS vs. Richmond/Berkeley, SRV vs. Cal and Bishop O’Dowd vs. Acalanes?
February 21st, 2010 at 11:08 pm
Are there 3rd place games in ncs?
February 21st, 2010 at 11:08 pm
haha bald with grey hair? he had grey hair and was tall. about 6 foot.
February 21st, 2010 at 11:10 pm
i think acalanes will win 1-0 like the usually do. Their defense is one of the best i seen. Plus im anticipating Albany vs Acalanes. Defense vs offense.
February 21st, 2010 at 11:13 pm
Dublin played a much tougher schedule that Albany. Also I have seen Dublin and their size and speed is also very good. Dublin will preveil. 2-0
February 21st, 2010 at 11:16 pm
I’ve also heard that O’Dowd is big and speedy; they could only muster a tie with Albany.
February 21st, 2010 at 11:17 pm
People don’t seem to know that albanys defense is equally as strong as the offense. It’s just that the attackers always have the ball so the defense rarely gets tested. I saw their game on sat. 22 is a defensive monster. 23 starts their offense from the back with great passes. And their outside backs make great runs
February 21st, 2010 at 11:20 pm
Again there not playing in DFAL. It is the toughest D2 league in the East Bay.
February 21st, 2010 at 11:25 pm
Well maybe the powers that be have over-estimated O’Dowd .. but we will see. We will see.
Albany is only a little town. We will see.
February 21st, 2010 at 11:26 pm
Chino and Can you Dig it. I watched the YV and Dublin match. Not a fan of either team but
I read your exchange and want to point out some differences between Hoster and Lopez.
1. You are correct Hoster id bigger.
2. Hoster can run with anyone. Lopez is fast but so is Hoster with size.
3. In the biggest game of the season, Hoster scored, and played defense. Lopez Didn’t. On Hoster’s goal Lopez was walking back on defense
4. Hoster won and Lopez didn’t.
5. Hoster plays on Wednesday and Lopez doesn’t.
When all is said and done, when all opinions are voiced. Lopez was not MVP caliber enough to lift his team to victory. Hoster did. For my money I would take Hoster on our Dougherty Valley team ANYDAY over Lopez
February 21st, 2010 at 11:30 pm
If its the ref that I’m thinking of then he is one of the worst refs ever that guy should be fired!
February 21st, 2010 at 11:34 pm
Albany played weak teams but they’re good. Trust me. Yeah it’s a little town but boy do they have talent. Just watch Albany beat dublin. If 10 gets healthy I don’t even see d1 teams beating them. If 10 plays Dublin has no chance
February 22nd, 2010 at 12:29 am
Prep Fan #448,
Thanks for the info regarding the prior WEBcast. Hopefully, the Bay Area News Group can come up with a solution. Viewing would be off the charts.
Funny you mentioned the 2009 NCS baseball championship. That day, I saw the 3A softball championship at Freedom, the 2A softball championship in Marin, and the 3A baseball championship at the Coliseum: top down on the cabriolet, pedal to the metal and great competition. My postings back then were under “Fastpitch Fan.”
February 22nd, 2010 at 2:46 pm
Tonight’s live blog from Berkeley is up in the air. I am doing everything I can to secure an internet connection. If it happens, I’ll be running around 5:30-6:00.
February 22nd, 2010 at 2:47 pm
472 and 487: Aren’t all the referees in NCS either bald or gray?
February 22nd, 2010 at 3:08 pm
Albany is a great team, it’s not only about # 10, he is no doubt an excellent player, but hasn’t been playing much and the team has gone undefeated. Have to give credit to the strikers 20 and 9 that know how to score a goal ! and the defense–great defense !!! overall it’s a good team. They played weak teams? well, you have Richmond – Fremont that played at least 2, 1 Div teams and beat them but Albany went 4-0 with Richmond, so I think they are well capable to beat a 1 Div team, or lets say a none weak team. Albany Coach you have done a great job with those kids!!
February 22nd, 2010 at 3:22 pm
Predictions:
I will wait on the Richmond vs. Berkeley to predict the DLS game.
SRV 3 CAL 2
BOD 0 ACA 1
AlB 2 DUB 1
February 22nd, 2010 at 3:23 pm
What games are you soccer fans going to on Wednesday? Any game previews other than predictions?
February 22nd, 2010 at 3:38 pm
do you guys know if pinole has grass or a turf field?
February 22nd, 2010 at 3:44 pm
I’ll be at a DII game. Haven’t decide between the Albany/Dublin game or O’Dowd/Acalanes game. Both will be amazing games
February 22nd, 2010 at 3:44 pm
Tony MANERO- Hoster scored his goal with 2 minutes left when all of the YV defence was pushing up to try and tie the game. Lopez is a play maker he created a lot of opportunities for YV to put a goal in. His a lot faster then Hoster. If you were actually watching the game you saw him do circles around all the midfielders specially #10.
You even see the comments from on of the Dublin’s parents saying that Lopez is an amazing player! He had close to 20 assists this year ad 15 goals.
True soccer fan- What player is better then Lopez in DVAL? No one is even close to him. Romero is a great player but Lopez was the one who created all of the goals for him to score.
February 22nd, 2010 at 4:05 pm
Soccer Man – Pinole Valley field. It looks like a turf field from an aerial view I have seen on the internet.
February 22nd, 2010 at 4:23 pm
#495, Pinole has a turf field. Check it out on Google Maps. It looks to be a wide field based on the soccer touch lines compared to the football sidelines.
February 22nd, 2010 at 5:29 pm
The live blog at Berkeley is a go. I am connected. Join in as I bring you the action from the rest of the game.
February 22nd, 2010 at 5:38 pm
Matt
is it working? I can’t get it to come up
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:02 pm
It’s not going to work. Sorry gang. It worked for a minute just to tease me.
I’ll do my best to update here.
The match starts with 2:47 left in the first OT and Richmond has a corner kick.
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:05 pm
when is the match start time?
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:07 pm
Matt
I guess that it never got up and running. Must of had technical problems.
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:11 pm
Halfway through second OT.
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:17 pm
Matt,
Is either team taking risks to avoid PKs? Or are they playing conservatively?
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:17 pm
Heading to PK’s. Both teams threatned in front of the net with throw-ins but got nothing across.
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:19 pm
Both teams were very aggressive.
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:21 pm
First two PK’s good.
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:25 pm
were waiting
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:27 pm
4-4.
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:30 pm
Round two of PK’s.
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:32 pm
Berkeley wins 7-6.
February 22nd, 2010 at 6:34 pm
I hate PKs…Congrats to the Yellowjackets.
February 22nd, 2010 at 7:16 pm
Just got back from the game, Berkeley was first in PK’s, had seven straight, with Richmond shooting wide left on last shot. Berkeley had fourth blocked, but goalie moved over the line and shot was good the second time.
Have not seen DLS play this year so I cannot say how we match up. You can asked the San Ramon Guys, because we matched up very well with them.
See you all there Wednesday night.
Berkeley’s Waterboy
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:08 pm
Chino. u are the most arrogant person i have ever seen. we all know u are number 17 so u can give that up. you lost. ur a great player. but u lost. stop getting on dublin (who beat u) and leave with any pride u might still have left. give credit to the teams that beat u because by putting them down, all it does is show how weak the team that beat u is, which in the end makes ur team seem weaker. better luck next year.
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:13 pm
Lol i wish I was number 17. His a better player then what I was when I was in high school. He will get MVP just watch.
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:14 pm
and ygnacio valley had 3 center midfielders to dublins 2. what u call getting run circles around, is actually delaying, or showing the player one way or another. so he might have ran past their midfielders, but i guarentee u that player was showing him to that direction for their backs to tackle the ball. but from what u have stated about the game so far, its obvious that u know very little about soccer and cant even comprehend what i just said.
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:21 pm
Richmond vs. Berkeley sounds like a very exciting finish, despite the two day delay.
Matt, is a new set of rankings coming out tonight?
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:21 pm
DE LA SALLE VS. BERKELEY
CALIFORNIA VS. SAN RAMON
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:28 pm
I think Dublin was the better team because,well, they won!
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:35 pm
predictions are berkeley 2-1 de la salle
california 1-0 san ramon
February 22nd, 2010 at 9:00 pm
I agree with soccerislife you cant keep making excuses for the loss. So what if you think Lopez is better he still didn’t make a difference during the game because nobody on YV scored. Also I don’t know if you remember but the first goal was scored of a direct free kick so even if Hoster didnt score then Dublin still would have won. Oh chino Hoster scored with 15min left in the game not 2 because he then dropped back to play defense for the rest of the time and I’m pretty sure Lopez doesn’t do that.
February 22nd, 2010 at 9:26 pm
Just saw the most amazing and nerve wrecking penalty shoot out in the world. I really cant beleive richmond missed that penalty. Berkeley deserved that win and honeslty my predictions Berkeley 1-0 De la salle. If I was richmond i would move leagues because this lost must of been emberassing i recomend Richmond to go to the Encinal and albany league lets see if they finally start winning some matches.
February 22nd, 2010 at 9:29 pm
Chino. The best player in the Dval can be a handful from CV. Anyone of there forwards. Josh Gomez which lead the whole east bay in assists. Nick Sharapata which is one of the best D mids in the area. There two center backs which were amazing the whole year. there Gk (dale nelson) which had like 12 shutouts on the year. Or the Gk from CP who is also really good. and one of there forwards. not sure of his name. Also Romero from YV is better then lopez. all of those players are better.
February 22nd, 2010 at 9:32 pm
WOW! that describes the word of the day. Berkeley vs RIchmond a game that would make history. Let me start off by saying Berkeley’s defense well played by Ryan the
” White” Tower, and Oscar ” DA MONSTAR” Padilla # 5. Also the best goalie there yet in NCS Elder Alegria. He played the best game of his life thus far. I Personally do not think that was a goal they scored, but yet again you had to be there to see it. Anyways this game coming up is going to be tough but if Berkeley plays possesion more and just Jesus and Josh taking those shots ” NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE” my prediction Berkeley 2-0 winning the game.
February 22nd, 2010 at 10:44 pm
My comment is in response to #524. Your comments are unsportsmanlike and completely ridiculous. Richmond is an outstanding team. They lost 2 games this season; De La Salle 1-0 and to Berkeley tonight on PKs. Although I love the Berkeley team, Richmond outplayed Berkeley in the 2nd half and in the OT. Frankly speaking, settling a beautiful game in a championship tournament by PKs is unfair. Let the teams keep playing until someone scores.
Berkeley Fan – Learn some humility.
February 22nd, 2010 at 10:50 pm
ALB ALL THE WAY. nothing stopping them. Not NCS rules, the athletic director, or the EC neighbors. They win wherever whenever. 7 PM “home game” at Pinole. Be there
February 22nd, 2010 at 10:54 pm
SHOw them red and white prideee lets go cougars
AL whatt ALB
gooo crazyy Albany do this G thang cuzz
come watch exciting game ALB vs DUB at PINOLe Valley High at 7
February 22nd, 2010 at 10:58 pm
I will have the new rankings as well as semi-final previews up tomorrow.
February 22nd, 2010 at 11:32 pm
Wow, I thought the Granada fans were arrogant. Berkeley takes the cake. Good luck in Concord on Wednesday, and the crow will be on the BBQ while it pours. You need to win the whole deal before crowing like sophomores. I can easily see, the defending NCS champs DLS 2, Crow-eaters 0. FACT: DLS actually scored a clean goal against Richmond on the Oilers’ field. The B-YJ’s couldn’t score on their home field. Bring your slickers and water-skis for the south-east end of the pitch.
This one is for Bambam and the DLS crew…LOL!
February 23rd, 2010 at 12:03 am
If you were down here sweeper not only would you be intimidated by our fans you would be doing the number 2 in your windbreakers by our amazing goal scored by Jesus #20. Everyone would agree with me by saying Berkeley could of easily won that game 1-0. The goal that richmond score did not go in, but as the yellow jackets always show their great sense of character they did not argue they still continued to play and ended up victorious. Just a word from the wise DLS get a pen and a paper and all the guys hands becuase i know theres no girls lol and take notes on how to be a WINNER.
February 23rd, 2010 at 1:11 am
haha soccer fans intimidating? you guys have a firm or something? get over yourself. i’m glad your team has great character because you have none.
February 23rd, 2010 at 1:51 am
I just want to say thanks ” The Sweeper” for that good compliment, and we will try to defend our tittle against Berkeley who are not that good. I have some good news for those people out there. First good news we are playing Berkeley. 2nd I am glad we are not playing RIchmond, I Could not bare to here their rocus of what they call “Chant”. With their coach wearing his everyday beanie.
February 23rd, 2010 at 5:26 am
Sweeper – 530 & 531 reminds of the days when I was playing on the outside basketball courts or just watching the movie “White Men Can’t Jump” You know where your opponent has to talk trash to make themselves believe that they better than you or intimdate you out of your game.
Berk Alum – Calling DLS gay leads me to believe that your not an Alumni, because you would of had to graduate to be considered and Alumni. Respect your opponent prior to playing them, especially when they have 7 stars on their jackets that represent 7 NCS titles.
I’m sure it will be a good game vs Berkeley. One thing is for sure win or lose, The Spartans will respect their opponent and play very hard on the pitch Wed night.
Good luck and congrats to the remaining 4 teams in the NCS semi’s.
February 23rd, 2010 at 5:48 am
Still interested in hearing some feedback from you guys regarding Berkeley vs DLS.
Did not get to see DLS play this year.
Anyone from SRV, you played us both?
February 23rd, 2010 at 5:48 am
Ahhh, nothing like a little homophobia to show a person’s “true colors”…….
On to more important topics – as far as I’m concerned, Rene Siles from Richmond should win Coach of the Year every single year. He’s done amazing things with his student-athletes and for the Richmond community in general. What amazing dignity and integrity this man has – congrats Coach Siles on a wonderful 10 year run at Richmond.
February 23rd, 2010 at 5:59 am
Some semi-final thoughts…
If DLS plays like they did for the first 25 minutes against Amador, I’m not sure there’s anybody who can keep up with them. Their consistency has been the Achilles heel all year, though – can they sustain that level of intensity for a full 80 minutes?
San Ramon and Cal will ultimately be decided in the midfield – who can transition the best to create scoring opportunities for their team and help back on defense? I give slight edge to San Ramon for their depth and the home-field advantage.
DLS vs. San Ramon (deja vu?) for the championship on Saturday…..
February 23rd, 2010 at 8:11 am
I got rid of the comment that was previously #531. Let’s not use homophobic terms, shall we?
February 23rd, 2010 at 8:11 am
Manatee,
Well said about Rene Siles. Richmond will miss him. I’ll miss him too. What a great guy.
February 23rd, 2010 at 8:15 am
pssst….
anyone else check out the final four of D1 guys and Girls Soccer?
3 EBAL Guys teams, 3 EBAL Girls teams
must be something in the water
February 23rd, 2010 at 8:16 am
on a serious note
Rene Siles will be greatly missed.
I’m not sure why he is leaving, but if so, it is a sad day for Richmond and East Bay Soccer.
The way the Richmond team has represented their community has been a great reflection on themselves and their coach. We can only hope that someone close to the quality of Coach Siles will step in to that role.
Richmond soccer has been a beacon of light and hope in a community that has sorely needed both.
Congratulations Rene and Thank You for a job well done.
February 23rd, 2010 at 8:42 am
Matt – Thanks for getting rid of that posting. I was in attendance last night, what an emotional game for both schools. Sat on the Berkeley side and was forced to move seats as there was a section of students using foul language and calling out the Richmond players by name. Thought I’d mention that since all the focus in those terms seems to be placed on the DLS fans on this blog.
Wasn’t too impressed with Berkeley’s offense during the OT’s but they got the job done in the pk’s, came thru in the clutch. We’ll see if they can bring that same mentality to Treat blvd..
Predictions:
SRV 3 – Cal 1
DLS 2 – Berkeley 1
100
February 23rd, 2010 at 9:14 am
Predictions
San Ramon 2 – Cal 1
(Keeper play WILL be the difference in this match, so almost a toss up)
Spartans 2- Berkeley 2, to be decided in PK’s
(many cards will be thrown in this physical contest, possible some Reds which, if thrown, will have a bearing on this match AND the NCS Finals)
February 23rd, 2010 at 9:40 am
Semi-Final Predictions:
So, in my opinion DLS isn’t as good as everyone thinks. I saw them play Amador, who should’ve never been in that game because they got completely dominated and were the beneficiary of a horrible pk call that completely changed their 1st round game. Again Castro Valley should’ve beat them 4-0 but were just slightly off finishing that night. They were the much superior team. Moving on…sure DLS beat AV 3-1, but the first 2 goals were gifts/mistakes by AV’s keeper/defense in the first 10 minutes. Their 3rd goal was very nice however. I’m not sure if after the 3 quick goals DLS went into cruise control, or if this is how they normally play…but I wasn’t all that impressed. The 2nd half failed to produce chances from either side.
Berkeley 2 DLS 1
San Ramon 2 Cal 1
**If Cals D and Keeper have a great game then they could maybe sneak out of this one 1-0 Cal (I too think this will be very close)
February 23rd, 2010 at 9:48 am
Berkeley Alum Captain 17 does not speak for Berkeley. Please don’t judge the team or its fans by one person. I request that he lose the right to post further comments because he is doing more harm to the community than good.
Good luck to all the teams in the semi’s.
February 23rd, 2010 at 9:52 am
SRV vs CAL
If it is anything like their first match up then Rivas will be key. The cards were flying and Rivas was
a marked man in that match.
SRV needs to be careful and so does Rivas as the CR might pull Red this time.
Going to be a great match.
I won’t predict the DLS vs Berk but
SRV vs Cal 2-2 pk’s CAL wins due to Rawls blocking two
February 23rd, 2010 at 11:43 am
bambam – What about the first match was contentious? Cards flying? What are the key matchups?
February 23rd, 2010 at 12:35 pm
Let us not forget that these 4 games on Wednesday will be physical. The center refs will dictate how much these boys can physically play. Don’t be surprised if at least one or two games will be affected negatively by them.
February 23rd, 2010 at 1:02 pm
2cents…that’s DLS soccer for you. they capitalize on mistakes. in their game against richmond, the oilers controlled most of the game, but it only took one thing for DLS to capitalize and score. they play good, tough defense. the jackets will have to play a near flawless game to beat them. could they do it yes, but again they have to play a perfect game. and yes DLS went into cruise control after getting up 3 goals on AV.
sportsfan- i didn’t think that he would speak for the entire jacket family as i know they have a proud athletic tradition in berkeley.
February 23rd, 2010 at 1:09 pm
2cents, you’re account of the DLS/AV game is superb, which is why I want to let you know that the pain of losing in the first round eventually wears off. I speak from experience, having watched AV, a top 4 seed last year, lose to Newark in the very first game. It does and will get better. Trust me. Then you will be able to genuinely reflect on the AV/CV outcome and realize what actaully transpired in that game. It was a beautiful shift in momentum starting at the end of the first half. Why? Who knows. Maybe surviving the first 30 minutes of play, which CV totally dominated. But that’s when it started and AV maintained it throughout the entire 2nd half. The pk helped, but the shift was already in full force. But that’s history now. On to DLS.
They have a team that is perhaps the most difficult to defeat at home. Small field + highly organized play + technically solid players = a long night for the opposition. On a larger field however they are vulnerable. For example, in the past five games between these two, AV has given up three goals in each of its three loses at DLS, but has not surrendered a goal to DLS in two ties at the Fabled Pitch. Cal tied them recently 1-1, and GHS beat them 1-0, or was it SRV? The point being that the advantage dissappears when they play away from home. But they are the team to beat even if the game was played on asphalt. They’re simply too strong top to bottom. And fun to watch even from the other side of the field.
February 23rd, 2010 at 1:28 pm
I also want to nominate Rene Siles as the coach of the year. His accomplishments at Richmond high are numerous, his student-athlete program has raised the bar for the students of the working class community of Richmond. His dedication to each kid in his soccer program throughout the year and not just during the HS season in unmatched. The College Is Real (CIR) program is another great achievement for the unprivileged students at RHS during his tenure. His calm and cool personality, passion and love for the game, students and the community has created a class of his own. He should be recognized for his accomplishments at Richmond and as a role model for other coaches. Richmond high and HS soccer community will miss him greatly.
February 23rd, 2010 at 2:12 pm
Anon
First match up was to stop Rivas and knock him off the ball every time he got near it. It became very physical and at the end Rivas received a Yellow card most likely out of frustration. No reds were given but I believe at least 4 yeallows that game. SRV won that game and in my opinion is the more physical team. Cal vs SRV is a toss up and it wouldn’t suprise if this is settled in similar fashion to Berk vs Rich game. The key match up is Ritter vs Rawls in the shoot out scenario.
February 23rd, 2010 at 2:37 pm
Bam
In the event of a Ritter vs. Rawls shoot out, who do you give the edge to?
February 23rd, 2010 at 7:02 pm
Out of Pocket,
Thanks for your kind words, but Believe me that is an accurate/genuine reflection of what transpired in that game. To suggest anything different is laughable at best. I stand by my statements. AV did NOTHING until that horrible PK was called.
February 23rd, 2010 at 9:58 pm
2cents,
You say AV did nothing until that PK was called. Last time I checked a HS match is 80 minutes. I will agree with you that CV dominated the 1st half against AV. 2nd Half was a different game that saw AV turn up the offensive heat and continued to play great defense. The 2nd AV goal was beautiful. 1st the AV keeper punted the ball deep into CV territory where the CV defender header out of bounds around the 15 yd line. Then #11 for AV threw in a long throw in which was headed in for a goal by #5.
Like Out of Pocket said…you will get over it with time. Enjoy the semi finals with the rest of us on the sideline. It will be a couple great games.
February 24th, 2010 at 2:47 am
Out of Pocket,
It was Granada that beat DLS @ GHS, 1-0.
February 24th, 2010 at 7:35 am
I’m very impressed of what CAL had accomplished this year. From only 1-10 in EBAL last year to 15-3 overall this. Now that’s an improvement beyond compare. I think their success is much from their coach, CHRIS FAIDLEY. It is obvious that coach Chris Faidley know his players and cultivated each and every talent that they have to orchestrate win in every game. For that, I nominate coach Chris Faidley for COACH OF THE YEAR.
February 24th, 2010 at 12:46 pm
What a horrible thing to say, Evelio.
And I don’t normally say things like this, but you should really use spell check.
Your comment is being deleted. No racist stuff will be tolerated.
February 24th, 2010 at 9:33 pm
O’Dowd won 2-1. awful officiating!
February 25th, 2010 at 9:56 am
Chino – Did you happen to notice that Dublin defeated Albany? How did YV do against them? Did you happen to hear how Hoster dominated the Albany defense? He put two in the net, got a yellow card for physical play, played defense for 22 minutes, and oh by the way scored a PK when Albany’s team couldn’t. Another example of a true MVP picking up his team and carrying them to the finish line. When any YV player can do that then you will have an MVP argument. Fancy touches and moves do not determine MVP’s. Stats, Leadership, Wins, and performance in CRUCIAL games do.
Congratulations to Dublin Boys on a great game.
May 4th, 2010 at 9:06 pm
Our soccer team was terrible this year. I knew we wouldn’t have made it into the Playoffs this year.
January 5th, 2012 at 8:44 pm
Ken Villegas needs to leave Amador for the team to be successful……there is NO respect there!!!! Clue in