- East Bay Prep Corner
East Bay Boys Soccer Notes: Dougherty Valley, Rankings, Standings, Stats
By Matt Smith
Sunday, January 2nd, 2011 at 8:54 pm in Boys soccer.
Rome was not built in a day, and neither was the Dougherty Valley High boys soccer program.
In it’s fourth year of existence, and after reaching the North Coast Section Division II playoffs last year, the Wildcats are looking to take it to the next level.
Last season, with its first ever senior class, the goal was to reach the post-season.
“At our end-of-season banquet in 2007 one of my sophomore captains gave a speech in front of the group and said it was his goal to win NCS his senior year and he knew the team could get there,” Dougherty Valley head coach Omar Cervantes said. “From that day forward, our team’s long-term goal was to make the NCS playoffs once we had our first senior class in 2009.”
That captain was right about the team making the playoffs, and now the goal is to compete for an NCS Division II championship. With Campolindo and San Lorenzo establishing themselves as the favorites at the moment, the rest of Division II is wide open with several teams who could knock off any other team on the right day.
Anything can happen in that single elimination format,” Cervantes said. “There’s a lot of parity in D II this year and there are several teams who have legitimate chances to win it all. Obviously Campo is the front-runner and rightfully so with San Lorenzo, but you look at the next six to eight teams and there could be some real good matches come playoff time.
“The boys know what they need to do to get back to NCS this year, and are hungry for a chance to make a run at the title. I think it’s realistic that any of the top ten teams in D II can make a run, so why not us?”
The Wildcats have shown the ability to compete with anybody, as evidenced by a 4-2 win over Division II powerhouse Bishop O’Dowd. They have played very tough in a pair of narrow losses to Campo and a close loss to traditional power Acalanes, but a draw with Miramonte and a loss to De Anza has shown that this is still learning how to handle expectations.
“Our players want to be successful and they want to win,” Cervantes said. “The pressure is coming from ourselves because we know what we are capable doing on the pitch, we just haven’t been in a position before where we’re expected to win. The team knows what’s at stake and that’s why we play the game. We’ve gone through some frustrating times this year as well as some great ones, but we are trying to focus on staying even keeled throughout our matches as we can often get too high or too low with and tend to lose focus at times which has cost us some matches.
“Prior to the start of this season we had a lot of self-induced pressure because we felt we were a contender for DFAL and NCS. We still feel that way, but we’ve put ourselves in a small hole prior to the winter break and mentally have had to overcome the loss of several players.”
Dougherty Valley has been dealing with injuries to last year’s Diablo Foothill Athletic League’s co-offensive MVP, Matheus Menezes, as well as center midfielder Steven Scholl. Another center mid from last year’s squad, Connor O’Neill, moved to San Diego.
Rankings
So I didn’t punish Newark for the loss to AV, instead rewarding the Dons by moving them from completely out, to the very edge of the top 15. Not any other changes besides Newark and Berkeley shifting up a spot and SRV settling just below them.
1. California (10-0-0)
2. Campolindo (11-0-1)
3. San Lorenzo (8-0-1)
4. Berkeley (6-1-2)
5. Newark Memorial (10-3-0)
6. San Ramon Valley (7-2-1)
7. Clayton Valley (4-1-3)
8. Deer Valley (6-2-3)
9. De La Salle (7-3-0)
10. Livermore (6-3-2)
11. Bishop O’Dowd (7-2-1)
12. Monte Vista (6-2-1)
13. Acalanes (5-2-2)
14. Richmond (5-3-1)
15. Dublin (6-3-1)
Others considered: Amador Valley (5-6-1), Las Lomas (6-4-0), Pittsburg (4-3-2), Ygnacio Valley (5-1-0), Dougherty Valley (4-4-2), Heritage (1-2-4), Logan (5-4-2), Mission San Jose (5-4-2), Piedmont (6-1-1), St. Mary’s (4-1-0).
Standings
ACCAL
Team Overall League Points
Richmond (5-3-1) 1-0-1 4
Pinole Valley (5-4-2) 1-0-0 3
Berkeley (6-1-2) 1-0-0 3
El Cerrito (0-4-3) 0-0-1 1
Alameda (1-8-1) 0-1-0 0
Hercules (0-5-0) 0-1-0 0
De Anza (2-7-0) 0-1-0 0
BSAL
Team Overall League Points
Piedmont (6-1-1) 6-0-0 18
St. Mary’s (4-1-0) 4-1-0 12
Encinal (2-3-0) 2-1-0 6
Kennedy (4-6-0) 2-2-0 6
St. Joseph Notre Dame (2-3-2) 2-2-0 6
St. Patrick-St. Vincent (1-2-0) 1-2-0 3
Albany (2-2-2) 0-1-0 0
Salesian (0-2-1) 0-2-0 0
Swett (0-7-0) 0-5-0
BVAL
Team Overall League Points
Antioch (0-6-3) 0-0-0 0
Deer Valley (6-2-3) 0-0-0 0
Freedom (2-5-1) 0-0-0 0
Heritage (1-2-4) 0-0-0 0
Liberty (3-4-0) 0-0-0 0
Pittsburg (4-3-2) 0-0-0 0
DFAL
Team Overall League Points
Campolindo (11-0-1) 4-0-0 12
Acalanes (5-2-2) 2-1-1 7
Alhambra (7-4-1) 2-1-0 6
Dublin (6-3-2) 1-2-0 3
Las Lomas (6-4-0) 1-2-0 3
Miramonte (1-5-3) 0-2-2 2
Dougherty Valley (4-4-2) 0-2-1 1
DVAL
Team Overall League Points
Concord (3-0-2) 1-0-1 4
College Park (1-6-4) 1-0-1 4
Clayton Valley (4-1-3) 1-0-0 3
Northgate (1-6-2) 1-0-0 3
Ygnacio Valley (5-1-0) 1-1-0 3
Mt. Diablo (2-2-0) 0-2-0 0
Berean Christian (1-8-1) 0-2-0 0
EBAL
Team Overall League Points
California (10-0-0) 2-0-0 6
San Ramon Valley (7-2-1) 2-0-0 6
Monte Vista (6-2-1) 2-0-0 6
Livermore (6-3-2) 1-1-0 3
Granada (1-7-4) 1-1-0 3
De La Salle (7-3-0) 0-2-0 0
Amador Valley (5-6-1) 0-2-0 0
Foothill (4-5-1) 0-2-0 0
HAAL
Team Overall League Points
San Lorenzo (8-0-1) 4-0-0 12
Bishop O’Dowd (7-2-1) 3-1-0 9
Hayward (3-1-3) 2-1-0 6
Castro Valley (1-5-2) 1-1-0 3
Mt. Eden (5-2-2) 1-1-0 3
San Leandro (1-7-0) 1-2-0 3
Tennyson (3-4-2) 1-2-0 3
Arroyo (2-8-0) 0-3-0 0
Moreau Catholic (0-3-1) 0-2-0 0
MVAL
Team Overall League Points
Irvington (1-5-3) 0-0-0 0
Kennedy (1-3-2) 0-0-0 0
Logan (5-4-2) 0-0-0 0
Mission San Jose (5-4-2) 0-0-0 0
Newark Memorial (10-3-0) 0-0-0 0
Washington (2-3-3) 0-0-0 0
OAL
Team Overall League Points
Castlemont (0-0-0) 0-0-0 0
Fremont (0-0-0) 0-0-0 0
Oakland (0-0-0) 0-0-0 0
Oakland Tech (1-1-0) 0-0-0 0
Skyline (0-0-0) 0-0-0 0
Statistics
Name, School Goals
Pagliuca, Cal 10
Aguila, Richmond 10
Parisi, Dougherty 10
Villa, Pitt 10
Ulloa, Logan 9
Navarro, Newark 8
Ramirez, Newark 7
Fagenson, Cal 7
Reshke, Campo 7
Nine players tied with 5
Name, School Assists
Vazquez, Pitt 7
Hodges, LL 6
Oranstil, BOD 5
Fagenson, Cal 5
Danielson, Cal 5
Tavecchio, Campo 5
Gomzez, Clayton 5
Shaiwany, Dougherty 5
Ramirez, Newark 5
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January 2nd, 2011 at 10:49 pm
Hey Matt,
Plenty of justified movement in the rankings, but hold on to your hat as this season unfolds. We could easily see 5 teams move way up and 5 teams drop off by the time we get to the NCS ‘private’ draw.
Good call releted to Newark, SRV and Amador rankings. Newark and SRV need to shore up their defenses against quality offenses (ala vs. SRV and Newark, respectively), and Amador can move up with a solid EBAL showing. Newark will be tested 2-3 times in league, while SRV and Amador will be tested weekly.
CAL was very visible at the Newark/SRV match in the first half (coach/video-guy & a recognized player taking notes), but they missed the real action in the 2nd half. SRV showed off their counter-attack quick-strike offense with 3 goals in the first 25 of H2, and Newark closed with 2 goals in the last 10 minutes.
January 2nd, 2011 at 10:51 pm
I agree very much Sweeper. I think by the end of Friday’s games, there will be plenty of voices telling me certain teams should be ranked in a certain way.
I’ll get my first official look at SLZ and Livermore this week, so if they take a jump in the rankings (or a fall) it’s because I finally got to see them in action.
January 2nd, 2011 at 11:08 pm
Matt,
You have D2 schools ranked #2 and #3
they have not and will not face, in my opinion, the same level of
Competition. Therefore the chance of them falling is slight.
I’m curious how you can justify that?
Also curious how CV, a 3-0 loser to MV is ranked higher.
Just asking.
Thanks for your work!
January 2nd, 2011 at 11:11 pm
Good Job so far Matt even with law school going on.
I like the rankings, back into the swing of things this week ready to catch some games and I think I will see Livermore again.
Sweeper, as always, makes a good point about rankings of team going in and out along with the Dons. In addition, I did see CAL as well at the game, but they left at half. However, the video remained there and I’m sure they were up to date and watched film on it already.
Let the second half begin!
January 2nd, 2011 at 11:26 pm
I’m okay with having a pair of Division II teams near the top for now, because I feel like if they are not playing great against lesser competition, I can drop them down if a D I school is playing better.
And as far as Clayton and MV are concerned, the head to head matchups that are a few weeks old don’t matter as much when a bunch of other stuff happens. The rankings are very week to week. For example, MV loses to Liberty, but Clayton beats Liberty 6-0. I keep the head to head matchups in mind, but have to consider the most recent stuff more heavily.
Thanks for asking! I really like when people want to know more about the rankings.
January 3rd, 2011 at 6:45 am
Nice job Matt,It’s only going to get tougher. I kind of agree with #3 about d2 schools, however I understand. Glad that you will get a look at Livermore this week. They have 2 tough road games this week. I feel they are the team to beat. I think they will come out with 2 wins this week and putt some pressure on MV and Cal. I also think Amador will give Cal a tough match with Cal prevailing by a goal and that Granada with give MV a tough match on Thursday maybe pulling out a low scoring tie. Enjoy the games!
January 3rd, 2011 at 9:05 am
Heard that Zamora (MV) broke his foot on a freak accident at practice. This will certainly affect MV especially with upcoming games at CAL and Livermore next week. Anyone know how long he is out?
January 3rd, 2011 at 9:11 am
It happened a while ago, at least a couple of weeks before Christmas. He shouldn’t miss the rest of the season. Maybe early February or so.
January 3rd, 2011 at 9:50 am
Unlucky. From what I have seen, I consider him one of the top 3 mids in the entire area along with Guerrero (Livermore) and Ramirez (Newark). I am not degrading any one else like Benardi (DLS), Rivas (CAL), etc. Lets see how MV responds.
January 3rd, 2011 at 6:55 pm
Looking forward to tomorrow’s Liv at SRV matchup- two of the better teams in our area. How will SRV’s 3 backs handle Livermore’s waves of creative attacking players? How will Livermore handle SRV’s counter-attack? Livermore is very similar to Newark- will it be a high scoring game like that game last Thursday or will it be a game dominated by close calls and strong defense?
January 3rd, 2011 at 7:34 pm
SoccerGuy,
I will be at that game tomorrow and I’m predicting a Livermore victory. From what I have seen from Livermore and SRV, I don’t think SRV handles Livermore well in the midfield or the back.
Livermore 3 SRV 1
Cal 3 Amador 0
Monte Vista 2 Foothill 1
DLS 1 Granada 0
January 3rd, 2011 at 9:35 pm
For Livermore vs. SRV I peg the over/under at 4 goals, and I am taking the over, but not sure who will win (could be 2-2 or 3-2). I do not see either team “packing it in” on D, and there is plenty of offensive skill to hit the back of the net, though Livermore’s most impressive match of the year was the 0-1 loss to CAL. If they play conservatively, these two teams will end up watching CAL pull away as the season develops. Hopefully, the officials will let them play.
Ebal Fan, MV should win by at least 2. I agree with you on the other two matches.
January 3rd, 2011 at 10:13 pm
I think this year we have a wider disparity between the top 4 teams and the rest in EBAL as the other leagues have gotten stronger.
January 3rd, 2011 at 10:51 pm
A young Pinole Valley team plays Berkeley tomorrow at home. Should be an interesting match.
January 4th, 2011 at 6:47 am
Tonight should be a good test for Livermores under rated defense. #4(Oscar) one of the best defenders in the league, tons of pace, and(Boyd) a very good keeper. I don’t see many teams scoring multiple goals on this team. I do agree that Livermore is similer to Newark in style of play, but Livermore may be better. I can’t wait to see how it all pans out.
January 4th, 2011 at 9:26 am
WOW! Predictions with scores and an over and under! This is starting to look like an ESPN panel site. I think the EBAL fan, the sweeper and Matt Smith should post their predictions each week all the way through the NCS and we’ll see who comes in with the best record. The prize? A beverage of your choice with details to be worked out later. What do you say guys?
January 4th, 2011 at 9:52 am
I hate making predictions, but if the Sweeper is down, I might consider it.
It’ll give coaches something to razz me about and people something to talk about.
January 4th, 2011 at 10:08 am
You’re a good sport Matt, how about you other two? Pretty quiet out there.
January 4th, 2011 at 10:08 am
Livermore 3 SRV 3
Cal 2 Amador 1
Monte Vista 1 Foothill 1
DLS 1 Granada 2
January 4th, 2011 at 10:31 am
Old HAAL Dad, I do not profess to be in a the same league with Matt Smith when it comes to his breadth and depth of East Bay soccer knowledge. I am closer to the ESPN talking heads that can pick maybe one match per week, and make a few comments to get a rise out of the peanut gallery. I’ll propose an over/under line once in a while to get them thinking beyond just the outcome. BTW, I am definitely down with a beverage scenario.
Matthew in #15 makes a good point about Livermore’s defense. After giving up 5 goals in their first three matches, they have surrendered 5 goals in their last eight matches including three shutouts. That said, this is Livermore’s first EBAL road game and two goals will probably not be enough to win tonight at SRV.
January 4th, 2011 at 11:28 am
EbalDad, what’s the problem with D2 schools? As I understand it this ranking of Matt’s includes all divisions if they pass Matt’s review. Don’t know if you did your homework or not but San Lorenzo beat Newark, Amador, Bishop O’dowd and tied Campolindo. Campolindo beat Clovis West and tied San Lorenzo so why punish them because they don’t have the enrollment of the EBAL schools. P.S. I don’t have now nor have I ever had children in either one of these schools and I live in Danville so no partiality here.
January 4th, 2011 at 11:59 am
First of all, The Sweeper is too kind and too modest. He could probably do a much better job on this blog, but I continue to try my humble best. His analysis is always spot on.
As for predictions, I might start doing that in each notebook on Sunday, just do my weekly predictions by league, or maybe just the big matches from each league.
As for today, here are my thoughts. These will be the first ever predictions I have made, as I have held off doing this for years. I can’t believe I’m doing this. I’m making myself a target and some coaches will hate me!!
ACCAL
Berkeley 2, Pinole Valley 0
Richmond 2, Pinole Valley 1
BSAL
Piedmont 2, Albany 2
DFAL
Dublin 1, Acalanes 0
Las Lomas 1, Dougherty Valley 1
Campo 3, Alhambra 0
Campo 2, LL 1
Dougherty Valley 2, Alhambra 1
DVAL
YV 2, Concord 1
Clayton 3, CP 1
EBAL
Livermore 2, SRV 2
DLS 3, Granada 1
MV 2, FH 1
Cal 3, AV 1
SRV 2, AV 2
Cal 4, FH 0
MV 1, Granada 1
Livermore 2, DLS 1
HAAL
SLZ 2, Hayward 1
MVAL
Logan 2, MSJ 1
Non-League
Pitt 2, YV 2
SRV 2, Acalanes 1
January 4th, 2011 at 12:20 pm
Nice job Matt only one disagreement, Livermore will take SRV 2-1.
January 4th, 2011 at 12:49 pm
Matt,
Curious about the SRV @ Acalanes prediction. Is Acalanes up or down compared to last year? Acalanes was 13-3-1 at the time of the match last year, and they are 6-1-3 plus the upcoming Dublin match (which you picked Dublin) before Saturday. SRV has some growing to do to play at the same level as last year. Acalanes tied SRV 1-1 last year @SRV, and it was a pretty good match. BTW, have they set a time for the match on the 8th?
One predictions comment, imho there is absolutely no reason to predict more than a 2 goal differential in any match, unless there is a prior match reference. A 2 goal differential says enough about the two teams. The bigger issue, though, is predicting a shutout.
January 4th, 2011 at 12:50 pm
I had to laugh when I read EBALdad (#3) & Matthew (#6) regarding why D2 schools are rated so high; as if enrollment is the overriding criteria regarding how good a team is.
Though Campo will not be playing any EBAL teams the rest of this season I would venture to say their defensive back line & GK (9 straight shutouts) is on par with or better than any D1 school in the east bay.
As mentioned in an earlier post, DFAL teams have won the D2 NCS Championship nine out of the past ten years.
Get out of your 680 cooridor cocoon EBALdad and watch Campo or San Lorenzo play before the season is out; you may be missing out on the two best teams this spring.
January 4th, 2011 at 2:14 pm
The simple fact is that you get ranked highly until you get beat whether you are a D1 and D2 school. Anyone who knows anything about futbol, will know that it is the only sport where you can be dominated by the opponent (possession, skill, height, speed, etc.) and a team can still come out with a tie or win. Size of school in soccer does not matter.
The quality of play and players will eventually determine top teams.
January 4th, 2011 at 2:15 pm
I’m just going off a gut feeling on the two Acalanes games. I’m finding the DFAL hard to predict. As far as the SRV match, I see a big difference between the top seven or eight teams this year, and everybody else.
So I just trudged through the mud and am awaiting the arrival of the coaches so I can pick their brains about their respective squads.
In related news, I got my first semester law school grades today and mildly put they were not up to my standards. Will have to work harder in semester two.
I also have a date Friday. I know everybody loves it when I talk about my dating life, so while I’m sitting here waiting I figured I’d update everyone.
January 4th, 2011 at 2:39 pm
Matt
Re: Date
Just make sure you are back by Tuesday for classes and the Berkeley Richmond game
January 4th, 2011 at 3:05 pm
Will do, WB.
January 4th, 2011 at 3:23 pm
680 corridor cocoon, I like that!
January 4th, 2011 at 4:11 pm
Hayward 2, San Lorenzo 0 at half
January 4th, 2011 at 7:27 pm
Hayward 3, San Lorenzo 1 – Final
January 4th, 2011 at 8:37 pm
EBAL Scores are in:
MV 2 Foothill 0
Cal 4 Amador Valley 0
DLS 2 Granada 1
Livermore 2 SRV 1
Cal is the clear front runner and looks to be breaking down defenses with ease and scoring at a high frequency, Any clues, besides players, as to how they have been so successful offensively??
January 4th, 2011 at 9:08 pm
Pinole upsets Berkeley 2 to 0
Berkeley without two starters were out played
the entire game
January 4th, 2011 at 9:15 pm
hey matt what’d you think about the 3-1 hayward win over the undefeated slz today.?
January 4th, 2011 at 9:26 pm
Hayward upsets #3 SLZ 3-1
January 4th, 2011 at 9:28 pm
Seems like #3,4 nd 6 lost today, heard that SLZ lost 3-1 to Hayward. I was shocked, but they told me that the field condition was horibble and that they recieved two red cards but manage to control most of the game!? Wow, Ive seen SLZ play and it doesnt seem like they would get 2 red cards, im guessing the referee calls had something to do with it? How will the rankings be affected? Since #3 nd 4 lost, will #5 Newark move up? But then again lets not forget they lost to SLZ too, plus have lost two other games aswell. How did u see the SLZ game Matt?
January 4th, 2011 at 9:34 pm
Was at the SRV vs Livermore game, someone said that Livermore has 5 academy players- they must all be midfielders because they do have a great possession game but no real finishers. SRV scored (Midfielder – Melara) in the first 10 minutes of the game despite possession advantage to Livermore. It could have been 3-1 at the end of the first half as SRV attacked more effectively in the first half and had more real scoring opportunities but did not capitalize. Livermore scored on a PK near the end of the half and it was tied at 1-1 at half.
The second half saw Livermore take a heavy possession advantage, SRV quality of play dropped off in the second half and Livermore scored the game winner with 6 minutes to play on a deflected shot off of the SRV player. SRV has given up late goals in the last 2 games (Newark & Livermore). Could be a fitness issue as they do not have the depth of some of the other teams. Like you said Matt I have also noticed a drop from the top 8-10 players to the bench.
January 4th, 2011 at 9:42 pm
Matt’s job just got way tougher with the losses of #3 and #4 to unranked teams….can’t wait till Thursday’s games for maybe more upsets…
January 4th, 2011 at 9:46 pm
Not bad with the predictions, Matt. Within a goal on each EBAL game. Let’s see what happens Thursday…
January 4th, 2011 at 10:13 pm
Love the game – Livermore has 6 current and 1 ex-academy players. They play very organized and control the middle with 3 mids. SRV was clearly dominated in the middle again. Livermore actually has an extremely good finisher (Jesse-forward) that SRV did not control when he was served the ball. While Livermore controlled the middle, many of the balls sent up to the forwards were not quality balls.
Again, SRV lost but showed character by playing hard to the end. This game could have ended 1-1.
January 4th, 2011 at 10:14 pm
WOW..conditions were bad for BOTH teams so enough with the excuses.. SLZ doesn’t play like a team that would get 2 red cards? Hayward forward had 1 vs 1 break away then the SLZ defender fouled him FROM BEHIND . come on now? last man, goal scoring opportunity? that’s a red card. second red card SLZ was out of frustration as seen by the wild tackle cleats up to the legs of Hayward player.
January 4th, 2011 at 10:19 pm
TO: Curious ncs Fan
i hope you dont take it personal, but my previous was for you.. and just to let you know, Hayward also received a RED card.. Enough with the excuses please.. anyone agree with me??
January 4th, 2011 at 10:22 pm
LOVE THE GAME: hey, from what academy are those 5 livermore players from??
January 4th, 2011 at 10:25 pm
GlobalSoccer,
The Livermore midfield was the best I have seen thus far this year, and they will surely contend for NCS. But to go deep in NCS, they are going to have to better their finishing.
January 4th, 2011 at 10:26 pm
Honest HAAL
San Jose Earthquakes I think
January 4th, 2011 at 10:33 pm
They are not excuses, just MAYBE if you read my post right, you would see that i wrote that i HEARD. I wasnt at the game, i was asking about it ok? I aint making no excuses for ANYONE, especially because i simply go out to look for game just for fun, not because i go for a specific team. So check it out, to me,it seems that you went for Hayward since it seems that it offended you and i apoligize, but hey man, Ive seen SLZ and they are a hell of a team, that is why i wrote that i was shocked. Every game is different, maybe the field affected their style, maybe it didnt. Maybe things didnt go well for them today, since everyone thought of SLZ as favorites for today.
January 4th, 2011 at 10:33 pm
Ncs Fan; I was shocked to I was rooting for San Lorenzo throughout the game. I recognized all there players from Union City Barcelona on both sides and they all stand out, but Slz today they just didn’t play up to Haywards level, they’re a decent team but what got Hwd the win was that they made all their chances count, I strongly believe that the field was a factor for both teams, by the way Slz has a field just like Haywards. Both teams received red cards, but one of Slz red cards was on a one one where the defender slid the forward the ref had no other option. The second one wasn’t a red card but it was in the last 10 minutes of the game were it wasn’t really a factor to the team the game was already lost. Despite Slz loss they should stay number #3, they are still my favorites for both HAAL and NCS. Hayward might be a team that can be factor in the HAAL. All those Union City Barcelona boys are major stand outs and will take there teams far once it gets to ncs time.
January 4th, 2011 at 10:33 pm
close up #33 I have been to several Cal games this year and I do not want to give away any keys to offensive success but I will say that it is a team effort. If you try to shut down one part of their offense they will try to strike with another just as effective. The players are inventive. Pagliuca has learned how to finish.
However, it is not just their offense you need to figure out. Their defense is top notch. With Danielson and Rector leading the way the defense has kept other teams away from their goalie who also happens to be pretty darn good as well. The defense has given up only 6 goals this year and that includes giving up 3 goals in the first game while they were fine tuning their chemistry against a pretty darn good team.
While most people talk about one player on Cal, this could not be further from the truth. He is good but off to a very slow start. Once he gets his soccer legs back and Cal keeps working more and more like a team this team should remain the team to beat.
There were some surprising results today. I have seen Campo play this year and they are for real. They have great possesion play and are very well coached. I also look for Dougherty Valley to make a late run as they are also very well coached. DLS will also be heard as the season progresses. Too many good players and coaching.
With the teams in the top 10 as Matt has them any one of those teams could beat the other on any given night. This is shaping up to be an up and down year for a lot of teams. Fun to watch.
Matt, you have your work cut out for you next Monday! (smile)
January 4th, 2011 at 10:36 pm
TO Honest HAAL
by the way, Hayward didnt recieve a red, simply a double yeelow, where as they can actually sub in another player
January 4th, 2011 at 10:39 pm
Ncs Fan: I agree many did think slz had it today but from now on I think teams should think twice about Hayward high and the rest of HAAL many good teams are building up.
January 4th, 2011 at 10:41 pm
Ncs Fan;Slz did also
January 4th, 2011 at 10:41 pm
Old HAAL Dad and others,
In regards to my comment about D2 schools.
I agree that simply the size of the school does not determine wheteher a team is quality. However, when a school has 3000 kids to get a team from vs 1500 there will, in most cases be a difference. Not just for that team, but also for the other D2 schools that that team will play the bulk of it’s schedule against. I think of it as being very similar to a college football discussion comparing BCS schools to non BCS schools. And this was an awesome year for Boise and TCU, Nevada.
I have seen some very very good D2 play. Acalanes a few years back had what I consider to be the best team I’ve seen in HS period. The rankings etc are/should be about a body of work. So for example Matt’s comments about Clayton Valley and MV are valid and thought out. I can respect that, I just wanted to know why. The fact that the body of work for D2 schools is against D2 schools and likewise for D1 schools, calls into question, IN MY OPINION, if we aren’t comparing apples to oranges. In other words, should there be a D1 poll and a D2 poll? I would vote yes.
I certainly respect D2 teams and all of your thoughts and opinions, just voicing mine.
On a side note. Have you noticed the HS BBall coverage in the local papers? It huge and they get their Poll in the paper not just online.
I’m assuming the paper wants to reach the most readers with their stories.
last I checked, HS soccer programs let’s say one with Boys and Girls teams having three levels of play, will have about 120 student athletes playing in the sport. Basketball, with their three programs, boys and girls, will have, at the very most 90 kids and their families looking for coverage. Matt? Doesn’t this math have any traction? again, my opinion, and I’m just asking.
January 4th, 2011 at 10:43 pm
HAHAH loving the conversation from both Curious NCS Fan and Honest HAAL , really entertainning to read. But i believe Hayward is a great team and all, but SLZ to me is a better team. Respect to Hayward for beating SLZ, but this is soccer, we all know that sometimes things dont go their way at times nd i think today wasnt SLZ’s day. This league should be interesting as we move forward, but i think SLZ should maintain #3 as well.
January 4th, 2011 at 10:45 pm
My mistake they didnt
January 4th, 2011 at 10:55 pm
I caught the SRV vs Livermore game today. Livermore was clearly the better team with majority of possession just no finishing. They could have easily put the game away at one point. SRV however, is so strong on counters you can’t leave the defense. SRV isn’t good enough to play with three in the back. Livermore’s midfield is talented, they keep the ball very well but have no width. Possession doesn’t win you games, ask Barcelona last year vs Inter.
I was kept updated on the CAL game and they were out to an early start. Pagliuca has been killing teams as he is just finishing his chances. Someone asked how CAL is doing it this year, well most teams have focused on Rivas, their playmaker, but other guys have stepped up while teams take him away as they have stacked the middle of the field. This is a team with many options because sooner or later they will have to account for others and Rivas will have a lot of room to operate as he has taken a back seat and the games has seem frustrated at times as he is being a facilitator. Their defense is astounding, no EBAL goals against yet and their freshman goalie is a stud.
Sweeper, what say you?
January 4th, 2011 at 10:57 pm
As far as predictions for this upcoming thursday.
SRV 3, AV 0
Cal 4, FH 0
MV 2, Granada 1
Livermore 2, DLS 0
January 4th, 2011 at 11:04 pm
to: curious ncs fan
hey your right about what you said, i guessed i jumped ahead of myself..
to: HAAL fanatic
how do you know about us playing for union city barcelona?
January 4th, 2011 at 11:10 pm
ahhh seems like it was a Hayward High player who was defending hayward, Honest HAAL, you play for UC Barcelona? What position
January 4th, 2011 at 11:14 pm
Alright, time to break down my thoughts from the San Lorenzo v. Hayward game.
First of all, I have to say I absolutely love seeing all the comments from the HAAL. It’s good to have others weighing in from other areas.
So, I have to agree what Curious NCS fan said. SLZ is a hell of a team. They are really, really good. Against Hayward, things didn’t go their way.
So I will take this opportunity to say that I am taking nothing away from Hayward. They did what it took to win the game. This is a compliment to them for winning the game, but also a compliment to SLZ.
SLZ plays beautifully. I could only imagine what it would be like to see them on field turf. I bet it’s magnificent to watch. They had at least 75 percent of the possession and the bulk of the chances but couldn’t put them away. They are amazing on the touch. Very quick and very athletic.
Hayward, on the other hand, is a very tough team. Nobody sleep on them. They wait to strike with the counter, and they do it well. They also have an incredible goalie in Kevin Gonzalez.
I would also like to address the red and yellow card situation from that game and say that the officiating was probably the worst I’ve seen in my years of covering soccer in the East Bay.
I feel like I had a lot more to say, but have since forgot it between the game and getting home. Feel free to address any other issues.
Oh ya, I will be surprised if SLZ isn’t in the NCS Finals at Dublin High. They are that good.
January 4th, 2011 at 11:57 pm
I have to agree that the officiating was horrible in the Hayward vs SLZ game.
There were multiple plays where the line ref would see a foul (shirt tug from behind) and would wave his flag only to have the center ref completely ignore him. I get there is miscommunication once or twice on things like that, but come on. No excuses for that happening in the 2nd half.
It seemed that Hayward was fouling hard in the later part of the game and there was a clear Red card situation (a Hayward player took out an SLZ player from behind with absolutely no chance to make a play on the ball) but got away with only a yellow. Minutes later the 2nd Red was issued to SLZ for a play that was similar in terms of deserving a red. That said, SLZ’s first red was completely deserved – SLZ will be short handed two starts come Thursday vs CV.
As for the game, I saw it the same as how Matt saw it. SLZ clearly dominated in ball possession, even with 1 and 2 men down. Hayward finished their chances where SLZ did not, that was the difference.
January 5th, 2011 at 8:30 am
EbalDad, whatever let’s move on. 2 reds and a double yellow? Did that referee ever have control of the game? Field conditions? There are only two schools in the HAAL that have good field conditions, CV & O’Dowd. Moreau is marginal and the rest are terrible, 50 year old schools with no upgrades. Until CV got their new field they may have had the worst but they won 2 NCS titles on that old torn up baseball field. Moral of the story, if you play in the HAAL you better become a good “Mudder”, academy player or not!
January 5th, 2011 at 9:56 am
I agree Matt, its great to see the HAAL chatter. I think this is a league that historically doesn’t get the credit it deserves. Year in and Year out this is an extremely competative league with the bottom teams capable of beating the top teams on any given day. I think the field conditions do play a factor in this, because as stated above soccer is a funny game. You can dominate the possession and the opportunities, but one deflection or bad bounce (or mud puddle) can change a game. The field conditions can be a neutralizer and so can bad refs. The leagues that still have teams with natural grass know this all too well I’m sure. However, this is no excuse for anyone. You must finish your opportunities! plain and simple.
Tennyson also has a great field in the HAAL. They were the first to have fieldturf…
I’ve seen many of the top teams play both D1 and D2, and SLZ is for Real. As long as they stay diciplined, I fully expect continued success and for them to show extremely well in NCS. If I could offer them some advice, it would be this: not every shot from outside the box needs to be a 1st time shot. I felt they took too many of these against Campo (who in my opinion they are better than by the way). 1st time shots from 25-35 yards out are good, but not EVERY time. I like that they look to shoot from anywhere, but just thought they could’ve gotten into a better scoring position some of the time.
Overall the quality of play this year has been good, but is clearly not at the level it was last year, save a select few teams…
I look forward to catching more games and am really looking forward to seeing both CAL and Livermore sometime.
January 5th, 2011 at 9:57 am
re CAL difference:
Good players and video study. If you can watch your opponent, and they cant (video is different than scouting by the by) watch you; that is an advantage.
That being said, players have to translate the video study to the field, and Cal does that very well.
January 5th, 2011 at 10:28 am
Thanks for the update 2cents, BTW great tag! When I was around, Tennyson played on a combination of the varsity and JV baseball fields, great to see they improved their facility. I’m looking forward to the Livermore/Cal match, should be very entertaining. I saw the Livermore/SRV match last night, very cold, give all the kids & parents kudos for sticking it out. Definitely two different styles of play with Livermore controlling most of play but you always have the feeling that SRV is just one counter attack away from a goal. They work very hard but have a hard time stringing two or three passes together before losing the ball.
January 5th, 2011 at 5:24 pm
livermore over DLS? haha. nice prediction ebal fan…
can they even be considered a soccer team? there program is a joke.
January 5th, 2011 at 5:24 pm
livermore over DLS? haha. nice prediction ebal fan…
can they even be considered a soccer team? their program is a joke.
January 5th, 2011 at 5:57 pm
I agree with the vast majority of the comments about Livermore’s win at SRV. SRV could have built a lead but missed at least two ‘makeable’ shots and then Livermore’s ball control and stamina took over. Livermore hit a post twice and made the SRV keeper make three very strong saves. The ref let them play freely for 80% of the match with two short stretches in the second half where he called most everything. This helped SRV in the first half and Livermore in the second half. My take on the winning goal with 7 minutes to play, if it did not glance off the SRV defender and away from the keeper, it would have been a 1-1 tie. A very clever shot if planned that way.
January 5th, 2011 at 6:06 pm
BTW, while CAL still needs to earn the EBAL boys soccer title on the field, my feeling right now is that five other teams will be chasing second through sixth place until at least the twelfth matches in league. I am also looking forward to seeing Richmond in at least 2 of their 3 upcoming matches with EBAL teams.
January 5th, 2011 at 6:13 pm
The Livermore win at SRV was very impressive and could go along ways to determining an EBAL title. First, another test: With a win at DLS tomorrow, Livermore positions itself very nicely for a late charge at the championship. However, DLS has been playing much better lately. Is this a must win for the defending champs if they have any shot at finishing atop league again?
January 5th, 2011 at 6:39 pm
Overall, Livermore has a more complete team than DLS. DLS will have a tough time in the mid if they do not use Bernadi there. The advantage DLS has is that there are accustomed to winning. Livermore is learning how to win. Their sideline (coaches, players, parents) were pretty frustrated until the winning goal went in.
January 5th, 2011 at 6:52 pm
Livermore seems to be hitting a stride right now. Cal’s schedule next week will reveal what they are made of. I see Livermore beating DLS tomorrow.
Sweeper, what game will you catching tomorrow?
January 5th, 2011 at 7:22 pm
I would like to see Livermore at DLS, but I have to be in Los Gatos at 7:30pm sharp, so I will probably watch the first half of one of the Pleasanton matches, or head out early to see the 2nd half of Bellarmine @ St.Francis (3:15 start). I will be looking for the reports from DLS. Livermore can make a strong statement with a win, while DLS can become even with Livermore and probably SRV at 2-2 in league.
January 5th, 2011 at 7:40 pm
is CAL really ranked 12th in the nation?
January 5th, 2011 at 7:42 pm
Yes. And the fourth ranked team in all of California, according to ESPN Rise’s rankings.
January 5th, 2011 at 8:40 pm
If you recall, Last year CAL was ranked 20th in the nation via ESPNrise and a 14 – 0 record when they lost to SRV 3 – 0. I did not see them play Livermore this year, but heard that Livermore dominated that game and Cal won it on a single PK. Their schedule over the next 2 weeks will define where they really are in the EBAL. DLS is making a strong run, perhaps catching their stride, but they will be no match for the Livermore midfield. I do not see CAL going undefeated in the EBAL, Monte Vista is tough and they still need to play San Ramon and DLS and then Livermore again….
January 5th, 2011 at 9:11 pm
I’ve been rather quiet this year because I feel that the comments so far this year have been based purely on speculation. I think those who post should take the time to see as many different teams as they can, to be able to make an honest evalution and not just a biased mouthful of BS. My focus is with the EBAL because of the quality of play and that chances are the D1 champ will come from that league. Funny how Livermore is this years Granada and the Cal hype train is rolling again. Doubters are questioning DLS again, blah blah..Does anyone care that 4 of Cal’s wins were against the bad BVAL opponents, or worse a narrow 1-0 win against San Leandro who has only won 1 game all year? Am I to be impressed by Livermore who’s only quality win is over SRV? A 6-0 drubbing of Alameda(1-8-1)doesn’t make me want to pull out my Cowboy hat and jump on the bandwagon.
Don’t get me wrong peeps, I’m not a hater..Just one who would like to see a bit more thought put into the comments that are made. Should Cal go through the upcoming MV,SRV,DLS,Livermore gauntlet that is on the horizon then I’m on board. Same with Livermore – win @ DLS to cap off a big week then maybe I’ll shine up my cowboy boots I haven’t worn since 5th grade.
Much love to all from your boy Scoreboard! Back from my slumber..
100
January 5th, 2011 at 9:44 pm
Any news on Acalanes vs Dublin?
January 5th, 2011 at 10:08 pm
I mostly had agreed with the comments made. These next two weeks will see where CAL, MV, DLS, Livermore stand as they will be up in the standings. Preseason is noticed, but league play is the one that matters to everyone. CAL has the win against Livermore and I was at that game and Livermore did dominate the entire game but with no clear chances at a goal, CAL had the better chance at scoring besides the pk.
CAL last year was undefeated as well up to the same point and got thrashed by SRV last year.
Let the games do the talking.
January 5th, 2011 at 10:32 pm
Scoreboard,
Purely speculation??? Hah! Go back to sleep until you have seen the EBAL scenario play out after seven rounds…
Seriously Sb, there have been plenty of opportunities to see quality matches in the tri-valley, and oh-by-the-way CAL played several matches without their playmaker.
I agree 100% with your conventional wisdom position, but this is an unusually wide-open year in the EBAL and in the NCS. There is a reason why Newark is 5-1 against EBAL teams including two wins against Livermore (and the loss @ Amador, go figure), and luck has little to do with it. By my count, there are several non-EBAL teams capable of matching up on any given night this season. It should be a season with many twists and turns, hold on to your shin-guards.
BTW, I highly recommend taking in Richmond’s matches @ MV and @ DLS on this side of the tunnel, and if you can make it, watch SRV travel to the Oiler’s pitch, all in January.
January 5th, 2011 at 10:37 pm
Matt; Is the Hayward high keeper from the San jose Earthquakes academy team?
January 5th, 2011 at 11:47 pm
Richmond’s field is so tough to play on. I believe it is a bit wider than most fields, giving Richmond a huge advantage. I agree with Sweeper, seeing Richmond play road games will define their team.
January 6th, 2011 at 4:50 am
Something else to keep in mind- we haven’t discussed Monte Vista much this year, but the two-time NCS champs have quietly started 3-0 in league and enjoy a nice view from the top. They have a tough game at Granada today. While their defense has only given up one goal in league (a late score to DLS), Foster and company could provide a challenge this afternoon.
January 6th, 2011 at 5:05 am
I thought all the fields are the same dimensions, espically if you are playing on a football- turf field? I stand to be corrected.
January 6th, 2011 at 6:50 am
Wow, just saw in paper Campo 1 Alhambra 1. I would love to here how that went. Didn’t Livermore beat Alhambra by 5 or 6 goals?
January 6th, 2011 at 8:10 am
My goodness Sweeper I hope you were able to get some sleep last night after reading my post-sorry if I offended you! I was just trying to say that I think a few people who post here don’t do their homework and make claims based on limited information/knowledge..I know that you are obviously an expert who sees games and understands matchups and such, I do respect your opinion.
You must be a Cal fan though-couldnt resist mentioning that Rivas missed some games at the start-yes I get it he is gods gift to the EBAL
I’ve seen plenty of games this year and i do agree that EBAL is wide open. I have also seen Richmond play and think they are a nightmare for any team trying to defend their attack. Though they have the same old issue-GK play.
Newark seems to be in form but again I’m not convinced they can defend well enough come NCS time when the games are much tighter. Anyways Sweeper lets be friends. Truce? Hot cocoa on me at any game u name it. Lol.
100
January 6th, 2011 at 8:10 am
I think the Richmond field appears wider to some teams because of their style of play. The envelope for the field is the same and not controlled by the football field but the track, you can only squeak so many yards out of the track oval and maintain safe distances from the team benches. I agree with sweeper on two points: 1. We definitely should see the three Richmond vs EBAL games. I believe this will show if Richmond will be a factor in the NCS this year, they’re pretty young but will be battle tested. 2. There are other teams outside the EBAL who will be in the NCS mix as well, check them out.
January 6th, 2011 at 9:27 am
I didn’t see Kevin Gonzalez name on the list for the Earthquakes Academy team, but that doesn’t necessarily mean anything. That kid is legit and could play for them.
And as far as wider or narrower fields, they are not all the same. Richmond’s is much wider than De La Salle’s, for example. Richmond’s is as wide as it gets, which suits them and they self admittedly struggle on the road when the field is much more narrow. It was an issue I discussed with the players and coaches last year when they played in the quarterfinals at Berkeley, who’s field is narrower than Richmond’s.
January 6th, 2011 at 9:30 am
Campolindo definitely showed some rust after a 2 week layoff last night. Alhambra scored on a 40 yard seemingly harmless free kick to the front of the net; the GK getting caught up in the traffic in front. Too bad, apparently the GK was just 10 minutes or so from breaking the STATE RECORD for longest scoreless streak (nearly 10 game shutout streak).
Campo was clearly off their game, and yet still they had myriad chances to put the game away but only converted on the tying goal. Give Alhambra credit, they battled Campo for control of the middle of the field and were clearly ecstatic of the 1-1 tie.
January 6th, 2011 at 9:54 am
Did Dougherty or LL play last night? Anybody know a result? How about the Mt. Eden/Arroyo game the other day?
How about some BSAL scores?
January 6th, 2011 at 9:58 am
Dougherty Valley and Las Lomas tied 1-1
Acalanes best Dublin 2-0
January 6th, 2011 at 9:58 am
Dougherty Valley and Las Lomas tied 1-1
Acalanes beat Dublin 2-0
January 6th, 2011 at 10:19 am
Just found out that Gonzalez from Hayward plays for the Union City Barcelona U18 team.
January 6th, 2011 at 10:55 am
Was going to see SLZ & CV tonight mainly because I wanted to see SLZ but now that they have a couple of players out due to Red Cards I’m not so sure I want to brave the cold. Castro Valley seems to be in a down year as they may still be adjusting to an unexpected coaching change over the off season but with SLZ short handed it might be a closer match than expected.
January 6th, 2011 at 12:47 pm
Matt,
Why did Heritage high school lose on a forfeit to Concord High school? I saw this on maxpreps.
January 6th, 2011 at 1:03 pm
I just found out that Heritage had an ineligible player in that game.
January 6th, 2011 at 1:07 pm
How did they find out about it? Or did the Heritage coach report it?
January 6th, 2011 at 1:11 pm
didn’t Las Lomas do the same vs pitt playing with ineligible player? I heard through the grapevine. I don’t think the situation has cleared up yet. My daughter plays for dv and for scoreboard to say the “bad bval” isn’t fair to the kids that are out here busting their butts off. I believe the last team to win ncs in d1 other than dls is pitt and in the late 90′s and early 2000 it was dv. More respect to this side of the hill!!!
January 6th, 2011 at 1:11 pm
Heritage coach reported it. He did the right thing.
January 6th, 2011 at 1:15 pm
It takes a lot to report something like this on your own team. Many coaches will never come out and say they had ineligible players even if they know about it.
January 6th, 2011 at 3:46 pm
Scoreboard
Sweeper is far from a Cal fan haha. You must not have read the boards at all last year, he was Cal’s biggest detractor and repeatedly said that SRV was a much better team and should have been in the finals. Maybe you were still hibernating?
January 6th, 2011 at 3:50 pm
Glad to hear that Iker..Not hibernating just assumed since he was ANOTHER guy to point out that Rivas wasn’t around. I’m pretty sure we all have that info now
Ha ha!
Either way its all good.
100
January 6th, 2011 at 4:47 pm
The Pitt and Las Lomas situation is different. Las Lomas used a kid in the varsity game that played in the JV game. NCS rules say that a kid can play two games in a day, but no more, unless it’s a tournament.
So unless the DFAL rules say they can’t (they use DFAL rules since LL was the home team) then they didn’t violate any rules.
January 6th, 2011 at 5:43 pm
San Lorenzo 1 – Castro Valley 0
This game was no where near as close as the score would indicate. SLZ just flat out dominated, but had trouble finding the back of the net (again). They scored midway through the 2nd half.
January 6th, 2011 at 5:55 pm
Scoreboard,
No offense meant, no offense taken. Just couldn’t resist the opening for a jab. Iker has it right, no CAL fan here, but growing respect for what they have built over the past 2 seasons. I do not see CAL falling behind SRV (or anyone for that matter) by multiple goals this season. Cheers.
January 6th, 2011 at 7:11 pm
DLS up 1-0 on Livermore midway through the second.
January 6th, 2011 at 7:40 pm
DLS 1, Livermore 0 Final
January 6th, 2011 at 8:06 pm
Another ACCAL shocker
Richmond falls to Pinole 1 to 0.
January 6th, 2011 at 8:35 pm
Cal 2 Foothill 2- Foothill shows the blueprint on how to play Cal.
Granada 1 MV 1
Livermore 0 DLS 1
and this is why this is EBAL
January 6th, 2011 at 8:40 pm
MV 1 – Granada 1. MV was lucky to score with 1:09 left in the game. MV dominated the game, possession and shots 18 – 3. I was sitting on the Granada side and the coach got out of hand on an obvious hand ball play by the goalie just outside the 18. The coach took the momentum from his own team after their goal. Referee was not bad at all.
Granada is a decent team that will give teams fits. Will probably end up in the middle of the EBAL pack.
January 6th, 2011 at 9:11 pm
SRV 3, Amador 0. Good road win for the Wolves after a tough home loss to Livermore on Tuesday. Very surprising Cal/Foothill result. Looks like another crazy year in the EBAL.
January 6th, 2011 at 11:20 pm
Only heard from friends all around tonight.
Livermore had majority of possession again, but the game changed when their center midfielder went out hurt. DLS just plays with heart, their coaching stuff really gets them out there to play.
CAL vs Foothill. Foothill led at one point in a hostile environment with bad referring and the game could have gone either way with both teams having clear chances. From what I heard from the Foothill parents was that they came out and played CAL tight, with no time ever to turn or play quick as someone was always there in a form of high press. In addition one of CAL’s better players went out with an injury I heard. My sources did say Rivas was the best player on the field when he had a little bit of space.
Next week, everyone’s EBAL schedule picks up. Shouldn’t see too much change at the top of the rankings.
January 7th, 2011 at 12:01 am
A Dublin player knocked the teeth out of the Acalanes goalkeeper with a knee to the jaw. Could possibly hurt Acalanes in their upcoming games without their starting keeper. Looks like the DFAL rivalry between the two teams from last year could still be going strong.
January 7th, 2011 at 7:39 am
What’s with Richmond? Is it all just hype or can they be a force this year? Pinole 1 Richmond 0, I don’t get it.
January 7th, 2011 at 9:18 am
I agree with #114. In the same week, Pinole takes out Berkeley and Richmond? Maybe Pinole is the sleeper? Berkeley and Richmond overrated?
January 7th, 2011 at 9:27 am
#112
Correct on the Cal injury. Fagenson went out
January 7th, 2011 at 9:54 am
I think your on to something “Close up”, El Cerrito tied Richmond ealier and El Cerrito hasn’t done anything significant this year. Has Richmond been battling some injury problems? Maybe there just late bloomers but there about to embark on an EBAL “Murderers Row” schedule over the next few weeks that will definitely test their metal. I wish them luck because they have some sweet players.
January 7th, 2011 at 10:25 am
Keep 2/09/2011 noted on your calendars if your inerested in a match with some entertainment value.
San Lorenzo vs Hayward “The Rematch” at San Lorenzo. The rebels want to avenge their loss at Hayward and the Farmers want to show the first one was no fluke. Need to have a better referee though.
January 7th, 2011 at 10:43 am
We keep talking about players, but I think the “x” factor this year(and any year for that matter) is the coaching. I take my hat off to these coaches who have a short time to get the boys playing the way they want to play, especially when its different from the way they have been playing at club. Everyone of the top 15 teams have quality players. How they prepare for their opponents, motivate the boys, develop a winning mindset, manage the score, manage the bench and their own behavior is critical to shaping a team to be successful. To that end, I have been impressed with the following coaching staff I have seen:
Cal – for their scouting of opponents, developing trust among players and their killer instinct.
DLS – for their motivational efforts and their positive bench behavior
San Ramon – for getting the most out of a relatively younger squad and an effective counter attacking strategy
Newark – they appear quite “hands off”, very little sideline coaching, leaving the boys max allowance to be creative
January 7th, 2011 at 1:39 pm
Old Haal Dad; i agree this game will be the showdown! And it will be the last game of the season for both squads who have made a name for theirselves this season, I was reviewing the games and if both teams win all their games this will be the championship game for the HAAL title. This game is going to be incredible, SLZ’s offense which I believe the best in the east bay vs Hayward’s keeper Kevin Gonzalez and his brick wall defense.. I just can’t wait until next month!
January 7th, 2011 at 1:41 pm
Old Haal Dad; i agree this game will be the showdown! And it will be the last game of the season for both squads who have made a name for theirselves this season, I was reviewing the games and if both teams win all their games this will be the championship game for the HAAL title. This game is going to be incredible, SLZ’s offense which I believe the best in the east bay vs Hayward’s keeper Kevin Gonzalez and his brick wall defense.. I just can’t wait until next month!
January 7th, 2011 at 2:05 pm
I agree with your assessment Close up with one exception and I’m not going to name names because we’re just talking here. I agree that one program gets a lot out of their kids but I wonder if he would get more by just chilling and letting the guys play a little more. As I watch this team I notice that players are constantly looking toward the bench trying interpret his incessant chattering instead of staying with the flow of the game. He almost has the appearance of a youth house coach at times. This team seems to play under a lot of unneeded pressure and appears uptight. In my humble oppinion, work them hard in pratice and let go in the game. Your game management should consist of bench management and substitutions. You can’t argue with the results I guess but the two teams that had their way with them get more with the “Hands off” method. Just talking!
January 7th, 2011 at 2:20 pm
It will be a fun game “Soccer Crazy” but let’s wait and see what happens. I’m sure O’Dowd will have something to say about the outcome of the league championship. I know SLZ beat them 3 to 1 already but there’s a lot of soccer left. I have to be honest though I wouldn’t mind seeing someone else besides O’Dowd win the league title.
January 7th, 2011 at 4:02 pm
What time is the SRV @ Acalanes boys soccer match on Saturday the 8th?
January 7th, 2011 at 5:55 pm
Sweeper, SRV’s schedule says 12:00 PM.
January 7th, 2011 at 8:02 pm
Arroyo tied BOD 0-0. BOD is excellent at home on the good Turf but seems to struggle this year on Grass. There’s a lot of upsets this year so NCS should be fun. Go SLZ and Hayward! It’s time for a new team to win HAAL.
January 7th, 2011 at 10:04 pm
Bob #113-
The dublin player and the goalkeeper colision had nothing to do with knees. The keeper hesitated and at the last second decided to jump for the ball. His fist collided with the Dublin player’s face and was in return hit in the mouth by an elbow. Unfortunately the forward was at full sprint compared to the keepers stand-still position which is why the keeper got all of the injuries.
The injury, although horrible and sad, helped Alcalanes in two ways. It saved a player from a red card after screaming and pushing the ref for one. Then ref pulled out the red to show him but the severity of the injury gained his attention and the player never was sent off. The other way was a switch of momentum. Dublin had 8 shots within the five minutes that had elapsed in the second half when that happened. The 30-40 minutes that passed while the “cleanup” happened allowed Acalanes to regroup, and more importantly, build up anger for the events. It wad a great game besides that and I can’t wait to see the next game. As you said, the rivalry still runs strong. Very strong.
January 8th, 2011 at 2:12 pm
San Ramon Valley goes down 0-1 to Acalanes. It was a very scruffy game and could have gone either way, neither team able to finish off their chances. A draw would have been a fairer result. Referee lost control of the game midway through the second and it became a WWF tryout. Acalanes scored in extra time off a free-kick shortly after they had cleared a scoring opportunity off the goal on the defensive end. With 1-3 mark in last week+, SRV may take another hit on the rankings this week.
January 8th, 2011 at 2:18 pm
Acalanes 1 SRV 0 in extra time. Not a well played match by either side, lots of yellows and a soft red, referee was a little weak but not the worst I’ve seen. The match got a little chippy in the second half but Acalanes hung in there even though I thought SRV was the stronger side. The Dons got a good ball into the area and it pinged around in there like a pin ball before Acalanes knocked it passed the keeper. SRV had three set pieces awarded against the second string keeper at the very in of the game but couldn’t push one in. BTW the Acalanes starting keeper is out for the year, pretty serious injury against Dublin. I guess we’ll be hearing some DFAL “Crowing” next week.
January 8th, 2011 at 3:48 pm
SLZ has da potential to take it all the way thiss year with a magnificant squad
January 8th, 2011 at 4:52 pm
One final word on field width and then I’ll shut-up about it. Richmond’s field is wider by about a yard or two on both sides than all the EBAL fields except DLS where the difference is more like five to seven yards on both sides. Because they are out of real estate DLS has had to incorporate fan seating within the track oval on the home side. This leaves just about enough room for the linesman to run on that side of the soccer field. Check them out on google earth.
January 8th, 2011 at 5:34 pm
Here is the secret to beating SRV. Commit 2x the fouls, get 4 minutes of extra time, confuse the ref and score in the 6th minute of extra time, with 7+ minutes of total extra time added. If you keep adding time, eventually someone will score. The officials did a decent job of calling this chippy match, but did not properly manage the added time. The Don’s keeper does deserve kudos for his play, but it should have been a tie.
January 8th, 2011 at 11:09 pm
OlDHAALDad,
Assuming that American football fields are uniform at 53.3 yards wide (160′) and 120 yards long (and they are per the NCS), look again at the Richmond soccer pitch on Google. The track oval is wider and straights are shorter (curves start earlier). The soccer pitch width is more than 10 yards wider on each side, meaning 73+ yards wide. Pace it off as I did last year and you will see that this field is wider by 5+ yards, but not quite as long as MV, SRV, FH, AV. Not a trivial amount and a good home field advantage for a ball control team.
This field width creates a playing advantage for a ball control precision passing team such as the Oilers, and the shorter field length negates team speed advantages. You can appreciate the subtleties of the field if you see several matches there.
January 9th, 2011 at 8:21 am
This is getting a little silly but one last comment. Track ovals have set deminsions, you can’t change the straights away or the curves and still be in compliance, none of your times would be able to count as records. I have never argued that Richmond has not increased the size of their field but I have a hard time believing they did so at the expense of their track program. My prior post dealt with the difference in width between Richmond and DLS which is significant and I would agree the rest of the EBAL is narrower. I’m not sure by how much, maybe 3 to 4 yards but not 5 but I’m spliting hairs here.
January 9th, 2011 at 10:31 am
The SRV-Acalanes game was ugly in terms of futbol. Overall, I thought SRV has a more complete team but didn’t take advantage. This is the 4th game where I have seen SRV’s mids disappear in the game. I believe someone previously posted that both mids (Guisti/Melara) were good. They have not shown in big games.
January 9th, 2011 at 1:40 pm
Global soccer,
Was at this game too, and thought that the game for SRV was pretty bad all the way around. SRV forwards had wide open shots in front of the goal and could not hit the net, SRV mids held the ball too long, and the defenders played ok but lost focus in the 87th minute. Overall the SRV touch was not there either, I do not think you can blame one or two players. On the Acalanes side, they did not play enough diagnol balls and had good possession but no idea what to do in the attacking third. Also kudos to the Acalanes goalie who was in the right place at the right time when SRV did take some good shots. Referee was not the best
January 18th, 2011 at 3:58 pm
About your these comments and records. First of all, O’dowd was without their Senior Keeper, two senior strikers, which are academy players, and a strong sweeper that game, against Dougherty Valley. They were forced to start with a sophomore keeper and a forward as a center back. Hence two of their goals were scored on such inexperience. The second half of that game was dominated by Bishop O’Dowd possession wise.
Second you have Piedmont with a tie, which was a scrimmage game against Tennyson. And Piedmont’s loss to Dougherty Valley was another game that lost most of it’s luster before the game happened. Piedmont was missing their starting keeper Scott White, sweeper, outside back, and outside midfielder Keisuke Ohtaka. Dougherty Valley beat a weaker version of the Piedmont team that beat Kennedy and St. Mary’s.
January 18th, 2011 at 4:21 pm
Also let me add that after D.V.’s first goal Piedmont sliced up D.V. in three passes and moved the ball from the keeper to the outside left mid and scored. The next three D.V. goals were all goals that the keeper gave up big rebounds and should of punched them away. D.V.’s #7 and #12 are phenomenal players and were tough to play but Piedmont’s #21 shut down #12 for a majority of the game. D.V.’s center backs are also very strong players. They are not an easy team to beat.