- East Bay Prep Corner
Who’s In & Who’s Out, Rankings, Standings, Stats
By Matt Smith
Sunday, February 5th, 2012 at 11:11 am in Boys soccer.
The last week before the North Coast Section playoffs. Who’s going to get in?
Division I
In: Berkeley, California, Clayton Valley, De La Salle, Logan, Monte Vista, Mt. Eden, Newark Memorial, Pittsburg, Richmond, San Ramon Valley.
Should Get In: College Park, Dougherty Valley, Granada.
Work to do: Alameda, Amador Valley, American, Antioch, Castro Valley, Deer Valley, Freedom, Heritage, Irvington, San Leandro.
There are 11 teams that are guaranteed to get in. There are three that probably will. Let’s take a look at their situation.
College Park: The Falcons just need to beat or draw with Mount Diablo. They beat Mount Diablo 3-0 earlier this year.
Dougherty Valley: The Wildcats need to avoid going 0-2-0, or 0-1-1 in their final two games. One win, or two draws, will do the trick. They play Las Lomas and Alhambra.
Granada: The Matadors have a little bit of work left. They have to win one of their last two games, or get draws in both. Considering they play San Ramon Valley on Tuesday, it could come down to needing a win against rival Livermore to get in the playoffs. You never know in a rivalry game, and the two teams have already drawn this year.
This gives us 14 teams that are probably going to get in. There are 10 teams still mathematically alive for the final two spots. Nobody is grabbing the bull by the horns for these final two spots, so let’s see what each team needs to do to get eligible. Not all 10 will. In fact, it will probably be more like three or four, meaning getting eligible doesn’t mean you’re getting in.
Alameda: Needs to beat Pinole and Berkeley to become eligible.
Amador Valley: The most deserving team has to go 2-0 and has to play Livermore and Foothill. Both winnable games, but it could come down to the rivalry game with Foothill, and the Falcons would love to spoil the Dons season.
American: Needs a win, or two draws, to be eligible. That should happen, but would need to overcome schedule strength to get in. American probably needs a lot of other teams not to be eligible for itself to get in.
Antioch: Needs to go 2-0, or 1-0-1 against Pittsburg and Liberty. This team is one of the top 16 teams in Division I and it would be deserved if they got in.
Castro Valley: Still alive, but needs to go 3-0 to close the year to get eligible.
Deer Valley: Needs to beat Freedom and Heritage to be eligible.
Freedom: Needs to go 2-0 or 1-0-1 against Deer Valley and Pittsburg.
Heritage: Needs to beat Liberty and Deer Valley to be eligible.
Irvington: Needs to go 2-0 or 1-0-1 against Washington and Newark. Would need most other teams to not be eligible to get in.
San Leandro: Two wins, or going 1-0-2 in their final three games, will make the Pirates eligible. I think this team has a decent shot of getting in.
Division II
In: Acalanes, Albany, Bishop O’Dowd, Campolindo, Concord, Dublin, Hayward, Piedmont, Pinole Valley, St. Mary’s, Ygnacio Valley.
Should Get in: Alhambra, Kennedy-Richmond, Tennyson.
Work to do: Encinal, Hercules, Mt. Diablo, Salesian, St. Joseph Notre Dame.
Looks like there are 14 teams that will get in. Let’s see what the teams who should get in need to do.
Alhambra: This team is pretty much in. Just needs to not go 0-2. They won’t go 0-2.
Kennedy-Richmond: One win or two draws and this team is in.
Tennyson: A win or a draw and this team should be in.
Let’s look at the teams with work to do.
BSAL Schools: Encinal, Salesian and St. Joe’s are all around .500 in league, but I don’t think I have all of their results, so I can’t make an accurate prediction of what they need to do. Don’t be surprised if one of them ends up over .500 in league.
Hercules: Needs to go 2-0 or 1-0-1 against Berkeley and Richmond. Probably not gonna happen.
Mount Diablo: Would need to go unbeaten against YV, Clayton and College Park. Probably not.
Rankings
I’ve never seen a year that has been so top heavy. There is hardly any room for teams to jump in the last few weeks because the top teams either don’t lose, or in the rare instance they do it’s to a top three team, or they draw against a very good team. Hard to move teams too far down. This leaves Clayton Valley, Campolindo, California, Concord and Hayward very little room to move up.
After that, all the teams at the bottom of the rankings and just outside the rankings, will are losing and drawing against good teams, so I can’t move them down too much but I have to, leaving me with the dilemma of only moving them down a spot or two because of who they’ve played, but I need teams who move into the rankings, hence jumping Dublin, Bishop O’Dowd and Alhambra into the top 15.
1. De La Salle (17-3-1)
2. Ygnacio Valley (15-2-2)
3. San Ramon Valley (14-5-3)
4. Richmond (18-4-0)
5. Newark Memorial (18-3-1)
6. Acalanes (11-1-7)
7. Monte Vista (12-2-8)
8. Clayton Valley (15-4-3)
9. Campolindo (16-2-3)
10. California (16-3-2)
11. Concord (13-0-4)
12. Hayward (14-3-2)
13. Dublin (13-5-3)
14. Bishop O’Dowd (9-2-9)
15. Alhambra (9-7-5)
Others considered: Berkeley (11-7-3), Pittsburg (12-7-3), Dougherty Valley (8-7-4), Logan (11-4-6), Pinole Valley (8-8-4), Albany (9-4-6), Mt. Eden (12-7-3), Tennyson (8-6-3), Piedmont (8-5-4), Granada (8-7-5).
Standings
ACCAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Richmond (18-4-0, 10-0-0) 30
Berkeley (12-7-3, 5-3-2) 17
Pinole Valley (8-8-4, 4-4-2) 14
Hercules (5-7-4, 4-4-2) 14
Alameda (9-10-1, 4-6-1) 13
El Cerrito (6-6-9, 2-3-5) 11
De Anza (0-10-1, 0-10-1) 1
BSAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Albany (9-4-6, 7-0-3) 24
Piedmont (8-5-4, 7-1-3) 24
St. Mary’s (6-2-5, 5-2-3) 18
Kennedy (4-10-6, 3-0-6) 15
Encinal (4-6-0, 4-5-0) 12
Salesian (4-9-0, 4-5-0) 12
St. Joseph Notre Dame (4-8-2, 3-5-1) 10
St. Patrick-St. Vincent (2-8-0, 2-7-0) 6
Swett (0-13-0, 0-10-0) 0
BVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Pittsburg (12-7-3, 6-0-2) 20
Antioch (8-8-3, 3-3-2) 11
Freedom (4-7-6, 3-3-2) 11
Heritage (3-3-7, 1-2-5) 8
Deer Valley (1-7-8, 1-2-5) 8
Liberty (2-9-3, 1-5-2) 5
DFAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Acalanes (11-1-7, 7-0-3) 24
Campolindo (16-2-3, 6-1-3) 21
Dublin (13-5-3, 4-4-2) 14
Alhambra (9-7-5, 3-3-5) 14
Dougherty Valley (8-7-4, 4-4-2) 14
Miramonte (5-11-4, 2-6-2) 8
Las Lomas (5-9-5, 1-9-1) 4
DVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Ygnacio Valley (15-2-2, 8-0-1) 25
Concord (13-0-4, 7-0-3) 24
Clayton Valley (15-4-3, 7-2-1) 22
College Park (10-9-4, 4-6-1) 13
Mt. Diablo (4-6-1, 4-5-0) 12
Northgate (5-13-3, 2-8-0) 6
Berean Chr. (4-14-0, 0-11-0) 0
EBAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
De La Salle (17-3-1, 11-0-1) 34
Monte Vista (12-2-8, 7-1-4) 25
California (16-3-2, 8-3-1) 25
San Ramon Valley (14-5-3, 8-3-1) 25
Granada (8-7-6, 2-6-4) 10
Amador Valley (9-11-2, 2-8-2) 8
Foothill (5-13-4, 1-9-2) 5
Livermore (2-14-3, 0-9-3) 3
HAAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Hayward (14-3-2, 12-1-1) 37
Mt. Eden (12-7-3, 8-4-2) 26
Bishop O’Dowd (9-2-9, 7-2-5) 26
Tennyson (8-6-3, 6-5-3) 21
San Leandro (6-10-1, 6-6-1) 19
Castro Valley (5-14-1, 5-7-1) 16
Moreau Catholic (4-9-5, 3-7-3) 12
San Lorenzo (4-7-5, 2-5-5) 11
Arroyo (0-14-3, 0-11-3) 3
MVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Newark Memorial (18-3-1, 9-0-1) 28
Logan (11-4-6, 7-1-3) 24
American (6-9-2, 5-4-1) 16
Irvington (5-12-2, 4-4-1) 13
Mission San Jose (2-15-3, 2-4-3) 9
Washington (2-13-1, 1-7-1) 4
Kennedy (1-13-2, 1-9-0) 3
OAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Oakland Tech (3-2-1, 2-1-0) 6
Skyline (1-2-0, 1-0-0) 3
Fremont (0-0-0, 0-0-0) 0
Castlemont (0-1-0, 0-1-0) 0
Oakland (0-1-0, 0-1-0) 0
Stat Leaders
Name School Goals
Montes, Richmond 25
Mendoza, Richmond 24
Romero, Pinole 23
Ayala, YV 22
Sandoval, Newark 19
Alejandro, Alhambra 18
Castillo, Hayward 18
Gomez, Clayton 17
Alvarez, Albany 16
Grixti, Cal 16
Lopez, Pitt 15
Roth, SRV 15
Glascock, Acalanes 14
Borges, Albany 14
Name School Assists
Montes, Richmond 27
Damian, YV 16
Borges, Albany 14
Gomez, Hayward 13
Ayala, Richmond 12
Mendoza, Richmond 12
Maguire, Acalanes 11
Gomez, Clayton 11
Dougherty, Newark 11
S. Palano, Campo 10
Moreno, EC 10
De La Pena, Newark 10
Chaussy, SRV 10
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February 5th, 2012 at 11:58 am
Matt, Good call on your top 15 for the week. Glad to see Bulldogs break-in to top 15. They are playing gutsy ball.
Spartans are looking very balanced going into final week with Tuesday’s Senior Night and game with Foothill. Then Thursday Spartans should be picking up some NCS steam and take CAL at CAL. Clayton Valley is showing signs of sputtering. Newark is playing well rounded game with some speed..If they make it to NCS finals I think they will be more relaxed. San Ramon seems to be peaking just at the right time but I can see them getting unglued in pressure / high stakes game.
February 5th, 2012 at 12:07 pm
Hey Matt,
It is always a great read when you publish your regular season home stretch analysis: tons of information and your commentary says it like it needs to be said.
One thing that jumps out at me is Montes’ numbers. I would like to see his numbers against ranked teams. From what I have seen, he is one of the best at creating scoring opportunities, even against top tier defenses.
On the pitch, in matches the past two weeks, I have seen the officials are calling play tighter and enforcing the rules. I have seen: 1) more red cards this week than in all of January; 2) more whistles, stoppages and yellow cards; 3) more throw-in enforcement for footwork and ‘cheating for yards’; and 4) the pinnie police are out to make sure that subs reporting to enter a match are properly attired. Now if we could just figure out that darn off-sides rule…
Next up, Super Bowl XLVI and the longest pre-game shows on the planet.
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 5th, 2012 at 12:09 pm
Matt
Great work , on the who’s in who’s out !
I look forward to a few things on Sundays, premier league review show and your review of the east bay soccer scene.
February 5th, 2012 at 12:37 pm
Offside, Sweeper, offside. There’s no “S” at the end
February 5th, 2012 at 1:28 pm
San lorenzo actually have 17 points
February 5th, 2012 at 1:29 pm
Matt, correct me if im wrong but mt. Diablo has already done enough to qualify. they play only 8 d2 games this year, all in league, and they already have 4 wins against d2 schools.
February 5th, 2012 at 2:10 pm
Great Job Matt! Only being involved in High School Soccer for a Second Season, and only having been introduced to Your Blog for a little over a Season, You really bring the Local East Bay High School Soccer Community together!
I’m guessing the NCS Powers to be might not necessarily want to hear this, but I think a good deal of Fairness, Transparency and Integrity could be added to the NCS Championship Selection Process if Your Rankings and Input were part of that process. Being a Big College Football Fan, You’re the Jeff Sagarin of East Bay High School Soccer in my book!
February 5th, 2012 at 3:01 pm
Hey Matt
Curious to know your thoughts on top players in dfal ?
February 5th, 2012 at 5:20 pm
Hey guys,
Thanks for the nice words. I appreciate it.
What sucks is that all that work I was incorrect. According to the NCS bulletin, you no longer need to be above .500 in a category, but you just need to be exactly .500 or better in a category to qualify.
From the NCS Bulletin…
To be accepted as a participant in the NCS/Les Schwab Tires Soccer Championships, a team shall have compiled an overall record of at least an equal number of wins and losses or an overall record of at least an equal number of wins and losses against teams in its own division, or at least an equal number of wins and losses in its own league.
So really quickly what that means is….
Division I
Should get in
College Park is eligible
Dougherty Valley just needs one win or draw
Granada needs just one win or draw
Work to do
Alameda is eligible with a win over Pinole, which is their last game
Amador Valley is eligible with a win and a draw
American is eligible
Antioch can go 1-1, or get two draws
Castro Valley might have a loss to SLZ I don’t know about, so I’m not sure
Deer Valley and Heritage can go 1-0-1 and be eligible
Irvington’s most recent result, I don’t know
San Leandro just needs to go .500 or better
Division II
Should get in
Alhambra is in
Hercules needs to just go .500 in their final two games
Kennedy-Richmond is in with a win/draw
Mount Diablo is eligible at 4-3 against Division II teams, with just one division game left against YV
Tennyson seems in
February 5th, 2012 at 5:25 pm
Bias- What is San Leandro’s league record and who have they beat?
Cougars12- Sam Palano, Dan Glascock, Austin deBack, Jacob Carroll, Alex Marshall, Fardeen Shaiwany, Santiago Alejandro and T.J. Sylvia are my favorite players from the DFAL.
February 5th, 2012 at 6:07 pm
Matt – The best players in DFAL?? Where is the love for defensive players. Oliver Castillo for Dublin is a stud. 4 year varsity center back. Key NCS goals and defensive stops. He has anchored a defense that has allowed 17/18/20/18 total season goals respectively in the last 4 years including an additional 2-4 NCS matches each season. Speed, Power, Touch, and Intelligence clearly make him one of the top players in DFAL. No publicity, just performance
February 5th, 2012 at 6:10 pm
Thanks Matt
February 5th, 2012 at 6:28 pm
Hey Matt
Great list of top players in dfal , what about top keepers in dfal ?
February 5th, 2012 at 6:33 pm
@center mark
Um Castillo is good but not really a contender. I have seen him get beat plenty of times and also made a handful of errors in the back. Not to say he’s not a bad player cause he’s not. But ive seen alot of errors and silly mistakes in the back from him And all the players he named have performed to there fullest and when they do there great in the DFAL.
February 5th, 2012 at 7:04 pm
Who are your best players from DVAL?
February 5th, 2012 at 7:51 pm
Matt
Any Idea On What Keepers To Look Out For?
February 5th, 2012 at 8:12 pm
Edgar Damian, Jonathan Ayala, Andy Altamarino, Emmanuel Jimenez, Josh Gomez, Dominic Alvarez and Gonzales from College Park are some of my favorite guys.
Can’t forget Calixto and Aguilar.
February 5th, 2012 at 8:12 pm
Good call on Castillo. Forgot to mention him.
February 5th, 2012 at 8:58 pm
Matt,
You are the “Tommy” Smyth & Giorgio Chinaglia of HS soccer of the east bay. You should do a geek on the pitch series for some fun commentary.
Truly enjoy your blog and all the participants who just love the game. You hit over a 170 each week that’s pretty cool. You have a good / fair take on the teams and on the players. You get my vote for the “Cleats-Up” award for excellent coverage of Bay Area Soccer.
February 5th, 2012 at 9:24 pm
what about Bobby Gonzalez from College Park, Sam Marchant and Adolfo Martinez from Clayton Valley. Also Andy Altamirano from Concord. I think these boys should also be added to the DVAL list because they have done an impact to there team there team this season.
February 5th, 2012 at 9:32 pm
Just want to point out that Berkeley’s 5-2 loss to Richmond looks bad on paper, but the game was very equal, with Berkeley having the lead for much of the game. Things only fell apart in last 15minutes or so with a red card to a center midfielder which caused Richmond to go ahead to score 2 more…
Just think they should be ranked higher.
February 5th, 2012 at 9:34 pm
I believe I mentioned Gonzalez (spelling?) and Altamarino.
Shinguard, it’s people like you that make this blog so awesome. Thanks a lot man, it means a lot to me.
February 5th, 2012 at 9:42 pm
Has anyone taken a good look at that young man from aAlhambra High. I have watched him for the last 4 years and it seems to me that he has improved his game even more so now. He is #17 Alejandro. He should be up there with the ranking as far as assists and goals.
February 5th, 2012 at 9:43 pm
What about the two other clayton boys.
February 5th, 2012 at 9:52 pm
How will the DFAL end up? seems like a close race still.
February 5th, 2012 at 9:52 pm
You are right about them, they are very good. Martinez is very skilled, and Marchant is so solid. Good call on those guys.
February 5th, 2012 at 9:55 pm
thank you. i also like the other boys you chose too. how do you think clayton valley will do this week against Mt diablo @ mount and Concord for the final home game of the season?
February 5th, 2012 at 10:00 pm
# 23 Mary I believe he is mentioned in Matt’s post # 10 read it his name is on there along with another teammate.
February 5th, 2012 at 10:02 pm
Who cares how Clayton does against mount, the big game is on Tuesday. Concord agaisnt Yv the winner takes a big step at winning league.
February 5th, 2012 at 10:08 pm
Huge seeding implications in EBAL this week for SRV, MV, and Cal. Should be some awesome soccer.
February 5th, 2012 at 10:15 pm
Yv beats concord this week !
February 5th, 2012 at 10:28 pm
I Think YV will get the win v Concord especially if Ayala back to full fitness but if not it might be a tough game. But of course they still have Damian and the rest of there very talented squad.
Matt , can I get your prediction on these games
YV vs CONCORD
ALHAMBRA vs DOUGHERTY VALLEY
DUBLIN vs CAMPOLINDO
Thanks
February 5th, 2012 at 10:29 pm
#19-Soccer 101
Adolfo is not a good player..
Sam is a really physical player, he controlls the whole defence its hard to get by him.
Just saying..
February 5th, 2012 at 10:35 pm
Not a good player come on hsparent ! We shouldn’t talk about kids that way !
February 5th, 2012 at 11:06 pm
GREAT JOB MATT I WOULD LOVE TO SEE HAYWARD MOVE UP ALL THEY DO IS WIN AND THEY ARE THE LEAGUE CHAMP ALREADY. AND THEY ARE STILL RANKED 12 NO LOVE OR YOU JUST TO NOT BELIVE IN THIS TEAM I HAVE SEEN THEM AND THERE A GREAT TEAM.
February 5th, 2012 at 11:43 pm
Love soccer: Its difficult for Matt to move Hayward up since they don’t have that many games played like other teams do. If they has more preseason games that would boost up their ranking I believe. Haha trust me he believes in Hayward soccer
February 6th, 2012 at 12:02 am
HS Parent, please. I take issue with anyone calling any of our student/athletes “not a good player”.
Adolfo Martinez has been a solid performer for our varsity for 2 years now and, at times has demonstrated true excellence on the pitch.
As always, it is easy to single out some player or players, but, at Clayton Valley, everyone of our players, #1 through #23 has played a part in our success this season and last and will do so for many years to come.
I would ask you to keep your negative comments to yourself in the future, especially when you are talking first and foremost about a child.
Thank you,
Rory Gentry
Clayton Valley Boys Soccer
February 6th, 2012 at 7:08 am
@Mary,
Coaches or team parent rep need to submit stats & game results religiously after each game. Its the only way accurate tracking can be kept…This was issue with Romero at PV until they sent update. Otherwise the player just falls off the face of the earth stat wise.
February 6th, 2012 at 7:22 am
I think Clayton will tune up nicely against Mt. Diablo and then be a team to reckon with in the Division I playoffs.
As far as DFAL keepers, I like Jackson Foote from Acalanes, and he has battled some injury and illness this year.
Lipson from Alhambra is also a very solid player.
Mary, Alejandro is on the leaderboard with 18 goals. He isn’t for assists, but I have his stats. He has eight, so he hasn’t cracked the top 10-15 in that category yet.
February 6th, 2012 at 7:44 am
Rory–
Your players did great. I watched about 5 CV games this year. Great group of young men.
Now for you as a coach … stop with the emailing. NOT COOL !
February 6th, 2012 at 8:00 am
matt,
do they post your rankings in the paper?
also, i think roth from srv should be in the goal scoring leaders.
February 6th, 2012 at 8:19 am
@11v11 RG needs to chill, a touchy fellow at times.
Most of the coaches do not encourage players to participate in blog, it fogs the head. Even some coaches stay away for same reason.
@Matt, Any stats on DLS players? curious it must be fairly balanced between a group of players.
February 6th, 2012 at 8:27 am
They don’t post my rankings in the paper, but Roth is in the scoring leaders up there with 15 goals. He’s right under Lopez of Pitt.
The top DLS players for stats are…
Goals
Molineux 10
Martinez 7
Lisiak 6
Rowling 5
Assists
Eikani 7
Lisiak and Martinez 4
February 6th, 2012 at 8:46 am
@Matt, THX I know they have a few other players that are in the 1-3 range on goals and assists. Just goes to show how dangerous DLS is, one player can be shut down but somebody else manages to take care of business. Like a fine diamond…the many facets of the spartan attack.
February 6th, 2012 at 8:56 am
YV & Concord should be a better game for both teams as game is at YV. Much better field as to playing in tall grass and bomb craters. Will go with YV as game is at home.
February 6th, 2012 at 9:14 am
Matt, Any stat breakdown on keepers ?? ie. saves and blocked PK’s. Speaking of goal keepers..another kid who is only playing club is Alex Clewis I believe he is a Junior this year but plays at Mustang SC. This player has improved tremendously last two years and would be among the top keepers in Bay Area. I think his school would be YV or Concord if he was playing HS ball.
February 6th, 2012 at 9:31 am
I don’t track keeper stats, though I would like to start. Saves and GAA would be good. Blocked PK’s might be hard, but worth a try, right?
February 6th, 2012 at 9:36 am
Would be cool.
February 6th, 2012 at 9:58 am
Shinguard, whoever u r thanks for mentioning Alex Clewis. He is attending a charter high school this year. Look for him on the pitch his senior year. He is in YV district.
February 6th, 2012 at 10:59 am
In the last 4 years Newark is 46-3-3 at home. 10-0-0 this year.
February 6th, 2012 at 11:26 am
Do you think YV vs Concord would be who ever messes up first will win?
February 6th, 2012 at 11:32 am
I think YV will be hungry for their first league title since 1994, to avenge the earlier draw and give Concord its first loss. I think YV comes out very strong.
I’ll be there, wishing there was a pressbox so I could stay dry.
February 6th, 2012 at 11:41 am
Tuesday is looking wet till about 9pm. Matt agree YV will be hungry +2 I don’t think anybody will go conservative and take a defensive posture. Ball skills advantage to YV…and keeping more min of possession.
February 6th, 2012 at 11:50 am
This is in regards to an earlier post asking what’s happened to Castro Valley these past 2 years…? The answer is simple, they fired Coach Al Peacock. I looked at old NCS brackets and CV’s record heading into NCS the last 2 seasons under Peacock were 17-5-2 (2009 season) and 17-3-4 (2010 season). He coached there for over 20 years as varsity Head Coach and then a couple new administrators (the new AD who had been there less than 1 year and an Asst VP who had been there 3 years) told him “they wanted to go in a different direction” without even a “Thank You” for all your years of success and dedication to this program…
That’s Ridiculous! They certainly have gone in a Different Direction – Straight down the tubes. Castro Valley historically was always a force in the HAAL and in NCS. They just might have lost more games these past 2 seasons then they lost under Coach Peacock in 20+ years (slightly over exaggerated, but you get the point). Nice going, whoever made the decision to go in a “different direction”…you managed to ruin one of your BEST/most successful programs in school history…I guess you got what you wanted.
On a side note, Rigo Castillo of Hayward is one of the best/most exciting players I’ve seen this year. I’d rank him top 5 or so and I’ve seen some of the better teams play this year (Richmond, DLS, SRV, Odowd, Ygnacio Valley). I think He and Hayward will be a force in D2 NCS.
February 6th, 2012 at 12:18 pm
2cents,
Thanks for bringing this up. Al Peacock had been doing an outstanding job at CV, as you said, and I was wondering where he went. Very very disappointing way to deal with an outstanding individual who served his community for so long and so well.
February 6th, 2012 at 12:27 pm
Speaking of Rigo Castillo, the kid is very good. Fun to watch.
Someone earlier asked if I don’t think Hayward is good, and the answer is I think they are very good. Teams above just aren’t losing and I can’t move anyone up.
Clayton, Campo, Cal and Concord are all stuck for now as well.
February 6th, 2012 at 3:33 pm
MATT,
is Ayala playing for YV today or is he still hurt?
February 6th, 2012 at 3:34 pm
sorry not today I meant against concord ?
February 6th, 2012 at 3:51 pm
Let me find out…
February 6th, 2012 at 4:19 pm
Funny conversation I had with Bri from NCS. I told her I’d do the playoff seeding for a Chipotle gift card. Don’t think they’ll take me up on my offer.
Also told them to be ready for my seeding choices to be taped to the door. Sweeper, you have been summoned….
February 6th, 2012 at 4:32 pm
Matt , can I get your prediction on these games from this week
YV vs CONCORD
ALHAMBRA vs DOUGHERTY VALLEY
DUBLIN vs CAMPOLINDO
De La Salle vs Cal
Thanks
February 6th, 2012 at 4:37 pm
Okay, so Tata is playing tomorrow.
I’m gonna go YV 1, Concord 0 in a very hard fought, close game. I don’t think it will be defensive, because I think there will be some chances, but defenses will apply pressure and keepers will play well.
Alhambra is rolling, so I think 2-1 ‘Dogs.
Dublin 1-1 Campolindo.
De La Salle 1-1 Cal.
Both Cal and Dublin are playing well, and I think De La Salle wants to make sure and be healthy in heading to the playoffs with that No. 1 seed.
February 6th, 2012 at 4:40 pm
nice ! Thanks
and good to hear that Tata will be playing hopefully he is 100% fit because hes going to make the diffrence if he is 100%
February 6th, 2012 at 4:55 pm
He’s very close to 100 percent.
February 6th, 2012 at 5:33 pm
How about a potenital MV Newark matchup at newark, rematch from last year, it is looking like it could be a possibility.
February 6th, 2012 at 6:16 pm
Are you predicting that Newark is No. 4 and MV is No. 5? What if MV beats SRV?
February 6th, 2012 at 6:42 pm
Spartans will not settle for a draw with CAL even if logic says to throttle back.
Looks like it will be wet for Senior night & Foothill game at DLS.
February 6th, 2012 at 7:57 pm
O’Dowd 1, Acalanes 0, at half. Interesting matchups and good flow to the match.
February 6th, 2012 at 8:03 pm
Matt,
I am all over that one. Your rankings will be posted.
February 6th, 2012 at 8:25 pm
Still 1-0, with 20 left.
February 6th, 2012 at 8:25 pm
Sweeper
What’s the score of that game has alcalanes been able to equalize yet ?
February 6th, 2012 at 8:27 pm
Chipotle? I’d do the D1 rankings for a Portumex gift card!
February 6th, 2012 at 8:40 pm
Dons tie it 1-1 with 5 left.
February 6th, 2012 at 8:50 pm
Final 1-1 at Acalanes.
February 6th, 2012 at 8:54 pm
O’Dowd the first team to ten draws.
February 6th, 2012 at 8:57 pm
2cents (post #54) maybe they just don’t have the talent. I always felt that high school soccer is mostly about the talent pool you fall into. If you are using silver, bronze or rec plus players, you probably won’t win much. If Castro Valley High had Nick Lima this year they would probably would have won 5 more games on his talent alone and maybe had a few more ties instead of losses. Coaches certainly help in implementing a system that fits his players but ultimately it’s whether or not players can play. Coaches don’t score or make saves…
February 6th, 2012 at 9:03 pm
Cokito, I’d do a lot of things for a Portumex gift card! Place is amazing!
February 6th, 2012 at 9:04 pm
Dougherty Valley 7, Las Lomas 0
February 6th, 2012 at 9:05 pm
What time is the y.v vs concord game at?
February 6th, 2012 at 9:16 pm
Carrol’s loss has seemed to hurt Acalanes a bit. Their win column hasn’t grown nearly as much as it did when he was a factor.
February 6th, 2012 at 9:23 pm
The game is at 3:30.
February 6th, 2012 at 9:26 pm
Matt for the match up between concord vs yv, what do you expect from both teams? & who are the key players?
February 6th, 2012 at 9:32 pm
Alcalanes draws tonight wow ! Dougherty smashes Los lomas ! What a night.
February 6th, 2012 at 9:35 pm
Concord has given up just 10 goals in 17 games this year, so I think the key player for YV will be Edgar Damian. I think he will have to create chances for his teammates against a pretty stingy Concord defense.
On the other hand, Concord has allowed only nine goals in 19 games. Pretty incredible. The key player for Concord will be Emmanuel Jimenez. I think YV is going to be able to create on the big turf field, and they score more than three goals per game. I think the keeper will have to stand tall.
I expect a very competitive game that will be fast paced, full of chances and will probably get physical.
February 6th, 2012 at 9:48 pm
MV beating SRV is a possibility. Even an SRV matchup at Newark would be a great one. I think throwing Cal, SRV or MV at Newark would be a great game.
February 6th, 2012 at 9:58 pm
O’Dowd 1, Acalanes 1. A few observations and takeaways:
O’Dowd scored midway through the 1st half, and Acalanes equalized with 5+ to play.
The most obvious point of the night was the Dons called offside at least a dozen times tonight, perhaps as many as 20 times or more. I would like to see the tally sheet as this was easily the most I have seen in one match in several years. Wearing all white, with the Dragons in all black, the Don’s stood out when in an offside position. I was at the 30 and each of the calls in the first half were legit.
I was impressed with the Dragons’ spacing, discipline and gap filling. It kept them in the match and should serve them well in the playoffs.
Each keeper was caught out of position several times, leaving a wide open net, but no resulting goals. Give credit for the defenders covering the line or clearing loose balls. A lot of oh my… & what the… moments.
There was a potential breakaway goal for the Don’s where a Dragon defender (last defender?) intentionally pushed the Don player from behind to the ground at the 20 yard line, two steps from the box. A yellow was shown, and the ball was spotted on the 22. This had all of the makings of a red card, but the AR did not make the case. Other than that play, which could have gone either way (clearly an orange card), the officials were quite competent. The Dons’ coach earned a yellow for delayed commentary on that play, and the Dragons’ coach matched him to earn a yellow later in the match.
Ironically, while on offense the Dons tended to make an extra pass, while the Dragons tended to dribble one time too many. This was a good tune-up match for both squads, but for the excessive offside turnovers by the home team.
Lastly, I must credit the O’Dowd fans (parents), who did a decent job of self-policing negative or over-the-top comments.
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 6th, 2012 at 10:07 pm
Sweeper
It’s funny that you say that about alcalanes because even against Alhambra they were caught off at least 8-9 times a few of which had they held their runs they would have been clean in for goal scoring opportunities.
They have speed and athleticism up top and on the wings , hopefully they can keep it under control heading into NCS.
February 6th, 2012 at 10:18 pm
i agree with tack. Carroll was a major factor and without him the dons have been left with a very inexperienced sweeper who tends to boot and turn the ball over a lot. other defenders seem to have to work much harder than they used too when they had carroll which puts a lot of stress upon them and the goalie as well
February 6th, 2012 at 10:25 pm
Dfalfollower,
If that was the case against the Dogs, image the Dons’ challenge tonight against the Dragons, a very disciplined defensive line. If you (or Matt) know anyone at Acalanes, it would be very revealing to get the true offside count. Imagine the Dons having those 20+ possessions back…
I am sure that the coaching staff is all over this one, because even if the officials were wrong you must adjust.
Question: What is it called when you do the same thing over and over again and expect a different result? Answer: Insanity, for your coach.
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 6th, 2012 at 10:30 pm
Sweeper
It is crazy or insane to waste those runs it’s almost like nobody at alcalanes wants to make a simple adjustment and make the diagonal run and have the ball played in behind the defender, imagine that !!!
February 6th, 2012 at 10:38 pm
Tough year for Las Lomas under first year coach Bill Coupe. Bill was the girls varsity coach at Amador Valley and was not asked back after several disappointing years. He was the the principal at AV and probably the only reason he was the coach. He retired and the new principal did not ask him to return. I’ve heard grumblings at Las Lomas and will be interesting to see if he’s asked back. Too bad since Las Lomas was always a strong contender in DFAL.
February 6th, 2012 at 10:40 pm
Thanks Matt.
February 6th, 2012 at 10:43 pm
Does anyone know who scored for Dougherty Valley tonigh against LL ??
February 6th, 2012 at 10:50 pm
In my opinion yv will take the win tomorrow. Their offense is way too talented from what I have seen in the last couple of games I have watched them play, yv has a very strong mid field ( Aguilar and calixto) speed and touch from both of these players also a lot of credibility and up top is full of speed and finishing with Damian a key player and Ayala those are the key players on YVs side. I personally think concord might get this win from what I saw the last game played at concord but we will see.
….feedback if different opinion
Thank you
February 6th, 2012 at 10:55 pm
Oh no are we talking about a manager sacking already at Las Lomas ?
February 6th, 2012 at 11:12 pm
In my opinion yv will take the win tomorrow. Yv is way too talented in their offense, their mid field Aguilar and Calixto( great speed and beautiful touch) . They also have Damian who is a key player and Ayala who has a great finishing touch, all four of these players are very talented but they also face a very good team and their solid defense. I give it a 1-0 yv .
FEEDBACK IF DIFFERENT OPINION
THANK YOU
February 6th, 2012 at 11:18 pm
Las Lomas lost to dougherty valley 7-0. I can’t believe it. They got their A** kicked tonight. LL had a very disappointing season. Every high school team got better with the season except LL. Players are very disappointed too. Bill, new coach couldn’t bring it together. LL league record is 0-8-0. I don’t think school administration will accept this record for sports like football, basketball, water polo, Lacrosse. I guess its high time that school administration looks for a new coach next year with a decent track record.
February 6th, 2012 at 11:19 pm
Soccer fan
Looks like you like YV seeing as you posted twice ?
I too think that YV will come out on top and I also think they will score more than 1 goal I have them 2-1 winners tomorrow in a game that should provide some great moments as well as some physical play.
I’ve seen YV play a few times this season and the coaching is spot on as well as the 11 players they line up on the field there midfield is very very good along with a potent attack. Defense is solid but , in my opinion the keeper is not on the same level, he is good but not solid !
February 6th, 2012 at 11:21 pm
Tintin
Dfal was a tough league and yes las lomas had a tough season but can we only blame the coach at the end of the day the kids have to perform !
February 6th, 2012 at 11:23 pm
The Sweeper says: “YV 2+, Concord 0.” That first match was no indicator.
February 6th, 2012 at 11:33 pm
Dfalfollower
Agreed league is tough and kids need to perform. I also agree LL team is young and is not complete.But you play the way you practice.
At the same time, sadly Bill did not offer much to the team. Anyone who knows difference between kick ball and soccer will agree with me.
February 6th, 2012 at 11:33 pm
who scored for YV?
February 6th, 2012 at 11:42 pm
YV plays tomorrow
February 7th, 2012 at 1:19 am
For Dougherty…
Shaiwany had three, Hasselfeld two, Parisi and Gala had one.
February 7th, 2012 at 7:59 am
Hercules league record is:
W4 L 3 T 3
You guys have them @ 4-4-2
February 7th, 2012 at 8:16 am
Hi,
does anyone know how the school status for D1 and D2 is determined?
I have noticed that one HS can have both D1 or D2 designation for different sports in the same year.
February 7th, 2012 at 8:46 am
Over 100 comments by Tuesday morning. We could have a record breaking week… Let’s see…
Big games today:
The headliner is No. 2 YV v. unbeaten Concord
El Cerrito v. Richmond- EC trying to be playoff eligible. The Gauchos need to play .500 in their last three games, so going 1-1-1 would work.
Hercules v. Berkeley- Hercules also trying to get playoff eligible.
Granada v. SRV- The Matadors are still on the bubble.
Alameda v. Pinole- Alameda is eligible with a win.
AV v. Livermore- AV needs wins.
BVAL- DV, Heritage, Antioch and Freedom could all use wins.
Cal v. MV- Big game for seeding purposes.
February 7th, 2012 at 8:50 am
Hey DVAL Future Fan,
Division I and II work differently in soccer. Basically any school above 1,700 students is D I and under is D II. You can find a list of the schools at cifncs.org.
Go to soccer, and then divisions.
February 7th, 2012 at 9:08 am
When people tell me I have a record wrong (like people have with Hercules and SLZ recently) it would really help me if you could tell me who they have beat, lost and drawn against.
Some schools don’t report all their scores.
February 7th, 2012 at 9:11 am
I had Hercules correct on my spreadsheet, I just typed it wrong when I updated the blog. So that’s good.
SLZ, anybody?
February 7th, 2012 at 9:53 am
Hayward @ CVHS 2/8/2012 no contest but should be highly entertaining.
February 7th, 2012 at 10:03 am
YV vs Concord
This game should be full of surprises.
I believe YV has an advantage over concord but not by much.
Standings — Yv could tie and win out to win league.
Concord still has to face a very strong Clayton Valley team. A tie in the concord vs Clayton game would give YV the league title winning out on their last two games.
This game weighs heavy on Concord. I don’t see this game to be lopsided in one way or another.
YV- They will be hungry for a win to seal the league title and to give Concord its first lose.
Again … please please give us some ref’s of the younger generation or that can keep up with play. This game is going to be a battle and a fast strong game.
February 7th, 2012 at 11:39 am
11v11
Not to many good refs out there so good luck with that.
February 7th, 2012 at 12:13 pm
Matt,
After a team Wins NCS D1 or D2 , is there any games after that, they play or is NCS the end of the season ?
February 7th, 2012 at 12:14 pm
Matt when is the next live chat ??
February 7th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
MAtt,
after NCS D1 & D2, do the champions play any other games or is NCS Finals the end of the season?
February 7th, 2012 at 12:39 pm
Las Lomas needs an overhaul and reorganize the program frosh, jv and V. Get a system in place with quality coaches and you would see that program come around. They have a player talent pool..but they need a take charge coach to get the pride and spirit back into the program.
February 7th, 2012 at 1:00 pm
Can You believe Coupe used to coach Cal Berkeley a while back. He coached at Granada High back in the 80′s. Man that seems like a million years ago.
February 7th, 2012 at 1:01 pm
He was quite the task master then. Not what you would call a “players Coach”…
February 7th, 2012 at 1:12 pm
So there is no game after the NCS Division I and II title games, but I’d love to put together the Matt Smith Tournament of Champions where the two champions play each other.
February 7th, 2012 at 1:12 pm
I’m hoping to do another live chat, or a video thing, very soon.
February 7th, 2012 at 1:23 pm
Matt,
When do you think you will put up the D1 and D2 rankings?
Are there important games scheduled on Saturday?
Thanks!
February 7th, 2012 at 1:24 pm
The YV game could be a local classic.
Re Las Lomas hopefully what ever happens good decisions are made.
February 7th, 2012 at 1:32 pm
@Cokito and 2cents, I have seen the decline first hand for CVHS its very sad.Good bunch of boys they deserve better.
February 7th, 2012 at 1:44 pm
The Matt Smith TOC — that would be a great game — and well attended I’m sure.
February 7th, 2012 at 1:56 pm
It would be great to work in a Champions League format tournament through the regular season. Club starts back up next week with NCS kids showing up as soon as NCS is over. Teams in WCDA have a major out of state tournament in March.
February 7th, 2012 at 2:05 pm
Offside Ref#76 As for CVHS even with Lima and Hunter last season CVHS only managed to muster 7-8 wins all season. As for the current players most are Gold players who have had pretty good results within their clubs they play for. I would dare to say its not so much the talent on the pitch for CVHS but the inability of the staff tocalibrate effectively changes and formations that best suits the talent on the team. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist but it does take the ability to communicate and adapt.I guarantee you that if Peacock was still there CVHS would be in the top four or if at all have made NCS this year even without Lima or Hunter.
February 7th, 2012 at 2:44 pm
The only two games I know of are Berkeley v. El Cerrito, and Alameda v. Encinal.
I have a hunch El Cerrito will be 1-1 over their next two games, so a win or a draw against Berkeley will be needed to be eligible for the playoffs.
For Alameda, they can draw with Pinole, and get a win against Encinal and be eligible.
I’m going to put my Division I and II predictions up on Saturday after those results come in.
February 7th, 2012 at 2:45 pm
By the way, gotta throw SLZ back into the Division II playoff picture. I now know they are 6-7-5 overall and 4-5-5 in league. Going 2-0 or 1-0-1 over their last two games gets them eligible.
February 7th, 2012 at 3:42 pm
YV up 1-0 early.
February 7th, 2012 at 3:56 pm
Tata. 2-0.
February 7th, 2012 at 4:19 pm
2-0 at half.
February 7th, 2012 at 4:40 pm
Hey Matt,
How is the weather and field condition at YV? Rain, wind, puddling, good footing? Besides scoring, what does Concord have to do to get back in the match?
I will try to make it to Cal@MV and provide updates.
February 7th, 2012 at 4:56 pm
It’s wet and YV can’t be as creative as usual. Concord needs to capitalize on chances. They’ve had plenty.
Edgar Damian left the game hurt. YV is doing a lot of shifting to keep it together because they have some key players out.
February 7th, 2012 at 5:17 pm
2-0 Final.
February 7th, 2012 at 5:30 pm
Damn I thought it would be 2-1 I can’t believe concord could not muster any goals !!
February 7th, 2012 at 6:17 pm
MV 1, Cal 0 after 7 min.
February 7th, 2012 at 6:23 pm
Here are my thoughts from the game…
Both teams suffered some losses from grades, and YV is dealing with an assortment of injuries. With that said, you could tell YV was working with a makeshift back line, going with three defenders. It took some adjusting and Concord had some chances early that they are going to feel like should have been put away.
YV scored two very nice goals early, but didn’t have much offensive rhythm in the first half. In the second half, YV looked very good offensively and could have put a few away, including a header by Ivan Bonilla that hit the crossbar.
In the end, I thought both teams looked good despite being shorthanded and both teams are serious threats in NCS.
February 7th, 2012 at 6:35 pm
Cal equalizes 1-1 in the 26th min.
February 7th, 2012 at 6:36 pm
Matt who was injured from yv?
February 7th, 2012 at 6:48 pm
0 0 Srv – Granada. Srv missing 3 key starters.
February 7th, 2012 at 6:51 pm
1-1 at the half.
“Is anybody out there?”
February 7th, 2012 at 6:51 pm
I know they were thin on the back line, but the key injury was Edgar Damian. He got hurt in the first half after a nasty collision and never returned. He looks as though he’ll be okay, but might not play much the rest of the regular season.
Tata was a little gimpy and he’ll probably rest until NCS as well. Same with Calixto.
February 7th, 2012 at 6:59 pm
It would be smart for YV to rest their Players and I’m sure the coach is gearing up for NCS I have no doubt in my mind that the staff over at YV knows what they are doing.
February 7th, 2012 at 7:07 pm
Concord had no chance against YV, concord doesnt have any forwards thats there weakness.There mids and defenders are solid.The reason why Concord has been winning games its because of these 4 players Andy,Emmanuel,Fariz,Edgar.They are all the heart of the team! So if you guys say concord high is good, there good because of these 4 players. Just needed to make it clear.
February 7th, 2012 at 7:12 pm
Still 1-1 at MV after 50 min.
February 7th, 2012 at 7:13 pm
@ Offside! Ref…Come On! (# 76)
I’m not sure how many Castro Valley games you’ve seen these past 2 years, but I can assure you they have enough talent. When a program is highly successful for over 20 years under one coach and then they take an immediate nose-dive after firing him, it’s NOT hard to figure out what’s gone wrong. Castro Valley has never been abundant with D1 players, but they were always successful no matter what.
Anyhow, your argument is flawed! Last year they had Lima, and the results were similar…(Lima would be the BEST player in NCS hands-down in my opinion)…Just for argument sake, let’s explore your logic and look at last season…
If you are saying 5 wins at least for Lima’s talent, then if you take those 5 wins away from last years record (and even if we put them all as ties instead of losses) their record would’ve been 3-12-9…ouch…
February 7th, 2012 at 7:15 pm
Well soccer is a team sport you named off four good players but that doesn’t make a team and your also taking credit away from the other players who have all played a role in concords season.
No matter how good a player or players are they still need a supporting cast.
February 7th, 2012 at 7:16 pm
Cal 2, MV 1, with 27 left.
February 7th, 2012 at 7:43 pm
Cal 2, MV 1, final.
February 7th, 2012 at 8:03 pm
DLS 3, Foothill 1 final
Not the most exciting soccer game, but at least it didn’t rain!
February 7th, 2012 at 8:29 pm
Dfalfollower – I completely understand where you are coming from, but on every team there are crucial players that directly impact the play of their teammates around them. Removing these players disrupts the common flow the team had become used to, and this requires them to find a new style of play. Just look to Indy where Peyton Manning is a prime example of this situation.
February 7th, 2012 at 8:29 pm
I would like give my congrats to Ygnacio Valley boys soccer team. Well done.
Some stats:
No goals allowed at home all season long.
Only 2 goals in season with two games to go.
18 years since YV doesn’t win league.
Over 60 goals scored . Only 8 against.
Went 10 games without getting scored on.
It been a great year, more to come.
February 7th, 2012 at 8:34 pm
Sparty played good…nice Senior night. Sparty started major rotation which simply kept the game in balance. It was great that it did not rain made for a nice afternoon of soccer. Sparty JV had a 6-2 win
February 7th, 2012 at 8:56 pm
Richmond 6 – El Cerrito 1
February 7th, 2012 at 8:59 pm
Berkeley 5 – Hercules 2
February 7th, 2012 at 9:10 pm
Tack
I hear you but the Peyton manning thing can be blamed on coaching as well !
I agree some players make it easier for other on the pitch say like a messi or Ronaldo but again those players also have pieces that complement their style of play.
My point is that regardless of how good any player is they need role players to help them period ! I also believe that concord had more than 4 quality players.
February 7th, 2012 at 9:22 pm
HUGE win for Cal tonight in a fairly even game vs MV. MV must win to have any chances at 2nd place as SR needs to. Its up to cal now, with a win they can clinch second. This could be a very harsh end to the season for MV being in second all year and turning that into a 4th place finish.
February 7th, 2012 at 9:23 pm
also worth noting, I believe Cal handed MV their first loss at MV this whole season. correct me if im wrong.
February 7th, 2012 at 9:24 pm
How did SRV do? What about AV?
February 7th, 2012 at 9:28 pm
ACCAL Update…
If Hercules loses to Richmond, they will not qualify in Division II.
El Cerrito needs to go 1-0-1, or 2-0 against Salesian and Berkeley. Could come down to the last day of the year on Saturday for the Gauchos.
February 7th, 2012 at 9:34 pm
Antioch tied Pittsburg 1-1. Antioch just needs to draw against Liberty to be eligible.
February 7th, 2012 at 9:34 pm
Amador 6 LIvermore 0
February 7th, 2012 at 9:37 pm
SRV tied Granada. AV beat Livermore 6-0
February 7th, 2012 at 9:39 pm
Amador 6 – 0 over Livermore.
Complete Win for Amador.
February 7th, 2012 at 9:40 pm
AV needs a draw with Foothill to be eligible.
February 7th, 2012 at 9:42 pm
That draw was huge for Granada. They are eligible no matter what.
Cal taking second place in the EBAL would really change my NCS seeding predictions as well…
February 7th, 2012 at 9:54 pm
Hey Matt
How do you think antioch will do against liberty ?
Also is Jaime back from injury for Pitt ?
February 7th, 2012 at 9:55 pm
Pinole 2 Alameda 2
February 7th, 2012 at 10:00 pm
I think Antioch beats Liberty, and then I think Antioch gets in the playoffs. They are deserving.
Jaime is back. He scored a goal tonight.
February 7th, 2012 at 10:08 pm
Good to hear Jaime is an amazing talent glad he is back on the pitch and not missing a beat !
February 7th, 2012 at 10:08 pm
Antioch 1 Pittsburg 1
Very good match between both teams on a sloppy field – Not sure what happened, but something happened in the very last seconds of the match, melee in assistant referee (home side). It came out of no where….. #10 Pitt and #10 Antioch RED CARD, Pitt Head Coach Yellow Card.
With this tie and possibly a Antioch win against Liberty, does that put them in for NCS?
February 7th, 2012 at 10:13 pm
I think Antioch will get in the playoffs as long as they win/draw against Liberty.
I just feel like their schedule is good compared with the other teams fighting for the last few at large spots.
February 7th, 2012 at 10:13 pm
Sorry Matt – you answered it. Jaime did look good, was riding a yellow card. Looks like Ref talked to Jaime about watching himself…..I guess that is what they call player mgmt……
February 7th, 2012 at 10:19 pm
Jaime always plays hard and is so strong on the ball as well as off it. I’m sure Pablo is very happy to have him back.
February 7th, 2012 at 10:56 pm
#158 Vaporking,
Good call on the Cal@MV match. Cal looked off the first 15 minutes, and then something seemed to click and they played to a very slight advantage the rest of the way. Cal #20 was on his game tonight.
The race for 2nd in the EBAL is very tight, with DLS@Cal and MV@SRV on Thursday. A Cal win locks 2nd, but a Cal tie and SRV win then goes to the tie-breaker (if it is head to head then SRV should get 2nd). MV must win, and Cal must lose for MV to get 2nd. Big drama on Thursday. SRV plays late, so they will know what must be done. A 680 doubleheader classic is in store.
See you at the pitch!
February 7th, 2012 at 11:08 pm
I forgot to give props to FJPhotoGuy. He is the man on the spot with high def photos. He was using a new camera tonight, and the shots should be even more spectacular (if that is even possible).
We talked for a few minutes late in the match, and FJ Jr. (sorry Cal #8), returning to the line-up tonight after being on the mend for a few weeks, went down right in front of us, YIKES!. FJ Sr. had a few anxious moments until we could see it appeared to be a left calf muscle cramp (WHEW! Right?), and he finished the match (#8 Jr., not Sr.). Chris will probably not visit me anymore while the Cal team is in action.
Anyway, check out the great action shots at http://www.FJPhotoguy.com, and give him a shout if you see him lapping the field and shooting away during a match.
February 7th, 2012 at 11:23 pm
Sweeper, good call on Cal #20 (Driggs), he was matched up with #20 (Riley) from MV all night, they are both very strong in the air so it was fun to watch them battle it out.
Wading through 2,500+ shots from tonight will take a while but I should have shots up by this weekend.
Disconnecting FJ Jr.’s Internet connection now…
#8 Sr. the FJ Photo guy
February 7th, 2012 at 11:42 pm
I just put up three nice shots of Riley from MV – the first is the celebration of his goal and the next two are proof of his prowess of the air, one against Driggs and one challenging Cal’s Wilcox.
Chris G. the FJ Photoguy
February 8th, 2012 at 7:28 am
With a 2-1 win over DV, Freedom is for sure eligible, but I think they need to beat Pittsburg to make their case to get in stronger.
February 8th, 2012 at 7:50 am
Dough-Boys VS Alhambra tonight. Should be good game.
I will take Bulldogs 3-1 as they are playing with fire and passion. Game time is @6:15 at Wildcat Stadium.
Something tells me that tomorrow’s Cal vs DLS game has all the potential to be a no holds bar classic battle.
February 8th, 2012 at 8:02 am
Just got word that Coach Fulwiler donated our old DHS uniforms to kids in the Phillipines. It’s an awesome idea that other teams should follow if they have the chance.
For pictures go to http://www.dublinhighschoolmenssoccer.shutterfly.com/
February 8th, 2012 at 8:34 am
I know that Ygnacio Valley sends its soccer balls to central america.
They have been doing that for 4 years and counting.
Keep them kids playing.
February 8th, 2012 at 8:44 am
Matt it seems like Edgar Damian just keeps on leading his team on wins even thoe he left with a concussion before the first half he did get his team ahead and got two assist what can you say about this young talented player and do you think he will have a chance of winning that player of the year award or no?
February 8th, 2012 at 8:55 am
Bulldogs just love Wildcats. DV will get chewed up tonight. Bulldogs will show a full team effort for 80 min and will not look back. Watch the fur fly. This will not be a game for PETA fans.
February 8th, 2012 at 9:00 am
People Eating Tasty Animals….PETA
February 8th, 2012 at 9:13 am
Alex Marshall better score at least 10 goals in the post season
February 8th, 2012 at 9:49 am
I see that Alhambra vs DV game a 2-2 draw !
February 8th, 2012 at 10:21 am
Soccer Man, you are talking my language. I love talking about Edgar Damian. One of my favorite players.
He definitely has a shot at the player of the year award. He is so much fun to watch. The speed, the precision and the vision. He’s a true attacking mid. He’s about as good as it gets.
February 8th, 2012 at 12:23 pm
I see DV actually pulling a win against the Dogs. They have a solid defense, while Alhambra lacks some at times. It goes to whoever comes to play tonight.
February 8th, 2012 at 1:49 pm
I hear you on that Tack it should be a good game with both sitting on 14pts in league.
February 8th, 2012 at 1:54 pm
Is jeremy romero a good player to look at for college?
February 8th, 2012 at 1:57 pm
PLAYOFF UPDATE
Division I- Qualified
Berkeley
California
Clayton Valley
College Park
De La Salle
Dougherty Valley
Freedom
Granada
Logan
Monte Vista
Mt. Eden
Newark Memorial
Pittsburg
Richmond
San Ramon Valley
Work to do
Alameda (needs to win final game)
Amador Valley (win or a draw v. Foothill)
American (avoid going 0-2)
Antioch (win or draw v. Liberty)
Heritage (win or draw v. DV)
Irvington (missing a game, but still alive for now)
San Leandro (needs two wins, or a win and a draw in last two games)
That gives us 15 teams qualified, seven still in the hunt.
Division II- Qualified
Acalanes
Albany
Alhambra
Bishop O’Dowd
Campolindo
Concord
Dublin
Hayward
Kennedy-Richmond
Mt. Diablo
Piedmont
Pinole Valley
St. Mary’s
Tennyson
YV
Work to do…
El Cerrito (needs to go 1-0-1, or better)
Encinal (needs two wins)
Hercules (needs to win or draw with Richmond)
Salesian (needs to go 1-1, or better)
San Lorenzo (1-0-1, or better)
That’s 15 qualified, with five more still in the hunt.
February 8th, 2012 at 2:17 pm
Romero is a quality player !
February 8th, 2012 at 2:24 pm
Ya, he’s very fast and has a nose for the goal.
February 8th, 2012 at 2:26 pm
Gotta BSAL question. Do some teams play 11 games and some teams play 12?
February 8th, 2012 at 2:28 pm
A lot of those players on the stat leader board are college ready even those that still have a couple years to graduate.
February 8th, 2012 at 2:52 pm
@Soccer Man,
Edgar Damian would get my vote. His overall play and foot-skills are great. At times he makes it look so easy with his relaxed control of the ball and his uncanny sense of vision of the front 40 to the goal.
February 8th, 2012 at 4:19 pm
Matt:
Agreed that tomorrow night will be a good 680 corridor night…MV v. SRV should be a great game–the SRV game v. AV result is a stunner, but 3 key players out can be a great equalizer…Congrats to Cal on a great run out of the DL back into major contention and on a great victory; it will be interesting to see how far Cal has bounced back; so very happy to hear #8 back on the pitch.
Although DLS gave up a goal last night–and Kudos to Foothill for rebounding and bouncing back with heart for a great second half of play and movement of the ball to set up a terrific shot–the starting combination of Constantino in goal, Bob at defensive mid, and defenders McNell, Marcinkowski, Dargan and Depolo have not been scored on all season…looking to complete the run tomorrow night, and on into the next two weeks…your prediction??
Also looking forward to Sunday and how the top four EBAL teams will be placed into the NCS brackets. My opinion: they shouldn’t all be placed on one side of the bracket to preclude a possible match-up of the top two in the final…and I’m sure DLS players and fans would like another shot at CV…
Quality play all around…with some outstanding players to spotlight–tough to pick a poy…glad I don’t have that job…and great teams with very good chemistry…should be a great NCS Tournament…
February 8th, 2012 at 4:26 pm
@Dfal…when you say college ready are you considering grades & soccer or soccer only. Sad reality is that many of the really good players don’t have the grades for college.
Regarding Edgar Damian..good young man, hard worker at school and on the field. Have seen him play at both HS and club truly fun to watch him play. His mom and dad are very proud of him. Hope he gets well soon.
February 8th, 2012 at 4:35 pm
Soccer only I assume nothing in regards to these players and their grades I only know they have a 2.0.
So soccer ready at the college level to play soccer.
February 8th, 2012 at 4:42 pm
What would you guys say about Damian like over all also what do you guys expect from him in NCS and his next year also not to forget about his future do you guys think this young man can be some one ?
February 8th, 2012 at 4:42 pm
@DLS defender it is not a C its a K ( Konstantino )
Yes Sparty was looking OK last night. Major rotation from the bench a few mental lapses. Foothill did regroup in the 2nd half as the first half was a weak effort.
Credit to Foothills coach and the players to regain the focus. Senior night at DLS always seems so special..When the Players and parents take the field as a group and are recognized for their contributions to the program / brotherhood.
February 8th, 2012 at 4:59 pm
srv played granada last night, not av.
February 8th, 2012 at 6:06 pm
I say Damian is the X factor in Division II. He’s the most talented player I’ve seen in Division II, and YV will be relying heavily on him. With him having another year, I think the kid has a very bright future.
February 8th, 2012 at 6:29 pm
DV game is 5 in a little late.
February 8th, 2012 at 6:30 pm
Bulldogs 1 DV 0
February 8th, 2012 at 6:31 pm
Dogs score in 8th minute at DoV, 1-0.
February 8th, 2012 at 6:40 pm
Big games in the DFAL today. Can Acalanes clinch at least a share of the DFAL? Will Dublin help them clinch it outright?
Alhambra looks to keep rolling.
San Leandro v. Tennyson is a big one, and American and Irvington try to keep hope alive for the playoffs during MVAL play.
And I’d still love to find out how Irvington did against Washington last week.
February 8th, 2012 at 6:45 pm
Dogs up 2-0. #10 for DoV is not on the pitch.
February 8th, 2012 at 6:45 pm
Shinguard,
it’s not just grades, MONEY has a lot to do with it as well. I have talked to many, many players over the years who would have gladly gone to college, but their families couldn’t afford it.
February 8th, 2012 at 6:51 pm
@Matt
The BSAL was split into two brackets. A top half with Kennedy, Albany, Piedmont, St Mary’s and SJND and a bottom half with Encinal, Salesian, Swett, and SPSV. Teams play the other teams in their bracket twice and the opposite bracket once. So Albany would end up with 12 games and Encinal would play only 11. The objection was that ‘s and Salesian’s records would be inflated and teams like SJND would get the raw end of the deal. The league commissioner told us top teams would be locks for NCS regardless of record, we’ll see if there is any truth to that.
February 8th, 2012 at 6:54 pm
Thank you Wanderer. That clears things up for me, and it establishes that with a win over Swett today, Salesian will be 6-5 and qualified. Also, Encinal would need to beat St. Pat’s and Kennedy to get eligible.
February 8th, 2012 at 6:59 pm
@Mudhen you are also right…but it is better to have the grades which gives you a fighting chance to keep moving on to college even if jc.
February 8th, 2012 at 7:02 pm
Half time at DV
Dogs 2 Wildcats 0.
February 8th, 2012 at 7:05 pm
Well let’s just hope we keep getting more from this young player and see how far he takes YV are you with me on that one Matt?
February 8th, 2012 at 7:09 pm
It would be great to see YV have continued success, but I’m not allowed to root or show any preference
Honestly, I have encountered so many great coaches and players in doing this, that it would be impossible for me to every have a rooting interest for just one, or a few teams. I want success for everyone I meet.
P.S. I’m supposed to be working on a 25-page paper about why I think a search was illegal in this specific case…
February 8th, 2012 at 7:09 pm
The Cats could not buy a goal in the first half. Many chances no conversions, and the Dogs keeper stood tall in the net. Still no sighting of DoV #10.
February 8th, 2012 at 7:16 pm
Matt, If he squirmed ..it was legal.
next.
Dogs need to tighten Back 4 and play wide on attack
February 8th, 2012 at 7:22 pm
Dogs still holding on 31 min to go.
February 8th, 2012 at 7:35 pm
Still 2 – 0 at DV Bulldogs still hanging on. 20 min to go
February 8th, 2012 at 7:40 pm
Albany 3 St. Joseph Notre Dame 0
February 8th, 2012 at 7:41 pm
2 – 1 at DV 12 min to go Dogs still up
February 8th, 2012 at 7:58 pm
Alhambra 2 – DV 1 > FINAL
February 8th, 2012 at 8:02 pm
Alhambra GK had a huge game 20+ saves. Had some critical saves in last few min of game.
Which allowed the Bulldogs to keep the 2-1 Final.
February 8th, 2012 at 8:03 pm
This final day in EBAL should be a classic one. Trying to get to both games.
February 8th, 2012 at 8:31 pm
I dunno, I can see Ygnacio getting beat. Honestly, I don’t think they could take a De La Salle or a SRV. The style they play is pretty random, and a disciplined team could send them into the realm of cheap play.They can be goaded into retaliation, and that never works out to one’s advantage.
To my thinking, the best game of the year would be Ygnacio vs. Richmond. You would need a USSF national to handle that one.
February 8th, 2012 at 8:36 pm
Matt,
What do you know about the shifting leagues for next year?
I hear Albany and St. Marys are moving into D1?
Thanks
February 8th, 2012 at 8:36 pm
Dublin 3 – 1 Campolindo
Dublin led early, held a 2-0 lead at half, and when Campo scored to make it 2-1 the Gaels answered within two minutes to make the final score. Had an unlucky slip not taken down a Gael defender, the game easily ends 3-0 as Stephen Shumway had an amazing night at keeper. Sweeper I wish you would have been there, as Dublin finally played the complete 80 minutes and proved they are among the elite in DFAL.
Next up is Acalanes, as they host the Gaels on Friday.
February 8th, 2012 at 8:39 pm
CVHS 1 Hayward 0 final
February 8th, 2012 at 9:08 pm
I don’t know much about realignment, other than Richmond is moving into the BSAL and I think Berkeley, and a bunch of other ACCAL schools, along with Piedmont, is moving to the HAAL.
Let me find out more.
And Albany and St. Mary’s won’t be Division I next year. You have to be above 1,700 students to be D I, and neither are close, especially St. Mary’s.
February 8th, 2012 at 9:08 pm
If campo lost then that makes the dons DFAL champs no matter what the result on friday is! Congrats to the acalanes players and coach!
February 8th, 2012 at 9:23 pm
Mudhen,
YV has received no straight reds all year and one soft red…what makes you think they can’t keep their heads?? Seems to me like your talking out of your a**
February 8th, 2012 at 9:27 pm
A healthy YV team is a lot better then DLS. DLS doesn’t have any creative players at all!!
February 8th, 2012 at 9:41 pm
Got to say that tonite’s game was a gut wrenches those last final minutes. DV vs Alhambra really played a good game and DV gave it their all. They never have up, but the Sogs defense proved to be wanting it more tonite. Ethan held his post pretty strong. Defense was kept at their toes, got to give DV their props. Well played by both teams I thought. Some of those calls had me thinking though. Thing that make you go hmmm…
February 8th, 2012 at 9:53 pm
I think people don’t realize how good De La Salle is until they actually play them.
February 8th, 2012 at 9:59 pm
DLS and YV players play with each other in club, the top players from their club teams are at YV. Damian is the main player on dfc and Ayala is the main player on his heritage team.
February 8th, 2012 at 10:15 pm
Acalanes dons clinch DFAL title for second year in a row with their win over miramonte and campos loss to dublin. The result of fridays match, also happens to be senior night, wont matter title wise. Congrats to coach paul curtis and the players, who have had to deal with a bunch of inuries, for their accomplishment!
February 8th, 2012 at 10:26 pm
Hey Matt, are you planning another live blog soon? I wasn’t able to make the last one, but hopefully if there is another one I can make it. Thanks.
February 8th, 2012 at 10:45 pm
Matt is Aguilar one of the candidates for taking player of the year ?
February 8th, 2012 at 10:52 pm
Matt is Altamirano one of the candidates for taking player of the year ?
February 8th, 2012 at 11:14 pm
Over 450 pictures of the Cal v Monte Vista game that Sweeper referred to above are slowly working their way up to http://www.fjphotoguy.com. Please stop by and take a look if you have some free time.
I would really appreciate feedback you may have on my pictures or the website via email to fjphotoguy@gmail.com. I put a lot of effort into this and I am always trying to improve so I welcome your comments.
I will be shooting the Cal-DLS game tomorrow night. This could be a really good match, please stop by if you are in the neighborhood.
Chris G AKA FJ Photoguy Sr.
February 8th, 2012 at 11:44 pm
Hey Tack,
Great road win for the Gaels tonight. Sounds like a strong team effort at Campolindo. One more league match at Acalanes, strictly for NCS seeding and bragging rights (play well, stay healthy).
Then the Gaels need to focus on a 4-match winning streak. Think positive, play as a team and stay focused on your goal.
February 9th, 2012 at 12:05 am
Shinguard #225, great call on the props to the Dogs keeper – quite amazing, including 2 point-blank saves on the right flank in the last 20…seconds. I was looking right at him field level on the goal line and did not see a flinch. Well done to seal a win.
Mary #235, gotta agree with you on the effort by both squads tonight. The Bulldogs may have had more on the line to secure an NCS playoff spot, but the Wildcats were nothing less than unlucky on at least 5+ chances, but not for lack of effort.
While each side had a few gripes with the officiating (I had none of any import), it was generally on par with the play and did not directly affect the outcome of the match.
Next week we enter ‘win or go home’ land. The NCS matches test all and the stars shall rise, while the fans see the best of the best face off. My favorite time of the year. Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 9th, 2012 at 12:48 am
Hey Matt,
I have to give a shout out to the 680 corridor, with the DFAL deserving 5 quality D2 seeds, and the EBAL deserving 4 quality D1 seeds. These are two knock-down drag-out leagues from top to bottom, and the survivors are clearly battle tested.
And I must give props to the Richmond Oilers for their well-deserved “honorary” membership to the EBAL (hereby conferred by The Sweeper, given that they are an out-of-league fixture to the EBAL year-in and year-out).
Hey Cokito, I hope that you know where I am coming from with this one.
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 9th, 2012 at 12:58 am
Hey Matt #217,
The search was illegal because: “…it was done without cause/warrant/miranda/yellow-card/orange-card/red-card/dictator’s edict…” Do you really want to be a barrister? OK then, ‘Matthew Smith, Esquire’ it shall be.
Cheers, and see you at the bench!
February 9th, 2012 at 1:02 am
Anyone know the score of SM vs Kennedy?
February 9th, 2012 at 7:08 am
Haha, Sweeper, thanks for the awesome analysis and the semi-accurate report on cause, warrants and Miranda
I’m definitely working on doing some sort of live blog or something like that soon. I’ll keep you guys posted.
Aguilar is definitely my recipient for the most unselfish player award. He changed his role and has seen his stats suffer. He’s still a great player who does so much for the Warriors.
February 9th, 2012 at 7:20 am
Dogs and Cats both played a great game. Ref crew seemed fair and OK as a group.(B).
My plan is to enjoy an afternoon of soccer Griz & Sparty JV & V games at 4 & 6. Looks like a cool drink and sun-screen type of day.
February 9th, 2012 at 7:35 am
Congrats to Acalanes on the DFAL title!
There is only one league that hasn’t been clinched, and that is the BSAL. Albany and Piedmont play tomorrow for the title.
February 9th, 2012 at 7:37 am
Kennedy 1, St. Mary’s 1
Altamarino is a very good player and is certainly East Bay worthy, and he’ll likely make the team somewhere, but I’m not sure if he is an MVP candidate this year.
He’s certainly the player I look forward to watching when I see Concord.
February 9th, 2012 at 8:02 am
Looking for scores for..
San Leandro/Tennyson
American/Kennedy
February 9th, 2012 at 8:07 am
As I stated earlier in a post the CVHS boys are a quality bunch and seemingly decided to play their game NOT the coaches game comong out on top of a hard fought 1-0 win over Hayward. Many yellows in this one but to be expected in the cross-town rivalry. Crossing our fingers that next season the CVHS will decide going in a new direction may be best served by going back to the old direction (Peacock years). 6-15-1 season regardless of a win over Hayward is hardly a flattering season.
February 9th, 2012 at 8:20 am
Wanted to give a small but well deserved congrats to Mt.Diablo. Its been years since they have been mentioned or have had any talk about NCS.
Im all about the underdog, coming from behind and making a change.
My hats off to the coach for giving those kids a chance. They may not still be in 100% but have a good chance. They are eligible
February 9th, 2012 at 8:30 am
Tough year for the Mats…seems like they just couldn’t get it together late in the season. Thought there were some questionable coaching decisions made late in the season. Caught the game last night vs Acalanes. I saw the first match up this season as well. The Mats were dominated back in Dec and I must say this Dons team is a much different team without their sweeper. It seems like the blue print is in place to beat them…clog the middle and prevent the direct switch of play and put pressure on the back line and you could score a few cheap goals. They do bring the firepower with 16, 6, and 8 which is why they have had a lot of late season come from behind draws and wins…I predict a high seed for them but could see them exiting the tourney earlier than expected…watch out for Alhambra as they are firing on all cylinders…
February 9th, 2012 at 8:36 am
Gotta admit it that goalie for Alhambra played well last night and kept the dogs in the game he was the X factor last night. Big props to Ethan !!!! Great game and great saves kid !
February 9th, 2012 at 9:07 am
Newarks coaches are some of the best ive seen in a while, led by the talented Rick Villa and his Great assistant Roberto Lombana. They have great chemistry with the team and have plenty of socccer experience. They are great but dont forget about their conditioning coach Bucko who has the boys in top tip shape and form. Lets go Newark, i see bright future for these boys! especially logan L.
February 9th, 2012 at 9:58 am
*****mudhen Says:
February 8th, 2012 at 8:31 pm
I dunno, I can see Ygnacio getting beat. Honestly, I don’t think they could take a De La Salle or a SRV. The style they play is pretty random, and a disciplined team could send them into the realm of cheap play.They can be goaded into retaliation, and that never works out to one’s advantage.
To my thinking, the best game of the year would be Ygnacio vs. Richmond. You would need a USSF national to handle that one.********
I dont agree with your statement about YV losing their heads. They may not have the same discipline as DLS but sure have better soccer and more heart.
Its kinda sad that Richmond , De La Salle and SRV are Div 1 and they wont be matching up in NCS. That might settle some of the talks.
Right now… I challenge the coaches to set up a game with each others teams. DIV 1 or DIV 2 … its playing that best schools that makes up what the teams are all about. Not all the BS talkging we do here.
I do agree with Richmond vs YV being one of the best games we could see…. they both have the same style of play and are strong in every way.
I see this game being played in the near future.
Good luck to all the teams on there final games and in NCS.
February 9th, 2012 at 10:54 am
I also gotta give it up to Alhambras coach for pulling these guys out to a good finish in league they were on a pretty bad skid midway through the season and he managed to get them back on track. Good job coach and keep up the great work with that program. I’ve seen the progress you have made in the last two years and I think youve done a great job 2 years in a row NCS !!!
The only question I have coach can you get past the first round ???
February 9th, 2012 at 10:56 am
It’s not a matter of red and yellow cards that I’m talking about, and I realize that “cheap” was a bad choice of words. I have seen time and time again , in playoff situations, teams lose their collective heads. Perhaps it is a referee who is allowing too much rough play, or a team trying to take out their opponents star player, or quiet comments made while no one is looking. All these and more are constant threats to players and there’s nothing like a playoff game to bring out the best/ worst in people–all “gentlemens” agreements are off the table.
As for YV, well, I’ve seen most of those boys in club and high school for years now, and you bet your heinie they can get chippy if provoked–I’ve SEEN IT from the middle of the field.
There are no angels in a high stakes game folks You’re gonna do what it takes to win.
February 9th, 2012 at 11:12 am
I have seen every team cheap play this year… pulling , pushing , tugging , from every team. They all do it. Its how the ref’s and the AR’s are that day and can they keep those plays down to a minimal.
Almost every young man at that age can lose it at any moment. Lets me realistic… No team is a saint on the pitch. Some just hide it better.
February 9th, 2012 at 11:26 am
Every team in any sport gets away with a little cheeky behavior.
February 9th, 2012 at 11:46 am
11 v 11, Mudhen,
What coaches can do is to create a culture where students play competitively, fiercely but fairly, and truly respect the opponents and officials. In this way they can help the students understand what they’ll do and what they won’t do to win, and to know better who they really are. Part of the educational mandate, I would say. In the end, it’s up to the player, however.
And 11 v 11, I’ll pass on the idea of a YV vs. Richmond game to the coaches.
February 9th, 2012 at 12:05 pm
Cokito …
Very well put.
And thank you for passing the word.
February 9th, 2012 at 12:32 pm
11 v 11 well said. Mudhen all these boys can get chippy. From the keeper throwing an elbow or knee (as Damian will attest to) to a field player rolling over an opponent. Mustang SC had a keeper get his jaw broken during league play. The keeper had the ball and the forward ran at him and got him in the face as the keeper was getting up with the ball in hand. Only a yellow card was given. So yes YV boys can get chippy, but so do DLS, CAL, MV, etc.
February 9th, 2012 at 1:37 pm
I was at Mats vs Acalanes games last night. Mats gave a very decent fight to Acalanes. Score of 2-0 may not paint right picture. First half score was 0-0 and in second half Mats had few shots on Acalanes goal. Acalanes #6 had a great solo goal. Well played Mats. Hats off to your coach as well.
Congratulations to Acalanes on winning DFAL.
February 9th, 2012 at 2:55 pm
Any EBAL predictions for the final night?
February 9th, 2012 at 3:00 pm
Who is better Jeremy r. or Edgar d.???
February 9th, 2012 at 4:29 pm
What the heck – here are my predictions for the last regular season EBAL rival night:
Cal 1 DLS 1
SRV 2 MV 0
Granada 3 Liv 1
Amador 3 Foothill 2
Good night for EBAL soccer!!
February 9th, 2012 at 4:47 pm
Very good predictions Bench Warmer, Dito on all of the games.
February 9th, 2012 at 4:51 pm
that means srv gets second place. Cal needs a win, which will be very tough. Lets see what happens, good luck to all.
February 9th, 2012 at 5:28 pm
Cal will need an extraordinary effort, but don’t count them out. AV should get the win, but that MV@SRV match is a tough one to call after Tuesday’s results.
February 9th, 2012 at 6:41 pm
Just a little BSAL info…
The league only gets one automatic qualifier. The two divisions only determines who you play, and not your place in the league standings.
February 9th, 2012 at 6:43 pm
Kennedy 4, Encinal 0. Encinal will not qualify.
February 9th, 2012 at 6:52 pm
Anyone know any EBAL half time scores?
February 9th, 2012 at 7:12 pm
Cal 0, DLS 0
February 9th, 2012 at 7:28 pm
Antioch up 3-0 against liberty with only stoppage time left. Looks like they qualify
February 9th, 2012 at 7:44 pm
SRV 2, MV 1 Final….girls. SRV EBAL champs.
February 9th, 2012 at 7:44 pm
Cal 0 0 DLS F
February 9th, 2012 at 7:46 pm
Matt, was that a final, half or what from Cal?
February 9th, 2012 at 7:48 pm
Matt, Good timing. Cal is rebounding. MV@SRV starts soon.
February 9th, 2012 at 8:11 pm
DLS CAl game game was a classic bar fight. Wilcox for Cal had a couple very good saves. the game did not lack excitement for either side. If you are going to score on Wilcox the ball needs to be below his chin. Anything above he will get.
February 9th, 2012 at 8:14 pm
Amador 1 – Foothill 0 Amador qualifies for NCS
February 9th, 2012 at 8:24 pm
Pittsburg 3, freedon 1 Final
Antioch 3, Liberty 0 Final
February 9th, 2012 at 8:27 pm
Richmond 8 – Hercules 1
February 9th, 2012 at 8:33 pm
MV 2, SRV 1 at half. Wide open play.
February 9th, 2012 at 8:35 pm
Hercules is out. Richmond is the first team to 20 wins.
February 9th, 2012 at 8:35 pm
Good job AV. Stay focused and you will be dangerous in NCS.
February 9th, 2012 at 8:45 pm
Is AV in for sure, or does it come down to a vote?
February 9th, 2012 at 8:45 pm
Who is looking really good right now is Jeremy Romero he is a high class player who is headed in the right direction for his future
February 9th, 2012 at 8:59 pm
AV is not in for sure, but they are qualified. With their strength of schedule, I think they are a shoe in.
February 9th, 2012 at 9:00 pm
CVHS 2
Concord 0
Rumorville is that Concord lost 5 starters due to grades
February 9th, 2012 at 9:03 pm
CV 2 Concord 0
YV 1 NG 0
February 9th, 2012 at 9:05 pm
YV 1, Northgate 0
February 9th, 2012 at 9:06 pm
Any word from the town of Livermore tonight?
February 9th, 2012 at 9:08 pm
Matt,
AV is worthy, the question is: “Is the selection committee?”
February 9th, 2012 at 9:11 pm
what’s going on in the mv/srv game?
February 9th, 2012 at 9:12 pm
De anza and Pinole valley 2-1 Pinole won
February 9th, 2012 at 9:12 pm
Still 2-1 MV at SRV 12 left.
February 9th, 2012 at 9:14 pm
How many goals did Romero have against De Anza? How many against Alameda?
February 9th, 2012 at 9:17 pm
1 on each game
February 9th, 2012 at 9:19 pm
CP 2, Mount 0
February 9th, 2012 at 9:22 pm
Hey Matt
Who is a better player to look at for college Jeremy R. Or Edgar D.
February 9th, 2012 at 9:26 pm
Freshkicks,
Jeremy is good but you cannot compare him to Edgar. Edgar is on a league of just a couple of players in this area. Jeremy is probably not the best player in his league, there are a couple of amazing players for Richmond that would fall before him. Jeremy is a good player and has a bright future but has room to improve.
February 9th, 2012 at 9:29 pm
I have a hard time comparing strikers and midfielders.
I’ll tell you what I love about both of them is how frickin’ fast they are.
Both can play at the next level, no doubt.
February 9th, 2012 at 9:31 pm
Matt
I agree but he is only a sophmore and still has two years to improve .. Have you seen Jeremy play before?
February 9th, 2012 at 9:32 pm
MV SRV??
February 9th, 2012 at 9:35 pm
predictions for acalanes-dublin match tomorrow?
February 9th, 2012 at 9:35 pm
Yes concord high lost 5 players due to grades all 5 of them were starters. Concord is having a hard time right now.
February 9th, 2012 at 9:36 pm
wow, srv just cannot handle the mustangs this year?? I did not get to see either match unfortunatly but I did see SRV play and they are strong. If MV hangs on that puts Cal possibly in the a great seat for NCS with their tie tonight. Matt, with Cal’s finish this week I cannot see them getting a lower seed than Newark, SRV or MV. Thoughts???
February 9th, 2012 at 9:36 pm
I saw him play against El Cerrito the other night. Man he’s quick. Can’t believe he’s only a sophomore.
February 9th, 2012 at 9:38 pm
If SRV lost, I see Cal being a No. 3 seed.
February 9th, 2012 at 9:39 pm
Yea that’s one thing I like about him if he would just have help on his team to support him I think he would be a lot better what do you think??
February 9th, 2012 at 9:50 pm
hey Matt, has College Park won a single game vs a Div 1 team?
February 9th, 2012 at 9:53 pm
CP has wins over Heritage, Castro Valley and Deer Valley and has drawn with Logan, Berkeley and SRV.
February 9th, 2012 at 9:55 pm
I would say Eric Montes of Richmond is the top player in Highschool soccer.He creates goals ,finishes and is very intelligent .Pure Talent
February 9th, 2012 at 9:56 pm
MV 2, SRV 1, final
February 9th, 2012 at 9:58 pm
Poppop .
So is Jeremy Romero he is also up there don’t forget him
February 9th, 2012 at 10:01 pm
Hey Matt, where do you think MV and SRV will end up in the seedings?
February 9th, 2012 at 10:01 pm
I think there are strong arguments for Cal getting even a 2 seed at this point. I love Richmond’s play but they did lose to SRV and DLS. They have one more lose and one more win than Cal. But the selection committee will probably put Cal and DLS in the same bracket once again, putting Richmond as 2nd seed. Putting Cal and DLS and even more EBAL teams in the same bracket to knock each other out. But at least if Cal does get the 3rd seed it will be a semifinal match if they both get there than a quarter final match like it was last year.
Food for thought……
February 9th, 2012 at 10:06 pm
Matt,
How does AV’s wins over Logan and CP affect seeding? Also who is eligible and who has been eliminated? I hope I am not asking too much
February 9th, 2012 at 10:06 pm
Thanks Matt,
there are way too many teams that don’t update MaxPreps!!
February 9th, 2012 at 10:07 pm
Alcalanes bests Dublin 2-1
February 9th, 2012 at 10:10 pm
BenchWarmer-if DLS goes 1 and Cal 3 they would be on opposite sides I think..1 goes with 4 and 2 is paired with 3.
Scoreboard is back for NCS y’all!
100
February 9th, 2012 at 10:10 pm
Romero doesn’t come close to the level of Damian. Damian is one special player! He doesn’t only lead his high school team, he also leads his club team to the #3 ranking in the US.
February 9th, 2012 at 10:13 pm
Romero also leads his club team also Romero and Damian Havent played against each other yet so it will be a good match when they do in the future
February 9th, 2012 at 10:15 pm
Looking at all of these comments about Ygnacio Valley really makes wonder how much you guys know about the game. The way you guys talk about YV makes it seem like like E. Damian, and J. Ayala are the only true standouts on the team. But when you actually watch this team play they all play football like no other team in this area. with the pace, skill, and raw talent they have all throughout the field, they look sure to to take it all. Don’t take it the wrong way, ayala/damian are fantastic players,but without that surrounding cast. they would be players we would barely hear about. Watching YV play makes me remember how football is supposed to be played. With creativity and immense skill.
February 9th, 2012 at 10:16 pm
Scoreboard, excellent point. Thanks for the correction. That should make things more interesting than having another one sided EBAL bracket like last year! But the committee also might put Cal in the 4 seed??? which would be right back where we started. I hope not! We might even see MV vs. SRV in the first game again this year!! That would be tragic.
February 9th, 2012 at 10:33 pm
MV and SR should not play under any circumstances in the first round. MV should be seeded higher than SRV now with a higher league finish, similar records, and beating them two times. With that said i dont think SRV drops below the 6 seed
February 9th, 2012 at 10:42 pm
The play tonight at SRV v MV was unsafe and the CR should not be allowed to officiate at this level. His version of a 50/50 ball with the keeper is a major injury waiting to happen and in violation of rules of play (Law 12 US Soccer). Both MV keepers were put in dangerous situations tonight and the 2nd half keeper was kicked in the face while on the ground with no foul called resulting in a bloody mouth. The SRV keeper could just as easily been put in the same situation.
excerpt from Goalkeeper Safety,
By Edmund J. Rae, National Assessor
The only fair charge allowed is ‘nudge’ or ‘contact’ with near shoulder, (not violent nor dangerous), at least one foot on ground, ball in playing distance, arms held close to the body.
If a goalkeeper is flat on the ground, or stretched out exposing vital organs, face or fingers-then a charge using a foot is not fair.
In fact, it may be a free kick at a minimum, if thought unsporting- necessitating a yellow card; or if serious foul play/violent behavior = disqualification/ejection via a red card…
If the Keeper has one finger, or a digit of one finger, on the ball, then attackers must back off. Referees need to be alert to illegal charges here. Even if the keeper’s hands are close-safety for the Keeper is the most important consideration. A 50-50- ball, so called, usually is not. Usually, it means an attacker often wildly-throws his foot, leg or body at the keeper, presumably with the ball in mind? Keepers have reasoned & rational doubts!!!…
Kicking at a ball near a keeper’s face or head, while she or he is on ground is not sporting. In fact, e.g., if contact with the face is made, the forward may very well merit a red card for serious foul play.
February 9th, 2012 at 11:28 pm
I been seen a lot of things about this kid Edgar Damian. Matt you seem to like him who is he and whats so special about him?
February 9th, 2012 at 11:57 pm
Damian is an all out footballer he has great vision ,speed, and technical ability plain and simply he also makes player around him better. He is a huge talent and yes there is a lot of good players on YV but Damian is a standout amongst his teammates. If you haven’t watch him play yet , grab your self a ticket to their NCS games.
February 10th, 2012 at 12:30 am
I was at the MV/SRV game tonight and thought the referee was actually very good. He kept a handle on a rivalry game that had the potential to get out of hand. A well played & hard fought game by both teams (SR wasted many chances in final 15min).
February 10th, 2012 at 1:44 am
To see Edgar Damian in action, check out minute 2:40… http://youtu.be/jLG4eSnZ2hE
Damian is #10
February 10th, 2012 at 7:25 am
Hey guys, I’m here to answer some questions from last night and to update the playoff picture.
First of all, now that AV is qualified, I think they are going to get seeded in the 10-12 range, probably above CP, possibly above Logan, but I’m not sure the head-to-head win will be enough.
As far as MV and SRV is concerned, the committee puts a lot of emphasis on league finish, so I think SRV is going to slip to a No. 6 or No. 7 seed, and MV is probably going to be No. 4 or No. 5. If MV is No. 4, then Newark is No. 5 and if Newark is No. 4, then MV is No. 5.
Interesting note about Granada qualifying. They went 12 matches without a win until last night, and still qualified.
Here’s the update…
PLAYOFF UPDATE
Division I- Qualified
Amador Valley
American
Antioch
Berkeley
California
Clayton Valley
College Park
De La Salle
Dougherty Valley
Freedom
Granada
Heritage
Logan
Monte Vista
Mt. Eden
Newark Memorial
Pittsburg
Richmond
San Ramon Valley
Work to do
Alameda- needs to beat Encinal
San Leandro- needs to beat Castro Valley
That gives us 19 teams qualified, with two still in the hunt. I think Antioch will be the 16th team now that it appears AV is in, but I’ll make my final predictions tomorrow after looking at things more closely.
Division II- Qualified
Acalanes
Albany
Alhambra
Bishop O’Dowd
Campolindo
Concord
Dublin
Hayward
Kennedy-Richmond
Mt. Diablo
Piedmont
Pinole Valley
Salesian
St. Mary’s
Tennyson
YV
Work to do…
El Cerrito- needs to draw or win against Berkeley on Saturday
San Lorenzo- needs a win or a draw against Mt. Eden today.
That’s 16 qualified, with just two left in the hunt.
February 10th, 2012 at 7:34 am
2 Corrections on Post #334 – It’s “Damien” and it starts on minute 2:22
For more video with Egar Damien in it, go to: http://www.leaguelineup.com/miscinfo.asp?menuid=33&cmenuid=33&url=diablofc95&sid=660059125
February 10th, 2012 at 7:39 am
And here is why I think Richmond gets the No. 2 or over Cal.
Richmond has a combined score of 10-7 against DLS, SRV, MV and Newark, for a +3 goal differential.
Cal has a combined score of 9-13 against the same opponents, for a -4 goal differential.
February 10th, 2012 at 7:56 am
Pittsburg pirates BVA. ChamS
February 10th, 2012 at 8:00 am
Matt:
Kudos to Cal High for a great match last night…they are back on track…another classic DLS v. Cal game…Standout player of the game: #20 for Cal; Duke dominated the middle of the field…a great effort…
Re 337: While on paper your logic looks sound, I’ve seen Richmond play four games this year; Cal High three…no question that Cal is the stronger team IF all are healthy…Since Cal will be near full strength by next week, they should get the #2 nod…sometimes what is seen on paper is not the full story…just my opinion…
February 10th, 2012 at 8:34 am
It’s great and all talking about how good this kid Damian is.
I would like to have DVAL defensive players acknowledged like Osmar Campo and Phillip Wcislo.
This dynamic duo have only allowed two goals in league.
They are the backbone of why YV has a strong offense.
Its starts with the Defense.
Osmar has the brut knowledge of directing and holding his defense in the right place. If the team is a bit down on D… he will yell of the top of his lungs getting the team to wake up and go at it. He will go at it strong and hard with any player on the pitch.
Phillip is Osmar’s twin. That kid is one step above the rest on D. He has a calm controlled style of play and is by far the greatest starter on offense. Watch this kid play. He is so in tune with what is going around him.
Campo and Wcislo should and most likely will be in DVAL Defensive player nominee.
February 10th, 2012 at 8:34 am
DLS Defender,
I value your opinion very much, because you are honest, quick to compliment the other team and usually spot on with your commentary.
Where I differ with you is in which team is better as far as the eye test goes. I say this with nothing but respect for Cal and coach Chris Faidley, because they are very good, but I think Richmond is slightly better based on what I’ve seen.
However, the committee doesn’t apply the eye test, so that doesn’t matter. I am pretty confident that 20 wins and a perfect league season equals a two seed for the Oilers.
February 10th, 2012 at 8:49 am
Matt-
Where is YV going to be seeded…???
Hoping that the coaching staff is smart and thinking about NCS and rest all players that may be banged up or nicked. How will losing to MT. Diablo today hurt YV from taking the number one seed ?
This Mt. Game cant weigh that heavy. Can it ?
February 10th, 2012 at 9:28 am
I think the Mount game is big. If YV wins, I think they are No. 1, if they draw I think they are No. 1. I think a loss opens the door for Acalanes, because of the schedule Acalanes plays.
February 10th, 2012 at 9:38 am
Hey Matt
For the dfal teams that qualified for d2 where do you think those teams will be seeded?
Also great work with over 340 post pretty awesome.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:14 am
I think the Acalanes is going to be a top two seed, I think Campo will still be the three seed, I think Dublin is gonna get the four/five seed and Alhambra will be the six/seven seed.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:30 am
What club team does Romero play for? I have seen them both play this year and I think if Romero had to play Demian’s schedule he wouldnt have as many goals. You cant coach speed and the kid can fly. He will be a monster in a few years if he keeps his and stays healthy….any truth to the rumor that he is a dad already?
edgar right now….romero in a few….
February 10th, 2012 at 10:32 am
Thanks Matt
Always great getting your insight on the soccer scene out here.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:44 am
Thanks! Glad we’re getting so many comments.
February 10th, 2012 at 11:04 am
who looks to be playing in the 14 15 16 spot of the D2 eligibles ?
February 10th, 2012 at 11:13 am
It will be some combination of Mount, Kennedy-R, Salesian, San Lorenzo, El Cerrito.
February 10th, 2012 at 11:19 am
ok so number two seeding dont look to bad…. thanks again.
February 10th, 2012 at 11:20 am
Exciting games in the EBAL last night – the kind that makes your heart race and palms sweat when you watch. The Wolf couldn’t run down the Mustang and the Grizzly had the Spartan trapped in it’s den and couldn’t finish him off.
Agree with DLS Defender , #20 on Cal was a force to be reckoned with and it was good to see Wilcox start in goal – shaking the rust off from a long injury rehab. He’ll just get better and better. And loved the Cal fans – lots of them with lots of energy start to finish.
And hats off to the DLS backline – the Great Wall of Sparta was tested to the extreme from beginning to end and while bent never broke and allowed almost zero quality shots on goal – pretty impressive display of character for a team that already has won league and has their top seed pretty much locked in. And Sparty missed on a couple of very dangerous counter attacks set up by the booming kicks of Konstatino. While their eye is on the NCS prize, it’s no small accomplishment to go undefeated in the EBAL.
What’s up with SRV? They seemed to have finally jelled and were as dangerous a team as can be found in the NCS. Then this week they stumble with both Granada and MV… Kudos to both of those teams by the way.
What do you think the the implication is for how SRV will perform in the NCS?
February 10th, 2012 at 11:28 am
I’m not down on SRV. No matter what seed they get, they’re one of the three favorites. They are built for the post-season tournament.
February 10th, 2012 at 11:33 am
Matt do you think it would Effect YV if They didn’t have Damian as a player because I’m sure if people knew about him before a lot of other schoo coaches would want him specially DLS I herd he applied for DLS but didn’t get it and now look at him his doing good do you think DLS regret not helping this kid out to get in their schools ?
February 10th, 2012 at 11:34 am
Correction He didn’t get accepted in
February 10th, 2012 at 12:25 pm
One of the beautiful things about soccer is that there is so much uncertainty built into the game. An unlucky touch in the goal area, an honest tackle that turns into an accidental trip and a resulting dangerous shot in the red zone; so MANY things can happen that can turn a seemingly forgone conclusion into a brand new game.
Perhaps my favorite thing to watch is a team, who while being soundly beaten, refuses to give up, who keeps trying for the one goal to prevent a shut-out.
Another is the underdog team who somehow finds themselves ahead in the waning minutes of a game, desperately fending off attack after attack -the way the U.S. did last year against Spain.
February 10th, 2012 at 12:49 pm
Mudhen… nicely said.
Gotta love the underdog.
February 10th, 2012 at 1:08 pm
YV would definitely miss Damien if he weren’t there. A creative midfielder like that doesn’t come around very often.
Let’s hope that YV doesn’t have to deal with that and he comes back as a senior and has an even better year.
February 10th, 2012 at 1:09 pm
Matt,
Do you think that Antioch’s win over YV and tie against Acalanes, will help them with their seeding? Especially when CP lost to both of those teams by 6 goals.
February 10th, 2012 at 1:22 pm
@Mudhen..totally agree…like the Spartans march through NCS last year, that series of last league games combined with NCS for those who played and for those who witnessed that’s your very special moment in time. Underdog to me has 3 levels..Level 1 is the relativity unknown team that pull off a run (Who made it to the final you ask?? ). Level 2 is a team that has experienced some minor adversities (some injuries mixed with some negative intangibles ) Level 3 major injuries to more than 1-2 players, some set-back injuries when players miss a few games along with a struggle to survive in league, along with some additional negative intangibles. When you see that one team pull-it all together and overcome the challenges presented for the Coaches & Players that is that special moment. In general expect the unexpected.
February 10th, 2012 at 1:28 pm
I think the committee while like that Antioch is a second place team, had a good finish to the season and might seed them ahead of CP, who is a fourth place team.
Just looking at it, CP might be the 16 seed, and it would probably be the best 16 seed I’ve ever seen.
February 10th, 2012 at 1:32 pm
Best 16…. oh… DLS vs College Park .. NICE
February 10th, 2012 at 1:43 pm
Yesterday I watched a JV game that exemplified the Beautiful Game. Both teams played with heart and passion till the final whistle. One team controlled possession and was relentless on attack but no balls into the net, but a defender slips a little and man is open for that moment and goal is scored / no slip no goal. A defender stops and holds a oncoming shot (standard procedure ) and booms a clear-away and that ball just happens to catch a rebound rifle shot back into goal. You lose 2-0 Like I said both teams played an outstanding game Cal JV 2- DLS JV 0….a little misfortune and some luck = a win.
February 10th, 2012 at 1:57 pm
TODAY the Bulldogs are at Berean Christian Kick-Off at 3:30 pm
Last game for the dogs. I will give the dogs a +4 today.
February 10th, 2012 at 4:42 pm
Headed to Albany to see them battle Piedmont for the BSAL title. Any thoughts?
February 10th, 2012 at 4:52 pm
I predict an upset. 2-1 Piedmont
February 10th, 2012 at 5:23 pm
Albany 2-0 piedmont
February 10th, 2012 at 5:50 pm
1-0 Albany
February 10th, 2012 at 5:52 pm
Alhambra 5 – Berean 0 >FINAL
February 10th, 2012 at 5:52 pm
Can not wait until NCS. Maybe Cal peaking at the right time?
February 10th, 2012 at 5:56 pm
Borges scores early. 1-0 Albany
Cal is a major threat. Getting it going again.
February 10th, 2012 at 5:59 pm
HAAL scores for the day…
Tennyson 3, O’Dowd 0
San Leandro 4, Castro Valley 1
Mt. Eden 1, Arroyo 0
San Leandro is playoff eligible.
February 10th, 2012 at 6:01 pm
Correction.
Mt. Eden 1, San Lorenzo 0. SLZ is not eligible.
February 10th, 2012 at 6:03 pm
be interesting to see EBAL all team selections. My personal MVP candidates: Damian Martinez, Nate Grixti, Alex Riley, Andrew Konstantino, Johnny Marcinkowski, or Jimmy Roth.
February 10th, 2012 at 6:24 pm
Albany up 1-0 . Half
February 10th, 2012 at 6:58 pm
Ablany 3-0
February 10th, 2012 at 7:08 pm
Albany 5-0
February 10th, 2012 at 7:22 pm
Albany 5-0 . Final
February 10th, 2012 at 7:42 pm
Does anyone have any information about the girls varsity game between Miramonte and Campo? I know this is the men’s soccer feed but I thought I’d ask
February 10th, 2012 at 7:46 pm
Matt who do you think will get the all leauge MVP, offensive MVP, and defensive MVP from DVAL?
February 10th, 2012 at 7:46 pm
The ref has now given dublin 2 goals.
February 10th, 2012 at 7:56 pm
I’m guessing Damian as league MVP, Tata offensive and let me get back to you on defensive.
February 10th, 2012 at 8:07 pm
Matt,
Who scored for Albany ?
February 10th, 2012 at 8:16 pm
Hey Matt
How do you think will win MVP in dfal and most offensive ?
February 10th, 2012 at 8:26 pm
The Bear –
To say the ref gave Dublin 2 goals is really unnecessary. Why can’t you show respect to a team that came to play? The Dons were outplayed, period. They had a beautiful goal, but at the end of the day Dublin had NUMEROUS scoring chances and broke Acalanes’ makeshift back line consistantly. Give some credit where credit is due.
That’s now two wins for Dublin in three days, both by 3-1, over two of D2′s top teams.
February 10th, 2012 at 8:35 pm
Not necessary but true. The dive to get awarded the PK was an embarassmet to soccer.
February 10th, 2012 at 8:37 pm
Well, Campo lost to Miramonte 2-1. Matt, earlier you stated that you thought Campo would be a #3 seed. Does this change?
Can’t wait for NCS. Like college basketball’s “March Madness”, this is when the fun begins.
I Fill You Up.
February 10th, 2012 at 8:38 pm
Matt, just realized I was post #386. What is your record and are you up for promotion now that you have 2 consecutive weeks of 300+ posts? I think so.
February 10th, 2012 at 8:42 pm
Well we see different things, and support different teams. I understand you’re upset, but all I ask is you please show respect to Dublin. They are just kids, and it is just a game. Thanks.
February 10th, 2012 at 8:52 pm
Matt
Don’t forget about Jeremy. R he should definitely be in there with Damian and tata
February 10th, 2012 at 8:56 pm
Damn…… No he didn’t !!! Keep it clean people !
February 10th, 2012 at 9:05 pm
See stuff like that is just not necessary either. From either side. Soccer is supposed to be the gentleman’s game, so show respect for your opponents and the game. This takes away from the beauty of the sport, and makes its just simply grotesque. Acalanes is a great team, and in the heat of the loss I understand Bear’s frustration; we have all experienced it. But to be on the winning side, and act that way, takes away from the performance Dublin pulled off tonight. Be respectful and display good sportsmanship.
It’s just a game, and one we play for FUN. Remember that.
February 10th, 2012 at 9:07 pm
Hey anonymous,
First watch you language. This is a friendly blog and we all support our favorite teams and have our bias but dont start using obscene language. You are setting a bad example for all dublin fans with that language and im sure there are a bunch of dublin fans that dont want that image. Yes dublin won the game, congrats to the them but acalanes still won the entire league. Every team has a down game and every team has a good game. Tonight, acalanes had a down game but still created opportunities and dublin had a good game and won the game. Plus acalanes beat you guys 3-1 early in the season so all this game proved is that they are on a very similar level. Dublins first and third goals were uncontroversial but the 2nd was very controversial. From my seat in the stands i saw a very weak penalty called. But it was called and there is no going back on it now. So from now on if your going to comment please think about what you say before you say them. This blog is a priveldge we have been given by matt smith and you are embarrassing yourself and your team when you act so vulgar. And i know there are bunches of dublin fans who actually make their team proud with their respectful cheering and actions so please stop embarrassing yourself and them.
February 10th, 2012 at 9:15 pm
Well said dfal fan !
February 10th, 2012 at 9:16 pm
Well said tack !
February 10th, 2012 at 9:21 pm
Sorry about the language guys! I just deleted the post.
I can’t believe Campo lost to Miramonte. Wow, that changes things… What were the other DFAL scores?
So for DVAL defensive player, I go with Sam Marchant of Clayton Valley.
In the DFAL, the MVP might be Sam Palano, with Dan Glascock as the offensive MVP and Oliver Castillo as the defensive MVP.
Red Solo Cup, we’re rolling!!!
February 10th, 2012 at 9:22 pm
Soccer God, you’re right. Jeremy Romero is a great player!
February 10th, 2012 at 9:23 pm
Oh ya, Borges had two goals, Tenzing had one, Alonso had one and Contreras had one for Albany. Borges had two assists.
February 10th, 2012 at 9:27 pm
What team is Jeremy R. On?
February 10th, 2012 at 9:27 pm
Dfalfan I can speak for Dublin as a whole that we do not support that comment nor act in that manner. Thank you for you comments too. And thanks Dfalfollower.
Matt, Campo now finishes in 2nd by one point ahead of Dublin, and after Dublin’s two wins to their two losses, including a win over Campo, do you see the committee paying notice or sticking with the league standings?
February 10th, 2012 at 9:27 pm
Diablo FC 95 #3 in Nation
Diablo FC 94 #20 in Nation
February 10th, 2012 at 9:27 pm
Dublin is rolling…
February 10th, 2012 at 9:28 pm
Matt
What is criteria for winning MVP and offensive player ?
February 10th, 2012 at 9:33 pm
11 v 11
Jeremy Romero is on Pinole valley and he is one of there best player he’s a sophomore and is a captain n plays wonderful soccer
February 10th, 2012 at 9:34 pm
It comes down to a vote of the coaches in the league. I feel like Palano being so well rounded helps his cause.
February 10th, 2012 at 9:46 pm
Thats great to hear tack! Thanks for your comments as well. Always happy to see a supporter stand up to a fellow team supporter when he is wrong. Truely good character! Congrats to dublin on the great league finish and good luck to them in ncs.
Btw did i just read that campo lost to miramonte?! First, really?!?!?!! Second score??
February 10th, 2012 at 9:47 pm
Matt,
What d2 schools are in playoffs and which ones are in the hunt?
February 10th, 2012 at 9:49 pm
To be noted – there are two Palanos. And while one may be deemed by some the stronger of the two, they are both exceptional soccer players.
February 10th, 2012 at 9:58 pm
Matt, who has the most goals in the dfal and where does Santiago Alejandro fall in the mix for offensive MVP
February 10th, 2012 at 10:03 pm
Is the DLS v. College Park match for certain? DLS has just gotten better this year, as they always do. CP worked in reverse, starting the season well, then drifting off as the season progresses. The two teams are a good contrast in coaching. Improving as the season progresses is an example of good coaching. On the other hand, CP seems challenged. Its JV team beat DLS JV, and lost one game all season, yet the varsity team has struggled. Clearly, CP has some difficulty evaluating talent. On the other hand DLS is stacked with talent, and its top JV teams matches well with its top varsity team. I see another debacle like last years CP loss in the first round. With 15 seniors, CP should be better.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:03 pm
Well, I dunno….the indirect free kick that Dublin got was for obstruction, but the defender was not more than 2 steps away from the ball (the standard that U.S.SOCCER uses as the criteria)and a player has the right to the space he inhabits. The penalty? NO. Just no.
I don’t know what criteria the assignor is using this year, but I do know that I have seen a number of games centered and A.R.’ed by folks I haven’t seen before.
I will say it again, no varsity game of import should be centered by anybody without a USSF grade 6 state license (or emeritus) and A.R.’ed by less than a grade 7 with current licence. The ref in the Acalanes vs. Dublin is a grade 8–maybe.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:11 pm
Anybody know the result of Dougherty Valley and Las Lomas?
February 10th, 2012 at 10:13 pm
Mudhen- the first goal was actually for a pass back, and in addition a foul on the keeper for grabbing the forward’s left leg. Words from the ref, not me.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:18 pm
You’re telling me that directly in front of the goal, from maybe 8 feet out, he’s gonna pass back? And as for grabbing the leg, naw…
My main point Tack, is that at this level of soccer, the referees must be the best ones around. It’s pretty easy, you go with 6′s and 7′s period.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:19 pm
Miramonte 2 Campo 1
Mats left it all on the field tonight. They were the aggressor and took it to campo. Campo is clearly not the same team with one of the twins out with his jaw wired shut. The score should have been 2-0 as campo’s only goal came on a long throw. Kudos to the Mats coach for having them finish the season with 110% effort. They were in the game on wed vs Acalanes and final got a result tonight. The teams playing the best ball from the DFAL are not the #1 or #2 teams. Dublins peaking and Alhambra is a force to be reckon with. Again I state early exits for Campo and Acalanes!!!!
Go Mats!
February 10th, 2012 at 10:19 pm
Mudhen – Im just passing on the words of the ref. And trust me I’m with you on the refs. I have seen numerous times, including personally, where a ref has decided the game.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:29 pm
#409 you may be onto something with regard to coaching. CP has traditionally been strong at the JV level and frosh as well(?). Varsity usually looks like it does well early in the season and then seems to struggle as the season progresses.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:33 pm
Ok Tack, fair enough. Bring on the playoffs, and let’s separate the men and women, from the boys and girls.
By the way, for anyone who likes the women’s game, try to get a look at Berkeley, those girls could take most of us out in a fair fistfight. Big , strong and talented.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:40 pm
Hey Matt
It was nice to meet you at Cougar field. I later found out who’s Nice Shot…..My Son.
Thanks for what you’re doing. We appreciate it.
February 10th, 2012 at 10:57 pm
Albany wins BSAL third year in a row with a shut out against Piedmont! Great defense led by senior Kian Ahmadi.
February 10th, 2012 at 11:14 pm
OK…just to get the DII NCS juices flowing…here’s a stab at the Top 10 Seedings. I happen to be a DFAL Guy, so I don’t think I’m really knowledgeable enough to fairly rank all 16.
Ygnacio Valley
Acalanes
Concord
Dublin
Campolindo
Hayward
Alhambra
Albany
Bishop O’Dowd
Pinole Valley
Fortunately the only thing that really makes a difference is what these Young Men do on the Field!
February 10th, 2012 at 11:26 pm
One last post for me before bed…
The D II schools that are in the mix, there are exactly 16, so the teams that will be in the field are all set unless El Cerrito wins or draws tomorrow. They are, in alphabetical order…
Acalanes
Albany
Alhambra
Bishop O’Dowd
Campolindo
Concord
Dublin
Hayward
Kennedy-Richmond
Mt. Diablo
Piedmont
Pinole Valley
Salesian
St. Mary’s
Tennyson
YV
Dougherty beat Las Lomas 7-0 on Monday.
I may have overlooked Alejandro. He should get strong consideration for DFAL MVP. He’ll get some serious votes. My apologies for not mentioning him earlier. He’s a very fine player.
Captain, it was nice to meet you and Nice Shot! Good luck in the playoffs!!
February 10th, 2012 at 11:36 pm
Matt
Can’t wait for your seeding predictions for tomorrow!
February 10th, 2012 at 11:45 pm
@Mudhen
Oh yes, the Berkeley girls team is excellent, they’re led by junior Lalie Marie whose an amazing player.
February 10th, 2012 at 11:57 pm
#415
Wow, how one victory goes straight to the head. The Campo coach had the grace to allow ALL his seniors to play the entire first half no matter what the outcome, since it was senior night. Congrats to Miramonte.
February 11th, 2012 at 12:08 am
Alejandro has 18 goals at the moment not sure if he scored this week I’d say strong consideration for offensive player In dfal
February 11th, 2012 at 7:59 am
CP’s V coach raises $$ for the program for uniforms,& equipment his hand runs through the program. But in general the team seems to consistently sputter towards the end of the season. JV squad has some all-around talent on the pitch and classroom. That will help with next years V team as smarts and leadership will be part of the an operational intangible for success. YV and Concord yes its a team effort but success weighs heavily on 2-3 players. If any are injured or are sitting out for grades it impacts the general performance of the team. Take a look at SRV, MV, DLS well rounded play by a variety of players..depth is key, I believe Matt posted some stats on DLS on the goal-side , some 6 players are producing goals not 1 or 2.
February 11th, 2012 at 9:06 am
Fan….I call it how I see and I don’t sugar coat it for Mira as you can see from my posts above. And for the record it was 1-1 at the half so the fully loaded Campo squad in the 2nd half was out scored 1-0. Is this the Campo coaches 1st year? Seems like a rookie mistake to take a team lightly and play the Seniors a whole half because it’s Senior night. I commend him and that’s really nice but teams are jockeying for position for NCS seeding. Not to mention you never want to limp into the playoffs with back to back losses. Again the team is different team without the twin. Best of luck in NCS!
February 11th, 2012 at 9:21 am
I have a very long, boring eight-hour class today so that will give me plenty of time to work on my playoff seeding predictions!! I’ll have them up by late afternoon, I hope.
February 11th, 2012 at 9:22 am
Any word on YV Damian? Supposedly concussion will keep him out about 3 weeks. Risk of collision again is slight but no headers as repeated ball impacts can cause a set-back.
February 11th, 2012 at 9:22 am
When does the seeding committee meet and when are the seeds announced?
February 11th, 2012 at 9:24 am
They meet Sunday..should post by 3pm on NCS web-site.
February 11th, 2012 at 9:29 am
Cal is coming on strong,it would not surprise me that it will come down to DLS & CAL, SRV still seems to have a sync problem as the game plan does not boot up correctly.
February 11th, 2012 at 9:43 am
#430
Damien played on Thursday night, so I don’t believe he actually suffered a concussion.
February 11th, 2012 at 9:51 am
Damian is okay. He played in the next game after the collision.
February 11th, 2012 at 10:42 am
Baller#9:
Alejandro had two more goals this week to end the regular season with 20. He should get more than just strong consideration for DFAL offensive player of the year given his contribution to his team this year. There are other worthy condidates, but Alejandro should get the award.
February 11th, 2012 at 11:02 am
My predictions for the DFAL is that Sam Palano will win MVP, Dan Glascock will win O-MVP, and Oliver Castillo will win D-MVP.
February 11th, 2012 at 11:17 am
Matt
Who do you think Pinole valley is going to play in the ncs?
February 11th, 2012 at 11:47 am
Pinole Valley will get in, my man. No doubt.
February 11th, 2012 at 11:52 am
Do you guys see any talent at Mt. Diablo? ANY?
February 11th, 2012 at 11:57 am
Seeding placement, Matchups in styles of play and Field Conditions will play a huge roll in NCS games. I know Newark has a slightly narrow and bumpy grass pitch, Logan has old style astro turf, Pittsburgh has a smaller than normal Artificial field, DLS has a very narrow artificial field and Richmond has a wonderfully wide, more like a normal soccer field, playing area. Any other field anomolies that opponents should be aware of or prepared for?
February 11th, 2012 at 12:04 pm
Matt
But what sees will they be?
February 11th, 2012 at 12:05 pm
I meant to say what seed will they be?
February 11th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
Tough Kid..he would still try and play even if he saw 3 goal keepers.
February 11th, 2012 at 12:24 pm
I’m working on my playoff formula right now. Keep in mind, this will be adjusted for head-to-head, common opponents, league finish and league strength when I make my prediction for my final seedings. Here is what my formula has spit out for Division I.
DLS 19.2
Cal 18
Richmond 17.6
Newark 17
Clayton Valley 16.2
SRV 15.8
MV 14.9
Pitt 14.2
AV 13.3
Berkeley 13
Mt. Eden 12.4
Granada 12.2
CP 12
Antioch 11.9
Logan 11.9
Dougherty Valley 10.4
Alameda 10.1
San Leandro 9
Freedom 8.4
American 8
Heritage 7.3
February 11th, 2012 at 12:48 pm
Barcelonaman
I hear you too , I hear all the chatter about other players in dfal but from what I saw and heard this kid Alejandro really came on towards the end of the season. I think you said 20 goals and I heard 9-10 assist that’s a huge contribution to any team. He is my favorite for dfal MVP or offensive player. At the end it comes down to tr coaches I just hope they see what we see !!
February 11th, 2012 at 12:54 pm
Unfortunately for Alejandro, his team didn’t place higher. He’s had a phenomenal season and is a major threat on the field, but I don’t think he will get an MVP spot. Usually those are given to the league champions. But I guess well see, best of luck to him.
February 11th, 2012 at 12:58 pm
Hey vela
I see what your saying but league champion should have nothing to do with O MVP or MVP. Considering again last week this kid scored all goals in two league games and scored on all the top teams above alhambra. Kinda funny I think the coaches will see the light considering how tough he was to deal with on the field.
February 11th, 2012 at 1:13 pm
Berkley up early , 1-0
February 11th, 2012 at 1:20 pm
I don’t see how you can rank SRV ahead of MV if MV beat them two times, had fewer losses, and finished ahead of them in league. Does the comitee use a specific formula or is it more of a results thing?
February 11th, 2012 at 1:37 pm
Nice Shot! Awesome, keep us posted bro!
Vaporking, the computer ranking I posted is just straight off the numbers. My final seeding predictions will factor in head-to-head, common opponents, league finish, league strength and how they finished the season. My formula is just a basis to get me started.
The committee won’t use any type of formula. They overemphasize league finish, and they love the EBAL and DFAL.
February 11th, 2012 at 1:44 pm
Berkley 1 El Cerrito 1
February 11th, 2012 at 1:51 pm
How much time left? Let me know when it goes final.
February 11th, 2012 at 1:54 pm
Matt,
Hercules has submitted an application according to the ncs website
http://cifncs.org/sports/soccer/files/verification(b)Winter.html
February 11th, 2012 at 1:59 pm
Berkley scores off of free kick. 2nd half
February 11th, 2012 at 2:01 pm
El cerrito comes back to tie it
February 11th, 2012 at 2:11 pm
Wow, El Cerrito really wants that playoff spot!
Interesting about Hercules. Everything I know about their overall, league and division record says they aren’t eligible. I’ve got them at 3-4-4 in Division II games. Maybe I’m missing one. Ineligible teams have applied before, however.
February 11th, 2012 at 2:12 pm
Let’s all give our seeding predictions!
Division 1
1. DLS
2. Richmond
3. Cal
4. Newark
5. MV
6. Clayton
7. SRV
8. Pittsburg
9. Granada
10. Berkley
11. Logan
12. Mt. Eden
13. Amador
14. Antioch
15. Dougherty
16. CP
Division 2
1. YV
2. Acalanes
3. Campo
4. Hayward
5. Albany
6. Concord
7. Dublin
8. Alhambra
9. Bishop O’ Dowd
10. Pinole Valley
11. Piedmont
12. St. Mary’s
13. Tennyson
14. Kennedy
15. Mt. Diablo
16. Salesian
February 11th, 2012 at 2:22 pm
SoccerFan11- can you explain having campo at 3rd, followed by Hayward at 4?
February 11th, 2012 at 2:28 pm
Hopefully Damian and Romero meet in NCS I also her that YV and Pinol Valley have played each other the last two years but this year they did not face each other also I checked the scores and YV won both Years 1-0 both years an assist from Damian the two times they faced each other
February 11th, 2012 at 2:32 pm
@Baller9
Oh I definitely agree with you. But I know that a kid led the league in scoring last year and was second in assists and did not recieve neither MVP nor offensive player. It would be great to see a player like Alejandro win, as his play helped Alhambra to a strong season despite not winning league.
February 11th, 2012 at 2:36 pm
Tack
In past years it seems as though the committee ranks the DFAl teams very high. Last year Campo and Acalanes were seeded 1 and 2, so with Campo coming 2nd in league I believe that they will be seeded high. Also, it seems the committee places a big emphasis on how teams placed in league. I feel like Hayward will be seeded 4th because they won the HAAL with a very good record. They are having a year like San Lorenzo last year who won the HAAl and they were seeded 3rd. What are your predictions for division 2.
February 11th, 2012 at 2:38 pm
For sure vela it’s unknown and will see what happens it would be a disappointment to not see him win it given what he’s done also I read somewhere before he was playing left back can you imagine that ? It is just amazing that he changed his position and was able to notch 20 goals with a decent amount of assist.
I guess will wait and see what happens my vote is for Alejandro !
February 11th, 2012 at 2:42 pm
Is Romero really that good of a player to be compared to Damian?
February 11th, 2012 at 2:43 pm
In D1, don’t be surprised if the NCS selection committee puts Cal, SRV and MV on the same side of the bracket, and possibly leaves Granada out completely. Would like to see Richmond and Cal on the same side, with DLS on the opposite side. Generally speaking, league teams should not have to play each other in the first round, but the committee has often ignored line of thinking. It is in the hands of what I call “the blind trust,” may the soccer gods grace them with a modicum of wisdom.
February 11th, 2012 at 2:44 pm
What’s happening in El Cerrito, Nice Shot?
February 11th, 2012 at 2:48 pm
Berkeley won 5-3.
I’m posting my seeding predictions in a new post right now.
February 11th, 2012 at 2:55 pm
SoccerFan11-well said. I understand your points completely, although I do differ in my predictions.
1.YV
2.Acalanes
3.Dublin
4.Concord
5.Campo
6.Hayward
7.Albany
8.Alhambra
9.Bishop O’ Dowd
10.Piedmont
11.Pinole Valley
12.St. Mary’s
13.Tennyson
14.Kennedy
15.Mt. Diablo
16.Salesian
February 11th, 2012 at 2:58 pm
The new post is up.
February 11th, 2012 at 2:59 pm
Rouge Warrior #433: “…SRV still seems to have a sync problem as the game plan does not boot up correctly.”
There is nothing wrong with SRV’s game plan as the Wolves routinely control play, produce more quality opportunities and out-shoot their opponent. Their problem is two-fold: finishing their attacks on offense and clearing loose balls from the area on defense. But the game plan itself is very sound. It is up to the players to finish at both ends of the field. MV was totally on its heels the last 15 minutes Thursday night and was relieved to get out with 3 points. Just my 2 cents.
February 11th, 2012 at 3:00 pm
Hey Matt, WAKE UP!!! Class is almost over and we are 470+ posts and counting. We are pushing 500! Come on mates, let’s heat up those keyboards and spew out those opinions, just like the SCOTUS.
February 11th, 2012 at 3:01 pm
A SCOTUS reference on the blog. Love it.
February 11th, 2012 at 3:02 pm
5-3 Berkley, Final
February 11th, 2012 at 3:09 pm
For D2, it seems less clear after seeding YV #1. We may see something that looks like numbers pulled out of the committee’s………………………………….hat.
I do not see seeds #1-4 all getting to the semis, no matter who is selected.
Alhambra and Dublin are two squads that have shown the ability to play a solid road match late this season, so beware the comforts of a home match.
February 11th, 2012 at 3:12 pm
I think Dublin will make noise in NCS Alhambra it depends on what team shows up ! But I are alcalanes and campo taking early exits.
February 11th, 2012 at 3:41 pm
Matt,
The truck is filled with gas, and I have interrupted my usual Saturday night social calendar to make that long 2 mile trek to post your D1 and D2 seeding recommendations you know where. Keep the iPhone line open in case I need to get bailed out.
I will submit the mileage reimbursement on an expense report next week.
Cheers, and see you…you know where!
February 11th, 2012 at 3:48 pm
It probably doesn’t matter if Cal is #2 or 3 seed. Either way I think it will be Cal and DLS in final.
For defensive player of the year, my vote is Matt Goodman#8. Two of the three games Cal lost he was out with injury. He not only anchors their defense he helps the offense in many ways. Matt has sprinter speed and can stay with anyone in EBAL.
February 11th, 2012 at 3:59 pm
No I don’t see anything special about Romero well we can say anything till they meet face to face on the pitch but Damian is just one special kid and his on another level he has lead his high school too seed 1 what is Pinole seedded?
February 11th, 2012 at 4:41 pm
Sweeper
Do you have candidate for defensive player of the year? You have seen a lot of them.
February 11th, 2012 at 5:20 pm
Alhambra has been playing some consistent soccer and the GK seems to be playing very well. Biggest concern for dogs is to hold the mid line and keep the backs working together. Because if the GK is getting peppered all night at some point 1 or 2 will get in.
February 11th, 2012 at 5:25 pm
I
February 11th, 2012 at 5:29 pm
500! must keep posting….
February 11th, 2012 at 6:11 pm
Keep it rolling until 500 we can do it !!!
February 11th, 2012 at 6:33 pm
Comment 484 – Thanks 477 for the kind words on FJ Jr!
16 more…
February 11th, 2012 at 6:49 pm
New to the site; enjoying the comments. Without being too blatant, I wonder how folks come to notice very good players on teams that aren’t otherwise showing up on the radar. Seems a shame for them to get passed over.
(and I’m helping you hit 500 posts…)
Cheers
February 11th, 2012 at 6:49 pm
.485….LOL
February 11th, 2012 at 6:53 pm
Who’s gonna win D2 NCS title ???
February 11th, 2012 at 7:31 pm
To help you get to 500…
Matt, I just started reading your blog last week. Thank you for this forum, it is very interesting reading.
February 12th, 2012 at 2:05 am
Cal Fan,
As a former defender (‘A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…’), I very much enjoy Cal #8′s play. He is in my mind a “steady Eddie” type, and is a d-anchor. I saw him struggle one match while the whole team struggled through the team injury blight, and he shifted to a different roll and adapted very well. And then he was under doctor’s orders for a few weeks and is now back contributing. He is on my all-EBAL short list, and his dad is on my all-NCS photoguy list (gee, who could that be?).
BTW, in my sweeper days, I received our coaches accolades, but our steady Eddie back got much-deserved all league honors, so I appreciate a rock solid defender that allows a sweeper to focus appropriately.
I also like the stopper on Acalanes (#17?) well rounded and quietly very physical; the sweeper at Dublin (not big but cool, calm and collected with a variety of creative free kicks); SRV’s tall left back (9?) who is similar to #17 above but less subtle; and the Richmond forward that floats back to stopper and then strikes back (#18?) AND he is one of my “dominant at either end” players. When healthy, in DI the DLS d-unit and the Cal d-unit stand out like no other, and in DII the Campo d-unit and the Acalanes d-unit are top notch, but not at this time due to injuries.
February 12th, 2012 at 7:18 am
@Sweeps I have to agree on Cal & DLS D squads one or two players stand out on each team but as a D unit with GK both Cal & DLS are simply outstanding, very good athlets who can read the attack and adjust accordingly. Not sure if you have ever noticed how the back four and GK from DLS moments prior to start have own private huddle. But good backfields also need that solid play from midfield that starts to weaken the attack.
February 12th, 2012 at 7:25 am
DI and DII it will be the depth of bench, and and what surprise player truly steps up and lights up the pitch.
February 12th, 2012 at 7:46 am
Spartans have depth,they are healthy,the coaches seem relaxed and in a positive mood as mid week approaches.
But do the players have the fire & passion to take the game to another level and dominate the pitch?
Or will a Richmond come out from the start where passion and fire will be the creed that carries them through? Can San Ramon play 80 min and eliminate those tiny moments that just seem to slip away from total control of a game? What about Newark they had a taste last year can they repeat and close the deal? This years NCS has all the drama and possible great performances ever to be seen in Bay Area HS soccer.
February 12th, 2012 at 7:52 am
Sweeper and Shinguard
Couldn’t agree more with your comments about defensive play and like the list of players on 489. For DLS I would throw in the #4 player Depolo. He doesn’t have as much size as the others but makes up for it with quickness and grit.
February 12th, 2012 at 8:32 am
Alhambra has some hidden stars, they need to step-up and add some additional shine. Don’t 2nd guess just dominate and be relaxed and not panic /rush your individual skills side of the game.
February 12th, 2012 at 8:35 am
#494 You hit the nail on the head..as Poacher would say Do it..JUST Do It…game on.
February 12th, 2012 at 9:29 am
Is antioch and freedom in ncs for d1
February 12th, 2012 at 9:49 am
DII YV will go all the way. None of the DII teams play at the speed of the top 8 DI teams. So if you feel the need for speed go to DI game..Some great individual skills ball go to DII game. Bulldogs are a contender watch out for the bite.
February 12th, 2012 at 10:03 am
489 looks like we won’t make 500 post what a Shame
February 12th, 2012 at 10:11 am
Clayton Valley has no MOJO they will do the typical sputter and exit stage left.
February 12th, 2012 at 10:34 am
No words of wisdom or witty comments with this post, just trying to get it to 500.
February 12th, 2012 at 11:09 am
500!!!
D2 Brackets are up!
February 12th, 2012 at 11:44 am
502 comments what a day ! NCS brackets out and it’s time for some players to shine and others to pack up and go home.
February 12th, 2012 at 12:16 pm
Looks like theres a really big chance of Damian and Romero seeing each other face to face on the pitch for NCS I YV wins and Pinol beat Albany
February 12th, 2012 at 12:17 pm
I see Bishop-Odowd vs Alhambra. Any ideas in how that game will go. I have not read much up on Biship but know it is a private school . Any thoughts out there???
February 12th, 2012 at 12:30 pm
Any thoughts in the Alhamrba – Bidhop Odowd Game on Wesnedsay
February 12th, 2012 at 3:13 pm
They play a very tough defense and can pop a surprise in when you are not careful.
February 12th, 2012 at 3:15 pm
C ya everybody is on Matt’s new seeding blog.
PLAY-ON
February 13th, 2012 at 3:33 pm
Haha, just saw this feed still has some posts! Nice!