- East Bay Prep Corner
Boys Soccer: Top Players, Merritt College, Rankings, Standings, Stats
By Matt Smith
Sunday, January 6th, 2013 at 10:03 am in Boys soccer.
The amount of comments hasn’t been as great as it was last season, so I need to play my trump card. Every time I talk about the best players, it gets discussion going.
I’m gonna touch on a few. Remember, I can’t talk about everyone, so I will leave that up to you guys to fill in any blanks I leave.
Erik Montes, Richmond
The defending East Bay POY is having another great season. He doesn’t have the scorers around him this year, so the assist totals are down, but he is still so much fun to watch. Montes has to be the most well balanced and skilled player in the area.
Tata Ayala/Edgar Damian Ygnacio Valley
Ayala is probably the frontrunner for the East Bay’s player of the year right now. His 15 goals lead the East Bay. He is big, fast, and effortless. Certainly the best pure forward the area has to offer.
If Damian wanted to, he could score 15-20 goals a year, but he knows how to make his team better and that’s to distribute. Once the ball gets to him in the midfield, he sets his teammates up with the greatest of ease.
Dan Glascock/Mark Helfrich, Acalanes
It’s hard to pick just two players from such an incredibly balanced team, but for now I’ll go with this duo for the Dons. Glascock is another guy who could probably try to score more, but just does his job in the midfield. Helfrich is the difference maker this year for Acalanes. Explosive speed with a nose for the goal makes him one of the more dangerous scorers in the area.
Jeff Greenberg/Ben Panconi, Monte Vista
Greenberg is explosive up top, and is equally dangerous either trying to score or setting up his teammates. Maybe the best player in the EBAL right now. Panconi is one of my favorites because of how he controls the midfield. A great stopper as a defensive mid, and is quick to get the ball to center mid or the wings.
Davonte Raynor/Nathan Grixti, California
This duo just dominates the midfield for Cal, and are both hybrid types who can play as mids, but like to push up and have a nose for the goal. Combining for 17 goals and 12 assists shows just how good these two are.
Ben Reiter/Kevin Fortney, College Park
Reiter is only scratching the surface. He is quick, shifty and very strong for his size. Fortney is a force in the back for the Falcons and is what a defender should be, big and strong.
Izzy Murgia/Esteban Berumen, Pittsburg
You want to talk about speed? Then these are two guys you should mention. They both have great touch, composure and skill. They are fun to watch and make Pittsburg a top 10 team at the moment.
Christian Clark, Foothill
Maybe the most fundamentally skilled player in the East Bay. He is smooth, effortless and fun to watch. He has put the Falcons back on the map with his creative and energetic style of play.
Rigo Castillo/Cata Gomez/Christian Mendoza, Hayward
I was trying to keep it to just two players maximum per team, but I’ll make an exception for Hayward. These three are great. Rigo is just a pure striker with a nose for the goal, Cata is a kid that thinks of his teammates first and distributes with the greatest of ease, while Mendoza can do anything you ask. Goals, assists, defend? He can do it.
Allan Foster/Brandon Bolender, Northgate
This senior duo has been waiting a couple of years for the program to turn around and it has. They are both very talented, attacking midfielders who are equally good scoring or distributing. It will be fun to see them in the playoffs.
Nigus Solomon/Matt Marletta, Berkeley
Solomon is the creative engine that makes the Yellowjackets go, while Marletta is the nails and barbwire in the back. Both play with a passion for the game, which is what makes them so good.
Matt Baringer, Piedmont
A very underrated player because he is sort of under the radar in the high school scene. Extremely talented.
Tyler Pangia/Blake Seitz, Amador Valley
I feel like AV has like 10 guys I could mention, but these two jump out at me. Pangia can create from anywhere, and Seitz is such a calming and controlling influence on the pitch.
Matt Maul/Alex Maestre, San Ramon Valley
The theme of great midfielders continues, and I think we have two of the better ones in the EBAL playing together for the Wolves.
Joel Sandoval, Newark Memorial
Sandoval is sneaky fast, very creative and has a rocket shot. A dangerous scorer down the left side, he can do it all for the Cougars.
Juan Villegas, Mt. Eden
Another underrated player. Not many have heard of him, but the kid can play. He’s very smooth, he’s constantly a threat and I think he can create from anywhere.
Andrew Konstantino/Nic Bob, De La Salle
Konstantino is regarded as the best keeper in the East Bay, and for good reason. He’s got great instincts and is a leader. Bob has been very unselfish for the Spartans, moving to the back, and has played great there.
Miguel Montoya, Logan
The huge numbers aren’t there yet for this season, but this kid is at the forefront of creating chances for a resurgent James Logan team.
Josh Espinoza, St. Mary’s
Espinoza can do it all, and does it with very little effort. Very fluid in finding the goal, or setting up his teammates.
Jeremy Romero, Hercules
A very talented scorer, with a nose for the goal at all times has helped make Hercules a team to watch this year.
Jorge Cendejas, Freedom
Haven’t seen this guy play yet, but have heard nothing but great things, and hope to see him soon.
Merritt College
Student asked on the blog last week about being noticed by Division I colleges, and it is always great for local soccer players when it works out. But some kids fly under the radar, or peak later in their career, and for those who want to continue playing and work towards their education after high school, there are still some great options.
One of those options is Merritt College in the Oakland Hills. Since Coach Zach Sullivan took over the program, it has started a winning tradition, and he is in contact with coaches all through Division I, II, III and NAIA.
Thanks to Sullivan’s efforts, finding a place to transfer is a reality for kids who still want to earn a scholarship, play soccer and get a degree after high school.
In the last two years, Jason Swihart of Berkeley High got a scholarship to Hawaii Pacific, Jonas Voiron of St. Joseph Notre Dame and Hugo Ramirez of Skyline got a scholarship to Holy Names, while Prince Bere of Castlemont and Ricardo Nava of Richmond have received multiple offers that they are considering.
Merritt has players from high schools all over the East Bay, which also creates a family environment and allows players to play with guys they went to high school with, played against in high school or club, or just know from the area.
Merritt also offers financial aid to cover tuition, books and additional living expenses to those who qualify, so please contact Coach Sullivan at merrittsoccer@gmail.com for more questions.
Rankings
Some shifting in the top ten as YV climbs up to No. 3, setting up quite the showdown next Saturday as they face top-ranked Acalanes. Monte Vista jumps a spot, while Berkeley continues its winning ways and moves into the top five.
San Ramon Valley leaps De La Salle after its 1-0 win over Sparty, while Amador Valley and Pittsburg slip just slightly. Foothill, Campo and Northgate all jump up a couple spots as the bottom part of the top 15 presented some openings, while Newark just holds of Logan for that No. 15 spot for now.
Freedom and Concord both make the consideration list just outside the top 15.
1. Acalanes (12-0-0)
2. California (12-0-2)
3. Ygnacio Valley (9-1-2)
4. Monte Vista (8-1-4)
5. Berkeley (9-1-3)
6. San Ramon Valley (7-2-2)
7. De La Salle (5-3-3)
8. Amador Valley (10-3-1)
9. Pittsburg (4-2-3)
10. Hayward (9-2-1)
11. Foothill (7-2-3)
12. Campolindo (10-5-0)
13. Northgate (7-1-4)
14. Richmond (4-2-5)
15. Newark Memorial (6-3-5)
Others considered: Logan (6-5-3), Mt. Eden (7-4-3), St. Mary’s (5-1-3), Hercules (9-2-1), Freedom (6-6-1), Granada (4-3-3), Dougherty Valley (5-4-0), Concord (5-1-3), College Park (5-7-3),
Liberty (3-2-1)
Standings
BVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Antioch (4-2-3, 0-0-0) 0
Deer Valley (4-4-1, 0-0-0) 0
Freedom (6-6-1, 0-0-0) 0
Heritage (2-6-1, 0-0-0) 0
Liberty (3-2-1, 0-0-0) 0
Pittsburg (4-2-3, 0-0-0) 0
DFAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Acalanes (12-0-0, 6-0-0) 18
Campolindo (10-5-0, 3-2-0) 9
Dougherty Valley (5-4-0, 3-2-0) 9
Dublin (5-5-3, 3-2-0) 9
Miramonte (2-6-2, 1-3-1) 4
Las Lomas (0-6-4, 0-3-2) 2
Alhambra (5-5-3, 0-4-1) 1
DVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Ygnacio Valley (9-1-2, 4-0-0) 12
College Park (5-7-3, 2-1-1) 7
Concord (5-1-3, 1-0-2) 5
Northgate (7-1-4, 1-1-1) 4
Berean Chr. (2-4-2, 1-1-1) 4
Clayton Valley (0-11-1, 0-3-1) 1
Mt. Diablo (0-4-0, 0-3-0) 0
EBAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
California (12-0-2, 3-0-1) 10
Monte Vista (8-1-4, 2-0-2) 8
De La Salle (5-3-3, 2-1-1) 7
Amador Valley (10-3-1, 2-2-0) 6
Foothill (7-2-3, 1-2-1) 4
San Ramon Valley (7-2-2, 1-1-1) 4
Granada (4-3-3, 1-2-0) 3
Livermore (2-9-2, 0-4-0) 0
MVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Logan (6-5-3, 3-0-1) 10
Newark Memorial (6-3-5, 2-0-2) 8
Irvington (2-3-6, 1-1-2) 5
Washington (3-3-5, 1-1-2) 5
Kennedy (3-4-1, 1-2-1) 4
Mission San Jose (3-5-4, 1-1-1) 4
Moreau Catholic (0-5-3, 0-2-2) 2
American (2-4-3, 0-2-1) 1
OAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Castlemont (0-0-0, 0-0-0) 0
Fremont (0-0-0, 0-0-0) 0
Oakland (0-0-0, 0-0-0) 0
Oakland Tech (0-3-1, 0-0-0) 0
Skyline (0-0-0, 0-0-0) 0
TCAL Rock
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Richmond (4-2-5, 2-0-2) 8
St. Mary’s (5-1-3, 2-0-1) 7
Albany (3-6-3, 2-2-0) 6
El Cerrito (2-9-0, 1-2-0) 3
Salesian (1-1-1, 0-1-1) 1
St. Joseph Notre Dame (1-6-1, 0-2-0) 0
TCAL Stone
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Hercules (9-2-1, 4-0-0) 12
Pinole Valley (5-3-0, 3-1-0) 9
De Anza (3-4-0, 2-2-0) 6
Kennedy (0-3-0, 0-2-0) 0
St. Patrick-St. Vincent (0-4-0, 0-2-0) 0
Swett (0-2-0, 0-2-0) 0
WACC Foothill
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Berkeley (9-1-3, 5-0-1) 16
Alameda (5-4-4, 4-2-0) 12
Mt. Eden (7-4-3, 3-0-3) 12
Castro Valley (3-5-3, 3-2-1) 10
Arroyo (3-6-3, 2-3-1) 7
Bishop O’Dowd (2-4-1, 2-2-1) 7
WACC Shoreline
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Hayward (9-2-1, 4-1-1) 13
San Lorenzo (2-2-2, 2-2-2) 8
San Leandro (2-7-1, 2-3-1) 7
Piedmont (2-5-1, 1-4-1) 4
Tennyson (1-11-1, 1-5-0) 3
Encinal (0-5-0, 0-5-0) 0
Stat Leaders
Name School Goals
Ayala, YV 15
Gala, Dougherty 13
R. Castillo, Hayward 13
Cendejas, Free 11
Reiter, CP 10
Williams, Mt. Eden 10
Solomon, Berkeley 9
Mendoza, Hayward
Grixti, Cal 9
Sandoval, Newark 9
Montes, Richmond 8
Raynor, Cal 8
Clark, FH 8
Gray, Hayward 8
Villegas, Mt. Eden 8
Bolender, Ngate 8
Foster, Ngate 8
Name School Assists
Gomez, Hayward 11
Damian, YV 10
Raynor, Cal 8
Croze, Aca 7
Foster, Ngate 7
Espinoza, St. Mary 7
Aguilar, YV 7
Solomon, Berkeley 6
Clark, FH 6
Goldstein, FH 6
Cendejas, Free 6
Greenberg, MV 6
Bolender, Ngate 6
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January 6th, 2013 at 10:35 am
@ Matt Enjoyed your Top Players list, however, a bit disappointed not to see Freedom’s Jorge Cendejas (11 goals, 6 assists). Ayala/Damian (YV), Murguia/Berumen (Pitt)seen them all play since there U8 days. Great players! Hayward’s Castillo is definitely a must. Thanks!
January 6th, 2013 at 10:37 am
What the heck is wrong with my. Long night. Apologies @Matt. I just notices Cendejas on your list. You gotta watch this kid!
January 6th, 2013 at 10:57 am
This week’s EBAL:
Tuesday 1/8:
Amador Valley @ California
De La Salle @ Granada
Livermore @ San Ramon Valley
Monte Vista @ Foothill
Thursday 1/10:
California @ Foothill
Livermore @ De La Salle
San Ramon Valley @ Amador Valley
Monte Vista @ Granada
January 6th, 2013 at 11:00 am
@Goalboy Thanks for the props on the list! Glad you saw Cendejas there. Gotta see him soon.
January 6th, 2013 at 11:08 am
BVAL starts this week (all games 6pm):
Tuesday 1/8:
Pittsburg @ Freedom
Liberty @ Antioch
Deer Valley @ Heritage
Thursday 1/10:
Freedom @ Antioch
Heritage @ Pittsburg
Deer Valley @ Liberty
January 6th, 2013 at 11:34 am
A tough week ahead for Foothill; vs.#4 Monte Vista, #2 Cal and at #8 Amador,a combined 30-4-7,wow!
January 6th, 2013 at 11:35 am
This week in boys’ soccer EBAL-South takes on EBAL-North as every match pits teams north of 580 against teams south of 580.
Will the North continue its dominance (4 ranked in the top 8), or will the South steal valuable points (1 ranked in the top 8). With 24 points up for grabs, chaos could ensue. In particular, it is time for the Pleasanton teams to step up and play to their potential. My money is on the North…good luck to all!
See you at the pitch!
January 6th, 2013 at 12:05 pm
Hey Matt,
The shift of the match from Acalanes to CP messed up my plans yesterday. I got wind of the shift while at the SRV@NM match, and I could not make the kick-off. All was not lost as I ended up at Rosita’s in Newark: pupusa y tamale y taco y bebida fria, muy bueno.
I am looking forward to seeing Acalanes host YV next Saturday and SRV the following week. Each match is back-to-back (Fri-Sat) for the Dons, so #1 will be appropriately tested.
See you at the pitch!
January 6th, 2013 at 1:23 pm
Interested to see how Foothill fares this week with starting goalkeeper out with injury.
January 6th, 2013 at 1:51 pm
Sweeper,
You missed an outstanding showing from a real top flight team. We’ll see how they handle YV on Saturday.
I’ll be seeing you there.
Rosita’s es muy bueno
January 6th, 2013 at 1:56 pm
Goal Keepers: My top 3.
Andrew Konstatino @ De La Salle
Derek Wilcox @ Cal Hi
Max Sonnier @ Northgate
January 6th, 2013 at 2:01 pm
Stats sorted by league
Player School Goals League
Cendejas Freedom 11 BVAL
Gala Dougherty 13 DFAL
Ayala YV 15 DVAL
Reiter CP 10 DVAL
Bolender Northgate 8 DVAL
Foster Northgate 8 DVAL
Grixti Cal 9 EBAL
Raynor Cal 8 EBAL
Clark Foothill 8 EBAL
Sandoval Newark 9 MVAL
Montes Richmond 8 TCAL-Rock
R. Castillo Hayward 13 WACC-FOOTHILL
Solomon Berkeley 9 WACC-FOOTHILL
Gray Hayward 8 WACC-FOOTHILL
Mendoza Hayward 8 WACC-FOOTHILL
Williams Mt.Eden 10 WACC-SHORELINE
Villegas Mt.Eden 8 WACC-SHORELINE
January 6th, 2013 at 2:08 pm
Matt, glad to see that you mentioned one of the top goalkeepers in the area. Another top player that you did not mention is a Jr. gaolie in the EBAL. He since freshmen year has now started 39 games and has not been defeated during regulation play. His record is 29 wins 0 losses and 10 ties. He has 23 shut-outs and only 2 times has given up more than 1 goal(2-2 tie to foothill his freshmen year and a 3-2 win against college park)I do agree with you that Konstintino may be REGARDED the best in the east bay, however he may not even be the best keeper in the EBAL. numbers don’t lie.
January 6th, 2013 at 2:08 pm
sorry a bit messy
hope this is better
Player School Goals League
Cendejas Freedom 11 BVAL
Gala Dougherty 13 DFAL
Ayala YV 15 DVAL
Reiter CP 10 DVAL
Bolender Northgate 8 DVAL
Foster Northgate 8 DVAL
Grixti Cal 9 EBAL
Raynor Cal 8 EBAL
Clark Foothill 8 EBAL
Sandoval Newark 9 MVAL
Montes Richmond 8 TCAL-Rock
R. Castillo Hayward 13 WACC-FOOTHILL
Solomon Berkeley 9 WACC-FOOTHILL
Gray Hayward 8 WACC-FOOTHILL
Mendoza Hayward 8 WACC-FOOTHILL
Williams Mt.Eden 10 WACC-SHORELINE
Villegas Mt.Eden 8 WACC-SHORELINE
January 6th, 2013 at 2:10 pm
Players of interest:
Damian @ YV
Bolender @ Northgate
Montes @ Richmond
Guerrero @ De La Salle
January 6th, 2013 at 2:13 pm
Assists
Name School Assists League
Cendejas Freedom 6 BVAL
Croze Acalanes 7 DFAL
Damian YV 10 DVAL
Foster Northgate 7 DVAL
Aguilar YV 7 DVAL
Bolender Northgate 6 DVAL
Raynor Cal 8 EBAL
Clark Foothill 6 EBAL
Goldstein Foothill 6 EBAL
Greenberg Monte Vista 6 EBAL
Espinoza St. Mary’s 7 TCAL-Rock
Gomez Hayward 11 WACC-FOOTHILL
Solomon Berkeley 6 WACC-FOOTHILL
January 6th, 2013 at 2:14 pm
It’s somewhat objective to list points scored and assists, but isn’t it tougher to rank keepers? So much of their success is related to the defense of the team that they play for. Of course if one gets shot on 15-20 times in a game, regardless of his skill, he’s not going to have a clean record. And some lesser keepers have fantastic defensive lines and aren’t called to action very often. Seems like it would be really hard to say who’s really good without a big picture.
January 6th, 2013 at 2:56 pm
Regarding Keepers…Athleticism & Command & Skills & Knowledge of the game.
Goalies that have the potential to go beyond High School.
January 6th, 2013 at 3:14 pm
Matt I really appreciated this list. I’ve gotten the chance to see several of these players play and I think you got just about everyone.
Having seen Newark and Logan play multiple times, I really like Sandoval and Montoya. Both solid players. I can however tell you that Irvington boasts a player better than the both of them in my eyes. Edgardo Cuellar. He’s hurt at the moment but I’ve seen him play as a sophomore and junior and he really dominates games. Unfortunately doesn’t have the supporting cast that Montoya and Sandoval have.
My favorite player on this list is Cendejas. Great player, very dangerous offensively. Haven’t caught the boys from Acalanes but I’m looking forward to seeing them play. Keep Edgardo Cuellar in mind though. That name may cause a stir the second half if he gets back.
January 6th, 2013 at 5:41 pm
@Soccerman I think Wilcox is a fine player. I should have listed three players for Cal, but I like to leave some people off the list to open the discussion. So thanks for doing that
January 6th, 2013 at 5:42 pm
@NCS Soccer Thank you, sir. I appreciate you pointing that out. I only recently heard about Cuellar so I will definitely keep him in mind.
January 6th, 2013 at 6:00 pm
A bunch of your go to kids/players to watch are Mustang Celtic kids! Hughie would be so proud of how these boys turned out….Love it!!
January 6th, 2013 at 6:03 pm
Matt,
Thanks for working through your Cabo induced lethargy and coming out to the Cal Granada game this week . One other player to note on the Cal side is Jon Massimino. I have watched him for several years and if he can stay healthy he will be a force to be reckoned with in this his senior year, he’s fast, aggressive, talented and works very hard.
This said, I’d like to make my first shameless plug of the year for my photo site http://www.fjphotoguy.com. I have galleries up for both Cal and Granada from Thursday’s game. I also am trying something new this time around and I posted a small gallery of my top picks from the game:
http://www.fjphotoguy.com/CalHighSoccer2011-2012/Cal-High-Soccer-vs-Granada-Top
I no longer have a player on the field for Cal so I would like to start getting some captures of the other teams in the area. Thursday and weekend (day!!) games are best for me. If you have a team or player who you would like me to shoot, send me an email at fjphotoguy@gmail.com and hopefully I can make it out.
Stop by the site, I’d appreciate it and as Sweeper says, see you at the pitch!
Chris G. the FJ Photoguy
January 6th, 2013 at 6:15 pm
@FJ Photoguy You are right about Massimino! Fine player.
And you guys, seriously check out his photos or hit him up if you want him to shoot a game or a certain player. He does great work.
January 6th, 2013 at 6:19 pm
Glad to see some attention is being given to goalkeepers. I played the position throughout my high school season and was always upset by the lack of notice there was for them.
Stewie mentioned one, Max Sonnier, who I think is deserving of more attention. Like Powell said it’s hard to rate goalkeepers since their stats are also dependent on their defense. While I feel Northgate has an extremely solid defense, Max has been my man of the match for their games against both YV and CP. At CP he had an outstanding number of saves, great exhibition of reflexes, and synergized with his defenders well (he was jumping around hugging with one of them after they saved a last second shot). All this lead to great shutout.
January 6th, 2013 at 6:53 pm
Goalie wise I believe the gk for concord is better than both Wilcox and Konstantino. He is the heart ansd soul of that team. The other two are just a good product of the system they are in. ( All 3 from dfc’s gk coach). I give Konstantino an advantage over Wilcox only because he made Wilcox quit their club team for not getting playing time. Well thats the word on the street I guess.
Other good gks:
Freedoms
Dougherty valley’s
Pitts
Ygnacio valleys
January 6th, 2013 at 7:51 pm
@Ncschamps Konstantino had nothing to do with Wilcox quiting his club team, in fact they are very good friends.
January 6th, 2013 at 7:59 pm
Ncschamps- Lets talk about keepers since they dont get alot of looks. I totally agree with you on this. The concord keeper is the heart and soul of the team. Konstantino is a very good goalie. Wilcox is also very good. But Jimenez just always keeps his team alive. In that case, i think the order should be like this.
1.Jimenez
2.Konstantino
3.Wilcox
January 6th, 2013 at 9:08 pm
@Midfielder Thanks for the help.
I decided to compile a list for each league. Anyone who has four goals or more is on the list. I will do assists later.
BVAL
Cendejas Free 11
Berumen Pitt 6
Murgia Pitt 4
MV. Salvador DV 4
Parada DV 4
Reynoso Liberty 4
DFAL
Gala Dougherty 13
Helfrich Acalanes 7
Mirner Acalanes 6
Croze Acalanes 6
Kilwien Campo 6
Adkerson Acalanes 5
Glascock Acalanes 4
Donat Campo 4
Molinar Dublin 4
DVAL
Ayala YV 15
Reiter CP 10
Bolender Ngate 8
Foster Ngate 8
Mendez YV 6
Pope YV 5
Alman Berean 5
Golubics CP 4
Garcia CP 4
R. Hathaway Ngate 4
B. Kearney Ngate 4
EBAL
Grixti Cal 9
Raynor Cal 8
Clark FH 8
Greenberg MV 6
Maul SRV 6
Pangia AV 5
Massimino Cal 5
Guerrero DLS 5
Lisiak DLS 4
Smith Cal 4
MVAL
Sandoval Newark 9
Raygoza Logan 6
Alvarado Logan 5
Raza Irv 4
TCAL-Rock
Montes Richmond 9
Espinoza St. Mary 7
Mesquita St. Mary 5
TCAL-Stone
Romero Hercules 7
Sandoval Pinole 5
Vega Hercules 4
WACC-Foothill
Williams Mt. Eden 10
Solomon Berkeley 9
Villegas Mt. Eden 8
Hamdouni Berkeley 6
Gueye Berkeley 6
Makela Berkeley 4
Chazin-Gray Berkeley 4
A. Garcia Arroyo 4
WACC-Shoreline
R. Castillo Hayward 13
Gray Hayward 8
Mendoza Hayward 8
L. Castillo Hayward 6
Udavd Hayward 4
Henrickson Piedmont 4
January 7th, 2013 at 7:57 am
@NCSchamps…DFC was carrying 3 keepers when Wilcox had major shoulder surgery. There were some 24 months from injury through rehab that Wilcox was limited on playing time. And at no time can you blame another player for forcing a player to making a change to another club. Highly competitive club programs that carry a two Keeper system one of those Keepers will inevitably will see less playing time.
January 7th, 2013 at 9:18 am
Great post Matt!
Would like to focus on this MVAL league for a second.
Newark – Looks like they have potential to stay strong in NCS if they just work on the little things.
Logan – These guys worry Newark, they have great structure after a tough preseason and I see great things in the programs rebuild.
Mission San Jose – They’ve already dealt with their strong opponents and surprised me, keep a close eye on them this week as they play 3 interesting MVAL games this week which might boost them up.
Irvington – Sneaking in there, they can go beyond the mark of where they stand and it might just be their year especially if Edguardo Cuellar comes back into play.
Kennedy – Sufficient and swift, I like how they play, they just have to touch up on working as a team and they will be very competitive.
American – A young program that will shock the MVAL league in a year or two.
Moreau – Keeping their head above water. I’m sure they’ll bounce back from a shaky start.
Washington – NCS qualified. Simply put. They have heart, talent and everything you need. Put it all together and they’re a nightmare for other teams.
Don’t think this league is getting enough coverage! Watch out EBAL!
January 7th, 2013 at 11:05 am
Watch out EBAL? No offense here to MVAL, but go look at the EBAL’s overall record vs MVAL …
The league is better than last year overall, but still has a way to go.
And not enough coverage? Didn’t Matt do a column on the league as a whole a few weeks back?
January 7th, 2013 at 12:11 pm
SoCal Junior Colleges a more stable and sound soccer programs. NorCal area is very weak and does not offer much. Surprising with the amount of talent that would be able to play at a JC you would figure that each JC in the Bay Area would have a program.
January 7th, 2013 at 1:52 pm
From what source are the statistics compiled? MaxPreps has Mark Helfrich from Acalanes with 9 goals and you don’t list him at all?
January 7th, 2013 at 2:13 pm
Hi Matt
I like the fact that you name one of the players from Mt. Eden . Iknow juan villegas and he been trough a lot , and he been working his ass off this year to get recognice .I think you should look at him more he is a really good player .
January 7th, 2013 at 2:27 pm
@CTR
I think you nailed MVAL pretty well. Logan and Newark are obviously the power houses, but I think third place in that league is up for grabs between Irvington, Mission, and Washington. If one of those three teams is able to put together a nice record I’d like to see them get into NCS.
And I completely agree. MVAL doesn’t get enough love here. I realize EBAL has greater depth and have the strongest teams, but MVAL used to be the powerhouse of this section years ago. They deserve some attention as well.
January 7th, 2013 at 4:07 pm
No BOD players? Well that’s ok we aren’t that good this year. I like your list but I think Matty B from Peidmont is just a really good player on a bad team. He might not even start for Berkeley. He wouldn’t start at forward with Soloman there and I wouldn’t pick him over CWright, Adam CG or DMak on the wing. He couldn’t break into their midfield with Jasper Herbert, Yacine and those 2 good seniors. Don’t get me wrong he would play for Berkeley and might even start, Matt is great, but maybe a little overrated cause he really stands out on Piedmont. We could use him at O’Dowd though!
January 7th, 2013 at 4:48 pm
CTR#31 and MVALSF-#34,
I expect MVAL to make some serious noise in the NCS playoffs.
I saw Newark host SRV Saturday, and it was an end-to-end match. The 2-0 scoring difference was not so much related to size, speed or skill, but the use of the pitch side-to-side to create spacing and opportunities. After a 0-0 first half, SRV made a half-time adjustment to use the whole width of the field with more crossing and diagonal passes, while Newark was much more vertical in its attacks. The spacing made the difference after the Cougars did not clear two playable balls.
Logan at Newark to end the league season should be a good one.
See you at the pitch!
January 7th, 2013 at 8:12 pm
@Matt hey I was wondering how close your rankings are to the actual NCS rankings each year? thanks
January 7th, 2013 at 8:19 pm
Matt What do you think of tomorrows game Pittsburg vs freedom?
January 7th, 2013 at 8:54 pm
@Bobby I think my rankings aren’t too close because rankings vary from week to week while NCS seeding only considers the whole season. When I do my NCS seeding predictions, I usually come very close and in fact I think what I come up with is better than what the committee does.
@High School Soccer I think that Pitt should be careful. They can’t go in thinking they are the best team in the league and everyone is going to lay down. Pitt is a hungry team playing with something to prove, but an upstart like Freedom is a very scary team because they are good and they don’t care if a team is ranked ahead of them.
January 7th, 2013 at 9:09 pm
@CTR, have you seen the records of EBAL vs MVAL this year? The EBAL need not watch out for anything in the MVAL…
@MVAL Soccer Fan, “MVAL used to be the powerhouse of this section years ago”. Really? That must not have been in any kind of recent history.
I am glad you are both supportive of your league, and it would be great for them to improve and compete with the EBAL. It would be good for NCS soccer. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves just yet. I like 7 of 8 of the EBAL schools to finish 1st in the MVAL. Newark finished 23-1 last year (or something like that), was MVAL champs, and undefeated at home, Amador finished 6th or 7th in EBAL. 1st round of NCS Amador beat them I believe @ Newark. There is no evidence that anything has changed this year, is there?
January 7th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
@Bobby & Matt Smith,
Matt is right. His NCS rankings ARE better than the actually NCS seedings. NCS tries to hard to keep equality among the leagues, whereas Matt “tells it like it is”. Wish NCS would listen more to Matt.
January 7th, 2013 at 10:16 pm
Anyone know the upcoming EBAL schedule this week?
January 7th, 2013 at 10:46 pm
thanks matt!
January 8th, 2013 at 6:05 am
Matt…could not agree more with your picks on AV players of Pangia and Seitz they are both excellent players.I was able to attend the rain filled AV vs MV game and Nate Howald was impressive on defence, especially in the second half shutting down Greenberg and MV.
January 8th, 2013 at 7:20 am
DLS is at Granada tonight at 6
DLS is home Thursday vs Livermore at 6
MV at Foothill 6pm tonight
What are the Alhambra Dawgs doing?
January 8th, 2013 at 8:01 am
Here’s the problem with rating goalkeepers. If you have a team with a killer defense, as EBAL teams usually have, maybe the ball never even GETS to the keeper enough times in a game to matter.
But I have seen teams with a porous back line where the ball gets shot again and again, with the keeper making save after save, only to have a few get through, as they usually will if one bangs it at the goal often enough.
So tell me then, WHO is the better keeper?
January 8th, 2013 at 8:16 am
That Guzan guy is a TERRIBLE goalie for Aston Villa
look at all the goals HE has allowed!
January 8th, 2013 at 8:31 am
Cal at home this evening 6pm vs Amador = game of the night
January 8th, 2013 at 8:48 am
USC…Ultimate Soccer Challenge
>Tuesday Jan 15 at Cal High 6pm.<
Now in this corner 4x defending NCS Champions De La Salle Spartans and in the other corner National Rank of #25 The Cal High Grizzlies …gentlemen make this a clean fight to the finish and remember last man standing wins. Don King would be proud.
January 8th, 2013 at 8:54 am
You can’t use the premiership or serieA or any of the other big leagues as a benchmark. THAT level of 0play is a whole ‘nother kettle of fish.
January 8th, 2013 at 9:47 am
AVs defense will be a good challenge for Cal’s talented midfield. It should be a great game.
January 8th, 2013 at 9:54 am
@Mudhen…you are so right. Regarding Keepers that are in High School. Some don’t even play club ball but are a default player who is willing to play in goal. Others play in goal and are of avg athletic ability but give 110 % to the position & play club and receive some position training, and others play at D 1 club & have the combined talent & physical attributes along with Goalie specific training at club and some of those who may even have a keeper coach who works with them in HS. These are the Keepers who are potentially capable of moving into the college ranks.
When I say college ranks I mean D 1 or D 2 or D 3 programs.
January 8th, 2013 at 11:56 am
@Matt…I am expecting a better game from AV tonight against Cal.The Dons were flat against Hercules and were outplayed in first half against MV.The Dons I believe will have spirited effort against Cal and give them all they can handle.should be an exciting game
January 8th, 2013 at 12:39 pm
@Bkells I wish I could be there to see it!
With my school schedule this semester, Tuesday games are going to be very hard for me.
January 8th, 2013 at 1:03 pm
Matt
What do you think of the College Park vs Concord game… they both could lose a lot in falling way back to YV ? ??? ???
January 8th, 2013 at 1:03 pm
@ Nacho Don
Newark was 20-3-1 last year and the year before that. Last year they were given the 7 seed even though 3, 4, 5, 6 all had worse records. They lost to AV 2-1 at home yes. The year before they went to the NCS Finals and beat an EBAL school on the way there. There isn’t much difference between the EBAL schools and Newark and Logan, besides athleticism. But in no way am I comparing MVAL to EBAL. EBAL is much deeper of course, all I’m saying is this thread and many others are constantly devoted to EBAL only. EBAL game times are posted and scores are posted by followers and hardly any MVAL games are. Now obviously the better, more intriguing games should get more attention but it would be nice for the smaller leagues to get a bit of love every once and a while. MVAL has only gotten 2 schools in NCS for quite a few years now and part of that is because they haven’t had good enough records, but part is because they get no attention or love.
MVAL had Irvington win back to back titles in the late 90′s with the semi finals being 3 teams for MVAL. Had Logan and Newark reach the finals at the same time period. Irvington and Washington were constant threats in the early 2000′s and were ranked in the top 5 multiple times. MVAL constantly had 4 teams in NCS at that time. Yes, long long ago but it still happened. EBAL’s dominance is on a different level right now, but can we at least get some love for the none powerhouse league every once and a while?
No disrespect towards anyone on here, and I love the fact we have this sounding board to come to and check up on things.
January 8th, 2013 at 1:07 pm
Win or loose ..just post some facts on a game and some player names regarding who scored or had assist.
Just participate in the blog.
January 8th, 2013 at 1:22 pm
@11v.11 I think it’s going to be very hard for anybody to catch YV at this poing. There are some good teams in the DVAL, but YV looks to be on a different level.
If the CP/Concord game doesn’t end in a draw, the loser is pretty much done in the league title race.
January 8th, 2013 at 1:24 pm
I have a question that means no disrespect to anyone.
Can someone explain why EBAL is so dominant right now? Do they have more kids playing club? Or is it they have more kids on the top clubs? Also what are the top club teams around here?
Thanks!
January 8th, 2013 at 1:38 pm
At this point, not poing. Haha.
January 8th, 2013 at 1:40 pm
Finding game schedules means sifting through MaxPreps or through high school web sites. I’m happy to gather the EBAL schedules at the start of each week and put them here for convenience (post #3).
Goalboy posted for BVAL (post #5).
I think it would helpful if one fan from each league posted the weekly schedule for that league.
January 8th, 2013 at 1:41 pm
@Matt Bad news for Freedom. Apparently, there are some key injured players for today’s game vs. Pitt. As many as 5 starters. The source wouldn’t say names, but he assured me the Falcons will be missing several standout players for their season opener. Bummer. Still should be a good game. I still won’t miss it.
January 8th, 2013 at 1:43 pm
@Soccer2014 I think that’s a great idea. If it helps, I can continue posting upcoming games and results for BVAL. I hope others with interest in other leagues are encouraged to follow. Great idea Soccer2014!
January 8th, 2013 at 1:46 pm
Let’s see how Freedom responds when faced with this adversity.
January 8th, 2013 at 2:15 pm
@Matt Yes, will be interesting to see. Their coach will have another challenge in his hands. As if facing Pitt isn’t enough.
January 8th, 2013 at 2:37 pm
Yes… YV will run with the title if Concord or College Park dont step up. Lets not forget about Northgate.
And every team is beatable…. grades , injuries … they will come into play.
Good luck to all
January 8th, 2013 at 3:23 pm
I’ve just got word that Pitt has some serious injuries, but my source wouldn’t tell me who.
January 8th, 2013 at 5:05 pm
NG held YV to a 1-1 game until right at the end, and it’s their only loss.
Would be interesting to see a matchup later.
January 8th, 2013 at 5:09 pm
Hey Matt,
Fire up that database, we need to track more than just match-ups, result and scoring. We need real-time reports on injuries (upper-body / lower-body ala the NHL), grades (test schedules and results would be great), parents issues (always the spoilers), and yes, even WAGs (we need to start thinking like the Premiership). And, I am expecting FJ PhotoGuy to step up and capture it all in colorful multi-megapixel details, with categorized galleries. And let’s not forget the “un-transparent” NCS seeding committees…don’t get me started.
Seriously, it is flip-a-coin time again to decide on seeing AV@Cal or MV@Foothill. It may also be a “drive at halftime” night. The pressure is on the Pleasanton teams to step up now and be seen, heard and reckoned with.
See you at the pitch!
January 8th, 2013 at 5:22 pm
@Sweeper Classic stuff as always.
I’ll try to setup a scrolling ticker at the bottom of the screen with updated scores, injuries and grades. Haha.
January 8th, 2013 at 6:20 pm
0-0 after 20 @Foothill
January 8th, 2013 at 6:35 pm
Crickets……….
January 8th, 2013 at 6:42 pm
0-0 half @Foothill
January 8th, 2013 at 6:47 pm
Anything to report or brag about at Cal or Granada?
January 8th, 2013 at 6:52 pm
The collective in take of breath has rendered the valley unconscious. We will have to wait till the coaches have acted as first responders and revived the crowds for our updates.
January 8th, 2013 at 7:01 pm
Cal 0-0 AV at half.
CP 1-0 Concord half
January 8th, 2013 at 7:07 pm
MV scores on keeper misplay, not sure it went all the way in, but the scoreboard doesn’t lie. 1-0 with 30 left.
January 8th, 2013 at 7:12 pm
MV up 2-0 with 23 left
January 8th, 2013 at 7:36 pm
MV wins 2-1 @Foothill, late header spoils the clean sheet in the 79th.
January 8th, 2013 at 7:39 pm
Final Northgate 3 – Mt Diablo 0
Good activity but score reflects the game.
January 8th, 2013 at 7:57 pm
Final scores…
Cal 1-0 AV
CP 1-1 Concord
January 8th, 2013 at 8:03 pm
Pitt 2-2 Freedom
January 8th, 2013 at 8:30 pm
Tomorrow’s WACC Foothill Games.
Berkeley vs. Hayward at 6pm at Berkeley.
Mt. Een vs. Piedmont at 3:30pm at Mt. Eden.
Alameda vs. Encinal at 7pm at Encinal.
Castro Valley vs. San Leandro at 7pm at Castro Valley.
Bishop O’Dowd vs. San Lorenzo at 7pm at O’Dowd.
Arroyo vs. Tennyson at 3:30pm at Arroyo.
January 8th, 2013 at 8:35 pm
After watching Jorge Cendejas play for the first time tonight, I can tell you that this kid isn’t as good as people been talking about. Didn’t see him create at all. Castillo and Ayala are a lot! better players. Sorry to sound negative, I was just expecting a lot more.
January 8th, 2013 at 8:42 pm
5 games into the Dval and there’s a clear winner.
January 8th, 2013 at 8:44 pm
SRV- 1 Livermore- 0
SRV scored early on in the first, got a direct red midway through the second, but held on to the lead because of great defensive play and clutch saves by the keeper. Livermore outshot the Wolves and I’m excited to see how Livermore can perform against the rest of the EBAL teams the second time through.
January 8th, 2013 at 8:47 pm
Wow, what a game. the second half of the Cal/AV game was full of back and fourth excitement. That was the best half of soccer I watched all year. counter attack after counter attack. Amador was good and Matt you were right they gave Cal all they could handle. Cal scored with about 4 minutes left, then Amador pressured hard till the end. the Cal keeper earned another well deserved shut-out with a very good game silencing Amadors relentless attack. Once again Grixti was a standout. Amador was strong, not looking forward to playing them at Amador. Great game.
January 8th, 2013 at 9:04 pm
SRV 1 Livermore 0
SRV played without its leading goal scorer (Maul) and had to play a man down for most of the second half, but was able to hang on.
Andrew Evans scored on a header from a pefectly placed corner from Maestre (SRV’s leading assist man) in the 8th minute.
SRV will have to come with a lot more energy at Amador Valley on Thursday if they want to compete.
January 8th, 2013 at 9:06 pm
Other BVAL scores…
Antioch 1, Liberty 0
Heritage 2, Deer Valley 0
January 8th, 2013 at 9:07 pm
Northgate 3, Mount Diablo 0
January 8th, 2013 at 9:09 pm
@Dfal1 Trust me. You saw Cendejas today at 50%. Unfortunately, he is nursing an injury. But he has so much heart. I’ve seen him 4 times this season. Again, trust me, he is so much better than what you saw today. Every good player is entitled to an off day.
@Matt You dark horse in the BVAL Freedom tied Pitt in a very exciting game. The serious injury for Pitt is Ricardo Vasquez. Freedom has 3 starters out as well due to injuries. I saw these two team evenly matched with both trading off command of the midfield. It seemed Pitt had a few more scoring opportunities, but they didn’t dominate like you would expect. Freedom came back from a 0-2 deficit, which is impressive, and they did it by keeping their composure and staying disciplined. I hope both these teams can make NCS.
January 8th, 2013 at 9:12 pm
Dublin @ Campo tomorrow! Will be chilly but a great game!
January 8th, 2013 at 9:14 pm
Kudos to the SRV defense and goalkeepers as they posted their 3rd straight shutout….
January 8th, 2013 at 9:18 pm
DLS 1 Granada 0 Final
Lisiak scored in 1st half for the Spartans, his 3rd goal in the last two games.
January 8th, 2013 at 9:35 pm
Acalanes over Clayton Valley 3-0. Dons had 23 shots on goal. CV goalie played quite well to keep the score down.
January 8th, 2013 at 9:52 pm
@goalboy are you 100% sure about Cendejas not playing at his best? a cendeja tweet stating “felt like we were playing u9 girls out there” says otherwise.
January 8th, 2013 at 10:19 pm
It looks like Monte Vista and Cal will be battling for the EBAL title with DLS and SRV battling for third and fourth.
POY of the year should be Panconi, Grixti, Massimino, or Konstantino. Maul and Maetsre don’t even play the full game for SRV because they play a complete team and other players are better suited even on their own squad. Not naming names at SRV but the best players right now did not play last due to suspensions from things that they shouldn’t have been doing. If you can read between the lines…
January 8th, 2013 at 10:48 pm
Mission San Jose, 1 American, 0
American plays Newark tomorrow
MSJ plays Kennedy.
Mission moves to 3rd place 2-1-1
January 9th, 2013 at 12:47 am
Ok things are heating up on this blog and on the field…Here we go…I have been watching an number of teams…MVAL its been a long time since you have had the full package. Sorry you have some talent just not enough to have an impact. DFAL and DVAL your top teams in each league has a shot if they can keep the grades up…Acalanes, I thought they had a loss in preseason(not sure)? Mustang Fan above is right on with players of the year thus far: Panconi-very strong in the air and owns the middle he makes everyone around him better(needs to score more goals).Grixti-like him at outside back,he is driving his team(creative), Massimino-has shown a lot of talent at times…needs to be a little more consistant.Konstantino- right know a huge pressence in goal…helping carry DLS. What do all of these players have in common? They left Mustang for DFC. Need to add Greenburg to list for the top spot(he may still play for Mustang). On to my review of EBAL-Cal four good players who have seem to really found a way to play well together(fun to watch). Granada-coaching has been solid as these kids give everything on the field unfortunatly missing wins. Livermore missing the best player with a broken hand(ouch). AV is all defense and that is what they will need to continue to do (shy on talent) but giving a good effort. MV strong up top and in the halfback line(need to keep up speed of play)Foothill is a one man show Clark…they also added a small but strong defender who seems to have helped(better coaching).DLS- what has happened, to much space between the mids …defense needs to move up faster. No strong goal scorer this year. SRV-Maul and Maestre have played well but arent deserving of that list. Team was coached very well in the DLS game(can they keep up the smart play). Its a long season so lets see how the rest plays out…only an opinion!
January 9th, 2013 at 6:46 am
The Cal -Av game was as good a game as it gets. Hats of to the coaching staff of AV. They gave Cal all they could handle all game. If it wasn’t for Wilcox making some great saves AV would have won. As always Grixti was everywhere and assisted on the game winner. Massimino and the (No Name) Defense played well. Raynor was injured in the 1st half and hopefully not out for long.
January 9th, 2013 at 6:59 am
@StatsTalk I’m not going to judge a players talent over a tweet. You have to remember these are teenagers that enjoy throwing jabs at each other. That tweet sounds like he was complaining about all the crying he felt his opponents we’re doing. Look, I’m not trying to defend Cendejas’ performance yesterday. Am i sure he wasn’t 100%, so sure, their coach apparently didn’t even know if he was going to play the previous day. All I’m saying is don’t judge him or any other player on an off day. The kid scored 6 goals in 1 game. Had something like 11 goals and 3 assists in 5 games including vs. St. Mary’s, El Cerrito. There are so many talented players in the East Bay, and I know he is one of them.
January 9th, 2013 at 7:11 am
CAL vs AV was fun to watch with some good soccer played by both side, balls hitting the crossbar right from the start, great saves by the keepers, lots of connecting passes through the midfield. Quality play most of the game, a few cheap shots by the home team resulted in 3 yellows, but other than that very intense and exciting the entire match – too bad someone had to lose, late goal steals a victory for Cal with little time on the clock but both teams looked strong at different points during the match.
January 9th, 2013 at 7:20 am
Granada hit wood and DLS had a feisty breakaway with a clean shot on goal. DLS 1 Granada 0
Lisiak is a stealthy threat.
January 9th, 2013 at 8:40 am
Foothill gave MV all they could handle. Goldstein getting injured in the 30th minute was a big blow.
January 9th, 2013 at 8:43 am
Amador is a threat and are capable of ruining ones day.
January 9th, 2013 at 8:58 am
Matt…Amador will keep getting better.They played extremely well last night..hitting goal posts and great saves by Cals goalie kept Cal alive for their late goal win.Pangia and Seitz were outstanding and another excellent effort by Howald and entire team!Coach Berglin managed team and tactics quite well.Expect AV to be dangerous opposition for balance of season.
January 9th, 2013 at 9:08 am
Just curious, but are there any signed or committed division 1 collegiate soccer players on the boys side in the east bay that are playing high school soccer? If so, which school do they play for? I understand that there are always a fair amount of girls that fall under this category, but have not heard much on the boys side. Thanks!
January 9th, 2013 at 9:49 am
#86 Jogabonito
Its very clear who the stronger team is in DVAL , for you to say they are the clear winner with so many points left to be played… i guess your allow to say that.
Humble yourself. Too much soccer left to play.
Stay healthy… its very important.
Good luck.
January 9th, 2013 at 10:05 am
Looks like Heritage and DV were 0-0, not 2-0 Heritage. At least that’s what I’m being told.
January 9th, 2013 at 10:07 am
Also, wanted to talk about Emmanuel Jimenez. The reason I didn’t include him on the list was because I thought he was a senior last year. I listed him as a senior when I put together the All-East Bay team and I didn’t hear differently.
So, had I known he was back this year when I made this list, he would have been on it. He is certainly a top player and a top keeper in the East Bay. A great player.
I heard last night that he got hurt, and I hope it’s not serious. I hope he’s back in net for Concord very soon. I got a chance to speak with him last year. He’s a really good kid, so I’m wishing him the best.
January 9th, 2013 at 10:18 am
@MustangFan “Not naming names at SRV but the best players right now did not play last due to suspensions from things that they shouldn’t have been doing. If you can read between the lines…” You should probably know what you’re talking about before posting on this site. No one at SRV was suspended, and Maestre and Maul play the entire game consistently.
January 9th, 2013 at 11:02 am
@Matt Hope Jimenez recovers soon. I agree Matt, he is a great player and a good kid. Known him since he was a 10 year old playing in the Liga Latina in Concord. He is undoubtedly, the heart and soul of his team.
January 9th, 2013 at 12:27 pm
Berkeley vs. Hayward Boys tonight at 6:00 gonna be fun.
January 9th, 2013 at 1:15 pm
CCtimes game stats are not correct.
January 9th, 2013 at 1:23 pm
Regarding Stealthy is Chaudary at DLS plays in mid field group very smooth player and comes in and just steals the ball away from your feet and continues to dribble away at speed before you realize you don’t have the ball anymore.
What year is Gala at DV?
January 9th, 2013 at 1:31 pm
Maestre (SRV) was pulled out for about 3 minutes last night. They were down a man and he needed a short rest. Does that mean that he is not a good or important player?
Last time I looked, out of the 8 SRV wins, Maestre has either the game winning assist (or in the case of the DLS game, the game winning goal) in 5 of them. He and Maul have played together for many years.
SRV may not have the ‘star’ power that most people on this blog are looking for, but they do have a pretty deep bench and play together as a ‘team’.
January 9th, 2013 at 1:32 pm
Boys stand a better chance of getting Scholarship $$ at a DII or DIII program. DI has a tendency to ration out the $$during your 1st year..basically you are in a continuous try-out mode till your Junior season. Yes some do hit the jackpot but you need to be in the top 25-50 players in the US to snag the ride your frosh season especially at a D1 program.. Call it what you want but women’s soccer see’s more substantial $$ available for entering frosh players. If your focus is education and soccer do not shy away from the smaller programs…keep an open mind.
January 9th, 2013 at 1:45 pm
Cough & Colds and ??flue bugs are starting to hit teams,that’s when you see some sucking for air & heavy legs,these cold damp nights do not help the situation.
I know teams like to keep the cards close to the chest but don’t be surprised to see a favorite player not at 100%. Also at Mid-season you also start to see some injury’s some more nagging others a bit more serious but the have an effect on quality of play and playing time. Hopefully your team has a bench that it can dip into when needed.
January 9th, 2013 at 1:56 pm
@Stewie Which game are you talking about in specific?
January 9th, 2013 at 2:07 pm
Granada…not sure on his # fairly sure he plays at DFC 95.
January 9th, 2013 at 2:10 pm
You mean the guy who scored for DLS?
January 9th, 2013 at 2:18 pm
@ Matt..CCtimes Cal game shows Foothill not Amador
January 9th, 2013 at 2:18 pm
Can someone please explain to me why SRV is being ruled out of the EBAL title after they beat the so called unbeatable in DLS.. And have yet to play MV.. Who tied DLS..?
January 9th, 2013 at 2:22 pm
I see. I’ll email and let them know.
January 9th, 2013 at 2:25 pm
I think it would be a mistake to rule out SRV. They’ve always been known for second half surges. And they have a game in hand, with a three-game week coming up later this month, and can really gain some ground.
January 9th, 2013 at 2:32 pm
EBAL lets round up the usual suspects DLS, SRV, MV, CAL.
I don’t think anybody ruled SRV out of the picture. I would also not rule out DLS on the NCS run.
It is true that this 2nd half of the EBAL season will be very interesting indeed.
January 9th, 2013 at 4:05 pm
Yes Stewie the usual. But I prefer the unusual suspects.
January 9th, 2013 at 5:22 pm
Hey Matt, Is there anyway you can create a ranking where you seperate the D1 and D2 Schools?
January 9th, 2013 at 6:13 pm
@Soccergod It’s definitely not our standard at the Times/Bay Area News Group to do that, but I can do a list in the comments next week, perhaps.
We are underway here at Berkeley. Hayward is still without Rigo and there are questions about how long he’ll be out. Hopefully those questions get answered soon and he has a speedy recovery.
January 9th, 2013 at 6:14 pm
@Matt
Mt eden won today by the score 1-0 . Juan villegas was beating pitmont defence the only way to stop him was trough a faul.
January 9th, 2013 at 6:20 pm
Berkeley goes up 1-0 in the 15th minute.
January 9th, 2013 at 6:22 pm
@Soccer Fan Thanks! Villegas is tough to stop.
January 9th, 2013 at 6:35 pm
To Ball don’t lie #108… There are some awesome academy players that have received substantial scholarships to Good local D-1 colleges. 2 of the players are Nick Lima (Castro Valley High) and Trevor Long (Granada High) that are heading off to Cal Berkeley this coming fall. These 2 guys were teammates at Mustang for a few years and then moved on to the academy ranks. Top notch kids going to a top notch school. I wonder how many goals they would have scored had they played High school ball…Academy does help. Anyone heard anything about non academy kids going off to D-1 schools? Just curious.
January 9th, 2013 at 6:39 pm
Berkeley up 2-0. Looking sharp against a good team.
January 9th, 2013 at 6:47 pm
Nice to see the Academy dad from Livermore finally show up and defend the academy programs again in post #134. Congratulations…. focus on the degree though!
January 9th, 2013 at 6:56 pm
@Matt
You should go c Mt. Eden vs castro valley is ganna be a good game
January 9th, 2013 at 6:58 pm
Arroyo 0-0 Tennyson
January 9th, 2013 at 7:04 pm
@Ebalfan Two of the top players at SRV got suspended last year for over 2 weeks due to drinking on campus. Then one of the sophomores got caught doing something illegal and had to sit out the NCS playoffs. He is one of the best players on SRV this year, so I am right. Anyway, Coach Busboom seems to have a lot of alcohol and drug problems on his teams lately. He is the most stand up guy in the league and a great life coach, but he is going very easy on his players. Imagine if their team was focused last year! They would have gone undefeated!
January 9th, 2013 at 7:05 pm
Hayward gets back in the game. 2-1 early second half.
@Soccer Fan I’ll see if I can get to that one, or come see Mt. Eden again very soon.
January 9th, 2013 at 7:06 pm
The San Jose Earthquakes are hosting a High School Soccer night! Yes the same Earthquakes that host an Academy program that has as a rule that their players will not play HS soccer. Irony? Sour grapes on my part? stupid? I really don’t know the answer, but I lean towards ironic.
January 9th, 2013 at 7:06 pm
Massimino from Cal is going to Seattle University on a scholarship, D1
Panconi from MV probably going to Chico to play soccer
Andy Altimatino is also probably going to Chico on small scholarship, too.
All players from DFC 94s coached by De La Salle staff.
I heard some players from Richmond might end up at St. Marys on scholarship.
Andrew Konstantino committed to St Marys. D1
So, there are two known boys from EBAL going to D1 schools on scholarships.
January 9th, 2013 at 7:10 pm
Way to many good players with marginal 2.0 gpa and low SAT scores. You need to have a 2.8 and better and solid SAT to even be considered for a D1 or D 2 program.
Check the NCAA gpa and corresponding sat scores. Like was in past post you may need to find a good JC with a reputable soccer program that has a good history of transferring into a College and Soccer program. That or go to a JC and play on a top club U21 team get your grades up and you don’t trigger eligibility until you actually play for a college.
January 9th, 2013 at 7:11 pm
Matt,
What would be your top 11 through the mid way point this season?
January 9th, 2013 at 7:15 pm
@MustangFan My top 11 teams? Or 11 players?
I think you mean players. Let me think on that a bit…
January 9th, 2013 at 7:16 pm
@Mustangfan
The sophomore got suspended early in the year last year, then missed NCS due to an injury. Players were under contract last year and did not break sed contract. With a strong direct connection to the program for 5 years now, I merely laugh at the information you think is right. Leave it to the people that know the team, Don, and the program to do the talking.
January 9th, 2013 at 7:24 pm
@MustangFan How do mistakes made by players last season have any relevance this year? And I don’t know if you remember, but last year’s SRV team was in the NCS championship game. I’d say that shows a pretty good amount of focus and coaching toughness, wouldn’t you?
January 9th, 2013 at 7:26 pm
Solomon with another goal. 3-1.
January 9th, 2013 at 7:31 pm
Hayward won’t go away. 3-2.
January 9th, 2013 at 7:42 pm
Berkeley wins 3-2. Good, entertaining, fast paced game.
January 9th, 2013 at 7:59 pm
Washington 1-1 Logan
January 9th, 2013 at 8:28 pm
Concerned Parent: Parent and fans please reframe from naming players and schools….I have read some of these comments on kids and it’s really not fair to call out players in a negative light. Many of these kids have worked hard for many years with hopes to play at a higher level and what is being written could jeopardize their futures. Every parent should be proud of their kids working hard and trying to participate in a HS sport. Lay off the Academy talk as the cream will rise to the top over time. Players sometime need a little help to make it, if that means the Academy, well good for them! Play this game because you love it and be thankful that you’re given the chance as many kids would treasure the opportunity. I would hope that as parents, myself included would hope that every player makes it to college as a player or a good citizen. Look around, we have enough bad things happening in this world without all this crap. By the way my son yes hopes to play in college and would be honored to have the chance to “earn a spot on a team”.
January 9th, 2013 at 9:05 pm
all I can say I see the 2 top teams play today what a game Berkeley came out pedal to the metal hayward had hard time in the first half but Hayward would show their class. they had a very good chance of time the game at the end. but wow great game to watch. and some class players on both sides Hayward and Berkeley should go far in ncs. I only wish they could play other again
January 9th, 2013 at 9:08 pm
all I can say I see the 2 top teams play today what a game Berkeley came out pedal to the metal hayward had hard time in the first half but Hayward would show their class. they had a very good chance of time the game at the end. but wow great game to watch. and some class players on both sides Hayward and Berkeley should go far in ncs. I only wish they could play each other again. great game Berkeley 3 Hayward 2
January 9th, 2013 at 9:30 pm
The Truth…#136 you are so right. I am not defending this time. I agree with much of what people say about academy. Don’t you think my kid wishes he could play school ball? It’s sad it won’t happen. I enjoy reading this blog because there are many friends my son made life-long friendships with while playing club. I LOVE to see that Cristian Clark has been such a stud for Foothill or that Ben Panconi is getting some much deserved appreciation destroying opponents at Monte Vista. Matt Maul and Alex Maestre and Carter Zetterquist are all tearing it up at SRV. These are just a few of the young men we as a family had the honor of crossing paths with the last half a dozen years. I guess it’s out of jealousy that I’ve defended the academy so rigidly in the past. Now that it’s winding down, I can honestly say that I probably miss it more than anyone. Academy is awesome in where it might get you, High School is awesome for where you were…and you are right “The Truth #136″ he will focus on the degree.
January 9th, 2013 at 9:45 pm
Sorry,now that you know who I am, you may as well know I am also known as, Academy dad, Bernie Bernard, Barney Barnyard or Mark Long or most importantly Trev’s dad. I dare any of you other bloggers to finally come out and use your actual name (excluding Matt Smith). Unfortunately, this blog site probabably wouldn’t be as fun to read. Sometimes it’s just more fun to figure out who is promoting there own kid, or hating on some other kid. Keep up the good work Matt. I do enjoy all that you have done with this site and I will always continue to be a follower.
January 9th, 2013 at 10:00 pm
Dad Panconi, I miss you the most. and well said!!
January 9th, 2013 at 10:33 pm
I agree as well.
I want to encourage people to comment, but please, let’s keep it clean. Discussion back and forth, and disagreement is fine, but let’s not get personal.
January 9th, 2013 at 10:36 pm
Irvington 1-1 Moreau
Campo 2-0 Dublin
Dougherty 2-1 Las Lomas
Any other results?
January 9th, 2013 at 10:41 pm
Bishop O’Dowd 2 – San Lorenzo 2
All goals came off PK’s and SLZ the better team overall from what I hear. Can’t comment further since I wasn’t at the game.
January 9th, 2013 at 10:58 pm
Alhambra 3-1 Miramonte
January 9th, 2013 at 11:24 pm
How about Newark?
January 9th, 2013 at 11:26 pm
Campo hosts rival Acalanes on friday night. Should be a great game! I could see Campo putting up a strong fight against the top ranked team.
January 9th, 2013 at 11:48 pm
Hey Matt,
I saw the 2nd half at Berkeley and it was uneven at best. Berkeley seems to be ranked appropriately, while Hayward may reach into the ranks with Richmond and Newark (a modest complement, the Farmers are no slouches!).
Sorry I did not make the climb to the press box, but I needed to see my nephews a few blocks away.
I am thinking that SRV@AV is the match for me tomorrow. Scoring reports will follow.
See you at the pitch!
January 10th, 2013 at 5:18 am
Hi Mark, very happy to read about Trevor going to Cal Berkerley! Congratulations Trevor! As I know the players do read this blog so need to be positive for the players. Everyone has choices and am glad there are several in the bay area as that is not the case in other parts of the country between academy, club, high school and camps. The key is letting them choose their path as that has worked with my son and he is happy and has the grades to be able now to choose the college and be able to play soccer at the college level. As a parent of any player that is what we should hope for our kids. There are great players in the area and very appreciative of Matt’s blog as I am out of the area for most of the year.
January 10th, 2013 at 6:29 am
Seattle University is a D2 school.
And DFC95 coached by SMC coach.
January 10th, 2013 at 6:37 am
Seattle is D1. I have a typo on my list.
January 10th, 2013 at 6:47 am
Castro Valley 2 San Leandro 2
January 10th, 2013 at 6:50 am
Does anyone know how American/Newark went?
January 10th, 2013 at 6:58 am
And Alameda v. Encinal?
January 10th, 2013 at 8:00 am
This is a somewhat late post, since the chatter about best players on each team /in each league was earlier, but I gotta express my disappointment in again seeing defenders not getting the attention due them. So Matt can I challenge you to post your pick of the top defenders in each league or on each team? Thanks in advance.
January 10th, 2013 at 8:09 am
To Popeye at #154- really and sincerely I offer congratulations to your son. It worked and that is what matters most. Your son should be well prepared for the rigors of college sports and academia.The same sentiment goes to all parents and players that are accomplishing their individual dreams this year and who will be moving on to the next step whatever that may be. Enjoy…and be proud
January 10th, 2013 at 8:24 am
Update on Emmanuel Jimenez
He has a torn ligament and a sprained ankle.
Docs are giving him 6-8 weeks,but game time has healing powers.
This is a huge blow for the Concord program.
Backline —
I agree…. we need to have a bit more praise for the defenders.
January 10th, 2013 at 8:28 am
Kennedy 3 Mission San Jose 2.
January 10th, 2013 at 8:57 am
The Alameda/Encinal derby is Jan. 26.
January 10th, 2013 at 9:14 am
Love this blog. My son has been out of high school soccer for a couple of years now but plays club and IM at his college because he loves it. Is there such a thing as a soccer “gym rat”? From an outsiders perspective on the academy/high school thing it is unfortunate that the boys can’t play for their HS teams while playing academy and maybe there are good thoughtful reasons for it. I have no experience with it. I do know that BOD had/has a couple of players go the Academy route and one who’s family I knew indicated that it tore at him a bit to not be able to play with his HS mates. Each family makes decisions based on their needs and opportunities for their kids. Personally I hope for all of these young, soon-to-be men that the experience at either level was worthwhile and fruitful. One thing I have learned about soccer is that these kids love the game and are passionate about it. I never played and learned what little I know about it from watching my son and his friends play. I have learned to love the sport. I have learned a lot from this blog too! Best wishes to you all! Oh, one other thing, I REALLY wanted to go see my old HS play, Hayward High last night against Berkeley but couldn’t make it in time. That sounded like it was a great match and thanks for the update Lovesoccer and Matt!
January 10th, 2013 at 10:24 am
Tonught at Winton Dr.
Livermore vs De La Salle at 6pm
January 10th, 2013 at 10:44 am
@Coach #100,
Re: #88 Soccerman, #101 Bigfan, #103 Soccerfan, #106 Stewie, #107 Bkells…
None of these guys agree with you regarding your take on Cal, SRV, or AV. Neither do I.
Cal has “four players”? They are undefeated overall, and they play in the EBAL! Maybe they have more than 4 players eh? And you said, “Grixti-like him at outside back”… he plays midfield/forward. Everyone knows that.
Your comments on the SRV players is off. They are better than you give credit.
And the topper…
You said, “AV is all defense and that is what they will need to continue to do (shy on talent)” Really? The 5 guys above, all disagree with you. Sounds like they were all at the game, or have seen these teams play.
1) “Cal keeper earned another well deserved shut-out with a very good game silencing Amadors relentless attack.” -#88 Soccerman (How did Cal keeper “well deserve” a shut-out with AV’s “relentless attack” if AV “is all defense” according to you?
2) “If it wasn’t for Wilcox making some great saves AV would have won” -#101 Bigfan… “AV is all defense” eh?
3) “late goal steals a victory for Cal” -#103 Soccerfan… With 4 minutes left Cal “steals a victory” from AV who is “shy on talent” (you said)?
4) “Amador is a threat and are capable of ruining ones day” -#106 Stewie
5) “hitting goal posts and great saves by Cals goalie kept Cal alive” -#107 Bkells..
So “Coach” which is it? Apparently you think CAL, SRV, & AV are limited? No one else does. Which means you have a strong bias, or you haven’t actually seen them play. If you did “watch” them play, then you didn’t “see” them… This blog is followed by a bunch of people who actually watch the games. You can get on here and make your comments, but we will all know whether you know what you’re talking about or not.
You are a homer. And I assume we’ll all figure out “your team” soon enough, er… (Monte Vista)… You’re a DFC supporter, You agreed with @MustangFan #98, and you don’t like the SRV players (Matt Smith disagrees BTW). = Trans”parent”!
Maybe that could be your new tag name? (Trans’Parent’)… Based on your comments, you use the term “coach” loosely.
January 10th, 2013 at 10:52 am
#57 @MVAL Soccer Fan,
You are right. It would be good for everyone if the MVAL could get stronger. I look forward to that. But the reason they don’t get as much attention IS because of their records against other leagues. Not the reverse.
“The year before they went to the NCS Finals”… When NM went to the finals, they had several losses that year. Who were they to? (to save time…) =EBAL.
I’m glad you are such an MVAL fan. We need more of you! Then we’ll get more MVAL coverage… so keep it up.
January 10th, 2013 at 10:57 am
@Mudhen
Hayward’s argument is getting weaker. League will get them into NCS, but…
January 10th, 2013 at 11:19 am
“Truth” #171…Thanks. Trev has been working very hard and words can’t describe how proud we are. I am sincere in wishing he could’ve played high school ball. I did back in the 80′s for Livermore High and remember what an awesome time it was. To play in front of your piers in a cross town rivalry game was the best. I appreciate your well wishes. And to Wcrefdad #164 Thanks as well. I feel I might know you. Could this be from our boys playing together in Walnut Creek?Maybe?
January 10th, 2013 at 12:09 pm
Trevor Long is one of my all-time favorites. Great family, great kid, great player, great teammate.
Went to a Rush concert with him a couple of years ago!
Miss talking to you Mark…
congrats again
January 10th, 2013 at 2:22 pm
BVAL games today:
Freedom @ Antioch
Heritage @ Pittsburg
Deer Valley @ Liberty
January 10th, 2013 at 2:32 pm
Yeah Hootie!! “Living on the lighted stage approaches the unreal, for those who think and feel. In touch with some reality, beyond the gilded cage.”
Awesome time and Thanks!
January 10th, 2013 at 3:47 pm
Alhambra is showing some adjustment. Players that are making things happen up front. Dogs have the potential to make a run in 2nd half of season. One thing is for sure you can not take them lightly or you may get burned.
Acalanes by all indication is in total control and Campo is pushing for a strong 2nd half.
EBAL will shake out next week at DLS when Cal pays a visit.
Rumor DLS plays Deer Valley in a couple of weeks?
January 10th, 2013 at 4:54 pm
Hey matt,
Which game you think you’ll be going to tomorrow?
Campo vs. Acalanes has the makings of a great game.
January 10th, 2013 at 5:56 pm
Hi Mark, you are correct! Allan Foster and our sons played together one season on the diablos for WC. I second Hooties comments above on Trevor!
January 10th, 2013 at 6:15 pm
Checking in from Richmond v. St. Mary’s. Scoreless early.
@Upper V I’m actually not at a game tomorrow, but I’ll be at Acalanes v. YV on Saturday.
January 10th, 2013 at 6:42 pm
SRV up 1-0 on AV. 33rd minute.
January 10th, 2013 at 6:42 pm
And Montes finishes for Richmond. 1-0 just before half.
January 10th, 2013 at 6:47 pm
2-0 foothill at the half
January 10th, 2013 at 6:48 pm
Half: Concord 1 – NG 0
January 10th, 2013 at 6:49 pm
Concord up 1-0 on Northgate. I heard Northgate is struggling with the grass.
January 10th, 2013 at 6:54 pm
MV 1-0 up on Granada at the half.
January 10th, 2013 at 6:55 pm
Halftime here at Richmond. SRVAV at halftime as well.
January 10th, 2013 at 7:19 pm
Montes scores on one of the most incredible goals I’ve seen this season.
2-0 Aceiteros.
January 10th, 2013 at 7:26 pm
SRV up 2-0 on AV.
January 10th, 2013 at 7:28 pm
Concord still up 1-0 with 10 left on the clock.
January 10th, 2013 at 7:37 pm
Montes hat trick. 3-0.
The kid is incredible.
January 10th, 2013 at 7:41 pm
Pitt 7-1 over Heritage.
January 10th, 2013 at 7:41 pm
The center official has lost control of this game.
January 10th, 2013 at 7:45 pm
Concord wins 1-0.
January 10th, 2013 at 7:48 pm
Richmond wins 4-0.
January 10th, 2013 at 7:50 pm
Matt,
What do you think of the Berean vs NG matchup? They have identical records now that they lost to concord…
January 10th, 2013 at 7:54 pm
Foothill 2 Cal 0 Final
January 10th, 2013 at 8:04 pm
Antioch beats Freedom 2-1. Freedom played with 10 players since late in the 1st half. Freedom cannot execute their style of play on grass and Antioch definitely uses it to their advantage.
January 10th, 2013 at 8:05 pm
SRV is one of the deepest, most well rounded teams I’ve seen.. Was able to close out game tonight with tons of sophomores on the field (5-6) when starters were outta gas. And these sophomores out scored AV 1-0 keeping another clean sheet for them. Congrats to SR D and goalie for their 4th straight clean sheet! Give these guys some props!
January 10th, 2013 at 8:08 pm
SRV- 2 Amador- 0
Big game for SRV. Played without Maul and Maestre most of the game due to injury and Wood due to a red card in Wolves previous game. Defense with 9 straight halves of shutout ball.
Amador played phenomally in the defense third. Doyle really holds that defense line together and AV keeper has great potential. Difference maker in this game was the middle-third dominance by SRV.
Uncertain which game to go to next Tuesday. SRV v MV or DLS v Cal. Thoughts?
January 10th, 2013 at 8:20 pm
How “ok” is it for a team with a lead to stall?
Like, a slow walk to get the ball. Changing who is going to throw. Repeated subs in the last few minutes. Coach pushing the out of bounds ball behind their bench to make it harder for the other team to get.
Is it ok, as long as the ref is letting it go? Its playing the rules instead of the ball, but its still a win so that makes it fine.
January 10th, 2013 at 8:35 pm
DLS score?
MV 2- Granada 1
January 10th, 2013 at 8:35 pm
@coldoutthere
Sounds like your talking about Acalanes! I’ve watched them play this year and they do this after they take a lead. Actually they drop 11 behind their 35yd line and play those types of games. Don’t get me wrong it’s a fair game but what are we teaching our kids.
I will be at the game vs YV game this Saturday and I hope Acalanes actually comes to play soccer since they Are the #1 team in the Bay Area
January 10th, 2013 at 8:37 pm
Last I heard liberty 3 deer valley 1
January 10th, 2013 at 8:39 pm
Hercules 6 Kennedy 1
January 10th, 2013 at 8:52 pm
@Roger I think this link says enough
http://www.maxpreps.com/local/stats/pregame.aspx?contestid=f922aeff-e06e-46f6-93a8-92ee0904b698&ssid=98e3b726-554f-4b54-a1de-0cf7e38ae450
Northgate struggled with the grass tonight and both teams were missing their starting goalkeepers. It’s a shame, but it sounds like what others were saying about injuries affecting teams came true.
January 10th, 2013 at 9:08 pm
I just received this link to a YouTube video of a bicycle kick goal scored by College Park in their match today vs Clayton Valley.
http://youtu.be/xetolx5R1Oo
A truly stunning goal!
January 10th, 2013 at 9:13 pm
@EB, are you saying that berean stands no chance?
January 10th, 2013 at 9:22 pm
DLS 4 Livermore 0 Final
January 10th, 2013 at 9:28 pm
Ran late and missed the start of Cal / Foothill …Foothill is coming alive with the new Coach. This team brings a bunch of different looks. Exiting win in a big game and will go deep in the 2nd half.
January 10th, 2013 at 9:29 pm
DLS 4 Livermore 0
The DLS had 3 goals in the last 20 of the 1st half to put the game away.
January 10th, 2013 at 9:38 pm
EBAL = Dot races
January 10th, 2013 at 9:40 pm
@Roger Sounds like you made that inference on your own, considering all I did was link to the stats
January 10th, 2013 at 9:41 pm
@EB, I was simply looking for clarification… nothing more…
January 10th, 2013 at 10:02 pm
I know EBAL is a very good league but MVAL can put a challange against these EBAL teams. The record between EBAL vs MVAL might not show it but I know Logan, Newark can be a threat in NCS.
January 10th, 2013 at 10:16 pm
Livermore played the entire game with 11 players due to injury and illness. Livermore does have some tallented players just not a very deep bench.
January 10th, 2013 at 10:19 pm
#208
What game was this at?
Why would they not want to play ?
Did the refs add any time ?
January 10th, 2013 at 10:29 pm
@matt hey just wondering what your thinking about writing about this sunday. I’m looking forward to it all.
January 10th, 2013 at 10:30 pm
Are we so pampered in nor cal now that the site of real grass throws our players into a fit of being unable to play?
If I could make a soccer dictionary that right there would be the definition of “first world problem.”
January 10th, 2013 at 10:35 pm
@El Pata, AMEN. we cannot blame a loss on a field condition. either a player finished his chance, or he doesnt. it may be a little bit harder, but if a player is good enough, he will score
January 10th, 2013 at 10:36 pm
@Bobby I am going to do my first playoff breakdown by division. Talk about the teams in the mix, what they need to do, etc…
January 10th, 2013 at 10:42 pm
#224 – I’ve seen it repeatedly but tonight Concord didn’t want to play. Obvious they weren’t sure what would happen if they did. That mud was dangerous.
January 10th, 2013 at 10:48 pm
@El Pata the field at Concord could hardly be called “real grass” and your comment blows the scenario a bit out of proportion… but you’re right. Again, they struggled with the field but nobody is putting blame on it. NG should’ve known what was coming.
All in all I was excited to see what they had in store and unfortunately they didn’t pull through.
January 10th, 2013 at 10:51 pm
@Roger and @El Pata,
I think you both are looking beyond the point when looking at the field conditions and results amongst teams. No one is blaming field conditions for losses. I think the point is that if a team trains on a crappy and truly unique field, such as Concord on their field, then of course they are going to have a significant advantage over teams that come in having played on turf for over two months and play on their field.
January 10th, 2013 at 11:12 pm
#230
True … If you call grass a mud pit and loose footing then yes. Every high school that has turf will always have a hard time on grass or mud. When Concord has to go on turf , I’m sure they will have a difficult time. Game speed might kill them.
Did the coaches think of practicing on grass???? It would of helped NG.
#229
Knowing the mud was dangerous , was slowing the pase of the game bad ?
On a field like that , very fast players are only as good as the ball control they have.
NG will have a home field advantage soon enough.
It’s a give and take.
Concord scored and they took the win.
You can call it luck.
January 10th, 2013 at 11:23 pm
#232 – I was saying NG was too dangerous, so Concord avoided engaging them. They got the win. though. Is that all that counts?
January 10th, 2013 at 11:24 pm
@11v11
Heres my takeaway from the game. I know Northgate is the better team, I’ve seen both teams play repeatedly before. Tonight though, Concord was playing the best. You could chalk it up to NG’s struggles to poor planning, field conditions, or just luck. Call it what you want, they lacked tonight.
My thoughts though are that the field (if you can even call it that) was the game changer here. It’s thin and very raised in the middle like a dome as I’m sure most are aware. Tonight it was very poorly maintained and had just been rained on 12 hours ago. Passes didn’t go where intended, balls would travel out of bounds because of the arch. Northgate is a dynamic team but relies on their short passes to keep their team together. Being unable to make these passes is what killed them tonight.
January 10th, 2013 at 11:32 pm
Northgate definitly had a hard time on the grass, and concord even when they play on turf have about an even advantage because there use to playing on worse surfaces making turf easier! Definitly will be a different game on turf!
January 11th, 2013 at 12:04 am
EB
I agree with all your statements , well written.
So as it sounds, NG should be the better team and better performer the next go around.
I will try to make time for that game.
Good luck to all .
January 11th, 2013 at 4:39 am
@itsabob
I’m a bit late but going back to @itsABob comment on JC Soccer. NorCal is very talented once it comes to soccer, but when speaking about JC soccer programs in the Bay Area there’s only a few. City College of San Francisco has been one of the nations top programs in the last couple of years. Their student athlete transfer rate is higher than the student transfer rate. They have plenty of players with quality with POY, All East Bay, NCS competitors etc. Not getting offers? Check that school out.
January 11th, 2013 at 5:10 am
I played goalkeeper in my 4 years of HS and it can be a difficult position at times, but a goalkeeper can definitely be the reason you can win games. I don’t believe too much in stats because not all leagues are the same. Yeah numbers look good but you have to go out and watch these goalkeepers go at it. From the goalies I have seen there’s only 2 that really catch my eye.
Concord
Jimenez
This kid got it. Athletic, shot stopper, and great with his feet. Really reminded me of when I was in HS. Hopefully he gets back soon Concord needs this guy.
DLS
Konstantino
I’ve seen him a couple times, kids very good. You feel the presence on the field. Makes the saves and has his technique down. Improved from the last time I saw him.
These are my top goalkeepers. Depending on the style of goalkeeper you like you can decide which one you like best.
January 11th, 2013 at 6:03 am
Matt
Good to see the chatter picking up, lets have 300 comments before Sun.
Berkeley hits the grass tonight at 6pm in Alameda
Difficult Field, Scrappy Team
January 11th, 2013 at 7:03 am
That CP goal (see #214) on a bicycle kick was so sweet. Anyone know anything about the player – Joey Brauer?
January 11th, 2013 at 7:15 am
You cant practice on grass when the park fields are closed due to being wet. Only way is if your school has a patch of grass that can be trashed. The Concord field is a joke,deep soft holes allover, soft muddy clay, no ball run. It has a impact on both teams.
Just saying.
January 11th, 2013 at 8:19 am
I was reading the comments about the NG vs Concord game. As an alumni of the top DVAL for the moment and a fan of the sport I would like to express my point of views.
Concord has and will always have the biggest home field advantage. All turf teams hate and have to adjust to the field of play.
NG is fast and like previously stated before, short passes with speed is there game.
I also don’t like the time wasting aspect of soccer, play ball.
If NG is that dangerous and Concord not having one of the top 3 keepers in the East Bay due to an injury they began managing the time after finding themselves with a first half goal. I also asked around and found out that one of Concord’s players on D was serving a red card suspension and a starting mid fielder is injured.
Now looking at records and goals, Concord doesn’t score a lot and at the same time, they don’t get scored on much. Where was the offense for NG ?
With the field and players set aside one can maybe say that NG got out coached.
January 11th, 2013 at 8:55 am
@futbol101
Northgate was missing their starting goalkeeper too, who has been mentioned here multiple times before (stewie for example called him the third best goalkeeper in the east bay). Their defensive lineup looked different too, whether they were missing players or just testing out new ones I’m not sure.
I think you’re right about NG’s offensive aspect, but not the coaching part. Steve Chappell has turned that team around and isn’t the kind of guy to take a day off. The offense however had very few shots on goal and seemed unmotivated at times. A combination of this + the field is what I feel led to their defeat.
Well written post by the way, I love all the attention being given to HS soccer.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:08 am
I agree with EB, Northgates starting keeper was out and also had a starting defender put due to sickness, so it all realiy came down to home field advantage. Northgates offense was there just had trouble on an unfamiliar pitch, any team that practices on a grass field will always have a huge advantage. The coach at Northgate does a very good job preparing the team for each game, so in sure they weren’t out coached! Coach Chappel had turned the program around from 2 seasons ago only winning 2 game to a team that is now a NCS contender. Can’t wait to see what will happen on a real field!
January 11th, 2013 at 9:20 am
Didn’t see it as an excuse per-SE. More as an indictment of American … pampering? Not sure that is the right word.
Bottom line is most other countries and kids and players around the world would love to play on any pitch and look at our “this is not a *real* field” complaining as the whining of a spoiled, privileged, few.
Be happy and blessed we can enjoy this sport in the environment we do and thank whoever it is you thank for every moment you get to enjoy/coach/play this game; regardless of pitch.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:24 am
Didn’t see it as an excuse per-SE. More as an indictment of American … pampering? Not sure that is the right word.
Bottom line is most other countries and kids and players around the world would love to play on any pitch and look at our “this is not a *real* field” complaining as the whining of a spoiled, privileged, few.
Be happy and blessed we can enjoy this sport in the environment we do and thank whoever it is you thank for every moment you get to enjoy/coach/play this game; regardless of pitch.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:30 am
Honestly would rather play on concrete than on Concords field because concretes flat, and doesn’t suck your feet in like quick sand. But still a win is a win and that’s what matters.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:30 am
Congratulation to Foothill last night. Cal showed the EBAL how little depth they have. With 4 starters out they weren’t able to connect up top. It won’t be easier next week playing MV and DLS.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:34 am
All this conversation about the Concord field is absurd. As a player, I had to play Concord in the NCS semifinal, and the discussion of the quality the field became a hot topic. However by no means should a team blame a loss or bad game based on the pitch. It plays a factor throughout the game but you need to adapt and play better. I can garuntee the
January 11th, 2013 at 9:37 am
All this conversation about the Concord field is absurd. As a player, I had to play Concord in the NCS semifinal last season and the discussion of the quality the field became a hot topic. However by no means should a team blame a loss or bad game based on the pitch. It plays a factor throughout the game but you need to adapt and play better. I can guarantee there are many other worse fields in the WACC especially when in rains.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:38 am
@Hayward…you are correct my point was that SoCal has a strong JC league all with fairly good to very good teams.
Up here the selection is just limited. Bottom line is try and find a path that gives you the education along with your sport. Kids and parents need to do the homework also, register with NCAA, make contact at ID camps, send emails to coaches and colleges that you are truly interested in and request information. This is all needed besides just playing in Showcase Tournaments….Its the rare player that is approached first by a school.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:52 am
PS Academy Programs and State HS school associations..i.e. CIF should come to agreement on a 3 month rule that these players by individual choice can participate fully with there respective High School.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:56 am
El PATA
You are making this field issue too dramatic…. so its a horrible field and some schools have turf.
Dont make it a “world thing” …. ect ect.
The field played a roll. Kudos to the winner.
Before i mentioned about the coaching, it was with no disrespect. Thats why i added the maybe. Had to hear more thoughts.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:59 am
MDUSD..how in the hell do you spend so much money on new lights and on Building and Solar…at Concord HS…that you could not lay down a good turf field that would be of a true benefit and value to the school and the community.
January 11th, 2013 at 10:22 am
Mt Eden @ Castro Valley tonight. Make or break time for Castro Valley.
January 11th, 2013 at 10:55 am
Hear hear T. Powell. Lots of crappy fields but both teams have to play on them. Would love to have all HS’s enjoy lovely manicured grass fields but that’s not our reality. I wanted to mow the lawn of my alma mater HHS when the Dragons played there one year. HHS won but they had to suffer through their field as much as our boys did.
The ball took some funny bounces both ways I recall. Berkeley at Alameda tonight? I am going to try to make that one at Thompson Field.
January 11th, 2013 at 11:05 am
@ItsaBob you know your stuff man! SoCal is incredible in JC for example Mt. Sac, Golden West, I can go on. I think the problem is that first generation families aren’t educated once it comes to college ball. In my situation I learned all the material really late in the game. I had my offers and looks but too late to receive any money. I totally agree with you. Everybody waits for that school but it’s really hard to get at that look without an email or ID camp.
January 11th, 2013 at 11:40 am
I was at the Northgate – Concord game last night. This is my take…
Northgate is overrated and it showed last night. Northgate had 0 shots on goal. With Concord having a field player become the starting keeper. why wouldn’t you take shots? Northgate was lucky to lose 1-0, that game should have been at least 3-0 in favor of Concord.
Concord showed a lot of heart last night. Kids that kept coming off the bench were working very hard during the game. Concord did stall the game a little bit in the last 10 minutes. What team doesn’t stall when winning towards the end of the game?
January 11th, 2013 at 11:46 am
Neal, if I recall that was two years ago right? Every time I think if that game I laugh to myself. Sure was frustrating as a player losing that game especially how the goals were scored.
January 11th, 2013 at 11:56 am
T. Powell, yes, that’s correct! Lots of odd bounces, it was pretty funny. I remember asking one of the HHS players why they didn’t play on the football field and he told me it was just as bad. We both laughed.
January 11th, 2013 at 12:00 pm
With Cal’s loss to Foothill, that leaves Acalanes as the last team without a loss, or even a tie. Quite impressive, but they play five matches and face three ranked opponents in the next nine days.
With back-to-back matches at #12 Campo tonight and hosting #3 YV tomorrow, plus hosting #6 SRV next Saturday, the Dons will be tested.
I will see the Campo and SRV matches, but I have an appointment at Candlestick tomorrow evening. It would be great if the YV match tomorrow was moved up from 6PM to noon.
See you at the pitch!
January 11th, 2013 at 12:05 pm
All of this talk about bad grass fields versus groomed turf makes me laugh. Back in the day…
See you at the “plitch” (plastic pitch)!
January 11th, 2013 at 12:31 pm
It’s 100% guaranteed that Acalanes will sit back against YV on Saturday. I want to see Acalanes come out and play soccer and prove to everyone that they are the true #1 team. We all know this won’t happen but, we can sure hope it does.
January 11th, 2013 at 12:46 pm
The outstanding keeper for Concord who had just saved a PK by College Park in Tuesday’s game, fell in a heap after kicking the ball to his forwards. No one was around him when he fell. He has apparently suffered a serious injury. I did not talk to him, but I think he caught his cleat and slipped on Concord’s messy field. There were several other possible injuries in the game related to the field. Poor fields are about more than poor soccer play. The field does not have to be turf, it just has to be safe.
January 11th, 2013 at 4:09 pm
You guys need to get me to 300 comments this week, and at some point to 500 this year.
We should aim to break last year’s record of 1,035. Who’s with me?
January 11th, 2013 at 4:24 pm
I think it’s the least we can do for keeping such a well written blog Matt. Really appreciate what you’re doing!
January 11th, 2013 at 4:29 pm
I am in. You can count on me for plenty of blather and references to SCOTUS. Who will be 267?
January 11th, 2013 at 4:31 pm
Not me. I’m 268.
January 11th, 2013 at 5:57 pm
heading out to Las Lomas game
January 11th, 2013 at 6:11 pm
Wait, I thought we had 300 just about Concord’s field?
Way to go Foothill! Nice win over Cal.
If you ain’t in the EBAL, then you wouldn’t understand. Next Tuesday will be epic! Rivalry round…
DLS vs Cal
MV vs SRV
Foothill vs AV
Livermore vs Granada
January 11th, 2013 at 6:40 pm
0-0 @Campo after 20 with good action
January 11th, 2013 at 6:44 pm
All zeros at Alameda – Berkely at half
January 11th, 2013 at 7:05 pm
0-0 @ Campo at the half. Dons starting to impose their will to no avail.
January 11th, 2013 at 7:33 pm
Berkeley 1 – 0 over Alameda
January 11th, 2013 at 7:34 pm
0-0 @Campo with 20 left
January 11th, 2013 at 7:39 pm
Foothill 2 Cal 0 – the defense for the Falcons was something to see. Quero had a fantastic game helping to shut down the Cal forwards. Clark, who always gets the attention of 2-3 opposing players whenever he touches the ball, opened up the gaps for the Falcons. Game could have easily been 3 or 4-0, with many chances for the Falcons just missing..
January 11th, 2013 at 7:41 pm
Thanks for the love Nacho Don. Should be a good one at Amador Tuesday!
January 11th, 2013 at 7:44 pm
0-0 with 10 left
January 11th, 2013 at 7:55 pm
0-0 final at Campo
January 11th, 2013 at 7:57 pm
Logan 3 Irvington 1
January 11th, 2013 at 7:59 pm
Mt eden vs castro valley 0-0 . They had juan villegas well mark .
January 11th, 2013 at 8:05 pm
Bishop O’Dowd 2 – Arroyo 1
January 11th, 2013 at 8:20 pm
Berkeley 1-0 Alameda
Nine straight wins.
January 11th, 2013 at 8:28 pm
EBU 3-0 FC Barcelona
January 11th, 2013 at 8:35 pm
#1 and #12 team play to a tie!
still # 1 ??
January 11th, 2013 at 8:48 pm
Acalanes is still unbeaten. They are 2-0-1 vs Campo. Let’s see tomorrow’s result against #3 YV before moving the Dons below MV. HAH!
January 11th, 2013 at 9:05 pm
Las Lomas beats Alhambra 2-1
Whistle was continues all through the game absolutely no rhythm could be established. Las Lomas drilled a free kick from the 23 yd spot. Alhambra had a deflected shot by Las Lomas GK that was rammed home on follow-through to tie but AR called off-side and goal was disallowed.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:19 pm
Alameda put up a good battle but Berkeley seemed to control the ball in the 2nd half. Berkeley #7′s goal was nice off of a good ball into him from the corner.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:30 pm
Newark 1 Washington 1. Logan back on top alone ahead of Newark in MVAL.
January 11th, 2013 at 9:30 pm
Hercules- 3 Berean – 1
January 11th, 2013 at 9:31 pm
January 8
Hercules- 5 St.Pat- 0
January 11th, 2013 at 9:57 pm
Huge upset!!
Mission San Jose, 2 Moreau, 4
Moreau came out strong! Quite a surprise. Missio could not capitalize on chances whatsoever. This is not the same MSJ team I saw before.
What will happen? A rise in Moreau? Or a downfall/reinvention of MSJ? Exciting soccer in MVAL lately!
January 11th, 2013 at 10:54 pm
Doing my part to get the count to 300….
So I caught the last 30 minutes of the Cal – Foothill game last night. Over the last few years Foothill has really upped their game against Cal and last night they pushed it over the goal line. They looked really strong relative to prior years over a Cal team that that has been bitten by the injury bug.
I have posted a few pictures of a Foothill forward and the Cal goalie mixing it up along with a nice shot of a Foothill player wearing a soccer ball on his head. Check them out at the following link:
http://www.fjphotoguy.com/CalHighSoccer2011-2012/Cal-High-at-Foothill-Top-Pics
More colorful multi-megapixel details in categorized galleries to come…
BTW, I am hoping to shoot the SRV Acalanes game next week, pictures of last years match are here in case anyone wants to relive it:
http://www.fjphotoguy.com/Sports/San-Ramon-Valley-Soccer-vs
and while I am shamelessly plugging things… here is the absolutely crazy finish of the SRV Richmond game last year:
http://www.fjphotoguy.com/Sports/SRV-vs-Richmond-Final-30
Chris the FJ Photoguy
January 11th, 2013 at 10:59 pm
I wouldn’t advocate moving acalanes down due to their tie against Campo tonight. Campolindo is a pretty young team that showed some strong potential tonight. After seeing them fall 0-4 to Acalanes at an away game earlier this season, their defense tonight looked reenergized and solid. With both sides having controversial
nullified goals, I think both these teams looked pretty even.
January 11th, 2013 at 11:24 pm
Dublin v. Miramonte, anyone?
January 11th, 2013 at 11:51 pm
Rumor has it that MV may be getting their starting Centerback from last year back from injury this upcoming week
January 11th, 2013 at 11:54 pm
if Acalanes where to lose tomorrow night, they should be moved down. and YV moved up
January 12th, 2013 at 6:59 am
Chris G, thanks for the photo shots…great action photos! I will be at the Amador vs Foothill game on Tues. Will give my assessment Tues evening…
January 12th, 2013 at 7:15 am
Happy Feet – More shots to come from the Cal-Foothill game – worst case is tomorrow.
3 more to 300!
January 12th, 2013 at 7:42 am
More spam from the FJPhotoguy, I don’t want to abuse the blog but I do think it is worth knowing…. Amazon local has awesome pricing today on canvas prints. $35 gets you a 16×20 canvas print shipped. Purchase a high res download for $5 and for the grand total of $40 you will have a big beautiful canvas print of your favorite player (or any other photo).
Ping me at fjphotoguy@gmail.com if you have any questions.
Chris G. the FJPhotoguy
BTW, On the oblong football front… GO NINERS!
January 12th, 2013 at 7:59 am
Looks like a full plate for the Spartans this coming week.
Tuesday Away @ Cal 6pm
Thursday @ Home vs Foothill 6pm
Saturday also at Home vs Richmond @6pm**this is the posted time.
January 12th, 2013 at 8:04 am
EBAL is heating up this next week. Can you say “Game On”
January 12th, 2013 at 8:07 am
What happened at the Cal – Foothill game besides Cal dropping the game. Details???
January 12th, 2013 at 8:59 am
Mt.Eden/Castro Valley game was a good one. Both teams had their chances CV is very tough at home.
January 12th, 2013 at 9:00 am
Miramonte 2, Dublin 1
January 12th, 2013 at 9:02 am
CV playing a 4-4-2 with no attacking midfield is making the scoring opportunities hard to come by. Only relying on the two forwards will only get you so far.
January 12th, 2013 at 9:04 am
@Matt, curious. In your humble opinion what does CVHS have to do to get their swagger back after three very tough seasons?
January 12th, 2013 at 9:08 am
JV game Today
DLS vs Foothill
At De La Salle 2:00pm
JV games you get to see some of the up and coming talent and some of these game are just as competitive and entertaining as a Varsity game.
January 12th, 2013 at 9:08 am
@Happy feet- curious on how Cals defense and keeper looked? couldn’t make it, how did foothill score? I read in paper that the second goal was an own goal, what happened?
January 12th, 2013 at 9:17 am
#300 Curious did I win the date with Miss. Alabama?
January 12th, 2013 at 10:11 am
Bobo….Start winning. (Sorry man, that was too easy to pass up)
January 12th, 2013 at 10:21 am
@Bobo I think that beyond winning more, which Mudhen is right about, they need to play with some confidence. I think if they could get one big non-league win, or one upset in the playoffs (if they make it) then it would be huge for them.
January 12th, 2013 at 10:50 am
I get it Mudhen, winning is the easy answer. It seems deeper than that given the decline in the last three years. The program seems to be losing its best players to academys ect. and that is not helping.
January 12th, 2013 at 10:53 am
Its seems after Peacock was let go the whole program went into a funk, no support ,no money and with a school the size of CV not much coming thru the pipeline for next years team. Really would like to stay in the HS program but it looks dim.
January 12th, 2013 at 11:10 am
@Bobo You are right, support and interest in the program is very key in revitalizing a program.
January 12th, 2013 at 11:27 am
Being that CV is half way through the season and NO fundraisers even mentioned (goodluck raising the fees next year) I doubt much progress in the revitalization dept. will be made. Not to mention being labeled (the rich kid school) by surrounding high schools not being able to afford new uniforms or gear when the so-called lesser affluent schools in the immediate area can is quite embarrassing. Unless of course still using Pele era uni’s is the current trend.
Not trying to make the uniform thing the main issue but its little things like that will help develop a new identity and a visual seperation from the past.
January 12th, 2013 at 11:35 am
Sorry guys, don’t mind me. Just a frustrated parent.
Appreciate your input @Mudhen and Matt.
January 12th, 2013 at 11:46 am
Kennedy 1, American 0 is what I heard.
January 12th, 2013 at 12:09 pm
Bobo does CVHS have an active athletic booster club that you could approach about soccer team revitalization? I thought they had a very active one at one point. For a public high school I recall CV being pretty proactive regarding it’s athletic program and that was partially what drove the acquisition of the new facilities you have now. Have your attempts at volunteering to raise funds for new uniforms etc. fallen on deaf ears from other soccer parents or the school? I know some of their sports seem to fair well when it comes to support. I thought soccer would be one of them.
January 12th, 2013 at 12:44 pm
when is the YV aca game today?
January 12th, 2013 at 2:30 pm
Ok Bobo, I’ve seen the boys play, and they are not without talent. But I have to say that the choice of tactics and positioning left me wondering, and that is a coaches job, if you get my point.
January 12th, 2013 at 2:51 pm
Bobby, 6PM at Acalanes is what Matt has published. Mr. Smith is planning to be there.
January 12th, 2013 at 3:10 pm
Sweeper is correct. 6:00 p.m. I’ll be there early to get settled in.
January 12th, 2013 at 4:45 pm
Checking in from Acalanes where we should have a very entertaining game tonight.
I just wanted to chime in about the Dons No. 1 ranking. I would not move them down for the draw with Campo, but a second draw tonight and I might consider a one-spot drop. A win/loss and the decision is easy.
However, a draw and maybe, but the problem is who do I bump up to No. 1? Cal lost and if YV doesn’t take it tonight, then it would be between MV and Acalanes.
January 12th, 2013 at 4:53 pm
Scores from today…
Concord 1-0 Pinole
Dougherty Valley 1-0 Granada
January 12th, 2013 at 5:50 pm
Richmond 2, Alameda 1
January 12th, 2013 at 6:02 pm
Time for kickoff…
January 12th, 2013 at 6:14 pm
Acalanes is man-marking Tata.
January 12th, 2013 at 6:21 pm
0-0 20:00 mark.
January 12th, 2013 at 6:31 pm
YV strikes first. 1-0.
Nice ball in by Aguilar and a nice finish in the box by Mendez.
January 12th, 2013 at 6:39 pm
Acalanes nearly scored a couple times, and then finally equalized on a free kick put away by Max Mirner. 1-1.
January 12th, 2013 at 6:43 pm
1-1 halftime.
January 12th, 2013 at 6:56 pm
@Matt…How is the battle in Midfield? and who is showing some speed upfront? What is the creativity factor?
January 12th, 2013 at 7:09 pm
The battle in the midfield is outstanding. Glascock and Damian are really battling it out. Lindgren, the Acalanes center defender/sweeper is making some great plays as is Aguilar for YV.
Mendez is really becoming a lot to handle ont he win for YV.
Both teams are creating opportunities. It’s very back and forth and pretty wide open.
Van Oss is keeping Tata in check.
January 12th, 2013 at 7:10 pm
Great breakdown Thanks
January 12th, 2013 at 7:11 pm
Speaking of Tata, he got some space, ripped a right-footed laser near post, and it was tipped away by Rogstad.
January 12th, 2013 at 7:16 pm
Lindgren’s long thow has really been a force. If I’m picking a man of the match, I’m picking Lindgren for Acalanes and probably Aguilar for YV.
January 12th, 2013 at 7:17 pm
*throw
January 12th, 2013 at 7:22 pm
Rogstad has been very good as well. Tata made a great turn in the box, surely was going to score and Rogstad came out and cleared it.
January 12th, 2013 at 7:34 pm
What a game. Narrow misses, balls off the crossbar, both teams pushing late for the winner…
January 12th, 2013 at 7:36 pm
1-1. Final.
January 12th, 2013 at 7:50 pm
Tuesday at Cal…now back to the 49rs
January 12th, 2013 at 7:52 pm
Very entertaining game despite Acalanes boring long ball, long throw, and set pieces. Would LOVE to see them match up again in NCS.
January 12th, 2013 at 7:54 pm
Is two consecutive ties enough to bring the dons down from the top?
January 12th, 2013 at 8:12 pm
I guess I need to see the Dons mid season; when they scrimmaged MV over Tgiving weekend they weren’t all that impressive and MV handled them well with 2-0 by half– the lights were delayed in coming on so the ref called the game with at least 20 remaining. MV wasn’t a full squad due to club commitments and I might venture to guess that was the case with the Dons. Perhaps they’ve found their groove but it’s unfortunate that the Mustangs and the Dons won’t face each other again this season.
January 12th, 2013 at 8:31 pm
Great game tonight.
Would be great seeing these two teams again in NCS .
January 12th, 2013 at 8:32 pm
I find it pretty amazing when goal keepers are able to reach the top corner of their net while being at the opposite post. A huge round of applause to YVs keeper Rodriguez, would have kept a clean sheet and a win for his team if weren’t for a blurry set piece. Dons keeper played well, shots straight towards him made him look as well as he did.
January 12th, 2013 at 9:29 pm
I find it pretty amazing when goal keepers are able to reach the top corner of their net while being at the opposite post. A huge round of applause to YVs keeper Rodriguez, would have kept a clean sheet and a win for his team if weren’t for a blurry set piece. Dons keeper played well, shots straight towards him made him look as well as he did.
January 12th, 2013 at 10:03 pm
Bishop O’Dowd 1 – Antioch 1
January 13th, 2013 at 8:12 am
@ Neal, the boys program has been in a spiral for three years now and no not many attempts have been made to create fundraisers by the parents,boosters or coach. Things were mentioned but no follow thru. It isnt free to play either and think that fact along with club expenses families pay during the club season taps most out. As far as the boosters it seems every year the team owes boosters money instead of extra funds being available to the team from the boosters. The girls program on the other hand is in great shape. Something needs to change or it will be more of the same or less in coming seasons.
January 13th, 2013 at 8:13 am
@ Mudhen, couldnt agree more.
January 13th, 2013 at 8:37 am
Went to yv vs the dons, got there and i was amazed, acalane’s players are big, they towered over tata, and tata is big, but then the game started, and instead of seing big boys over power the field with violant speed, and towering strength that you are used to in youth soccer, it was yv’s mids( whom are short) have their way with the wings with most the mid(dons had a few who had fight in them) so it was like a david and goliath story, and ironically acalanes players spent the game flailing and complaining to the ref…. And im there scratching my head did that boy half your size just meg, cut another and crack a third and all u do is complain to the ref that he pushed his shoulder against yours and you fell…. Auuuuch, but the game was great!!!! 50-50!! Any one could of had it, just dissapointed with acalanes not being able to factor their size, all their attacks were set plays…. But their set plays are rusty they could of easily had 10 goals just by set plays but instead of crossing the ball up high where their size would always win… They gave it back to yv… So that dissapointed me about the dons… But they are still good
nice game with ncs atmesphere…..
Matt is that how acalanes plays??? With just set pieces??? If so they need to work on em, i now understand why they lost to seed 16 last ncs.
And yv was crappy in defense, but thats soccer. Its a beautifull game where spirit and skill give you mid fielders like mendez aguilar and damian whom despite their size will tear at defenders who tower over them and leave them flailing behind, and before u take it from them they have already released it and the next shorty is confusing and dismentaling the other wing of defenders.
Any other good games like last nights coming up??? Im hooked on this youth sport.
January 13th, 2013 at 9:20 am
Dons can get one dimensional…and creativity gets limited. The team is very athletic and in good shape and can hang for 80.
January 13th, 2013 at 9:35 am
Some good EBAL games this week.
When the creativity does not show or gets stopped, teams that train for aggressive in the box play, generally can salvage a win or reenforce the score. SRV and De La Salle are some of the best at controlling the box.Its all part of the game no matter how ugly a goal might be.
January 13th, 2013 at 10:26 am
Response to 351. I suppose we all see what we see at these games but I saw an evenly matched contest with some great battles at all positions. Dons had to deal with quickness of YV but they held their own in all facets of the game. We saw some Gretchen play at midfield attack, defense and goaltending on both sides and both sides will remember their lost chances and near misses but I will remember this one as one of the most enjoyable HS soccer matches I have seen. As a Don fan I tip my hat to YV as a class outfit that plays the game well. Let’ s hope we see more matches like this one with lots of end to end action.
January 16th, 2013 at 1:41 pm
Amador Valley 1 – Foothill 1: it was a perfect night for soccer for the cross town rivals. Nice size crowd on hand to witness an exciting game. The Dons took the early lead in the 1st half on a corner kick from the goalie’s right. Foothill goalie mishandled the cross and Connor Tait-Mole was there to slot it in. The 2nd half showed the good control the Dons have with the ball, with Foothill having trouble with control. But the ever dangerous Christian Clark scored with just under 5 mins remaining in the game to tie it up. Overall, a nice matchup. The rematch later in the season should be a good one.
January 16th, 2013 at 9:21 pm
Mission San Jose, 2 Logan, 2
January 18th, 2013 at 11:24 pm
mt eden vs Berkley coming up its about to be a good game
January 23rd, 2013 at 11:03 pm
@ DragonGrub #37
After you finish smoking why don’t you come back down to the real world. Matt Baringer has some quality players surrounding him. Irvin Xu and Quinn Burnett to name a few. Piedmont is very young with only 4 players with 1+ year starting on Varsity. If he is so overrated why do teams have such trouble stopping him from creating multiple opportunities and constantly being dangerous, including the Dragons? Matt Smith is right not to pick a player from your roster, the Powell brothers aren’t playing this year. All your quality was in the past with players like Michael Garrick or Max Ornstil who could take over the game. You team does play very well together.