- East Bay Prep Corner
Boys Soccer: Updated Playoff Picture, League Races, Rankings, Standings, Stats
By Matt Smith
Saturday, February 2nd, 2013 at 4:27 pm in Boys soccer.
The playoff races in Division I and Division II are starting to sort themselves out. There are still things to be sorted out in the last week, but here is how it looks right now.
Division I
Locks: Amador Valley, Berkeley, California, College Park, De La Salle, Foothill, Monte Vista, Newark Memorial, Pittsburg, Richmond, San Ramon Valley
These 11 teams are in. I moved CP as a lock. They have a quality record, a good league record and a good schedule. They are in.
Qualified, But Not a Lock: Antioch, Logan, Mt. Eden
These three teams have qualified, but a lackluster final week combined with a strong week from a bubble team could keep them out. However, they have a legup on the others right now.
On The Bubble: Alameda, Castro Valley, Deer Valley, Dougherty Valley, Freedom, Irvington, San Leandro, Washington
These eight teams seem to be battling with the three teams above for the final five spots. So 11 teams for five spots.
This is how I think it stands right now, in this order: Logan, Mt. Eden, Antioch, Deer Valley, Freedom, Irvington, Dougherty Valley, Washington, Alameda, Castro Valley, San Leandro.
Again, this could all change day to day. Deer Valley just needs one win to qualify, and then I think they are in. Same for Freedom. I think one win gets them in. The others have to keep winning and hope for a team to slip up. Just in my opinion.
The teams in the best shape to capitalize on a slipup are Irvington (a game over .500 in league), Dougherty Valley (game over .500 overall) and Washington (game over .500 in Division I games).
Division II
Locks: Acalanes, Alhambra, Bishop O’Dowd, Campolindo, Concord, Hayward, Hercules, Kennedy-Fremont, Northgate, Pinole Valley, San Lorenzo, St. Mary’s, Ygnacio Valley
These 13 teams are in.
Qualified, But Not a Lock: De Anza
I can’t see the Dons not getting in, but I want to leave some room for error in case I am missing a result or some bubble teams finish very strongly.
On the Bubble: Albany, Dublin, El Cerrito, Kennedy-Richmond, Miramonte, Moreau Catholic, Piedmont, Salesian
It’s no guarantee that 16 teams will qualify, so just getting eligible could be enough.
Albany- A win or a draw against Pinole Valley should do it.
Dublin- One win or a draw in their last game. This team would get in for sure.
El Cerrito- Need to win the TCAL Tourney, and I’m not sure if that does it.
Kennedy-Richmond- Don’t think they are eligible, but I might be wrong based on some stuff I’ve seen. Leaving myself room for error.
Miramonte- Must win out. If so, I think they’re in.
Moreau Catholic- Need to win out.
Piedmont- A win over Encinal and they’re eligible. If they get eligible, they are in.
Salesian- A couple wins, or a win/draw in the TCAL Tourney are needed to become eligible.
I think De Anza is in. So there are two spots. My frontrunners for those spots are Piedmont and Dublin. However, if Albany, Piedmont, Dublin and De Anza are all eligible, then I think Albany might squeeze De Anza out.
League Races
BVAL- Pittsburg has clinched at least a co-title, and simply needs a draw or a DV draw/loss to win the league outright.
DFAL- The Acalanes Dons win a third straight league title.
DVAL- YV is in position to capture a second straight league title with a win. They’ve already clinched at least a co-title, and just need a win or a draw, or for Concord to lose or draw once.
EBAL- Still three teams alive, but SRV needs DLS to not win either of its last two games. The Spartans simply need to win out, while Monte Vista must keep winning and hope DLS loses or draws along the way.
MVAL- Newark clinches a third straight league title, and in that stretch, hasn’t lost an MVAL game.
OAL- Oakland Tech and Skyline are the two horses in this race.
TCAL- Rock belongs to Richmond, Stone belongs to Hercules.
WACC- Berkeley clinched the Foothill, Hayward wins the Shoreline.
Rankings
The only undefeated team in the East Bay gets back to No. 1 after a three-win week, and another DFAL title. The Dons have an undefeated season in their sites.
De La Salle, now in line for the EBAL title and perhaps an NCS top seed, move up to No. 2 while Berkeley drops to No. 3. Richmond jumps into the top five, a spot behind Monte Vista which moves back into the top five.
California and Hayward move up two spots while Concord moves into the top ten. YV takes a drop, but has a chance to move back up and finish strong.
1. Acalanes (18-0-3)
2. De La Salle (13-3-5)
3. Berkeley (17-2-3)
4. Monte Vista (14-3-4)
5. Richmond (13-3-5)
6. Pittsburg (12-2-5)
7. San Ramon Valley (13-5-3)
8. California (16-4-2)
9. Hayward (15-3-3)
10. Concord (11-1-5)
11. Ygnacio Valley (14-3-4)
12. Campolindo (14-6-2)
13. Foothill (10-6-5)
14. Newark Memorial (11-3-6)
15. College Park (10-8-4)
Others considered: St. Mary’s (11-2-3), Amador Valley (11-8-3), Kennedy-Fremont (9-6-2), Northgate (10-5-6), Hercules (15-4-2), Bishop O’Dowd (9-7-2), Pinole Valley (10-5-1), Freedom (10-9-2), Alhambra (9-6-5), Deer Valley (8-7-4)
Standings
BVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Pittsburg (12-2-5, 6-0-2) 20
Deer Valley (8-7-4, 4-2-2) 14
Antioch (8-5-5, 4-3-1) 13
Freedom (10-9-2, 4-3-1) 13
Liberty (4-7-3, 1-5-2) 5
Heritage (2-12-3, 0-6-2) 2
DFAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Acalanes (18-0-3, 9-0-2) 29
Campolindo (14-6-2, 6-3-1) 19
Dublin (7-8-4, 5-5-1) 16
Dougherty Valley (8-7-1, 4-5-1) 13
Miramonte (5-7-4, 3-5-2) 11
Alhambra (9-6-5, 2-5-3) 9
Las Lomas (1-11-5, 1-7-2) 5
DVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Ygnacio Valley (14-3-4, 9-1-1) 28
College Park (10-8-4, 7-2-2) 23
Concord (11-1-5, 6-0-4) 22
Northgate (10-5-6, 4-4-2) 14
Berean Chr. (6-9-2, 3-6-1) 10
Mt. Diablo (1-9-1, 1-8-1) 4
Clayton Valley (0-19-2, 0-9-1) 1
EBAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
De La Salle (13-3-5, 8-1-3) 27
Monte Vista (14-3-4, 8-2-2) 26
San Ramon Valley (13-5-3, 7-3-2) 23
California (16-4-2, 7-4-1) 22
Foothill (10-6-5, 4-5-3) 15
Amador Valley (11-8-3, 3-7-2) 11
Livermore (4-13-4, 2-8-2) 8
Granada (4-12-4, 1-10-1) 4
MVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Newark Memorial (12-3-7, 8-0-4) 28
Kennedy (9-6-2, 6-4-2) 20
Logan (8-8-6, 5-3-4) 19
Irvington (6-7-7, 5-4-3) 18
Washington (5-5-9, 3-3-6) 15
Moreau Catholic (3-8-5, 3-5-4) 13
Mission San Jose (4-9-8, 2-5-5) 11
American (3-11-4, 1-9-2) 5
OAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Oakland Tech (3-3-2, 3-0-1) 10
Skyline (2-0-1, 2-0-1) 7
Castlemont (0-2-0, 0-2-0) 0
Fremont (0-2-0, 0-2-0) 0
Oakland (0-1-0, 0-1-0) 0
TCAL Rock
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Richmond (13-3-5, 8-0-2) 26
St. Mary’s (11-2-3, 8-1-1) 25
Albany (7-10-4, 4-5-1) 13
El Cerrito (6-14-1, 4-5-1) 13
Salesian (4-5-4, 2-5-3) 9
St. Joseph Notre Dame (3-16-1, 0-10-0) 0
TCAL Stone
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Hercules (15-4-2, 9-0-1) 28
Pinole Valley (10-5-1, 7-2-1) 22
De Anza (8-5-2, 6-2-2) 20
Kennedy (4-9-0, 4-6-0) 12
Swett (2-10-0, 2-8-0) 6
St. Patrick-St. Vincent (0-12-0, 0-10-0) 0
WACC Foothill
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Berkeley (17-2-3, 13-0-1) 40
Bishop O’Dowd (9-7-2, 8-5-1) 25
Alameda (7-10-5, 6-7-1) 19
Mt. Eden (7-9-6, 4-4-6) 18
Castro Valley (5-9-5, 5-6-3) 18
Arroyo (5-10-5, 4-7-3) 15
WACC Shoreline
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Hayward (15-3-3, 10-2-2) 32
San Lorenzo (9-4-2, 8-4-2) 26
Piedmont (6-9-1, 5-8-1) 16
San Leandro (4-10-4, 4-6-4) 16
Tennyson (3-15-3, 3-9-2) 11
Encinal (1-13-0, 1-13-0) 3
Stat Leaders
Name School Goals
Montes, Richmond 34
Ayala, YV 24
Gala, Dougherty 20
Cendejas, Free 20
Romero, Hercules 19
R. Castillo, Hayward 17
Berumen, Pitt 17
Solomon, Berkeley 15
Fink, BOD 15
Reiter, CP 14
Al. Marques, Hercules 14
Grixti, Cal 12
Sandoval, Pinole 12
Name School Assists
Murgia, Pitt 20
Damian, YV 18
Alvarez, Richmond 16
Gomez, Hayward 14
Bramvila, Richmond 13
Clark, FH 12
Montes, Richmond 11
Croze, Acalanes 10
Torres, Moreau 10
Lindgren, Acalanes 9
Hamdouni, Berkeley 9
Espinosa, St. Mary 9
Aguilar, YV 9
[You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.]
February 2nd, 2013 at 4:27 pm
The final week’s games…
BVAL
Tuesday
Antioch v. Heritage
DV v. Pitt
Liberty v. Freedom
Thursday
Liberty v. Heritage
Freedom v. DV
Antioch v. Pitt
DFAL
Wednesday
Las Lomas v. Miramonte
Alhambra v. Acalanes
Campolindo v. Dougherty Valley
Friday
Dougherty Valley v. Las Lomas
Miramonte v. Alhambra
Dublin v. Campolindo
DVAL
Tuesday
Northgate v. Concord
Mount Diablo v. Berean
Clayton v. CP
Thursday
Berean v.Northgate
Concord v. YV
Clayton v. Mount
EBAL
Tuesday
MV v. Granada
Cal v. FH
SRV v. AV
Livermore v. DLS
Thursday
MV v. SRV
DLS v. Cal
FH v. AV
Livermore v. Granada
MVAL
Wednesday
Irvington v. Logan
MSJ v. Moreau
Newark v. Washington
American v. Kennedy
Friday
MSJ v. Logan
Newark v. Kennedy
Moreau v. American
Washington v. Irvington
TCAL
Tuesday
Richmond v. De Anza
Pinole v. Albany
St. Mary’s v. Salesian
Hercules v. El Cerrito
Thursday
Richmond/DA v. Pinole/Albany
St. Mary’s/Salesian v. Hercules/EC
Saturday
TBA v. TBA
WACC
Wednesday
Encinal v. Hayward
Mt. Eden v. Castro Valley
Berkeley v. Alameda
Arroyo v. BOD
San Lorenzo v. Tennyson
San Leandro v. Piedmont
Friday
Hayward v. San Lorenzo
Piedmont v. Encinal
BOD v. Mt. Eden
Castro Valley v. Berkeley
Alameda v. Arroyo
Tennyson v. San Leandro
NON-LEAGUE
Monday
Castro Valley v. Dougherty Valley
Acalanes v. Hayward
Saturday
SRV v. MSJ
February 2nd, 2013 at 4:28 pm
Goal Scorers by league (seven or more)…
BVAL
Cendejas, Free 20
Berumen, Pitt 17
Murgia, Pitt 9
Valencia, Pitt 8
DFAL
Gala, Dougherty 20
J. Maldonado, Alhambra 10
Helfrich, Acalanes 9
Croze, Acalanes 9
Mirner, Acalanes 9
Kilwien, Campo 8
DVAL
Ayala, YV 24
Reiter, CP 14
Bolender, Ngate 9
Foster, Ngate 9
Alman, Berean 8
Castanon, Concord 7
Garcia, CP 7
Mendez, YV 7
EBAL
Grixti, Cal 12
Greenberg, MV 11
Clark, FH 10
Raynor, Cal 9
Jones, DLS 9
Sehrogosha, FH 8
Maul, SRV 8
Guerrero, DLS 7
MVAL
Raygoza, Logan 11
Sandoval, Newark 11
Dougherty, Newark 9
Fapounda, Kennedy 8
Venegas, Newark 8
Villareal, Kennedy 7
Alvarado, Logan 7
TCAL
Montes, Richmond 34
Romero, Hercules 19
Al. Marques, Hercules 14
Sandoval, Pinole 12
Sako, EC 10
Espinoza, SM 10
Mesquita, SM 9
Dull, SM 8
Helmut, DA 7
Ramos, Richmond 7
WACC
Castillo, Hayward 17
Solomon, Berkeley 15
Fink, BOD 15
Gonzalez, Berkeley 11
Williams, Mt. Eden 11
Ramirez, SLZ 11
Gray, Hayward 10
Menodza, Hayward 10
Hamdouni, Berkeley 9
Villegas, Mt. Eden 9
Gueye, Berkeley 8
Udave, Hayward 8
Baringer, Pied 7
February 2nd, 2013 at 4:28 pm
Assists by league…(six or more)
BVAL
Murgia, Pitt 20
Berumen, Pitt 8
Cendejas, Free 7
Valencia, Pitt 6
DFAL
Croza, Acalanes 10
Lindgren, Acalanes 9
Glascock, Acalanes 8
Maghsoodnia, Campo 7
J. Maldonado, Alhamba 6
Kilwien, Campo 6
DVAL
Damian, YV 18
Aguilar, YV 9
Bolender, Ngate 8
Foster, Ngate 8
Zumaya, YV 7
EBAL
Clark, FH 12
Raynor, Cal 8
Gratsch, MV 8
Goldstein, FH 6
Greenberg, MV 6
Maestre, SRV 6
MVAL
Torres, Moreau 10
Ramirez, Newark 7
Alvarado, Logan 6
Yang, MSJ 6
TCAL
Alvarez, Richmond 16
Bramvila, Richmond 13
Montes, Richmond 11
Espinoza, SM 9
Dull, SM 8
E. Moreno, EC 7
Sako, EC 6
WACC
Gomez, Hayward 14
Hamdouni, Berkeley 9
Solomon, Berkeley 8
Hebert, Berkeley 8
Baringer, Pied 8
Luigi Castillo, Hayward 7
Mendoza, Hayward 7
Makela, Berkeley 6
Goswell, BOD 6
Ortega, Hayward 6
Xu, Piedmont 6
February 2nd, 2013 at 10:54 pm
Kinda disappointed in amador this season. They are full of potential but dont play as team. #11 needs more playing time as he is a huge difference maker as he enters the field, one of the biggest threats for amador. He is calm and cool in the midfield. Cant see how DLS is #2 they are Barely able to hang in on the big games.
February 3rd, 2013 at 12:12 am
Hey Matt,
Great job bringing the NCS playoffs into focus. The rankings seem spot on.
See you at the pitch!
February 3rd, 2013 at 7:19 am
@C.Scout..or should I say Mr. Amusing. Coaches decide who plays and they see the big picture.Look at some of the teams with large benches some players see very little time for whatever the reason. Then your statement on DLS “Cant see how DLS is #2 they are Barely able to hang in on the big games.”
Bottom line is The Big Games they have won the Spartans systematically took out Cal, MV and SRV. When the clock reads 00:00 and the scoreboard has DLS 2 Visitor 1 Who came out on top is all that matters even if the game was played fantastically or not so well and you are hanging on for the win. How many games are decided by 1 goal?? That is all it takes for the big W or the big L. In soccer you don’t need to win by 4 it just takes that 1 ball that makes it into the net.
February 3rd, 2013 at 8:36 am
I can’t wait for NCS, should be loads of fun. Couple of teams in real trouble are Pittsburg (injuries) and YV who are in a real funk. If all things remain the same I would expect both teams to loose 1st round games which is a shame both of these teams had good shoots to go deep into the tournament.
February 3rd, 2013 at 11:15 am
Alhambra will need to crank it up some more against Acalanes. If Acalanes goes in soft the dog’s are just good enough to take a hard bite into the Dons.
The DOgs have a smooth passing and foot-skills game when played with confidence however goal area is suspect.
February 3rd, 2013 at 11:30 am
Its crunch week. Time to be a team and get rid of the funks. Teams who want it will get those NCS spots.
February 3rd, 2013 at 11:40 am
@Matt, Everton pulls a respectable draw & Man City is losing some traction and MUFC still inches up the table.
No joke about this week being crunch week…snooze you lose and you are out of NCS. Certain teams just will need to dig in very deep to finish what they started.
This weeks slate of games should all prove to be entertaining and loaded with passion.
February 3rd, 2013 at 12:41 pm
So I have an update from the WACC. Based on some information I’ve received I’ve updated some stuff, and it is confirmed from the WACC commissioner that only the league games from your particular half of the league count for your league record when applying for NCS purposes (that’s an NCS thing). However, the games against the other half of the league still count towards determining a league champ throughout the season. So, for example, Bishop O’Dowd won’t count the win over Hayward as effecting their league record for NCS purposes, but for overall purposes and for league points, they will count it indeed. I know, it’s confusing.
So according to my calculations… (overall, league, division)
WACC FOOTHILL
Alameda 7-10-5, 2-5-1, 3-7-5
Arroyo 5-10-5, 2-4-1, 3-6-2
Berkeley 17-2-3, 7-0-1, 9-2-3
Bishop O’Dowd 9-7-2, 3-3-2, 5-2-0
Castro Valley 5-9-5, 2-4-2, 2-6-4
Mt. Eden 7-9-6, 3-1-4, 4-5-5
WACC SHORELINE
Encinal 1-13-0, 0-8-0, 0-7-0
Hayward 15-3-3, 7-0-1, 10-2-2
Piedmont 6-9-1, 4-4-0, 4-5-0
San Leandro 4-10-4, 3-3-2, 1-6-2
San Lorenzo 9-4-2, 5-1-2, 6-1-1
Tennyson 3-15-3, 2-5-1, 1-9-1
February 3rd, 2013 at 12:43 pm
Here is a Cal update, Massimino is finally ready to go this week. That should make for a good game on Thursday vs DLS. This will be the 1st opportunity for Cal to have a full roster since 1st week of January. One mistake on the stats Matt , Grixti has 13 goals this season.
February 3rd, 2013 at 12:53 pm
@Shinguard Tough result for Everton yesterday. Possession was 64/36, Shots were 22-6, shots on target 13-4 and corners were 13-2. Lucky to get the draw, but in the abstract a draw is crappy.
February 3rd, 2013 at 1:22 pm
@Matt…The words of a true fan
February 3rd, 2013 at 1:29 pm
Matt
You have Foothill and Amador Valley as locks to get in but neither of them have a .500 record in league. Am I missing something? Do they not need a .500 record to get in?
February 3rd, 2013 at 1:36 pm
These were hidden in Matt Schwab’s Girls list of College signers.
BOYS
Long, Trevor, Cal, Earthquakes Academy/Granada
Sommer, Alex, Cornell, Celtic, Head Royce
Lark, Myles, Cal State Fullerton, Academy, Monte Vista
February 3rd, 2013 at 1:48 pm
@MVAL Soccer Fan They are locks to finish .500 or better overall and in Division I. So they are qualified. There are three ways to qualify.
February 3rd, 2013 at 3:25 pm
@Matt I concur with your playoff picture. Question, what are the three ways to qualify for NCS?
February 3rd, 2013 at 3:49 pm
You just need to be .500 or better overall, in league, or within your division.
February 3rd, 2013 at 6:02 pm
Is Liberty D1 or D2?
February 3rd, 2013 at 6:14 pm
Liberty is D I.
February 3rd, 2013 at 6:15 pm
From the TCAL commissioner…
Only the league champs make NCS. The tourney winner doesn’t get an auto bid. Unfortunately I don’t think El Cerrito can get in.
February 3rd, 2013 at 7:11 pm
@Matt regarding TCAL tourney, if that’s true then why even have an end of year tournament?
Seems silly.
February 3rd, 2013 at 7:40 pm
@ebaldad, agreed.
February 3rd, 2013 at 9:05 pm
Big game tomorrow #1 Acalanes Vs #9 Hayward
February 3rd, 2013 at 9:08 pm
Matt If hayward beats Acalanes would this put hayward in the top 5
February 3rd, 2013 at 9:49 pm
Would a tie be enough for Dublin in their last game against Campo?
February 3rd, 2013 at 9:50 pm
@Haywardplayer Great question. I’d have to see how everyone else did, but a win over the No. 1 team deserves a jump for sure.
February 3rd, 2013 at 9:50 pm
@Sideline Yes, by my calculation a tie does the trick.
February 3rd, 2013 at 10:03 pm
Can mt eden go to ncs, kinda confused?
February 3rd, 2013 at 10:07 pm
Matt with this update you received about WACC, how do those teams look if they are “on the bubble” in your prediction with 2 games left this week? in other words, what are the scenarios that can happen
February 3rd, 2013 at 10:41 pm
@Matt Smith no actually its not just the league champs that make ncs because st.marys,pinole valley, and de anza have basicly made ncs
February 3rd, 2013 at 10:41 pm
Tuesday game between Pinole vs albany at pv 6 should be a intresting game. Last year these teams played and albany knocked pinole out of NCS
February 4th, 2013 at 1:16 am
@Scout, what Matt meant to say is that league champions are automatic qualifiers. Teams that are not league champions can apply as well, as long as one of their 3 records (overall, league or against teams in the same division) is equal to or is above .500. Indeed, all the teams you mentioned will very likely get in.
February 4th, 2013 at 2:56 am
@Scout Cokito is right about what I am saying. You have to read my whole post above the comments, where I mention all the teams that are locks to go to NCS, etc… where I mention the teams you are talking about.
@WACC Arroyo and Castro Valley both need to go 2-0 in the final week to qualify. San Leandro needs to win once or draw twice to qualify. That’s all that has changed. I don’t think Alameda can get in.
@Soccer boy Mt. Eden is still qualified for the playoffs right now, and are in the running to go to the NCS playoffs.
February 4th, 2013 at 6:43 am
Three games planned for CVHS Dougherty (non league)Mt Eden (away) and Berkeley (home). THree games in one week…who does that?? REALLY
February 4th, 2013 at 8:10 am
Many teams play 3 games in one week. Not out of this world.
February 4th, 2013 at 8:17 am
@11 v 11 agreed Hayward also plays 3 games this week
February 4th, 2013 at 9:00 am
Sure some do 11 v 11, not the best timing for CVHS at such a critical juncture especially when not having a very deep bench.
February 4th, 2013 at 9:02 am
Hayward also has a deep bench with many interchangeable players.
February 4th, 2013 at 9:03 am
Hayward also has a much better tactician at coach…
February 4th, 2013 at 9:11 am
“It’s an unremitting league and, if you make mistakes, you get punished” Sounds like the EBAL
But it is Sir Alex of MUFC regarding the EPL.
Livermore vs DLS at Liv 6pm Tuesday
Cal at DLS Thursday 6pm and it is also Senior Night for the Spartans.
February 4th, 2013 at 9:14 am
@ Shinguard…it sure is.
February 4th, 2013 at 9:26 am
NCS should be interesting as no one team is truly standing out other that Acalanes. I think it will be the teams that truly hunker-down and keep the 1 game at a time focus that will make it through to the final. Most everyone is down to the final 2 league games and need to Do It in-order to claim a spot in NCS destiny.
February 4th, 2013 at 9:43 am
I’ve seen where teams schedule games last minute to see if they can improve record to become eligible.
Should there be a time limit of when you can schedule games???
February 4th, 2013 at 9:55 am
Almost everybody has a couple of 3 game sets worked into schedule. And all are posted as they need to be approved.
In some cases last min changes occur as a team for whatever reason decides to drop then a team is looking for a other to fill in…but again it all has to be approved which takes a little bit of time to run through the proper channels.
February 4th, 2013 at 10:14 am
@ Matt
Any thoughts on who are the top 5 Impact Keepers in the Bay Area?
February 4th, 2013 at 10:34 am
@Stewie Impact players is a great question, because it’s asking something different than top players. I love it… Impact players to me are guys who can take over a game and really leave their mark….
Ayala, Montes, Greenberg, Damian, Murgia, Joey Jones, Helfrich, Solomon, Grixti, Rigo Castillo…
I gave you ten instead.
February 4th, 2013 at 10:39 am
@ Matt…Top 5 Impact Keepers was the question ?
But I like the 10 players that you presented.
Besides Wilcox and Konstatino who else shows great skill and college potential at the position??
February 4th, 2013 at 10:48 am
Keepers… Sorry, I misread…
Konstantino, Wilcox, Jimenez from Concord (he’s hurt now, but hopefully back for playoffs), Rogstad from Acalanes (probably the most underrated) and I like Scott Walker from CP.
February 4th, 2013 at 10:59 am
Do you know anything on the New kid out in Livermore, have heard he is helping turn things around with the Cowboys. Good strong Keeper who is trained and receives GK specific training can have a major impact and make an avg team above avg and a good team excellent.
February 4th, 2013 at 11:42 am
I have not heard of this kid from Livermore, but I shall inquire.
February 4th, 2013 at 12:40 pm
Matt
If Irvington beats Logan this Wednesday and ties or beats Washington on Friday, do you think they get into the tournament? That would make them 7-7-8, finishing 2nd or 3rd in league. Or is there non-league record going to hold them back?
February 4th, 2013 at 12:46 pm
@MVAL Soccer Fan To me Irvington is the most interesting bubble team. It’s hard to keep them out if they finish ahead of Logan in league, but Logan has played a better non-league schedule, and has a draw against Berkeley and a resounding win against College Park.
I know league finish is emphasized by the committee, so I think it’s almost a necessity for Irvington to finish ahead of Logan in league to have a shot.
February 4th, 2013 at 1:10 pm
Interesting. Should make for an exciting game on Wednesday.
February 4th, 2013 at 1:17 pm
what happens if less than 16 teams qualify for D2 ncs?
February 4th, 2013 at 1:59 pm
@Dval If less than 16 teams qualify, then there will be byes for the top teams. So if there are 15 qualified, then the No. 1 seed gets a bye, 14 qualified and the top two will get byes, etc…
February 4th, 2013 at 5:34 pm
@ Matt or anybody else who can answer.
The Burning question is: What is the rule on the clock? some games its simply goes down to 00:00 and ref indicates clock stoppage, then you are at another game and the clock runs down to 2 min and CR picks up time from that point on and adds time even if during the game he has indicated clock stoppage. Is this by div, leagues or coaches agreement? Seems very funky. ???
February 4th, 2013 at 5:36 pm
@Itsabobb It varies by league. The EBAL is the only one that I know of that runs it to zero. I’m not a big fan of doing that. It leaves the ref no discretion to add a few seconds here and there for stalls/delays in the waning moments.
February 4th, 2013 at 5:41 pm
So right now there are nine teams currently qualified and there are five spots left in the Division I bracket. I ran the teams numbers through my formula and spit this out. This is just based on numbers, and doesn’t factor any of the human element that I actually use when I do my rankings and my seeding predictions.
1. Freedom
2. Logan (tie)
2. Deer Valley (tie)
4. Antioch
5. Mt. Eden
6. Dougherty Valley
7. Washington (tie)
7. Irvington (tie)
9. San Leandro
February 4th, 2013 at 5:45 pm
Hey, one thing Miramonte is actually 5-7-4, and if they win out who do you think would get the NCS playoff spot between them and Dublin, both teams are in the same league and Miramonte beat Dublin twice, how do you think an NCS committee would look at strength of schedule on this.
February 4th, 2013 at 5:46 pm
Thanks seen both at EBAL games
February 4th, 2013 at 5:46 pm
I just heard that Nick Lima is in uniform and warming up for Castro Valley prior to tonight’s game.
February 4th, 2013 at 5:49 pm
@DFAL #1 Yep, I have Miramonte at 5-7-4. If Miramonte wins out and it was one spot open between them and Dublin, I would say Miramonte gets it based on winning both head to head games.
February 4th, 2013 at 5:53 pm
@Matt what your guess on the final 5?
February 4th, 2013 at 5:55 pm
I think the three BVAL teams are getting in, I’m pretty sure Logan will and then I’d have to guess Mt. Eden. However, if Irvington or Washington go 2-0, and Mt. Eden do not, I’ll take one of them.
Dougherty Valley is the wild card. With three games this week, if they win them all, I’m taking them, if Mt. Eden doesn’t win both.
February 4th, 2013 at 6:53 pm
Castro Valley 2, Doughtery Valley 1 at half
February 4th, 2013 at 7:33 pm
I’d like to think that Irvington or Washington could sneak in if they get a tie and a win this week. If Irvington ties Logan and beats Washington or if Washington ties Newark and beats Irvington I think one of those teams deserves to make it.
Both teams had good weeks last week so they are on a high. I’m extremely interested to see how this last week plays out. But my money is on one of these teams sneaking in!
February 4th, 2013 at 8:05 pm
Matt, the GK for Livermore is Logan Gruidl, he was brought up from JV. I belive he is a freshman. He has done a good job in goal even when under heavy pressure. Sometimes his lack of experience peeks through but I think if he stays the course he will enchance the Cowboys especially next year.
February 4th, 2013 at 8:24 pm
Anybody have the Hayward Acalanes score?
February 4th, 2013 at 8:29 pm
Acalanes 2 – Hayward 1
Final
February 4th, 2013 at 8:33 pm
Wow just seen two of the best team Hayward had Acalane what a game it went back and forward Cata goal was Amazing its to bad that Hayward did have Luigi to day in the middle this is a preview of a final am buying this should be the two top.seeds .great game Hayward 1 Acalane 2
February 4th, 2013 at 9:20 pm
Dougherty Valley 2-2 Castro Valley
February 4th, 2013 at 10:20 pm
Clocks -
Matt is right EBAL is the only one that runs it to zero and that only happens on a few fields. The EBAL refs do control the time. You need to watch for the refs for clock stops and starts. Stop the ref will raise his/her arms and cross them to stop and do a wind up or whistle to start again. The refs have to meet with the stadium time keeper before the match to go over the coordination of the calls. If the refs thinks that the time keeper is not doing a good job the ref can have the clock adjusted or take over the job. I have done both.
Clock stops on PK’s, injury, cards, goals…most of the time the ref adds time but this is not how the rules state for HS. HS the clock is stop time not add time.
February 4th, 2013 at 10:36 pm
Good game tonight Dougherty@CVHS. Castro Valley finally started playing like I know they can when the leash is off. Wingers were allowed to attack and shoot as well as the midfield playing to its potential. Lima played a few minutes but both goals came (#21 Josh G. #27 Brian P.) when he was not on the pitch.It was nice to see Lima in uniform, could have used him a few games ago.Dougherty’s goalie is a man-child.
February 4th, 2013 at 11:31 pm
The MVAL might have a very interesting week, with Washington and Irvington both having work to do. However, between the two, I would say Irvington makes it. They are on fire right now and they have a very good chance to beat both Logan and Washington. If that happens and some teams that are fighting for a D1 spot struggle, Irvington should benefit.
Also a little surprising to see Logan struggle recently, but at the very least they should be able to beat MSJ. If they do end up losing to Irvington and Washington, then Logan might be sweating it out just a little bit.
February 4th, 2013 at 11:36 pm
Made a mistake in my last post. Logan is facing Irvington and MSJ this week, not Washington. Must have gotten confused with the teams’ schedule.
Also Matt, you said Moreau Catholic will get in if they win out. They have two winnable games agianst MSJ and American this week, so do you still envision them making the playoffs if they beat both teams?
February 5th, 2013 at 12:27 am
I am a former player on the Encinal Jets High School Soccer team, and I wanted to voice my displeasure on our program. I don’t think my school cares about our soccer team at all, because we have suffered too many losing seasons and no real changes have been made. We’ve been through 4 different coaches in the past few years, and yet none of them have been able to guide us to a winning program. We are just a laughingstock around the East Bay, and I want things to change.
I know that this is not the right platform for this message, and I don’t want to get you in trouble Matt. However, I would appreciate if everyone that was posting on this blog would call Joe Mariscal, the Encinal A.D. and tell him that the boys soccer team at Encinal deserve better. I hate to see so many hard-working kids have their efforts go for nothing, and I’ve had just enough of this nonsense. I know not everyone is an Encinal fan, but if you are a fan of the game, then you must know that what has been going on at my school is ridiculous and changes must be made.I encourage everyone to call (510) 337-7000 or send a letter to
210 Central Ave, Alameda, CA 94501.
All the other Encinal sports are successful, why can’t the boys soccer team be the same?
February 5th, 2013 at 6:55 am
Alhambra has a big challenge on Wednesday with Acalanes at least the Dogs are at home.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:17 am
NCS update -
The Center Ref WILL keep time this year, however the clock should be close to the refs from pre-game meetings.
Enjoy the playoffs.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:30 am
@Tri-City Dude Moreau has played a very good schedule for a Division II school. If they win out, they are in for sure.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:35 am
@Depressed You certainly wouldn’t get me in trouble for saying you want the program to turn around. I’m sure everyone understands. It certainly takes time, and I hope it does get turned around.
I’ve heard the coach you have now is a very nice guy and cares, so maybe he’s the guy that leads you towards success. Here’s to hoping.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:01 am
Every school has different priorities. Having a coach and some good parent support is a big help. Somebody has to be willing to step up and organize and encourage the participation so that over time someone else can step-up and keep the momentum going. ie team dinners , uniforms, equipment most is related to fundraising. The effort needs to also be prioritized between coaches, administration, parents and players. Good Luck on the island.
February 5th, 2013 at 11:22 am
@ Depressed, can empathize with you on the lack of interest being payed to a soccer program. I will say this though the boys and the coach showed nothing but class even when getting beat badly (a shame on any team that felt necessary to pile on the score against Encinal)and never gave up,at least during the game I witnessed. Sometimes its the unfortunate draw of kids that come out during tryouts as well as an AD who lacks the knowledge or doesnt see the benefit in a program that is struggling. High school soccer in many cases is NOT a money maker. SOme here will say its the “Pride” of playing HS Varsity soccer but pride only gets you so far when a school has back to back to back lackluster seasons. If you get the chance to talk to those boys tell them to keep their heads up…they have heart.
February 5th, 2013 at 2:38 pm
@Depressed Encinal Player
Just like to say that I think the Encinal Coach is doing the best he can with what he has to work with.
I know it is a small school and I do not know if some players are ineligable, but the team currently does not have enough skilled players on their roster to compete at the high school level.
I would give the players a lot of credit for enduring the beatings they have taken, and I saw them never give up, and play with courtesy on the field,
Hope in the future more athletes at Encinal take up soccer
February 5th, 2013 at 2:39 pm
Hey Matt, why do you think MSJ was not able to play well this season, as it seems that they had a very good team, and the looked to be a lock at at least 3rd in league.
February 5th, 2013 at 5:06 pm
Thanks for your opinion on Moreau, Matt. Moreau has some really good players, mainly but not limited to Chris Torres. If they can get more consistent goaltending and defense, they could be dangerous if they make it to the playoffs.
MVAL Soccer Fan, I think MSJ had a decent team. I had my doubts about them in the beginning, because I envisioned them finishing no better than 6th in the MVAL. I think the league is much stronger than what people thought it was, so I think MSJ’s struggles have more to do with the emergence of Kennedy and Irvington this year.
Of course, I really have no definite answer to MSJ’s struggles, except that they might have underestimated some other teams in the MVAL.
February 5th, 2013 at 5:10 pm
@MVAL Soccer Fan I think, even MSJ players/coaches will admit this, they have had trouble finishing this year. Very talented team who possesses the ball well and plays with a fire in the belly. I really enjoyed watching them play. If they finished better, they’d be playoff bound for sure.
February 5th, 2013 at 5:14 pm
Depressed Encinal Fan, I understand your concern and frustration with the Encinal boys soccer program. Encinal has some very good sports programs including football, both boys and girls basketball, softball, girls soccer, and baseball. Every school can’t expect to be successful in every sport, but since you are surrounded by such great sports teams, I can understand why you feel slighted.
I wouldn’t blame you coach or AD too much, I think they are genuinely doing their best to improve that team. At the very least your coach has taught you guys how to be a classy player, and I rather have players with good sportsmanship and losing seasons rather than a arrogant team that wins a lot. The only thing I can say is that to keep your head held high and hope for the best.
February 5th, 2013 at 5:15 pm
Hey guys,
I’m looking for all boys players from the East Bay who are signing a letter of intent to play at a four-year school.
Please let me know who and which school.
February 5th, 2013 at 5:45 pm
Emmanuel Jimenez is hoping for a return for Concord. Possibly a playoff return.
February 5th, 2013 at 6:26 pm
DLS up 2-0 on Livermore.
February 5th, 2013 at 6:34 pm
DLS up 4-0 now.
February 5th, 2013 at 6:36 pm
MV up 1-0 on Granada.
February 5th, 2013 at 6:37 pm
St. Mary’s beat Salesian 4-0. I don’t believe Salesian is playoff eligible.
February 5th, 2013 at 6:46 pm
Concord 0-0 Northgate at halftime. Northgate withstood an early Concord rush and stood tall for the rest of the half.
February 5th, 2013 at 6:46 pm
DLS up 5-0 at half.
February 5th, 2013 at 6:47 pm
Concord – Northgate tied at 0-0 halftime
February 5th, 2013 at 6:47 pm
0-0 AV @ SRV at half.
February 5th, 2013 at 6:47 pm
MV up 4-1. EBAL MVP, or should I see Greenberg, with a hat trick.
February 5th, 2013 at 6:56 pm
Cal 0-0 FH at half.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:04 pm
I see what you did there …
February 5th, 2013 at 7:05 pm
SRV up 1-0 with 30 left.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:06 pm
DLS up 6-0.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:11 pm
Another injured Pittsburg player at Deer Valley game getting transported by helicopter for what appears to be a head injury. Game 0-0
February 5th, 2013 at 7:21 pm
Hoping that Javier is okay for Pittsburg…
February 5th, 2013 at 7:24 pm
Northgate up 1-0 on Concord.
Hercules up 2-0 on El Cerrito.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:31 pm
DLS up 7-1. MV up 4-2.
Northgate up 1-0 late.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:31 pm
Hercules up 4-0.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:36 pm
SRV 1 and AV 0 final.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:37 pm
Prayers out to the Pittsburg kid….that is crazy and makes me sick. Life is a bit more than a game.
February 5th, 2013 at 7:59 pm
Foothill 1 Cal 0. Clark scores will 5 seconds left in match.
February 5th, 2013 at 8:16 pm
Concord-Northgate final?
February 5th, 2013 at 8:39 pm
Albany 1 pinole 0. alabany won in overtime. golden goal.
February 5th, 2013 at 8:46 pm
1-0 Northgate Final.
February 5th, 2013 at 8:58 pm
Albany is playoff eligible, even with a loss in the next round to Richmond.
February 5th, 2013 at 8:59 pm
Hercules wins 6-0.
Richmond wins 3-0.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:00 pm
Where is Goalboy when you need the Freedom score?
February 5th, 2013 at 9:02 pm
DV beat Pitt 1-0.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:02 pm
DLS 8 Livermore 1 Final
Don’t need to say much about this game but everyone played.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:08 pm
CP 4-1 Clayton
February 5th, 2013 at 9:08 pm
Antioch 3-2 Heritage
February 5th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
Freedom 4-1 Liberty
I think with the wins, Freedom, Antioch and Deer Valley are in the playoffs.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:13 pm
Northgate’s win over Concord was due to some strong work all the way around – aggressive offense and rock-solid defense. Well deserved.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:14 pm
MVAL Soccer Fan and Matt
Gonna have to respectfully disagree gentleman . I’ve seen the majority of MSJ games this year and many other games in MVAL. I don’t think they hold the ball very well. They are mostly a long ball team into their speedy forwards, one of which named Noah, is a solid player who creates off of mistakes and simply by being physical. I think MSJ is properly represented by their standing in league play. Newark, Logan, Irvington, Kennedy, and Washington are all better teams from what I’ve seen. Better coaching and much more discipline.
To be honest, as a former MSJ player, I’ve been appalled at the lack of discipline from their coaching staff on their players in many circumstances this year. But that’s a whole different story.
Again, just my opinion and I respect both of yours very much with the comments I have read on here.
Go MVAL!
February 5th, 2013 at 9:23 pm
@Stalwart Agreed. Concord hit them with a wave early, they stood tall and played well the rest of the way.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:28 pm
Northgate is the only team to beat Concord in league, and the second to beat them this season. Nice work.
My man of the match would be (surprise), Allan Foster. His strong presence on the field had a huge impact on the game, and he was all over the pitch tonight. Strong work as usual by Northgate’s defense, they held off attacks well.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:35 pm
@Matt – Sorry I didn’t come through with a quick score on the Freedom game:) But I see it has been posted already: Fredom 4-1 Liberty. Jorge Cendejas (4 assists). So you think Freedom, Antioch and Deer Valley along with Pittsburg will get in to the playoffs? Interesting. I think they’ve all earned it.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:37 pm
Regarding Northgate…who was the Keeper ??
Sounds like a good game.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:47 pm
Good game Northgate.
They held strong , Concord tried over and over and it just wasn’t there game.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:52 pm
@Stewie
Max Sonnier. He played very aggressively and tactically intelligent. Didn’t have to stop many shots, but that’s probably because Concord seemed afraid to go near him.
It was a great game, one of those intense and exciting matches when both teams have a strong passion to win.
February 5th, 2013 at 9:56 pm
EBAL title race coming down to the final day with DLS leading MV by one point. DLS vs Cal and MV vs SRV! should be able to catch both of them with the MV vs SRV start time set at 4 and DLS game at 6!
February 5th, 2013 at 9:58 pm
Max is good and has presence in the goal. I have seen other games when he is not in or at 100% but he has that impact and plays low shot also well.
February 5th, 2013 at 10:17 pm
Christian Clark or should I say EBAL MVP with a header goal with 5 seconds left to give Foothill a 1-0 victory over Cal!
February 5th, 2013 at 10:19 pm
Anybody has news from the Pitt kid who was hurt today? My thoughts and prayers are with him, his family, his teammates and his coaches.
February 5th, 2013 at 10:40 pm
No news but it looked serious. Both teams took a knee at midfield after the game and said a prayer for the player. I think we will know more tomorrow.
February 5th, 2013 at 11:09 pm
What happened to the Pitt player? (Prayers sent)
February 5th, 2013 at 11:18 pm
Matt- re yr post #48 on impact players, looks like your list is made up of offensive players. So want to lob up a defensive player who definitely has made an positive impact in every game – Beto Rodriguez #18 at Foothill. He always hustles,has great vision for the game and is excellent at anticipating play. Beto also can skillfully play any position. He is a true impact player.
February 5th, 2013 at 11:25 pm
The hurt player from Pitt is Javier Valencia, apparently he took a knee to the head. Someone close to the family told me he was released from the hospital and is now home.
February 5th, 2013 at 11:48 pm
Thanks, Goalboy.
February 6th, 2013 at 1:13 am
Thanks for the kind comments everyone. I know that our current coach is not that bad, but I want to see results eventually, not just some nice guy.
Bobo at #84 and Waterboy @#85, you both make a point when you say we are a small school and do not have many people come and tryout for our team. However, the same could have been said about any of the sports at our school because all the teams bascially draw from the small amount of kids that go here. If that was the case, our football, basketball, softball, and baseball teams would never succeed because there would never be enough skilled people trying out. The only reason all of those teams do well is because of how good and consistent their coaching is; the boys soccer team is not blessed with that.
I really do appreciate the kind comments, but I am tired of hearing “keep you head held high” and “there is always next year.” For some people (including myself) there is no next year. I love my past, present, and even future teammates because we all care for one another. But to see mediocrity as our standard is unacceptable for anyone and ruins what competitive sports should be about.
If I get enough people, I really hope to start some protest at Encinal’s last game at Piedmont, maybe people could hold up signs showing our displeasure with the team. At least some way of showing that this will not stand anymore.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:49 am
@Matt…Any way to get current league standings after tonight’s set of games and Matt says…work work work
February 6th, 2013 at 6:50 am
@foothillfan
Nice Goal by Clark at end of game. But it should not of happened. The faked injury by #18 stopped the clock at end of game. I know its part of the game to do what you can to win the game. But that was way to obvious to all in attendance. That was a nice bit of acting to say the least. Where is Wilcox for Cal? He has been missing for 2 games now.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:54 am
They only let him out of the box when they play DLS.
PS Good to hear that the Kid from Pitt is OK.
February 6th, 2013 at 7:03 am
Call-Out to All Dog Pounder’s…Support your favorite Bull-Dog and get out to Alhambra (6:15) as they take on the Mighty Don’s of Acalanes. Friends, Families and Persons of Interest are all welcome.
GO DOGS
February 6th, 2013 at 8:00 am
Updated standings from the two leagues that played…
DVAL
Ygnacio Valley (14-3-4, 9-1-1) 28
College Park (11-8-4, 8-2-2) 26
Concord (11-2-5, 6-1-4) 22
Northgate (11-5-6, 5-4-2) 17
Berean Chr. (6-9-3, 3-6-2) 11
Mt. Diablo (1-9-2, 1-8-2) 5
Clayton Valley (0-20-2, 0-10-1) 1
EBAL
De La Salle (14-3-5, 9-1-3) 30
Monte Vista (15-3-4, 9-2-2) 29
San Ramon Valley (14-5-3, 8-3-2) 26
California (16-5-2, 7-5-1) 22
Foothill (11-6-5, 5-5-3) 18
Amador Valley (11-9-3, 3-8-2) 11
Livermore (4-14-4, 2-9-2) 8
Granada (4-13-4, 1-11-1) 4
February 6th, 2013 at 8:06 am
Christian Clark is definitely not the EBAL MVP. He is a very, very good player, but has not had as good of a season as many other players.
Matt – Greenberg, Konstantino, Grixti, Panconi (cooled off a bit), and Jones (long shot) are all better suited for POY than Montes this year… I would say 95% of spectators would agree.
February 6th, 2013 at 8:35 am
Spurty oops, I mean Sparty fans might agree, but Montes has more goals than the lot put together. And a boatload of assists to boot. He can also defend.
February 6th, 2013 at 9:00 am
Forgot the BVAL…
Pittsburg (12-3-5, 6-1-2) 20
Deer Valley (9-7-4, 5-2-2) 17
Antioch (9-5-5, 5-3-1) 16
Freedom (11-9-2, 5-3-1) 16
Liberty (4-8-3, 1-6-2) 5
Heritage (2-13-3, 0-7-2) 2
February 6th, 2013 at 9:02 am
@MustangFan I think 95 percent is a bit high. We should try not to use so much hyperbole.
Luckily, I don’t have any biased towards the EBAL and I try to cover everyone equally and look at all players objectively. When I make my POY decision, you guys will know it came from a very intelligent, and informed decision.
February 6th, 2013 at 9:15 am
@mustangfan, my argument for Clark for EBAL MVP; 11 goals, 12 assists, leading team to first NCS appearance since 2006 and possible first round home game!
February 6th, 2013 at 9:30 am
Andrew Konstatino GK for the Spartans would be a strong candidate for POY. Keeper in 2 NCS Championships and a possible 3rd this year should the Spartans prevail, that would be hard to ignore.
February 6th, 2013 at 9:32 am
MVAL Alumni, Matt, MVAL Soccer fan,
On behalf of my team, I have to say that we clearly didn’t reach our goal this year in regards of making NCS. I will agree on the fact that we did underestimate our opponents in MVAL. We’ve had coach-player issues throughout the season and it’s only brought us down. Matt, we really appreciated that you came to our game last Friday, it was a true pleasure. MVAL Alumni, MVAL Soccer Fan, thank you so much for following us this season and for following the rest of the league with all the suspense and curiosity the league had to offer this season. Our team could have gotten a lot further if there was more discipline and if we played as a team of 11 than as 11 individual players. Overall, this team needs a makeover for the future as history has just been repeating over itself each season with similar play-style and coaching tactic. It’s unfortunate I have to leave as a senior without reaching NCS, but I couldn’t ask for a more exciting MVAL league to finish off with.
February 6th, 2013 at 9:32 am
pinole valley and albany was a battle last night kept going back and fourth. Pinole valley’s defense kept them in the game and Max lovelle #4 last man played a good game with the long balls and communicating. In the end albany won about 2 minutes into overtime with a shot from the 25 to get in the back of the net. Should be interesting to see both these teams in NCS.
February 6th, 2013 at 9:47 am
@Matt…Looks like Everton will have a job to do Sunday vs the Red Devils and Sir Alex of Old Trafford.
GO MUFC
February 6th, 2013 at 10:06 am
Big day in the MVAL, with Logan against Irvington and Newark against Washington. Both have huge implications regarding the playoffs, and it will be interesting to see who will step up and show that they belong in the playoffs.
February 6th, 2013 at 10:13 am
Depressed Encinal Player, I know that it is hard for someone to hear that you should keep you head high when it has not resulted in any victories the past few years. Again, I do not blame you for your frustrations. However, I think you might be going a little to far with your proposed protest at Encinal’s last game against Piedmont. Not only is is distracting to the Encinal players, coaches, and fans, it is also distracting and disrespectful to the Piedmont players, coaches, and fans. I don’t think a school would appreciate it the opposing players/fans came over to their own place and start some protest. Piedmont is focused on the playoffs, and something like this protest could be detrimental to their playoff run. I think you would be better off writing some letters or emails to the AD. We don’t need to get out of hand and make this a Occupy Encinal group.
February 6th, 2013 at 10:28 am
@Shinguard It’s a big Sunday for me as I will wait to see if my seeding predictions are accurate, and will hope the Toffees can get a point at Old Trafford.
If I know anything, I would count on The Great Fellaini to have some heroics and help salvage a draw.
February 6th, 2013 at 11:28 am
By the way, I have exactly 16 Division II schools qualified right now. If Dublin can get a win or a draw and Moreau wins out, some teams are gonna be left out.
February 6th, 2013 at 11:57 am
@Sweeper, looks like you were at the SRV vs AV match… what? no commentary? do tell!
February 6th, 2013 at 12:01 pm
The Sweeper has been very silent lately… I’m not a big fan of losing the commentary of my right-hand man.
February 6th, 2013 at 12:07 pm
FHS 1 – Cal High 0 – Clark, definitely at the top of my list for league MVP, scored the game winner with a classic header with 5 secs left in the game. This was a clean game with both sides having chances and good combination plays. FHS deserved to win. Clark, as usual, was marked by 2-3 Cal players all evening, including the final winning header.
How can anyone not consider Clark for POY/MVP? As indicated, he is marked by 2-3 players ever game, yet he has 11 goals and 12 assists on the season, both among the league leaders. Other players like MV Greenberg, and Cal Grixti have several quality supporting players. These guys are not marked the way Clark is, yet he continues to deliver. Just another unbiased view by @Happy Feet.
@BigFan – you obviously are a Cal fan. I was actually at the game as I was wondering how FHS would respond to beating Cal earlier this season but playing Cal at home. The injury at the end was not faked, the Cal player clearly cut the FHS player from behind and he twisted his ankle. The ref always has the right to stop the clock; the clock running down on a last second foul and stopping is just not soccer. Do you watch soccer at all? In all leagues at all levels, the refs can add extra time and will call the end of the game.
February 6th, 2013 at 12:13 pm
I’ve been told Clark has 12 goals now.
February 6th, 2013 at 12:32 pm
Happy Feet
Yes, I watch a lot of soccer. And yes if Beto twisted a ankle I apologize, with that said the 40 yd sprint he made to the box makes me believe my eyes. As I was saying earlier Foothill doesn’t have enought time to set up a set play with 15seconds left if not for the stopage after the foul. Meaning less of a chance for that type of finish. But it was a nice finish by Clark.
February 6th, 2013 at 12:57 pm
@Bigfan. Congrats to Foothill on the win; they seeemed the better team in the 2nd half. IMO you are right about the ref adding time; it’s up to their discretion – that is how the game goes. Anyway, Clark is definitely a gamer making many big time plays this year and should be in the mix for EBAL MVP. Cal’s Grixti is another big time player but probably needs Raynor to help out e.g. holding the ball, drawing defenders and creating attacking space for Grixti. Raynor has missed 4 league games (3 with a concussion and last nite with a red card suspension) missing both Foothill matches; Cal has lost all 4 of those games scoring no goals. Without Raynor and some of the other starters, Grixti really is a marked man!
February 6th, 2013 at 12:59 pm
message # 165 was meant for Happy Feet but Bigfan is more than welcome to read.
February 6th, 2013 at 1:23 pm
Thanks @oldsoccerhead. Love your name btw.
My purpose is to try and stay unbiased concentrating on the facts of the games I get to see. It is fun having a season with no clear standout team to take it all in the playoffs. I am feeling San Ramon High is playing well at the right time for a good run.
February 6th, 2013 at 4:40 pm
Score of the Mt. Eden/CVHS game ??
February 6th, 2013 at 4:46 pm
Huge game for Dublin. Campo@Dublin! Can go either way! Dublin will be fighting hard for NCS, its their senior night and they tied Alhamra who beat Campo! Campo will bring it hard considering their head to head win 2-0. Thoughts and predictions?
February 6th, 2013 at 4:59 pm
Hey Matt,
Sorry for the silence, but I back and ready for the NCS selection and seeding party on Sunday, WooHoo!
Nacho Don, SRV continues to create more havoc than any team, but the finishing is not there, for whatever reason. If they can just finish, like in the Acalanes match, they will put up crooked numbers in the playoffs. AV is 0-4 when I am in the house, so I promise not to jinx them unless they make it to the ship.
See you at the pitch!
February 6th, 2013 at 5:13 pm
1-0 Mt. Eden over CVHS….well guess thats it for CVHS unless Matt, you have a magic formula in your bag of stats to get them into NCS.
February 6th, 2013 at 5:21 pm
@Bobo I think that’s all she wrote…
February 6th, 2013 at 5:31 pm
AGAIN…LOL
February 6th, 2013 at 5:46 pm
Logan 0 Irvington 0. Logan dominated the game, but couldnt finish their chances.
February 6th, 2013 at 5:59 pm
Irvington officially playoff eligible.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:01 pm
@Matt If Logan beats MSJ on friday what seed is Logan looking at?
February 6th, 2013 at 6:03 pm
I thought the Logan v Irvington game was pretty even. Logan definitely had more of the ball in the second half but Irvington had some chances also. Each team easily could have won.
Draw was a fair result. Logan is pretty much in NCS nut if Irvington can win on Friday they will have a decent shot of getting in.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:08 pm
O’Dowd 2 – Arroyo 1
February 6th, 2013 at 6:11 pm
@Jose I think Logan is looking at a 12/13 seed and will probably play someone like SRV or Richmond.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:14 pm
Just about to start here at Campo. Dougherty Valley needs a win.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:16 pm
If Dublin beats Campo, who would they play and what seed would they be…(according to your estimates)
February 6th, 2013 at 6:19 pm
Oakland Tech 3-2 Castlemont
February 6th, 2013 at 6:20 pm
Underway at the Dog house.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:20 pm
@Stripes I have Dublin as about an 11 seed if they win/draw Friday. If that happens, I’ll give you an even more accurate estimate on Saturday.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:24 pm
Dougherty up early on Campo 1-0 on Gala’s 22nd goal.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:29 pm
Dons 1, Dogs 0 after 10.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:35 pm
Campo possesses the ball quite nicely. Fun to watch.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:50 pm
Campo level. 1-1. Nearly halftime.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:50 pm
2-0 Dogs down.
February 6th, 2013 at 6:59 pm
1-1 halftime.
February 6th, 2013 at 7:20 pm
O’Dowd// Arroyo was a good match. Could have gone either way, but the Dragons got a great shot for a second goal. Arroyo has a LOT of talent and it had to be hard to play ALL of their games away.
Props to the boys and good luck to O’Dowd in NCS.
P.S. the O Dowd coach is a real piece of work….Yak..Yak… Yak…
February 6th, 2013 at 7:22 pm
@Mudhen Why did Arroyo have to play all their games away?
February 6th, 2013 at 7:33 pm
Dons still up 2-0 with 20 left and cruising…
February 6th, 2013 at 7:36 pm
Campo up 2-1.
February 6th, 2013 at 7:54 pm
Campo wins 2-1.
February 6th, 2013 at 7:54 pm
Acal wins 2-0. Very uneven officiating.
February 6th, 2013 at 8:31 pm
Anybody have results from Newark v Washington – Moreau v Mission – or an update on American v Kennedy?
February 6th, 2013 at 8:32 pm
Line 193: The Panconi family would appreciate it if you wouldn’t list yourself as Ben Panconi’s mom. Neither my wife nor I write on this blog and think its a joke for someone to list themselves under our name. I want to thank so many of you for reaching to see how Ben’s feeling. He will be back on action very soon. Dad Panconi
February 6th, 2013 at 8:35 pm
CR missed a very bad deliberate flop flop by Acalanes.
Was looking right at the dive. Dogs hung hard entire game
February 6th, 2013 at 8:47 pm
Great game tonight. Both teams with a lot of chances could have been a very high scoring game. Piedmont wins 2-1 #10 Matt B scores 2 goals and really dominates on the field. What does that do for piedmont making NCS and seeding? Piedmont has a similar record to Dublin and played a very strong schedule.
February 6th, 2013 at 9:01 pm
@Dad Panconi Apologies for that. Comment has been deleted. I’ll try to make sure it doesn’t happen again.
February 6th, 2013 at 9:03 pm
Newark 2-1 Washington
@Piedmont Fan Piedmont is officially eligible. Should get in. I’d say 11-14 seed range.
February 6th, 2013 at 9:06 pm
Matt,
Alex Marques from Hercules High scored 2 goals lastnight against El Cerrito. If you can please add that to his goal count.
Thank you
February 6th, 2013 at 9:07 pm
So Matt, you’ve identified some keepers you like and many offensive players worth following. Any defenders caught your eye this year?
February 6th, 2013 at 9:12 pm
Hey Matt,
Where does NG sit in your NCS seeding for DII?
February 6th, 2013 at 9:16 pm
@matt yeah I like #204′s question
February 6th, 2013 at 9:16 pm
Hayward 12 Encinal 2
February 6th, 2013 at 9:26 pm
@RoyKeanefan I have really been a big fan of Matt Marletta from Berkeley all year. I think he is a fine defender. Also, the Salvador kid from Deer Valley.
It’d be safe to say I like nearly the entire back lines for Monte Vista and De La Salle, so I’m gonna watch them very closely over the next few days to really see which guys I like.
Graham Lindgren from Acalanes is another one I like very much.
@TapTap I see Northgate sitting around the 6-7 seed area.
February 6th, 2013 at 9:30 pm
I like Kyle Schumman from SRV as well.
February 6th, 2013 at 9:47 pm
Hey Matt,
What’s the tiebreak for ebal? Is it head to head, goal differential, or the two teams are just tied?
February 6th, 2013 at 9:57 pm
@Matt Smith Thank you.
February 6th, 2013 at 10:04 pm
For #169, i predict that Campolindo will edge out Dublin by a margin of 3-1. I attended the Campolindo game today and saw that the Cougars were really possession-minded. They played the ball very nicely today. I haven’t been to as many Dublin matches as i’ve wanted but i’ve heard that they have a few threats up top who could really test Campo’s defense. Should be a great game!
February 6th, 2013 at 10:12 pm
MSJ 4, Moreau 1
February 6th, 2013 at 10:23 pm
berkeley 1-0 alemeda. from what I heard the ref wrongly called back a bicycle-kick by Marletta
February 6th, 2013 at 10:41 pm
@bobby fair match, well played on both sides. Marietta did connect with a over head kick after the play was stopped and ball bobbled its way into the back of the net. Was a stoppage of play anyways. No defending or goalkeeping involved in that after-whistle display. Unfortunate Alameda couldn’t stay more consistent through out this year they actually try to play very nice soccer. Cannot wait to see how they bounce back next year. Good luck to Berkeley In NCS. Tip* Thier outside backs don’t pinch in well, luckily they have Marletta to save them
February 6th, 2013 at 10:53 pm
Matt..what seed do you think Kennedy(Fremont) going to get? and who will they most likely play against?
February 6th, 2013 at 11:01 pm
Kennedy 3-2 American! It was a good game…Both teams fight hard until the last mins!
February 7th, 2013 at 12:51 am
Went to the Newark-Washington game where the Cougars won by a score of 2-1. Good action and good scoring opportunities from both teams, but Newark had better possesions and better control with the ball. Washignton put up a good fight for a team trying to make a push for the playoffs, but Newark was just too much for the Huskies to handle. At this point, I don’t envision Washington being able to make the playoffs unless something crazy happens.
Matt, is Moreau now eliminated after their loss to MSJ? I certainly hoped I did not jinx them when I said they had 2 winnable games this week to make the playoffs.
February 7th, 2013 at 3:27 am
Matt, Arroyo is having a new field installed.
February 7th, 2013 at 7:02 am
@Monreal Kennedy-Fremont is definitely getting in, and I think they’ll play someone like Bishop O’Dowd or St. Mary’s in the first round.
February 7th, 2013 at 7:03 am
@Ebaldude12 I’m actually looking into that right now.
February 7th, 2013 at 7:10 am
@Mudhen Hope they install a normal color and not”Pitch”- Black like at CV-C excuse the pun.
February 7th, 2013 at 7:14 am
In Soccer rule # 1 is No game is ever winnable until minute 90 and even then the CR can add 5 min extra time and guess what….*F*%%%%G..D&$^&??
February 7th, 2013 at 7:19 am
@EBALdude Tie Breaker is Chariot Races at Winton Drive.:)
February 7th, 2013 at 7:25 am
The Tie Breaker: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=huBZIFEfK4U
February 7th, 2013 at 7:30 am
Matt… SRV’s Carter Zetterquist has the best 1 v 1 tackling technique I have ever seen. He is a shut-down defender. If he were playing in NFL he’d be Deion Sanders or Darelle Revis…. (i.e.- he takes away 1/3 of the field, you might want to try the other side)
February 7th, 2013 at 8:10 am
Hopefully he’d be as good as Leon Sandcastle.
February 7th, 2013 at 8:13 am
Mine is Better..The EBAL Tie Breaker
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sq-uMIZGETs
Hope it is a game format not some dumb shoot out or statistic.
February 7th, 2013 at 8:33 am
If EBAL is a tie hopefully it will be settled on the pitch Saturday in a regulation game and not go the PC route and have a shared league title. I say game on if needed.
February 7th, 2013 at 8:51 am
@Tri-City Dude Moreau Catholic is eliminated from playoff contention, by my calculations.
February 7th, 2013 at 9:31 am
@matt smith Who do you think pinole valley will play and what seed in NCS do you think they will get.
February 7th, 2013 at 9:33 am
@Scout I think Pinole is going to be in the 11-13 range, and play Concord, Northgate or St. Mary’s.
February 7th, 2013 at 10:18 am
@Matt, do you still think Amador Valley has a lock on an NCS spot? After a good early start their record in the second half of the season hasn’t been great, with just one win in the last ten games. On the plus side, one of those non-wins was a tie with De La Salle, and four were 1-goal losses to Monte Vista, Cal, and San Ramon Valley.
February 7th, 2013 at 10:25 am
@Soccer2014 Ya, AV is an absolute lock. With their schedule and some of the results they have, they’ll be in long before a lot of other teams. The resume is too strong to be left out.
Really at this point in Division I, tomorrow’s Washington v. Irvington winner stays alive (loser is probably done), Mt. Eden would help itself with a win, but a draw is probably fine, Dougherty Valley has to win to have a shot. I think it’s those four teams for the last spot.
February 7th, 2013 at 10:51 am
Matt,
Knowing that DVAL is wrapped up and the standings wont change **
The YV vs Concord game… how big as in seeding is this game?
February 7th, 2013 at 11:11 am
@11v11 It’s a big game for seeding purposes, no doubt. I actually think a YV loss could cost them the No. 2 seed. It probably goes to Campo if YV finishes the season with three losses in the last couple of weeks. For Concord, I think a win over YV probably jumps them over Hayward and gets them the No. 4 seed. Possibly.
February 7th, 2013 at 11:15 am
@Matt Does Cal have any chance against DLS tonight without Wilcox in Goal?
February 7th, 2013 at 11:24 am
@Bigfan I never count out Cal. Too much talent, a very good tactician and motivator in Coach Faidley, and Jake is a good keeper so they should be fine there. I’m actually expecting Cal to play very well.
February 7th, 2013 at 11:43 am
Where are the NCS games going to be held?
February 7th, 2013 at 11:46 am
@Srvdad The NCS games will be hosted by the higher seed. On some rare occasions, a lower seed will be a league champ, and therefore will be allowed to host.
February 7th, 2013 at 11:48 am
So the tiebreaker for EBAL (if MV draws and DLS loses) will be head-to-head. So, they will be co-EBAL champs, but for purposes of the automatic berth into NCS, DLS gets it by being 1-0-1 against MV.
February 7th, 2013 at 11:53 am
Cal can never be overlooked.
But what happened to Wilcox ?
That is a tough blow if he is out however I do agree that the back-up GK is solid.
February 7th, 2013 at 12:22 pm
What time is the SRV vs MV game tonight?
February 7th, 2013 at 12:23 pm
That game is at 4:00.
February 7th, 2013 at 12:29 pm
Alameda/Berkeley was a pretty good game. The battle of the midfield was an excellent one. I was impressed by Alamedas Trio of #6, #14 and #3, I believe was his number. The game was played on the ground with great ball movement from both teams. A very even game that was settled by a good individual play by Berkeleys forward. As someone else had mentioned, Alameda was inconsistent this year, but they have shown they can play with the best. I am also looking forward to seeing them next year…..It’s wonderful to see a program, that was in shambles 5 or 6 years ago, now having a bright future. I think a lot gas to do with the
February 7th, 2013 at 12:35 pm
Double Header MV then DLS
February 7th, 2013 at 12:35 pm
Sorry, I got cut off…..as I was saying, a lot has to do with the players pushing themselves to be better and challenging themselves to play at a competitive level. Before, the players were content in playing rec, or class three but now the vast majority are playing in state A teams or B teams . This is something Encinal needs to do. Their coach can only do so much in 3 months. He does, however need to change the culture of the team so current players and future ones go out and play at a higher level.
February 7th, 2013 at 12:37 pm
Yep, DLS will be starting around the time MV is finishing up. DLS will know exactly what they need to do.
February 7th, 2013 at 12:45 pm
Incredible stat…
Acalanes will enter the playoffs undefeated at 20-0-3 and has allowed only 10 goals all year.
February 7th, 2013 at 12:58 pm
@ Faint I have only been told that Wilcox is unavailable. Possibly thru NCS. Congratulation to Acalanes
February 7th, 2013 at 1:06 pm
And the Dons have 14 shutouts in 23 matches with only one match where the opponent posted a crooked number…
Some say boring, but the facts speak for themselves.
February 7th, 2013 at 1:13 pm
@Matt, you are correct, Christian Clark, 12 goals, 12 assists, Bobby Sehrgosha, 8 goals, Nick Goldstein, 7 assists for Foothill. Looking forward to cross-town rival Amador Valley tonight, always a great match!
February 7th, 2013 at 2:05 pm
So who do you guys think the EBAL MVP should be?
My top three candidates are Greenberg, Clark and Konstantino.
February 7th, 2013 at 2:15 pm
Matt,
How many goals/assists have each of the top EBAL scorers made in league matches, and what did they do against Konstantino & Company? Also, what are Konstantino’s stats in league and non-league?
These factoids should shed some additional light on the 2012-13 EBAL MVP slate of suspects.
February 7th, 2013 at 2:20 pm
@Sweeper Great point. I’ll have to look into that.
February 7th, 2013 at 2:38 pm
Matt,
Are we predicting league MVPs excluding the NCS playoffs or after the ships?
Without seeing the stats, I am picking the DLS field as EBAL MVP (Most Valuable Pitch)…though it will not be part of the championship match.
See you at the pitch!
February 7th, 2013 at 2:42 pm
Haha, we pick them based on pre-playoff performance.
East Bay POY is a different category.
Who will win Most Valuable Pitch in the playoffs?
February 7th, 2013 at 5:07 pm
Any score yet from the SRV v. MV game??
February 7th, 2013 at 5:11 pm
0-0 early second half.
February 7th, 2013 at 5:28 pm
MV 1-0 now.
February 7th, 2013 at 5:37 pm
Five minutes left at MV.
February 7th, 2013 at 5:39 pm
LaCommare saves a goal by inches. MV still holding on.
February 7th, 2013 at 5:43 pm
MV wins 1-0.
February 7th, 2013 at 5:46 pm
EBAL standings…
Monte Vista 32 points
De La Salle 30 points, coming into tonight’s game.
February 7th, 2013 at 5:50 pm
Howd the teams look tonight? Fluid or fight ball battle for league?
February 7th, 2013 at 5:53 pm
Hopefully Sweeper can give us the breakdown.
February 7th, 2013 at 6:16 pm
DLS takes 1-0 lead early on.
February 7th, 2013 at 6:21 pm
Sweeper asks, and he shall receive. Some stats on Konstantino…
10 clean sheets
6 of his 14 goals against were in SD, and three of them were PK’s. Four PK’s total. Only 10 goals from the run of play.
5 goals allowed in league. Greenberg scored one of them.
February 7th, 2013 at 6:27 pm
Checking in from Hercules, Hercules without Romero starting. Should be an interesting game against St.Mary’s
February 7th, 2013 at 6:39 pm
FH up 1-0 on AV.
February 7th, 2013 at 6:39 pm
1-0 Foothill. Cody Hall from 30 out.
February 7th, 2013 at 6:47 pm
DLS 1-0 at halftime.
February 7th, 2013 at 7:01 pm
Joey Jones converts a 1 v. 1 and it’s 2-0 DLS.
February 7th, 2013 at 7:05 pm
Hercules up 1-0
February 7th, 2013 at 7:06 pm
Hercules up 1-0 at half.
February 7th, 2013 at 7:14 pm
AV levels with FH. 1-1.
February 7th, 2013 at 7:30 pm
St.Mary’s equalizes with 20 minutes left
February 7th, 2013 at 7:36 pm
Northgate 3-1 Berean
February 7th, 2013 at 7:41 pm
DLS wins the EBAL. 2-0.
February 7th, 2013 at 7:44 pm
St.Mary’s up 2-1
February 7th, 2013 at 7:58 pm
St.Mary’s 2 Hercules 1 Final
February 7th, 2013 at 8:02 pm
@matt earlier I hear the NCS seedings are coming out this saturday and lately have been hearing sunday? when are your predictions and the actual NCS seedings released? just clarifying thanks
February 7th, 2013 at 8:37 pm
Final AV 1 – Foothill 1
February 7th, 2013 at 8:53 pm
@Bobby It will be Sunday, guaranteed. My seeding predictions come out Saturday.
February 7th, 2013 at 8:56 pm
Concord 2 – YV 1
YV is over rated.
Concord is the real deal.
February 7th, 2013 at 9:01 pm
great thanks again
February 7th, 2013 at 9:03 pm
Looking for the Clayton/Mount Diablo score, if anyone knows it.
February 7th, 2013 at 9:30 pm
Clayton-2 Mt. Diablo-1
February 7th, 2013 at 10:10 pm
YV got hit by grades hard.
Congrats to Clayton, for their last game of the season they got the win!
February 7th, 2013 at 10:15 pm
Granada/Livermore score, anyone?
February 7th, 2013 at 10:16 pm
I think YV sat most of their starters tonight.
February 7th, 2013 at 10:30 pm
@Matt solid game tonight at DLS. Good to see you, last time was 3 yrs ago in box during showcase.
Very Special evening for the seniors and the Brotherhood.
Looking forward to NCS and your assessments of the teams.
February 7th, 2013 at 10:33 pm
@Shinguard Good to see you again. DLS looked very tough. Very, very tough.
Can’t see them not being the top seed.
February 7th, 2013 at 10:43 pm
Matt Smith- No big guy, they didnt sit there starters.. They had everyone. The big Tata and Edgar played 15 mins 1st half and the whole second half. They didnt have what it took to be the underdogs concord!
February 7th, 2013 at 10:46 pm
@matt if Kennedy beats Newark tomorrow, will that help them get a better seed?
February 7th, 2013 at 10:48 pm
@Champ
1. Don’t condescend me and call me “Big Guy” or any other term in which you are speaking down to me again. I don’t do that to people and I expect the same respect in return.
2. I’m going on information I received directly. So you say they didn’t, someone else says they did. Big deal.
February 7th, 2013 at 10:49 pm
@Jose You bet a win like that would help Kennedy. I think it would help quite a bit, actually. Could bump them up two spots.
February 7th, 2013 at 10:50 pm
@Matt Tuning in a little late. Had dinner with the wife
BVAL scores:
Freedom 2-0 Deer Valley
Pittsburg 1-1 Antioch
I saw the first half of the Pitt-Antioch game. Boy does Pitt miss their injured players Beruen, Vasquez, Valencia, etc. They may not be as strong in the playoffs as expected. They look flat. But playing in Antioch’s grass field is always difficult. The Panthers know how to use it to their advangtage. Still the Pirates are the BVAL Champions!
I also caught most of the second half of the Freedom-DV game. If the first half was anything like the second half, wow, what an intense game. I heard Cendejas scored an amazing goal in the first half. Freedom closed the season strong with 4 straight wins and only 1 goal against (an ongoal). I believe they qualify for NCS in all 3 categories. Intersting to see how many teams will make playoffs from the BVAL.
Your thoughts Matt?
February 7th, 2013 at 10:54 pm
@Goalboy I think Pitt, Freedom, DV and Antioch are all in. I’m moving Freedom in as a lock. They are definitely in, there is no doubt. I also heard Cendejas had a nice goal and an assist.
Good you had dinner with the wife! I am having date night with Miss Idaho tomorrow. They deserve our attention
February 7th, 2013 at 11:02 pm
@Matt Honestly, I would be surprised if at least 3 BVAL teams don’t get in the playoffs. Four would be great. I had the opportunity to see all four teams this season and I think all four are deserving. And I agree, Freedom should be automatic at this point.
My friend, you are a smart man. You are absolutely right. The ladies are deserving of some quality time to be putting up with our addiction… Soccer! LOL! Have a great date night with Miss Idaho. Looking forward to your weekend reviews.
February 7th, 2013 at 11:08 pm
I don’t understand why Bob of DLS isnt talked about being in contention for EBAL MVP. The kid has been consistently outstanding all season long! My pick no doubt
February 7th, 2013 at 11:13 pm
Yv has been playing reserved the last games do to the fact that they made ncs and that even with losses they would still win the league (matt did they win it??) and do to the fact that this is it for manny of its talents, they have played loose and sloppy with over confidence getting to them yet knowing their only focus lies in ncs, they let games slip, but will see a diffent yv in ncs, especially since they havent gotten past the second round the last few years, it will be interesting this year the dons are still solid tho so if no suprises it might be the dons who take it. Or will odown defend their tittle?
February 7th, 2013 at 11:14 pm
Nic Bob is a very, very fine player.
February 7th, 2013 at 11:20 pm
Doesn’t YV losing hurt their NCS seed, because the better the seed the easier the teams you play?
February 7th, 2013 at 11:23 pm
@HalaMadrid Yes, YV won the DVAL.
@CR7 There is a chance that YV fell behind Campo in the seeding. Probably not behind Hayward, because of head-to-head, but maybe even behind Concord despite the league finish. My guess at this point is that they are the No. 3 seed.
February 8th, 2013 at 12:02 am
In NCS the seeds don’t really matter. Look at what happen to Acalanes last year. I think YV will get the #2 seed over Campo.
@Champ: So you are saying that YV didn’t rest players and Ayala and Damian only played 15 minutes in the 1st half? Those two players never come out of the game for YV so if they only played 15 min they were obviously resting.
Did Aguilar and Zumaya play?
Acalanes is the favorite and if they continue to play the way they have been doing so, then they should win the title.
February 8th, 2013 at 1:04 am
@dfal1 aguilar played 15 minutes the first half as well. zumaya sat the whole game due to a minor ankle injury, couple of JV players played in this game against concord as well. YV for sure resting and not worried about seeding for NCS. now its just a matter of what YV team will show up for NCS is the real question. If they play their game then they have a chance to win it all. Acalanes still extremely strong and a very organized side but i think will fold in the championship to someone. Concord plays dirty and off a ton of emotion but they can have a good run. I think St. Mary’s is a very underrated side that also have a good shot. O’Dowd is the defending champs but i just dont see the talent to take it all this year. Hayward is an overrated side to me but still have key players that can take over a game. dont know much more about other teams but the DII NCS should be very interesting and i cant wait to see how it all unfolds
February 8th, 2013 at 5:24 am
Nice tie by Amador after being down 1-0.Goal scored by #7 Pangia.Still believe that Amador has talent pool as a team that can upset higher seeded teams in the NCS tournament.What are your thoughts Matt relating to AV in the NCS?
February 8th, 2013 at 5:40 am
Richmond 1 Albany 0 Final
February 8th, 2013 at 5:42 am
Lets go oilers ⚽⚽⚽⚽⚽⚽⚽⚽
February 8th, 2013 at 7:21 am
@Matt, Although I am a loyal fan of the the Spartan and a fan of HS soccer you would be hard pressed not to take a long look at Nic Bob and Andrew Konstantino for MVP and POY Both of these players have been outstanding as 3 year Varsity players and are key anchor players and leaders. They have also achieved 3 consecutive NCS Championships as a member of Spartan Soccer.
February 8th, 2013 at 10:28 am
Not a Spartan but would have to agree that Nic Bob should be considered for MVP. Heart of the DLS team.
February 8th, 2013 at 12:24 pm
@Champ
How is a team that has only lost two games this season and was undefeated in league until they played Northgate “underdogs”?
February 8th, 2013 at 1:21 pm
Nice to see Danny Ortega from Richmond score the game winner vs. Albany last night, off of an assist by Erik Montes. Since his return after being sidelined for 2+ weeks following his being knocked unconscious at DLS, he has been one of the best Oilers on the field, imho.
February 8th, 2013 at 2:13 pm
Matt, Granada vs. Livermore tonite @ Livermore. 6:00.
February 8th, 2013 at 2:26 pm
Hoping that the rain does holds up today, because I am excited to see the Irvington-Washington match. The winner of the game keeps themselves alive for playoffs contention, while the loser is probably done for the year.
On antoher note, any idea who the MVAL MVP is Matt. There is a lot of good players to choose from.
February 8th, 2013 at 2:58 pm
@Wolfpack..That is for sure, heart and soul and is well respected by his teammates.
And NO I am not related.
February 8th, 2013 at 3:05 pm
@Matt #268
Thanks for the additional detail on Konstantino’s stats. In EBAL he had clean sheets in 8 of 14 matches or 57%, and gave up 6 goals for a goals per match average of 0.47! And when the Spartans were shutout 4 times in EBAL matches they were 0-1-3, and those three points ended up making a difference in the final standings.
OK, Konstantino is on my short list for EBAL MVP.
February 8th, 2013 at 3:13 pm
1v1 by Joey Jones was as smooth as silk and calm as a clam enjoying a day on the beach. Just think he will still have his junior and senior seasons with the Spartans.
February 8th, 2013 at 3:19 pm
People wonder why DLS has such success.
See dot . focus on dot . See new dot . focus on dot .
See dot run…..get back into Focus > . <
February 8th, 2013 at 3:30 pm
Many people don’t wonder why DLS has such success. Many people have good ideas of the reasons for their success.
February 8th, 2013 at 3:45 pm
My sad attempt at humor regarding >.< is just one of the many aspects of which the total package is comprised of at DLS. Acalanes also has been able to stay in focus, as they have accomplished much this season.
February 8th, 2013 at 3:59 pm
Excellent coaching at DeLa over the years, obviouslt football, basketball, baseball, water polo, socreer, track and field, volleyball, lacrosse and rugby. AD Leo Lopez and his predecessors have the mojo going right.
February 8th, 2013 at 4:00 pm
I think I better take a spelling class! Sheeeeet!
February 8th, 2013 at 4:15 pm
I like that, Spartan MoJo ! has all the makings of a classic T-Shirt
Big Shout out to my Dog Pounder’s and the Dogs Do It
February 8th, 2013 at 5:58 pm
@Tri-City Dude I think Sandoval or Raygoza for MVAL MVP, but maybe there is someone I am missing.
February 8th, 2013 at 7:05 pm
Half Time at Miramonte.
Miramonte is up 1 – 0 vs Alhambra
February 8th, 2013 at 7:20 pm
Tied 1-1 Miramonte with handball in box Alhambra converts PK
February 8th, 2013 at 7:34 pm
Miramonte 3 – Alhambra 1 about 20min to go
February 8th, 2013 at 7:37 pm
Hayward 2 Slz 0
even the referees we’re trying to help slz referee horrible. Hope Hayward is ready for Ncs .good luck
February 8th, 2013 at 7:38 pm
Dublin 1 Campo 0 25 mins left.
February 8th, 2013 at 7:39 pm
O’Dowd 2 – Mt. Eden 0
February 8th, 2013 at 7:58 pm
Miramonte 4 Alhambra 1 > FINAL
February 8th, 2013 at 8:14 pm
Final Dublin 1. Campo 0
February 8th, 2013 at 8:49 pm
Livermore 0 – 0 Granda. It was a exciting game, with several shots on goal. The GK for Granda made some great saves to keep it at 0-0
February 8th, 2013 at 8:55 pm
Nice Win for the Junior Heavy Dublin Team at Home on Senior Night against a Campolindo Team that many deservedly think is one of the Top Division II Teams. Hard Fought Victory that also earns Dublin 3rd Place in DFAL.
February 8th, 2013 at 9:01 pm
Time for NCS Seeding predictions!
With De La Salle as a virtual lock at #1 in D1
who comes next? As Matt has said his rankings and NCS seedings aren’t exactly the same science.
Showing a clear bias, but I do think correct, my next in order would be:
Monte Vista
Berkeley
San Ramon Valley
Richmond
Pittsburgh
California
Foothill
Amador Valley
no ideas after that
your turn
February 8th, 2013 at 9:34 pm
Foothill should be ranked higher then Cal or Pitt. Foothill beat Cal twice and tied Pitt. Plus they play in much tougher EBAL. Foothill deserves no worse then a 5 or 6 seed.
February 8th, 2013 at 9:42 pm
DLS
MV
SRV
Richmond
CAL
PITT
FH
AV
6 out of top 8 in EBAL. wow
February 8th, 2013 at 9:49 pm
Hey all, I had a nice date night with Miss Idaho. Tonight and tomorrow I will be crunching numbers and coming up with my seeding predictions. Please feel free to direct any questions my way.
Sweeper, are you going NCS Ninja again and posting my seedings, Martin Luther style?
February 8th, 2013 at 9:58 pm
@ The Sweeper
May I ask how many saves Konstantino has made to keep De La in the game. Yes he may have had multiple shutouts, but what about De La’s defense? I’m not trying to be rude or take away any of the success of Konstantino’s year but without a stout defense, shutouts are impossible. Where I’m getting at is, could de la salle be where they are with another keeper? I just believe MVP or POY should be awarded to the player that has been VITAL the overall success of the team. For example, let’s say Clark from foothill. How many wins would foothill have without his presence. Or even Grixti and Greenberg.
February 8th, 2013 at 10:01 pm
Piedmont v. Encinal score, anyone?
February 8th, 2013 at 10:03 pm
Soccerbro, no Berkeley?
February 8th, 2013 at 10:04 pm
Could also use the Newark v. Kennedy score. Anyone?
February 8th, 2013 at 10:10 pm
Dublin vs Campo ref was possibly one of the worst I have ever seen. Some refs need to learn advantage. Despite that, Dublin earns a good win, punch their ticket to NCS!
February 8th, 2013 at 10:11 pm
totally forgot berkley right after MV also. good catch ebaldad. My reasoning for them behind MV is they tied the head to head but MV had a tougher scheadule
February 8th, 2013 at 10:13 pm
Newark 3-1 Kennedy!It was a good game!1-1 at half time..Kennedy goalie made some mistakes in second half and cost them the game!
February 8th, 2013 at 10:14 pm
Anybody knows score from Logan vs. Mission? n Irvington vs. Washington?
February 8th, 2013 at 10:22 pm
Logan 1-0, Irvington 2-1.
February 8th, 2013 at 10:26 pm
@Matt Smith
Thanks Matt…will you have the NCS D1 and D2 bracket by tomorrow or Sunday???
February 8th, 2013 at 10:31 pm
I will have it by tomorrow evening, as soon as I get the results from Richmond v. St. Mary’s and SRV v. MSJ.
February 8th, 2013 at 10:33 pm
Thanks..Matt
February 8th, 2013 at 10:47 pm
Right now my computer ranking likes MV the best, and shows Freedom safely in.
February 8th, 2013 at 10:48 pm
do you think Kennedy (Fremont) will have a home advantage?
February 8th, 2013 at 11:03 pm
@Monreal That one is a tough call right now. I can see them anywhere between an 7-10 seed.
February 8th, 2013 at 11:08 pm
so it depends on the other team as well???
February 8th, 2013 at 11:11 pm
Indeed it does. I’ve got to look at the numbers very closely, but I see a battle for a top eight position.
February 8th, 2013 at 11:57 pm
okay…can’t wait for your result! Thanks Matt!
February 9th, 2013 at 7:31 am
Matt, computer ranking?
no need to share the algorithm
but perhaps you can enlighten us on your variables
I’m guessing that MV’s strength of total schedule is a big factor in your computers thoughts. As well as results of course.
February 9th, 2013 at 7:32 am
Current EPL
DLS
MUFC
MV
ManCity
SRV
Arsenal
Cal
Everton
Oh wait I was having a dream
February 9th, 2013 at 7:55 am
De La Salle Team Improves with each game, deep bench
Monte Vista Good when on all cylinders
San Ramon Valley Needs to pull it together
Richmond A dash of discipline with creativity will help
California Wilcox factor needed & willpower by others
Foothill Put it all together can do something
Pittsburgh Will need to dig deep too many bandages
Amador Valley Can Hang for 40 and that’s about it.
Newwark Predictable and fades physically
Berkeley a faint flicker of light tactical game soft.
February 9th, 2013 at 8:08 am
Stewie I think you underestimate Berkeley quite a bit. But we shall see. NCS spoiler? Watch out for Foothill.
2nd NCS spoiler? The league champions that get to host even though they are a significantly lower seed! 3rd NCS spoiler? Admission prices!
February 9th, 2013 at 8:27 am
Berkeley 1, Castro Valley 0…CV held them off well
February 9th, 2013 at 8:32 am
@EBALDad I use something that considers strength of schedule, quality wins and record so that my seedings aren’t just totally based on my opinion. I see what the computer spits out and then I organize my predictions based on common sense.
For example, the computer really loves Cal, but I think they’ll be a few spots lower than the formula says.
February 9th, 2013 at 8:35 am
DLS Bench, Call it the Lurk Squad, anybody can come in and Boom Boom they just hit you with a goal. Yes they have the usual suspects but when the battle goes into the trenches somebody out of nowhere gets the job done. Spartans seem to thrive on the NCS run. Not saying they cant be beat, but whoever would, will need a total game on to accomplish that feat.
February 9th, 2013 at 8:50 am
@ Matt..do you have all the game results on non ebal teams that played EBAL teams Can you Post?
February 9th, 2013 at 9:26 am
Matt…Did You come up with more than 16 Teams qualifying in D II.
February 9th, 2013 at 9:44 am
@Itsabob I do have that information, but that would take me a while to post. Not sure I’ll have the time today with the seeding predictions and stuff I’m working on.
@DFAL Fan There are 17 teams qualified in Division II. One will be left out.
February 9th, 2013 at 10:04 am
DIVISION II SEEDING PREDICTIONS
1. Acalanes
2. Ygnacio Valley
3. Hayward
4. Campolindo
5. Concord
6. St. Mary’s
7. Hercules
8. Northgate
9. Kennedy(Fremont)
10. San Lorenzo
11.Dublin
12. O Dow’d
13.Alhambra
14. Pinole
15. Albany/ Deanza
16. Piedmont
From seed #8 and below it gets very hard. I think they can change a lot.
February 9th, 2013 at 10:06 am
@Matt…Thanks will help in strength of schedule evaluation. Also who of notable strength has Acalanes taken on?
February 9th, 2013 at 10:11 am
D II
1. Acalanes
2. Hayward
3. Campo
4. YV
5. Hercules
6. Concord
7. Northgate
8. St. Marys
9. Kennedy(Fremont)
10. San Lorenzo
11.Dublin
12. BOD
13.Alhambra
14. Pinole
15. Albany/ Deanza
February 9th, 2013 at 10:13 am
D II
1. Acalanes
2. Hayward
3. Campo
4. YV
5. Hercules
6. Concord
7. Northgate
8. St. Marys
9. Kennedy(Fremont)
10. San Lorenzo
11.Dublin
12. BOD
13.Alhambra
14. Pinole
15. Albany/ Deanza
16. Piedmont
February 9th, 2013 at 10:20 am
Stewie,
YV has a head to head win on Hayward(5-2) which I think will help them get the #2 seed. Campo also lost last night which should drop them.
St. Mary’s just beat Hercules and has a good overall record and should be in front of then and Northgate easily.
February 9th, 2013 at 10:26 am
The new stuff is up: http://www.ibabuzz.com/prepcorner/2013/02/09/boys-soccer-seeding-predictions-rankings-standings-stats-2/
@Itsabob Acalanes has beaten SRV, College Park and Freedom who are all Division I playoff teams. They’ve also beaten YV, Campo and Hayward who will probably be the 2, 3, 4 seeds in Division II.
February 9th, 2013 at 10:27 am
@Dfal1 & @Stewie…Is Piedmont Your Team on the outside looking in after Albany & De Anza?
February 9th, 2013 at 10:51 am
I demand a live videocast of Matt Smith making the seeding predictions. He will hang each teams scarf on a board. Think signing day with hats; but not lame.
Make it so BANG!
February 9th, 2013 at 2:57 pm
DII
1. Acalanes
2. Hayward
3. Yv
4. Concord
5. Campo
6. St. Mary’s
7. Hercules
8. Northgate
9. Kennedy (f)
10. BOD
11. Dublin
12. San Lorenzo
13. Alhambra
14. Albany
15. Pinole
16. Piedmont / De Anza
Good luck to all.
February 10th, 2013 at 7:39 am
College park isnt in your guyses predictions??? Or they disnt make it?