- East Bay Prep Corner
Boys Soccer: Seeding Predictions, Rankings, Standings, Stats
By Matt Smith
Saturday, February 9th, 2013 at 10:04 am in Boys soccer.
There are two games tonight, but it probably won’t effect what I have come up with. If so, I’ll update it later. Without further adieu, here are my seeding predictions.
Remember, the committee has no idea who I am and I have no pull with them. These seedings are based on strength of schedule, quality wins and overall record, mixed in with my opinion on how the team is playing now, combined with how they’ve played over the course of the season. If I have a team on the outside, that doesn’t mean they won’t get in.
Division I
1. De La Salle
2. Monte Vista
3. Berkeley
4. San Ramon Valley
5. California
6. Richmond
7. Pittsburg
8. Foothill
9. Newark
10. College Park
11. Amador Valley
12. Freedom
13. Deer Valley
14. Logan
15. Antioch
16. Dougherty Valley
I feel like the top 15 schools are safely in, and my formula agrees. The fight for the 16th spot was close both with my formula, and with my common sense. I see almost no separation between Dougherty Valley, Mt. Eden or Irvington. I couldn’t decide which one I would choose if faced with having to pick one, so I picked the one the formula liked the most (It was very close). Don’t be surprised to see Mt. Eden or Irvington in. Very, very possible.
Division II
1. Acalanes
2. Ygnacio Valley
3. Campolindo
4. Hayward
5. St. Mary’s
6. Concord
7. Bishop O’Dowd
8. Northgate
9. Kennedy-Fremont
10. Hercules
11. San Lorenzo
12. Alhambra
13. Pinole Valley
14. Albany
15. Piedmont
16. Dublin
De Anza is the 17th qualified team, but strength of schedule and quality wins separate Albany, Piedmont and Dublin from them, I think. However, don’t be surprised if I am wrong. The team I don’t see being left out is Piedmont, because they 6-1-0 in their last seven games.
Rankings
The top five are unchanged, with some slight changes in the bottom part of the top ten. Hayward and Foothill make nice jumps while Pittsburg drops a few spots.
Newark Memorial jumps up two spots to No. 12 while Cal, YV and Campo each drop a couple spots.
On the consideration list, just outside the top 15, Northgate and Bishop O’Dowd see jumps, while Irvington makes the list for the first time this season.
1. Acalanes (20-0-3)
2. De La Salle (15-3-5)
3. Berkeley (19-2-3)
4. Monte Vista (16-3-4)
5. San Ramon Valley (15-6-3)
6. Hayward (17-4-3)
7. Richmond (15-4-5)
8. Foothill (11-6-6)
9. Pittsburg (12-3-6)
10. Concord (12-2-5)
11. California (16-6-2)
12. Newark Memorial (14-3-7)
13. St. Mary’s (14-2-3)
14. Ygnacio Valley (14-4-4)
15. Campolindo (15-7-2)
Others considered: College Park (11-8-4), Northgate (12-5-6), Bishop O’Dowd (11-7-2), Amador Valley (11-9-4), Kennedy-Fremont (10-7-2), Hercules (16-5-2), Freedom (12-9-2), Deer Valley (9-8-4), Antioch (9-5-6), Irvington (7-7-8)
Standings
BVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Pittsburg (12-3-6, 6-1-3) 21
Freedom (12-9-2, 6-3-1) 19
Antioch (9-5-6, 5-3-2) 17
Deer Valley (9-8-4, 5-3-2) 17
Liberty (5-8-3, 2-6-2) 8
Heritage (2-14-3, 0-8-2) 2
DFAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Acalanes (20-0-3, 10-0-2) 32
Campolindo (15-7-2, 7-4-1) 22
Dublin (8-8-4, 6-5-1) 19
Dougherty Valley (9-8-2, 5-6-1) 16
Miramonte (6-7-5, 4-5-3) 14
Alhambra (9-8-5, 2-7-3) 9
Las Lomas (1-12-6, 1-8-3) 5
DVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Ygnacio Valley (14-4-4, 9-2-1) 28
College Park (11-8-4, 8-2-2) 26
Concord (12-2-5, 7-1-4) 25
Northgate (12-5-6, 6-4-2) 20
Berean Chr. (6-10-3, 3-7-2) 11
Mt. Diablo (1-10-2, 1-9-2) 5
Clayton Valley (1-20-2, 1-10-1) 4
EBAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
De La Salle (15-3-5, 10-1-3) 33
Monte Vista (16-3-4, 10-2-2) 32
San Ramon Valley (15-6-3, 8-4-2) 26
California (16-6-2, 7-6-1) 22
Foothill (11-6-6, 5-5-4) 19
Amador Valley (11-9-4, 3-8-3) 12
Livermore (4-14-5, 2-9-3) 9
Granada (4-13-5, 1-11-2) 5
MVAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Newark Memorial (14-3-7, 10-0-4) 34
Kennedy (10-7-2, 7-5-2) 23
Logan (9-8-7, 6-3-5) 23
Irvington (7-7-8, 6-4-4) 22
Moreau Catholic (4-9-5, 4-6-4) 16
Washington (5-7-9, 3-5-6) 15
Mission San Jose (6-10-8, 3-6-5) 14
American (3-13-4, 1-11-2) 5
OAL
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Oakland Tech (5-3-2, 5-0-1) 16
Skyline (2-0-1, 2-0-1) 7
Castlemont (0-3-0, 0-3-0) 0
Fremont (0-2-0, 0-2-0) 0
Oakland (0-2-0, 0-2-0) 0
TCAL Rock
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Richmond (15-4-5, 8-0-2) 26
St. Mary’s (14-2-3, 8-1-1) 25
Albany (8-11-4, 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 (16-5-2, 9-0-1) 28
Pinole Valley (10-6-1, 7-2-1) 22
De Anza (8-6-2, 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 (19-2-3, 15-0-1) 46
Bishop O’Dowd (11-7-2, 10-5-1) 31
Alameda (8-11-5, 7-8-1) 22
Mt. Eden (7-11-6, 5-5-6) 21
Castro Valley (5-11-6, 5-8-3) 18
Arroyo (5-12-5, 4-9-3) 15
WACC Shoreline
Team W-L (overall, league) PTS
Hayward (17-4-3, 12-2-2) 38
San Lorenzo (10-5-2, 9-5-2) 29
Piedmont (8-9-1, 7-8-1) 22
San Leandro (5-11-4, 5-7-4) 19
Tennyson (3-17-3, 3-11-2) 11
Encinal (1-15-0, 1-15-0) 3
Stat Leaders
Name School Goals
Montes, Richmond 35
Ayala, YV 24
Cendejas, Free 23
Gala, Dougherty 22
R. Castillo, Hayward 20
Romero, Hercules 19
Berumen, Pitt 17
Al. Marques, Hercules 16
Solomon, Berkeley 15
Fink, BOD 15
Reiter, CP 14
Gray, Hayward 14
Greenberg, MV 14
Orozco, SL 13
Grixti, Cal 12
Clark, FH 12
Sandoval, Newark 12
Sandoval, Pinole 12
Name School Assists
Murgia, Pitt 20
Damian, YV 18
Alvarez, Richmond 16
Gomez, Hayward 14
Clark, FH 13
Bramvila, Richmond 13
Montes, Richmond 13
Croze, Acalanes 12
Cendejas, Free 12
Baringer, Pied 12
Espinoza, SM 11
Mendoza, Hayward 10
Ortega, Hayward 10
Torres, Moreau 10
Lindgren, Acalanes 9
Hamdouni, Berkeley 9
Gratsch, MV 9
Xu, Pied 9
Aguilar, YV 9
[You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.]
February 9th, 2013 at 10:10 am
Look out for O Dowd. They woke up and came on strong. Tough physical play more in line with an EBAL team than a lot of what you see on the water side of the East bay.
February 9th, 2013 at 10:29 am
Do you think Irvington’s strong finish may come into play with the committee? Ever since Edgardo Cuellar has come back they’ve been a different team. He has had to miss a few games to stay healthy and fit but he played the majority of the end of their league schedule according to their coach and he totally changed the atmosphere around this team.
Too bad he couldn’t have been healthy all year, Irvington could have made a little more noise.
Their game last night against Washington was another fun game to watch..
February 9th, 2013 at 10:35 am
I noticed you ranked Berkeley above MV, but you put MV above Berkeley in your ncs seeding predictions, how come?
February 9th, 2013 at 10:35 am
DI
1. De La Salle
2. Monte Vista
3. San Ramon Valley
4. Richmond
5. California
6. Berkeley
7. Foothill
8. Pittsburg
9. Newark
10. Amador Valley
11. College Park
12. Freedom
13. Deer Valley
14. Logan
15. Doughherty Valley
16. Antioch
DII
1. Acalanes
2. Hayward
3. Campolindo
4. YV
5. Hercules
6. Concord
7. Northgate
8. BOD
9. St. Marys
10. Kennedy-Fremont
11. San Lorenzo
12. Alhambra
13. Pinole Valley
14. Albany
15. Dublin
16. Piedmont
My final adjustments
February 9th, 2013 at 10:37 am
Who did Pitt lose to grades?
Also, if your picks stand, do you see any upsets happening in D1?
February 9th, 2013 at 10:42 am
Matt, does a league champ get home field throughout the whole playoffs or is that just first round?
February 9th, 2013 at 10:42 am
@Ebalman13 I just think finishing within a point of winning the EBAL, and the schedule that MV played, will be enough to get them seeded higher than Berkeley. Rankings and seedings work differently, because rankings take more into account for what you’ve done lately, and seeding takes the whole season as an overview.
@NCS Ready I don’t think Pitt lost anyone to grades of note. I haven’t heard of them losing anyone. They’ve lost a lot to injury. If my predictions hold in Division I, I see College Park giving Pitt a hard time, I see Freedom giving Richmond a hard time and I see Logan being feisty against Berkeley.
February 9th, 2013 at 10:43 am
Matt
Going to say that Berkeley may still have a chance at the #2 seed, looked at last year with DLS as EBAL winner with 1st seed. Cal was 17-3-3 and pulled 3rd seed with Richmond at 20-4-0 getting 2nd
Berk with 19-2-3 may just beat out MV at 16-3-4
February 9th, 2013 at 10:47 am
I dont really see Logan as a 14 seed. Consedering, they tied Berkeley, tied Newark twice, and beat College Park. I would consider them a 12/13 seed.
February 9th, 2013 at 10:49 am
@Waterboy I think you’re right. I think Berkeley has a great chance at No. 2. I actually think it’s like 51/49 in favor of MV, but it’s very close.
@Jose I agree with you talent-wise that Logan is better than a 14 seed, but some late season slips might hurt. We shall see.
February 9th, 2013 at 10:52 am
@Matt What are the chances Logan will be higher than a 14 seed?
February 9th, 2013 at 10:55 am
@Matt
Quote “I see Logan being feisty against Berkeley”
By the way would love to see Logan come to Berkeley and get off that “PUTTING GREEN” Turf.
February 9th, 2013 at 10:56 am
@Waterboy Logan is a lot better than they’ve played recently, and will be fired up and confident, considering they believe they can play with Berkeley. Just wouldn’t look past them, if Berkeley draws them.
February 9th, 2013 at 10:59 am
@NCS ready I know the questions for Matt, but it’s NCS! I can imagine at least 3-4 upsets in the first round per division! I can see Dublin and Alhambra pulling upsets in D2. (based on upset ability) For D1, Im not as knowledgable, would say that the top 8 look like they wont budge, but AV and Pitt both have ability to win. That’s why NCS is fun and soccer is the best sport!
February 9th, 2013 at 11:02 am
Do you know what time tomorrow the final rankings will be posted? Also, where will it be posted?
February 9th, 2013 at 11:07 am
@NCS Ready I think they usually have it posted around 11:00-12:00 in the afternoon, and it will be at cifncs.org I will also post it on here as soon as its released.
February 9th, 2013 at 11:08 am
@Sideline Exactly…
February 9th, 2013 at 11:10 am
Past History D 1 & DII Champions
2012: De La Salle / Bishop o’Dowd
2011: De La Salle / Campolindo
2010: De La Salle / Dublin
2009: DE La Salle / Acalanes
2008: Pittsburg / Campolindo
2007: Monte Vista / Las Lomas
2006: Monte Vista / Miramonte
2005: De La Salle / Bishop O’Dowd
2004: Berkeley / Miramonte
2003: De La Salle / Miramonte
2002: San Ramon / Northgate
2001: De La Salle / Miramonte
February 9th, 2013 at 11:13 am
5 peat for DLS ??time to move on to the EPL
February 9th, 2013 at 11:27 am
Based on Northgate’s upset over Concord, don’t you think they should be seeded higher? @Matt Smith
February 9th, 2013 at 11:28 am
Matt – Reading your potential seedings….. does Albany and Piedmont qualify based on their records? Albany (8-11-4, 4-5-1) and Piedmont (8-9-1, 7-8-1) both are one game under 500 as of your posting. Did they win last night which gave them a winning record for the season?
February 9th, 2013 at 11:37 am
DLS holy cow. Only other team in d2 to repeat recently is MV.
D2 looks to have less consistency and more variety.
February 9th, 2013 at 11:43 am
@Pitchman Albany is 7-6-1 in Division II games and Piedmont is 6-4-0 in WACC Shoreline games (that’s the league record that matters), and 5-5-0 in Division II games. Both are qualified.
@NCS! It certainly helps Northgate, but we have to look at everything as a whole. For example, Concord could say the same thing about YV, but we have to take everything in account that’s happened from day one.
February 9th, 2013 at 11:45 am
@Soccerbro I actually think D2 has less consistency. In Division I, 10 of the last 12 titles have been won by the EBAL/Private schools while in Division II, 11 of the last 12 have been won by the DFAL/Private school.
February 9th, 2013 at 11:48 am
Re: #20 – true that NG beat Concord. And the 5 losses incl 2 to YV, one to Acalanes. That’s a good year.
February 9th, 2013 at 11:49 am
@waterboy and @mattsmith..looking at the seeding criteria I’d say Monte Vista goes #2 based on record vs common opponents. Since Berk and MV tied head to head..
*MV>Logan, Berk tied Logan
*MV>Rich, Berk lost to Rich
*MV>Pitt, Berk lost to Pitt.
Got these results from MaxPreps so please let me know if they are not accurate.
100
February 9th, 2013 at 11:53 am
Northgate also had a point during season were they had been hampered by injury.
February 9th, 2013 at 11:54 am
@Scoreboard That is all accurate. I also had a hard time putting MV down to No. 3 because my formula spit them out at No. 1. Another team I had trouble with was Cal. My formula loved them, but I could actually see them getting seeded behind Foothill because of losing twice to the Falcons.
February 9th, 2013 at 11:56 am
Matt, when do all league teams come out?
February 9th, 2013 at 11:59 am
@Grizzzz I’m sure they’ve been selected, but not released.
February 9th, 2013 at 12:00 pm
Would say that Dublin should be above Albany and Piedmont. So 14 seed for them?
Wow DFAL is definitely the strongest league for D2 and EBAL for D1.
February 9th, 2013 at 12:13 pm
The time to hesitate is through. Come on baby light your fire! Good luck to all. Be champions!
February 9th, 2013 at 12:14 pm
@mattsmith That’s what I meant but my words did not follow my thoughts.
February 9th, 2013 at 12:42 pm
@Matt
How many of the 16 teams did you get right last year? Not correct seeds just correctly in the tournament.
February 9th, 2013 at 12:51 pm
Matt, I do agree that Logan could be seeded a little higher than what you have them at. Also, I might be showing a little MVAL bias, but I think Irvington should be in the D1 playoffs based on their recent strong finish. The parity between Doughtery and Irvington is pretty close, and I do think that Dougherty has the better strength of schedule. However, I ultimately would say that Irvington is the better team than DV and should get in.
February 9th, 2013 at 12:56 pm
I think I got 31 of 32 right last year, with the exception being El Cerrito because I had their Division II record confused.
February 9th, 2013 at 1:02 pm
Matt, who picks the all league teams?
February 9th, 2013 at 1:11 pm
Wow. That doesn’t sound too good for my MVAL brothers Irvington.
February 9th, 2013 at 1:33 pm
Dublin took a hit even after finishing 3rd in the DFAL ahead of Dougherty Valley (2 Wins) and Alhambra (1 Win/1 Tie).
February 9th, 2013 at 2:31 pm
Just for Fun.
Matt Smith’s pre-season top 15 vs end of season (so far) top 15
Then
1. De La Salle-
2. Richmond-
3. Ygnacio Valley-
4. San Ramon Valley-
5. Bishop O’Dowd-
6. Acalanes-
7. Pittsburg-
8. California-
9. Newark Memorial-
10. Hayward-
11. Clayton Valley-
12. Dublin-
13. Amador Valley-
14. Campolindo-
15. Monte Vista-
Now
(6)1. Acalanes (20-0-3)
(1)2. De La Salle (15-3-5)
(NR)3. Berkeley (19-2-3)
(15)4. Monte Vista (16-3-4)
(2)5. Richmond (15-3-5)
(4)6. San Ramon Valley (14-6-3)
(10)7. Hayward (17-4-3)
(NR)8. Foothill (11-6-6)
(7)9. Pittsburg (12-3-6)
(NR)10. Concord (12-2-5)
(8)11. California (16-6-2)
(9)12. Newark Memorial (14-3-7)
(3)13. Ygnacio Valley (14-4-4)
(14)14. Campolindo (15-7-2)
(NR)15. College Park (11-8-4)
February 9th, 2013 at 2:48 pm
lots of fun to be had starting wednesday
February 9th, 2013 at 2:50 pm
Two teams in deep trouble – Pittsburg and YV. I don’t expect either to survive first round games.
February 9th, 2013 at 3:00 pm
Interesting that St.marys is beating Richmond in the TCAL championship
February 9th, 2013 at 3:15 pm
@Green Lantern It’s chosen by coaches.
@EBALDad I love the look back! It’s really fun.
St. Mary’s beat Richmond 2-0. I need to adjust the rankings, and maybe consider a seeding shift…
February 9th, 2013 at 3:24 pm
Just an FYI, I swapped Cal to No. 5 and Richmond to No. 6 in Division I.
In Division II, I swapped St. Mary’s to No. 5, and Concord to No. 6.
I’ll tell you what, that in Division I, anything after the top three is wide open. I could see 4-9 going so many different ways.
And in Division II, I think 2-7 is a crapshoot. I could also see that going so many ways. I also think St. Mary’s has a very, very strong case for a No. 2 or No. 3 seed.
February 9th, 2013 at 3:27 pm
like i said before, St. Marys is a very underrated team. I expect big things from them in NCS…Acalanes, YV, St. Marys are my favorites going in to NCS but again anything can happen when it comes to NCS. who wants it more??
February 9th, 2013 at 3:37 pm
so the official bracket is out tomorrow?
February 9th, 2013 at 3:42 pm
Yep, tomorrow.
February 9th, 2013 at 3:48 pm
Miramonte applied for an at-large playoff berth. Maybe I’m missing something… But in the event I am, I think it would be hard to keep them out if they are eligible.
February 9th, 2013 at 4:17 pm
@matt
Shouldn’t Mt Eden be 8-10-6 instead if 7-11-6
They beat Castro Valley 1-0 on Wednesday
February 9th, 2013 at 4:30 pm
@… I had something incorrect that I had to fix on their schedule.
February 9th, 2013 at 4:35 pm
@matt
I see now
Sorry about that
It’s most likely Mt Eden won’t go to NCS?
February 9th, 2013 at 4:49 pm
Matt,
You are far too modest stating that the committee has no idea who you are or that you have no pull with them. The truth is we all know who you are but we do not know who the committee is…quite ironic.
Once again your seeding will be posted on the front door of the NCS’ office before they meet tomorrow.
Oh yeah, great job with the seeding and the commentary.
See you at the pitch!
February 9th, 2013 at 4:55 pm
@… I think Mt. Eden has a chance to get in, but that chance is the same as two other teams fighting for the same spot.
February 9th, 2013 at 5:28 pm
Are the Automatic/At-Large Applications updated for Today yet? When I hit the NCS Website, it still looks like Yesterday’s Listing is up there.
February 9th, 2013 at 5:38 pm
@DFAL Fan, Last update to CIF/NCS applications verification was at 1:38 pm today. There is no info on when the next update will be.
@Matt Smith, great work! Love the breakdowns.
@Sweeper, happy posting on the door! More power to ya.
February 9th, 2013 at 5:44 pm
Hey Matt and anybody else who wants to comment, what do you guys think of cp? Do they have any chance in NCS?
February 9th, 2013 at 5:48 pm
Mean While in the Committee Room:
Oompa Loompa, do-ba-dee-doo,
I’ve got a perfect puzzle for you.
Oompa Loompa, do-ba-dee-dee,
If you are wise you’ll listen to me.
Today’s Seeding is as follows:
February 9th, 2013 at 5:50 pm
@Nacho Don…Thanks! I must have a Browser issue. Let’s hope Everyone’s Paperwork gets taken care of. There was an issue with a School messing up their Paperwork for the NCS Football Playoffs, and it was the Players who lost out.
February 9th, 2013 at 6:02 pm
Hello Matt,
Pinole valley tied with Albany at the end of regulation but lost in overtime. I thought that was still considered a tie. I think Pinole valley’s record should be 10-5-2 if that holds true.Can you clear that up for me?
February 9th, 2013 at 6:26 pm
SRV 1, MSJ 0 after 23.
February 9th, 2013 at 6:27 pm
@jim08 I agree with him pinole valley should be 10-5-2
February 9th, 2013 at 6:44 pm
2-0 SRV at half.
February 9th, 2013 at 6:46 pm
@Jim08 Any game that has golden goal overtime counts as a win or loss. It’s a tie if it goes to PK’s.
February 9th, 2013 at 7:10 pm
Matt
Thank you for clearing that up.
February 9th, 2013 at 7:18 pm
SRV up 3-0 with 19 left.
February 9th, 2013 at 7:39 pm
SRV wins 3-0.
February 9th, 2013 at 7:48 pm
@Carlos Munoz CP has shown it can play with anybody. They have played down to the competition a few times, but when they play big games, they usually come to play. And since a midseason swoon, they have fixed the defense and have looked dangerous. I think CP is a team to watch out for.
February 9th, 2013 at 7:56 pm
@DFAL Fan Almost al the applications are in. There are only two that are not.
Also, Salesian applied. Not sure if I am missing something, but if they are eligible, I feel like they’d come up short.
February 9th, 2013 at 8:09 pm
We’re down to one application missing and it’s being worked on as we speak. All teams have applied. Good luck to all and we’ll see how it looks in the morning.
February 9th, 2013 at 8:26 pm
How is Mt Eden eligible for NCS?
February 9th, 2013 at 8:40 pm
@matt In your opinion, who do you think is a better team Irvington or Dougherty Valley?
How come mt eden has a chance,they have more losses than wins and ties?
February 9th, 2013 at 11:26 pm
@D Mt. Eden is above .500 in WACC Foothill play (4-2-4) which makes them eligible to apply.
@Noname I can’t really say who is better, but I can say that Irvington is coming on strong right now and might have the momentum to get into the playoffs because of recent play.
February 9th, 2013 at 11:29 pm
The Sweeper has gone Ninja. So awesome.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:44 am
We wish for a wise seeding committee,
But they work in the dark, what a pity,
To help finish their chore,
They have Matt’s picks on their door,
Hope they heed the sage from the City.
February 10th, 2013 at 7:54 am
Mean while back in the committee room a chant can be heard.. Ooo eee, ooo ah ah ting tang
Walla walla, bing bang
Ooo eee, ooo ah ah ting tang
Walla walla, bing bang…
Ooo eee, ooo ah ah ting tang
Walla walla, bing bang
Ooo eee, ooo ah ah ting tang
Walla walla, bing bang
February 10th, 2013 at 8:03 am
Goofy is when you think CP can hang. Reality speaks truth that Acalanes could and would hang in the DI section. But not CP.
February 10th, 2013 at 8:04 am
I’ve awoken today with the hunch that Irvington is going to get into the playoffs.
February 10th, 2013 at 8:15 am
Could it be that Matt might be an operative for the committee.?
I truly wonder what is going through the minds at the Politburo of the Central Committee ?? One thing for sure I would be asking for my coffee and donuts at this time on a fine Sunday morning.
February 10th, 2013 at 8:30 am
I’m just a man in the dark… Watching my Everton boys get beat at Old Trafford, while Stewie and Shinguard laugh.
Rooting for United is like rooting for the Yankees, or more like rooting for the Devil in a game of 1 on 1 with Mother Theresa.
February 10th, 2013 at 8:31 am
I think they are marching in a circle now and
h-EE-oh, wee-OOOOH-oh”oh-EE-oh, wee-OOOOH-oh” translation is Where is my Oreo? Really
February 10th, 2013 at 8:33 am
MUFC may save the best for Tuesday
February 10th, 2013 at 8:41 am
@Stewie I hope they do save their best for Tuesday, and just have a wonderful day of training…
February 10th, 2013 at 8:45 am
A little Giggs and RVP action
February 10th, 2013 at 8:50 am
Sir Alex the Saintly man that he is , may give Mother Teresa the gift of a draw.
February 10th, 2013 at 8:55 am
I think he just changed his mind and the hammer is coming down.
February 10th, 2013 at 8:59 am
Alright, alright… It still isn’t good that you don’t know that your team plays in the Champions League on Wednesday.
I’m over this game. A loss it is.
February 10th, 2013 at 9:00 am
Woke up expecting to see the final seedings? When can we expect the committee to announce the seedings?
February 10th, 2013 at 9:01 am
@Happy Feet I’d say around 11:00 or Noon.
February 10th, 2013 at 9:05 am
Who did Encinal beat?
February 10th, 2013 at 9:06 am
Come on Reds…sorry Matt, I am a MU fan. Lived in England for several years and fell for the Reds. All my boys are CFC fans which makes for great game watching…
February 10th, 2013 at 9:09 am
Yes Wednesday it is. on the QT I am a fan of Jose Mourinho
February 10th, 2013 at 9:17 am
Encinal received a forfeit win.
February 10th, 2013 at 9:43 am
Oh was hoping they put a hurt on some team. Don’t even know why the stats from playing them are posted. Our stat guy didnt bother to submit.
February 10th, 2013 at 9:44 am
Do you think de la has another good chance and winning their 5th title in a row?
February 10th, 2013 at 9:55 am
Matt, Do you do a round of 8 predictions?
February 10th, 2013 at 10:02 am
And Everton gets RVP’d
February 10th, 2013 at 10:17 am
@NCS Ready I think DLS has a great chance. They’re the favorite, so I think you have to say it’s a great chance.
@SRVdad I generally do predictions in the playoffs. It fires people up
February 10th, 2013 at 10:56 am
Division I bracket is up…
No. 1 De La Salle v. No. 16 Deer Valley
No. 2 Monte Vista v. No. 15 Antioch
No. 3 Richmond v. No. 16 Dougherty Valley
No. 4 Pittsburg v. No. 13 Logan
No. 5 Berkeley v. No. 12 Freedom
No. 6 San Ramon Valley v. No. 11 Amador Valley
No. 7 California v. No. 10 College Park
No. 8 Newark Memorial v. No. 9 Foothill
February 10th, 2013 at 10:57 am
Boys division 1 is up!
February 10th, 2013 at 11:01 am
Berkeley 5 has got to be the biggest bull$@&% seed ever.
February 10th, 2013 at 11:01 am
Brackets are up.
(1) DE LA SALLE (EBAL) 15-3-5*
AT DE LA SALLE HS – 7:00 PM (16) DEER VALLEY (BVAL) 9-8-4
(8) NEWARK MEMORIAL (MVAL) 14-3-7*
AT NEWARK MEMORIAL HS – 7:00 PM
(9) FOOTHILL (EBAL) 11-6-6
(4) PITTSBURG (BVAL) 12-3-6*
AT PITTSBURG HS – 7:00 PM (13) JAMES LOGAN (MVAL) 9-8-7
(5) BERKELEY (WACC-F) 19-2-3*
AT BERKELEY HS – 5:00 PM (12) FREEDOM (BVAL) 12-9-2
(2) MONTE VISTA (EBAL) 16-3-4
AT MONTE VISTA HS – 7:00 PM (15) ANTIOCH (BVAL) 9-5-6
(7) CALIFORNIA (EBAL) 16-6-2
AT CALIFORNIA HS – 7:00 PM (10) COLLEGE PARK (DVAL) 11-8-4
(3) RICHMOND (TCAL-R) 15-4-5*
AT RICHMOND HS – 7:00 PM (14) DOUGHERTY VALLEY (DFAL) 9-8-2
(6) SAN RAMON VALLEY (EBAL) 15-6-3
AT SAN RAMON VALLEY HS – 5:00 PM (11) AMADOR VALLEY (EBAL) 11-9-4
* Designated Champion
February 10th, 2013 at 11:05 am
still waiting for D2 bracket….
February 10th, 2013 at 11:05 am
@Upper V I completely agree, but I edited our comment so I don’t hear any flack from people. If you’re a Berkeley player, coach or supporter, you have the right to be upset. You can see how head-to-head was emphasized in the 3-4-5 seed range.
That’s not how soccer works, and the committee blew it, I think.
February 10th, 2013 at 11:08 am
Also, why Antioch over DV, if you wanna talk head-to-head? Identical league finish, and DV went 1-0-1 against Antioch. Unbelievable…
February 10th, 2013 at 11:10 am
looking at berkeley, it is unfortunate i think they were deserved of the two or three seed. With that said it makes sense why they are behind pitt and richmond though because they did lose to bot h of those teams.
February 10th, 2013 at 11:11 am
@ Matt haha no worries on the editing, understand. Yeah it really doesn’t make any sense..How can a team with 4 losses, and losing the last game of the season jump 2 spots ahead of a team with 2 losses with one coming very early in the season. Pittsburg is even more shocking. Looks like typical NCS committee non-sense.
February 10th, 2013 at 11:15 am
Soccer is a sport of parity. Head-to-head is not the way to seed teams. Ever.
If you start the argument there, then how is Cal ahead of Foothill? Why is SRV No. 6 when they beat DLS? Head-to-head should be the last thing used.
February 10th, 2013 at 11:22 am
@Matt who do you think can upset a team with a better seed?
February 10th, 2013 at 11:32 am
Very disappointed that Irvington didn’t make it. I guess they had too many ties, but I definitely think they were deserving.
MVAL was a tough league this year and I think they were overlooked…again!
February 10th, 2013 at 11:32 am
I could honestly see any team seeded from 9-13 winning in the first round. I think it’s a very tall task for Dougherty at Richmond, Antioch at MV and DV at DLS, but stranger things have happened.
February 10th, 2013 at 11:38 am
@NCS Comittee
What’s in the box!!!! What’s in the box!!!
February 10th, 2013 at 11:38 am
What do you think about Pittsburg hosting Logan? and Newark hosting Foothill?
February 10th, 2013 at 11:49 am
@Matt
Why did you have Dougherty getting in over Irvington? Strength of schedule perhaps?
I just don’t get why MVAL only has 2 teams in. Baffles me
February 10th, 2013 at 11:55 am
Dougherty Valley is capable of an upset. They have two center backs who are meaner than shook up snakes and this big tree in the goal. I believe that in general, the lower seeded teams teams that are from different leagues than their opponents and who have not played each other can have a slight surprise factor. I’ll tell you what tho’, physicality will play a big part in who wins or not.
I don’t see Freedom or Logan getting through. College Park can win, but only if they really bring the heat.
February 10th, 2013 at 11:56 am
@MVAL Fan
Kennedy will get in for D2. American used to get in when it was D2. You have to figure all D1 teams are fighting for 10 spots since 6 are reserved for EBAL teams. Until teams start beating them consistently in non conference games.
For example American a while back beat Livermore (with 4 academy players), Granada and took Cal into ot in a tournament. Still didn’t make NCS because MVAL was such a tough league.
February 10th, 2013 at 11:56 am
A little disappointed to not see Irvington in, but it was close between them, Dougherty Valley, and Mt. Eden. MVAL Soccer Fan, I don’t think MVAL was overlooked, Doughtery Valley is a pretty tough team themselves who played a tough non-league schedule. Honestly, you would have to draw a name out of a hat or flip a 3-sided coin to decide which team gets in.
Also, did anyone who attended the Piedmont-Encinal game on Friday see any protest from the Encinal side? I know the “Depressed Encinal Player” said something about some protest to boycott the team’s direction, but I don’t know if he actually went through with it. Just curious.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:01 pm
@Tri-City Dude
Encinal only had 12 players show up. Many looked like freshman or JV players. Piedmont pulled out all the starters after the 5th goal and was playing with JV players and subs that never play.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:02 pm
The only real surprise is Berkley which sort of makes sense due to the head to head losses. Time for brackets!
February 10th, 2013 at 12:02 pm
@MVAL Soccer Fan I use a formula that considers schedule, quality wins and win percentage. That formula spit Dougherty out every so slightly ahead of Mt. Eden and Irvington.
However, usually after using the formula, then I use the human element (common sense, common opponents, head-to-head) to adjust things. However, with those three teams I can’t justify one over the other so I stuck with what the formula gave me.
@Jose I think Pittsburg is a tough place to win, but I expect Logan to make it very close. Newark at home against Foothill gives them a slight advantage, but that game should be very, very good. Foothill maybe the favorite in that one? Way to close to call, I think.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:08 pm
Piedmont Fan, if that is Depressed Encinal Player’s way of protest of his team, then I guess it is better than a bunch of people holding picket signs or having the entire team walk off in the middle of the game. Still, I shake my head that someone would try to use a high school soccer game in public as their political platform.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:18 pm
Looking at last year’s bracket, there were only 3 games decided by more than two goals. Even if a team is dominating, anything can happen in a game with a 1 goal margin. My prediction for the final is a deja vu with slightly different outcome.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:25 pm
Division II is up…
No. 1 Acalanes v. No. 16 Piedmont
No. 2 Ygnacio Valley v. No. 15 San Lorenzo
No. 3 Campolindo v. No. 14 Pinole Valley
No. 4 Concord v. No. 13 Albany
No. 5 Bishop O’Dowd v. No. 12 Hercules
No. 6 Hayward v. No. 11 Kennedy-Fremont
No. 7 Northgate v. No. 10 Alhambra
No. 8 St. Mary’s v. No. 9 Dublin
February 10th, 2013 at 12:27 pm
All I can say is WTF? St. Mary’s went 14-2-3, and had a win and a draw against Richmond. Wow. Now that is getting screwed over. I have to say that this is terrible.
Head-to-head again overvalued which puts BOD over Hayward.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:31 pm
The DII bracket is completely wack-o! Wasn’t expecting any of those seedings!
February 10th, 2013 at 12:31 pm
It’s like the committee didn’t care when making this bracket.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:34 pm
I really feel like Pinole valley should of Got a better seed I mean teams that came 3rd in there league get better seeds . I guess ncs this year is a whatever thing to the comitee
February 10th, 2013 at 12:36 pm
Hayward got 6th seed that’s sad
February 10th, 2013 at 12:43 pm
@Scout
That is not correct at all. Last year st Mary’s was third in league and got a 16th seed. Piedmont is second in league and is getting a 16th seed. Just so you know.
@Matt
Looks like WACC with Encinal is consider much weaker than TCAL with st joes, st pat, swett, el Cerrito, Kennedy and Salesian.
@ Tri City Dude
I know the coach personally at Encinal and he does not settle for just losing are mediocre. The Encinal program struggle two years ago with dealing with players who would start fights in the game because they were losing or try and hurt opposing players. The coach right before the current one (who was his assistant) kicked them all off hence why they haven’t had a JV program. Now the current coach has to deal with players who play recreationally. He is trying to do the best hw can with what he has. The players need to invest more time training and play on more competitive teams otherwise they will never improve. What I do know is that they have no help when it comes to their AD and that’s a big issue.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:43 pm
I am surprised by the shock in DII. Only two teams received seeds more than 2 spots away from Matt’s rankings. Dublin went from 16 to 9, and San Lorenzo went from 11 to 15. Every other team was withing two spots of Matt’s rankings.
Acalanes 1-1
YV 2-2
Campo 3-3
Hawyard 4-6
concord 5-4
St. Marys 6-8
BOD 7-5
Northgate 8-7
Kennedy Fremont 9-11
Hercules 10-12
Alhambra 12-10
Pinole Valley 13-14
Albany 14-13
Piedmont 15-16
February 10th, 2013 at 12:44 pm
Although Hayward got a 6th seed, I would say they got the easier side of the bracket. As fan, player, or coach you can look at the bracket 2 ways: your seeding or who you will possibly play. I would say Hayward should feel confident getting a 6th seed.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:53 pm
yv is overrated ,they deserved lower seed.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:54 pm
Pay no attention to the man, er no committee, behind the curtain. Remember, there’s no place like home, there’s no place like home (pitch).
And now the fun begins for the peanut gallery, predicting the results. Break out the Ouija Board, the Magic 8-Ball, the Tarot Cards and the tea leaves, and insert your boot in your pie hole.
See you at the pitch!
February 10th, 2013 at 12:58 pm
Here’s my question. When the St Mary’s, Albany and Piedmont used to trounce the BSAL they would never get recognition or high seeds be because they did not have a “strong” schedule.
Now Piedmont and Encinal joined the HAAL and now Hayward and San Lorenzo aren’t getting recognition? Lets see some of those TCAL teams survive day in and day out in the WAC and walk away with the records they have now. Piedmont and St Mary’s beat Oakland tech 2-1 and Albany tied 1-1. Just saying.
Sorry but the TCAL adopted the majority of the BSAL crap shoot teams that were regarded as not strong enough. St Mary’s, San Lorenzo, and Hayward were stiffed in their seedings.
February 10th, 2013 at 12:58 pm
id love to see who gets knocked out first round,
February 10th, 2013 at 1:14 pm
Pitt to 4?
SRV to 6?
Cal to 7?
February 10th, 2013 at 1:19 pm
Predictions for D1 First round games:
DLS 4 DV 0 – Congrats to DV for making an NCS appearance. Unfortunately, this game should be a warm up for what DLS will have ahead of them. DV does have a few great individual players, the team seems to be a bit banged up however.
Newark 2 Foothill 1 (OT) – Predicting that it will go to OT simply because this is a 50-50 game. Newark will have an upper edge being on their own grass field. The outcome will depend on how quickly Foothill can get used to the conditions.
Pitt 2 Logan 0 – Can’t see Logan moving on this year. Should be a close game regardless due to recent Pittsburgh injuries.
Berkeley 2 Freedom 0 – Shout out to the Freedom squad for making their first NCS appearance. Awesome job! Berkeley deserved at least a seed in the top 3 . One of the most underrated teams, beating SRV and tying MV this season, as well as taking over the WACC.
MV 4 Antioch 1 – MV seems to improve by the game. If I have it right, MV already beat Antioch this season, and I have no doubt that they will beat them again.
Cal 1 CP 2 – Love this match-up, as it is a first round repeat from last year. As we can recall, CP as 14 seed beat Cal in PK’s. Cal has been on a steady decline the past month, and if I had to pick a first round upset, I would put my money on the quick CP squad.
Richmond 2 DV 1 – I also love this match-up because regardless of the seeds, no one can ignore the fact that DV took them to OT last year. Should be a battle between Montes and Gala, two of the top finishers this season.
SRV 2 Amador 0 – SRV has Amador’s number this year as they won both match-ups in league play. With SRV, you never know when they will have their finishing touch, but they always seem to come through during this time of year.
February 10th, 2013 at 1:25 pm
How did Kennedy(Fremont) get 11th seed? i’m kinda surprised, i thought they would get a better seed!
February 10th, 2013 at 1:36 pm
Its common for a team to go into NCS without a few of there starters or important players. Yv has always been affected. But not this year. Its taken them a couple of years to realize that they need everyone to go far in ncs and not just the second round. a congratulaions to YV for not losing anyone to Important to grades. i have a huge feeling that this year is YVs year. LETS GO WARRIORS!
February 10th, 2013 at 1:45 pm
if both make it past the first round, which they should, I can see St. Marys upsetting Acalanes, AGAIN! oh and i feel st. Marys for sure deserved a higher seed. Especially over BOD
February 10th, 2013 at 2:23 pm
Ah ha ha I’m in the ncs office waiting to talk to the commissioner about fields and he just said to a coach “matt smith ranked you number 5, we took that to account”
February 10th, 2013 at 2:42 pm
Who do you think is going to win in the first round in D2 teams?
February 10th, 2013 at 2:50 pm
My upset pick first round; Freedom over Berkeley…
February 10th, 2013 at 2:53 pm
MVAL Alumni, I don’t deny that the Encinal coach is doing the best he can with what he has. I also do agree with you and Depressed Encinal Player’s claim that the AD doesn’t pay as much attention to the boys soccer team as he does to the other teams that Encinal has (football, baseball). I just feel that DEP is complaining a little too much now, and I find it a little ridiculous that he would consider some protest during a game. I really do bad for his program and the direction it is in, but his team needs to learn that you can’t get everything you want and you have to work hard for success. Until Encinal learns this, I don’t know if they will be successful anytime soon, despite any potential protest they could be planning.
February 10th, 2013 at 3:06 pm
NIce to see how ridiculous these brackets are. Seriously, what the hell is wrong with the NCS?
PS: Depressed Encinal player, nice to see how much your team is failing. you have no one to blame but yourself for that. Go Hornets.
February 10th, 2013 at 3:10 pm
For the D1 brackets, I think SRV has an easy draw for a team seeded 7th. Not saying that their path is a cakewalk, but they can beat AV and are capable of beating Richmond or Dougherty Valley to at least get to the semis. For D2, don’t be surprised to see Piedmont make a run. They have proven to be very good, and if Baringer can score a few, they will be very tough to beat.
February 10th, 2013 at 3:15 pm
So I just spoke to somebody about the St. Mary’s situation. Among the many things I was told, here are the highlights…
- They laughed at me when the person mentioned to them that I had St. Mary’s as a No. 5 seed.
- The committee doesn’t care if you play a billion Division I teams (if you’re DII). All they care about are common opponents, so they want any team you play to have a common opponent.
My suggestion to all coaches out there… schedule teams that you think will be a playoff team, within your division. Apparently playing up does not help you.
February 10th, 2013 at 3:40 pm
Coaches have enough to do trying to figure out how to Schedule without having to figure out what the NCS Seeding Committee is looking for. Whether what the Committee bases their Seedings on is right or wrong, they owe it to the Coaches to at least let them know what it is they’re looking for. That’s the way it works with NCAA Basketball and the Big Dance…it’s not that difficult.
February 10th, 2013 at 3:43 pm
Just talk to Hayward Coach he is very disappointed in the seed he feels that he played one of the tuffest schedule he said why play a tuff schedule if its not going to be honor . little frustrating but this is how Hayward is treated from Referees to committees. so not a shock we still have to play whoever’s in front of us makes no difference. Let’s play.
Thanks coach for talking to me . good luck Hayward.
February 10th, 2013 at 3:48 pm
Knowing that the committee mocks me is upsetting. I could run circles around these people. I actually watch the teams play. Very upsetting.
February 10th, 2013 at 4:16 pm
Matt, somebody asked me the other day just what there was to look forward to as one gets older. Well,NOT worrying about what idiots think of you is one of those things. we see you at the games, not them.
February 10th, 2013 at 4:18 pm
And there’s GOTTA be some way to find out who the members of the seeding committee are.
February 10th, 2013 at 4:20 pm
@ Matt…follow Island Chief… Hang Loose and sip on a blue Hawaiian. Do not anger the god’s
Most agree that the seeding at best is strange for both DI & DII . The Committee is surely not affiliated with the Soccer Gods…for they do not know what they have done.
February 10th, 2013 at 4:38 pm
With the brackets posted warts and all, I now post my annual rant about the NCS soccer playoff schedules. 80%+ of the matches are scheduled at the same time, minimizing the opportunity to see multiple matches in each round, and actually limiting the gate take for the NCS.
For example, one division could play a Tuesday/Friday/Tuesday schedule, while the other division plays a Wednesday/Saturday/Wednesday schedule, with the last matches saved for championship Saturday. Or the top half of each bracket could play one schedule while the bottom half plays the other schedule.
This is not rocket science. It is just free advice from a fan who understands financial common sense. And spare me the inane comments about scouting and rest days, its called “luck of the draw.”
See you at the pitch!
February 10th, 2013 at 4:44 pm
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that the rant in #154 is brought to you by the fine folks at Les Schwab Tires…
February 10th, 2013 at 4:57 pm
@Sweeper Don’t forget Pacheco’s Brothers Gardening. And I’m talking about the Mesa, Arizona location.
February 10th, 2013 at 5:18 pm
Matt, you’ve got the entire blog behind your back on this one. Everyone here knows the committee screwed up, I wouldn’t let them get to you.
Thanks much for keeping this thing running.
February 10th, 2013 at 5:20 pm
And you guys, thanks for the love. You are the one’s that matter.
February 10th, 2013 at 5:27 pm
@Matt Just got back from the snow. Nice to be back and nicer to see you were right, four BVAL teams made NCS playoffs, although all with tough games. Even Pitt won’t have it easy as they deal with so many injuries. Freedom has built good momentum and Antioch and DV I feel have the toughest challenges. Can’t wait to see some of these games. Congrats to all the D1 & D2 teams that made the playoffs, albeit all the surrounding controversy with seedlings. I think everyone here knows you are the most knowledgeable Boys HS Soccer guru around. Keep up the fabulous work.
February 10th, 2013 at 5:29 pm
DI
1. De La Salle NCS says 1
2. Monte Vista NCS says 2
3. San Ramon Valley NCS says 6
4. Richmond NCS says 3
5. California NCs says 7
6. Berkeley NCS says 5
7. Foothill NCS says 9
8. Pittsburg NCS says 4
9. Newark NCS says 8
10. Amador Valley Ncs says 11
11. College Park NCS says 10
12. Freedom NCS says 12
13. Deer Valley NCS says 16
14. Logan NCS says 13
15. Doughherty Valley NCS says 14
16. Antioch NCS says 15
DII
1. Acalanes NCS says 1
2. Hayward NCS says 6
3. Campolindo NCS says 3
4. YV NCS says 2
5. Hercules NCS says 12
6. Concord NCS says 4
7. Northgate NCS says 7
8. BOD NCS says 5
9. St. Marys NCS says 8
10. Kennedy-Fremont NCS says 11
11. San Lorenzo NCS says 15
12. Alhambra NCS says 10
13. Pinole Valley NCS says 14
14. Albany NCS says 13
15. Dublin NCS says 9
16. Piedmont NCS says 16
February 10th, 2013 at 5:37 pm
Warts is way to kind Sweeper Talking zit is better.
February 10th, 2013 at 5:46 pm
Simply called it based on records, inside info and performance consistency and strength of schedule and how last 4 games were played, plus my dart board and a few beers.
February 10th, 2013 at 6:03 pm
Since I didn’t pay attention to last year’s blog, I am wondering if this is the same fallout as last years’ rankings?
February 10th, 2013 at 6:22 pm
What were the result of St Mary’s vs El Cerrito and Salesian?
Despite controversy, remember those who deserve to win NCS will! A true champion will be able to beat their opponents given any circumstances. If they deserve to win, they will! Good luck to everyone!
February 10th, 2013 at 6:31 pm
Stewie
very interesting.
On first blush, when you present it like you did, it looks as if NCS didn’t do all so horribly. Pretty close in most cases.
The agregious mistakes are:
SRV at #6, not so much the # as who they are behind.
Berkeley at #5, what does a 19-2-3 team have to do to get respect around here?
Pittsburgh at #4? Sorry, but that’s just wrong. And now the postage stamp field discussions will rage as they get home field advantage. Is it ok id I chuckle a bit that it is at the expense of Logan (they of the old style, you must play in tennis shoes, astro turf field)
in D2
Hayward at #6, did the committee even see these guys play?
Hercules at #12? welcome to the playoffs, now go home.
BOD scoots up to #5, getting some of that private school bump from the committee
St. Mary’s beats Richmond, RICHMOND a D2 team beat RICHMOND and that D2 team only gets a #8 seed in D2?
oh and I forgot RICHMOND at #3 in D1 in spite of getting beat by a D2 team ranked #8 in D2 by NCS. The feel good Richmond Oiler bump in rankings rears it’s head yet again. #3 really? the last few years absolutely, this year? absolutely not.
and the Dublin getting a #9 seed, gotta give it up for the NCS Finals Hosting site!
so, Committe was close on lots, and just abysmal on many. Hyperbole over. Let the games begin, and ALL at the same time in different places!
February 10th, 2013 at 6:44 pm
Since SRV papa is predicting a win for Freedom over Berkeley,
Better do a little early scouting for the Jackets.
Who has seen this kid Cendejas play for Freedom?
February 10th, 2013 at 7:19 pm
Saint Mary’s is a funny bird. In the “olden days” they were frequently a player in the section, but time and public schools passed them by in later days. Yet here we find them, with a stellar record and in the hunt. They took out a couple of good teams and got whipped by a couple of others.
And here we find them.I think they could play spoiler if they are feeling up to it.
February 10th, 2013 at 9:13 pm
I thought St Mary’s would get more respect after beating Acalanes last year but they play in a weak league and didn’t play enough tough non league games. On the other hand I guess a tie and a win against the # 3 D 1 team does not mean much.
If St Mary’s is all that they will get a rematch against Acalanes in the second round. Maybe the committee wanted to give Acalanes a chance to avenge last season’s shocker. Tall order to be the spoiler vs. the #1 seed two years in a row.
February 10th, 2013 at 10:09 pm
EBALDad, ‘feel good Richmond Oiler bump”? “#3 for the last few years, absolutely”? hmmmm Richmond was ranked #14 2 years ago, weren’t they? Get your facts straight!
And what about that proverbial EBAL Ref bump, huh?
February 10th, 2013 at 10:17 pm
@ Stewie how could you put Berkeley behind SRV and team they beat handily, had a better record than, and won their respective league. Above Cal as well? That’s ridiculous..Also I don’t think Hayward should be 2nd..and St. Mary’s that low after some very good play and a late win against your 4th ranked D1 Richmond team? Your rankings don’t really seem to remedy the mistakes made by the NCS committee
February 10th, 2013 at 10:32 pm
Matt, is there any way to take Island Chief’s comment at #145 off? That guy does not know what respect is and is constantly bringing politics and insulting people around him. I do not appreciate this man’s comments, and anyone that see this guy post on the football blogs about how much Encinal sucks and how good Alameda is would know what I am talking about. At first someone mentioned Island Chief was Kemp Moyer, the football coach at Alameda. Instead, it looks like some smart-mouth that feels he can say whatever he wants. So could you delete that comment for everyone’s sake?
February 10th, 2013 at 10:35 pm
Upper V,
Please enlighten us regarding how many times that you have seen Berkeley, Cal and SRV play this season. Stewie is a known match stalker, watching and reporting on the best in the East Bay. I am not defending Stewie because we have our differences of opinion, but he is an eye-witness that we depend on for insightful, though sometimes twisted, comments.
Bring it to the house Upper V, and finish strong…
And BTW, there is no remedy to the seeding committee “mistakes.”
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 10th, 2013 at 10:47 pm
Hey Matt,
While I am certainly anti-censorship, I have to agree with Tri-City Dude #169, as ‘island chief’ is a known word-sniper on the East Bay American football post: Bad blood, bad manners and bad comments. Nothing worthwhile there people, ignore it and move on…
I defer to the Sage from the City…Mr. Smith.
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 10th, 2013 at 10:55 pm
Thanks Sweeper, I’m kind of surprised and dissapointed that this monster’s comments were allowed not just on this article, but a bunch of other articles concerning East Bay Football. I don’t know who moderates these comments, but whoever it is better get a grip or the East Bay Prep Corner staff is going to lose some loyal followers.
February 10th, 2013 at 11:02 pm
I’ve seen Berkeley play several times, Cal once, and SRV twice. I don’t speak without knowledge..I pointed out my reasoning for what I felt should be different about Stewie’s rankings.
My rankings:
DI
1. De La Salle NCS says 1
2. Monte Vista NCS says 2
3. Berkeley NCS says 5
4. San Ramon Valley NCS says 6
5. Richmond NCS says 3
6. Pittsburg NCS says 4
7. California NCS says 7
8. Foothill NCS says 9
9. Newark NCS says 8
10. Amador Valley Ncs says 11
11. College Park NCS says 10
12. Freedom NCS says 12
13. Doughherty Valley NCS says 14
14. Logan NCS says 13
15. Deer Valley NCS says 16
16. Antioch NCS says 15
DII
1. Acalanes NCS says 1
2. YV NCS says 2
3. Campolindo NCS says 3
4. St. Marys NCS says 8
5. Hayward NCS says 6
6. Northgate NCS says 7
7. Concord NCS says 4
8. BOD NCS says 5
9. Hercules NCS says 12
10. Kennedy-Fremont NCS says 11
11. San Lorenzo NCS says 15
12. Alhambra NCS says 10
13. Pinole Valley NCS says 14
14. Piedmont NCS says 16
15. Dublin NCS says 9
16. Albany NCS says 13
February 10th, 2013 at 11:19 pm
If the D-I boys bracket holds after round one, the “must-see match” on Saturday will be Richmond hosting SRV. This would be a rematch of last seasons’ semi-final OT thriller, and the wide pitch at Richmond allows both squads play to their strengths.
Regardless, the good news is that the Grizzlies, Mustangs, Oilers and Wolves will not have to see the well-worn, narrow pitch of Owen Owens Field. The top half of the bracket can suffer that issue: good luck with that one…
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 10th, 2013 at 11:35 pm
Upper V,
Well played. You came back strong and we will see how your predictions fare.
I have seen Berkeley 3 times (2-1), Cal 4 times (1-3), and SRV 6 times (4-2), so my sample size is limited. The Yellowjackets’ loss was at Richmond, the Cal losses were to DLS, MV and SRV, and the SRV losses were at Acalanes and at DLS.
Good luck on your predictions.
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 11th, 2013 at 7:19 am
Sweeper…Have to agree on the pitch issue of width.
Even the Spartans seem to do better when the game area is more open, the creativity area expands. But they do play a wicked in the box battle.
February 11th, 2013 at 7:24 am
Dublin is like home away from home for the Spartan.
February 11th, 2013 at 7:31 am
Hey Sweeper & Tri-City Dude… I hope an edit was okay.
February 11th, 2013 at 8:25 am
I cannot find the tournament rules on CIF website. If the game is tied at the end of 90mins(?), is it two 15mins ot and then best of 5 pks?
February 11th, 2013 at 8:33 am
Regarding blog. Fun, Respect, Pithy, Humor, is all good. Disrespect, Call-Outs, Bitterness, are not needed on the blog. Matt has a solid following of players and parents and soccer lovers who have an understanding of the game. Keep things in perspective as this is not life & death…Unless your national or favorite professional team is in trouble.
Keep Cool and Have Fun and go support your favorite team.
Now I must consult with Hal 2000 and my dart board for predictions I soon as I get off the phone with the Great Karnak
February 11th, 2013 at 8:41 am
I think they follow the National Federation of High Schools Rules for Soccer. I think it is 2 10min OT period with golden goal rule…if still tied PK’s
not 100% sure
February 11th, 2013 at 8:59 am
Matt … When and where are we sending in our BRACKET pools?
Enjoyed last years…. i did bad but still fun.
February 11th, 2013 at 9:07 am
@Stewie @SRVdad Stewie is right. It’s two 10-minute periods, which are golden goal, then on to PK’s if nobody scores in overtime.
@11 V 11 If you guys want to do the bracket challenge this year, email me your selections for both Division I and Division II by Wednesday at 3:00!!
My email is mhsmith78@gmail.com for those that don’t have it. You can email me pick by pick or scan your bracket and email it.
February 11th, 2013 at 9:27 am
@sweeper
@Matt
If you might catch the 5pm Berkeley game, might have a parking tip while the meters are still running
February 11th, 2013 at 9:27 am
Yv has mendez and ayala(yv has two of them) this year for ncs, mendez adds alot of talent on offense and ayala is a beast in defence impressed that both and the rest of the starter team not only made grades but are looking healthy, if you say over rated well go watch one of their ncs games u got a hungry damian and a aguilar whom this is there fourth and last year with varsity lets see how far that drives them.
February 11th, 2013 at 9:29 am
Matt what do u think about Concord vs albany?? Its at concord the pitch will favor concord?? Or does albany still have that raw talent that upset yv last ncs?
February 11th, 2013 at 9:33 am
Does anybody know if Wilcox is back with Cal Hi??
February 11th, 2013 at 9:41 am
@HalaMadrid I think that Albany is playing much better, and does have young talent that is starting to come around, but the Concord pitch, and the Concord style of play very much favors the home team.
February 11th, 2013 at 9:47 am
WTF?!?! Why did you take condense my commment to almost nothing Matt? I actually thought that was a pretty funny comment, comparing the NCS to our current state of this country with Obama running it. If you guys at East Bay Prep like to be politically correct, then you obviously love to have our 1st amendment rights taken away. Whatever, I don’t need you or anyone’s love for Encinal to tell me what to do.
Tri-City Dude, i believe we have met before on the football posts on this blog. geez, can’t you leave a man alone when he makes his opinions? So what if I hate ncs, i still try to make it about the players (even though many are not good and underserving of making the playoffs). Don’t listen to this idiot Matt, this guys like to push his politically correct agenda out there for all to see.
Sweeper, I’m dissapointed you joined the party of getting me of the blog. i’d figured you were smarter than that, but I guess I was wrong.
come on matt, don’t listen to these guys. Stephanie Hammon and Phil Jensen don’t seem to mind my comments even though people hate them, so I don’t know why you have to be any different.
February 11th, 2013 at 10:06 am
@Island Chief Sorry about that. Trust me, I respect people’s First Amendment Rights (law school, for crying out loud) but I got totally reamed earlier in the season by somebody for something that was posted on the blog. I didn’t want to risk that again, so perhaps it was an over reaction to being asked to take it down. I apologize. You’re probably right, no need to take it down. Please post political satire at your pleasure.
February 11th, 2013 at 10:35 am
Everyone should post their bracket and reasoning’s! I’ll start working on mine
February 11th, 2013 at 10:36 am
Here I go after consulting Hal 200, The OZ, The Great Karnak, my dart board & my gut. Predictions and possible scores.
DI
round 1 group 1
DLS vs Deer Valley 3-0
Newark vs Foothill 0-1
Pitt vs Logan 1-0
Berk vs Freedom 2-1
Round 1 group 2
MV vs Antioch 2-0
Cal vs CP 1-0 * No Wilcox CP wins
Rich vs DV 3-1
SRV vs Amador 2-0
Round 2 group 1
DLS vs Foothill 2-1
Pitt vs Berk 0-2
Round 2 group 2
MV vs CP 3-0 if Cal with Wilcox 2-1
Rich vs SRV 1-2
Round 3 group 1
DLS vs Berk 1-0
Round 3 group 2
MV vs SRV 2-1
Championship DLS 3 MV 1
DII
Round 1 group 1
Acalanes vs Piedmont 3-0
St. Marys vs Dublin 1-2
Concord vs Albany 1-0
BOD vs Hercules 1-0 possible pk
Round 1 group 2
YV vs San Lorenzo 2-0
Northgate vs Alhambra 1-2
Campo vs Pinole 2-1
Hayward vs JFK-F 2-1
Round 2 group 1
Acalanes vs Dublin 2-1
Concord vs BOD 0-1
Round 2 group 2
YV vs Alhambra 0-1
Campo vs Hayward 2-1
Round 3 group 1
Acalanes vs BOD 3-1
Round 3 group 2
Alhambra vs Campo 2-2 PK Campo
Championship Acalanes 2 vs Campolindo 1
February 11th, 2013 at 10:45 am
I seriously doubt if Concord can beat O’Dowd. They are big and strong and are peaking at the right time.
February 11th, 2013 at 10:51 am
Gee whiz Island Chief, I was gonna post about how the NCS committee was a lot like mini-bush’s running the economy into the dirt. What a synchronous occurence!
February 11th, 2013 at 10:55 am
Everybody seems to have issues at Concord Hi field.
it is grass and it is in bad shape, pot holes and grass lumps does not make for a smooth fast game.
You have to man up and adjust at that site.
February 11th, 2013 at 11:01 am
Considering the election results Island Chief is probably frustrated to be a minority opinion. The country moves upward and onward without him.
But, this is a soccer blog. That comment at the Encinal player was clearly intentionally cruel, and a barometer of how much worth his comments should have.
I’ll suggest that any posting laced with his misguided, insulting, infantile vitriol be ignored – even if he manages to vaguely mention the topic of the Beautiful Game.
We shouldn’t spend the rest of this NCS discussion focused on him.
How about we talk about how Stewie’s predictions (#194) are completely wrong.
February 11th, 2013 at 11:02 am
I have BOD winning till they play Acalanes. But the Grass at Concord is an issue.
February 11th, 2013 at 11:07 am
We have to wait and see if Concord or BOD can even beat those teams before we start all this talking about them meeting up.
@ Stewie – Being nice, Your calling that grass…. that at Concord is not grass, but on paper they call it grass.
February 11th, 2013 at 11:19 am
That is a sore spot of contention around these parts. They spent tons of $$$ but then decided not to turf the field and now Clayton Valley received a large chunk of public funding and installs a new turf-solid black. Had Concord gone with turf it would have been a huge benefit to club soccer and lacrosse teams in the area. Absolutely no forethought by MDUSD.
February 11th, 2013 at 11:43 am
I like to see the love given to YV. As a former alumni and coach there, I knew that getting to NCS would change the climate at the school and the program. Cesar has done a phenomenal job with that program since I left.
As for O’Dowd, I must remind you that they are reigning NCS champs as a #9 seed last year. The Ball Whisperer has not come out of hiding yet, but something tells me that last year’s run was no fluke.
Final reminder- seedlings don’t matter- match ups and coaching, along with heart and determination of players definitely do.
He who panics in the moment of truth will go home. He who is focused with the end goal in mind will undoubtedly be victorious. Be Champions!
February 11th, 2013 at 11:44 am
Its only Monday and blog is at 201 should hit 350 by tomorrow night. YV has major issues going on I will be surprised if anything surprising happens. They have not played well at all last few weeks. Pitt not sure about bench but some strong spirit may help them push through the injuries. Hercules has to get it done the first half. 2nd half they seem to get gassed and then fade. Alhambra is a bit short on bench and soft in keeper slot, they will need to utilize smart feet and tactically go after opponents, they are capable of playing a hard 80 if mind set is good.
February 11th, 2013 at 12:19 pm
Stewie, the Concord coach told me a couple of years ago that it was the FOOTBALL coach who wanted the grass so they spent the money redoing the grass, then tried to get soccer banished to the lower even WORSE fields behind the school. You know, the ones with broken bottles here and there.
February 11th, 2013 at 12:28 pm
Yeah know it well. Sad part was the clubs were willing to help kick in funds for turf and like at CV and YV clubs pay a rental rate that helps with cost and also do clean-up days at those fields. Like I said that whole deal was rammed through the system with very little thought.
February 11th, 2013 at 12:31 pm
I second that conversation about the FOOTBALL coach not wanting turf on Concord.
A bit sad knowing that soccer has been picking up and could benefit for other sports also.
Hope they can rethink it. They still have $$$$.
February 11th, 2013 at 12:35 pm
And if you guys think Concord’s bad go look at Hayward.If it’s dry, think Southern Wyoming badlands, wet, somewhere in the Congo.
February 11th, 2013 at 12:36 pm
Last year BOB had the legendary Ball Whisperer but not this year and that could be a factor.
Turf at Concord would not only benefit the school but all of the local club teams. For DFC to have CVC YV and Concord available for Sunday games and tournament finals would be huge, right now the only have YV and CVC.
February 11th, 2013 at 12:38 pm
Sticky keys : Last year BOD had the legendary Ball Whisperer but not this year and that could be a factor.
February 11th, 2013 at 12:55 pm
Northgate vs. Alhambra should be a hard fought game, eh @Matt?
February 11th, 2013 at 12:56 pm
Island Chief, the things you post not just on this blog but other blogs about Alameda football clearly are screwed up and dissrespectful to everyone here. I am in no way trying to take away your right to free speech, but the things you say are clearly insulting and should not even be considered free speech. Go ahead and try to defend what you post, because no one will want to believe or trust you.
February 11th, 2013 at 2:49 pm
@NCS! That one is definitely going to be a good game. My bet to be one of the top five most competitive games of the first round.
February 11th, 2013 at 3:06 pm
I don’t know anything about D2 so I won’t comment but here is my D1 predictions:
DI
round 1 group 1
DLS vs Deer Valley 5-0
Newark vs Foothill 1-2
Pitt vs Logan 2-0
Berk vs Freedom 1-2
*FIRST ROUND UPSET!*
Round 1 group 2
MV vs Antioch 2-0
Cal vs CP 2-0
Rich vs DV 2-1
SRV vs Amador 3-0
Round 2 group 1
DLS vs Foothill 2-1
Pitt vs Freedom 2-1
Round 2 group 2
MV vs CAL 2-0
Rich vs SRV 1-2
Round 3 group 1
DLS vs Pitt 2-0
Round 3 group 2
MV vs SRV 2-1
Championship DLS 1 MV 1
Shootout: DLS champion due to keeper
5 peat for DLS but im hoping for someone to upset them!
February 11th, 2013 at 3:23 pm
A lot of people think Freedom can beat Berkeley. I guess that’s why I am covering that one.
February 11th, 2013 at 3:28 pm
I’ll try to stay away from the drama that has been created by a certain someone and focus on my predictions.
D1
Round 1
DLS beats Deer Valley 4-0
Newark beats Foothill 2-1
Pitt beats Logan 3-2 (but don’t be surprisd if it is the other way around)
Berkley beats Freedom 1-0
MV beats Antioch 3-1
Cal beats CP 3-2
Richmond beats Doughtery Valley 4-2
SRV beats AV 2-1
Round 2
DLS beats Newark 3-1
Pitt beats Berklery 2-1 (this should be a great game)
MV beats Cal 2-1
SRV beats Richmond 3-2
Semis
DLS beats Pitt 2-1
SRV beats MV 2-1
Finals
DLS beats SRV 3-2
I’ll do D2 later on when I assess who has the best chance.
February 11th, 2013 at 3:49 pm
Freedom has 1 very good forward / striker and a mid that can turn and rip a surprise. They may collapse to 5 backs had stagnate game. Both teams can easily go theatrical off the 3 meter board. CR might be busy on this one.
February 11th, 2013 at 3:57 pm
Foothill is capable of some good mid-field play but they have to stay aggressive for 80 and not give up the ball.
February 11th, 2013 at 4:05 pm
Hey Matt,
That view from the sky-box at Berkeley isn’t too shabby either.
Note to self 1: if going to an early match at Berkeley, bring extra change for parking – thanks Waterboy.
Note to self 2: don’t bother reading inane comments originating from any island – its called the freedom to ignore, DOH!
See you at the pitch!
February 11th, 2013 at 4:23 pm
If freedom can score an early goal on berkeley they can turn into a very difficult team to break down.
February 11th, 2013 at 4:27 pm
D1
Round 1
DLS def DV 4-1
Newark def Foothill 2-0
Pitt def J Logan 3-1
Berkeley def Freedom 5-0
MV def Antioch 3-0
Cal def CP 2-1 (OT)
Richmond def DV 3-2
SRV def AV 1-0
Round 2
DLS def Newark 2-1 (OT)
Berkeley def Pitt 3-2
CP def MV 2-1 (OT)
Richmond def SRV 1-0
Semis
DLS def Berkeley 2-0
Richmond def CP 4-0
Final
DLS 2 def Richmond 2 (4-3 PKS)
5 Peat !!!
This is the year we see Richmond stay strong through the playoffs but I like DLS’ chances against them
February 11th, 2013 at 4:28 pm
Oopsies… switch that round 1 score, it should read CP def Cal 2-1 (OT)
February 11th, 2013 at 4:39 pm
@Sweeper Views from the skybox are very nice. What game can we look to hearing from you?
February 11th, 2013 at 4:58 pm
It will be good to see you Matt and hopefully Sweeper in our “sky” box this Wednesday. Early start time means we will get a nice sunset mid-game, but you’ll need shades for the first half. Perhaps we can do a GOOOOOOOALASOOOO call since we’ll have the PA hooked up!
February 11th, 2013 at 5:12 pm
Looking forward to it!
February 11th, 2013 at 5:48 pm
@Matt,
I can’t get away from work early, so I will stay close to home and see AV@SRV (yet again, probably only get to see the 2nd half) and all of CP@Cal. CP will need a repeat of the 2012 lights-out performance from their keeper to pull off another playoff road win at Cal.
BTW, what is the spread on the repeat-of-2012 1st round matchup at DLS? Last year the score was 7-0.
@Viewsfromthebox, sorry that I can’t make it Wednesday but we will listen for the call from the press box PA…Good Luck!
February 11th, 2013 at 5:49 pm
Anyone got info about Foothill? I was planning to go to the Newark-Foothill match and hoped to gather a little bit of info about the Falcons before I see them. I know that they have a great player in Clark, but any other info would be great.
February 11th, 2013 at 7:02 pm
What is the admission cost this year for the NCS games?
and students with ID ?
February 11th, 2013 at 7:02 pm
Any D2 predictions ?
February 11th, 2013 at 7:16 pm
MDUSD didn’t decide to turf or not turf Concord High. Concord High made that decision. MDUSD holds the measure c funds that are paid for by the taxpayers, which is why Clayton still receives funds, the families paid their share of taxes. Each of the high schools received “leftover” money and each got to choose what to spend it on.
February 11th, 2013 at 7:27 pm
I reset my case…Poor management within the MDUSD, that seeps to the school. Uninformed decisions and poor judgement. Many would agree. Pithy yes and topic for Claycord.com Now back to soccer
PS the field is still lumps clumps and dirt.
February 11th, 2013 at 7:35 pm
@Stewie $9 adults, $6 students w/id.
February 11th, 2013 at 9:05 pm
Hey Stewie,
What about us seniors? And I don’t mean students.
Seriously, no problemo with the fees, but full fee at halftime is my only gripe.
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 11th, 2013 at 9:55 pm
Will they check id’s for seniors?
February 11th, 2013 at 10:42 pm
@helicopter I’m pretty sure richmond tied cp earlier in the season. In fact, cp should have won that game. What makes you think richmond will beat cp 4-0 in ncs?
February 11th, 2013 at 10:49 pm
I don’t have a set of all my predictions, but I think that the winner of the semifinal game between De La Salle and Berkeley (predicted) will win the final
February 11th, 2013 at 11:28 pm
Hey SRVdad,
What is your number? My guess is 6. But there are 20+ other numbers to hide behind.
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 12th, 2013 at 7:16 am
Thanks for the note on admission cost. Bring cash, bring the wife and make to the finals that’s $72.oo bring siblings and grandparents I will have to dip into the off-shore accounts. Wait which bank is close to Dublin Hi….darn I cant find my Ronald Regan mask.
February 12th, 2013 at 8:08 am
Sweeper,
I am a dad. Obviously my son plays for SRV. What’s your number?
February 12th, 2013 at 9:10 am
My first round winners…
Division I
DLS, Foothill, Pitt, Berkeley, MV, CP, Richmond, SRV
Analysis: My upset pick of the first round was going to be AV, until I saw the draw. I think AV is A) due, and B) very talented. However, SRV is not a No. 6 seed. They are one of the top five teams, talent-wise, in the entire East Bay. The only upsets I have are FH over Newark and CP over Cal.
I see that Foothill/Newark game being a good one. Very close, nip and tuck the whole way. I am wondering if Cal can get things going in the playoffs against a CP team that is better than last year.
I will be at the Berkeley/Freedom game, and though I think Berkeley should be seeded higher, I expect a very good game. Freedom is playing well and is talented.
Division II
Acalanes, St. Mary’s, Concord, O’Dowd, YV, Northgate, Campo, Hayward
Analysis: I just don’t see a clear cut upset to go with. I do think that Alhambra and Northgate will be very, very close and I think Hercules will give O’Dowd a very hard time. I also think the Kennedy/Hayward game will be close.
The most interesting thing to me is the possibility of a second round match between Acalanes and St. Mary’s or Dublin. First of all, I will say Acalanes has to win first, so I am not getting ahead of myself or counting out Piedmont. I am simply saying that if Acalanes moves on, no matter who they play, will be an intriguing second round game. Either a St. Mary’s team who is much, much better than a No. 8 seed (and a rematch of last year), or Dublin for the third time.
February 12th, 2013 at 9:26 am
@ all the non-believers
For those of you that don’t know. St. Mary’s who upset Acalanes last year, lost to Piedmont and tied them last year. So thanks Matt for not counting them out.
February 12th, 2013 at 9:32 am
@Piedmont Fan Myself, and I can certainly tell you that Acalanes, is not looking past Piedmont. That would be a mistake. Piedmont is a very solid team.
February 12th, 2013 at 9:50 am
It will be interesting if Pinole Valley or Albany pull an upset.
Don’t be surprised if one of these teams seeded low pull an upset.
February 12th, 2013 at 9:58 am
@Matt, excellent perspectives on AV a) due and b) talent. It seems based on posts above AV shouldnt even bother showing up. SRV did outplay them in game 1 but game 2 was very even (played at SRV). I remember last year when AV went to Newark and won then almost beat a very talented Richmond team on the road. I would not count them out that easily. They will show up and fight til the end. Good luck to all teams. Should be some great games.
February 12th, 2013 at 10:02 am
I just can’t see Herecules beating O’Dowd. Hercules is pretty much limit4ed to their star striker and the Trojans are more spread out talent wise. It will be VERY pysical. Good luck to the refs.
February 12th, 2013 at 11:45 am
Teams that were looking rag tag early on and now have cleaned up the game and are surging can never be underestimated. That’s part of the beauty of the game.
February 12th, 2013 at 11:53 am
Cal needs to find some extra motivation as last few times I have seen them it is looking very shaky.
Any word on Wilcox?
BOD is starting to show more discipline and jell regarding play. They could repeat deepening how much the truly dig in.
Hercules is not in good physical shape the final 30 will kill them.
February 12th, 2013 at 12:16 pm
Matt, I just can’t see Piedmont getting very far. too undersized.
February 12th, 2013 at 12:18 pm
@Itsabob. Your correct about Cal. No Wilcox for NCS. And yes, they are not playing well. Someone once told me that you can’t win without scoring. I think CP wins 2 to 0
February 12th, 2013 at 1:45 pm
Okay, everyone. I have a pretty exciting announcement.
I am very pleased to announce that something I have been working on has come to fruition.
An East Bay Division I v. Division II All-Star game has been green lighted. It will take place on March 8 at 7:00 p.m., at Richmond High School.
I am now in the process of selecting players and coaches.
More details will follow. I hope we can drum up big support for this game and make it a huge success.
February 12th, 2013 at 1:56 pm
Matt wonderful idea and recognition to all the players who play the game at a higher level. It will showcase some very good talent. Great Job
February 12th, 2013 at 1:56 pm
@Matt very pleased to hear that an all star game has finally been made for soccer. Great work! i will surely be there supporting the event. wish i had an all star game back when i played.
February 12th, 2013 at 3:03 pm
I’ll go ahead and try to predict the D2 playoffs. This one might be tougher than D1.
Round 1
Acalanes beats Piedmont 2-1
St. Marys beats Dublin 2-2 (St Mary’s wins by penalty shootout)
Concord beats Albany 1-0
BOD beats Hercules 2-0
YV beats San Lorenzo 3-0
Northgate beats Alhambra 2-1
Campo beats Pinole 2-1
Hayward beats JFK 2-1
Round 2
Acalanes beats St. Marys 2-1
Concord beats BOD 1-0
YV beats Northgate 3-0
Hayward beats Campo 2-1
Semis
Acalanes beats Concord 3-2
YV beats Hayward 2-2 (YV wins in penalty shoootout)
Championship
Acalanes beats YV 2-1
February 12th, 2013 at 4:19 pm
@Matt…Lot of the club team resume State cup play that weekend as many of those teams start practice on the 25th. That is your biggest hurdle on gathering players.
Not trying to be a bubble buster.
But way to go..it has to start from somebody with a passion to see it all come together and you are doing just that.
February 12th, 2013 at 4:30 pm
I checked with a lot of coaches and they said that was a good date. So we’ll see who we can get.
February 12th, 2013 at 4:35 pm
Very good…I was just starting to check all the schedules related to club. Congrats on getting that together. Now if only a champions league format can be set up
February 12th, 2013 at 4:36 pm
Matt, good job on getting the all-star game. I only have one problem: while I think Richmond High is a fine place with good facilities, I think that might be too far for those who live in areas like Fremont, Newark, Union City, Hayward, San Leandro, etc. I was wondering why you chose Richmond as your site rather than a more central site like Dublin or Pleasanton. Not trying to be negative, but I was hoping for a better geographical location for this game. Otherwise, good job.
February 12th, 2013 at 5:02 pm
@Tri-City Dude Haha, if you only knew how hard it is to find a site. It’s not as easy as me just simply choosing. A lot has to go right, and it went right with it happening at Richmond. My hunch is players will want to play in an All-Star game, no matter where it is.
And people will have the best tamales they’ve had in their life.
February 12th, 2013 at 5:30 pm
I know it probably wasn’t easy finding a site, Matt. The schools have to be willing to let you use their facilities, and not evryone would want some strangers using them. I really do appreciate you taking the time and energy to make this happen.
February 12th, 2013 at 5:37 pm
Oakland Tech 3, Fremont 1
I’ll get my first look at the OAL on Thursday.
February 12th, 2013 at 5:38 pm
Cal State Eastbay – Hayward has a great site
February 12th, 2013 at 5:38 pm
Hercules also is not bad.
February 12th, 2013 at 5:47 pm
So how excited are you guys for tomorrow?!
February 12th, 2013 at 6:37 pm
@matt when will you be releasing those all star teams?
February 12th, 2013 at 7:13 pm
@Bobby Kinda just going through the nomination process right now. I’ll release them ASAP.
February 12th, 2013 at 8:13 pm
Hats off to Matt for the all-star coup. I applaud the effort and the site. Should make for a wide open game. Players will travel to play. NorCal often travels a lot farther than Richmond for tournaments and league games. Nicely done
February 12th, 2013 at 8:31 pm
With all the playoff talk and predictions I think we forget that this is soccer. There’s not many sports like it. All the 32 teams have played 20-24 games in a 3 month window after a grueling club season.
Ability and skill will play a factor. Heart, determination and focus will win the games at this point. I wish all 32 teams best of luck and look forward to the celebration’s, upsets, shocks and ecstasy for the two eventual winners!!!
Let the games begin………..
And Matt, great job with all you do and for setting up the all star game and another platform to showcase the exceptional talent throughout the leagues.
February 12th, 2013 at 8:32 pm
agreed with Hs soccerfan. great work matt!
February 12th, 2013 at 8:41 pm
@ Matt Which games, beside the Berkeley game are you going to tomorrow?
February 12th, 2013 at 8:45 pm
I heard Cal High’s keeper got in some trouble and is unable to play..?
Also, any thoughts on a Logan upset over Pitt with 2 key Pitt players injured?
February 12th, 2013 at 8:47 pm
@Yellowjacket Just Berkeley for me tomorrow. Hopefully two on Saturday.
February 12th, 2013 at 9:20 pm
Pinole vs campolindo tommorow I’m going to that game
February 12th, 2013 at 10:52 pm
Just my predictions. Feel free to disagree. No disrespect meant
D2
Round 1
Acalanes beats Piedmont 3-0
Dublin beats St Mary’s 1-0
Concord beats Albany 2-0
BOD beats Hercules 2-1
YV beats San Lorenzo 3-2
Alhambra beats Northgate 2-1
Campo beats Pinole 3-0
Hayward beats JFK 3-1
Round 2
Acalanes beats Dublin 2-0
Concord beats BOD 1-1 (PKs 5-3)
Alhambra beats YV 2-1
Campo beats Hayward 2-1
Semis
Acalanes beats Concord 2-0
Campo beats Alhambra 2-0
Championship
Acalanes beats Campo 3-1
February 12th, 2013 at 10:57 pm
Yv will beat San Lorenzo, next game they will play northgate and easily win that, Semis will be YV and campo/Hayward. That will be a very interesting game but then YV will win and see Acalanes in the Finals it will go to PK’s and the winners are to be determined
February 12th, 2013 at 11:00 pm
My D1 predictions… what do I know?
No disrespect meant!
Round 1
DLS beat Dougherty V 2-0
Foothill beats Newark 3-2
Pitt beats Logan 2-0
Berkeley beats Freedom 4-0
MV beat Antioch 4-0
Cal beat CP 2-1
Richmond beat Deer V 3-0
SRV beats AV 1-1 (PKs 4-2)
Round 2
DLS beats Foothill 2-1
Berkeley beats Pitt 2-0
MV beats Cal 1-0
Richmond beat SRV 1-0
Semis
DLS beats Berkeley 2-0
MV beats Richmond 1-1 (PKs 5-4)
Final
MV beats DLS 2-2 (5-4) (Huge upset but I believe winner of MV/Rich has the ability to beat DLS)
February 13th, 2013 at 1:23 am
Sideline,
Interesting pick with MV and all the penalty kicks. Have to say though looking at MV website (assuming it is correct) that they have a number of kids that can score (8 players with 3 or more goals) and so it would appear that they really may be the deepest team talent wise. Time will tell.
February 13th, 2013 at 4:55 am
Matt…thank for your picks.For some reason AV has not been able to put together a breakout game this season.They have had a few good games against very good teams.They did tie DLS in Concord and even though they have lost twice against SRV the second game could have gone either way.Look for AV to put their best players on the field tonight and fight and challenge for the whole game.If they can win their first against SRV they will challenge and be a tough opponent for the balance of the teams remaining.Go DON’S.Will be a great game
February 13th, 2013 at 7:26 am
Cal Keeper was with Santa Clara Sporting last weekend and was looking fine.
February 13th, 2013 at 7:29 am
@ SIdeline…Round 1 DLS plays Deer Valley tonight.
Richmond has Dougherty Valley
February 13th, 2013 at 7:52 am
I don’t know anything about DII (for that matter, I never played the game and don’t know much about soccer, period). But of the DI teams I’ve seen this year I was most impressed with Monte Vista so they’re my pick to win the tournament. I’m also going to predict that Foothill and Amador Valley both win their first round games, just because I live in Pleasanton and am biased in favor of the home-town teams.
My biased uneducated predictions therefore are…
DI round 1:
De La Salle > Deer Valley
Foothill > Newark Memorial
Pittsburg > James Logan
Berkeley > Freedom
Monte Vista > Antioch
College Park > California
Richmond > Dougherty Valley
Amador Valley > San Ramon Valley
DI round 2:
De La Salle > Foothill
Pittsburg > Berkeley
Monte Vista > College Park
Richmond > Amador Valley
DI semis:
Pittsburg > De La Salle (*)
Monte Vista > Richmond
DI final:
Monte Vista > Pittsburg
(*) Because I’m picking MV to win, that means I have to pick DLS to lose at some point. Because soccer is a low-scoring game, any of these good teams can win or lose on any given day, which is why we often see team A beat team B, team B beat team C, and then team C beat team A, and so on. So I’m going to go out on a limb and predict that DLS doesn’t make it to the finals this year, not because they aren’t a great team but because luck finally turns against them.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:00 am
D2 1′st round 2′nd round Semis final
Acalanes Acalnes O’Dowd
O’Dowd Hayward
St Mary’s Y Valley
Concord Hayward Hayward
O’Dowd
Y Valley
Northgate
Campolindo
Hayward
February 13th, 2013 at 8:04 am
Wow, that compressed my submission way too much
first round ACALANES
ST. Mary’s
Concord
O’Dowd
Y valley
Northgate
Campolindo
Hayward
ROUND 2
Acalanes
O’Dowd
Y Valley
Hayward
semis
O’Dowd
Hayward
final
Hayward
February 13th, 2013 at 9:08 am
I wouldnt be suprised if the DII NCS final came down to a DVAL rivalry match of YV v. CHS
February 13th, 2013 at 9:13 am
Acalanes Dan Glascock was named national high school player of the week by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America. In fact, in his last five games, Glascock has four goals and four assists.
Fine player, and a really good kid, too.
February 13th, 2013 at 9:36 am
That’s not gonna happen Jogabonito.I can see YV moving up, but Concord would not get past O’Dowd.
February 13th, 2013 at 10:08 am
@ Jogabonito…. great joke… those two in the finals.
Odds to that happening 1/100
They both may have the teams to make it, but they have a hard road ahead.
What team can really beat Acalanes… St Marys can repeat …then what? BOD…. same style with the long throw… I see the winner coming from the bottom half of the DII bracket and Campo may have the upper hand.
Time will tell.
February 13th, 2013 at 10:43 am
@p2mk2 i think Concord can for sure get past BOD if they both meet, especially that it would be at Concords field. i know BOD beat them there last year in NCS but BOD is also lacking talent this year. i have concord beating BOD in the 2nd round. i do agree with you on the winner coming from the bottom half of the bracket but the team im going with is YV. lets see how it all plays out
February 13th, 2013 at 11:43 am
I didn’t get enough bracket interest this year, so we’ll have to try and resume the bracket challenge next season.
February 13th, 2013 at 12:27 pm
@Feint
“Cal Keeper was with Santa Clara Sporting last weekend and was looking fine.”
What are you saying, that the Cal Keeper was playing club soccer last weekend?
February 13th, 2013 at 1:41 pm
@ Matt 1-1 final Real Marid and MUFC
February 13th, 2013 at 2:32 pm
BOD’s going to win D2. They seem to be rounding into good form but they won’t sneak up on anyone. It will be a great tournament.
February 13th, 2013 at 3:10 pm
The first matches start in 20 minutes. Good luck to all teams and may the better squad move on!
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 13th, 2013 at 3:14 pm
If your at games tonight, please post scores….Thanks.
February 13th, 2013 at 3:31 pm
Matt – Has your twitter account been hacked or are you really flogging diets now? Better check!
February 13th, 2013 at 3:57 pm
To an evening full of upsets ^_^
February 13th, 2013 at 4:44 pm
St. Mary’s vs. Dublin is still 0-0 with 34 left to play. St. Mary’s has had the majority of chances. Would have scored if it wasn’t for a few close offside calls.
February 13th, 2013 at 4:49 pm
@Everyone Sorry about the Twitter hacking. I hope it’s remedied now.
Last I heard, Hayward was up 3-1 on Kennedy-Fremont.
February 13th, 2013 at 4:55 pm
Having seen St. Mary’s several times I can concur that they have a tendency to be offside a lot., mostly on the wingers.
February 13th, 2013 at 4:56 pm
Who has scored for Hayward?
February 13th, 2013 at 5:05 pm
Not sure who has scored.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:20 pm
@Yellowjacket How are we doing on the Berkeley/Albany border?
And when are you getting over here to see your boys?
February 13th, 2013 at 5:27 pm
@Matt I had to leave a few minutes later.. I’m watching my boys now. Us normal folk aren’t allowed in the sky box.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:29 pm
0-0 after 20 @SRV
February 13th, 2013 at 5:29 pm
SRV vs Amador
0-0 20 mins first half
3 shots on goal by SRV
Good counter by AV
February 13th, 2013 at 5:33 pm
Still 0-0 here at Berkeley after 20, though the home team is building up play nicely.
@Yellowjacket There are some normal folk up here. If there was an extra chair, I’d say come on up.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:33 pm
SRV up 1-0 in 23rd min.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:33 pm
Freedom counters. Cendejas scores. 1-0.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:35 pm
St. Mary’s 3-0 Dublin
Hayward 6-2 Kennedy-Fremont
February 13th, 2013 at 5:40 pm
1-1 at SRV after 30 min.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:41 pm
AV equalizes.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:43 pm
Freedom up 2-0.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:44 pm
Matt Smith….Keep Freedom scores coming please.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:53 pm
Freedom 2-0 at halftime.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:54 pm
2-1 SRV at half, scored in 40th minute.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:55 pm
Hang tough Freedom!!
February 13th, 2013 at 5:57 pm
Matt, what did you think about that save in the last minutes of the half? By far the best save I’ve seen all season.
February 13th, 2013 at 5:58 pm
Heard YV down 1-0 at halftime.
February 13th, 2013 at 6:03 pm
@Emile Heskey That save was incredible. And he’s had about four other great saves in the first half.
February 13th, 2013 at 6:07 pm
Here comes a PK for Freedom…
February 13th, 2013 at 6:08 pm
Cendejas converts. 3-0.
February 13th, 2013 at 6:22 pm
Still 3-0 with 20 left.
February 13th, 2013 at 6:26 pm
Still 2-1 SRV with 20 left.
February 13th, 2013 at 6:28 pm
SLZ 1
YV. 0
14 min remain
February 13th, 2013 at 6:30 pm
SLZ 1
YVHS 1
9min remain
February 13th, 2013 at 6:31 pm
Campo up 6-0.
February 13th, 2013 at 6:46 pm
YVHS 3
SLZ. 2
Final
February 13th, 2013 at 6:48 pm
Freedom Final?
February 13th, 2013 at 6:54 pm
Final SRV wins 2-1
February 13th, 2013 at 7:01 pm
3-0 Freedom
February 13th, 2013 at 7:24 pm
0-0 @Cal after 25.
February 13th, 2013 at 7:25 pm
Anybody at the Pitt game?
February 13th, 2013 at 7:25 pm
MV up 1-0 early.
Cal and CP 0-0.
February 13th, 2013 at 7:26 pm
DLS 0-0 DV early on
February 13th, 2013 at 7:27 pm
3-0 St Mary’s over Dublin
0-0 after first half. I’ve seen Dublin play before but they really didn’t come to play today. It became kickball. St Mary’s had an older team but nonetheless got the job done. With 1 PK and an own goal, the score quickly became 3-0. The goal was from a beautifully crafted serve and a crushing header. Dublin’s a young team and that showed today. Dublin will be a powerhouse next year, only if they can learn from this defeat. Congrats to all the teams that won today and good luck!
February 13th, 2013 at 7:32 pm
Cal up 1-0 on a breakaway up the middle in the 31st.
February 13th, 2013 at 7:33 pm
DLS up 1-0.
Cal up 1-0.
February 13th, 2013 at 7:42 pm
Cal 1-0 at half.
February 13th, 2013 at 7:43 pm
Northgate and Alhambra are scoreless close to half.
February 13th, 2013 at 7:43 pm
DLS 1 DV 0 Half
February 13th, 2013 at 7:45 pm
Acalanes and Piedmont 1-1 at half
February 13th, 2013 at 7:59 pm
Cal up 2-0 with 35 left.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:06 pm
Pitt Game???
February 13th, 2013 at 8:07 pm
concord game?
February 13th, 2013 at 8:09 pm
Pitt 1-0 30 left
February 13th, 2013 at 8:11 pm
CP earns a pk and it is 2-1 Cal and 23 left.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:13 pm
2-1 Acalanes up.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:16 pm
Pitt up 1-0
February 13th, 2013 at 8:20 pm
Did not get a chance to see Hayward today great job I will be at the Campo game. Hayward playing some good soccer.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:25 pm
Cal up 3-1 with 12 left on a crazy pinball play.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:30 pm
Cal up 4-1 with 8 left.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:37 pm
Cal 4, CP 1 final
February 13th, 2013 at 8:37 pm
Turf Squad couldn’t have made a more spot on assessment of the St Mary’s vs Dublin Game.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:39 pm
DLS 1
Deer Valley 1
Going into OT
February 13th, 2013 at 8:41 pm
Deer valley just tied game with seconds left in regulation score 1-1
February 13th, 2013 at 8:42 pm
Go Deer Valley! Richmond/DV updates?
February 13th, 2013 at 8:44 pm
Pitt up 2-0.
Heard it was a crazy finish to regulation at DLS.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:44 pm
MV up 3-0.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:48 pm
Concord 5-0 less then 1 min
February 13th, 2013 at 8:49 pm
Northgate 0-0 Alhambra with five to go.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:55 pm
Richmond wins 2-1. Scores goals in the 79th and 84th minute.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:57 pm
DLS going to second OT.
February 13th, 2013 at 8:58 pm
Pitt wins 2-0.
February 13th, 2013 at 9:01 pm
BOD-Hercules Score?
February 13th, 2013 at 9:03 pm
Go Deer Valley! SRV vs Richmond. Go SRV!
February 13th, 2013 at 9:08 pm
Ayala with a shirotenzen opened up a san lorenzo parked bus defence to get a 3 goal comeback in the last 10 minutes
February 13th, 2013 at 9:09 pm
DLS DV PK Shootout
February 13th, 2013 at 9:09 pm
6-1 Hercules over o’dowd. Romero with 4 goals
February 13th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
Wow. Is that Hercules score a final?
February 13th, 2013 at 9:11 pm
How’s DV doing?
February 13th, 2013 at 9:12 pm
Ng 1 – Alhambra 0
Final.
February 13th, 2013 at 9:14 pm
@halamadrid wats a shirotenzen? whateva it is, it sounds like the best offensive attack!
February 13th, 2013 at 9:18 pm
Go Deer Valley! Upset big time!
And thanks DFAL Fan, I try, I try.
February 13th, 2013 at 9:19 pm
Go DV!
February 13th, 2013 at 9:20 pm
Hurcules 6-1 BOD
Close game at 2-1. BOD got themselves back in it. Then a bad pass back and a penalty within 3 minutes kills the game. BOD were deflated and Hurcules showed their offensive strength against BOD who were demoralized.
Hurcules Romero is the real deal. Phenomenal striker.
February 13th, 2013 at 9:20 pm
How about Newark?
February 13th, 2013 at 9:21 pm
@Turf Squad – If You’re not a St Mary’s or Dublin Parent, You’re #2 in my book behind Matt!
February 13th, 2013 at 9:21 pm
I think Newark won 3-1
February 13th, 2013 at 9:22 pm
DLS tops DV in PK Shootout
February 13th, 2013 at 9:22 pm
DLS wins in the 6th shot!
February 13th, 2013 at 9:23 pm
Wait, im confused did DLS win?
February 13th, 2013 at 9:24 pm
Matt what’d you think about the Berkeley Freedom game? Who stood out?
February 13th, 2013 at 9:24 pm
DLS did win. not sure of final shootout score, but they did win.
February 13th, 2013 at 9:26 pm
Acalanes defeats Piedmont 5-1 with an onslaught of goals in the second half
February 13th, 2013 at 9:27 pm
Acalanes score ?
February 13th, 2013 at 9:32 pm
Well there goes my prediction that BOD would win D2. Well done Hercules. Wow.
February 13th, 2013 at 9:36 pm
Newark/FH game ended 3-1 Newark. FH had a hard time finding their flow on the grass field.
Side note- apparently FH starting GK broke his foot last week against AV and couldn’t play. Second major injury for him (other was a snapped finger) this season according to FH parents. Very unfortunate for him and I wish him a fast recovery!
February 13th, 2013 at 9:38 pm
Not a parent but I am definitely a Dublin fan. I am a little bias toward them but I try to be fair. Thanks again DFAL Fan.
Congrats to DLS for edging DV out, and SPECTACULAR JOB DV. If DLS wants to win NCS, they’ll have to step it up. My picks for D1 and D2 are Monte Vista or DLS and Acalanes (hands down).
February 13th, 2013 at 9:41 pm
Forgot one thing about St Mary’s and Dublin.
Dublin head coach had a family emergency, couldnt attend the game. Keep them in your prayers.
February 13th, 2013 at 9:47 pm
Ok, I thought O’Dowd would do better. Way to go Hercules. Still, I’m 7 of 8. Did anybody get all 8?
February 13th, 2013 at 9:49 pm
@mudhen
I was 7/, but in D1.
February 13th, 2013 at 9:58 pm
I made one prediction, Freedom’s upset. I’ll say my next prediction, MV getting upset by Cal.
February 13th, 2013 at 10:04 pm
Newark Memorial defeated Foothill 3-1. Have to agree with TVR, Foothill really struggled on the grass. Not sure if they usually play their home games on turf, but one would assume they did based on how much they struggled to pass the ball around and foward. Also a nice performance by Luke Lombana of Newark, he made a few really nice saves when Foothill had their chances despite giving up the 1 goal.
February 13th, 2013 at 10:20 pm
Oh my! Deer Valley played their hearts out and came within the 5th DV PKer to win the game as DLS missed in the 4th round. They had the shot and Andrew stop him and the next as DLS made the final 2 PKs to win the game.
The game was extremely physical and DLS had many shots to put this game away but credit the DV defense and gutty goalie that was in the right position all night. DLS scored on pretty play across the box in the 1st half. DV scored on the very last play of the game on a DLS header to the foot of a DV player that peppered a ball in the box that made it in. It was the only hard shot by DV all night and it went in.
Great high school game! You hate to see either team lose, but Sparty moves on, a little wiser and still believing in miracles!
February 13th, 2013 at 10:22 pm
@Tri-City Dude
FH first and only game on grass this year.
February 13th, 2013 at 10:27 pm
@srvdad yv bombarded its rival but nothing went in and they were down with 10 to go so ayala pulls out a beam of a shot which no matter what the 6 foot something goalie did just went right in and it woke up a tired team who seemed had almost given in to the thought that nothing would go In.
February 13th, 2013 at 10:59 pm
Foster for NG converts penalty kick deep into first golden goal period.
February 13th, 2013 at 11:08 pm
@matt did I hear that the all-star teams were going to be released tonight?? and when will the all-star game be? I am definitely going to go see the talent that will be there!
February 13th, 2013 at 11:50 pm
Was at the dls and Deer Valley game and what can I say I was Impressed by the way dv played that game game was even DV had the ball more 1st half but de la scored de la had the ball more 2nd half but dv scored dv kept playing really good soccer even though the refs were on dls side it seem that a dv player had to get kicked in face for ref to call something and in the other hand dv would barely touch a dls player and they would get the call it seem like the ref wanted dls to win he even let the guy who missed the pk take it again also I heard dv was playing without their star player Marcus Salvador due to a red card the game before so all said and done if dls wants to five peat (which they won’t) they need to change a lot of things.
February 14th, 2013 at 12:05 am
Great job by the committee with the BOD seeding how did that work out? St Mary’s proved it on the field today in full control. Thanks to the committee giving them a # 8 seed they get Acalanes in the 2nd round.
Some say the road to the championship goes through Lafayette. If that is true you might as well get there early.
February 14th, 2013 at 12:07 am
Piedmont outplayed and outclassed Acalanes for 70 minutes. Too bad the score doesn’t reflect this. Piedmont owned possession and played toe to toe with one of the best teams out there. Acalanes first two goals came from mistakes on Piedmonts goalkeeper dropping the ball on the first one and second the defender accidentally deflected it away from the keeper. Without those mistakes acalanes might not be moving on. 5-1 and soccer is a game based of mistakes. . 4 goals off set pieces. Rough game piedmont is no joke. Only losing a couple of seniors. Should be a great team next year. 3 goals in the with five minutes left to play. Number 8 and 17 are studs for acalanes. I don’t see at Mary’s upsetting acalanes. Also quite a bias by the dfal refs tonight. Pretty one sided.
February 14th, 2013 at 12:18 am
If you missed the Acalanes vs Piedmont game you missed a great game. Piedmont outclassed and outplayed Acalanes for 70 minutes. Piedmont pressured and out possessed Acalanes for quite a while. It’s not that they didn’t show up, Piedmont had their number. Acalanes first two goals came from the goalie dropping a routine catch and the defender deflecting a ball out of Piedmonts keepers hands. Without those mistakes you might not see acalanes moving on. Number 8 and 17 are studs for Acalanes. 1-1 at half and you could smell the upset brewing. Acalanes scored 3 with five minutes left with some help from the referees. I do not see St Mary’s long ball game to a fast forward beating Acanes solid defense. Piedmont is only losing 2 Seniors on the field. Fun and exciting high school soccer.
February 14th, 2013 at 1:37 am
Can anyone comment on the Berkeley-Freedom game?
February 14th, 2013 at 7:49 am
@Cokito Berkeley was in total control for the first 20 minutes. Dominated possession and had all the chances. Chris Contreras changed this game. He made several incredible saves, and after he kept Freedom in the game, they settled down, started to play soccer, and scored on a quick counter and a corner to take the wind out of Berkeley’s sails. Second half was much more even.
@Green Hornet Chris Contreras was the best player last night, and Jorge Cendejas is a true striker with a nose for the ball. Yassine Hamdouni was probably the best player for Berkeley, he and Jonathan Gonzalez were a force in the midfield.
February 14th, 2013 at 8:20 am
Matt
So impressive how the CC times gave space , a full page I think, for basketball rankings etc and not 1 line for the first round of boys soccer NCS!
Matt, YOU ARE AWESOME.
Bay Area News Group, in so many ways regarding HS soccer, YOU SUCK!
February 14th, 2013 at 8:51 am
I guess there was no news worthy story lines from boys NCS Soccer.
A #16 seed taking DLS (the the BNG ALWAYS loves to write about!) to PK’s
Great job Deer Valley, cudos to you. You deserve larger recognition.
A #14 seed nearly takes down mighty Richmond (another love child of BNG editors) only two very late goals help the Oilers to continue their season. Sounds like a great match. Some ink would have been deserving. Great Job AGAIN Dougherty Valley.
A #12 seed, Freedom ends the season of a 19 win #5 seed, Berkeley, in amazing fashion; 3-0. A great performance it sounds like from The Freedom GK.
and that’s just in D1.
C’mon BNG
HS Soccer teams have a big squad = many family and friend readers! almost 50% larger than basketball.
February 14th, 2013 at 8:56 am
De La Salle & Deer Valley game.
Deer Valley played a solid game and adjusted the back area well as compared to 1st meeting. Spartans had a consistent attack going once the CR got off his whistle so some game pace was achieved more so in 2nd half. The CR was very kind to DV as two of Deer Valley players easily could have been booked with instant reds but only got verbal. Mystery gift time allowed the tie shot to go in . It was hard rocket at close range credit to DV to break into box Konstantino had a reaction save but the ball just corked screwed on the line and went in…That is the luck or the beauty of the game.
Regarding the call back on PK shoot-out..Deer Valley Keeper lunged steeped forward before the shot was off and both the CR & AR called it…but DV keeper still blocked the 2nd shot. Now the classes part is the PK that was taken and made by DV included a classless taunt & flaunt and strut that was uncalled for and was done in front of all including CR and CR & AR said nothing to that player who should have been carded at least with a yellow. That all just fired Sparty all the more to close the deal. I would say the CR was very kind to DV and Deer Vally who played hard lost some of their honor by the actions of a few. Konstantino had a key PK block and Kash Chaudary closed the deal from the dot to seal the game for the Spartans.
February 14th, 2013 at 9:05 am
# 404
I agree completely. I had some of my co-workers this morning asking me about the games. Most addressed the fact that nothing was written of our high school soccer playoffs.
Its great for the families and players to see some feedback about the hard effort day in and day out.
To those that read this blog.
First of all, thank you Matt. Second, to those teams that poured there hearts out on the field great job. Words cannot express the level shown by all the teams that played last night.
To that underdog that over came the fear, down to the favorite that did what was needed.
Saturday, we open another beast.
February 14th, 2013 at 9:08 am
Northgate apparently pulled off the Drop & Flop in the box and was given a PK to win in OT. Heard that Coaches and Parents who are normally cool where on verge of aneurisms.
Dog Pounder’s you played with pride all season.
February 14th, 2013 at 9:09 am
So my prediction of chs cs yv in the DII final continues. Round of applause to all the dII dval teams that moved on to second round.
February 14th, 2013 at 9:10 am
So my prediction of chs vs yv in the DII final continues. Round of applause to all the dII dval teams that moved on to second round.
February 14th, 2013 at 9:29 am
Interesting to read how each team’s fans thinks the CR and AR’s “favor” the other team. I am just as guilty as the rest of the group and when emotions run high it can snowball a bit. We should all acknowledge this tendency of wearing rose colored glasses and try to enjoy the games for what they are– great entertainment and an opportunity to see a number of very different styles of play and players in a format that puts these young folks under pressure to perform. In many ways the players do a better job than the adult fans of handling this.
February 14th, 2013 at 9:30 am
Freedom pulls the greatest upset at Berkley! Chris Contreras and Jorge Cendejas win the game for Freedom. Difference to me was the goalies. Berkley right winger player put in a bunch of great crosses but teammates couldn’t finish, Contreras was there every time. Big shot by fullback late in first half was his best save all year. Berkley defense didn’t know how to handle Jorge giving him too much space and the goalie seemed untrained. Off to Pittsburg.
February 14th, 2013 at 9:33 am
Gotta love that Spartan support and spirit at the game.
Sparty I think holds the copy rights to “shear pandemonium”.
GO Spartans Keep the Focus.
Next Game at DLS 6pm Saturday vs Newark
February 14th, 2013 at 9:58 am
Great performances by BVAL teams. Unfortunately, I missed the Freedom game, but I saw second half of Pittsburg-Logan. Logan didn’t look bad and had their moments, but Pittsburg took advantage of their opportunitites. At home Pitt is a tough team to beat even with some key injuries. Proud of the Deer Valley boys, I’m hearing great things about their performance at DLS. What a match Freedom-Pitt will be on Saturday. Can’t wait! Antioch, keep your heads up!
Sur nice to see two BVAL teams still in the playoffs, I think the BVAL, like other leagues, do not get the recognition they deserve. Too bad the tow teams have to play each other. Good luck to both!!!
February 14th, 2013 at 10:00 am
Where to go on Saturday? I am hoping for the green light to cover two games.
And I love the support I get from you guys, and I will continue to do my best.
February 14th, 2013 at 10:09 am
I think Matt will be working on a great write up on HS soccer and NCS…Pulitzer prize quality. CCTIMES…give the Man some ink , paper and space. AND A BONUS
February 14th, 2013 at 10:33 am
DLS-DV what a high school game. Had seen both teams play and knew they were good but did not expect such intensity, even for an NCS game.
DV almost pulling it off leads me to wonder about Newark… as an East Bay-er, I haven’t been able to get to that area this season. Do they match up with DLS? What are they like? Usually I try to spread my games out during NCS to see as many teams as possible but might have to go watch Sparty again to see if Newark can do what DV almost did!
February 14th, 2013 at 10:41 am
@MacG
Same question here. It will be interesting to see if Newark is as strong on turf as they are at home.
February 14th, 2013 at 10:43 am
I’m reminded of 2009 when Newark came to DLS and took the game to double OT. Expect a battle, friends. Newark will have to score twice to win this game, however.
February 14th, 2013 at 10:55 am
re: 407 – NG clearly dominated Alhambra for the entire game. Strong, coordinated offense and impenetrable defense. Alhambra with almost nothing but 50-yd salvos towards the goal (great foot on #11), but no real attacks at any time, except for the ones that earned them their yellow cards.
February 14th, 2013 at 11:12 am
Had to leave the Pitt game just after they scored their first goal. But it was entirely against the run of play. Have to respectfully disagree with goal boy in that “Logan didn’t look bad.”. It was more “they looked far better than Pitt but did not finish their chances and the Pitt keeper was huge.”
3 goal line saves in first 25 kept his team in the game.
And to subvert our dear sweeper: see you at the 9 buck gates.
February 14th, 2013 at 11:16 am
Matt, This Saturday are you doing the YV > MV > DLS > coin toss for Richmond/Pit(I’d go with Richmond)? Or, are you going with YV > Campo > Acalanes? Have a nice valentine’s day dinner so you can get to these games!
February 14th, 2013 at 11:21 am
Alhambra had some strong early attacks but Northgate quickly adjusted. Their only real chances came from some well placed free kicks in the middle of the box, but the keeper (6 foot something) just jumped and grabbed or punched them every time.
Northgate was the better team, and deserved the win. Regardless of the quality of the Ref’s PK call, it would’ve been injustica had Alhambra advanced.
http://hfr-rehost.net/http://i.imgur.com/cWFHy.gif
February 14th, 2013 at 11:27 am
Freedom’s girls team pulled an upset, too!
February 14th, 2013 at 11:28 am
@SRVdad I am definitely thinking the early YV game, and then after that it is a coin toss. That Richmond/SRV rematch is very intriguing. So is that Acalanes/SM game and Campo Hayward! I can’t pick!
February 14th, 2013 at 11:41 am
I think the Acalanes/SM is going to be a battle.
February 14th, 2013 at 11:44 am
@TVR, if that really was Foothill’s first and only game on grass, then I’m not surprised they struggled so much. A lot of credit should still go to Newark for playing a great game and outplaying Foothill. DLS will definitely have their hands full in the next round.
February 14th, 2013 at 12:01 pm
SRVdad I am surprised you will not be watching Cal upset MV, should be an exciting game
February 14th, 2013 at 12:21 pm
@392, I wouldn’t call any DLS win a miracle in any sport… ever.
February 14th, 2013 at 12:50 pm
NG – game willing goal was by team captain Allen Foster III. The 6 foot something keeper is Max Sonnier.
February 14th, 2013 at 1:01 pm
@ El Pata I think what happened here is I arrived to the Pitt-Logan game when you we’re leaving. LOL! I saw the second half only. Maybe by that time Pitt had made adjustments. I will agree with you though, Logan had some great moments from what I saw, and yes, Juan Venegas (Pitt Gk) had a great game! Have a great day my friend. Shout out to all the HS Soccer followers and especially to @Matt!!!
February 14th, 2013 at 1:28 pm
@Goalboy Thanks! I hope you’ll be at Pitt on Saturday. Keep us posted.
Looks like I am going to Campo/Hayward.
February 14th, 2013 at 2:20 pm
fantom, If I can get out of a ninety year old’s bday party, I’ll be there. But ninety is pretty special…
February 14th, 2013 at 2:29 pm
fantom, I think cal has gained what it lost in the middle of the season and are ready to rumble. 4-1 over CP is a nice indicator…
February 14th, 2013 at 2:42 pm
@Everybody
Is anybody going to post round 2 predictions/reasonings? I’m thinking I will
February 14th, 2013 at 3:37 pm
Matt,
I like to stay optimistic but I would watch the Campo/Hayward or the Richmond/SRV game. Acalanes will beat St Mary’s by a large margin.
February 14th, 2013 at 4:04 pm
Checking in from Oakland Tech. OAL title on the line.
February 14th, 2013 at 5:05 pm
TurfSquad -
If Coach P lets the reins out it could get to 3 ro 4 to 1 but Coach P doesn’t do that. He loves the 2 goals now defense defense defense………and based on his record you can’t argue.
February 14th, 2013 at 5:51 pm
Does anyone know how Cal and MV fared in the their last two meetings this year?
February 14th, 2013 at 5:54 pm
Matt, What does Oak Tech have on the line? That’s my wife alma mater!
February 14th, 2013 at 5:56 pm
Tech wins the OAL. 2-0.
February 14th, 2013 at 5:57 pm
fantom, 1-1 early in the season then 3-0 MV later on. According to MV’s website…
February 14th, 2013 at 5:59 pm
Hey Matt,
How are the all-star teams coming along?
February 14th, 2013 at 6:41 pm
@FanTom, MV tied 1st outing. And won 2nd meeting 3 to 0 I believe. MV matches up well to Cal.
February 14th, 2013 at 7:25 pm
MV cal will be a terriffic game i think. I like the 4 oclock game too! A nice mid afternoon affair. My plan is to go to YV, MV and then finally Richmond. Gotta love NCS soccer.
February 14th, 2013 at 7:37 pm
@Crew42 I’m taking nominations from coaches until Saturday, then hoping to have a squad picked out and send out the invites.
February 14th, 2013 at 8:04 pm
I didn’t see anyone comment much on the YV vs San Lorenzo game late yesterday afternoon. SLZ scored in the first three minutes and the score remained at 1-0 until ~12 minutes to go when Tata tied it with a rocket. A couple minutes later YV took advantage of the strange lighting to loft one over the SLZ keeper for 2-1. Then YV got sloppy and SLZ tied it. YV managed to score a third goal before time expired. It was extremely exciting, and I think both teams played great soccer the whole way.
As for the lights, YV had 8 temporary lights around the track which lit only the field, and only to a height of maybe 30 feet. High kicks simply disappeared, and YV took advantage of this with their second goal as I don’t believe San Lorenzo’s terrific keeper saw much of the ball that flew in over his head. The lights were just used in the second half, fortunately, but the girls’ game afterwards must have been played the whole way in the odd lighting. I was SO happy to see that YV vs Northgate will be played in the daytime!
February 14th, 2013 at 9:25 pm
@Matt you saw my other son Onah Power playing midfield for Oakland Tech? I nominate him for your all-star game. Oh wait I’m not a coach… well I nominate him anyway.
February 14th, 2013 at 9:35 pm
Hey Matt,
Why isn’t Hayward hosting the match with Campo. Doesn’t league champ trump seeding? Or is that just the first round? I can’t imagine the Farmers electing to play at Campo.
I too am liking the YV to MV to Richmond tri-fecta. From the ATM to the NC$ and the ga$ pump, topped off with a tamale or two.
BTW, Cal looks healthy and their timing looked spot-on yesterday. The first team to two goals at MV could well win, while three goals may not get the win at Richmond.
440+ and counting, keep the chatter rolling…
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 14th, 2013 at 9:39 pm
Predictions for D1 second round games: (Went 6/8 in round 1)
DLS 2 Newark Memorial 1 – DLS, following a controversial first game against DV, will hopefully realize that this is the real deal. After a 16 seed almost dealing a 1 seed, I would love to choose Newark here, but DLS matches up well. This should definitely be a one-goal game but I see DLS taking this one.
Pittsburgh 2 Freedom 1 (PKS) – Should be a close game here as well, as Freedom showed that anything can happen. At this age, a solid GK and a stud up top may be all it takes. Should be a battle and Freedom will fight to the end. This two teams already have experience against each other this year and should be a great game regardless of the seeds.
MV 2 Cal 0 – MV matches up very well to Cal, beating them 3-0 in their most recent meeting. Cal did however tie MV earlier this year, so things can get a little bit interesting. Regardless, I think MV pulls through, as many in the EBAL area are rooting for an MV-SRV semi.
SRV 2 Richmond 1 (OT)- Toughest game to pick as both of these teams have the potential to go far. I honestly thought going into NCS these teams would face off sometime in the semis or even finals, but not quarters. Expecting to see a 50-50 offensive game. My gut is telling me a repeat from last year is in store.
February 15th, 2013 at 12:42 am
Hey Matt,
The taxi service is prepped if that works. Need to know if Miss Idaho is on the road trip.
Cheers, and see you at the pitch!
February 15th, 2013 at 7:55 am
@Viewsfromthebox You are close with Onah? Got a chance to speak with him after the game. What a nice kid.
@Sweeper What games are you at tomorrow? I will probably have my car, but we’ll see.
February 15th, 2013 at 8:05 am
Like in EPL relegation games….those are some of the most exciting games. It is a fight to the finish and NCS takes on that type of atmosphere as was displayed by Deer Valley and DLS. DV was focused and the passion was carrying them through the game along with showing some defensive adjustment from the first game along with better team work. Sparty dominated possession and play but was not closing the deal as they say.
Low seed does not mean much if the attitude is in place and soccer is what it is…many games are simply decided by 1 goal. Konstantino got the critical save in PK’s and Chaudary had the composure to seal the deal with his PK shot.
Now regarding Saturdays game with Newark:
GO SPARTANS
February 15th, 2013 at 8:15 am
Upset alert. Acalanes better not be too cocky against St. Mary’s
February 15th, 2013 at 8:32 am
@Matt yes Onah is one of my son’s best friends and like family to us. He was very excited that you “interviewed” him, great kid, great soccer player. Another Oakland player we are close with that you might want to watch is Skyline’s Babacar Diallo, they have him on defense, but he is a strong midfielder as well. Ahh the hidden gems of Oakland!
February 15th, 2013 at 8:33 am
What makes DLS so consistent and dangerous is the total team package. You never are quite sure who will score and the bench is hungry to show what it can do. So when you talk about teams that can push it for all 80 DLS is one of the best when it comes to working as a team to get the job done.
@ Mudhen you are so right. Just ask YV when you have that lackadaisical cocky attitude….they got bit. Big difference in confidence that is in focus. You take things for granted in soccer the Big Gotcha gets-yeah.
February 15th, 2013 at 9:00 am
@It’s The signs of a well coached and disciplined team.
It is that magic formula…Add a Dash of confidence with a dash of arrogance, stir in a little cocky add some clear focus and some plain just do it, you have the makings of a good team. It is the coaches and players that need to find that balance to make it all work.
February 15th, 2013 at 9:03 am
Lackadaisical arrogance = Buzz-Kill
February 15th, 2013 at 9:04 am
@viewsfromthe box. I agree that Oakland soccer is an underlooked treasure trove of soccer talent. I mainly follow club soccer (started following high soccer again after a 10 year lay-off to watch my grandson) and have seen the Oakland Select u-17 club team play a couple of times; they are an up and coming team on the competetive scene. Meanwhile big congrats to Oakland Tech!
February 15th, 2013 at 9:07 am
@Old Soccer every team has that diamond in the rough and sometimes that diamond is the team.
February 15th, 2013 at 9:09 am
Itsabob – It also does not hurt that DLS carries 28 kids on the varsity squad. Talk about a deep bench! Some kids are fighting to just make the second string.
February 15th, 2013 at 9:24 am
It is all about Brotherhood & Team. Value Added Intangibles. 26 + 3 JV call-ups is 29.
February 15th, 2013 at 10:07 am
I see that every year we speak of the great teams and those on top. And well deserved.
Now of the DII … what teams are the diamond in the rough that are still alive to the “SHIP”?
@ Matt and others
A few questions whos ( other then the Miss ) your diamond?
Can St. Mary’s pull it off again?
Can NG upset YV ?
Has Campo reached the end of the road?
Who, how , what is this Concord team all about ?
February 15th, 2013 at 10:11 am
@Old Soccer Head
What are the top club teams in the area?
February 15th, 2013 at 10:12 am
@Matt,
Probably YV then MV then Richmond, but I could be swayed. In posting #448 I had a question about Hayward @ Campo and why the league champ is not hosting the match. Just curious.
February 15th, 2013 at 10:23 am
@Sweeper it is only the first round where the league champ is guaranteed a home game.
@Viewsfromthebox Your nomination has been seconded by the appropriate governing body and has been submitted to the subcommittee for further evaluation
February 15th, 2013 at 10:40 am
Northgate needs to play a smart and solid game against YV. If YV plays like they should from start to finish they can control the game. NG the back 4 need to be on and not leave it all to the Keeper. NG Keeper Max is capable of playing huge but it needs to all come together. Otherwise YV will just runaround the backs and shoot all day .
February 15th, 2013 at 11:18 am
@oldsoccerhead that Oakland Select U17 club team you mention is the one my son has played on the last few years… so thanks for the shout out. So much talent there!
@Matt465 glad to hear it!
February 15th, 2013 at 12:07 pm
@soccerbro # 467. These are some of the top non-academy teams in the area IMHO:
u-17s — Milan FC (from Turlock); Marrin FC; Santa Clara Sporting; Alamden FC Real; Diablo FC; Heritage SC (Pleasant Hill); Mustang Hotspurs
u- 16s — Milan FC Rossoneri (Turlock); Juventus Forza (Redwood City); Marin FC; Hayward Mini-Chivas; Union City Barcelona; Mustang Inter.
I mention the Milan teams since some Bay Area guys play on their teams.
February 15th, 2013 at 12:31 pm
Any predictions on the outcome of,
concord vs. Hercules?
St Mary’s vs Alcalanes?
Campolindo vs. Hayward?
February 15th, 2013 at 12:51 pm
I think Konstantino should really be player of the year. He has led Sparty all year with only one starting back that was on the team last year. Also just kept them in the NCS playoffs..
February 15th, 2013 at 12:53 pm
Milan has a core set then they have the mercenary roster players who play for other very good club teams but then guest play in numbers for Milan.
Just saying not complaining.
February 15th, 2013 at 12:55 pm
DFC 94 & 95 are also among the top club teams.
February 15th, 2013 at 1:20 pm
#462
????
Q1 If St. Mary’s keeps playing with no fear like they have, its going to be hard to stop them. First test for Acalanes.
Q2 NG will have to have all motors running and working together. YV is not a push-over team. They can score and score fast.
Q3 Campo is well rounded and in great position. They are on a high and needs to stay on track. Hayward will be going into this game as an underdog, but dont blink.
Q4 Looking at what Concord did before the playoffs, a bit shocking for them to put up such numbers. Hercules can score and they shot. They both split a win against each other. Not an easy one to judge.
February 15th, 2013 at 1:22 pm
@Old Soccer Head
Thanks for that list. Are most of these kids spread out throughout the bay area for high school? Or do they combine to form super teams
February 15th, 2013 at 1:43 pm
Lots of talk in the trenches about Hercules moat all good only worry is the final 20 fade.
February 15th, 2013 at 3:00 pm
@ 469
Any predictions on the outcome of,
concord vs. Hercules?
St Mary’s vs Alcalanes?
Campolindo vs. Hayward?
YV vs. NG
Concord vs Hercules 2-1 C
St. vs. Acalanes 2-2 Golden goal Acalanes
Campo vs Hayward Campo 4-2
YV vs. NG 3-1 YV
February 15th, 2013 at 4:40 pm
Hey soccerbro; not real sure but I think most of the good club players are spead out amongst many different high schools; so you might have one or two really exceptional players at a particular school but without quality supporting players on that school team, that school prolly wont be very good & that talented player may not even show very well i.e. unlike basketball, one player cannot carry a soccer team. From what I gather, there are a number of Diablo FC players at De la Salle; as a result, that depth of talent will always carry DLS really far (even without a so called superstar field player).
February 15th, 2013 at 4:42 pm
Konstantino and Nic Bob from DLS POY MVP All-Star team. They have my vote.
February 15th, 2013 at 4:52 pm
DLS is a large mix from DFC, Mustang, WCSC, Tri-Valley Kids are all on the D1 club or Silver programs. Many of the Keepers and Center Backs at DLS over the past years have come out of DFC / DVSC / MDSL.
Big Credit to the coaching staff who pull all of these boys together to form a Spartan Soccer team that consistently does well.
February 15th, 2013 at 5:48 pm
Acalanes is almost all WCSC as they have the same coach
February 15th, 2013 at 5:49 pm
@matt
What do you think of freedom vs pittsburg tomorrow?
February 15th, 2013 at 6:20 pm
Pitt and Freedom if they play conservative you might see a draw and PK’s Depends who is willing to open up and go for it. I give an edge to Freedom
February 15th, 2013 at 7:54 pm
@High School Soccer Because the teams know each other so well, I’m expecting a low-scoring game. My guess is first one to score wins. Expect it to be physical and hotly contested. It will be entertaining.
February 15th, 2013 at 8:36 pm
@ 11 vs 11
First test? Ask any of those Acalanes players. I don’t think one person wouldn’t say Piedmont wasn’t a test. Piedmont was out shooting Acalanes until the final 10. Nice slight remark at how their first game wasn’t a “test.” I think acalanes will win through after a tough win in their first round game giving them the confidence needed.
Hayward is not an underdog. Three senior midfielders with tons of experience. Hayward tied campo 0-0 and held acalanes to a 2-1 loss. If campo goes in treating Hayward as a underdog they will surely lose.
Hercules and concord both play similar styles. And I think YV has the easier of all the games.
February 15th, 2013 at 9:08 pm
What no love for Ballistic in Pleasanton? Most of the kids on Foothill and Amador Valley play for Ballistic, another great club!
February 15th, 2013 at 9:16 pm
My two sense on Saturday’s games
DLS 2- Newark 1
Close game but I don’t know if this game can live up to the hype of the ’09 matchup where DLS came in nationally ranked and needed 2OT’s to advance
Freedom 3- Pittsburgh 1
I was really impressed with Freedom’s play against Berkeley, I honestly thought Freedom would just bow out but they proved they deserved to be here, I take them as the dark-horse of the NCS this year
MV 2- Cal 0
Classic EBAL matchup, but I feel MV has a better overall team, even though it pains me to say it (Both were my rivals)
Richmond 1- SRV 1 (5-3) PKS
Somehow Richmond and SRV seem find each other in the NCS tourney every so often and it is always a deadlock, this one is no different, but I think this is Richmond’s year to make it far and show what they’re really made of
February 15th, 2013 at 9:17 pm
@foothill fan
Well clearly ballistic can’t be that good…
Seeing as both teams you’ve mentioned are out already..
February 15th, 2013 at 9:36 pm
One last observation on Piedmont v Acalanes. Piedmont was very disruptive and was able for long periods during the game to keep Acalanes from possessing and pressing the attack. But piedmont had few truly quality chances and a number of their shots were from outside the box and easily handled. By contrast, Acalanes could/should have been up 3-1 at half and wasted many good chances in the second half. Acalanes remained dangerous throughout and had much more play in Piedmont’s penalty area than Piedmont had in Acalanes’ penalty area. Piedmont played with a lot of confidence but couldn’t figure out how to consistently break through the Acalanes defense.
February 15th, 2013 at 10:51 pm
Wing play disrupts acalanes, and for an organized big and tall defense they dont tend to win all the crosses, a talented midfield will easily disrupt the flow of their game… And they get reckless and start making mistakes shoulder to shoulder runs easily knock them to the floor, floping…. Which is odd cause their players are big, carefull tho, they cry to the refs in packs… Their main point in offense is set plays, every throw in is a corner… And their strikers are tall… But with a defence watching the flow of the ball its easy to win and clear it as long as u focus on the ball… But to score ur strickers need to have finesse shots for the keeper is talented and will save at point blank and any shot flown his way.
February 16th, 2013 at 12:36 am
Other good clubs around the area is the ACC Mavericks U16′s and U17′s (Bay Oaks Mavericks) and Lamorinda FC U17. Having the best players from schools like Richmond, Berkeley,St.Marys,El Cerrito,Albany,Pinole, and Hercules. Lots of good talent around that area.
February 16th, 2013 at 12:58 am
Montes is probably the best player in NCS this year. Wouldn’t be surprised to see him win NCS player of the year again. The kid has talent. @MattSmith Do you know what colleges is he interested in or what colleges are interested in him? He is defitnitley fit for a D1 college.
February 16th, 2013 at 7:43 am
With Acalanes in comes down to trap and control, soft foot skills regarding holding / gain and hold possession.
They give up the ball more then they should. However Acalanes does not panic & rush much which is a good thing.
February 16th, 2013 at 7:53 am
Campo is a hot and cold team they either run on all cylinders or start to miss-fire because one part of the game is in a fail mode. Sort of like a Jaguar XKE when tuned runs great but three days later runs terrible. Depends on which day you play them.
February 16th, 2013 at 7:57 am
Interesting observation of clubs. Union City Barca U-16′s pretty much throttled all the clubs mentioned in the NPL Premier 1 div.(also winning Davis Cup) with Mustang Inter only team giving them a run. Playing Marin in April for chance to go to NPL Nationals in Colorado. Funky thing is during HS all these boys are spread out to 7 diffrent schools during the HS season…..wish they all went to the same school.
February 16th, 2013 at 8:37 am
@G Nation Having watched him play, I don’t know if he has the physical attributes to be successful at a D1 school. So much is determined if you are big enough, strong enough, and fast enough and I’m not sure if he hits all those marks. I did see his technical talent and his amazing finishing ability, but unfortunately that’s not all it takes for college soccer at this point.
February 16th, 2013 at 9:03 am
@G Nation I agree with you on how good he is. Watching him play is beautiful. I have heard some colleges are interested, but I’m not sure what his plans are. A couple of coaches have asked me about him.
February 16th, 2013 at 9:23 am
Matt, what’s your take on announcing NCS soccer games?
February 16th, 2013 at 9:31 am
@G Nation and Upper V — Interesting comments about Montes. It seems as if technical skills matter much less than size, speed and sheer strength in our country. Given that, Lionel Messi would probably not be “good” enough to play college soccer (not to mention all those small, slow Spanish midfileders like Cesc Fabregas, Xabi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, Juan Mata, et al.) Sad commentary on US soccer.
Meanwhile, on with the games tonight. Good luck to all. Hopefully skill and creativity will win some of the contests.
February 16th, 2013 at 9:33 am
Newark has a dangerous attack, DLS Backs and Keeper will need to be in full Sync and hopefully the Mids will start that break-down of an attack by disrupting and taking possession. Should be a a good game tonight.
February 16th, 2013 at 10:05 am
Arsenal lost today in the FA Cup. If the EBAL in D1 and the DFAL in D2 are the “premiership” ( more like the SEC as others have said) let’s root for some upsets today. The reactions of the players and their fans are priceless. Memories of a lifetime!
February 16th, 2013 at 10:08 am
@old soccer head
Thank you! Saved me from typing my rant. The fact that some would not consider montes is ….
Grr, sorry, started to rant anyhow. Heh.
February 16th, 2013 at 10:40 am
Matt is watching Everton do battle as they are in a fight at 1-1 with Oldham
February 16th, 2013 at 10:50 am
Just want to clarify that I don’t approve of the importance placed on pure physical talents by the US system..I know of alot of kids you have great touch, vision, etc, yet because they aren’t “quick enough” or “big enough” they aren’t taken by colleges. It’s a hard cycle to try to get out of too. Since most colleges take these big, fast players, other colleges feel the need to do the same to keep up. There needs to be a few Barca teams in the US to start trying to change this.
I find it interesting that most club teams actually don’t go by this standard and do focus more on the technical side, yet this all changes when kids turn 18..Shame.
February 16th, 2013 at 10:54 am
@ Gnation… Montes is a very quality player, but he is definitely not the best player in the NCS this year. He scores goals against the worst teams and his stats are padded. Look at what he does against the top teams in the EBAL. Richmond hasn’t had much success against those teams. Look at Greenberg, Konstantino, Grixti, and Clark. They are all much better than him this year.
February 16th, 2013 at 11:31 am
@upper v
Akron was doing that under Caleb porter and doing well. Won a national championship few years back.
He tried to bring the style to our u23s and they failed to qualify for the Olympics.
He is at Portland now; I think …. Recently moved to mls anyhow.
But that is 1 school out of how many? Still sad.
February 16th, 2013 at 12:08 pm
Matt is not happy.
February 16th, 2013 at 12:13 pm
@Matt..it was a Gallant Effort Everton 2 Oldham 2
Don’t worry be happy…..some great game on the board tonight.
February 16th, 2013 at 12:14 pm
Handball goal at sudden death. Talk about getting screwed.
February 16th, 2013 at 12:15 pm
@Matt… What pitch will you be at tonight ?
February 16th, 2013 at 12:18 pm
@Matt…..SEE …..SEE… the phantom lurks in the box with the CR and they whisper into each-others ear.
February 16th, 2013 at 12:27 pm
@Matt…then to top it off Matt Smith is done in by Matt Smith. What are the Odds. ?
February 16th, 2013 at 12:39 pm
Hey Matt,
Who so you think is going to win today Hercules vs. concord??
February 16th, 2013 at 12:45 pm
I’m at Campo.
@Soccer God I got Hercules in the upset. Speaking of Hercules, do you know how many goals Romero has now?
February 16th, 2013 at 12:54 pm
Cash from ATM – check
Gas tank full – check
12 hour pass from the warden – check
Snacks for the drives – check
Jacket, hoody and more layers – check
Radar detector – check
Maps to YV, MV and Richmond – Maps? We don’t need no stinkin’ maps!
Cheers, and see you at the pitches!
February 16th, 2013 at 1:07 pm
Hey Matt,
According to my records Romero has 23
February 16th, 2013 at 1:25 pm
can anyone tell me when the campo hayward game is?
February 16th, 2013 at 1:30 pm
@bobby 5:00
February 16th, 2013 at 1:43 pm
thanks matt, sadly I don’t think I can make it
February 16th, 2013 at 2:00 pm
Anyone at the YV-NG game?
February 16th, 2013 at 2:04 pm
Underway at YV.
February 16th, 2013 at 2:05 pm
Underway at yv at where they try to break the second round curse!
February 16th, 2013 at 2:11 pm
Wish I could have done a double header, Sweeper.
February 16th, 2013 at 2:24 pm
0-0 after 20 at YV. Home team needs to finish…
February 16th, 2013 at 2:36 pm
YV scores in 31st minute. 1-0.
February 16th, 2013 at 2:46 pm
2-0 YV in 40th minute, and now halftime.
February 16th, 2013 at 2:50 pm
Two beautifully earned goals by YV. NG is playing hard but the Warriors look just a little better right now. Let’s see how they handle the lead in the second half.
February 16th, 2013 at 3:10 pm
YV still up 2-0, match is getting chippy. 28 to play.
February 16th, 2013 at 3:17 pm
YV up 3-0 on a diagonal free kick flying header. Cruise control on now.
February 16th, 2013 at 3:28 pm
The ref has let the game get of his control. Yv 3-0 little over 15 left
February 16th, 2013 at 3:29 pm
Chippy gets ugly with yellow cards flying and the YV coach given a red card for choice words after a player is injured. 13+ left and still 3-0.
February 16th, 2013 at 3:34 pm
Oddly enough Matt Smith scored the controversial goal to earn Oldham a draw vs. Everton today.
100
February 16th, 2013 at 3:40 pm
NG scores to make it 3-1 YV with 3+stoppage left.
February 16th, 2013 at 3:45 pm
Now 3-2 in extra time.
February 16th, 2013 at 3:49 pm
3-3 as NG kicks it out of the YV keeper’s hands and time expires. OT.
February 16th, 2013 at 3:51 pm
I thought the ref had earned the privilage to ref this game. Worst ref ever…
February 16th, 2013 at 4:03 pm
Soccer Gods are acting weird today…I think they are enjoying getting people pissed off in a big way.
February 16th, 2013 at 4:03 pm
3-3 heading to 2nd OT.
February 16th, 2013 at 4:05 pm
Did #3 score for NG?
February 16th, 2013 at 4:16 pm
WOW YV and NG. That’s crazy..
100
February 16th, 2013 at 4:18 pm
And YV is without their coach?
February 16th, 2013 at 4:22 pm
Going to PKs. This will be an epic writeup tonight.
February 16th, 2013 at 4:34 pm
PK sequence
NG-YV
0-1
1-2
2-3
3-4
4-5…YV wins
February 16th, 2013 at 4:35 pm
My money is on NG Keeper …Big MAX
February 16th, 2013 at 4:35 pm
DARN
February 16th, 2013 at 4:36 pm
YV follows its normal pattern of being super cocky and they tank it. But salvage in PK
February 16th, 2013 at 4:39 pm
MV CAL score?
February 16th, 2013 at 4:39 pm
Any MV/Cal updates?
February 16th, 2013 at 4:44 pm
Cal up 2-0
February 16th, 2013 at 4:44 pm
Last I heard MV down by 2 to Cal
February 16th, 2013 at 4:45 pm
Cal up WOW
February 16th, 2013 at 5:07 pm
Cal up 3-0 with 32 left.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:13 pm
This was my only other upset(not really an upset) prediction. First was Freedom over Berkeley. Yea, tooting my horn.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:14 pm
Wait, is the fat lady singing yet? NG came back…
February 16th, 2013 at 5:16 pm
anything from Hercules-Campo?
February 16th, 2013 at 5:19 pm
meant Hayward- Campo
February 16th, 2013 at 5:22 pm
MV scores to make it 3-1 Cal with 18 left.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:25 pm
0-0 20 minutes in. Campo having the run of play at the moment.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:33 pm
NG vs YV is my game of the season. Never seen a team fight that hard in the last few minutes. Nobody excepted them to come back from 3-0 in those last few minutes, stunning energy when they did.
@Stewie “Big Max” looked injured at start?, a YV forward came in and kicked him. He was groping his hand all game, it didn’t seem to affect his play though. Right before PKs though he collided with another player and was limping. Don’t know if that one changed how he did, but definitely didn’t help.
NG played their hearts out, the most amazing comeback I’ve ever seen and a great game all around. Bravo.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:38 pm
0-0 about 10 before half.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:40 pm
Cal wins 3-1.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:40 pm
Play has evened out here. Back and forth. Physical.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:42 pm
Campo 1-0. Kilwien with a very nice strike to the bottom left corner.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:50 pm
Campo makes it 2-0. Hayward couldn’t clear after a long throw, ball bounces around and gets punched in.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:52 pm
Rigo PK. 2-1.
February 16th, 2013 at 5:55 pm
2-1 half.
February 16th, 2013 at 6:02 pm
Emotions ran high at the YV-NG game today. Very well fought by both sides. Although YV won in PK’s, You have to give the Northgate boys credit from coming back from a 3-0 deficit in stoppage time. Great game.
February 16th, 2013 at 6:03 pm
For Northgate the first goal was score by George Burrows #7\ assist by Bolender #3
Other 2 were scored by Bolender #3 in last 2 minutes of the game to tie the game! Was an intense game!
February 16th, 2013 at 6:07 pm
Matt, where you going next?
February 16th, 2013 at 6:14 pm
Still 2-1 10 minutes into second half.
February 16th, 2013 at 6:16 pm
@SRVdad Just one game for me today. Would love to be in Richmond!
February 16th, 2013 at 6:17 pm
Any updates on DLS against Newark?
February 16th, 2013 at 6:19 pm
DLS up 1-0.
February 16th, 2013 at 6:19 pm
DLS up 2-0.
February 16th, 2013 at 6:21 pm
Matt, thanks for your updates! On my way to Richmond…
February 16th, 2013 at 6:23 pm
Hayward nearly equalizes. Campo responds with goal number three.
3-1 with 22 left.
February 16th, 2013 at 6:24 pm
Thanks matt! Keep us posted please! Thanks.
February 16th, 2013 at 6:39 pm
Newark scores. 2-1.
February 16th, 2013 at 6:44 pm
3-1 DLS.
February 16th, 2013 at 6:48 pm
DLS 3 NM 1
Half
February 16th, 2013 at 6:48 pm
Do you know who scored for Newark?
February 16th, 2013 at 6:50 pm
Campo wins 4-1.
February 16th, 2013 at 6:50 pm
@Jose Not sure, but heard it was a great goal.
February 16th, 2013 at 7:06 pm
@matt well if you find out i would love to know! Thanks.
February 16th, 2013 at 7:08 pm
Crowd at Richmond is less than last year or the match against Berkeley, but they are still rolling in. We are underway…
February 16th, 2013 at 7:10 pm
Yv northgate good game bad refs…. Yv bombarded could of had more goals need to finish,
Yv didnt get cocky the ref was making bad calls, a throw in goes in without any one touching it and its a goal, then yv keeper had the ball in his hands, then a ng player punches it out of his hands and scores, wheres the hand ball call ref! But “ot” was calm calls were better yv hit the cross bar 3 times ng had a shot forcing the keeper for the save, pks were nice yv made and stopped the first then everyone scored the rest.
February 16th, 2013 at 7:16 pm
SRV up 1-0.
February 16th, 2013 at 7:27 pm
#9 equalizes for the Oilers.
February 16th, 2013 at 7:29 pm
But sweeper, he only scores against weaker opponents and isn’t d1 ready …..
/sarcasm
February 16th, 2013 at 7:37 pm
Montes rolled his right ankle on a 50:50 ball at midfield and left with 14 left.
February 16th, 2013 at 7:40 pm
el Pata,
You did not hear that from me. That was some MV guy.
February 16th, 2013 at 7:44 pm
DLS 3 NM 2
Final
February 16th, 2013 at 7:52 pm
SRV scores on a misplayed corner to take back the lead 2-1 in the closing minutes of the half. Montes did not return but seemed amused by comments from the stands. Hopefully, he returns in the 2nd half.
February 16th, 2013 at 8:05 pm
I know ya didn’t. Sorry it came across that way.
February 16th, 2013 at 8:07 pm
Montes is not on the field to start the 2nd half.
February 16th, 2013 at 8:29 pm
Still 2-1 with 18 left and no Montes.
February 16th, 2013 at 8:32 pm
Pitt/Freedom news?
February 16th, 2013 at 8:37 pm
How about scores from Acalanes or Concord? Thanks!
FWIW, the game at YV today was among the most exciting I’ve ever seen. Very chippy at times, but amazing soccer skills by YV and heart by NG.
February 16th, 2013 at 8:38 pm
Still 2-1 with 10 left
February 16th, 2013 at 8:42 pm
According to Freedoms athletics twitter-2-0 Freedom lead with 10 to go. Should be over by now but they have yet to update.
100
February 16th, 2013 at 8:43 pm
Any update on SRV v Richmond?
February 16th, 2013 at 8:45 pm
SRV up 3-1 with 2 to play.
February 16th, 2013 at 8:46 pm
2-0 Freedom! Cinderella? It’s a final.
100
February 16th, 2013 at 8:49 pm
St Mary’s does it again 1-0
February 16th, 2013 at 8:50 pm
St. Mary’s wins 1-0
February 16th, 2013 at 8:51 pm
Scores for concord
And for Acalanes
February 16th, 2013 at 8:52 pm
SRV wins 3-1
February 16th, 2013 at 9:02 pm
Re NG YV game – YV coach threatened!!! a player (we are coming for you to take you out) and evicted with red card.
YV player flips off the NG students.
Game won, honor lost.
February 16th, 2013 at 9:12 pm
Sorry acalanes throw ins dont win u games nor set plays, specially when u cant finish… Sad tho… Only loss of the season eliminates them from ncs
February 16th, 2013 at 9:19 pm
Concord wins 1-0
February 16th, 2013 at 9:23 pm
Messi 100 goals per season no world cup
Montes 35 goals a season no ncs ring
For all those who mouthed acalanes richmond hayward and bishop o’dowd wish u could take ur worths back huh?? This is soccer its beautifull
Heart only does so much
To an evening full of upsets ^_^
February 16th, 2013 at 9:24 pm
And the possiblity of a d2 Dval Ncs final increases.
February 16th, 2013 at 9:30 pm
@bean town honor??? Yeah well u see when a player is tackled and injured when he doesnt have the ball… And then the same player sees him and tramples on him well things get out of hand…. If a player plays like that… Thats a brute… And the ref does nothing… Then a coaching staff from the opposing team goes and trys to fist fight the coach and the bench…. Yeah honor huh?
February 16th, 2013 at 9:51 pm
Wow, EBAL once again…could have been an all EBAL semi if not for the MV vs. Cal game. Only 1 loss to a non ebal team in playoffs.
February 16th, 2013 at 9:53 pm
any others think ebal league isn’t the hardest to play in?
February 16th, 2013 at 9:56 pm
All in all a great day. I figured out the secret to making the phone last 3 matches and an OT, flight mode when not posting.
For now The Sweeper is out of juice, but enjoying a beverage or three. Will post more comments when I report back to the warden…
February 16th, 2013 at 10:48 pm
Will be interested to hear others analysis of St Mary’s vs Acalanes. St Mary’s scored with less than a minute left before halftime on a corner kick. They defended their lead well in the second half weathering Acalanes’ pressure. Both teams had trouble possessing the ball but it seemed like St Mary’s had a greater sense of urgency throughout the game. Quite frankly it was a workmanlike professional effort on St Mary’s part winning an away game against a formidable foe. They adopted Acalanes’ fool proof winning formula of scoring first and defending like heck after that.
St Mary’s may not have enough to go all the way but they are built for NCS. Very strong defense , excellent goalkeeping, just enough technical skill, a bonafide goal scoring threat, and confidence bursting at the seams. Good luck Panthers!
February 16th, 2013 at 10:50 pm
Northgate fans and players have no class. YV kept dominating the game and had a 3-0 lead when #10 from Northgate decided to hurt one of the YV players. resulting in this player getting hurt and being out for the rest of the playoffs. #10 was just there to hurt the YV players. I seen him play in previous games and he did really well. I lost my respect for this kid after he kept trying to hurt the YV players. Northgate coaches have no control over this team.
The 2nd goal was a throw in and no contact was made and goal was allowed. 3rd goal YV keeper had ball in hand and it was kicked away from him again with no call. The ref was terrible and shouldn’t be allowed to ref anymore games. Some refs were there watching the game and they were all going crazy on how bad this center ref was.He should be suspended for all his mistakes just like the YV coach and player will have to sit out the semis.
February 16th, 2013 at 11:26 pm
@Dfal1
You want to talk about class? Obviously you were on the YV side of the game. You obviously didn’t hear about the YV players sticking their fingers up the NG players butts during the game. Obviously you didn’t see #10 get hit late multiple times after the ref had blown the whistle. Obviously you didn’t hear the YV coach threaten #10, saying that if he came back onto the field he was going to send his players out to hurt him. That’s class isn’t it? If that doesn’t do it for you Ii have got more. You didn’t see The YV player who flipped off the entire NG crowd and began yelling profanity at them. For my perspective #10 for NG was playing his hardest he possibly could, and although he had some hard fouls, his intentions were not so.
February 16th, 2013 at 11:34 pm
After seeing and hearing reports about on-field and off-field antics today in boys and girls matches, my #1 conclusion is that coaches need to do a better job controlling and guiding their players (PERIOD), or pull them for dangerous play. Otherwise, you risk the dreaded “quick red.”
The head official at YV used every discretion to not hand out red cards in the first half to both sides (I gave him a “B” grade except for the last goal in regulation). In the end the discretion may have been his mistake, but the PLAYERS raised the bar in the second half by abusing the privilege on dangerous play and taunting. The result, 3 deserved red cards, and 8+ yellows. I thought we were playing “52 card pickup.”
The coaches have the ultimate responsibility and influence to control their players, unless they want to see the dreaded “quick red” that should not have to happen.
I predict at least one “quick red” in a boys’ semi-match AND a girls’ semi-match. Otherwise the finals could be a fiasco.
Respect the game or don’t play, and the fans need to be kept in check.
No rant, just fact.
February 17th, 2013 at 12:24 am
The concord field is not a field where an ncs game should be played. The field is horrible. Might as we’ll play in cement. The field is so hard. It reminds me of how the old Richmond high soccer field use to be. There should be rules about the fields.
February 17th, 2013 at 12:49 am
like i said St marys is VERY underrated!! and Acalanes hasnt scored a single goal against them in 160 minutes of play…very impressive from the St. marys side. they played great D to hold the lead after halftime. a lot of back and forth play but Acalanes had no answer for the boys in red. great game and the #1 team goes down again to the same opponent.
as for the the YV vs Northgate game, Northgate’s #10 was out to hit all the YV players and got away wit too many fouls and had very poor sportsmanship. YV dominated the game and Northgate couldnt match the skill and speed from the YV side. Northgate fans did get the finger and YV side was taunted multiple times so that evens out for me. the center ref however was horrible and Northgate was LUCKY to even get the goals they did for their so called “comeback”. a throw in untouched which was called a goal and also player kicking the ball out of the goalies hand to score. in my opinion the better and more deserving team won today but a very exciting game in all! well done to both sides!
February 17th, 2013 at 12:52 am
The Concord goalkeeper Jimenez was flat out classless tonight. He was doing everything offensive he could to make the other team mad. He was shouting at the other bench and taunting them throughout the game. I boiled over at one point when Hercules’ player was fetching the ball for Concord’s goalkeeper so that he would take the goalkick and stop wasting time. When the player handed the ball to Jimenez though he picked it up and threw it as far away as he could (that of course earned him a yellow and off the field).
Congrats to the rest of the team though, the players performed well. Their field might have assisted them but they looked on the ball today.
February 17th, 2013 at 12:56 am
Also can we stop the NG vs YV posts? It’s very clear that just one person from YV is posting the same thing over and over about the game. You won your game, go home and study and stop clogging up the blog.
February 17th, 2013 at 1:04 am
Matt,
Is 621 a record? BTW, I posted several “questionable” posts to Matt Schwabs blog tonight, but those do not count.
What is the posting record? Let’s hit it this week!
February 17th, 2013 at 1:08 am
First of all the goals were well deserved the second goal wasn’t from a throw in, someone threw the ball in the guy right next to him, he vollied the ball and it went right everybody, I know this because i volley the ball into the goal. And the 3rd goal was shot at the keeper, the keeper tried catching it but fumbled it in front of the goals, which i tapped in. They were 3 legitimate goals in 7 minutes. Sad that the YV fans have to make excuses for that enbarressment of giving up a 3 goal lead in 7 minutes. Taunting was nothing compared to what the YV player and coach did that got the m carded. The player was being yelled at by crowd and he did taunt a little, but was nearly As bad as being flipped off. Don’t talk about a game you weren’t even in or watched.
February 17th, 2013 at 1:29 am
CR7,
You are spot on regarding the first 2 DG goals. Whether the keeper fumbled the ball on the 3rd ball is the question. I saw both hands on the ball while the kick was made at 00.00.
However, the end result was not an injustice….
February 17th, 2013 at 7:35 am
Great game at Owen Owen’s Field last night. Good example of Sportsmanship and effort by both Squads. Newark and De La Salle were both focused and ready to play. Ref crew was good and was on top of any chippy from the get go and the flow of the game was not impeded. Newark if they found a path to the goal whither it was from 30 or 10 out they would attempt to get a shot off and that paid off with 2 great goals, those shots had to be placed in a sweet spot to get past De La Salles GK Konstantino. The Spartans were relentless on the attack, relentless to gain mid-field advantage and combined with a great team effort Sparty came out on top with 3. Team capt Nic Bob clearly was on his game as a leader and player.
Just a super evening of HS soccer.
February 17th, 2013 at 7:42 am
Concord field …been said and re-said and repeated That field should not be used for NCS play it it not maintained and is horrible. Not sure if the NCS gets it??
Oompa Loompa, do-ba-dee-doo,
I’ve got a perfect puzzle for you.
Oompa Loompa, do-ba-dee-dee,
If you are wise you’ll listen to me. and maybe we will find a field for thee
February 17th, 2013 at 7:51 am
Well, I was at the YV // Northgate match, and as far as I am concerned the fault for bad Spectator behavior lies on the shoulders of the administrators from both schools. The fans should have been warned that taunting and other unsporting behaviors would result in their ejection from the stadium.
Apparently, the big loud guy who came over to the YV side was a principal from Northgate, who not only inflamed the situation further, but had NO STANDING to approach the referees.
Here’s the way it works folks; if one of the referees did NOT hear what was supposedly said, then it nothing more than HEARSAY and no sanction can be given .If the center ref was acting on what the big loud man was saying , without corroboration from one of his crew, then he made a serious error in dismissing the YV coach.
February 17th, 2013 at 7:51 am
Great game last night at De La Salle. Well played by both teams.
Regarding YV Campo game…Campo needs to simply out play, stay on game Wed. It will be a hostile environment but Cool heads will prevail and just prove it on the field.
February 17th, 2013 at 7:52 am
@CR7, Great game! Probably greatest comeback in NG’s playoff history! Your mom and dad are proud of you. See you at Tice.
February 17th, 2013 at 7:52 am
And oh yeah, what did I say about Acalanes sleeping on the job against St. Mary’s ?
February 17th, 2013 at 7:57 am
YV coach is a loose cannon…hope the red card is up-held for the next game. He should not be near the field or even in the parking lot.
February 17th, 2013 at 7:59 am
@ncs dII ….its a blog…. Thats what it is for…. No one is forcing u to be here or even read em if ur butthurt over ur team losing im sorry bro…. This is the bittersweetness of a blog.
February 17th, 2013 at 8:01 am
Acalanes not so much as sleeping but St. Marys did some homework and the plan worked. Now if the NCS will step-up and move the Concord ST. Mary’s game to a decent field.
February 17th, 2013 at 8:04 am
How was the concord game?? Back and fourth or concord scored and parked the buss?… Thats lame lol i think parking the buss is a smart tactic but has no class.
Wether the field is cement or not it shouldnt matter a good team goes and gets wins on where ever they play shouldnt be restricted by holes on the ground hahaha and besides u play a whole season for higher seeding wether the ncs higher ups messed up or not i think concord deserved the seeding and all the home games they gotten so far.
February 17th, 2013 at 8:09 am
@recap just when u see the game and you notice that yv is taking more shots and they are dominating the wings and all the midfield… Just notice which teams starts playing dirty and who the ref starts favoring then the enviroment will be hostile… I guess your not used to fans getting involved with their screaming, and hostile…. Bro its a soccer game at a highschool no one is getting shot or stabbed like at a niners and raiders game…. Hahahahahaha
February 17th, 2013 at 8:15 am
The only suspension that will and should happen is to the Northgate principal. He was acting like a maniac. A threat is one thing but to actually have your players hurting the opponent on purpose because they were far superior to you is a different thing. I was on The Northgate side and hurt everything that was going on.(Cursing at players all game)
Moving on to Acalanes vs St. Mary’s game.
I feel bad for Acalanes as they played good all year long and are now out. St. Mary’s sat back in the 2nd half and held the 1-0 lead. They have a great defense and kept the Dons from creating any good chances all 2nd half. Good luck to the rest of the teams remaining.
Maybe next year Acalanes
February 17th, 2013 at 8:15 am
Sweeper, You need to keep far away from the girls side of the blogs. Those mom’s are relentless.
February 17th, 2013 at 8:16 am
Great game @ MV yesterday. Cal dominated the whole game. There midfield play was amazing. I guess I was wrong to count them out so early. They look like the real deal
February 17th, 2013 at 8:27 am
Cal is the team they were at the beginning of the season. Did MV have their impact middies? My upset team, Freedom, is still in it and will give DLS a run. Cal and SRV game will be epic. No predictions…
February 17th, 2013 at 8:30 am
Cal came out and scored two early goals and were able to manage the game brilliantly. They gave MV very few scoring chances. Their center midfield dominated Monte Vista’s. Expecting an awesome semifinal between Cal and SRV on Wednesday.
February 17th, 2013 at 8:33 am
Where is our friend Matt Smith? I miss him. Hopefully, he has recovered from yesterdays 2-2 Everton loss!
February 17th, 2013 at 8:35 am
@Sweeper The record is 1,035 from last year, so we won’t get that this week. But this is pretty good!
@Everyone I understand that the game of soccer is an emotional one, and it sounds like that YV/Northgate game had all the drama of a heated playoff game. Let’s remember to try and keep it as friendly as possible and not call out individual players when analyzing games. I have to allow you your rights to say what you want, but as a favor, I would ask that we try to be mindful of what the blog is for and that’s to promote the beautiful game.
Analysis, critique, opinion, etc… is all great. But let’s promote the individual young men when we talk about them in specific, and not make them worried about what they might read about themselves on the blog.
February 17th, 2013 at 8:41 am
@halaMadrid, I still want the origin of shirotenzen.
February 17th, 2013 at 8:41 am
Hard to predict anything really accurately as its a long soccer season. In fact, it”s prolly really two seasons, first one is to make the playoffs; second is the playoffs (just look at NFL Ravens – they were a 4 seed out of 6). Maybe that’s how some at Cal High have approached it i.e. make the playoffs,get healthy, and then start playing for real? We’ll see how it goes at SRV; should be a great match. Anyway, a question: are all league, POY and all star selections based on regular season play or do they include playoff performances?
February 17th, 2013 at 8:51 am
@Old Soccer Head My selections for POY and All-Star selections consider everything. All-league is selected before the playoffs start.
February 17th, 2013 at 9:43 am
With all the drama at certain boys and girls games I imagine the Richmond boys saluted the SRV fans after a tough loss. Pure class which I know is being copied by other programs.
February 17th, 2013 at 10:31 am
@Maverick ….. well said
the SRV – Richmond game was very intense, but for the most part it was a clean game and fans did appreciate the effort of both teams. It was nice to watch some soccer and not a ‘kickball’ match.
February 17th, 2013 at 11:17 am
@Hala I was talking about Concord
The match was high-paced especially in the second half, the keeper for Hercules made some good saves to keep them in the game. At one point some commotion allowed the ball to get in and Concord was ahead. After that they seemed to park the bus but still maintained some good ability up top, they came close to getting more goals. My only quarrel is like I said earlier with Concord’s goalkeeper.