Olympia ’78 (NESSL) 2 (4) Barnstonworth Rovers F.C. 2 (3)
The Rovers took a step backwards on Tuesday night crashing out of the US Open Cup in the first hurdle on penalties. It was the first time in 4 years that the Rovers lost a match from a team outside the league. The Rovers, too cavalier at times, conceded the equalize in the last minute of regulation, then after the West Indians missed the first penalty, missed 2 of the last 3 to lose the tie.
It should never have come to this. The opposition was a disorganized lesser quality side, that bantered, argued and several times delayed the match, but the malaise of not being able to finish opponents, and keep focus when changes that did not work as planned, hurt the Rovers. Andy thought he had give the Rovers the lead in the first 10 min, but the tap in was called back in the most bizarre manner, the linesman judging the ball has crossed the end line ! A few minutes later, Andy did open the score with a deadly finish. Rovers 1-0.
A long diagonal ball caught the Rover backs flat and allowed the Olympian striker to go on alone and tie the score. Rovers 1-1.
Did not take long for the Rovers to restore their advantage. This time Pugli received a diagonal pass in the box, and slotted it on the turn. Rovers 2-1.
Match should have been over 2 minutes later, when the West Indian sweeper gave the ball to Puglie all alone at the D. He strolled in but unsuccessfully tried to chip the keeper. Then it was Jordi’s ball that found a streaking Randi all alone in front of the goal. Somehow the ball glanced of his head and onto the keeper.
In the 2nd half the Rovers had a lot of room behind the Olympia defense playing for the offsides very high up the field. And as the opposition took chances to get back into the match, the Rovers had chance after chance. Had they been more cautious on their runs they would have easily killed off the match, but, too many times they were caught offsides. Still, they had some remarkable chances. Alex free running into the box chose to pass across it rather than finish. Sam was given the ball inside the six with the keeper on the opposite side of the goal but finished right on him !
As the Rover management averted the Pier 40 management when threatened to cut the match short due to a permit overrun, Olympia started to throw everything forward and their frantic movement disoriented the Rovers sufficiently to lose organization and focus. In the last minute their forward latched on to an unnecessary rebound and equalized.
The Rovers have not won a penalty shoot out since …..well… I cannot recall the last time they did.
The streak did not end Tuesday, even after Olympia missed the first kick.
Team: Dave Borchard, Sam Wiggin, Vidar Ekehaug, Randi Lee, Andy Abramovits, Einar Benedktsson, Colin Marshall, Jordan Chirico, Oren Nhaissi, Alfonzo Nanclares, Alex Cruz. Subs (all played) Sam Minaya, Austin Harris
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
BOB Result 11/23/08 by Dave Sheeran
Barnstonworth Old Boys - 4 Banatul SC - 2
After last week's disappointing exit from the State Cup at the hands of Div I leaders NY Dinamo, the Old Boys returned to league action and winning ways.
On a bright chilly morning at Forest Hills HS, we finally got under way after the 2 referees who showed up worked out who was actually going to officiate. Banatul started stronger while we struggled to find our rhythm in the game. They had plenty of possession early on but created very little, rarely bothering Zak in goal. We escaped an early penalty appeal when Greg somehow managed to get away with parrying the ball with both hands above his head - although the ball was struck from close range. We slowly started to make headway and took the game to Banatul... only for them to open the scoring.
An impressively theatrical dying swan routine just outside the box sold the referee on a free kick, which was nicely dispatched around the wall and into the corner despite Zak's efforts. In a rare period of Old Boys bitching, we spent the next 10 minutes squabbling with passes going astray and tackles missed, until Dominator took an opportunity during a break in play to tell everyone to shut the f*ck up. We did, and ran down the other end to score. Three times.
Brian got a couple, including a nice run down the right, beating the keeper from a narrow angle at the near post (ignoring his teammates on the 6 yard line of course) and another run down the left which was (gasp!) cut back to Cesar, who finished with a nice dink with the outside of his right boot. Seeing their 1-0 lead rapidly turn into a 3-1 deficit caused several Banatul players to start throwing their toys out of the pram, including a classic Jerome Albertini style stomp off the pitch and shirt throwing routine. The Corsican would have been proud.
We had more chances to score, but it remained 3-1 at the break. Most of the second half we controlled easily and on more than one occasion we went all Arsenal and tried too hard to make it look good instead of being incisive. At one point, we had 4 players in the Banatul box against a couple of defenders, but everyone was too polite and passed it around inviting teammates to shoot. We eventually hit the bar. We did finally grab the 4th goal, again with bodies in the box, the ball falling to Brian 12 yards out and he'll rarely look for the pass in that position, and he gave the keeper no chance to notch his hattrick.
Late on, we either took our foot/feet of the gas or Banatul upped their game as they had some extended periods of pressure. Despite that, they were only dangerous from set pieces and after a succession of well-placed corners, they managed to bundle one in at the back post. But there was never any danger of a come-back.
There was a nasty moment late on when Chip took a ball to the face and we were all immediately worried for his boyish good looks. Thankfully, the pain he was experiencing was internal.
Solid performances all-round again, especially since we were missing one or two key players (don't tell them that) - in particular, Steve "Luxury" Condos who's been playing out of his skin all season. Also, good to have Zak van Buren back in the Rovers fold after his return from Hong Kong, filling in for yours truly for the second game.
So still unbeaten in the league, but still chasing Tesoro who continue to rattle off the wins each week. One more game for us on December 7th before the winter break.
BOB: Zak, Dominator, Greg, Lordy, Macca, Chip, Luxury, Billy, Colin, Jeff, Josh, Negro, Luxury, Unmackers.
After last week's disappointing exit from the State Cup at the hands of Div I leaders NY Dinamo, the Old Boys returned to league action and winning ways.
On a bright chilly morning at Forest Hills HS, we finally got under way after the 2 referees who showed up worked out who was actually going to officiate. Banatul started stronger while we struggled to find our rhythm in the game. They had plenty of possession early on but created very little, rarely bothering Zak in goal. We escaped an early penalty appeal when Greg somehow managed to get away with parrying the ball with both hands above his head - although the ball was struck from close range. We slowly started to make headway and took the game to Banatul... only for them to open the scoring.
An impressively theatrical dying swan routine just outside the box sold the referee on a free kick, which was nicely dispatched around the wall and into the corner despite Zak's efforts. In a rare period of Old Boys bitching, we spent the next 10 minutes squabbling with passes going astray and tackles missed, until Dominator took an opportunity during a break in play to tell everyone to shut the f*ck up. We did, and ran down the other end to score. Three times.
Brian got a couple, including a nice run down the right, beating the keeper from a narrow angle at the near post (ignoring his teammates on the 6 yard line of course) and another run down the left which was (gasp!) cut back to Cesar, who finished with a nice dink with the outside of his right boot. Seeing their 1-0 lead rapidly turn into a 3-1 deficit caused several Banatul players to start throwing their toys out of the pram, including a classic Jerome Albertini style stomp off the pitch and shirt throwing routine. The Corsican would have been proud.
We had more chances to score, but it remained 3-1 at the break. Most of the second half we controlled easily and on more than one occasion we went all Arsenal and tried too hard to make it look good instead of being incisive. At one point, we had 4 players in the Banatul box against a couple of defenders, but everyone was too polite and passed it around inviting teammates to shoot. We eventually hit the bar. We did finally grab the 4th goal, again with bodies in the box, the ball falling to Brian 12 yards out and he'll rarely look for the pass in that position, and he gave the keeper no chance to notch his hattrick.
Late on, we either took our foot/feet of the gas or Banatul upped their game as they had some extended periods of pressure. Despite that, they were only dangerous from set pieces and after a succession of well-placed corners, they managed to bundle one in at the back post. But there was never any danger of a come-back.
There was a nasty moment late on when Chip took a ball to the face and we were all immediately worried for his boyish good looks. Thankfully, the pain he was experiencing was internal.
Solid performances all-round again, especially since we were missing one or two key players (don't tell them that) - in particular, Steve "Luxury" Condos who's been playing out of his skin all season. Also, good to have Zak van Buren back in the Rovers fold after his return from Hong Kong, filling in for yours truly for the second game.
So still unbeaten in the league, but still chasing Tesoro who continue to rattle off the wins each week. One more game for us on December 7th before the winter break.
BOB: Zak, Dominator, Greg, Lordy, Macca, Chip, Luxury, Billy, Colin, Jeff, Josh, Negro, Luxury, Unmackers.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Results: Firsts/Res 11/23/08
Stan Mielec 2 Barnstonworth Rovers 1
The Rovers dropped another 3 points against relegation favorites Stan Meilec. This year the Rovers have lacked the consistency that brought them to the brink of the CSL title match last season, and have lost 8 points in 3 matches vs the bottom teams. The Rovers completely dominated play but their profligate finishing cost them. In contrast, the poles scored on both of their shots on goal, both in the first 3 minutes of each half.
A polish attack from their ended with a ball coming in the middle of the Rover area. The Stan Meilec forward lunged and chipped over Broach. Rovers 0-1.
The Rovers had the ball on the ground and created chance after chance. Einar had a great chance with a header 2 yards out of the far post, but somehow the keere parried. Colin's free kick went just over the bar, and Jordi cut in from the right fed the ball across the six, but somehow the Rovers could not connect. Oren cut diagonally to the middle, found himself alone in the area but could not find the back of the net.
The second half starting identically. Stan Meilec in their first and only attack - if you can call it that - go the ball to the Rovers left, then passed to a forward outside the D. Surrounded by 3 Rover defenders the guy curls a speculative shot that spectacularly tucks under and inside the far upper 90. Rovers 0-2.
Still it was a match the Rovers should have turned. Again they created chance after chance after chance but without the clinical Pugli, could not find the net. Finally with 20 to go, Einar found Jordi on the left, he beat his marker deep cut inside, and got the ball in the middle where Andy slid it home. Rovers 1-2.
Comeback on, right ? Almost. Next attack the ball is incredible saved from a Wiggi header and Fonzie pushes it surely past the line, but it hits Alex and goes wide ! And from the cross, the ball is rolling on the line, Alex toes it - surely the equalizer - but somehow he toes it in a parabolically outward trajectory and around the far post ! (dont ask i cannot explain it). And this was not nearly the last Rover chance. Many followed. With 5 to go, Oren crosses just inside the six. Austin is there to prolifically get another important goal, but he loses the ball in the floodlights and lets it glance of his forehead and into the waiting lap of the polish keeper. Finally, in extra time, Sam gets it through the middle inside the area but scuffs it once again at the keeper.
A very important 3 point wasted that the Rovers will need to make up during the season if they are to repeat last years playoff appearance.
Team: Dave Borchard, Sam Wiggin, Vidar Ekehaug, Randi Lee, Andy Abramovits, Einar Benedktsson, Colin Marshall, Jordan Chirico, Oren Nhaissi, Alfonzo Nanclares, Alex Cruz. Subs (all played) Sam Minaya, Austin Harris
Stan Mielec Res 2 Barnstonworth Rovers Res 5
The Reserves, reinforced with a reappearance from Mike Alexander and a fitness run from Baskin, scored 3 in the first half to kill off the hapless poles. The first 2 came from good finishes inside the area by Yannick, the third a nice far post finish by Stavros. Austin set up all 3 of the goals. In the second half, Baskin made in 4 with a shot from inside the area and Sam rounded up the scoring after a breakaway. Late on, the many unfamiliar changes in the back to allow some players to play on the top half of the pitch ruined the clean sheet the stellar Kaplan performance deserved.
Team: Mat Kaplan, Mike Alexander, Stefan Lysak, Simon Caton, Daniel Cardozo, Stavros Zomopoulos, Ron Baskin, Stash Rutkowski, Nick Reynolds, Austin Harris, Yannick James. Subs (played) Alex Carabano, Sam Minaya
The Rovers dropped another 3 points against relegation favorites Stan Meilec. This year the Rovers have lacked the consistency that brought them to the brink of the CSL title match last season, and have lost 8 points in 3 matches vs the bottom teams. The Rovers completely dominated play but their profligate finishing cost them. In contrast, the poles scored on both of their shots on goal, both in the first 3 minutes of each half.
A polish attack from their ended with a ball coming in the middle of the Rover area. The Stan Meilec forward lunged and chipped over Broach. Rovers 0-1.
The Rovers had the ball on the ground and created chance after chance. Einar had a great chance with a header 2 yards out of the far post, but somehow the keere parried. Colin's free kick went just over the bar, and Jordi cut in from the right fed the ball across the six, but somehow the Rovers could not connect. Oren cut diagonally to the middle, found himself alone in the area but could not find the back of the net.
The second half starting identically. Stan Meilec in their first and only attack - if you can call it that - go the ball to the Rovers left, then passed to a forward outside the D. Surrounded by 3 Rover defenders the guy curls a speculative shot that spectacularly tucks under and inside the far upper 90. Rovers 0-2.
Still it was a match the Rovers should have turned. Again they created chance after chance after chance but without the clinical Pugli, could not find the net. Finally with 20 to go, Einar found Jordi on the left, he beat his marker deep cut inside, and got the ball in the middle where Andy slid it home. Rovers 1-2.
Comeback on, right ? Almost. Next attack the ball is incredible saved from a Wiggi header and Fonzie pushes it surely past the line, but it hits Alex and goes wide ! And from the cross, the ball is rolling on the line, Alex toes it - surely the equalizer - but somehow he toes it in a parabolically outward trajectory and around the far post ! (dont ask i cannot explain it). And this was not nearly the last Rover chance. Many followed. With 5 to go, Oren crosses just inside the six. Austin is there to prolifically get another important goal, but he loses the ball in the floodlights and lets it glance of his forehead and into the waiting lap of the polish keeper. Finally, in extra time, Sam gets it through the middle inside the area but scuffs it once again at the keeper.
A very important 3 point wasted that the Rovers will need to make up during the season if they are to repeat last years playoff appearance.
Team: Dave Borchard, Sam Wiggin, Vidar Ekehaug, Randi Lee, Andy Abramovits, Einar Benedktsson, Colin Marshall, Jordan Chirico, Oren Nhaissi, Alfonzo Nanclares, Alex Cruz. Subs (all played) Sam Minaya, Austin Harris
Stan Mielec Res 2 Barnstonworth Rovers Res 5
The Reserves, reinforced with a reappearance from Mike Alexander and a fitness run from Baskin, scored 3 in the first half to kill off the hapless poles. The first 2 came from good finishes inside the area by Yannick, the third a nice far post finish by Stavros. Austin set up all 3 of the goals. In the second half, Baskin made in 4 with a shot from inside the area and Sam rounded up the scoring after a breakaway. Late on, the many unfamiliar changes in the back to allow some players to play on the top half of the pitch ruined the clean sheet the stellar Kaplan performance deserved.
Team: Mat Kaplan, Mike Alexander, Stefan Lysak, Simon Caton, Daniel Cardozo, Stavros Zomopoulos, Ron Baskin, Stash Rutkowski, Nick Reynolds, Austin Harris, Yannick James. Subs (played) Alex Carabano, Sam Minaya
R2D2 undoes Men's Premier for performance of the weekend by Nicolas
R2D2 11 Astoria Dragonflies 0
As R2D2's Sunday opponents, the Astoria Dragonflies were trailing at the very bottom of the League, the question was not if we would win the game but what the margin of victory would be. And what a margin it ended up being. With a final score of 11-0, R2D2 recorded its best score ever and undid the 9-0 of the Men's Rovers Premier team in terms of Rovers' performance of the weekend.
In order to up the ante, R2D2 opted for a resolutely offensive formation with a flat 3 defense at the back and an extra striker up front. From the start of the game, it looked like the strategy would pay off. The very first ball indeed moved quickly up the field in 3 flowing passes which ended up with a clean shot, miraculously caught
by the goalie. During the next 25 minutes, the Astoria goalie and their sweeper would actually prove well above the rest of their team, managing to keep us from scoring despite numerous chances and outrageous domination. At the 25th, Stacy surprised everybody - including herself - with a superb right footed strike from 15 yards out which flew straight into the right corner of the goal. Stacy's first goal with R2D2 proved crucial in freeing us psychologically and giving us a winning way into the game. Emily K and Darlene, then added one each to give us a 3-0 advantage by half time. In the second half, R2D2 focused on playing a one touch passing game using control of the ball, speed and accuracy to create space and open up opportunities. It was definitely a day with for R2D2 as the recipe worked to perfection and we started cashing in goals with frightening efficiency. Within the next 45 minutes, Kerri bagged a hat trick, Kristen build up 2 of her own, Emily added one to her tally, and Caroline reinventing herself as a striker got one too. Add one own goal from Astoria and that is 1 goal every 5 minutes and 20 seconds.
Final score : 11-0.
With this week's win (the 7th in a row), R2D2 ends up the Fall season in first place, tied for points with the Skulls (the Skulls however have one game in hand – a difficult one - which they will play in the Spring) with the best offense of the League (30 goals scored), the best goal difference (25), and the second best defense (5 goals conceded and 6 clean sheets).
The B League has proved of a much higher quality this year than it has been in the past and apart the odd game, every win of R2D2 has been hard fought and thoroughly earned. With a number of teams fighting to move up from their mid table position, the Spring season promises to be very challenging so stay tuned for more…
The Ladies hope to see you all to celebrate the end of the year on the 12th at Nevada Smith.
As R2D2's Sunday opponents, the Astoria Dragonflies were trailing at the very bottom of the League, the question was not if we would win the game but what the margin of victory would be. And what a margin it ended up being. With a final score of 11-0, R2D2 recorded its best score ever and undid the 9-0 of the Men's Rovers Premier team in terms of Rovers' performance of the weekend.
In order to up the ante, R2D2 opted for a resolutely offensive formation with a flat 3 defense at the back and an extra striker up front. From the start of the game, it looked like the strategy would pay off. The very first ball indeed moved quickly up the field in 3 flowing passes which ended up with a clean shot, miraculously caught
by the goalie. During the next 25 minutes, the Astoria goalie and their sweeper would actually prove well above the rest of their team, managing to keep us from scoring despite numerous chances and outrageous domination. At the 25th, Stacy surprised everybody - including herself - with a superb right footed strike from 15 yards out which flew straight into the right corner of the goal. Stacy's first goal with R2D2 proved crucial in freeing us psychologically and giving us a winning way into the game. Emily K and Darlene, then added one each to give us a 3-0 advantage by half time. In the second half, R2D2 focused on playing a one touch passing game using control of the ball, speed and accuracy to create space and open up opportunities. It was definitely a day with for R2D2 as the recipe worked to perfection and we started cashing in goals with frightening efficiency. Within the next 45 minutes, Kerri bagged a hat trick, Kristen build up 2 of her own, Emily added one to her tally, and Caroline reinventing herself as a striker got one too. Add one own goal from Astoria and that is 1 goal every 5 minutes and 20 seconds.
Final score : 11-0.
With this week's win (the 7th in a row), R2D2 ends up the Fall season in first place, tied for points with the Skulls (the Skulls however have one game in hand – a difficult one - which they will play in the Spring) with the best offense of the League (30 goals scored), the best goal difference (25), and the second best defense (5 goals conceded and 6 clean sheets).
The B League has proved of a much higher quality this year than it has been in the past and apart the odd game, every win of R2D2 has been hard fought and thoroughly earned. With a number of teams fighting to move up from their mid table position, the Spring season promises to be very challenging so stay tuned for more…
The Ladies hope to see you all to celebrate the end of the year on the 12th at Nevada Smith.
11/23/08 Premier Match Repor by Kevin O'Donovan
Barnstonworth Premier 9 v Guyana Veterans B 0
Verrazano Sports Complex
Duane Pena, 3, Lex Lovell, 2, Adrian, 2, Chivon Thornhill, Carl Gajewski
Who says we need Nedgy and Marlon to score goals? We put up 9 today on the hapless Guyana Veterans B who started with 8 men and only one more showed up for them at halftime. I never touched the ball with my hands all game. Fortunately, Carl was generous and gave me multiple passbacks. They held their own for 20 minutes before Lex took matters into his own hands by scoring the first goal by following up his shot that caromed off the post. The floodgates then opened and we scored 5 by the half. 4 in the second half. I may have one or two of the goals wrong but Duane had a hattrick in the first half. We have a week off and then it's the Kickers.
Squad: Kevin, Jeff, Carl, Andy, Will, Yogi, Peter, Lex, Maurice, Kendall, Pompey, Dex, Adrian, Duane, Fike, Chiv
Verrazano Sports Complex
Duane Pena, 3, Lex Lovell, 2, Adrian, 2, Chivon Thornhill, Carl Gajewski
Who says we need Nedgy and Marlon to score goals? We put up 9 today on the hapless Guyana Veterans B who started with 8 men and only one more showed up for them at halftime. I never touched the ball with my hands all game. Fortunately, Carl was generous and gave me multiple passbacks. They held their own for 20 minutes before Lex took matters into his own hands by scoring the first goal by following up his shot that caromed off the post. The floodgates then opened and we scored 5 by the half. 4 in the second half. I may have one or two of the goals wrong but Duane had a hattrick in the first half. We have a week off and then it's the Kickers.
Squad: Kevin, Jeff, Carl, Andy, Will, Yogi, Peter, Lex, Maurice, Kendall, Pompey, Dex, Adrian, Duane, Fike, Chiv
Friday, November 21, 2008
Results: Firsts 11/16/08 State Cup Rd 1
West Indies United (LISFL) 0 Barnstonworth Rovers 3
The Rovers resumed normal service in the 1st round State Cup reply that was cut short due to light failure, soundly beating the West Indian side 3-0. Einar put the Rovers in front in the first half, and Andy, after assisting on Einars goal, notched 2 more to close the deal in the second.
Worse part of the day was the travel to the middle of nowhere, and having to pay the refs !
Team: David Borchard, Sam Wiggin, Mark Kushemba, Vidar Ekehaug, Randi Lee, Colin Marshall, Jordan Chirico, Einar Benedktsson, Oren Nhaissi, Andy Abramovits, Alex Cruz Subs (all played) Alfonzo Nanclares, Sam Minaya, Ron Baskin
The Rovers resumed normal service in the 1st round State Cup reply that was cut short due to light failure, soundly beating the West Indian side 3-0. Einar put the Rovers in front in the first half, and Andy, after assisting on Einars goal, notched 2 more to close the deal in the second.
Worse part of the day was the travel to the middle of nowhere, and having to pay the refs !
Team: David Borchard, Sam Wiggin, Mark Kushemba, Vidar Ekehaug, Randi Lee, Colin Marshall, Jordan Chirico, Einar Benedktsson, Oren Nhaissi, Andy Abramovits, Alex Cruz Subs (all played) Alfonzo Nanclares, Sam Minaya, Ron Baskin
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
BRFC Reserves 0 (4) - BRFC Thirds 0 (1), 11/18/08
From the desk of Thirds' own, Sholltrain:
The 2008 State Cup paired two of our very own club teams in a historic match for the ages. The "Bickering" Reserves vs. the "Fifths" (think liquor) Thirds. The match was slated for a 12:30 kickoff, which normally would have left enough time for even the hardest of partiers out late to stumble out of bed with whisky breath, shower, shave and have a smoke before taking public transportation out to the field with plenty of time to warm-up. The Thirds seem to have kept themselves out of too much trouble the night before with 16 players arriving well in time. The Reserves, however, found themselves with only a handful of players at kickoff time, no coach and no uniforms. Soon, 10 players were ready. Stavros, in keeping with his famed reputation for buying
time, laced and re-laced his boots to match specification which added an extra fifteen minutes to the game start time. Unable to hold off the ref any longer, the match began with the Reserves down a man.
It was a blistering, bleak, windy day, which accounted for Stavros' gloved hands and Austin's skull-cap adorning their uniformed selves. Oddly enough, Austin felt the warmth from some streaking crossing runs and felt the need to hold his hat in-hand for the rest of the half. Austin had an early chance which somehow did not find the back of the net. The pressure was on from the Reserves from the start, owing to the fact they would not accept getting beaten being a man down. #8 needled through the defense early and struck a keeper-beater across the front of the goal which took a Thirds bounce off the far post and stayed in bounds for Zac to recover. The ball was kept in the Thirds half for the first 20 min, until the midfield decided to get involved and work the ball towards the other end of the pitch. At some point before the middle of the first half, a strange sight was beheld by all, Stash diving over the fence at breakneck speed trying to get down to the field to aid his fellow Reserves as the eleventh man. Utility player J.Brown played sweeper for the Thirds and was seen slide-tackling and coughing out the remains of lung throughout the match.
Cardozo, for the Reserves, had a tough match. His whining British accent could be heard throughout the match, but when Mike followed through on a 50-50 ball to his stomach, the high-pitched whelps emoting from this man scared the pigeons off the telephone poles lining the field. Such a display of histrionics is rarely seen even on today's finest television serials. The whining even got to his own team, as later in the match I believe his own keeper struck him in the head (following a punch-out from a cross.)
Poor Austin did not have an easy afternoon either. After complaining early on of being fouled and threatening to start diving, the referee advised him he would not call any fouls on him. So all bets were off, and Darrell and Mackers took turns harassing him all around the field, not allowing him much more than a few steps before dispossessing him of the ball, and sometimes even his manhood as he later protested. The Reserve defense held strong throughout, not allowing much in terms of opportunities to score from the Thirds. Not helping our effort, Gustavo was sick and could not dispatch the 2 or 3 guys swarming him in the middle with his normal efficiency.
Halftime: 0-0
The second half saw much of the same in terms of a back-and-forth effort across the middle. #7 for the Reserves was all over the field causing chaos and confusion amongst who should defend him, leaving him to complete his sharp accurate through-balls and controlling the midfield. Chances to score were seen on both sides, with Mike having a couple shots and Okey missing a chance in front of an open net that hopefully will haunt him until his dying day. Unlucky for the Thirds, most shots were directly to their keeper, who had a stellar game with few mistakes. Scoring chances for the Reserves saw a few shots sail over the top of the goal, with a spectacular shot going to the top right of the net. Somehow, Zac's bragging finally came together with his talent and his horizontal leap 6' in the air allowed him to block the ball down and land on it a foot from the goal line. His wind was knocked out, allowing the Thirds a brief respite from his barking loud mouth, so we were able to continue without a running commentary from the backfield.
The end of the match closed with the teams tied at nil. On to PKs.
This is the shortest paragraph as the Keeper for the Reserves was clearly better matched for this situation, blocking the Thirds second kick and seeing the third shot sail wide.
Reserves 0 - 0 (4-1 PKs)
Now this leads to the greater questions which our club needs to ask itself. Which of the teams is better suited to be the Reserve team? A case was made in this effort that clearly the distinction is blurred.
Thirds: Zac; Brown, Derek, Nick and Darrell; Vinnie, Gustavo, Mike and
Ryan, Juan and Brandon.
Subs (all played): Mackers, Sholl, Bernfeld, Donald and Okey.
The 2008 State Cup paired two of our very own club teams in a historic match for the ages. The "Bickering" Reserves vs. the "Fifths" (think liquor) Thirds. The match was slated for a 12:30 kickoff, which normally would have left enough time for even the hardest of partiers out late to stumble out of bed with whisky breath, shower, shave and have a smoke before taking public transportation out to the field with plenty of time to warm-up. The Thirds seem to have kept themselves out of too much trouble the night before with 16 players arriving well in time. The Reserves, however, found themselves with only a handful of players at kickoff time, no coach and no uniforms. Soon, 10 players were ready. Stavros, in keeping with his famed reputation for buying
time, laced and re-laced his boots to match specification which added an extra fifteen minutes to the game start time. Unable to hold off the ref any longer, the match began with the Reserves down a man.
It was a blistering, bleak, windy day, which accounted for Stavros' gloved hands and Austin's skull-cap adorning their uniformed selves. Oddly enough, Austin felt the warmth from some streaking crossing runs and felt the need to hold his hat in-hand for the rest of the half. Austin had an early chance which somehow did not find the back of the net. The pressure was on from the Reserves from the start, owing to the fact they would not accept getting beaten being a man down. #8 needled through the defense early and struck a keeper-beater across the front of the goal which took a Thirds bounce off the far post and stayed in bounds for Zac to recover. The ball was kept in the Thirds half for the first 20 min, until the midfield decided to get involved and work the ball towards the other end of the pitch. At some point before the middle of the first half, a strange sight was beheld by all, Stash diving over the fence at breakneck speed trying to get down to the field to aid his fellow Reserves as the eleventh man. Utility player J.Brown played sweeper for the Thirds and was seen slide-tackling and coughing out the remains of lung throughout the match.
Cardozo, for the Reserves, had a tough match. His whining British accent could be heard throughout the match, but when Mike followed through on a 50-50 ball to his stomach, the high-pitched whelps emoting from this man scared the pigeons off the telephone poles lining the field. Such a display of histrionics is rarely seen even on today's finest television serials. The whining even got to his own team, as later in the match I believe his own keeper struck him in the head (following a punch-out from a cross.)
Poor Austin did not have an easy afternoon either. After complaining early on of being fouled and threatening to start diving, the referee advised him he would not call any fouls on him. So all bets were off, and Darrell and Mackers took turns harassing him all around the field, not allowing him much more than a few steps before dispossessing him of the ball, and sometimes even his manhood as he later protested. The Reserve defense held strong throughout, not allowing much in terms of opportunities to score from the Thirds. Not helping our effort, Gustavo was sick and could not dispatch the 2 or 3 guys swarming him in the middle with his normal efficiency.
Halftime: 0-0
The second half saw much of the same in terms of a back-and-forth effort across the middle. #7 for the Reserves was all over the field causing chaos and confusion amongst who should defend him, leaving him to complete his sharp accurate through-balls and controlling the midfield. Chances to score were seen on both sides, with Mike having a couple shots and Okey missing a chance in front of an open net that hopefully will haunt him until his dying day. Unlucky for the Thirds, most shots were directly to their keeper, who had a stellar game with few mistakes. Scoring chances for the Reserves saw a few shots sail over the top of the goal, with a spectacular shot going to the top right of the net. Somehow, Zac's bragging finally came together with his talent and his horizontal leap 6' in the air allowed him to block the ball down and land on it a foot from the goal line. His wind was knocked out, allowing the Thirds a brief respite from his barking loud mouth, so we were able to continue without a running commentary from the backfield.
The end of the match closed with the teams tied at nil. On to PKs.
This is the shortest paragraph as the Keeper for the Reserves was clearly better matched for this situation, blocking the Thirds second kick and seeing the third shot sail wide.
Reserves 0 - 0 (4-1 PKs)
Now this leads to the greater questions which our club needs to ask itself. Which of the teams is better suited to be the Reserve team? A case was made in this effort that clearly the distinction is blurred.
Thirds: Zac; Brown, Derek, Nick and Darrell; Vinnie, Gustavo, Mike and
Ryan, Juan and Brandon.
Subs (all played): Mackers, Sholl, Bernfeld, Donald and Okey.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Premier 11/16/08 - o30's State Cup Rd 2 - by Kevnin O'Donovan
Barnstonworth Premier 1 v Istria FC (LISFL)4
Forest Hills HS (Marlon Johnson)
Premier had the misfortune to draw the 2007 State Cup Champs and perennial LISFL powerhouse Istria. But if there was a time to play them, it seemed like now was a good a time as any. Premier was in good form with most players making the games and Istria with only a .500 record this season. And on cue, we had 18 people show up for the match! Only on extremely rare occasions do you have to fill out the entire lineup sheet.
From the opening kickoff and for the first 20 minutes, Istria had us under pressure as we struggled to get possession. They were skillful in the midfield and played quick 1- and 2-touch football. Istria scored on their first good chance when a low cross to the penalty spot was just within reach of Carl but no match for the well-timed run of their striker whose left-footed strike left Kevin with no chance. As often happens, the goal put some life into us and we began to play with more speed and conviction. Not long after a nicely weighted through ball from Pompey? found Nedgy, onside he says, who quickly turned and slotted the ball into the back of the net. However, the ref said he was offside. We finally equalized when an excellent sequence of 6 passes worked the ball around the back to Duane on the left flank who streaked down the line and fed Marlon in the 6 yard box. Marlon held off the challenge of the defender and tapped home. 1-1 at the half.
The second half saw Istria regain the upper hand and they put us under sustained pressure and created several good chances. We defended well but did not create too many chances, the best of which was Nedgy's lob over the keeper that narrowly missed. The match was tied until the 75th minute when on an Istria set piece, the ball came across goal, yours truly called for it and probably would have had it but I let it go thinking it would go wide. They had a guy sneak in beyond the back stick who headed back across goal for an easy tap in by their striker. Martino had this guy marked but I imagine he let up thinking I would punch clear. Istria soon had their third when they virtually passed the ball into the back of the net after 6 or 7 passes. Down 3-1, Marc pushed up with a third striker and not longer after Istria had their fourth and nearly more. And so to put a positive spin on the defeat, we were in it with a chance to win until late in the match despite having less possession and creating far fewer chances than our opponents. Now its back to league play against Guyana B.
Squad: Kevin, Carl, Dex, Will, Martino, Chivon, Yogi, Pompey, Lex, Peter, Kendall, Nedgy, Marlon, Duane, Bash, Fike, Maurice, Marc
Forest Hills HS (Marlon Johnson)
Premier had the misfortune to draw the 2007 State Cup Champs and perennial LISFL powerhouse Istria. But if there was a time to play them, it seemed like now was a good a time as any. Premier was in good form with most players making the games and Istria with only a .500 record this season. And on cue, we had 18 people show up for the match! Only on extremely rare occasions do you have to fill out the entire lineup sheet.
From the opening kickoff and for the first 20 minutes, Istria had us under pressure as we struggled to get possession. They were skillful in the midfield and played quick 1- and 2-touch football. Istria scored on their first good chance when a low cross to the penalty spot was just within reach of Carl but no match for the well-timed run of their striker whose left-footed strike left Kevin with no chance. As often happens, the goal put some life into us and we began to play with more speed and conviction. Not long after a nicely weighted through ball from Pompey? found Nedgy, onside he says, who quickly turned and slotted the ball into the back of the net. However, the ref said he was offside. We finally equalized when an excellent sequence of 6 passes worked the ball around the back to Duane on the left flank who streaked down the line and fed Marlon in the 6 yard box. Marlon held off the challenge of the defender and tapped home. 1-1 at the half.
The second half saw Istria regain the upper hand and they put us under sustained pressure and created several good chances. We defended well but did not create too many chances, the best of which was Nedgy's lob over the keeper that narrowly missed. The match was tied until the 75th minute when on an Istria set piece, the ball came across goal, yours truly called for it and probably would have had it but I let it go thinking it would go wide. They had a guy sneak in beyond the back stick who headed back across goal for an easy tap in by their striker. Martino had this guy marked but I imagine he let up thinking I would punch clear. Istria soon had their third when they virtually passed the ball into the back of the net after 6 or 7 passes. Down 3-1, Marc pushed up with a third striker and not longer after Istria had their fourth and nearly more. And so to put a positive spin on the defeat, we were in it with a chance to win until late in the match despite having less possession and creating far fewer chances than our opponents. Now its back to league play against Guyana B.
Squad: Kevin, Carl, Dex, Will, Martino, Chivon, Yogi, Pompey, Lex, Peter, Kendall, Nedgy, Marlon, Duane, Bash, Fike, Maurice, Marc
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Results: Firsts 11/09/08 vs NYAC (a)
New York Athletic Club 5 Barnstonworth Rovers F.C. 1
Figure, the Rovers started the weekend on top of the league table. More, it has been since May of 2006 that the Rovers 1/Res lost both league matches on a Sunday, coincidentally, also the last time the played at Travers Island vs NYAC. It has been just as long - April 2007 - since the Rovers 1st team dropped a league decision with more than a single goal, and its been since May 2006 vs Pancyprians – before the arrival for many of the 1sts players - that they were beaten by more than 2. All that changed on Sunday when the Rovers, unlucky not to go up early in the contest, uncharacteristically capitulated. Seeing the uncompetitive Reserves earlier being thrashed 8-0 – the worst result for the team ever ! - could not have helped.
The Rovers did have a chance to get back into the match and fight for a result when they were awarded a penalty at 1-4, but missed it.
The Firsts started brightly and controlled the pace and the match. They got deep in the flanks and created opportunities, but without the injured Pugli, failed to finish. And when NYAC buried their first chance, Rover heads dropped, played uninspired, and the unit lost its cohesion. NYAC again took advantage just before the half. Rovers 0-2.
In the second half, NYAC pressed their advantage and scored early twice on as many chances. Rover 0-4.
The run of play was much different than the score indicated, BRFC pressing all the time but unable to put the ball away. Then, Einar latched on a clearance and volleyed home to spark a mini-revival. Rovers 1-2.
Minutes later, Baskin received a pass in the area and as he turned to beat his marker, he was clobbered for a clear penalty. Einar ready to convert for his second, inexplicably succumbed to letting the foulee take the spot kick. Unwritten law of football states that he who is fouled does not take the penalty. Baskin proved why and ended the Rover chances.
NYAC iced it in the last minutes. Roves 1-5.
Overall the most lopsided result for 3 years and the worse showing on a weekend for the Rovers in memory.
Hopefully the team will rebound for its US Open Cup match on Thursday and the NY State Cup on Sunday.
Team: Dave Borchard, Sam Wiggin, Mark Kushemba, Vidar Ekehaug, Randi Lee, Oren Nhaissi, Sam Minaya, Einar Benedktsson, Andy Abramovits, Jordan Chirico, Alex Cruz. Subs (all played) Ron Baskin, Austin Harris
Figure, the Rovers started the weekend on top of the league table. More, it has been since May of 2006 that the Rovers 1/Res lost both league matches on a Sunday, coincidentally, also the last time the played at Travers Island vs NYAC. It has been just as long - April 2007 - since the Rovers 1st team dropped a league decision with more than a single goal, and its been since May 2006 vs Pancyprians – before the arrival for many of the 1sts players - that they were beaten by more than 2. All that changed on Sunday when the Rovers, unlucky not to go up early in the contest, uncharacteristically capitulated. Seeing the uncompetitive Reserves earlier being thrashed 8-0 – the worst result for the team ever ! - could not have helped.
The Rovers did have a chance to get back into the match and fight for a result when they were awarded a penalty at 1-4, but missed it.
The Firsts started brightly and controlled the pace and the match. They got deep in the flanks and created opportunities, but without the injured Pugli, failed to finish. And when NYAC buried their first chance, Rover heads dropped, played uninspired, and the unit lost its cohesion. NYAC again took advantage just before the half. Rovers 0-2.
In the second half, NYAC pressed their advantage and scored early twice on as many chances. Rover 0-4.
The run of play was much different than the score indicated, BRFC pressing all the time but unable to put the ball away. Then, Einar latched on a clearance and volleyed home to spark a mini-revival. Rovers 1-2.
Minutes later, Baskin received a pass in the area and as he turned to beat his marker, he was clobbered for a clear penalty. Einar ready to convert for his second, inexplicably succumbed to letting the foulee take the spot kick. Unwritten law of football states that he who is fouled does not take the penalty. Baskin proved why and ended the Rover chances.
NYAC iced it in the last minutes. Roves 1-5.
Overall the most lopsided result for 3 years and the worse showing on a weekend for the Rovers in memory.
Hopefully the team will rebound for its US Open Cup match on Thursday and the NY State Cup on Sunday.
Team: Dave Borchard, Sam Wiggin, Mark Kushemba, Vidar Ekehaug, Randi Lee, Oren Nhaissi, Sam Minaya, Einar Benedktsson, Andy Abramovits, Jordan Chirico, Alex Cruz. Subs (all played) Ron Baskin, Austin Harris
Laby Rovers 11/09/08 by Nicolas
Rovers 1 - CPR White : 1-1
Rovers 1 survived an early scare to come back in the very last minutes
of the game and tie the score at 1-1 in their game against CPR White.
Brynne scored the only goal for Rovers 1. Shawn got a nasty knock on
her head and had to be taken out for a while leaving Rovers 1 down to
10 players before she pulled herself together and got back on the
field. Shawn, w hope you are feeling better.
R2D2 - Sirens : 1-0
R2D2 won a hard fought game against a very solid Sirens team, making it
6 consecutive wins in the League and a fifth clean sheet for the
defense. R2D2 sits now at the very top of the League at equality of
points with the Skulls (who have a game in hand).
Goal by Emily Keber.
Rovers 1 survived an early scare to come back in the very last minutes
of the game and tie the score at 1-1 in their game against CPR White.
Brynne scored the only goal for Rovers 1. Shawn got a nasty knock on
her head and had to be taken out for a while leaving Rovers 1 down to
10 players before she pulled herself together and got back on the
field. Shawn, w hope you are feeling better.
R2D2 - Sirens : 1-0
R2D2 won a hard fought game against a very solid Sirens team, making it
6 consecutive wins in the League and a fifth clean sheet for the
defense. R2D2 sits now at the very top of the League at equality of
points with the Skulls (who have a game in hand).
Goal by Emily Keber.
The Rovers vs Rovers o30's Derby 11/09/08 - by Kevin O'Donovan
Barnstonworth Premier 5 v Barnstonworth Rovers o30's 2
Forest Hills HS
Lex Lovell, Nedgy Nazon, Peter Best, Marlon Johnson, Steven Cudjoe
Pat Wisnom, Ben Weiner
In the sixth ever Rover v Rover match by my count, the Premier prevailed over the straight up Rovers. Martin's match report is true--we took our chances very well in the match. All five goals were well-executed and moreover, the wealth was spread among 5 scorers. Lex's strike following a clearance to the top of the box set the tone early. He struck the ball cleanly and left Artis no chance. The second goal came shortly thereafter on a long ball from Chivon to Nedgy at the top of the box. Nedgy turned created enough room for him to hit the ball just inside the far post for what must be his 9th or 10th goal of the season. Our opponents fought back within minutes when after several Premier defenders failed to clear, the ball squirted into the box where Wisnom just beat Kevin to the ball for the flick-in. 2-1 and the match got nervy for a bit. Carl went off for a few minutes to stem the bleeding from above his eye after a clash of heads with Wisnom. Once Carl came back to the field (thanks to Ben Weiner for all the first aid help for Carl and later Chivon), he was woosy following a clash of the titans when Sven hammered a header goalwards. But were it not for a quick reply on Peter Best's ~30 yard blast into the upper left corner, the match might have gotten bogged down a bit for us. Peter was unlucky to not get his second of the match following an excellent cutback but his shot went just wide. 3-1 at the half.
The second half saw Premier extend the lead to 5-1, first on Pompey's thunderous volley from inside the box and next on Marlon's side volley after getting by a couple of players in typical Marlon fashion. The Rovers failed to give in and proceeded to put us under sustained pressure for the rest of the match. The second goal came when their English midfielder got by Andy down the byline. Kevin could only get fingertips on the low, hard cross and following a goalmouth melee, Alexander tapped in from short range. Mike was unlucky to not get a second, and a third for Rovers, when his cheeky sidefooting of Martin's shot went just wide. Premier now share the top of the table with Pele Masters and the Greeks, though we have games in hand against both. Next week, it's a cup match v Istria.
Squad: Kevin, Carl, Andy, Will, Chivon, Maurice, Lex, Pompey, Marlon, Peter, Nedgy, Tom, Yogi
Forest Hills HS
Lex Lovell, Nedgy Nazon, Peter Best, Marlon Johnson, Steven Cudjoe
Pat Wisnom, Ben Weiner
In the sixth ever Rover v Rover match by my count, the Premier prevailed over the straight up Rovers. Martin's match report is true--we took our chances very well in the match. All five goals were well-executed and moreover, the wealth was spread among 5 scorers. Lex's strike following a clearance to the top of the box set the tone early. He struck the ball cleanly and left Artis no chance. The second goal came shortly thereafter on a long ball from Chivon to Nedgy at the top of the box. Nedgy turned created enough room for him to hit the ball just inside the far post for what must be his 9th or 10th goal of the season. Our opponents fought back within minutes when after several Premier defenders failed to clear, the ball squirted into the box where Wisnom just beat Kevin to the ball for the flick-in. 2-1 and the match got nervy for a bit. Carl went off for a few minutes to stem the bleeding from above his eye after a clash of heads with Wisnom. Once Carl came back to the field (thanks to Ben Weiner for all the first aid help for Carl and later Chivon), he was woosy following a clash of the titans when Sven hammered a header goalwards. But were it not for a quick reply on Peter Best's ~30 yard blast into the upper left corner, the match might have gotten bogged down a bit for us. Peter was unlucky to not get his second of the match following an excellent cutback but his shot went just wide. 3-1 at the half.
The second half saw Premier extend the lead to 5-1, first on Pompey's thunderous volley from inside the box and next on Marlon's side volley after getting by a couple of players in typical Marlon fashion. The Rovers failed to give in and proceeded to put us under sustained pressure for the rest of the match. The second goal came when their English midfielder got by Andy down the byline. Kevin could only get fingertips on the low, hard cross and following a goalmouth melee, Alexander tapped in from short range. Mike was unlucky to not get a second, and a third for Rovers, when his cheeky sidefooting of Martin's shot went just wide. Premier now share the top of the table with Pele Masters and the Greeks, though we have games in hand against both. Next week, it's a cup match v Istria.
Squad: Kevin, Carl, Andy, Will, Chivon, Maurice, Lex, Pompey, Marlon, Peter, Nedgy, Tom, Yogi
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Results: Old Boys 9-Nov-08 vs CPR
Barnstonworth Old Boys - 3 Central Park Rangers - 1
It's always a pleasure to beat these guys, whichever division we're playing them in. And they always give us a tough game, and Sunday was no exception.
BOB took 16 players out to Forest Hills HS, and needed a contribution from everyone to see off CPR, who started much brighter than we did and put us under pressure for much of the first half. It took us a while to get into our stride and struggled to really get anything going early on. Defensively though, we were once again strong - 4 goals conceded in 7 league games tells its own story - although I probably had to deal with more shots in the first half an hour than I had in the last 3 or 4 games. But we succeeded in limiting them to long-range efforts, and for once the keeper's handling seemed to be fairly reliable.
CPR were the first to score though, as the first half wound up. We conceded a free-kick about 15 yards outside the box, which was floated towards the back post. For once, we were complacent and thinking the ball would head out for a goal kick, we allowed a CPR player to get round the back and squeeze the ball inside the post from a tight angle. I got a hand to it, but couldn't prevent it from sneaking in - had I been more on my toes and in a better position, it would have been a routine stop. An earlier ankle injury (which now has me on crutches and out of action for a while) is the official exuse!
So into half time and a goal down... but as soon as the second half started, we began to impose ourselves more and more. The equalizer came from a sweeping move, that found Fergal free on the right of midfield. Stepping forward, he sent the ball across the top of the box, which eluded 2 or 3 defenders and found Unmackers unmarked and in a position he rarely misses from... and he duly dispatched his 14th goal of the season neatly into the bottom corner giving the keeper no chance.
The game was finely balanced at this point and either team could have gone on to win. Their main danger from central midfield, a tall skillful player was being well-marshalled by Chip & Billy, but he did get through on a fortunate ball once to go one on one with the keeper... who used his (ahem) imposing frame to close down the angles and force the shot wide.
We used our subs well, and the longer the game went on, the more control we took and the more the opposition tired. The go-ahead goal would have made Rory Delap (Stoke City long throw-in specialist) proud. Greg launched a ball into the middle of a congested box, the keeper went to claim it, but let it through his hands. Jeff was right behind him and managed to get something on the ball (knee, thigh, bollock, who cares?) to bundle it home before he ended up in the net himself.
We had several chances to put the game away before Cesar finally did with the assistance of the CPR keeper. A not-very-hard-shot-at-all from the edge of the box was right at the keeper, but he let it squirm under him (been there!) and it crept over the line to make the game safe.
Nice to have some support on the sidelines from the other Rovers O30s showing up for their game afterwards - to hear your goals heartily cheered warms the cockles!
So the Old Boys still maintain their unbeaten run, all the more pleasing to do so in the last couple of weeks against decent opposition - and to show the character to come from a goal down is especially encouraging. However, Tesoro continue to win every game, so it'll probably be up to us to knock them off the top of the table when the time comes.
Next week is State Cup action - a very tough trip to the Bronx to take on Div I leaders NY Dinamo.
BOB: Sheero, Rocco, Greg, Lordy, Dominator, Josh, Macca, Chip, Billy, FergalOG, Colin, Jeff, Scooby, Luxury, Negro, Unmackers.
It's always a pleasure to beat these guys, whichever division we're playing them in. And they always give us a tough game, and Sunday was no exception.
BOB took 16 players out to Forest Hills HS, and needed a contribution from everyone to see off CPR, who started much brighter than we did and put us under pressure for much of the first half. It took us a while to get into our stride and struggled to really get anything going early on. Defensively though, we were once again strong - 4 goals conceded in 7 league games tells its own story - although I probably had to deal with more shots in the first half an hour than I had in the last 3 or 4 games. But we succeeded in limiting them to long-range efforts, and for once the keeper's handling seemed to be fairly reliable.
CPR were the first to score though, as the first half wound up. We conceded a free-kick about 15 yards outside the box, which was floated towards the back post. For once, we were complacent and thinking the ball would head out for a goal kick, we allowed a CPR player to get round the back and squeeze the ball inside the post from a tight angle. I got a hand to it, but couldn't prevent it from sneaking in - had I been more on my toes and in a better position, it would have been a routine stop. An earlier ankle injury (which now has me on crutches and out of action for a while) is the official exuse!
So into half time and a goal down... but as soon as the second half started, we began to impose ourselves more and more. The equalizer came from a sweeping move, that found Fergal free on the right of midfield. Stepping forward, he sent the ball across the top of the box, which eluded 2 or 3 defenders and found Unmackers unmarked and in a position he rarely misses from... and he duly dispatched his 14th goal of the season neatly into the bottom corner giving the keeper no chance.
The game was finely balanced at this point and either team could have gone on to win. Their main danger from central midfield, a tall skillful player was being well-marshalled by Chip & Billy, but he did get through on a fortunate ball once to go one on one with the keeper... who used his (ahem) imposing frame to close down the angles and force the shot wide.
We used our subs well, and the longer the game went on, the more control we took and the more the opposition tired. The go-ahead goal would have made Rory Delap (Stoke City long throw-in specialist) proud. Greg launched a ball into the middle of a congested box, the keeper went to claim it, but let it through his hands. Jeff was right behind him and managed to get something on the ball (knee, thigh, bollock, who cares?) to bundle it home before he ended up in the net himself.
We had several chances to put the game away before Cesar finally did with the assistance of the CPR keeper. A not-very-hard-shot-at-all from the edge of the box was right at the keeper, but he let it squirm under him (been there!) and it crept over the line to make the game safe.
Nice to have some support on the sidelines from the other Rovers O30s showing up for their game afterwards - to hear your goals heartily cheered warms the cockles!
So the Old Boys still maintain their unbeaten run, all the more pleasing to do so in the last couple of weeks against decent opposition - and to show the character to come from a goal down is especially encouraging. However, Tesoro continue to win every game, so it'll probably be up to us to knock them off the top of the table when the time comes.
Next week is State Cup action - a very tough trip to the Bronx to take on Div I leaders NY Dinamo.
BOB: Sheero, Rocco, Greg, Lordy, Dominator, Josh, Macca, Chip, Billy, FergalOG, Colin, Jeff, Scooby, Luxury, Negro, Unmackers.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Barnstonworth Rovers Thirds (3) - NY Finest (1), 11/9/08
Rovers got passed old division cop rivals NY Finest with 45 minutes of brilliant football and are back on the chase.
A day that started with some confusion, as four players, one of them carrying the kit, got lost in the wilderness of Flushing Meadows Park. After many back-and-forths, and while our white kit was being driven all around the park by our goalkeeper Rubin, all was sorted after the opposition was able to produce a white kit and Rovers were able to wear the alternative blues.
Neither team was able to do much in the first minutes of the game, as the ball was being passed around from defense to defense without any chances being created. Twenty minutes in, with Rubin now on goal after finally being able to find the field, NY Finest took advantage of a free kick to open the score. The long kick was deflected inside by one of their players and Rubin, as late to come off his line as he was
arriving to the game, was not able to get to the ball before their forward managed to put it past him. 0-1.
The remainder of the half found Rovers not able to put two passes together and NY Finest moving the ball around midfield without creating any real danger. Still, Rovers could have tied the game when Mackers put a nice ball through to Brown, who attempted to chip the keeper and hit him straight on the face.
After a refresher course on 101 Soccer Fundamentals from coach Gonzalez Casares, Rovers came out for the second half a different team. From the kickoff, they took possession and started moving the ball around well, creating a couple of chances where shots from Garro and Billard went just wide. After a few minutes of complete dominance, it all started to pay off and, in 10 minutes, Rovers found themselves
up 3-1.
The first goal came from a breakthrough from Arceneaux, who crossed a nice ball inside that no one was able to connect on. Nobody but Dirolf, who was running down the opposite side and first-timed the ball from 20 yards out to place it right next to the post. A thing of beauty for the rookie's first goal as a Rover.
The second one came from a PK called on a foul on Arceneaux, who again beat his defender running into the box but was tripped from behind before he could shoot. Penalty kick and Rowley for the 2-1. The third goal was another piece of art. Obudulu got a through ball from Garro down the right flank, took on the defender and put the ball just passed the keeper with barely any angle. 3-1 Rovers.
Rovers had a couple of chances to increase their lead when Obudulu made a very similar play but was not able to connect as nicely as before and when Brown was sent through, this time by Gonzalez Casares, and was not able to yet again chip the keeper.
Overall, a great performance by the Thirds, especially in the second half, though a full 90 minutes of solid football will be needed next week when they face a very strong Rovers Reserves side for the second round of the State Cup.
Team: Mackers; Schlatter, Kilfedder, Wine and Sholl; Maciunas, Garro, Arceneaux and Dirolf; Gonzalez Casares and Obudulu.
Subs (all played): Rubin, Moore, Roberston, Billard, Brown and Rowley.
A day that started with some confusion, as four players, one of them carrying the kit, got lost in the wilderness of Flushing Meadows Park. After many back-and-forths, and while our white kit was being driven all around the park by our goalkeeper Rubin, all was sorted after the opposition was able to produce a white kit and Rovers were able to wear the alternative blues.
Neither team was able to do much in the first minutes of the game, as the ball was being passed around from defense to defense without any chances being created. Twenty minutes in, with Rubin now on goal after finally being able to find the field, NY Finest took advantage of a free kick to open the score. The long kick was deflected inside by one of their players and Rubin, as late to come off his line as he was
arriving to the game, was not able to get to the ball before their forward managed to put it past him. 0-1.
The remainder of the half found Rovers not able to put two passes together and NY Finest moving the ball around midfield without creating any real danger. Still, Rovers could have tied the game when Mackers put a nice ball through to Brown, who attempted to chip the keeper and hit him straight on the face.
After a refresher course on 101 Soccer Fundamentals from coach Gonzalez Casares, Rovers came out for the second half a different team. From the kickoff, they took possession and started moving the ball around well, creating a couple of chances where shots from Garro and Billard went just wide. After a few minutes of complete dominance, it all started to pay off and, in 10 minutes, Rovers found themselves
up 3-1.
The first goal came from a breakthrough from Arceneaux, who crossed a nice ball inside that no one was able to connect on. Nobody but Dirolf, who was running down the opposite side and first-timed the ball from 20 yards out to place it right next to the post. A thing of beauty for the rookie's first goal as a Rover.
The second one came from a PK called on a foul on Arceneaux, who again beat his defender running into the box but was tripped from behind before he could shoot. Penalty kick and Rowley for the 2-1. The third goal was another piece of art. Obudulu got a through ball from Garro down the right flank, took on the defender and put the ball just passed the keeper with barely any angle. 3-1 Rovers.
Rovers had a couple of chances to increase their lead when Obudulu made a very similar play but was not able to connect as nicely as before and when Brown was sent through, this time by Gonzalez Casares, and was not able to yet again chip the keeper.
Overall, a great performance by the Thirds, especially in the second half, though a full 90 minutes of solid football will be needed next week when they face a very strong Rovers Reserves side for the second round of the State Cup.
Team: Mackers; Schlatter, Kilfedder, Wine and Sholl; Maciunas, Garro, Arceneaux and Dirolf; Gonzalez Casares and Obudulu.
Subs (all played): Rubin, Moore, Roberston, Billard, Brown and Rowley.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Results: Firsts 11/02/08 vs Landsdowne Bhoys
Barnstonworth Rovers F.C. 3 Landsdowne Bhoys 2
The Rovers staged an amazing come back in the last 15 minutes to take the 3 points they deserved from the Bhoys. Substitute Austin, on first team field debut, headed in the winner in the 90th minute. Jordi started the comeback with a diving header in the far post, before Wiggi tied the match pouncing on a lose ball in the box. The Rovers were missing Pugli, Colin, Kush and Nessa and had only 20 available players for the 2 matches, thus fielded a very young and unfamiliar side. Andy started at left back, Jordi filled the middle Sam and Oren played the wings and Cruizie started as the lone striker after having debut for the club in the Reserve match earlier. The match also saw the return of Tamu and another first team debut, Yannick.
Still the Rovers showed their football quality, playing the ball faster and moving it on the ground around the pitch. They created all the chances and should have been 2-0 up in the first minutes. Cruizie got a through ball from Einar, he turned the last defender and used his blazing speed to find himself all alone with the keeper, but put in an unusually weak finish right at the bewildered keeper. Wiggin, not to be outdone, played 3 brilliant 1-2s and carried the ball through the entire Bhoys’ defense to again tap it back to their keeper when he found himself all alone in the six. Fonzie could have opened the score but his shot from a great position went wide. Oren tracked the ball down on the right, beat a defender but his shot was saved in the near post.
Landsdowne was not so generous. On their first venture in the Rovers’ half, they netted. The Rovers cleared the corner near the middle of the D where a Bhoy’s midfielder connected powerfully and through a maze of players to open the score. Rovers 0-1.
As the Rovers dominated and squandered opportunities Landsdowne again proved lethal in their next foray 5 mins from halftime. Their best player #7, beat the Rover midfield, received a ball just outside the box, turned deep and cut it back to an unmarked forward who did not miss. Rovers 0-2.
The Rovers believed the could turn the match, and as the 2nd half wore on, the came ever closer to cutting the deficit. Einar, a stalwart in the middle, beat one and had a powerful shot save well. Jordi had 2 free kicks unluckily hitting the edges of the wall, Tamu had a short tap parried for a corner, and Sam received a ball on the left far post but his controlled volley was placed at the keeper. It was all one way traffic, the Rovers building and creating and Landsdowne ineffectively playing the long ball. Then, Oren fed Tamu towards the corner, he turned beat his marker, crossed it to the far post where Jordi acrobatically headed it past the near post. Rovers 1-2 with 14 mins to go.
Rovers bring in another forward, Austin, and he almost instantaneously opens his account when Fonzi chips him behind the defense but again the one-on-one finish is too timid and at the keeper. Then, moments later, he gets another chance when a cross reaches Austin arriving in the far post, but his header is saved. Jordi combines with Oren and Einar but his shot goes wide. With 4 mins to go, the ball arrives to Randi on the left, he puts the cross in, the Bhoys keeper comes out to grab it but is challenged and cannot hold the ball, Wiggi pounces on it and buries it to the upper 90. Rovers 2-2.
Landsdowne thought the Rovers would be satisfied with a point, they were wrong. They pushed on, now with 3 up front they won a free kick on the left. Jordi perfectly placed on the right of the penalty spot where Austin beat his Irish marker and nodded it to the far upper netting. Rovers 3-2 and 3 points !
Team: Dave Borchard, Vidar Ekehaug, Sam Wiggin, Randi Lee, Andy Abramovits, Oren Nhassi, Sam Minaya, Jordan Chirico, Einar Benedktsson, Alfonzo Nanclares, Alex Cruz. Subs (all played): Tamu Bowen, Austin Harris, Yannick James
The Rovers staged an amazing come back in the last 15 minutes to take the 3 points they deserved from the Bhoys. Substitute Austin, on first team field debut, headed in the winner in the 90th minute. Jordi started the comeback with a diving header in the far post, before Wiggi tied the match pouncing on a lose ball in the box. The Rovers were missing Pugli, Colin, Kush and Nessa and had only 20 available players for the 2 matches, thus fielded a very young and unfamiliar side. Andy started at left back, Jordi filled the middle Sam and Oren played the wings and Cruizie started as the lone striker after having debut for the club in the Reserve match earlier. The match also saw the return of Tamu and another first team debut, Yannick.
Still the Rovers showed their football quality, playing the ball faster and moving it on the ground around the pitch. They created all the chances and should have been 2-0 up in the first minutes. Cruizie got a through ball from Einar, he turned the last defender and used his blazing speed to find himself all alone with the keeper, but put in an unusually weak finish right at the bewildered keeper. Wiggin, not to be outdone, played 3 brilliant 1-2s and carried the ball through the entire Bhoys’ defense to again tap it back to their keeper when he found himself all alone in the six. Fonzie could have opened the score but his shot from a great position went wide. Oren tracked the ball down on the right, beat a defender but his shot was saved in the near post.
Landsdowne was not so generous. On their first venture in the Rovers’ half, they netted. The Rovers cleared the corner near the middle of the D where a Bhoy’s midfielder connected powerfully and through a maze of players to open the score. Rovers 0-1.
As the Rovers dominated and squandered opportunities Landsdowne again proved lethal in their next foray 5 mins from halftime. Their best player #7, beat the Rover midfield, received a ball just outside the box, turned deep and cut it back to an unmarked forward who did not miss. Rovers 0-2.
The Rovers believed the could turn the match, and as the 2nd half wore on, the came ever closer to cutting the deficit. Einar, a stalwart in the middle, beat one and had a powerful shot save well. Jordi had 2 free kicks unluckily hitting the edges of the wall, Tamu had a short tap parried for a corner, and Sam received a ball on the left far post but his controlled volley was placed at the keeper. It was all one way traffic, the Rovers building and creating and Landsdowne ineffectively playing the long ball. Then, Oren fed Tamu towards the corner, he turned beat his marker, crossed it to the far post where Jordi acrobatically headed it past the near post. Rovers 1-2 with 14 mins to go.
Rovers bring in another forward, Austin, and he almost instantaneously opens his account when Fonzi chips him behind the defense but again the one-on-one finish is too timid and at the keeper. Then, moments later, he gets another chance when a cross reaches Austin arriving in the far post, but his header is saved. Jordi combines with Oren and Einar but his shot goes wide. With 4 mins to go, the ball arrives to Randi on the left, he puts the cross in, the Bhoys keeper comes out to grab it but is challenged and cannot hold the ball, Wiggi pounces on it and buries it to the upper 90. Rovers 2-2.
Landsdowne thought the Rovers would be satisfied with a point, they were wrong. They pushed on, now with 3 up front they won a free kick on the left. Jordi perfectly placed on the right of the penalty spot where Austin beat his Irish marker and nodded it to the far upper netting. Rovers 3-2 and 3 points !
Team: Dave Borchard, Vidar Ekehaug, Sam Wiggin, Randi Lee, Andy Abramovits, Oren Nhassi, Sam Minaya, Jordan Chirico, Einar Benedktsson, Alfonzo Nanclares, Alex Cruz. Subs (all played): Tamu Bowen, Austin Harris, Yannick James
Mix bag results for the Rovers Ladies 11/2/08 - by Nicolas
Lady Rovers 11/02/08
After weeks of energy, the Ladies Rovers showed some fatigue and lack
of enthusiasm this weekend, producing a mix bag of not so convincing
results.
Rovers 1's game against middle of the table CPR red should have been
a walk in the park. Somehow, the Rovers never managed to come through
during the game however and ended up loosing by the smallest of
margins. A disappointing loss which puts Rovers1 at risk of loosing
their second place in the league. All is still up for grab though and
we'll be pushing the ladies so they can recover their winning ways.
R2D2's opponent was a very competitive and incredibly fair playing
Fuel FC. Fuel is one of those teams that proves incredibly strong
with a full team but ends up way too often being up to 2 or 3 players
down. Sunday was a good day for Fuel FC since they had 11 players and
good players with that on the field. It wasn't such a good day for
R2D2 on the other hand. Don't take me wrong, R2D2 answered the game
call as usual and we had a comfortable 3 subs. But the focus just
wasn't there. I'd like to blame it on the strong winds and the
morning freezing chill but I think it was just a case of global focus
on the upcoming election and Meet the Press withdrawal. The game
proved messy from beginning to end, with little sparks of flowing
game that have made the success of R2D2 this year every now and then.
Resilience led to a great pass from Amy behind the central defense,
Lindsay running through from her wide midfield position on the right
somehow managed to barely squeeze between the full back and sweeper
and with the goalie coming at her, kept her cool and bagged the only
goal of the game 15 minutes in the second half. After that, it was a
story of heroic defensive battle, our back line fighting tooth and
nail with the help of the rest of the team to keep a clean sheet.
Final score 1-0 for Rovers. The style wasn't there but the resilience
was and so was the result. 6th win in arrow in the league for R2D2.
After weeks of energy, the Ladies Rovers showed some fatigue and lack
of enthusiasm this weekend, producing a mix bag of not so convincing
results.
Rovers 1's game against middle of the table CPR red should have been
a walk in the park. Somehow, the Rovers never managed to come through
during the game however and ended up loosing by the smallest of
margins. A disappointing loss which puts Rovers1 at risk of loosing
their second place in the league. All is still up for grab though and
we'll be pushing the ladies so they can recover their winning ways.
R2D2's opponent was a very competitive and incredibly fair playing
Fuel FC. Fuel is one of those teams that proves incredibly strong
with a full team but ends up way too often being up to 2 or 3 players
down. Sunday was a good day for Fuel FC since they had 11 players and
good players with that on the field. It wasn't such a good day for
R2D2 on the other hand. Don't take me wrong, R2D2 answered the game
call as usual and we had a comfortable 3 subs. But the focus just
wasn't there. I'd like to blame it on the strong winds and the
morning freezing chill but I think it was just a case of global focus
on the upcoming election and Meet the Press withdrawal. The game
proved messy from beginning to end, with little sparks of flowing
game that have made the success of R2D2 this year every now and then.
Resilience led to a great pass from Amy behind the central defense,
Lindsay running through from her wide midfield position on the right
somehow managed to barely squeeze between the full back and sweeper
and with the goalie coming at her, kept her cool and bagged the only
goal of the game 15 minutes in the second half. After that, it was a
story of heroic defensive battle, our back line fighting tooth and
nail with the help of the rest of the team to keep a clean sheet.
Final score 1-0 for Rovers. The style wasn't there but the resilience
was and so was the result. 6th win in arrow in the league for R2D2.
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