Bays United - upwards and onwards boys

The last couple of weeks have been a roller coaster ride for all the boys.

GAME AGAINST SAANICH FUSION

There is no question that on this day we had a phenomenal game against Saanich Fusion during which the boys level of play was simply magnificent. We saw them move the ball with great precision and rapidity. It was a great display of skill by all the boys.

As the game progressed, we could see the boys settling into their own rhythm. Our back line and wingers were very effective in swinging the ball from one side to the other with lots of determination and know how. It was good to see the boys (Gabriel and Mathew especially) widen the field and thus create more options for your midfielders and back line to move into. Our strikers finished when they had to and were a threatening force throughout the entire game. Thomas in particular was impressive in his battling for the ball. I also have to give a big congrats to Brandon who got two great goals towards the end of the game. All of us were so happy to see him score two wonderful goals. A great achievement indeed.

We felt strong and ready to face Gorge for the League Championship.

That game proved to be incredibly tough for all of us.

GAME AGAINST GORGE FC 

~FIRST HALF~

Although we had come from a very good win the weekend before, we started off a bit slow. Communication woes and decisions made under pressure broke our ability to settle into our game. Although well-covered at the back, Gorge was taking the game to us and this put us on the defensive even though our goal was to attack. We were struggling to create the types of chances we have created against Gorge in the past. However, we began to see them come through. First, Koby took a great free kick that the Gorge keeper had to push out for a corner. Later on, Gabriel took on the right back from Gorge, beat him and with a nice touch found Robbie who one timed it looking for the bottom far post, only to see the ball miss the net entirely. Close call, but no net. Then, after a turn over, the Gorge winger sent a ball into the box. Gorge's striker controlled the ball and with a few moves created some space between him and our defender and managed to get off a nice high shot that, despite Aaron playing well, he could not save. We were down 1 -0 and we could all feel that this would be a tough obstacle to overcome. Yet, we kept at it. We kept pushing and the Gorge defenders several times had to simply kick the ball out as they were under pressure from us.

Half time: at half time Darcy gave the boys a firm talk about how we were struggling and how we needed to regain our composure. We told them that this was the game that all of them have dreamt about at one time or another, the one where they needed to pull together and work hard. We asked them to focus more and to move the ball faster. We asked them to avoid turn overs as this was causing us serious issues. The boys agreed and I could see that they were pumped for the second half.

~SECOND HALF~

As we got going on the second half, Gorge continue to pressure us, not leave us a lot of space to play. However, our biggest issue was the number of turn overs we kept giving. Gabriel continued to be a threat down the wing but the amount of passes he received began to dwindle as the second half moved on. In an effort to use his speed, we moved him into the middle. Unfortunately, although he tried, he could not get on the end of a pass, mostly because there weren't many coming through. Our wingers had to play more defensively and this took away from our attacks. Our strikers struggled against a very solid defence. We did not get very clear chances in the second half. The boys were having a hard time clicking.

When there were about 7 minutes left, the game seemed settled. Yet, we tried one more thing: we pushed the boys up on our last couple of corner and free kicks; however we could not break Gorge down.  

In the end, I ask that all of us give credit to the boys from Gorge who did their best to be successful. I cannot deny that part of their success was due to our inability to reduce the amount of turn overs we kept giving and also our difficulty in making precise passes into space. 

One thing should be said though: although we did not play our best, I do not doubt that the boys did what they could under the circumstances. Everyone has bad games, it happens. But let's not judge an entire season on one game. I know that each and all of them wanted to win that game. It did not happen. It was indeed our toughest loss yet but we can learn from it. I am sure all the boys will remember this game forever. My goal is to use it as a lesson that will help us improve.

~CONCLUSION~

Yes, Gorge deserved the win. Yet, I ask you to keep in mind all the work and excellent games the boys have played during the entire season. I believe that, but for this and the other game that we lost 3-0, whenever we played Gorge we were the better team: we created more chances, we passed the ball better, we were more precise and we made them work hard to keep us out. I truly believe that technically, we are on better ground.

So what now? Well, now it's off to finish up the season this Saturday and then it is District Cup. Let's go hard and win this fellas!

Last, I want to formally express my apology if I made any parent feel like their voice should be silenced during games. That is not at all what I was thinking about. All I wanted to ensure was that the boys got good support during this tough game. But please, do not silence yourself when supporting the boys. I want you to encourage them and make them feel like they have great support. They need that. And if you have any suggestions or thoughts, send them my way. I love hearing them.

Ok, see you Saturday!

Roberto

BIG GAME, TOUGH LOSS: 

BAYS UNITED 0 - GORGE FC 0 after full time

Gorge FC 4 - Bays United 3 after Penalties

Mathew skips away during the second half of our tough game while Ben begins to break free to attack

Although this game was not a final, no one can deny that it sure felt like one. This game was to determine who, out of these two quality teams (both at the top of the division), would go to play in the final to be Southern Vancouver Island's representative for the Provincial B Cup. It promised to be a great game. And no matter what side you are on, this game showed why soccer is such a great sport.

Tyler, phenomenal as always, stops a pass directed to Gorge's tough opponent

FIRST HALF: As the game started, we could all sense the nerves. Erratic passes and hesitation gave us some scary moments at first. However, as the minutes rolled on the momentum began to change. Slowly, we began to settle ~ this was due to the boys hard work and effort. But it was hard. Gorge has to be given a lot of credit for their tenacity, their never ending pressure and their capacity to use their tools to their advantage.

Gabriel fights hard to maintain possession while Thomas begins his run and Robbie begins his

However, as the half went on, our boys began to take control and soon enough the game was back and forth with Bays creating the clearer chances. Our runs on the wings were good, but our defence was even better. I thought that Brandon, Pierce, Jonathan and Tyler were excellent in the first half (and for that matter for the whole game).

A sight to see: Jonathan taking control of the ball while under pressure by Gorge's tough attacker

Koby and Justin ran their bags off. Up front, Mathew showed his skill and Finn, Gabriel and Marcel also worked hard to produce openings.

Koby fights hard for the ball in the midfield

The first half saw us make some shots on goal but they lacked power and confidence. At the back though, were great in the air and stymied Gorge's attacks quite well. Indeed, the first half was battle in the middle of the field for the most part, with some breakaways here and there.

HALF TIME: At half time, we asked the boys to keep their work rate up but to reduce the amount of turn-overs. This has been a difficulty during some games for us. Our turn-overs were taking their toll on us. Making runs and fighting hard to create space is hard enough. Losing the ball because of inaccurate passes makes it even more difficult for the boys making the runs to recuperate. We also asked the boys to continue the pressure and to ensure that their defending was well executed. Last, we asked them to believe in themselves and to be confident that they could win this game.

Half time talk with the boys

SECOND HALF: During the second half, our team took a stronger hold of the game. Our movement of the ball was better, especially at the back. Possession increased. Composure on the ball was better. Our defending continued to be strong and well executed. I particularly liked how we would stop attacks and get ourselves out of tough situations by passing and NOT by just kicking the ball with no purpose. Yes, we did panic at times but for the most part, we maintained control. It was sad to see Justin get hurt and have to come off for the rest of the game - we lost a very influential player. But then Ben stepped in and showed how much he has improved his work rate, his determination and his desire to win.Well done Benny! I must also make mention of Thomas. My boy, you showed a lot of heart in this game. It was unfortunate that as time went by we had to change our strategy but coming off the bench, you demonstrated a lot of character and desire ~ well done Thomas. 

Thomas mounts an attack despite being under pressure from Gorge's center mid

I cannot forget to mention Hamish who once again displayed a good understanding of the game. A hard worker who aims to do what is right for the team, Hamish never complains about how much time he plays and never requests accolades. He simply works hard. Well done Hamish, my respect to you.

Tyler shows how it is done and takes the space with speed

Our team created one excellent chance in the second half. Mathew and Brandon combined well, the ball was crossed in and Robbie managed to control it, turn the defender and take a low shot with his left. However, the shot was too close to the keeper and it was saved. A chance that would haunt us as the game went on. Yet, we kept going. I have to say that the level of positive energy in the team was outstanding today. From the back to the front, none of the boys got down with each other - a wonderful thing to see.

Despite our work, Gorge did not stop coming at us. This is where Aaron shone. He got control of shots, near and far, over and over again. It is important that all of us understand how hard that position is and how fantastic this young man, who has so much responsibility, did today.

Aaron sends the ball up field to set up another attack while Pierce protects the back

After a tough 70 minutes, the game came to an end.

EXTRA TIME: we again told the boys: Keep going. Keep working hard. Keep the pressure. Keep the effort up. We also reminded them to continue to believe in themselves and to help each other.

In the extra time, our team once again kept control of the play but tired legs began to show. The turn-overs began to take an even greater toll. However, the one thing that I loved was how even when they lost the ball, they fought hard to get it back. All of us should be proud of that.

Marcel, surrounded, manages to skip away without losing the ball and kicking it out in panic

The best chance came when after receiving the ball from Mathew, Robbie took a one time shot and directed it to the bottom of the right post of the net. Miraculously, the new goalie for Gorge got down far into the right bottom corner and made a miraculous save. It was an amazing shot, but an even more amazing save. Our team was producing chances and this was good to see.

Mathew cuts away from Gorge's defender while Robbie prepares to join the attack

For his part, our goalie was not to be outdone. Aaron made three fantastic saves, the best one coming in the second half of extra time when the Gorge forward tried to chip him after he had one initial save. Aaron made two saves in a row to keep the ball out. A great display of skill.

The turning point came at the last minute of the game. Mathew received a pass from Robbie after Mathew had broken free from a flat defensive line. Mathew controlled the ball with his left foot and with his right hammered an amazing shot to the top corner. However, it was called offside. So, the question is: was it offside? My answer is simple: whether it was offside or not is irrelevant now. It was called off and we had to keep going.

Soon after, the final whistle came. It was penalties.

PENALTIES: Shoot outs have been called unfair and most people see them as a bad way to decide a game. They are seen as a way to decide a winner which often does not reward the team that had the better game. However, they exist and we had to deal with them.

Our penalty takers, Koby, Jonathan, Mathew, Finn and Robbie (in that order) did what they could. Koby was unlucky on his first - the ball did not go far enough to the corner and Gorge's goalie saved it. But then Aaron made an amazing save on Cole from Gorge. It was tied. Then our boys continued scoring ~ Jonathan took a great one. Gorge then scored too. Mathew also scored to keep us in the game but unfortunately Finn's shot sailed over the top even though he properly aimed to the top corner. It was a hard blow for this young talented player.

In the end, Gorge's goalie scored the last goal and won the game for them. It was indeed a tough lost.

You know, watching Koby and Finn break down after their kicks made me realize how hard this was on ALL the boys. It showed that they care and that they did all they could to come on top. I feel proud of them and I hope all of us recognize their efforts.

FINAL THOUGHTS: this loss was a tough pill to swallow. Our team is amazing. We have quality from the very back to the very top. Our team has improved from where they were at the beginning of the season, has become strong and our boys have all become better players.

I also urge you to recognize the good things. The way they played on Saturday was fantastic. The boys fought hard. We did not rely on kick and run. We worked hard to pass the ball. The boys supported each other and even when we lost possession they did their best to gain possession back. They maintained a positive attitude with each other and were complimentary of one another.

Brandon takes off from two defenders showing prowess and determination

There is lots more to write but I will end with just a couple of things:

1. This game was big. It is in these games where players learn the most and what it takes to win. No matter what happened, all of us must think of this as a learning experience ~ in the end, what we want is better players, and based on what I saw today, I truly believe we are going the right way.

2. Let's not get lost on specific actions by any of the boys. In the end, I take responsibility for the decisions we made and will accept any slack that comes from this game. Bottom line: we should be proud of our players. 

So with that we end our Cup Run. Don't worry ~ our boys are only 14! They got many years of soccer playing to come so please do not see this one game as the end.

I thank all of you for all your support. We got other things to worry about now: more league games and yes, District Cup.

My commitment is unwavering ~ I hope your support is the same.

Have a great long weekend and see you at practice.

Roberto

BAYS UNITED FURY 8 - LAKEHILL FC 0

Jonathan skips away from his forecheck - a sign of things to come during the game

What a great day in Victoria to play soccer today. Grass field, no rain, no wind and sunny out. What else could a coach ask for? Well, how about a great display of skill and team work like the one the boys gave today. Despite missing two of our two strong defenders and having one of our strikers have to sit due to injury and another not feeling very well, the team responded well and gave it their all. Lakehill gave us a lot of trouble last time. We knew we had to play hard to be successful today.

The first half saw us have most of the possession and the rhythm of the game. At times we did run into some issues (our finishing can still improve and we have to reduce the amount of turn overs). Yet, the movement of the ball and the runs the boys were making were incisive. Mistakes happen but they can be a great source of knowledge if we learn from them.

The first goal came after Finn took a pass from the outside, dribbled into the box and after taking the Lakehill defender to the end line placed a nice pass along the ground to Mathew who one-timed it into the bottom left corner of the net. Well produced, well executed.

Finn looking to see how to breakdown the Lakehill defence

The second goal came from a very good exchange of passes between Koby and Justin. Koby received the ball from Justin and immediately gave a pass back to Justin who settled and then instinctively took a low long range shot that easily beat the goalie who was not expecting it to come at him so fast. Two nothing and we were only 15 minutes into the game. Not long after, our two center mids combined well again. After a cross into the box from the left hand side, Koby gave a one touch pass to Justin who sidefooted the ball into the opposite corner of the net. Three nothing. Those two goals were important because they gave us breathing room but also because it showed that Justin and Koby CAN and SHOULD combine the way they did all the time. Well done fellas!

Before the half ended, Koby once again turned provider and this time found Gabriel who without hesitation used his speed and applied a nice touch to score our fourth goal.

Gabriel receiving the ball during an attack

Half time. We took the boys and gave them some further direction. We asked that they keep an eye on the positioning, especially at the back and the wings. We also asked the forwards to make more diagonal runs so that the midfield had more options available to them. Last, we asked them to be more composed in front of the net. It is great that they get it on target but we asked them to be more confident when in front of the net and to attack every ball that came across the goal.

The second half started out well again. We made some changes to adjust to some of our players suffering some minor problems (Robbie had a strained knee, Marcel's wrist was bugging him, Finn was not feeling well). Up front Thomas was proving to not only be effective but also a handful for the Lakehill defenders. Ben took the stopper position and worked extremely well with Jonathan. Aaron also made some good saves that proved to be important to maintain the confidence of the team.

Aaron sends the ball up field to mount an attack

Hamish began to flow up front with more ease and Koby and Justin maintained control in the middle.

Hamish is off the races ~ despite his injury, Hamish was fantastic yet again

Our next goal came courtesy of a jewel of a free kick by our captain. From about 40 feet out, Koby looked poised to score. His instructions were to keep calm, pick a spot and hit it well. And boy did he ever! Koby struck the ball well with his laces and the ball sailed fast over the wall and the goalie to find the back of the net. Five nothing.

Koby, running the show and setting the example

From then on, it was the Mathew show. Mathew followed our advice and after missing a virtual open net, he became more clinical with his finishing. First it was after he again received a well timed pass from Finn. Mathew found himself free in front of the net and with a very composed touch, scored his second goal. Not long after, Mathew again made a smart run into the net and then found himself with the ball at his feet after Gabriel made an incisive run on the wing and sent the ball back only for Mathew to receive and get his third goal - Hat Trick! Last, towards the end of the game, Hamish and Mathew worked a wonderful 1-2 in the corner of the field, and after receiving a great return pass from Hamish, Mathew drove into the net and hammered a wonderful shot to the top of the corner. An unstoppable goal by a player who was having an unstoppable second half.

In yet another attack, Mathew dribbles through two defenders while maintaining close control of the ball ~ a memorable day for our talented player

In the end, everyone deserves credit. Robbie played very well as a stopper in the first half, distributing the ball very well, not giving it away and pushing forward whenever needed. I was quite impressed with his precision on the ball and the fact that he had no turn overs at the back.

Robbie controls the back and dictates our next attack from the back

Ben also was impressive at the back. In particular, I loved his tenacity as a center back and his calmness on the ball even when he was under pressure. In my view, both of these boys deserve credit for playing so well in positions they do not regularly play in.

Ben blocks yet another pass ~ a great display of determination and hard work ~ well done Benny!

Thomas was always a threat and unlucky not to be rewarded for his efforts; Marcel played through pain and anguish and as usual gave his all for the team; Finn, despite feeling sick, provided two wonderful assists; Brandon's return to his old stumping grounds was also a success. I could go on but I won't ~ I think it is clear that it was a very good game from which we can learn a lot and use as preparation for next week's game.

Brandon maintains his cool even while the looming big forward gets ready to pounce on the ball

So who do we play next week? We play Gorge my friends. So, let's not miss practice this week ~ we gotta prepare for a very important game. If you are hurt, let me know and you can rest though.

Alright, let's keep going boys - the season is just about to get more interesting.

Cheers,

Roberto

BAYS UNITED FURY 1 - GORGE FC 1

Jonathan letting the opposition know "I am HERE"

A tough game again. Muddy field. Questionable calls (and non-calls) by the referee. But despite all this, I think today was a game where we again showed that once we get into a rhythm, we can play good soccer.

We started off with a shock goal in the first minute. While we attacked, Gorge's center back kicked the ball forward. The clearance went over our defenders who were on the half way line. Gorge's main striker took the ball and quickly went past Brandon, then headed to goal. As he got close to the net, he ran away at an angle from Aaron and as he began to run out of room used his left to put the ball in the opposite side of the net. Aaron slipped while trying to position himself during the first break-away of the game which was unfortunate - yet, we cannot take anything away from Gorge's striker. He pulled away fast from Brandon so that he had lots of room to run into. Aaron's positioning was off and that, combined with his slip, was the space the striker needed to score; and boy did he take it. The game had barely started and we were already one goal down. Yes, it was a difficult start that shocked the boys.

Brandon dealing with Gorge's main striker Patrick

During the first 15 minutes of the game we couldn't get our game going. We seemed desperate and rushed. Our first touch was off too - this was actually a major part of the reason why we were having a hard time maintaining possession. However, we did have two great things going: we fought hard for the ball every time. I was happy about that. The other was that we kept our positive attitude and despite some scary moments, we kept applying our system.

Koby fighting hard to win the ball

In the second half we came out with more conviction. We still met tough play from Gorge but as the game wore on, we began to have more and more possession of the ball. We came close to scoring after Mathew dribbled his way through the left wing into the box and made a great pass to Robbie only to see him stretch his leg to make contact but send the ball above the net.

Robbie putting on the moves on Noah while Thomas begins to look for space

Yet, we kept going. Mathew and Tyler were combining well on the wing while Marcel began to impose himself with speed and astute movement. At the back, Pierce and Jonathan put on a clinic on how to defend against fast strong players. Our center mids kept fighting for every ball and distributing well and all of our strikers were much more mobile, exploiting spaces and pushing Gorge's defenders. Yes, we still had turn overs, but overall, we were running the game.

One of the best players of the day, Pierce, shows Patrick that going by him is not going to be easy - ever

Finally, with about 10 minutes to go, we mounted another attack that proved effective. Gabriel took the ball on the right side after Marcel set it in front of him. Gabriel took it down the line and passed the ball along the ground to Robbie who let it go. Finn, who at this time was playing up front, controlled the ball, set himself up and with a strong definitive blast put the ball on the top part of the back of the net ~ a great goal!

Another one of Gabriel's runs and his cross looking to give his teammates a chance to score

The relief was palpable and the momentum shifted. We kept pressing and continued to have control. But towards the end, Gorge began to rally back and put pressure on our players. Yet, we kept the door closed. When the final whistle blew, both teams looked spent but seemed to feel that the end result was just.

Mathew taking the space in front of him and leading another attack

In my view, we had the clearer chances to win the game. However, as always, we must give credit where credit is due and it is important to remember that Gorge is without a doubt a team to respect.

Last comment? Points aside, I truly believe that the boys are improving, are playing with a style of their own and are understanding that once on the field, a big part of winning is not fitness or skill, but heart and the desire to win. My hat is off to you boys - All of you!

See you at practice!

Roberto

Marcel splitting the defence with a great pass

 

Bays United Fury 6 - Lakehill 0

After having a tough time scoring during the game before this past weekend, our team found its way in front of the net again. Despite having no substitutes, the boys showed resilience, determination and a better sense on how to react when before the goal. Yes, we did have several break aways that should have been goals. Despite that, I thought the boys were better at fighting for the ball, maintaining possession and being incisive.

At the back, Aaron held his ground well and our rock solid defenders Tyler, Pierce, Jonathan and Marcel kept it under control. There is no question that when it comes to maintaining control, our defenders are amongst the best in this division. But don't get me wrong, I was happy to see everyone raise their game and fight hard for the team especially with no subs on the bench,. In particular, I wanted to make mention of the following players:

• Ben: you took on the role in midfield role extremely well. You fought hard for every ball and moved well. I was so happy to see you working hard ~ you certainly impressed me.
• Thomas: your goals were well taken and I truly believe that if you continue to move quickly into the spaces you need to exploit, you are going to amaze yourself. You amazed me.
• Mathew: playing in the midfield is tough ~ back and forth, left and right, knowing when to go attacke and when to come back and defend. Although you did seem a bit lost at first, I thought your second half was phenomenal. You were so intelligent, it made the team so much better. It was clear you calmed down. You even scored ~ Atta boy!
• Hamish: you confirmed two things for me: one was that at front a player should not only worry about scoring but also about assisting. But for me, the best thing was seeing you score as a left back defender. You proved me right buddy! I hope this serves as an incentive for our full backs to follow the example. Well done!
• Finn: You have skill but what I like the most about you is that you never argue or contradict instructions. You stayed wide, you came back to defend and you scored at the end too. Well done Finn ~ great job.

I must admit that all the boys played really well. The notes above are meant to serve as an incentive not a measure of what others did during the games.

Alright, Gorge awaits us ~ let's be ready.

See you Saturday!

Roberto

A new year, a new challenge

Thomas, starting things up right

So here we are, almost at the end of January with two games under our belt facing the prospects of Provincial play and moving up into the VIPL.

Our first game of the year was a tough one: Bays vs Saanich Fusion. The boys dominated the game but it was clear that in terms of scoring it was not going to be our day. We had many opportunities to score, to take the game and make it our own. Yet, despite creating many opportunities, we could not find the back of the net. It was both frustrating and at times disheartening. As the game went on, near the middle of the first half, our talented striker Thomas cleverly chipped the ball over the goalkeeper from Saanich to finally get us on the score sheet. Thomas showed us once again that he is not only skillful but also has a natural instinct for scoring.

Thomas' great skill settled us down and gave us something to work with. However, our woes in front of the net continued. Shots hit the posts, many went over the net and most went directly to the keeper. I see this as a consequence of two things: one was our frustration turning into hesitation within our players. Not wanting to 'screw up' became a weight too heavy to carry. The second was a problem that all teams go through: the frustration of not scoring despite great pressure can turn against the team dominating and can render their confidence to zero. It happens, it's part of the game.

Mathew looking to create a chance up front

In the second half we scored again. After a great pass from the midfield, Robbie took the ball to the wing and made a tight cross that the defenders from Saanich could not handle. In a rushed moved to defend, the Saanich defender tried to chest the ball but it ricocheted off him and went to the back of the net. This goal gave us the momentum we needed. Yet, despite our drive, we again kept failing to find the back of the net. Adding to our frustration, Saanich scored a late goal on a corner kick. It was a scary moment but we managed to win in the end.

Koby setting up his attackers

Lessons? Yes, several but the main one was that we need to be better at finishing. It was clear that we need to be more calm and sure to finish when opportunities arise. I will add this though: despite our difficulties up front, we did maintain a high level of possession, a good degree of accurate passing and were positive. It is important to remember too that games like this will happen and that they are actually important because they remind us that no matter who we play, we must always maintain a high level of play.

Soccer is a mental game as much as it is a physical game. Learning from our mistakes and implementing our lessons is what makes will takes us far. I have every bit of confidence that the boys learned that valuable lesson during our first game of 2013.

Bays Fury 4 - Lakehill FC 0

This past weekend we played Lakehill FC for our third time. As expected, Lakehill was hard to break down. Their goalie certainly deserves a lot of credit as do their defenders and center mids. However, after some initial shivers, our team was able to regain composure and eventually we began to take control of the game.

For this game, Darcy took the lead in creating the line up and also running the game. It was great to see the boys adjust to his ideas while maintaining basic principles on our approach.

Our goals came through very well worked plays and good finishing. The first came after a corner kick. Jonathan got his head on the ball. The rebound sat in front of the net for one of us to take and after a few unexpected bounces, Jonathan got his foot on it and scored. Soon after, Thomas scored a beauty of a goal after he and Ben worked a fantastic one-two around two defenders. I was quite impressed by Thomas composure while in front of goal. I was also quite impressed with Ben's instinctive pass back to Thomas. It was a simple move executed with great precision. It seemed that after some moments of miscommunication, we found our stride.

As usual, Pierce, Jonathan, Brandon and Marcel did extremely well at the back, maintaining possession and not allowing attacks to materialize. I was also happy to see them use Aaron as an additional player at the back. Aaron's skill on the ball is of great importance (and I commend you on it) as it allows us to have yet another outlet when we have possession.

In the middle, Koby and Justin worked hard to recover and distribute the ball. Our wingers had a bit of a difficult time at first maintaining width but as the game progressed, they settled and things looked better. Gabriel, Tyler and Finn were threatening as usual. Marcel was also strong when he came to the wing ~ for me, it is great to see so many of the boys taking on different positions and performing well in them. I particularly liked Hamish's positioning on the field. I thought he gave us another dimension when he was on. Good on ya Hamish!

Up front, Thomas, Ben, Finn, Gabriel and Mathew also did well. In the second half, I saw two great unselfish moves from our attackers. First, it was a great pass in from the wing by Koby. Although he had the space to drive in, he decided to cross the ball right into the penalty spot. Mathew read the ball well and instinctively ran to meet the ball and with a one time shot with his left foot, put the ball into the bottom right corner. It was a fantastic goal. Not long after, I saw Finn control the ball in the box and without hesitation, set Koby up for a shot. Koby did not hesitate and took a one time shot that beat Lakehill's netminder. It was clear the boys were working hard and taking control. I should note that we also had many other chances that did not materialize: Finn hit the post, Mathew was robbed twice by the goalie, Gabriel also took shots that were saved by their goalie. Clearly, we were taking the game to Lakehill. In the end, we won 4-0. It was a fantastic way to finish our season before the Xmas break.

WHERE WE ARE NOW

Well we've come to the end of the year ~ so what can we say? Well, I am happy with our progress. I think all of us can look at the boys and see that they are changing, learning and improving. Our team is playing better. I hope that all of you also see the same. I think the boys have learned key concepts:

1. Defensively we have become stronger and more disciplined.
2. Our ability to maintain possession is much better ~ we are more calm when in possession.
3. Our attack is more incisive and we are not dependent on only a few players scoring.

We have also become more consistent in our approach ~ the boys are understanding that moving off the ball is key if you want to be a successful team.

Last, I am hopeful that all of your sons are enjoying their time as part of this team. Being proud of being a part of a great team is what makes a team great. I want the boys to remember this season as one where they learned new things and began to read the game better. It is our hope that our work helps them not just every Saturday, but also for years to come.

I will not go over what we need to work on. We'll get to that when we come back in January.

For now, please get your boy to go out and kick the ball around when he has time. Get him to practice the things he needs to improve on: is it his shooting? is it his passing? is it his speed? No need for me to say anything: the boys know what they want to better. That is what you should focus on.

So, I will end with this: THANK YOU TO ALL THE PARENTS! From supporting during the games, to helping on the line, to helping with the nets, to bringing snacks, etc. I want to make sure that all of you know that I appreciate it. No team is perfect, but I truly feel that our team has to the potential to be perfect and as head coach I will always strive to get there.

A special mention to Kim Colpman and Darcy Greaves for being so helpful in my day-to-day coaching.

Have an amazing Christmas everyone ~ Keep going Fury ~ January is just around the corner.

Cheers,

Roberto