Curtain Call
Sunday, May 10, 2009 (post date)
CPR v Queens FC
In all honesty, the outcome of the Metro8s final encounter of the season against Queens FC was never in doubt given the relative history of the two sides. Queens FC were the whipping boys of the league, sporting a winless record and had a -39 goal difference after their first 9 matches. CPR on the other hand had 4 wins, 4 losses and 1 draw and a +16 goal difference. It only seemed appropriate to speculate how big the eventual margin would be.
With danger averted, CPR took back possession and marched straight back up the pitch toward Queens penalty area. Phillips picked out Lukaszewski at the top of the box, who with one touch laid off to Grecius who stuck his second of the day, increasing the score to 3-0 within 5 minutes. To the comic relief of those within earshot, a Queens FC defender was heard asking the referee how much time remained as the teams prepared to restart play.
With the side clearly in full control, the team talk was left primarily to address more important matters, including the latest plans for Hollins's upcoming bachelor party in New Orleans. Hollins was complemented on his scheduling of the event for the weekend immediately after the conclusion of the season, preventing a situation in which a significant portion of a squad goes missing for a "playoff" game.
Clearly due a stroke of luck on the day, Queens FC got one as a midfielder took a hopeful swing on a bouncing ball 25 yards out from goal. His resulting strike proved to be a trigonomic miracle which managed to just sneak in under the bar and out of the reach of Sanchez to give Queens a consolation goal.
May 10, 2009
In all honesty, the outcome of the Metro8s final encounter of the season against Queens FC was never in doubt given the relative history of the two sides. Queens FC were the whipping boys of the league, sporting a winless record and had a -39 goal difference after their first 9 matches. CPR on the other hand had 4 wins, 4 losses and 1 draw and a +16 goal difference. It only seemed appropriate to speculate how big the eventual margin would be. To reinforce the point that the match was over before it began, the Metro8s took the opening kickoff and marched up the pitch to open their tally on the first possession. Greicius picked out Hollins inside the goal box for the easiest of finishes. Greicius then quickly added to the advantage with a well-struck effort from the top of the area, making the scoreline 2-0 in just as many minutes.
CPR relaxed just enough after such an overpowering start that they allowed Queens to regain some composure and push forward to generate a reasonable shot on target. Legacy Metroboy Omar Sanchez was filling-in between the posts and produced a fine save diving to his right to deny Queens.
With danger averted, CPR took back possession and marched straight back up the pitch toward Queens penalty area. Phillips picked out Lukaszewski at the top of the box, who with one touch laid off to Grecius who stuck his second of the day, increasing the score to 3-0 within 5 minutes. To the comic relief of those within earshot, a Queens FC defender was heard asking the referee how much time remained as the teams prepared to restart play. Greicius claimed his hat trick with a flukey deflection off a Hollins corner and raised the lead to 4-0. He then turned provider again in picking out Hollins in the left channel. Hollins was unlucky not to his second as his far-post bound effort was deflected by Levy just prior to crossing the line, giving Levy his first on the day and CPR's fifth.
Not to let down the spectators from more on-field commedy, the Queens FC central midfielder shouted over to his bench to check that his side were not playing down a player. He was disappointed to hear that both teams did in fact have 8 players on the pitch. But fortunately for him, the referee declared a temporary cease-fire by calling for halftime early.
With the side clearly in full control, the team talk was left primarily to address more important matters, including the latest plans for Hollins's upcoming bachelor party in New Orleans. Hollins was complemented on his scheduling of the event for the weekend immediately after the conclusion of the season, preventing a situation in which a significant portion of a squad goes missing for a "playoff" game. The second half picked off where the first left off, with Greicius again quickly causing trouble for Queens FC. Having learned through his involvement in all 5 previous Metro8 goals, the Queens defenders began trying to mark the CPR midfielder. However, they proved a little over-eager and blatantly chopped Greicius down in the area. With the referee looking for any excuse possible to avoid pointing to the spot, he was given none and therefore regretfully had to give the foul call to the Metro8s. Levy, having dedicated significant pre- and post- match idle time to practicing penalties, stepped forward and calmly claimed his second to increase the Metro8 lead to 6-0.
Clearly due a stroke of luck on the day, Queens FC got one as a midfielder took a hopeful swing on a bouncing ball 25 yards out from goal. His resulting strike proved to be a trigonomic miracle which managed to just sneak in under the bar and out of the reach of Sanchez to give Queens a consolation goal. Wanting to join Lukaszewski in claiming his first offensive point of the season during the team's final match, Calcagni ventured forward up the right wing when he spotted Gudkov making a run up the left side. He played a beautiful long diagonal ball over the top of the Queens FC defense which Gudkov volleyed home to bring the score to 7-1.
Gudkov then turned provider to Phillips, playing in the Metro8 central back from the left wing. Phillips slid in between two Queens FC defenders to raise the scoreline to 8-1. Prior to the final whistle, Queens FC grabbed a second consolation goal as they took advantage of lazy defending to spring a late attack against a stranded Sanchez. Allowing them to end their season on a relative high, the referee called for full time shortly thereafter.
Yet again, the Metro8s are left to rue a disappointing season. Finishing the season at the top of the losers bracket cannot be seen as anything other than a let down given the talent the team has on the pitch. One hopes that with a large portion of the team playing in summer league together, some continuity will carry over into the fall season to allow the team to avoid dropping too many points early in the season, the mistake which has repeatedly plagued them.
Final Score: 8-2
Goals: Greicius (3), Levy (2), Gudkov, Hollins, Philips
Assists: Greicius (3), Hollins (2), Calcagni, Gudkov, Lukaszewski,
Man of the Match: Greicius
Team: Ault, Calcagni, Greicius, Gudkov, Hollins, Jones, Levy, Lukaszewski, Philips, Smith, Sanchez
Team bar showing: 0
Special Thanks: Omar Sanchez, for showing up unexpected and filling in in goal
Fans: 1
Getting Hosed
Wednesday, May 06, 2009 (post date)
CPR vs OMD United
May 3, 2009
As the Metro8s huddled in the rain, they noted that OMD United appeared to have brought many more capable players to this 2nd encounter of the season than they brought to the first. With Ault announcing earlier in the morning that he would no-show to sleep off a hangover (not a valid excuse for the Metro8s) and Smith also a no-show, a seemingly deep bench suddenly became thin.
The opening kickoff proved that OMD had in fact upgraded their roster and that the contest would be far from a foregone conclusion. Little seperated the sides in terms of possession or control over the encounter. In the first 15 minutes, both sides were able to get numbers forward and test the others' back lines, though neither created much in the way of clear scoring chances as the back lines held firm.
It was on a half-chance that OMD opened the scoring at the 15 minute mark of the first half. With the right winger played in deep, he played a hard pullback through the area from the corner of the 6-yard box and end line. His layoff missed everyone in the box and skidded into the knee of a late-arriving striker just inside the top of the area. Taking one of the luckiest bounces in metro league history, the bounce off the knee resulted in a low, driven shot at the far post. Lukaszewski got a hand to the but was unable to keep the ball from crossing the line.
The 0-1 score held up until halftime. The team talk at the interval focused on maintaining good marking, particularly as OMD was running 2 players through central midfield. Otherwise, the talk remained positive as it was clear the Metro8s were well into the game.
Within 3 minutes of the 2nd half kickoff, the metro8s leveled. Gudkov gained possession in the left channel just outside the area. Looking up and seeing space, Gudkov took 2 touches towards goal. The keeper reacted well and came out to attempt to snuff out the threat, but Gudkov reacted better and cleverly chipped the on-rushing keeper to level the score at 1-1.
With Verdoux taking over the day-glo keeping honors in the 2nd half, Lukaszewski managed to find time as an outfield player. Unfortunately, his rust showed and he was sadly exposed by a pacey OMD midfielder. Using a hesitation move to create some space for himself from the slow-to-react Lukaszewski, the OMD player than produced a much better-than-expected finish with his weaker left foot to restore OMD's 1-goal lead.
The misery further piled on as OMD took advantage of the slippery conditions to add a third. Looking up and seeing space 10 yards outside the penalty area, the OMD central midfielder took one dribble and then lauched a hard, low shot at Verdoux's left post. As the ball skid on the slick surface, it's pace surprised Verdoux and extended OMD's lead to 1-3.
To their credit, the frustrated Metro8s dug deep to try to salvage a result, and mounted several attacks which put pressure on the OMD goal. A Gudkov corner was not cleared properly and Jones ultimately pounced on the loose ball inside the 6 yard box from the ensuing scrum. He buried the ball first-time into the roof of the net, bringing the score line to 2-3. Unfortunately, Jones's touch proved to be the final touch of the game as the referee blew the final whistle before the subsequent restart.
Final Score: 2-3
Goals: Gudkov, Jones (no assists)
Team: Calcagni, E Engler, M Engler, Greicius, Gudkov, Jones, Lukaszewski, Phillips, Verdoux
Team Bar Attendance: an embarassing 2 (22%)
Mike Ds (no-shows): Ault (hangovers are not an excuse; in fact, they're encouraged) , Smith
Where's Waldo?: Penrod (does he not like us any more?)
Fans: 1.1 (does it count when one shows up 2 minutes before the final whistle?)
May 3, 2009
As the Metro8s huddled in the rain, they noted that OMD United appeared to have brought many more capable players to this 2nd encounter of the season than they brought to the first. With Ault announcing earlier in the morning that he would no-show to sleep off a hangover (not a valid excuse for the Metro8s) and Smith also a no-show, a seemingly deep bench suddenly became thin.
The opening kickoff proved that OMD had in fact upgraded their roster and that the contest would be far from a foregone conclusion. Little seperated the sides in terms of possession or control over the encounter. In the first 15 minutes, both sides were able to get numbers forward and test the others' back lines, though neither created much in the way of clear scoring chances as the back lines held firm.
It was on a half-chance that OMD opened the scoring at the 15 minute mark of the first half. With the right winger played in deep, he played a hard pullback through the area from the corner of the 6-yard box and end line. His layoff missed everyone in the box and skidded into the knee of a late-arriving striker just inside the top of the area. Taking one of the luckiest bounces in metro league history, the bounce off the knee resulted in a low, driven shot at the far post. Lukaszewski got a hand to the but was unable to keep the ball from crossing the line.
The 0-1 score held up until halftime. The team talk at the interval focused on maintaining good marking, particularly as OMD was running 2 players through central midfield. Otherwise, the talk remained positive as it was clear the Metro8s were well into the game.
Within 3 minutes of the 2nd half kickoff, the metro8s leveled. Gudkov gained possession in the left channel just outside the area. Looking up and seeing space, Gudkov took 2 touches towards goal. The keeper reacted well and came out to attempt to snuff out the threat, but Gudkov reacted better and cleverly chipped the on-rushing keeper to level the score at 1-1.
With Verdoux taking over the day-glo keeping honors in the 2nd half, Lukaszewski managed to find time as an outfield player. Unfortunately, his rust showed and he was sadly exposed by a pacey OMD midfielder. Using a hesitation move to create some space for himself from the slow-to-react Lukaszewski, the OMD player than produced a much better-than-expected finish with his weaker left foot to restore OMD's 1-goal lead.The misery further piled on as OMD took advantage of the slippery conditions to add a third. Looking up and seeing space 10 yards outside the penalty area, the OMD central midfielder took one dribble and then lauched a hard, low shot at Verdoux's left post. As the ball skid on the slick surface, it's pace surprised Verdoux and extended OMD's lead to 1-3.
To their credit, the frustrated Metro8s dug deep to try to salvage a result, and mounted several attacks which put pressure on the OMD goal. A Gudkov corner was not cleared properly and Jones ultimately pounced on the loose ball inside the 6 yard box from the ensuing scrum. He buried the ball first-time into the roof of the net, bringing the score line to 2-3. Unfortunately, Jones's touch proved to be the final touch of the game as the referee blew the final whistle before the subsequent restart.
Final Score: 2-3Goals: Gudkov, Jones (no assists)
Team: Calcagni, E Engler, M Engler, Greicius, Gudkov, Jones, Lukaszewski, Phillips, Verdoux
Team Bar Attendance: an embarassing 2 (22%)
Mike Ds (no-shows): Ault (hangovers are not an excuse; in fact, they're encouraged) , Smith
Where's Waldo?: Penrod (does he not like us any more?)
Fans: 1.1 (does it count when one shows up 2 minutes before the final whistle?)
Steamroller
Monday, April 27, 2009 (post date)
CPR vs Gotham Wednesday
April 26, 2009
Having failed to qualify for the playoffs for the league title with their disappointing 0-1 loss to Queens United the previous week, the CPR Metro8s instead saw themselves placed into the bottom-half pool to play out the remainder of their season. This meant that the quality of the opposition would be generally weak, and the goals would likely flow. Gotham United, who were at the receiving end of a 7-0 thrashing by the Metro8s just a few weeks before, were the first "playoff" opponents for the Metro8s, and put up little in the way of opposition.
Missing in action yet again was Penrod, who for those keeping track, has now tallied 3 consecutive Mike Ds (no-shows). Team management are beginning to grow concerned that Penrod may have secretly committed a Penrod (drinking induced injury), and is actually stashed away at a secret location receiving treatment in order to make his comeback by the end of the season. Another absence meant Lukaszewski added to his minutes tally of wearing the day-glo strip honors.
The Metro8s opener came within minutes of the opening whistle, setting the tone early. Greicius took a low, driven shot on target from the right channel. As the keeper was attempting to make a save, Levy jumped in front to redirect the ball and leave him with no time to react.
Gudkov doubled the lead on the 15 minute mark after a trademark surging run. With Gudkov beating his defender for pace into the box, Engler played in a long diagonal ball to him from the right wing. Gudkov slid in to beat the keeper to the ball and score at the near post.
With the 2-0 lead established relatively early and comfortably, and the 7-0 win fresh on their minds, the Metro8s began to relax somewhat. The intensity waned, and with the opponent side having no substitutions on the unseasonally hot 85 degree April day, they were more than willing to see the match reduce the amount of chasing required of them. As marking got somewhat loose, Gotham found themselves gaining a little more possession and venturing forward to probe the Metro8s defense. Most attacks were eventually snuffed out, though one shot from the left channel did draw a reaction save from Lukaszewski to push the low driven effort wide of the near post.
Up 2-0 at the interval, but with the game not yet firmly out of reach, the Metro8s braintrust focused the team talk on finishing off the opponents before entering a complete slack-off mode. True to their ways all season, the Metro8s responded admirably, and entered the 2nd half with a renewed commitment which overwhelmed a short-handed Gotham, who were forced to start with only 7 players as their 8th appeared to be suffering from heat-related issues.
Smith added to the Metro8s lead with a well-worked goal down the left wing. Having gained possession along the left sideline, Smith surged forward. Greicius presented himself in the center of the pitch a played a quick one-two with Smith to set him free behind the Gotham back line. Smith raced to the end line and then turn into the area. Seeing no passing opportunities, he cleverly beat the keeper with bending effort at the far post from the very tight angle.
Phillips made the lead 4-0 shortly thereafter after combining with Levy inside the area. With the lead doubled from halftime and the outcome beyond any doubt, the collective brain of the Metro8s completely switched off. Gotham's central midfielder had recovered enough that he rejoined his side for the restart. As the whistle blew, he took the ball and began a surging run at goal. With the Metro8s doing their best impersonation of some over 30s matador defending, the Gotham midfielder began to look like Michael Owen carving up Argentina in 1998, beating 4 half-hearted tackles from Metro8 midfielders and defenders. His finish was of pretty good quality as he slotted this shot in just inside the far post, bringing the Metro8 margin back to 4-1.
Bouyed by the goal, Gotham's energy picked up and they came in search of another to see if they could make a real game of the encounter. They came dangerously close to grabbing a second. A speculative shot from the right corner of the box took a deflection off a Metro8 defender which popped the ball up as it headed towards goal. Lukaszewski managed just get a hand up to to the shot, but was only able to push it off the bar. Gotham's left winger found himself with clean attempt on goal inside the 6 yard box, but his header from the rebound went high and over the bar, ending the threat.
Deflated from the missed opportunity, and playing short handed again after their 8th had to again leave the pitch for medical reasons, Gotham crumbled in the final 10 minutes. Greicius was the first to take advantage. Finding himself with acres of space near the top of the penalty area, Greicius fired a low effort to the far post to increase the scoreline to 5-1. Phillips then played in Ault who scored his first of the day and brought the scoreline to 6-1. The final Metro8 goal came from Levy, to took a Greicius shass from the top of the area and slotted in the Metro8s 7th on the day.
Final Score: 7-1
Goals: Levy 2 (assits Greicius 2), Gudkov (assist E Engler), Smith (assist Greicius), Phillips (assist Levy), Greicius, Ault (assist Phillips)
Team: Ault, E Engler, Greicius, Gudkov, Jones, Levy, Lukaszewski, Phillips, Smith, Verdoux
Yellow Cards: E Engler
Man of the Match: Greicius
Mike Ds (no-shows): Penrod
Beers left behind: 1.5 (E Engler)
April 26, 2009
Having failed to qualify for the playoffs for the league title with their disappointing 0-1 loss to Queens United the previous week, the CPR Metro8s instead saw themselves placed into the bottom-half pool to play out the remainder of their season. This meant that the quality of the opposition would be generally weak, and the goals would likely flow. Gotham United, who were at the receiving end of a 7-0 thrashing by the Metro8s just a few weeks before, were the first "playoff" opponents for the Metro8s, and put up little in the way of opposition.
Missing in action yet again was Penrod, who for those keeping track, has now tallied 3 consecutive Mike Ds (no-shows). Team management are beginning to grow concerned that Penrod may have secretly committed a Penrod (drinking induced injury), and is actually stashed away at a secret location receiving treatment in order to make his comeback by the end of the season. Another absence meant Lukaszewski added to his minutes tally of wearing the day-glo strip honors.The Metro8s opener came within minutes of the opening whistle, setting the tone early. Greicius took a low, driven shot on target from the right channel. As the keeper was attempting to make a save, Levy jumped in front to redirect the ball and leave him with no time to react.
Gudkov doubled the lead on the 15 minute mark after a trademark surging run. With Gudkov beating his defender for pace into the box, Engler played in a long diagonal ball to him from the right wing. Gudkov slid in to beat the keeper to the ball and score at the near post.
With the 2-0 lead established relatively early and comfortably, and the 7-0 win fresh on their minds, the Metro8s began to relax somewhat. The intensity waned, and with the opponent side having no substitutions on the unseasonally hot 85 degree April day, they were more than willing to see the match reduce the amount of chasing required of them. As marking got somewhat loose, Gotham found themselves gaining a little more possession and venturing forward to probe the Metro8s defense. Most attacks were eventually snuffed out, though one shot from the left channel did draw a reaction save from Lukaszewski to push the low driven effort wide of the near post.
Up 2-0 at the interval, but with the game not yet firmly out of reach, the Metro8s braintrust focused the team talk on finishing off the opponents before entering a complete slack-off mode. True to their ways all season, the Metro8s responded admirably, and entered the 2nd half with a renewed commitment which overwhelmed a short-handed Gotham, who were forced to start with only 7 players as their 8th appeared to be suffering from heat-related issues.
Smith added to the Metro8s lead with a well-worked goal down the left wing. Having gained possession along the left sideline, Smith surged forward. Greicius presented himself in the center of the pitch a played a quick one-two with Smith to set him free behind the Gotham back line. Smith raced to the end line and then turn into the area. Seeing no passing opportunities, he cleverly beat the keeper with bending effort at the far post from the very tight angle.
Phillips made the lead 4-0 shortly thereafter after combining with Levy inside the area. With the lead doubled from halftime and the outcome beyond any doubt, the collective brain of the Metro8s completely switched off. Gotham's central midfielder had recovered enough that he rejoined his side for the restart. As the whistle blew, he took the ball and began a surging run at goal. With the Metro8s doing their best impersonation of some over 30s matador defending, the Gotham midfielder began to look like Michael Owen carving up Argentina in 1998, beating 4 half-hearted tackles from Metro8 midfielders and defenders. His finish was of pretty good quality as he slotted this shot in just inside the far post, bringing the Metro8 margin back to 4-1.Bouyed by the goal, Gotham's energy picked up and they came in search of another to see if they could make a real game of the encounter. They came dangerously close to grabbing a second. A speculative shot from the right corner of the box took a deflection off a Metro8 defender which popped the ball up as it headed towards goal. Lukaszewski managed just get a hand up to to the shot, but was only able to push it off the bar. Gotham's left winger found himself with clean attempt on goal inside the 6 yard box, but his header from the rebound went high and over the bar, ending the threat.
Deflated from the missed opportunity, and playing short handed again after their 8th had to again leave the pitch for medical reasons, Gotham crumbled in the final 10 minutes. Greicius was the first to take advantage. Finding himself with acres of space near the top of the penalty area, Greicius fired a low effort to the far post to increase the scoreline to 5-1. Phillips then played in Ault who scored his first of the day and brought the scoreline to 6-1. The final Metro8 goal came from Levy, to took a Greicius shass from the top of the area and slotted in the Metro8s 7th on the day.
Final Score: 7-1Goals: Levy 2 (assits Greicius 2), Gudkov (assist E Engler), Smith (assist Greicius), Phillips (assist Levy), Greicius, Ault (assist Phillips)
Team: Ault, E Engler, Greicius, Gudkov, Jones, Levy, Lukaszewski, Phillips, Smith, Verdoux
Yellow Cards: E Engler
Man of the Match: Greicius
Mike Ds (no-shows): Penrod
Beers left behind: 1.5 (E Engler)
Crashing Down to Earth
Monday, April 20, 2009 (post date)
CPR vs Queens United
April 19, 2009, 9am
Heading into the match-up with Queens United, the Metro8s were butter (they were on a roll). Coming off the complete 7-0 destruction of Gotham Wednesday in their previous league fixture 2 weeks ago, confidence was high. But with this being the 7th and final fixture of the regular season and the Metro8s holding on to 4th place in the table by one point, so were the stakes. The match-up against 3rd place Queens United would prove critical in determining whether the under-acheiving Metro8s would maintain their position in the top half of the table heading into the playoff draw or fall to the bottom half.
With the 1st, 2nd and 5th place sides all facing cupcake opposition, the scenario was clear: a win would put CPR through while a draw or loss would see #5 side E&Y move ahead in the standings to take the #4 spot.
April 19, 2009, 9am
Heading into the match-up with Queens United, the Metro8s were butter (they were on a roll). Coming off the complete 7-0 destruction of Gotham Wednesday in their previous league fixture 2 weeks ago, confidence was high. But with this being the 7th and final fixture of the regular season and the Metro8s holding on to 4th place in the table by one point, so were the stakes. The match-up against 3rd place Queens United would prove critical in determining whether the under-acheiving Metro8s would maintain their position in the top half of the table heading into the playoff draw or fall to the bottom half.
With the 1st, 2nd and 5th place sides all facing cupcake opposition, the scenario was clear: a win would put CPR through while a draw or loss would see #5 side E&Y move ahead in the standings to take the #4 spot.With the playoffs on the line and the weather forecast georgeous, the evite reply was the best of the season, with a full 14 yes responses tallied heading into the weekend. Signs turned more ominous in the late ours of Saturday evening. Repeated inquires to frequent no-show Penrod went unanswered, making the manager suspect that he was not abiding by the terms of the 9pm curfew imposed upon him. A 2am text from Jones announcing his decision to stay out drinking rather than compete for playing time on a crowded sideline further dimmed the outlook.
As the 9am kickoff whistle approached, the Metro8s seeming abundance of depth proved to be a mirage with the bare minimum 8 hands on deck. Furthermore, with the kits keeping Jones company as he slept off his late-night escapades, the side was also left without their primary uniforms for the match. Instead of being able to done their new kits and proudly advertise their sponsors to all those in attendance, the Metro8s were left to scavange for left-over league-issue t-shirts. Between the missing players and missing ktis, the spectacle had effectively degenerated into something more akin to an over 30s match. Fortunately, the opening whistle also brought with it late arrivals from Ault, Greicius and Gudkov, at least providing a much needed substitute bench.
Queens United are a fairly typical latin side, relying heavily on individual skill to try to break down their opponents. Also true to the stereotype, the side often engaged in various other tactics to attempt to frustrate their opponents and draw out reactions. A mere 10 minutes into the encounter, an innocuous foul against Queens United at midfield drew a whistle, giving the Metro8s a free kick from just outside the center circle. As new-guy Marshburn retreived the ball to restart play, one of the Queens midfielders attempted to snatch the ball away from his grasp. 
With the ref failing to react to stop the clear infraction, Marshburn lashed out to push away his opponent with his left hand. Failing to take into account his height advantage, Marshburn caught his opponent in the face, drawing a commically delayed reaction in which the Queens midfielder fell over backwards as if punched by Mike Tyson. That said, having seen a straight strike to the face of an opponent, the referee was left with no choice but to issue a straight red card to Marshburn, significantly changing the tide of the encounter.
The dismisal rattled the Metro8s. It was clearly a harsh turn against the side that was brought on by less than fair play by the opponents. During the half, Queens continued their dubious tactics and physical play, leading to Metro8 frustration to nearly boil over on several occasions.
As the 9am kickoff whistle approached, the Metro8s seeming abundance of depth proved to be a mirage with the bare minimum 8 hands on deck. Furthermore, with the kits keeping Jones company as he slept off his late-night escapades, the side was also left without their primary uniforms for the match. Instead of being able to done their new kits and proudly advertise their sponsors to all those in attendance, the Metro8s were left to scavange for left-over league-issue t-shirts. Between the missing players and missing ktis, the spectacle had effectively degenerated into something more akin to an over 30s match. Fortunately, the opening whistle also brought with it late arrivals from Ault, Greicius and Gudkov, at least providing a much needed substitute bench.Queens United are a fairly typical latin side, relying heavily on individual skill to try to break down their opponents. Also true to the stereotype, the side often engaged in various other tactics to attempt to frustrate their opponents and draw out reactions. A mere 10 minutes into the encounter, an innocuous foul against Queens United at midfield drew a whistle, giving the Metro8s a free kick from just outside the center circle. As new-guy Marshburn retreived the ball to restart play, one of the Queens midfielders attempted to snatch the ball away from his grasp. 
With the ref failing to react to stop the clear infraction, Marshburn lashed out to push away his opponent with his left hand. Failing to take into account his height advantage, Marshburn caught his opponent in the face, drawing a commically delayed reaction in which the Queens midfielder fell over backwards as if punched by Mike Tyson. That said, having seen a straight strike to the face of an opponent, the referee was left with no choice but to issue a straight red card to Marshburn, significantly changing the tide of the encounter.The dismisal rattled the Metro8s. It was clearly a harsh turn against the side that was brought on by less than fair play by the opponents. During the half, Queens continued their dubious tactics and physical play, leading to Metro8 frustration to nearly boil over on several occasions.
Meanwhile, lost in all of the commotion, was a good, competitive football match. Despite being a man down, the Metro8s maintained even possession with their opponents and kept the marking in the back tight, limiting Queens to only speculative chances from distance. Queens United's best 2 efforts of the half came on speculative shots from 20 yards out in the right channel. Both were on target and drew saves from Lukaszewski, but were held with no rebounds to thwart the danger. The match remained scoreless heading into the interval.
The team talk focused on 2 things. Firstly, the lineup and tactics were adjusted to reflect the lost man in midfield. Secondly, the team manager pleaded for his team to dig in and focus on the match, and halt their bickering to the referree. The time to disect the dismisal would come later; in the meantime, it was time to pull up the socks and dig in and take the match to Queens United. There was still a playoff spot on the line and the Metro8s were clearly not the inferior side on the pitch, despite the 1 man disadvantage.
The Metro8s responded admirably in the 2nd half. The concentration returned to football and slowly the squad went about taking control of the match. Opportunities also began to emerge in the Queens penalty area. Greicius combined with Hollins to lash an effort just wide of target. A long-range effort from M Engler drew a fine save from the vertically challenged Queens keeper.
But the Metro8s bad luck would simply not go away. Queens United launched a counter up their left wing. The effort was initially cut out by the Metro8 back line, but a fluky deflection saw the ball squirt past and set the large Queens striker in on net. He produced a fine finish into the top corner which Lukaszewski managed to get a fingertip to but not keep out net, giving Queens a 1-0 lead against the run of play.
Frustrated to see themselves on the wrong side of the score line, the Metro8s dug in yet again, this time in search of an equalizer. Ault nearly pulled his side even collecting a deflection in the 6 yard box, but inexplicably failed to keep his thundering volley down and therefore Manny-ing his effort off the top of the bar.
Ault nearly equalized again just minutes later. Off a corner taken by Hollins, Ault rose clear of his marker at the far post and hammered a header downwards towards the far post. Pulling off perhaps the best save of the Metro League season, the Queens United keeper flung himself across goal to somehow keep Ault's effort out. In the dying minutes, Ault and Hollins nearly connected on another corner, with Ault this time missing just over the bar.
Final Score: 0-1
Goals: none
Team: Ault, Calcagni, E Engler, M Engler, Fetzer Greicius, Gudkov, Hollins, Lukaszewski, Marshburn, Verdoux
Team bar showing: 7 (64%)
Man of the Match: Ault
The team talk focused on 2 things. Firstly, the lineup and tactics were adjusted to reflect the lost man in midfield. Secondly, the team manager pleaded for his team to dig in and focus on the match, and halt their bickering to the referree. The time to disect the dismisal would come later; in the meantime, it was time to pull up the socks and dig in and take the match to Queens United. There was still a playoff spot on the line and the Metro8s were clearly not the inferior side on the pitch, despite the 1 man disadvantage.
The Metro8s responded admirably in the 2nd half. The concentration returned to football and slowly the squad went about taking control of the match. Opportunities also began to emerge in the Queens penalty area. Greicius combined with Hollins to lash an effort just wide of target. A long-range effort from M Engler drew a fine save from the vertically challenged Queens keeper.
But the Metro8s bad luck would simply not go away. Queens United launched a counter up their left wing. The effort was initially cut out by the Metro8 back line, but a fluky deflection saw the ball squirt past and set the large Queens striker in on net. He produced a fine finish into the top corner which Lukaszewski managed to get a fingertip to but not keep out net, giving Queens a 1-0 lead against the run of play.
Frustrated to see themselves on the wrong side of the score line, the Metro8s dug in yet again, this time in search of an equalizer. Ault nearly pulled his side even collecting a deflection in the 6 yard box, but inexplicably failed to keep his thundering volley down and therefore Manny-ing his effort off the top of the bar.Ault nearly equalized again just minutes later. Off a corner taken by Hollins, Ault rose clear of his marker at the far post and hammered a header downwards towards the far post. Pulling off perhaps the best save of the Metro League season, the Queens United keeper flung himself across goal to somehow keep Ault's effort out. In the dying minutes, Ault and Hollins nearly connected on another corner, with Ault this time missing just over the bar.
Final Score: 0-1
Goals: none
Team: Ault, Calcagni, E Engler, M Engler, Fetzer Greicius, Gudkov, Hollins, Lukaszewski, Marshburn, Verdoux
Team bar showing: 7 (64%)
Man of the Match: Ault
Mike Ds (no-shows): Jones, Penrod
Red cards: Marshburn
Red cards: Marshburn
Fans: 1
New Stat: The Marshburn (participation in an odd on-field incident with goon-like tendencies): Marshburn, who is quickly developing a Hanson-esque reputation in the Metro League
-PL
-PL
Rolling On
Sunday, April 19, 2009 (post date)
CPR v Gotham Wednesday
April 5, 2009
Yes, I am slow at writing match reports. I don't have much free time these days. Between working in finance and training for a Half Ironman, writing match reports has taken a bit of a back seat. I am accepting applications for candidates who would like to assume the role of team blogger.
CPR entered the matchup with Gotham on a roll. The team had clearly gelled over the past several weeks and the improvement in form had seen a steady improvement in results as well. Unfortunately for Gotham, they encountered CPR at their best, and the match was effectively over within minutes of kickoff.
With Penrod again no where to be found at the opening whistle, the honors of wearing the high-visibility yellow goalkeeper strip fell to Lukaszewski. Fortunately, the shirt would be very well taken care of and remain unblemished as he was rarely called into action in the one-sided encounter.
Gudkov started the drubbing with a surging run through the right channel. Levy received a pass near the penalty spot and laid off as Gudkov arrived to one-touch into the roof of the net. CPR did not take the foot off the gas pedal and followed with multiple goals from Levy and E Engler. By the time the dust settled at the halftime whistle, the stunned Gotham side walked to their bench on the wrong end of a 6-0, with Engler had already tallied a hat trick and Levy on 2 goals in addition to Gudkov's opener.
The second half saw CPR begin to exhibit some compassion towards their opponents, and begin to dial back some of the offensive pressure. However, that did not stop Levy from eventually picking up his third. Reminiscent of the golden boot race at the end of last season, Levy was determined to match E Engler's tally. Despite Hollins's pleas for service at the far post, Levy forced a shot from a tight angle at goal. The Gotham keeper only managed to parry back to Levy, who in trying shoot the rebound was brought down by a Gotham defender inside the area.
With the penalty awarded, Levy stepped forward to take the spot kick. His effort was not his greatest and drew a save from the keeper. Levy finally notched his third on the day when he cleaned up the keeper's rebound from the edge of the 6 yard box.
With the outcome fully determined, the final 10 minutes saw the match take a turn for the unusual. Gotham had picked up an additional player for the final minutes of the match - either a very late arrival or a late local pickup. Dressed in his capris and red shoes, he certainly drew plenty of attention at least in the wardrobe department.
He drew even more attention from Marshburn when he attempted to perform an on-field hernia examination as the pair jogged down the wing. Marshburn elected to decline the subtle advance with a less subtle kick to the backside, earning an immediate yellow card from the referee. It is safe to say the pair did not exchange handshakes or numbers after the final whistle.
The victory put CPR up into fourth place in the league standings. The final game of the regular season pits CPR against Queens United, the 3rd place team. With the #1, #2 and #5 teams all playing the weaker sides, the scenario is quite clear: CPR must win their final game to make the top bracket of the league playoffs. A draw or loss will likely see E&Y, who are currently 1 point behind CPR in the standings, pass CPR for the 4th spot.
Final score: 7-0
Goals: Gudkov (assist Levy), E Engler 3 (assist Gudkov); Levy 3 (assists Gudkov, Jones)
Team: Calcagni, E Engler, M Engler, Gudkov, Hollins, Jones, Levy, Lukaszewski, Marshburn, Phillips
Team Bar Showing: 5 (50%)
Mike Ds (no-shows): Penrod
Yellow cards: Marshburn
Co-Man of the Match: E Engler and Levy (hat trick heros)
Fans: 1
-PL
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