Game Afterthoughts

I came to the game pondering about potential sluggishness and disastrous touches because of the two weeks break. All of that was none existing. Woodbridge Strikers Boys started off with some silky smooth passes. Quick switching from left to right. The team looked menacing. I would like to outline some opinionated thoughts on the possibility to prevent incidents. Lets address the first item on the agenda. It was hurtful, scary and concerning hearing and seeing Luka lying on the green grass in agonizing pain with the referee totally unaware that a player was down and seriously injured. It took the yelling and screaming of on lookers and parents to draw the referee's attention to said incident.  It was shocking that the ambulance took almost one hour to arrive, taking into consideration the physio was unable to render any physical therapy because this particular case warranted at least a paramedic.  However, maybe the OSA (OPDL organizers) can look into today's incident and...

A fitting way to go on mid season break with a comprehensive victory showing that last weekend's game wasn't a fluke. Normally after an impressive game there is always a low, however, Woodbridge Strikers Boys didn't fall victim to that trap in today's encounter against Tecumseh. The first quarter saw the players being rather cautious on both sides. This being the first ever match up for both opponents and neither wanted to make any early errors. It proved to be a day of first as Dreson was seated amongst the injured players and Luca had to be called up from the 06 team as replacement goalie. The resumption of the second quarter saw the introduction of Mr. Energy, Damiano, who almost with his first touch nearly scored. The pace quicken substantially with lots more ball movements by Strikers resulting in a barrage of shot attempted. Damiano opened the scoring with a superb strike proving too hot to hold by Tecumseh custodian. Anthony, another of the second quarter sub ...

The weather condition was very conducive for soccer. Did it materialized into a brilliant game of soccer especially in Woodbridge Strikers favor ? Playing against TFC OPDL boys from rumors one also has to contend with the referee's decision...we have witnessed it first hand. The roar by Strikers is always a determining factor of their vibes if they are in for a good game and today's shout could be heard from far and wide. Strikers sent a verbal message before a ball was kicked or the blowing of the referees whistle. Even in warm up gave the impression of cohesion, professionalism and focus. TFC came out from kick off as a rocket fired into space trying as best as possible in stopping Woodbridge Strikers Boys from playing out of defense. If that was their game plan Strikers quickly nullified it and laid it to rest. The saying goes don't give what you yourself cannot take. Strikers reversed the role on TFC and started pressing them from the keeper makes the pass either to ...

There're so many things I used to take for granted, but with the invention of new and improved technology some things are now becoming obsolete. Video taping of games are the new norm and we all have to keep current and trendy. So this is my final afterthoughts blog post as now everyone will have access to the video and can formulate personal opinion without any interference. Being plausible can also be interpreted as being controversial.... either way it's a matter of opinion. For those who are not familiar with the game of cricket, let me enlighten you all. The West Indies team dominated from the 70s to 80s for ten years straight they won all there was to be won. In the process producing world class bowlers, batsmen, fielders and boast the two best wricket keeper batsman still to this day in the world. By now I am assuming that everyone must be wondering what is Presley alluding to. Two of those gentleman authour a book called, God's opening for a team of gods. In the b...

Injury reserves were more than actual reserves able to be substituted into the game. It was disappointing seeing Fateh asking to be substituted off after a very involved start linking up play with defense and forwards. The defensive unit now seems more adaptable in the three man defense...tighter together, shifting in unison and more verbal echoing beginning with Dreson in net. Both Tayvin and Marco now appears as if they have read and fully understand the defensive midfielder's manual as demonstrated with on field performance and Tayvin netting a brace. The offense today played with a democratic style of freedom which became quite evident in a ten to one defeat of London TFC. From the onset Anthony and Isaiah set the tempo in midfield by winning the tackles and spraying passes like a sprinkler on a lawn. Jordan came off the bench and in so doing registered a hat trick by cutting inside of the wing allowing Amrit or Luka space for overlapping runs. These overlapping runs were ti...

Truly a very competitive game today between Woodbridge Strikers and Oakville both exhibiting different styles of playing. Oakville sitting back waiting on the counter attack, while Strikers are willing to move the ball from side to side until the opening is available for a telling through ball. Strikers started off with a 1-3-1-4-2 formation giving starts to Marco in the holding midfielder role, Anthony attacking midfield and Damiano outside winger. The boys began tentatively only making horizontal passes showing apprehension in attacking the space given by Oakville because they were just sitting back in a ten man defense. The intensity escalated seeing Strikers starting to dictate tempo with more searching forward passes resulting in early corner kicks and free kicks being won. Oakville almost got caught out on one of the corner kick... Strikers let them off the hook. Interchanging of position was noticeable amongst midfielders and the striker at times which helped build players co...

I will not utilize this platform to speak on the poor refereeing displayed infront of all spectators present at today's game who are unbiased. "IT JUST GOT TO STOP" I do know for a fact that the referees don't care one heck who wins or loses, but they have to call the game more consistently even. Furthermore, I would strongly recommend to the coaching staff to have a talking drill, a shouting competition and a screaming match --- with the purpose of getting these boys to start communicating on the actual field of play. Damiano showed how one plays when they come off the bench...lots of effort and high octane energy plus using his "Voice" to call for the ball, giving instructions to teammates of man coming and to make a pass. There were indeed a few players who attempted and there were those who continued talking throughout the entire game when on the pitch. Communication creates cohesion and cohesion brings success. After watching practice on Saturday an...

The boys rightfully should have been at home  preparing for bed instead they were assembled for a 9 pm kick off start against North Mississauga FC. It showed that their coaches actually do watch the game video as told to me by a parent friend. North Mississauga FC came fully prepared to dismantle the Woodbridge Strikers game plan from the onset. The first game against them their coaches were silent as a Lamb...but not in Thursday's game, they gave instructions none stop like a talking Budgerigar. On the referee and lineman: Again suffice me to say, that the officiating was found to be questionable on certain occasions... denying Strikers a penalty and on the flip side allowed a foul play committed by opposition to continue resulting in a goal for said opponents. I have read the feedback written by coach Julian as it relates to the observations of the invited visitors, whom I will assume are professionals in the discipline. I concur with majority of their observations, however, I...

The sun was out in its radiant light, but so too was the defiant northeastern wind... with a cool chill. It appears that the coach lived up to his statement that he doesn't select the team based on favorites or designated player with the omission of regular starters seated on the bench for the first quarter. Daniel and Marco both got their start and rewarded the coach's trust with a goal each.  Using conversation from a group of Brampton parents who decided to remain and watch the Strikers because of the hype they've been hearing of how impressive the team plays. Their credentials are all immaculate as soccer juggernaut because they all lived in Europe and one boast a son who plays for England under 18. "They spoke of the positioning, imagination and creative execution by Strikers. In addition, they made distinguished reference to a number of players on their reading of the game and ball mastery". After all such euphoria of compliments I reverse into a exacerba...

Back from my self imposed hiatus, the purpose was for clearing my mind in order to write from a neutral perspective. Let me express my sincerest of gratitude to all those who actually read the blog...it became quite evident to me in your questions as to why you had not seen any post about the Umbro Cup Tournament. Exert from Mother's Day Gift post, "There were a few obvious errors that I know will be addressed and rectified by the coaching staff".  Yes!! The boys had won three games on the go and all indications appears that the team is in full swing but in my observation there were little areas of adjustments needed. An opposing team with a good coach would be able to exploit those small flaws as was done in games at the Umbro Tournament except Woodbridge Strikers only registered one lost. Firstly, let me address the issue that the boys themselves need to remedy and that is " Lack of Communication". Because there's no meaningful in game talk to say for...

The game against Burlington FC could be viewed in so many different ways, for example they played poorly, Woodbridge Strikers were superior or Strikers simply outplayed them. All these Analogy have the potential of being correct. The last competitive meeting against Burlington according to my blog post reference that they parked the bus but still succumbed to a 4:0 defeat. This time around in all honesty they tried,  showed bravery in crossing over into Woodbridge Strikers half with intentions of scoring. When FC Barcelona dominance is visible enough for even the blind to see no one make mention that opposition is "Not Good" but rather FC Barcelona is "GREAT". Therefore I will not diminish how great Woodbridge Strikers played by saying Burlington isn't a good team. So I will just paraphrase (some of) the Burlington parents comments. That our boys played with superior quality. Ball control is very good. Knows how to rotate the play and not force the attack....

Today's game was about great execution from training ground onto the actual playing field. Woodbridge Strikers got off to a dream start with in form striker Tremaine capitalizing on some indecision between the North Mississauga keeper and defense resulting in Strikers going up 1:0 very early. Jordan had to be substituted early in the first quarter suffering from, "Birthday Boy" effects. The opponents came with a drilled game plan to clog up the middle of the field and play on the counter attack. They were having some success from doing so and kept Strikers interchanging passes amongst defenders and not bold enough to bring the central midfielders into play even when they showed. It payed dividends for North Mississauga when they pounced on a loose ball and mounted a quick counter to score which tied up the game. With changes to begin the second quarter Strikers maintained the high pressure at specific time under the instructions of  Head Coach Julian. Our boys continu...

The message was sent out in a very convincingly loud manner to the rest of the teams Woodbridge Strikers will be playing against this season in the OPDL league. However, lets not get carried away or ahead of ourselves that Strikers are going to play like they did today or better in every game. That's not the point at this juncture... the boys played the first game away from home and they simply mesmerized their opponents, Ottawa TFC in all areas of the game. Not knowing what to expect from the starting line comprising of a new goalie and central defender in a competitive game alongside the rumours that Ottawa TFC were going to beat Woodbridge Strikers. The new players announced to the rest of parents the reason they were selected by the coaching staff to join this team. Contribution came from all eighteen players when they entered the game of play. Dreson was outstanding between the post and made three very classy, but timely saves especially in the first quarter t...

Thursday was the final training day before kickoff of Season 2 in OPDL for our 05 Boys (Woodbridge Strikers). On Thursday the boys went through the intricacies of arrival before game and all the expectations as it relates to preparation for game with the coaches and manager in an in-class session Afterwards they went through game plays visually on screen and discussion on the formation that will be employed in the game. Players role and positioning was emphasized upon. Upon completion of the classroom theory the boys and coaches made their way to the field for  implementation. Barring the cold weather conditions that had everyone still in winter jackets and the boys practicing in their sweat pants didn't prevent the slick two touch passes and hard low driven shots. Just to back track about the friendly game Tuesday against the 04 girls, if that is a true indication of how the team is going to operate then we as parents/supporters are in for a delightful season. However, there ...

As a parent it must have been strangely surprising of the news that we wouldn't be allowed inside the gym for the remainder of the indoor training. Taking into consideration that as parents we were always allowed inside to watch and catch up on current news. Getting an opportunity last night to converse one on one with Head coach Julian as to the specificity of his decision of omission. The coach outlined his concept of what he is trying to instill in the boys. Case in point, getting our boys to be a lot more focused on actually playing instead of looking at or for parents reactions. Developing a cohesive understanding of teammates strength before outdoor season in a closed environment. In all honesty I do believe most parents falls right into this category. Watching the practice Thursday night at Holy Cross as a Parent Rep/ Blogger I was taken back down memory lane to my training days in the Army. The drills were synchronized, hearing their feet hitting the gym floor sounded as...

There were so many sub-plots leading up to tournament start, I could write a book: Isaiah almost didn't attend because mother had to have an emergency dental procedure done on the Friday morning.  Tayshaun Brown had to change flight so he could get a new passport on the morning of travel. The last tournament Cristian would be playing with the Woodbridge Strikers OPDL 05 Boys. Param's vehicle broken down en route to tournament. Strikers have to top their group for a chance of playing in the finals. Traditional Team Bonding Dinner Things got underway with a team dinner Friday evening that was well attended and from all verbal communications the meals were great eat for the stomach. We arrived simultaneously as the group was coming back from dinner. Coach Julian gave direct and specific instructions to the boys on how operations would go. Breakfast precisely at a set time, what should be eaten followed by a twenty minute walk and after that back to ...

Awesomeness could be used to describe the boys performance over the two days Futsal tournament . Saturday had its highs and lows but knowing the Woodbridge Strikers OPDL 05 Boys that didn't faze them. They were anxiously awaiting Sunday to resume defending their trophy. Knowing full well that their missing players would be available for participation. Tremaine, Ethan, Tayvin and Isaiah were expressed in a Mercedes Benz driven by Jacquie to get them there on time for the start of Play after giving their all at provincial tryouts. Cristian also made the trip with dad to give moral support. The Whitecaps London team didn't pose the challenge Strikers had previously anticipated and quite quickly it became evident that our boys could win convincingly without exerting one hundred percent. The game ended with a win for Woodbridge setting up a confrontational semifinal against Prostars FC.  Proclaimed by their coach yesterday (Saturday) that his team is the best 05 in ...

Being in the Media does come with its privileges. One of which allowed me to watch the game as a blogger. Present but unable to participate due to injury were Luka and Fateh. It's was almost the story book ending when Jon-michael shifted the ball from left boot to right with intent on slotting it in the open net. He would have been the ideal candidate to win the game for Woodbridge Strikers. The game started off briskly by TFC Academy trying immediately to utilize all areas on the playing field. In all honesty Woodbridge Strikers took a few minutes off the clock before settling down. Eventually after they did we started seeing Anthony and Isaiah getting more and more on the  ball in the opponent's half making their intentions clear that they were not going to be intimidated by the physical playing style of the opposition. From all indications every player came to play. Yes TFC had lots more possessions which is quite understandable taking into consideration they are accus...

A first look at the team for majority of parents in a competitive atmosphere. Two friendlies completed and two impressive performance with some individual stand out plays. It was great seeing Nicholas and his parents as he now plays with Oakville FC. Just as delighted also in reconnecting with the parents of the boys doing training at TFC. The Oakville facility just 10 years old is very impressive but could use a few upgrades. Wonder if and when Woodbridge SC will boast something similar. With Christopher absent there had to be a reshuffling within the defensive structure. Tayvin was slotted into the central role between wing back and Marco given the opportunity as holding midfielder. The start was a bit wobbly with some errant passes and ball control from Isaiah one of the mid field general on the team. He was pulled aside by the coach and I assume given some encouraging  words... thereafter his play improved. Improvement was quite evident from the Thursday's game against TF...

Push-ups, jumping jacks, sit ups, words of encouragement and experience shared through wisdom. Train harder in practice and the actual game becomes easier. "The most glorious moments in your life are not the so-called days of success, but rather those days when out of dejection and despair you feel a rise in you to challenge yourself in practice beyond comfort and the promise of future accomplishments are then formed mentally.” – Gustave Flaubert 1842 There weren't a lot of parents present watching practice as normal...four boys away on training... three were unable to participate but present and one unavailable. The weather outside was bitterly cold reminded me of been in Chicago 1988. To the best of my knowledge I have not written about a practice session therefore making this a first. It began with the boys playing a basketball game where the concept was high press  and don't allow turn and pass. It's other function was that of getting them warmed up and thinki...