Oh, my blog has been asleep for awhile, but now we are waking up. (Yawn, yawn, wakey, wakey.) Since my last post, I decided to leave the College of Saint Mary and move on to other things. Move on to what? Bigger and better things? Hope so.
The first bigger and better thing is the Gross Catholic Girls Soccer Team. We begin our season today and I am ready and excited about the season. We have a great group of seniors returning as well as some talented younger players. Tryouts begin at 3:20 today.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Friday, October 1, 2010
The Injury Bug Bites the Flames
Bellevue 2, CSM 1 is the scoreline for Wednesday's conference opener. 2 players were seriously hurt in the first half and we gave up 2 goals too many.
Within the first 5 minutes, one of our players was involved in a collision with a Bellevue player and at first, didn't think much of it. Then blood started soaking through her sock and we took her off the field. When our trainer examined her, we discovered a very serious laceration and so we took her to the ER immediately. Her wound required 27 stitches and our hope is that she will heal quickly.
With 2 minutes to go in the first half, another player went down with a knee injury. She looked like she just tweaked it a bit during play. However, when Jeff the trainer checked her at halftime, she was unable to go back in. It looks serious, but we don't know for sure, MRI results are pending.
We had 3 other players who finished the game with nagging injuries, 2 quads and a knee. The knee is getting checked out on Monday.
One of the things that we have been emphasizing with the team is that we need 90 minute players. That is, we need players who can play the whole game without needing to come off the field. One of the other things we have been emphasizing is being able to handle pressure and adversity. That was certainly put to the test on Wednesday playing with injuries and against a good Bellevue team.
Bellevue scored their 2 goals in the first half. The first, a ball was sent down the middle and we didn't have the ambition to stop the Bellevue forward from dribbling into the box for a shot. We still weren't quite there when the ball hit the post and rebounded to another Bellevue player who slotted it in the net. The second Bellevue goal was from a cross. We left someone unchallenged in the box and she was able to flick the ball in off the crossbar.
The Flames immediately responded with a dangerous long throw by Abby Schlater. Abby whipped the ball in the box and a Bellevue player accidentally headed the ball into her own goal.
Even though we dominated possession at times, we were unable to finish. We had some close tries, balls just going wide or hitting off of the crossbar but were unable to tie up the game in the second half.
A valiant effort by the Flames who had lost 2 starters for the duration. I was proud of the way we bounced right back after the second goal and especially looked very dangerous with Schlater's flip throws.
The Central Christian game this Saturday has been changed to he 26th at 3 pm. The next time the Flames play is in Hastings on the 13th. We will see you there!
Within the first 5 minutes, one of our players was involved in a collision with a Bellevue player and at first, didn't think much of it. Then blood started soaking through her sock and we took her off the field. When our trainer examined her, we discovered a very serious laceration and so we took her to the ER immediately. Her wound required 27 stitches and our hope is that she will heal quickly.
With 2 minutes to go in the first half, another player went down with a knee injury. She looked like she just tweaked it a bit during play. However, when Jeff the trainer checked her at halftime, she was unable to go back in. It looks serious, but we don't know for sure, MRI results are pending.
We had 3 other players who finished the game with nagging injuries, 2 quads and a knee. The knee is getting checked out on Monday.
One of the things that we have been emphasizing with the team is that we need 90 minute players. That is, we need players who can play the whole game without needing to come off the field. One of the other things we have been emphasizing is being able to handle pressure and adversity. That was certainly put to the test on Wednesday playing with injuries and against a good Bellevue team.
Bellevue scored their 2 goals in the first half. The first, a ball was sent down the middle and we didn't have the ambition to stop the Bellevue forward from dribbling into the box for a shot. We still weren't quite there when the ball hit the post and rebounded to another Bellevue player who slotted it in the net. The second Bellevue goal was from a cross. We left someone unchallenged in the box and she was able to flick the ball in off the crossbar.
The Flames immediately responded with a dangerous long throw by Abby Schlater. Abby whipped the ball in the box and a Bellevue player accidentally headed the ball into her own goal.
Even though we dominated possession at times, we were unable to finish. We had some close tries, balls just going wide or hitting off of the crossbar but were unable to tie up the game in the second half.
A valiant effort by the Flames who had lost 2 starters for the duration. I was proud of the way we bounced right back after the second goal and especially looked very dangerous with Schlater's flip throws.
The Central Christian game this Saturday has been changed to he 26th at 3 pm. The next time the Flames play is in Hastings on the 13th. We will see you there!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
2 Abbys, One Sweet Goal
Five o'clock on a beautiful cool fall afternoon, the sun shining bright after a morning of rain. CSM and Kansas Wesleyan walk on the field at Tranquility park. Little did they know that an epic battle between 2 storied programs was about to commence. (I sound like NFL Films.)
Honestly, in the first half, we struggled. We seemed to be content with just sagging back and playing defense with little success in attack. At halftime the coaches just told them basically to play simple and play hard. We needed to string good passes together and find our confidence. We had trained hard. The players know what to do. It was time to go and do it.
Right after halftime, a visiting recruit, Abby Zach came over to our sideline to hang out for awhile. Abby is from Gering , Nebraska and plays her high school ball at Scottsbluff High School. She verbally committed to CSM a few weeks ago and was in town visiting her sister. Abby is a midfielder and also plays for the Kearney regional club team that has all the good players on the team from greater Nebraska. Abby was able to sign her letter of intent on the sidelines during the game and in doing so will play for us next year after she graduates from high school. We already have an Abby on the team (Abby Schlater) so next year we will be blessed with 2 Abbys (or Abby squared.) Congrats Abby and welcome to the Flames Family.
Anyway, it just so happened that right after Abby (Zach, not Schlater) came to the sidelines, the team started doing better on the field. We were really hustling and getting to the ball quickly. We started creating chance after chance. One series of chances included hitting the crossbar twice in 10 seconds. I asked Abby if this happens to her--that people start playing better due to her presence and she of course admitted that yes, that happens all the time. Ha. Boy, I can't wait for next year. Abby had to run---they were driving to Lincoln and we said goodbye. Abby, you missed such an exciting end of the game. But, no worries, I am sure you will be part of many exiting moments next year!
Back to the game...we started creating a lot of chances until---we scored. With about 10 minutes to go in the game, Allyssa Valquier, playing the right wing ran through a ball played poorly by the KWU defense and found herself free and clear. The KWU keeper sprinted at her and Allyssa calmly chipped the ball over the keeper's head. GOALLLLLLLLLL! I do believe that is Allyssa's first career college goal and it couldn't have come at a better time.
Our celebration and good feeling took a hit 5 minutes later when KWU equalized when we failed to keep track of their center mid and she hit a loose ball at the top of the box that Jackie Swanger was unable to save.
By the way, Jackie had an awesome game in the net.
We finished the second half again playing a lot of defense. The first OT period found us raring to go. The team totally pumped themselves up in between periods and they went out like gangbusters. Again, pure hustle created a chance. The third minute of overtime, Ashley Turco was able to run through a loose ball and like Allyssa, found herself 1v1 with the keeper. Did she put it away? Heck ya! Sudden death for KWU and a sweet goal for us. Game over, CSM wins 2-1.
I told the team afterward that I thought they grew up right before my eyes. We struggled in the first half but weathered the storm and finished strong in the end.
I was so excited at the winning goal that I ran onto the field (and I hardly ever do that--I try to maintain a calm composure through both struggles and success--ya--that didn't happen today.) After everyone had dog piled Turco, I ran up and gave her a big hug. A classic, epic battle that ended very nicely for us.
Next game is Wednesday against Bellevue.
Honestly, in the first half, we struggled. We seemed to be content with just sagging back and playing defense with little success in attack. At halftime the coaches just told them basically to play simple and play hard. We needed to string good passes together and find our confidence. We had trained hard. The players know what to do. It was time to go and do it.
Right after halftime, a visiting recruit, Abby Zach came over to our sideline to hang out for awhile. Abby is from Gering , Nebraska and plays her high school ball at Scottsbluff High School. She verbally committed to CSM a few weeks ago and was in town visiting her sister. Abby is a midfielder and also plays for the Kearney regional club team that has all the good players on the team from greater Nebraska. Abby was able to sign her letter of intent on the sidelines during the game and in doing so will play for us next year after she graduates from high school. We already have an Abby on the team (Abby Schlater) so next year we will be blessed with 2 Abbys (or Abby squared.) Congrats Abby and welcome to the Flames Family.
Anyway, it just so happened that right after Abby (Zach, not Schlater) came to the sidelines, the team started doing better on the field. We were really hustling and getting to the ball quickly. We started creating chance after chance. One series of chances included hitting the crossbar twice in 10 seconds. I asked Abby if this happens to her--that people start playing better due to her presence and she of course admitted that yes, that happens all the time. Ha. Boy, I can't wait for next year. Abby had to run---they were driving to Lincoln and we said goodbye. Abby, you missed such an exciting end of the game. But, no worries, I am sure you will be part of many exiting moments next year!
Back to the game...we started creating a lot of chances until---we scored. With about 10 minutes to go in the game, Allyssa Valquier, playing the right wing ran through a ball played poorly by the KWU defense and found herself free and clear. The KWU keeper sprinted at her and Allyssa calmly chipped the ball over the keeper's head. GOALLLLLLLLLL! I do believe that is Allyssa's first career college goal and it couldn't have come at a better time.
Our celebration and good feeling took a hit 5 minutes later when KWU equalized when we failed to keep track of their center mid and she hit a loose ball at the top of the box that Jackie Swanger was unable to save.
By the way, Jackie had an awesome game in the net.
We finished the second half again playing a lot of defense. The first OT period found us raring to go. The team totally pumped themselves up in between periods and they went out like gangbusters. Again, pure hustle created a chance. The third minute of overtime, Ashley Turco was able to run through a loose ball and like Allyssa, found herself 1v1 with the keeper. Did she put it away? Heck ya! Sudden death for KWU and a sweet goal for us. Game over, CSM wins 2-1.
I told the team afterward that I thought they grew up right before my eyes. We struggled in the first half but weathered the storm and finished strong in the end.
I was so excited at the winning goal that I ran onto the field (and I hardly ever do that--I try to maintain a calm composure through both struggles and success--ya--that didn't happen today.) After everyone had dog piled Turco, I ran up and gave her a big hug. A classic, epic battle that ended very nicely for us.
Next game is Wednesday against Bellevue.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
CSM vs Graceland: A Rocky-esque Effort
I told the team at halftime of the game today that they were kinda like Rocky. They took some hits but kept moving forward. I told them they just needed to do more of the same and do the simple things and they will have success.
We did take a "knock-down" and conceded a goal about halfway through the second period. But, we picked ourselves back up and kept on. The defense was a wall after that and held nationally ranked Graceland (#11) the rest of the way, falling just 0-1.
I was very proud of the effort. Graceland is an excellent attacking team and to hold them to one goal is a great result. We had a few good chances, especially on throw-ins, but were unable to poke it in the net.
The next game is at Tranquility next Saturday against Kansas Wesleyan. Hope to see you there.
We did take a "knock-down" and conceded a goal about halfway through the second period. But, we picked ourselves back up and kept on. The defense was a wall after that and held nationally ranked Graceland (#11) the rest of the way, falling just 0-1.
I was very proud of the effort. Graceland is an excellent attacking team and to hold them to one goal is a great result. We had a few good chances, especially on throw-ins, but were unable to poke it in the net.
The next game is at Tranquility next Saturday against Kansas Wesleyan. Hope to see you there.
Monday, September 13, 2010
A Few Games Later...
My intention is to post something at least after every soccer game. Well, the intention did not get translated to action this past week. Quick recap, we are doing a number of things well, but not quite enough. Also, we have been coming in second instead of first lately.
Our first game in California was played in over 100 degree heat on a turf field (which always raises the temp even further.) We started slow and National Ranked The Master's College put in 5 on us. The next day against Hope International we fared better, giving up an early goal but coming back to tie with about 10 minutes to go. Unfortunately, the game didn't end there, we ran out of gas and effort and gave up 2 goals in the last minute to lose 1-3. We also lost Raeleigh Withey during the game to a nasty shin bruise that we thought was broken. It turns out Rae didn't break her shin, but she still will be out for a couple weeks.
The rest of the trip to Cali was nice, we were able to go to the beach (it was cloudy and 65 degrees) and we did go to Hollywood but were not "discovered" by any movie execs.
On Friday we traveled to Rockhurst, a DII team in Kansas City. We were holding our own pretty well, first half a scoreless tie. But then floodgates were opened and again, we gave up 5.
Sunday, we went up to Morningside where we played much better and I thought we should've won. Morningside scored against the run of play after we thought a girl was offside. The video was inconclusive.
Right now, we are focusing on getting tougher, both mentally and physically. Sunday we played an excellent 89 minutes, creating chances and keeping possession. A series of mistakes and mental breakdowns led to giving up a goal and we were unable to bounce back with a goal or two of our own. We definitely had chances, but could not get the darn ball in the net.
We have an extremely difficult schedule, playing 2 nationally ranked teams in the first 3 weeks of the season along with a DII team. We are being tested by fire (naturally) and we will come through this test better and faster. I asked the team after the Rockhurst game, "Are we dead?" The answer was, "No!" Then I said if this isn't killing us, then it is only making us stronger.
I told the players that we have had a lot of moments of brilliance (and we have.) We just need to shift the brilliance to the finishing department and clean up the few breakdowns that the opponents are taking advantage of. Even though it has been a slow start, I am confident that we will be right in the mix of things when the conference games begin.
Next game is against #7 in the nation, Graceland. A great opportunity to excel. See you there, Saturday, September 18, 1 pm, @CSM.
Our first game in California was played in over 100 degree heat on a turf field (which always raises the temp even further.) We started slow and National Ranked The Master's College put in 5 on us. The next day against Hope International we fared better, giving up an early goal but coming back to tie with about 10 minutes to go. Unfortunately, the game didn't end there, we ran out of gas and effort and gave up 2 goals in the last minute to lose 1-3. We also lost Raeleigh Withey during the game to a nasty shin bruise that we thought was broken. It turns out Rae didn't break her shin, but she still will be out for a couple weeks.
The rest of the trip to Cali was nice, we were able to go to the beach (it was cloudy and 65 degrees) and we did go to Hollywood but were not "discovered" by any movie execs.
On Friday we traveled to Rockhurst, a DII team in Kansas City. We were holding our own pretty well, first half a scoreless tie. But then floodgates were opened and again, we gave up 5.
Sunday, we went up to Morningside where we played much better and I thought we should've won. Morningside scored against the run of play after we thought a girl was offside. The video was inconclusive.
Right now, we are focusing on getting tougher, both mentally and physically. Sunday we played an excellent 89 minutes, creating chances and keeping possession. A series of mistakes and mental breakdowns led to giving up a goal and we were unable to bounce back with a goal or two of our own. We definitely had chances, but could not get the darn ball in the net.
We have an extremely difficult schedule, playing 2 nationally ranked teams in the first 3 weeks of the season along with a DII team. We are being tested by fire (naturally) and we will come through this test better and faster. I asked the team after the Rockhurst game, "Are we dead?" The answer was, "No!" Then I said if this isn't killing us, then it is only making us stronger.
I told the players that we have had a lot of moments of brilliance (and we have.) We just need to shift the brilliance to the finishing department and clean up the few breakdowns that the opponents are taking advantage of. Even though it has been a slow start, I am confident that we will be right in the mix of things when the conference games begin.
Next game is against #7 in the nation, Graceland. A great opportunity to excel. See you there, Saturday, September 18, 1 pm, @CSM.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Everything is Kung Fu and Ketchup
We are now in sunny California. Got in last night without many problems at all (except I am traveling with a bunch of crazy, goofy soccer players.)
The flight was long but we did get a movie (The Karate Kid.) Jackie Chan (playing the "Mr. Miyagi" part) said, "Everything is Kung-FU" and I belive him. So, if that is true, soccer is Kung-Fu. Today we need to gather our Chi and fight our way through any adversity. Yep, everything is Kung-Fu.
On the flight if we wanted dinner we had to pay $8.00. Needless to say, no one got dinner. We did get free peanuts! Wo. I think there was a whole 12 peanuts in my package (Heaven.) For some strange reason, we were very hungry when we got in to LA. I asked the guy at the rental place for a good place to go to eat and he recommended In and Out Burger.
So--we went and it was good, but I don't eat fast food like that very often and my stomach let me know. I found out that Ramsey really likes ketchup, so I took a shot of Rambo's Lake O'Ketchup for all to see. That's a lot.
Today we go to Santa Clarita where it is over 105 degrees to play nationally ranked The Master's College. Wish us luck!
The flight was long but we did get a movie (The Karate Kid.) Jackie Chan (playing the "Mr. Miyagi" part) said, "Everything is Kung-FU" and I belive him. So, if that is true, soccer is Kung-Fu. Today we need to gather our Chi and fight our way through any adversity. Yep, everything is Kung-Fu.
On the flight if we wanted dinner we had to pay $8.00. Needless to say, no one got dinner. We did get free peanuts! Wo. I think there was a whole 12 peanuts in my package (Heaven.) For some strange reason, we were very hungry when we got in to LA. I asked the guy at the rental place for a good place to go to eat and he recommended In and Out Burger.
So--we went and it was good, but I don't eat fast food like that very often and my stomach let me know. I found out that Ramsey really likes ketchup, so I took a shot of Rambo's Lake O'Ketchup for all to see. That's a lot.
Today we go to Santa Clarita where it is over 105 degrees to play nationally ranked The Master's College. Wish us luck!
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Asleep, Now Awake! CSM & MLC Tie.
I know, I know. I have been asleep at the wheel and haven't posted here for quite awhile. What have I been doing you ask? Traveling the world in search of soccer players? A little of that. Spending time with my 2 wonderful daughters and great wife. Oh yeah. Watching re-runs of the World Cup? Definitely. Anyway, I am awake now and so is the team.
Today we opened the season with a solid Midland Lutheran team that came out on fire. Now, we are supposed to be the ones that come out at the whistle on fire because we are the Flames! Get it, fire...Flames. It took us a few minutes to find our feet, but when we did, we enjoyed a lot of possession.
First half was tied 0-0. Second half we made a mistake in the back and Midland's #13 was able to get a breakaway and scored. We bounced back well and scored about five minutes later on a phenomenal 40 yard free kick from our Colorado Kid, RaeLeigh Withey. I swear the ball was screaming as it went into the net, Rae hit it so hard. Score tied 1-1.
We traded chances in overtime but neither side really challenged the keepers. Game over, 1-1 tie.
We put on a pretty good performance for the first game. I am proud of the way the Flames hung in there.
Next week, we head to California.
Today we opened the season with a solid Midland Lutheran team that came out on fire. Now, we are supposed to be the ones that come out at the whistle on fire because we are the Flames! Get it, fire...Flames. It took us a few minutes to find our feet, but when we did, we enjoyed a lot of possession.
First half was tied 0-0. Second half we made a mistake in the back and Midland's #13 was able to get a breakaway and scored. We bounced back well and scored about five minutes later on a phenomenal 40 yard free kick from our Colorado Kid, RaeLeigh Withey. I swear the ball was screaming as it went into the net, Rae hit it so hard. Score tied 1-1.
We traded chances in overtime but neither side really challenged the keepers. Game over, 1-1 tie.
We put on a pretty good performance for the first game. I am proud of the way the Flames hung in there.
Next week, we head to California.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
North Platte Soccer Player Signs with CSM
Whitney Brown put pen to paper and signed her life away to CSM on Monday, May 10. The local news was there to videotape the moment. As you'll be able to see in the video, Whitney had all her "fans" there for the event.
Whitney plays a central midfield role for NP. She has the ability to see the whole field and knows where her teammates are at all times. (OK, she knows where they are when she is playing soccer-she doesn't know where her teammates are at all times when they aren't playing soccer--that would be be a little spooky.) (That's a joke, by the way--just trying to keep things light here.)
Whitney's sister Hillary is also on the CSM soccer team. Their Dad assures me that they get along well and will enjoy being teammates for the Flames. Whitney thinks she is going to room with another North Platte alum who will be attending CSM to play volleyball.
Welcome to the Flames family Whitney. We are excited to have you aboard!
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
CSM Signs Iowa Soccer Player
Jessica Jerkovich signed with the Flames today at her high school, Abraham Lincoln in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Jessica's signing was attended by a principal, her parents and her high school soccer coach (Andy Ruff.) Abraham Lincoln High is under construction right now. The whole school is torn up. When the construction is done, the school will look awesome. It looks like Jessica will be entering CSM's nationally known paralegal program. Did you know that only real lawyers teach in that program? That's what they tell me.
Jessica is a strong, tough and smart soccer player. She really knocks herself out when she is on the field (see the pic to the left where she landed on her head after her legs were taken out by a keeper.) Her toughness will surely be an asset to the Flames. She was already asking about when we start our summer conditioning and is looking forward to our trip to California over Labor Day weekend (as I am.)Welcome to the CSM family, Jessica.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Winter Training Begins
Dogs of War Unleashed
For the past couple weeks, the Flames players have been dragging themselves out of bed and attending our 6 AM Xplosive Edge sessions. Coaches Neil, Kim and I have been training with them. Now, I do not like to get up that early (that is pretty normal, I think.) But once I am up and about, I like getting the workout over early in the day. It leaves the rest of the day free to do the things that need to get done.
The players have been working hard for the most part. Our trainers so far have been Jamie and Pete. Jamie has decided to emphasize the running portion of X-Edge training. There has been some difficult sprinting sessions pulling weighted sleds and pushing the contraption called the "Road Warrior." As the character "Humungus" once said in the Road Warrior movie, "Again you have made me unleash my dogs of war."
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Saturday, November 7, 2009
CSM IS GOING TO DALLAS BABAY!
Carroll College had to win for us to go to Dallas and they did 5-0. We play Mobile @ 2:30 Tuesday! Woooooooooooooooooo !
We leave Monday for our Tuesday game.
We leave Monday for our Tuesday game.
Epic Fail: Flames Lose in MCAC Championship Game to Bellevue
Sir Walter Scott (who?) said, “To the timid and hesitating everything is impossible because it seems so.” Today, a couple moments of hesitation and CSM was behind 0-2 in the first half. First a cross from BU's Jenna Pendley made its way to a sliding Erika Roberts in the 13th minute. Second, Lynnsey Danker played a ball across the box and Amarripa poked it in at the far post in the 40th minute. For both goals, CSM had a chance to break up the play, but a moment's hesitation allowed Bellevue in. The first half, CSM was a bit timid at times which allowed the Bruins to control the game. Today, Bellevue was the better team.
The second half, CSM gained strength and were not timid or or hesitant. I really cannot criticize our efforts in the second half, we played our hearts out and left it all on the field.
About 15 minutes into the half, a foul was called against Bellevue in the box. CSM now had a great chance to climb back into the game. Melissa King, CSM's leading scorer stepped up and shot it hard to her right just inside the post. Bellevue's Keeper Sarah Boone, stretched out with her left hand and was able to deflect it past the post for a corner. A great opportunity missed. Good fortune was not with the Flames today.
The rest of the half, CSM spent themselves trying to create an effective attack and had some chances, but could not finish. In the 78th minute, the Bruin's Yancone shot a rocket from about 30 yards out that beat CSM's Jackie Swanger to the far post. The third goal completely sealed the victory for the Bruins.
Mollie Jones played the first half in goal and Jackie Swanger was in charge of the net in the second half. Each had 4 saves. Bellevue had 14 total shots and CSM had 7. Bellevue procured 5 corners and CSM 4. 2 yellows were shown in the game to 2 Bellevue players.
The winner of the MCAC Championship game gets an automatic bid to the National Qualifying Tournament in Dallas, Texas beginning November 10th. The Flames still have a chance to get to Dallas but they need some help from Carroll in Helena, Montana. If Carroll wins their championship tomorrow, CSM goes! GO CARROLL!
Thanks to all who came to the game today and thanks for all your support throught the year. Cross your fingers, let's get to Dallas!
The second half, CSM gained strength and were not timid or or hesitant. I really cannot criticize our efforts in the second half, we played our hearts out and left it all on the field.
About 15 minutes into the half, a foul was called against Bellevue in the box. CSM now had a great chance to climb back into the game. Melissa King, CSM's leading scorer stepped up and shot it hard to her right just inside the post. Bellevue's Keeper Sarah Boone, stretched out with her left hand and was able to deflect it past the post for a corner. A great opportunity missed. Good fortune was not with the Flames today.
The rest of the half, CSM spent themselves trying to create an effective attack and had some chances, but could not finish. In the 78th minute, the Bruin's Yancone shot a rocket from about 30 yards out that beat CSM's Jackie Swanger to the far post. The third goal completely sealed the victory for the Bruins.
Mollie Jones played the first half in goal and Jackie Swanger was in charge of the net in the second half. Each had 4 saves. Bellevue had 14 total shots and CSM had 7. Bellevue procured 5 corners and CSM 4. 2 yellows were shown in the game to 2 Bellevue players.
The winner of the MCAC Championship game gets an automatic bid to the National Qualifying Tournament in Dallas, Texas beginning November 10th. The Flames still have a chance to get to Dallas but they need some help from Carroll in Helena, Montana. If Carroll wins their championship tomorrow, CSM goes! GO CARROLL!
Thanks to all who came to the game today and thanks for all your support throught the year. Cross your fingers, let's get to Dallas!
Friday, November 6, 2009
On to the Championship! Flames over CCC 3-0.
It was windy but otherwise a fantastic November day. The CSM Flames started slow but finished strong to put down the Tigers of Central Christian 3-0. During the first half, CSM was against the wind, had good possession and had 7 shots to the Tiger's 3. We finished the first half with a flourish, putting a lot of pressure on the CCC back line but were unable to finish. Mollie Jones began the game in goal for the Flames and made one save in the first half.
The second half, the Flames came out on fire (sorry for the pun, couldn't resist.) Jessie McLaughlin broke open the scoring in the 65th minute when the ball was caroming around the box after a corner was not cleared. Jessie found the ball at her feet about 4 yards out and she sent it home. That was Jessie's second goal this season. Ramsey added a goal from an assist by Kira Cross 3 minutes later to seal the victory. For the third goal, Molly McNea, seeing her first action in 2 months due to injury, dribbled deep in the box, beat the defender and shot the ball from an acute angle to the far post side netting.
Jackie Swanger was in goal the second half and the official stats said she didn't make a save but I remember her grabbing an air ball that could be considered a save, so I am going to give her one.
Total shots: CCC 3, CSM 21. Corner kicks: CCC 2, CSM 9.
The 3-0 win puts CSM into the MCAC Championship game tomorrow (Nov. 7) at 1:00 at CSM. The Flames play Bellevue who beat a fiesty York team, 2-0 in the other semi-final.
Call your friends, call your family, call everyone and tell them to come to the game. It should be great! The winner of that game automatically receives a bid the the National Qualifying Tournament in Dallas, Texas which begins on November 10. Show up and cheer us onto Dallas!
The second half, the Flames came out on fire (sorry for the pun, couldn't resist.) Jessie McLaughlin broke open the scoring in the 65th minute when the ball was caroming around the box after a corner was not cleared. Jessie found the ball at her feet about 4 yards out and she sent it home. That was Jessie's second goal this season. Ramsey added a goal from an assist by Kira Cross 3 minutes later to seal the victory. For the third goal, Molly McNea, seeing her first action in 2 months due to injury, dribbled deep in the box, beat the defender and shot the ball from an acute angle to the far post side netting.
Jackie Swanger was in goal the second half and the official stats said she didn't make a save but I remember her grabbing an air ball that could be considered a save, so I am going to give her one.
Total shots: CCC 3, CSM 21. Corner kicks: CCC 2, CSM 9.
The 3-0 win puts CSM into the MCAC Championship game tomorrow (Nov. 7) at 1:00 at CSM. The Flames play Bellevue who beat a fiesty York team, 2-0 in the other semi-final.
Call your friends, call your family, call everyone and tell them to come to the game. It should be great! The winner of that game automatically receives a bid the the National Qualifying Tournament in Dallas, Texas which begins on November 10. Show up and cheer us onto Dallas!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
CSM Slip-up, Doane Beats the Flames 3-1
When you are climbing a mountain, sometimes you slip and fall a bit. This season, we are climbing toward the National Qualifying Tournament and we slipped against a solid Doane team. Doane opened the scoring in the first half with a free kick that beat Flames keeper Jackie Swanger's outstretched hand. The Flames were able to bounce back in final minutes of the first half with a goal by King. Turco crossed the ball from the right and King was able to strike it past the keeper at the near post.
At the half, we talked about maintaining our discipline and playing simple, basic soccer. Good defense and offense. Unfortunately, we made some defensive mistakes and the Tigers were able to capitalize with 2 goals in the second half. Samantha Extrom from Doane scored all 3 of the Tiger goals.
Doane had 14 shots, CSM 7. Swanger had 4 saves and Ludwing from Doane had 1. CSM had 3 corner kicks.
On the field, CSM was unable to get their possession game going and it seemed like we were chasing the game for long moments instead of controlling the game. It is disappointing to take a hit like this at the end of such an incredible season. I am sure that we will bounce back and take our game to the next level.
The next step is the MCAC Tournament hosted by CSM. I am thinking that we will play at noon on November 6th. The championship game will probably be at 1:00 PM on November 7th. The winner of the tournament goes on to the National Qualifying Tournament in Dallas, November 10-13. The winners of the MCAC, Frontier Conference and Gulf Coast Conference goes to Dallas along with the next 3 teams with the best Longo points. CSM is in the mix, so if we perform well, we hope to get to Dallas, where anything can happen. See you then.
At the half, we talked about maintaining our discipline and playing simple, basic soccer. Good defense and offense. Unfortunately, we made some defensive mistakes and the Tigers were able to capitalize with 2 goals in the second half. Samantha Extrom from Doane scored all 3 of the Tiger goals.
Doane had 14 shots, CSM 7. Swanger had 4 saves and Ludwing from Doane had 1. CSM had 3 corner kicks.
On the field, CSM was unable to get their possession game going and it seemed like we were chasing the game for long moments instead of controlling the game. It is disappointing to take a hit like this at the end of such an incredible season. I am sure that we will bounce back and take our game to the next level.
The next step is the MCAC Tournament hosted by CSM. I am thinking that we will play at noon on November 6th. The championship game will probably be at 1:00 PM on November 7th. The winner of the tournament goes on to the National Qualifying Tournament in Dallas, November 10-13. The winners of the MCAC, Frontier Conference and Gulf Coast Conference goes to Dallas along with the next 3 teams with the best Longo points. CSM is in the mix, so if we perform well, we hope to get to Dallas, where anything can happen. See you then.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
York Defeated; MCAC Conquered
With a 9-0 CSM win over York, the Flames wrapped up their 12th MCAC Conference Championship. In conference play, the Flames outscored their opponents 17-0.
Melissa King scored a hat trick and also added 2 assists. On one of King's goals, she out raced the keeper to a ball, played it toward the goal line and shot at a severe angle. Kaela Croushorn scored a penalty kick on her birthday. Ashley Turco scored on a breakaway where she dribbled around the keeper. Turco added 3 assists. Erin Peterson also scored on a breakaway from a pass by Turco. Erin had a defender draped all over her but was able to slide and crush the ball past the keeper. In the second half, RaeLeigh Withey also scored on breakaway, bending the ball into the right side of the goal. Kira Cross scored off of a corner by Rae. Freshman Megan Tuenge scored her first collegiate goal in the last minute of the game with a shot to the far post that clanged off the post and went it. Here is the breakdown:
Time, Goal By, Assist
6th min Goal: Melissa King
11th min Goal: Kaela Croushorn (PK)
32nd min Goal: Ashley Turco, Assist: Melissa King
36th min Goal: Erin Peterson, Assist: Ashley Turco
57th min Goal: RaeLeigh Withey, Assist: Melissa King
71st min Goal: Kira Cross, Assist: RaeLeigh Withey
80th min Goal: Melissa King
86th min Goal: Melissa King, Assist: Ashley Turco
90th min Goal: Megan Tuenge, Assist: Ashley Turco
The girls played sharp and had a stubborn defense. Swanger played in goal in the first half and had to make 2 saves. Jones in goal the second half made 4 saves. York had 7 shots and CSM, 29.
The Flames will host the MCAC Tournament in 2 weeks.
Next opponent is Doane at our house, 4 PM the 27th of October. See you there.
Melissa King scored a hat trick and also added 2 assists. On one of King's goals, she out raced the keeper to a ball, played it toward the goal line and shot at a severe angle. Kaela Croushorn scored a penalty kick on her birthday. Ashley Turco scored on a breakaway where she dribbled around the keeper. Turco added 3 assists. Erin Peterson also scored on a breakaway from a pass by Turco. Erin had a defender draped all over her but was able to slide and crush the ball past the keeper. In the second half, RaeLeigh Withey also scored on breakaway, bending the ball into the right side of the goal. Kira Cross scored off of a corner by Rae. Freshman Megan Tuenge scored her first collegiate goal in the last minute of the game with a shot to the far post that clanged off the post and went it. Here is the breakdown:
Time, Goal By, Assist
6th min Goal: Melissa King
11th min Goal: Kaela Croushorn (PK)
32nd min Goal: Ashley Turco, Assist: Melissa King
36th min Goal: Erin Peterson, Assist: Ashley Turco
57th min Goal: RaeLeigh Withey, Assist: Melissa King
71st min Goal: Kira Cross, Assist: RaeLeigh Withey
80th min Goal: Melissa King
86th min Goal: Melissa King, Assist: Ashley Turco
90th min Goal: Megan Tuenge, Assist: Ashley Turco
The girls played sharp and had a stubborn defense. Swanger played in goal in the first half and had to make 2 saves. Jones in goal the second half made 4 saves. York had 7 shots and CSM, 29.
The Flames will host the MCAC Tournament in 2 weeks.
Next opponent is Doane at our house, 4 PM the 27th of October. See you there.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
CSM Vaults into MCAC lead beating Bellevue 1-0
Seriously, the goal came against the run of play in the second half. Bellevue was having all the possession and the Flames were chasing the game. However, CSM had a moment of brilliance to turn the game in their favor. The last minutes of the game, the Bellevue Bruins tried to attack with a series of long balls. CSM was up to the task and were able to thwart the aerial attack and shutout the Bruins.
CSM had a good first half but was unable to match the energy of the Bruins for a majority of the second half. I feel fortunate to beat the Bruins and hope that we play better the next time we face them.
With a win next weekend vs York, the Flames will host the conference tournament for the first time in 3 years. Let's hope the Flames capitalize on their good fortune versus a much improved York squad.
Swanger played the whole game in the Flames goal making 6 total saves. Our other Keeper Mollie Jones was out for most of the week with illness but was available at the game. Allyssa Valquier was unable to attend the game due to illness. Other Flames have also been battling illness this week. At the end of the game, any feelings of sickness turned to joy with the big win.
Shot totals: CSM 10 shots. Bellevue, 8 total shots. Bellevue's keeper had 6 saves also.
It is a big win for the Flames who now have a few days off over their fall break. Hopefully we will be ready to come back and finish the season strong!
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
CSM Stitches a Path through OWU
The visiting Oklahoma Wesleyan Eagles found no joy on their trip to Omaha as the CSM Flames achieved their second conference victory 4-0. Melissa King scored 2 goals in the first half in the 9th and 20th minutes. Tiffany Reis dribbled up from her center back position and scored an unassisted goal in the 29th minute. Jackie Swanger had zero saves first half. Mollie Jones was in goal the second half and had 2 saves.
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The second half started kinda slow. The Flames had the game well in hand and kept possession, but didn't get a whole lot of chances on goal. However, in the 70th minute, RaeLeigh Withey got the ball and saw that Senior Jessie McLaughlin was open in the box. Rae passed it to Jessie and she scored her first collegiate goal with a right footed shot past the keeper. Jessie had actually missed a penalty kick in the first half as well as missing the rebound. She was very frustrated that she missed 2 good chances in the first half to score her first CSM goal so she was pretty happy she scored in the second half. As a matter of fact, the celebration of that goal was so intense that RaeLeigh Withey was injured. Kira Cross and RaeLeigh were jumping up and down and Kira's tooth accidently came into contact with Rae's eyebrow and ripped it open. Of course, it bled a lot and Rae had to come off the field. Rae is going to have to get a stitch or 2.
CSM had 26 shots and OWU had 2 total shots. The Flames' record is now 7-3-2. They are 2-0 in the MCAC.
The next game is at Graceland in Lamoni, Iowa this Saturday at 5:30.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Dutch Treat for CSM
CSM scores 2 goals in each half to beat the Central College Dutch from Pella, Iowa, 4-1. 2 goals in the first half and 2 in the second. The first goal, MelissaKing just basically took the ball and dribbled straight through the Dutch defense and beat the keeper. The second goal (by King again) came off of an assist by RaeLeigh Withey who played a beautiful little through ball to beat the defense deep in the box.
Sara Berens opened up the scoring in the second minute of the second half by knocking in a great cross from Katie Archibald, who beat a player on the left side and crossed it.
The Dutch got on the score board in the 53rd minute when our back line was trying to push up and left Central's Hasken onside. Molly Jones came out strong and missed and Hasken slotted it in.
Melissa King got us back our 3 goal cushion on a header from a great cross by Kira Cross. Sara Berens was there at the back post but the ball proved too tall for her. King was positioned at a good angle behind Sara and was able to put it away, earned a hattrick.
CSM finished with 34 shots. Swanger was in goal in the first half and made 2 saves. Mollie Jones was keeper in the second have and made one save. Central College finished with 3 shots per half for a total of 6. Their keeper made 23 saves.
A good outing for CSM..Next game is in McPherson, Kansas on Thursday.
Sara Berens opened up the scoring in the second minute of the second half by knocking in a great cross from Katie Archibald, who beat a player on the left side and crossed it.
The Dutch got on the score board in the 53rd minute when our back line was trying to push up and left Central's Hasken onside. Molly Jones came out strong and missed and Hasken slotted it in.
Melissa King got us back our 3 goal cushion on a header from a great cross by Kira Cross. Sara Berens was there at the back post but the ball proved too tall for her. King was positioned at a good angle behind Sara and was able to put it away, earned a hattrick.
CSM finished with 34 shots. Swanger was in goal in the first half and made 2 saves. Mollie Jones was keeper in the second have and made one save. Central College finished with 3 shots per half for a total of 6. Their keeper made 23 saves.
A good outing for CSM..Next game is in McPherson, Kansas on Thursday.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Saturday, September 12, 2009
CSM Survive Concordia
CSM came out on fire, cooled a bit, tripped and finally eeked out a victory versus Concordia on a muggy Saturday afternoon. Ramsey Miller scored off of an assist by Katie Archibald in the 3rd minute. That would be the 5th time in 7 games that CSM has scored in the first 12 minutes of the game.
Things were looking pretty good until Katie Archibald drew a red card for a foul off the ball. Katie said that lost her composure and she retaliated after a player fouled her. CSM then had to play one player down for the rest of the game. Katie will also have to sit out the next game.
Red cards don't happen too often in the women's game and our players had little experience with it. We were a bit confused for awhile but ended the half up 1-0.
At halftime we told the players to remain calm and composed. The only difference was that we would just have one forward--everything else we play the same--no time to panic. The important thing was to keep possession and try not to just send hopeful balls forward.
Less than 10 minutes into the second half, RaeLeigh Withey lined up a free kick about 10 yards from the center line. I told her from the sideline to focus and get the ball in the net. Rae stepped to it and struck it clean. It then sailed high in the air and dipped into the upper 90 to give us a 2-0 lead. The keeper had no chance.
We made things interesting in the 69th minute when Keeper Jackie Swanger had the ball at her feet, tried to cut it back at the top of the box and tripped. With pressure on her, Swanger tried to play the ball out but it went to the feet of Concoria's Ford who put it in the back of the net to make the score 2-1.
We then buckled down and kept a lot of possession and had a few more good chances on the goal. Defender Jessie McLaughlin almost scored her first career goal on a corner kick.
With about 3 minutes to go, we weren't trying to attack, just hold the ball in their end when we lost it and Concordia crushed it forward, catching our back line flat footed and the race was on. Swanger came out, missed the ball and Hilary Brown cleared it off of the line. Concordia had 2 corners in the last 40 seconds but we were able to survive. Whew!
A lot of positives came out of this game. We learned that we can deal with adversity and still be successful. We learned that we can change our style of play and keep possession when we need to. We learned that if we play as a team, we will survive. We are taking steps forward. We do have a few things to work on--but I am sure we will attack our shortcomings with intensity.
Things were looking pretty good until Katie Archibald drew a red card for a foul off the ball. Katie said that lost her composure and she retaliated after a player fouled her. CSM then had to play one player down for the rest of the game. Katie will also have to sit out the next game.
Red cards don't happen too often in the women's game and our players had little experience with it. We were a bit confused for awhile but ended the half up 1-0.
At halftime we told the players to remain calm and composed. The only difference was that we would just have one forward--everything else we play the same--no time to panic. The important thing was to keep possession and try not to just send hopeful balls forward.
Less than 10 minutes into the second half, RaeLeigh Withey lined up a free kick about 10 yards from the center line. I told her from the sideline to focus and get the ball in the net. Rae stepped to it and struck it clean. It then sailed high in the air and dipped into the upper 90 to give us a 2-0 lead. The keeper had no chance.
We made things interesting in the 69th minute when Keeper Jackie Swanger had the ball at her feet, tried to cut it back at the top of the box and tripped. With pressure on her, Swanger tried to play the ball out but it went to the feet of Concoria's Ford who put it in the back of the net to make the score 2-1.
We then buckled down and kept a lot of possession and had a few more good chances on the goal. Defender Jessie McLaughlin almost scored her first career goal on a corner kick.
With about 3 minutes to go, we weren't trying to attack, just hold the ball in their end when we lost it and Concordia crushed it forward, catching our back line flat footed and the race was on. Swanger came out, missed the ball and Hilary Brown cleared it off of the line. Concordia had 2 corners in the last 40 seconds but we were able to survive. Whew!
A lot of positives came out of this game. We learned that we can deal with adversity and still be successful. We learned that we can change our style of play and keep possession when we need to. We learned that if we play as a team, we will survive. We are taking steps forward. We do have a few things to work on--but I am sure we will attack our shortcomings with intensity.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
CSM Tripped up by Morningside.
Monday, September 9 was Labor Day but the Flames didn't get the work done that it needed to and fell to Morningside 2-3. The Flames started fast with Katie Archibald scoring in the 2nd minute from an assist by Jessie McLaughlin. Katie beat the keeper with an awesome shot that sneaked in at the far post.
Unfortunately, we failed to maintain our discipline defensively and Morningside's Turnipseed was able to score off of a counterattack in the 24th minute. CSM went ahead 2 minutes later when King beat the keeper off an assist by Archibald.
Things looked good for a couple minutes then (OOPS) Morningside caught us twice with counters in the next 10 minutes, with Swotek and Hauptman beating CSM's Mollie Jones.
The first half ended with CSM down 2-3. The Flames had 16 shots in the first half with Morningside having 8.
In the second half, CSM came very close numerous times, but was unable to find the net. CSM completely outshot Morningside 27-12 ( Morningside only having 4 shots in the second half.) A couple times the Morningside keeper dropped the ball on saves, but we weren't there. We had some excellent crosses, but mistimed the box runs or we didn't fill the box. We had 6 corner kicks (Morningside had none) and we came very close, but no joy. We were one-on-one with the keeper maybe 4 times, but came away with nothing. It was frustrating.
Keepers: Jones played the first half and made 4 saves. Swanger played the second half and made one save.
Hopefully, we will learn from this experience that we have to play a disciplined 90 minutes of soccer. It ain't over until it is over.
Next game at Dordt, 3 PM on Sept. 9.
Unfortunately, we failed to maintain our discipline defensively and Morningside's Turnipseed was able to score off of a counterattack in the 24th minute. CSM went ahead 2 minutes later when King beat the keeper off an assist by Archibald.
Things looked good for a couple minutes then (OOPS) Morningside caught us twice with counters in the next 10 minutes, with Swotek and Hauptman beating CSM's Mollie Jones.
The first half ended with CSM down 2-3. The Flames had 16 shots in the first half with Morningside having 8.
In the second half, CSM came very close numerous times, but was unable to find the net. CSM completely outshot Morningside 27-12 ( Morningside only having 4 shots in the second half.) A couple times the Morningside keeper dropped the ball on saves, but we weren't there. We had some excellent crosses, but mistimed the box runs or we didn't fill the box. We had 6 corner kicks (Morningside had none) and we came very close, but no joy. We were one-on-one with the keeper maybe 4 times, but came away with nothing. It was frustrating.
Keepers: Jones played the first half and made 4 saves. Swanger played the second half and made one save.
Hopefully, we will learn from this experience that we have to play a disciplined 90 minutes of soccer. It ain't over until it is over.
Next game at Dordt, 3 PM on Sept. 9.
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