Season Opener: May 10: CSSC v Azzurri: Blumberg Field #9
CSSC 2 - 2 Azzurri
The first day of a new season is always a time for optimism. After locking up keeper Chris Aitkens to a long term deal and scooping Grant Mill Sword for the signatures of four promising youngsters, CSSC's four fans were expecting big things for 2011.
After some good early chances, the youthful Azzuri squad took the lead against the run of play on a goal line scramble that no CSSC defender managed (or really even tried) to clear. Before the end of the half Wazoo was sent sprinting clear by a slide rule pass from Greg Boese and his low drive squeaked by the keeper to level the scores. The second half followed the same pattern. A very soft penalty put Azzuri 2-1 up but keen observers of the game will have noticed that make shift left back Ian Hudson caused the trouble by giving the ball away in a dangerous area of the field. Everyone was pushed forward in an effort to level the game and just before time Edgar swung in a lovely cross that invited target man Eli Robinson to plant a towering header into the top corner. Honours even.
Man of the Match: Eli Robinson - much is expected of the maturing big man and he didn't disappoint.
The first day of a new season is always a time for optimism. After locking up keeper Chris Aitkens to a long term deal and scooping Grant Mill Sword for the signatures of four promising youngsters, CSSC's four fans were expecting big things for 2011.
After some good early chances, the youthful Azzuri squad took the lead against the run of play on a goal line scramble that no CSSC defender managed (or really even tried) to clear. Before the end of the half Wazoo was sent sprinting clear by a slide rule pass from Greg Boese and his low drive squeaked by the keeper to level the scores. The second half followed the same pattern. A very soft penalty put Azzuri 2-1 up but keen observers of the game will have noticed that make shift left back Ian Hudson caused the trouble by giving the ball away in a dangerous area of the field. Everyone was pushed forward in an effort to level the game and just before time Edgar swung in a lovely cross that invited target man Eli Robinson to plant a towering header into the top corner. Honours even.
Man of the Match: Eli Robinson - much is expected of the maturing big man and he didn't disappoint.
Tuesday, May 17: CSSC v BFR AC: Blumberg Field #9
CSSC 4 - 3 BFR AC
The CSSC lads made it harder than it needed to be, but the fans crowding the sidelines of Blumberg 9 got their money's worth in a seven goal thriller. First half goals for Greg, Matty T., and Bobbie were canceled out by a late defensive collapse to make it 3-3 at the half. Chance after chance in the second half was either squandered or saved by their deceptively agile keeper, until Wazoo bundled one home for the win. A huge thank you to Ali and Sean who split time in goal.
Man of the Match: Bobbie MacDonald - The new signing made quite a splash on his home debut with the opening goal and a strong ball winning display at center back. Now if he could only show up in black shorts.
The CSSC lads made it harder than it needed to be, but the fans crowding the sidelines of Blumberg 9 got their money's worth in a seven goal thriller. First half goals for Greg, Matty T., and Bobbie were canceled out by a late defensive collapse to make it 3-3 at the half. Chance after chance in the second half was either squandered or saved by their deceptively agile keeper, until Wazoo bundled one home for the win. A huge thank you to Ali and Sean who split time in goal.
Man of the Match: Bobbie MacDonald - The new signing made quite a splash on his home debut with the opening goal and a strong ball winning display at center back. Now if he could only show up in black shorts.
Tuesday, May 24: Colo Colo v CSSC: Buhler Park #2
Colo Colo 1 - 5 CSSC
It was a bit of a relaxed affair as league newcomers Colo Colo came to play with a fun loving attitude. A wind assisted CSSC dominated the first half. The only real break in the steady onslaught of the Colo Colo goal was when their keeper leisurely retrieved the ball after yet another wayward CSSC shot sailed over the bar. Eli and Ian did manage a goal each by the half. The second half started off with Wazoo continuing his goal scoring exploits, banging in a rebound after a stellar double save by the overworked Colo Colo keeper. The match also featured an early contender for goal of the season when a hopeful punt down field by the keeper was clinically one timed into the back of the net by Ali. The fact that it was our net takes nothing away from the quality of that first touch. The game was made safe by two late, and very stylish, goals from Nabil, another of the promising new signings this year.
Man of the Match: Andrew Woolford - He has clearly found a home at attacking fullback and is developing an excellent understanding on the right with veteran Colin Kinsella. He also managed to demolish a gigantic plate of pasta in a well deserved post game meal while watching his Canucks come back to beat the Sharks and sail off to the Stanley Cup final. Best Night Ever said Andrew.
It was a bit of a relaxed affair as league newcomers Colo Colo came to play with a fun loving attitude. A wind assisted CSSC dominated the first half. The only real break in the steady onslaught of the Colo Colo goal was when their keeper leisurely retrieved the ball after yet another wayward CSSC shot sailed over the bar. Eli and Ian did manage a goal each by the half. The second half started off with Wazoo continuing his goal scoring exploits, banging in a rebound after a stellar double save by the overworked Colo Colo keeper. The match also featured an early contender for goal of the season when a hopeful punt down field by the keeper was clinically one timed into the back of the net by Ali. The fact that it was our net takes nothing away from the quality of that first touch. The game was made safe by two late, and very stylish, goals from Nabil, another of the promising new signings this year.
Man of the Match: Andrew Woolford - He has clearly found a home at attacking fullback and is developing an excellent understanding on the right with veteran Colin Kinsella. He also managed to demolish a gigantic plate of pasta in a well deserved post game meal while watching his Canucks come back to beat the Sharks and sail off to the Stanley Cup final. Best Night Ever said Andrew.
Thursday, June 10: Thai-Laos v CSSC: Winnipeg Soccer Complex #2
Thai Laos 1 - 2 CSSC
A game on the turf under the lights provided a nice illusion of big time soccer as CSSC lined up against league new comers TL, who recovered from some early season thashings to post a respectable victory against Chexx in their last game. The first half demonstrated CSSC's need to practice their breakaways as Ali, Edgar (twice), Charaf and Eli all missed chances when put through one on one. Left back Bobbie MacDonald showed them how it was done by streaking down the wing and slotting a cool finish in off the far post from a tight angle. The second half was more even. Derek Kun picked up a pass at the top of the box and put a low drive beyond the keeper to make it 2-0. It turned out that it was a badly needed goal as MacDonald thought he would make things interesting by giving away a penalty that he described as "unnecessary" and "a bit embarrassing". The close scoreline gave the game a little edge but it was displayed more with a flurry of yellow cards for the TL team after they became enraged when Kun told one of their players to stop fouling people than any real chances on the CSSC goal.
Man of the Match: Bobby Mac may have had a shout for his second award, but it was a funny penalty to give away. So the award goes to Mark Hudson who returned from a hamstring injury to put in a commanding role in the sweeper position. Excellent ball winning skills, good distribution from back to front and a delightful pass to set up the first goal earns him a complimentary bucket of nails from game sponsor Pollock's Coop. See Pollock's for all your hardware needs.
A game on the turf under the lights provided a nice illusion of big time soccer as CSSC lined up against league new comers TL, who recovered from some early season thashings to post a respectable victory against Chexx in their last game. The first half demonstrated CSSC's need to practice their breakaways as Ali, Edgar (twice), Charaf and Eli all missed chances when put through one on one. Left back Bobbie MacDonald showed them how it was done by streaking down the wing and slotting a cool finish in off the far post from a tight angle. The second half was more even. Derek Kun picked up a pass at the top of the box and put a low drive beyond the keeper to make it 2-0. It turned out that it was a badly needed goal as MacDonald thought he would make things interesting by giving away a penalty that he described as "unnecessary" and "a bit embarrassing". The close scoreline gave the game a little edge but it was displayed more with a flurry of yellow cards for the TL team after they became enraged when Kun told one of their players to stop fouling people than any real chances on the CSSC goal.
Man of the Match: Bobby Mac may have had a shout for his second award, but it was a funny penalty to give away. So the award goes to Mark Hudson who returned from a hamstring injury to put in a commanding role in the sweeper position. Excellent ball winning skills, good distribution from back to front and a delightful pass to set up the first goal earns him a complimentary bucket of nails from game sponsor Pollock's Coop. See Pollock's for all your hardware needs.
Friday, June 18: CSSC v Azzurri: Winnipeg Soccer Complex #1
CSSC 0 - 1 Azzurri
Former CSSC stalwarts Dave Fernades, John Loxley and Greg Chernomas were bought in for an inspirational pre game team talk to prepare the troops for an up and coming Azzurri side. Unfortunately all three stopped off at the Banana Boat for a pre game frozen treat and arrived late for the kick off. An uninspired CSSC were quickly down 1-0 as the Azzurri worked a lightening quick counter attack to spring one of their quick forwards right through the middle and he placed a nice one time shot into the bottom corner. Fans of attacking soccer and wayward finishing were delighted by the first half, as the sides swapped golden scoring chances without converting. Azzurri had a point blank effort saved, a looping shot tipped on to the bar and saw a goal bound effort heroicly turned a aside by the returning Mark Meuwese. CSSC missed a penalty, a breakaway and two tap ins with the keeper beaten. The second half lacked the frenzied end to end activity of the first. CSSC's uncharacteristically disjointed passing meant that the only real chance came when Greg Boese had a goal bound header cleared off the line.
Photo credit for this week's slideshow goes to the injured Bruce Sewart, who is also making the world's most energy efficient automobile! A man of many talents. Thanks, Bruce!
Man of the Match: Greg Boese plays a nice, tidy game in mid field. Always makes the right pass, always in the right position and he was unlucky not to even the scores in the second half. Performances like this will go a long way to making team management forget that during their first meeting with Greg, he was sporting a highly questionable mustache.
Former CSSC stalwarts Dave Fernades, John Loxley and Greg Chernomas were bought in for an inspirational pre game team talk to prepare the troops for an up and coming Azzurri side. Unfortunately all three stopped off at the Banana Boat for a pre game frozen treat and arrived late for the kick off. An uninspired CSSC were quickly down 1-0 as the Azzurri worked a lightening quick counter attack to spring one of their quick forwards right through the middle and he placed a nice one time shot into the bottom corner. Fans of attacking soccer and wayward finishing were delighted by the first half, as the sides swapped golden scoring chances without converting. Azzurri had a point blank effort saved, a looping shot tipped on to the bar and saw a goal bound effort heroicly turned a aside by the returning Mark Meuwese. CSSC missed a penalty, a breakaway and two tap ins with the keeper beaten. The second half lacked the frenzied end to end activity of the first. CSSC's uncharacteristically disjointed passing meant that the only real chance came when Greg Boese had a goal bound header cleared off the line.
Photo credit for this week's slideshow goes to the injured Bruce Sewart, who is also making the world's most energy efficient automobile! A man of many talents. Thanks, Bruce!
Man of the Match: Greg Boese plays a nice, tidy game in mid field. Always makes the right pass, always in the right position and he was unlucky not to even the scores in the second half. Performances like this will go a long way to making team management forget that during their first meeting with Greg, he was sporting a highly questionable mustache.
Thursday, June 23 John Blumberg #9
InterMilan 4 - 1 CSSC
Ouch. The scoreline just about says it all. After a very promising opening 30 minutes CSSC wilted under the InterMilan pressure. CSSC apologists will say that few other teams are likely to reproduce the two identical 25 yard rockets that went in off the underside of the bar or that when you have three injuries and only two subs the math is not going to be in your favour. That doesn’t disguise the fact that CSSC tired as the game went on and had very few genuine scoring chances.
Man of the Match: As Franz Beckenbauer once said of a poor German performance during the 2002 World Cup, “If you put the whole team in a bag and punched, everyone who got hit would deserve it.” So man of the match goes to the InterMilan dude who scored the two screamers. Credit where credit is due.
Ouch. The scoreline just about says it all. After a very promising opening 30 minutes CSSC wilted under the InterMilan pressure. CSSC apologists will say that few other teams are likely to reproduce the two identical 25 yard rockets that went in off the underside of the bar or that when you have three injuries and only two subs the math is not going to be in your favour. That doesn’t disguise the fact that CSSC tired as the game went on and had very few genuine scoring chances.
Man of the Match: As Franz Beckenbauer once said of a poor German performance during the 2002 World Cup, “If you put the whole team in a bag and punched, everyone who got hit would deserve it.” So man of the match goes to the InterMilan dude who scored the two screamers. Credit where credit is due.
Tuesday, July 5 John Blumberg #10
Elmwood 4 - 1 CSSC
This had better not become a habit. Two games and two identical 4-1 defeats. On the positive side, CSSC played a fairly solid game for 80 minutes and equalized late-on courtesy of Eli Robinson’s courageous header. But then there was the three goal collapse in the last ten minutes. The first of the goals came right off the restart from Eli’s goal, the second when an unfortunate miskick gifted them a 4 on 2 counter attack and the third when understandably frustrated keeper Aiken threw the ball to one of their forwards after making yet another save. It could have been even worse if Bruce Sewart and Bobbie Mac hadn’t made dramatic goal line clearances. Basically, the game “really got out of hand, fast”.
Man of the Match – The adjudication committee questioned the wisdom of giving the keeper the award in a game where four goals went in, and there was that unfortunate fourth goal. But that was in the dying seconds and the game was out of reach. When the game was still on the line Chris made three fantastic saves on clear cut breaks to keep CSSC within reach.
This had better not become a habit. Two games and two identical 4-1 defeats. On the positive side, CSSC played a fairly solid game for 80 minutes and equalized late-on courtesy of Eli Robinson’s courageous header. But then there was the three goal collapse in the last ten minutes. The first of the goals came right off the restart from Eli’s goal, the second when an unfortunate miskick gifted them a 4 on 2 counter attack and the third when understandably frustrated keeper Aiken threw the ball to one of their forwards after making yet another save. It could have been even worse if Bruce Sewart and Bobbie Mac hadn’t made dramatic goal line clearances. Basically, the game “really got out of hand, fast”.
Man of the Match – The adjudication committee questioned the wisdom of giving the keeper the award in a game where four goals went in, and there was that unfortunate fourth goal. But that was in the dying seconds and the game was out of reach. When the game was still on the line Chris made three fantastic saves on clear cut breaks to keep CSSC within reach.
Monday, July 11 Landmark
Landmark 0 - 1 CSSC
CSSC had done a little recruiting for its big away day to south east Manitoba’s cauldron of soccer, Landmark. With highly prized veteran defender Chris Teasdale signed away from Grant Mill Rovers, the return of Rick Penner from injury, and Mike Davis deciding that he might actually squeeze a game into his hectic social calendar of moustache sculpting, it was a real injection of quality into the line-up.
It was lawn chairs a plenty on the sidelines as the local populace turned out to see their youth take on the big city softies. Both sides found chances hard to come by in the early going, although Penner was creating some chances down the left wing. About 25 minutes in, Eli picked up a pass 25 yards from goal made a yard on the defender and crashed a rocket into the roof of the net. That was to be the goal scoring highlight despite some glorious chances. Eli almost finessed in a second but the bar denied his delicate chip from a tight angle. Colin scuffed a sitter after a goal line scramble and the inside of the post denied Wazoo the goal his excellent performance deserved. At the other end, emergency keeper Brownie did much better than his FEMA namesake by stopping the two reasonable efforts that Landmark managed on a CSSC defense well marshalled by Teasdale.
Man of the match: Teasdale, Eli and Wazoo could all have a reasonable claim but the award, and free pitcher of beer at the Orbit Room, goes to Rick Penner’s dad. This Landmark icon may have had his jersey hanging from the rafters of the local arena but he braved the pitchforks and torches of his neighbours by turning up to cheer on CSSC against the local lads. Bravo sir.
CSSC had done a little recruiting for its big away day to south east Manitoba’s cauldron of soccer, Landmark. With highly prized veteran defender Chris Teasdale signed away from Grant Mill Rovers, the return of Rick Penner from injury, and Mike Davis deciding that he might actually squeeze a game into his hectic social calendar of moustache sculpting, it was a real injection of quality into the line-up.
It was lawn chairs a plenty on the sidelines as the local populace turned out to see their youth take on the big city softies. Both sides found chances hard to come by in the early going, although Penner was creating some chances down the left wing. About 25 minutes in, Eli picked up a pass 25 yards from goal made a yard on the defender and crashed a rocket into the roof of the net. That was to be the goal scoring highlight despite some glorious chances. Eli almost finessed in a second but the bar denied his delicate chip from a tight angle. Colin scuffed a sitter after a goal line scramble and the inside of the post denied Wazoo the goal his excellent performance deserved. At the other end, emergency keeper Brownie did much better than his FEMA namesake by stopping the two reasonable efforts that Landmark managed on a CSSC defense well marshalled by Teasdale.
Man of the match: Teasdale, Eli and Wazoo could all have a reasonable claim but the award, and free pitcher of beer at the Orbit Room, goes to Rick Penner’s dad. This Landmark icon may have had his jersey hanging from the rafters of the local arena but he braved the pitchforks and torches of his neighbours by turning up to cheer on CSSC against the local lads. Bravo sir.
Wednesday, July 13 Winnipeg Soccer Complex #2
CSSC 0 - 0 Windsor
After hearing of CSSC’s early season dip in form, team statesman Pete Hudson cut short his summer vacation in Lake Como, where he rubs shoulders with fellow thespian George Clooney, in order to inspire the boys to greater efforts with bellowing shouts of “Where’s the right side?” and “We have no left side. No left side!”
After giving up eight goals in two games, CSSC’s defense has tightened up considerably. This was the second clean sheet in a row and Chris Aiken wasn’t seriously tested despite the second half absence of star defender Bobbie Mac who was forced to leave early so he could play in an ultimate game with his girlfriend, which is sweet. Alex Ferguson doesn't have to deal with that sort of set back at United. At the other end, CSSC’s summer of missed chances continued. Matt Trendotta played a barnstorming first half at right mid, setting up Eli and Greg with pinpoint crosses but Eli’s shot was blocked on the line and Greg headed over the bar. To add to the first half woes, goal shy center mid Ian Hudson volleyed wide from eight yards out. The second half saw a number of spurned chances, the best of which the Windsor keeper managed to save when Wazoo opted for placement over power on a breakaway. At the post game press conference Manager Matt Dryburgh tried to put a positive spin on the lack of goal production, "I'll start to worry when we stop creating chances"
Man of the Match: Matt Trendotta is settling nicely into the midfield and put in a solid 90 minutes. However, today’s prize goes to Adam Wazny. If Wazoo hadn’t managed to battle through injury and give us an excellent 45 minutes of soccer we would not have finished with eleven players. It’s all about mental toughness.
After hearing of CSSC’s early season dip in form, team statesman Pete Hudson cut short his summer vacation in Lake Como, where he rubs shoulders with fellow thespian George Clooney, in order to inspire the boys to greater efforts with bellowing shouts of “Where’s the right side?” and “We have no left side. No left side!”
After giving up eight goals in two games, CSSC’s defense has tightened up considerably. This was the second clean sheet in a row and Chris Aiken wasn’t seriously tested despite the second half absence of star defender Bobbie Mac who was forced to leave early so he could play in an ultimate game with his girlfriend, which is sweet. Alex Ferguson doesn't have to deal with that sort of set back at United. At the other end, CSSC’s summer of missed chances continued. Matt Trendotta played a barnstorming first half at right mid, setting up Eli and Greg with pinpoint crosses but Eli’s shot was blocked on the line and Greg headed over the bar. To add to the first half woes, goal shy center mid Ian Hudson volleyed wide from eight yards out. The second half saw a number of spurned chances, the best of which the Windsor keeper managed to save when Wazoo opted for placement over power on a breakaway. At the post game press conference Manager Matt Dryburgh tried to put a positive spin on the lack of goal production, "I'll start to worry when we stop creating chances"
Man of the Match: Matt Trendotta is settling nicely into the midfield and put in a solid 90 minutes. However, today’s prize goes to Adam Wazny. If Wazoo hadn’t managed to battle through injury and give us an excellent 45 minutes of soccer we would not have finished with eleven players. It’s all about mental toughness.
Tuesday, July 19 Blumberg #9
CSSC 2 - 0 Transcona Chexx
Early season speculation about whether CSSC founding member Ivan Sabesky was still alive was answered in the positive as he casually wandered over the Blumberg hill to watch his first match of the year. He was understandably preoccupied earlier in the season with the unlikely combination of farming, opening new medical centres, and inventing some sort of high tech pillow for hospitals (or something like that, I’m a bit fuzzy on the specifics).
CSSC’s fitness regimen was put to the test with the temperature reading a solid 35 degrees at game time. Given the oppressive weather conditions, the game was played at a bit of a sluggish pace. However, CSSC certainly carved out the better chances. Before going ahead on a towering Greg Boese header late in the half, CSSC were cursing their luck after striking a post and missing a clear breakaway (nicely done Ian Hudson). The second half offered more of the same. Wazoo missed another breakaway because, according to the striker himself, he “was not looking at the ball.” Swashbuckling defender Mark Hudson failed to connect on some good chances and many a cross was not converted. The game was made safe late when Bobbie Mac turned in another corner from close range. Who knew we were good at set pieces?
Man of the match: According to those who enjoyed a delicious post game beer (and in Rick Penner's case - manly cucumber salad) the award should go to Ian Hudson based solely on the rivers of sweat that were pouring off his jersey at the end of the game. At some point a lecture on the difference between effort and effectiveness might be in order.
Early season speculation about whether CSSC founding member Ivan Sabesky was still alive was answered in the positive as he casually wandered over the Blumberg hill to watch his first match of the year. He was understandably preoccupied earlier in the season with the unlikely combination of farming, opening new medical centres, and inventing some sort of high tech pillow for hospitals (or something like that, I’m a bit fuzzy on the specifics).
CSSC’s fitness regimen was put to the test with the temperature reading a solid 35 degrees at game time. Given the oppressive weather conditions, the game was played at a bit of a sluggish pace. However, CSSC certainly carved out the better chances. Before going ahead on a towering Greg Boese header late in the half, CSSC were cursing their luck after striking a post and missing a clear breakaway (nicely done Ian Hudson). The second half offered more of the same. Wazoo missed another breakaway because, according to the striker himself, he “was not looking at the ball.” Swashbuckling defender Mark Hudson failed to connect on some good chances and many a cross was not converted. The game was made safe late when Bobbie Mac turned in another corner from close range. Who knew we were good at set pieces?
Man of the match: According to those who enjoyed a delicious post game beer (and in Rick Penner's case - manly cucumber salad) the award should go to Ian Hudson based solely on the rivers of sweat that were pouring off his jersey at the end of the game. At some point a lecture on the difference between effort and effectiveness might be in order.
Thursday, July 21 Buhler Park
CSSC 2 - 1 Hanover Sting
It was desperate times for CSSC during the peak vacation/injury season. With Ian Hudson and Colin Kinsella attending the Vancouver nuptials of CSSC alumnus Ken Kratschmar, Andrew Woolford having departed for tango lessons in Buenos Aires, and Mark Hudson wandering off to Minnesota to visit the in-laws, it was a bare 11 that took to the pitch in East Transcona against Hanover. Peyton Veitch, progeny of former CSSC player James Veitch, made an invaluable appearance as a youth guest player. Bruce Sewart, arriving straight off the highway from an extended road trip, provided the following blow-by-blow of the action.
Hanover has improved, and there was a lot of back & forth in the midfield before Peyton put one in the net. Not long after that, a goal mouth scramble resulted in a rebounded clearance going in our net. It looked like we would have to settle for an unsatisfying draw, as we spurned several opportunities. I'm not sure Chris touched the ball more than a couple of times in the second half, so it was a deserved goal when Peyton tucked in a second after another goal mouth scramble. A chance for a third goal was put aside out of modesty, as an unnamed striker skied his shot well over the bar, no doubt deliberately, in the dying minutes of the game.
It was desperate times for CSSC during the peak vacation/injury season. With Ian Hudson and Colin Kinsella attending the Vancouver nuptials of CSSC alumnus Ken Kratschmar, Andrew Woolford having departed for tango lessons in Buenos Aires, and Mark Hudson wandering off to Minnesota to visit the in-laws, it was a bare 11 that took to the pitch in East Transcona against Hanover. Peyton Veitch, progeny of former CSSC player James Veitch, made an invaluable appearance as a youth guest player. Bruce Sewart, arriving straight off the highway from an extended road trip, provided the following blow-by-blow of the action.
Hanover has improved, and there was a lot of back & forth in the midfield before Peyton put one in the net. Not long after that, a goal mouth scramble resulted in a rebounded clearance going in our net. It looked like we would have to settle for an unsatisfying draw, as we spurned several opportunities. I'm not sure Chris touched the ball more than a couple of times in the second half, so it was a deserved goal when Peyton tucked in a second after another goal mouth scramble. A chance for a third goal was put aside out of modesty, as an unnamed striker skied his shot well over the bar, no doubt deliberately, in the dying minutes of the game.
Tuesday, July 26 Blumberg #9
CSSC 0 - 5 Winnipeg Wolves
Matt Dryburgh made a rare sideline appearance to witness a punishing defeat after two wins on the trot. CSSC's shortage of healthy and non-vacationing players combined with some reckless managerial decisions and clinical finishing on the part of top-of-the-table Wolves to produce a sobering scoreline after ninety hard-fought minutes. A second guest appearance from young Peyton Veitch and tireless efforts on the part of Greg Boese, Bobbie MacDonald, and Matt Trendota were not enough to balance the Wolves' superior numbers and quick attack. Apart from a couple of squandered chances in the first half (Mark Hudson being particularly wasteful on that front), CSSC was hemmed into its own half for much of the match, putting the back four under serious pressure. Stef, Teasedale, Sean, Bobbie, and Bruce rose brilliantly to the occasion, fighting doggedly for every ball and conceding only one goal in the first half, while CSSC was unable to put much pressure on the Wolves end. Greg Boese cracked the half's best shot on goal, a deflected drive that forced a solid save from the Wolves' keeper.
The second half started promisingly for CSSC, with some clean passing and good progress up the field producing several quality crosses and pressure on the opposition. However, Wolves snatched a second goal mid-way through the half after a fantastic first-save by Chris Aiken bounced invitingly for a Wolves striker to hit in. Caution to the wind, CSSC pushed an extra man up, leaving 3 at the back. This showed good results at first, but CSSC wilted in the final 15 minutes and Wolves capitalized no fewer than 3 more times before the final whistle. Chris Aiken again made some tremendous first-time saves, only to see the ball drop for a marauding and unmarked Wolves attacker.
Man of the Match: There were some heroic performances on the pitch by the besieged CSSC lineup, any one of which was a contender for Man of the match. Aiken's acrobatics in front of goal, Greg Boese's solid domination of the central midfield, Sean Brown's stalwart defending and lightning quick counter-attacks (not to mention taking a blistering clearance at short range full in the old frank and/or beans) all inspired the flagging Crescentwood side. However, the consensus among those loitering on the sidelines post-game was that the honour goes to Bobbie MacDonald for a second time this season. He performed equally well at his usual left-back position, consistently thwarting the Wolves attack and covering for the slothful Mark Hudson, and combining fantastically well with Boese at the centre-mid position in the second half to produce the only real attacking threat to be seen.
Matt Dryburgh made a rare sideline appearance to witness a punishing defeat after two wins on the trot. CSSC's shortage of healthy and non-vacationing players combined with some reckless managerial decisions and clinical finishing on the part of top-of-the-table Wolves to produce a sobering scoreline after ninety hard-fought minutes. A second guest appearance from young Peyton Veitch and tireless efforts on the part of Greg Boese, Bobbie MacDonald, and Matt Trendota were not enough to balance the Wolves' superior numbers and quick attack. Apart from a couple of squandered chances in the first half (Mark Hudson being particularly wasteful on that front), CSSC was hemmed into its own half for much of the match, putting the back four under serious pressure. Stef, Teasedale, Sean, Bobbie, and Bruce rose brilliantly to the occasion, fighting doggedly for every ball and conceding only one goal in the first half, while CSSC was unable to put much pressure on the Wolves end. Greg Boese cracked the half's best shot on goal, a deflected drive that forced a solid save from the Wolves' keeper.
The second half started promisingly for CSSC, with some clean passing and good progress up the field producing several quality crosses and pressure on the opposition. However, Wolves snatched a second goal mid-way through the half after a fantastic first-save by Chris Aiken bounced invitingly for a Wolves striker to hit in. Caution to the wind, CSSC pushed an extra man up, leaving 3 at the back. This showed good results at first, but CSSC wilted in the final 15 minutes and Wolves capitalized no fewer than 3 more times before the final whistle. Chris Aiken again made some tremendous first-time saves, only to see the ball drop for a marauding and unmarked Wolves attacker.
Man of the Match: There were some heroic performances on the pitch by the besieged CSSC lineup, any one of which was a contender for Man of the match. Aiken's acrobatics in front of goal, Greg Boese's solid domination of the central midfield, Sean Brown's stalwart defending and lightning quick counter-attacks (not to mention taking a blistering clearance at short range full in the old frank and/or beans) all inspired the flagging Crescentwood side. However, the consensus among those loitering on the sidelines post-game was that the honour goes to Bobbie MacDonald for a second time this season. He performed equally well at his usual left-back position, consistently thwarting the Wolves attack and covering for the slothful Mark Hudson, and combining fantastically well with Boese at the centre-mid position in the second half to produce the only real attacking threat to be seen.
Tuesday August 2 Blumberg #10
CSSC 3 – 2 Inter Milan
It was a genuine tale of two halves. In the first half, CSSC’s offense actually woke up from its Snow White like slumber and went into the break 3-0 ahead. The first came off some nice team passing that resulted on new striker Bobbie Mac getting the ball at the top of the box and laying it off to Ian Hudson who fired a low right footed drive past a goal keeper who was stuck on the wrong post. The second came on a tap in after the keeper couldn’t claim a sky high Stef Fischer free kick and the third when Peyton Veitch laid the ball across the top of the 18 for Ian to one time his third of the half into the top corner. It could have been more. Ian missed a sitter off a lovely set play, Wazoo couldn’t bundle a corner over the line from a couple feet out and the post is probably still rocking from a Bobbie Mac blast. The most noteworthy defensive stand was when Teasdale nonchalantly flicked the ball off our goal line to safety.
The second half was all Inter. Their big number 12 notched two goals - one on a long range swerver and the second on a rebound from close range. In what was a back to the wall second half, Wazoo worked his socks off and Aiken made some amazing saves. The same might not be said of the usually rock solid S. Brown, who had to retreat to the side lines for a couple of breathers. It was later revealed that his light headedness was probably due to an ill-advised diet so that he can look good for the ladies while lounging poolside in Vegas.
A special thanks to our largest fan turnout of the season, one of whom was waving a gigantic inflatable "we’re number one" finger for that festival atmosphere. N. Zifarelli also inspired the troops with a more family friendly version of the tried and tested managerial technique of yelling at people (warning contains the phrase Bertie Big Bollucks and stronger language).
Man of the Match: Usually scoring a natural hat trick in the first half would get you the award but no one can deny that Aiken’s string of second half saves won the game. His stunning double save from point blank range is being played on highlight reels around the country.
It was a genuine tale of two halves. In the first half, CSSC’s offense actually woke up from its Snow White like slumber and went into the break 3-0 ahead. The first came off some nice team passing that resulted on new striker Bobbie Mac getting the ball at the top of the box and laying it off to Ian Hudson who fired a low right footed drive past a goal keeper who was stuck on the wrong post. The second came on a tap in after the keeper couldn’t claim a sky high Stef Fischer free kick and the third when Peyton Veitch laid the ball across the top of the 18 for Ian to one time his third of the half into the top corner. It could have been more. Ian missed a sitter off a lovely set play, Wazoo couldn’t bundle a corner over the line from a couple feet out and the post is probably still rocking from a Bobbie Mac blast. The most noteworthy defensive stand was when Teasdale nonchalantly flicked the ball off our goal line to safety.
The second half was all Inter. Their big number 12 notched two goals - one on a long range swerver and the second on a rebound from close range. In what was a back to the wall second half, Wazoo worked his socks off and Aiken made some amazing saves. The same might not be said of the usually rock solid S. Brown, who had to retreat to the side lines for a couple of breathers. It was later revealed that his light headedness was probably due to an ill-advised diet so that he can look good for the ladies while lounging poolside in Vegas.
A special thanks to our largest fan turnout of the season, one of whom was waving a gigantic inflatable "we’re number one" finger for that festival atmosphere. N. Zifarelli also inspired the troops with a more family friendly version of the tried and tested managerial technique of yelling at people (warning contains the phrase Bertie Big Bollucks and stronger language).
Man of the Match: Usually scoring a natural hat trick in the first half would get you the award but no one can deny that Aiken’s string of second half saves won the game. His stunning double save from point blank range is being played on highlight reels around the country.
Friday Augsust 5 Vince Leah President's Cup
CSSC 4 – 0 Hanover
Mid-summer Friday night games are always a low turnout fixture and the fact that this was a President’s cup quarter final didn’t change that fact. It was the ten of CSSC against the nine of Hanover but the reasons for absence were very different. While CSSC players were leisuring it up surfing in Costa Rica (Kun) and sampling the night life in Buenos Aires (Woolford), Hanover’s missing players were trying to feed the country with some late night tilling of the soil.
It was a fairly straightforward win in the end, but it for the first 30 minutes there was some growing anxiety due to a string of glorious missed chances, the most comical of which involved a crossbar, a post and two goal line clearances. But then veteran Mike Davies came in off the wing and lashed home an unstoppable one time drive off the far post to settle the nerves. After that Bobbie Mac and Greg Boese slotted home identical breakaway goals and Stef volleyed home a close range rocket after a bit of back and forth across the Hanover box. Off to the semis against Landmark.
Man of the Match: It should really go to the whole Hanover team who really put in a solid shift despite being down a man, especially the tireless number 12, but let’s go for the man who got the goal scoring ball rolling, Mike Davies. Here's French soccer superstar Eric Cantona doing his best Mike Davies impersonation with a rare combination of insightful and incomprehensible.
Mid-summer Friday night games are always a low turnout fixture and the fact that this was a President’s cup quarter final didn’t change that fact. It was the ten of CSSC against the nine of Hanover but the reasons for absence were very different. While CSSC players were leisuring it up surfing in Costa Rica (Kun) and sampling the night life in Buenos Aires (Woolford), Hanover’s missing players were trying to feed the country with some late night tilling of the soil.
It was a fairly straightforward win in the end, but it for the first 30 minutes there was some growing anxiety due to a string of glorious missed chances, the most comical of which involved a crossbar, a post and two goal line clearances. But then veteran Mike Davies came in off the wing and lashed home an unstoppable one time drive off the far post to settle the nerves. After that Bobbie Mac and Greg Boese slotted home identical breakaway goals and Stef volleyed home a close range rocket after a bit of back and forth across the Hanover box. Off to the semis against Landmark.
Man of the Match: It should really go to the whole Hanover team who really put in a solid shift despite being down a man, especially the tireless number 12, but let’s go for the man who got the goal scoring ball rolling, Mike Davies. Here's French soccer superstar Eric Cantona doing his best Mike Davies impersonation with a rare combination of insightful and incomprehensible.
Friday August 12 Winnipeg Soccer Complex #1
CSSC 0 – 5 Elmwood
The unfortunate score line was a poor welcome back to long lost Matt Loxley, returned after two months of raiding along the Pacific coast. He seems to have captured a wide variety of brightly coloured headbands and larger shoulders on his travels.
It all started out so well for CSSC. M. Loxley showed excellent control and movement up front, teeing up young Peyton Veitch for an early breakaway that he couldn’t quite put away. It all came apart when M. Hudson was forced off with a hamstring injury leaving us short numbers and speed at the back. Despite some good midfield play by Edgar, Matt T. and Kun, Elmwood were ruthless on the break scoring four goals on breakaways.
Man of the Match: Andrew Woolford had a strong game, especially since he existed on a diet that reportedly featured nothing but churros and carne for the two weeks he was in Argentina. However, Matt Loxley performed heroics in his first game back at both striker and centre midfield.
The unfortunate score line was a poor welcome back to long lost Matt Loxley, returned after two months of raiding along the Pacific coast. He seems to have captured a wide variety of brightly coloured headbands and larger shoulders on his travels.
It all started out so well for CSSC. M. Loxley showed excellent control and movement up front, teeing up young Peyton Veitch for an early breakaway that he couldn’t quite put away. It all came apart when M. Hudson was forced off with a hamstring injury leaving us short numbers and speed at the back. Despite some good midfield play by Edgar, Matt T. and Kun, Elmwood were ruthless on the break scoring four goals on breakaways.
Man of the Match: Andrew Woolford had a strong game, especially since he existed on a diet that reportedly featured nothing but churros and carne for the two weeks he was in Argentina. However, Matt Loxley performed heroics in his first game back at both striker and centre midfield.
Sunday August 14 Buhler Park #3 President's Cup Semi Final
Landmark 3 – 4 CSSC
The CSSC vacationers continued to return with Ali and M. Meuwese coming back after long absences for this big President’s Cup semi final. Our usual travelling band of six stalwart fans was joined by hordes of fair weather spectators eager to see if CSSC could progress against yet another opponent from Manitoba's bread basket on a lovely August evening.
CSSC played some fine flowing soccer in the first half but were only rewarded with a single goal to show for their dominance in possession when Bobbie Mac smacked in a rebound after Ali had been stopped from close range. The second half featured goals a-plenty. For CSSC, Greg Boese went on a one man rampage slamming three goals in, none of which were of the scruffy variety. That should have made the game a bit of a stroll but CSSC’s dodgy stand in keeper let in one YouTube worthy howler, allowing a lazy floating cross to slip through his buttery fingers, and Landmark got two more on fast breaks, keeping the fans ringing Buhler #3 too fixed on the game to start that wretched Mexican wave.
Man of the Match: It was a very strong outfield performance. Bobbie Mac has added some much needed speed up front, Wazoo was dynamite as the holding forward, Matt Tendota has turned into a 90 minute work horse at right mid and Andrew Woolford is developing a very nice passing game to go with his tenacious defense. Still, three goals in a half always (well, almost always) guarantees man of the match honours.
The CSSC vacationers continued to return with Ali and M. Meuwese coming back after long absences for this big President’s Cup semi final. Our usual travelling band of six stalwart fans was joined by hordes of fair weather spectators eager to see if CSSC could progress against yet another opponent from Manitoba's bread basket on a lovely August evening.
CSSC played some fine flowing soccer in the first half but were only rewarded with a single goal to show for their dominance in possession when Bobbie Mac smacked in a rebound after Ali had been stopped from close range. The second half featured goals a-plenty. For CSSC, Greg Boese went on a one man rampage slamming three goals in, none of which were of the scruffy variety. That should have made the game a bit of a stroll but CSSC’s dodgy stand in keeper let in one YouTube worthy howler, allowing a lazy floating cross to slip through his buttery fingers, and Landmark got two more on fast breaks, keeping the fans ringing Buhler #3 too fixed on the game to start that wretched Mexican wave.
Man of the Match: It was a very strong outfield performance. Bobbie Mac has added some much needed speed up front, Wazoo was dynamite as the holding forward, Matt Tendota has turned into a 90 minute work horse at right mid and Andrew Woolford is developing a very nice passing game to go with his tenacious defense. Still, three goals in a half always (well, almost always) guarantees man of the match honours.
Friday August 19 Winnipeg Soccer Complex
Windsor United 1 - 4 CSSC
Pete Hudson was rooting for a big birthday win and the lads delivered in style. An unusual six subs meant that there was little danger of flagging at the end of the game despite the continued absence of a few key players due to injury.
The first half was all CSSC as the back four shut down the speedy Windsor forwards and Matt Loxley was pulling the strings in center mid. Kinsella beat the Windsor keeper to a loose ball and laid it back to Wazoo to fire a left footer into the open net for the first. Nabil slotted home a rebound after Wazoo was thwarted on a breakaway for the second.
Any momentary nerves that might have crept in when Windsor pulled a goal back were quickly put to rest when Sean Brown slid a through ball to the streaking Bobbie Mac, who outpaced three defenders and slotted home. Nabil made it four with a low volley that went right through the keeper's legs.
The game was pretty much coasting to an easy conclusion when Mr Blue Shorts on Windsor decided that he was going to get no joy out of the CSSC defence and so started take up wrestling, WWE style. His flying elbow at Woolford's head will not appear on too many fair play videos. Their gangly bean bole then decided that Wazoo had done enough damage for the night and tried to break a rib or two. They didn't really threaten to get back in the game though. A convincing victory against a top fo the table team by a CSSC squad that is still a little below full strength.
Man of the Match: Nabil put in a classy display up front and two goals is a job well done for any striker, but Wazoo gets the award for a goal, an assist and manfuly struggling off the field after getting creamed in true NFL receiver style.
Pete Hudson was rooting for a big birthday win and the lads delivered in style. An unusual six subs meant that there was little danger of flagging at the end of the game despite the continued absence of a few key players due to injury.
The first half was all CSSC as the back four shut down the speedy Windsor forwards and Matt Loxley was pulling the strings in center mid. Kinsella beat the Windsor keeper to a loose ball and laid it back to Wazoo to fire a left footer into the open net for the first. Nabil slotted home a rebound after Wazoo was thwarted on a breakaway for the second.
Any momentary nerves that might have crept in when Windsor pulled a goal back were quickly put to rest when Sean Brown slid a through ball to the streaking Bobbie Mac, who outpaced three defenders and slotted home. Nabil made it four with a low volley that went right through the keeper's legs.
The game was pretty much coasting to an easy conclusion when Mr Blue Shorts on Windsor decided that he was going to get no joy out of the CSSC defence and so started take up wrestling, WWE style. His flying elbow at Woolford's head will not appear on too many fair play videos. Their gangly bean bole then decided that Wazoo had done enough damage for the night and tried to break a rib or two. They didn't really threaten to get back in the game though. A convincing victory against a top fo the table team by a CSSC squad that is still a little below full strength.
Man of the Match: Nabil put in a classy display up front and two goals is a job well done for any striker, but Wazoo gets the award for a goal, an assist and manfuly struggling off the field after getting creamed in true NFL receiver style.
Tuesday August 23 Buhler Park
CSSC 2 - 0 Chexx
It is becoming clear that Buhler Park is to hurricanes what Bangladesh is to floods. Even by the blustery standards of Transcona, the wind was blowing at worrying clip. "Ball on the deck" was the pre game message.
The firm field and Tatooine-like conditions made for a very scrappy game in which forwards had to feed off morsels lumped up to them sporadically when the ball popped out of the midfield battle. The only real moment of alarm for either team in the first half was when their keeper somehow managed to scoop an optimistic trickler up and onto his own crossbar. He was wearing a pink jersey.
If possible, the wind increased in the second half and shifted so that it was right into the teeth of a disappointed CSSC. As a result they were pinned back for most of the half but Chexx couldn't really threaten either thanks to CSSC's increasingly solid back line. With the game looking like it was going to end in a dull stalemate, CSSC managed to put together a moment of genuine class. Three quick passes worked the ball the length of the field for Nic Ziff, who slid one more perfect pass through the Chexx back line for Greg Boese to fire home clinically into the far corner from a tight angle. Just to prove he needs no help from his team mates, Greg then latched on to a massive punt by Chris Aiken to outpace the last defender, stay on his feet after being fouled and slot past the keeper. That's why he's a game changer.
Man of the match: Scoring two goals in a 2-0 victory is all well and good, but Colin Kinsella was the only CSSC player to get the ball on the deck all game. His considered passing made a nice change from the hopeful punts upfield. And he rescued a little girl's colouring book as it was blowing away into the trees. During the game. While he was supposed to be playing. Just to prove nice guys sometimes finish first CK gets man of the match and a complimentary Green Day T-shirt.
It is becoming clear that Buhler Park is to hurricanes what Bangladesh is to floods. Even by the blustery standards of Transcona, the wind was blowing at worrying clip. "Ball on the deck" was the pre game message.
The firm field and Tatooine-like conditions made for a very scrappy game in which forwards had to feed off morsels lumped up to them sporadically when the ball popped out of the midfield battle. The only real moment of alarm for either team in the first half was when their keeper somehow managed to scoop an optimistic trickler up and onto his own crossbar. He was wearing a pink jersey.
If possible, the wind increased in the second half and shifted so that it was right into the teeth of a disappointed CSSC. As a result they were pinned back for most of the half but Chexx couldn't really threaten either thanks to CSSC's increasingly solid back line. With the game looking like it was going to end in a dull stalemate, CSSC managed to put together a moment of genuine class. Three quick passes worked the ball the length of the field for Nic Ziff, who slid one more perfect pass through the Chexx back line for Greg Boese to fire home clinically into the far corner from a tight angle. Just to prove he needs no help from his team mates, Greg then latched on to a massive punt by Chris Aiken to outpace the last defender, stay on his feet after being fouled and slot past the keeper. That's why he's a game changer.
Man of the match: Scoring two goals in a 2-0 victory is all well and good, but Colin Kinsella was the only CSSC player to get the ball on the deck all game. His considered passing made a nice change from the hopeful punts upfield. And he rescued a little girl's colouring book as it was blowing away into the trees. During the game. While he was supposed to be playing. Just to prove nice guys sometimes finish first CK gets man of the match and a complimentary Green Day T-shirt.
Sunday, August 28 Winnipeg Soccer Complex, President's Cup Final
Inter-Milan 2 - 0 CSSC
CSSC fans came out in force to the Big Match with high hopes of seeing some silverware finally delivered to the club. They trudged from the Waverly Complex with heads held low, as CSSC put in a frustrating afternoon of unforced giveaways, stray passes, and a general inability to string together any sustained possession of coherent attacking. The opposition, Inter Milan, started with 9 men, but stacked them all behind centre and were soon up to full strength as some stragglers rolled in and hastily changed on the sidelines. Crescentwood failed to capitalize on the early opportunity, and paid for it after 90 minutes.
Greg Boese was unlucky to have a couple of potential breakaways foiled, as the Inter Milan defenders stripped him of the ball from behind, Matt Loxley volleyed a waist-high cross wide of the post, Ian Hudson had a couple of shots cleared off the line or saw them drift just past the post, and Mark Hudson cannoned one from 20 yards about 40 yards over the bar. With all those chances squandered and about 12 minutes remaining in regular time, a cross from the Inter Milan left wing lofted over Mark Hudson’s head and was met by their lone striker in the box to notch home the opener. It was a decent goal, but worth mentioning that the attacker propelled himself upward entirely by pushing off of defender Andrew Woolford’s back, illegally thwarting any possible challenge.
Crescentwood pushed back in earnest, but an errant goal kick with 5 minutes remaining landed at the feet of Inter Milan’s goal scorer, and he cracked a vicious shot low to the far post from 25 yards. CSSC’s President’s Cup hopes crashed as the net bulged just beyond Chris Aiken’s stretching fingers.
Man of the Match: That tall, skinny guy with the short hair and the West Ham jersey who notched home both Inter Milan goals. Not only did he account for every goal of the game, but he gave the CSSC back line a good deal of worry the entire time he was on the pitch.
This week's photos courtesy of amateur sports photographer Peter Hudson. Thanks, Pete. The action speaks for itself, so no editorial captions this week.
CSSC fans came out in force to the Big Match with high hopes of seeing some silverware finally delivered to the club. They trudged from the Waverly Complex with heads held low, as CSSC put in a frustrating afternoon of unforced giveaways, stray passes, and a general inability to string together any sustained possession of coherent attacking. The opposition, Inter Milan, started with 9 men, but stacked them all behind centre and were soon up to full strength as some stragglers rolled in and hastily changed on the sidelines. Crescentwood failed to capitalize on the early opportunity, and paid for it after 90 minutes.
Greg Boese was unlucky to have a couple of potential breakaways foiled, as the Inter Milan defenders stripped him of the ball from behind, Matt Loxley volleyed a waist-high cross wide of the post, Ian Hudson had a couple of shots cleared off the line or saw them drift just past the post, and Mark Hudson cannoned one from 20 yards about 40 yards over the bar. With all those chances squandered and about 12 minutes remaining in regular time, a cross from the Inter Milan left wing lofted over Mark Hudson’s head and was met by their lone striker in the box to notch home the opener. It was a decent goal, but worth mentioning that the attacker propelled himself upward entirely by pushing off of defender Andrew Woolford’s back, illegally thwarting any possible challenge.
Crescentwood pushed back in earnest, but an errant goal kick with 5 minutes remaining landed at the feet of Inter Milan’s goal scorer, and he cracked a vicious shot low to the far post from 25 yards. CSSC’s President’s Cup hopes crashed as the net bulged just beyond Chris Aiken’s stretching fingers.
Man of the Match: That tall, skinny guy with the short hair and the West Ham jersey who notched home both Inter Milan goals. Not only did he account for every goal of the game, but he gave the CSSC back line a good deal of worry the entire time he was on the pitch.
This week's photos courtesy of amateur sports photographer Peter Hudson. Thanks, Pete. The action speaks for itself, so no editorial captions this week.
Tuesday, August 30, Buhler Park
Wolves 3 – 0 CSSC
The goal drought rolls on as CSSC failed to convert on a number of promising chances versus top-of-the-table Wolves. CSSC’s casual approach to kickoff time meant a 9-man starting lineup as Nick Ziff, Greg Boese, and Sean Brown were still ambling from the parking lot to the sidelines when the starting whistle blew. Combined with a lack of organization on the part of the coaching staff, the depleted side left a number of gaping holes in the CSSC defense, which were soon exploited by the ruthless Wolves attackers. It was 1-0 within the first three minutes as the Wolves midfield poured forward largely unobstructed, played the ball through the oncoming CSSC back line, and their winger tapped in from 6 yards.
Buhler Park’s consistently high winds meant that CSSC had to keep the ball on the pitch for the first half, resulting in some of the most attractive football the team has shown for some time. Neat one- and two-touch passing up both wings, and working through a largely unmarked central midfield, CSSC possessed the ball and advanced upfield in Arsenal-like fashion, but with less ridiculous hairstyling. Sadly, we finished in Arsenal-like fashion as well, and great chances from crosses and breakaways went begging. Wolves, on the other hand, doubled their margin before the half by scoring, though for the life of me I can’t remember how, exactly. It was likely the author’s fault, since he seems to have suppressed the memory. A third goal came very late in the game as the CSSC back four pressed forward in pursuit of a goal. A cutting pass to a blatantly offside striker left him well positioned to slot home the final goal. All in all, however, despite the scoreline, this was one of CSSC’s best-played games of the season in terms of ball control and passing. A Cinderella playoff run is looking likely.
Man of the Match: Dutch colonial history expert Mark Meuwese put in a stalwart performance in the back four, marking tenaciously and adjusting in fluid style from a wing-back to a center-back position, and then back again. His dogged defending and pitch-perfect slide tackles win him MoM honours, and a complementary copy of something he's probably already read.
This week's photos (below) courtesy Eli Robinson.
The goal drought rolls on as CSSC failed to convert on a number of promising chances versus top-of-the-table Wolves. CSSC’s casual approach to kickoff time meant a 9-man starting lineup as Nick Ziff, Greg Boese, and Sean Brown were still ambling from the parking lot to the sidelines when the starting whistle blew. Combined with a lack of organization on the part of the coaching staff, the depleted side left a number of gaping holes in the CSSC defense, which were soon exploited by the ruthless Wolves attackers. It was 1-0 within the first three minutes as the Wolves midfield poured forward largely unobstructed, played the ball through the oncoming CSSC back line, and their winger tapped in from 6 yards.
Buhler Park’s consistently high winds meant that CSSC had to keep the ball on the pitch for the first half, resulting in some of the most attractive football the team has shown for some time. Neat one- and two-touch passing up both wings, and working through a largely unmarked central midfield, CSSC possessed the ball and advanced upfield in Arsenal-like fashion, but with less ridiculous hairstyling. Sadly, we finished in Arsenal-like fashion as well, and great chances from crosses and breakaways went begging. Wolves, on the other hand, doubled their margin before the half by scoring, though for the life of me I can’t remember how, exactly. It was likely the author’s fault, since he seems to have suppressed the memory. A third goal came very late in the game as the CSSC back four pressed forward in pursuit of a goal. A cutting pass to a blatantly offside striker left him well positioned to slot home the final goal. All in all, however, despite the scoreline, this was one of CSSC’s best-played games of the season in terms of ball control and passing. A Cinderella playoff run is looking likely.
Man of the Match: Dutch colonial history expert Mark Meuwese put in a stalwart performance in the back four, marking tenaciously and adjusting in fluid style from a wing-back to a center-back position, and then back again. His dogged defending and pitch-perfect slide tackles win him MoM honours, and a complementary copy of something he's probably already read.
This week's photos (below) courtesy Eli Robinson.
Wednesday September 14, WSC #2 WSL Quarter final
Azzurri 2 - 1 CSSC (4-2 on penalties)
Summer seemed a long way away on a chilly night game under the lights. Courtesy of our wildcard #2 placing in the standings, we faced runaway division B champions Azzurri. There was a definite buzz surrounding the CSSC bench as we had an unprecedented nine subs. To add to the playoff atmosphere a long list of one time CSSC players gathered around the bench until the stickler referee got all officious and sent them to the stands.
The only problem with the first half was that we couldn't score more goals. Ali turned in a far post corner to send us in one up but he missed another identical chance a couple of minutes later. He was not alone in having trouble finding the back of the net. Nabil drilled a close range effort off the keeper's legs and Matt Trendota hammered a tough volley just wide. At the other end Azzurri's best chance came on a dangerous low free kick that Aiken did well to turn out for a corner. So far so good.
The second half got off to a regrettable start when one of their defenders went down under a strong challenge from Mr. Clean and all around pillar of the community Bobbie Mac. Unfortunately, the Azzurri player's head hit the ground hard enough to cause a concussion, which wouldn't have looked so bad if he hadn't bravely tried to walk off the field and collapsed on the half way line. A half hour later he departed in an ambulence to general applause and well wishes from all. An extended bit of standing about in the now freezing temperatures didn't do the creaking knees of CSSC any favours. Azzurri tied the game up on a lightening counter that resulted in a close range tap in off a good low cross while CSSC defenders were still trying to avoid pulling their hamstrings. Chances were few and far between after that. Off to overtime.
The 30 minute overtime saw few real chances. Azzurri had one low drive well saved by Aiken, who managed to smother the rebound at the feet of an onrushing forward but that was about it. Until the very dying seconds when Matt Loxley, who had been having an absolute stormer in midfield, pickup the ball thirty yards out and floated a shot over the keeper but on to the crossbar. The ever industrious Wazoo was the only player with the presence of mind to follow in but the combination of a high bounce and the tremendous excitement of having the winning goal sitting on your foot four yards out from goal was all too much and the shot was scuffed. Off to penalties.
Someone had been practicing their penalties and it wasn't CSSC. Azzurri blasted all four right in the corner while only Stef and Edgar responded with rockets for CSSC. Cue much yelling and hugging from the Azzurri. Kids! Not even the delicious pizza and beer at the Orbit room could wash away the bitter taste of defeat.
Man of the Match: Matt Loxley has looked great this year and he played an all action masterpiece in mid. If his shot had dropped under the bar he would have been a shoe in. However, the man that scored 100% of our goals on the night, Ali Chioua, gets the award for the kind of calm finishing and "act like you've been there" goal celebration that we could all learn from. Accomplished chef Ali's reward for his goal scoring exploits is a trip to Swiss Chalet where he can indulge in his love for chicken on a bun. It's an inside joke but Pete Hudson's laughing his head off.
Summer seemed a long way away on a chilly night game under the lights. Courtesy of our wildcard #2 placing in the standings, we faced runaway division B champions Azzurri. There was a definite buzz surrounding the CSSC bench as we had an unprecedented nine subs. To add to the playoff atmosphere a long list of one time CSSC players gathered around the bench until the stickler referee got all officious and sent them to the stands.
The only problem with the first half was that we couldn't score more goals. Ali turned in a far post corner to send us in one up but he missed another identical chance a couple of minutes later. He was not alone in having trouble finding the back of the net. Nabil drilled a close range effort off the keeper's legs and Matt Trendota hammered a tough volley just wide. At the other end Azzurri's best chance came on a dangerous low free kick that Aiken did well to turn out for a corner. So far so good.
The second half got off to a regrettable start when one of their defenders went down under a strong challenge from Mr. Clean and all around pillar of the community Bobbie Mac. Unfortunately, the Azzurri player's head hit the ground hard enough to cause a concussion, which wouldn't have looked so bad if he hadn't bravely tried to walk off the field and collapsed on the half way line. A half hour later he departed in an ambulence to general applause and well wishes from all. An extended bit of standing about in the now freezing temperatures didn't do the creaking knees of CSSC any favours. Azzurri tied the game up on a lightening counter that resulted in a close range tap in off a good low cross while CSSC defenders were still trying to avoid pulling their hamstrings. Chances were few and far between after that. Off to overtime.
The 30 minute overtime saw few real chances. Azzurri had one low drive well saved by Aiken, who managed to smother the rebound at the feet of an onrushing forward but that was about it. Until the very dying seconds when Matt Loxley, who had been having an absolute stormer in midfield, pickup the ball thirty yards out and floated a shot over the keeper but on to the crossbar. The ever industrious Wazoo was the only player with the presence of mind to follow in but the combination of a high bounce and the tremendous excitement of having the winning goal sitting on your foot four yards out from goal was all too much and the shot was scuffed. Off to penalties.
Someone had been practicing their penalties and it wasn't CSSC. Azzurri blasted all four right in the corner while only Stef and Edgar responded with rockets for CSSC. Cue much yelling and hugging from the Azzurri. Kids! Not even the delicious pizza and beer at the Orbit room could wash away the bitter taste of defeat.
Man of the Match: Matt Loxley has looked great this year and he played an all action masterpiece in mid. If his shot had dropped under the bar he would have been a shoe in. However, the man that scored 100% of our goals on the night, Ali Chioua, gets the award for the kind of calm finishing and "act like you've been there" goal celebration that we could all learn from. Accomplished chef Ali's reward for his goal scoring exploits is a trip to Swiss Chalet where he can indulge in his love for chicken on a bun. It's an inside joke but Pete Hudson's laughing his head off.