Valley View Pre-Season Tournament
Coaches Commentary
For the first real soccer action this pre-season, I was very pleased with our overall effort and performance, especially since we fielded so many freshmen. The highlights of these four games were the overall effort, the flexibility of players as they were tested in many different positions, and our shooting accuracy and strength. We ended up scoring 14 goals and surrendering just 5.
The only things we really need to work on are the things that would seem obvious our first time out with so many young girls and new faces. We need to work on our spacing and communication, as well as our short quick passes and changing of the field.
Overall, this was a very positive step forward and I feel is very encouraging.
Scoring goals for the lady arrows were Brittany Wilson, Cassie Crawford, Sidney Brown, Cindy Terry, Jessica Simpson, Mackenzie Steele, Kaitlyn Ketring, Courtney Case, and DJ Terry. I hope I didn’t forget anyone!
Coaches Commentary
For the first real soccer action this pre-season, I was very pleased with our overall effort and performance, especially since we fielded so many freshmen. The highlights of these four games were the overall effort, the flexibility of players as they were tested in many different positions, and our shooting accuracy and strength. We ended up scoring 14 goals and surrendering just 5.
The only things we really need to work on are the things that would seem obvious our first time out with so many young girls and new faces. We need to work on our spacing and communication, as well as our short quick passes and changing of the field.
Overall, this was a very positive step forward and I feel is very encouraging.
Scoring goals for the lady arrows were Brittany Wilson, Cassie Crawford, Sidney Brown, Cindy Terry, Jessica Simpson, Mackenzie Steele, Kaitlyn Ketring, Courtney Case, and DJ Terry. I hope I didn’t forget anyone!
Greenville Pre-Season Tournament
Coaches Commentary
We finished 2-1-1, beating Northridge & Greenville, tying Urbana, and losing to Anna. We scored a total of 10 goals and only gave up 3.
We are slowly finding homes for all of our players but several starting jobs are still up for grabs. This is an interesting problem I have never had to deal with in Shawnee history. The good news is that this means we can field eleven strong players and have quality subs off the bench. The areas we need to work on are establishing dominance on the 50/50 ball and closing the gap between our forwards and everyone else on the field. This doesn't concern me too much because by game one last year we had solved the exact same pre-season problems. We still have scrimmages left with Greenville and Valley View to correct these minor problems. Somehow, in this little tournament the best team did not make the final game - weird how that happens sometimes, but better now than once the season starts.
Scoring today for the arrows were Kaitlyn Ketring, Cassie Crawford, Taylor Fultz, Mackenzie Steele, Jessica Simpson, Brittany Wilson, and Cindy Terry.
Coaches Commentary
We finished 2-1-1, beating Northridge & Greenville, tying Urbana, and losing to Anna. We scored a total of 10 goals and only gave up 3.
We are slowly finding homes for all of our players but several starting jobs are still up for grabs. This is an interesting problem I have never had to deal with in Shawnee history. The good news is that this means we can field eleven strong players and have quality subs off the bench. The areas we need to work on are establishing dominance on the 50/50 ball and closing the gap between our forwards and everyone else on the field. This doesn't concern me too much because by game one last year we had solved the exact same pre-season problems. We still have scrimmages left with Greenville and Valley View to correct these minor problems. Somehow, in this little tournament the best team did not make the final game - weird how that happens sometimes, but better now than once the season starts.
Scoring today for the arrows were Kaitlyn Ketring, Cassie Crawford, Taylor Fultz, Mackenzie Steele, Jessica Simpson, Brittany Wilson, and Cindy Terry.
Greenville Scrimmage
Coaches Commentary
We controlled about 60 minutes of the 80 minute game in large part due to the superior passing and ball control of our midfielders starting most often with well played balls by Cindy Terry. A concern going into the season was how the defense would shape up after moving Courtney Case out of the back and moving Molly Hunt back at sweeper. Both girls played well (and improved since last week) in their new positions. Along with the experienced defenders from last year, I must give a big kudos to two new faces in the back who both played incredibly well in their first real season-like games - nice games Courtney L. and Stephanie!
Also, in the last tourney I was concerned with "closing the gap" between our forwards and everyone else on the field. Much better today, but we could still use a little more work here. Good 2-1 win all around. And, no, Jessica didn't lose her starting job but Sidney Brown moved up the ladder after playing very well for her first time at inside midfield.
Scoring for the arrows were Kaitlyn 'The Cannon' Ketring and Mackenzie Steele (Assisted by Taylor Fultz).
Valley View Scrimmage
First of all, I was very impressed with the Valley View team. They were very solid and would certainly compete with the best our league has to offer. We lost the game 1-2, but we should happily accept the fact now that we have proven we can compete with everyone on our schedule. We can no longer use the excuse that "Wow, that team was just that much better than us." It looks to be an exciting year for the lady arrows of Preble Shawnee.
We played well, proving that the use of a marking back can limit the other team's offense. That is nice to know, but our offense severely sputters when we go into shutdown mode. So, for the first 20 minutes, the game was pretty boring as we played contently to a 0-0 draw. After switching back to our normal formation, we began to create opportunities for ourselves on offense. Although we were outshot probably 4:1, I felt that each team had equally dangerous opportunities.
The upper classmen really showed what experience against a good team can do for us, as the freshmen looked, for the most part a little rushed by the pressure a good team will put on us this year. It was a great experience for the freshmen to step up and play a quality team like Valley View heading into the season opener with Eaton. Cassie Crawford, one of the anxious freshmen came out in the second half shedding the nerves and played wonderfully, as she assisted the lone goal scored by Taylor Fultz.
We still need to cut down on stretching the field in order to create offense that includes our skilled midfielders and defenders. Overall, a shame to lose, but proof that Preble Shawnee has arrived to compete with some of the best teams around. I can't wait until Tuesday!
We played well, proving that the use of a marking back can limit the other team's offense. That is nice to know, but our offense severely sputters when we go into shutdown mode. So, for the first 20 minutes, the game was pretty boring as we played contently to a 0-0 draw. After switching back to our normal formation, we began to create opportunities for ourselves on offense. Although we were outshot probably 4:1, I felt that each team had equally dangerous opportunities.
The upper classmen really showed what experience against a good team can do for us, as the freshmen looked, for the most part a little rushed by the pressure a good team will put on us this year. It was a great experience for the freshmen to step up and play a quality team like Valley View heading into the season opener with Eaton. Cassie Crawford, one of the anxious freshmen came out in the second half shedding the nerves and played wonderfully, as she assisted the lone goal scored by Taylor Fultz.
We still need to cut down on stretching the field in order to create offense that includes our skilled midfielders and defenders. Overall, a shame to lose, but proof that Preble Shawnee has arrived to compete with some of the best teams around. I can't wait until Tuesday!
Waynesville - Gm. 1
In the first half, we held our own. After 40 minutes the score was 2-0 Waynesville, but we had our fair share of opportunities and I was under the impression it was going to be a challenging game for both teams. We played the way our team should be playing all season - aggressive, patient on offense, and defensively cognizant - and because of that we were honestly competing with one of the best DII teams in the state.
In the second half, Waynesville scored on an unfortunate bounce about 6 or 7 minutes in. The metamorphosis our team underwent at that point was both shocking and unfortunate. We basically stopped everything we were doing right in the first half, and not because Waynesville all of the sudden started playing better, but more so because I think we fell into the same old Shawnee mentality, which is "Waynesville is supposed to beat us". When we figure out that there is no team on our schedule that is "supposed to beat us" we can make the jump from being a decent team to one of greatness. I hope that change in mentality doesn't require an outstanding game's performance like beating Monroe or Madison (I'd take it if it happens...). I want that change to have happened before we play our next game. Shawnee Girls Soccer makes no excuses, we never quit, and we always play 80 plus!
In the second half, Waynesville scored on an unfortunate bounce about 6 or 7 minutes in. The metamorphosis our team underwent at that point was both shocking and unfortunate. We basically stopped everything we were doing right in the first half, and not because Waynesville all of the sudden started playing better, but more so because I think we fell into the same old Shawnee mentality, which is "Waynesville is supposed to beat us". When we figure out that there is no team on our schedule that is "supposed to beat us" we can make the jump from being a decent team to one of greatness. I hope that change in mentality doesn't require an outstanding game's performance like beating Monroe or Madison (I'd take it if it happens...). I want that change to have happened before we play our next game. Shawnee Girls Soccer makes no excuses, we never quit, and we always play 80 plus!
Twin Valley South - Game 2
Well, it was a great bounce back game after the Waynesville loss. I think that the early loss to Waynesville has taught us a valuable lesson that we could have learned no other way - play hard and play smart for an entire game. We did that against Twin Valley South tonight. We dominated the entire game right from the starting whistle. Our team looked very nice moving the ball around and playing possession. We also won the majority of 50/50 balls. By games end we had outshot the Panthers 31-5 and won the game 4-0.
I did think that we need to use our defenders more in the offense once we had possession. When winning back possession we passed well out of the back, but once we had possession and began moving the ball upfield, we basically played 6 v TVS defense. Our goal should be to play offense with all 10 including our back line and sweeper. Also, we talked briefly after the game that when we advance offensively we were missing the "it" pass or "it" run that really made each opportunity truly dangerous. To beat some of the teams on our schedule we must be able to play direct and take advantage of every trip down the field. On the bright side, it was a dominating performance in every aspect of the game - we won most 50/50's, we possessed a ball very nicely, and we shut down a couple of nice players TVS had up front.
Scoring for the arrows were Taylor Fultz (3) and Courtney Case. Picking up assists were Kaitlyn Ketring and Brittany Wilson. Kara Jennings and Cara Paynter combined to record the shutout in goal.
I did think that we need to use our defenders more in the offense once we had possession. When winning back possession we passed well out of the back, but once we had possession and began moving the ball upfield, we basically played 6 v TVS defense. Our goal should be to play offense with all 10 including our back line and sweeper. Also, we talked briefly after the game that when we advance offensively we were missing the "it" pass or "it" run that really made each opportunity truly dangerous. To beat some of the teams on our schedule we must be able to play direct and take advantage of every trip down the field. On the bright side, it was a dominating performance in every aspect of the game - we won most 50/50's, we possessed a ball very nicely, and we shut down a couple of nice players TVS had up front.
Scoring for the arrows were Taylor Fultz (3) and Courtney Case. Picking up assists were Kaitlyn Ketring and Brittany Wilson. Kara Jennings and Cara Paynter combined to record the shutout in goal.
Northridge - Game 3
Tonight was more proof of a Shawnee team capable of imposing their will against an opponent. I knew Northridge was down going into the game and wanted to remain focused on the things we needed to work on that would help us beat a tough Monroe group Wednesday night at Monroe. We were able to get some underclassmen some much needed experience, we were able to work on finding that offensive "it" that was missing in our last win, and we really worked on getting the defensive four in the back involved in our offense. The most impressive thing that I saw that came from a blowout victory was that we did not, for the most part, get selfish offensively. Despite having the advantage in every 1 v 1 situation, we continued to look for the best pass to create opportunity. This bodes well for the future - we were consistently putting the we before the I.
By the end of the half we were comfortably out to a 6-0 margin. Brittany Wilson played about 20 minutes of the 1st half and racked up our first three goals. At halftime I encouraged the girls to really focus on ball control and requested that we only score off crosses and "Bangu" balls (passes off the near post back toward our midfielders, or from shots 25+ yards out. Again this was all with Monroe in mind. We also, because of the score, got a chance to see some girls in different positions that they may need to get used to in the future. After 80 minutes of quality soccer, Shawnee ended up winning 8-0 and improved their record to 2-1. The most impressive thing was that we assisted 6 of the 8 goals, which shows me that we are finding the missing pieces to our elusive "it" on offense. In years past, we have had problems assisting goals in blowout games. We also, especially in the second half, frequently used our back line to change angle of attack and spread Northridge out.
Picking up assists for the Arrows were Taylor Fultz (4), Courtney Case, and Kaitlyn Ketring. The scoring was nicely distributed among Brittany Wilson (3), Makayla Lindon, Cindy Terry, Kaitlyn Ketring, Cassie Crawford, and Courtney Case. Combining for the shutout were Kara Jennings, Cara Paynter, and Courtney Lakes. Overall, a dominating team performance in a game where we actually improved as a team... that is often hard to do in lopsided victories like this one.
By the end of the half we were comfortably out to a 6-0 margin. Brittany Wilson played about 20 minutes of the 1st half and racked up our first three goals. At halftime I encouraged the girls to really focus on ball control and requested that we only score off crosses and "Bangu" balls (passes off the near post back toward our midfielders, or from shots 25+ yards out. Again this was all with Monroe in mind. We also, because of the score, got a chance to see some girls in different positions that they may need to get used to in the future. After 80 minutes of quality soccer, Shawnee ended up winning 8-0 and improved their record to 2-1. The most impressive thing was that we assisted 6 of the 8 goals, which shows me that we are finding the missing pieces to our elusive "it" on offense. In years past, we have had problems assisting goals in blowout games. We also, especially in the second half, frequently used our back line to change angle of attack and spread Northridge out.
Picking up assists for the Arrows were Taylor Fultz (4), Courtney Case, and Kaitlyn Ketring. The scoring was nicely distributed among Brittany Wilson (3), Makayla Lindon, Cindy Terry, Kaitlyn Ketring, Cassie Crawford, and Courtney Case. Combining for the shutout were Kara Jennings, Cara Paynter, and Courtney Lakes. Overall, a dominating team performance in a game where we actually improved as a team... that is often hard to do in lopsided victories like this one.
Monroe - Game 4 (2-1-1)
Well, the proof is here. The work we put in with our two previous games paid off. We have learned from the Waynesville loss that to contend with the best teams around we need to play all 80 minutes and not to take a second of the game for granted. Eighty minutes of hard work and determination earned us a 1-1 tie with one of the perennial powerhouses in southwest Ohio, Division II.
Admittedly, we were outshot by a very good team by about a 6:1 ratio, but no one that night could match our hard work and pure guts. I was very impressed with our defensive efforts tonight, especially. Yes, we were outshot but I feel like we really limited their dangerous opportunities. They earned a lot of corner kicks, all of which we defended suberbly, beating them to the ball in the air and on the ground to disrupt their chances. We marked up very well on the backside against a team that crosses the ball often. Most of their shots were taken at poor angles which is a sign that our defenders contained well and kept them out of the middle of the field. Containment, what a concept!! Overall, our defensive back four (Molly Hunt, Courtney Lakes, Lacey Johnson, and Ashley Evans), which didn't come out all night, played as good a game as I have ever seen them play as a unit. Molly Hunt proved to me, her teammates, and, hopefully, herself that she will be more than capable, if not great, as a first year sweeper in the back. Also, kudos to Kara Jennings for playing a fearless game of keeper tonight. She certainly came up with some very big saves to keep us in the game.
With about 16 minutes to go in the 2nd half with the game tied at zero, a well played ball out of the back by Taylor Fultz led to a breakaway attempt by Brittany Wilson. In the act of shooting, Brittany Wilson was fouled in the box and we were awarded a penalty kick. Cindy Terry stepped up to take the PK and struck it as well as you could and buried it in the upper 90. With their backs against the wall, and as good teams will do, Monroe played the last 15 minutes of the game with a bit of fear and a lot of fire. They scored on a beautifully hit ball from about 25 yards out with about 6 minutes to go. The game ended in a 1-1 tie.
There is a big week next week as we play two league rivals with Madison on Tuesday and Carlisle on Thursday. Hopefully, tonight proved to the Shawnee team and its fans that there is no room for the same old Shawnee excuses. No one on our schedule is so much better than us that we cannot compete with them. No excuses... not anymore.
Admittedly, we were outshot by a very good team by about a 6:1 ratio, but no one that night could match our hard work and pure guts. I was very impressed with our defensive efforts tonight, especially. Yes, we were outshot but I feel like we really limited their dangerous opportunities. They earned a lot of corner kicks, all of which we defended suberbly, beating them to the ball in the air and on the ground to disrupt their chances. We marked up very well on the backside against a team that crosses the ball often. Most of their shots were taken at poor angles which is a sign that our defenders contained well and kept them out of the middle of the field. Containment, what a concept!! Overall, our defensive back four (Molly Hunt, Courtney Lakes, Lacey Johnson, and Ashley Evans), which didn't come out all night, played as good a game as I have ever seen them play as a unit. Molly Hunt proved to me, her teammates, and, hopefully, herself that she will be more than capable, if not great, as a first year sweeper in the back. Also, kudos to Kara Jennings for playing a fearless game of keeper tonight. She certainly came up with some very big saves to keep us in the game.
With about 16 minutes to go in the 2nd half with the game tied at zero, a well played ball out of the back by Taylor Fultz led to a breakaway attempt by Brittany Wilson. In the act of shooting, Brittany Wilson was fouled in the box and we were awarded a penalty kick. Cindy Terry stepped up to take the PK and struck it as well as you could and buried it in the upper 90. With their backs against the wall, and as good teams will do, Monroe played the last 15 minutes of the game with a bit of fear and a lot of fire. They scored on a beautifully hit ball from about 25 yards out with about 6 minutes to go. The game ended in a 1-1 tie.
There is a big week next week as we play two league rivals with Madison on Tuesday and Carlisle on Thursday. Hopefully, tonight proved to the Shawnee team and its fans that there is no room for the same old Shawnee excuses. No one on our schedule is so much better than us that we cannot compete with them. No excuses... not anymore.
Madison - Game 5 (2-2-1)
After a lively, heartfelt performance against Monroe last week, we responded with a, quite honestly, heartless performance. I'm not sure where the fire went or why it wasn't there, but we played 80 minutes of soccer lacking the most important variable in girls varsity soccer. We let (not got beat) Madison win way too many of the 50/50 balls. If only there were a way to get that message across - challenge EVERY ball... let your opponent know that you are going to be at them all night... send the message that all space between the lines is our space. We must challenge all 50/50's if we want to compete. The rest of our game, wasn't great but it also wasn't up to Preble Shawnee par. We were beat 7-0 simply because we did not go to the ball, which is still after 10 years of coaching unexplainable to me. Some nights, like Monroe, we challenge and we are a good team, and some nights we don't challenge and we are not so good. I do not intend to take anything away from Madison. They are a very good team, in fact, much better than they were last year. A couple of healthy players and a couple of quality transfers will do that for a team. But, regardless of the score, I still stand by my earlier remarks - based on skill, talent, and speed, I strongly feel that we can compete with every team on our schedule. We get a chance to prove that in two weeks when we see Monroe and Madison again.
Carlisle - Game 6 (3-2-1)
We win the game 2-0. We improve our record to +.500, which is where it should stay for the rest of the year. We cement our lock as no worse than 4th in the league. Despite all of this, somehow, I walked away displeased with our performance. In a game against a team like Carlisle, who I am convinced we are much better than, we, again, did not play aggressively from the middle of the field forward, we did not play to our strengths and play small build up to create advantage in numbers, and we certainly did not play direct and dangerously. The good news from this train wreck is that we played one of our worst games of the year and still looked better and beat Carlisle, who we have tied many times in the past. I am just thankful that we get these lackluster games out of the way before we play Madison, Waynesville, Monroe, or Eaton. We will not be able to compete with these teams if this trend continues. We can compete with these teams if we play like we are capable.
The first goal was a scored because we, at least once that night played direct. A nice little inside run and a short through ball played by Cindy Terry near the middle of the field to Courtney Case led to the first goal. The second goal was scored by Taylor Fultz and was unassisted. When we get the chance to play Carlisle again, we need to show our dominance and post a sound result on the scoreboard!
The first goal was a scored because we, at least once that night played direct. A nice little inside run and a short through ball played by Cindy Terry near the middle of the field to Courtney Case led to the first goal. The second goal was scored by Taylor Fultz and was unassisted. When we get the chance to play Carlisle again, we need to show our dominance and post a sound result on the scoreboard!
Tri-County North - Game 7 (4-2-1)
Wow. Well, at least we won the game 3-0. Granted, we outshot TCN 29-1, but again, we were not direct and we did not go to a ball. Whomever we play, we must go to every 50/50 ball. We must find the killer instinct... the scoring knack. As a coach, I struggle in pinpointing why we don't have it and how to instill something as intangible as a killer instinct. My goal is that we show and see the runs, the passes, and the ball movement that leads to direct danger. The need and greed to see the ball buried in the back of the opponent's net is all on the girls' shoulders. When we get the opportunity to put our stamp, our dominance, on a team we need to gear up and do it because without the practice in showcasing our skills and knowledge, we certainly cannot assume that they will magically appear in times of need. All practices for the remainder of the year are going to be geared toward playing direct and challenging 50/50 balls. Everything else in this game I am pleased with, but the two things any team most needs is aggression and hunger. Currently, I have been very pleased with our overall defensive effort (4 shutouts in our four wins and only 1 goal in our tie), our goalkeeping has much improved, our field awareness is acceptable, there are no glaring problems with our conditioning, and we have done a fair job at playing possession. As a coach, my mindset is: we are starting with a new slate and every effort, every decision, and every minute of what we do, is going to be geared toward improving this team and not settling for being decent. Congratulations on the win, but why not take a step back, look at our personal and individual goals, and ask ourselves if we are doing everything in our power to attain those goals? The second half of this season is loaded with potential and possiblities, but we can't take them for granted or we will never reach them. Let's go make it happen!
Scoring for the Arrows were Cindy Terry, Cassie Crawford (ast. Courtney Case), and Brittany Wilson.
Scoring for the Arrows were Cindy Terry, Cassie Crawford (ast. Courtney Case), and Brittany Wilson.
Dixie - Game 8 (5-2-1)
Finally, we step out on the pitch and not just dominate the pace and possession of the game, but we finally got a little greedy and looked like a team that wanted to score. In our two previous games, I was concerned about the lack of scoring, especially since we drastically outshot our two previous opponents. This games shot totals were no different, but instead of opting for shots from bad angles and indirect play, we looked very comfortable attacking the goal. This is an excellent sign heading inot a big week next week when we play Monroe Tuesday and Madison Thursday.
In tonight's game, a lot of good things can be said for so many of our players. We have been fighting sickness across our roster and most of the girls are healthy now. We looked like we had more wind in our lungs and certainly the fire that I hadn't seen in too long was back. Kaitlyn Ketring, Cindy Terry, Courtney Case, Taylor Fultz, and Brittany Wilson all played hard and it looked great on the field. I can't say I have seen this core of my offense play the way they did tonight since the Monroe game four games ago. Again, this bodes well for next week because our team, and the coach, needed to see the passion for the game before it had to be there.
Nine different girls got on the stat sheet for Shawnee. Taylor Fultz and Courtney Case each had two goals and one assist. Cindy Terry had one goal and one assist and Cassie Crawford had two assists. Kaitlyn Ketring, Brittany Wilson, Sidney Brown, and Ashley Evans each scored once, while Makayla Lindon added an assist. Also, congratulations to the keepers - Kara Jennings and Cara Paynter - and the defense for their 5th shutout!
In tonight's game, a lot of good things can be said for so many of our players. We have been fighting sickness across our roster and most of the girls are healthy now. We looked like we had more wind in our lungs and certainly the fire that I hadn't seen in too long was back. Kaitlyn Ketring, Cindy Terry, Courtney Case, Taylor Fultz, and Brittany Wilson all played hard and it looked great on the field. I can't say I have seen this core of my offense play the way they did tonight since the Monroe game four games ago. Again, this bodes well for next week because our team, and the coach, needed to see the passion for the game before it had to be there.
Nine different girls got on the stat sheet for Shawnee. Taylor Fultz and Courtney Case each had two goals and one assist. Cindy Terry had one goal and one assist and Cassie Crawford had two assists. Kaitlyn Ketring, Brittany Wilson, Sidney Brown, and Ashley Evans each scored once, while Makayla Lindon added an assist. Also, congratulations to the keepers - Kara Jennings and Cara Paynter - and the defense for their 5th shutout!
Monroe - Game 9 (5-3-1)
We are still trying to figure out the "Tale of Two Teams" mystery. In the first half of tonight's game we actually looked like a better team than Monroe. We outshot them 7-6 and our chances that we developed were more dangerous. We had two breakaways and two point-blank shots from about 18 yards out and failed to capitalize on any of them. We definately had our fair share of offense and our defense looked like it could again limit a good Monroe team to relying on a lucky break. Early in the first half Monroe played a long ball out of the back that fell to the feet of an unmarked player. Our sweeper was isolated 1 v 1 because we failed to mark up their best scoring threat. As a coach, I was okay with that goal because it was a small mistake, albeit one that could have been corrected, and those are bound to happen from time to time. After Monroe scored that goal, I was impressed with the poise and possession our team showed as we played directly and dangerously on offense. Also, because of our possession offensively, we were able to keep a good offesive team from constantly pressuring our defenders.
In the second half, we resorted back to kick ball. An important point that the girls and parents and fans need to understand is this: our team cannot play offense if we do not possess a ball coming out of the back. We resorted to making every touch a 50/50 ball by "booting it" or trying to "kick it harder" instead of playing the smart and simple ball to our teammates. Playing those smart, short, and quick passes, which sometimes, yes, requires us to play the ball back five to ten yards, allows our midfielders and defenders to help our forwards play offense. This is something that Monroe did in the second half that we did not. Because of this we relied on our defense the entire second half and a good team like Monroe will make you pay for that eventually. However, the 3rd and 4th goals were extreme let downs defensively and identical. We lunged on a Monroe girl that cut a ball back and then four otehr girls stood about 7 yards away and literally let her shoot the ball. These are the mistakes that will cost us games against the good teams.
Girls! A few things to keep in mind that must be staples in our approach to soccer:
1. Possession is a good alternative to traditional defense!
2. Play aggressively! Make sure your opponent knows you will be there all night!
3. Containment will make a great offensive team average and an average offensive team poor!
4. "Sometimes you have to go backward 5 yards to go forward 10." - Matt Money
In the second half, we resorted back to kick ball. An important point that the girls and parents and fans need to understand is this: our team cannot play offense if we do not possess a ball coming out of the back. We resorted to making every touch a 50/50 ball by "booting it" or trying to "kick it harder" instead of playing the smart and simple ball to our teammates. Playing those smart, short, and quick passes, which sometimes, yes, requires us to play the ball back five to ten yards, allows our midfielders and defenders to help our forwards play offense. This is something that Monroe did in the second half that we did not. Because of this we relied on our defense the entire second half and a good team like Monroe will make you pay for that eventually. However, the 3rd and 4th goals were extreme let downs defensively and identical. We lunged on a Monroe girl that cut a ball back and then four otehr girls stood about 7 yards away and literally let her shoot the ball. These are the mistakes that will cost us games against the good teams.
Girls! A few things to keep in mind that must be staples in our approach to soccer:
1. Possession is a good alternative to traditional defense!
2. Play aggressively! Make sure your opponent knows you will be there all night!
3. Containment will make a great offensive team average and an average offensive team poor!
4. "Sometimes you have to go backward 5 yards to go forward 10." - Matt Money
Madison - Game 10 (5-4-1)
The rain soaked field made for an interesting game. I thought that a lot of the skill and speed of both teams would have been comprimised due to the rain and field conditions, but each team performed suprisingly well given mother nature's interference.
Call me stubborn, a believer, an optimist... whatever. But, I continue to preach that we can beat Monroe, Madison, Waynesville, or Eaton if we put all the pieces together. After tonight's game I was not disappointed in our effort. I thought we played hard for 80+ minutes of soccer. On the other hand, we didn't play smart for 80+ minutes of soccer. In the first half of that game, I thought we looked better skilled, smarter, and hungrier than Madison. Our passes were sharp, short, and well-executed. We each had equal opportunites to score, but I thought our opportunities were more dangerous. Unfortunately, we could not capitalize on them... a couple of breakaways were misplayed and a couple of hard shots were hit directly at the keeper. Kaitlyn Ketring had another shot deflect off the upper-90. Madison scored on a long shot that, in any other weather conditions, would have easily been saved. At halftime, I was optimistic that we were capable and confident that we would win the game if we continued to play as we had.
The second half looked eerily familiar to the second half versus Monroe. We stopped putting the good passes together and started kicking the ball again forward without intention. When we do this, we are asking two forwards to compete against 4 or 5 defenders - not good odds. These kickballs out of the back lead to more possession by our opponent which leads to more pressure on our defenders and keeper. Good teams will definately score eventually if they can continue to put pressure on our defense, even when our defenders are very good (which I know they are). In fact, I would go as far as saying that the Shawnee defenders this year are as good, if not better, than any group I have seen here in 10 years. Madison spread out two goals over the second half to win the game 3-0.
The best news of the day is that I have had some players really step up and play some of the best soccer I have seen them play this year. Kaitlyn Ketring, Jessica Simpson, Ashley Evans, and Lacey Johnson really seem to be on the up and up now. Hopefully we can pick up a few wins in a row now and take some momentum into the final game of the season and the tournament.
Call me stubborn, a believer, an optimist... whatever. But, I continue to preach that we can beat Monroe, Madison, Waynesville, or Eaton if we put all the pieces together. After tonight's game I was not disappointed in our effort. I thought we played hard for 80+ minutes of soccer. On the other hand, we didn't play smart for 80+ minutes of soccer. In the first half of that game, I thought we looked better skilled, smarter, and hungrier than Madison. Our passes were sharp, short, and well-executed. We each had equal opportunites to score, but I thought our opportunities were more dangerous. Unfortunately, we could not capitalize on them... a couple of breakaways were misplayed and a couple of hard shots were hit directly at the keeper. Kaitlyn Ketring had another shot deflect off the upper-90. Madison scored on a long shot that, in any other weather conditions, would have easily been saved. At halftime, I was optimistic that we were capable and confident that we would win the game if we continued to play as we had.
The second half looked eerily familiar to the second half versus Monroe. We stopped putting the good passes together and started kicking the ball again forward without intention. When we do this, we are asking two forwards to compete against 4 or 5 defenders - not good odds. These kickballs out of the back lead to more possession by our opponent which leads to more pressure on our defenders and keeper. Good teams will definately score eventually if they can continue to put pressure on our defense, even when our defenders are very good (which I know they are). In fact, I would go as far as saying that the Shawnee defenders this year are as good, if not better, than any group I have seen here in 10 years. Madison spread out two goals over the second half to win the game 3-0.
The best news of the day is that I have had some players really step up and play some of the best soccer I have seen them play this year. Kaitlyn Ketring, Jessica Simpson, Ashley Evans, and Lacey Johnson really seem to be on the up and up now. Hopefully we can pick up a few wins in a row now and take some momentum into the final game of the season and the tournament.
National Trail - Game 11 (6-4-1)
Another win and another shutout. Our defense did as expected at this point in the season and limited National Trail to one shot that came late in the game. I warned the girls that this was not the old National Trail that we are used to facing. They have won some games this year and, I think, Allison has done a marvelous job preparing the program. In the past few years, we could walk out, go through the motions, and get a fairly easy win. This year, I stressed to the girls that they would have to work harder than what they might think because National Trail is getting better every year. My girls responded by playing hard all night, dominating the pace of the game, and ultimately winning 4-0. In the first half it took a while for us to get going. The strong winds was definately altering the style of play and I wanted my girls to focus on quick short passes to move the ball up the field. This advice sort of backfired because we played so short that we cut the field in half from goal to goal and literally played the ball in to nine or ten Trail defenders. In the middle of the first half and in the second half, we started expanding the field to both touch lines and our offense began to open up. Despite the conditions, we played fairly well, we got our core players enough time without burning them out for tomorrow's game, and we also got very valuable time to every girl coming off the bench. Honestly, it wasn't until we started subbing 20-25 minutes in that we started playing better. It is so crucial, and exciting, that I can use all 22 players to improve the team. This will certainly show itself later in the year and when next year rolls around.
Freshman Cassie Crawford scored the first two goals of the game, while Brittany Wilson and Taylor Fultz each had one goal and one assist. Cindy Terry and Jessica Simpson also played two great passes for the team's third and fourth assists of the game.
Freshman Cassie Crawford scored the first two goals of the game, while Brittany Wilson and Taylor Fultz each had one goal and one assist. Cindy Terry and Jessica Simpson also played two great passes for the team's third and fourth assists of the game.
Carlisle - Game 12 (6-4-2)
We limited Carlisle to 4 shots on goal and tie 2-2. This was the "if it could go wrong, it did go wrong" game for us this year. In all reality, I thought our positioning and runs on offense weren't half bad, which is one of the toughest things in soccer to do. Somehow, our execution of simple 10-15 yard passes was terrible. I would guess that we misplayed 60-70% of the easy passes. We had so many unforced passing errors tonight, either striking the ball out of bounds or playing a 10 yard pass only 5 yards. As a coach, the only thing I can thing to do is to brush this game under the rug, forget about the poor outcome, and take some of the weaknesses of tonight and use it as a practice guide for the rest of the week.
We scored first on a great short pass from the middle to our outside halfback, Kaitlyn Ketring, who because of the slow build up pass was free to use the sideline. The defense adjusted to her run and she served a beautiful ball across the the mouth of the goal where we had Taylor Fultz ready to finish it off. The second goal was nearly identical as the service came from Brittany Wilson to Taylor Fultz. After our first goal, Carlisle responded by scoring after a strange series of events on a restart from about 40 yards from goal. With just about 5 minutes to go, Carlisle earned a corner kick, that unfortunately glanced off of one of our defenders into our own goal. It was one of those strange nights where things just don't go as, in all expectations, they should. That's part of the game though and we shall take a valuable lesson or two from this let down and come back stronger to close the regular season out.
Get friends and family out to support our seniors this Tuesday in honor of senior night!
We scored first on a great short pass from the middle to our outside halfback, Kaitlyn Ketring, who because of the slow build up pass was free to use the sideline. The defense adjusted to her run and she served a beautiful ball across the the mouth of the goal where we had Taylor Fultz ready to finish it off. The second goal was nearly identical as the service came from Brittany Wilson to Taylor Fultz. After our first goal, Carlisle responded by scoring after a strange series of events on a restart from about 40 yards from goal. With just about 5 minutes to go, Carlisle earned a corner kick, that unfortunately glanced off of one of our defenders into our own goal. It was one of those strange nights where things just don't go as, in all expectations, they should. That's part of the game though and we shall take a valuable lesson or two from this let down and come back stronger to close the regular season out.
Get friends and family out to support our seniors this Tuesday in honor of senior night!
Dixie - Game 13 (7-4-2)
Senior night ... in some great weather! In the first half, we acted like we were caught up in the emotions of senior night and bothered a bit by the weather. At the end of the half, we were ahead 1-0, outshooting Dixie 15-1. In the second half, we buckled down and started doing what we do that makes us a good team - our defense shut down any offensive advances by Dixie, we possessed a ball through the middle of the field, even getting defenders some possession touches, and started playing more directly at the goal. This allowed us to be much more dangerous. We ended up putting 5 goals in during the second half. The game ended 6-0. Taylor Fultz scored two and assisted two. Sidney Brown, Courtney Case, Cassie Crawford, and Brittany Wilson also scored a goal. Assists went to Cindy Terry and Makayla Lindon.
This year I am very proud of our seniors and their dedication to the program. Largely due to their efforts we have made some monumental strides for the program. The most staggering improvement is that before their arrival, we were winning only 26% of our games. During their four years as soccer players, we are now winning more than 60% of our games. Also, the overall dedication and interest to the program has increased dramatically. Congratulations to the seniors for all of the things that they have done. Thank you Kara Jennings, Cindy Terry, Cara Paynter, Brittany Wilson, Courtney Case, and Molly Hunt.
This year I am very proud of our seniors and their dedication to the program. Largely due to their efforts we have made some monumental strides for the program. The most staggering improvement is that before their arrival, we were winning only 26% of our games. During their four years as soccer players, we are now winning more than 60% of our games. Also, the overall dedication and interest to the program has increased dramatically. Congratulations to the seniors for all of the things that they have done. Thank you Kara Jennings, Cindy Terry, Cara Paynter, Brittany Wilson, Courtney Case, and Molly Hunt.
Waynesville - Game 14 (7-5-2)
Another great weather game! We were warned before the game that this one may not even be played or may be called at the half. Fortunately, we were able to finish the entire game. Unfotunately, we came up on the losing end of the score. Waynesville is the best team we see on our schedule and one of the best team in the state. At last check, they were ranked 12th in the state for Division II girls soccer.
Waynesville scored in the first five minutes and I was a bit worried that we may have another monumental collapse like we did the first time around against them (9-0 L). I was very proud, and honestly not surprised, by the way my girls responded, however. We scored a goal about 15 minutes into the half with a Taylor Fultz breakaway to tie the game 1-1. For the next 10 minutes it was knotted at one. Waynesville scored two late in the half to end the half at 3-1. In the second half it was more of the same... a lot of Waynesville shots and a lot of Shawnee defense. There were many positive highlights to come from this game. First, I believe we made Waynesville earn their goals by making them score in ways that were more difficult for them. Second, we were only the third team to score against Waynesville all year, who is now 13-0-1. Also, I cannot say enough about the progress senior goalkeeper Kara Jennings has made during her four years as keeper. I believe the league has recognized her as one of the best keepers in the league. She, also, moved to the number one spot on the single season saves list during the Waynesville game.
Next week will be very important for us as a momentum builder. We travel to Northridge and Eaton on Tuesday and Thursday the week before tournament starts.
Waynesville scored in the first five minutes and I was a bit worried that we may have another monumental collapse like we did the first time around against them (9-0 L). I was very proud, and honestly not surprised, by the way my girls responded, however. We scored a goal about 15 minutes into the half with a Taylor Fultz breakaway to tie the game 1-1. For the next 10 minutes it was knotted at one. Waynesville scored two late in the half to end the half at 3-1. In the second half it was more of the same... a lot of Waynesville shots and a lot of Shawnee defense. There were many positive highlights to come from this game. First, I believe we made Waynesville earn their goals by making them score in ways that were more difficult for them. Second, we were only the third team to score against Waynesville all year, who is now 13-0-1. Also, I cannot say enough about the progress senior goalkeeper Kara Jennings has made during her four years as keeper. I believe the league has recognized her as one of the best keepers in the league. She, also, moved to the number one spot on the single season saves list during the Waynesville game.
Next week will be very important for us as a momentum builder. We travel to Northridge and Eaton on Tuesday and Thursday the week before tournament starts.
Northridge - Game 15 (8-5-2)
This was a nice time for this sort of game. We came out and worked on some things that we needed to do to get better at the end of the year without a fear of making mistakes. We also got some good minutes for the girls that we rely so much on coming off the bench. Our starters were able to play for a little more than 50 minutes. This was important for several reasons - we got a chance to keep our legs fresh because they will be much needed against Eaton and we also got a chance to see some talented young players and evaluate what they will be able to do in the future.
During the game, we dominated the play entirely, allowing only one shot, and putting nine goals in the back of the net. Taylor Fultz, Brittany Wilson, and Cassie Crawford dominated offensively, combining to score seven goals and three assists. Kaitlyn Ketring and Brynnan Colby also scored while Jessica Simpson added one assist.
With the weather and the injuries and the upcoming tournament, the game against Eaton this Thursday will probably look a little different than it might have looked earlier in the season. I still anticipate a great game between two teams that always play hard against each other. On that note, I would also like to congratulate Bob Brower, Eaton's coach, for his 100th win.
During the game, we dominated the play entirely, allowing only one shot, and putting nine goals in the back of the net. Taylor Fultz, Brittany Wilson, and Cassie Crawford dominated offensively, combining to score seven goals and three assists. Kaitlyn Ketring and Brynnan Colby also scored while Jessica Simpson added one assist.
With the weather and the injuries and the upcoming tournament, the game against Eaton this Thursday will probably look a little different than it might have looked earlier in the season. I still anticipate a great game between two teams that always play hard against each other. On that note, I would also like to congratulate Bob Brower, Eaton's coach, for his 100th win.
Springfield Catholic Central - Game 16 - Tournament (9-5-2)
For the first time in school history we have advanced to the Sectional Final / District Semi-final game. We earned the #5 seed in the tournament this year and going into the seed meeting, I had one goal in mind as this team's coach. That goal was to win a second round game. The way that it played out was interesting. I could have garaunteed our team a tournament win by selecting a 1st round game and likely beating a team seeded somewhere between 9-14 only to play a team like Waynesville, Greeneview, or Northwestern in the second round. All three of these teams have beaten the juniors and seniors at Shawnee at some point in their careers. I decided to go at the unknown even though they were the #3 seed in our bracket. Thankfully, it paid off.
After scouting Monday, we knew going in that SCC had a very powerful offense. They are very quick and skilled in the midfield and upfront, but they were lacking shape and discipline in the back. I tried to prepare the team to the likelihood that this game was going to produce 5, 6, 7, 8 goals, so not to let down if they give up the first 1 or 2. In my mind, I saw SCC scoring the first couple, letting down and Shawnee clawing and fighting and getting back in the game. The opposite is what happened. Taylor Fultz scored the first goal about 20 minutes into the game on a breakaway pass from defender Courtney Lakes. Ten minutes later freshman Cassie Crawford scored on a breakaway cross from Brittany Wilson. The score was 2-0 at halftime. It was at halftime where I became the most concerned. The team was excited and they sensed a win in the future, but I had to remind them again that this was likely going to end up a 3-2 or 4-3 ball game and we needed to work for 40 more minutes.
We came out five minutes into the second half and scored on yet another breakaway pass from Brittany Wilson to Taylor Fultz. SCC earned an 'iffy' penalty kick with about 25 minutes left in the game. SCC missed high on the attempt. We continued to play hard and SCC scored their first goal with about 20 minutes to go. They followed up with another with about 8 minutes to go in the game. The Shawnee girls remained vigilant. In the past, I could easily have seen us locking up and falling apart, but the defense of the 11 on the field continued to be excellent and we held on for a 3-2 win. Kaitlyn Ketring lived up to a huge challenge tonight. She single handedly altered all of SCC's offense by shutting down Felty, a top 15 player in the Dayton area in Division II. This player normally controls an entire game from the pace of play, to getting assists, to scoring goals. Tonight, because of Ketring, this great player literally disappeared on the field and was a non-factor. Also, Kara Jennings, behind an excellent defensive game by the back four, came up with some big saves (19 total) in the goal for the team.
It was the strangest game I have ever coached. SCC was probably more athletic, possessed a ball for a greater time, and outshot us 25-10, but we seemed more sound, less likely to make mistakes, more aggressive, and, overall, a better team. Of our ten shots, 7 or 8 were breakaways. We could have scored 6 or 7 goals on them, but they could have also scored that many on us. It was the most exciting game I have been a part of in the 10 years I have been the coach and we could not be more proud of what we accomplished tonight.
We play Monday, October 26th, versus Waynesville at Valley View at 5:30 in the Sectional Final game.
After scouting Monday, we knew going in that SCC had a very powerful offense. They are very quick and skilled in the midfield and upfront, but they were lacking shape and discipline in the back. I tried to prepare the team to the likelihood that this game was going to produce 5, 6, 7, 8 goals, so not to let down if they give up the first 1 or 2. In my mind, I saw SCC scoring the first couple, letting down and Shawnee clawing and fighting and getting back in the game. The opposite is what happened. Taylor Fultz scored the first goal about 20 minutes into the game on a breakaway pass from defender Courtney Lakes. Ten minutes later freshman Cassie Crawford scored on a breakaway cross from Brittany Wilson. The score was 2-0 at halftime. It was at halftime where I became the most concerned. The team was excited and they sensed a win in the future, but I had to remind them again that this was likely going to end up a 3-2 or 4-3 ball game and we needed to work for 40 more minutes.
We came out five minutes into the second half and scored on yet another breakaway pass from Brittany Wilson to Taylor Fultz. SCC earned an 'iffy' penalty kick with about 25 minutes left in the game. SCC missed high on the attempt. We continued to play hard and SCC scored their first goal with about 20 minutes to go. They followed up with another with about 8 minutes to go in the game. The Shawnee girls remained vigilant. In the past, I could easily have seen us locking up and falling apart, but the defense of the 11 on the field continued to be excellent and we held on for a 3-2 win. Kaitlyn Ketring lived up to a huge challenge tonight. She single handedly altered all of SCC's offense by shutting down Felty, a top 15 player in the Dayton area in Division II. This player normally controls an entire game from the pace of play, to getting assists, to scoring goals. Tonight, because of Ketring, this great player literally disappeared on the field and was a non-factor. Also, Kara Jennings, behind an excellent defensive game by the back four, came up with some big saves (19 total) in the goal for the team.
It was the strangest game I have ever coached. SCC was probably more athletic, possessed a ball for a greater time, and outshot us 25-10, but we seemed more sound, less likely to make mistakes, more aggressive, and, overall, a better team. Of our ten shots, 7 or 8 were breakaways. We could have scored 6 or 7 goals on them, but they could have also scored that many on us. It was the most exciting game I have been a part of in the 10 years I have been the coach and we could not be more proud of what we accomplished tonight.
We play Monday, October 26th, versus Waynesville at Valley View at 5:30 in the Sectional Final game.