A Christmas Wish

What any soccer fan would want for Christmas.

“This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.”

    The quote by Winston Churchill seems appropriate for today's blog.  Meredith's last game for the season was Wednesday afternoon and it ended with a 1-1 tie after double overtime.  Here is the recap and the box score of that game.  It has been a season of ups and downs with more downs than ups.  This team never did reach it's potential considering the talent that was on the roster.  It seemed to me that the coaching staff and the team were satisfied with mediocrity in their performance and nothing was done to change that.  The most used phrase in sports "There's always next year" is appropriate to close the CMU season.  Hopefully there will be a lot of off season work on skills and attitudes with both the coaches and players.  Time will tell.

      Iowa Central's season ended last Saturday and although it was with a loss, it still ended on a high note with one of the best games that I had watched them play.  The post season all region awards were posted yesterday and can be viewed here.  I am certain that the players will be working on their game in the off season and the coaches will be out recruiting new players to replace the graduating sophomores so that Iowa Central can make a run for the top spot next season.
     I may periodically post to this blog to keep everyone up to date with everyone's activities but will not maintain any sort of regular schedule of posting.   I certainly have enjoyed sharing my thoughts with you and I think that it may have been the therapy that I needed to transition from coach to spectator with the girls.

It is Almost Over for This Season

   The official recap has been posted on Iowa Central's site about their final match in Des Moines last weekend.  You can read the pain between the lines as the coach wrote the article.  I filmed the game and have watched it to compile stats.  Iowa Central in the first half had 13 shots with 6 on frame to DCTC's 5 shots with 3 on frame.  The second half IC had 9 shots with 4 on frame to DCTC's 7 shots with 3 on frame.  What the stats don't show is that Iowa Central bounced 4 of those shots off the woodwork.  I had hoped to put a clip of the game in this article but the quality of the film does not allow this.  I had zoomed out so that I could catch more of the action around the ball and the bright sunshine made the picture very dark.   Here is the Recap.

    Meredith's last game of the season is today against Culver-Stockton in Canton, MO.  It has a very early start time because they do not have lights on the field so Debra and I have decided not to go.  Meredith is traveling with the team but may not play.  This is one game that may be possible for CMU to win but they will have to step their game up a couple of notches to do so.   Here is the statistical match-up from DakStats.

No Joy in Brickville Today

Oh, somewhere in this favored land the sun is shining bright;
The band is playing somewhere, and somewhere hearts are light,
And somewhere men are laughing, and somewhere children shout;
But there is no joy in Brickville - both teams have struck out.

Iowa Central played a tough, hard game today and came up on the short end of a 2-1 score.  I can't wait to see the box score to see how many shots that Iowa Central had.  They dominated play in the first half but with the exception of Madeline Brick's goal in the 5th minute none of the other shots found the back of the net.  The first half ended 1-0 and it appeared that IC was 45 minutes from having the game in hand.  Both teams started the second half the way the first half had ended with the defensive units of both teams holding some advantage over the offensive sides. However, about 6 minutes into the second half Dakota County took a long shot from 30 yards out that was just over the GK's fingers and just under the crossbar.  The goal only set the Lady Tritons back a little bit because they just kept attacking the goal.  We had several golden opportunities but was just off a little bit, with the ball bouncing off the woodwork on a couple of shots and just narrowly missing on a couple more.  With about 20 minutes left in the game Dakota County scored on a free kick to the goal box which was finished with a great volley. Iowa Central doubled and redoubled their efforts but could not equalize although they dominated all play except in the final third of the field. The Lady Tritons left everything they had on the field and deserved a better result but it wasn't to be.  They should be very proud of their performance today and with their season.  I filmed the game and will post highlights in this post as soon as I get them edited.


Central Methodist was on the road today at Missouri Valley College in Marshall, MO and according to a text that was received lost 4-1.  Here is the recap from the college web site and the box score from DakStats.

Central Methodist vs Lindenwood University

     I watched a better CMU team play last night at Fayette.  The girls were connecting with passes and it seemed they were playing with more energy and movement.  In the first half both teams were equal in intensity and the half ended scoreless 0-0.  
     Many of the qualities that I use to describe the game are certainly subjective, like energy, intensity, quality and desire, but I am convinced that in most of the games I have watched this season that is the only difference between the win or the loss.   I am making the comparison to teams that I have observed with those attributes and often it is to this CMU team in selected moments. CMU has the talent and ability but (IMHO) it either is not being recognized, utilized, encouraged, or motivated by the coaching staff.
  One factor which is not subjective is "first touch" and the Lindenwood team certainly had the better "first touch" of the two teams.  They were making properly weighted passes into spaces that gave them a tactical advantage and when they did pass directly to a teammate it was a ball that was easily handled.  CMU was connecting passes but it always took extra movement and extraordinary effort to maintain possession and play like that expends more energy.  The energy that Lindenwood was conserving with possession was spent in the battle for 50-50 balls.  They were first to to ball and the last to give up and in my unofficial scorebook won 60 to 70 percent of the loose balls in the midfield.  I did not see a sense of "urgency" with CMU either to defend once the ball was past them or to attack with numbers.  It is almost like they play with the attitude "let George do it" and never join in team defense to double down players or group attack by making off the ball runs.
     In the second half the CMU came out fairly strong but 20 minutes into the half Lindenwood really hit a different gear and picked up the intensity of the game.  CMU followed for a while but couldn't maintain that level and when Lindenwood scored in the 61st minute Lindenwood really picked up the effort to protect the lead.  CMU had several chances on counterattacks but the best chance to equalize occurred with about 6 minutes left when Shawn Beard had a hard shot tipped by an excellent save from the Lindenwood goalie and the score ended 0-1.  Debra and I will be unable to attend either of the last two games but I will keep you posted on outcomes.
Here is the Recap and the Box Score of the game.
     We will be going to Des Moines to watch Iowa Central and Madeline play in the post season tournament this weekend.  Their team attitude is really upbeat and they are playing their best soccer right now when they should.  Madeline said that they practiced in their Halloween costumes last night.  Here is how the coach notified them on Facebook.

Iowa Central Community College Women's Soccer Halloween Practice today at 4pm. Dress up or you'll do 15 Millers and 40% Liverpools!!!!!! LIV, ERP, Double O L, Liverpool FC!!!! BBBwwwaaaaaa HHHaaaaaa Haaaaaaa

 Here is a picture from the practice! 

 

The Defination of Insanity

     I plan to go watch CMU play Lindenwood University this evening in Fayette.  Debra has a meeting and can not go so a family friend will be accompanying me to ke ep me out of trouble.  Meredith was cleared to practice but most likely will not play so I guess I really am a soccer junkie and a glutton for punishment to watch CMU go through the motions.  The tiny bit of optimism in me is saying that it may be different this time and CMU could come through with a win.  Time will tell.  The weather forecast for the game is calling for gusty WSW winds to 34 MPH and 60 degrees, sounds like a great day to watch a soccer game.
     The first round of the ICCAC tournament has been played and Iowa Central's opponent for Saturday's game is DCTC (as predicted).  Here is was the coach posted on the Facebook page.  (Side note: IC's coach William "Willie" McGowan is from Scotland)

Iowa Central Community College Women's Soccer Just heard that DCTC beat ILCC by a score of 4-1. ILCC were up 1-0 until 68th min, then lost 4 goals in the last 20+ minutes. So, DCTC on Saturday at 12pm at Cownie. In the words of William Wallace in Braveheart - ARE YOU READY FOR A WAR??!!!!!! lol

The Tale of Two Teams

Iowa Central easily won their last regular season game yesterday over Iowa Lakes in Spencer, Iowa by a 4-0 margin and finished second in their conference behind Iowa Western which is nationally ranked at #15.  Iowa Central will have an opportunity to play IW next weekend if they have a good result (win) over the winner of the #3 seed, Dakota County(12-6-1) and the #6 seed Iowa Lakes (1-15).  I am going out on a limb and state that Dakota County will win and then Iowa Central will play them on Saturday October 30 at 12:00 pm in Des Moines.  The winner of that game will play Iowa Western on Sunday for first place and the right to go on to Regionals.  IC has been playing pretty good soccer lately after the mid season slump and certainly has a good chance to move on.  Here is the latest status from the Iowa Central Facebook page.

"rounded out their regular season with a 9-5-3 record, 7-2-1 in conference play. A marked improvement from last year with very much the same teams on the schedule. We also tied up 2nd place in the ICCAC so receive a bye into Saturday's semi-finals. 4 more wins and we go to Nationals!! Prepare; Focus; Execute!"

Here is the Box Score and the Recap.

     Debra and I watched Central Methodist play Avila last night in Fayette to a 0-1 loss with the score coming in the 89th minute.  It was one of those games that both teams were playing not to lose as opposed to trying to win.  The lack of intensity and urgency on the field is almost more than the parents in the stands can handle.  One comment that I heard was " I wish they would hurry up and score the accidental goal" which pretty much sums up CMU's scoring attack.  CMU does not attempt to put numbers up on attacking runs and the midfielders do not hustle back for defense.  Their formation changed for last nights game to 3 defenders instead of the normal 4 and the 3 strong defensive players were able to hold off Avila anemic attacks but in the final minutes of the game Avila upped the intensity and we did not follow suit.  CMU has a pretty strong bench but the coach does not appear to recognize that as a tactical weapon.  The team appears to me as players that are trying to "pace themselves" to last the entire match when what we need is for them to leave it all on the field and be substituted when they are "gassed".  The general lack of a winning attitude is starting to be apparent throughout the entire team including the coaching staff and it appears that they are just passing time until the end of the season.
     The one bit of good news was that they took the stitches out of Meredith's lip Friday and it looks really good.  She hopes to start practicing Monday to get into game fitness for at least the last two games.

I'm Getting Old

     Madeline has her last regular season game today, and although it is a weekend we have decided not to go.  It is in Spencer, Iowa which is about 25 miles from the Minnesota state line and would be about an 6 hour hard drive.  In addition there is a 70% chance of rain for game time.  It is against the bottom dweller in their conference who has not won a conference game and is 1-15 overall.  I guess I am getting old when I can find all these excuses not to watch the girls play soccer.
     Meredith's team also plays today although she has not been cleared medically to play.  They took her stitches out yesterday and her lip looks much better.  She has to be free of any symptoms from the concussion before they will start "rehab" on her.  "Rehab" is a series of increasing difficult physical challenges to see if any symptoms return.  She has to pass them before she will be allowed to practice and I would imagine that she might have to have at least 3-4 practices in before she is considered eligible to play.  There may not be enough time left in the season for her to get on the game field.  We may go to Fayette to watch her sit on the bench although it is dependent on the weather forecast.  I am certain that her mother really wants to see in person how she is doing so it depends on how strong the verbal onslaught from her is today will decide if we go or not. 

Another Iowa Central Win

Iowa Central handily defeated Scott County 5-0 yesterday in the last home game in Ft. Dodge.  I only had 5 short texts from Tom Walgren concerning the game and I missed the phone call from Madeline after the game.  Madeline notched the second goal of the game assisted by Steph Gale.  She told Debra that their defense held pretty tough and didn't think that the GK ever touched the ball.  Their last conference game against Iowa Lakes has been moved to this Saturday from the 25th however it is in Spencer, Iowa so I do not think that we will go.  Here is the Recap of the game.
     Meredith continues to improve and the swelling is starting to subside.  She still is light sensitive but she was able to wear a hat all day which she said helps.  CMU has a game this Saturday against Avila so we may go just to see how Meredith is doing.

Iowa Central Today vs Scott Community College

     The regular season is winding down and IC last home game is today against Scott CC.  Iowa Central needs to win the last two regular season matches to stay in second place in the conference and receive a bye in the conference tournament.  The recap of IC last game is now posted and can be read by following this link.
     Coaches and players should never look beyond their next game but fortunately that does not apply to blog writers and parents.  The last two games of this season are against teams that have not performed well this year and the total combined wins of both teams are less than the number of games that IC has won so I am predicting two wins for IC.
   The big game of the season will be on Saturday October 30 in Des Moines and that will be against Dakota.  IC defeated Dakota 2-1 on the 8th and tied them 0-0 on the 15th so it will be a tough game and too close to predict right now. The winner of that game will play on the 31st against Iowa Western.  Iowa Central has played Iowa Western tougher than any other conference team this season so if IC makes it through Dakota then anything is possible.
     The game on the 30th is at 12:00 on field 8 at James W. Cownie Soccer Park.
 

Taking Care of Business and the Story of a Very Long Day

I am going to start this long post with a picture to let you know that it has a happy ending in case you have already heard what happened through a text or phone call.

 This picture was taken about 1:00 am Sunday morning in Chillicothe.

The day started calm enough and it was a beautiful fall bluebird day.  We were getting an early start because I wanted to stop in Carrollton to get an adjustment and we were going to stop at Peter's Orchard to get some apples.  Debra had made some arrangements with the college bookstore to open up before the 1:00 game so we could get some CMU apparel.  The bookstore is not normally open on weekends and is always closed through the week by the time we get to campus for games so it was very nice for the lady to open up just for us.  It was interesting that there was a steady stream of customers while we were there and they made several sales besides Debra's.  At least Debra found something, I wanted a light jacket, or a zippered hoody, or a long sleeve polo, or a hat.  So I thought at least with that wide of a variety of wants that I could find something.  They had a large inventory of clothing but nothing was in a style that I could live with.  I guess they buy inventory with a younger person in mind.  Oh they did have a ball hat that I liked but not $30.00 worth.  I guess I will just wear my Iowa Central stuff to the CMU games.
Anyway the game started at 1:00 and Meredith had worked her way back into the starting line up so we were set to enjoy the day and the game.  The center referee was an old friend so I had hoped to observe him officiate along with watching Meredith.   The game did not start well with MNU scoring off a cross through the goal box in the 4th minute.  The player was unmarked and the goalie should own the goal box and either stop the cross or make the save.  I know that it unnerved Meredith but she played on.  The CMU players stepped up the pressure and then the referee kind of went nuts about the 14th minute by pulling a player over in front of the players bench and fans and yelling at her loud enough that everyone could hear.  I have sat in this referee's class several times and heard him say that "the referee should not draw attention to himself when officiating" and that to control a game that "a quiet word only heard by the player" is the best technique.  His officiating conduct was an embarrassment to all referees and only served to alienate players, fans and coaches and raise questions concerning any calls made after that.  MNU scored again in about the 20th minute although CMU was moving the ball better and had many more scoring attacks, but was unable to put the ball into the net.  With about 5 minutes left in the first half a MNU player had slipped past her defensive mark and Meredith came out hard for a sliding save.  The MNU player collided with her and that is when the story gets more intense.  It was obvious that she was hurt and it appeared that she was knocked out, however she made the save.  The referee called for the trainer to come on to the field and from the early treatment I could tell that they were trying to stop some bleeding.  Debra and I went to the corner of the field to wait.  The trainers got the bleeding stopped and assessed for neck injuries and got Meredith up to the point that she was able to walk to the bench with assistance.  We went over to the bench and the trainer Kim Bell skillfuly finished applying butterfly strips to close the wound and cleaning Meredith up.  Meredith had about a 10 minute lapse in memory but was sort of answering coherently but was not exactly with it. We knew that the cut would require stitches and from the location and severity I thought that it would be better if a plastic surgeon did the initial repair work.  I consulted with the mother of another CMU player that was a nurse in Columbia to see where she would suggest that we take Meredith.  She recommended that we take her to the University Hospital ER where there would be a plastic surgeon on duty or at least on call.  They placed Meredith in the Gator where she could lay down to take her to our car for the trip to Columbia.  When we got to the parking lot and attempted to transfer her to the car she became "shocky" and was passing in and out of consciousness.  At that point we all came to an unanimous decision that the trip would be better in an ambulance considering her head injury.  The ambulance was called an was there in just a few minutes.  We loaded Meredith up and I rode in the ambulance and Debra, Natalie Hughes (Mere's friend who came to watch her play) Kim Bell (trainer) and her goalkeeper coach Robbie Murray all headed to Columbia in their cars.  I believe we arrived about 2:30, got her checked in at ER and then began the wait.  It was about 2 hours and 30 minutes before she was put into a room so that a doctor could see her.  The nurse arrived promptly and removed the bandage and immediately decided that it needed to be stitched up by a plastic surgeon and that Meredith would need a CT to check out her head.  The resident came in and agreed and wrote up the orders.  Things moved steadily along and the plastic surgeon came in about 6:00 and it took about 45 minutes to put in the 15 or so stitches.  Another 30 minute wait and then she was taken to radiology for the CT.  About 10 or 15 minutes there and back to the room to wait for the report.  The nurses had a shift change at 7:00 and somehow the report got lost in the transition.  Finally I caught the attention of the resident and they got it tracked down.  We had the report and dismissal consultation and then just as we were to leave the nurse brought some Tylenol for Meredith's monster headache.  Everyone was hungry and cranky, especially me, but recovered nicely with some food at Noodles and Co.  We made a couple of stops after eating that Meredith thought were important (Hot Box Cookies) and her friends the Robbs to show off the stitches.  Then to Fayette and get Mere's clothes, car and most important the dirty laundry.  Uneventful trip home and arrived about 12:45.  It took a while to unwind and settle down but I think everyone except Zoey was asleep by 2:00.   Here is the Recap and the Box Score from the game.

Warning I have placed these pictures in a file that you will need to click the link to see because they are pretty graphic.  If you think that you might be disturbed by viewing them DO NOT CLICK THE LINK.  Before and After Pictures

It's Soccer Saturday

Meredith has a match today at 1:00 in Fayette so we will be leaving early to be there. It should be a fairly even match so hopefully CMU will get a win.  Here is the tale of the tape.

The big news is that Madeline called after yesterday's game and said that she had a broken hip.  But fortunately it wasn't hers and wasn't as a result of a soccer game.  She had her clinicals on Friday before her game and was able to x-ray a 92 year old ladies broken hip.  When you are a Radiology student that is pretty exciting stuff.  Her schedule yesterday was pretty tough.  She had her clinicals from 5:30 am to 1:00 pm, her game started at 2:00 and went into double overtime and then she worked in her work-study program at a volleyball tournament last night.
One of Madeline's roommates dad was at the game and kept me up dated with results.  He said that Madeline was playing very well and had several great crosses into the box.  In Madeline's phone call last night she said that she felt that she played very well.  Here is what the coach wrote about the game on Facebook.

we tied DCTC 0-0 today. Excellent performance defensively. With a little luck and a wee bit of patience in the final third we could have had 'em. Proud of you girls. What a great turn-around from 2 weeks ago...keep it going!!

Iowa Central is in the Drivers Seat for a Post Season Run

This Friday's game against Dakota County has very important implications for the conference tournament scheduled for October 30th and 31st in Des Moines.  The top two teams in the conference receive a first round bye and do not have to play the play-in bracket game on October 27th.  Iowa Central defeated Dakota County October 8th by a 2-1 score in a hard fought game and they will be coming full force to even the score and battle for the same #2 seed in the conference.  Iowa Western has the top spot tied up and will play the winner of the game between the #4 and #5 seed.  The #2 seed will play the winner of the #3 and #6 game.

After Friday's game, Iowa Central's conference opponents are Scott at home on the 20th and Iowa Lakes at Spencer, IA on the 23rd.  They have a non-conference match on the 17th at home against the University of Iowa's club team.

Close but No Cigar

The match last night in Fulton, MO was one of the best efforts of the season for CMU but unfortunately they did not get the win, but they didn't notch a loss either.  After 110 minutes of good soccer the score line ended in a 1-1 draw.  The Eagles controlled the first half of the game with spot on passing and effort with the only bad grades given for offensive tactics and quality of finishing.  I believe that this is one of the few games that CMU has out shot their opponent but they missed several golden chances to put the ball in the net with errant shots.  It was a different team that took the field in the second half and for the first 15 minutes we were knocked back on our heels.  Finally they woke up and returned to their first half form and were connecting passes and team defending and moving the ball well into the attacking third of the field.  We scored in the 70th minute with a goal by Jordan Jennings with an outstanding assist from Kayla Leeser.  We played another 10 minutes or so of back and forth soccer and William Woods eventually equalized on a defensive miscue when we failed to cleanly clear the ball from our penalty area.  Both overtime periods had more of the same with these evenly matched teams with a back and forth battle although we had a great scoring chance called back by an offside call.  Here is the Recap and Box Score

Madeline's Iowa Central team won yesterday afternoon 5-0 over Indian Hills but the only information that I currently have is from 5 short text messages with each score.  I will post more when I get additional information.

Another Roadtrip

Central Methodist travels down I-70 to play William Woods University.  It should be a pretty good game as these teams match up better than the last 3 or 4 teams that they have played. Below is the tale of the tape. If the print is too small I believe that you can click and it will get bigger. (it is supposed to work that way.)

 It is a 7:00 p.m. game because the Men play at 5:00 so we should have plenty of time to get there but a late return trip.  Meredith is traveling but does not know if her number will be selected to play.

Iowa Central also plays today at 2:00 at home against Indian Hills, a team that they defeated 3-0 on September 14th.  Right now Iowa Central is playing for the second spot in their conference.  Placement of the first or second position means a bye in the first round of the Region 11 tournament and would mean a difference of 2 instead of 3 games in 4 days plus a extra 2.5 hour bus trip.  I will post results of both game as soon as I can.

The Little Book of Soccer Instructions for My Daughters

I have been compiling information and coaching advice since 1997 when the girls first stepped on a soccer pitch.  I used it coaching their teams throughout the years and I am sure that they have heard most of the contents of the book dozens of times.  In August I decided that they might like to have it written down so I started to compile my stacks of coaching notes, miscellaneous files in my computor, and my coaching and game journals.  I set a target completion date of their birthday on October 3rd so I could give it to them. Last night was the first opportunity that they were together so that I could give them their book.

 Picture taken 10/9/10 in Lamoni, IA after the CMU/GU game.

You can get either a printed copy for $8.49 plus shipping or you can download a copy for $2.87 to your computer. Just click this Link   I had researched the printing company for another project but had never used them before this.  The books are printed on demand and are shipped promptly.

Central Methodist vs Graceland University

I watched a better performance from CMU in this match up than has been shown in the last 4 games but they still came up short on the score line losing 4-1 to the #10 ranked Graceland Lady Yellow Jackets.  The Graceland team had trounced the #15 ranked William Jewell team 5-0 just 3 days before and William Jewell defeated CMU by the same 5-0 score line on the 29th so I was expecting a blowout.  The officiating was horrible and inconsistent but was not responsible for 3 of the 4 goals that GU put in the net and were not to blame for the absence of  CMU scoring attacks and shots but certainly were accountable for diminishing my enjoyment of the game.  They were also bad enough for the normally composed CMU coach to become very verbal on several occasions and  drew a caution from the center referee.  In a conversation with some GU parents we were told that the center referee was the father of GU's assistant coach and even they were not pleased with the shadow that the poor officiating placed on the game. 


Here is the Recap and the Box Score from the Graceland University website so it might have a different twist from the facts (as I see them ;)).  I will edit this post when the information is available on CMU's site letting you view the differences. (Recap from CMU and Box Score from DakStats3000) We were watching the game sitting next to the press box and could hear the play by play that was being broadcast over the Internet.  It was very interesting to hear the slant that the announcer was putting on the game and I am certain that if she had a very sensitive microphone that the comments of a few CMU parents could be heard.  I will have to listen to the entire broadcast to see if I made the broadcast.  Here is the Link  to take you to the broadcast, you will then need to click on the tab "On Demand" and then click on the "Listen" tab on the Graceland's Women Soccer vs Central Methodist selection.

Our entire entourage went to eat and celebrate October birthdays at a local restaurant after the game and a good time was had by all.  We made it back to the soccer pitch to watch the last 30 minutes of the 2nd half of the men's game.  The officiating had not improved as it was the same crew but in different positions.  There were several moments when the game got out of control and a couple of absolutely horrible calls did determine the outcome of the game with the awarding of a penalty kick that tied the game and sent it into overtime and a red card in the 91st minute.  We did not stay for the overtime periods but Meredith texted me that CMU lost 4-3 with an own goal in the first overtime period.  What a heartbreaking way to lose.

Friday's game between ICCC and DCTC in Rosemont, MN

ANOTHER WIN!!!  The Tritons are finally reaching their stride with this very important game to move up into the second spot in their conference standings.  The importance of this is that the first two teams receive a bye in the Regional Tournament that will be held at the end of this month in Des Moines with a chance to move on the National Tournament in Topeka.  The win yesterday was without Madeline though, she had to make a hard decision as it was the second day of radiology clinicals.  I believe that she made the right one but I know that she is relieved that IC came away with the win.  This new technology is wonderful because Debra and I were able to watch the game live on the computor on Minnesota Sports Network and you can watch the archived game by following this Link  When it pops up on your screen you can place your mouse on the video and right click to get zoom and show it full screen.  Post Script: the Recap from the college web site posted 10/11/10.
This evening we are going to watch the old fashioned way (by going to the game) CMU play Graceland University in Lamoni, IA.  We are also going to celebrate family October birthdays of Madeline and Meredith, sister Debbie Veach, and mom Roberta Brick.  Madeline will be coming down from Ft. Dodge with Debbie and Kenny, Nancy and Larry will be coming from Chariton, and we will be picking up mom at Trenton.  Betsy has to work a long day and will not get to go.  On paper it looks like it may be a really rough outing for Central Methodist but anything can happen in a soccer match and when a weak team plays a strong one the goalie always gets a lot of work.  I will post the complete news of the game later although  I may try some new technology and post a tweet and pictures from the game.

Iowa Central vs Iowa Western

In the game this afternoon IC did not win on the scoreboard but evidently had an excellent game.  They have been in a slump for the last two weeks and haven't been playing up to their abilities.  It has been difficult to determine exactly what the problem was but it appears that Coach McGowan has pushed the right buttons on the team and has gotten the effort that was desired.  Madeline said that she played as a winger in today's match.  Here is what Coach McGowan posted on the IC Facebook page.

"truly amazed at the heart, work rate, and teamwork of you all. I can't tell you how much I loved watching you play today...a real team effort. This type of performance is what we can achieve when we all bring our talents together and leave them on the field. I'm very proud that you all worked hard for each other and made each teammate's job a little easier through your hard work. TEAM!!!"

Here is the Recap from the college website.

Happy 19th Birthday Madeline & Meredith

Thought I would inject this birthday wish to the girls on their 19th birthday.  I am learning a lot of new skills with this blog.  I am not sure exactly how or why I might use what I learn in the future but it keeps my mind involved.  I just read some information on how to post a blog from my smartphone so that will probably be my next assignment.

Central Methodist vs Benedictine

Debra and I attended the CMU vs Benedictine game last night in Atchison, KS.  The weather was wonderful but a bit nippy with a slight breeze at game time.  Their soccer facility was beautiful with backs on the bleacher seating (really appreciated) and only soccer lines marked out on the AstroTurf.  We found that their team was as talented as their facility was beautiful.  Their first score came about 30 minutes into the first half and was scored off a header from a corner kick.  The half ended 1-0 but Benedictine controlled possession and their technical ability, ball control, and tactical skills was head and shoulders above CMU.  It was obvious that we were very lucky to get to the half only one goal down.   Benedictine scored again about 5 minutes into the second half from a free kick 25 yards out on the right side.  The ball ricocheted off the crossbar and there wasn't a thing the goalie could do about it.   Benedictine's third goal came about 15 minutes later and was a shot from about 30 yards out into the far upper 90.  Again the goalie didn't have a chance.  There was approximately a 2 minute period about 30 minutes left in the second half where CMU looked good, with connected passes, possession and off the ball movement, however it was a fleeting moment.  Benedictine substituted freely in the second half and it didn't seem to effect the quality of play for either team.  The Recap is very short from the college website. Here is the Box Score

I Told Them That There Would Be Days Like This

Not much good news on either soccer front tonight.  Iowa Central lost to Rochester 1-7 this afternoon in Rochester.  This was a team that they defeated 2-1 in double overtime 2 weeks ago.  The only bright spot in the game for us was that Madeline scored her first collegiate goal.  She said in a phone call that it was late enough in the game that it was difficult to celebrate because of the score line.  She also had another goal in the game but was ruled offside.  I hope that IC can turn their downhill slide around.  Here is the Recap
Meredith called tonight that she would not be playing tomorrow at Benedictine.  She was really bummed in her phone call.  We are still going to the game anyway to take some cookies for the team for Meredith's birthday.  Debra is busy making the cookie dough tonight and will bake them in the morning.   However, there are all sorts of interesting things that can happen in a soccer match so it is possible that she could play.  Benedictine has a pretty good team and the match will be difficult with the way CMU has played lately.  Meredith said that she was going to a "team" bonfire tonight.  I asked her if it would be "without coaches" and she said that it would, so perhaps the team is trying get their act together and turn things around.

Soccer Skills Pay Off

Last Friday night at the Ft. Dodge High School football game Coach McGowan put his soccer skills to good use.  Below is the write up and video from the college website.

McGowan kicks for cash

by Josh Sandin
Photo Courtesy of Paul DeCoursey
Posted on 9/30/2010
FORT DODGE - If Iowa Central women’s soccer coach Willie McGowan had a penny for every soccer ball he had kicked in his life, it still may not add up to as much as he made for his first kick of a football.
The Iowa Central and Fort Dodge Senior High soccer coach was drawn randomly at Friday night’s Fort Dodge-Ames football game to kick a 40-yard field goal that would pay $10,000 if he made it. McGowan, who admittedly had never kicked a football before, booted the pigskin through the right upright and cleared the posts by 10-yards.
"The stadium completely erupted when the ball went through the posts,” said McGowan in an interview with the Messenger. “It stayed true and didn't really skip a beat. All I remember seeing was the ball going through the uprights, and once it went through, I just dropped to my knees and shook a man's hand. Then, I celebrated for a while and walked off the field."
McGowan also joked that he will remain at Iowa Central despite the numerous calls from NFL teams.
McGowan said he plans on taking a vacation with his family and donating some to a charity. The $10,000 “Kick for Cash” was sponsored by Kingsgate Insurance, First Federal Saving Bank of Iowa and West Bend Mutual Insurance Company.

Central Methodist vs William Jewell

Not much that can be said about the game last night between CMU and William Jewell so will I leave that to the Recap and the Box Score .  The weather was perfect, a pretty lively crowd especially those supporting William Jewell and did I mention the weather was perfect.  The Eagles didn't have much to cheer about as all aspects of their game was lacking. They seem to lack the "chemistry" to put it all together for a entire game.  Meredith started but was pulled 22 minutes into the first half and all three goalies saw action in the game.

What a Neat Idea

I ran across the below article this morning and thought I would learn the process to post and embed a YouTube video. This ball could finally achieve the statement of "I wish I could bottle up all that energy and use it later."

BOSTON, MA – A soccer ball that generates electricity that could help light African homes has won recognition in the sixth annual Popular Mechanics Breakthrough Awards, the magazine announced today.



The ball, developed by Jessica Lin, Jessica O. Matthews, Julia Silverman, and Hemali Thakkar, when they were still undergraduates at Harvard University can generate enough energy during 15 minutes of play to provide three hours of LED light, which could come in handy in sub-Saharan Africa, where less than 25 percent of the population has reliable electricity, the magazine said.

The sOccket ball has an embedded DC jack and weighs only 5 ounces more than an official ball. A future model could generate enough power to charge a cellphone, the magazine said in a news release.

On the Road Again

We have decided to go to Meredith's game tomorrow.  It is a 5:00 pm match in Fayette so we can leave when Debra gets out of school.  With the nice fall weather we will have to be watchful for deer, combines and farm equipment on the way.   I finished up the mowing and weed-eating early enough today that I was able to go watch the Chillicothe boys soccer team play Lafayette.  The game was a little slower after watching college games, but I believe that the overall play is improving.  Varsity won 2-1 but I didn't stay to watch the JV.  The game could have very easily went the other way except for a couple of plays.  It is hard for me to tell from the bleachers if the coach is totally playing to win or if he is trying to raise the skill and experience level of the entire team to prepare for future seasons.  In my opinion he has a unusual method to his substitutions and the team can not create any rhythm or flow and develop any consistant player relationships.  The midfielders and forwards ability to perform attacking runs especially off the ball is a problem and is probably created by selfish play (unwilling to pass).  

Two Views of the Same Game

Well my promised Sunday evening post turned into a Tuesday morning one and for a couple of reasons. The first was my state of tiredness and the second was I wanted to see what Coach McGowan had written before I posted.  He was not happy after the UNI game and the post game discussion with the team lasted about 20 minutes.  Madeline was very closed-mouth about it but the thoughts that she expressed was that he was not pleased with their on field effort.  I saw an entirely differ game from the bleachers so I wanted to see what he wrote after a day or two reflection.  In my opinion, the effort and desire to win was expressed throughout the entire game by IC.  There were moments of questionable decision-making and poor execution on the field but never a lack of hustle and effort.  The UNI team was more mature (IC has 5 sophmores and the rest are freshman) and had more game experience with several 3 and 4 year college players.  UNI's defense was very strong and yet IC was able to make several more attacking runs and controlled the flow of play, they just lacked the quality final touch to put the ball in the net.  There was a noticeable deterioration in the quality of play and fitness in the overtime periods but fortunately it was with both teams and is something I am sure that the coach will address in the next few practices.  I  know that the coach knows what this team is capable of and is working hard to find the best way to get it on the field and to get them at the place they need to be for the end of October.

Below is what Coach McGowan posted on Facebook and below that is the recap of both games.

Won against Iowa lakes, now looking for another against UNI Club team today. I know we are tired and sore, but we need to push on through all that stuff that goes away after time. We win today and we extend our win-streak to 5. That will not go away but will remain with you forever!! Go get 'em. TEAM!!!!!

ended up tying UNI's club team today. A lot of chances were created with some good openings but we couldn't take any of them. 0-0. We need a quick bounce-back for Tuesday's game and need to WANT to win and show us that YOU are the one that should be on that field playing.

Recap of Both Games 

 

 

 

Win Some-Lose Some Part Two.

Debra and I drove through a couple hours of rain to watch Madeline play this afternoon in Ft. Dodge.  Fortunately, the rain stopped an hour or two before her game started but the pitch was pretty muddy and it was overcast and only in the mid 50's.  Madeline played as a forward in the 1st half and as a defender/sweeper in the second.  Her play is getting faster and she makes good decisions with the ball.  She is still not as confident in her ability as she could be but is making progress in each game.  Iowa Central won 4-1 and totally dominated with possession.  They still were have difficulty finishing and I am anxious to see the shot total.  We went out to supper after the game and Madeline and Debra went to the mall.

Meredith was playing Baker University in Baldwin City, KS and I received her text when we were eating that they had lost 0-3.  She played the entire game and thought that she had played fairly well except for the last 15 minutes of the 1st half when all of Baker's goals were scored.  She ended up with 9 saves and from looking at the box score CMU's attack is still pretty anemic.  Here is the Box Score from the game.

We will watch Madeline play again tomorrow at 2:00 and I will post the results of that tomorrow evening.

You Win Some, You Lose Some

Both girls had games on the road yesterday, Meredith in St. Louis against Missouri Baptist University and Madeline in Bettendorf, IA against Scott County College.  Debra's brother Ron and his wife Nancy was traveling through St. Louis on their vacation and was able to watch Meredith's game and was texting Debra on what was happening.  The facility where they were playing the game was in Chesterfield and in the river bottom so Ron was texting in between swatting mosquitoes. CMU lost 3-2 but from the description sounded like a hard fought game.  Here is the game Recap and the Box Score

Madeline's team won but in less than a solid manner.  Here is what the coach wrote on the Facebook page, I am really anxious to read the recap.  Debra and I are going to Ft. Dodge this week end to watch Madeline play two games.  So I will have a more complete report on how the Iowa Central team is doing.  

"defeated Scott in a less than convincing fashion. After more than 40 shots at goal, 14 recorded corner kicks, and probably more than 80% of possession in the game we won 1-0 scored on a PK. Ask yourselves what YOU need to do to LIFT your game up to new heights!! Three games now we have been really flat. You ALL need to bring your 'A' game to EVERY game from here on out."

Madeline texted after the game  "We won 1-0.  We should have beat them by a million.  We were not playing as a team.  We are going to die in practice tomorrow."

Here is the Recap of the game.

Iowa Central vs Rochester College and Technical

Not many details on this match that was held on Friday at 2:00.  One of Madeline's roommates dad was texting me the essential facts on this 2-1 win.  We scored first about 30 minutes into the first half, with the goal by Kate Murray, assist by Rachael Cook.  Rochester equalized on a PK about 30 minutes into the second half.  End of regulation time 1-1.  Early into first overtime PK saved by IC, short time later Stephanie Gale scored on a PK.  These sketchy details may be changed when the game description is posted.  Madeline called and talked to Debra while we were watching Meredith's game so I only heard Debra's half of the conversation.  But she said the coach said that they used up all their luck to post this one in the win column.  Here is what he wrote on the Facebook page.

"We won an ugly one in overtime versus Rochester. Kate Murray and Stephanie Gale on target for us. Need to play with a little more shape going forward. Set pieces did look dangerous but failed to capitalize on them. We did win them but were in the wrong position to finish properly. Alumni weekend commences tonight. Enjoy the Fishheads!!"

Addenum: The Recap is now posted and the facts I received via texts were pretty accurate.

 

CMU vs University of St. Mary

Debra, Betsy and I attended the game in Fayette Friday evening with a perfect day for soccer.  I was particularly excited about the game because two girls that Madeline and Meredith played a lot of soccer with, Ivory Baldwin and Erin Crotty are on the USM team.  As it turned out Ivory and Erin were the only two of "my girls" that played, Meredith was nursing a very swollen and bruised hand from a practice injury and didn't play.  Not a good injury for a goalie.  Ivory and Erin played well although the USM team didn't.  CMU got the win and looked pretty good.     Here is the Recap and the Box Score

Ottawa University at Central Methodist University

Debra attended Meredith's game so any extra details about the game are missing.  The only thing not mentioned in the recap or box score is that two Ottawa players bumped heads in the first half and they were taken off the field by ambulance.  One of my friends was texting me about the game and said that the first Ottawa goal the attacker beat the outside defender to score and on the second goal Meredith blocked/deflected the shot from the left and Ottawa score from the deflection.  Here is the Recap and the Box Score.  Meredith is looking forward to Friday's game with the University of St. Mary because two of her St. Joe Express and Northwest Express teammates play on the team, Erin Crotty and Ivory Baldwin.

Iowa Central vs Indian Hills in Ottumwa, IA

I have decided to write about yesterday's games separately, in my fatigued (mental and physical) state it is difficult to keep the facts straight.  I picked up mom about 10:30 to go to the game and we took the scenic route to get there because we had some extra time.  I enjoyed the ride and the conversation and even the forced detours because of road construction.  We arrived in Ottumwa in time to watch the IC mens game and was able to talk to Madeline quite a bit before her game.  IC's goalkeeper had talked to Madeline on the bus ride down and wanted me to work on a problem in her right midback/shoulder.  We found a empty players bench and I was able to get her fixed up, so perhaps I should get an assist in the box score for her shutout.  Coach McGowan has the team organized very well on the defensive side of the ball and IHCC was unable to mount any meaniful attack throughout the game.  I don't believe that they keep possession stats but I would hazard a guess that IC controlled the ball 80% of the time.  Stephanie Gale scored all three of IC's goal but several of the girls had shots and on frame.  The team must have been working on their finishes.  Madeline started and played a very good game.  She is connecting with more of her passes and she had a couple of quality crosses and shots. Talking with her after the game she felt that this may have been her best game so far.  Final score IC 3  IHCC 0.  The bus got stuck in the parking lot and they didn't leave until about 8:30 and it was about midnight when they got back to campus.  Here is what the coach wrote on Facebook about the game:

"We remain undefeated versus IHCC as we finally rolled to a 3-0 win. Steph Gale had all 3 goals so she may be wearing a hat tomorrow!! Well done ladies. I'm proud of you all. Good team effort."

Here is the Recap from the college website.

Separate Directions

Today Iowa Central has an away game in Ottumwa, IA against Indian Hills Community College which is the closest game they have to Chillicothe.  Fortunately, it is my off day and I can travel the three hours to get there.  I will pick up Mom in Trenton and my sister Nancy in Chariton to watch the game.  Debra will be going to Meredith's  5:00 game in Fayette against Ottawa University and will be leaving as soon as she is out of school.  I will let you know how these dual road trips turn out.

CMU vs Tabor

A little quiet time this early Sunday morning and will try to catch up on posts.  Meredith's team looked much better on Friday evening and are improving each game.  However, their opponent  Tabor College is again one of the weaker teams that they will play.  Meredith started and played all 90 minutes but only touched the ball 4 or 5 times and most of those were pass backs from teammates. But it is her first collegiate shutout and she was pretty happy.  I will link to the college Recap but the Box Score is not on the college site yet.  I will also link to the DakStats3000 Websync site for CMU    This web site covers all NAIA colleges and is somehow hooked in live to the scoring table at the game and can give you a play by play of the action and stats.  If you click on the (((W))) by the game result, a visual graphic of the game will appear.  It is not quite like watching the game but the stats are really cool for us bleacher coaches.

Both girls are home and perhaps we will all have a meal together today before they go back and Betsy goes to work.  Madeline has a 6:00 pm practice and will need to leave early afternoon.  Meredith has some homework to do so she will be leaving mid afternoon.

I had the Elks Soccer Shoot yesterday from 9:00 to 12:00 and had spent Thursday morning and after work getting ready for it.  Yesterday afternoon I mowed the field in preparation for over-seeding and fertilization.  Last week in my "spare time" I  triple aerated  and applied fall broadleaf weed control.  This afternoon I will also work on the goal mouths by filling in some holes and over-seeding the repairs.

Next scheduled post will be Wednesday the 15th with reports on both Madeline's and Meredith's games.

CMU vs Harris Stowe and Iowa Central vs Iowa Western

I finally found some time to post about yesterdays matches,  CMU vs. Harris Stowe and Iowa Central vs. Iowa Western.  Debra and I attended Meredith's game in Fayette, we have found that if Debra leaves right after school and picks me up at the office by 3:05 that we can be in our seats at the CMU stadium 4 minutes before game time.  We had been on the road just a few minutes when Meredith texted that she would not be playing, but we decided to go anyway.  Harris Stowe is the doormat of the conference and the coach had met with the GKs and told them that it would be a good opportunity to get the #2 and #3 some game time.  His prediction was correct and CMU won 9-0.  CMU had 43 shots to Harris Stowe's 1.   Here is the Recap and the Box Score

Madeline's game on the other hand was against the top team in their conference and their fiercest rival. IC ended up losing 0-4. Here is what the coach wrote on the team's Facebook page before the game.

"3 hours to kick off. Weird how I still get butterflies before the game after all this time. Love this time of year. We get to play and say "this is OUR year and you're NOT going to make it a poor one. C'Mmmmonnnnnn!!!" Go get 'em ladies, do us all proud!" 

And after the game:

"You all played a great and gutsy 70 minutes today. Unfortunately a good team like IWCC will capitalize when we make mistakes and being unable to clear or attack the ball in our own 6 yard box. All 4 goals came from errors in that area. Now that we know where the weakness lies, we can now address it. See you tomorrow!!!"

The father of one of Madeline's roommates was texting me updates of the game, but I guess that either Fort Dodge or Fayette (or perhaps both) are in a time warp because there was about a 30 minute delay in the transmission of the texts.  Madeline's game started at 4:00 so I knew approximately what time the half would be and roughly the time the game would end.  I was optimistic to the end because all 4 of Iowa Western's goals were scored in the last 20 minutes of the game.  They should have a softer part of their schedule in the next few games.  I plan to go to the next game on the 14th at Indian Hills in Ottumwa, IA.  Debra will go and watch Meredith at Fayette the same day and they play Ottawa University from Ottawa, KS

We are going to Fayette tomorrow and watch CMU play Tabor University.  So more to report Friday night.  Both girls are coming home this weekend, Madeline will leave Ft. Dodge after her practice on Friday and Meredith will have a practice on Saturday morning and then come home. I think they miss Zoey.

 

 

CMU vs Doane College

Spent a pleasant Sunday watching Meredith play, Mom was able to go with us and the weather was perfect.  CMU was playing Doane College from Fremont, Nebraska in Fayette.  We were excited that Meredith got her first collegiate start, (however I told Debra that she would after her performance on Saturday against Hannibal-LaGrange)  We were pleasantly surprised that she played the entire 90 minutes because the coach had been giving both keepers time.   CMU looked very flat and the offense couldn't connect with any meaningful passes against a very energetic and well organized Doane team.  Meredith had 10 saves and looked very good.  Doane's score came from a 25 yard shot into the far upper 90.  Nothing Mere could do about it and the player was well defended, just an excellent shot.  Doane had 15 shots and 11 on goal, CMU only had 2 shots and neither were on goal.  Here are links to the college Recap & Box Score

Hannibal LaGrange vs CMU and Iowa Central vs Lackawanna

Just made it home from Hannibal and Meredith's game.  The CMU-Hannibal LaGrange match ended as a 1-1 draw after two overtime periods.  Meredith started the second half and played both overtime periods and didn't allow any goals.  CMU looked pretty good except for about a 10 minute period early on in the first half.  HLG's goal was a result of a defensive breakdown with a 40 yard breakaway and was scored by Raelene Blanton who is from Cameron and played for a while in GHSC and on the St. Joe Express and the Northwest Express with M & M.   CMU plays tomorrow at 3:00 in Fayette against Doane College.  We plan to be there.

Madeline's team finally had a great outing and won 3-1.  I believe that they had a team meeting at 10:00 last night and got everyone's head put back on straight.  Madeline started and played most of the game in defense and was thankful that she wasn't knocked to the ground on her very sore backside.  Here is what her coach wrote about the game on Facebook:

"What a turn-around!!! Teamwork always prevails. We went out and demolished Lackawanna. Scoreline was 3-1 but their keeper was outstanding. We could have easily won by 6 or 7 all said and done. Excellent job ladies. You've showed what can be done. Iowa Western next...no surrender. Every one does what we did today and we are very much in the hunt for a victory!!!"   "Goals scored by Kate Murray and Steph Gale (2). Tritons outshot opponents 26-7. 14 shots on target. The stats don't lie ladies...pure teamwork and dominance!!! Need more of it...please!"

 

 

Iowa Central vs Navarro in Rosemont, Minnesota

Madeline played yesterday in a tournament in Rosemont, MN against Navarro.  I received text messages from a parent of one of her teammates updating me on the game which they lost 0-5.  Below is what the coach wrote on the Facebook page:

"Started game today with 5 forced changes to the squad. Sadly, we lost 0-5 against a good Navarro side. Hope we can put the negativity behind us, start afresh tomorrow and really pull together as a TEAM. We need players to lead by example and lead by their actions, not their words. Tomorrow is a new day. Tomorrow needs to be a new beginning!! Lackawanna at 1.30pm"

The forced changes were a result of team rule violations, and I know a difficult decision by the coach but very necessary.  The discipline applied will make a far stronger impression on the team than the number in the win/loss column.  I am happy to say that Madeline played most of the game and only came out when she was injured.  Evidently she was on the ground and an opposing player stepped on her backside.  We talked to her on the phone last night and she said that she had an ice pack on the injury and wasn't sitting because it hurt and planned to sleep on her stomach.  Hopefully, she will be recovered enough to play today.

Debra and I will be going to Hannibal to watch Meredith play at 3:00 and then we go tomorrow to Fayette to watch her in the first home game.  So there will be additional posts tonight and tomorrow.

McKendree University vs CMU

I have not talked to Meredith about last nights game at McKendree University at Lebanon, Illinois but evidently it was not pretty. She did not start but played the second half.  Here is the recap from the college web page and below that is a link to the box score:

Sophomore Kennedy Seifert (Moberly, MO) scored the first goal of the season for the Central Methodist University women's soccer team, but the Lady Eagles were unable to keep up with No. 11 McKendree University as McKendree topped CMU 6-1 in the season opener for both teams Tuesday.

McKendree scored three goals in the first 11 minutes of the match, which remained 3-0 at halftime.  In the 54th minute, Central Methodist on the board after a shot by sophomore Jenny Mosley (Chatham, IL) was deflected to Seifert, who kicked it past the McKendree goalkeeper from the top of the box for the fourth goal of her CMU career.  KcKendree added three more goal in the final 15 minutes of the contest to pull away for the 6-1 win.
   
The Central Methodist women fall to 0-1 this season, while McKendree moved to 1-0.  The Lady Eagles will travel to Hannibal, MO, Saturday to take on Hannibal-LaGrange College in a 3 p.m. contest.
   
http://athletics.centralmethodist.edu/documents/2010/9/1/WSOCvsMcKendree0831.htm

Chicago Trip with IC vs Heartland and IC vs Waubonsee

Just got back from Chicago and thought I would catch up with both games on MVOTP.  It took us a little over 6 hours to get there on Saturday and we arrived about 45 minutes before game time.  The weather was perfect and there were quite a few IC parents attending.  The girls played well for their first real game of the season.  They were upbeat and communicating well on the field but from "my view of the pitch" there were several players that were unsure exactly what their role was in both the offensive and defensive formations.  Fortunately that is a problem that solves itself with game experience and team trust.  The defensive unit and GK were very solid and certainly earned the shutout.  The offense had some problems connecting in the final third and missed a couple of opportunities finishing shots for goals.  Regulation time ended 0-0.  There was a bit of confusion with the officiating crew on how to end the game and after a brief consultation with the rule book they played 2 ten minute overtime periods.  We didn't find out if it was "Golden Goal" because neither team scored in overtime.  It was declared a Draw and thankfully no shootout. A shootout is a cruel way to end a game when both teams have played their hearts out for 120 minutes. Madeline started and played reasonably well, she needs to work on her fitness and the quality of her passes, but it is easy to see her improvement. 

Here is what the coach wrote about the Heartland game on the Facebook page:

"We tied Heartland today 0-0. Delighted to get the shutout after last year's start. Looked pretty good all-round, just needed a little composure and finding the right pass and movement in final third. Great job defensively. Curry and Walgren players of the game. Waubonsee tomorrow. Hopefully get out first W there."

Sunday's game began a little ragged with several missed assignments and communications from the start and went quickly downhill with a lucky goal for Waubonsee 4 minutes into the game.  Iowa Central appeared to settle down in the next 15-20 minutes but really never got into the groove.  They went 2-0 when Waubonsee scored on a solid attack.  IC got one back with a team goal that had great ball movement and several connecting passes in the final third and the first half ended 2-1.  In the second half the IC defense was tested with many scoring attacks.  Waubonsee's forwards and midfielders had the defense on their heels the second half with their demonstration of ball movement, possession and off the ball movement of players.  We were lucky for them to only score 1 additional goal in the second half.  We had a couple of good scoring opportunities but the finishes lacked the quality to put anything in the net and on the scoreboard.  IC got a goal back in the last 10 minutes off a corner kick and a own goal by Waubonsee and it ended with a 3-2 loss.  Madeline started but appeared to be playing a little tentatively, she had great hustle on the defensive side of the ball but was having difficulty with her touch and connecting passes.  Here is what the coach wrote about the game:

"First 'W' will have to wait. Lost 2-3 in a game fraught with mistakes, poor decisions, and poor execution. Some may blame the heat, tired legs, or whatever. Sad truth is we let one slip away. Need to get better all around from the players thru the coaching staff. Thxs to the supporters who traveled out there, much appreciated!!"

Just realized that I was going to try to put a picture on the here, but forgot the camera in our haste to get to Chicago.  I will study up and learn how to do it.  In the meantime I will add the links to the articles that one of the assistant coach writes about the games, the first link is to the Midland Lutheran scrimmage:  http://www.iowacentral.edu/athletics/womens_soccer/soccer_news/2010/8-23-10.asp

The second link is to the Wartburg scrimmage:
 http://www.iowacentral.edu/athletics/womens_soccer/soccer_news/2010/8-26-10.asp

 

 

Spur of the Moment Decision

On a spur of the moment decision, Debra and I have decided to drive to Chicago to watch Madeline's first two official college matches.  We will be leaving about 5:30 in the morning to get there in time to watch Iowa Central play Heartland Community College on the campus of Waubonsee College at 1:00 pm.  They will then play Waubonsee at 12:00 on Sunday.  Madeline said that she will be starting as a holding midfielder.  She watched Waubonsee play Heartland tonight at 5:00 and thought that Iowa Central would match up very well against both teams.  I may try to post results and pictures tomorrow night.

Wartburg vs Iowa Central Scrimmage

Madeline's team lost a tough match with Wartburg yesterday 2-0.  Madeline started as defender the first half and played the central midfielder position in the second half.  Here is what the coach said about the game: 

"Played Wartburg very well. Looked quite solid at times defensively. Had our chances in the second half as we had the wind and held Wartburg scoreless through the first 70 minutes which included 45 against the wind. Silly errors again cost us the shutout, and sadly through a lack of commuication...hopefully, easily fixed."

Now the official season begins with a road trip to Chicago this weekend with a game with Heartland on the 28th and Waubonsee on the 29th.

CMU vs Quincy University Scrimmage

Meredith texted last night on the bus ride home that they had lost 2-0.  She played the second half and let one of the goals in early on.  However she tightened up and thought that she played pretty well the remainder of the game.  Both the head and assistant coach thought that she had a pretty good outing.

Madeline's coach has written on the Iowa Central site today:   "Wartburg scrimmage today in Waverly, IA. Going from last few days practice I think we'll do well. Quietly optimistic!!!"

We will know later this evening how they did.

M and M's First Collegiate Road Games

Meredith has her first away scrimmage against Quincy University tonight at 7:30 in Quincy, Illinois.  Madeline's first away match is tomorrow at Wartberg College in Waverly, Iowa.  I will post updates as they come in.


Betsy starts classes tonight at NCMC, Meredith's classes start tomorrow, and Madeline's classes don't start until the 31st.

Watched a most entertaining EPL match this weekend with Manchester United at Fulham.  There was a little bit of everything in the match, great goalkeeping, excellent combination play, good defensive work and above average officiating and it ended in a 2-2 draw.

First Scrimmages for both girls

Both Madeline and Meredith had scrimmages yesterday against other teams.  Madeline started as a forward and played about 20 minutes until she had a injury (bump to the head).  She was able to go back in later and played as a sweeper, defender, and midfielder in the rest of the game.  The below quote is what the coach wrote about the game.  

"Delighted with the performance today against Midland Lutheran College. I saw a lot of positives and most of all delighted with how hard you all worked together. Congrats to Jordan Walgren on scoring the first "unofficial" goal for the Tritons on the 2010 season. Excellent movement, followed by a composed run through the defense and shot...." 

Meredith played 45 minutes of the game in goal and did not allow any goals while she was between the pipes.  She hasn't given me to many details about the match, other than it was a game full of a lot of contact.  I am anxious to watch their games.  The first we will be able to attend to see Meredith is September 4, and it will not be until September 14 when I will get to see Madeline play.

Madeline's First Start

Madeline called today and told us that she will be a starting forward in tomorrows scrimmage against Midland Lutheran (a 4 year college).  I believe that her ability and willingness to play all positions has given her a boost in making the starting lineup for this first game.  Still she will have to be effective there to maintain her spot because they have several talented players that will be competing for it.

Meredith also has their first scrimmage tomorrow against a strong club team from Columbia, but have not heard the starting lineup yet.

The Privilege of Playing College Soccer

 Over the last several weeks many people have said to me how lucky for both of my daughters to be able to play soccer in college and I never know how to reply to that.  Fortunately, I get a lot of time to think about things as I mow the yard and soccer field and this is the statement that I have come up with:   The privilege of playing college soccer is earned in the high school classroom, however the player’s athletic ability is gift from God.  The skills to play are cultivated on the practice field with the knowledge and educational expertise of all past coaches but the desire to play must come from the player’s heart.  The connecting point for everything  is the support and dedication of the athletes parents to provide the motivation to learn, the opportunity to practice and the passion to love the game.

Off to College and Practices

Meredith heads off to CMU today.  She is going a couple of days earlier than the fall athletes because of her major, Athletic Training.  The fall athletes report on Friday.  She is in fairly good shape because of her summer job and with her fairly frequent summer workouts.  She had better be in shape because starting the 16th she will have 4 a day practices. (One conditioning, two training, and one GK sessions.)  She appears to be a little more nervous than Madeline when she left, but I think that it is because that Madeline spent 3 weeks on campus this summer taking a class and eliminated the "fear of the unknown".

Madeline has been having 3 a day practices since the 6th, but they have had to work them in around the heat and a lot of thunderstorms.  From her communications it appears that the team is a lot of fun and although it has been pretty tough she has enjoyed it.

End of an Era, Last games on the same team

Today is the end of family era, as it is the last time that Madeline and Meredith will probably  play on the same team.  We are at a College Showcase in Overland Park, KS and the girls are playing on the Missouri Valley Strikers, their traveling team.
We played two games yesterday in the heat on these 18 beautiful turf fields.  We won the first game against a team from Salina, KS 2-1 and tied the second game against a team from Pella, IA 2-2.
Madeline's college coach is here scouting prospective recruits and we were able to talk to him after the last game and have dinner with him.
They only have one game today at 2:15 against a tough team from Topeka, KS and it is guaranteed to be HOT!  I have decided to end this era as it started when they played their first soccer game in the Fall of 1997 when they were 6 years old and promise them ice cream if they play hard and do the best that they can.