5/2/09 Game Recap (1-1 Tie)

The Devils traveled to a wet a dreary Gilroy to square off against the Orchard Valley Rampage on Saturday. The two teams battled to a hard fought 1-1 tie, the first between the two teams in four meetings.

With the emphasis on using the wet grass as an advantage, the Devils used the elements to string together several quality chances in the first half. Karsyn started things with a beautiful feed up the left side to Courtney in the first minute of the game. Courtney dribbled the ball 15 yards before ripping a shot that the Rampage keeper was forced to snare out of the air.

The Devils held the ball in the Rampage end of the field for a majority of the first half, but a single lapse in the defensive zone would cost them. The Rampage scored at the 8 minute mark when a forward dribbled around the right side and sent a shot just inside the right post for the 1-0 lead.

Marlene would tie it up a minute later when Jessica sent a cross from the left side. Marlene took the feed, dribbled to the middle of the box and ripped a low liner into the net.

Courtney would setup another chance early in the 2nd half by streaking up the right side and putting another shot on net that buzzed the goaltender.

The slick grass provided an opportunity for the Devils to showcase their speed at forward, but the Rampage backs did an exceptional job shutting down the chances late in the game.

Game Positives—

Crosses: The mids and forwards continue to improve by utilizing crossing opportunities. The outside forwards have been exceptional at putting the ball to the middle of the field.

Marks: This has been a sore spot the past two games, and the girls took the weeks practices to heart, focusing more attention on supressing the opposing forwards with marks to the goal side.

Development Areas—

Through Balls: The wet grass was an opportune time to spring the fleet footed forwards with through balls, especially against big back line.

Holding Positions: The girls were caught out of position on numerous occasion, because they were gravitating to the ball. We where unable to capitalize on a couple crossing chances, because the off wings were pinching toward the ball and not in a position to receive the pass.

Readiness: Early morning games are proving to be difficult for the team to focus on the game plan. Having to travel so far, so early may have contributed to the team’s overall readiness.