10/1/10 Game Recap (3-1 Loss)

The Devils took one on the chin on Saturday afternoon in Los Altos, dropping a 3-1 decision to the MVLA Typhoons at Grant Park. It was a tale of missed early opportunities that were countered by a skilled opponent.

The first 15 minutes of the game seemed to point to a favorable outcome, as the Devils quickly gained control of the ball and drove on net for an offensive chance. The ensuing shot would sail over the crossbar, but it wouldn’t be the last time the Devils would put the ball on net.

They would quickly work another offensive chance when Akayla and Audrey teamed up for a scoring chance on the left side, but a shot attempt was gloved by the MVL A goaltender.

The Typhoons would finally crack the scoring column in the 18th minute, when a shot from the top of the 18 sailed over Grace’s head. The Devils goal keeper had no chance at stopping the high shot.

The Devils defense would drop their guard after the goal, providing another scoring chance two minutes later. With the Typhoons flooding the box with four players, a head ball landed on the foot of a midfielder 10-yards out, for the easy chip shot into the goal.

An unlucky play would cost the Devils midway through the 2nd half, when a shot attempt from the right side slipped past Karsyn, who was now covering the goal. The ball cut across the front of the goal, but a Devils defender accidentally redirected the ball into the goal for the 3-0 Typhoons lead.

True to the Devils spirit, the girls kept plugging and would get on the board with a minute remaining in the game.

Marlene would take a pass 25-yards out with her back to the goal. She would pivot to her left with a defender between her and the goal, then snap a shot that beat the Typhoons goaltender just inside the left post.

Game Positives—


Persistence: Even with the game long decided, the girls kept playing the game. They would utilize one of the training skills that was implemented earlier in the week to convert their goal.

Focus Areas—


Skills Development: The Devils opponent clearly demonstrated the value of the short game and ball handling skills. Controlling the ball is critical at this level as was evident on all four goals.

Trapping: Controlling balls in the air continues to be an area that needs attention. Two of the goals could have been averted has we controlled high balls.

Passing Accuracy: The absence of more precision with passing squelched several offensive chances throughout the game. This is one development area called out by the girls after the game.