Devils 98

Stanford Classic Lineup

2011-08-15T13:44:00.000-07:00

Game 1 vs MILL VALLEY SC ROCKERS
Friday 8/19
Warm ups: 4:15pm
Game Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Cubberley Fields #1

Game 2 vs ALPINE FC BOBCATS 98G RED
Saturday 8/20
Warm ups: 7:15am
Game Time: 8:00 AM
Location: Cubberley Fields #1

Game 3 vs SAN JUAN SC SPIRITS 99 WHITE
Sunday 8/21
Warm ups: 8:30am
Game Time: 9:20 AM
Location: Cubberley FB

Game 4: Pending match results

Devils take 4th at Spring D2 Cup - Gold Division

2011-06-07T23:31:00.000-07:00

The Devils wrapped up the Spring soccer season with an impressive showing at the D2 Cup Tournament this past weekend, taking 4th place. The girls landed a spot in the Consolation Final on Sunday night and would battle to a 2-2 draw with the Alpine Bobcats, before losing 3-2 in the shootout on a dark Mountain View High School field.

The Devils seemed poised to make a dent in the Gold flight of the U13 Girls tournament, but a rough start prevented the girls from qualifying for the Championship game. Sunnyvale dominated play in the tournament opener against the Los Gatos Wildcats, but they couldn’t capitalize on several chances in front of the Los Gatos goal.

Courtney missed what should have been a gimee in the fifth minute of the game after a shot slipped past the Los Gatos keeper, but her shot on an empty net sailed wide of the goal. Audrey missed on another golden chance in the 18th min putting a shot from the top of the box into the keepers chest.

Los Gatos scored in the 45th minute on a free kick from just outside the 18 after the Devils were whistled for a foul.

The girls would bounce back in Saturday’s nightcap, taking a 2-0 decision over the Santa Cruz Breakers. Audrey chipped home a deflection in the 45th min after E started a run on the left side to provide the Devils with all the scoring they would need.

Christene punched home a second goal in the 54th min after a throw in. Audrey worked the ball from right to left, slipping a pass to Christene near the top of the 6. The subsequent shot hit the diving Breakers keeper in the hands before deflecting in to the goal.

The Devils secured their spot in the Consolation Final with an exciting 1-0 win over the MVLA Typhoons on a late goal.

The scoreless opening half was controlled by MVLA, but the game was reminiscent of the Devils opening round loss 24 hours earlier. The Devils started to turn things on at the 40 min mark, creating a series of scoring chances.

Marlene deposited the game’s lone goal off a corner kick in the 58th minute, after the ball was chipped across the middle of the big box.

The Devils were forced to play an abridged game to decide who would take the 3rd spot in the tournament after the Championship game ran late. With darkness approaching, the Devils and Bobcats played two 20-minute halves.

Sunnyvale took the early lead after Courtney ripped a shot from 15-feet out after chipping the ball past a defender past midfield and racing in on net. Alpine countered in the 2nd half streaking past the Devils defense before chipping a break into the net in the 31st minute.

It looked as if Sunnyvale would take the game in regulation, when Audrey punched home a goal with under 5 minutes to play, but the Bobcats converted a long shot with 2 minutes left in regulation.

Overcast skies and a setting sun denied the two teams from setting things in an overtime session, so the two teams immediately went to the shootout, where the Bobcats converted on 4 of 5 shots. The Devils converted on 3 of 4, before their final shot hit the crossbar to end the tournament.

5/14/11 Game Recap (2-1 Win)

2011-05-16T16:51:00.000-07:00

There are dramatic wins, and then there are games like last Saturday’s affair deep in the hills of Portola Valley that leave you speechless. With only seconds remaining on the clock, the Devils pulled off the unthinkable with a wild goal that helped push them back atop the CCSL U12G Silver Elite Standings.

Playing in the final road game of the Spring season, the Devils looked to hop-scotch past SF Athena by beating the host Alpine Bobcats at Russ Miller Town Center Field. Nestled in the hills west of Palo Alto, in what can only be described as slice of heaven on earth, the small field was surrounded by nothing but beautiful green trees and rolling hills.

The serenity that is Portola Valley was rocked by a goal late in the contest to give the Devils a 2-1 win. The game winning goal materialized after a mad scramble by the Devils to get the ball deep into the Alpine zone. Knowing that time was against them, the girls from Sunnyvale got the ball to the right corner, where Courtney sent a cross to the area in front of the small box.

Audrey got her forehead on the ball, sending a high arching volley back toward the right corner of the goal. Marlene was Johnny-on-the-spot for a chip-shot off her right foot that floated over the outstretched hands of the Bobcats goal keeper and over the goal line.

The center referee allowed the ensuing kickoff, then immediately blew his whistle, ending the heart-pounding game as time expired.

The finish setup the Devils with a chance to take the top spot in the league with a victory on Saturday when the girls faceoff against the Juventus Comos at Sunnyvale Soccer Complex. While the outcome was well deserved, it could have been a very different game.

Sunnyvale looked as if they would blitz the Alpine defense early, forcing the action in the Bobcats zone for the first 15 minutes of play. There was also not shortage of shots on net by the Devils, who created several scoring chances early.
Audrey got the first shot on goal in the 2nd minute of play, ringing a blast off the left post after streaking up the left side. Courtney setup another great scoring chance 5 minutes later with a pretty cross that Grace just missed tapping home from the doorstep.

The Devils took a 1-0 lead in the 10th minute, when Audrey chipped a rebound off the Bobcats keeper home from the center of the small box. Courtney setup the goal by lifting a cross from the right corner that was partially blocked by the goal keeper.

Alpine decided to kick things into gear midway through the opening half. They turned the tide with a flurry of shots. Karsyn helped the Devils retain the lead with a big deflection from inside the 18 right before half time.

The Devils tried to add to their lead early in the second half, when Courtney sent in a shot in the 34th minute that was gloved by the Alpine keeper. Marlene followed that up with a blast 6 minutes later.

Things started to turn south on the Sunnyvale girls in the 45th minute when Karsyn was issued her first yellow card, after colliding with a Bobcat player.

The Bobcats would create a prime scoring chance moments later, but Kelly made the save of the game, trapping the shot with her chest, before clearing it from the right side of the goal line after the ball was passed to a Bobcat forward on the right side.

Alpine capitalized on a Devils miscue in the 50th minute. Karsyn tried to head a high arching kick at the midline, but the ball deflected back toward the Devils goal. A Bobcats forward got a jump on Ruhi and she was off to the races. Hazel played the breakaway chance perfectly, coming off the line to challenge the shooter, but the Bobcat, chipped a shot to her right, knotting the game at 1-1.

The Devils would spend the next 9 minutes and 50 seconds trying to figure out a way to get a ball into the Alpine net. They cracked the problem with Marlene’s heroics late.

Game Positives—

The girls created scoring in the clutch when they needed it, never giving up on a chance to win the game. They also created several great chances early by really utilizing well-timed lead passes and combinations.

Development Areas—

After scoring the opening goal, the girls let their feet off the gas, allowing the opposing team to build momentum. A significant number of turnovers were created by Devils players kicking the ball to space with no recipient in the vicinity. The midfielders were also either under or over-committed, which exposed the middle of the field. This created far too many turnovers and subsequently, more offensive chances for Alpine.

5/8/11 Game Recap (1-1 Tie)

2011-05-11T14:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you just have one of those games. Clinging to the points lead in the CCSL Bay Silver Elite Division for U12 girls, the Devils let a flurry of opportunities slip through their fingers on Sunday night, and with it the top spot in the standings. They didn’t lose, but failed to capture the win and the three points that goes with a victory, tying Santa Clara Sporting Green 1-1 at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex.

The Devils scored a goal with 5 minutes remaining in the game to avoid their first loss of the season. Ace’s heroics helped the Devils stave off defeat by punching home a goal from 25-feet, looping a shot over the Sporting goal keeper to help Sunnyvale rally late.

The game was a frustrating one for Sunnyvale, who dominated most of the contest, but failed to convert on a bundle of chances in front of the Santa Clara goal.
Jess Jess opened the affair with the games 1st shot in the 7th minute, a nice scoring opportunity that she sent up the middle. The sporting keeper gloved the shot with a diving stop to her right.

Marlene would follow up the scoring chance with an play in the 14th minute. Once again the Sporting keeper was up to the task.

The Devils midfielders controlled the centerline, preventing any serious chances from approaching the Sunnyvale goal. Clara, Darcie and Grace played an exceptional first half, moving the ball well laterally.

Sunnyvale generated a nice chance on net right before halftime, when Marlene split two defenders in the 24th minute and sent a shot on net that was stopped by a diving save.

The complexion of the game changed in the second half. Sporting created more offensive chances by playing aggressively to the ball. They would score in the 36th minute after a goal punt fell short. Sporting intercepted the ball just outside the 18 and floated a shot over Hazel for the easy tally.

The Devils would go to work in an attempt to draw even with Santa Clara. Audrey missed on a golden chance on a through ball in the 49th minute pushing a shot just wide of the right post.

Recognizing that they needed to gain control of the ball in order to create any offense, Kelly went on a rampage from her midfielder position, tracking down balls and bumping players off the ball for the better part of the half. She created the turnover that led to Grace’s goal.

With the clock ticking down, Sporting made one final push, generating a shot in the game’s final seconds that rang off the post. Hazel tracked back to the ball and swept it to safety as two Sporting forwards tried to collapse on the rebound. The whistle sounded, allowing the Devils to escape with a point.

Game Positives—

The girls showed great tenacity in their attempt to rally from the one-goal deficit late in the game. The play by the midfielders was exceptional in the last 20 minutes of the contest, which allowed the team to score the equalizer.

Development Areas—

The lack of focus in the final 2 minutes of the game could have proved costly. Trapping continues to be an area that is hurting the team. That skill allowed the opposition to penetrate as deeply as they did on the game’s final rush. The outcome of the game may have been much different had the forward line players taken more shots. There were several instances where the ball was held too long.

5/1/11 Game Recap (0-0 Tie)

2011-05-10T16:37:00.000-07:00

The Devils battled to a hard fought 0-0 tie against the MVLA Typhoons Blue on Sunday at Hillview Park in Los Altos. The girls were looking to put together back-to-back win after their strong performance against the SCC Breakers a week earlier. The game came down to a battle of defenses, but neither team would buckle in the scoreless deadlock.
Both squads focused on ball possession during the opening minutes of the contest. MVLA used their exceptional ball handling skills to package a pair of attacks earlier in the game.

The Devils 1st big chance in the game came in the 24th min. The Devils midfielders moved the ball from left to right off a throw in, setting up a scoring chance. Audrey, Grace and Marlene worked a combination play to the top of the 18 for a shot that just missed wide right.

MVLA countered moments later, driving the Devils net. Hazel made a huge save in the 29th minute deflecting a rocket wide left with a lunging fist that punched the ball safely over the cross bar.

That play was the lone scoring chance that MVLA would have on the afternoon. The backline corps of Ruhi, Karsyn, Lindsay, Jess and Christene stymied the Typhoons most of the afternoon.

Marlene setup another Devils chance with a shot off her left foot in the 40th min that was gloved by the MVLA keeper.

Courtney followed that up with a with a blast in the 47th min that once again needed to be gloved.

Both defenses clamped down on the opposition as the game worn on. Neither of the teams could muster many offensive chances as the clock wound down. It was a great display of two very evenly matched teams.

Game Positives—

Combination plays were the theme of the afternoon, and the girls did a great job of working the ball to each other. They are becoming more and more confident with their passing, and have established a nice tempo when moving the ball into the attacking zone.

Development Areas—

Free giveaways off mishandled passes continues to be an area that needs plenty of supplemental attention. This is a team weakness that has nullified several attacks.

4/23/11 Game Recap (6-0 Win)

2011-04-27T10:11:00.001-07:00

Jess carries the
ball up field

The Devils extended their hot streak with a resounding 6-0 victory over the Santa Cruz County (SCC) Breakers on Saturday at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex. As the Bay Area weather begins to heat up, so goes the Devils offense, which was firing on all cylinders. Five different Devils contributed to the scoring in the goal-fest.

Early indications suggested that the field was tilted in the Devils favor. The offense pushed deep into the Breakers zone immediately after the opening whistle and created a pair of scoring chances that were suppressed by the visitors.

Audrey kicked off the scoring in the 8th minute after Courtney sent a diagonal pass from the right side. Audrey gathered the ball at the top of the 18 and rifled home her 4th goal of the season.

She would score a minute later after Karsyn sent a long free kick from the Devils side of midfield. The Breakers had been called for a handball, and the lofting drive by the Devils stopper caught the Breakers back-liners off guard.

Hazel secures a shot

Courtney punched home the Devils 3rd goal in the 12th minute after Kelly carried the ball up the left sideline and sent a cross to the box.

The play of the game came right before half. Kelly and Audrey connected on a four-pass combination play along the left sideline that was a sight to behold. It was a great demonstration of the girl’s small ball skills, but more importantly it showed the maturity of the players as they unselfishly worked off each other to advance the ball.

The Devils picked up right where they left off to start the 2nd half. Marlene sent a blast from the right side in the 33rd min that was gloved by the Breakers keeper.
The Breakers regrouped to mount an offensive charge, but the defenders, led by Ruhi snuffed out the attack. Jess Jess used some deft ball handling to navigate around three attackers on one sequence to move the ball out of the Sunnyvale zone.

Darcie maintains possession

Clara chipped home her 1st goal of the season in the 44th min after Courtney bounced a shot of the keeper. The midfielder pinched from her spot on the left side, streaking past a Breakers defender before one-timing the shot into the SCC net.

Grace made it 5-0 after chipping a long rebound over the keeper from 45 feet out. The center midfielder intercepted a ball 10 yards inside the midfield line then sent a high arching shot on goal that sailed over the keeper’s outstretched hands for her 2nd goal of the season.

Christene capped the scoring in the 55th minute by chipping home a deflection from the left side. Darcie and Clara worked the ball into the box before creating a scoring chance that the SCC keeper was able to get a hand on. Christene followed it up to record her first goal of the season.

Getting a chance at forward, Lyndsay put together a nice scoring chance with a long breakaway that was followed by a shot on goal that just missed wide of the right post.

Game Positives—

Scoring was the name of the game, and the girls were relentless when given the opportunity. Putting shots on net paid dividends. This has been a point of contention early in the season, but they answered with a strong showing. The combination plays are becoming a more frequent occurrence, which is showing the development of the girls as soccer players. Much of the scoring was setup by very accurate passing, which is also starting to show great improvement.

Development Areas—

With the opportunity to move players around to different positions, it was apparent that some of the girls were out of their element. This led to a breakdown in fundamentals, like basic defensive positioning. As the girls advance to higher levels of play, they need to be prepared to take on any position, and with it the responsibility of maintaining basic fundamentals.

4/17/11 Game Recap (1-1 Tie)

2011-04-17T23:18:00.000-07:00

Ace battles for
the ball

The Devils played their second consecutive game on the road on Sunday and battled the Los Gatos Wildcats to an entertaining 1-1 tie. The Devils scored early in the opening half then surrendered a goal right before halftime, before trading plenty of scoring chances in the deadlock.

The big story of the day was Hazel, who made her Devils debut in goal. The Sunnyvale goalkeeper made an impressive first impression, making several big saves to help the Devils secure a point with the tie.

The Devils set the tone early in the contest, controlling the offensive zone for the better part of the opening half. A Wildcats handball was called 30 feet out in the 8th minute. Karsyn launched a high free kick that skipped through the small box before skipping wide left. Sunnyvale failed to put a body on the ball for a deflection.

Audrey would find the back of the net in the 11th minute after drilling a shot from the top of the 18 after Grace slid a pass to the slot from the left side of the field.

Kelly made a spot start at the sweeper position, playing the position for the first time in a while. She helped control the backline and quarterbacked the defense. Lindsay and Jess used their respective strengths to keep the Wildcat forwards in check on the outside for the majority of the opening half.

Hazels' BIG save

Los Gatos chipped the ball past the Sunnyvale backline to create a break in the 20th minute, but Hazel made a massive save, deflecting a chest-high shot by extending her left arm over the crossbar.

The Wildcats tied it in the 24th min after a pass similar to the one that netted the Devils their goal was slipped from left to right across the top of the 18. A Wildcats forward gathered the ball and ripped a shot inside the left post.

Both teams had a chance to go ahead in the 2nd half, but the defenses stood tall. The Devils best chance came in the 41st minute when a pin-balling chance found its way to Darcie who drilled a shot that barely cleared the crossbar.

The midfielders played an excellent controlled game, leaning on their small ball skills, especially under heavy pressure.

Grace and Courtney would team up for a nice wall pass sequence that created a scoring chance early in the half.

E setup another scoring chance by applying an aggressive dose of pressure in the left corner after the Devils pushed a ball deep. She would force a turnover before sending a centering pass to Grace near the top left corner of the big box.

Audrey with the pull-back

Darcie and Christene would send a constant stream of through balls to Courtney on the right side all game long. The trio teamed up for tree nice offensive chances in the 2nd half.

A centering feed from the Wildcats midfield setup another scoring chance late in the game. Once again, Hazel came up big, deflecting a ball safely out of bounds with a sliding tackle after a Los Gatos forward got a step on the Devils defense.

Clara got a big foot on the ensuing Wildcat corner kick to steer the ball safely out of the Devils end.

Game Positives—

The girls applied plenty of pressure in the opening half, which resulted in an early goal. They generated most of their offense by stringing together short, accurate passes. The midfielders led the way, utilizing some nifty dribbling to keep possession of the ball. The goalkeeping was super!

Development Areas—

Defensive positioning allowed several scoring chances for the opposition. Some of this was caused by an urgency to overload one side of the field, and forget about forwards on the weak side of the field.

Welcome Darcie

2011-04-13T23:18:00.000-07:00

The Newest Devil

The Devils family would like to extend a big welcome to Darcie, the newest member of the team. The midfielder joins us after a stint with the SASC Blades. She’s already demonstrated that she’s a great fit and has made a seamless transition onto the roster.

The girls continued their tradition of picking a nickname for each player, and they anointed her as "Dora!" Don't ask us where they come up with this stuff.

Please join the coaches in welcoming Darcie and her family to the Devils!

4/9/11 Game Recap (2-0 Win)

2011-04-13T23:08:00.000-07:00

The Devils played another strong game on Saturday, taking their second consecutive win to open the Spring season. Sunnyvale scored a goal in each half and held off a feisty West Valley Surefire squad 2-0 at the Prospect High School turf field.

The Devils played a very impressive game, focusing on ball control and combination plays. There was no shortage of offensive chances on either side of the halftime break, as the Devils pressed in the offensive zone in 30 minute segments.

Courtney put on a shooting display, sending a series of balls on goal from her forward position. Her first chance came on a through ball from Katrina in the 4th minute. She took the feed up the right side before snapping a shot that was gloved by the Surefire goalkeeper.

She would take another shot from 15 feet less than three minutes later that was headed to the upper right corner before being gloved again by the West Valley keeper.

Darcie and E turned in very strong games from the midfield. Darcie showed off her ball handling skills on several occasions, dribbling around defenders before setting up several combinations. E was a force on the left side, applying an up-tempo performance that caused several turnovers. She showed off her diversity by finishing the afternoon on the back line.

The Devils would crack the scoring deadlock in the 23rd minute, when Grace pumped a pass from the left sideline past the keeper for her first goal of the season. The center-midfielder received the ball at the top of the 18, before squaring herself to the goal and firing the shot home.

Sunnyvale began to employ more back passing as the Surefire forwards began to press. Lindsay and goaltender Akayla teamed up to safely clear a threat with a back pass to the box.

The shots would continue to come in the 2nd half. Courtney ripped another shot that sailed just wide right of the goal 2 minutes in.

Jess and Ruhi came up big in the 40th minute when they snuffed out an offensive chance by the Surefire deep in the Devils zone. Jess trapped a crossing attempt inside the box, pushing the ball out with several Surefire players circling her. Ruhi would sweep a return feed out to the right side, before lifting is safely to midfield.

The Devils would cap the scoring with a goal in the 45th minute. Once again, Courtney fired a shot from the right side that the Surefire keeper deflected into the small box. Audrey swooped in from the off forward position and beat a defender to the ball with a sliding shot that found the back of the net.

Game Positives—

The combinations are starting to become a strength of the team. They employed several passing sequences that created plenty of offensive chances throughout the afternoon. A lack of shots on goal was an issue in the fall season. This was a direct result of the absence of extended passing sequences. Saturday’s game showed how multiple passes can create offensive chances.

Development Areas—

Trapping continues to be an area that requires more attention. The girls surrendered the ball on too many occasions because trap attempts bounced away. High balls were a specific trouble spot.

4/3/11 Game Recap (3-1 Win)

2011-04-06T11:40:00.000-07:00

Darcy makes her Devils debut

The Devils kicked off the 2011 CCSL Spring Season with an impressive 3-1 win over the defending CCSL Silver Elite Champion MP Strikers on Sunday at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex. The Devils shrugged off an early 1-0 deficit and stormed back with three unanswered goals to kick off the spring season in impressive fashion.

The team welcomed new midfielder Darcie to the lineup, who played a great game, controlling the right side for most of the afternoon. Her Mom tells us she was a little nervous about making her Devils debut, but she looked as cool as a cucumber whenever she had the ball at her feet.

Overall, the girls looked fantastic out of the gate. Having a reputation as notoriously slow starters, the off-season running program that was managed by Mike Gallagher paid immediate dividends for the team. Endurance was a non-factor the entire afternoon and team speed played a role in the victory.

Things got off to a rocky start when the Strikers converted in just the 8th minute of play. The Devils opponent put a shot on net from the top left corner of the 18, that deflected off a Devils defender. Akayla, the Devils goalkeeper, was in position to make the save on the initial shot, but the deflection made a stop an impossibility. It would be the only Devils blemish on the afternoon.

Audrey celebrates her goal

Sunnyvale would counter 6 minutes later when Audrey slipped past the MP defense off a long free kick by Karsyn from midfield. Beating two defenders, Audrey gathered the pass outside the 18, cut left and slipped a shot past the Strikers keeper to tie the game

Courtney made it 2-1 in the 21st minute, after Grace sent a pretty corner in from the left side. The speedy forward used her ball skills rather than her speed to convert the goal, chipping a shot on goal before the ball could hit the ground. Kelly positioned herself perfectly in front of the Strikers keeper, screening her view. By the time the keeper picked up the shot, it was through legs.

The Strikers showed why they were league champions later in the period, stringing together a series of attacks on the Devils net. Akayla made a big save right before half by stopping a 15 foot rocket with a big chest save.

The Devils backline would suppress the Strikers offense, led by Ruhi who calmly swept a handful of through-balls safely to the sidelines. Her defensive timing was spot on as usual.

Christene starts the attack

The outside defenders forced the Strikers to focus on central attacks, because they took away the outside lanes. Lindsay and Christene used their speed to track down equally quick Striker forwards.

Audrey added a second goal in the 46th minute after Courtney sent a cross from the right side. The MP keeper got both hands on the ball but couldn't contain it. Audrey swooped in from the left side punching it home with a sliding stab at the ball.
Clara, E and Katrina all had strong games in the middle, tying up the Strikers attack and moving the ball well.

The Devils keeper came up big at the end of the game, stopping a series of shots from a variety of distances.

Game Positives—-

The girls did a great job capitalizing on their opportunities in front of the net. That was a problem area last season, but they showed great improvement by getting the ball into the attacking zone and putting shots on net. Overall, team hustle was very evident. The girls are improving on attacking the ball and moving to space. They also consistently improve on their decision making, especially under pressure. As the girls transition to a new offensive format, they are coming along well in interpreting how that format can be used to beat opposing defenses. Making that adjustment is no easy task, especially since they’ve played a different format for so long.

Development Areas--

There was a tendency to kick the ball forward when there was no pressure. This would result in unnecessary turnovers. Through ball passes could also use some work. Receiving the ball in the air continues to be an area that the team can improve on as a whole. The Strikers used this skill to great advantage.

Spring 2011 Game Schedule

2011-03-21T10:48:00.000-07:00

4/3/11 (9:00am) League Game #1: vs MP Strikers 98 Blue - @ Sunnyvale Soccer Complex [MAP] 3-1 W (Goals: Audrey (2), Courtney. GK: Akayla (1))

4/9/11 (4:00pm) League Game #2: @ West Valley Surefire 98 - Location: Prospect High School [MAP] 2-0 W (Goals: Courtney, Grace)

4/17/118 (9:00am) League Game #3: @ Los Gatos Wildcats - Location: Fisher Middle School [MAP] 1-1 T (Goals: Audrey)

4/23/11 (11:30am) League Game #4: SCC Breakers 98 - @ Sunnyvale Soccer Complex [MAP] 6-0 Win (Goals; Audrey (2), Christene, Clara, Courtney, Grace)

5/1/11 (5:30pm) League Game #5: @ MVLA Typhoons Blue - Location: Hillview Field [MAP] 0-0 Tie (Goals: None)

5/8/11 (6:00pm) League Game #6: Sporting 99 Green - @ Sunnyvale Soccer Complex [MAP] 1-1 Tie (Goals: Grace)

5/14/11 (10:30am) League Game #7: @ Alpine Bobcats 98 Red - Location: Russ Miller Town Center Field[MAP] 2-1 Win (Goals: Audrey, Marlene)

5/21/11 (1:30pm) League Game #8: Juventus Cosmos - @ Sunnyvale Soccer Complex [MAP] 1-1 Tie (Goals: Audrey)

CCSL Bay Silver Elite League [Standings]

Team Stats
Season Record: 4W-0L-4T (16 points) - 3rd Place
Team Goals Scored: 16 (2.00 GFA)
Team Goals Allowed: 5 (0.62 GAA)
Team Shutouts: 3

Individual Stats
Goals Scored:
Audrey - 7
Courtney - 3
Grace - 3
Christene - 1
Clara - 1
Marlene - 1

Goals Allowed (Goaltending):
Akayla - 1 (0.50 GAA) - 2.00 games
Hazel - 4 (0.66 GAA) - 6.00 games

Devils Recruiting

2010-11-10T15:53:00.000-08:00

The Devils are looking to expand their current roster and will be participating in the SASC Age Group Tryouts on December 4th. Girls born between 8/1/1998 and 7/31/1999 are eligible for U12 tryouts for the Spring 2011 season. The club will be holding joint age group tryouts to place players on the Devils 98 (Class 1), Blades 98 (Class 3) and Revolution 98 (Class 3).

Interested players should pre-register here.

10/10/10 Game Recap (1-0 Loss)

2010-10-13T23:37:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the scoreboard can be a cruel thing. Just a day after dropping an evenly matched contest, the Devils dropped their second consecutive 1-0 decision even though they played well enough to win. Facing off against the second ranked team in the league, the Devils lost a heartbreaker to the Menlo Park Strikers at Burgess Field.

The Devils turned in another strong performance, worthy of a victory, but they would fall on a lone goal. Both teams would spend the better part of the first half feeling out openings in the defense.

Grace played one of the best games of the season at center midfield, controlling the middle against a skilled Strikers team. Playing on a large field, she was forced to cover significant ground throughout the game.

Menlo Park had exceptional ball control skills, which forced the Devils to focus pursuing the play. They would generate the game’s only score after intercepting a goal kick that fell short in the 34th minute. A Strikers forward would pooch a 35-foot rainbow shot that just cleared Jess Jess in goal, to put Menlo Park up 1-0.
Marlene would fire a 25-foot shot in the 40th minute after receiving a ball outside the box. The shot would be snared by the Strikers goalkeeper chest high.

The Devils would generate their best scoring chance with 12 minutes to play. A corner chance found its way into the small box where it deflected off a Devils forward. The ball was played in the air by two more players, before landing on Marlene’s boot for a shot attempt that floated over the crossbar.

The Strikers did a nice job of suppressing the Devils runs which limited more scoring opportunities late in the game.

Game Positives—

Opening Up the Offense: The girls focused on getting more balls on goal, which resulted in more scoring chances than the previous game. We will continue to focus on generating more scoring chances by putting balls on net.

Midfield Play: The mids helped control the tempo of the game by covering a lot of ground all afternoon.

Development Areas—

Controlling the First Touch: This was the development theme of the weekend. The girls could have reduced turnovers with improved ball control.

High Traps: Knocking down balls that are waist high (and higher) continues to be area the girls are struggling with. Controlling high balls with a foot was a recipe for disaster, allowing through balls to pass the fullbacks on several occasions.

10/9/10 Game Recap (1-0 Loss)

2010-10-13T22:43:00.000-07:00

The Devils faced off against a familiar opponent on Saturday, dropping a close 1-0 decision to the Orchard Valley Rampage at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex. The contest was a typical Devils-Rampage affair, well played and tightly contested. The Devils would come up short, but the score didn’t do their performance justice. There was no reward for the solid play turned in by the girls.

The Rampage would capitalize early, scoring the game’s only goal on a shot that found the upper left corner of the goal at the 7 minute mark.

The remainder of the first half was a cat-and-mouse game between the two teams. The Devils defense would settle things on a strong performance by Christene, who shut down two Rampage strikers by blanketing them.

Clara would make the save of the game with a diving stop in the 19th minute. A sure goal was headed toward the left side of the goal, when she snared the shot by leaping to her right.

Lindsay took control of the ball with time winding down in the first half. Trapping the ball along the left sideline, she recognized there was open space and made the decision to carry it up the line, pushing the play into the offensive zone. She would get a cross off after taking the initiative to move up from her defensive position.

The Devils offense would kick things into gear in the 2nd half. Courtney would fire a shot that just cleared the top of the crossbar in the 43rd minute. Akayla would miss just wide of the right post 3 minutes later.

Kelly would turn in a solid performance in goal in the second half, denying the Rampage any space to maneuver the ball in front of the goal.

With time winding down, the Devils would get one last crack at tying the game. Akayla would intercept a clearing attempt, before launching a shot that just cleared the crossbar.

Game Positives—

Defensive Adjustments: The girls made the necessary defensive adjustments to suppress a very talented Rampage offense.

Generating Chances: The girls did a better job at generating scoring opportunities, especially in the second half.

Development Areas—

Controlling the First Touch: Maintaining possession is critical as the level of play increases. Controlling the ball off the first touch is something the girls will focus as part of technical training.

Finishing: the scoring chances were there, but several shots were rushed when there was time to settle the ball and setup a higher quality shot.

10/3/10 Game Recap (3-2 Win)

2010-10-04T23:18:00.000-07:00

A day after the Devils dropped a tough 3-1 decision, they would rebound to defeat West Valley Surefire at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex on Sunday, winning their first game of the season. The game was a nice turnaround from the setback that soured the start of the weekend less than 24 hours earlier.

The girls came ready to play and showed it with a flurry of scoring chances right out of the gate. Akayla put a nice header on goal just two minutes into the game, but a tall Surefire goal keeper would avert danger by gloving the ball.
Courtney would follow that up with a dive up the right side four minutes later, cranking a shot that sailed over the crossbar.

Karsyn's 1st goal clears the keeper

Kelly was fouled from behind in the 14th minute, setting up a free kick from 35 yards out. Playing from her stopper position, Karsyn was tasked with taking the kick. She would unload on the ball, launching a shot that cleared the Surefire keeper for her first league goal.

Courtney would make it 2-0 five minutes later after Marlene slid a pretty diagonal pass to the right corner. Courtney carried the ball on goal and ripped a shot that stretched the twine in the back left corner of the goal.

Audrey just missed putting the Devils up by three goals with two minutes remaining in the half, when her shot just missed wide left. The momentum would swing moments later.

Marlene played big on Sunday

Surefire would cut the Devils lead in half with less than a minute remaining before the intermission by bending a corner kick around Katrina’s glove.

They would strike while the iron was still hot, tying the game 40 seconds into the 2nd half. A Surefire forward slipped up the middle of the field and jumped pas a defender before snapping a point blank shot from just inside the 18.

It looked as if the game was tilting in West Valley’s favor, before the Devils pushed another ball deep into the Surefire zone. They would draw a corner kick, but the ensuing ball would pin-ball in the small bow for an eternity before being cleared to safety.

Celebrating the game winner!

The Devils would get the goal they needed to put them back on top from an unlikely source, when Karsyn converted her second goal of the game. Trapping a clearing attempt outside the 18, she would get her left foot on the ball, firing a shot to the right corner with ten minutes to play.

The play of the game would come with 5 minutes remaining, when E snagged a sure goal out of the air from her goal keeping position. Surefire worked the ball to the left side of the goal, where a forward ripped a chest high shot that was destined for the back of the net. Diving to her right, she would make a backhanded grab of the ball to preserve the Devils slim lead.

The defense would take over to shut down a final attempt by West Valley to score the equalizer. Ruhi would direct a solid backline in the second half, teaming up with Lindsay, Clara and Jess Jess to put the clamps on any comeback.

Game Positives—

Rebounding: In typical Devils fashion, the girls built on their loss from the day before and played with confidence. They showed no ill effects from setback and played with the enthusiasm that has made them so successful.

Defensive Positioning: The girls cleaned up some of the defensive positioning issues to takeaway opportunities from Surefires big shots.

Shot Quantity: The girls recognized that they need to shoot more to generate scoring. They addressed that by taking plenty of shots.

Focus Areas—

Shot Placement: The girls let several scoring chances slip away by putting shots directly on the goal keeper. Poise with the ball in shooting situations can be converted to more breathing room.

Timing Focus: Surrendering a goal right before halftime provided a big momentum shift, which the opposition used to start the 2nd half. The girls relaxed right before halftime and it bit them. Recognizing that the opposition will push late in any half is something the girls need to be more cognizant of, especially at the direction of the coaches.

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

2010-10-04T22:12:00.000-07:00

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.

Devils Win Palo Alto Talls Tree Tournament

2010-09-28T13:58:00.000-07:00

The Devils turned a near perfect performance this past weekend at the Palo Alto Tall Trees Tournament, taking the U12 Girls Championship with four shutout victories. The girls advanced to the tournament championship game with three solid wins, then brought home the tournament title with a hard fought win over a talented Folsom Stryker squad.

The championship game pegged two teams that dominated in round robin play. The Devils scored the maximum number of points possible during that stage of the tournament, by winning, scoring at least three goals in each game and holding their opponent scoreless.

Kelly cranks a shot on goal

In the final, Sunnyvale scored in the opening minute of play and made the lone goal hold up in a 1-0 decision over Folsom. Audrey converted the game’s only goal with a shot from the top left corner of the 18 after receiving a booming free kick from Karsyn on the right side. A foul along the right sideline, setup the 35-yard feed from the Devils stopper.

The offensive chances were limited because of great defensive play by both teams, but the Devils made things exciting when given the opportunity. After the first half ended with the Devils up by the single goal, the Strykers were expected to turn up the heat. The Devils game plan was to try and force the offense in order to limit any Stryker scoring chances.

The girls would execute the game plan to perfection, limiting Folsom to two shots in the second half. The backline play of Ruhi, Lindsay, Christene, Karsyn, Clara and Jess Jess stifled the Strykers offense.

Grace, Kelly, E and Katrina controlled the middle and set up numerous chances with a constant stream of feeds.

Devils 4 – MCFC Blizzard 0

The Devils advanced on three big wins earlier in the weekend. On Saturday, the opened the tournament with a 4-0 win over the Monterey County FC Blizzard. After a scoreless first half, the girls went to work.

Akayla gets airborne

Akayla converted 4 minutes into the 2nd half after Courtney sent a pretty ball in from the right corner. Akayla trapped it n the box then slipped a shot just inside the right post, and the offense was off to the races.

The Devils appeared to convert on a crazy play that included three touches in the air. They would be called for offside on the play, nullifying the goal, but it was a testament to the juggling work that the girls focus on. They would convert moments after that on a 25-yard free kick from Grace that sailed over the keeper.

Courtney was credited with a goal two minutes later when her shot was gloved by the keeper but carried over the goal line. She would add another tally with 10 minutes to play on a penalty kick after Kelly was fouled in the box.

Devils 3 – Stanford Wildfire 0

The girls finished Saturday with another win, a 3-0 decision over young Stanford Wildfire squad. Akayla would set the tone with a header attempt in the 7th minute that just missed left of the goal.

Lindsay securing the backline

Marlene helped snap her teammates out of funk with a goal in the 24th minute, trapping a loose ball inside the 18 and chipping a shot just under the crossbar for the #1-0 lead. Kelly made it 2-0 with a nice dribble across the 18, before finishing with a shot that clipped the left post.

Grace capped the game’s scoring by intercepting a goal kick on the right side with three minutes to play, before cranking a shot that slipped under the cross bar.

Devils 5 – Marin Storm 0

The energy level picked up in the last game of round robin play on Sunday with the Devils taking a 5-0 decision over the Sonoma Storm. Big shots were the story of the game. Karsyn unleashed a booming attempt in the 4th minute that just missed left. Akayla would follow that up with a shot from inside the 18, that was blocked by the Sonoma keeper. Marlene would unleash a third attempt on goal in the 19th minute that sailed over the crossbar.

Grace following a shot

Courtney finally converted right before halftime by taking a long feed from Akayla up the right sideline and sliding a shot past the keeper to the left post. She would add a second goal a minute into the 2nd half, duplicating her initial tally with a shot from the same spot on the right side.

Akayla got into the act and made it 3-0 in the 34th minute, by carrying a feed up the left side and rifling a ball that found nothing but net.

Ruhi scores her 2nd goal

With the game in hand, position switches were made, including moving Ruhi up from her sweeper position to center forward. She would promptly score a pair of goals to cap the win. She converted with 7 minutes to play fighting off three defenders just inside the 18 then snapping a shot with her body squared to the right sideline.

She added a second tally 4 minutes later, carrying the ball through traffic and slipping a shot inside the right post.

9/18/10 Game Recap (1-1 Tie)

2010-09-20T17:15:00.000-07:00

Grace wins the ball

Sometimes you just need to be happy with the hand that you’re dealt and move on. The Devils missed a golden opportunity to secure their first win of the season against one of the stronger teams in the division on Saturday, but in the end were happy to get away with a tie. Playing on a hot and humid day in Santa Clara, the Devils squeaked out a 1-1 tie against Sporting 99.

The Devils could have made it a much different game had they converted on their early chances. The heat and humidity may have played a role in the games outcome for both teams, who looked lethargic out of the gate.

Akayla had a nice chance in the 4th minute of the game, punching a shot just short of the goal line after the Sporting goal keeper missed on a diving save. The ball was eventually cleared to safety, but the missed opportunity would bite the Devils.
Both teams had difficulty kick starting things in the first half, but Santa Clara would miss on a golden chance in the 37th minute when a lofting feed into the box was one-timed just wide of the left post.

Christene fights for position

Santa Clara would capitalize on a Devils miscue in the 40th minute, after a goal kick up the middle of the field fell short. A Sporting forward would scoop up the ball then race into the box and slide a pass to her left. A trailing forward punched the ball home for the 1-0 Santa Clara lead.

The Devils would rally late with a series of scoring chances. First Akayla took a feed from Audrey on the left side then pumped a shot as she was being tackled. The Sporting keeper gloved the shot, but it would be a taste of what was to come.
AK would setup another prime scoring chance 2 minutes later, with a chip pass to her right to Courtney, who unloaded a blast that was once again stopped by the SC keeper with a glove save.

Ruhi locked down the back line

Audrey would score the equalizer in the 56th minute, sending a shot from the left side of the 18, bouncing it off the right post and into the goal. She slipped a Sporting defender just outside the 18, before taking a step and putting some pop into the shot.

The Devils were able to manufacturer the equalizer because their defenders were locked on in that last 10 minutes. Ruhi played an exceptional game and was awarded Player of the Game.

Game Positives—

Perseverance: Once again, the girls showed that they’re never out of a game. Stepping up the pressure in the last 10 minutes of the game showed that they can compete in the Bay Silver Elite Division.

Sustaining Pressure: The Devils opponent was an exceptional passing team, but the Devils offset that to some degree by constantly pressuring the passer and with coverage as soon as the ball was received.

Development Areas-

Over-committing: Several players had a tendency to over-commit to one side of a player when attacking on defense. This resulted in opportunities for the SC ball-handlers to turn easily with the ball and get past the Devil defender.
Creating Offensive combination Plays: We’ve worked extensively on combination plays, which is something the Sporting squad utilized very well against us. This is a development area that will pay huge dividends for this team once they master this skill.

Shots from the Outside: The girls could have created more scoring opportunities if they had simply put more balls on goal. They are generating zone penetration, but need to have more faith in their shooting. Putting their shots to the corners is something we need to develop more.

9/12/10 Game Recap (0-0 Tie)

2010-09-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

Akayla moving the ball up field

The Devils played their first road game of the season on a blustery day in Santa Cruz on Saturday. The girls turned in a solid performance to tie the host SCC Breakers 0-0 at Cabrillo College. The girls had plenty of scoring chances, but just couldn’t get the goal needed to grab their first victory of the season.

A hot Breakers goaltender was the star of the game, denying several chances in the offensive zone. The Devils controlled the tempo of the game for much of the first half, keeping the ball pinned in the Breakers zone.

Marlene and Audrey teamed up for a pair of scoring opportunities in the first half, but the ball would be smothered by the Breakers goal keeper on both occasions.
The midfield play was exceptional for the Devils, who kept the pressure on the Breakers with several feeds up both sidelines. Grace, Kelly and Clara had nice performances patrolling the middle of the field and sending nice leading passes when the situation warranted it.

Kelly & Courtney attack

The Breakers had a quick sweeper who contained the deep ball threats with her quickness and ability to clear away most of the dangerous balls that were sent across the mid-line. The first half would end without any scoring.

In typical fashion, the Devils turned up the heat in the second half. Sustained pressure deep in the Breakers zone would provide the first big chance for the Sunnyvale squad. A hand-ball call inside the Breakers 18 resulted in a penalty shot for the Devils, but the field was not properly marked. The referee paced off the yardage for the shot, but the ball was placed a good 6 feet beyond where the mark should have been painted.

Courtney would uncork a blast that was headed high center, but the extended length of the shot allowed the Breakers keeper to track the ball easily, knocking it down then pouncing on it.

Audrey fights for possession

Another call gave the Devils a free kick in the 53rd minute from 70 feet out. Karsyn put a big foot on the ensuing kick, launching a ball that found a seam in the defense and bounced six feet in front of the goal line. The Breakers keeper deflected the ball, but couldn’t control it. As it rolled through the box, she pounced on it before a Devils player could reach it.

The Devils defense played superbly, led by Lindsay’s strong showing on the outside. Ruhi and Christene did a great job of locking down the back end.

The offense literally took a hit in the last 4 minutes of the contest, when Courtney was forced off by a bloody nose as a result of an errant elbow.

Game Positives—

Implementing Skills: The team did a great job of infusing overlap runs, wall passes and more advanced passing sequences in their game, which resulted in better ball control.

Communication: The back liners are starting to orchestrate from their vantage point, which is helping to setup attacks and establish better defensive positioning. We’re discovering that several players actually have voices!

Development Areas-

Going in the Kill: The Devils had a few opportunities to establish more control in the offensive zone, but couldn’t generate the necessary scoring.

Swarming: Most of the quality scoring chances could have paid bigger dividends if there was follow through on the plays by the outside forwards. The Breakers keeper had some issue handling the ball on occasion, but there was no follow up pressure to take advantage of the situation.

9/11/10 Game Recap (2-1 Loss)

2010-09-15T11:01:00.000-07:00

Lindsay clearing the ball

The Devils kicked off the 2010 Fall CCSL Season on Saturday with an exciting performance against the Central Valley Jaguars at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex. Playing in the newly formed Bay Silver Elite Division, the girls were pegged against a former Class 1, Division 1 team. They would fight to tie the game midway through the 2nd half, but would surrender the game winner with six minutes to play to fall 2-1.

It was a great introduction to the higher level of play that the Devils fought to achieve by winning the Delgado A Division last year. The competition was certainly faster and more skilled than what the Devils had grown accustomed to seeing, but they met the challenge head on.

They would get things going early with a steady dose of pressure in the Jaguars zone. Courtney setup the game’s first scoring chance with a pretty cross in the 3rd minute that was cleared by a Jaguar defender. The pass forced a sliding save in the box in order to prevent the Devils from cashing in.

Ruhi guarding the backline

The majority of the first half was played in the Central Valley, but an errant break led to a Jaguars goal in the 19th minute. A lead pass deflected landed on eh boot of a jaguars striker on the right side. The initial shot was turned away by Akayla who made the start in goal. The deflection was chipped over to the left in a wild scrum, where another Jaguars forward fired home the game’s first goal.

Sunnyvale continued to pressure in the Jaguars zone, getting off a pair of shots that sailed wide of the net.

They just missed on a golden chance 4 minutes into the 2nd half after Akayla, now at forward, carried a pass up the right side and ripped a shot off the Central Valley goal keeper. The ball pin-balled in the box for several seconds before being cleared to safety.

Kelly had a solid game

The Devils would tie it up in the 44th minute on a wild sequence in front of the Central Valley net. Courtney started things with a big shot from the right side that kicked back out to the 18. Grace followed up with another shot that hit a defender and deflected back to Courtney for the follow up shot. She would chip the ball wide of the keeper, finding the back of the net for the 1-1 tie.

Central Valley would lean on their experience late in the game to convert the game winner. With 6 minutes to play, the Jaguars would send a corner kick into the box from the right side. Sensing that the clock was winding down on the game, they flooded the box with their mids. The devils would encounter some bad luck when a great attempt to clear the ball by Kelly deflected off a Jaguars player into the net for the 2-1 lead.

Celebrating a goal

The Devils would make a mad rush at the end of the game to try and bag the equalizer, but a push in the Central Valley zone just came up short. It was an exciting ending to a well played game.

While the game’s outcome wasn’t what the team had hoped, the performance was outstanding. The coaches raved about the play of each player after the game.

Game Positives—

Ready to Play: The girls picked up were they left off in the Spring with a combination of fantastic team play. They were well prepared to take on a highly skilled team that was quick.

Utilizing Skills: Several players executed some of the higher level skills that have been part of the training regimen over the last couple of months. Lateral ball movement and overlap runs were on display during the game.

Attitude: After showing so much success the past three seasons, it would have been easy for the girls to hang their heads after losing for the first time in league in three Fall seasons, but they ended the game the same way they started it. Successful athletes don’t get too high or too low after a performance, and this is a natural trait of this team.

Development Areas—

Trusting Instincts: As expected, the quickness of the game resulted in some hasty decisions with the ball. In some cases, the girls had time to make a play with the ball, but panicked and immediately kicked it away without finding a target or electing to dribble. There needs to be more trust in their skills, which are more than capable of handling these types of situations.

Playing Balls in the Air: As has been a constant issue, balls in the air continue to be a blemish in the team’s overall game. The failure to utilize chest traps and head balls is resulting in lost chances to control the ball.

Fall 2010 Game Schedule

2010-09-09T11:15:00.000-07:00

9/11 (12:00pm) League Game #1: vs Central Valley Jaguars 98 Red - @ Sunnyvale Soccer Complex [MAP] 2-1 L (Goals: Courtney)

9/12 (2:30pm) League Game #2: @ SCC Breakers 98 - @ Cabrillo College Track [MAP] 0-0 T (Goals: none)

9/18 (12:30) League Game #3: @ Santa Clara Sporting 99 Green - @ Curtis Brookdale #1 [Map] 1-1 T (Goals: Audrey)

10/2 (4:00) League Game #4: @ MVLA Typhoons 98 Blue - 3-1 L (Goals: Marlene)

10/3 (2:30) League Game #5: vs West Valley Surefire 98 - 3-2 W (Goals: Karsyn (2), Courtney)

10/9 (11:45D) League Game #6: vs Orchard Valley Rampage 98 Gold - 1-0 L (Goals: None)

10/10 (9:30) League Game #7: @ MP Strikers 98 Blue - 1-0 L (Goals: None)

10/16 (1:00) League Game #8: @ CV Jaguars 98 Red - 0-0 T (Goals: None)

10/17 (11:00) League Game #9: vs SCC Breakers 98 - 1-0 W (Goals: Audrey)

11/6 (9:00) League Game #10: vs Santa Clara Sporting 99 Green - 2-1 L (Goals: Courtney)

CCSL Bay Silver Elite League [Standings]

Team Stats
Season Record: 2W-5L-3T (9 points) - 6th Place
Team Goals Scored: 8 (0.80 GFA)
Team Goals Allowed: 12 (1.20 GAA)
Team Shutouts: 2

Individual Stats
Goals Scored:
Courtney - 3
Audrey - 2
Karsyn - 2
Marlene - 1

Goals Allowed (Goaltending):
Audrey - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.50 games
Kelly - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.50 games
Lindsay - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.50 games
Ruhi - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.50 games
Karsyn - 1 (0.32 GAA) - 0.75 games
Christene - 1 (1.00 GAA) - 1.00 games
E - 1 (1.00 GAA) - 1.00 games
Katrina - 1 (1.00 GAA) - 1.00 games
Akayla - 1 (1.00 GAA) - 1.0 games
Clara - 1 (1.00 GAA) - 1.0 games
Courtney - 1 (2.00) - 0.5 games
Jess Jess - 2 (2.00 GAA) - 1.00 games
Marlene - 1 (2.00 GAA) - 0.50 games
Grace - 2 (8.00 GAA) - 0.25 games

Devils work out with FC Gold Pride players

2010-08-11T12:49:00.001-07:00

Several Devils players participated in the Gold Pride Training Day at John Muir high School in san Jose on Tuesday night. Several Gold Pride players, including Brazilian superstar Marta, were on hand to run several training drills with the girls.

The drills ranged from 1v1 small space ball control to shooting, to turns and ball handling. Each station had a Gold Pride player running the drill. Marta circulated throughout the training and mixed it up with several Devils players in the 1v1 drill. It was great way to expose the kids to such a great soccer player.

Marta vs Katrina

At the end of the training, all player in attendance had an opportunity to get each Gold Pride player to autograph an item. Players autographed balls, t-shirts, programs, soccer bags and even a soccer boot or two.

The Gold Pride players even made time for a group shot with the Devils players. Everyone in attendance also received a ticket to this Saturday night’s Gold Pride game.

The program was well organized and certainly a great experience for the kids. Hats off to all the Gold Pride players for taking the time to work with the kids.

5/15/10 Game Recap (1-0) Win

2010-05-18T22:51:00.000-07:00

The Devils got back on the winning track with an exciting 1-0 win over the Burlingame Twisters at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex on Saturday afternoon. The girls dusted themselves off after their close loss to Santa Clara Sporting the week before, and went back to work on what turned out to be an unseasonably cold day.

The two teams opened the spring season back in April, playing to a 1-1 draw in Burlingame. This time, the Devils used their home field advantage to win the season series.

The Twisters opened the game with a jump in their step, and took it to the Devils defense through the first ten minutes of the contest. Making her second consecutive start in goal, Clara was up to the challenge, denying two quality shot in the opening minutes.

The Devils began to get their legs under them midway through the first half, creating a couple of runs up the flanks. Things turned ugly in the 15th minute, when a Twisters midfielder tackled Lindsay along the right sideline as the Devils defender streaked up the line. The tackle came from the blind-side, after Lindsay had released the ball. A yellow card was issued, but it wouldn't be the end of the physical play.

The Twisters countered in the 19th minute with a drive up the middle Clara made a spactaculr one-handed save off a bullet from the left side to preserve the 0-0 tie.

The Devils were then called for a hand-ball in the box on the next sequence, but the Twisters penalty shot sailed over the cross bar.

Ruhi, Karsyn, Lindsay and Jess did a fantastic job of surpressing the Twisters forwards, denying any breaks throughout the game.

The physical play would force Clara off after she was injured on a dangerous play in the box. Trying to field a ball from her keeper position, Clara was upended after a Twisters forward tried to get a foot on the ball. She would limp off the field after injuring her back.

The physicality served as motivation for the Devils, who regrouped at halftime, and put on a charge to start the second half.

Akayla would get things started by cranking a shot off the crossbar on a direct kick, after the Twisters goaltender was whistled for handling the ball outside of the box. Her shot bounced back into play where a wild series of shot attempts bounced around the perimeter of the goal before being cleared.

E would send a pretty 50-foot blast that missed just wide right at the 35 minute mark.

Audrey would finally crack the score sheet with a shot off a break on the left sidein the 37th minute. A Twisters defender stumbled on the play just as Audrey made a move to her left. As the Devils forward powered toward the goal, the Twisters keeper tried to atack the ball, attempting to tackle the ball by sliding sideways toward the attack. Audrey would get the shot off, before having her legs taken out by the keeper. The ball found the back of the net, and the entire Devils forward and midfields lines picked her up off the turf to celebrate.

The midfielders stepped up in the last 15 minutes, with consistent feeds to the forwards, keeping the ball out of the Devils zone. Grace controlled the middle with a timely interceptions throughout the afternoon. Christene excelled in a utility role, playing at forward, mid and defense.

Marlene would try to tack on to the Devils score with a shot in teh 50th minutes, that the keeper had to deny with a sprawling save. She would send another shot wide of the left post with 3 minutes to play.

Game Positives--

- Balls in the Air: The girls worked on improving traps and head balls throughout the week, and there was a marked improvement in this area. We still need to work on trapping high lofting balls.

- Perserverence: Rather than cowering from the physical play, the girls stepped up their own aggressivness on the field. We don't condone dirty play, but physical presence is a must as this team progresses to a high level of competition.

Development Areas--

- Communication: We had a number of times when there was confusion on which Devil would take the ball. he girls need to be more vocal on the field in order to communicate their intent.

- Right of Way: Along with communication, there were a few instances when we would step in front of a teammate preventing the player with the right of way from clearing the ball.

5/8/10 Game Recap (1-0 Loss)

2010-05-08T22:01:00.000-07:00

The Devils lost their first game of the season 1-0 to the Santa Clara Sporting. No Game recap available

Spring 2010 Game 5 Photos

2010-04-25T23:45:00.000-07:00

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4/24/10 Game Recap (2-0 Win)

2010-04-25T23:34:00.000-07:00

Katrina clears the ball

The Devils kept up their winning ways on Sunday on the peninsula, by steaming to a 2-0 win over the Menlo Park Strikers. The Strikers were a technically sound team that challenged the Devils with a nice mix of offensive pressure and sound defense.

Playing in what has arguably been the warmest day of the season thus far, the Devils had to deal with a fast Strikers team that used its quickness to create several offensive chances early. Things would get interesting for the Devils once they warmed up the offense themselves.

Marlene missed on a pretty chance in the 14th minute, hammering a shot off the crossbar after Audrey sent a perfect cross from the left side. The shot didn’t go in, but it set the tone for what would be a very nice stretch of offensive chances.

She would send another lofting shot from 40 feet that the Strikers keeper was forced to snare above her head 5 minutes later. Audrey would follow that up by ripping a shot from the left side in the 29th minute that hit the keeper in the chest.

Marlene would finally crack the Strikers defense by depositing a rebound after Akayla sent a corner kick into the box from the right side. Grace chipped the ball off a defender that landed right on Marlene's boot for the laser shot.

The Strikers almost countered two minutes later when a breakaway was deftly defended by Karsyn from the keeper position. She would challenge the shooter by racing out to the 8 yard mark and deflecting a shot off the break. The rebound kicked out to the middle of the box where a follow up shot sailed just wide of the right post.

Christene mixes it up

Marlene made it 2-0 in the 49th min after a wild sequence that started with another corner kick that sailed past the goal mouth. Audrey retrieved the ball from the far side then sent a pass to the box where it pin-balled over three players before landing on Marlene drilled home the goal.

Akayla would loft a ball into the box three minutes later that Marlene put her head on for a pretty scoring chance. The Strikers keeper snagged the head-ball shot in front of the goal line to keep the score at 2-0.

Game Positives—

Rotation: The girls did a nice job of rotating to a variety of positions. The heat and short bench required more positional rotation than usual. Christene played in three positions throughout the game, showing off her ability to play all over the field.

Attitude: The demeanor at half time was very confident. These kids enjoy playing the game.

Fitness: The fitness level of the team is exceptionally high right now. All those mile runs in school are paying dividends on the field right now.

Support: The cheering section was incredible!

Areas of Improvement—

Adjusting to the Opposition: We had a difficult time adjusting to the skill level of the Strikers early in the game. The girls were flustered a bit by the speed of the opposition, which forced them to move away from the game they’re used to paying.

Rattled a Bit: The girls panicked a little on first time clears because of the pressure being applied by the Strikers. They settled down over time, but have to trust their skills.

Spring 2010 Game 4 Photos

2010-04-21T00:24:00.001-07:00

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4/17/10 Game Recap (5-0 Win)

2010-04-21T00:03:00.000-07:00

Courtney bags her 4th goal

The Devils made it three wins in a row on Saturday afternoon, with a resounding 5-0 victory over the SCC Breakers in beautiful Aptos CA . The scoring barrage was led by Courtney, who set a team record with four goals in a regular season league game.

All ten field players put on a passing display in the first half, controlling the ball throughout the first 30 minutes of play. Much of that time was spent in the offensive zone, pressing the Breakers with continuous pressure near the box.

Part of that was attributed to the backline play, which prevented any penetration into the Devils zone. Ruhi played her typical outstanding game, sweeping anything that made its way past Karsyn, Lindsay or Jess Jess.

Ruhi sweeps the ball clear

The midfielders dominated the middle by continuously feeding balls up the lanes for offensive chances. Grace would preview the offensive fireworks with a 30-foot shot at the 5 minute mark that seemed to test how the Breakers would defend against the Devils attack. E played her best game of the season and Katrina continued to frustrate opposing defenders with her footwork in tight quarters.

Courtney would open the game’s scoring by burying a 16-foot shot from the right side of the box after E pushed the ball to Marlene near the semi circle from the right side. With her back tot eh goal, Marlene received the pass, pivoted to her left and sent a diagonal pass to the right side of the box where Courtney finished it off.

E played her strongest
game of the season

E would setup the next goal 2 minutes later from the left side with a lofting ball from 40 feet out. Marlene redirected the pass with a beautiful head-ball that hit the back of the net for the 2-0 lead.

Starting in goal, Kelly touched the ball two times in the first half and never faced a serious threat. Christene and Ruhi made the defensive plays of the half by snuffing out possible drives. Ruhi eliminated one chance with a slide tackle and Christene turned on the jets to run down a potential strike from the left side just before the half-time whistle.

The score was only 2-0 at halftime, so the Devils anticipated a push by the opposition to start the second half. The Breakers did exactly that, forcing the issue, by driving the ball deep into the Devils zone. Lindsay picked up the keeper responsibilities in the half and immediately snared a Breakers shot to preserve the shutout.

Jess Jess shuts
down the opposition

Courtney would push the Devils lead to 3-0 at the 44 min mark. Kelly took a long cross and cut across the grain before feeding the ball to Marlene who sent a 15-foot pass across the top of the box. Courtney gathered it in and snapped a shot that sailed just under the crossbar.

She would complete the hat-trick in the 52nd minute. Carrying the ball up the right side, the striker ripped another shot that sailed over the goaltender’s outstretched hands for the 4-0 lead.

Audrey helped ice the game by sending a crossing pass from the left side with 5 minutes to play. The ball floated over the keeper and two defenders before landing on Courtney’s boot. She lunged for the ball, striking it before it hit the ground, stretching the back of the net with the shot.

Game Positives—-

Offensive Prowess: There was no doubt that the girls are clicking in the offensive zone right now. They’re reading each other like a veteran team, anticipating what each other is going to do and reacting accordingly. The team has converted a hat-trick in the last three games…by three different players.

Foot Skills: It’s no surprise that all the juggling the girls do is starting to pay dividends. Several lofting passes, followed by controlled touches doesn’t just happen. The girls are employing much of these foot skills into real game situations, and their control of the ball is starting to pay dividends.

Silent but Deadly: They say that great defenders are the ones you never hear about. A defender’s name usually comes up when they get beat. Our backline doesn’t get the accolades that the goal scorers do, so it’s important to call out the fact that they’ve been flat out shutting down every team they’ve played this season. No two girls have the same playing style, but as a unit they are a force to be reckoned with.

Development Areas--

Quicker Releases: With success can come the opportunity to forget about basic fundamentals. The girls can get caught in the moment and forget to take advantage of the things that make them successful. One of those strengths is great ball movement. Holding the ball, especially on rushes with numerical superiority is something the girls need to evaluate as the play is evolving.

Spring 2010 Game 3 Photos

2010-04-13T00:16:00.000-07:00

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4/10/10 Game Recap (4-0 Win)

2010-04-12T00:17:00.000-07:00

Marlene had a monster game

With storm clouds brewing over Sunnyvale Soccer Complex on Saturday the Devils squared off against an undermanned Alpine Bobcats team for the first time The clouds held back, but the Devils stormed to a 4-0 win on the strength of a hat-trick by Marlene and solid defense.

The girls got off to a hot start, pushing the ball into the Bobcat’s zone at the opening kick-off and pressed the issue early. The Devils would strike shortly thereafter. Marlene deposited a deflection off a corner kick in the 3rd minute. Courtney sent the corner into the box where it was partially cleared to Marlene who ripped a 15 foot shot, deflecting it off the Alpine keeper and into the goal.

Kelly narrowly missed on a chance three minutes later, drilling a shot through the left side where the keeper had to make a diving stop. That was just a taste of what was to come. Marlene put another shot wide of the right post a minute later, then Grace uncorked a shot from the top of the box that just missed wide right at the 13 min mark.

Audrey knocks a ball down

Marlene would zero in on her second goal of the afternoon in the 19th minute, tucking a shot just inside the left post for the 2-0 lead. The Devils had held the ball in the offensive zone for a good 5 minutes, in part from the outstanding play in the middle. Grace, Kelly, E, and Katrina kept the Bobcats from generating much offensive momentum by keeping the ball from the midline.

When it did get through, Ruhi, Karsyn, Lindsay, Christene and Jess Jess swept things back into the offensive zone.

The Bobcat’s best chance came right before half time, but Veriche knocked down a shot attempt from her keeper position and grabbed the loose ball for one of two saves on the afternoon.

Ruhi keeps the
backline clear

The Devils were awarded a penalty shot 30 second into the 2nd half for a handball in the box. The Alpine keeper would preserve the 2-0 score by snaring Marlene’s shot to the right side.

Courtney would add to the shot parade, just missing on a shot from the right corner of the box in the 42nd minute. Getting a stint at the right mid position, Veriche sent a pretty cross a minute later that Audrey one timed but the keeper got back to grab the shot.

Marlene would make it 3-0 in the 47th minute on a wild sequence. Courtney pushed the ball across the box from right to left, before Audrey put a shot on goal that clanked off the left post. The ball would find its way to Marlene, who drilled home the shot from point blank range.

Celebrating Grace's goal

The Devils would find more iron three minutes later, when Courtey bounced another shot off a post, this time from the right side.

Grace would cap the scoring in the 53rd minute by taking advantage of a tired Bobcats defense. The midfielder carried the ball right down the center of the field, splitting two defenders before ripping an 18 foot shot that hit the twine.

Game Positives—

Celebrate!

Ball control: The girls continue to improve their small ball skills every game. The highlight of the afternoon was play where Marlene put four touches on the ball in a row…without letting it hit the ground.

Head balls: The girls employed back passes from a head ball, which is something that was worked on during Thursday’s practice. Using it as a new weapon in their repertoire, the Devils generated at least two chances on goal with the move.

4/3/10 Game Recap (3-1 Win)

2010-04-04T22:21:00.000-07:00

The Devils played their second game of the spring season on Saturday and turned in a strong performance against the visiting FC Milpitas MXG at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex. The Devils scored a pair of goals in the first half, then traded tallies in the second half to take a 3-1 decision against the MXG.

The team got off to a strong start, scoring in the game’s first minute of play. Audrey punched home the first of her three goals on a 10 foot shot from point blank range. Courtney carried a through ball up the right side before sending a pass through the box. Marlene looked to be the intended target of the pass, but the ball skipped under her left foot. With the feed coming from the right side, the keeper and majority of the defense shifted over to cover the near side, leaving Audrey all alone for the easy deposit.

Katrina would setup the next goal n the 18th minute by side stepping a defender along the right sideline, then sending a through ball up the line. Once again, Courtney gathered the ball and sent a pass into the box where Audrey collected it and pumped home the 12 footer.

Courtney would get a chance to score herself a minute later by carrying the ball to the right corner of the box and drilling a shot that the Milpitas keeper was forced to glove.

Milpitas would make a push right before half time, forcing the play deep in the Devils zone. Jess Jess made a nice stop on a 29 foot shot that came from the left side right before the whistle.

The MXG would carry that momentum into the second half, and would cut the lead to 2-1 with a goal in the 32nd minute. Two Milpitas forwards executed a nice give-and-go that crossed up the Devils backliners.

Sensing a shift in the momentum of the game, Milpitas pressed the matter with a shot that sailed wide left four minutes later.

With only a lone substitute, the Devils were forced to juggle a short bench and have players stay on the field for longer durations than has been the norm. Milpitas utilized speedy forwards on the corners, but the midfielder did a great job of taking care of their defensive assignments first.

Akayla played most of the game at mid, which helped us control the middle of the field.

Kelly did a great job of playing at both mid and left defense in order to counter the speed of the MXG forward. Christene also saw time on the backline in order to deal with the MXG’s team speed. Both did a great job of suppressing the MXG offense.

Audrey converted the hat trick at the 40 minute mark when the Milpitas keeper misplayed a ball thinking it was a back pass. Rather than handling the ball, she tried to clear it but it landed right on Audrey's boot for the easy put back. In her defense, the keeper took the safe route on a play that could have resulted in a close range free-kick. I was the right decision, but it ended in the Devils favor.

The Devils almost scored a minute later on a shot from Akayla at the top of the box, but the Milpitas keeper grabbed the ball in traffic to deny the chance.

Christene would turn back a 15 foot shot from her keeper position with a nice kick save at the 43 min mark.

That’s as close as Milpitas would get, as the Devils defense would buckle down and prevent the ball from entering their end for the remainder of the game. Ruhi continued her stellar play at sweeper, clearing several balls with exceptional timing.

Game Positives—

Air Balls: One of the focuses in practice this weeks was utilizing wedge traps. The girls employed this technique several times in the game on balls they were forced to handle in the air. Headballs were something the girls improve on constantly, and they used them with great effectiveness on Saturday. They often would utilize head balls to simply control the ball in tight, which allowed them to retain possession of the ball.

Short Game: The use of short range passing and ball handling was superb. The girls controlled much of the tempo of the game, because they were able to retain possession of the ball. We’re starting to see more advanced ball handling skills, which is very encouraging.

2nd Defender: The girls have been working on the correct positioning for the second defender. We have seen improvement on doubling back quickly to become second defender as the first defender steps to the ball.

Moving to the Ball: The girls learned the benefit of quickly moving to steal the ball from the feet of the opposition in the season't first game. They struggled against it in the first game, but used it to their advantage this game. This was especially true for Grace at center mid and for the forwards in dropping back to win the ball.

Development Areas—

Corner Kicks: We finally played on the appropriate sized field for this age group, which meant the corners were closer to the goal. Corner kicks fell short or were off mark. The girls generated plenty of corner chances, but didn't take advantage of those opportunities.

Releases: We will focus more attention on getting quicker shots off, especially from distance, in order to capitalize on ball control.

Spring 2010 Game 1 Photos

2010-03-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

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3/27/10 Game Recap (1-1 Tie)

2010-03-28T22:58:00.000-07:00

Marlene's big foot
was on display

The Devils kicked of the U11 Spring Season, playing in the newly formed CYSA District 2 – White Grouping. The girls squared off against the Burlingame Twisters, who played in Class 1 – Division 1 last Fall. It was the first taste of competition against what was formerly Class 1 competition and the Devils played to a 1-1 draw at the Burlingame Soccer Center.

The most obvious difference against this caliber of opponent is the speed at which both forwards and defenders play. The Twisters were lightning quick on the corners and leveraged that early against the Devils, who were playing short two players.

Burlingame pushed the play deep in the Devils zone from the opening whistle, forcing the Devils to play in a defensive posture, crowding the box. The Twisters had the ball pinned in the right corner within the first minute of play, but the defense worked it free and moved it back to mid-field.

On the ensuing rush, the Devils defense overloaded right side of the field, leaving the center left forward unmarked. A diagonal feed to the center forward ended with a 15-foot shot that found of the back of the net for a 1-0 Twisters lead at the 5 minute mark.

Katrina drives

The Devils would answer 11 minutes later when Marlene sent a lofting ball from 70 feet that hopped over the keeper and found its way to Twister goal for the 1-1 tie.

The goal seemed to energize the Devils who would press until the halftime whistle. The Devils just missed on a beautiful chance when Courtney and Grace setup a pretty give-and-go. Grace dropped a pass at the top of the box, as Courtney cut behind from left to right. Courtney would then return the ball for a scoring chance that had to be snared by the Twisters keeper.

Defenders from both teams did a great job at suppressing the opposing offenses from generating many scoring chance in the second half.

Christene plays
smothering defense

The Twisters were whistled for an illegal goaltender touch, after a teammate made a back pass near the left corner of the box. The Devils were awarded an indirect kick from 18-yards. Courtney put the initial touch on the ball, for Karsyn who pushed the ball just wide of the right post.

With time winding down, Burlingame worked the ball deep and got a point blank shot from the front of the net after a cross found its way to the box. The play started with a corner kick that deflected back to the forward who took the initial kick. With two shooters to accept the ball, the Twisters looked poised to take the lead, but Katrina grabbed the point-blank shot to preserve the tie.

Game Positives—

Small Skills: There were a number of very impressive small ball skills on display throughout the game. The instincts

Defensive Stands: The girls were forced to defend against several offensive chances by the Twisters, but they only allowed two serious scoring chances. He mids played especially well, helping back on defense. The back-liners played with great poise, and demonstrated great calm when the pressure was increasing.

Offensive Drives: The forwards played very well together and are displaying a willingness to work more cohesively. This resulted in several sustained drives that pushed the ball deep in the Burlingame zone. We’re beginning to see a lot more maturity in terms of how the girls play as a team.

Development Points—

Quicker Releases: The girls had a tendency to hold the ball too long, especially in traffic. The opposition’s speed took advantage of this throughout the game.

Receiving Passes: Receiving passes and positioning the ball following receipt has been a focus in practice and the team showed significant improvement in this area. With the opposition’s skill now at a higher level, we were reminded of how important this becomes. This is still an area that we will continue to work on.

Adjust to the Speed of the Game: The field was big and the bench was limited to a single substitute, which all factored into a difficult environment. Given that, the speed of the game is only going to get faster, and the girls need to recognize the level of skill they will be matching up against, especially in terms of team speed. They will need to accommodate for this speed by better anticipating what the opposition does on offense and how they counter on defense.

Spring 2010 Los Gatos Scrimmage Photos

2010-03-28T22:06:00.001-07:00

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Spring 2010 Los Gatos Scrimmage Photos

2010-03-28T22:06:00.000-07:00

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SASC U11 Spring 2010 Girls Age Group Pre-Season Kickoff

2010-03-28T21:55:00.000-07:00

The three SASC U11 Girls teams combined at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex for a pre-season get together on Saturday, playing in 4-aside games. Teams of 4-players from the Devils98, Blades98 and newly formed Revolution98 competed in short games to shake out cobwebs and get their short games tuned up for the upcoming season.

Players from each team were mixed together to all players from the three teams to interact as a unit. It was a great way to kickoff the upcoming spring season. Eight teams were formed, playing in seven 10-minue games.

As SASC forms multiple teams in each respective age group, collaborative training is a great way to develop club unity and expose each player to all the players that make up sister teams.

The event was a great success. Special thanks goes out to coach Tim Newsome for putting the event together.

[Photos of the Event]

Devils for Good

2010-03-14T22:12:00.000-07:00

A couple of team related announcements that were worth posting.

Donate Used Athletic Shoes
Grace is participating in the Zimbabwe Fun Run at the end of March, an event that raises money for an orphanage in Zimbabwe. In addition, they are collecting used athletic shoes for the kids at the orphanage and other areas in Africa. If you have athletic shoes in your closet that don't fit any more and would like to donate to a good cause, please give them to Grace at the end of practice this week. Cleats are fine also.

Details of the Sustainable Living Foundation and the Zimbabwe Children's Orphanage can be found at: http://www.zimbabweparaguay.org/

Another Zebra Joins the Ranks
Clara just completed her referees training and is now certified to officiate CYSA games. She'll be cutting her teeth on lower age group games in order to gain experience as a CYSA soccer official.

Youth soccer works because of volunteers like Clara who are making a difference in evolving the game in our community.

A big Devils cheer for both Grace and Clara!

2010 Team Calendar is Now Available

2010-02-20T10:11:00.000-08:00

Team events throughout the year may now be found on the 2010 Team Calendar. There is a link to this calendar in the primary links section on the right side of the home page.

You can also bookmark the calendar address: http://devils98.blogspot.com/2010/02/2010-team-calendar.html

Spring 2010 Game Schedule

2010-02-19T22:24:00.000-08:00

3/27 (4:00pm) @ Burlingame Twister - 1-1 T (Goals: Marlene)
4/3 (1:30pm) vs FC Milpitas MXG - 3-1 W (Goals: Audrey (3))
4/10 (1:30pm) vs Alpine Bobcats - 4-0 W (Goals: Marlene (3), Grace)
4/17 (5:30pm) @ Santa Cruz Breakers - 5-0 W (Goals: Courtney (4), Marlene)
4/24 (4:00pm) @ Menlo Park Strikers - 2-0 W (Goals: Marlene(2))
5/1 (1:30pm) vs Los Gatos Wildcats - 0-0 T (Goals: None)
5/8 (3:00pm) vs Santa Clara Sporting - 2-1 L (Goals: Audrey)
5/15 (4:30pm) vs Burlingame Twisters - 1-0 W (Goals: Audrey)
5/22 (10:30am) @ FC Milpitas MXG - 2-0 W (Goals: Grace, Marlene)

CYSA District 2 Spring League - White [Standings]

Team Stats
Season Record: 6W-1L-2T (20 points) - 2nd Place
Team Goals Scored: 19 (2.11 GFA)
Team Goals Allowed: 4 (0.44 GAA)
Team Shutouts: 5

Individual Stats
Goals Scored:
Marlene - 8
Audrey - 5
Courtney - 4
Grace - 2

Goals Allowed (Goaltending):
Christene - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.75 games
Veriche - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.75 games
Akayla - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Katrina - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Karsyn - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Kelly - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Lindsay - 0 (0.00) - 0.5 games
Clara - 2 (0.66 GAA) 3.0 games
Elizabeth - 1 (2.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Jess Jess - 1 (2.00 GAA) - 0.5 games

Championship Trophies

2010-01-31T21:42:00.000-08:00

The Devils finally claimed their 2009 Delgado League Championship trophies at a team get together last Saturday night. The team is preparing to kick off the 2010 Spring season this week with technical training starting on friday nights. Be sure to check the team schedule for more information on upcaoming team events.

SASC U11 Girls Follow Up Tryouts on January 9th

2009-12-28T17:01:00.000-08:00

Sunnyvale Alliance Soccer Club (SASC) Girls U11 competitive soccer tryouts/evaluation will be held at Ortega Park (626 Harrow Way,Sunnyvale, 94087) on Saturday, January 9th from 11am to 12:30pm. In attendance will be coaches from the two existing SASC competitive teams as well as the coach of a new third team that may be forming. Bring cleats, ball, and water.

Please check back here for cancellation info.

Sessions are organized by FALL 2009/Spring 2010 age bracket. Check your child's age bracket using our age calculator

RSVP for tryouts or any questions should be sent to sonyahwlee@yahoo.com

SASC U11 Girls Competetive Tryouts Sat Dec 12th

2009-12-08T17:05:00.001-08:00

Interested in playing competetive level soccer? Sunnyvale Alliance Soccer Club is holding comp tryouts for U11 girls on Saturday, December 12th at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex (Sunnyvale Soccer Complex, 1095 Dunford Way, Sunnyvale). U11G tryouts will be held from 11:00am to 12:30pm.

The Devils are actively looking for a permanent goal keeper, as the team makes the jump to Class 1. All interested players should attend tryouts.

SASC is looking to identify competetive level players, so field players should also attend. In addition to the Devils, SASC has two other U11 girls teams: Blades 98 (Class 3) and a proposed new SASC Class 3 team that is forming for the spring 2010 season.

Each player needs to bring water and appropriate soccer gear. Please preregister on the SASC website here. Limited registration is available at the field, starting half an hour before each session.

Be sure your child understands that these tryouts are the first step towards investigating and/or joining a SASC Competitive Soccer team. Your child will not find out anything about team placement after this initial session. Invitations to tryout for a specific SASC Comp team will follow after this session as appropriate.

For further information email the SASC Competitive Director at
competitive@ sunnyvalesoccerclub.org

Devils Capture 3rd Place at 2009 D2 Cup

2009-11-24T23:06:00.000-08:00

The 2009 fall season officially came to an end on Sunday with the conclusion of the District 2 Jamboree Cup at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex. Not to be outdone by their other wonderful accomplishments this season, the Devils brought home a 3rd place finish in the tournament, allowing a mere two goals in four games throughout the weekend. The bronze medal performance gave the girls a top 4 finish in all four tournaments played during the fall season. That, along with the league championship, made the fall 2009 season the most successful in the team’s brief history.

Saturday’s competition pegged the Devils against the South San Jose Aftershock and the Almaden Quicksilver. The first game of the tournament would turn out to be the one that got away, and also prevented the Devils from reaching a tournament championship final for a third time this season.

Game 1 vs South San Jose Aftershock

The early morning game bug would bite the Devils once again, who have been notoriously slow starters in games that commenced before 9am. This game would be no different. The Aftershock gave the Devils an early scare, when Clara, the Devils keeper, pinched out to the left corner of the box to cut-off a partial breakaway. She would partially deflect the ball, but it would end up on the aftershock forward foot wide left of the goal. A shot attempt rang off the post, and Sunnyvale was able to clear the ball safely.

The tightly played contest would begin to open up in the devils favor late in the 1st half. Marlene would just miss on a rocket shot from the top of the box that squarely hit the crossbar in the 20th minute.

Sunnyvale would carry the momentum into the start of the 2nd half, narrowly missing on several chances in the Aftershock zone. After 55 minutes of back and forth play, the field would tilt in the Aftershock’s favor. Sadly, Sunnyvale’s home field advantage would bite them. A seemingly routine shot from 35-feet out hit a rut in front of the goal and deflected past Christene, the Devil’s 2nd half keeper for the only score of the game.

Audrey split two defenders a minute later and had an unimpeded line to the goal, but her 20-foot shot was gloved by the aftershock keeper. The Devils made a wild rush to even the game, holding the ball in the South San Jose end of the field for the remainder of the game, but the couldn’t get the ball across the goal line.

Game 2 vs Almaden Quicksilver

Grace works in traffic

The night cap would prove to be a better representation of Devils soccer, with the girls cruising to a 3-0 win over the Almaden Quicksilver. Courtney opened the game’s scoring with a 20-foot shot from the right side that hit the left rear corner of the Almaden net.

Audrey would setup the next goal by splitting two defenders in the 15th minute, then cutting back to her right and making a pretty cross to the right side where Akayla gathered the pass and punched home the 15 footer for the 2-0 lead.

Akayla made it 3-0 in the 30th minute after Courtney lofted a ball from the left side. Sammie received the ball and slid it to her left for the Akayla one-timer from 10 feet out.

Game 3 vs Burlingame Cyclones

Sunnyvale seemed intent on shaking off the rocky start from the previous morning by pressing the play from the opening whistle. Their urgency resulted in a little too much focus on offense. That would bite them, when a Burlingame shot from 30 feet weaved its way past two Devils’ defenders and the goal keeper in the 11th minute.

Sunnyvale would right the ship and get place more emphasis on the team play that has been so successful this season. The defensive corps buckled down with Kelly moving to the sweeper position and Clara, Lindsay, Karsyn and Jess Jess forcing the ball up field.

Jess Jess swings the ball wide

Akayla would tie the game in the 16th minute after Jess Jess chipped a corner kick feed off the Burlingame keeper. Jess Jess’ shot bounced to the right, where Akayla deposited the equalizer.

The Devils would press the action in the 2nd half, trying to nail down a win, which would put them in the Consolation Final. With time winding down, Burlingame built a head of steam and pushed the ball deep into the Devils zone. Marlene would make a big save with 7 minutes to play, preserving the Devils chances of qualifying for an appearance in the playoff round.

They would get the goal they need in the last minute of play, when a clearing attempt sailed past the Burlingame defense. Akayla had the step she needed and raced down field, out-running two defenders and placing a shot to the right of the Cyclones keeper for the fairy-tale finish.

Consolation Final vs MVLA Typhoons

The consolation final matched two teams very familiar with each other. Sunnyvale and the MVLA Typhoons have faced each other 4 times in league play this year alone, with Sunnyvale taking each meeting.

Audrey drives on goal

The Devils would pour on the offense in the first half, with great play from the midfielders. Grace, Sammie, Katrina, Shivani and Clara would control the middle of the field, preventing the ball from escaping the MVLA zone for seemingly the entire first half.

The midfielders would create the first score of the game by pressing with the ball pushed deep into MVLA territory. Katrina would place the ball at the top of the box, where Grace put a shot on goal. The MVLA keeper made the initial save, but Akayla was there for the put backing the 21st minute, scoring her 5th goal of the tournament.

Making her first appearance in goal since breaking her arm, the Devils keeper, E, was only required handle the ball twice, because of the smothering play by her teammates.

Audrey would push the lead to 2-0 in the 25th minute on a feed up the middle from Grace. The Devils forward received the ball near the top of the penalty arch, then turned toward the goal and punched home a bullet from 15 feet.

MVLA was motivated to get back in the game, and they would cut into the lead with 4 minutes to play on a shot that deflected off Sammie, the 2nd half keeper. The point blank shot came from just outside the right post, but the Devil made a valiant effort to snare it.

The Typhoons had lots of motivation, but not enough time, as the clock expired and the Devils fantastic season came to an end as it has so many times this season… with a victory.

2009 Fall Season Team Video

2009-11-15T21:16:00.000-08:00

Here is a video recap of the Devils FANTASTIC 2009 Fall Season. Congratulations to all the players for such a great season!

SASC Devils 98 U11G 2009 Fall Season Video @ Yahoo! Video

D2 Cup Schedule

2009-11-15T20:51:00.000-08:00

Here is the schedule for the upcoming CYSA Division 2 Cup, held on 11/21 & 11/22 at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex.

::: 11/21 (Saturday)

Game #1: Devils 98 vs. SJ Aftershocks
Field: SSC #1
Game Time: 8:15am
Warm up Time: 7:30am
Jersey: Red

Game #2: Almaden Quicksilver Green Vs. Devils 98
Field: SSC#1
Game Time: 12:00pm
Warm up Time: 11:15am
Jersey: White

::: 11/22 (Sunday)

Game #3: Devils 98 Vs. Burlingame Cyclones
Field: SSC#1
Game Time: 9:45am
Warm up Time: 9:00am
Jersey: Red

Consolation Final – 3rd Place
Team with 3rd highest points Vs 4th highest points
Game Time: 2:30pm

Championship Final
Team with highest points Vs. 2nd highest points
Game Time: 2:30pm

For tournament rules & details please click the links below:

Tournament Rules

Complete Tournament Schedule

Parents Volunteer Schedule

11/21 (Saturday) – Set up (please arrive at 7:30am)
Don C., Irene E., Mike L., Jon W., Mike G. & Daryl L.

11/22 (Sunday) – Clean up (please arrive at 3:30pm)
Kelly C., Efren H., Melvin H., Gopal S. & Karlo C.

Fall 2009 Game 10 Photos

2009-11-15T20:40:00.000-08:00

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[Click here] for all photos

11/14/09 Game Recap (5-1 Win)

2009-11-15T20:39:00.000-08:00

Akayla celebrates a goal

The Devils capped their championship season with a resounding 5-1 victory over the Mount Hamilton Lightning at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex on Saturday. The win caped the second undefeated season in team history, and allowed the Devils to finish the season with a point margin over the second place Los Gatos Wildcats.

The margin of victory matched the Devils score in their win over the Lightning back in October. In both cases, the scoreboard didn’t reflect the strength of the Devils opponent, who came to play in the second meeting between the two teams.

As has been the case so many times this season, the Devils jumped on their opponent early. Akayla opened the games scoring with a 25-foot goal in the 3rd minute of the game. She took a feed from Clara right up the middle of the field, then dribbled toward the top of the arc before ripping a laser beam that sailed under the crossbar.

The Lightning would prove they were a formidable opponent by tying the game at the 8 minute mark, after a shot was deflected by Shivani, the Devils goal keeper. The deflection landed to her left, but the Lightning got a second shot off that found the back of the Devils goal.

The Devils would respond 4 minutes later, when Marlene chipped a crossing pass from Courtney past the Lightning keeper.

Clara powers through
the middle

The midfield play was particularly exceptional on Saturday, led by Katrina, E, Sammie, Grace and Clara. It allowed the Devils to control the middle of the field, which kept the Lightning from generating many more chances in the first half.

Akayla would give the Devils some breathing room by lofting a shot from the top left of the box at the 20 minute mark that sailed over the Lightning keeper’s head.

Mount Hamilton narrowly missed converting at the 46 minute mark when a shot in the box was deflected wide by the Devils new keeper, Jess Jess. She challenged the shooter by coming out and cutting off the shot.

The Devils defense would clamp down Lightning, led by Ruhi’s control of the backline. Lindsay, Clara, Karsyn and Shivani would prevent any further attacks on the Devils net.

Christene would add to the lead at the 52 minute mark by chipping home a cross from the left side.

Ruhi clearing a ball

The game turned scary when a high kick sent the ball into Shivani’s face, knocking her momentarily out of the game. The referee would issue a yellow card for the play, but Shivani would rejoin the game after a brief rest on the bench.

She would re-enter the game, and promptly send a 30-foot rocket with her left foot just inside the left post with 5 minutes to play to cap the scoring at 5-1.

The final whistle would sound and the Devils had once again finished the season without a loss. By winning the league with a resounding 8-0-2 record, the Devils may be eligible for advancement to the Abronzino Class 1 League in the spring. Given the league victory, the team should receive an invitation, as has been the case for most Class 3 league winners in the past.

11/7/09 Game Recap (1-1 Tie)

2009-11-09T00:43:00.000-08:00

With the league championship on the line, the Devils squared off against the second place Los Gatos Wildcats on Saturday afternoon at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex in match that would determine the Delgado Class 3A title. The early morning affair pegged two teams that had tied each other 0-0 in their previous meeting back in September.

On a slick Sunnyvale field, the two teams would trade goals and complete the season series with a 1-1 tie. With a four point lead in the standings and one game remaining after the Saturday showdown, the tie secured the crown for the Devils.

The two teams probed tentatively in the opening two minutes of the game, but Akayla would send a crossing shot that was deflected by the Wildcats keeper in the opening minute.

The Devils would receive some assistance from lady luck just three minutes into the game when a shot attempt bounced out to the top of the box. Kelly was perfectly positioned for the rebound and sent a return shot that skipped off the wet grass, slipping past the Wildcat keeper on a tricky hop.

The goal seemed to jump start Los Gatos, who turned up the heat the remainder of the period. The Devils defense continued their solid play, anchored by Ruhi who calmly swept away several Wildcat chances before the intermission.

Los Gatos narrowly tied the game right before half on a shot that sailed over the crossbar.

That pressure continued in the second half, but this time Los Gatos would take advantage on a tricky hop that skipped over Karsyn’s head and through her hands at the 40 minute mark.

The momentum had clearly swung in Los Gatos favor, but the Devils paid particular focus on getting in front of shot attempts while in the defensive zone.

Katrina and E made a couple of nice plays to move the ball out of the Sunnyvale zone. E in particular used her speed to clear dangerous Los Gatos possessions after claiming ownership of the ball.

Karsyn made two diving saves later in the period to preserve the tie. She was forced to pounce on the ball deep in the goalie box with 6 minutes to play

Christene and Marlene teamed up to put one last run on the Los Gatos net, but the Wildcats speedy fullbacks denied another shot on net.

In an attempt to keep things loose, the coaches made no mention of the implications of a win, loss or tie, which seemed to allow the girls to play a more relaxed game. When the final whistle sounded, both teams congratulated each other on a second consecutive draw.

Both teams played extremely well, but the Devils would celebrate their first league championship in the team’s short history.

10/31/09 Game Recap (1-0 Win)

2009-11-01T23:21:00.000-08:00

The Devils were treated to their own personal house of horrors on Halloween, courtesy of the coaching staff and their own tournament success. After winning the Medina Fall Classic the week prior, Coach Brad and Coach Mike were forced to make due on a bet they made with the girls prior to the tournament. That bet was to allow the girls to pick out their Halloween costumes, which also had to be worn on the sidelines during the Devils – MVLA Typhoons game on Saturday.

The coaches paid in full, and the girls obliged with another shutout victory. This time a 1-0 win over the Typhoons at Grant Park in Los Altos.

With all the distractions created by the coaches, the girls could have easily succumbed to the talented MVLA squad, but they did what they had to do, winning their 7th game of the season.

Coach Diabla goes
over pre-game strategy

The first half was a back and forth exchange of chances for both sides, but neither team could cash in on offensive chances. Akayla provided two quality scoring opportunities in the first 10 minutes of the game, but the Typhoons keeper had a solid half.

The Devils defense continued their solid play with their 5th shutout of the season. Anchored by Ruhi’s rock-solid play at sweeper, the Typhoons were consistently repelled. Karsyn and Clara shared time at stopper and Lindsay and Jessica secured the outside fullback positions.

MVLA would make a push in the 20th minute with three chances deep in the Devils zone, but the fullbacks cleared each chance.

The offense got things rolling right before half. Playing in her first game back since fracturing her arm at the Tall Trees Tournament, E had solid stints at forward, and parlayed the opportunity with several series that ended deep in Typhoon territory.

E made her return
to the lineup

Grace got a rocket shot off right before half time, that the MVLA keeper was forced to glove.

Courtney would finally break the ice in the 33rd minute, after Akayla fired a bullet that bounced off the MVLA keeper’s hands. As the ball trickled to the right side of the small box, Courtney swooped in and deposited the rebound for the only tally of the game.

The midfield play of Kelly, Grace, Katrina, Shivani and Sammie controlled the center of the field for most of the second half. Marlene was only required to glove the ball three times from her keeper position, and calmly moved the ball back out to the midfield with her big punts.

The Typhoons one big chance in the second half came off a corner kick that was deflected across the box. An MVLA forward was perched on the far post, but the ball too a fortuitous hop over her outstretched leg. Grace was able to defend back from center-mid to clear it to safety.

Audrey and Christene used their speed to push the ball deep into the MVLA zone frequently, which kept the ball away from the Devils net. The offensive pressure would ensure that the ball rarely crossed back into evils territory over the final 30 minutes.

Post game ice cream

After the game, the team was treated to ice cream as a reward for the head ball goal Christene scored in the Medina Tournament. The coaches have a standing rule that all head-ball goals are rewarded with a treat of some sort. Players, siblings and parents all had an opportunity to enjoy the treat, even though they were forced eat in the presence of a mini-shirt that was much too short and a tutu big enough to serve as a team shade structure.

Game Positives—

Focus: With all the distractions that were present, it was a prime opportunity for the girls to let their guard down, but as has been the case so many times this season, they were focused once the play started.

Unselfishness: The passing continues to improve across the board. From the fullbacks to he midfielders to the forwards, everyone is stepping up the passing proficiency, which is resulting in solid defensive play and more offensive opportunities.

Timing: Several players have missed time recently due to injury or illness, so getting them back in the lineup was a welcome sight. Seeing there timing after missing some time was impressive to say the least. The girls were anything but tentative with the ball, which translated to better situational play.

Focus Areas—

Nightmares: Unfortunately, the liability insurance that CYSA provides, does not cover psychiatric care. If any of the girls complain of nightmares after seeing coach Brad in that mini-skirt, they’ll just have to work through those issues on their own.

Upset Stomach: Any parents who felt nauseous after seeing Coach Mike in that tutu, should consult their primary care physician.

Devils Capture Medina Tournament Title

2009-10-26T00:39:00.000-07:00

Sugar and spice and everything…tough as nails, with a little grass and dirt rubbed in. That’s what some little girls are made of. If you were at the Sunnyvale Medina Tournament U11 Girls Final on Sunday, you can attest to that observation. After squeaking out a nail biting 2-1 shootout win in the tournament semi-finals over the San Carlos Blaze, the SASC Devils turned in a gutsy 3-1 win in the Championship Game over the Ukiah Pumas.

Celebrating Goal #1

Facing off in a tournament final for the second time this season, the Devils & Pumas rematch turned out to be every bit as entertaining as the initial showdown. The only difference was Sunday’s finale didn’t go into the nerve-racking shootout that ended the Soccer by the Bay Tournament back in August. The Medina Final was settled in the first 5-minutes of the game.

Sunnyvale opened the game with a barrage of goals in the opening minutes and never looked back. Three goals in a 5 minute span after the opening whistle blew decided this one.

The game’s first goal came at the 2 minute mark after Devils pushed the ball into the Ukiah half of the field. Courtney carried the ball up the right side, then sent a centering pass parallel to the goal line. The Ukiah keeper tried to pounce on the ball, but the pass slipped under her diving attempt. Playing at left forward, Christene was left unattended in front of the goal, where she easily gathered in the pass and buried the empty-net shot for the early lead.

Marlene battles

Akayla would setup the next goal a minute later, by dropping a pass back to Grace near the top right corner of the box. Grace left no doubt where the ball was headed as she ripped the 30-foot shot into the left corner of the goal.

The goal of the tournament would come a mere two minutes later, when Courtney once again found herself with the ball in the right corner. She carried the ball toward the goal and lofted a pass into the box to Christene, who redirected the pass with her head into the Ukiah goal. Just like that, the Devils had a 3-0 lead.

The Devils got a scare later in the half when Shivani tried to cover a shot attempt for her goalkeeper position. A Ukiah player made a run on the ball and collided with the Devils keeper, forcing her out of the game with an injured arm and knee. Audrey would replace her in net, and fall victim to a crazy bounce right before halftime.

War Paint

A Puma forward would send a lofting ball into the box from 40 feet, where it landed and took a big hop over the Devils keeper, cutting Sunnyvale’s lead to 3-1. That’s as close as Ukiah would get.

The second half was a draining exchange of back and forth runs by both teams. With emotions running high, the game turned physical with a number of fouls called. Clara assumed control of the net, directing the Devils backline. The midfielders and fullbacks would turn in one of their better games of the season to close out the victory, securing their second tournament championship this season.

Semi-Finals vs San Carlos Blaze

Kelly blasts the ball

In Sunday’s first game, the Devils walked away with a narrow win over a well prepared San Carlos Blaze team. Sunnyvale got the early jump after controlling most of the first half.

Grace would put the Devils up 1-0 on a low line drive after the ball pin-balled through the box. Marlene would rocket a shot right before half that was knocked down by an diving save by the Blaze goal keeper.

The Blaze would knot the game at 1-1 at the 31st minute on a one-touch pass in the middle of the box. The Blaze kept the pressure up and narrowly missed on taking the lead late in the contest.

Shootout!

In the shootout Akayla came up huge, stopping 3 of 6 Blaze penalty kicks. Her biggest stop came on the 5th shooter, when she reached up high to knock down a shot that was headed for the bottom of the crossbar.

Courtney, Marlene and Grace converted for the Devils in the first round of five shooter, but both teams were still deadlocked after that initial wave of shooters. Akayla stopped the first shooter in sudden-death, and Kelly would end things with a shot that split the Blaze keeper’s hands for the win.

Bracket Play vs Piedmont Highlanders

Shivani celebrates
her goal

In the opening game for Sunnyvale, the Devils easily dispatched the Piedmont Highlanders 7-0. Grace opened the scoring with a shot from the top of the box at the 3 minute mark.

Akayla made it 2-0 with a turnaround blast a minute later on a feed from Kelly up the gut. Jess Jess would setup the next goal with a booming centering ball at the 18 minute mark. Audrey would gather the pass and send a shot over the crossbar moments later.

She would make it 3-0 right 8 minutes later on a shot from just outside the left post after carrying the ball around the Piedmont stopper. Christene chipped home a pass from Audrey right before half time, after Ruhi pushed the ball up to the right post.

Shivani would open the second half with her first goal of the tournament a minute in. Kelly punched home another goal at the 29 min mark for the 6-0 lead. Piedmont made a run moments later, but Jess made a dive on a loose ball to snuff out the chance. Shivani would cap the scoring by sliding another ball past the keeper with 10 minutes to play.

Bracket Play vs Alameda Islanders

Lindsay sweeps the ball

The Devils would advance to the semi-finals with a 4-0 win over the Alameda Islanders in Saturday’s nightap. Grace opened the game with a goal a minute in. She would take a lead pass up the left side before sending in a long diagonal shot that found net.

Audrey chipped a looping shot over two defenders and into the back of the net at the 12 minute mark after Courtney sent a corner through the box. Lindsay made it 3-0 on a shot from the right side at the 35 min mark, after carrying the ball up the right side and sending a 25 foot shot just past the Alameda keeper.

Kelley scooped up the ball in the offensive zone at the 40 min mark before looping around the top left corner of the box and roofing a goal to cap the scoring.

Medina Tournament Schedule

2009-10-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

Here is the schedule for this weekend's Medina Tournament, being held at our own Sunnyvale Soccer Complex:

10/24 (Sat) – Two Games

Game #1 - Devils 98 Vs. Piedmont Highlanders 98G
Game Time: 12:45pm
Warm-up Time: Noon
Field: SASC Complex Field 1
Jersey: Red (bring both)

Game#2 – Alameda Islanders 98G Vs. Devils 98
Game Time: 4:30pm
Warm-up Time: 3:45pm
Field: SASC Complex Field 1
Jersey: White (bring both)

10/25 (Sun) - Sunday’s schedule depends on Saturday’s results

Game Time: TBA
Warm-up Time: TBA
Jersey: Bring Both

The tournament match schedule is posted at the following link :-
http://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=tEdXi5_u-6veEhyqq0sNWYg&output=html

Fall 2009 Game 7 Photos

2009-10-18T23:43:00.000-07:00

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10/18/09 Game Recap (2-0 Win)

2009-10-18T23:24:00.000-07:00

Getting fired up

Playing morning games has never been a strong suit for the Devils, but the girls shook off the fog to beat host Santa Clara Sporting 2-0 at the Santa Clara Youth Soccer Park on Sunday. The win helps the Devils maintain their slim lead in the Delgado Class3A standings with three games to play.

The girls turned in one of their better performances of the season, pushing the offensive pressure for the majority of the game.

Katrina would get thins rolling with a nice shot attempt from the right side in the first minute of the game. The focus of the game was to get more shots on net, and the outside midfielder filled the order early.

After controlling the play for the first 12 minutes of the game, Sporting took advantage of a through ball that turned into a partial breakaway. The Sporting forward worked her way around 2 devil defenders then made a beeline for the goal. Shivani challenged the shot and deflected it with a leg to preserve the 0-0 tie.

Lindsay sweeps wide

The Devils keeper came up big, challenging the shooter on the play.
Sticking to the plan, the Devils would get on the board less than two minutes later Courtney converted after Akayla sent a cross from left to right that split the top of the box and the goal line. The Devils forward one-timed the pass for the 1-0 lead.

Kelly put a big shot on goal that was knocked away by the SC keeper, but the ball remained in play. Akayla worked the ball right in front of the net where Audrey put a one-timer on goal. Once again the Santa Clara keeper gloved the ball to squelch the chance.

Audrey would keep the balls flying in the direction of the Santa Clara goal, taking a shot on goal 2 minutes later that sailed wide left.

Courtney would score her 4th consecutive goal with seven minutes to play in the half by sliding a shot just inside the right post.

The defense would stand tall in the second half, preventing any shots from reaching the Devils goal keeper. Lindsay turned in her 4th consecutive solid performance at fullback, utilizing her speed to suppress the opposition.

Karsyn shoots
through the fog

Getting some playing time at midfield, Ruhi, Sammie, Katrina and Karsyn made good use of their opportunities, working several balls to center forward, generating multiple scoring chances. Jessica, Shivani and Grace solidified the back line in the last 30 minutes.

The forwards frequently kept the ball pinned deep in the sporting zone, influenced by Christene, Audrey and Marlene, who did a great job of cycling the ball.

Notes: Sporting donned pink jerseys in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A big thumbs up from the Devils family for supporting this noble cause.

Game Positives--

Mid Play: The midfielders played a strong game, controlling the tempo of the game by preventing the Santa Clara offense from penetrating, and also working the ball to the forward line.

Defensive Poise: The defense was especially impressive in calmly diffusing almost every chance that came their way. The defensive corps turned in their 4th shutout of the season.

Short Passing: The short passing was phenomenal, continuing from a major strength on Saturday. The girls are starting to read each other very well, which is apparent from the pass selections that they are making. They are anticipating where their partners will be, and are succeeding at finding those passing targets.

Development Areas--

Shots from the Box: The opportunities were plenty, but holding the ball too long in shooting zones prevented some serious scoring chances. Some of the forwards and mids are trying to setup the perfect shot.

Fall 2009 Game 6 Photos

2009-10-18T22:57:00.000-07:00

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10/17/09 Game Recap (2-1 Win)

2009-10-18T22:22:00.000-07:00

Grace sweeps
the ball

Playing the first half of their double header weekend, the Devils turned in a hard fought 2-1 win over the visiting Hollister Spirit at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex on Saturday. Timely scoring combined with a solid defensive performance helped pace the Devils to their 5th win of the season, and second one-goal victory over the Spirit.

The Devils took the early initiative, pressing in the offensive zone with a series of nice passes. Akayla setup the Devils first scoring chance with a pretty diagonal feed to the right side, where Courtney chipped a shot to the Hollister keeper.

Courtney would get the Devils on the board at the 16 minute mark after Kelly slid a centering pass to her from the just past midfield. She would take the feed outside the box and cut toward the right post before shooting across her body and roofing the ball for the 1-0 lead.

The offense would put together another run 4 minutes later a pretty through ball that Courtney collected on the right side and sent another shot that was gloved by the Hollister keeper.

Ruhi at sweeper

The remainder of the half would be played in the Devils zone and Hollister would capitalize. The Spirit would turn up the heat, and convert on a play in the box right before half time. A series of passes ended with a cross along the top of the box that was slipped inside the left box.

Courtney put the Devils right back on top to start the 2nd half. Akayla sent a feed up the right side, where Courtney sent a rocket that caught the back of the Spirit net.

She would almost make it 3-0 seven minutes later by ringing a shot off the right post.

Marlene puts a
shot on goal

The Devils backline was put to the test the last 15 minutes of the game. First, a Hollister forward would send a high arching shot in on net from 30 feet, that Audrey knocked down and was forced to pounce on in front of the goal.

That would be followed by a Wild exchange in front of Devils net with 5 to play. The Sunnyvale backs would weather the storm by clearing two chances.

The Spirit would get one final shot on goal with 3 minutes to play that sailed over the cross bar. A Hollister forward would get a huge foot on the ball, missing the crossbar by less than 3 feet.

Game Positives--

Head Balls: The midfielders and backs cleared several precarious situations with a series of solid head balls. On one sequence, the ball was headed three times before touching the ground. The girls are becoming more confident on directing the ball, especially with pressure.

Goal Kicks: One development area that the team has been steadily improving on is to generate some distance on their goal kicks.

Passing Combinations: Stringing together multiple passes, especially in tight quarters was very impressive during the game. The girls continue to improve on their passing, and are beginning to read each other well, which is translating in to better anticipation in terms of where to pass, and where to receive those passes.

Development Areas--

Clearing in Traffic: There was a dangerous tendency to try and dribble the ball out of danger when the ball was deep in the defensive zone. There is a need to work on situational ball handling / clearing.

Reacting to Off-side Traps: The Spirit setup defensive offside traps very well, and sucked the offense into several offside calls as a result. The forwards need to recognize this defensive strategy and better react.

Fall 2009 Game 5 Photos

2009-10-14T21:32:00.000-07:00

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10/11/09 Game Recap (5-1 Win)

2009-10-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

Christene fights
for the ball

The Devils capped the weekend with a commanding 5-1 victory over the host MTH Lightning at Evergreen College on Sunday. The win kept the Devils at the head of the Class3A standings, maintaining a slim 2 point lead over the Los Gatos Wildcats.

Sunnyvale applied a steady stream of pressure in the offensive zone in the first half, which resulted in a flurry of scoring. The Devils uncorked their first shot on goal just 2 minutes into the game, setting the tone for a grand offensive display.

The first goal would come in the 4th minute after Akayla sent a centering pass to Marlene at center forward from the left side. Marlene took the feed and sent a rocket from 30 feet that deflected off the crossbar and into the Lightning goal.

Marlene's shot heads
for the goal

Christene would make it 2-0 on a chip shot from the front of the goal 4 minutes later. Clara started the scoring sequence by beating a defender up the right side, before passing to Courtney in the corner. Courtney carried the ball toward the goal before sending a cross to Christene for the easy tap in.

Akayla scored the 3rd goal of the half on a blast from 25 feet 12 minutes into the game. Pinching from the center-mid position, she intercepted a clearing attempt, before beating the Lightning goal keeper with a big boot that sailed inside the left post.

The Lightning would turn up the offensive pressure late in the half, but Sammie would come up big from the keeper position, gloving a big shot from the left side. She would follow that up with another huge stop 4 minutes later. The Lightning would rip a shot from 15 feet that she was forced to pounce on.

Celebrating Akayla's
second goal

The Devils would counter on a break that allowed Akayla to walk in on goal and rip a shot from the top of the box for the 4-0 lead. Marlene made a drop after receiving the centering feed, which crossed up the lightning keeper.

The lightning would cut into the Devils lead with a shot from the right side that slipped just inside the left post. The officials originally called the ball wide, but after querying the Devils keeper and checking the net they overruled their own call and awarded the Lightning a goal.

Sammie gains
possession of the ball

Defense was the focus of the second half. The Devils were forced to defend against offensive pressure from the outside. The Lightning would move the ball down the wings and then lob passes to the middle. This was a new look for the defense, who responded well by clearing several attempts.

Grace would cap the game’s scoring by throwing a shot on goal from 30 feet, that weaved through the defense for the 5-1 lead.

Finishing up the half at forward, Ruhi, Sammie and Lindsay put together a string of chances that just missed converting a 6th tally. Jess, Karsyn and Katrina dictated play from midfield, serving up those chances.

1st Half Keeper: Sammie
2nd Half Keeper: Courtney

Sideline Reporter Infiltrates Devils Bench

2009-09-28T22:51:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what goes on in the heat of battle during a girls U11 soccer game...at least on the bench? DevilsTV reporter Ry Ry infiltrated the team bench last weekend at the Palo Alto Tall Trees Tournament, unbeknownst to the coaching staff. See his report here...

4th Place Finish at Palo Alto Tall Trees Tournament

2009-09-27T21:59:00.000-07:00

Shivani drives up the wing

Following up their big Championship win the Soccer by the Bay Tournament last month, the Devils turned in another strong showing, taking 4th place in the Palo Alto Tall Trees Tournament this past weekend. The Devils posted three shutouts in pool play, then would fall 1-0 in the consolation final.

Playing four teams they’ve never seen before, the Devils put together great team soccer against formidable opponents. Each game was tough, but the girls stood up to the challenge. The consolation final game pegged the Devils against the South San Jose Aftershock in a hard fought contest.

Defense and goaltending was the theme of the tournament for the Devils. After keeping the ball out of their own net all weekend, they would surrender their lone score of the game 8 minutes into the finale. A tricky hop and a speedy forward would add up to a scoring chance that would end up in the Devils goal.

Katrina cuts back
across the grain

Both teams would fight for every inch of the field the remainder of the contest. The Devils best scoring chance came in the 2nd half, when Marlene curled a 25-foot shot just outside the left post. Sunnyvale would press the matter late in the game, but the Aftershock defense suppressed the attack.

Unfortunately for the Devils, they would fall short after a great effort. It was a tough ending after such great performances by every player throughout the weekend.

Game 1 – Folsom Strykers

In the first game of the tournament, the Devils leaned on big goaltending to earn a 0-0 tie against the Folsom Strykers. Kelly would keep the Strykers off the board with solid play in net. The solid defensive play was capped with a big header by Clara that cleared a big corner ball in the Devils box.

Katrina would show off her big foot, with a booming shot at the 5 minute mark that was deflected by the Strykers keeper.

Sammie dribbles in traffic

In the 2nd half, Akayla saved the Devils bacon with a series of big stops in net. She would breakup a breakaway with 13 minutes to play by snagging a shot above her head. She came up with another monster stop 5 minutes later to preserve the deadlocked game.

The backline did a fantastic job of holding off a talented Folsom team. Their play was showcased by Lindsay, who used her speed to clear several dangerous situations out of the Devils end of the field. At midfield, Shivani’s aggressiveness to the ball helped control the right side.

The weekend’s biggest blemish came in warm-ups, when E was hurt while warming up in goal.

Game 2 – Juventus Galaxy

Saturday’s second game featured a frustrating 1-0 win over the Juventus Galaxy (Redwood City). The Devils controlled the field, but they failed to convert on several golden chances. The low scoring affair also would keep the Devils out of the Championship Final on Sunday, which was determined by won-loss record, goals scored and shutouts. Unfortunately, goals scored carried more weight than shutouts.

Lindsay turns on the jets

The first half was filled with opportunities. Audrey and Akayla teamed up early in the game on a drop-and-feed scenario that resulted in a nice shot on goal. Courtney would follow that up with a pretty cross right before the half-time whistle.

She would repeat the scenario to open the second half, but this time Marlene would get a boot on the ball, chipping a shot that the Galaxy keeper had to snare out of the air.

The mid-field play was led by strong efforts by Sammie and Shivani. The pair energized their teammates with up-tempo efforts and some nice passing that created several offensive rushes.

The Devils would finally get on the board with 3 minute to play, when Kelly took a give-and-go pass from Audrey along the left sideline, then raced in on goal and punched home the game winner. The shot sailed from left to right, catching the side netting just inside the right post.

Karsyn would make things interesting in net, when a late shot attempt skipped through her hands and perched itself on the right post. She was forced to dive back to the ball as a Galaxy forward streaked toward it.

Game 3 – San Carlos United Blaze

In the final pool play game of the tournament, the Devils needed to win or tie in order to qualify for the playoff round. They would come up big with a 3-0 win over the San Carlos United Blaze in game that was closer than the score might indicate.

Kelly puts a shot on goal

Once again, goaltending was the cornerstone to the victory. Clara protected the net in the opening half and came up big on several Blaze chances. On two occasions, she challenged breakaways and smothered the scoring chances with big slide tackles.

Audrey would get the Devils on the board early with a goal from the left side after Akayla made a nice feed up the line. Courtney would convert 9 minutes later on a long through ball that hopped over the San Carlos defense to make it 2-0.

The Devils narrowly missed on a corner 3 minutes later, after the ball was sent into the box. Marlene grabbed the ball outside the right post and made a pretty drop to Kelley for a chip shot that was gloved by the Blaze keeper.

With a backline that was clicking all weekend, the Blaze tried to mount an offensive push in the 2nd half, but Ruhi, Karsyn, Lindsay, Shivani and Jessica clamped down on the chances by clogging up the middle of the field.

Marlene would make it 3-0 after cleaning up on a Christene shot that deflected off th Blaze keeper. With the ball dribbling through the box, the Devils forward easily tapped home the game’s final goal.

Akayla would uncork a 30-foot shot for good measure at the 45 minute mark that had t be gloved near the right post.

Fall 2009 Game 3 Photos

2009-09-20T23:34:00.001-07:00

[Click here] for a slideshow

[Click here] for all photos

9/20/09 Game Recap (3-1 Win)

2009-09-20T23:26:00.000-07:00

Clara clears the ball

The girls had so much fun on Saturday, that they decided to do it all over again on Sunday. This time the offense was as hot as the blistering heat. The Devils opened things up against the MVLA Typhoons and stormed to a 3-1 win at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex.

With a pre-game emphasis on putting more shots on goal, the girls did exactly that, and it would pay off for them. Christene would set the tone on the opening possession with a booming shot that sailed over the crossbar. The play didn’t result in a tally, but the message was clear that they Devils had come to play.

Courtney would score the first of two goals on the day in the 7th minute, by taking a diagonal feed from Grace at the center line, then racing up field and slipping a shot just inside the right post.

Katrina turned up
the heat on Sunday

She would make it 2-0 just four minutes later, after Shivani sent a booming through ball up the right side. Courtney grabbed the lead pass in the right corner than carried it toward the goal sliding a shot from right to left that just slipped past the MVLA goal keeper.

Audrey would get in on the action in the 20th minute by taking a feed from Katrina up the left side and punching home a 25-footer from outside the left post.

The defense played another smothering game, restricting the shots on their own net. MVLA would get a serious chance on net, when they were awarded a direct kick 6-yards outside the box. The ensuing shot would be gloved by Lindsay, but not before it bounced off her chest and back into the air. The Devils keeper did a great job of preventing rebound chance while the box was filled with blue jerseys.

Forming a wall

The Typhoons would get on the board right before half-time, when the Devils keeper challenged a shooter near the right post. Taking the shot away, the Typhoons right forward slid a pass from right to left, parallel with the goal line to a trailing forward. The Devils let the trailer slip underneath for the easy tap in goal.

The second half became more of an up-and-down game, with both teams clogging up the middle of the field. Courtney had one more chance at a hat-trick in the 34th minute, when a breakaway chance was pushed just wide of the right post.

With Ruhi in net for the 2nd half, the Devils dodged a bullet when she made a big save off a corner in the 38th minute.

The one blemish on the day came with 3 minutes left in the contest. Playing stopper, Grace took a big ball square off her nose, stopping play as the coaches attended to her. The play proved that these kids can generate some velocity on the ball, as was evident by the bloody nose Grace was sporting after the game.

Katrina would cap one last push with a booming shot in the 59th minute from 20 yards out. After deeking a defender with her back to the goal, the Devils forward, reversed her direction and put a solid strike on the ball, that had to be snared by the MVLA keeper at eye level.

Fall 2009 Game 2 Photos

2009-09-20T23:00:00.000-07:00

[Click here] for a slideshow

[Click here] for all photos

9/19/09 Game Recap (1-0 Win)

2009-09-20T22:41:00.000-07:00

Audrey dribbles
through traffic

The Devils played their first home game of the 2009 Fall season on Saturday at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex, taking a close 1-0 decision over Santa Clara Sporting. The 4:30pm start time provided some relief from the scalding Bay Are heat on Saturday, but the it still seemed to take a toll on the girls.

It took both teams a few minutes to feel out their opponent in order to gauge what type of game it was going to be. The Devils tried to take the initiative early by pressing on offense. An early salvo of shots by the Devils was defended well by Sporting’s defense.

Courtney tried sending a pooch shot in form 15 feet in the game’s opening, but the attempt fell short of the goal line. Grace would follow that up with a blast from 25 feet at the 9 minute mark, but the shot was deftly handled by Sporting’s goal keeper.

Grace turns
the corner

Santa Clara would get their best chance of the opening half 15 minutes into the contest with a breakaway that Christene, the Devils keeper, had to deflect by jumping up in the air to deflect the high lofting shot.

The Devils tried again to jump on the Santa Clara defense early in the 2nd half. Christene narrowly missed on a crossing attempt that slipped under her boot in the 32nd minute.

Audrey would follow that up with a shot 10 minute later that was once again gloved by the Sporting keeper.

Marlene appeared to score at the game’s 45th minute, but the Devils were whistled off-sides.

Courtney get congratulated

Courtney would remedy that 5 minutes later by punching home a shot from a severe angle. Grabbing a feed up the right side, she whipped the ball from right to left, beating the keeper with a shot to the low left corner.

One of the prettiest plays of the game came with 5 minutes to play. Audrey and Akayla teamed up for a pretty give-and-go on the left wing, that ended with a nice shot on goal.

Game Positives—

Unselfish Play: The girls are beginning to trust each other with each game they play, and that has resulted in some fantastic passing sequences and team work in an attempt to move the ball and setup scoring chances.

Shooting: Everyone is beginning to open up a bit offensively, which is resulting in more shots on goal. The girls are taking more chances offensively and are slowly working out of the pass first mentality that tends to bog down the offense. This was especially evident from the forwards that are choosing to shot from a variety of angles.

Team Defense: What can you say about back-to-back shutouts? The girls that have been tasked with holding the back line are holding up against some very good offensive teams. There were two very strong legs opposing them on Saturday and they kept the ball out of their own net by clogging up shooting lanes all day long.

Development Areas—

Initiative: Not sure if the heat had anything to do with it, but we struggled with beating the opponent to the ball. The girls were out-played in the initiative department on several occasions early on, which made it difficult to generate much offense.

Kickball: There has been a tendency of late to boot the ball out of a 1-on-1 or 1-on-none situation, which almost always turns into a turnover. Rather than punting the ball forward for the sake of clearing it safely, we like to see more attempts at ball-handling in order to make more accurate passes later on in the play.

Fall 2009 Game 1 Photos

2009-09-14T23:05:00.000-07:00

[Click here] for a slideshow

[Click here] for all photos

9/12/09 Game Recap (1-0 Win)

2009-09-13T22:16:00.000-07:00

The Devils kicked off the 2009 Fall league season with a nail-biting 1-0 win over the Hollister Spirit on Saturday. The Devils picked up where they left off last spring, by taking another one-goal win from the Hollister club.

Defense was the theme of the day, as the Devils recorded their 9th shutout in league play. The Spirit were stifled all game by a defensive corps that allowed only two scoring chances on the day. Shivani, Sammie, Lindsay, Jess, Karsyn, Grace, Clara and Ruhi kept the ball out of their defensive zone for much of the game, and prevented any shots from reaching the keeper in the 2nd half.

On the offensive side of the ball, there were plenty of chances to score early in the game. Courtney started a parade to the net with a break that was knocked down by the Spirit keeper just 2 minutes into the contest. E would setup Christene with a beautiful cross 8 minutes later, but the shot attempt sailed just left of the goal.

Clara stood tall in goal in the first half, defending a big chance by Hollister with a glove save midway through the period.

The Devils had another chance right on the doorstep at the 15 minute mark, but the Spirit keeper made a nifty save to preserve the scoreless tie. The Devils would close out the opening half with one final break at the 21st minute that was snuffed out by another big save by the Spirit.

Marlene would finally break the stalemate in the 31st minute, by punching home a 20-foot shot from just outside the 12 yd box.

With the backs and midfielders supplying a steady stream of through balls, the forwards were allowed to throw one attack after another on the Spirit net.

Akayla sent a shot on goal with a chance from the doorstep at the 40 minute mark, after Audrey put a shot off the right post, but the Spirit keeper stood tall once again.

Game Positives--

Positional Passing: The girls continue to show more confidence in moving the ball, which is evident by the lateral and back passing. This is allowing them to setup attacks and retain possession more often than not.

Initiative: The strong midfield play was the direct result of the girl’s initiative to loose balls. The Devils took control of the field by winning the race to space, and in turn the ball.

Development Areas—

Quick Releases: Many of the scoring chances were stifled by our shooters holding onto the ball too long. This was particularly an issue within 10 yards of the goal. Part of this can be addressed by focusing on the placement of the ball off first touches.

Marking the Pass: Anticipating how the opposition will advance the ball is a skill that will benefit any soccer player. The girls can develop this by anticipating where a pass will be placed, and marking that spot ahead of time.

Early Intensity: The girls tend to feel out their opponent, before taking chances on the offensive side of the ball. We must encourage more intensity early in the game, in order to set the tone.

Tall Trees Tournament Info

2009-09-11T16:16:00.000-07:00

Here is the schedule for the upcoming Palo Alto Tall Trees Tournament:

Saturday 9/26 at 9:15 Folsom Strykers vs SASC Devils 98
Saturday 9/26 at 2:15 SASC Devils 98 vs Juventus Galaxy
Sunday 9/27 at 10:30 San Carlos United Blaze vs SASC Devils 98
Sunday 9/27 at 2:15 Flight 2 Runner Up vs Flight 1 Runner Up
Sunday 9/27 at 3:30 Flight 2 Champ vs Flight 1 Champ

All games played at Greer Park (Field #4) - West Bayshore Road, Palo Alto 94303 [Map]

Flight 1:
San Carlos United Blaze
Folsom Strykers
SASC Devils 98
Juventus Galaxy

Flight 2:
Palo Alto 99G Blue
Manteca Rangers
MP Strikers 98G Blue
San Jose AfterShocks

Reminder: Thursday Practice Time Change

2009-09-02T09:42:00.001-07:00

A reminder to parents that Thursday practices will now start at 4:30pm fo the next ten weeks. Practice will end at 6:15pm on these days.

Devils are 2009 Soccer by the Bay Champions!

2009-08-23T23:01:00.000-07:00

Just another ho hum weekend of kids soccer…NOT! The Devils won all four games to take the 2009 Soccer by the Bay – Bronze Division U11 Girls Championship, capped by an exciting shootout victory in the championship game. The Devils outscored their opponents 9-1 in the four games, and finished things off with arguably the most exciting game in team history.

After scoring maximum tournament points in the pool play portion of the two-day tournament, the Devils squared off against the Ukiah Pumas for the tournament crown. By virtue of wining all three pool play games and scoring at least three goals in those games, the Devils led all 12 teams after the qualifying round and earned a spot in the championship game.

The game wasn’t the first time the devils had squared off against the Pumas. Ukiah steam-rolled the Devils in last year’s Soccer by the Bay tournament, in a 6-1 pool-play game. They would go on to win the 2008 tournament.

Kelly fights for position

The Devils have grown up a lot in the last year. This year’s contest would come down to shear will power. The Pumas were gifted with big and fast players that controlled much of the tempo early in the game. With Akayla in goal to open the first half, the Devils kept things close by clogging up the middle of the field and leaning on strong goaltending. The Devils would just miss on a scoring opportunity from 15 feet out, after Courtney put a shot on goal that was gobbled up by the Pumas imposing keeper.

The action started to heat up in the second half, with the play taking on more of a physical tone. Ukiah pushed the play deep into the Devils end of the field and missed on their best chance of the games, when Audrey deflected aside a diagonal shot from her keeper position on what appeared to be a certain goal.

Kelly and Grace helped control the middle of the field, which prevented the speedy Pumas from springing in any breaks.

Akayla dribbles
through traffic

Akayla would setup a cross at the 38 minute mark, that Marlene just missed connecting on, and the deadlocked game continued. Things turned sour moments later when a hard tackle by a Ukiah player resulted in a yellow card for the offending Puma.

Regulation would end, forcing two 5-minute overtime periods.

In the first overtime period, the physicality turned to carelessness, when a Puma player tackled Christene, from behind, drawing the game’s second yellow card for Ukiah. Both team's had single scoring opportunities, but the goaltending stood tall.

In the second overtime period, Akayla was re-inserted in goal after aggravating her knee. Her limp was noticeable on the field, but the move was made in anticipation of the shootout. That move would prove key.

With the top score in pool play, the Devils were allowed to defend the goal first in the shootout, which consisted of a best-of-5 round, followed by sudden death rounds. Akayla easily handled the first shot, which was followed by a Ukiah save on Grace’s opening round shot.

The second Ukiah shooter would push a shot wide of the right post, but Courtney would deliver on her attempt with a shot that snapped just inside the left post. Akayla almost stopped the Puma’s third shot, which chipped off her right foot to knot the shootout at 1-1.

Marlene's Tournament Winner

Karsyn took the Devils third shot, which was stopped by the Ukiah keeper, who was ruled to have started her move across the goal line too soon. Karsyn wouldn’t miss on her second attempt, punching a shot in the same location as Courtney’s goal. Akayla would come up big again with a save on a chest-high shot that forced the keeper to move to her right.

The Devils would take the tournament title when Marlene fired another shot to the left side. The Ukiah keeper dove to her right and got a glove on the shot, but the momentum carried the ball across the goal line, and the celebration began.

Game 1 – Devils Tame Gryphons

In Saturday’s tournament opener, the Devils got to work early in their 3-1 win over the Gryphons 98 Black, scoring just 2 minutes into the game on an Audrey put back from 3 feet. Grace created the chance by bouncing a shot off the goal tender in close. Audrey would make it 2-0 early in the 2nd half of the game by redirecting a shot from Christene into the goal.

The Gryphons were whistled for a hand-ball in the box at the 40 minute mark, and Grace would convert on the ensuing penalty shot for the 3-0 lead.

The Gryphons would score the only goal of the tournament allowed by the Devils with 3 minutes remaining in the contest on a ship shot from 10 feet.

Game 2 – Defense rules the Day versus Vipers

Lindsay turns on the jets

In Saturday’s second game, the Devils put a defensive stranglehold on the NV San Jose Vipers, limiting their opponent to few offensive chances. The Devils staked themselves to a 1-0 lead on a Courtney goal at the 5 minute mark after Marlene fired a shot on goal from 15 feet.

The mid play of E, Shivani, Sammi and Katrina bottled up the Vipers, which led to two important transitions in the game.

Grace made it 2-0 at the 11 minute mark with a pretty shot from 20 feet, after Shivani sent a cross from the right side. Kelly cleaned up on a feed from Christene that ran parallel to the goal line in the 30th minute.

Game 3 – Getting the Job Done Against San Mateo

Courtney drives
to the goal

In the final pool play game for the Devils, defense once again played a huge roll in the outcome of the game. Lindsay, Jessica, Clara and Karsyn turned in a fantastic performance all tournament, but this game was a stand out showing. It was the second of three shutouts in the tournament for the defensive corps, but their play was stifling.

As was the case in the previous two pool play game, the Devils scored early. Akayla redirected a pass from Courtney knocking it out of the air from just inside the right post in the 4th minute to stake the Devils to the 1-0 lead.

Courtney made it 2-0 with a lofting shot from the right side that glanced over the keeper's fingertips in the 20th minute. Audrey would cap the scoring with 5 minutes to play, when she took a pass at the mid-line and raced up field before chipping a shot past the keeper from 15 feet.

Here are [Tournament Photos] | [Slideshow]

Fall 2009 Schedule

2009-08-22T22:11:00.000-07:00

Here is the D2 Girls U11 C3 - Group A 2009 Fall Schedule

Delgado Class 3A Champions

9/12 (4:00pm) @ SBYSL Spirit - 1-0 W (Goals: Marlene)
9/19 (4:30pm) vs Santa Clara Sporting - 1-0 W (Goals: Courtney)
9/20 (1:30pm) vs MVLA Typhoons - 3-1 W (Goals: Courtney (2), Audrey)
9/26 (All Day) Tournament: Palo Alto Big Trees
9/27 (All Day) Tournament: Palo Alto Big Trees
10/10 (12:15pm) @ Los Gatos Wildcats - 0-0 T (Goals: None)
10/11 (Time TBD) @ MTH Lightning - 5-1 W (Goals: Akayla (2), Marlene, Christene, Grace)
10/17 (10:30am) vs SBYSL Spirit - 2-1 W (Goals: Courtney (2))
10/18 (9:00am) @ Santa Clara Sporting - 2-0 W (Goals: Courtney (2))
10/24 (All Day) Tournament: Medina Classic
10/25 (All Day) Tournament: Median Classic
10/31 (2:00pm) @ MVLA Typhoons - 1-0 W (Goals: Courtney)
11/07 (9:00am) vs Los Gatos Wildcats - 1-1 T (Goals: Kelly)
11/14 (12:00pm) vs MTH Lightning - 5-1 W (Goals: Akayla (2), Marlene, Christene, Shivani)
11/21 (All Day) Tournament: D2 Cup
11/22 (All Day) Tournament: D2 Cup

Delgado Class 3 - Group A [Standings]

Team Stats
Season Record: 8W-0L-2T (26 points) - 1st Place
Team Goals Scored: 21 (2.10 GFA)
Team Goals Allowed: 5 (0.50 GAA)
Team Shutouts: 5

Individual Stats
Goals Scored:
Courtney - 8
Akayla - 4
Marlene - 3
Christene - 2
Audrey - 1
Grace - 1
Kelly - 1
Shivani - 1

Goals Allowed (Goaltending):
Jessica - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 1.0 games
Marlene - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 1.0 games
Audrey - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Christene - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Clara - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Courtney - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Grace - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Katrina - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Kelly - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Ruhi - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Shivani - 2 (0.80 GAA) - 2.5 games
Karsyn - 1 (2.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Lindsay - 1 (2.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Sammie - 1 (2.00 GAA) - 0.5 games

Fall 2009 Snack Schedule

2009-08-22T21:56:00.000-07:00

Here is the Fall 2009 snack schedule:

9/12 (Time TBD) - Audrey
9/19 (4:30pm) - Shivani
9/20 (1:30pm) - Clara
10/10 (12:15pm) - Grace
10/11 (Time TBD) - Marlene
10/17 (10:30am) - Christene
10/18 (9:00am) - Akayla
10/31 (2:00pm) - Katrina
11/07 (9:00am) - Elizabeth
11/14 (12:00pm) - Ruhi

Soccer by the Bay Schedule

2009-08-11T11:34:00.000-07:00

Here is the Devils schedule for the upcoming Soccer by the Bay Tournament. Game 1 on Seturday will be played in San Mateo. Games 2, 3 and the playoff game will all be played in Burlingame. There are eight teams vying for four playoff spots. The Championship game will be held at 3:30pm on Sunday and the 3rd/4th place game will be held at 5:00pm on Sunday.

Players should be at the field location 45 minutes prior to the start of each game for warm-ups.

Date	Day	Time	Event	Location
8/22	Sat	11:00am	Game 1 vs Gryphons 98G Black	Los Prados Park [map]
8/22	Sat	6:30pm	Game 2 vs NV San Jose Vipers 98	Lower Bayside Park [map]
8/23	Sun	12:30pm	Game 3 vs San Mateo Blue Crush	Lower Bayside Park [map]
8/23	Sun	3:30 or 5:00pm	Playoff Game	Lower Bayside Park [map]

2009 Devil Camp a Big Success

2009-07-31T22:48:00.000-07:00

The Devils wrapped up a fantastic Devils Training Camp on Friday at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex. The five-day camp was led by Coach Tim Newsome from Planet Futsal*, and was one of the best training programs the team has gone through in their two seasons.

Christene & Lindsay

Coach Tim focused each day on a specific training topic, and formatted each two-hour session with a series of drills and games. Holding UEFA, English FA, NSCAA Advanced National and CYSA licenses, Coach Tim was well qualified to run the camp, but his great demeanor and teaching style turned out to be huge factors in running such a successful camp.

The camp as a whole turned out to be a fantastic program to kick off the 2009 fall season.

Training games like “rapid fire” shooting and “goalie wars” were favorites among the girls. “Power & Finesse” was another training game that the team took well to.

One of the most basic, yet effective, focuses during the camp was centered on turns and fakes. Retaining possession will certainly become more of a factor as the girls move up to U-11 this season, so this portion of the camp is something that will stressed much more during regular practices.

Coach Tim

What was most impressive, was the efficiency at which each drill was setup and executed, and the level of involvement that each player had during the games.

Coach Sonya took copious notes throughout the week, and will certainly integrate many of the drills and teaching techniques that were applied during the camp. Hopefully, this type of camp will become a regular event prior to each season.

Well done Coach Tim!

* Tim’s bio from the Planet Futsal website:

Coach Tim grew up with the game of soccer. He played from a very young age through college and semi-professionally in England. Coach Tim has been coaching since 2002, first for Wycome Wanders Football Club in England and with the MLS youth programs and the Sunnyvale Alliance Soccer Club in the U.S. He also coached at Gunn High School in Palo Alto and St Lawrence Academy in Santa Clara. Coach Tim most recently coached Shrewsbury Town Football Club’s (Professional soccer team in England) U14 youth team. Tim completed his Masters degree in Sports Management and the Business of Football from Birkbeck University of London, England in September 2008.

Certifications:
- UEFA 'B' Licence
- The English F.A. Level 1 & 2 License
- The English F.A. Futsal Level 1 License
- NSCAA Advanced National
- C.Y.S.A. Licensed Coach
- MSc Sports Management and the Business of Football

2009 Devils Camp: [Photos] | [Slideshow]

Devils Heat Up Sonoma Tournament

2009-07-21T21:17:00.000-07:00

The Devils ventured to the northern extremes of the Bay Area on Sunday to participate in the Puma Seawolf Cup Six-A-Side tournament at Sonoma State University. The girls played in four games, splitting the day with 2 wins and 2 losses. The original schedule called for a five game schedule, but one of the teams in the U11 group pulled out at the last minute.

Devils Team Dinner

Many of the Devils and their families made the trek to Rohnert Park the night before, so the team enjoyed an afternoon of swimming at the hotel pool. The families than met at a local restaurant for a team dinner.

The soccer action started earlier on Saturday, but the girls had to acclimate themselves to the 6-a-side rules, which included no goal kicks beyond the midline of the small 50-yard field. They would also run into a strong Elk Grove Blue Team, which opened the 30-minute game with two quick goals.

Marlene would cut into the Elk Grove lead with a 15-foot shot from the right side just before half time. Elk Grove would add three more goals in the second half, which was capped with a pretty corner kick that was knocked into the goal by a forward who would out-leap a Devil defender for the redirect.

Akayla uses
her head

The Devils would get on track in the second game against the River City Chaos, with a commanding 5-2 win. Akayla would make her return to the team with a pair of goals, including the opening tally off a chip shot from 12-feet.

She would setup the next goal by ripping a shot that rang off the left post, before Courtney swooped in to pump home the deflection for the 2-0 lead. River City would cut the Devils lead in half with a goal right before halftime, but Akayla would deposit her second score of the game with a 15-foot shot from the right side.

Audrey would push the lead to 4-1 with a goal early in the second half, after picking the pocket of a defender along the right sideline.

Katrina would make her half in goal count with a big save, knocking down a shot before diving on the rebound with two Chaos players converging on the ball.

Ruhi charges up field

The Devils would help the Chaos out with a deflection into their own goal with 4 minutes to play, but Audrey would convert once again for the capper.

In Game 3, the Devils would avenge their early morning loss to the Elk Grove, by knocking off their sister team 2-0 in a sweltering afternoon sun. Karsyn and Akayla would share the shutout, after turning in masterful performances in net.

The Devils would score both of their goals in the second half of the game. First Courtney chipped a 15-foot shot over the head of the Elk Grove White goaltender from the right side after Christene set her up with a pretty diagonal pass across the middle.

Audrey navigates
in traffic

Ruhi would setup the second goal with a smart pass up the gut after the Elk Grove defense was forced to pinch up while trailing late. Marlene took the 30-foot pass, then drove straight in on net and punched home her 3rd goal of the tournament for the 2-goal lead.

Akayla would preserve the win with two great saves late in the contest.

With three games under their belt, and the afternoon heat taking its toll, the Devils struggled in the tournament finale. The bench would be shortened by one player, limiting the bench to a single substitute. They would lose to the eventual tournament champion FOSC Fire in a 4-1 game that was close through the first half.

After falling behind 2-0, Marlene would bag her 4th goal of the tournament with a spectacular 30-foot shot that tucked just inside the right post just before half time.

Marlene seals the Elk Grove game

The Devils seemed to run out of gas in the second half, surrendering another two goals to put the game out of reach. They were unable to mount the comeback that would have put them in contention for the tournament title, but the day’s performance was solid.

The tournament was a great opportunity for the girls to work on their short game and shooting. Hopefully the early start will translate into a faster start once the fall league season begins.

Here are: [Tournament Photos] | [Slideshow]

Sonoma Tournament Information

2009-07-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

Here is the game schedule for this Sunday's Sonoma Tournament:

Team Check-In: 9:00am (DON'T BE LATE!)

Time: 9:45 AM
Field: 8
vs. Elk Grove Edge - 2

Time: 12:05 PM
Field: 9
vs. River City Chaos

Time: 2:40 PM
Field: 7
vs. Elk Grove Edge - 1

Time: 5:00 PM
Field: 8
vs. FOSC Fire 98

Time: 6:10 PM
Field: 8
vs. US GIRLS

Here is a [map of the fields]

The address for SSU is 1801 East Cotati Ave, Rohnert Park, CA 94928.

Here is a [map and driving directions to the tournment site]

From San Francisco Bay Area: Highway 101 north to Rohnert Park Expressway exit. Turn right onto Rohnert Park Expressway and follow to its end at Petaluma Hill Road. Right on Petaluma Hill Road to the stoplight at East Cotati Avenue. Right on East Cotati Avenue to Main Entrance of the campus on your right.

From the tournament director:

Please let parents know that they are allowed to bring propane grills, food, drinks, chairs etc. SSU will be offering reasonably priced vending services and there are also restaurants across from campus. We ask that you keep your pets at home or on a leash the entire time they are on campus. We have yet to have any problems with animals, and hope to keep it that way.

Also we ask that individuals stay out of the baseball field, tennis courts, softball field, as well as the fountain/pond area. At our last tournament there was over $1000 of damage incurred to these facilities that the Men¹s Soccer program was responsible for. If you see any children/individuals in these areas, please remind them or feel free to talk to any SSU Soccer staff.

Strong Showing at Spring District 2 Cup

2009-06-18T22:26:00.000-07:00

The Devils concluded the Spring Season with a fantastic showing at the District 2 Cup, held at Evergreen College last weekend. The Devils won both of their pool games on Saturday, earning the top seed in the playoff round on Sunday, but fell to the Hollister Tremors in a 1-0 nail biter on Sunday.

Pool play started early Saturday morning with an 8:15am game that pegged the Devils against the Central Valley Jaguars. The girls have struggled historically in early morning games, but they came out firing in this contest.

Christene opened the games scoring on a deflection off the goaltender just 8 minutes in. Courtney set up the goal sending a cross from the right corner, after navigating past a defender along the right sideline. As the pass crossed through the box, the Jaguars keeper failed to control the ball. Christene charged up the middle and chipped home the 5-footer for the 1-0 lead.

The Jaguars would answer 5 minutes later on a 35-foot shot from the left side. E, the Devils keeper was lined up with the shot, but the ball skipped on the wet grass then took a crazy hop, redirecting to the right and into the net.

The Devils made it 2-1 on a put back after Grace put a 40-foot shot on goal from the left side. The Jaguars keeper got a hand on the shot, but the deflection bounced right to Courtney, who was positioned on the right side. She would easily deposit the ball for the goal.

Half time was as entertaining as the first half. The girls reported that a gopher popped his head up in the middle of the pitch while play was going on, catching some of the action up close.

The 2nd half of the contest would be highlighted by the defense who snuffed out every Jaguars chance. Audrey played in goal and only handled the ball twice in the entire half. The fullbacks did a great job at anticipating opposing passes and communicating where the ball was being played.

The midfielders controlled the field and setup several scoring chances, including a shot attempt by Marlene that was stopped by the Jaguars keeper with 8 minutes to play.

In the Saturday nightcap, the Devils offense opened up and stormed to a 3-0 win over the Monterey Blizzards. The Devils wasted no time taking the early lead. Kelly punched a 20-foot shot from center-mid that clipped a defender and redirected past the Blizzards keeper for the 1-0 lead, just 2 minutes into the game.

Audrey converted 5 min later on a chip shot from the center of the small box after Courtney sent another beautiful cross from the right side.

Christene started the 2nd half in goal and came up big. A Blizzards free-kick headed for the goal before the keeper gloved the shot on the run. She would make another big save later in the half when another shot found it’s way deep into the box.

Courtney would cap the game’s scoring when she knocked home a 20-foot blast from the top of the box. r Audrey carried the ball up the left side before sliding a pass to her right. Courtney carried the ball up the middle, before firing a shot that sailed over the Blizzard keeper’s head.

The Devils turned in more great soccer on Sunday, but they came up short in the single elimination playoff round. Facing the same Tremors team that they beat in the last regular season game three weeks earlier, Hollister had revenge in mind.

The games were similar in that the Devils held the ball in the Hollister zone for 70% of the game, but Hollister would take advantage of their lone chance deep in the Devils zone. The Devils had plenty of shots on goal, but the Tremors keeper played a huge game.

Jojo would open the shot-fest with a nice attempt from the right side that was gloved in the 3rd minute. Another shot attempt from the right corner that straddled the goal line before hitting the left post 2 minutes later.

Hollister would strike with the game’s only goal on a series of pin balling shots that landed on a right wings foot for a 15 foot bullet 10 minutes into the game. The Devils would put 4 shots on goal before the half closed out, but the Tremor’s keeper stopped everything that came her way.

The Devils continued to control the ball in the 2nd half, but the Tremors played their mids back to preserve the slim lead.

The Devils would get their best chance to score with 3 minutes to play when Grace took a pass at midfield and raced up the gut before putting a 20-foot shot on goal. The shot was a bullet, but once again the Tremors keeper knocked the head-high shot down before snagging the ball to squelch the scoring chance.

The final whistle would sound, ending the Devils run, but the tournament was a big success for the girls. They allowed a paltry 3 goals in 3 games during the weekend, continuing their fantastic defense play. The offense also started to work well with each other, stringing together legitimate scoring chances by placing the ball with precision passing. A fantastic showing all around.

Regular Season Finale - Fun Notes

2009-06-07T21:58:00.000-07:00

With the 2009 Spring Regular Season coming to a close, we wanted to reflect on some of the things that made this past campaign so much fun. First off, a big Devils THANK YOU to Coach Brad and Carmon for hosting such a fantastic end of season party on Saturday. Some of the girls were in the pool at high noon and didn't get out until things wrapped up after 6!

We also wanted to thank everyone who volunteered their time this season. There are many jobs that make the team tick (team manager, volunteer coordinator, team treasurer, field liners, referees, buyer, party coordinator, and more), so we certainly appreciate all the hard work our parents put into the team.

One of the things we did this season during one of the regular practices was hold a skills competition. Here is a list of the individual winners:

Juggling - Christene
Paired Head Balls - Christene
Head Balls - Audrey
Longest Kick - Karsyn
Fanciest Move - Clara
Penalty Shots - Clara
Longest Throw - Karsyn
Throw-In Accuracy - Lindsay

Our season juggling champion is Kelly (45).

Please be sure to check out the team calendar, which has all the team events planned throughout the summer.

5/30/09 Game Recap (3-2 Win)

2009-05-31T22:21:00.000-07:00

Wow. That one word best describes Saturday’s regular season finale. The Devils overcame a late deficit to take a thrilling 3-2 win against the Hollister Tremors at Veterans Memorial Sports Complex in Hollister. The Devils trailed 2-1 with 5 minutes to play in the game, before rallying with a pair of goals to wrap up a 5 win, 2 draw, 2 loss season.

The girls came ready to play, as was indicative from the strong warm up before the game. When the opening whistle sounded, the Devils immediately went on the offensive.

Starting at the left fullback position, Sammie opened the game with a blast from the left side that sailed just wide of the right post. It would serve as a precursor to the salvo of shots that was forthcoming.

Marlene would split two defenders on the subsequent possession, putting a shot on goal from 15 feet out. The Tremors goal keeper gloved the shot to help Hollister weather the initial wave. The Devils would get another chance 4 minutes later on another drive up the left side by Marlene, but that ended with another save by the Tremors keeper.

Hollister would push the ball deep in the Devils zone midway through the opening half, drawing a corner kick. They would score on that chance at the 12 minute mark when the Tremor player assigned to take the corner lofted a huge ball over the Devils defense. The kick landed right on the foot of a teammate, positioned on the far post for the easy tap in.

The goal didn’t affect the drive in the Devils, who would continue to force the play to the Tremors half of the field with a constant stream of through balls that created more offensive chances. Audrey would take one of those balls up the left side before firing another shot that the Tremors keeper was forced to handle.

Marlene would knot the game at 1-1 a minute later with a 15-foot rocket that she unleashed from the just inside the left post. The shot was a live drive that hit the top right corner of the net a good 6 feet off the ground.

The second half of the game could have justified admission for the show that was about to begin.

The Devils continued to use through balls to jump the Hollister defense, but Tremor’s goal keeper played a fantastic game, gloving shot after shot.

Hollister would stake out a 2-1 lead with six minutes to play, when a dump-in was gloved by Shivani outside the box, setting up an indirect kick from just left of the penalty shot dot. The Tremors converted with the free chance, sending a shot right of the Devils wall and into the net.

Rather than pack it in so late in the game, the Devils went to work. Defensively, the Tremors would muster only one shot on goal that didn’t come off a corner or free kick.

The tide would begin to turn when JoJo got off a nice shot from the right side that was knocked down by a Tremors defender right in front of the goal line. Another Devil’s shot was turned aside by a hand ball in the box, but it went uncalled.

Clara would re-tie the game with four minutes left in the game when Courtney chipped a pass to her left across the goal line. Clara read the pass and headed for the goal, deflecting the ball with her knee into the goal. It was her first as a Devil, but it couldn’t have come at a better time.

The next minute turned out to be a goal keeper’s nightmare. First the Devils were awarded a direct kick 30 feet out. Grace took the shot and rang it off the right post. The deflection would land on Kelly’s boot for another shot that slammed off the opposite post.

The crowd was buzzing with all the shots that were being thrown on goal. The anticipation would come to a crescendo with the biggest goal of the season.

That goal would come in the waning minutes of the game after another wild flurry in front of the Tremors net. Grace would start the sequence with a corner kick that deflected off Tremors defender in the box. After a partial clear, the ball would find its way on a trajectory with the goal line. Clara grabbed the ball on the right post and chipped a pass to Courtney, who was parked right on the goal line. There was no doubt where the ball would end up after Courtney’s foot slammed the orb into the back of the net.

Game over. FANTASTIC way to wrap up the regular season.

Game Positives--

Defense: It’s important to recognize the fullbacks in this game, as they allowed only one shot on goal from the field. The Tremors goals came off a corner and a free kick. Clara, Jess, Karsyn, Lindsay, Ruhi and Sammie consistently shut down drives toward the Devils net all game, which was a great way to cap their overall performance this season. The Defense accounted for 5 shutouts in 9 games this season.

Quick Releases: As has been the theme in practice the last two weeks, the girls applied quick release shots, and it paid huge dividends for them. All three goals came on direct shots while receiving the ball, rather then trying to control and setup a shot.

Poise: After falling behind twice in the game, the team never got down on themselves. In fact, the Tremors goals seemed to inspire them to turn the level of play up a notch. They answered both goals with equalizers within 2 minutes of both tallies. When they needed that third goal, the intensity was elevated and it paid dividends.

Development Areas--

Consistency: Heading into the D2 Cup, the girls need to maintain their drive and desire to control the game. We didn’t stress this during the fall Cup and it hurt us. The girls will have four games in two days, so it will be important for them to focus on maintaining the same intensity they exhibited this past weekend.

5/16/09 Game Recap (4-0 Win)

2009-05-20T00:20:00.000-07:00

The Devils traveled to a toasty Salinas on Saturday, but the offense turned out to be even hotter, taking a dominating 4-0 decision over the MCFC Wolverines at the Constitution Soccer Complex.

In the spirit of the temperature, the girls opened the game on fire, immediately controlling the tempo. The girls put together one of their best passing performances of the season.

One of the things the girls worked on during week was drop passes to a trailing shooter for one-time shot attempts. Courtney delivered in the first few minutes of the game dropping a perfect pass to Marlene, who put a shot just wide of the left post.

Moments later, Shivani made a fantastic centering pass to Marlene from the left corner. Marlene gathered the pass, before deflecting a shot off of a defender and into the goal.

Courtney would follow that up by scoring one of the prettiest goals of the season. Starting at right forward, she drove down the right side of the field and let loose a high shot that sailed past the goal keeper and found the top left corner of the net for the 2-0 lead.

Kelly and E capped the first half by putting together one of the most impressive passing series of season. Kelly started the sequence by knocking the ball up to E at left forward. E then dropped the ball back to Kelly, who returned the pass before bee-lining to the center of the field to take one more exchange. It was a dazzling exchange that had the Wolverines on their heels.

For the second straight game, the Devils defense limited scoring chances, and only allowed their goal keeper to touch the ball once in the contest, when Grace gloved a shot at the 15 minute mark of the game.

The coaches mixed things up a little to start the 2nd half, putting Ruhi in goal. Grace started the half at center forward, Karsyn at center mid, Kelly at stopper, and Marlene to the sweeper position.

Grace would use her opportunity up front to score her first goal as a Devil. She liked it so much, that she decided to score twice from the position and had a 3rd tally called back on an off sides call. Her first goal would come off a pass from JoJo, lofting the ball right over the goalie keeper’s head.

She would score again by taking a terrific pass from Audrey from the left side, pumping a shot into the net for the 4-0 cushion.

The defense was led by Jess Jess, who stepped into every attempt that came her way, clearing away any would be scoring chances y the Wolverines. Courtney took a long turn at sweeper in the 2nd half, complementing her offensive skills with a strong stint as a defender.

Game Positives--

Passing: The work the girls put in during practice on passing and creating space was very evident during the game.

Communication: The girls did a great job of directing each other, which was evident from the great series of passes that they were able to string together.

Holding and Driving the Ball Forward: The Wolverines did not pull their defenders up so it was difficult to send through balls up the lines. The girls recognized this though, and shifted their approach by driving up field. They deftly held the ball until they were contested.

Development Areas--

Shooting, Shooting, Shooting: Although we came away with a big win, there were many shooting opportunities that went unaddressed or the shot selection was directly on the keeper.

Quick Release: We continue to struggle with taking the immediate shot, instead choosing to take one too many touches before shooting.

Following the Shot: Forwards need to follow every shot on goal.

5/9/09 Game Recap (1-0 Win)

2009-05-14T23:38:00.000-07:00

The Devils hosted the MCFC Blizzards on Saturday, taking a 1-0 decision in one of the most lopsided wins in the team’s short history. Controlling the ball for a majority of the contest, the Devils kept the ball in the offensive zone, peppering the Blizzards net with shots that did everything except cross the goal line.

The offense put had more than a dozen quality scoring chances, stringing together well placed passes while grabbing the initiative from the opening whistle.

Grace opened the shot fest with a blast from the center of the box in the first two minutes of the game. The shot was slowed down by the goal keeper, who got a glove on the shot, but allowed it to trickle past. Only a diving stop as the ball headed toward the goal line kept the game scoreless.

The Devils midfielder would create the Devils next scoring chance two minutes later, by sending a crossing pass from the left side, which landed on Jessica’s boot right in front of the goal line. A scrum in the front of the net ended with the Blizzards goal keeper pouncing on the ball to smother the chance.

The offensive onslaught would continue later in the first half after the Devils were awarded a corner kick. The shot form the left side that feathered past two players, right to Shivani who cranked a shot that sailed over the cross bar, just missing the net.

While the offense was pressing the play in the Blizzards zone, the defense was squelching any runs attempted by Salinas, suppressing most attempts to move on the Sunnyvale net at the midfield line. Ruhi, Lindsay, Karsyn , Jess and Clara put the clamps on the Blizzards offense, allowing only one shot on goal the entire game.

Marlene started in goal and had to handle the ball once in the first half. Clara followed her up and never touched the ball.

The opening 20 minutes would be capped with a 40-foot shot from Sammie that the lizards goal keeper snared right before the end of the half.

The 2nd half started with more of the scoring frustration. Audrey maneuvered in tight, before getting off a shot from 15 ft that drilled the goal keeper in the chest. The shot was a pretty chance, but once again the goal keeper was in the right place at the right time.

The Devils finally broke through at the 30 min mark. Karsyn sent a corner to the box where it pin-balled off two players, before landing on Christene's boot for the chip shot that finally found the back of the net.

Game Positives –

Offensive Pressure: The Devils smelled blood and kept up the offensive pressure all game.

Impenetrable Defense: The backs snuffed out every run the Blizzards tried throwing at the Devils. The solid play by the back-liners was one of the most impressive performances of the season.

Development Areas—

Shot Strength: Developing stronger shot strength continues to be a key area of development for the girls. This could have easily been a 5 goal game had there been a little more velocity and height on some of the shots that were directed on goal.

Shot Placement: We need to work on where shots are directed, given the positioning of the goal keeper and other defenders.

Stanford Tourney Photos

2009-05-07T23:57:00.001-07:00

[Click here] for a slideshow

[Click here] for all photos

Devils Turn in a Stong 2009 Stanford 4v4 Tournament Showing

2009-05-07T23:33:00.000-07:00

The Devils participated in the 2009 Stanford 4v4 Tournament, which marks the second consecutive season that the team has attended this competition. The 4v4 format allows the girls to sharpen their small game skills, in a competitive environment. The Devils split the team into two squads, which were represented by a Red Team and White Team.

The Devils were one of nine SASC teams to participate in the tournament.

Both squads played exceptionally well, especially the newcomers, who had not played in the small field format before. Every game was competitive and entertaining, but more importantly it provided the girls with an opportunity to better understand how to manage the ball in tight quarters.

This experience will certainly provide them additional tools that will help their regular format game. The highlight of the tournament was the Red squad's 2-1 win over the MVLA class 1 contingent.

As the tournament has become an annual event, so has the parents-kids game played during the lunch break. This was a great chance for the parents to show off their soccre skills in a fun game of 16 v 16 soccer on one of the mini fields. Thankfully, no arent was required to run more than 4 steps in any one direction!

Here is a recap of the 12 games each squad participated in:

White game 1: 4-1 L to MVLA I Goals: Christene

Red game 1: 3-1 L to MVLA VII. Goals Shivani

White game 2: 5-3 win vs Penninsula Storm. Goals: Karsyn (2), Sammie, Marlene, Jessica O

Red game 2: 4-3 L vs MP Strikers. Goals Kelly, Clara (head ball), Courtney

White game 3: 4-3 L vs Los Angeles Sol. Goals Marlene, Christene, Karsyn

Red game 3: 3-1 L vs MVLA II. Goals: Kelly

White game 4: 5-3 L vs Santa Clara Sporting. Goals: Sammie, Marlene, Jessica

Red game 4: 2-1 W vs MVLA II. Goals: Kelly, Jess

White vs Red: 4-1 W white. Wht Goals: Ruhi(2), Karsyn, Sammie. Red goals: E

Red game 6: 5-4 W vs Santa Clara Sporting. Goals: Katrina, Courtney(2), Shivani, Clara.

White game 6: 3-2 L vs MVLA II. Goals: Christene, Jess O

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

2009-05-07T23:26:00.000-07:00

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.

Getting Ready for the Stanford 4v4 Tournament

2009-04-28T23:33:00.000-07:00

Sunday we will play in the Stanford 4 v 4 tournament. This is going to be a fun tournament for our girls. All teams will play six games. Rather than trying to organize anything too elaborate for food, I would like the girls to bring their own lunch with them to the field. Last year, some of our best fun was found playing soccer on the field during lunchtime with parents. Here is list of things to bring:

* backpack and ball
* both shirts and both socks (shirts are very important)
* sunscreen, chapstick, and hats
* jackets and sweats
* lots of water
* lunch and lots of healthy snacks
* something to keep them occupied between games
* blanket, towel, chair, umbrella for hanging out
* soccer sandals for in between games
* money if you choose for snacks and/or soccer merchandise
* a pack mule to carry all of their stuff :)

I will be at the tournament very early to save a spot and check in our team. We have five Alliance teams coming to the tournament. We are going to try to set up together in the Eucalyptus grove together. We will play on the Cagan Field and our home base will be in the Masters Grove next to that field. Here is a link to a [campus map]

I personally think that the most clear driving directions (not necessarily the fastest) to the field are to take 280 north, take the Page Mill exit and make a right on Page Mill. Follow Page Mill all the way to the El Camino. Make a left on the El Camino. The field is on the left a few minutes up. If you hit the Embarcadero, you have gone too far.

The girls should be at the field by 8:15. We will have three, twenty-minute games between 9am and noon. There will be a two hour lunch break. The girls can get autographs from Stanford players during lunch. Play will resume at 2pm. They will play three more games from 2pm to 5pm.

I will be at the field all day. If you need to leave, just let me know and I will supervise your daughter.

Please let me know if you have any questions regarding the tournament.

Coach Sonya

4/26/09 Game Recap (2-0 Loss)

2009-04-28T23:23:00.000-07:00

The Devils suffered their first loss in 4 games on Sunday as they played the back end of a weekend double header against the West Valley Surefire at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex, falling 2-0.

Since losing to the Los Gatos Wildcats in the first week of the season, the girls have steadily improved their game. Even though they came out on the short end of the score, they turned in one of their better performances of the year.

Playing a tenacious game, the Devils played an up and down game, exchanging scoring chances early in the contest before the Devils settled down.

The Devils got a bit of a pick-me-up, when Audrey showed up for the game, battling the flu. She would start the first half in goal, which turned out to be a bigger plus for the team. The Surefire would put three shots on goal in the first half, but she collected each shot.

Grace continues to get batter with each game. She controlled the midfield with her aggressiveness to the ball.

The game looked as if it might end in stalemate until West Valley put a shot across the goal on a deflection following a corner kick with 7 minutes to play. They would convert 2 minutes later on a shot from inside the box.

Putting one more rush on the attack, the Devils tried to cut into the Surefire lead, but an indirect kick went awry.

The defense deserve kudos for their play. Ruhi, Karsyn, Clara, Jess, and Lindsay played exceptionally as a unit, limiting the opposition’s offensive chances for a majority of the game.

Game Positives—

Marking: This was a point of contention against the Jaguars and it was self corrected by the girls after we discussed this following Saturday’s game. It was nice to see the focus on this part of the defensive play.

Toughness & Intensity: We asked the girls to step up and they all responded with great results. Pursuit of the ball and not backing down to the physical play of the opposition was great to see.

Fundamentally Strong: We emphasized the basics, and the girls responded. There were few mistakes in the game, which was the result of strong fundamental play

Development Areas—

Attention to Details: The girls tried to create opportunities (which is a good thing), but the execution was stymied by breakdowns with simple skills. Small game play along the lines was affected by simple passing mistakes.

Lack of Shooting: We didn’t generate many scoring opportunities, even though the ball was deep in the offensive zone on several opportunities. Rather than creating offensive chances by putting the ball on net, there were several instances when the ball was held too long.

Response on Corners: West Valley utilized a short corner kick to a midfielder down the line, but the Devils were slow to react to the play.

Spring 2009 Game 4 Photos

2009-04-28T23:22:00.000-07:00

[Click here] for a slideshow

[Click here] for all photos

4/25/09 Game Recap (0-0 Tie)

2009-04-28T23:14:00.000-07:00

Playing on the road for the first time this Spring, the Devils turned in another defensive gem, tying the Central Valley Jaguars 0-0 at Femmatre Middle School in San Jose on Saturday. The Devils held the Jaguars to a single shot on goal, while applying plenty of offensive pressure on their cross-town opponents.

Courtney turned in a fine performance, demonstrating her quickness on the right side. She employed several crossing chances that setup scoring chances for the other forwards.

Marlene almost converted midway through the first half with a shot that hit the goaltender in the arm and slipped through her grasp. With the ball rolling toward the goal, Courtney pursued the loose ball, but the keeper pounced on it with a big lunge before the Devils forward could reach the ball.

Jess has quietly become a solid defender, and her initiative to the ball is being recognized by the coaching staff. She played one of the most aggressive games we’ve seen from a Devils backliner, stopping offensive chances by anticipating passes and moving to the ball well.

The Devils almost scored what may have been the games only goal early in the second half with a booming shot from well outside the box. A Jaguars defender just managed to step in front of the shot, deflecting it just enough to push the ball wide of the right post. The shot only missed by an agonizing 2 to 3 feet.

Sammie played with cool confidence on the backline, stepping into several attempts by the Jaguars to move the ball up the line. She has become more fearless when an opposing player tries to barrel up the line. She used her strength to flat out stonewall several attempts by the Jaguars to encroach into the Devils zone on Saturday.

Game Positives—

Good Offensive Drives: When we gained possession of the ball, the forwards and mids drove to the goal in proper formations, which enabled several quality scoring chances.

Crosses: The forwards are starting to employ crosses much more effectively. Courtney had several chances from the right side, and Christene put two chances into the box from the left side.

Defense: The mid and full backs were well positioned and did a great job of stepping into shooting lanes when the opposition would wind up for a shot. The defense limited the Jaguars to two shots on goal, both of which were not high percentage shots.

Development Areas—

Right of Way: There were numerous occurrences of players stepping into the path of a teammate who had control of the ball, or would try to overtake a teammate when facing the wrong direction.

Lack of Shooting: Rather than taking shots when the opportunities arose, we had too many instances of ball handlers trying to walk the ball deeper into the attacking zone.

Defensive Stance: While the overall defense was fantastic, we had several instances of the defenders be flat footed with hips open to the attacker, rather than being in the defensive stance that we have been practicing. This led to attackers moving around the defense.

Spring 2009 Game 3 Photos

2009-04-20T23:07:00.000-07:00

[Click here] for a slideshow

[Click here] for all photos

4/18/09 Game Recap (1-0 Win)

2009-04-20T22:56:00.000-07:00

The Devils built on their big win over the De Anza Tidal Waves with another strong performance on Saturday, defeating the MVLA Typhoons 1-0 at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex. The Devils played a big defensive game, thanks in part to a big goaltending performance in the second half.

The girls wasted little time dictating play, taking the control of play from the opening whistle. Courtney put a big shot from the right wing 4 minutes into the game, missing wide right.

The Devils would convert the only goal of the game 2 minutes before half-time. Marlene carried the ball up the left side, before cutting back to her right just short of the end-line. She put the ball on her right foot and sent a 35-foot crossing pass to the far side of the small box, where Audrey was waiting. Audrey collected the pass and chipped home the 5-foot shot for the 1-0 lead.

She would almost score her second goal of the game 4 minutes later, when Grace setup a scoring chance with a booming free kick from mid field. A pair of Typhoon defenders collapsed on Audrey to snuff out the chance, but not before a shot attempt missed to the left.

The back-liners rarely allowed the ball to enter their own box, playing exceptionally well in tight quarters. Ruhi played her typical solid game, snuffing out anything that came her way. Lindsay played one of her strongest games as a Devil on the back line, carrying several deep balls out of the corner to avert any Typhoon scoring chances.

Game presence was the theme of the day. On a Typhoon goal kick, Courtney read a short ball, intercepting it at the top of the box with a one-time shot that sailed just wide right. Three feet to the left and the rocket shot catches net in the top right corner.

Making her first start at center-mid, Grace played exceptionally well, commanding the play with aggressiveness to the ball. Her nose for the ball was evident late in the game when she played back and picked the pocket of two Typhoon forwards as they started to press the offense.

The Typhoons would turn up the heat midway through the second half with a series of shots that reached the goal. Audrey played huge in net, making two big saves. She knocked down a shot that was just above her head and calmly scooped up the deflection, then was forced to make a save by moving laterally on a shot that was sent across the goal mouth.

E played several positions, showing her versatility. Katrina played a strong game at outside mid, and consistently shut down her mark with nice footwork and persistency toward the ball.

Game Positives—

Through Balls: Pushing the ball up the lines for the forwards to chase was a point of focus in practice and the girls applied the technique wonderfully during the game. Courtney and Marlene were given the opportunity chase several balls that were pushed up by the mids.

Switching & Passing: Another emphasis in practice has been on positional switching and moving the ball to a teammate who has switched positions with the person carrying the ball. It was great to see this being utilized, especially in traffic.

Head Balls & Traps: While we haven’t spent as much time focusing on head balls and traps, they were both used frequently in the game. More importantly, the girls are recognizing when it makes sense to utilize these moves.

Development Areas—

Goal Side Marks: This has proven to be the one thing we need to reiterate every few practices. With the defense playing so well, the girls started to move away from playing good, fundamental soccer. Allowing your opposition to get position toward your own goal will only lead to bad things. It’s a simple technique that pays big dividends.

Quick Releases: There were several instances of players holding the ball too long, which allows the defense to collapse on the attack. We need to make sure that line-mates are moving to space to create passing opportunities, and that the player controlling the ball looks to advance the ball in traffic with quick passing.

Mid Transitions: The mids were not making the transition from offense to defense, and vice versa as diligently as we would like to see. Defensive responsibility is priority, so not getting back to help back on defense is something we want to curb as much as possible. Making transitions from defense to offense quickly is what creates scoring chances. The score was indicative of our failure to capitalize on these type of transitions.

Spring 2009 Game 2 Photos

2009-04-16T23:12:00.000-07:00

[Click here] for a slideshow

[Click here] for all photos

4/11/09 Game Recap (9-0 Win)

2009-04-16T16:39:00.000-07:00

The Devils offense exploded on Saturday for 9 goals en route to a 9-0 win over the newly formed De Anza Tidal Waves at the Sunnyvale Soccer Complex. After failing to generate any goals the week prior, the Devils spread the wealth with six different Devils scoring goals. Christene led the charge with her first hat trick as a Devil.

Not knowing what to expect, the Devils started the game with players starting in their regular positions. The goals came early and often. Christene got the Devils on the board in the first minute of play, taking a pass up the left wing from Grace, then racing in on goal and launching a 25-foot shot that tucked inside the left post.

She would repeat the play 2 minutes later, racing around the left wing then sending a shot across the grain for the 2-0 lead.

Jessica O scored her first goal as a Devil 4 minutes later after a wild scrum in front of the Tidal Wave net. Kelly and Marlene took a series of shots from inside the box before the ball chipped outside the right post. Jessica gathered the loose ball on the right side and knocked the rebound in for the 3-0 lead.

Christene completed her hat trick with a rocket from the left corner of the box that hit the top right corner of the box right before the end of the first half.

The big lead allowed the coaches to move players to positions they don’t normally play.

Traditionally a back, Karsyn was given an opportunity to play at forward and capitalized on the chance by taking a pass from Ruhi up the right wing, before ripping a 30 foot shot past the goaltender at the start of the 2nd half for her first career goal.

Lindsay would make it 6-0 less than two minutes later when she scooped up a deflection on the left side then lofted a shot over the goaltender for her second career goal.

Ruhi, the team sweeper, was given a chance to play up and would scored her second career goal as a Devil 3 minutes later, splitting two Tidal Wave defenders then snapping a shot into the goal from the left side.

Sammie got in on the action and made it 8-0 with a shot from the left side after beating a defender up the left side. She took a line feed near midfield, then raced in on net. She used her left foot to punch the ball past the Tidal Wave goaltender for her 2nd career goal.

Defensively, Grace, Clara and Jess put the clamps on the Tidal Wave offense, only allowing two shots on goal the entire game. Jessica O made her debut in goal and came up with a big save late in the game, punching a chest high shot clear of the goal.

Ruhi would cap the game’s scoring by punching in her second of the game on a deflection from the left side. Using her left foot, she rocketed a shot that hit the back of the net.

The game turned out to be a mismatch, to no fault of the Tidal Waves, but the girls must prepare for their next opponent with the midset that the competition will get tougher this season.

Game Positives:

Shots, Shots, Shots – There was no shortage of shooting in this game, which has been a focus in practice. You don’t score if you don’t shoot, and this game was a great indicator of what can happen when you put the ball on goal.

Passing – The starting forward played several crossing chances exceptionally well. Marlene alone had three beautiful crossing passes that resulted in scoring chances.

Momentum – The entire team never took their foot off the gas, which in a blowout, isn’t always the best way to treat an opponent, but for those players that don’t get many chances to play forward it was an understandable reaction.

Development Areas:

Defensive Marking – The team showed improvement in this area, but it is still something we must develop, especially as we match up against strong teams. Veteran and new players alike must focus more attention on reading defensive situations and understand how to counter those situations.

Recognizing Outlets – Younger players tend to get drawn into the mindset that you must always move the ball forward. Utilizing open teammates in front or behind is something we will focus on in practice and hopefully apply more readily in game situations.

Passing to space – This was a good opportunity for the girls to hone their passing to open areas. We are focusing more and more attention on dump and chase tactics up the wings, which can translate into scoring chances when followed up with crossing passes. We have the crosses down, now we need to develop the situations that allow for deeper attacks.

Devils help launch new WPS FC Gold Pride

2009-04-08T23:27:00.000-07:00

Several Devils players and their families attended the inaugural FC Gold Pride game at Buck Shaw Stadium on Sunday, to kick off the new Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS) league vs. the Boston Breakers. Those in attendance were treated to a thrilling 2-1 win by the Pride, on a goal by US National Team player Tiffeny Milbrett in the 90th minute of play.

The game was fast paced and a great example of what soccer is like at the highest ranks in the world. Players from Brazil, Japan and Canada all join the large U.S. contingent that makes up these rosters.

The Pride are led by team captain Leslie Osborne (U.S. National Team), Milbrett, and World Cup hero (and local girl) Brandi Chastain.

Chastain subbed in for Osborne early in the second half and showed why she’s still one of the world’s finest midfielders in the women’s game today. Chastain’s international days are over, but her participation in the WPS helps bring immediate legitimacy to the league.

Former Brazilian superstar Sissi is also an assistant coach for the Pride.

The starting goaltender, Nicole Barnhart, was tested often during the match, which pegged the Pride against current U.s. National team players Kristine Lilly, Heather Mitts and Angela Hucles.

As an added bonus, the girls were invited to play at on the field in a scrimmage following the contest. The Devils were teamed up with players from the SASC Blades, and scrimmaged against the SASC Top Gun. Thanks goes out to the Blades for extending the invitation to join in on the action.

For more information on the Pride, checkout their website at: http://www.womensprosoccer.com/bayarea/

For more photos of the event, [click here for a slideshow] or [click here for individual shots].

4/4/09 Game Recap (2-0 Loss)

2009-04-06T23:28:00.000-07:00

The Devils started their 2009 Spring campaign with a hard fought game against the Los Gatos Wildcats on Saturday morning. Having been elevated to a bracket consisting of some teams that were in the higher Class 3 – A Group last fall, the Devils will face stiffer competition this season. That was evident from the opening whistle.

Los Gatos struck early, taking the opening kickoff and driving up field and scoring in the game’s first minute. A Wildcat forward pumped a shot from the right corner of the box across the goal mouth from 40 feet. Starting in goal, Karsyn lunged to her right in an effort to stop the shot, but the ball slipped under her right arm and into the net.

6 inches lower and Karsyn makes that stop.

The remainder of the half was spent shaking out the cob webs of a long winter break, although the girls looked good in the season opener. The coaches started most of the returning roster players in an attempt to let some of the new Devils get to track the pace of the game before being cast into a live game situation.

Our five new Devils looked great....

Coach Sonya subbed in the new Devils over the first two substitutions, and the girls looked right at home in their first league game donning the red, black and white.

Clara and Grace rotated at center-mid and played exceptionally well. Both girls were aggressive to the ball, and let their natural instincts keep the Wildcats in check for a majority of the game.

Katrina and Jessica played at the outside mid, and both played well. Holding position is a difficult concept for rec players to grasp when they make the move to comp level play, but the pair did a great job.

Elizabeth (E), played dual roles, first at outside defender, then at goaltender in the second half of the game. She used her speed effectively, helping to stave off several chances by the Wildcats. In net, she looked like a seasoned pro, but fell victim to a crazy hop on a long shot that skipped over her shoulder. There was little she could do to stop the shot, which was skipping across the grass, before it jumped on her at the last second.

Having scrimmaged the Wildcats last fall, the coaches elected to go with two taller players in net, to offset the high shots we saw last October. That strategy backfired as both goals were low line drives. Hats off to both our goaltenders for being the first to get the call in net this season.

Our veteran players continue work hard and gelled well as a team with the new comers. Ruhi once again anchored a solid backline that spent much of the game clearing chances safely to the outside. The defensive corps was spearheaded by Shivani, Jess, Lindsay and Karsyn (Clara and Grace both took turns in the back as well), who all helped suppress a very potent Wildcat offense.

Sammie continues to build on her aggressiveness at mid and helped ease the newer mids into the fray. The forward rotation of Marelene, Audrey, Christene and Courtney got off to a slow stat, but by the start of the second half, they began to formulate scoring opportunities by making passes that were on target and directed to open space.

While the score wasn’t in their favor, the girls played exceptionally well. It was clearly a testament to their progression as a team.

As is the case with all game recaps, the coacheds try to identify areas that we want to commend and focus some attention on areas of development:

Game Positives:

Good line movement – The girls did a great job of moving the ball up the lines, and moving laterally when necessary. This has been a focus for the backs, mids and forwards, and it was applied well in this game.

Solid defensively – The defense continues to be a strength for the Devils. They kept a very talented offensive team in check for a majority of the game.

Free kick situations – The entire team reacted well to defensive free kick situations, which has been an Achilles heel in the past. The girls also had two free kick opportunities that turned into scoring chances.

Development Areas:

Defensive marking - Marking the middle of the field on defense created several chances for the Wildcats, who figured out how to generate breaks. The girls were drawn to the ball, rather than playing goal-side and eliminating these chances.

Moving to the ball – We will be focusing more attention on being assertive in attacking the ball. This is not a natural trait in young players, who need to be aggressive to the ball. Fast teams take advantage of this, as was the case on Saturday.

Passing to space - Rather than always directing passes directly to a teammate, we need to focus on leading the pass. This is typically done by mids to forwards who have open space in front.

2009 Team Calendar Updated

2009-03-31T23:32:00.000-07:00

I've updated the 2009 Team Calendar, so that it's presented in an easier to read table format. All practice, scrimmage, tournament and game dates are located on the calendar, which is located here: http://devils98.blogspot.com/2009/01/2009-team-calendar.html

Spring 2009 Schedule

2009-03-20T15:46:00.000-07:00

Here is the D2 Girls U10 Blue 2009 Spring Schedule

4/04 (9:00am) vs Los Gatos Wildcats - 2-0 L
4/11 (1:30pm) vs De Anza Tidal Waves - 9-0 W (Goals: Christene (3), Ruhi (2), Karsyn, Sammie, Lindsay, Jessica O)
4/18 (10:30am) vs MVLA Typhoons White - 1-0 W (Goals: Audrey)
4/25 (11:20am) @ Central Valley Jaguars White - 0-0 T
4/26 (1:30pm) vs West Valley Surefire - 2-0 L
5/02 (9:00am) @ Orchard Valley Rampage - 1-1 T
5/03 (All Day) @ Stanford Tournament
5/09 (12:00pm) Monterey County Blizzards - 1-0 W (Goals: Christene)
5/16 (11:30am) @ Monterey County Wolverines - 4-0 W (Goals: Courtney, Marlene, Grace(2))
5/30 (3:45pm) @ Holister Tremors - 3-2 W (Goals: Marlene, Clara, Courtney)

Team Stats
Season Record: 5W-2L-2T (17 points)
Team Goals Scored: 19 (2.11 GFA)
Team Goals Allowed: 7 (0.77 GAA)
Team Shutouts: 5

Individual Stats
Goals Scored:
Christene - 4
Marlene - 3
Courtney - 2
Grace - 2
Ruhi - 2
Clara - 1
Jessica O - 1
Karsyn - 1
Lindsay - 1
Sammie - 1
Audrey - 1

Goals Allowed (Goaltending):
Audrey - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 1.0 games
Clara - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Courtney - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Grace - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Jess - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Jessica - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Kelly - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Lindsay - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Marlene - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Ruhi - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Sammie - 0 (0.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Karsyn - 1 (2.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Elizabeth - 1 (2.00 GAA) - 0.5 games
Shivani - 3 (2.00 GAA) - 1.5 games
Christene - 2 (4.00 GAA) - 0.5 games

Team Events Week of 3/2/09

2009-03-03T13:26:00.000-08:00

Practice will definitely be at the Community Center on Tuesday (3/3) from 3:30 - 5pm. The Community Center is located at 550 E Remington Drive in Sunnyvale. The girls should wear tennis shoes (no cleats) and shin guards. They should bring their backpacks with water and a ball. Always wear a white t-shirt for practice. It does not matter if it has writing on it. It is just easier to do white against the team with the pinnies.

Not sure that we will be in the gym on Thursday as well.

Two upcoming scrimmages: Saturday, March 7th at 9am at the complex against CV Jaguars. I will keep you posted on field conditions.

New scrimmage scheduled for Sunday, March 8th at 11am at Ida Price Field in San Jose. This scrimmage is likely a go even on a muddy field.

Training with Jan at the complex 4pm on Sunday. Karsyn, Sammie, Elizabeth, and I had fun in the rain on Sunday. :)

2009 Spring Snack Schedule

2009-03-01T23:35:00.000-08:00

Here is the Spring 2009 snack schedule.

4/04 ( 9:00 am) - Clara
4/11 ( 1:30 pm) - Kelly
4/18 (Time TBD) - Jessica O
4/25 (Time TBD) - Sammie
4/26 (Time TBD) - Grace
5/02 (Time TBD) - Katrina
5/09 (Time TBD) - Christene
5/16 (Time TBD) - Marlene
5/30 (Time TBD) - Elizabeth

2/28 Scrimmage is ON

2009-02-26T22:46:00.000-08:00

The Saturday 2/28 scrimmage vs Petit Blue is ON

Please be sure to check email and this site for info regarding the scrimmage.

Time: 9:00am

Uniforms: Whites

Location: Sunnyvale Soccer Complex (1095 Dunford Way Sunnyvale, CA) [MAP]

Saturday Soccer

2009-01-08T22:39:00.000-08:00

Hi Devils (& Parents)

Coach Sonya will be holding an OPTIONAL Saturday Soccer practice this Saturday (1/10) from 2:00pm to 3:00pm at West Valley Elementary in Sunnyvale. This is the same location that regular practices were held last year.

A majority of the hour will be spent simply scrimmaging, in order to keep those soccer skills sharp. This is a very informal practice and is open to all. That includes moms and dads. So if you're interested in kicking the ball around, dig those cleats out of the garage and we'll see you on Saturday.

For those that don't know where West Valley is (1635 Belleville Way. Sunnyvale, CA 94087), here is a [map]