Mr.Right did well to start a UAA thread last year, which IMHO was needed given that the league has some high-powered teams that are often in Top 25 discussions, and I figured I would start things off this year with a look at each team.
Brandeis: The Judges won their first outright UAA crown last year, clinching the AQ to NCAAs where they made it to the Sweet 16 before losing to Trinity (TX). Brandeis loses CB Conor Lanahan, who was a two-time NSCAA and D3socccer.com All-American selection, and 2014 D3soccer.com DPOY, as well as LB Robbie Lynch and M Jake Picard. All of those players were 4-year regulars in the Judges XI, so both their individual and collective presence will be missed. That said, Brandeis brings back some good talent, including All-American M Josh Ocel, F Zach Vieira, and F Evan Jastremski. While the Judges didn't score a ton of goals, indeed winning 16 of their 18 games by one goal, they went 6-1 in the tough UAA, riding a very solid defense and only losing at home to WashU. If Brandeis can score more regularly and replace the huge hole by Lanahan, I think they'll have another good year.
Carnegie: Always in the conversation for who is contending for the UAA title, Carnegie will suffer some losses to graduation, including All-American William Webb, M Jordan Friedlander, B Greg Allen, M Stefan Dasbach, and GK Eric Bykowsky. That said, they do have some good young players like Zack Masciopinto, who was my pick for UAA Rookie of the Year last year, as well as M Tristan Lockwood, who was a 2nd Team All-UAA selection in midfield. Carnegie's first real test doesn't come until the last game of September, when they go to John Carroll, but by that point if they can build up some confidence I think they might have a head of steam that could continue into UAA play.
Case: Losing All-American Chris Cveko will be a big blow for the Spartans, as Cveko was the kind of player who could go between the lines with ease and create opportunities for himself as well as others. Case lost two heartbreakers in the last weekend of October, which was key in denting their chances of having a part of the UAA title. However, the Spartans have what I think is a very good non-conference schedule this year, including tests against DePauw, Ohio Northern, John Carroll, Lycoming, and Kenyon, so they'll be battle-tested by the time that UAA competition rolls around in October. Case loses quite a few starters, but brings back enough of a spine that I think they'll be competitive.
Chicago: I personally will peg Chicago as the UAA favorites this year. Jorge Bilbao was a 4-year starter and will be a big loss but they return a ton of very good talent. They are stacked. From Hill Bonin in goal to DJ Weis at CB to Max Lopez and Matthew Koh in midfield (who were both 1st Team All-UAA as freshmen) to Brenton Desai up top, they have excellent talent in every area of the pitch. Chicago started the season really strong last year, going 5-0, but then a thumping 4-0 home loss to Loras seemed to dent their confidence a bit, and they ended September 7-2-1. Having made it into the NCAA tourney as one of the last teams after coming back from 2-0 down to beat WashU 3-2 in 2OT, they dispatched Thomas More before falling to Kenyon on PKs in the 2nd Round, which I think illustrated their upside. This is an experienced, veteran squad with some good players, and I think they could do some damage.
Emory: Aside from winning their first two UAA games against Chicago and WashU, Emory never really got going last year. Worse yet, they lose a good amount to graduation, including All-American Matt Sherr and GK Abe Hannigan, among others. That said, regardless of their form, Emory is a tough out, especially on their home field, and I imagine this year will be the same for their UAA opponents. Win the majority of their games before the UAA schedule starts, have a decent conference season, and I think they might even be able to land an NCAA bid.
NYU: Since winning the conference crown back in 2010, NYU has blown hot and cold. They've pulled out the occasional big result, such as beating a highly-ranked Emory squad at home in 2014, but there have also been some mediocre results, and they only won 1 conference game last year. Despite this, I think GK Lucas Doucette, who was an Honorable Mention All-UAA selection last year, will keep NYU in a lot of games this year, and if the Violets can put together a good non-conference campaign and spring an upset or two in-conference then they could well be in the conversation for an NCAA bid.
Rochester: I have no idea what happened to Rochester last year. What is arguably the toughest team to play against in the UAA — athletic, skilled, and spirited — was virtually anemic offensively and not much better defensively. They weren't even in the conversation for an NCAA bid, a conversation that they were always part of in years prior. I've opined that losing Alex Swanger really hurt them, and I ultimately think that was part of the issue. Worse yet, Rochester loses 3 of their 4 starting defenders, meaning that Apple will have to integrate new players into the system quickly. Despite their poor season last year, the Yellow Jackets bring back some good talent in M Ben Swanger and F Jeff Greblick, and are always well-coached and well-conditioned, so I think they'll rebound this year.
WashU: But for a home loss to Carnegie, WashU could well have been in the conversation for the UAA crown. However, the Bears still put together a good 12-4-4 season, and even managed to host the first two rounds of NCAAs, losing to DePauw on PKs. Jack West will be a big loss for WashU, but GK Daniel Geanon, RB Kevin Goon, and F Ryan Sproule all return, giving the Bears a solid foundation to build upon. As it stands, I don't think they're necessarily stacked enough to topple Chicago, but I have been wrong before. Regardless, I believe WashU will be competitive as always this year, and perhaps even end up past the 2nd Round of NCAAs depending on how the chips fall.
Great breakdown Blooter. For Wash U, Jack West is returning (attending graduate school using his 4th year of eligibility)
Quote from: Central Region Follower on May 18, 2016, 02:47:18 PM
For Wash U, Jack West is returning (attending graduate school using his 4th year of eligibility)
Wow, that is huge for WashU then. I would have imagined that he would be the biggest void to fill, as he seems to play really well between the midfield and the forwards, an X factor of sorts, much akin to Mike Soboff of Brandeis and Alex Swanger of Rochester. With Sproule up top and West in behind, WashU could have one of the most dangerous No. 10/No. 9 combinations in the UAA.
U of Rochester has a VERY demanding schedule this season....Possibly a .620 SOS and an off the charts OWP. Could be one of those years that UR goes 8-4-4 and get a Pool C. When all is said and done, I woulf lay money down right now that UR has the best SOS in the country by November.
I only saw UR twice last year and was disappointed in their play.hey will win the
I saw U Chicago last year 4 times and was very impressed and someone has mentioned they have a top recruiting class coming in. If all this comes together they could win the UAA ahead of a talented but young Brandeis side.
Watching about 10 minutes of the Chicago v Dominican match. Chicago trying to knock the ball around a bit and like we all think they should be contenders for the UAA title. They are up 2-0 with a missed breakaway for 2-0 but look in total control from what I have seen. Dominican is absolutely just whacking everything in sight. Chicago looks to have some good speed and skill with a player or 2 that get stuck in in the middle of the park. Always a good combination.
I was only able to catch Brandeis v Haverford on video. It was a bit choppy but that is to be expected 1st week-end. However, both teams had some great chances to get some early goals. Bloots was right Ref let a lot go but I have seen worse. Brandeis tried to play on the carpet like usual but Haverford pressed well and their new CB needs to calm down a bit as he was whacking a bit 1st half. Great game otherwise, high intensity but my biggest issue with Haverford is the corners. i MEAN THEY MUST OF HAD 15 CORNERS RUNNING THE SAME CRAP ON EACH ONE. Put 6-7 guys inside the 6 and DO NOTHING. NO little runs, no picks, just trying to block the GK and get a bounce. AFter about the 7th one Brandeis dealt with these with relative ease, at worse just giving them another wasted corner. GK did well to get his hands to these and defenders their heads. I mean if I am Haverford SWITCH IT UP....Have runners from the top of the box. You can still stick 2-3 guys inside the 6. I actually saw on almost everyone a guy sneaking to the top of the box WIDE OPEN and they never used him. good low ball on the carpet and a one timer. Anyway, Terrible lack of creativity and that falls RIGHT on the COACH.
Looks like Wash U's game against Westminster (MO) is cancelled as the refs were scheduled for the wrong day. Hopefully the game will be rescheduled since that is an important in-region away game for WashU against a talented Westminster side.
While Brandeis may have taken the majority of UAA headlines thus far, Chicago is looking good. 3-0 and haven't given up a goal yet - I think Bonin could well be the best goalkeeper in the UAA, although Woodhouse of Brandeis is certainly in that discussion as well. Last year, despite being ranked a bit higher than I would have chosen, I thought Chicago would perhaps win the UAA as they started the season very well, but then the Maroons got hammered at home by Loras 4-0 and that seemed to spoil their aura of invincibility. This year, Desai and Weis are both seniors, Koh and Lopez are a year older and more experienced, and I'm sure I'm missing numerous others. Chicago's games against Wheaton, Wartburg, and Carthage will be good indicators of what they're made of prior to conference play, and if they can avoid a Loras-like result I think they'll be in a good vein of form going into the UAA games.
Weekend Picks
Emory 0-1 Chicago - Chicago has absolutely rolled so far this season, but its first UAA game will prove a difficult test, as playing at Emory is notoriously difficult in my observations. Even so, I still fancy Chicago to get things done on the road, keep its perfect season going, and augment its legitimacy as a potential Final 4 team (which would be a first for the UAA since 2006).
Rochester 1-2 WashU - Despite their 7-0-1 record, I opined earlier this week that Rochester hasn't seriously been tested this year. WashU, meanwhile, has a pair of wins over Wheaton (IL) and Luther, and even with Wheaton's issues this season that is still a very solid pair of victories. And with Jack West and Ike Witte back and Ryan Sproule a year more experienced after a promising campaign, I think WashU has too much for a gritty Rochester side which, while solid, doesn't have an X factor in the way West is for WashU.
Carnegie 1-0 Brandeis - In addition to some scoring troubles, Brandeis is having major problems defensively, going 0-3-1 in its last 4. The Judges looked to be home and cruising to their first win in 3 weeks on Tuesday night, up 4-1 against Wheaton, only for Wheaton to score 3 in 5 minutes to get back to 4-4 and win 5-4 in 2OT. This one will be tighter, but Carnegie will prove too much.
Case 2-0 NYU - Two teams sitting at the .500 mark. And although I do really like NYU goalkeeper Doucette, Case will be buoyed by its OT win over Kenyon and will keep things rolling this weekend on its home field.
My predictions for the first weekend:
Emory 0-2 Chicago
Rochester 1-1 Wash
Carnegie 1-0 Brandeis
Case 2-1 NYU
I say Emory and Wash U are a bit overrated right now. Just a Hunch..My picks...
Emory v Chicago-------1-1 Draw
Rochester v Wash U----1-0 Rochester
Carnegie v Brandeis-----2-1 Brandeis
Case v NYU---------------3-0 CWU
Mr. Right, I'm intrigued on why you would say that Emory is overrated but then pick them to tie Chicago which would certainly be a massive upset.
MAF Predictions
Emory 0-2 Chicago
Rochester 2-1 Wash
Carnegie 0-0 Brandeis
Case 1-0 NYU
Quote from: Scoring Machine on September 30, 2016, 01:48:52 PM
Mr. Right, I'm intrigued on why you would say that Emory is overrated but then pick them to tie Chicago which would certainly be a massive upset.
Just a hunch....I do think Wash U and Emory and maybe even UR are a bit overrated. Meaning they have inflated records as of now. I could be wrong. My 1-1 prediction for the Emory v Chicago match is also a hunch but I have always admired the way Emory and Travis try to play on the carpet as much as possible. Emory plays much better historically at home and while I have not seen them play this year I think the UAA might give Chicago some trouble on the road this season.
Emory 3 Chicago 4
Rochester 2 WashU 0
Carnegie 2 Brandeis 2
Case 0 NYU 0
Emory/Chicago: predicting a turning of the tables from the 2012 classic that went the other way
Rochester/Wash: WUSTL has been unconvincing. Rochester always gritty
Carnegie/Brandeis: is it pronounced Carnegie or Carnegie? Who cares. Brandeis is just as good.
Case/NYU: NYU may surprise
Bloots, did you get a chance to watch the Deis game today? I was following along with the stats and saw they were doing well until the Ocel red card. Looks like it was a straight red, what happened?! Regardless, given that they played a man down for 60 minutes, I'd say this was an okay result for Brandeis.
I'm curious also...Straight Red...Ocel is a big loss for their next game. The game had more cards than SOG....Must have been chippy all game.
Quote from: NEsoccerfan on October 01, 2016, 06:28:14 PM
Bloots, did you get a chance to watch the Deis game today? I was following along with the stats and saw they were doing well until the Ocel red card. Looks like it was a straight red, what happened?! Regardless, given that they played a man down for 60 minutes, I'd say this was an okay result for Brandeis.
I'm out of town in Chicago - actually considering going to Wheaton vs. North Central tonight - so I didn't have a chance to see the game itself. However, I did notice from the live stats that - if they are to be believed - he was given two consecutive yellows, which leads me to believe that he probably committed a foul and then got another for reacting to it/subsequent fracas/etc. My homer instinct says that it smells of a card-happy ref, but my logical brain knows that a ref generally won't give two yellows in quick succession, so it must have been something pretty extreme.
Apparently the opening goal was after a PK (also from Ocel) which was the second rebound after he missed the kick itself. The equalizer was a free kick that Woodhouse - who usually has solid hands - dropped over the line. He had some issues commanding his area at first last year but has done much better in that respect, although it appears that the loss of Lanahan has had a bigger effect than I'd have thought on the Brandeis defense as a whole.
While the three losses and tie against WPI have been damaging I don't think WPI, Babson, or Wheaton will be regionally ranked at the end of the year, so Brandeis' RvR doesn't seem too bad, although you never know. You always want to win, of course, but a tie against a good team who was perfect at home up to today (and 7-1 overall) is OK, but I think it is too early to tell whether or not it will do enough to halt the skid that Brandeis has been in since early September. Either way, playing with 10 men throughout the second half and OT is tough, especially when you're losing arguably your best player, and especially considering Carnegie is a difficult place to go I would say that an away draw there is a decent result.
Rochester – Wash U is an absolute barnburner of the game. Rochester was up 2 at half and looked home and dry, the visitors got back to 2-2, Rochester scored in the 84th to make it 3-2, Wash U tied it again 57 seconds later to make it 3-3.
For Wash U to come out with a tie is enormous. While they may have come in seeking a win, to have the goalie get a red early on and then give up an own goal and yet score three goals and hold off Rochester for the most part and even look the better team at times all with ten men for 95 minutes is truly impressive.
Rochester - WashU finishes 3-3. I had opined before the game that I didn't think that Rochester had been truly tested this year - as a look at their schedule will tell you that they frontloaded the schedule with easier teams while the back end is much more demanding - and I think that was perhaps proven tonight. (Apologies for patting myself on the back ;)).
When I saw that Rochester had stormed into a 2-0 lead at half I thought that maybe I didn't give them enough credit. Turns out the first goal was a PK and the second a WashU own goal and the shots were relatively even so I realized that Rochester wasn't perhaps as dominant as the scoreline indicated. Saw that WashU got a goal back in around the 60th, then made it 2-2 in the 78th. I looked again at the score on my phone and I was shocked to see it was 3-3. While the nature of Rochester's goals may have been fluky, Apple will be furious with throwing away a two-goal lead in the second half, not to mention conceding 57 seconds after taking a late lead, especially at home. Credit where it is due, both teams are still unbeaten, and if I had to pick two sides who I thought have the best chance to hand consensus favorites Chicago a blemish, it would be these two.
Quote from: Scoring Machine on October 01, 2016, 10:13:16 PM
For Wash U to come out with a tie is enormous. While they may have come in seeking a win, to have the goalie get a red early on and then give up an own goal and yet score three goals and hold off Rochester for the most part and even look the better team at times all with ten men for 95 minutes is truly impressive.
Did not see that the goalkeeper got a red. Wow. Denial of a goalscoring opportunity? Either way, playing a man down for 90+ mins makes the result all the more impressive for WashU.
Quote from: blooter442 on October 01, 2016, 10:17:46 PM
Did not see that the goalkeeper got a red. Wow. Denial of a goalscoring opportunity? Either way, playing a man down for 90+ mins makes the result all the more impressive for WashU.
Wash U got caught with a higher line and the forward managed to push his touch in the box past the keeper as he dove for it and he took out the forward instead. The PK was the first goal given up by Wash U all year as well so really unfortunate way to see that streak go down.
Quote from: blooter442 on October 01, 2016, 07:21:37 PM
Quote from: NEsoccerfan on October 01, 2016, 06:28:14 PM
Bloots, did you get a chance to watch the Deis game today? I was following along with the stats and saw they were doing well until the Ocel red card. Looks like it was a straight red, what happened?! Regardless, given that they played a man down for 60 minutes, I'd say this was an okay result for Brandeis.
I'm out of town in Chicago - actually considering going to Wheaton vs. North Central tonight
I hope you didn't actually make that choice, since Wheaton was at North Park. ;)
Quote from: Gregory Sager on October 02, 2016, 09:24:43 AM
I hope you didn't actually make that choice, since Wheaton was at North Park. ;)
Yes you are correct, I realized after the fact, but by that point I had gone to Lou Malnati's instead. ;)
Certainly an eventful first weekend of UAA games. Since each conference game has a direct impact on who wins the conference (and not just what seed you get for the conference tourney) it is relatively common to see UAA games be 1-0 or even 0-0 battles. The fact that no fewer than two goals were scored in each match is quite interesting, and I wish I'd watched Rochester and WashU's 3-3 draw.
Chicago is rightly the favorites right now, and are an impressive 11-0 and - if not for Trinity (TX) and its identical record - would be #1 in the NSCAA poll. The Maroons are home for the next four games but finish the season with three road tests at Case, Carnegie, and archrivals WashU. Getting through the regular season undefeated would be some accomplishment, but it won't be easy. That said, Chicago has talent in all areas of the pitch, and are dominant.
Was interested to see that NYU beat Case on the road. They have been rather insipid since winning the UAA in 2010, but have a good GK and are capable of pulling off the big result every once in a while. Regardless, winning your first UAA game on the road is certainly a confidence-booster, so it will be interesting to see if they can go forward from here.
I really like Jack West of WashU. A very good, skillful player who is difficult to track. Had two assists against Rochester and was instrumental in getting the Bears back to 2-2 and then 3-3. Having him back this year is giant for WashU and I really think they could do some damage with him, Sproule, Witte, and others - by my estimation, they are a Sweet 16 team, although they could well surpass that. Hopefully they do not suffer too much with Geanon out for the next match, although it sounds like the stand-in goalkeeper had a good match despite giving up three goals.
Update: Not trying to turn this into the Jack West thread, but I just found out that he's not just attending grad school at WashU - he's attending law school. While any grad school program will be demanding, the fact that he's playing soccer while attending a top 20 law school is very impressive (and the fact that he got into said law school while playing soccer at a top 20 university is equally commendable).
Re: law school and sports -- there was a Notre Dame football player who was a 1st year law student at ND his final year of eligibility. Left law school to go to the NFL, then came back and finished law school.
Rochester 1 Chicago 2 - I think this is an interesting game and Rochester will give Chicago a challenge, but I don't see Chicago losing at home
Emory 0 Wash U 1 - Emory is better than people are giving them credit for but their defense is a weak point and Wash U will find a way to put one away
Carnegie 2 NYU 0 - Coming off a surprising win at CWRU, NYU comes back down to earth against a strong Carnegie team.
Case 1 Brandeis 1 - Predicting a draw because I have no idea how to call this one. Both Case and Brandeis have been wildly inconsistent this year.
Chicago 2-1 Rochester - I do see Rochester scoring, but I don't see Chicago losing at home, although I did say that I think Rochester or WashU would be one of the two UAA teams with a chance to take points off Chicago.
WashU 2-0 Emory - WashU is for real, I think, and their spirit in last week's draw was commendable.
NYU 0-1 Carnegie - Carnegie gets a big win after last weekend's blemish against Brandeis. Must say that NYU's win at Case was impressive.
Brandeis 2-2 Case - As the poster above alluded to, both teams have been extremely inconsistent this year, particularly defensively. A high-scoring draw.
UChicago takes down Rochester, extending its perfect record to 12-0 while giving the Yellowjackets their first loss of the season. Rochester got the lead in the 16th minute before Chicago got 2 in around 2 minutes in the second half and held on. 2-1 final - just like I had predicted. ;)
Carnegie was dominant on the road today, scoring 3 times in the second half for a 3-0 win at NYU. Emory upset WashU on the road, and much like Rochester did, WashU took the lead only to be hit twice in the second half.
Brandeis vs. Case finished 0-0. Case was dominant with a 14-4 shot advantage, while Brandeis hit the bar and had a good chance in 2OT.
A bit early, perhaps, but figured I'd have a swing at this weekend's games:
Chicago 2-0 Brandeis - Brandeis has been "in" every game it's played this year, but I am still not convinced by the defense. At 12-0, Chicago will be too much.
Emory 1-0 Case - Emory is a difficult place to go, and the Eagles will have too much for a Case side that has seen both highs and lows this season.
Rochester 2-1 Carnegie - I have been critical of Rochester and even opined that they hadn't been seriously tested prior to the start of their UAA schedule. The first two UAA games saw the Yellowjackets blow a two-goal lead against WashU at home and then fall on the road to Chicago, but I think Rochester gets it done against a solid Carnegie side.
WashU 3-1 NYU - WashU will look to rebound from last weekend's defeat to Emory.
WashU 1-2 Brandeis - My upset pick, and may well be a homer pick, but Brandeis almost pulled off a win at Carnegie, suggesting that they might be able to pull off a big road result. Moreover, the Judges have won on their last two visits to St. Louis (2012 and 2014), and will look to avenge their only conference lost of last season, a 2-0 home setback against the Bears.
Rochester 2-1 Case - Despite the fact that they haven't dazzled, Rochester is significantly stronger than Case at this point IMHO.
Emory 1-2 Carnegie - Carnegie seems a bit more dynamic than Emory, and I think they sneak this one.
Chicago 3-0 NYU - Chicago has too much for the visitors. Where have we heard that one before?
My predictions - presented without explanation, as the UAA often defies any explanation.
Chicago 1-0 Brandeis
Emory 1-0 CWRU
UR 2-2 CMU
Wash 3-1 NYU
Wash 1-1 Brandeis
UR 2-0 CWRU
Emory 0-0 CMU
Chicago 4-0 NYU
At 5-3-3 Brandeis has one last shot to salvage its season. The best part of playing in a tough league is the number of opportunities a team has at snagging Regionally Ranked Wins. They have 7 games left against quite possibly 5 ranked teams when all is said and done. Chicago, UR, Emory, Wash U and Clark. They are going to have to go at worse 5-2-0 or 5-1-1 to have a shot at a Pool C. It is a really tough ask for a side that has struggled a bit this year but besides the Wheaton game IMO they have had more issues with finishing the past month. Ocel and Flahive are the only guys scoring as Vieira has been VERY Quiet this year along with Jastremski. Bloots, do we know what the Miskin injury is? Anyhow, Brandeis still has control of its own destiny with a MONSTER weekend coming up.
Mr. Right and Blooter: Did Brandeis graduate most of the core that was so good in 2014 and 2015? Is that what is responsible for the drop off or are there other factors?
Quote from: Mr.Right on October 13, 2016, 09:31:59 AM
At 5-3-3 Brandeis has one last shot to salvage its season. The best part of playing in a tough league is the number of opportunities a team has at snagging Regionally Ranked Wins. They have 7 games left against quite possibly 5 ranked teams when all is said and done. Chicago, UR, Emory, Wash U and Clark. They are going to have to go at worse 5-2-0 or 5-1-1 to have a shot at a Pool C. It is a really tough ask for a side that has struggled a bit this year but besides the Wheaton game IMO they have had more issues with finishing the past month. Ocel and Flahive are the only guys scoring as Vieira has been VERY Quiet this year along with Jastremski. Bloots, do we know what the Miskin injury is? Anyhow, Brandeis still has control of its own destiny with a MONSTER weekend coming up.
No idea what the Miskin injury is. If they were to finish 5-1-1 I'd say they'd have a decent shot at Pool C, but 5-2-0 is probably too much to ask given IMHO. They had their backs up against the wall a few years ago - 2013 - when they were 11-4 after this upcoming weekend and then went 3-0-1 down the stretch to finish 14-4-1 and get a Pool C, but that team had a lot more solidity on defense than this one appears to.
Quote from: swibbles on October 13, 2016, 11:07:09 AM
Mr. Right and Blooter: Did Brandeis graduate most of the core that was so good in 2014 and 2015? Is that what is responsible for the drop off or are there other factors?
Yes and no.
2014 saw Savonen and Soboff graduate, and those were two huge losses. Graffy, the GK, graduated as well, and he was a very good goalkeeper but Woodhouse did a very good job in net last year, so while the finishing suffered last year due to the two huge losses up front, Brandeis still won a ton of games because they had an extensive amount of know-how in those situations.
2015 saw Lanahan, Picard, and Lynch play their final seasons. Lanahan was perhaps the biggest loss, as he was a monster at CB and rarely got beat. Picard was also a very good DM and Lynch did very well at LB his junior and senior years. In summary, they only lost three guys from last year's XI, but two of those were part of the back four, so they had to replace those two with a CB who played a total of 70 minutes in his first three years and a freshman LB who was adjusting to the system.
I have slated the defense's lack of composure at times this year, but when you have a brand new CB who's supposed to replace a two-time All-American and a brand new LB who is replacing one of the best utility players the program has seen, as well as graduating a 4-year starter at DM, you're obviously losing a lot of leadership and I think that's where the struggles defensively have come from. Additionally, having Miskin and Hacunda - who is completing his medical hardship season this year from when the tore his ACL - injured hasn't helped. I can't say that I find fault with Coven and Margolis, either, as Brandeis was in 16 one-goal games last year, and though they won all of them, you don't just go and take out your All-American CB and risk the result just to be able to throw on his replacement to get experience.
In summary: While losing your GK plus 5 of 10 outfield players is a lot, they haven't lost
that much when you realize that half of the current XI started in 2014-15. However, the losses they have had have been in big positions. The majority of the offense graduated after the 2014 season, but Brandeis still won a ton of games last year thanks to their strong defense. Last year, however, they graduated two of their biggest defensive leaders, as well as a 4-year starter at DM, and I think the problem has been that the players who have come in didn't have much experience in terms of how to handle the big moments (e.g. the 3 OT losses this year). Those are games that Brandeis would have won in prior years - at the start of this year, they hadn't lost in OT since 2013, and were 7-0-3 in overtime since that defeat - but they have lacked the composure this year. Of course, the new players aren't solely responsible for defeats - you win as a team and you lose as a team - but Brandeis has missed the leadership that brought it a good amount of success in 2014 and 2015.
Excellent explanation. Thank you.
Chicago v Brandeis about 10 minutes in and Brandeis is all over Chicago, high pressing like mad and look very determined to get a result tonight. Chicago with some bad early giveaways to start
Brandeis up 1-0 almost Halftime. I missed the goal but from the way Ocel got congratulated when he came off the field I am guessing he snagged it. This would be a much needed and monster win for Brandeis. To be honest Chicago does not look like a #1 team in the nation so far.
Quote from: Mr.Right on October 14, 2016, 07:14:42 PM
Brandeis up 1-0 almost Halftime. I missed the goal but from the way Ocel got congratulated when he came off the field I am guessing he snagged it. This would be a much needed and monster win for Brandeis. To be honest Chicago does not look like a #1 team in the nation so far.
Vieira got it on a rebound; apparently his first of the season. If (and that's a big if) Brandeis can get the win it would be the second year in a row that they've won at the #1 ranked team in the country to hand them their first defeat, as Brandeis beat Tufts on the road last year, 1-0, and the Jumbos were undefeated until then as Chicago is now.
Even so, Rochester went into half 1-0 up at Chicago, and we all know how that ended up for them, so definitely not counting my chickens.
Well you never know in these games as sometimes it can be a tale of two halves but Brandeis looked very determined 1st half. Good for Vieira on the goal as maybe that gets him going this season.
Chicago defeats Brandeis 2-1 in OT...2nd Half looked like a Nescac contest with the ball flying around everywhere. Neither team could string 3-4 passes together on the ground. I will say that 2nd Half Chicago played much better. They have 3-4 absolute studs and have very good team speed and size. I do not remember Brandeis registering a SOG all 2nd Half. They lacked the size against Chicago and because of Chicago's pressure they were forced to play long balls which Chicago ate up. Chicago's backline has wheels and Chicago is a definite Top 10 team in the country. I am not sure they are a #1 team in the country but they will be right there when all is said and done. As for Brandeis, they are 5-4-3 and looked really dejected because they had a 1-0 lead with 15 minutes left. Their season is most likely done unless they run the table but I just do not see this bunch doing it. They just do not possess as well as they did in 2014(I thought their best side)
Quote from: Mr.Right on October 14, 2016, 08:58:56 PM
Chicago defeats Brandeis 2-1 in OT...2nd Half looked like a Nescac contest with the ball flying around everywhere. Neither team could string 3-4 passes together on the ground. I will say that 2nd Half Chicago played much better. They have 3-4 absolute studs and have very good team speed and size. I do not remember Brandeis registering a SOG all 2nd Half. They lacked the size against Chicago and because of Chicago's pressure they were forced to play long balls which Chicago ate up. Chicago's backline has wheels and Chicago is a definite Top 10 team in the country. I am not sure they are a #1 team in the country but they will be right there when all is said and done. As for Brandeis, they are 5-4-3 and looked really dejected because they had a 1-0 lead with 15 minutes left. Their season is most likely done unless they run the table but I just do not see this bunch doing it. They just do not possess as well as they did in 2014(I thought their best side)
That's pretty much the season, right there. And what will be more frustrating for them is that the winning goal was really, really sloppy. Flahive misjudged a header when he was the clear favorite to win it, Brito as a center back was caught way too far up the pitch, especially since there was already a man challenging for the second ball. Then when Chicago came away with it the only guy back for Brandeis was Robinson, who was never going to get to the ball before the Chicago kid. Just another example of a lack of composure in a big situation this year - as I said yesterday, some of it is understandable given the new roles people are playing, but you'd still think they'd have figured out how to get out of 2OT given they've lost 3 games in the 101st minute or later.
Looks like Chicago opened the floodgates against NYU. Maroons were up 1-0 at the half on an own goal and the game seemed in the balance, but Chicago got 4 goals in 20 second half minutes.
Brandeis upset WashU on the road, which was especially impressive since the Judges went 1-0 down. Happy to say I called it. ;) I believe it's too little, too late for Brandeis in terms of an NCAA bid, as any team whose name is not Rochester would generally have a tough time swaying the selection committee with 4 losses and 3 draws, but wins over two teams in the NSCAA top 20 certainly doesn't hurt.
Emory and Carnegie drew 1-1, as did Case and Rochester. Should Chicago win and Emory lose in the next UAA game, the Maroons will have clinched the UAA with two games to spare.
I was a bit shocked to not see Brandeis in the New England RR at least at #11 / # 12 with their SOS and Wins v Ranked. They beat Clark this week and if they finish 4-0-0 and have a 11-4-3 record with about 5 ranked wins I believe they will get a Pool C out of New England. hey will need some help though. They have to hope Clark and Emory and Wash U stay ranked an d must get some teams ahead of them in the New England Rankings to drop off. They need Williams, Conn, Babson and Coast Guard to lose some games. All very possible.
6 of the 8 UAA teams are regionally ranked. You have to figure the UAA is getting 5 bids minimum and possibly 6 if Brandeis wins out. Now I am a believer in the league and understand because of the different regions this will and could happen but if the UAA takes 25% or more of the Pool C's we might have an uproar. I still think Emory, UR and Brandeis have work to do and if any of then finish 1-2-0 they might be in serious trouble. Obviously, Brandeis needs to at least go 2-0-1 and beat Emory and UR. The NYU game will not make a difference even if they do not win it. Brandeis with a 5-3-2 RvR will be VERY HARD to leave out. The committee loves RvR and loves to see half your schedule against ranked teams especially getting 5 wins against ranked teams. Will be interesting to follow
Quote from: Mr.Right on October 27, 2016, 01:28:21 AM
6 of the 8 UAA teams are regionally ranked. You have to figure the UAA is getting 5 bids minimum and possibly 6 if Brandeis wins out. Now I am a believer in the league and understand because of the different regions this will and could happen but if the UAA takes 25% or more of the Pool C's we might have an uproar. I still think Emory, UR and Brandeis have work to do and if any of then finish 1-2-0 they might be in serious trouble. Obviously, Brandeis needs to at least go 2-0-1 and beat Emory and UR. The NYU game will not make a difference even if they do not win it. Brandeis with a 5-3-2 RvR will be VERY HARD to leave out. The committee loves RvR and loves to see half your schedule against ranked teams especially getting 5 wins against ranked teams. Will be interesting to follow
Even as an alum of said school, if Brandeis fails to make the tournament - which I don't think they will - I can't say that I feel that it'd be a big injustice. They ultimately made their own bed: they lost 3 games in 2OT this year, including one in the last minute of the second overtime. That is unacceptable if you have aspirations of being an NCAA team, particularly in a tough conference where there is no conference tournament. In the UAA, there is no opportunity for a team to be like Babson last year and go 10-6-2 in the regular season and win two playoff games and fall backwards into the tournament. (Not suggesting that Babson wasn't deserving of winning the NEWMAC, but it's safe to say that they wouldn't have had a prayer as far as an NCAA bid goes if it wasn't for the conference tournament - and a far less difficult one than the NESCAC tournament, at that.) Back to Brandeis, the other loss was the game against Wheaton - where they were up 4-1 with 30 minutes to play - in OT, and it has to be the first time that I've seen a Brandeis team concede 5 goals. In fact, the last time they conceded 4 goals was - I believe - against WashU back in 2010, which was before I was even a student.
Of course, should they win out and WashU, Emory, and Clark stay ranked, I think there's a slight chance, but I simply don't see both of those things happening. Rochester may have been overrated for a while, as they played a grand total of one ranked opponent in the first half of the season and have come back down to earth with 4 blemishes in their last 5 games, but they are always a tough out. And Emory could well be out of the RRs if they lose to Brandeis.
Ultimately, all 4 losses were due to defensive mistakes, so it wasn't like they were unfortunate by hitting the woodwork multiple times or could feel aggrieved by big decisions. You can't have that many blemishes and expect that other teams' results will take care of your destiny.
I actually think that because of Emory's region they might still stay in the rankings. I di not realize that CMU at 10-2-2 has play NO ONE out of conference and the only thing holding them up to a .535 SOS which is SO WEAK for a UAA team is it's UAA schedule....As it looks now I do not think CMU would get a bid unless they can go 1-0-1 against Chicago and Wash U...That is a gutless tactic by CMU coach to rely on their UAA schedule and play cupcakes to start the year. UR out of conference schedule looks better than CMU.
I did not realize that NYU Mens Soccer Head Coach is a woman. There has been no story on this site about it and frankly it could / should be a national story. Is this a 1st in Men's College Sports? I believe it is a 1st in Men's College Soccer. We all applauded Serpone this summer for hiring a women's assistant but this is a whole different level. Maybe I have my info wrong but it seems she was named Head Coach in 2015. Can anyone confirm and if so this would make an excellent piece for all you writers for D3Soccer.com
NOTE: NYU website say's she took over in 2015 after the 2nd game of the season. Another question i obviously have is what happened to longtime Head Coach Joe Behan? To resign before the 2nd game of the 2015 season means plenty of possibilities....1. Major Coaching rule violation 2. Major Player Off-Field issues or 3. Major Health issues. Either way I would be curious to know the situation. NYU Men's Soccer has been so irrelevant since their lucky 2006 NCAA Final 4 run that I had no idea he had resigned.
Quote from: Mr.Right on October 28, 2016, 12:38:02 PM
I did not realize that NYU Mens Soccer Head Coach is a woman. There has been no story on this site about it and frankly it could / should be a national story. Is this a 1st in Men's College Sports? I believe it is a 1st in Men's College Soccer. We all applauded Serpone this summer for hiring a women's assistant but this is a whole different level. Maybe I have my info wrong but it seems she was named Head Coach in 2015. Can anyone confirm and if so this would make an excellent piece for all you writers for D3Soccer.com
She is indeed the first (http://www.nysurfsoccer.org/2016/06/27/kim-wyant-joins-new-york-surf-soccer-club-as-trustee-and-member-of-the-coaching-leadership/) woman to lead an NCAA men's soccer program. She was also the first goalkeeper for the USWNT, which is pretty cool as well. I think I learned about her appointment midway through the offseason, but I too am surprised it slipped under the radar when Serpone appointing a female assistant (which I also admire) was noticed...perhaps it's because we're usually talking about the NESCAC. ;)
Kim Wyant
Quote from: Mr.Right on October 28, 2016, 12:38:02 PM
NOTE: NYU website say's she took over in 2015 after the 2nd game of the season. Another question i obviously have is what happened to longtime Head Coach Joe Behan? To resign before the 2nd game of the 2015 season means plenty of possibilities....1. Major Coaching rule violation 2. Major Player Off-Field issues or 3. Major Health issues. Either way I would be curious to know the situation. NYU Men's Soccer has been so irrelevant since their lucky 2006 NCAA Final 4 run that I had no idea he had resigned.
The news articles surrounding the appointment indicated family health issues.
Quote from: Mr.Right on October 28, 2016, 12:38:02 PM
I did not realize that NYU Mens Soccer Head Coach is a woman. There has been no story on this site about it and frankly it could / should be a national story. Is this a 1st in Men's College Sports? I believe it is a 1st in Men's College Soccer. We all applauded Serpone this summer for hiring a women's assistant but this is a whole different level. Maybe I have my info wrong but it seems she was named Head Coach in 2015. Can anyone confirm and if so this would make an excellent piece for all you writers for D3Soccer.com
NOTE: NYU website say's she took over in 2015 after the 2nd game of the season. Another question i obviously have is what happened to longtime Head Coach Joe Behan? To resign before the 2nd game of the 2015 season means plenty of possibilities....1. Major Coaching rule violation 2. Major Player Off-Field issues or 3. Major Health issues. Either way I would be curious to know the situation. NYU Men's Soccer has been so irrelevant since their lucky 2006 NCAA Final 4 run that I had no idea he had resigned.
D3soccer.com did include her hire as the last entry in our 2015 Coaching Carousel (http://www.d3soccer.com/notables/coaching-carousel), reposting the article from the NYU men's soccer page (http://www.gonyuathletics.com/news/2015/9/3/MSOC_0903152348.aspx?path=msoc) on our website (http://www.d3soccer.com/seasons/men/2015/contrib/Kim-Wyant_NYU_mens-coach).
That article on the NYU site did not mention the fact that she was the first-ever woman to be head coach of an NCAA men's soccer team, so this is the first I am hearing about that. It
is noteworthy and we'd be happy to publish an article on her. We'd just need someone to write the article. I'm over-extended (too say the least) just keeping up on the administrative/behind-the-scenes stuff and I'm not sure any of our weekly columnists have time to work on such a column. We depend fully on volunteer, unpaid submissions, whether from regular columnists or one-time/irregular submissions, so I'm making an open invitation for someone to write an article for D3soccer.com. PM or e-mail me.
In a shocker, Case just tied #1 Chicago to put the first blemish on the Maroons' record.
Quote from: DagarmanSpartan on October 29, 2016, 01:49:32 AM
In a shocker, Case just tied #1 Chicago to put the first blemish on the Maroons' record.
:o
In other unexpected results news, NYU upset Rochester 1-0.
Interesting how quickly a team's outlook can change. UR and Wash U were looking like locks as they climbed the national charts. Now they're both in serious trouble. Brandeis seemed like they were buried inside a relatively mediocre season but now appear to have destiny back in their own hands. And CMU almost forgotten at the back end of the Great Lakes rankings has a chance to skyrocket to the top. With a big win over Wash U in their pocket they can now dream of knocking off a Chicago squad rolling into Pittsburgh off of a 0-0 draw with CWRU.
5 minutes in and Brandeis looks more cohesive than I've seen all season - they're all over Rochester. You have to wonder if part of the game plan is to come out hard and hopefully get a goal and then sit in. Either way, impressed with the Judges' intensity right now.
Update: Brandeis goes 1-0 up on a goal from Jastremski less than 10 minutes in. A scrum in front and Rochester failed to clear and it was finished off.
Quote from: blooter442 on October 30, 2016, 01:49:25 PM
5 minutes in and Brandeis looks more cohesive than I've seen all season - they're all over Rochester. You have to wonder if part of the game plan is to come out hard and hopefully get a goal and then sit in. Either way, impressed with the Judges' intensity right now.
Update: Brandeis goes 1-0 up on a goal from Jastremski less than 10 minutes in. A scrum in front and Rochester failed to clear and it was finished off.
Rochester looks OK but a bit overwhelmed and not sure they have any high end dynamic talent on the field. Look like just a fairly solid group with no real danger players. Brandeis looks sharp and acting like they know they are on a good roll.
Can anyone else get video out of CMU?
Quote from: NCAC New England on October 30, 2016, 02:05:16 PM
Look like just a fairly solid group with no real danger players.
Precisely why I thought they were overrated when they were in the top 10 of the NSCAA rankings.
Greblick had a good frosh year with 9 goals but hasn't hit those highs since, although the younger Swanger is a solid player as well. That said, they don't have a real "danger man" in the form of, say, Desai of Chicago.
Game on! Gonna be a war in 2nd half. Very physical game and UR coach never stops talking.
Quote from: NCAC New England on October 30, 2016, 02:24:46 PM
Game on! Gonna be a war in 2nd half. Very physical game and UR coach never stops talking.
Certainly didn't think that UR would lie down, especially considering how slow they started the game. They've grown into it, for sure.
Quote from: blooter442 on October 30, 2016, 02:39:04 PM
Quote from: NCAC New England on October 30, 2016, 02:24:46 PM
Game on! Gonna be a war in 2nd half. Very physical game and UR coach never stops talking.
Certainly didn't think that UR would lie down, especially considering how slow they started the game. They've grown into it, for sure.
The frosh Lawlor in the middle -- #32 -- is a nice player. Mostly holding his own with Ocel.
Biggest win of the year so far for Brandeis - even counting the Haverford victory - as the Judges down Rochester 3-1. Much like last year, Brandeis scored first and Rochester tied it at 1-1, but Brandeis put the game away with two tallies, including an insurance goal in the last 10 minutes. A lot is uncertain, but it seems like the Judges are peaking at the right time.
Big win for the Judges. Woodhouse made couple of great saves and probably also got away with a grab down on the goal-line that should have been a PK. Will be interesting to see what happens with Rochester, Wash U, CMU and Emory.
I'm gonna guess Brandeis jumps to #2 in NE.
Rochester is 0-3-1 in last 4. Probably out now and that may open door for SLU especially if Vassar can win the LL AQ.
Quote from: NCAC New England on October 30, 2016, 03:44:16 PM
I'm gonna guess Brandeis jumps to #2 in NE.
Rochester is 0-3-1 in last 4. Probably out now and that may open door for SLU especially if Vassar can win the LL AQ.
I can only hope, but not counting on it. Still need Oneonta to beat Fredonia in the SUNYAC tourney. Probly don't deserve to make it regardless after that horrible loss to Clarkson yesterday.
Brandeis looked very good today. They are hot at the right time.
UChicago put the UAA race to bed today, 2-0 at Carnegie Mellon. It will be interesting to see who gets conference player of the year. Lopez is the top player overall, but Desai really came through in conference play.
Quote from: blue_jays on October 30, 2016, 04:35:57 PM
UChicago put the UAA race to bed today, 2-0 at Carnegie Mellon. It will be interesting to see who gets conference player of the year. Lopez is the top player overall, but Desai really came through in conference play.
Either would be deserving, and I would pick Adeosun for ROY.
Big win for Brandeis. I doubt they jump to #2 in the 3rd Regional Rankings. I would guess #4 but I really believe they just punched a ticket for a Pool C. They might have the MOST regionally ranked Win when all is said and done. I was busy today as I wanted to catch the game but I had a feeling Brandeis would win as they are playing with some real confidence right now. They might even host a pod in the NCAA 1st round. Still, they do need Emory, UR, Wash U and Clark to stay ranked which I believe will all happen. UR will drop to #6 or #7 in the East with a slight chance of getting a Pool C but they are clearly on the bubble and on the outside looking in.
Quote from: Mr.Right on October 30, 2016, 05:15:29 PM
Still, they do need Emory, UR, Wash U and Clark to stay ranked which I believe will all happen.
You may well be...Right. ;) At first I had my doubts because Clark got trounced yesterday at Wheaton but looking at it Clark was #4 last week and is 14-4. And WashU and Emory both won today.
Two UAA teams left in the last 16.
Chicago has a very good chance of being the first UAA school to advance to the Final 4, although Redlands will be no cakewalk and I think Benedictine or St. Thomas will put up a good fight despite their lack of notoriety. As I mentioned somewhere else, Chicago has been successfully building a solid team over the past few years, and I think they have arguably the best spine in the country from Bonin in goal all the way to Desai up top. The Maroons have only trailed once this season, against Brandeis on October 14th, but eventually came back to win 2-1 in double overtime in that game. That said, it will be interesting to see how Chicago responds if it goes behind this weekend: I think that a lack of experience in these situations this season may well be compensated for by the Maroons' talent. In addition to Bonin and Desai, Chicago has DJ Weis at CB, a very good defender, and Matthew Koh and Max Lopez were both All-UAA 1st Team selections as frosh and have only improved, and freshman Dayo Adeyosun is my pick for UAA Rookie of the Year. All in all, Chicago's mix of talent, speed, skill, and solidity is the best that I've seen in my time watching the UAA, although the Brandeis side of 2014 that went to the Elite 8 is perhaps a close second. Even so, I think Chicago has a good shot at getting to the Final 4 - the quadrant is theirs to lose.
I think Brandeis will be the underdog against Amherst but has its mojo back at the right time. I think the Judges will be targeting Amherst goalkeeper Lee Owen, who has not displayed the same level of talent as Thomas Bull. He has conceded some concerning goals this year - the most notable example I can think of was when he was beaten at his near post from a 30-yard free kick against MIT - and should have prevented the corner from which Bowdoin scored in the NESCAC tournament, so Brandeis may well abandon its possession game in favor of balls into the box. For the Amherst supporters: I am not trying to be an Owen hater - just relaying my opinion. He could well turn around and be Bull's equal next year, and if so, I say good for him, but - aside from his PK heroics - I think it's fair to say he has not displayed Bull's level of solidity up to this point. That said, Amherst will certainly try to use its strengths to its advantage, and even though Brandeis has displayed remarkable improvement on the defensive front in its last 8 games - conceding .5 goals/game compared to the 1.4 goals/game it shipped during its first 10 - but Amherst will have scouted Brandeis and know where to utilize its strengths. Should be a great game.
On another note, does anyone know when the UAA awards are coming out? IIRC it's usually the Thursday before the weekend of the 1st & 2nd Round games, but I haven't seen anything yet.
The 1 thing Owen does very well is PK's....Remember he replaced Bull in Pk's in 2014 when they won at SLU I believe. Amherst with their high pressure and fast closing will almost certainly force Brandeis into playing long balls which like you said could be a good thing. I also agree that the more Shots Brandeis can get the % of 1 or 2 going in against Owen is very real. To me his biggest weakness is coughing up saves for PRIME rebounds which Brandeis MUST pounce on and they have the speed to do so...It will be a very interesting game and there will be tremendous pressure for Brandeis wingbacks to keep the dangerous duo of Hlinomkaz and Martin from causing damage..Martin is having his finest season in 4 years IMO this year as he looks in very good form right now. It will be important for Brandeis to track him all game and not allow him to run at defenders, instead step up and tackle him. Leinhart is another dangerous player who is playing very well right now that Brandeis much watch out for. He is sneaky as he does not look like much but is talented. If Brandeis midfielders can deal with Orozco defensively they will have some chances on the counter as I am not a fan of Amherst CB's...More to come
Quote from: Mr.Right on November 14, 2016, 12:04:46 PM
The 1 thing Owen does very well is PK's....Remember he replaced Bull in Pk's in 2014 when they won at SLU I believe.
This is true - I think that was the first time I had ever heard of him. He also stopped Brandeis' first kicker in Savonen a week later in their Sweet 16 matchup, although the rest of the Brandeis kickers scored (Amherst's Bellew had his pen saved by Graffy and Martin missed wide in sudden death). He also saved a PK against Midd. this year IIRC, so if this game was to go to pens he could have a big impact.
Chicago also went down early to Carthage, and went on to eviserate them 6-2. One point about Brandeis, They came limping into Chicago after a tough start to the season. Although they came away with a tough 2-1 defeat, IMHO They may have been the best side chicago faced all season. And I believe they have gone on to win 7 of their last eight since that Chicago match.
Quote from: 4samuy on November 14, 2016, 01:11:50 PM
Chicago also went down early to Carthage, and went on to eviserate them 6-2. One point about Brandeis, They came limping into Chicago after a tough start to the season. Although they came away with a tough 2-1 defeat, IMHO They may have been the best side chicago faced all season. And I believe they have gone on to win 7 of their last eight since that Chicago match.
Yes I watched that whole game and was an intense game..Brandeis coughed up a 1-0 lead with about 12 minutes left only to lose in OT I think. The most impressive thing about Brandeis is right after that game they realized they were one of the top teams in the country and just reeled win after win including a win at Wash U the following Sunday after such a tough loss to Chicago. They could have caved and packed in the season after the Chicago loss but showed how resilient they are by quickly picking up the pieces and going on a tear. Impressive
UAA Awards are up:
Most Valuable Player: Nicco Capotosto • University of Chicago
Rookie of the Year: Sam Drablos • University of Chicago
Coaching Staff of the Year: University of Chicago • Head Coach Mike Babst, Assistant Coaches Pat Flinn, Sean Palacios, Layth Masri
2016 Men's Soccer All-Association Team
First Team
Hill Bonin, University of Chicago
Calvin Boyle, CWRU
Zach Broujos, CWRU
Nicco Capotosto, University of Chicago
Brenton Desai, University of Chicago
Sam Drablos, University of Chicago
Andreas Fatschel, Carnegie Mellon University
Jacob Grindel, CWRU
Max Lopez, University of Chicago
Zack Masciopinto, Carnegie Mellon University
Jason McCartney, Emory University
Josh Ocel, Brandeis University
Second Team
Petter Aasa, NYU
Dayo Adeosun, University of Chicago
Tanner Chester, University of Rochester
Cody Gardiner, Emory University
Jonathan Garske, Washington University
Jeff Greblick, University of Rochester
Evan Jastremski, Brandeis University
Moustafa Khattab, Emory University
Matthew Koh, University of Chicago
Tristan Medios-Simon, NYU
Kyle Robinson, Brandeias University
Ben Swanger, University of Rochester
Ike Witte, Washington University
Ben Woodhouse, Brandeis University
I thought it a bit curious that CWRU placed 3 guys on the first team, whereas Brandeis only had 1, and Wash U and Rochester had 0.
Unsurprisingly, Chicago sweeps POY, ROY, and COY. With a team so loaded with star players and freshman in particular, kudos to Nicco Capotosto (a sophomore...wow) and Sam Drablos. I have not seen much of Capotosto, but he was 10th on the team in points (0 goals, 5 assists). Obviously stats only tell part of the story, but can anyone posit why this sophomore received the award over fellow sophomore Max Lopez (13 goals, 11 assists) or Senior Brenton Desai (9 goals, 4 assists)? I'm not sure how the voting for POY works, but any insight would be helpful!
Similarly, i'm curious why the statistically inferior Drablos (6th on the team with 3 goals and 2 assists) won ROY over Dayo Adeosun (3rd on the team with 7 goals and 5 assists).
Ocel will have to show up in ways that he did not in the Elite 8 last year. Viera was the engine in the Brandeis loss to Trinity. I notice he scored the OT goal on Sunday.
Just as a matter of correction: Amherst's Owen was not beaten near post by the restart from distance at MIT.
Drablos has started every game in defense for the best defense in the league. I don't think it's particularly surprising that he was voted ROY. Capotosto is the key to Chicago's midfield and has had a great season. Both awards seem well deserved from what I have seen.
Quote from: Jump4Joy on November 14, 2016, 06:21:36 PM
Ocel will have to show up in ways that he did not in the Elite 8 last year. Viera was the engine in the Brandeis loss to Trinity. I notice he scored the OT goal on Sunday.
Just as a matter of correction: Amherst's Owen was not beaten near post by the restart from distance at MIT.
I said that he was beaten at
his near post at MIT, not the near post from where the shot was taken. If you look at the video of the goal, he was hugging the left (his right) post, standing about 1 yard off of the stick, and the ball still managed to sneak by him on that same side. It was a nice shot, for sure, but given that he was cheating far to that side, I'd still expect him to do better, especially considering the distance from which the shot was taken.
Vieira does seem to be finding his mojo at the right time, and Ocel has been playing well. That said, I do agree with you - he will need to step up big if Brandeis is to keep from being overwhelmed by the Amherst midfield. I think Martin is especially dangerous, and I would agree with Mr.Right that he is playing his best right now. Also, Hlimonaz is Amherst's X factor this year, and I think his arrival has added a new dimension to the Jeffs' attack. I also like Amherst's midfield, and while Orozco gets most of the headlines I think that the guys who do the dirty work - such as Forest Sisk and Dane Lind - are also workhorses and do their jobs very well.
Near post is the same post for the shooter and goalkeeper. It's the one closer to where the shot is taken.
Quote from: Letthekidsplay59 on November 14, 2016, 08:24:47 PM
Near post is the same post for the shooter and goalkeeper. It's the one closer to where the shot is taken.
Regardless of the definition, my point remains: if a goalkeeper is standing a yard away from one post (and thus 7 yards from the other post) and the shot beats him through that 1-meter gap from 30+ yards, that is a mistake and the goalkeeper should do better.
To speak to my general stance, I have nothing against Owen or Amherst. In fact, I think I am pretty fair in terms of providing both criticism and praise in my observations, and have been known to be critical of the team I support, which is more than some posters are willing to do. In fact, I will go so far as to say I would like to see Owen do well, as the kid has big shoes to fill coming in after one of the best Division III goalkeepers in history IMHO. If he turns around and makes fantastic saves and gets Amherst to the Final 4, I will for sure give him credit. I am simply opining that from the games I've watched he has not inspired confidence thus far.
[Am I surprised with POY and. ROY, Yes. Undeserving, Not in the least. These two are coaches dreams. Capotosto is the engine. One of those quick twitch athletes who controls the midfield by keeping it simple and not making mistakes. He also takes a majority of set pieces. Drablos is big, tough, fast and smart on the back line who understands angles and quickest route to the ball and extremely strong on the ball with great distribution. IMO it's great that players garnish individual accolades that don't always show in the box score but does show in the win column. These are tough hard nosed winners. Congrats to both.]
Quote from: blooter442 on November 14, 2016, 08:48:49 PM
Quote from: Letthekidsplay59 on November 14, 2016, 08:24:47 PM
Near post is the same post for the shooter and goalkeeper. It's the one closer to where the shot is taken.
Regardless of the definition, my point remains: if a goalkeeper is standing a yard away from one post (and thus 7 yards from the other post) and the shot beats him through that 1-meter gap from 30+ yards, that is a mistake and the goalkeeper should do better.
To speak to my general stance, I have nothing against Owen or Amherst. In fact, I think I am pretty fair in terms of providing both criticism and praise in my observations, and have been known to be critical of the team I support, which is more than some posters are willing to do. In fact, I will go so far as to say I would like to see Owen do well, as the kid has big shoes to fill coming in after one of the best Division III goalkeepers in history IMHO. If he turns around and makes fantastic saves and gets Amherst to the Final 4, I will for sure give him credit. I am simply opining that from the games I've watched he has not inspired confidence thus far.
I remember the goal and I think it is on youtube. It was the far post but bloots is right it was a horrific GK'ing error to get blinded by his own wall and then somehow let the shot go right in when he had 2-3 seconds to make a save.
Have to think UChicago will be strong again next year. They lose Desai at CF and Weis at CB but return pretty much everyone else, including Bonin in goal, UAA RoY Drablos, UAA PoY Capotosto, and Lopez/Koh/Adeyosun/etc. I think they perhaps underachieved by getting bounced in the Sweet 16 when many said they had an "easy" route to the Final 4, but Redlands deserved to win that game, although I do think Chicago was a bit unlucky. Desai has been up top for 4 years and he is a very good striker, and I think losing Weis might mean the defense needs time to adjust. However, with a very strong crew of players coming back a year more experienced I think Chicago will pick up where they left off and will be equally as strong – if not stronger. As someone who travels a bit for work and pleasure I'd like to get out to Chicago and watch a UAA homestead at Stagg next year and enjoy some Maltani's pizza. ;)
Quote from: blooter442 on December 10, 2016, 10:39:26 AM
Have to think UChicago will be strong again next year. They lose Desai at CF and Weis at CB but return pretty much everyone else, including Bonin in goal, UAA RoY Drablos, UAA PoY Capotosto, and Lopez/Koh/Adeyosun/etc. I think they perhaps underachieved by getting bounced in the Sweet 16 when many said they had an "easy" route to the Final 4, but Redlands deserved to win that game, although I do think Chicago was a bit unlucky. Desai has been up top for 4 years and he is a very good striker, and I think losing Weis might mean the defense needs time to adjust. However, with a very strong crew of players coming back a year more experienced I think Chicago will pick up where they left off and will be equally as strong – if not stronger. As someone who travels a bit for work and pleasure I'd like to get out to Chicago and watch a UAA homestead at Stagg next year and enjoy some Maltani's pizza. ;)
I believe your absolutely correct about Chicago Next year. They underachieved in the tournament and they know it. They return 11 players who started at least 10 games last year and the most decorated Recruit that Chicago has ever had, 1st team high school all American from Ohio, freshman Gary Zhao who started eight games this year , who is technically very good, but struggled a bit with the physicality, should be more comfortable as he continues to get more physical. And of course they are returning all the offensive fire power you mentioned. IMHO, their defense may better than last year. Although they will miss the leadership of DJ Weiss, the will become more athletic by bringing back the three other starters in front of Bonin and may move Freshman Nate Johnson back from outside mid, but that's only a guess. This team is still deep and talented without many weaknesses and wouldn't be surprised if they are one the of the preseason favorites
Congrats to UAA seniors Andreas Fatschel of CMU and Zach Broujos of CWRU for being awarded with NCAA postgraduate scholarships. Proud Tartan alum!
http://athletics.cmu.edu/generalnews/2016-2017/ncaapostgradfall
http://athletics.case.edu/sports/msoc/2016-17/releases/20170307kpb698