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Hi.  Spent the evening scanning through some games online.  I don't watch the full games, just a smattering here and there.  Thought I would exercise the mind and take notes on what I saw.  With some commentary. 

Not that I have any particular interest in outcomes of these games, but I have some opinions about the game that may or may not be popular and I like to put those ideas to the test.  Full disclosure, I've always said I watch a different game than most.  Not saying that to sound cool, just that I have had these ongoing debates with people.  So if you watched any of these games, and disagree with my snap assessments, that's ok.  Not trying to stir the pot.

If you have a team you would want me to watch, will gladly take recommendations.

Here are my notes from September 3rd.  Watched three games -

1. Mount Union v. Denison
2. Clarkson v. Plattsburgh
3. Hiram v. Chatham University

Mount Union v Denison 9.1.2021
Mount Union Stadium
Bias?  I graduated from Mount Union and my son's orthodontist went to Denison ...

1st Half
   

• The only control of the ball happens in the back.   Midfield serves no purpose in building out of the back.
  o   Have this theory that nowadays, midfielders are skipped over on the attack and have become nothing more than withdrawn forwards.  The value that used to be placed on midfielders "creating" is all but gone.  It's left to center backs and outside backs and wingers.
     Runs are so north south.  Little to no movement off the ball, or space creation.
  o   Very few players know that making runs to open space is an objective in of itself. 
     For Denison, at 34.40, all attacks start with a long ball to a winger who has to chase it down before it goes out of bounds.
  o   Ugh. 
     Poor first touch, or way too many touches to achieve the same objective.
  o   Never, ever understand why this is allowed to happen.  Why take ten touches when two would have accomplished the same goal?
     Some decent one touch combination play from MU on the attack.  35/40 yards from goal.
  o   There were some good combinations high up the field for Mount Union.  Think defensively Denison was pretty disorganized allowing for it to happen.
     I don't think there is a comfort with the ball under pressure.
  o   No matter how many rondo's...
     Decisions are too slow to be executed.
  o   Taking a man on.
  o   Dribble or pass.
     Goal off a bit of a popcorn play (#12). 1-0
  o   Great hit to beat the keeper upper corner.
     No real patience on the ball.  Except again when in the back line.
  o   Go back to decisions being too slow and no real comfort with the ball while under pressure.
     Mount Union does manage the ball better than Denison.
     Mount more effective getting the ball forward.
  o   Quick on the break.
     Denison attacks like a club team.  Kick and hope.
  o   Ugh.
     Pressure not so organized.  One pressures, but others watch.
  o   Granted, game one.  But looks like both teams lacked a coordinated defensive posture.
  o   More like "I will press because the ball is close to me..."
     Stopped watching because of very poor video quality.
  o   Sun and shadows we making a mess of it.
     Didn't watch most of the second half.
     Final 3-2 Mount Union.

Clarkson v Plattsburgh 9.1.2021
Clarkson University
Bias? I coached one of the Clarkson freshmen.

1st Half
   

• First touches disappoint.
  o   Again, common theme.  Not sure if it is the turf, but good first touches are the exception not the rule.
     Struggle to get out of pressure.
  o   Could be early nerves since this seemed to get better.
     Plattsburg better on the ball; Clarkson rushing.
  o   Once the field opened up, Plattsburg had a very effective midfield.  Clarkson was much more direct.
     Plattsburg plays the ball on the ground and actually tries to break through lines.  Helps that their center back (Captain) and center mid (#11) have the skill to receive and move the ball.
  o   Lacked consistency especially as Clarkson pressed, but best use of a midfield I have seen in awhile.
     1-0 Plattsburgh ten minutes in.  Well deserved.
     Clarksburg needs to learn that they need to start giving the ball they would want to receive.
  o   Lots of poor balls, or difficult balls for players to deal with.
     Plattsburgh does suffer sometimes under Clarkson pressure ... especially when the pressing is well coordinated.
  o   Think this let to one of their goals, and a few other opportunities.
     Didn't see the tying goal.
     Wonderful Plattsburgh goal, control with thigh and volleys far post.  2-1.
     Plattsburgh, at least positionally, understands the game much better.  Uses space effectively.
     Clarkson too flat and static in the middle.  In contrast to Plattsurgh whose midfield is in constant motion looking for space.
     I hate, hate, hate the ball from an outside back to the winger that is running toward the sideline to open up space and has a man on his back.  Invariably leads nowhere.  I consider this the worst pass in the entire game.
     Half
     Plattsburgh moves with a purpose.  Very impressed.

Hiram College v Chatham University 9.1.2021
Hiram College
Bias?  I played against Hiram and my son just got an email from Chatham Soccer.

   

• 1-0 Chatham when I joined.
     Chatham has an idea with the ball, although still mostly reacting to the ball as it is received rather than making the runs to open up the plays.
  o   Too many guys watching when someone has the ball.
     Hiram struggles to control the ball, looking to force it.
  o   Not comfortable with the ball.
  o   Lots of standing when they do win the ball.
     Hiram insists on trying to shoot from 35/40 yards.  Kind of goal if they scored once a season, would justify in always trying from that range.
     Both teams can't keep the ball on the ground.  Chatham less so.
  o   Sure like to seemingly play Keepy Uppy....
     Chatham has some skillful players up top....
  o   Center forward and a winger.  Big, quick and strong.
     Halftime 1-0
  Ok.  Had enough.  Some more thoughts below.....

If I had to rank the teams based on my definitions of good soccer –

1.   Plattsburgh
3.   Clarksburg
5   Mount Union
7   Chatham
8   Denison
11   Hiram

What drove me crazy across all games?

1.   Do players not learn how to trap a ball?
2.   Quantity of errant passes.
3.   Midfielders basically non-existent other than to try to be a second line of attackers.
4.   Throw Ins that become 50/50 balls.
5.   The pass from the outside back to the winger who is running toward the sideline, away from goal, with a man on his back.
6.   Give the ball you would want to receive.  Is that so hard to teach?

September 4th Games -

1. Ursinus College v. Stockton University
2. Goucher College v. Cairn University
3. Haverford v. Cabrini

Ursinus College v Stockton University
Stockton University – Stockton Turf Field
Bias?  Stockton is near the Jersey Shore and I have been to Ursinus.

   Watched a bit today, so starting to nit pick.  Funny how you watch enough games (7 as of this one) you see the same patterns emerge.
   Tactics – Swing it out back.  Getting to the high and wide outside back, who launches it or try's to get the ball up top. 
   For its part, Stockton holds the ball better, but think it is in part because they are not as high tempo as Ursinus.
   Receive the ball, turn into pressure.... Receive the ball, turn into pressure... receive the ball, turn into ....
   No idea about positional intelligence.  There are 50-yard gaps between players.
   Ok, watched too much today.  0-0 when I checked out.Nah.

St. Mary's College (MD) v Stevenson University
Stevenson University – Mustang Stadium
Bias? I stayed at a Courtyard in Owings Mill, MD, where Stevenson is located.

   St. Mary's has a couple big strong kids up top.  Already created some dangerous opportunity's
   Actual play by a midfielder in their half – touch to receive, 4 touches to turn, two touches moving forward, pass between two defenders.... To another defender.
   Players struggle with the idea of positioning themselves to receive a ball in a way that reduces the work they have to do to keep possession, makes it easier for the passer to actually get it to them, and finally, give them the time to know what they will want to do with the ball before they receive it.
   St. Mary's is better.
   Sloppy, lazy passing into the middle by the outside guys for Stevenson.
   Really.  Man on near post, on a corner, misses heading the ball, and actually hits the keeper and causes a ruckus in the six until it was cleared out.
   Poor passing.  Overall.  Again even passes that connect are poorly timed, poorly chosen, poorly executed.
   If I were playing one of these team, I would line up so that the force of our defense would be on the wings.  Double team the outside backs with the midfielder and a winger.  The outside back would then man mark their outside mid.  Force them to play in the midfield.  I wouldn't defend any differently for that.  I would be betting that the opposition could not pass the ball, nor know how to attack down the middle.
   St. Mary's best forward is lazy off the ball.  Just hangs out until he gets the ball.
   When they should play two touch, they play one touch.  When they should play two touch, they play one touch... and when they don't do either, they play like 10 touch, with a couple of attempts at dribbling.
   Ok.  Am done.  Watched for 37 minutes. 


Goucher v Cairn University
Cairn University
Bias? Am a fan of old Gaucho Marx films

   The camera is field level making it difficult to follow.
   Not even sure who is who.
   I did see a sequence where they played Keepy Uppy with their heads, getting a high score of seven.
   Somebody scored, but can't tell who.  Poor defense then led to a rebound that left the goal scorer wide open.
   Oh, just learned that was Cairn.  And in fairness, it looked like they deserved the goal.
   Goucher just opened the famous treatise on Chaos in the Cosmos and uses it as a game plan.
   Am done.  Sorry.  This will be a lot to a little for Cairn.

Haverford v Cabrini
Cabrini University – Edith Robb Dixon Field
Bias? – My nephew played baseball at Haverford

   Welcome to the Jungle blaring over the loudspeakers.... Let's get ready to rock!
   There is something, not sure what, that I don't like about moving the ball in the back side to side, when pressure is 20 yards away, and your center back is standing on the 18.   
   So anxious to get forward, Cabrini does a poor job of holding the ball.
   Haverford, certainly tries to work the ball in the offensive half, but seem to prefer to launch the ball forward first, then have the midfield step forward and win it back.
   Haverford moves well off the ball.  Cabrini can't even connect a pass.
   Cabrini only pressing with one forward, the rest of the team doesn't even cross midfield.  Probably cause Haverford has the better of the play and spending a lot of time in Cabrini's half.
   Outside backs for Haverford just love to dump the ball up top.  Not even close to connecting with their forwards
   They score when they work the ball outside and drive it across. 1-0 Haverford 15th minute.
   Cabrini doesn't have anything to respond with.  Lax defending, and careless when they do win it in possession.
   This game could be 4-0 by now.
   Ok, kind of a details guy.  If I were ever coach college again, I would make it a rule that if you are working the ball forward and you are passing the ball to someone making a run, if you pass it so they have to stop their run and take steps back to get the ball .... Say you pass it behind 5 times, you get to watch the rest of the game from the bleachers.
   Haverford from a throw in – to the center back, two touches, launches it that leads to a 50/50 and Cabrini get on the attack.
o   My theory on throw ins.  Except for the ridiculously long throws not everyone can do, you will never score off of one, so throw it to your safest option.
   Cabrini from a throw – to wing, another throw in.  Over forward, Haverford recover, then lose the ball and concede a corner.
   Say it with me, outside backs make terrible midfielders
   Brains and legs must be going because Haverford started playing popcorn ball, and Cabrini now looks more competitive.
   Haverford went de Mas a Menos, and Cabrini went from Menos a Mas.  The ebb and flow dictated strictly on the inability of Haverford to maintain good control of the ball.
   Am done.  Half.  Haverford up 1-0.


If I had to rank the teams based on my definitions of good soccer –

1.   Haverford
2.   Stockton
4   Cairn
5   St. Mary's
6   Stevenson
7   Ursinus
8   Cabrini
9   Goucher

What drove me crazy across all games?

1.   Common theme of bad passing, excluding Haveford which I thought moved the ball quite well.
2.   Positional indiscipline.
3.   Throw ins.  Unless by your opponents 18 and in, throw ins should be a guarantee 100% ball for possession.
4.   Panic, not urgency driving decisions with the ball.
5.   Sunsets in the video cam.
6.     Passes behind the runner.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 03, 2021, 06:33:10 AM
Hi.  Spent the evening scanning through some games online.  I don't watch the full games, just a smattering here and there.  Thought I would exercise the mind and take notes on what I saw.  With some commentary. 

Not that I have any particular interest in outcomes of these games, but I have some opinions about the game that may or may not be popular and I like to put those ideas to the test.  Full disclosure, I've always said I watch a different game than most.  Not saying that to sound cool, just that I have had these ongoing debates with people.  So if you watched any of these games, and disagree with my snap assessments, that's ok.  Not trying to stir the pot.

If you have a team you would want me to watch, will gladly take recommendations.

Interesting! Opinionated!

I'd love to hear your take on Calvin-Ohio Wesleyan, Saturday at 6pm Eastern time, https://calvinknights.com/composite?d=2021-09-04

Thanks @DarkKnight.  Never short of opinions ....

Planned on catching these games on Saturday -

1.  Catholic v Maryville (Tenn.)
2.  And now, Calvin-Ohio Wesleyan

Checking out some today as well ....

1. Clark Summit v PSU - Harrisburg
2.  Whatever floats my fancy.

Your critiques are long knowns about college soccer. The rules about practice time and substitutions make it a much more kick and run game for the vast majority of teams. You can recruit and sub in speed in unlimited quantities, whenever someone gets tired. It takes time and practice to build team work and finesse. With the current practice limitations, and the overwhelming plethora of games, practice time is limited.

The elite teams have players that can come into any team and know the beautiful game. But there are only so many of them, and most go D1, though D1 suffers from many of the same problems you are seeing. Below the top tier, you see mainly physical players. Speed, power, strength, some tricks on the ball. They can be good players once the team gels, but without enough practice to make that happen, the easy win strategy is kick and run.

Watch the top tier teams with a known system of not playing kick and run, Messiah is the obvious candidate though there are others. You will see a much more beautiful game.

@JKNezek

I understand all the issues.  Totally get it.  Would take it a step further and say that these players are learning their bad habits at the club level.  Like I said, I am just writing what I see.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 03, 2021, 10:23:38 AM
@JKNezek

I understand all the issues.  Totally get it.  Would take it a step further and say that these players are learning their bad habits at the club level.  Like I said, I am just writing what I see.

I wouldn't completely disagree but, club level coaching is greatly improved from 10, 20, or the 30 years ago I played. My dad learned how to coach soccer from a few VCR tapes as he had never seen the game when I started playing in the mid 80s and he started coaching. Most of the club coaches I know today, at a level where players are being recruited for decent DIII teams, are at least D and mainly C licensed.

I coached all 3 of my kids for a few seasons pre-club level, they all ended up preferring martial arts, but the club our rec league was associated with paid half of my D level license. They were definitely wanting me to continue and were willing to pay my C level if I agreed to coach a travel team.

So I think the larger, more reputable club teams probably aren't so much the problem anymore. H.S. and college, with the way practices and seasons are set up, lend themselves to bad soccer.

Don't disagree there either.  Do think that club soccer coaching has improved, but for me, and my experience, coaches prefer automatons that compete these days ... so that can cover for their constant mistakes.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 03, 2021, 06:52:41 AM
Haverford v Cabrini
   Brains and legs must be going because Haverford started playing popcorn ball, and Cabrini now looks more competitive.
   Haverford went de Mas a Menos, and Cabrini went from Menos a Mas.  The ebb and flow dictated strictly on the inability of Haverford to maintain good control of the ball.
   Am done.  Half.  Haverford up 1-0.


If I had to rank the teams based on my definitions of good soccer –

1.   Haverford
2.   Stockton
4   Cairn
5   St. Mary's
6   Stevenson
7   Ursinus
8   Cabrini
9   Goucher

You missed a different second half.  Cabrini outshot Haverford 10-5 and scored two late goals to win 2-1.

You missed a different second half.  Cabrini outshot Haverford 10-5 and scored two late goals to win 2-1.
[/quote]

Why I love this game.

Excellent and lots of fun to read. Thanks for taking the time.

+1 on the Calvin-OW game. If you have time, Calvin and Hope both host OW and Ohio Northern this weekend. Love to hear your take on all of these teams.

Quote from: Dark Knight on September 03, 2021, 08:24:34 AM

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 03, 2021, 06:33:10 AM
Hi.  Spent the evening scanning through some games online.  I don't watch the full games, just a smattering here and there.  Thought I would exercise the mind and take notes on what I saw.  With some commentary. 

Not that I have any particular interest in outcomes of these games, but I have some opinions about the game that may or may not be popular and I like to put those ideas to the test.  Full disclosure, I've always said I watch a different game than most.  Not saying that to sound cool, just that I have had these ongoing debates with people.  So if you watched any of these games, and disagree with my snap assessments, that's ok.  Not trying to stir the pot.

If you have a team you would want me to watch, will gladly take recommendations.

Interesting! Opinionated!

I'd love to hear your take on Calvin-Ohio Wesleyan, Saturday at 6pm Eastern time, https://calvinknights.com/composite?d=2021-09-04

Love your commentary! What about watching Emory v Washington and Lee?  Tonight at 7.
https://www.emoryathletics.com/sports/msoc/live

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 03, 2021, 10:53:32 AM
Don't disagree there either.  Do think that club soccer coaching has improved, but for me, and my experience, coaches prefer automatons that compete these days ... so that can cover for their constant mistakes.

Some great points, but I think that the club level coaches need to understand that whatever license you have does not matter unless we begin to pair intelligent coaches with very young kids.
I am talking about the U9 and U10 levels.
In football, the longer it takes you to get a touch, the worse your touch should be.

"Master the ball" Master the ball, you dont have to think about the ball,you can think about TIME/SPACE (the most important things in the game, and how to achieve it with movement and ball manipulation).
Club coaching has to focus more on explaining the game to kids and focus on learning the game and technical prowess not winning.

The U6 kids should be playing 2v2 competitions so they can become better at dribbling and shooting. They are too young to focus on passing at this time.

U7-U10 should be having 70% of practice on technical coaching and working on mastering the soccer ball.
Tactics should not be taught alot until U11/12.

These are just some of the things that would help in club coaching and none require a license, just soccer intelligence and common sense.

Quote from: Saint of Old on September 03, 2021, 05:33:33 PM

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 03, 2021, 10:53:32 AM
Don't disagree there either.  Do think that club soccer coaching has improved, but for me, and my experience, coaches prefer automatons that compete these days ... so that can cover for their constant mistakes.

Some great points, but I think that the club level coaches need to understand that whatever license you have does not matter unless we begin to pair intelligent coaches with very young kids.
I am talking about the U9 and U10 levels.
In football, the longer it takes you to get a touch, the worse your touch should be.

"Master the ball" Master the ball, you dont have to think about the ball,you can think about TIME/SPACE (the most important things in the game, and how to achieve it with movement and ball manipulation).
Club coaching has to focus more on explaining the game to kids and focus on learning the game and technical prowess not winning.

The U6 kids should be playing 2v2 competitions so they can become better at dribbling and shooting. They are too young to focus on passing at this time.

U7-U10 should be having 70% of practice on technical coaching and working on mastering the soccer ball.
Tactics should not be taught alot until U11/12.

These are just some of the things that would help in club coaching and none require a license, just soccer intelligence and common sense.

Are they? I'll say this for the U.S. Soccer Coaching licenses, they have gotten quite good. The free online classes for rec kids are pretty good, and the D level course follows a lot of what you are saying. But there are still a lot of coaches at those younger levels who never played. And those of us that did, like me, can't apply how we were coached, playing 11 v 11 at 7 years old on full size fields, to the things that we should be coaching now.

So you are right, and I agree with what you said, but those things aren't common sense to a lot of the dads who make up the first coaches at 4,5,6 years old. For them, the 4v4 online course is really, really good and I encourage everyone I come across interested in coaching or assisting in those first levels to take them. The in-person courses I took to qualify for my "D" were even better, but I suspect that is a function of who is teaching. The curriculum is good, but it still needs to be taught by an engaging instructor.

Regardless though, yes there are tens of thousands of volunteer dads out there. Many don't know soccer or don't know how soccer should be coached. Hopefully the generation we are coaching now, with small-side games, high touch activities, age appropriate drills and concepts, will, in 20 or 30 years, be those common sense coaches. But until then, most coaches in this country still have a lot to learn, and U.S. Soccer is about the only ones who are willing and able to help.

9.3.2021 Games

Emory v Washington and Lee (#7 D3 Soccer National Rankings)
Emory University
Bias? – I passed out while driving a car on 85 in downtown Atlanta causing a major back up during rush hour and am a big Revolution and Civil War buff.

   Start of the second half.  1-0 in favor of Washington & Lee
   W&L moves it well.  Not terribly well organized in the back.
   Kind of haphazard defensive stretch for W&L that Emory is trying to exploit but can't connect on the last pass...
   Emory tries but can't break through.  Not because of a great defense, but they just give up too many errant passes, like no one is on the same page.
   Good shot from 30 out for Emory forcing a keeper save.  Maybe try a few more of those to keep the W&L defense honest.
   Great Emory play to equalize.  Ball out wide from center mid to running outside back, takes a touch and whips it near post, and forward running through heads the ball from 8 out and buries it far post side netting.  Game on with 25 left.  1-1.
   Defensive shape let W&L down. Midfielder didn't track the outside back.
   Big Emory forward holds up a defender and turns him for a one on one with the Keeper, who makes a great save for a corner.
   Emory has certainly grown in the game, as W&L has seemingly wilted.
   Emory can score in the last 10 minutes in the half.  W&L is fighting for dear life.
   Corner.  For a second corner. For a third corner.
   If they get out of Atlanta with a tie, W&L should consider themselves lucky.
   Keep pressing and all W&L players are behind the ball.
   This goes to overtime.  So, am done.

Ohio Wesleyan (#14 D3 Soccer National Rankings) v Hope
Hope College
Bias? - I was knocked unconscious by an OWU forward after I dove at his feet on a 1 on 1.  And I had a history professor who retired to Hope to study Dutch immigration history in the US.

   Cool Hope sports hype video ... and I like their field.  Legit.
   OWU should stop expecting the call they are expecting. 
   OWU plays very compact defensively, almost challenging Hope to beat them, but too tight for them.
   Can see OWU trying to move the ball, but Hope is not giving them much room, making it a little uncomfortable for them.
   Will say, the way I watch these games, I lose the understanding any adjustments that a team makes at half time
   OWU always has something to say to the ref.... nothing has changed in over 20 years.
   OWU is comfortable moving the ball in tight spaces.  Number of great one touch passing like a rondo.
   Hope keeper makes a bad pass to a defender who has to awkwardly control with his chest.  Takes some touches an passes to outside mid, who makes a poor pass and is picked off just beyond midfield.  Smart OWU player hits the ball over the Hope keeper for their second goal from 40 out.  Even for keepers, give the ball you would want to receive. 34 minutes left.
   Not a bad play by Hope that lands a ball to Hope center forward 8 yards out, who shoots it wide.
   OWU does a great job of transitioning from offense to defense and back.  On offense looks like the do 3-2-2-3, then on defense they go to a 4-4-2. Am assuming its intentional because they definitely end up in that shape every time.  Not getting a full view of the field so may be off.
   Hope is good, but OWU is just better.  Defensively they are tough to get behind, keep everything in front.  Offensively they don't give the ball up easily.
   Hope just isn't quick enough in transition to break through OWU.
   On a corner, first header goes far post where a Hope player got behind the defense and buried the ball in the back of the net.  OWU 2 Hope 1. 20 minutes left.
   OWU doesn't man mark on corners, so not that surprising.
   OWU almost scores on a set play, but keeper comes up big with a save on a point-blank diving header.
   OWU loves the corner flag in the last 10 minutes of the game.  Happy to kill time and try to get a corner.
   1:30 left on the clock and don't see OWU screwing it up and allowing Hope to tie.  Done.

Ohio Northern v Calvin (#3 D3 Soccer National Rankings)
Calvin College – Zuidema Field
Bias? – I played against Ohio Northern and think John Calvin had a neat beard.

   Field looks very narrow.  It is.  Track around the field.
   Calvin does not shy away from hard tackles.  Two in two minutes that made me cringe....
   "The Knights (Calvin) like to keep the ball on the ground, like to keep it moving...."  Announcer.  Just when the center back launches to the ONU keeper from 70 yards.
   I think Calvin doesn't think it's a good play unless they turn into pressure.
   Think it is a grass field and making things difficult for ONU who is actually trying to work the ball through the middle.
   Calvin works set pieces very well at the back post.  On a narrower field the ball gets to the far post quicker, freezing the goalkeeper and not giving as much time to the defenders to react.
   ONU should understand not to foul within 40 yards of their goal.
   Calvin really working for the foul outside the 18.  And ONU all too willing to accommodate.  I think Calvin may just score on one of these.
   It's getting chippy.
   Sense ONU getting frustrated because they can't get into a rhythm.  To Calvin's credit, they are not making it easy on them.
   Calvin works quick on the counter.
   Not impressed with relationship between Calvin keeper and defense.  Not trusting with back passes or high balls.
   Left wing (#7?) for Calvin does very well taking his defender down the line, then turning him at the endline.  Does it every time he gets the ball in space.  Has delivered a few dangerous "pases de la muerte" that have caused problems for ONU.
   Calvin closes ONU down fast.  Don't think ONU likes the narrow field.  They are used to the wide-open corn fields of Ada, Ohio.
   7 minutes left in half and first card to a Calvin player.
   Having said all that, ONU can get a little dangerous when they get down to Calvin box.
   Calvin keeper never, ever plays short.  And then he did.....
   All Calvin defenders push to midfield.  Kind of refreshing.
   Not a bad game of soccer.  I get I can be overly critical, but would say Calvin has a much clearer  game plan and style of play.   Think they fail to recognize the better option on some passes in attack, but overall think they are a quality team.  Something I haven't seen from any of the other teams I have watched in the last few days. 
   Calvin with a good understanding of position and space.  Good movement off the ball.  Might be because of the field size, but at home they must be pretty tough to beat.
   Less than a minute to halftime, and an ONU defender just levels a Calvin forward for a foul ... that leads ultimately to a goal.... With 17 seconds left to half.  Terrible.
   Forward was running away from goal and was about to be pinned by the sideline.
   Am done having watched the first half.

Willamette University v Southwestern University (Tex.)
Trinity University
Bias? – Never been to the Pacific Northwest and I like southwestern/Tex Mex cuisine

   Ok, after having watched several games with football lines, I will say it.  Not many reasons why schools don't invest in a field/stadium for Soccer/Lacrosse .... Really.
   Again, big thrower who can reach the six on Southwestern.
   Both teams crossing the midfield with a long ball from a center back to a center forward running to the wing.  Into an area that had two defenders, and the forwards was running toward the sideline.
   Aside from the persistent long ball up to the forwards, it's a decent game.
   Decisions on what to do when, like cross the ball, are poor.  Almost like there sole job is to cross the ball without considering the fact that there are 7 defenders to the one forwards.
   Willamette too slow to move the ball out of the back.
   Midfielders receive the ball and can turn, have 20 yards of space..... still hit it to the wing.
   PK for Willamette.  Keeper save on he ground to his left.  Poorly hit.
   Willamette taking more control.  Moves the ball well.
   Key is that midfielders are coming back to the ball in the middle.  Willamette backs deliver good balls to feet.  CDM's for Southwestern don't follow the midfielders so when they receive the ball, they have plenty of space to turn and make the next pass with little or no pressure.
   Water break at 20.... Forgot its early September in Texas.
   Great goal with 21 left.  Midfielder settles a ball headed back to him, touch to his left around one defender touch around a second one and left footed shot far post upper corner.  Willamette 1-0 with 20 left.
   Southwestern defenders aren't challenging for high balls into the box.  I think Willamette could get a goal on a set piece because of this.
   Southwestern doesn't have a plan on the attack.  Even on set pieces.
   Interesting defenders over commit. This is because all of out players are taught to be aggressive and think they have to "win" every ball.  Containing the ball is a bit of a rarity.
   Halftime.  Willamette up by oneAir.  Definitely one of the better games I watched.

Clarks Summit College V. Penn State – Harrisburg
Penn State Harrisburg – Multi-Purpose Turf Field
Bias? I watched "The China Syndrome" which has nothing to do with Three Mile Island.

   High tempo to start, looking to create opportunities with a big play
   Great goal on a cross, and one time volley to beat keeper to the right.  PSH 1-0... 5 minutes in.
   Clarks Summit lacks defensive discipline.  And can't deal with the pressure.
   Clarks Summit struggles to connect.  And when they do, let down by their touch.
   #33 from PSH has a bomb of throw that can reach the six-yard box.  Worth putting it into the mix, especially since they have a ginormous back, #3, who can win anything in the air.
   PSH pressing everywhere and Clarks Summit can't even get to the center circle.
   PSH has so many options on the attack, but struggle with that final pass to create clear chances.
   20 minutes in Clarks Summit is being dominated.
   PSH is knocking but starting to wonder if there is cellophane on the Clarks Summit goal.
   Clarks Summit goalkeeper is right now the best player they have.
   Clarks Summit just too slow with the ball.  No sense of urgency.  Center mids like to hold on to the ball.  #23 tries to do everything but fails.
   Corner kick goal on a header.  Think he was wide open.  #19 Center Back.  10 minutes left in the first half.
   Not a surprise.  They have had their chance on set pieces.  More effective than run of play.
   And that's it for me. 9 minutes left in the first half.


If I had to rank the teams based on my definitions of good soccer-

1.   Ohio Wesleyan
1.5 Calvin
2. Hope
3. Ohio Northern
4. Willamette
6. Emory
7. Washington & Lee
9.  Penn State – Harrisburg
11.  Southwestern
13.  Clarks Summit

What drove me nuts in these games?

1.    Turning into pressure.
2.   Insistence on taking touches when it's not necessary.
3.   The announcers.

The variety in live stream quality and announcers (or lack of announcers) is interesting. Some schools have hired people to run their play by play broadcast and then clearly some are kids doing it (which is fine).

Don't let the announcers drive you nuts, they are what they are. Even though on one stream i watched every single pass was "beautiful". I give them all credit for getting out and doing it for their school.

@NepaFan

Actually regret posting that.  Some of these guys put as much effort into the game as ball player.  And I can always mute the game if I don't like it.  If I could figure out how to edit a post I would remove.

Apologies for that, and to any announcers who may have read it.

Quote from: NEPAFAN on September 04, 2021, 11:49:16 AM
The variety in live stream quality and announcers (or lack of announcers) is interesting. Some schools have hired people to run their play by play broadcast and then clearly some are kids doing it (which is fine).

Don't let the announcers drive you nuts, they are what they are. Even though on one stream i watched every single pass was "beautiful". I give them all credit for getting out and doing it for their school.

Two of the best complete broadcasts in the country can be found in the CCIW. North Park has upgraded their video over the years and has one of the best play by play announcers in Gregory Sager. Wheaton as well. The Thunder were one of the first to have video broadcasts and have always included instant replay, interviews, etc.

Catholic University v Maryville University
Catholic University - Carlini Field
Bias? - I went to Mass at the National Basilica and one of my favorite songs is Tennessee Jed by the Grateful Dead.

So watched a number of games today and will be posting these games individually over the next few days.  This is the first.

   Catholic presses and runs after everything.  Maryville is trying to connect but can't handle the press.
   Catholic already had two good opportunities.
   Passing is poor.
   You would think a central defender would play it to his keeper on a dead ball 10 yards from the end line, but no.
   Catholic looks to build but they shoot themselves in the foot with poor passes.
   Struggle with control of the ball.  As in bring the ball under control when they receive it.
   Lots of space in the midfield that Catholic doesn't exploit.
   Maryville still trying to settle into the game
   Corner for a header just wide for Maryville.  15 in and game seems to be leveling out
   Maryville has a better idea of how to work the ball up the field, but is still caught up in Catholics pressure.
   When Maryville has the ball in the back, Catholic has one forward defending.  As soon as the ball moves, the attacking mid just charges out to press.  Maryville intelligently moves the ball into the space he has vacated and goes on the attack.  As I said, defending sometimes is not about winning the ball.
   Catholic coaches must like dribblers.  They end up in dead ends because of it.
   Let's all agree that no player should let the ball run when receiving a pass.  Take a touch.
   Subs for Catholic 22 left in half.
   Catholic will score first.  Maryville is struggling to deal.  Tthey are getting too close, too easily, to not score.
   Maryville insists on making 40 yard passes on the ground fully expecting them not to get picked off by Catholic.
   Catholic attacks come from distance or difficult angles to get on goal.  Really concentrate down the middle and don't take advantage of the space in the field.
   Catholic midfield only participates deep in their half or as false 9s.
   Maryville can't handle the swarm cause they are not moving fast enough.
   Ball is faster than the man.  Ball is faster than the man.
   PK for Catholic.  Goal.  5 minutes left in half.  To keepers left.
   Honestly I was expecting more from both teams, just by looking at there 2019 schedule.
   There is an element of mindlessness to how Catholic plays.  Except maybe out of the back and the center triangle.  But once they cross midfield it is haphazard.  If they actually had a couple of players that could make the ball do the work, Maryville would have been out of the game 20 minutes in.
   Center backs can't pass the ball.  Really,  Catholic seems vulnerable when they try to move the ball.  Maryville just not sharp enough to do anything with the ball.
   Halftime 2-0 on a terrible defensive stand on a corner.  Ugly.  But in the stat book there is no place for beauty points.
   I said I expected better from both teams based on schedule. For Catholic I expected better just by the fact that I thought the University and its location would be a key attraction for top talent.  Not quite sure I see that.
   2nd half.  More of the same, although Catholic seems to be getting more width.
   Passing is very inconsistent for Catholic midfield.  Will deliver a good ball, then make a terrible 10 yard pass.
   Maryville has a greater sense of urgency this half.... For obvious reasons.
   Because they are so tight, 3 touches in a triangle, Maryville got through 4 Catholic players.  All they did was chase the ball.
   If I could get defenders to stop diving in, it would be the bees knees.
   Sloppy play by Maryville.  Pressure of being down is making them rush.
   Poor distribution by Catholic keeper.
   Both teams struggle dealing with difficult balls.  Touch is terrible if it is perfectly not on the deck.
   Catholic plays with a CDM and two attacking mids.  The attacking mids pretend to be withdrawn forwards, and the CDM just runs around.  Literally.  Sometimes he is on the wing.  Other times he is up high.  Sometimes he looks like he is trying to figure out how the play is developing.
   Hate games like these because they either mask your deficiencies or over inflate your ego.
   I think I am waiting for Godot.  Waiting for something to happen.
   Catholic on corners has most of their guys at the six and doesn't even pretend to run on to the ball. 
   Really unimaginative from both teams.  Lot of guys through stretches aren't even part of the game.
   Catholic could really benefit from someone who is intelligent with the ball, who can distribute and switch the ball, good range of distribution and who has a sense of providing balance in the midfield.
   And just like that, Maryville strings together four passes.  Flicked throw in to the CF with back to goal, drops it back to midfielder running through who passes it to another forward who passes out wide to another midfielder running through and one times it far post for a beauty of a goal.  Catholic 2, Maryville 1. 13 minutes left in game.
   That goal is what I was expecting.  At least how it was executed in the run of play.  Catholic scored on two dead ball plays ... a PK and a corner.
   Their goalkeeper coach must be designing Catholics set plays.  Lump it in the 6 and hope the keeper is not good enough to deal with all the traffic.
   Corner kick for Catholic.  This is where they can be dangerous.  Literally to the keeper who is 3 yards off his line.  See previous bullet.
   Again Maryville with 3 passes gets by 4 Catholic players in large part cause they just try to run after the ball rather than marking or positioning themselves to keep the ball in front of them.
   Playing a high tempo game is tricky because if you tire and don't have the soccer, you lose your best asset.  That's where Catholic is.  They really don't have the soccer.  Marysville, has the soccer but can't deal with the tempo and pressure, can easily be in a hole by half.  And this is where they are now.  Soccer is better than Catholic, but can't do enough to get the tying goal.
   Over.  The Papists win.

Covers this one.  Out.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 04, 2021, 11:57:39 AM
@NepaFan

Actually regret posting that.  Some of these guys put as much effort into the game as ball player.  And I can always mute the game if I don't like it.  If I could figure out how to edit a post I would remove.

Apologies for that, and to any announcers who may have read it.

Should be able to modify your post. Your Catholic summary made up for it. :)

I love the commentary as well..Great points by everyone...we  can not forget how far soccer has come in this country. The skill level is the most important change from 20-30 years ago. Players have much better technique. Still the art of tackling is what concerns me most.

I agree with Simple Coach's assessment of the Emory game, which was also W &L's first game of the season.  The next night, v. Oglethorpe,  W&L were a different team, thankfully.  The 1-0 score didn't reflect the game, W&L dominated throughout.

Franklin and Marshall c Eastern Connecticut State
Franklin and Marshall
Bias? – My son was recruited at F&M (Didn't go.) and I have driven through the eastern part of Connecticut on my way to somewhere else.

   2nd half.
   After my expectations were dashed while watching Catholic v Maryville, this is another game I have high expectations for F&M.  Again, their history of success is making me think they should be at a higher level.  I have no expectations, good or bad, for Eastern Connecticut.  I didn't know there was such a school called Eastern Connecticut State until today.
   Usually, reserve commentary until 10 minutes in, but think the Eastern Conn forwards could prove to be a handful.  Size and speed.
   F&M has another legit stadium.
   Eastern Conn does try to work the ball and target their big forward.
   F&M is a better version of kick and hope.  Difference is they have some talented forwards who when they get the ball, can actually do something with it.  But again, midfielders are useless working the ball up field.
   F&M insists on quick breaks on the attack.  When they do win the ball after two or three pass the ball get hoofed up to the top.
   Eastern Connecticut makes the F&M defense look vulnerable.  They knock the ball one touch across the top of the box and all the defenders can do is watch.  Angle is difficult but final ball is a shot that the keeper saves.
   Eastern Conn is slowly gaining control of the ball, in large measure because F&M loses it when they cross midfield or try to force it up top.
   Not sure I have much more patience for this.
   Eastern Conn is getting in the right spots in front of F&M goal but can't seem to finish the job.
   F&M plays good club ball.  Not much soccer, but lots of energy.
   Again, don't let the ball roll past you and think you can run for it.  Take a touch and go.
   Let me see how many defenders I can barrel through and still keep the ball.
   Not sure I can watch more of this.
   Ok.  I am out.

Quote from: Another Mom on September 05, 2021, 07:17:00 AM
I agree with Simple Coach's assessment of the Emory game, which was also W &L's first game of the season.  The next night, v. Oglethorpe,  W&L were a different team, thankfully.  The 1-0 score didn't reflect the game, W&L dominated throughout.

@AnotherMom.  Will watch Emory again.  Early season games are notoriously up and down.  Probably most teams won't be in a rhythm until end of the month ... and if they are not, they are in trouble.

Quote from: Mr.Right on September 05, 2021, 05:54:34 AM
I love the commentary as well..Great points by everyone...we  can not forget how far soccer has come in this country. The skill level is the most important change from 20-30 years ago. Players have much better technique. Still the art of tackling is what concerns me most.

@Mr. Right.  Yes, it's come a long, long way.  I always say my criticism is around the edges where it is rough.  But fundamentally, historically speaking, we have come light years.

Trine v Webster
Webster University
Bias? – I make a killer trine to soak my Thanksgiving Turkey, and I use the dictionary.

   Webster has a killer soccer stadium.
   Trine starts with really good ball movement.  Lots of balls into space on the ground.  Not overly complicating it.
   Really do get the ball into the box with some simple passing that Webster can only watch.
   I know, nit picking, but there is no "resetting" in soccer.  It is a game of constant flow and change.
   There is a kid named Yaya.
   In first five minutes, Webster has watched how Trine has gotten dangerous in the box.
   The home team needs to shake the cobwebs out of their brains.
   And Yaya is not bad.  And come to find out there may be two Yaya's.
   Webster can't deal with pressure and long stretches without the ball.
   I like the purpose of what Trine is trying to accomplish with the ball.  But will say that once they get 20 yards out, it just breaks down.  Need to have more patience and try to move the ball to move the compact Webster defense.
   15 in and Webster is still trying to get possession of the ball.  Glimpses of more success for them, but still spotty.
   Webster with a 6-man backline and 3 in front when Trine has the ball on 35 and in.
   Webster scored two goals called offside.
   Ok. 25 left in first half am done.

Desales University v Rutgers-Newark
Washington College – Athey Cup, Roy Kirby, Jr. Stadium
Bias? – A long time ago, I played with the coach, I know a freshman on the team and my son visited Desales.

   Have high expectations for Newark.
   Ball launched forward from the back that managed to catch the defense sleeping and the Desales forward heads the ball around an onrushing keeper.  Not sure he should  have gone fishing since two defenders would have caught the forward or gotten to the ball since it was bouncing hot.  #6 goal.  Desales 1, Newark 0
   Desales is moving the ball and uses midfields to drive the tempo of attack. 
   Newark has a CCM that looks like a Navy SEAL.
   Newark plays it quick and short when they can.
   Desales is less individualistic than Newark.  They share the ball more than Newark does.
   Newark struggling on defense to clear the ball out on corners.  Like 3 in a row that they cleared out for another corner.
   Newark has some skillful players but lack clarity and vision in the final third.
   Desales is surprisingly good moving the ball out of pressure with several one touch simple passes until they find one of the Mids 20 yards away who can turn the ball and go to the opposite side.
   Newark rush's the decision and poorly executes as a result.  They will find the goal at some point they way it looks though.
   Newark most effective when the ball carrier passes outside about 35 yards out and passes wide.  Receiver takes it end line and drives a ball or drops it back.   Left wing is fast enough to eat the backs lunch.
   Newark getting frustrated with the referee.  Everyone jumping up with each whistle.
   Don't dive in.  Don't dive in.  Don't dive in.
   Nice goal be Newark.  See 3 bullets before.... Outside wing went end line, drilled it across and #18 flicks the ball for a goal.  Desales 1, Newark 1.
   Now Newark is feeling it ...  They will score again.
   Newark getting real close.  Two plays that a defender cleared off the line, and another the keeper saved.  Strikes me though that the team doesn't have the discipline and would break down quickly when things went against them.
   Desales is going through a tough spell since the goal.  Under a lot of pressure and can't seem to get the ball past midfield let alone create anything that may be dangerous.
   14 minutes left in the half.  Think I am done with this one.

Marymount v Catholic University
Catholic – Carlini Field
Bias? – Feel bad for my first game review of Catholic and I didn't know Marymount was a thing.

   15 minutes left in the first half, just in time to catch a tying goal for Marymount.  Good give and go and shot from the 18 beating the keeper high. #19 Marymount 1, Catholic 1.
   Catholic two passes in a row, after winning the ball back, are passed to a Marymount player.  Dare I say neither of them were close to a Catholic player.
   Catholic on the attack, and the midfielder passes it out of bounds.  Not even close to getting it to the winger who was running down the line.
   Meanwhile they make subs seemingly almost every opportunity they can, and no change.  Its as if every player on the bench is the same as the next guy.  This is another issue for me all together.
   Stop passing behind the man.  Stop passing behind the man.
   Stop diving in.  Stop diving in.
   Maryville use of limited space in the final third is pretty good and looks to get to goal in a more threatening manner than Catholic .... At least when Marymount doesn't do something ill-advised on defense.
   8 Catholic players.  1 Marymount player.  Catholic defender punts the ball to midfield.
   Good sequence by Catholic that ends in a pass to a Marymount player.
   Catholic tries to be dangerous on set pieces.  I think this is where they will get the most production as I am not seeing how they will get many goals in the run of play.
   Minute left and a Marymount and Catholic player get into it.  Catholic player on the ground.  Stupid.  Marymount player red carded.... With a minute left.  1.  To half.   During a stoppage in the game ...
   And half.  Marymount 1, Catholic 1.  Marymount playing with 10.  Did I tell you player was thrown out with a minute left before half?  During a stoppage of play?
   2nd Half
   Ok.  Halftime adjustments.  If I were the Marymount coach I would tell my team to hold on to the ball and be deliberate when going forward.  If I were the Catholic coach I would tell my team to move the ball quickly side to side as quickly as possible.  Make Marymount run and tire them out.  I am neither coach apparently.
   Still waiting for Godot.
   Don't know if it is a fitness thing, two games in two days, but 7 minutes in Catholic lacks the energy.  This is where the soccer would be helpful.  Too bad when they go to the bench, every single one of their players is a version of themselves.
   Ok.  I am done.  This isn't going the way I hoped.  Think I need to go to mass and ask for forgiveness.

Illinois Tech v Alma College
Alma College
Bias? – I've been to Chicago many times on business, and I am a big fan of the song "Don't Cry for Me Argentina." The Spanish version.

   All tied up at 1 when I joined, with 30 minutes left in the first half.
   Not sure who is who.... Red v Black for now.
   Black seems to be on the front foot.  Really exploiting space. 
   Red tries to press high but is unable to close the space quick enough.  Black moves the ball so the red mids need to chase back.
   Black comes down their left side.  Gap between Red back and winger leaves a lot of space for Black to receive and turn the ball.
   I think Black is Alma.  If for any other reason than there is an "A" on the back of  the shirt.
   Illinois Tech's right back steps high enough that they are exposed on quick turn overs.
   Seen this a lot that teams waste a lot of dead ball opportunities by hitting the ball too close and the Keeper can make a relatively comfortable play on the ball.
   Illinois Tech has had a couple of dangerous opportunities, including a ball off the cross bar to unsettle Alma.
   Game seems to have shifted in favor of Illinois Tech. 
   Lots of mindless defending for Alma.
   Gap between Alma defenders and middle line would make me drool over the amount of space to be had.
   Alma midfielders keep turning over the ball when they finally get control of the ball.
   Alma central defender just misjudged a ball in the air, that let an Illinois Tech forward go one on one with the keeper, but his shot was wide.
   Alma just had wonderful ball movement that led to a lofted ball far post where inside the six, the winger skied the ball over the bar.  15 left.
   Here is what Illinois Tech does defensively.  The outside back steps forward like every other outside back on every other team.  The center back however does not provide any cover leaving a gaping space to exploit.  I think a goal can come from this space on the field if Alma plays the ball quick enough.
   If I were Illinois Tech, I would go straight at the Alma center backs.  In the air, on the ground.... Press.  They are vulnerable. 
   5 left in the half.  Am done.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 05, 2021, 08:33:27 AM
Trine v Webster
Webster University
Bias? – I make a killer trine to soak my Thanksgiving Turkey, and I use the dictionary.

   Webster has a killer soccer stadium.

These are amazing.

Please keep them coming.

Webster tried to build a soccer stadium on land owned by the neighboring seminary, but the neighbors see that land as theirs and convinced City Hall to say no.

They currently play at a stadium built by Anheuser-Busch and leased from one of the local soccer clubs.  The stadium used to be home to a number of semi-professional and professional teams as well as Division I Saint Louis University.

Last one for 6 September.  Have a good evening.

Mary Hardin Baylor v Franklin and Marshall (#12 in D3Soccer Top 25)
Franklin and Marshall
Bias? – I know Mary Hardin Baylor has a very good football program and F&M has the stadium of one.

   Slow pace of the game.
   In general, the farther the pass, the greater the likelihood of being challenged for it.
   MHB is slow to step to the ball but may be the issue as F&M not sure what to do with the ball when they have someone holding them up.
   MHB has some skillful ball handlers who love the ball too much.
   This is a game between the 22's.  Defending very intelligently, both teams.  Especially for guys up top, there is little to no room.
   MHB drops off and almost baits the long ball from F&M.  Two defensive lines are tight.
   How many times do you try to beat a man 1 on 1 on the dribble and lose the ball, before you decide to try something else?  I can see the F&M right mid (#66), making a meal of some players, but he is being defended very well.
   MHB switches sides very effectively.
   Shot from an F&M player for 25 yards out.  Yakita? Big time shot, and a big time save from the MHB Keeper.
   MHB really not making the F&M back line sweat.  This is where if I were the F&M coach,  I would have my center back step higher into the midfield, see if we can't pin them back.  But no, I am not said coach.
   Another reason why I love this game..... #66 just ate up two defenders and drew a foul right at the 18 for F&M.  And the keeper makes a big time save again.
   F&M is starting to make some head way  in getting to goal.
   MHB starting to give too much respect to the F&M midfielders who have tons of space to turn and choose their passes without pressure.  18 left in the half.
   F&M falls back and defends well.  Not as organized and compact as Ohio Wesleyan (Game I watched a few days ago...), but pretty comparable.
   F&M #45 is talented.  But does love the ball too much.
   Only issue with F&M is in the transition where I don't think the midfield does a good job of becoming options for defenders with the ball.  But this may just be a legs thing.... Two games in three days.
   Couple of minutes of a bit of chaotic play.  F&M is now slowing it down.  No rush.
   MHB is letting F&M bring the ball to their 40 before they start to really defend. 
   #6, F&M right back can run with the ball 30 yards, before an MHB midfielder fronting him.
   Think this unsettles F&M because there is not a lot of space for F&M to go after.
   Back to some chaotic play... 8 minutes to half.
   F&M primarily attacks down the right-hand side.  #6, if he were more ambitious could get some goals.
   MHB has too many bodies back and is just looking for some type of break on the attack.  F&M has the run of play but can't break down the cluttered back line.  This is the time where I would be calling for patience.
   And F&M needs to move the ball side to side higher up the field and try to get MHB to stretch out a bit.  Otherwise, they are waiting on a mistake for the game winner.  F&M will score off a set piece.
   MHB goalkeeper is the man of the first half.
   Think this is going to half.  Think that's it. Done.

I'm really enjoying these observations.

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 07, 2021, 10:23:57 AM
I'm really enjoying these observations.

Ditto.

Looks like UMHB (picked fifth in the American Southwest) is having a decent start, losing at Messiah 0-1 in 2OT and hanging with F&M at their place before also falling 0-1.  I'd love to hear SimpleCoach's observations on UMHB-Trinity TX on the 17th.

Maine Maritime v Bates
Bates College – Russell Street Track and Field
Bias? – I love the beach but I have never stayed in that famous motel.

   Another narrow track field, but it is grass, so that's good.
   This Bates' first game of the season.
   4th minutes.  Floated through ball to speedy forward who outpaces Maine Maritime and slots it past the keepers left.  Maine Maritime 0, Bates 1.
   Really until that point, think both teams were just feeling each other out.  This Bates definitely more aggressive going forward, but the game has been pretty clunky.
   Bates plays a 3-5-2.
   Bates does a better job connecting.  Maine Maritime struggling to get anything going past midfield.
   Maine Maritime struggles to keep up defensively when Bates moves the ball quickly.  Problem for Bates is that they seem to be missing that final/killer ball.
   Bates right now is definitely the better team.
   Well played in the attack for Bates.  Pick a bad Maine Maritime pass in their half.  Center back who won the ball carries it 20 yeards and sends an outside mid to the races to the endline.  Mid takes a good solid touch to deliver a great ball on the ground to the PK spot and Bates players buries it far post.  Maine Maritime 0, Bates 2. 12th minute.
   Think I am done with this one.

Muhlenberg College v Centenary College
Centenary College – J.E. Reeves Turf Field
Bias? – Son did a soccer camp where he broke his foot.

   Lot of yelling from the benches....
   Muhlenberg definitely bringing more energy than Centenary
   Its early but both teams struggling to connect past midfield.  Too rushed.
   Will say centenary needs to impose itself on the game a bit, otherwise they could get run over by the Mules.
   On the attack Muhlenberg gets so high up almost like a single line of 6.  Defenders hang in midfield.  Gap of 30 yards, easy.  Centenary trying to take advantage of that with some quick breaks.
   Left wing for Muhlenberg is good, speedy, and has an idea.  Execution seems to be the issue for him right now.  Right decisions at the wrong time.  I can see him being a handful when he is in a Flow State.
   Centenary is really not good in the air.
   Centenary defending with 10.
   Muhlenberg slowly growing into the game.
   Muhlenberg just scored. Big switch to the far side from a defender who recovered the ball deep in Mule territory.  Take a touch and sends the ball almost over the touchline.  Outside mid makes it to it and puts the ball on the ground across the box, where the center forward dummies it for the wing who is sitting far post to bury it.  Amazed at how wide open he was.  #11?  Tall and lanky.
   Would have been harder to miss....
   Centenary tries to defend with a diamond of four, and three midfields, but positionally lack the discipline.  Too many guys just seem to float.
   Centenary coach is getting all fired up/frustrated.
   Centenary is sitting real deep.  Muhlenberg has ¾ of the field to themselves.
   Everyone makes some subs, not sure why for Muhlenberg.
   A good team would exploit the space between the Muhlenberg backs and midfields.  Not even sure if Centenary see it.
   Muhlenberg really over complicating the attack.  Think everyone may think they can score a goal this game.  Very undisciplined and wasteful with the ball.
   Like they are playing a 4-1-5. 
   Muhlenberg launching shots from every which angle and distance.  Looking for the glory goal before half.
   Wonderful through ball, perfectly weighted, across the run of play to forward making a diagonal run.  Ball on the ground, easy touch and slots it far post to the left of the keeper.
   Muhlenberg player who initially won the ball, did so between two Centenary players, starting from being on the ground, at midfield.  That's where the goal was allowed....
   Don't see much changing, so am out of this one.
   And just as I am wrapping up, Muhlenberg buries a third.  Absolutely peach of a through ball to the far side from #32 to player on far side who is able to bury the ball one time from 12 yards out.  That was perhaps the best pass I have seen for a goal in all the games I have watched.  Muhlenberg 3, Centenary 0.

Amherst College (#2 D3Soccer Ranking) v Norwich University
Norwich University
Bias? – I am anti-bias.

   Seems to be a popular approach to corners and dead balls a distance from the box.  Pack everyone in the box and just lump it in.  Can't tell you how many times I have seen this.  If I were a coach, I would definitely be drawing up new approaches to both attaching and defending for this.
   Amherst seems to have the better of the play.  Norwich has some pretty big guys in the midfield and forward line.
   Amherst defends well with numbers and seems organized.
   Amherst has skill on the ball.  And long balls are actually passes.  Don't seem to go long for 50/50 balls.
   Both teams rush the ball.
   Right back for Amherst has a tough job marking #10, but is doing a masterful job.
   Neither team seems to be risking much.  Not taking chances.  Making sure they have numbers back.
   Amherst #10 just threaded a ball between defenders, that was probably the best pass I have seen that did not end up in the goal.  Ball between left center back and left back for a forward running on the outside.  Takes a touch and keeper comes up with a big save.  That's the sort of pass that makes defending so hard.  Perfect weight.
   Meanwhile down at the other end, foul at the 18 that #10 from Norwich takes advantage of and buries a free kick.  Amherst 0, Norwich 1.  15 left in the half.
   Amherst wingers can deliver real good balls into the box.  Can be real dangerous.
   Think Norwich has Amherst a little bit in a panic as things are not working out the way they want them to.   Players react with frustration.
   When they don't panic, Amherst does move the ball well on the attack.  Just need to be quicker to catch Norwich out of position.
   Even though they are down, and probably not playing their best, I can see why they are #2 in the country.
   #18 from Norwich is a handful.
   1:46 Amherst gets a ball behind the defense with the left back lagging.  Ball is settled by the center forward #8, who settles and scores to tie it 1-1.
   Halftime.  Will try Tufts.  Hope they fixed their streaming issues.
   Second half.
   Amherst breaks out quick and is very thoughtful.  Breaking out from the back four midfields all stepped and got the ball forward.  Ended up in a shot wide.  Very impressive
   Amherst half time adjustments, play quicker into space has seemingly made a difference.  Norwich just chasing at this point.  Both teams are completely different than in the first half.
    #10 from Norwich has been figured out.  Has the same step over move that looks good but yields nothing.
   Difference between teams like Amherst and the rest, its not only that they have the skill and the ideas, they understand where everyone should be on the field.  So when they make a pass into space, the do so knowing their team mate should be there.  That's different level stuff.
   Norwich is up against the ropes.  Norwich keeper has come up big a few times this half to keep it level.
   Amherst center forward stays between the hash marks and doesn't leave that space.  Keeps one of the center backs busy at all times, and is a nuisance for any play that comes through them.
   Amherst almost scored by inches on a sequence of passes that did not come off the ground.  For someone like me, its such a refreshing team to watch.
   Amherst has a guy who does a very good flip throw.  Whips the ball in to center of the box.    Tough for Norwich to deal with.
   Norwich has everyone back inside the 30 yard line... this is Norwich field has gridiron lines.
   If Norwich gets out of this game with a point, game ball should go to their keeper.  Another fantastic save on an over the wall dead ball shot for 18 out.
   Norwich panics when it wins the ball. Amherst knocks it when they get the ball.
   Just based on the second half, Amherst deserves the game.  Don't think Norwich has done anything remotely close to the Amherst goal.
   Lots of teams could learn from watching Amherst.  They do a great job using space and do simple things like wide players staying wide.  Really stretch the field so that when they do win the ball,  the defensive posture of the other team is stretched leaving some gaping holes to take advantage of.
   Amherst on a flip throw, is headed from the near post to the back post for a goal.  On the throw the ball was whipped into the near post.  Wonder how much control the thrower has because he seems to have sent the ball in a number of ways changing it up based on a play, or how the forwards were lined up.  Amherst 2, Norwich 1. 12 minutes left.
   Amherst wins the ball and instead of messing with it, they look to make the simple pass or take the space if they have it.
   Norwich is more mindless when they win the ball.  Kick and hope.
   Little chippy at the end.  With 3 minutes now Norwich seems to be having a sense of urgency.  But still not getting anywhere.
   Amherst just took minute and half off the clock just by possession.
   And game over.  Amherst 2, Norwich 1.

Montclair State v. Hunter College
MSU Soccer Park (Where Red Bull II play their home games)
Bias? – Know a number of players on MSU.

   MSG starting eleven with almost half, freshman.
   Have head good things about Montclair.  Expecting a lot.
   #12, Owen Murphy comes for a family of formidable soccer players, including his dad.
   Hunter looking to press high.  Same with MSU.  MSU more effective, however.
   MSU has dead ball plays that are very effective. 
   MSU on the front foot.  Hunter having trouble getting the ball.
   Hunter looking to counter quick when they can.  MSU doesn't make it easy however.
   Hunter doesn't have depth defensively giving tons of space for MSU runners.
   MSU just trying to pick their spots for the killer ball.
   MSU is high press all over the field, don't give Hunter the opportunity to breath.
   Ball out to the far side for a winger, who drops it back.  One touch pass to a forward who turns and hits the ball far post.  MSU 1, Hunter 0.
   Hunter just turns the ball over because of the press.  Anything that does get through MSU have a solid back line that breaks it all up.
   MSU drops back to have 5 defenders and two midfielders.  3 forwards stay high.
   More goals will come for MSU.  What they do defensively high up the field is much more impressive than when they actually have control of the ball. Really just trying to get it wide then drive it into the middle.
   MSU with a goal from a corner.  Ball driven into the box... keeper seems frozen, and player running through the box heads it into the back of the net.
   Think I am done with this one.  20 minutes left in the half.
   Don't rank Montclair as high as some of the other teams I watched, but I can see them making a deep run in post season.
   I'm out.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 08, 2021, 03:44:21 PM
   Don't rank Montclair as high as some of the other teams I watched, but I can see them making a deep run in post season.

They're not pretty, but are effective.  And they have a lot of talent, much of it young too.  I think anything less than Sweet16 would be a disappointment.

Ok.  Tried ranking all the teams I watched.  The bottom end proved to be impossible so just ranked the top 25.  Again, like my game notes, this has nothing to do with anything other than what I watched, and what I was impressed with.  Certainly not Massey, or the D3Soccer Top 25.  Take it for what you will.

Will say, there is a pretty big drop off from Muhlenberg to Ohio Northern.  And another drop from Willamette to Washington & Lee.

1   Amherst
2   Ohio Wesleyan
3   Calvin
4   Franklin & Marshall
5   Montclair State
6   Hope
7   Muhlenberg
8   Ohio Northern
9   Haverford
10   Emory
11   Stockton
12   Willamette
13   Washington & Lee
14   Plattsburgh
15   Mount Union
16   Clarkson
17   Trine
18   Catholic
19   Mary Hardin Baylor
20   Rutgers-Newark
21   Cabrini
22   Bates
23   Cairn
24   Eastern Connecticut
25   Marymount

Gotta come out of my ivory tower to congratulate SimpleCoach on this thread. Great stuff. I've watched many of the same matches and have very few quibbles with your rankings. I would take a second look at Montclair. From what I've seen, they look capable of playing against the lump-it-in-and-smash style which is effective at this level (I'm looking at you, Amherst), as well as the ability to roll the ball around crisply. I saw a speed and purpose to their passing and movement off the ball that made me a believer. I also like that you rated Hope, despite succumbing to a bigger, faster OWU: they play a good brand of football. Haverford will fall in future rankings: I don't see the organization to last a full 90 against strong opposition.

Zero connections to any of the above: just observations. Again, keep it up, SC!

Thanks @Centennial1.  Appreciate the comments.

I am sure this will change over time.  Some of the games, like the Montclair game, I don't think were good indicators of how they could play.  Wasn't much of challenge for them.  I know a number of players on the team and expect a lot out of them. 

Re: Haverford, apparently you are correct in that assessment.  Think it  was against Cabrini and I watched the first half where they played well, but not effective in front of goal.  And apparently they fell apart in the second half.   I will be circling around especially as I try to watch the more competitive and meaningful games.

Thanks again.

John Carroll University v Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon
Bias? – Played against both schools and played against Hector Marinaro. 

   Looks like a cool little stadium that Carnegie Mellon has in the middle of campus...
   28 Minutes left in the half, JCU wins a ball (CMU Players were calling for a foul) and goes on the attack just beyond midfield on the right side.  Classic 3v2 and JCU played it like the drill.  Ball to the outside, who passed it central, and when the defenders collapsed, passed it out wide where the player one time the ball into the back of the net.
   And 30 seconds later, JCU called for a handball in the box.  CMU converts to the left of the keeper who guessed the wrong way. 27 Minutes left in the first half.
   JCU you looks to play quickly and get the ball wide.  They compete for every 50/50 ball, challenge for everything.
   CMU is trying to play out of the pressure.  They are playing too narrow to make it easier.  Caught too many times without passing options because the defenders are right there.
   JCU forcing CMU to chase the ball by effectively switching it side to side.  CMU not nearly as effective on the press as JCU.
   CMU just looks uncomfortable handling the ball.
   Even on goal JCU forces CMU to hit it long invariably creating a 50/50.  JCU man marks very effectively.
   JCU keeps pressing on the attack. 
   Since the PK about 10 minutes earlier, CMU has not really gotten close to JCU goal.
   JCU press is the most impressive part of their game.  Probably the best I have seen.
   JCU has a lot of movement off the ball, and try to maintain possession when they do win it.
   Both teams play very narrow.  Forcing the ball into tight spaces, and don't use the width.  This plays into JCUs game plan.
   Bad passes and poor decisions hurt both teams.  Could see something dangerous happening because of it.
   With 4 left in the half, CMU looking like it is starting to get comfortable in dealing with the press.
   Halftime
   4 minutes in, corner for JCU.  Ball goes back post at the 18, JCU rips the ball that deflects and hits the back of the net.  John Carroll 2, Carnegie Mellon 1.
   JCU continues with the press, CMU continues to try to deal with it.
   32 minutes in, foul about 40 out.  Poor free kick that is cleared by JCU back to the player who took the free kick.  Takes a touch and puts it back in to the same spot at the 18.... Poorly kicked again.  Same player misjudges the ball and it goes under his foot, and bounces to a forward who buries the ball from 6.    John Carroll 2, Carnegie Mellon 2.
   CMU seems to have gotten inspired by the goal and are taking it to JCU which seems to going from de Mas a Menos.  Starting to play with confidence.
   Pressing is great, but need to have the soccer.  At some point the legs don't work as well, and with 26 left in the half, that seems to be happening to JCU.  And their soccer has a lot to be desired.  Sequence of 5 plays in JCU half where they played poor balls that were recovered by CMU.
   JCU is now hoofing the ball forward from out of the back, seemingly to have given up on working the ball. 
   This game will be decided on a defensive error.
   Theory.  High pressure only works for half of the game.  Humans are not physically able to maintain the pressure for 90 minutes.
   JCU constantly breaking down whatever plays they can generate because they make a bad pass.
   Meanwhile CMU is being more intelligent with the ball.
   15 left, JCU just made a sub of 8 players.
   CMU is better this half.  JCU brain has shut down at this point.  11 left in the half.
   Bad touch leads to a turnover at midfield for CMU.  Pass to winger who lets the ball go passed him and leaves the defender in his wake.  Slots a forward with a pass in the box.  About 10 yards in, on left side from the goal, forward opens his hips and with his right peg hits a ball far post side netting.  Peach of a goal!  John Carroll 2, Carnegie Mellon 3.  8 minutes left.
   Dare I say that goal was well deserved.
   JCU is trying but can't connect the right passes, and CMU is committed to winning.
   Final.  John Carroll 2, Carnegie Mellon 3

Based on the game last night, revising my Top... 27

1   Amherst
2   Ohio Wesleyan
3   Calvin
4   Franklin & Marshall
5   Montclair State
6   Hope
7   Muhlenberg
8   Carnegie Mellon
9   Ohio Northern
10   Haverford
11   Emory
12   Stockton
13   Willamette
14   Washington & Lee
15   Plattsburgh
16   John Carroll
17   Mount Union
18   Clarkson
19   Trine
20   Catholic
21   Mary Hardin Baylor
22   Rutgers-Newark
23   Cabrini
24   Bates
25   Cairn
26   Eastern Connecticut
27   Marymount

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 10, 2021, 09:39:01 AM
Based on the game last night, revising my Top... 27

1   Amherst
2   Ohio Wesleyan
3   Calvin
4   Franklin & Marshall
5   Montclair State
6   Hope
7   Muhlenberg
8   Carnegie Mellon
9   Ohio Northern
10   Haverford

This weekend's action for SimpleCoach's Top 10...

1   Amherst  - @ Bowdoin. Haven't lost to Bowdoin since 2008. Can't imagine things change this weekend.
2   Ohio Wesleyan – Hosting Muskingum and Grove City in The Fred Meyers Invitational. Muskingum's been pounded this season by CMU and Denison by a combined score of 12-1. Should be an easy victory.  Grove City will be a better game but having to face Kenyon the previous day won't help their cause.
3   Calvin – Hosts Aurora (2-0) and Carthage (2-0-1) this weekend. Decent test, but I see two victories for the Knights 
4   Franklin & Marshall – Host long-time rival Elizabethtown (2-0) in the Battle for the Smith-Herr Boot, which is an actual Bronze boot that was originally worn by Al Hershey, a 2-time AA at Elizabethtown before later coaching both schools. F&M has won 2 of the last 3 meetings and has to be the favorite.
5   Montclair State – May finally get a game when they host NYU (1-0-1), but a win is still the likely outcome in this one.
6   Hope – Will join Calvin in going 2-0 against Aurora and Carthage this weekend.
7   Muhlenberg – Coming off an ECAC Championship in 2019, starting the year 2-0, and hosting Messiah at 7pm Saturday night.  Expecting a big crowd to see just what the Muhles have this year.  A draw would be a great, though unlikely result.
8   Carnegie Mellon – Great win Thursday over #20 John Carroll will give the Tartans plenty of confidence going into a rather easy game at Westminster (2-2) who they own a career record of 14-0-1 against.
9   Ohio Northern – Host Concordia (2-1) and NAIA foe Huntington (4-1) this weekend.  Unfortunate start to the season for ONU, having lost to #3 Calvin on a late game winner and then drawing with Hope in a tightly contested match. Two wins this weekend would put ONU on the right side of .500
10   Haverford – An uncharacteristic 0-2 start makes this weekend's jimmy Mills Tournament games vs. #15 Rowan (3-0) and Widener (1-2) all the more important. Look for the Fords to pick up their first win this weekend, but unfortunately a victory over Rowan seems unlikely.

Quote from: Ejay on September 10, 2021, 12:39:34 PM

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 10, 2021, 09:39:01 AM
Based on the game last night, revising my Top... 27

1   Amherst
2   Ohio Wesleyan
3   Calvin
4   Franklin & Marshall
5   Montclair State
6   Hope
7   Muhlenberg
8   Carnegie Mellon
9   Ohio Northern
10   Haverford

This weekend's action for SimpleCoach's Top 10...

1   Amherst  - @ Bowdoin. Haven't lost to Bowdoin since 2008. Can't imagine things change this weekend.
2   Ohio Wesleyan – Hosting Muskingum and Grove City in The Fred Meyers Invitational. Muskingum's been pounded this season by CMU and Denison by a combined score of 12-1. Should be an easy victory.  Grove City will be a better game but having to face Kenyon the previous day won't help their cause.
3   Calvin – Hosts Aurora (2-0) and Carthage (2-0-1) this weekend. Decent test, but I see two victories for the Knights 
4   Franklin & Marshall – Host long-time rival Elizabethtown (2-0) in the Battle for the Smith-Herr Boot, which is an actual Bronze boot that was originally worn by Al Hershey, a 2-time AA at Elizabethtown before later coaching both schools. F&M has won 2 of the last 3 meetings and has to be the favorite.
5   Montclair State – May finally get a game when they host NYU (1-0-1), but a win is still the likely outcome in this one.
6   Hope – Will join Calvin in going 2-0 against Aurora and Carthage this weekend.
7   Muhlenberg – Coming off an ECAC Championship in 2019, starting the year 2-0, and hosting Messiah at 7pm Saturday night.  Expecting a big crowd to see just what the Muhles have this year.  A draw would be a great, though unlikely result.
8   Carnegie Mellon – Great win Thursday over #20 John Carroll will give the Tartans plenty of confidence going into a rather easy game at Westminster (2-2) who they own a career record of 14-0-1 against.
9   Ohio Northern – Host Concordia (2-1) and NAIA foe Huntington (4-1) this weekend.  Unfortunate start to the season for ONU, having lost to #3 Calvin on a late game winner and then drawing with Hope in a tightly contested match. Two wins this weekend would put ONU on the right side of .500
10   Haverford – An uncharacteristic 0-2 start makes this weekend's jimmy Mills Tournament games vs. #15 Rowan (3-0) and Widener (1-2) all the more important. Look for the Fords to pick up their first win this weekend, but unfortunately a victory over Rowan seems unlikely.

Love it.  Thanks @Ejay.  Think I will try to catch Haverford v Rowan game, Muhlenberg v Messiah and the Montclair v NYU games.  Also looking forward to the Williams v Tufts match.... hopefully there wont be streaming issues in the Tufts game.  Want to see what they are made of.  Oh, and will be catching a couple of games today.... Christopher Newport v Lynchburg... and will try the Mount Union v Chatham game. 

Thanks again for the previews.... kind of makes looking for better games to watch, easier.... Some of the ones I watched but didn't do write ups on were ...  :-X

I do recommend that North Park at Washington University match as previously mentioned.  4:00 pm CST on Saturday.

Quote from: WUPHF on September 10, 2021, 01:30:56 PM
I do recommend that North Park at Washington University match as previously mentioned.  4:00 pm CST on Saturday.

@WUPHF.  Will add it to my list.  Actually North Park is on my radar because they seem to be ranked highly. 

Thanks again.

Speaking of rankings, anyone have any idea when the United Soccer Coaches will release a poll?   Nothing since the preseason rankings over a month ago...

Mount Union v Chatham
Chatham University – Graham Field
Bias? – Second game I've watched for both teams.

   Lovely field.  And a lovely day to watch a game.  Neat stadium with covered seating .... Almost wish it were raining.
   Game is being played in honor of a Chatham soccer player lost in a car accident some years ago. 
   Mount Union starts press at the 30.... field has football lines....  They let the passing go back and forth.  Otherwise, they wait for the ball to come to them.
   Chatham looks better than they did against Hiram.  But they do stand a chance of getting countered as they do step high up the field when they have the ball.
   7 minutes in.  Chatham does a better job of moving the ball around on the attack.  Mount Union seems to be playing more defensively.  Not sense of urgency.  The 2 some hour drive in the bus must be weighing on their legs.
   Ten in and most of the play is in Mount Union's half.
   Game mostly being played between the 30s.  Not much happening in front of goal.... Until now.
   12 minutes in.  Punt by Mount Union keeper that is poorly head away by a Chatham defender and is recovered by Mount Union right wing, who turns his man.  Takes some touches and drives it across, and poorly cleared again.  The ball comes out to the 12 and a Mount Union player hits the ball far post side netting with his left peg for the goal.  Mount Union 1, Chatham 0.  33 left in the half.
   Chatham now feels the pressure of being behind.
   Mount Union feeling confident on the ball now.  Very patient with the ball now.  Actually an impressive stretch of possession that ends in a lofted ball that is headed to the hands of the Chatham keeper.
   Chatham loses the ideas battle once they get closer to Mount Union.  Think they have an idea when they have the ball in their half, but lose them when they cross midfield.
   Mount Union playing with more pace when they decide to get forward.
   With 20 minutes left, think Mount Union scores before Chatham does.
   Najar (?) #11 for Mount Union is the type of player a lot of teams I have watched, could use.  A central midfielder who conducts the ball from deep and makes sure the ball circulates.  Too many teams go without a player like him so there is a complete lack of control on the tempo or structure to the game.  This is my favorite type of player on the field ... too bad it is not a sentiment widely held.  Big, strong and fast wins every time.
   12 left.  Chatham keeps trying, but its Mount Union that gets dangerous.  Chatham still struggles with the final pass or move and can't seem to get dangerous.
   8 minutes left in the half and Chatham had its first real opportunity in the half but is cleared away.
   Mount Union does pretty well in possession.  Really needs to reward itself with another goal. 
   Halftime.  Mount Union 1, Chatham 0.
   Mount Union continue to maintain a strong defensive posture.   Chatham continues to struggle breaking through.
   Much of the same ten minutes into the second half.  Can see Chatham trying to move the ball with more urgency.   But Mount Union continues to be the more constant in control of the ball and on the attack.
   A thought.  Think teams, including Mount Union spend a lot of time and effort getting the ball wide so they can drive it into the middle and hope to connect there for a shot on goal.  Think there is another set of runs that gets overlooked and that is instead of just go wide, they should mix in through balls into the box.  Make the center forward battle in front of the goal.  If anything just to keep the defenders very honest about how they have to defend.
   20 minutes left, and it's a bit sloppy right now.
   21 minutes left, and Chatham crosses midfield.  Midfielder who won the ball, makes a terrible pass, and the ball is picked up by a Mount Union midfielder who hits a pass behind the Chatham defensive line that was stepping up.  Mount Union forward runs on to the ball, and slots it far post to the right of Chatham's keeper.  Just reward.  Mount Union 2, Chatham 0. 
   On that note, think I will head home.  Don't see much changing here.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 10, 2021, 01:46:21 PM

Quote from: WUPHF on September 10, 2021, 01:30:56 PM
I do recommend that North Park at Washington University match as previously mentioned.  4:00 pm CST on Saturday.

@WUPHF.  Will add it to my list.  Actually North Park is on my radar because they seem to be ranked highly. 

Thanks again.

I was going to make this request, but WUPHF beat me to it.  I'm just catching up and really enjoying these notes.  Will be looking forward to your observations.

New York University v. Montclair State       12:00
Montclair State
Bias? – Second time watching Montclair, and know a few people who go to NYU

   Joined 30 minutes left in the first half currently 0-0.
   MSU seems to be keeping NYU on their heels.  Good ball movement and looking to get the ball in dangerous places.  Some desperate defending.
   When NYU does get the ball, they move up top quick then press where they can. 
   MSU looks a little slower than what I saw at Hunter College.  Probably because this is a game they know it will be difficult to pad stats.
   NYU getting a bit lucky.  MSU is getting in dangerous spots.  Poor defensive clearance gave MSU a 1 on 1 but pushed it wide left.  27 left in the half.
   NYU too wasteful on the last pass.  Hard enough with MSU defensive posture.
   MSU has to be careful and can't sleep on defense.  NYU can break out quick and get dangerous. 
   MSU outside backs press up high every time leaving the two center backs.  Plenty of  space behind the outside backs to exploit as they are not quick enough to get back.  Timed right, Center backs are each marking two forwards, and NYU trails two wingers.  If they can clean up the passes, they could do some damage.
   MSU gets the ball upfield.  Player splits three defenders then lays a ball to Owen Murphy who hit a long ball across the field to their outside back.  Little bit of popcorn ball, and lands a cross at the 12 to the same player who started the play by splitting defenders, who settles and drills a ball back of the net.  MSU  1, NYU 0.  22 left in the half.
   NYU defense looked stretched and outnumbered on the play.
   MSU now has confidence and a bit of another gear now.
   NYU is looking a little shaky.  Trying to get their wits about them, especially as they try to deal with MSU trying to get a second goal.
   Difference right now.... NYU get three forwards up, MSU defends with 5.  MSU attacks with 4, NYU defends with 3.
   10 minutes left, NYU gets a foul just beyond center circle in MSU half.  Put 6 far post and float a ball inside the 12.  From about six out ball is awkwardly headed by NYU player, ball hit's the post and bounces in.  MSU 1, NYU 1
   Lots of errors with the ball following the goal, from both teams.
   NYU is back in it with some enthusiasm.
   Lot of the play is between the 30s.  Each trying to break down the other. 
   Halftime.  All square at ones.
   Much of the same in the second half.  NYU defending better with numbers, making it difficult for MSU to break through.
   This is a stalemate going to OT.
   Good competitive game.  Each trying to break down the other with little luck.
   First overtime.  Think this is Golden Goal.
   When MSU can't attack on the break, NYU is just too good defending.  And MSU doesn't have the patience.
   5 minutes left in the first OT and its getting chippy.  Probably a good level of frustration from both sides cause the other team isn't making it easy.
   For MSU, they are either stopped by NYU defense or they force a ball long.
   NYU strikes me as being more methodical and patient on the ball.  Waiting for their moments.
   MSU seems to have given up really using it's midfield and is trying for the big ball out wide.
   Poor defense by MSU, fail to attack the ball.  Midfielder doesn't pick up a wide-open winger making a run down the middle.  NYU player takes a touch then slots the ball to the middle.  And big forward hits the ball first time. 
   Game Over.  MSU 1, NYU 2.
   Two very good teams, definitely with different styles.   Will watch them again.
   Am out.

North Park v Washington U. Just turned the game on. Wash U up 2-0 18 minutes into the first half.

Quote from: CC United on September 11, 2021, 05:26:59 PM
North Park v Washington U. Just turned the game on. Wash U up 2-0 18 minutes into the first half.

Looked like very soft foul call to give NP an attractive free kick....2-1.

Williams v Tufts               3:00
Tufts Bello Field
Bias? – I was not smart enough to go to either school.

   That looks like one heck of field to play on.
   Sorry Williams.  Silly, but let's end the gimmicks on tap off from the center circle.  They never work.
   Williams is playing with a lot of enthusiasms.  Pressing high, and launching balls up every chance they get.
   Williams forcing a lot of Tufts turnovers.  Don't look comfortable with the ball.  Williams coach keeps yelling "PRESS!! PRESS!! PRESS!!"
   Tuft's just not getting in front of the goal.  Midfield needs to get involved more.  They are just bystanders right now.  31 left in the half.
   15 minutes in, first real Tuft's opportunity on a cross.  Ball headed over the goal.
   Tufts plays it short every time on goal kicks.
   The excitement of the game is waning, and Tufts is trying to gets it's game going, but still struggling.  But will say they seem pretty patient and understand this will be a 90-minute game.
   Lots of speculative play from both.  Trying to get something going.
   Not the prettiest of games.
   Tufts has a deep midfielder, think #5.  Not the fastest of guys but understands his role and tries to make sure the ball is moving and make sure they retain possession.  Lots of teams I watch could use a guy like him.
   With maybe 10 minutes left, Tufts looks like they are starting to assert themselves.
   Think this is going to halftime in a stalemate.
   And half.  0-0
   Can see what Tuft's wants to do, but Williams isn't obliging.  The pressure is too much for Tufts.  Having said that, they were starting to settle down and connect the ball better, especially toward the end of the half.  As my theory goes, high pressure only works for the half.  Will be interesting here in the second as thing start to open up.
   Start of the second half.
   Tufts places 4 or five players inside the six, with one stepping to near post on the kick.  There are three additional players at the 18.  Probably have a number of options on the corner, depending on how Williams defends.
   Tufts has someone with a dangerous long throw who can get it in front of goal.  Effective at creating some danger, but also get a few corners.
   Tufts moving the ball a lot better this half, and Williams is on the back foot. 
   Tufts gets the ball out wide, after a couple of passes, ball is crossed in and ends up far post.  Tufts player chest the ball and one time it for maybe 8 yards out and buries it in the back of the net.  Tufts 1, Williams 0  40 minutes left.
   Williams looks like they are fighting for dear life.  They try to break out fast but Tufts handling much better this half.
   Tufts getting very dangerous on corners.  Have multiple looks that Williams struggles with.
   32 minutes and Williams makes 4 subs.  Think they are trying to change how this game is going.
   Tufts is imposing its soccer on Williams.  With press, don't think Williams is particularly effective.
   This reminds me of the last game I watched NYU v Montclair.  Montclair pressed but as the game wore on, NYU started to figure out how to play, until they scored in OT.  In a 3 month season, pressing alone is too unreliable.  You need some soccer players out there.  Granted it's a theory of mine.... Need more time to validate.
   21 minutes left.  Tufts doesn't make mistakes in the back for the most part.  Williams isn't having much luck on the attack since they launch the ball hoping for a bad play or a lucky bounce, but Tufts isn't having any of it.
   Getting a little sloppy right now.  Neither team has control.
   Williams with a sense of urgency with 13 left.  But again, so long as Tufts keeps the play in front, Williams will get nowhere.
   Think I am done with this one.  Think Tufts is definitely the better and the way it has been going, they should be able to close this one out.
   I'm out.  4 minutes left.

The #5 you mentioned is Calvin Aroh who along with German at Amherst is the best player in the country. He comes across as slow at times on film but when you watch in person you see is everywhere defensively and breaks up counter attacks single handedly. Then with the ball he is very clean, mainly keeps it simple and helps set the pace for Tufts along with 13 van Brewer.

Craptastic half by NPU's backliners, who looked their age (they're all freshmen, although Christian Vaaland was around for last spring's scrimmage season) for the first time this year. Two bad mistakes by the backs, one leading to a switchover to an open man coming up on the right and a run-of-play goal, and the other leading to a 20-yard free kick deflected in off the wall, put the Vikings in an early hole. They got a nice free-kick header to grab one back, but the fact that the goal was scored by the little-used Oscar Säfström tells you that NPU head coach Kris Grahn was pretty disgusted by what he saw early and went to his bench pretty liberally.

Wash U is playing very smart and is picking its spots up top very well. They look like the veteran team of the two thus far, even though North Park has a lot of experience in Olsen, Ericsson, Knap, Lundeen, and Barriga.

Quote from: d4_Pace on September 11, 2021, 06:03:37 PM
The #5 you mentioned is Calvin Aroh who along with German at Amherst is the best player in the country. He comes across as slow at times on film but when you watch in person you see is everywhere defensively and breaks up counter attacks single handedly. Then with the ball he is very clean, mainly keeps it simple and helps set the pace for Tufts along with 13 van Brewer.

My favorite kind of center mid.  I am amazed that more teams  don't look for a player of similar type.  Not seeing too many with a good solid defensive center mid.  Does the dirty work that no one notices, until he is there.  I was very impressed with him.

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 11, 2021, 06:04:08 PM
Craptastic half by NPU's backliners, who looked their age (they're all freshmen, although Christian Vaaland was around for last spring's scrimmage season) for the first time this year. Two bad mistakes by the backs, one leading to a switchover to an open man coming up on the right and a run-of-play goal, and the other leading to a 20-yard free kick deflected in off the wall, put the Vikings in an early hole. They got a nice free-kick header to grab one back, but the fact that the goal was scored by the little-used Oscar Säfström tells you that NPU head coach Kris Grahn was pretty disgusted by what he saw early and went to his bench pretty liberally.

Wash U is playing very smart and is picking its spots up top very well. They look like the veteran team of the two thus far, even though North Park has a lot of experience in Olsen, Ericsson, Knap, Lundeen, and Barriga.

Actually think they can play, but don't seem to have a sense of urgency with the ball.  Not to mention, WashU has them in a position where they can just sit back and wait for NPU to force the ball and pick it up from there.

NPU now chasing two again, as Wash U scored off of a crossbar ricochet with twelve minutes to go.

North Park v Washington         5:00
Washington
Bias? – I know not of North Park, and my niece went to Washington University.

   31 in.  North Park 0, WashU 1.
   Just tuned in and WashU had a dead ball outside the box and drilled a ball that found its way into the back of the net.  North Park 0, WashU 2
   That was a screamer of a shot.
   North Park too slow.
   Bouncing in and out so now I see its North Park 1, WashU 2.  Will pay better attention in the 2nd half.
   9 minutes left. Pace has picked up for NP and are getting dangerous.
   NP does move the ball in the midfield well.  WashU seems to be defending quite a bit and don't have the energy they had earlier in the half.
   WashU needs to get and keep control of the ball.  NPU doesn't send the ball long very often.  Move up as a team.  Vulnerable when they lose it.
   NPU defends with 8.
   NPU spreads the field and tries to isolate a man one on one.
   WashU defend with 9.
   NPU has a few talented players in the middle.  Can really dictate the play when they have the ball.
   Neither team is getting terribly dangerous.  This is a battle for control of the ball in the middle of the field.
   Halftime.  North Park University 1, Washington University 2.
   WashU is perfectly content keeping NPU in front of them.  With 37 left, they can afford to be focused on keeping the ball in front of them.
   NPU needs to move more quickly.... Quicker ... or just quickly.  Sort of just letting WashU have this game.
   WashU being disciplined and not letting themselves get caught out of shape or pressed to high up the field.  If I were the coach of NPU I would have my wings as far wide as possible and try to get them the ball.  Force some movement.  Alas, I am not said coach.
   NPU is trying to force it even when they are in good spaces.  25 minutes left.
   WashU has to be careful with silly turnovers that NPU can take advantage of in the final third.  Couple sloppy passes led to some sticky situations in front of goal.
   NPU going up against a wall of 7 players at times.  Makes that last pass very difficult to make.
   By and large, think NPU had the better of the play in the second half, but WashU is very disciplined defensively.
   And WashU takes advantage of a free kick that bounced around and buries it with 12 minutes left.  North Park University 1, Washington U 3.
   Think that's it for me.  10 minutes left.  One more game on the docket....

Quote from: d4_Pace on September 11, 2021, 06:03:37 PM
The #5 you mentioned is Calvin Aroh who along with German at Amherst is the best player in the country. He comes across as slow at times on film but when you watch in person you see is everywhere defensively and breaks up counter attacks single handedly. Then with the ball he is very clean, mainly keeps it simple and helps set the pace for Tufts along with 13 van Brewer.

Is he also known as King Calvin? Word is he loves the grand entrance....Frosh have to carry the big King down to the field on gamedays...It takes 4 of them...people say they can hear each Frosh mumbling under his breath the whole way...Apparently, Aroh hearing the mumbling demands silence ..It is a whole production especially for D3 soccer but I suppose Yes I would rather him on my team as well.

NPU gets one back again, but there's only 47 seconds left.

Disappointing loss for NPU. Wash U was simply more disciplined in the back third today than the Vikings were. Both teams kept nice shape defensively, but a couple too many mistakes in the back by the Vikings against a Bears team that is much more opportunistic than Wash U has been in recent seasons. Even so, there were plenty of chances to be had, as the Vikings did a nice job in particular at working the left touchline with Lundeen and then pinching in at the midpoint of the box, but they couldn't connect.

It would not shock me if these two teams saw each other again somewhere down the road.

Quote from: d4_Pace on September 11, 2021, 06:03:37 PM
The #5 you mentioned is Calvin Aroh who along with German at Amherst is the best player in the country. He comes across as slow at times on film but when you watch in person you see is everywhere defensively and breaks up counter attacks single handedly. Then with the ball he is very clean, mainly keeps it simple and helps set the pace for Tufts along with 13 van Brewer.

The claim of best player in the country certainly could be true, but not sure how you can make that judgment.  Is he better than van Brewer?  Not any players from the West Coast who might be in the running?  One or two from Messiah or Calvin?  Hector Gomez from OWU?  No one in the entire UAA?

Quote from: PaulNewman on September 11, 2021, 07:30:31 PM

Quote from: d4_Pace on September 11, 2021, 06:03:37 PM
The #5 you mentioned is Calvin Aroh who along with German at Amherst is the best player in the country. He comes across as slow at times on film but when you watch in person you see is everywhere defensively and breaks up counter attacks single handedly. Then with the ball he is very clean, mainly keeps it simple and helps set the pace for Tufts along with 13 van Brewer.

The claim of best player in the country certainly could be true, but not sure how you can make that judgment.  Is he better than van Brewer?  Not any players from the West Coast who might be in the running?  One or two from Messiah or Calvin?  Hector Gomez from OWU?  No one in the entire UAA?

And, although NPU's Peder Olsen didn't have a great game today, he's a box-to-box midfielder who has scored well over 100 points over the course of his career

Thanks guys for the thoughts on the game in St. Louis today.

Expectations are as high as they have been in years so no surprises here.

A quick shot out to Matt Martin who had two go by him today, but is otherwise a very steady between the posts.

Messiah v Muhlenberg            7:00
Muhlenberg
Bias? – Handel was a heck of a composer, and I coached a player at Muhlenberg.

   Love the grass field.   Looks like it has a fungus issue though in the one corner.
   Impressed with how Messiah moves the ball and keeps control.  Muhlenberg chasing right now.
   Muhlenberg just can't get control of the ball.
   Lose about 30 out, and a Messiah player slides to pass the ball out wide left.  Rather than mindlessly cross the ball, he passes it on the ground to the 18 to player with his back to the goal.  #6 from Muhlenberg has the opportunity to clear the ball but hits it to the far side to a Muhlenberg player who takes a touch and hits a beautiful ball far post for the first goal of the game.  Keeper had no chance.  Messiah 1, Muhlenberg 0.  40 minutes left in the half.
   Messiah is very intelligent on the press from Muhlenberg.  Use it against them in one-on-one situations.
   With 37 minutes left, Muhlenberg looks average.  Messiah at a different level.  They understand where everyone is supposed to be.  Meanwhile Muhlenberg just dives into every play.
   Messiah keeper is a little shaky on corners.
   Messiah takes a touch to control the ball, then a touch to pass it.  As a result they move the ball too quickly for Muhlenberg to react in midfield.  With 28 left they seem to be owning the game.
   Also enjoy that they aim to get the ball on the deck as soon as possible. 
   Messiah also always goes to space whether they are passing it, or going into traffic, they are always turning away from pressure.
   I could see Muhlenberg picking up a scrappy goal because Messiah can be too cute for their own good.
   And like that Muhlenberg wins a tackle and ball goes to a forward who faces up a defender, touches it right, and buries it back stick from about the 18.  24 minutes left in the half.  Messiah 1, Muhlenberg 1.
   Muhlenberg's goal was the result of grit, and a talented forward.  Don't think they have done much beyond that.
   Messiah looks a little rattled after the goal.  Need to get some composure back.
   Don't dive in, don't dive in, don't dive in.
   Messiah is the much better soccer team.  Muhlenberg is the much better college soccer team.
   15 minutes left.  Messiah basically subs the entire team in two or three waves.  And didn't skip a beat.  What luxury.
   Defensively, Messiah seems to have a lot of miscommunication between the midfield and defenders.  Its your ball ... no its your ... no, yours....
   Muhlenberg thrives when it is a bit chaotic.  Its evened out and now is a battle for control of the midfield.  Think Messiah still has the edge, but Muhlenberg making much tougher for them.
   Halftime
   Messiah moves so well off the ball, anticipating how a play can develop.  Pretty impressive to see.  Just break down in the final third.  Looking for the perfect pass.
   The center back Muhlenberg captain is very good.
   Every time Messiah has the ball, there are stretches where it just looks like a big game of keep away.  How Muhlenberg is able to keep up is beyond me.  They really haven't threatened for 20 minutes.
   Messiah works the ball down their right side a lot.  Looking to spring the wing behind the defender so he can cross the ball.  If I were the coach would be calling for them to look to exploit the gaps between the two center backs.  They look a little ragged.
   Not sure they realize it but the more Messiah slows the ball down in the attack, the easier it is to defend against.
   Messiah has this kid called McDonald .. I think.  He is a pretty good imposing forward.
   Muhlenberg may not have hear me the first time.... Don't dive in, don't dive in, don't dive in.
   8 minutes left and can totally see this game ending.
   Messiah keeper has a mullet.
   Gotten a bit chaotic again.
   Game is deadlocked at 1.  End of 2nd half.  On to OT.  Second game in one day heading into OT.
   Could see this playing out and remaining 1-1.  Although a defensive error could happen...
   I stand corrected, Messiah keeper is very good.  Great distribution.
   End of first OT.
   At this point, think I am done.  Think Messiah is a heck of a team that is easily in the top 5.  Only reason I am not saying the best is because they don't seem to have a clear path to scoring.  Might just be the game.
   Ok.  8 left and calling it an evening.

Ok.  Now it's the Top 33.  Not sure I will be able to catch any games over the next few days, but will try.

   As of 9.12.2021
1   Messiah
2   Amherst
3   NYU
4   Tufts
5   Ohio Wesleyan
6   Calvin
7   Washington University
8   Franklin & Marshall
9   Montclair State
10   Hope
11   Muhlenberg
12   North Park
13   Carnegie Mellon
14   Williams
15   Ohio Northern
16   Haverford
17   Emory
18   Stockton
19   Willamette
20   Washington & Lee
21   Plattsburgh
22   John Carroll
23   Mount Union
24   Clarkson
25   Trine
26   Catholic
27   Mary Hardin Baylor
28   Rutgers-Newark
29   Cabrini
30   Bates
31   Cairn
32   Eastern Connecticut
33   Marymount

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 11, 2021, 09:10:04 PM
Messiah v Muhlenberg            7:00
Muhlenberg
Bias? – Handel was a heck of a composer, and I coached a player at Muhlenberg.

   Love the grass field.   Looks like it has a fungus issue though in the one corner.
   Impressed with how Messiah moves the ball and keeps control.  Muhlenberg chasing right now.
   Muhlenberg just can't get control of the ball.
   Lose about 30 out, and a Messiah player slides to pass the ball out wide left.  Rather than mindlessly cross the ball, he passes it on the ground to the 18 to player with his back to the goal.  #6 from Muhlenberg has the opportunity to clear the ball but hits it to the far side to a Muhlenberg player who takes a touch and hits a beautiful ball far post for the first goal of the game.  Keeper had no chance.  Messiah 1, Muhlenberg 0.  40 minutes left in the half.
   Messiah is very intelligent on the press from Muhlenberg.  Use it against them in one-on-one situations.
   With 37 minutes left, Muhlenberg looks average.  Messiah at a different level.  They understand where everyone is supposed to be.  Meanwhile Muhlenberg just dives into every play.
   Messiah keeper is a little shaky on corners.
   Messiah takes a touch to control the ball, then a touch to pass it.  As a result they move the ball too quickly for Muhlenberg to react in midfield.  With 28 left they seem to be owning the game.
   Also enjoy that they aim to get the ball on the deck as soon as possible. 
   Messiah also always goes to space whether they are passing it, or going into traffic, they are always turning away from pressure.
   I could see Muhlenberg picking up a scrappy goal because Messiah can be too cute for their own good.
   And like that Muhlenberg wins a tackle and ball goes to a forward who faces up a defender, touches it right, and buries it back stick from about the 18.  24 minutes left in the half.  Messiah 1, Muhlenberg 1.
   Muhlenberg's goal was the result of grit, and a talented forward.  Don't think they have done much beyond that.
   Messiah looks a little rattled after the goal.  Need to get some composure back.
   Don't dive in, don't dive in, don't dive in.
   Messiah is the much better soccer team.  Muhlenberg is the much better college soccer team.
   15 minutes left.  Messiah basically subs the entire team in two or three waves.  And didn't skip a beat.  What luxury.
   Defensively, Messiah seems to have a lot of miscommunication between the midfield and defenders.  Its your ball ... no its your ... no, yours....
   Muhlenberg thrives when it is a bit chaotic.  Its evened out and now is a battle for control of the midfield.  Think Messiah still has the edge, but Muhlenberg making much tougher for them.
   Halftime
   Messiah moves so well off the ball, anticipating how a play can develop.  Pretty impressive to see.  Just break down in the final third.  Looking for the perfect pass.
   The center back Muhlenberg captain is very good.
   Every time Messiah has the ball, there are stretches where it just looks like a big game of keep away.  How Muhlenberg is able to keep up is beyond me.  They really haven't threatened for 20 minutes.
   Messiah works the ball down their right side a lot.  Looking to spring the wing behind the defender so he can cross the ball.  If I were the coach would be calling for them to look to exploit the gaps between the two center backs.  They look a little ragged.
   Not sure they realize it but the more Messiah slows the ball down in the attack, the easier it is to defend against.
   Messiah has this kid called McDonald .. I think.  He is a pretty good imposing forward.
   Muhlenberg may not have hear me the first time.... Don't dive in, don't dive in, don't dive in.
   8 minutes left and can totally see this game ending.
   Messiah keeper has a mullet.
   Gotten a bit chaotic again.
   Game is deadlocked at 1.  End of 2nd half.  On to OT.  Second game in one day heading into OT.
   Could see this playing out and remaining 1-1.  Although a defensive error could happen...
   I stand corrected, Messiah keeper is very good.  Great distribution.
   End of first OT.
   At this point, think I am done.  Think Messiah is a heck of a team that is easily in the top 5.  Only reason I am not saying the best is because they don't seem to have a clear path to scoring.  Might just be the game.
   Ok.  8 left and calling it an evening.

What I learned from this match:

-anything can happen in soccer (did you see Coach Topping's I-just-got-away-with-shoplifting smile?).
-That's no mere mullet on the GK: that's a full-blown 1986 Inter Milan soccer rocker. He should be carded every match for that travesty ;D ;D.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 11, 2021, 09:10:04 PM
   I could see Muhlenberg picking up a scrappy goal because Messiah can be too cute for their own good.
   Messiah moves so well off the ball, anticipating how a play can develop.  Pretty impressive to see.  Just break down in the final third.  Looking for the perfect pass.
   Not sure they realize it but the more Messiah slows the ball down in the attack, the easier it is to defend against.
   At this point, think I am done.  Think Messiah is a heck of a team that is easily in the top 5.  Only reason I am not saying the best is because they don't seem to have a clear path to scoring.  Might just be the game.

These observations echo those of Messiah fans like myself over the past decade. In the early to mid-2000's, pace and urgency in attack featured a lot more than it does now (Nick West's high-scoring senior year excepted).  Since becoming a national power, Messiah has always valued possession, but over time they seem to have became more risk-averse. Sometimes it seems to me that players are more afraid to make mistakes than they are willing to try to make something happen.

Quote from: Flying Weasel on September 12, 2021, 02:23:26 PM

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 11, 2021, 09:10:04 PM
   I could see Muhlenberg picking up a scrappy goal because Messiah can be too cute for their own good.
   Messiah moves so well off the ball, anticipating how a play can develop.  Pretty impressive to see.  Just break down in the final third.  Looking for the perfect pass.
   Not sure they realize it but the more Messiah slows the ball down in the attack, the easier it is to defend against.
   At this point, think I am done.  Think Messiah is a heck of a team that is easily in the top 5.  Only reason I am not saying the best is because they don't seem to have a clear path to scoring.  Might just be the game.

These observations echo those of Messiah fans like myself over the past decade. In the early to mid-2000's, pace and urgency in attack featured a lot more than it does now (Nick West's high-scoring senior year excepted).  Since becoming a national power, Messiah has always valued possession, but over time they seem to have became more risk-averse. Sometimes it seems to me that players are more afraid to make mistakes than they are willing to try to make something happen.

I can see that, but regardless, their play is pretty special.

Will say, it dawned on me that they could looking for that perfect play when in the second half, one of the guys was about 30 out and moving the ball forward.  There was a center forward who had a man maybe 5 yards away but the passing lane and the area he could take his touch was wide open.  Perfect opening to exploit literally right down the middle.  Instead?  He pass it out wide for a winger to whip the ball in.  I couldn't have drawn up a more perfect scenario for a player to slot it right down the middle.

Calvin lost to Carthage last night 1-0.  Calvin didn't look great in my opinion.  Shots on goal 9-3 in favor of Carthage.  Calvin played 200 minutes of soccer this weekend and didn't find the back of the net.

Wheaton v Connecticut College
Wheaton
Bias? – No need for Gluten Free food and my son was recruited (Did not go)

1.   Joined 25 in when Conn just scored.  Sent a ball EDP in the box in a free kick, attacker headed the ball before Keeper punched the ball out.  Wheaton 0, Connecticut 1
2.   Lovely grass field.
3.   Connecticut looks to own more of the ball. When they don't have the ball they press high.  Wheaton struggles to gain/keep possession.
4.   Wheaton resorting to sending deep balls to the corner.
5.   Wheaton tries but falls short on connecting with the ball.
6.   Connecticut doesn't seem to have its back line organizes.  Can get behind them or catch them jumping in.
7.   Connecticut does get some good play on the ball.
8.   Wheaton has a couple of dead balls that they float into the box.  If Connecticut is going to foul, they should do so farther from the 18.  They could get dangerous.
9.   Connecticut is a bit more disorganized defensively.
10.   Halftime. Wheaton 0, Connecticut 1
11.   Not even 1 minute in, Connecticut is called for tripping a forward in the box.  Play developed off of kick off with a short pass that didn't reach its intended target and a Wheaton forward picked up and was heading for a 1 on 1 with the keeper.
12.   Keeper guesses his left, ball goes to his right.  Wheaton 1, Connecticut 1.
13.   Connecticut reeled a little after the goal but has gotten some control back.  Wheaton is defending tight and taking away space.
14.   Not exactly a flowing game.  Seems to go in fits and starts. Wheaton sits until it wins the ball then tries to break forward.
15.   Connecticut is vulnerable in the back.  Midfield and forwards get high looking for the go ahead.  Can make things uncomfortable for them if Wheaton can be disciplined and get forward quickly.
16.   Connecticut is knocking on the door though.  Number of shots just wide.
17.   Feels like Connecticut will score before Wheaton by the way play seems to be going.  25 minutes left.
18.   Anatomy of a goal - Wheaton goal kick.  Goes to midfield where Conn defender goes up and wins the ball but heads it back to the Wheaton midfielder who gets the ball out wide.  Outside back runs on to the ball and launches it up into Connecticut half.  Defender heads the ball back to a Wheaton midfielder who under pressure, drops it to the outside back. Outside back looks to hit a long ball but instead gives it back to the midfielder who is now open because the man marking him tries to guess where he was going to go with the ball.  Midfielder receives the ball and turns, and places a beautiful through ball to a forward running through a gaping hole between the outside back and center back.  Forward runs on to the ball and goes one on one with the keeper and slots the ball past the keeper.  Wheaton 2, Connecticut 1.
19.   Bunch of defensive breakdowns for Connecticut.  First is the midfield was too far up the field and left a pretty wide gap.  This let Wheaton win the ball the first time.  Second was no one pressed the back giving him time to pick his pass.  Third being the man marking in the midfield for Connecticut was woeful.  Again not marking just chasing empty space.  Third the back three were spread very thin and the forward who received the ball and as wide open.
20.   Unfortunately the video feed went down shortly there after and think the game finished out 2-1.
21.   Will try to catch another game this evening.

Got time to take a look at WashU @ Hope tonight? 4:30 eastern/3:30 central. Should be telling in terms of where these two teams fall.

Game Link: https://www.youtube.com/hopeathletics (https://www.youtube.com/hopeathletics)

Quote from: fishercats on September 15, 2021, 09:59:47 AM
Got time to take a look at WashU @ Hope tonight? 4:30 eastern/3:30 central. Should be telling in terms of where these two teams fall.

Game Link: https://www.youtube.com/hopeathletics (https://www.youtube.com/hopeathletics)

@Fishercats.  Sure.  That sounds like a good match up.  I liked both teams when I watched them.

@Fishercats.  Seem to have video issue during the game.  Then I went looking for a recording and its not on the website.  Sorry about that.  Will look to catch other games from both teams.

This is a recorded game from yesterday that I just got around to.

Wartburg v North Central Illinois
Wartburg
Bias? – I've had them on my fingers, and I've been to Naperville for a Chicago Fire game.

   1st half.  Nice stadium.
   Sometimes I think center backs know to move better without the ball then midfielders and forwards.
   Wartburg is trying to take advantage of being the home team.  Excited, but not terribly effective with the ball.  NC is being somewhat disciplined but is really rushing when it has the ball.
   NC being patient when they can, but forwards don't check back to the ball making it a long ball game eventually.
   If I were the head coach for Wartburg, I would arrange it so that one man constantly presses the left back, and a forward is ready to pick up whatever scraps come loose.  Would press real hard and even try to funnel the ball to him.  But no, not the coach.
   What is it with outside backs and poor passing?  This time Wartburg....
   Lots of unforced errors out of the back line for Wartburg.  Fortunately for them they can recover and make up for their mistake.
   NC #21 receives the ball in Wartburg half and floats a ball ahead of and between Wartburg players.  #7 runs on to it and with the keeper coming out, chips it over him for the goal.  Wartburg 0, North Central 1. 
   Wartburg back line is completely undone by the ball over the top.  Kind of surprising.
   Guessing about 30 minutes left.
   Wartburg looks haphazard on defense.  Rather than defending man to man, I think I would be covering space with the amount of players back.  Problem is that they are not terribly organized to make something like that work.  Let the player with the ball come at you .... That's if they can get the ball there.
   Yellow cards are starting to come out.  One for each team.
   If I were North Central, I would be all over the right back....
   Getting a little chippy.  Reckless and late challenges...
   Wartburg is trying to force it a bit.  Obviously want to get back level but are losing good opportunities with the ball because they were forcing it.   Poor distribution decisions.  Need to make North Central chase a little bit and feel more pressure in the back.
   Maybe 5 minutes left and Wartburg had their first real opportunity.  Stretched the defense, got the ball into the box, but shot wide.
   Towards end of the half Wartburg seems to have a greater sense of urgency, but still mostly ineffective in and around goal.  NC has been good at keeping the ball in front of them. 
   Two big central backs for NC don't lose any balls in the air.
   Silly NC foul outside the box for Wartburg.  Ball sent into the middle for a forward, NC center back tries to box him away from the keeper, who was getting the ball no problem, and manages to take him down.  Yellow card and direct kick.  Great opportunity for Wartburg to tie it up.  Literally on the 18.
   Wartburg shooter drives it on the ground into the wall.  Follow up shot goes out for a corner.  Wasted opportunity.  Close enough where I would challenge the keeper and just hit it to his open side.
   Half time.  Am done with this one.... Have firewood to stack.

Ohio Wesleyan v Ohio Northern
Ohio Wesleyan
Bias? – Played against both.

   Always loved this field, even when knocked unconscious.
   Quick break is the way to get at OWU.  Keep them from getting into their defensive shape beforehand.  Too much time and they will become a wall in front of you.
   Even at home they defend with 9, and one player up top.  Premium on the defensive side of the ball.
   On the attack, 4 attackers supported by 4 midfielders about 15 yards behind them.  Always have depth.  Makes it very difficult for ONU to win the ball and do something with it, without launching the ball up top.
   37 minutes left in first half.
   ONU seems to attack with 5 or 6 up top with 2 or 3 in 15 yards back.  Much less organized though.
   Trying to catch OWU off balance defensively, ONU are wasting balls by going long.
   ONU struggling to break OWU down.
   OWU is relatively anemic up top.  Not many chances so far, and not really getting to goal.  Large reason is because of the emphasis they place on defending.  Doesn't lend itself to having enough people up top.  Having said that, they have the talent to put the dagger in when they do get an opportunity.
   And ONU is a mistake away from giving away a goal.  A few mental breakdowns and miscommunications.
   OWU is very effective at not crowding the space of players who are on the ball.  Effectively spreading out the defenders and allowing their teammates to deal with one-on-one situations.
   Against a lesser team, this must be a killer.  Preventing a team from swarming probably throws a lot of teams for a loop.
   Think there were some video issues.  16 minutes remaining.
   Seems like something happened that the film jumped to 13 minutes, and a PK for OWU.  Big man #10 slots it home to the right of the keeper, who went left. Ohio Wesleyan 1, Ohio Northern 0.
   Interesting.  Now that OWU is up 1-0, they are much more cautious on the attack.  Now they sit 4 back, but they will press higher up the field.  Am assuming it is by design, cause Jay Martin is that good of a coach.
   Game just jumped to half for some reason.  So, think I will call it here.
   Ok.  Maybe not.  Just watched an OWU corner, and clearly, they have some plays on the corner.  This one isolated a man up top to head it back into the mix.
   #10 for OWU is a handful.  Real effective with receiving ball at his feet and either turning of holding it up and making a pass.
   ONU moving the ball better in the half, but just not able to get that next pass before they are closed down.
   OWU still is just always a play away from scoring. 
   With 28 minutes left, ONU is trying to get an attack going... but forgetting about defending effectively.  OWU getting closer.... More dangerous.  Meanwhile OWU keeper should get a fruity drink with one of those little umbrellas in it ...
   Think OWU is one, if not the most positionally disciplined teams I have watched since August.  Their weakness however is on the other side of the ball.  Don't see as clearly what they try to do on attack. Again, could be the game plan to be conservative because ONU is traditionally a strong Ohio team.
   17 left.  ONU keeps trying but can't.
   Something happened with the video and the second goal was not recorded.  On that note... Ohio Wesleyan 2, Ohio Northern 0.
   This time, I am out.

Moravian v Dickinson College
Moravian – John Makuvek Field
Bias? – I've been to Bethlehem, and I am a huge fan of the actor.

   This game is from September 4th.
   Dickinson keeper is a bit ... reckless coming off his line.
   Dickinson trying to work the ball.  More effective than Moravian.
   Moravian struggles with the ball early on.  But Dickinson keeps having defensive lapses that Moravian pounces on.
   Dickinson midfield chases the ball ... all three shift over to one side, then if the ball comes out quick, leaves defenders on their own.
   Dickinson owns a little more of the ball, but Moravian is growing into the game and is getting closer to the goal.
   Moravian center backs are vulnerable to pressure. 
   Nobody seems to like the referee....
   Moravian keeper in suspect.  Would start peppering him from distance.
   Attacks for Moravian seem to rely mostly on two players to work the ball as best they can.  Don't have the support and usually outnumbered.  One of them is skillful and works his way through the backs effectively.
   Lot's of flopping going on... from both teams.
   16 minutes left.
   No rhyme or reason to how Moravian defends.  Some guys just fill space.  Back four plus three midfielders, but the back line doesn't work in tandem with the midfield.  Kind of each doing their own thing.  Need to bait the midfield to move, then have someone run through between the defenders.
   If I had a dime for every time the announcer had to say "Ball over the top" when Moravian had the ball in the back and was looking to make a play ....
   Ok. Halftime at 0-0.  Will call it.  Maybe catch another more recent game for each.  If I had to call it now, I think Dickinson is the better soccer team, Moravian the better college soccer team.

Drew University v. The College of New Jersey
Drew University
Bias? – Had a number of friends attend and play ball there.

   Nice stadium, having been there in the past.
   Drew is on the front foot, trying to get something going on the attack.  Only five minutes in but TCNJ just not connecting.
   TCNJ has a seemingly very lazy forward.
   Drew is doing a better job of moving off the ball.
   First real opportunity for TCNJ, 10 minutes in, comes off a foul from about 24 yards out.  Shot goes straight into the wall.
   Honestly, I would have expected more in the ten minutes I've been watching from TCNJ.  Great school, excellent facilities ... would have thought the talent it brought on would be ... more?  Doesn't play with purpose or definition.
   Meanwhile Drew is working the space and give and goes in a much more coordinated fashion.
   See Drew drawing first blood.  Just needs that last pass to connect.
   TCNJ only presses with the one forward.  Ends up sitting deep to defend and really can't mount anything serious on the attack because they lack numbers.  If I were the Drew head coach, I would be purposely spreading they as wide as possible and just slot balls in between defenders.  But, not my gig.
   Drew laying siege to the TCNJ 18.  TCNJ strategy is to kick and hope to give them some sort of reprieve.
   Drew showing some patience on the ball.  Target man up top works into positions to receive the ball and hold it up for runners.  Also try to get their center mids involved with the ball at midfield rather than push them up so high.  TCNJ lets them have at it.
   Any opportunities from TCNJ are long range shots that don't seem to unsettle the goalkeeper.
   Drew target man looks for his teammates to make runs off the ball.  Comes with varied success.
   And like that, ball is sent out wide to winger who drives a ball across the 6, and #6 buries the ball thanks to some lazy defending.  Defender let himself get beat to the ball.
   Drew 1, College of New Jersey 0
   Goal stirred TCNJ a bit more.
   And like that, foul from 40 yards out, TCNJ floats a ball to the 12, where #23 is left unmarked.  Keeper gets caught in no man's land and #23 heads the ball and manages to land in the back of the net.  Drew 1, College of New Jersey 1.  2 minutes left in the half.
   And with that, Halftime all tied at 1.
   My reaction to TCNJ is like the one I had with North Central and Catholic U.  I was expecting a lot better.  Think both those teams are better versions of TCNJ.  Perhaps conversation for another day for schools that are not as good as they should be.
   Anyhow, I'm out.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 17, 2021, 08:50:34 AM
   Honestly, I would have expected more in the ten minutes I've been watching from TCNJ.  Great school, excellent facilities ... would have thought the talent it brought on would be ... more?  Doesn't play with purpose or definition.
   Perhaps conversation for another day for schools that are not as good as they should be.

Yup.  I had thought TCNJ would be a good option for my son.  Very good school with nice facilities (although soccer has moved back to the football field - leaving the small stadium field to the field hockey team).   TCNJ was a great program in the past so I'm not sure what happened to them.  Son was turned off after meeting with coach and team.  Coach has zero personality, and the players only wanted to talk about how they're the academic leader of the NJAC while all the other NJAC schools are safeties.  Such a shame.

Quote from: Ejay on September 17, 2021, 09:10:18 AM

Yup.  I had thought TCNJ would be a good option for my son.  Very good school with nice facilities (although soccer has moved back to the football field - leaving the small stadium field to the field hockey team).   TCNJ was a great program in the past so I'm not sure what happened to them.  Son was turned off after meeting with coach and team.  Coach has zero personality, and the players only wanted to talk about how they're the academic leader of the NJAC while all the other NJAC schools are safeties.  Such a shame.
[/quote]

I have heard this before as well.  And I do remember when they were contenders back in the day.  Interesting how programs can take a turn for the worse when there is so much going for it.  Didn't know they moved out of the small stadium.  Wonder why anyone would want to play in a football stadium.  Am on a mission to get soccer programs to push for their own homes wherever they can.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 17, 2021, 11:08:54 AM

Quote from: Ejay on September 17, 2021, 09:10:18 AM
Yup.  I had thought TCNJ would be a good option for my son.  Very good school with nice facilities (although soccer has moved back to the football field - leaving the small stadium field to the field hockey team).   TCNJ was a great program in the past so I'm not sure what happened to them.  Son was turned off after meeting with coach and team.  Coach has zero personality, and the players only wanted to talk about how they're the academic leader of the NJAC while all the other NJAC schools are safeties.  Such a shame.

I have heard this before as well.  And I do remember when they were contenders back in the day.  Interesting how programs can take a turn for the worse when there is so much going for it.  Didn't know they moved out of the small stadium.  Wonder why anyone would want to play in a football stadium.  Am on a mission to get soccer programs to push for their own homes wherever they can.

It's simply not feasible for a lot of D3 schools -- perhaps even most of them -- due to space and/or financial considerations.

I'd love to see North Park get a soccer-only stadium, but the chances of it ever happening are extremely remote. The three wealthiest schools in the CCIW (Wheaton, Illinois Wesleyan, and Augustana) each has a soccer-only stadium, but Carroll, Carthage, Elmhurst, Millikin, North Central, and North Park all lack the room for one. And the only school of those six that I think has the financial resources to pay for enough extra land to create a soccer-stadium footprint and then to construct one on it is North Central, and I'm pretty sure that NCC's big athletics donors are tapped out after paying for the school's new indoor track & field facility.

And keep in mind that this is the CCIW we're talking about, which is one of the better-resourced D3 leagues in the midwest. Good luck with persuading the more impoverished D3 schools in this part of the country to build soccer-only stadia, even if there's enough empty land in the vicinity of the campus for them to possibly acquire. Higher education is in a period of retrenchment now, with student-age demographics declining in the U.S. and an uncertain economic climate making the people who run institutions of higher learning wary about sinking a lot of money into something like a soccer stadium. In the bigger picture, a soccer stadium probably doesn't bear much perceived value to the student body as compared to, say, a new science building or a student rec center.

The two UAA schools in our neighborhood, Chicago and Wash U, both play men's soccer on football/soccer hybrid fields as well -- and we're talking about two schools that have endowments of $10 billion and $8.5 billion, respectively. (Chicago also has grass soccer fields laid out in their baseball/softball/lacrosse space.) But I doubt that there's any interest in building soccer-only stadia at either of those schools (although perhaps WUPHF knows something that I don't regarding Wash U's plans in the athletics resource development sphere).

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 17, 2021, 11:51:49 AM

It's simply not feasible for a lot of D3 schools -- perhaps even most of them -- due to space and/or financial considerations.

I'd love to see North Park get a soccer-only stadium, but the chances of it ever happening are extremely remote. The three wealthiest schools in the CCIW (Wheaton, Illinois Wesleyan, and Augustana) each has a soccer-only stadium, but Carroll, Carthage, Elmhurst, Millikin, North Central, and North Park all lack the room for one. And the only school of those six that I think has the financial resources to pay for enough extra land to create a soccer-stadium footprint and then to construct one on it is North Central, and I'm pretty sure that NCC's big athletics donors are tapped out after paying for the school's new indoor track & field facility.

And keep in mind that this is the CCIW we're talking about, which is one of the better-resourced D3 leagues in the midwest. Good luck with persuading the more impoverished D3 schools in this part of the country to build soccer-only stadia, even if there's enough empty land in the vicinity of the campus for them to possibly acquire. Higher education is in a period of retrenchment now, with student-age demographics declining in the U.S. and an uncertain economic climate making the people who run institutions of higher learning wary about sinking a lot of money into something like a soccer stadium. In the bigger picture, a soccer stadium probably doesn't bear much perceived value to the student body as compared to, say, a new science building or a student rec center.

The two UAA schools in our neighborhood, Chicago and Wash U, both play men's soccer on football/soccer hybrid fields as well -- and we're talking about two schools that have endowments of $10 billion and $8.5 billion, respectively. (Chicago also has grass soccer fields laid out in their baseball/softball/lacrosse space.) But I doubt that there's any interest in building soccer-only stadia at either of those schools (although perhaps WUPHF knows something that I don't regarding Wash U's plans in the athletics resource development sphere).

@Gregory Sager, totally get the landscape and the challenges for many schools.  And in some respects the multi-purpose field makes the most economic/space sense.  I get this is mostly a case by case basis, but have to start somewhere ... But for the Grace of God, there go I.

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 17, 2021, 11:51:49 AM
But I doubt that there's any interest in building soccer-only stadia at either of those schools (although perhaps WUPHF knows something that I don't regarding Wash U's plans in the athletics resource development sphere).

Washington University is way too enamored by the historic Francis Olympic Field (and the Francis Field House backdrop) to move soccer elsewhere.

I believe the briefly considered it after purchasing the Christian Brother High School property.  They do get a lot of fans in the stands who just happen to be walking by and that would not happen at the other campus.

I believe Case Western Reserve has a separate soccer-only field that doubles as a recreation field for intramurals and such.  I may be wrong though.

 ???

Because I have nothing better to do with my life, I went back and looked at some of my game notes and noticed I make a lot of references to passing and if a team is wasteful or efficient with their passes.  And being that I am thinking of these things, I went back to those games and took a look at two 5 minute stretches for particular teams to see just how efficient they were with the ball.  Now, there are 100 different variables at play, but I tried to look at what I would deemed to be competitive games.

Game One

First 5 minutes
29 Total Passes; 9 bad passes that resulted in turn overs.
Second five minutes
4 Total Passes; 1 bad pass that resulted in a turn over.

Game Two

First 5 Minutes
21 Total Passes; 2 bad passes that resulted in turn overs.
Second Five Minutes
18 Total Passes; 4 bad passes that resulted in turn overs.

By my rudimentary stats, game one had about a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio of good passes to bad passes.  Game two was more like 9:1 or 7:2 ratio of good passes to bad passes.  Would say that there was a level of consistency in game two that game one clearly did not have.

Now differences between the two games?  One I would define as a Top 75 game, and game two a Top Ten game.  In each game, the team I watched won.

Going forward may try to do this non-scientific exercise for each team to identify what I believe to be a pattern, but with no real basis in numbers.  Again, as I stated in my first post, this is an exercise in trying to prove my own thoughts on the game, wrong.

Not sure it says much about the game yet, but definitely says a lot about me ... :o

Added after original post - Managed to take a look at another game.

Game Three

First 5 Minutes
43 Total Passes; 9 bad passes that resulted in turn overs.
Second Five Minutes
15 Total Passes; 5 bad passes that resulted in turn overs.

5:1 or 3:1 ratio of good passes to bad passes.  The team I watched I would say is a Top 50 team.

Quote from: WUPHF on September 17, 2021, 02:06:25 PM

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 17, 2021, 11:51:49 AM
But I doubt that there's any interest in building soccer-only stadia at either of those schools (although perhaps WUPHF knows something that I don't regarding Wash U's plans in the athletics resource development sphere).

Washington University is way too enamored by the historic Francis Olympic Field (and the Francis Field House backdrop) to move soccer elsewhere.

That is an awfully attractive backdrop for a soccer game.

Don't think I've ever seen a backdrop for a soccer game that compares to Washington & Lee's, though.

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 17, 2021, 03:56:33 PM

Quote from: WUPHF on September 17, 2021, 02:06:25 PM

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 17, 2021, 11:51:49 AM
But I doubt that there's any interest in building soccer-only stadia at either of those schools (although perhaps WUPHF knows something that I don't regarding Wash U's plans in the athletics resource development sphere).

Washington University is way too enamored by the historic Francis Olympic Field (and the Francis Field House backdrop) to move soccer elsewhere.

That is an awfully attractive backdrop for a soccer game.

Don't think I've ever seen a backdrop for a soccer game that compares to Washington & Lee's, though.

Watt Field is a heck of a facility. Soccer specific, natural grass, stadium feel with the fence and stands, Blue Ridge in the background, upper class housing right there... The whole outdoor athletic complex has cost a fortune in the last 25 years, but the facilities are amazing. I haven't been back since the new indoor and rebuilt indoor facilities opened over the last couple years, but from what I hear they don't take a backseat to anyone either.  I guess it's easier when you are drowning in endowment.

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 17, 2021, 03:56:33 PM
That is an awfully attractive backdrop for a soccer game.

Fun CCIW fact: that part of the gym most visible housed the original 1904 gym.  They considered hosting Olympic related basketball games on Francis Field, but moved them indoors due to the weather.  The Olympics hosted both a YMCA and college basketball class.  Hiram defeated Wheaton (IL) for the Gold.

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 17, 2021, 03:56:33 PM
That is an awfully attractive backdrop for a soccer game.

Don't think I've ever seen a backdrop for a soccer game that compares to Washington & Lee's, though.

I haven't been to W&L (yet, although I've seen it on the stream), but of D3 venues I've been to in person, I rate WUSTL, Williams, and SUNY Oneonta highly on backdrop attractiveness.

Aside from backdrop, in terms of really nice soccer facilities, I have to think Hope is in the top 5-6.  Trinity (TX) looks solid.  Centre has an impressive new set-up, and DePauw and Wabash look pretty cool.  As a viewer, I've been impressed with Lynchburg, Roanoke, and I think Kzoo.  Lights for any non-football lined soccer field are sweet.  I'm gonna guess that Colorado College has both a nice field and a phenomenal view, and I imagine a couple of California and Washington state schools are competitive.  I get that football lines are understandable, but that doesn't mean a viewer or spectator is gonna like it (ever).  Already dreading seeing the CWRU football lines tomorrow, just as I do when thinking about tuning into to John Carroll matches.

Calvin College v. Emory
Emory
Bias? – Second time watching both teams.

   Emory gets the ball up top and defends from there.  Makes it harder for Calvin to string anything together.  Calvin seems to like to move the ball but is not decisive enough.  10 minutes in.
   Emory can move the ball in large part because Calvin seems so passive defensively.  Letting Emory take control.
   #23 from Calvin is a player.
   When they do get to move it, Calvin can be very effective.  Game is playing for Emory's benefit.
   As the magic 15 minutes passes, Calvin is settling in and keeping some of the ball.  Still force it at times, but they are starting to get it.
   Calvin works well off the ball.  Reminds me of Williams.
   Ugh internet issues.
   Picking up in the second half, still tied at 0-0.  37 minutes left.
   Emory defends back with 8. 
   Calvin seems to be moving the ball with greater ease and keeps Emory packed back.
   Emory is caught winning the ball, but with no real options.  Calvin is being stretched side to side and loses it counterattack because they are spread so thin and deep.
   Calvin is going at the outside back, specifically at the Emory right back who is struggling with #7.
   Calvin keeper is ginormous.
   Emory on counters only has two maybe three are up top but are defended by four.  By the time the others join in the attack, Calvin is settled in defensively.
   Calvin always has four players looking for short passes around the ball.  A winger occupying the outside back, then an outside back deep but out the far side waiting for the long switch.
   Only issue I see with Clavin is while they can move the ball in the middle, don't think the forwards do enough to be able to get the ball.  Think they need to start testing the back line with runs and through balls.
   Calvin does have to be careful.  They are one bad touch away from being countered by some quick Emory forwards.
   Emory is trying to work the ball up through the midfield.  Think they realized long balls up top are going nowhere.  Stand a better chance trying to catch them off balance.
   20 minutes remaining.
   Emory has had a couple of looks to goal because of unforced Calvin errors.
   Think both teams are starting to fatigue.
   Would say at this point, 16 minutes left in the 2nd half, Calvin has been the better.
   So, watched Emory for two 5 minute stretches and the results are as follows –
o   First 5 minutes
   27 Passes; 7 led to turnovers.
   25% of passes defined as bad.
   3:1 ratio, give or take
o   Second 5 minutes
   30 passes; 8 led to turnovers
   25% of passes defined as bad
   3:1 ratio.
o   Anecdotally, I would say that Calvin has been the better, even if it struggles on getting dangerous.
   On that note, think I am going to watch another game.

Westminster v Ohio Northern
Westminster
Bias? – Think its my second game for each.

   Beautiful field/stadium at Westminster
   Westminster started with energy, but ONU took control of the ball.
   Westminster is very wasteful when they get the ball.  While ONU has an active midfield that controls the ball very well.
   Westminster is stretched between the backline and midfielders who are defending and those up top that keeping the ball and getting on the attack is more about luck than it is about skill.
   ONU makes good use of space and runs off the ball.
   On one counter, it looked like they were running a counter attacking drill.
   ONU has a tough back line that doesn't yield an inch.  Really comfortable on the ball and not afraid to knock it back if there doesn't seem to be anything going on.
   Westminster drops back deeper and deeper.  Can here the Keeper yelling "Get Out!"  He is not wrong but its not that easy.
   ONU is effective at always having a deep midfielder as the outlet if things are too tight up top.  Think a lot of teams could learn from them.
   Don't get me wrong, Westminster still can be dangerous if they can release a forward on a counter.  Creates a bit of problems for ONU.  But it has to develop quickly or it becomes difficult to get to goal.
   I am 20 minutes deep into this first half and I am going to say this is ONUs game to lose.
   And like that a designed dead ball outside the box on the side, ONU takes it and passes it on the ground to a couple of forwards running near post.  Causes confusion and ball bounces to another ONU forward, who buries it.  Westminster 0, Ohio Northern 1.
   And my passing stats for ONU –
   Watched two 5 minute stretches and the results are as follows –
o   First 5 minutes for ONU
   24 Passes; 4 led to turnovers.
   16% of passes defined as bad.
   6:1 ratio, give or take
o   Second 5 minutes for ONU
   25 passes; 1 led to turnovers
   4% of passes defined as bad
   25:1 ratio.
o   I aggregated the two stretches and came to a 10:1 good/bad ratio.
o   And the First 5 minutes for Westminster
   13 Passes; 6 led to turnovers.
   46% of passes defined as bad.
   2:1 ratio, give or take
o   Second 5 minutes for Westminster
   12 passes; 2 led to turnovers
   16% of passes defined as bad
   6:1 ratio.
o   I aggregated the two stretches and came to a 3:1 good/bad ratio.
   And the difference in the ratios was very evident on the field.
   On that note, am out.

Watched a Top 75 Team and a Top 125 Team that are playing each other today, at the home field of the Top 75 Team.

Chose this game cause my son will be in attendance.

So, the home team looked as follows -

Over a 10 minute period -
   44 passes; 14 led to turnovers
   32% of passes defined as bad
   3:1 ratio.

So, the away team looked as follows -

Over a 10 minute period -
   29 passes; 12 led to turnovers
   41% of passes defined as bad
   2:1 ratio.

With that, giving advantage to the home team, a better pass ratio, and giving something for the rankings, am guessing the home team will  win by 3.  Lets call a score of 4 to 1.

This is a mental exercise for me.  And in soccer anything can happen.  Just starting to experiment with comparative passing statistics as game outcome determinants.  Which, knowing the amount of variables in a game, probably is not determinant, but hey, just having fun here.  Will post the teams and the score after the game.

This is an interesting way of looking at the quality of teams. D3 has such a wide range of capabilities: I think that your statistical predictor will work very well for the best teams in D3, and perhaps less well for the weaker ones. Watching parts of many early-season matches, it seems there are about 10 teams in D3 that are capable of passing the ball through the midfield and holding significan possession into the offensive third. Those teams can rely on that skill and organization to win matches through controlled play. Messiah is the perfect example. When they move the ball around, it's almost never more than two touches: they have the skill to trap and pass, and the organization to move off the ball. They are the best I've seen at it (and no, I'm not a Falcons fanboy: I have traditionally rolled my eyes at how the Falconians are so in love with their team, but I have to recognize greatness when I see it).

The types of teams that might mess up your model are the teams that can roll the ball around the back, disturbing the shape of the opponent's midfield and then lump it into the box, where they rely on size, courage and athleticism of a striker or two to smash the ball home. It's very effective D3 soccer, but doesn't pad the passing percentage stats. There are a bunch of very effective teams that play bombs-in-the-box.  Even some recent national title winners.

Here's hoping that the passing and posession teams are playing in the final weekend of the season.

Quote from: Centennial1 on September 18, 2021, 11:17:17 AM
This is an interesting way of looking at the quality of teams. D3 has such a wide range of capabilities: I think that your statistical predictor will work very well for the best teams in D3, and perhaps less well for the weaker ones. Watching parts of many early-season matches, it seems there are about 10 teams in D3 that are capable of passing the ball through the midfield and holding significan possession into the offensive third. Those teams can rely on that skill and organization to win matches through controlled play. Messiah is the perfect example. When they move the ball around, it's almost never more than two touches: they have the skill to trap and pass, and the organization to move off the ball. They are the best I've seen at it (and no, I'm not a Falcons fanboy: I have traditionally rolled my eyes at how the Falconians are so in love with their team, but I have to recognize greatness when I see it).

The types of teams that might mess up your model are the teams that can roll the ball around the back, disturbing the shape of the opponent's midfield and then lump it into the box, where they rely on size, courage and athleticism of a striker or two to smash the ball home. It's very effective D3 soccer, but doesn't pad the passing percentage stats. There are a bunch of very effective teams that play bombs-in-the-box.  Even some recent national title winners.

Here's hoping that the passing and posession teams are playing in the final weekend of the season.

Thanks @Centennial1.  Just trying to look at things that differentiate teams.  Passing seemed like an obvious/easy one.  And frankly, I am not counting all passes in an entire game.  So can't even say it is scientific.  Will say the difference by what I would call the teams in the Top 10 and say the top 50, is startling.  Even the teams that run and gun it and are ranked highly have a better pass ratio than teams that just kick and hope.  So just by being bigger, stronger and faster isn't enough.

The bottom end is tricky.  But I am just trying to learn what makes Messiah better than TCNJ.   And what are some of the things that differentiate the two.  Would be easy to say quality of player or coaching, but to show it statistically is a bit harder to do.  And passing seems to be something not a lot of folks pay attention to as a metric of success. 

Soccer is soccer, so I am sure there will be instances where passing gets you nowhere, but in average is it a better indicator the higher your passing ratio?  In my limited sample so far, the answer is yes.

You are going to have all of us counting passes this weekend-- or at least I will be! It's an interesting experiment.

Quote from: Another Mom on September 18, 2021, 12:43:32 PM
You are going to have all of us counting passes this weekend-- or at least I will be! It's an interesting experiment.

:o

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 18, 2021, 09:26:48 AM
Watched a Top 75 Team and a Top 125 Team that are playing each other today, at the home field of the Top 75 Team.

Chose this game cause my son will be in attendance.

So, the home team looked as follows -

Over a 10 minute period -
   44 passes; 14 led to turnovers
   32% of passes defined as bad
   3:1 ratio.

So, the away team looked as follows -

Over a 10 minute period -
   29 passes; 12 led to turnovers
   41% of passes defined as bad
   2:1 ratio.

With that, giving advantage to the home team, a better pass ratio, and giving something for the rankings, am guessing the home team will  win by 3.  Lets call a score of 4 to 1.

This is a mental exercise for me.  And in soccer anything can happen.  Just starting to experiment with comparative passing statistics as game outcome determinants.  Which, knowing the amount of variables in a game, probably is not determinant, but hey, just having fun here.  Will post the teams and the score after the game.

So gave the benefit of the doubt to the home team.  Thinking that when pass ratios are pretty similar, it can go either way, in spite of being at home.  Just watched the second half that just ended.  Catholic 1, Stevenson 3.

My game notes...

So, the home team looked as follows -

Catholic v Stevenson
Catholic – Carlini Field
Bias? – I've been told I am anti-Catholic, and

   2nd half.  Catholic 1, Stevenson 0
   To start the second, Catholic is being patient passing it around the back, waiting for Stevenson to leave gaps in the middle, which they do oblige with. 
   Catholic doesn't get further than 30/35 yards out.
   Catholic commits a foul on Stevenson half.  Keeper takes the free kick and puts it 10/12 yards out. 2 Catholic defenders on the ball covering one forward.  One man jumps for it, ball skims off the top and goes into the back of the net.  Catholic 1, Stevenson 1.  40 left in the half.
   No reason why the keeper shouldn't have come for that ball.  Think he started too deep.
   Really not good defending.
   Think Stevenson tries to play more than Catholic.  Catholic is better at forcing it up top, Stevenson just can't connect up top. 
   Catholic tries to double up far out wide when they put the ball across.
   And now Catholic called for a PK.  Looked kind of iffy.  But how did they put that play together?  Ball starts at near side where a Stevenson player wins a tackle that he shouldn't have.  Ball goes to one of his players ten yards away.  He has no one around him.  #15 takes a touch toward goes and passes it between two Catholic players, the center back and probably a midfielder running back.  Player receiving the ball, takes a bad touch and a Catholic player doesn't react quick enough to get the to the ball.  $15 tackles hard and the ball goes back to the outside back on the far side who one times a ball on the ground to their big center forward who has the central defender on his back, but no support.  Poor defending, he wins the ball and touches it into space in the box, where the Catholic defender reaches for the ball and the forward goes down.  Ref calls the PK.  4 passes that got through 6 Catholic defenders to a point of danger.
   And now to watch the PK.  Keeper goes to his right, ball casually hit into the goal to his left.  Catholic 1, Stevenson 2.  35 minutes left in the half.
   Catholic is frustrated.  Plenty of time on the clock.  And no one likes the referee.
   Fun listening to the crowd commentary on the video.
   I think Stevenson could get another one before Catholic does.  So long as Stevenson keeps the play in front of them and doesn't make any defensive mistakes ... which is not a guarantee right now.  18 left in the second half.
   Stevenson keeper is bleeding the clock wherever he can. 
   That said, Catholic can be dangerous on corners.  They have some trees competing for the high balls.
   Ok, on a team of hammers, all looking for nails, the only player on Catholic that can seem to play is #7.
   And like that, a complete break down by Catholic.  Keeper receives the ball on a back pass.  There are two Stevenson forwards in the area with an winger stepping into the space of where the play is developing.  Center back receives the ball from the keeper and moves it into the kill zone being set up for them.  He takes four touches and one of the forwards and winger close in on him.  And the forward comes across from the back blind, he tries to pass the ball to a center mid about 10 yards away.... Instead of giving it to the outside back who has no pressure on him.  The ball bounces to the winger, who takes a touch around the defender who lost the ball, dives in.  Then slots the ball leaving the Catholic center mid, the center back, and the outside back, now out of the play.  The center forward who won the ball makes a run behind where the winger slots the ball.  The back on the far side steps in to close down the space ... leaving the far side empty... for the winger to receive the ball and go one on one with the keeper.  A poor pass/decision leading to a turnover, and two passes later, to a wide open forward with only the keeper to beat.  Catholic 1, Stevenson 3.
   I think the keeper could have made it a bit more challenging.  And then the player who gets subbed is the outside back.  13 left in the game.
   Game over.
   I predicted this game to be 4-1 in favor of Catholic, turns out 3-1 for Stevenson.

So, took a look at Messiah against Salisbury, and what they do is pretty amazing. 

Over a 10 minute period -
   73 passes; 9 led to turnovers
   12% of passes defined as bad
   8:1 ratio.

The first 5 minutes they had an 11:1 ratio with a total of 34 passes with only 3 of those leading to turnovers.  Waiting for a competitive game to watch them again ... since this one seemed a bit lop sided.

Will also add that the most passes I have counted in a ten minute stretch 74 passes ... for two teams combined!  ONU v Westminster.  For a single team, the high was 57 for Emory.

Again, whatever it means or how it leads to results, Messiah is really in a class by itself ... at least that I have seen so far.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 18, 2021, 03:15:12 PM
So, took a look at Messiah against Salisbury, and what they do is pretty amazing. 

Over a 10 minute period -
   73 passes; 9 led to turnovers
   12% of passes defined as bad
   8:1 ratio.

The first 5 minutes they had an 11:1 ratio with a total of 34 passes with only 3 of those leading to turnovers.  Waiting for a competitive game to watch them again ... since this one seemed a bit lop sided.

Will also add that the most passes I have counted in a ten minute stretch 74 passes ... for two teams combined!  ONU v Westminster.  For a single team, the high was 57 for Emory.

Again, whatever it means or how it leads to results, Messiah is really in a class by itself ... at least that I have seen so far.

It's interesting to hear this assessment from someone who's (apparently) very qualified to have an opinion and also not (apparently) a "Falconian," as it has been put. I am of course a Falconer, but no expert on soccer as soccer. I have however watched the Falcons for longer than anyone else here, as far as I know. I am hesitant to say this with too much confidence, since they have not yet played a very high level opponent this season. What I have seen so far, however, is consistent with SimpleCoach's observations. I would not say that this year's team is among the most talented in Falcon history. Honestly, I wouldn't be shocked if none of the players earns AA status; perhaps I will have a different opinion a month from now. But, I would say that their ability to play the beautiful game might be as high as I can ever recall seeing, keeping in mind what I said about SOS so far. If wouldn't surprise me, if in the end they can outpossess any opponent they might face. That doesn't translate into scoring; they don't seem to have a Bills or a DMac or a Wood or a West anywhere on the roster. This group will share the scoring very widely, and they might not score as much as some recent Falcon teams. But, they are amazing right now in their ability to get the ball into open spaces and put feet on it. I don't recall seeing a Falcon team actually better at that. If I can affirm that again in November, they will have a chance to win it all.

Washington College v Franklin & Marshall
Washington
Bias? – Watched both teams.  I like the hashtag #GooseNation.

   F&M has a better sense of the ball but is coming up short against a disciplined Washington team.  Washington is smart doesn't over commit to pressing, and I think this has F&M a but confused as to what they should do.  Causes F&M a number of errant passes.
   F&M thrives when teams come at them all over the field.  If I were the Washington I might even droop back to midfield and force F&M to come to us.  Fill in the spaces, and force them to be good.  And if they just start launching it, compete in the air.  But alas, I am not said coach.
   Washington is getting to the end line and whipping in balls.  F&M has some strong center backs so they are dealing with them.  But they should watch out since they are mistake away
   F&M looks off so far.  First touches are killing them.  28 minutes in.
   If Washington can get on the end of one of the plays they are stringing together, I think we have a game.  Right now, can't discount F&M regardless with how they are playing.
   F&M is sitting deep and only have one man up top.  Makes it hard to make anything happen.
   And one a decent play stringing some passes together, Washington ends up going one on one with the F&M keeper.  As the keeper comes out, player tries to go around, and is tripped.  PK.
   Keeper goes to his left, but ball is well struck to the left.  Washington 1, F&M 0 22 minutes left in the half.
   Am going to do my passing analysis on these two teams.  Lots of missed passes.
   Washington needs to stay disciplined defensively.  Offensively I can see them getting a second before F&M gets its first.
   And like that, Washington is up 2-0.  Great give and go splitting two defenders and shot is hit low far post for the second.  17 left in the half.
   Think Washington is make good use of space and running off the ball.  F&M is struggling with the movement off the ball.
   From previous F&M games I have watched, that's the rub.  They like to press and run around after everything.  Most teams try to match them, and they can't.  The best antidote is to help them work on fitness as best they can.
   I can see #GooseNation getting another one before the half.
   F&M is so wasteful with ball, kind of surprised by it.
   So – Over a 10 minute period for Washington -
o   33 passes; 9 led to turnovers
o   27% of passes defined as bad
o   4:1 ratio.
   And – Over a 10 minute period for F&M -
o   45 passes; 12 led to turnovers
o   27% of passes defined as bad
o   4:1 ratio.
   Observations on the stats.   I thought from an efficiency standpoint, F&M moved the ball much better.  Come to find out, they just made more passes.  They have been as effective with the ball as Washington.  Hence my thought that they were wasteful.  Interesting how vulnerable teams are if a quarter of their passes lead to turnovers?  Maybe I should track those that lead to goals?
   Halftime.  Washington 2, F&M 0
   Am done.  Want to watch one more game...

Quote from: Falconer on September 18, 2021, 07:10:41 PM

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 18, 2021, 03:15:12 PM
So, took a look at Messiah against Salisbury, and what they do is pretty amazing. 

Over a 10 minute period -
   73 passes; 9 led to turnovers
   12% of passes defined as bad
   8:1 ratio.

The first 5 minutes they had an 11:1 ratio with a total of 34 passes with only 3 of those leading to turnovers.  Waiting for a competitive game to watch them again ... since this one seemed a bit lop sided.

Will also add that the most passes I have counted in a ten minute stretch 74 passes ... for two teams combined!  ONU v Westminster.  For a single team, the high was 57 for Emory.

Again, whatever it means or how it leads to results, Messiah is really in a class by itself ... at least that I have seen so far.

It's interesting to hear this assessment from someone who's (apparently) very qualified to have an opinion and also not (apparently) a "Falconian," as it has been put. I am of course a Falconer, but no expert on soccer as soccer. I have however watched the Falcons for longer than anyone else here, as far as I know. I am hesitant to say this with too much confidence, since they have not yet played a very high level opponent this season. What I have seen so far, however, is consistent with SimpleCoach's observations. I would not say that this year's team is among the most talented in Falcon history. Honestly, I wouldn't be shocked if none of the players earns AA status; perhaps I will have a different opinion a month from now. But, I would say that their ability to play the beautiful game might be as high as I can ever recall seeing, keeping in mind what I said about SOS so far. If wouldn't surprise me, if in the end they can outpossess any opponent they might face. That doesn't translate into scoring; they don't seem to have a Bills or a DMac or a Wood or a West anywhere on the roster. This group will share the scoring very widely, and they might not score as much as some recent Falcon teams. But, they are amazing right now in their ability to get the ball into open spaces and put feet on it. I don't recall seeing a Falcon team actually better at that. If I can affirm that again in November, they will have a chance to win it all.

@Falconer, thanks for the kind comment.  Not sure I am "qualified" but I stayed at a Holiday Inn!

I fully recognize that passing in of itself doesn't get you anywhere.  Think it was @Centennial1 who mentioned that a lot of teams pass it around the horn in the back which could definitely skew the number favorably to them, making a team look like they had much more possession than they did if they were farther of the field.  Totally get that.  Where my thinking is going is this - If you are a team like Messiah that has a 10:1 pass ratio, the likelihood that the turnover will lead to a goal will be much lower than say a team that has a 4:1 ratio.  Aside from the fact that their turnovers are less frequent, intuitively you are getting the ball higher ... strictly because ultimately soccer is a game of goals, not of passes.  That's why I am trying to acknowledge or at least understand teams that are long ball teams.  Am discovering that even the good teams that look to get the ball up as quickly as possible, also seem to have a good pass ratio.  Maybe not 10:1, but 6/7:1.  That is still much  better than most.

The Messiah game I watched I thought their vulnerability was that I could see them getting caught up in the black hole that is passing for passing sake, and looking for the perfect pass to score.  That's a triple platinum plated problem to have.  I would rather be in that position than after every 2 passes I turn it over.  And I have watched a couple of teams who are like this.   Obviously where the passes happen is a big deal, but if you do it well enough, the opposing team invariably sits deeper and deeper cause its harder to defend against ball movement, and when they do win the ball, they are so far back that it's very difficult to mount a counter cause they are so deep.  And if they have a low pass ratio, well, they won't have many opportunities to score because they stand a greater chance of losing the ball.  Again, not hard fast rules, but gives a glimpse.

You know, I learned to play the game where the most precious item on the field was the ball.  How do you win it and keep it for yourself.  And when you do that, how do you reward yourself with a goal.  I think a lot of coaches, or should I say teams think the most precious thing on the field is a goal.  As such, they recruit, or so it seems, players that can seemingly be effective at scoring goals and then obviously ones that can defend.  What happens?  Invariably you end up with teams that have midfielders who are for all intents and purposes are withdrawn forwards.  So you are attacking with say 6 or 8 players.  But none of them have the brain to "create" a goal.  All they do is count on creating the turnover in the other team to exploit.  This at times makes the most creative players the center backs, because they are tasked with getting the ball forward.  The gap between the defenders and the midfield in those cases is where a good team with a high ratio, can just run rampant on.  And this comes from watching probably over 50 games at all levels.  This is the spot that Messiah (Among others) kills other teams.

Defensively, the low ratio teams chase, because their thinking is to get the ball to score.  I have yet to watch a team be able to sustain a high press for longer than 30 minutes in a game.  And I would say this plays into the hands of a high ratio team because the purpose of what they are trying to do is to pull you apart to create space to exploit.  If I was a low ratio team against a high ratio team, my goal would not be to press, but to stay compact and close down passing lanes in my half of the field.  I would let them own the ball anywhere else, but would make it difficult to find their attacking players, and when they did I would be tight enough to challenge the ball before they received it.  Then I would hope that I can get lucky for a goal because over time the high ratio team would be committed so far up that they couldn't effectively deal with a counter.  Now, this would be fraught with challenges, and certainly a mistake would kill, but say going head to head against Messiah, like Salisbury seemed to try and do... well you might as well take the loss before the game.

Funny, but this is all theory and will go out the window once the ball starts rolling, but I think what I am liking about watching D3 is that the differences between teams are pronounced so that it is easier to see the game at times.  Don't get me wrong, the quality has largely improved from my days on the field, and teams are more tactically aware.  It helps me ask all sorts of questions about what I know about the game, how to piece teams together, what kinds of players I would start looking at if I were a head coach ...

Ok.  I just rambled on a Sunday morning, so I think I should talk to a therapist.  This is not something a normal person does.

Hope to catch another game or two today.  We will see.  Might be a better idea to just enjoy some sunshine...

Ohio Wesleyan v John Carroll
OWU – The Jay Martin Soccer Temple
Bias? – I played JCU on a grass field and tried to take Jay Martin's wedge he used to carry during games.

   Watched this the day after the actual game. 
   Video issues.  Seemingly the 2nd half.  0-0
   John Carroll can move the ball.  Sometimes hold the ball too long, but otherwise they try to keep it fluid.  Trying to get into the attack.
   Doesn't strike me as their best game, but OWU has so many weapons, that they can turn it on a dime.
   An lo' and behold.  Off a throw in into the near side of the box, OWU forward works to control it.  He is in the middle of five defenders, only one marking an OWU player.  That other OWU player keeps moving.  John Carroll player vacates a space to go press the player with the ball.  That empty space is now filled with the OWU player who was once marked and get the ball.  Takes a touch and hits the ball between two John Carrol defenders who are near post at the six and 12.  There is another at the 6 middle of goal, and another defender marking an OWU forward.  The forward steps to the ball and one times it and buries it in the net.  Ohio Wesleyan 1, John Carroll 0.  Goal scorer is the only OWU player at the top of the six.  There are four John Carroll defenders in the same area.
   John Carroll still trying but OWU is so organized defensively that it becomes too compact to get through.  Only real threats are from set plays (corners) and long-range shots. 35 minutes left.
   JCU is now being wasteful.  Think the goal hurt them mentally.  OWU is knocking on the door.
   I know I have mentioned this in previous game reviews of OWU, but their positional discipline is impressive.  No player is left one on one without the appropriate support.  Even more importantly is that on both sides of the ball, there is a level of accountability and confidence your teammate will do the job they are expected to do.  28 minutes left.
   I do think JCU is a very good team.  By no means is this an easy game for OWU.  With being behind, JCU is just struggling to get themselves in a position to be dangerous.  If they attack too quickly, they don't have any numbers up top.  If they keep possession and slow roll it, OWU becomes almost impenetrable.
   OWU will score before JCU does.   Although fewer looks to goal, they are far more dangerous.  13 minutes left.
   Again, JCU wins the ball in the back.  Instead of looking short, they launch it and it is won by OWU.  OWU head the ball back and JCU head it to an OWU midfielder.  JCU is all disjointed at this point.  Forward receives the ball with a defender at his back at about the 18.  Another forward is making a run into the box with no one on him.  Pass sends him out wide, and he drops it back.  Player receiving drops it to the a8 to player running on who one time a ball to the far post.  Ohio Wesleyan 2, John Carroll 0.
   With 11 minutes left, this is over.  Don't see JCU being able to mount a comeback.
   Am out.

@SimpleCoach, if you haven't already read it, I suggest you pick up a copy of "The Numbers Game - Why Everything You Know About Soccer is Wrong", by Chris Anderson and David Sally.  From the jacket... Innovation is coming to soccer, and at the center of it all are the numbers—a way of thinking about the game that ignores the obvious in favor of how things actually are. In The Numbers Game, Chris Anderson, a former professional goalkeeper turned soccer statistics guru, teams up with behavioral analyst David Sally to uncover the numbers that really matter when it comes to predicting a winner. Investigating basic but profound questions—How valuable are corners? Which goal matters most? Is possession really nine-tenths of the law? How should a player's value be judged?—they deliver an incisive, revolutionary new way of watching and understanding soccer.

It was published in 2013 so some things may have changed by now, but it is a fantastic read.  Some of the tidbits you may enjoy:

• Only 1 in every 5 corners lead to a shot, and only 1 in every 9 shots produced from a corner lead to a goal. Lesson: it may be better to play it short and retain possession than to hit and hope.
• In the 2010/11 Premier League season, defenders averaged 63 touches of the ball per 90 minutes.  Midfielders 73, Forwards 51.
• In the average game, the ball changes hands 400 times
• 30% of all regained possessions in the opponents penalty area lead to shots on goals; and about half of all goals come from those same regained possessions
• only two of every nine goals came from moves in which there were more than three passes
• the team with more shots on target wins between 50-58% of the time, depending on the league
• 91.5% of plays never reach a fourth successful pass

Colby v Connecticut College
Colby
Bias? – Love the cheese and son has been there on a recruiting trip.

   That looks like one heck of a field/stadium.  Really nice, although the grass looks a little on the longer side.
   And certainly, appreciate the quality video
   First opportunity goes to Conn.  Cleared out for a corner.  And the corner was dangerous as well.
   Second time watching Conn, and they are tough on set pieces.  Have some trees who can really get up.
   Connecticut owns the ball.  Colby just can't hold on to it. 
   Connecticut will score on a corner this game.  Matter of time.
   Colby –
o   23 Passes in 10 minutes
o   10 bad passes
o   43% defined as bad passes
o   2:1 Ratio
   Connecticut
o   48 Passes
o   10 Bad
o   20% defined as bad passes
o   5:1 Ratio
   Colby just shoots itself in the foot.  Too many of their guys hold the ball until the last minute, and Connecticut doesn't give them the time to do something with it.
   Having said that, outside of set pieces, not sure Connecticut is getting too dangerous in the run of play.
   25 minutes left in the half.
   In a game like this, would have thought that they would want to concentrate on moving the ball and waiting for the gaps to open up.  Instead, they get wasteful on the attack with the ball trying to force something that's not there.  If I were the Connecticut coach I would say to calm down, move the ball and be patient.  Goals will follow.
   Colby tries to force it, especially on the left side where the winger wants to take on the whole team.  Loses the ball... every time.
   18 minutes left.
   Colby defends with 8, while Conn attacks with 5.
   Maybe I should start counting quality of services into the box. 
   7 Conn corner kicks with 15 minutes left.
   Conn is getting sucked into Colby's chaos.  And there is no need.  Plenty of time on the clock.  And all they need is one.  Colby will struggle under the weight of trying to come back from behind.
   And half.  Connecticut 0, Colby 0.
   Am done with this one.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 19, 2021, 12:57:17 PM
Ohio Wesleyan v John Carroll

   An lo' and behold.  Off a throw in into the near side of the box, OWU forward works to control it.  He is in the middle of five defenders, only one marking an OWU player.  That other OWU player keeps moving.  John Carroll player vacates a space to go press the player with the ball.  That empty space is now filled with the OWU player who was once marked and get the ball.  Takes a touch and hits the ball between two John Carrol defenders who are near post at the six and 12.  There is another at the 6 middle of goal, and another defender marking an OWU forward.  The forward steps to the ball and one times it and buries it in the net.  Ohio Wesleyan 1, John Carroll 0.  Goal scorer is the only OWU player at the top of the six.  There are four John Carroll defenders in the same area.

Great analysis and detail.  One add-on.  The throw in to the near side of box only happened because OWU's best player, Gomez, saw a ball he couldn't win near the touchline but pressured anyway and forced the JCU player to clear the ball over the sideline near the corner flag.  Otherwise JCU would have had time for a better clear or room to let the ball go out for a goal kick.  In the moment I was surprised and impressed at this little hustle play, well into the 2nd half, and 10 seconds later OWU has a goal.  Gomez threw the ball in to an OWU player who nicely shielded in the box biding time to slot the ball a few yards towards the six and Jaggar or Brooker or whichever one is his last name flashed towards the ball with two JCU defenders on him and put the ball in the back of the net.

Quote from: PaulNewman on September 19, 2021, 06:04:02 PM
Great analysis and detail.  One add-on.  The throw in to the near side of box only happened because OWU's best player, Gomez, saw a ball he couldn't win near the touchline but pressured anyway and forced the JCU player to clear the ball over the sideline near the corner flag.  Otherwise JCU would have had time for a better clear or room to let the ball go out for a goal kick.  In the moment I was surprised and impressed at this little hustle play, well into the 2nd half, and 10 seconds later OWU has a goal.  Gomez threw the ball in to an OWU player who nicely shielded in the box biding time to slot the ball a few yards towards the six and Jaggar or Brooker or whichever one is his last name flashed towards the ball with two JCU defenders on him and put the ball in the back of the net.

No doubt.  The whole play leading up to the throw in was a great display of forcing John Carroll to make bad decisions on the ball.  Also thought it showed the balance that OWU has around the ball at all times.

Greenville v Washington University
Greenville – Francis Field
Bias? – Not my first rodeo with WashU, and I didn't know Greenville was a thing.

   Washington has owned the ball literally. Greenville did not have a pass in the first 3 minutes, 30 seconds.
   Big save by keeper on a one on one for Greenville.
   Greenville first touch on the ball led to four passes and a shot on goal.
   Washington is passing the ball a lot, but only in the back and midfield.  Haven't been able to connect up top.  Think Greenville knows to sit back and wait for them to come.
   Greenville is trying to get a hold of the ball but struggles to keep it.  Aside from the shot that went over the goal, their passing is mostly in the back.  Washington is not giving them an inch when they cross midfield.
   Greenville just kicking and hoping
     Washington U is comfortable in the pass to the midfielders, but again don't get anywhere. 
   For Washington, all four backs will touch the ball before they get forward.  It's predictable.  Once it gets to the middle, the target is #19 who is always checking back to the ball.  But Greenville is holding with a solid the back line.
   If Washington U could pick up the pace, they would be causing serious problems for Greenville.  Not particularly good at marking in the midfield, but good at keeping the ball in front.... Cause it's moving slow.
   Greenville is content if the Washington U center backs have the ball.  Don't even bother pressing.  Am wondering where either team will get a goal.  In the air in the box for Washington, quick counter and a lucky bounce for Greenville.
   17 down in the first half.
   If I were the coach for Washington U, I would start calling for everyone to pick up the tempo.  I would also test the keeper in the air as he has been shaky.  For Greenville, I would keep doing what I am doing.  A tie would be a win at this point.  Sure that will not happen, but in the first 20 minutes, this looks like it could.
   Greenville must be careful when it does attack.  The front three can be slow to get back, and when you defend with 9, that's a problem.
   When Washington U does counter, they waste it away with a bad pass.
   Don't know Greenville at all.  Don't know of their affiliation, mission ... anything.  But it is interesting that only 5 players on a 50-man roster are from the US.  Again, not a judgement, just hadn't seen that before.
   Washington University just had a wide-open chance that the forward shot wide from the 18.
   Greenville sits back, as I mentioned.  Washington University moves the ball well until maybe 35/40 yards out, then loses the ball from either pressure or a bad pass.  28 minutes in.
   Washington University is the better soccer team, but as of right now, Greenville is the smarter team.  I suspect that if Washington U can score, the flood gates could open. 
   Seems to me that this is in Washington U's hands to make of this game what they want.
   And like that, 30 minutes in, on a corner whipped in near post, a Washington U center back gets up and puts in the ol' onion bag.  Keeper kind of went fishing so he didn't even have a chance.  It was the first real good opportunity they had.  Greenville 0, Washington University 1.
   How lopsided did it seem to be?
o   For Greenville - 29 passes, 7 bad.  4 to 1 pass ratio.
o   For Washington University – 69 passes, 6 bad .... A new high of 11 to 1 pass ratio.
   It was that clear.
   I'm out. 

Regis v MIT
Regis
Bias? –Did not know Regis was a thing MIT is where a lot of smart people are.

   From earlier this week
   Not the best of video productions to watch.
   Very interested in watching MIT.  Been reading that they can play.  May have to wait for another game because it is hard to follow a game that you are watching from a mile away...
   Little bit of popcorn ball which I think suits Regis.  Having said that, MIT wins the ball back when they lose it pretty quickly.  Not afraid to play balls in tight spaces.
   Active midfield that Regis is trying to crowd. 
   MIT will score on a corner. 
   Starting to see the inability of Regis to get out and relieve some of the pressure MIT is applying.  Regis has a lone forward who has little to now support, unless you call the midfielder 30 yards behind him, support.
    MIT starting to break out quick when they recover the ball in the back.  Regis is being slowly pulled apart.
   Regis is trying to get the ball up top, but just not connecting in a meaningful way.  Only way they are getting dangerous is set pieces form 45 yards in where they lump it into the box, hoping for a deflection of someone connecting and slipping it past the keeper.
   Otherwise, MIT is slowly taking over the game.  Still being patient but getting more aggressive up top.  Matter of time ...
   An observation.  There are 15 players, that I can see, that are all in the corner, between say the 22 and end line, and from the spot to the sideline.  All trying to play the ball.  All trying to play soccer.  On the frame of the video is just space.  Green luscious space.  With no one there.
   Now they are trying to stretch them out again.   Shots however are met with a Regis wall of bodies.
   MIT is trying to send the ball in for some trees to win it in the air.  Can see this being dangerous but they need to think out the back line before they send in balls that could be effective.  Too many defenders milling about.
   Not sure how much time is left on the clock.  0-0 when I dropped off, but MIT should walk away with a W.  Don't think Regis will be able to keep it locked down for much longer.
   Ok.  Think that's it for me.  Think MIT is legit.
   Out.

Tufts v Salem State
Salam
Bias? – Bitter over video issues and fortunately I am not a witch.

   Not even a minute or so in, center back sends a ball through to a forward running behind the line who gets a touch to push it past the keeper.  Tufts 1, Salem State O 
   Keeper came charging out maybe a little prematurely.
   There is something ruthlessly efficient how Tufts play.  On the goal it seemed all business.  An efficient ball from distance sent into the path of a forward making a run.
   All Tufts players look large at least in comparison to Salem State.  Not afraid to mix it up, or to put balls into tight spaces.
   Pressure forces a defender to kick the ball out of bounds.  Throw in into the box that the defender heads it out.  25 yards out a Tufts player.  Taps it out wide to winger who puts it across.  Salem State defender awkwardly tries to clear the ball with his head.  Ball bounces up to a Tufts forward who settles the ball with his chest and buries it into the back of the net.  Tufts 2, Salem State 0
   Again, just ruthless.  Second shot for Tufts and that's the game.  It's as if they do there thing and then like a rattle snake they strike with dizzying speed.  Impressive.
   Salem State can't mount a good defense against it.
   15 minutes in.
   Tufts is very positionally aware.  Know where players and the next play is at any given time.   
   Salem State now sitting back.  Everyone in one half.
   Salem State not following forwards into midfield.  This will kill them.
   Only pass Salem State has is in the back.
   Tuft forwards make runs every time, whether they get the ball or not.
   #6 for Tufts is a heck of a midfielder.
   Hard to say where Tufts is weak in a game like this.  Their defensive posture is not really challenged or questioned.  Tufts bad passes are mostly as they try to slot a forward or play something up high.  They use space in the back and midfield so well, they don't lose the ball in the areas.
   Wow.  And imagine that.  Right back tries to usher a ball out of bounds and the Salem State player manages to steal it away down the like.  Enters the box and passes it to a forward at the 12-yard line, who one times the ball far post.  Tufts 2, Salem State 1. 
   Tufts looks angry, and a bit off kilter because of that goal.  They have gotten serious and are pressing for a third goal.
   Salem State will need more fortuitous plays to score.  They are really not creating anything.
   And then out of nowhere, the video goes dead and the score is showing 3-1 for Tufts.
   Ok.  Controversy.  A ball in the box that rebounded to a Tufts player who calmy brought it under control and drilled the ball upper corner.  The linesman called it off, and the Salem Players looked like they kind of stopped.  But the ball originally came off the Salem State player so no off.  Tufts 4, Salem State 1.  Again, just real efficient with the opportunities.
   I am out.  This game is over.  And it's almost halftime.

#6 is Derek Enge. He's a heck of a player but hasn't gotten a ton of playing time until this year, his super senior year. Despite coming in to the season expecting to be an off the bench player again he was still voted captain by his teammates. That really shows what kind of player and person he is. Having a player of his quality to come off the bench, along with some good fortune, is also the biggest reason Tufts have won 4 out of last 6 titles. Other teams have had better players and probably better XIs during that time but no one has had better depth.

Quote from: d4_Pace on September 21, 2021, 07:56:48 PM
#6 is Derek Enge. He's a heck of a player but hasn't gotten a ton of playing time until this year, his super senior year. Despite coming in to the season expecting to be an off the bench player again he was still voted captain by his teammates. That really shows what kind of player and person he is. Having a player of his quality to come off the bench, along with some good fortune, is also the biggest reason Tufts have won 4 out of last 6 titles. Other teams have had better players and probably better XIs during that time but no one has had better depth.

Well, definitely speaks to Tufts.  Amazing.  They must be a recruiting machine to be able to have bench players like that.

Gettysburg v Lebanon Valley
Lebanon Valley
Bias? – I've climbed both round tops and I've been to Amish country

   This is a game from September 15th.  Great video production quality.  Beautiful grass field.
   Gettysburg is very direct while LVC tries to work the ball a little more.
   It is interesting to watch this contrast in style.  LVC has had a look at goal and because Gettysburg is so insistent in getting up, there is a lot of space.  LVC is doing a good job of finding the space behind the midfield and backs.  Not sure if Gettysburg is operating in slow motion or this is how they play.
   And just like that.  Anatomy of a goal.  Corner for LVC.  Keeper punches it out and poor clearance buy Gettysburg.  LVC #29 gets the ball about 40 yard out.  Gettysburg defender steps to him and shows him the middle of the field, which #29 takes.  Center forward makes a run behind a defender.  Takes a touch and drops it back to an unmarked #29 who takes a touch and hits the ball far post for a goal.  As soon as he made the original pass, his defender just stopped.  Gettysburg 1, LVC 0.
   Not sure if it is this game, but LVC is more methodical with the ball.  Not sure they are as effective with the ball as Gettysburg is but they move the ball through the midfield much better than Gettysburg. 
   Gettysburg squanders a lot of balls when they are in the attacking third because they force it and they are not particularly good at connecting in tight spaces.
   I was expecting more of Gettysburg.  Maybe because I have always been an admirer of Gen. John Buford.
   Anyone playing Gettysburg should be tight literally at midfield.  They launch the ball forward when they cross midfield.  The other place to be tight, and dare I say double up on are the wings.  That's where the launched balls go.
   And so long as you don't commit any errors, not sure Gettysburg can get near goal.
   LVC looks like they will score before Gettysburg.  15 minutes in.
   If they do come down the middle, Gettysburg looks to set up a shot from 25 yards out.
   When they aren't tight on the wings, LVC is vulnerable to balls being whipped into the box.    Keeper had to come up big for what could have been a tying goal.
   Gettysburg is starting to assert itself in this game.  Don't think it is a question of them being better, just that the defending has gotten lax for LVC. 24 minutes left in the half.
   A great stretch for LVC starting out of the back that ends up with the ball in the back of the net.  Gettysburg kicks and hopes and the ball goes to the center back with ease, no pressure, and no Gettysburg player around him.  At the 25 in his half, the back waits for his backs to get wide and stretch out Gettysburg.  Instead of going wide, he passes to a midfielder who is dropping back.  The midfielder hits it out wide to the outside back who takes a couple of touches and passes to a midfielder making a run just beyond midfield.  Like moths to a flame three Gettysburg players try to step to the ball.  The midfielder takes a touch and hits it down the line to a winger who is making a run and wide open.... Because the moths got burned by the flame.... It's a 3 v 3 situation.  Winger puts the ball across and the forward who was far post makes a run to the middle, his defender does not follow and one times the ball into the back of the net.  That was kind of a clinical goal.  Really impressive.  Five passes and a goal. 21 minutes left.
   This is not science.  Maybe I should count the success of long balls sent up to forwards to make it scientific.  But they don't work.  Maybe shift where a team can apply pressure, but otherwise, they don't work.  The ones that don't work 100% of the time are the ones at kickoff.  The single most wasted ball in the history of soccer.  Just had to get that out of my system.
   LVC has fewer forays into Gettysburg's box, but they are dangerous when they do.  Something Gettysburg is not.  15 minutes left.
   Think I have seen enough.

Just an fyi... Friday Christopher Newport at W&L.  Worth putting in the rotation.

Quote from: jknezek on September 22, 2021, 10:28:26 AM
Just an fyi... Friday Christopher Newport at W&L.  Worth putting in the rotation.

Done.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 22, 2021, 11:08:40 AM

Quote from: jknezek on September 22, 2021, 10:28:26 AM
Just an fyi... Friday Christopher Newport at W&L.  Worth putting in the rotation.

Done.

A few classics for down the road.....Amherst vs Tufts, Cortland vs Oneonta, Chicago vs Rochester, NYU, or Emory, OWU vs Kenyon, Calvin vs Hope, Tufts vs Middlebury and/or Bowdoin, Hopkins vs F&M...

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 22, 2021, 09:07:29 AM
Gettysburg v Lebanon Valley
Lebanon Valley
Bias? – I've climbed both round tops and I've been to Amish country

   This is a game from September 15th.  Great video production quality.  Beautiful grass field.
   Gettysburg is very direct while LVC tries to work the ball a little more.
   It is interesting to watch this contrast in style.  LVC has had a look at goal and because Gettysburg is so insistent in getting up, there is a lot of space.  LVC is doing a good job of finding the space behind the midfield and backs.  Not sure if Gettysburg is operating in slow motion or this is how they play.
   And just like that.  Anatomy of a goal.  Corner for LVC.  Keeper punches it out and poor clearance buy Gettysburg.  LVC #29 gets the ball about 40 yard out.  Gettysburg defender steps to him and shows him the middle of the field, which #29 takes.  Center forward makes a run behind a defender.  Takes a touch and drops it back to an unmarked #29 who takes a touch and hits the ball far post for a goal.  As soon as he made the original pass, his defender just stopped.  Gettysburg 1, LVC 0.
   Not sure if it is this game, but LVC is more methodical with the ball.  Not sure they are as effective with the ball as Gettysburg is but they move the ball through the midfield much better than Gettysburg. 
   Gettysburg squanders a lot of balls when they are in the attacking third because they force it and they are not particularly good at connecting in tight spaces.
   I was expecting more of Gettysburg.  Maybe because I have always been an admirer of Gen. John Buford.
   Anyone playing Gettysburg should be tight literally at midfield.  They launch the ball forward when they cross midfield.  The other place to be tight, and dare I say double up on are the wings.  That's where the launched balls go.
   And so long as you don't commit any errors, not sure Gettysburg can get near goal.
   LVC looks like they will score before Gettysburg.  15 minutes in.
   If they do come down the middle, Gettysburg looks to set up a shot from 25 yards out.
   When they aren't tight on the wings, LVC is vulnerable to balls being whipped into the box.    Keeper had to come up big for what could have been a tying goal.
   Gettysburg is starting to assert itself in this game.  Don't think it is a question of them being better, just that the defending has gotten lax for LVC. 24 minutes left in the half.
   A great stretch for LVC starting out of the back that ends up with the ball in the back of the net.  Gettysburg kicks and hopes and the ball goes to the center back with ease, no pressure, and no Gettysburg player around him.  At the 25 in his half, the back waits for his backs to get wide and stretch out Gettysburg.  Instead of going wide, he passes to a midfielder who is dropping back.  The midfielder hits it out wide to the outside back who takes a couple of touches and passes to a midfielder making a run just beyond midfield.  Like moths to a flame three Gettysburg players try to step to the ball.  The midfielder takes a touch and hits it down the line to a winger who is making a run and wide open.... Because the moths got burned by the flame.... It's a 3 v 3 situation.  Winger puts the ball across and the forward who was far post makes a run to the middle, his defender does not follow and one times the ball into the back of the net.  That was kind of a clinical goal.  Really impressive.  Five passes and a goal. 21 minutes left.
   This is not science.  Maybe I should count the success of long balls sent up to forwards to make it scientific.  But they don't work.  Maybe shift where a team can apply pressure, but otherwise, they don't work.  The ones that don't work 100% of the time are the ones at kickoff.  The single most wasted ball in the history of soccer.  Just had to get that out of my system.
   LVC has fewer forays into Gettysburg's box, but they are dangerous when they do.  Something Gettysburg is not.  15 minutes left.
   Think I have seen enough.

I don't applaud or smite as a rule, but, because you identified that there are not one but two hills called "Round Top" and you named the hero who spotted and held the high ground on July 1, 1863, you sorely tempted me to give you a +1.

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 22, 2021, 11:40:23 AM
I don't applaud or smite as a rule, but, because you identified that there are not one but two hills called "Round Top" and you named the hero who spotted and held the high ground on July 1, 1863, you sorely tempted me to give you a +1.

@Gregory Sager.  Your post alone is reward enough.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 22, 2021, 12:04:21 PM

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 22, 2021, 11:40:23 AM
I don't applaud or smite as a rule, but, because you identified that there are not one but two hills called "Round Top" and you named the hero who spotted and held the high ground on July 1, 1863, you sorely tempted me to give you a +1.

@Gregory Sager.  Your post alone is reward enough.

Having no reservations about karma, I gave you a point.

North Park hosting Hope tonight 7:30 central -
https://athletics.northpark.edu/sports/mens-soccer/schedule (https://athletics.northpark.edu/sports/mens-soccer/schedule)
https://boxcast.tv/channel/dmfutowrtlmndztdlxrk (https://boxcast.tv/channel/dmfutowrtlmndztdlxrk)

Should be an interesting one and telling in terms of where these teams belong in the rankings.

Quote from: Ron Boerger on September 22, 2021, 01:56:47 PM

Having no reservations about karma, I gave you a point.
[/quote]

Thanks @Ron Boerger.  Humbled.

Hope v North Park
North Park
Bias? – It springs eternal, and I watch the show all the time.

   Windy evening at North Park.  Wonderful video production.  Looks a little chilly as well.
   Hope from the outset owns the ball.
   North Park center back is the de facto center mid.  He distributes the ball where he sees fit and it's mostly a long ball to the winger or to a center mid 20 yards away.
   North Park is getting more control of the ball.  10 minutes into the half.
   Issue with the live stream.... Grrrr.
   Ok, bits that are coming through, North Park is taking control of the game.  Doing a much better job of controlling the ball in the midfield, although seem to feel like they have to get forward as quickly as they can.  Patience would be help.
   Hope is struggling with the pressure in the middle of the park.
   North Parks players, the one that looks like he is in a CDM like roll, and the other who looks like a #10, are doing a great job closing down the lanes into Hopes Midfield.  Hope can't get the ball flowing because their center of the park is closed.
   Fewer long balls for North Park, since they have been controlling the ball more.
   Hope is pretty solid in the back. 
   Battle of wills as in who will impose themselves on this game.  Would give the edge to North Park so far.  Few clear chances. 
   Hope is making it difficult for North Park to break through and be dangerous in front of goal.  North Park is effectively locking down the middle, frustrating Hope's attempts to build out plays going forward.
   It is a battle of two systems of play.  Vido zooming in and out is a but frustrating, but this is an entertaining game between two very good teams.
   17 minutes left in the half.
   Crazy play from a Hope corner kick that the first header was cleared off the line, and then a ball bounced off the post and eventually cleared.  This was the clearest chance yet that I have seen.
   Ok, was just thinking after Hope made a 5- or 6-man substitution.  If as a coach I could have 3 bench players from Hope, North Park, OWU, Messiah, Tufts, and my son for the goalkeeper, I think I would make it to the NCAAs in my first year.
   Hope seems to be getting back on the ball.  Love the ebb and flows of good games.
   If I were coaching against North Park, I think I would keep the ball out of the middle.  Their center backs are just real good.  If I were coaching against Hope, I think I would be demanding that the ball move quicker in the attacking third and see if I can't get the ball behind their back line.
   8 minutes left.
   North Park also has to get more guys around the ball.  Seems on several plays, it's 1 v 2 or 3.  Need to get some balance there.  Which explains why they struggle getting dangerous.
   North Park is sending 2 maybe three guys up against six for Hope. 
   And like that, North Park picks a ball off of Hope and catches them with only 3v1 with another defender trying to get back.  North Park player who picked off the pass slots it for another forward.  Defender who is back let's the ball go passed him where a North Park forward goes to goal.  Keeper comes up big on the one on one, but the rebound is tapped in by a big blond guy.  Think Hope was calling for a foul on the keeper.  Hope 0, North Park 1.
   "Hatch, Hatch! Halftime!  Halftime!"
   Thought I could watch the second half later but seems not right now.  If it changes later today, I will update.

Ohio Wesleyan v Otterbein
Otterbein
Bias? – Played against both.

   Poor goal kick that is intercepted by an Otterbein forward at the Football 4. OWU defenders caught asleep, and the forward takes the ball to the 18 and passes out wide.  OWU defender could have trapped the ball but bounced over his foot to the winger who buries to the far post.  Host of errors for OWU, which surprises me.  5 minutes into the 1st half.  Ohio Wesleyan 0 Otterbein 1
   Not sure if it is the weather but OWU looks like a slow start...
   OWU is being wasteful with the ball once they get past midfield.  Strikes me as uncharacteristic.  Midfielders really can't get the ball comfortably. 
   Otterbein has had a couple of ball that got behind the center backs that were dangerous.
   Otterbein just needs to be patient.  Lots of time left on the clock.  28 left in the first half.
   Not much of a game.  Really disjointed and lacks rhythm... both teams.
   And like that OWU wins it in the back and catches Otterbein stepped up.  Ball set to a forward who slots the ball between two defenders for the forward to run on and one time the ball past the keeper as he came out.  Ohio Wesleyan 1 Otterbein 1 
   Quick, methodical ... lethal.  23 left in the half.
   Unfortunately, must drop off here.  Think OWU was still the better team and Otterbein more opportunistic.  Think this could go either way.
   If I can watch the rest of the game, I will update.

Messiah v Elizabethtown
Messiah
Bias? – I built a fire pit just so I could roast marshmallows and am thinking it's not named after my sister.

   Wonderful grass field.  What's the deal with the marshmallows?
   Messiah doing what it does.  Clearest path to goal seems to be corners.
   Elizabethtown can be dangerous on quick counters that catch Messiah out of position or too high up the field.  Had a couple of chances in this way.
   Messiah tries to get the perfect through ball to go.  They should shoot from distance a few times to keep Etown honest defensively.
   And the marshmallows keep coming down.   As does the rain.
   Once Etown gets in its defensive shell, makes it difficult for Messiah to move the ball in the attacking third.  Obviously by design.  Messiah could use a sense of urgency when they win the ball and patience when they don't.
   Aside from the couple of quick counters Etown struggles to get the ball.  No surprise.  Messiah probably average 600 passes a game and Etown looks to be in the 200 passes range.  Yes, there are some stats behind those numbers.
   Etown defending with 8, Messiah attacking with 4 or 5.  22 minutes left in the half.  Man.  Lot of marshmallows ...
   Will say, I do like how Messiahs first inclination is to get control of the ball and move it to an open man.  It does make the attack more predictable, but it most definitely does not give the other team the opportunity to challenge for say a 50/50.
   Etown is disciplined behind the ball.  Clogging space and making it difficult to penetrate with a through ball or a pass to feet.  Messiah would be well served if they just tried to do something long range or get a ball over the top.
   Messiah owns the ball from the center circle on in.  Etown just absorbs the game as it comes.
   Etown is looking for the quick break at this point.  All they have really on the attack.  Funny but I don't think Messiah's transition to defense is particularly good.  Think they look almost startled that the other team may have the ball and a say in how the game will evolve.
   Messiah just can't connect in that final third.  Testament to Etown's bus.
   Again, think this is the second game I have watched Messiah play.  There is seemingly no clear path to goal for Messiah.  So focused on controlling the ball, that they play the ball to maintain possession rather than trying to break the backline.  As a result they drop the ball back or square when the opportunity to get the ball higher looks even a little unclear.  I think Messiah could afford to use some aggressiveness at the expense of controlling the ball.  It's the only team I would say that about.
   Would also add, and this is a compliment, Messiah always gives the ball to the next player in a way that communicates to them how they should react to it.  If it is ahead of them they go forward.  If behind, they drop it back.  If it doesn't come to them perfectly, they don't think it is for them.  If a team could figure that out, how to force the not perfect set up pass, Messiah would have issues and a lot of turnovers.
   Two minutes left in the half.  Am done with this one.  Kind of looks like a stalemate.  Messiah clearly owns the ball, Etown is parked in the back.

Ok.  Am trying this out, posting a table.  Most of the games I watch I count passes for 10 minutes.  Do some calculations and come up with different ways of looking at teams, especially in comparing teams.  Again, not scientific.  Just more curiosity than anything.

Some conclusions to what I have come up with.  If you are below 4 passes per minute, generally speaking, you either play kick and hope, you just play the ball in the back, or in most cases, both.  More than 4 you have a purposes.  Your pass ratio is obviously dependent on who you play.  WashU is not the Barcelona of D3.  Greenville just isn't up to the task in this case.  But for the most part, possession does indicate relative strength.  I will also add, just intuitively, if you are playing a weaker team, you pass ratio will increase by one.  If playing a better team, it will go down by one.  Even teams is a crap shoot.  Not sure what to make of this, surely need to watch tighter, better games.  Those teams with less than a pass ratio of 4, end up being cannon fodder for the better teams. 

Will also add an interesting observation.  I've worked with, or spoke to a number of these coaches for a variety of reasons, including because  my sons got recruited.  Find it amusing that the conversation with all the coaches we had turned to style of play and all of them said, "We like to play it out of the back.  We like to keep possession."  I know of 5 of those teams with pass ratios of less than 4 that clearly shows thats not what they do.  I am wondering if coaches think they are much better in possession than they actually are.  Again, anecdotal but I am think the farther you go down the pass ratio scale, the more the coaches think they are all about possession.

Again, goal here isn't to say who is the "best" just trying to determine if owning the ball matters.  I know I have heard countless times how being bigger, faster, stronger is always better in D3.  I am just trying to prove or disprove it.

Anyhow, this is another case of me thinking maybe I should go see a therapist.  Especially after cleaning up the format of the table.... I.NEED.HELP.

COLLEGE               OPPONENT      TOTALS                                                             Passes   Bad Passes   % of Bad Passes   Dominance %   Pass Ratio (Passes:Bad Passes)   Passes per Minute   Passes Per Game Washington U       Greenville        69           6                    9%                            9%                    11.50                                   7                            621 Ohio Northern       Westminster        49           5                    10%                    4%                     9.80                                   5                            441 Messiah               Elizabethtown     65           7                    11%                    -19%             9.29                                   7                            585 John Carroll       Ohio Wesleyan      25           3                    12%                    -53%             8.33                                   3                            225 Messiah               Salisbury        73           9                    12%                    15%             8.11                                   7                            657 Ohio Wesleyan        Ohio Northern     39           6                    15%                     -14%             6.50                                   4                            351 Elizabethtown       Messiah                18           3                    17%                     -36%             6.00                                   2                            162 MIT                       Regis College        69           12                    17%                     -32%             5.75                                   7                             621 Denison               Mount Union        44           8                    18%                      32%             5.50                                   4                             396 Middlebury       Mt. St. Mary       42           8                    19%                     -25%             5.25                                   4                            378 Salem State       Tufts                36           7                    19%                     -20%             5.14                                   4                            324 Maryville               Catholic                55           11                    20%                     -17%             5.00                                   6                            495 Connecticut       Colby                48           10                    21%                     -45%             4.80                                   5                            432 North Point       Hope                42            9                    21%                     123%             4.67                                   4                            378 Hope                     North Point        40            9                    23%                     -71%             4.44                                   4                            360 Ohio Wesleyan        John Carroll        35            8                    23%                     -54%             4.38                                   4                            315 Drew                       TCNJ                58            14                    24%                     -65%             4.14                                   6                            522 Greenville               Washington U     29            7                    24%                     380%             4.14                                   3                            261 Emory               Calvin                58           15                    26%                       15%             3.87                                   6                            522 Tufts                       Salem State        46           12                    26%                      19%             3.83                                   5                            414 Washington        F&M                34            9                    26%                     -11%             3.78                                   3                            306 F&M                       Washington         45            12                    27%                     -39%             3.75                                   5                            405 Anna Maria          Regis College        26            7                    27%                     -27%             3.71                                   3                            234 Regis College       Anna Maria        37            10                    27%                      64%             3.70                                   4                            333 Mount Union        Denison                48            13                    27%                      0%             3.69                                   5                            432 Ohio Wesleyan        Otterbein        37            11                    30%                      85%             3.36                                   4                            333 Gettysburg       Lebanon Valley     40            12                    30%                     -46%             3.33                                   4                            360 Lebanon Valley       Gettysburg        40            12                    30%                     -26%             3.33                                   4                            360 Otterbein               Ohio Wesleyan      20             6                    30%                     -46%             3.33                                   2                            180 Skidmore               Amherst        20             6                    30%                      86%             3.33                                   2                            180 Salisbury                Washington        43             13                    30%                     -28%             3.31                                   4                            387 Capital University   Denison        33             10                    30%                     -86%             3.30                                   3                            297 Mount Union       Adrian                46             14                    30%                     -16%             3.29                                   5                            414 Earlham               Wittenberg        29              9                     31%                       -7%             3.22                                   3                            261 Adrian               Mount Union        35             11                     31%                       69%             3.18                                   4                            315 Catholic               Maryville        44             14                     32%                       10%             3.14                                   4                            396 Westminster       Ohio Northern     25              8                     32%                       -8%             3.13                                   3                            225 Amherst               Skidmore        29             10                     34%                      -19%             2.90                                   3                            261 Wittenberg       Earlham        31             11                     35%                       -65%             2.82                                   3                            279 Mt. St. Mary        Middlebury        32             12                     38%                       -22%             2.67                                   3                            288 Ohio Northern       Ohio Wesleyan      28             11                     39%                       -73%             2.55                                   3                            252 Stevenson               Johns Hopkins     29             12                     41%                       23%             2.42                                   3                            261 Colby               Connecticut        23             10                     43%                       -47%             2.30                                   2                            207 Regis College       MIT                28             13                     46%                      200%             2.15                                   3                            252

So, I'm a little late to the "game" but this has been a rather fascinating thread to catch up on.

I'd say your criticism/critique of Messiah is the same issue I've had with Hopkins over the years. Though watching an abbreviated version of their win of SMC last night, they seem slightly more willing to press ahead at the risk of losing possession.

I'd have asked that you put the JHU-Haverford game this Saturday on your watchlist, but was surprised to see the Fords started off the season 0-4. They've bounced back of late and this is a rivalry that goes back decades so... Might still be worth your time... If nothing else to check out a Hopkins team that definitely plays a certain style that is very far from Route 1 soccer.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 23, 2021, 08:47:18 AM
Ok.  Am trying this out, posting a table.  Most of the games I watch I count passes for 10 minutes.  Do some calculations and come up with different ways of looking at teams, especially in comparing teams.  Again, not scientific.  Just more curiosity than anything.

Some conclusions to what I have come up with.  If you are below 4 passes per minute, generally speaking, you either play kick and hope, you just play the ball in the back, or in most cases, both.  More than 4 you have a purposes.  Your pass ratio is obviously dependent on who you play.  WashU is not the Barcelona of D3.  Greenville just isn't up to the task in this case.  But for the most part, possession does indicate relative strength.  I will also add, just intuitively, if you are playing a weaker team, you pass ratio will increase by one.  If playing a better team, it will go down by one.  Even teams is a crap shoot.  Not sure what to make of this, surely need to watch tighter, better games.  Those teams with less than a pass ratio of 4, end up being cannon fodder for the better teams. 

Will also add an interesting observation.  I've worked with, or spoke to a number of these coaches for a variety of reasons, including because  my sons got recruited.  Find it amusing that the conversation with all the coaches we had turned to style of play and all of them said, "We like to play it out of the back.  We like to keep possession."  I know of 5 of those teams with pass ratios of less than 4 that clearly shows thats not what they do.  I am wondering if coaches think they are much better in possession than they actually are.  Again, anecdotal but I am think the farther you go down the pass ratio scale, the more the coaches think they are all about possession.

Again, goal here isn't to say who is the "best" just trying to determine if owning the ball matters.  I know I have heard countless times how being bigger, faster, stronger is always better in D3.  I am just trying to prove or disprove it.

Anyhow, this is another case of me thinking maybe I should go see a therapist.  Especially after cleaning up the format of the table.... I.NEED.HELP.

COLLEGE               OPPONENT      TOTALS                                                             Passes   Bad Passes   % of Bad Passes   Dominance %   Pass Ratio (Passes:Bad Passes)   Passes per Minute   Passes Per Game Washington U       Greenville        69           6                    9%                            9%                    11.50                                   7                            621 Ohio Northern       Westminster        49           5                    10%                    4%                     9.80                                   5                            441 Messiah               Elizabethtown     65           7                    11%                    -19%             9.29                                   7                            585 John Carroll       Ohio Wesleyan      25           3                    12%                    -53%             8.33                                   3                            225 Messiah               Salisbury        73           9                    12%                    15%             8.11                                   7                            657 Ohio Wesleyan        Ohio Northern     39           6                    15%                     -14%             6.50                                   4                            351 Elizabethtown       Messiah                18           3                    17%                     -36%             6.00                                   2                            162 MIT                       Regis College        69           12                    17%                     -32%             5.75                                   7                             621 Denison               Mount Union        44           8                    18%                      32%             5.50                                   4                             396 Middlebury       Mt. St. Mary       42           8                    19%                     -25%             5.25                                   4                            378 Salem State       Tufts                36           7                    19%                     -20%             5.14                                   4                            324 Maryville               Catholic                55           11                    20%                     -17%             5.00                                   6                            495 Connecticut       Colby                48           10                    21%                     -45%             4.80                                   5                            432 North Point       Hope                42            9                    21%                     123%             4.67                                   4                            378 Hope                     North Point        40            9                    23%                     -71%             4.44                                   4                            360 Ohio Wesleyan        John Carroll        35            8                    23%                     -54%             4.38                                   4                            315 Drew                       TCNJ                58            14                    24%                     -65%             4.14                                   6                            522 Greenville               Washington U     29            7                    24%                     380%             4.14                                   3                            261 Emory               Calvin                58           15                    26%                       15%             3.87                                   6                            522 Tufts                       Salem State        46           12                    26%                      19%             3.83                                   5                            414 Washington        F&M                34            9                    26%                     -11%             3.78                                   3                            306 F&M                       Washington         45            12                    27%                     -39%             3.75                                   5                            405 Anna Maria          Regis College        26            7                    27%                     -27%             3.71                                   3                            234 Regis College       Anna Maria        37            10                    27%                      64%             3.70                                   4                            333 Mount Union        Denison                48            13                    27%                      0%             3.69                                   5                            432 Ohio Wesleyan        Otterbein        37            11                    30%                      85%             3.36                                   4                            333 Gettysburg       Lebanon Valley     40            12                    30%                     -46%             3.33                                   4                            360 Lebanon Valley       Gettysburg        40            12                    30%                     -26%             3.33                                   4                            360 Otterbein               Ohio Wesleyan      20             6                    30%                     -46%             3.33                                   2                            180 Skidmore               Amherst        20             6                    30%                      86%             3.33                                   2                            180 Salisbury                Washington        43             13                    30%                     -28%             3.31                                   4                            387 Capital University   Denison        33             10                    30%                     -86%             3.30                                   3                            297 Mount Union       Adrian                46             14                    30%                     -16%             3.29                                   5                            414 Earlham               Wittenberg        29              9                     31%                       -7%             3.22                                   3                            261 Adrian               Mount Union        35             11                     31%                       69%             3.18                                   4                            315 Catholic               Maryville        44             14                     32%                       10%             3.14                                   4                            396 Westminster       Ohio Northern     25              8                     32%                       -8%             3.13                                   3                            225 Amherst               Skidmore        29             10                     34%                      -19%             2.90                                   3                            261 Wittenberg       Earlham        31             11                     35%                       -65%             2.82                                   3                            279 Mt. St. Mary        Middlebury        32             12                     38%                       -22%             2.67                                   3                            288 Ohio Northern       Ohio Wesleyan      28             11                     39%                       -73%             2.55                                   3                            252 Stevenson               Johns Hopkins     29             12                     41%                       23%             2.42                                   3                            261 Colby               Connecticut        23             10                     43%                       -47%             2.30                                   2                            207 Regis College       MIT                28             13                     46%                      200%             2.15                                   3                            252

Test to see if the table comes out cleaner in quote

Unfortunately if you want a table to look clean, you have to use the bulletin board table tags. Which is a pain. Better off just linking an image or a spreadsheet if you have a large table.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 23, 2021, 08:47:18 AM


Will also add an interesting observation.  I've worked with, or spoke to a number of these coaches for a variety of reasons, including because  my sons got recruited.  Find it amusing that the conversation with all the coaches we had turned to style of play and all of them said, "We like to play it out of the back.  We like to keep possession."  I know of 5 of those teams with pass ratios of less than 4 that clearly shows thats not what they do.  I am wondering if coaches think they are much better in possession than they actually are.  Again, anecdotal but I am think the farther you go down the pass ratio scale, the more the coaches think they are all about possession.

This had me chuckling. It's the rough equivalent of "what do I have to do to get you into a car today" from a coach. Or car dealerships that talk about being honest and trustworthy.

If you have to say that out loud, there's probably something you're covering for (IMO).

It's been drummed into everyone's head that "playing it out of the back" is the preferrable and "correct" way to play the game. And, yes, it is more aesthetical and often a statistically more preferable way to play.

Problem comes in when you just don't have a) the players or b) the coaching acumen to make that happen.

I know these are obvious points, but you really nailed it when you bring up coaches just saying what they think parents/players want to hear. All it takes is watching your team for 10 minutes to suss that out, coach.

Quote from: Hopkins92 on September 23, 2021, 10:56:31 AM
This had me chuckling. It's the rough equivalent of "what do I have to do to get you into a car today" from a coach. Or car dealerships that talk about being honest and trustworthy.

If you have to say that out loud, there's probably something you're covering for (IMO).

It's been drummed into everyone's head that "playing it out of the back" is the preferrable and "correct" way to play the game. And, yes, it is more aesthetical and often a statistically more preferable way to play.

Problem comes in when you just don't have a) the players or b) the coaching acumen to make that happen.

I know these are obvious points, but you really nailed it when you bring up coaches just saying what they think parents/players want to hear. All it takes is watching your team for 10 minutes to suss that out, coach.

Glad I could help lighten the day @Hopkins92.  Some of the things we were told were outright absurd ... I knew it when I was told and my sons recruiting list was small because he disqualified coaches who were full of it.  That was always the gotcha question for me.  To boot, to watch now, I am not sure I am watching the game the coach talked about.

Looking at some of their recruiting classes is even more comical.... doubling down on the opposite of "working it out of the back."

Not that I will ever know, but wonder how many coaches read these boards.  And if so, would love to have an honest discussion about how they play.  I suspect this wont happen because for some of these guys, being called out isn't exactly what they are looking for...

Simple Coach, your chart is useful and you put a lot of time into it. Since I'm having a slow morning at work, I've taken the time to format your chart to make it more readable:

COLLEGE	OPPONENT	TOTALS
		Passes	Bad Passes	% of	Dominance %	Pass Ratio	Passes/Minute	Passes/Game
				Bad Passes		(Passes:Bad Passes)
Washington (MO)	Greenville	69	6	9%	9%	11.50	7	621
Ohio Northern	Westminster	49	5	10%	4%	9.80	5	441
Messiah	Elizabethtown	65	7	11%	-19%	9.29	7	585
John Carroll	Ohio Wesleyan	25	3	12%	-53%	8.33	3	225
Messiah	Salisbury	73	9	12%	15%	8.11	7	657
Ohio Wesleyan	Ohio Northern	39	6	15%	-14%	6.50	4	351
Elizabethtown	Messiah	18	3	17%	-36%	6.00	2	162
MIT	Regis College	69	12	17%	-32%	5.75	7	621
Denison	Mount Union	44	8	18%	32%	5.50	4	396
Middlebury	Mt. St. Mary	42	8	19%	-25%	5.25	4	378
Salem State	Tufts	36	7	19%	-20%	5.14	4	324
Maryville	Catholic	55	11	20%	-17%	5.00	6	495
Connecticut C.	Colby	48	10	21%	-45%	4.80	5	432
North Park	Hope	42	9	21%	123%	4.67	4	378
Hope	North Park	40	9	23%	-71%	4.44	4	360
Ohio Wesleyan	John Carroll	35	8	23%	-54%	4.38	4	315
Drew	TCNJ	58	14	24%	-65%	4.14	6	522
Greenville	Washington (MO)	29	7	24%	380%	4.14	3	261
Emory	Calvin	58	15	26%	15%	3.87	6	522
Tufts	Salem State	46	12	26%	19%	3.83	5	414
Washington (MD)	F&M	34	9	26%	-11%	3.78	3	306
F&M	Washington (MD)	45	12	27%	-39%	3.75	5	405
Anna Maria	Regis College	26	7	27%	-27%	3.71	3	234
Regis College	Anna Maria	37	10	27%	64%	3.70	4	333
Mount Union	Denison	48	13	27%	0%	3.69	5	432
Ohio Wesleyan	Otterbein	37	11	30%	85%	3.36	4	333
Gettysburg	Lebanon Valley	40	12	30%	-46%	3.33	4	360
Lebanon Valley	Gettysburg	40	12	30%	-26%	3.33	4	360
Otterbein	Ohio Wesleyan	20	6	30%	-46%	3.33	2	180
Skidmore	Amherst	20	6	30%	86%	3.33	2	180
Salisbury	Washington (MD)	43	13	30%	-28%	3.31	4	387
Capital University	Denison	33	10	30%	-86%	3.30	3	297
Mount Union	Adrian	46	14	30%	-16%	3.29	5	414
Earlham	Wittenberg	29	9	31%	-7%	3.22	3	261
Adrian	Mount Union	35	11	31%	69%	3.18	4	315
Catholic	Maryville	44	14	32%	10%	3.14	4	396
Westminster	Ohio Northern	25	8	32%	-8%	3.13	3	225
Amherst	Skidmore	29	10	34%	-19%	2.90	3	261
Wittenberg	Earlham	31	11	35%	-65%	2.82	3	279
Mt. St. Mary	Middlebury	32	12	38%	-22%	2.67	3	288
Ohio Northern	Ohio Wesleyan	28	11	39%	-73%	2.55	3	252
Stevenson	Johns Hopkins	29	12	41%	23%	2.42	3	261
Colby	Connecticut C.	23	10	43%	-47%	2.30	2	207
Regis College	MIT	28	13	46%	200%	2.15	3	252

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 23, 2021, 11:36:53 AM
Simple Coach, your chart is useful and you put a lot of time into it. Since I'm having a slow morning at work, I've taken the time to format your chart to make it more readable:

@Gregory Sager.  Win Hancock would have been proud... thanks.  I have no idea how to manage this sort of thing.

SimpleCoach, yes, you are very ill and definitely need help.  Unfortunately, in the triage process you rate as far less in need of assistance than the great majority of us.

As for the possession thing, doesn't that have something to do with level of competition?  I recall when coaching my U10 teams outdoors and indoors that we passed and dazzled like crazy....IF the opponent was very inferior...and when the opponent was much better than us, we suddenly turned into a launch, hope, and pray squad (IF we could ever get ahold of the ball).  This is my resolution for many teams not being as possession-oriented as the coaches like to think without concluding that many are psychopathic liars.  Random example...watch Wittenberg versus Bluffton, and then Wittenberg versus OWU or Calvin.

Quote from: PaulNewman on September 23, 2021, 11:53:42 AM
SimpleCoach, yes, you are very ill and definitely need help.  Unfortunately, in the triage process you rate as far less in need of assistance than the great majority of us.

As for the possession thing, doesn't that have something to do with level of competition?  I recall when coaching my U10 teams outdoors and indoors that we passed and dazzled like crazy....IF the opponent was very inferior...and when the opponent was much better than us, we suddenly turned into a launch, hope, and pray squad (IF we could ever get ahold of the ball).  This is my resolution for many teams not being as possession-oriented as the coaches like to think without concluding that many are psychopathic liars.  Random example...watch Wittenberg versus Bluffton, and then Wittenberg versus OWU or Calvin.

@Paul Newman.  Yes, a big indicator is who they play, by all means.  That's why I really am trying to watch games between teams that may be even in terms of talent and ability.  Clearly in some instances I watched some bad games.  And would say that there are probably another 20 games that I watched that were so out of whack it just didn't add anything to the discussion.

Players do have a role in this, absolutely.  And I will say that yes, those elite level players that you see at Tufts, etc. are in limited supply.  But not everyone plays these teams.  Like I mentioned, I am trying to figure out how a team goes about being better.... not just in terms of how I like teams to play, but also how they can win.  And if there are ways in which a team does get better that doesn't require something that would be out of the realm of possibility.

Regarding the coaches, fair point.  Not sure I think they are psychopathic liars, but I do know in my sons case, and having watched these teams multiple times for the purpose of if I misunderstood or caught the "wrong" game.  I am willing to give the benefit of the doubt but the 5 I was talking about, it's not even close ..... Anyhow, my apologies.  Will accept negative karma with no ill will.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 23, 2021, 12:09:02 PM

Quote from: PaulNewman on September 23, 2021, 11:53:42 AM
SimpleCoach, yes, you are very ill and definitely need help.  Unfortunately, in the triage process you rate as far less in need of assistance than the great majority of us.

As for the possession thing, doesn't that have something to do with level of competition?  I recall when coaching my U10 teams outdoors and indoors that we passed and dazzled like crazy....IF the opponent was very inferior...and when the opponent was much better than us, we suddenly turned into a launch, hope, and pray squad (IF we could ever get ahold of the ball).  This is my resolution for many teams not being as possession-oriented as the coaches like to think without concluding that many are psychopathic liars.  Random example...watch Wittenberg versus Bluffton, and then Wittenberg versus OWU or Calvin.

@Paul Newman.  Yes, a big indicator is who they play, by all means.  That's why I really am trying to watch games between teams that may be even in terms of talent and ability.  Clearly in some instances I watched some bad games.  And would say that there are probably another 20 games that I watched that were so out of whack it just didn't add anything to the discussion.

Players do have a role in this, absolutely.  And I will say that yes, those elite level players that you see at Tufts, etc. are in limited supply.  But not everyone plays these teams.  Like I mentioned, I am trying to figure out how a team goes about being better.... not just in terms of how I like teams to play, but also how they can win.  And if there are ways in which a team does get better that doesn't require something that would be out of the realm of possibility.

Regarding the coaches, fair point.  Not sure I think they are psychopathic liars, but I do know in my sons case, and having watched these teams multiple times for the purpose of if I misunderstood or caught the "wrong" game.  I am willing to give the benefit of the doubt but the 5 I was talking about, it's not even close ..... Anyhow, my apologies.  Will accept negative karma with no ill will.

No criticism intended at all and will add a +k to clarify.  I was embellishing with "psychopathic liars" and totally understood points made by you and our Hopkins friend.  I too have marveled at basically every coach thinking or at least saying that they are all about "keeping the ball on the carpet."

And of course I was joking about mental well being.

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 23, 2021, 11:36:53 AM
Simple Coach, your chart is useful and you put a lot of time into it. Since I'm having a slow morning at work, I've taken the time to format your chart to make it more readable:

Messiah	Elizabethtown	65	7	11%	-19%	9.29	7	585
Elizabethtown	Messiah	18	3	17%	-36%	6.00	2	162

This is interesting, and maybe Falconer can chime in.  From your game notes, you only watched the first half. And while possession was largely dominated by Messiah, shots were even at 4-4 and corners at 2-2 in that first half.  It would appear Messiah played possession for possession sake while Elizabethtown played tight D and looked to counter.  Turns out neither was more productive than the other since they drew 0-0.

@Ejay.  Yes, only watched the first half.  And indeed it is what I noticed.  As I mentioned in my notes, Messiah seems to "struggle" getting dangerous against very compact, organized defenses.  Which Elizabethtown most definitely was.  ETown countered, when they could, but it was pretty infrequent.  But did get dangerous a couple of times, largely because it seems at times that Messiah get's mesmerized by their own passing and forgets that a game is being played.

I suggest 5-1 Colorado College at #4 Trinity (TX) for your viewing pleasure, SC (7:30 PM CDT Friday).  TU and CC are rivals in a number of sports - not a lot of love lost on the pitch.  If you're interested you can find the broadcast here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKotqa0QFoQ).  If you join early there won't be any audio - there's only commentary while the games are in progress so it's radio silence before the match and during halftime.

Quote from: Ron Boerger on September 23, 2021, 12:55:09 PM
I suggest 5-1 Colorado College at #4 Trinity (TX) for your viewing pleasure, SC (7:30 PM CDT Friday).  TU and CC are rivals in a number of sports - not a lot of love lost on the pitch.  If you're interested you can find the broadcast here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKotqa0QFoQ).  If you join early there won't be any audio - there's only commentary while the games are in progress so it's radio silence before the match and during halftime.

I'm in!

Johns Hopkins v St. Mary's College
John's Hopkins
Bias? – For Halloween I dressed up as a doctor once and I say a Hail Mary every morning.


   JHU dominating control with St. Mary's trying to get the ball.  JHU looks to move it through midfield but not so easy right now.  Had a few through balls that became dangerous.
   Don't think St. Mary's has crossed midfield with the ball and kept it.
   When JHU does connect, they do so very well.  13 passes led to an opportunity on goal.  Switched side, 6 players involved.  St. Mary's were spectators...
   Ok, JHU looks like they have a high Pass Ratio, but a lot of it comes from passing across the back line.  Very selective and patient as to when they move it beyond midfield. As an example, one set of 11 passes, one put the ball across midfield, and another was a poor pass that let to a turnover.  But still St. Mary's hasn't really gotten touches on the ball.
   St. Mary's trying to get a hold of the ball and is starting to connect a little.  15 minutes gone in first half.
   JHU must have seen something on the tape because they go down the left side almost all the time.  Center back acts as a midfielder.
   JHU loves to switch sides.  Have everyone shift over then send a big ball to the opposite side midfielder or winger.  If I were St. Mary's coach, that would stop because I would have someone in the vicinity to challenge for that ball.
   When they do get a hold of the ball, St. Mary's advantage of space and making runs.
   And just like that, St. Mary's breaks the deadlock.  Foul deep in their own half, St. Mary's plays it into the midfield.  5 quick passes between 4 midfielders and they send a ball down to a winger making a run.  Steps on the ball and passes back 25 yards to the deep midfielder who is now running down the middle of the field with no Johns Hopkins player within 20 yards of him.  Takes a touch left, away from a midfielder who is coming to cover and ultimately dives in.  Cool as a cucumber, #11 from St. Mary's steps on the ball and pushes to his right and from 23 yards away hits a great ball bending far post where the keeper did not have a chance.  Great goal.  Johns Hopkins 0, St. Mary's 1.
   Can make a case that the JHU keeper was sitting too far back and should have been a couple of steps further out, but not sure if he saves it anyhow. 
   JHU now playing with urgency and stepping higher. 
   #11 for St. Mary's is pretty talented.
   Will say JHU looks coached to pass to cones.  Not sure they are looking at some of the runs that are being made and the options available to the player with the ball.  They seem to have their mind made up ahead of time.  As an example, outside back is looking for a pass down the wing or to drop it back.  Irrespective (Because "irregardless" is not a word and is a double negative...) of the fact that there is a center mid 20 yards away. 
   JHU is playing like they are in a rush and resulting in a lot of lost balls.
   St. Mary's is playing like they can't believe they are ahead.  They are sitting deeper but are trying to connect again.
   A bit of chaos in the JHU attack.  40 minutes gone in the first half.
   Have some games I want to watch so chalking it up to history.

St. Joseph's ME v Amherst
Amherst
Bias? – Didn't know Monks were fearsome sports mascots and I am a fan of Aloysius Snuffleupagus.

   From the outset Amherst is pressing high, and everywhere.  Makes St. Joseph's work very difficult.
   Really choppy play.  No real possession.  Lots of bad passes on both sides.
   Not sure what I was expecting, but certainly expected more.
   Game being played very narrowly, which I think is to St. Joseph's advantage.  Thought last time I watched Amherst they liked to move the ball and use the width.
   St. Josephs with a big throw.  Player can land the ball in the middle of the box.  First one didn't result in anything.
   Careful St. Joseph.  Amherst can punish like a Roman Legion if given the chance.
   #13 for Amherst has some game.
   Really not a fun game to watch.
   At times, Amherst is so slow with the ball that St. Joseph's doesn't even have to defend.  Am I missing something here?
   Having said that, St. Joseph's hasn't done anything spectacular.  Don't think I have even seen the Amherst keeper come into frame.
   The St. Joseph's keeper on the other hand has been active and clearly knows his responsibilities.
   I didn't know the game field was 60 yards long.  Only place that the game is being played is the St. Joseph's half.
   And just like that, game over for St. Joseph's.   How it got there involves some ugly rebounds and lots of tackles.  Ball crossed in by #21 near post to a wide open forward standing between to St. Joseph players and heads the ball off the post and goes in from 6 yards out.  St. Joseph 0. Amherst 1. 
   Think I am done with this one.  My eyes are bleeding.  For any of you watching, hope the second half is better.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 23, 2021, 05:23:51 PM
St. Joseph's ME v Amherst
Amherst

   Really choppy play.  No real possession.  Lots of bad passes on both sides.

I'm really looking forward to the SimpleCoach 10-minute passing statistics on this one!

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 23, 2021, 11:07:08 AM

Quote from: Hopkins92 on September 23, 2021, 10:56:31 AM
This had me chuckling. It's the rough equivalent of "what do I have to do to get you into a car today" from a coach. Or car dealerships that talk about being honest and trustworthy.

If you have to say that out loud, there's probably something you're covering for (IMO).

It's been drummed into everyone's head that "playing it out of the back" is the preferrable and "correct" way to play the game. And, yes, it is more aesthetical and often a statistically more preferable way to play.

Problem comes in when you just don't have a) the players or b) the coaching acumen to make that happen.

I know these are obvious points, but you really nailed it when you bring up coaches just saying what they think parents/players want to hear. All it takes is watching your team for 10 minutes to suss that out, coach.

Glad I could help lighten the day @Hopkins92.  Some of the things we were told were outright absurd ... I knew it when I was told and my sons recruiting list was small because he disqualified coaches who were full of it.  That was always the gotcha question for me.  To boot, to watch now, I am not sure I am watching the game the coach talked about.

Looking at some of their recruiting classes is even more comical.... doubling down on the opposite of "working it out of the back."

Not that I will ever know, but wonder how many coaches read these boards.  And if so, would love to have an honest discussion about how they play.  I suspect this wont happen because for some of these guys, being called out isn't exactly what they are looking for...

@Simplecoach - I have known of a few coaches that have read these boards and I first got on here because I was helping at a D3 school. I think that coaches talk about their style of play because they think that is what recruits want to hear. However, when you look at the landscape of D3 soccer, there are far more Burnelys than Man Citys. For a coach who is not in the upper 100, would it help their program if they are honest and say that their style of play is pack it in and spring on the break? Maybe. But I am sure that they would also be worried about turning off players that will help them change their style of play.

LOL.

Hi Rick, nice to meet you...I'm Coach Lasso.  Gonna be honest with you.  We play kick and run, chase and dump, dump and chase, park the bus and the train, and "Send IT!"  We care about each other, though.  A lot.  And gosh darn, dagnabbit it, I already really care about you.  Here's a couple of meal vouchers for you and your Dad to visit Dining Services.

I'm exaggerating for effect, but back in the day a coach at a lower tier Centennial school told my mostly unrecruited kid that he could play 90 minutes at center mid, pick the rest of the starting XI, and decide the formation and style of play...and admissions offered 30K per year.

Quote from: Ommadawn on September 23, 2021, 05:30:37 PM
I'm really looking forward to the SimpleCoach 10-minute passing statistics on this one!

Well, lets go to the tape ....

St Joseph's
First 5
15 passes
3 defined as bad passes
Pass Ratio of 5:1
Second 5
13 passes
4 defined as bad passes
Pass Ratio of 3.25:1
In aggregate
28 passes
7 defined as bad passes
Pass Ratio of 4:1

Amherst
First 5
17 passes
7 defined as bad passes
Pass Ratio of 2.5:1
Second 5
7 passes
4 defined as bad passes
Pass Ratio of 1.75:1
In aggregate
24 passes
11 defined as bad passes
Pass Ratio of 2.18:1

Here is where it starts getting interesting.  Like I said, think I was expecting more from Amherst.  Not sure why, but I was.  In the game they played against Skidmore the completed 29 passes and had 10 bad passes, for a ratio of 2.9:1.  Between the two games they have 53 passes, 21 bad passes for a ratio of 2.52:1.  Maybe I shouldn't expect more?  I am not sure what else it means ... I'll need to talk to my therapist to help me understand that.

Quote from: backheel18 on September 23, 2021, 05:49:46 PM
@Simplecoach - I have known of a few coaches that have read these boards and I first got on here because I was helping at a D3 school. I think that coaches talk about their style of play because they think that is what recruits want to hear. However, when you look at the landscape of D3 soccer, there are far more Burnelys than Man Citys. For a coach who is not in the upper 100, would it help their program if they are honest and say that their style of play is pack it in and spring on the break? Maybe. But I am sure that they would also be worried about turning off players that will help them change their style of play.

@Backheal18  I don't disagree.  And I think most coaches, with a couple of exceptions want to do better than they do.  And sure, I know that recruiting a kids can be a tough proposition.  I guess what I am starting to think is that if you are Burnley, maybe aspire to be Aston Villa or Southampton first.  Not everyone can be Man City.

It's by no means absolute.  I've tracked 50 teams so far  (13 are Man City, 7 are Everton, 30 are Burnley if you are wondering).  We always talk about cleaning up passes ... start there.  I am starting to think if you can eliminate 1/3rd of giveaways on passes ... so no more long ball on the tip off.  No more forcing it down the line.  No more throw ins into pockets of pressure where the guy receiving it is put in an impossible place.  That alone would go a long way.  Starting to get into the coaching and that's not my objective.  Really just trying to figure out why the Burnley's of the world are Burnley and why some are Man City.  Again, accepting that there will be certain things you can't do anything about (Players as an example... or coaches...)

Thanks for the comments.  If you follow the thread this is a mental exercise for me so appreciate anyone who helps in that endeavor.

Thank you, SimpleCoach!  Those numbers square with my general sense of what was going on, especially in the first half and early in the second half when the outcome was still (relatively) in doubt.  Once the subs came in late in the second half, I would guess that Amherst's ratio bumped up to 5:1 or even higher.  They clearly CAN possess and move the ball around, but it's a conscious choice not to (and they have experienced a lot of success taking that approach).

Quote from: Ommadawn on September 23, 2021, 07:10:34 PM
Thank you, SimpleCoach!  Those numbers square with my general sense of what was going on, especially in the first half and early in the second half when the outcome was still (relatively) in doubt.  Once the subs came in late in the second half, I would guess that Amherst's ratio bumped up to 5:1 or even higher.  They clearly CAN possess and move the ball around, but it's a conscious choice not to (and they have experienced a lot of success taking that approach).

@Ommadawn I am sure.  There were moments where I thought they would be stringing some together but just didn't happen.  Ideally I could watch an entire game.  I am sure there are peaks and valleys of passing, just like the ebbs and flows of any game.  You can even see it during the small window I count for.  But if I start watching every game for the whole time, I will become certifiable.  And trying to avoid that... anymore than I already am.

Hey coach I don't have time to go on a long diatribe here right now but i'm sure i'll squeeze it in down the road but heres a quick thought. Maybe consider differentiating passes in your own half versus the attacking half. In terms of the mental exercise I sometimes explain to people that are new to soccer that when you have the ball in your own half it is more akin to being on defense in how we think about other American sports. The odds of you passing the ball around the back four and then eventually scoring a goal are miniscule. Instead you are increasing your chances of winning not by scoring but by essentially preventing the other team from scoring.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 23, 2021, 07:03:31 PM
@Backheal18  I don't disagree.  And I think most coaches, with a couple of exceptions want to do better than they do.  And sure, I know that recruiting a kids can be a tough proposition.  I guess what I am starting to think is that if you are Burnley, maybe aspire to be Aston Villa or Southampton first.  Not everyone can be Man City.

How many are Richmond?

(In the spirit of Walt Whitman, I'm just being curious, not judgmental. ;))

This thread is really distilling the beauty--and limitations--of D3 soccer. I love SCs work of putting data to what works at this level. D4s addition above is stated better than what I attempted before: holding the ball in the defensive third is not a huge challenge for a skillful and well-organized side, while doing so in the offensive third separates the greats from the rest. Turns out that playing football the 'right' way, vs. lump-n-dump are equally effective in D3 soccer at the top level.

One other comment in defense of D3 coaches who claim to want to teach the beautiful game: I coached for a decade in D3, and telling recruits that the team we coach strived to possess the ball and attack with control and creativity was aspirational and not a disingenuous sales pitch. With a few notable exceptions, that's the way we want to coach. Results may vary.

Not an Amherst fan, but still.........


AMHERST, Mass. – Amherst College (4-1-0) blanked Saint Joseph's College (3-1-2), 3-0, in a non-conference men's soccer contest on Thursday afternoon.

Both teams entered the game ranked in the United Soccer Coaches Region I Poll, as Amherst is sixth and Saint Joseph's is seventh. One of the elite programs regionally and nationally, the Mammoths have participated in the NCAA Tournament in each of the last 14 seasons and advanced to the 'Sweet 16' 11 years in a row.

Senior Jack O'Brien (Milton, Mass.) scored in the 42nd minute and the Mammoths netted a pair in the second stanza as freshman Ben Clark-Eden (Littlehampton, U.K.) and junior Ignacio Cubeddu (Davie, Fla.) hit pay dirt to account for the final score.

Amherst held the lead in shots (27-3), shots on goal (14-0), and corner kicks (4-0) on the afternoon. SJC graduate student David Walbridge (Hampden, Mass.) made 11 saves in the setback.

Quote from: d4_Pace on September 23, 2021, 08:20:50 PM
Hey coach I don't have time to go on a long diatribe here right now but i'm sure i'll squeeze it in down the road but heres a quick thought. Maybe consider differentiating passes in your own half versus the attacking half. In terms of the mental exercise I sometimes explain to people that are new to soccer that when you have the ball in your own half it is more akin to being on defense in how we think about other American sports. The odds of you passing the ball around the back four and then eventually scoring a goal are miniscule. Instead you are increasing your chances of winning not by scoring but by essentially preventing the other team from scoring.

@D4_Pace.  Thanks for the  observation.  There are multiple directions I could go with this.  Started out as pretty benign as just counting but find myself looking are different aspects, this could be one.  My only issue with this is that I am a 4 corners coach.  I don't care where you are on the field, if you are maintaining possession, you will invariably be in a better position to score, regardless of where you start your possession.  Will say, again, anecdotally, that yes, lots of teams pass around the back, then hoof it. But from what I watched those who do that generally speaking are lower down the pass ratio scale.  Maybe I will run an experiment and take a look at a game through that lens and see what it yields.

Quote from: PaulNewman on September 23, 2021, 11:05:23 PM
Not an Amherst fan, but still.........


AMHERST, Mass. – Amherst College (4-1-0) blanked Saint Joseph's College (3-1-2), 3-0, in a non-conference men's soccer contest on Thursday afternoon.

Both teams entered the game ranked in the United Soccer Coaches Region I Poll, as Amherst is sixth and Saint Joseph's is seventh. One of the elite programs regionally and nationally, the Mammoths have participated in the NCAA Tournament in each of the last 14 seasons and advanced to the 'Sweet 16' 11 years in a row.

Senior Jack O'Brien (Milton, Mass.) scored in the 42nd minute and the Mammoths netted a pair in the second stanza as freshman Ben Clark-Eden (Littlehampton, U.K.) and junior Ignacio Cubeddu (Davie, Fla.) hit pay dirt to account for the final score.

Amherst held the lead in shots (27-3), shots on goal (14-0), and corner kicks (4-0) on the afternoon. SJC graduate student David Walbridge (Hampden, Mass.) made 11 saves in the setback.

As many of you know, I am a former St. Joe's parent (my son graduated) and what was painfully clear to me is that there is a huge gap between St. Joe's and most of the top Nescac teams like Amherst or Tufts.  St. Joe's will do well in their conference and may win it and get to the NCAA tournament, but they simply are not good enough to play and beat really good teams.  Some may debate whether Amherst is in that category, but after watching them impose their will on St. Joe's, I'm convinced.

Wabash v Chicago
Wabash
Bias? – They have a good football team, and I went there on business ... a lot.

   This game is from September 3rd.  Interested in seeing what Chicago is made of.
   What a great little stadium from what I can tell.
   Both teams move the ball, but Chicago is much more effective and is getting into dangerous spots.
   Chicago recovers a bad ball about 25 yards out, gets it to the center mid #6 who hits a ball past the keeper for the go-ahead goal.  Wabash 0 Chicago 1.  I think his name is Ben and clearly his mom was at the game. 5 gone on the clock.
   Wabash struggles to gain some control beyond what they give them in the back.
   Chicago moves the ball well and forces them Wabash to sit deeper and deeper.  Not afraid to get it to the midfielders who get the ball moving up top.
   Most of the play is happening in the Wabash half.  Not even sure that in the first ten minutes the Chicago keeper has even touched the ball.
   Wabash is trying to play but Chicago closes space very effectively.  On the attack they spread the field very well.
   Wabash on one-on-one defending is not being effective.  Could stop a lot of forward movement if they could go in a little quicker.
   When Wabash gets the ball moving, they have some success getting through Chicago.  But this is few and far between.  18 minutes in.
   Chicago can play and think this is a top team.  And the numbers show it. 
   Wabash just not accurate on passing out of the back.  Chicago is waiting and forcing Wabash into very tight spaces.  That said, Chicago's back line is very organized and disciplined on both ends of the ball.  And team knows to be patient.
   Think Chicago can clean up some of the lost balls but think that's a function of moving forward and not sitting back.
   Chicago switches attack very well.  They never go back into pressure unless there is a legit opening.
   Wabash defense is doing Yeoman's work keeping Chicago at bay.
   Chicago is falling prey to guys wanting to do too much.  They were much more effective playing 2/3 touch.   25 minutes in.  When they do play quick, Wabash is playing catch up.
   Chicago is peppering Wabash, and they don't have an answer.  Usually would say at this point that it is a matter of when not if, but the shooting has been off.  So maybe there is Saran Wrap on the goal.
   I will say that for all the work, Chicago leaves a bit on the table.  Not lethal or cold blooded in front of goal.  Reminds me a bit like Messiah.  If they were as ruthless in front of goal as say Tufts, they would be awesome.  36 minutes in.
    Think that's it for me. 
   From a statistical stand point, this is what I got –
   For Wabash –
o   First Five Minutes
   23 Passes
   9 Passes defined as bad
   2.56:1 Pass Ratio
   And something new I looked at.... Of the 23 passes, only 5 were in Chicago's half
o   Second Five Minutes
   24 Passes
   3 Passes defined as bad
   8:1 Pass Ratio
   Of those 24 passes, none were in Chicago's half.
o   In Aggregate
   47 passes, 12 defined as bad.
   3.92:1 pass ratio
   Only 11% of their passes (5) were in Chicago's half.
   For Chicago –
o   First Five Minutes
   35 Passes
   4 Passes defined as bad
   8.75:1 Pass Ratio
   Of those 35 passes, 14 were in Wabash's half
o   Second Five Minutes
   30 Passes
   3 Passes defined as bad
   6.67:1 Pass Ratio
   Of those 20 passes, 15 were in Wabash's half
o   In Aggregate
   55 passes, 7 defined as bad.
   7.86:1 pass ratio
   53% of their passes (29) were in Wabash's half.
   That's speaks to Chicago's movement off the ball, and their precision passing. 
   Oh, and special thanks to @D4_Pace who suggested I track where the passes are made.  Will try to do this in future game reviews.  Think it is a good measure of relative dominance in a game.

Quote from: OldNed on September 24, 2021, 09:11:07 AM

Quote from: PaulNewman on September 23, 2021, 11:05:23 PM
Not an Amherst fan, but still.........


AMHERST, Mass. – Amherst College (4-1-0) blanked Saint Joseph's College (3-1-2), 3-0, in a non-conference men's soccer contest on Thursday afternoon.

Both teams entered the game ranked in the United Soccer Coaches Region I Poll, as Amherst is sixth and Saint Joseph's is seventh. One of the elite programs regionally and nationally, the Mammoths have participated in the NCAA Tournament in each of the last 14 seasons and advanced to the 'Sweet 16' 11 years in a row.

Senior Jack O'Brien (Milton, Mass.) scored in the 42nd minute and the Mammoths netted a pair in the second stanza as freshman Ben Clark-Eden (Littlehampton, U.K.) and junior Ignacio Cubeddu (Davie, Fla.) hit pay dirt to account for the final score.

Amherst held the lead in shots (27-3), shots on goal (14-0), and corner kicks (4-0) on the afternoon. SJC graduate student David Walbridge (Hampden, Mass.) made 11 saves in the setback.

As many of you know, I am a former St. Joe's parent (my son graduated) and what was painfully clear to me is that there is a huge gap between St. Joe's and most of the top Nescac teams like Amherst or Tufts.  St. Joe's will do well in their conference and may win it and get to the NCAA tournament, but they simply are not good enough to play and beat really good teams.  Some may debate whether Amherst is in that category, but after watching them impose their will on St. Joe's, I'm convinced.

ON, thanks for chiming in.  Those of us following along in New England for at least a few years know that St Joe's has emerged as a very good D3 program that has caused some damage in recent NCAA tourneys, and if iirc took Tufts to PKs.  I would have presumed a very tight match with Amherst likely pulling out a 1-0 or 2-1 win.  There are obviously any number of data points, but aside from Amherst's passing performance or lack thereof they obviously found a way to thoroughly overwhelm the Monks as reflected by the shot and corner stats.  Getting off 27 shots against a good opponent (and holding them to 3) means you are finding some way to get ahold of the ball and make something happen.  I was very surprised to see those stats after initially hearing about the game.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 23, 2021, 04:29:22 PM
Johns Hopkins v St. Mary's College
John's Hopkins
Bias? – For Halloween I dressed up as a doctor once and I say a Hail Mary every morning.


   Will say JHU looks coached to pass to cones.  Not sure they are looking at some of the runs that are being made and the options available to the player with the ball.  They seem to have their mind made up ahead of time.  As an example, outside back is looking for a pass down the wing or to drop it back.  Irrespective (Because "irregardless" is not a word and is a double negative...) of the fact that there is a center mid 20 yards away. 

dingdingdingdingding

Winner!

I saw the Hopkins-Swarthmore game in person and several other games streaming this season. Hopkins still plays a lot of ball control from the back but there does seem to be a greater willingness to try some long, reasonably direct balls. Both of the goals vs. Swarthmore originated with long passes over the top.

Hilarious user name, first off. Secondly, I'm headed up to see them in person tomorrow at Haverford. Lucky to have a fellow alum as a wife who will sit through a game to enjoy the weather and the leaves changing up that way.

Do top programs even take walk-ons anymore? I had a discussion with some of my former teammates and noted that the practice ended at Hopkins after my first year.

The coach when I walked on, who was the assistant lacrosse coach first and the head soccer coach second, went on to become one of the greatest lacrosse coaches of all time with 7 D-1 national championships. He was by no means a soccer expert but he had a good tactical mind and was a master motivator. We would have walked through fire for him. In our recollection, staging walk-on tryouts sent a message that he was willing to do whatever it took to improve the team.

Quote from: Hopkins Walk-On on September 24, 2021, 01:25:13 PM
Do top programs even take walk-ons anymore? I had a discussion with some of my former teammates and noted that the practice ended at Hopkins after my first year.

The coach when I walked on, who was the assistant lacrosse coach first and the head soccer coach second, went on to become one of the greatest lacrosse coaches of all time with 7 D-1 national championships. He was by no means a soccer expert but he had a good tactical mind and was a master motivator. We would have walked through fire for him. In our recollection, staging walk-on tryouts sent a message that he was willing to do whatever it took to improve the team.

Yeah, I was (as my username hints) on the last squad at Hopkins that carried on the tradition of having a Lax coach.

I think there are probably still instances of kids that aren't recruited that contact the coach and let him know they'd like a shot. Coaches would be kind of silly not to at least give those kids a run. If they're a hidden gem, great. No skin of the coach's teeth just to cut him W1 if they aren't up to it.

(Interestingly, my sophomore team was probably one of the best of that era, which was the last year of the lax coach tradition. The "soccer background" coach that came in was a disaster. He was fired the year after I left and the coach they brought in took that team to the national finals. The goalie on that team was a freshman my senior year and he TOTALLY stole my pre-game ritual... I was quite flattered, frankly.)

Tufts under Shapiro had walk on tryouts every year with a few making the team. Notably Drew Stern who started on the last national title team in 2019

Quote from: d4_Pace on September 24, 2021, 01:46:33 PM
Tufts under Shapiro had walk on tryouts every year with a few making the team. Notably Drew Stern who started on the last national title team in 2019

Even the guys who got cut did pretty well for themselves, like four-time D3 800m champ and Olympic Trials qualifier Mitch Black: https://www.gotuftsjumbos.com/sports/mtrack/2020-21/releases/20210615nl8eco

Christopher Newport v. Washington & Lee
Washington & Lee
Bias? – I remember when Newports were the rage and wish I would have rode with George and "Light Horse" Henry

   Nice field, great video, and some of the best announcers I have heard so far.
   Looks like grass?
   4 minutes in, W&L corner kick.  Ball is sent far post and a wide open forward heads the ball into the back of the net about 7 yards out.  Christopher Newport 0, Washington & Lee 1.
   CNU really doesn't control the ball.  Kind of chaotic and don't look to control.
   W&L like the ball of the deck and do well through midfield.  Guys make good use of space and have some forwards who are making good runs.
   CNU does not look like a ranked team
   W&L looks like they can break through for a second goal before CNU even gets its first shot on goal.
   CNU wastes good opportunities to break forward with lazy passes.
   CNU gets the ball to the wingers and they try to go one on one
   W&L is well organized and really not letting CNU get through easily.
   Counters can hurt W&L.  CNU just needs to not cough it up stupidly when they do
   23 minutes left
   CNU looks like they are playing a man down.  Midfields are evenly matched but W&L just looks more comfortable when the get the ball and have plenty of times
   Having some video issues.
   W&L is just picking players out to give them the ball.  Guys who are wide open. 
   Maybe it was the ranking but was expecting more out of CNU.
   W&L on the front foot.  Keep pushing CNU deep
   CNU even struggling with first touch. 13 minutes left
   Having said that, there are glimpses of what CNU seems capable of doing.  Just very erratic and not enough of those moments.
   W&L is keeping CNU in front of them but looks like gaps are starting to open up.  CNU getting to the 18 a little easier than in the first 30.
   W&L is missing that last pass to get in front of goal.
   Some CNU players really love the ball....
   With 7 minutes left, it's getting sloppy
   Halftime
   But of a reversal in the last ten minutes. CNU started to push it while W&L was doing a bit of defending

Trinity v Colorado College
Trinity
Bias? – I know a professor at one and am a big fan of the Rockies.

   Great video production.  Wonderful grass field.  Love the stadium.
   Trinity presses very high.
   And like that, on a corner, Trinity plays it short.  Crosses the ball far post and there is a Trinity player to head it into the back of the net.  Not sure what Colorado was doing defensively as he seemed to have snuck in there unmarked.  Trinity 1, Colorado 0.  2 minutes into the first half.
   Colorado struggles to get across midfield. Only had one look at goal in the first half.
   Trinity seems to work there corners short.  Purposefully position 4 players to support.  Looking for the defense to adjust and in the confusion look to get the ball across.  Not comfortable for Colorado
   Been all Trinity in the first ten minutes.  Been impressed with both teams and how they play.  Clearly Trinity is more comfortable with the ball and getting forward.  But Colorado tries to play.  Not just looking to boot the ball forward.  Both teams have some skillful players who have a good understanding of the game.
   Colorado just needs to hold onto the ball, even if it is deep in their own half.  If anything, to just stop Trinity from running at them.
   This is where stats alone don't tell the story.  Colorado has a better Pass Ratio (7.6) than Trinity (4.3) but it has been Trinity's game so far.  This is where Colorado's Attack Percentage is much lower than Trinity's.  Trinity has been taking the game to Colorado with 47% of their possession in Colorado's half, while only 21% of Colorado's possession is in their Attacking half.  Concluding that Trinity's pass ratio is worse because they are working it higher up the field in greater pressure than Trinity.
   15 minutes in and Colorado really hasn't gotten to Trinity's half.  Tough to say where Trinity is weak defensively at this point.
   Trinity could use being a bit more patient on the attack.  Sometimes seems to be forcing it rather than letting the play develop a little bit.
   Wow.  One of Colorado's first real methodical attacks leads to a goal.  Ball into the box Colorado player one times a ball on the ground across the box.  Trinity defender can't reach, a second defender goes to tackle the ball that is going to land at a center forwards feet, but neither touch the ball.  Keeps going through and a Colorado winger enters the box and from 10 yards out hits the ball far post for the tying goal.  Trinity 1, Colorado 1.  16 minutes into the first half.
   Trinity looks a little discombobulated after the goal.  Although still able to get dangerous.  Colorado is feeling confident. 
   Trinity still trying to force the ball forward while Colorado tries to be more selective about how it gets forward.  This is a good game. When the teams work it on the deck, they are much more successful than when they try to occasional long ball.
   Colorado has found itself defensively and now makes it very difficult for Trinity.  This was not the case the first 15 minutes. 
   Colorado getting deeper and deeper in the attack.  Trinity being pushed back farther and farther making their attacks more predictable and a little easier to defend against.  They still are dangerous on set pieces though.
   And like that.  On a foul 40 yards from goal, ball is floated to the penalty spot and a Trinity player gets his head on the ball and manages to get the ball on the back of the net.  Kind of floated up and away from the keeper before dropping in under the cross bar.  And like that Trinity 2, Colorado 1.  2 minutes left in the half.  Will say, how the Trinity player won the ball over two Trinity defenders is beyond me.
   Apparently the two goals, both headers were scored by the same player.
   Not sure it was deserved, but as I said, Colorado is very organized on set pieces.  Whether corners or free kicks, they seem to have a game plan for how they are attacking the ball.
   So that's half.  Entertaining, good soccer.  Impressed with both teams.

Glad you enjoyed.  A little unusual for both teams in that Colorado's most dangerous scorer was out the entire game, Trinity didn't start either their best striker or defensive mid (both came in later in the game).  Trinity also playing their backup keeper who has not seen much action.  Second half was all Trinity and ended 6-2 in the home side's favor.  This was not a SCAC match so both teams doing things they won't when it counts.

Rule (the kid with two goals off headers) doesn't usually play that far forward.  Glad to see him get his first points on the season.

Bryn Athyn College v Clark Summit University
Bryn Athyn
Bias? - I have an affinity for obscure Christian denominations and always climbing toward something.

- Beautiful campus and great field with a hill to enjoy the game from.
- Bryn Athyn in white, Clark Summit in blue.
- Clark Summit is better on the ball.  Bryn Athyn just late on tackles.  Giving up some dangerous free kicks near the box that Clark Summit could capitalize on.
- I have yet to see a long ball out of the back reach any of its intended targets, from either team.
- Clumsy game.  Lots of unnecessary fouls.  Not much soccer.
- 0-0 at the half.

Tufts v Colby
Colby
Bias? – Elephants and cheese, who doesn't like these things?

   This is not the same Tufts team I watched a few games ago.  Lethargic, struggling to connect.
   Colby looking much more like a championship team. 
   Colby has been on the front foot.  Most of the game being played in Tuft's half. 
   No real chances to speak of with almost 15 gone, but you get the sense that Colby is closer to a goal than Tufts.
   It's a bare-knuckle kind of game, but Colby has clearly been the better.
   Tufts knows how to play.  Just slow and not the best of touches.  Not sure if it is the grass or what.
   Tuft's had their first shot.. err, half shot, at 29:52.
   When they win the ball, Tufts keeps turning back into pressure.  They seem to get forward a little more.
   I think this is a case where Colby has been playing well, and Tuft's maybe slow to start.  Although if they are not careful, Colby will find a way to goal.
   Colby does well to get the ball between and behind midfielders.  And they have been tenacious on defense.
   Tuft's is lacking movement off the ball.  Guys get the ball and don't have many options.
   When Colby is able to get it into the attacking half, whether by passing it or winning a ball, they actually move the ball well.  Not impressed with Tufts midfield defending.  Almost like they are surprised someone is trying to play against them.  22 left.
   20 minutes in and Tuft has an opportunity from maybe 4 yards and the Colby Keeper comes up big and blocks the shot.
   Tuft forwards seemingly trying to do too much.
   And that left back for Tuft's is a beast.
   Colby starting to be put under pressure, but Tufts can't seal the deal.  Starting to win ball in the middle because they are quick to get to the man with the ball.
   Another chance for Tufts.  Keeper comes out on a ball floated into the box, misses and ball finds its way to the 6 where a Tufts player tries a diving header but puts the ball wide.
   Colby now can't get out of their half.  Tufts has them pinned and when they do get forward 3 or 4 players converge on the ball.
   Looks like there is an injury sub with 12 minutes left in the half.  Colby keeper must have gotten dinged when he came out for the ball earlier.
   And why we loves this game ... or drives us mad.  From driving forward and putting a ball across the box just beyond a diving forward, Tufts gets stung by Colby.  Good give and go to get out of pressure, and passed outside the left wing, #20, who is one on one with a Tufts defender.  Slots a ball to the center forward who drops it back.  Two quick passes to the opposite side and a Colby player makes a move and hits the roof of the net.  Tufts 0, Colby 1. 
   If you account for the first 20 minutes, Colby deserved the goal.  Would say Tufts probably should have had 3, just on the opportunities they missed... not because of play which they are unimpressive right now.
   Of course, they are back to pinning Colby back, but without much luck.  Keep putting the ball in the box, but Colby is doing well defending and getting the ball away.
   Tufts just too imprecise when it matters. 
   And halftime.  Tufts 0, Colby 1.
   Tons of games to watch but expect Tufts to come out and force the issue until they at least get the equalizer.  And would be expecting Colby to be defending for dear life.

Washington College v Muhlenberg
Muhlenberg
Bias? –Second time watching both.

   Joined when it was already Washington 1, Muhlenberg 0. 
   Muhlenberg moves the ball in the back and looking to spring a winger when they get the opportunity.  31 left.
   Muhlenberg moves the ball well.  Real solid in the middle but are getting closed quickly and Washington is tight defensively.  Very disciplined.
   I like Muhlenberg's back line and midfield, but the forward line is a bit too static.  North/South runners that are waiting for the ball rather than trying to create.  They also need to stretch the Washington back line.  There are no real gaps and no real patience to work the ball to create them.
   There are two things I noticed in all the games I have watched.  By and large, players on the field are largely unaware of two things – Time and the score.  If they are winning or losing, no matter how much time is left, they rush to score.  In this case, Muhlenberg has a whole lot of time and is playing like their hair is on fire.  If they are not careful, Washington will hurt them.  Washington is sort of hunkered back as if there are 30 seconds left in the game... not my definition of being patient.
   17 left.
   Muhlenberg is trying to force the ball in the worst spots.  Washington is just collecting the ball and going on the attack, although not effective.
   You can see that Muhlenberg is getting frustrated.
   Didn't see the goal but this is right now a game between the 18s.  No one is getting a clear look on goal.
   Muhlenberg #8 is a solid mid.
   Lot of popcorn ball going on.
   No space for either team... but they keep forcing everything.  Both teams seem to be playing in the center of the field.  Not using the width of the field.  As a result, the last 10 minutes have been akin to a 19th century Rugby match.
   I really should start counting good//bad first touches ...
   Ok.  Halftime.  More games, so am done with this one.

Catholic v Moravian
Catholic
Bias? – Multiple times for each team.


   Nice first attack by Catholic that almost led to a goal.  Keeper with the save.
   Moravian tries to work the ball, but Catholic is so energetic...
   Catholic doesn't do much with the ball but both times they got it forward they were dangerous.  Moravian defense is left wanting.
   Moravian defenders do well marking but movement confuses them and leave gaping holes.
   Another counter by Catholic that leads to a header just wide.  Moravian tries to move the ball but breaks down easily on turnovers.
   Neither team is adept at moving the ball.  Careless turnovers that shouldn't be.  Inconsistency in the movements off the ball, and lack of organization on attack.
   Catholic is always looking for the big ball, even if it is on the ground.
   If Catholic had a midfielder with a good passing range and stayed at home a bit, someone who could connect the back with the midfield, they could be good.
   Moravian is just too slow with ball movement.  Gives Catholic the opportunity to defend.
   The gaps in the middle of the field are enormous.  All the midfielders are forwards who start deeper...
   No control of the ball.
   No defensive disciple from Catholic.  Slow to get out for corners.
   26 minutes in.
   A team with defensive discipline so as not to lose their shape when on the attack, that can exploit the space in the middle by controlling the ball, and that on the attack keeps space and doesn't get caught to tight in the middle, would have a field day against either team.
   This is another theory of mine.  Lots of teams like to play some version of a 4-3-3.  Most teams don't know what it means to play a version of a 4-3-3.
   Aside from those couple of chances early on, there hasn't been much in the way of dangerous attacks.  At times this seems more like a game of Quidditch than soccer.
   Someone is going to have to shoot from range to break the deadlock.  Neither team has the consistency or creativity to create something that will lead to a goal.
   2 minutes left and I am done. 
   This is the sort of game that drives me nuts.  I can take bad passes and popcorn ball.  What I can't take is chaos.  Some might like that, but I hold to the notion that unless you have some semblance of discipline and organization, you are playing adult Sunday league ball.  And that's what this looked like for long stretches of the game.
   Halftime.  Catholic 0, Moravian 0.

@simplecoach - would love to get your take on Carnegie Mellon.  UAA is going to be a very tough league this year and they're off to a very good start.  Only loss came in OT to Ohio Northern playing down a man (one of the softest cards I've ever seen).  Check out their schedule.  They play 5 very tough games in a row (not sure of the order) - NYU, Chicago, Rochester, Wash U, Emory so they have a chance to prove how good they are.  Worth a watch.

Quote from: D3_Slack on September 26, 2021, 08:48:56 AM
@simplecoach - would love to get your take on Carnegie Mellon.  UAA is going to be a very tough league this year and they're off to a very good start.  Only loss came in OT to Ohio Northern playing down a man (one of the softest cards I've ever seen).  Check out their schedule.  They play 5 very tough games in a row (not sure of the order) - NYU, Chicago, Rochester, Wash U, Emory so they have a chance to prove how good they are.  Worth a watch.

Funny, thought I watched them but apparently I haven't.  Will see if I can check out a game.  If they archive video, I will catch a game they have played.  Always like CMU as at least historically, they have been competitive and try to play.  Played against them a number of times.

@D3_Slack... no better time than the present to watch another game...

Carnegie Mellon v Westminster
Westminster, PA
Bias? – Played against one and been to the Abbey

   Love the field/stadium.  Seems like a great spot for it.
   Impressive from both teams.  Trying to work the ball through the middle and trying to retain a degree of control of the play.
   CMU has three very good midfielders, controlling the tempo and changing points of attack.
   Both have gotten to goal early on.
   CMU uses the midfield like most teams use their back line.  They have the ability to hold onto the ball high up the field and in the attacking half.  Helps that their forwards are dynamic and make effective runs to space.
   Westminster is having to be disciplined defensively because CMU is moving side to side pretty effectively.
   Westminster struggling to get forward consistently and is spending much of the time so far in their half.
   CMU being very patient with the ball and tries to get their midfield involved early. 
   Lots of run through the back line from the CMU midfielders.  Can see this being a problem for any team that can't track them.
   29 remaining.
   CMU Always has a midfielder sitting deep as a CDM.  As the play develops in the back he supports the central defenders and becomes an option.  Wherever the space is, another midfielder checks in.  If it's not on, the backs, keep the ball between themselves.  Farther up, the other midfielder or forward checks into the space in the midfield that is now open.  This is the third option for the backs.  Usually, one is on.  The third option is always on because the Westminster defender is slow to pick up that he is looking for the ball.
   Westminster is covering well, but the gap between the back line and their defensive posture in the middle is too wide and is usually where CMU is trying to get the ball.
   22 remaining and the game is between the 18's.
   CMU needs to be a little more patient early on.  There will be gaps, just can't force it, especially down the middle.
   Westminster starting to break out of their defensive shell.  Getting more of the play in CMU's half.  Still not precise, and CMU is very disciplined in covering.
   #5 for CMU is a very solid holding Mid.  More teams could learn to have a player like that to connect the backs and the midfield.  No nonsense, not trying anything too flashy, everything simple... And keeps a Westminster player busy because he has to be marked.
   Westminster doing well to find outlet passes while under pressure.  Just when CMU thinks they have cornered the ball, Westminster moves it away.
   CMU seems to have gone a little flat.  Doing well in possession, but the forward line is a little static.  Big center forward just going north and south looking to get a ball to beet so he can try to beat the defender.  Never does though.
   Makes no sense for Westminster to press high because CMU is too good with the ball in the back.  If I were the coach I would have them drop to midfield and have them defend from there.
   And like that CMU gets on the board first.  Westminster looks to break out to get on the attack, and man with the ball tries to get it out wide.  CMU defender reads it like a book and picks off the pass about 40 yards out.  Ball lands at the feet of a CMU 25 yards out, who was left unmarked as the Westminster was stepping forward.  Takes a touch and from 22 hits a low driven ball inside the post to the Keepers right.  Great goal.  Carnegie Mellon 1, Westminster 0.
   The goal is that shows that transitions can be the most vulnerable moments for a team.  Westminster was starting to get on the attack and a quick, well defended play turns on them and CMU punishes.
   10 left in the half.
   And then just like that.  Westminster gets the ball forward and get a couple of throw ins 18 yards in.  The kid has a bomb of a thrown in easily reaching the near post.  First one is dealt with no problem.  Second one the keeper comes out but over commits and ball goes through his hands and into the back of the net.  Assuming the keeper got his hands on the ball for the goal to stand.  Carnegie Mellon 1, Westminster 1.
   This is why being a goalkeeper is the loneliest place on the field...
   And soccer is a game of goals.  There is no place on the score sheet for style points... 7 left.
   And now another mistake.  Ball floated in from a foul at midfield that somehow gets beyond Westminster defenders to a CMU player who heads the ball down.  Actually looks like he miss hit the ball ...  Keeper drops to his knees and the ball bounces over him.  Kind of bizarre, kind of play I would be furious about.  Just get the ball out no matter what.  You just tied the game and there is less than a minute left.  Really bad to let something like this allow to happen... out of nothing.  Carnegie Mellon 2, Westminster 1.
   And then with 10 left, CMU had another chance but the keeper came up big with a save.  Total lack of awareness on Westminster's part in the last couple of minutes.
   Halftime.

Hamilton College v Connecticut College
Hamilton
Bias? – If you accuse me of bias, let's duel, and second time watching.

   Conn owns the ball.  Only reason why Hamilton may be in Conn's half is because Conn has let them come try to take the ball away as they work it around the back.  Lots of chasing for Hamilton.
   Am hoping for Hamilton's sake that they are just having a slow start.  Really can't get a hold of the ball.
   Midfield very active for Connecticut.  Do take control of the game.  Hamilton is just sitting so deep, but even so, wings are wide open and a long ball across the field can get to them without a challenge. 
   Conn doing well to wait for its moments.  Still probing for open space. Hamilton will break down in the back if they keep this up for much longer.
   Think Hamilton is trying to slow it down.
   Not a matter of "if" but "when" will Connecticut take advantage of a defensive turnover and punish Hamilton.
   Conn keeping Hamilton in front of them when they don't have the ball.  Hamilton does not have the ideas to get through.
   This is the point in the game where the good team can take control or starts to slow down and lets the lesser team into the game.  Not sure where it is headed.  15 minutes into the first half.
   Hamilton is starting to get higher up the field.  Just can't connect in the final third ... largely thanks to a solid playing back line.
   Connecticut is still much in control, just needs to find the gaps.
   And just like that.  Hamilton defender clears the ball right into a Connecticut player.  Ball bounces to another just at the 18.  He has no one around him and takes a couple of touches and lines up the perfect shot far post for a goal.  Hamilton 0, Connecticut 1.  21 minutes left in the half.
   Connecticut is now knocking for a second.  Can see that happening before the Connecticut keeper is even put under pressure.
   8 left.
   And again, Connecticut connecting through the middle to #14 who takes the ball into Hamilton's half and slots his right wing #12 ... who is wide open ... who rips a shot upper corner to the left of the keeper.  Not a shot that he makes the save.  Hamilton 0, Connecticut 2.
   Unless Connecticut collapses in the second half, this game is done.
   Halftime.

Messiah v NYU
NYU – Gaelic Park
Bias? – Second time watching both

   Messiah, doing what it does.  Owning the ball and playing mostly in NYUs half.  Midfield is active and always looking to be on the ball. 
   Speed of their ball movement is hard to keep up with by NYU is being disciplined in the back.
   First real opportunity from Messiah.  Well played ball floated far post to a wide-open player.  NYU keeper comes up big with a high save.
   7 minutes into the first half.
   Messiah thrives on simple one touch give and go... or in other parlance ... give the ball, get the ball ... Really something to watch especially since not many teams do it.  By far the best passing team in the country.
   NYU has only completed one pass in the last 5 minutes.  Literally.
   Both teams are talented and Top 20 in my book.
   Once again, my only issue with Messiah is that they are looking for perfection in the attack.  And while that may come, probably comes fewer than good opportunities.
   15 minutes in and NYU is trying to get the ball forward and are a little more effective, but when Messiah gets the ball in space its like one big game of keep away.  They are not wasteful at all when they are in possession.
   Really fun to watch Messiah and how a player has his head down, intuitively knows where he can put the ball because he can expect a teammate to be there.
   NYU has its first shot on goal at the 27th minute.  Looked like a little miscommunication in the back that landed the ball to the NYU forward.
    And like that.  Without going into detail, Messiah keeper gets the ball and passes to his nearest back.  From there, 20 consecutive passes, 10 of which made their way through NYU.  Forward turns on his defender and ends up with the ball where he is off to the keepers right and hits a worm burner far post for the go-ahead goal.  Messiah 1, NYU 0.
   NY defends with 9 and are all with their defensive third.  Just can't get on the ball.
   22 minutes left in the half.
   Think NYU is making a mistake by defending so deep.  Midfielders have tons of space to pick where they want to go.  I would clog their midfield play as best I could.  Probably under normal circumstances against lesser teams, they can swarm the man with the ball.  Messiah you need to be man to man and making sure passing lanes are blocked or at least makes putting the ball there a risky proposition.
   NYU needs to have some patience with the ball.  Otherwise, they are playing into Messiah's game plan.
   15 minutes left in the half.
   Some technical difficulties with the video...
   NYU is pressing higher and putting Messiah under a bit of pressure in the back.  Starting to get closer to the 18.  Able to get the ball out wide and put it across.  Could be dangerous for Messiah.
   Of course, the Man with the Mullett ... the Messiah keeper is super solid between the pipes.
   3 minutes left in the half.
   NYU has had the better of the play for the last 15 or so, but still a little too far from goal.
   Halftime.  Game is good enough to watch the second half.
   Wasn't taking any notes, but with 17 down, NYU got a second.  Messiah keeper punts the ball this time.  Big center forward, the player who gave his hair to the goalkeeper, heads a ball to the teammate who is running forward to down the line.  The big man continues his run and gets to the 18.  There are 2 NYU players covering deep, and two trailing.  No one is really marking except for the man on the ball.  Between the 40 NYU players there is a passing lane that leads to the big man at the 18.  The big man receives the ball and with all the calm in the world, as a 5 defender tries to close him down, he hits a low ball with his instep that bends around the defender and goes far post side netting.  Keeper didn't even see it and if he could have, he wouldn't get to it.  Masterclass goal.  Seriously.  Doesn't kill the ball, just easily hits it and boom.  Messiah 2, NYU 0.
   Think that's going to call it for me.  I end on that beautiful goal.  Stunning.

Great account of the first half of the MESSIAH-NYU game, Simple Coach. Thank you for it. One correction: the first goal was scored by a defender, not a forward. Even though he made a forward-type play, running straight for the goal after receiving the ball from his normal position fairly deep in the attacking third. I think he was momentarily dispossessed, but it came off his chest and back to his feet for the shot. A brilliant decision to initiate that play, when normally that's not his role. This is an aspect of the messiah attack often not seen by those with limited experience watching them: the veterans (and this year's team is full of them) are allowed to go off script in the attacking end, when they see opportunities present themselves. Usually they don't do this. In general the outside backs will sometimes have the ball near the goal line and initiate plays from there after fast overlapping runs, but it's uncommon for them to go to goal with the ball as in this instance. NYU could not have anticipated that play—perhaps a factor in its success.

The stream was terrible, to be generous. Literally dozens of times it went blank, sometimes for minutes at a time. Thus, I didn't see the late goal by NYU that cut the deficit in half. Overall I think NYU is as talented as anyone out there. They were easily the most physical team the Falcons have played thus far, taking the Falcons out of their scheme often even though Messiah still had the majority of possession. This one had the feel of a Final Four contest, to be frank. I would not be shocked if (a) NYU wins their loaded conference and (b) makes the Final Four: they're that good. No weak links on the starting team. You take them lightly and you're going home with your posterior in your hands.

This game showed me the Falcons are for real, even though they don't have a reliable finisher, or at least not yet identified as such. The backup forward with the shaved head who scored that textbook second goal could emerge to fill that role, but McCarty so far isn't starting him. I haven't seen anyone else with the classic skill set of a target, and the best Falcon teams over the years have had a target who can get the ball, keep it under pressure in or around the box, and do the right things from there. If this man gets more PT and doesn't change his game, they could take a step up on the attacking end—which could be the key come November.

Despite my legitimate frustration with the streaming, i am grateful for the fact that I could still see much of that game from a hotel room 4000 miles away. About a mile from here, the street markets are full of little rag dolls with "Modric" displayed across the back of the jersey. Love that guy. Maybe I'll take one home and put a Falcon cap on him. That's a thought. 😂

Quote from: Falconer on September 26, 2021, 08:52:46 PM
Great account of the first half of the MESSIAH-NYU game, Simple Coach. Thank you for it. One correction: the first goal was scored by a defender, not a forward. Even though he made a forward-type play, running straight for the goal after receiving the ball from his normal position fairly deep in the attacking third. I think he was momentarily dispossessed, but it came off his chest and back to his feet for the shot. A brilliant decision to initiate that play, when normally that's not his role. This is an aspect of the messiah attack often not seen by those with limited experience watching them: the veterans (and this year's team is full of them) are allowed to go off script in the attacking end, when they see opportunities present themselves. Usually they don't do this. In general the outside backs will sometimes have the ball near the goal line and initiate plays from there after fast overlapping runs, but it's uncommon for them to go to goal with the ball as in this instance. NYU could not have anticipated that play—perhaps a factor in its success.

The stream was terrible, to be generous. Literally dozens of times it went blank, sometimes for minutes at a time. Thus, I didn't see the late goal by NYU that cut the deficit in half. Overall I think NYU is as talented as anyone out there. They were easily the most physical team the Falcons have played thus far, taking the Falcons out of their scheme often even though Messiah still had the majority of possession. This one had the feel of a Final Four contest, to be frank. I would not be shocked if (a) NYU wins their loaded conference and (b) makes the Final Four: they're that good. No weak links on the starting team. You take them lightly and you're going home with your posterior in your hands.

This game showed me the Falcons are for real, even though they don't have a reliable finisher, or at least not yet identified as such. The backup forward with the shaved head who scored that textbook second goal could emerge to fill that role, but McCarty so far isn't starting him. I haven't seen anyone else with the classic skill set of a target, and the best Falcon teams over the years have had a target who can get the ball, keep it under pressure in or around the box, and do the right things from there. If this man gets more PT and doesn't change his game, they could take a step up on the attacking end—which could be the key come November.

Thanks Falconer.  Appreciate the comments.

Will say the streaming is hard to follow players and since i am not familiar with them, hard to know who is who.  Plus unless I really hone in on individual player then I am basically watching it differently.  Having said that, not  surprised.  Messiah is master masterclass when it comes to moving and filling in space where appropriate.  They intuitively know where to go and seems very natural.  I think this was the best game I have watched so far.  Without a doubt.

So, been doing some analysis over the weekend.  Have a pretty good sample of games (74) to start drawing some conclusions.  For simplicity sake I've identified three categories of teams.  To give you a sense of where I am now.

The best teams, or 14 of the teams have a 6:1 pass ratio, or higher.  The average of the top teams looks like this -

Average Passes Per Minute - 5.5
Total Passes in a game - 492
Will spend over 55% of that possession in the defending teams half.

The middle range teams, or 18 of the teams have a pass ratio between 4.3:1 and 5.9:1.  The average middle range team looks like this -

Average Passes Per Minute - 4.3
Total Passes in a game - 390
Will spend roughly 38% of that possession in the defending teams half.

The bottom range of teams, or 44 of the teams have a pass ratio 1.86:1 and 4.14:1.  The average bottom team looks like this -

Average Passes Per Minute - 3.3
Total Passes in a game - 296
Will spend roughly 20% of that possession in the defending teams half.

Now, these are based on individual performances but if I look at teams that I watched multiple times, the pass range can go +1/-1 depending on competition etc..  There are some outliers in each category.  Some because of who they played (WashU), and other because they are that good (Messiah).  What I have seen though is that when you pair up teams from the different groups, You will see a bump up or down... depending on who you are ... by the +1/-1 I mentioned before.  When two teams play each other, the numbers stay the same.  In the bottom group though what you see is a decline in the pass ratio .... I  think largely because they go out and bludgeon themselves to find a winner.

Finally, the cool thing is that I think in a top cohort game there is about 700 passes in the 90 minutes.  The magic number that helps you win is getting more than 400 of those passes. 

Having said all that .... this is soccer, and once the ball starts to roll all the numbers go out the window.

So what does this all mean?  Not sure, but it has been fun watching the over 100 games I have sat through this season ... well some of them at least.  Some of the bottom group games caused me to despair ... 

I love your analysis and agree completely.  Would also value your take on the quality of goalkeepers you've seen and if there's a team out there that is great on set pieces.  No surprise here but from the games I've watched the winners almost always have the edge in goal.  With so few teams consistently generating quality looks being able to make a save or two is often the difference.  I also haven't been overly impressed with the quality of service on set pieces.  Wondering if that's stood out to you as well.

Quote from: D3_Slack on September 27, 2021, 04:11:57 PM
I love your analysis and agree completely.  Would also value your take on the quality of goalkeepers you've seen and if there's a team out there that is great on set pieces.  No surprise here but from the games I've watched the winners almost always have the edge in goal.  With so few teams consistently generating quality looks being able to make a save or two is often the difference.  I also haven't been overly impressed with the quality of service on set pieces.  Wondering if that's stood out to you as well.

Thanks @D3_Slack.  Have strong opinions about goalkeepers, more so than on set pieces.  All I will say about set pieces is that the ones that I see tend to be a gimicky.  Except for corner kicks which I will get to a little further down this post.  Keep in mind, this is where I weird out and some coaches I know pretty much think I am an idiot.   So be forewarned.

This will talk about the main reasons why I am not very high on keepers these days.  I think the position has gotten short changed with the invention of cones, designer gloves and balls, and goalkeeper coaches.  Why?  Well here it goes.   The other points just came out as well, so that's additive.

• Cones - Most keepers in my day were taught to navigate inside the 18.  Over time you developed a deductive perception about where the ball was going, who was where, and where you were in relation to the goal.  The most we had was a string that was tied to teach post and was pinned at the top of the 22.  That's how we learned to play angles on shots, one on ones, etc..  Helping further develop perception of depth and optimal placement to deal with different scenarios.  What you ended up with were goalkeepers who were much more fluid in the box, and not afraid (Not the right word) or lacking of understanding of where to be, when to be there... and more importantly why these decisions are made.  Then cones became a thing.  And that thing changed the way keepers learned things like space, distance, time, because they were trained to do something to a specific point in the box.  Now, my theory isn't that it ruined everything, but enough keeper training centers around a cone in one session that you lose that time learning about what I mentioned earlier  - space, distance, and time in the 18. 
• Designer Gloves and Balls- Again, non-scientific, but ever wonder why most keepers may wear a $200 pair of keeper gloves ... and give up a ton of rebounds?  One part that isn't exactly earth shattering is the modern soccer balls since the 1982/1986 Tangos have gotten lighter more weird in the air.  Remember the 2010 Jabulani?  You have a case where the ball is becoming a bit more unpredictable and the newer gloves becoming less like hand protection and more like hockey pads ... not the right analogy, but my brain is a little slow right now ... and the result is that keeper training has de-emphasized catching the ball.  Basically a decrease in tactile sensitivity to the ball.  I think this has led to another issue with modern keepers and that is the indecision in keepers to catch, parry or punch, and when and in what circumstance they should do which... leading to what I would call judgement errors.  Again, back in the day we trained our entire sessions on catching.  You dove for a ball, you caught it.  You come out for a ball you caught.  And if not, there would be two or three guys ready to drill a ball at you. 
• Goalkeeper Coaches - Don't get me wrong.  I know a number of GK coaches that I consider the bees knees.  I think my issue is how specialized the role has gotten and I think that modern keepers are almost detached from the team in a lot of respects.  They are intended to shut up and make the save, and think a lot of coaches train them this way.  See bullets 1 and 2 for how this has happened.  I almost get a sense that they are detached just by looking at how they interact with defenders, where they position themselves on things like corners or longer range set plays. I think there are probably a lot of really good goalkeepers, but think they are good within the context of how they are trained today. No one that I have watched in the last 100 plus D3 games have I said to myself that I thought they were special.  The closest I have come to saying that is with the Messiah keeper ... gees, been having a Falcon love fest lately. But I am sort of withholding judgement until I actually see him under pressure.
• Feet - I will leave this one for a completely separate discussion.  I don't have the energy for this right now.
• Game Management - I think goal keepers should drive the tempo of a game.  In particular, when they get possession of the ball.  A pass to the back should mean to keep it in the back and chill the game out.  A punt should be interpreted as a need to get the ball at to the highest place in on the field as possible?  Why?  To push out of the back, defend higher.  Then I think, what few if any keepers can do is get the ball to the outside mid or a winger.  This is a sign to get forward with the ball.  And which one's to choose, well that's up to the keeper's judgement.  But no keepers are trained to think of what are the decisions they make and how they impact the team.  Because that decision has been largely removed from them and given to the center backs... in most cases.
• Communication - This is another one I could go on about.  And I blame the Premier League in general, and guys like Jordan Pickford in particular.  I never understood the need for a keeper to aimlessly yell at players especially at the worst possible times.  Players know when they make mistakes, there is no need to double down by yelling at them.  This, by and large has led to players not taking Keeper instructions seriously.  In part because they don't understand the ebbs and flows of the game.  In part because they say what everyone knows already.  And also in part because they provide little game time leadership.  I'll just leave it at that.
• Overall Game Knowledge - This is where I get boiled in olive oil and fed to the crows by some of my friends and colleagues.  I am astonished at how poorly some goalkeepers understand the game of soccer.  And I will say this applies to goalkeepers who are now coaches.

Now, I know you probably think I have a tin foil hat on and am in my basement typing away in the dark.  But this is where I get to corner kicks.  Corner kick plays have gotten closer and closer to the goalkeeper.  In part to crowd the keeper and make his life more difficult, but also because keeper's have become more unreliable in the catching department.  Also, and my point of contention is that the keeper does not command the 18 anymore.  It would be generous to say they even command the 6 ... Make it difficult, hope the keeper commits an error, and goal.  Now, I don't think this works and honestly have yet to see it work consistently, but do think it reflects the general point of view of goalkeepers.  Most keepers these days sit on their line, deal with the uncomfortable ball into the 6.  This is also the case on big throws.  Silly I know, but being a goalkeeper is the only strategic spot on the field.  As a keeper, what you do in a moment, can have long term consequences... positive and negative.  A goal keeper who is off his line, consistently comes out for balls, catches instead of parrying shots away, makes the next through ball, cross, or shot come at them a little differently because of what was done before.  You can hear it on the sideline.  Keeper doesn't catch a ball?  "Make sure we follow up on shots!"  Sits too deep? "Put it in deep in the box!". 

All this leads to what I think most goal keepers have become ... reactive.  Now, I have coached my son not to be this way and have been told by a number of coaches either he makes it look too easy .. because he knows not dive for just any shot that comes his way, and more importantly to catch everything ... or he "interferes with the job defenders do" as in on corner kicks.  True.  I take that as a compliment ... most coaches see it as negative. 

This sort of went beyond D3 goalkeepers, and I apologize for that.  But I would have made this shorter, but I just couldn't stop.  I'll start taking a look at keepers as well and try to come up with some more intelligent and factual examples, unlike my spewing forth of my general impressions of today's goalkeeping culture.

Ok.  I am done.  I have to finish my ASMR Shoe Shine videos on YouTube.

Out.

I don't have your depth, but I know what I see (and haven't seen).  I've watched a ton of games and can say that I think the overall state of goalkeeping in D3 is not good, which means the season is completely wide open.  Dealing with balls in the air is a complete crapshoot.  Goalie play on set pieces is a crap shoot.  I've seen more goals on long throw in's that wind up in the goal this year than ever before.  Bottom line - I clearly see the difference between the teams that possess and the teams that don't.  Teams that string passes together win much more often than those that can't.  That said, I have yet to see a team that can do that...and has a goalie that is in command, is athletic, imposing and makes a couple big saves.  Thus, I believe it's the team that develops their goalkeeper over the course of the year that will decide the champion from the rest.  Because in the end the good teams will posses.  It's the team that actually has a keeper that will win.  So far...best keeper I've seen is from Ohio Northern.  Big.  Strong.  Athletic.  In command.  Can distribute accurately.  Decisive.  Decisive in the air.  Respected. 

Quote from: D3_Slack on September 28, 2021, 08:37:55 AM
I don't have your depth, but I know what I see (and haven't seen).  I've watched a ton of games and can say that I think the overall state of goalkeeping in D3 is not good, which means the season is completely wide open.  Dealing with balls in the air is a complete crapshoot.  Goalie play on set pieces is a crap shoot.  I've seen more goals on long throw in's that wind up in the goal this year than ever before.  Bottom line - I clearly see the difference between the teams that possess and the teams that don't.  Teams that string passes together win much more often than those that can't.  That said, I have yet to see a team that can do that...and has a goalie that is in command, is athletic, imposing and makes a couple big saves.  Thus, I believe it's the team that develops their goalkeeper over the course of the year that will decide the champion from the rest.  Because in the end the good teams will posses.  It's the team that actually has a keeper that will win.  So far...best keeper I've seen is from Ohio Northern.  Big.  Strong.  Athletic.  In command.  Can distribute accurately.  Decisive.  Decisive in the air.  Respected.

When it comes to posts, I am Edward Everett and you are Abe Lincoln ...  Very very true.  I think what surprises me and why I went on the diatribe is that usually you can watch and see some keepers that are good.  Some bad.  Like watching players.  You see a mix.  But I fear that most keepers I find are unimpressive for the reasons you touched upon ... which leads me to think that this is a symptom of bigger problems, not just because one team doesn't have a good keeper for a run into the playoffs.

I'll take a look at the ONU keeper.

Thanks again @D3_Slack.  Love this type of discussion.

Oh man. We need to grab a beer S-C... This stuff is so in my wheelhouse it's kind of scary. Not many folks I can have this conversation with, as even my most knowledgable soccer friends don't really understand the GK position this well.

I have been harping on the training, equipment and overall state of "not catching the ball" for many years now. I don't know exactly when this trend started, but I really think you're on to something when you talk about the gloves. Heck, I used to very purposely train WITHOUT gloves, just so I could maintain my touch and increase the chances of being able to catch a ball. Maybe bc I grew up in hockey country, but I also attended tons of goalie camps... We were taught not to give up rebounds... That was a big deal.

Now, you see guys slapping, parrying an generally just avoiding catching the ball and it DRIVES ME NUTS.

BTW, Hopkins has a pretty solid keeper by D3 standards. He seems pretty confident on high balls floated in, but the one thing I've noticed is that he tends to get rooted to his spot a bit too much. Makes things harder than need be at times.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 28, 2021, 08:51:02 AM

Quote from: D3_Slack on September 28, 2021, 08:37:55 AM
I don't have your depth, but I know what I see (and haven't seen).  I've watched a ton of games and can say that I think the overall state of goalkeeping in D3 is not good, which means the season is completely wide open.  Dealing with balls in the air is a complete crapshoot.  Goalie play on set pieces is a crap shoot.  I've seen more goals on long throw in's that wind up in the goal this year than ever before.  Bottom line - I clearly see the difference between the teams that possess and the teams that don't.  Teams that string passes together win much more often than those that can't.  That said, I have yet to see a team that can do that...and has a goalie that is in command, is athletic, imposing and makes a couple big saves.  Thus, I believe it's the team that develops their goalkeeper over the course of the year that will decide the champion from the rest.  Because in the end the good teams will posses.  It's the team that actually has a keeper that will win.  So far...best keeper I've seen is from Ohio Northern.  Big.  Strong.  Athletic.  In command.  Can distribute accurately.  Decisive.  Decisive in the air.  Respected.

When it comes to posts, I am Edward Everett and you are Abe Lincoln

SC, you continue to rock the historical analogies!

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cOQ6Cp1hPZE/UKEMOTsTFhI/AAAAAAAAbgA/nPeZgqp8R2Q/s1600/Anim+Applause1016+%25282%2529.gif)

Quote from: Hopkins92 on September 28, 2021, 10:11:01 AM
Oh man. We need to grab a beer S-C... This stuff is so in my wheelhouse it's kind of scary. Not many folks I can have this conversation with, as even my most knowledgable soccer friends don't really understand the GK position this well.

I have been harping on the training, equipment and overall state of "not catching the ball" for many years now. I don't know exactly when this trend started, but I really think you're on to something when you talk about the gloves. Heck, I used to very purposely train WITHOUT gloves, just so I could maintain my touch and increase the chances of being able to catch a ball. Maybe bc I grew up in hockey country, but I also attended tons of goalie camps... We were taught not to give up rebounds... That was a big deal.

Now, you see guys slapping, parrying an generally just avoiding catching the ball and it DRIVES ME NUTS.

BTW, Hopkins has a pretty solid keeper by D3 standards. He seems pretty confident on high balls floated in, but the one thing I've noticed is that he tends to get rooted to his spot a bit too much. Makes things harder than need be at times.

Thanks @Hopkins92.  Anytime!  Will take a look at the Hopkins keeper as well.  Prefer people to tell me who is good, rather than sift through a trove of film.

Am glad I am not the only one who see's it.  If I had the time and the insanity, I would love to take a look at how goals have been scored over the years.  I suspect that the incidence of keeper rebounds and judgement errors has increased.  Again, that's just my gut.  Rebounds were punishable in practice... every time.  I've probably logged miles in sprints because of rebounds in shooting drills...

Quote from: Gregory Sager on September 28, 2021, 11:15:52 AM

SC, you continue to rock the historical analogies!

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cOQ6Cp1hPZE/UKEMOTsTFhI/AAAAAAAAbgA/nPeZgqp8R2Q/s1600/Anim+Applause1016+%25282%2529.gif)

Even better @Gregory Sager is that there is someone who recognizes them!

Simple and hopkins, you may enjoy these podcasts/webinars on GKs...

https://unitedsoccercoaches.org/keepers-web-series/

Quote from: Hopkins92 on September 28, 2021, 10:11:01 AM
Oh man. We need to grab a beer S-C... This stuff is so in my wheelhouse it's kind of scary. Not many folks I can have this conversation with, as even my most knowledgable soccer friends don't really understand the GK position this well.

I have been harping on the training, equipment and overall state of "not catching the ball" for many years now. I don't know exactly when this trend started, but I really think you're on to something when you talk about the gloves. Heck, I used to very purposely train WITHOUT gloves, just so I could maintain my touch and increase the chances of being able to catch a ball. Maybe bc I grew up in hockey country, but I also attended tons of goalie camps... We were taught not to give up rebounds... That was a big deal.

Now, you see guys slapping, parrying an generally just avoiding catching the ball and it DRIVES ME NUTS.

BTW, Hopkins has a pretty solid keeper by D3 standards. He seems pretty confident on high balls floated in, but the one thing I've noticed is that he tends to get rooted to his spot a bit too much. Makes things harder than need be at times.

@Hopkins92.  The below was sent to me by a keeper coach I know some years ago.  Basically tries to outline every decision a goalkeeper needs to make during the run of play.  Think it is pretty incisive and a good way to judge goalkeepers.  Some stuff could be added, consolidated or expanded upon, but an interesting analysis.  Thought you would enjoy.

Decisions a Goal Keeper Must Make
1.  Make sure your angles are correct.  Where are you in relation to you natural ability to get to the near post.
2.  Make sure distances are correct.  Where are you in relation to your natural ability to cover the goal. 
3.  Own the six. Rent the 18.
4.  Make a save on a goal at all costs.
5.  Intercept a pass to someone on goal.
6.  Make a save, catch the ball
7.  Make a save, parry away to the sideline.
8.  Make a save, parry away for a corner.
9.  Properly positioned to come out for the ball near post.
10. Properly positioned to pivot to go far
11.  Come out and catch the ball on a corner.
12.  Come out and punch the ball out to corners of the box.
13.  Come out for a ball for a one on one.
14.  Get big on - 1 on 1
15.  Got to feet on a one on one.
16.  Direct wall.  Half man past the ball.
17.  Direct players to know what to do when the ball moves.
18.  Be  Positioned to cover natural ability to get to far post.
19.  Receive and distribute ball with feet.
20.  Distribute ball with hands.
21.  Distribute ball to forward alone  in space.
22.  Distribute ball to forward in 1 on 1 situation.
23.  Distribute ball to outside mids
.24.  Distribute ball to outside backs.
25.  Punt/ kick ball away to player positioned to win a 50/50 ball.
26.  PK - Evaluate players angle to the ball.
27.  PK - Read hip position as shot is taking place
.28.  PK - Positioned to push player to choose strong side
.29.  PK - move to ball.
30.  Move to the play.  Support backs on through balls.
31.  Direct your defense to afford the best posture to prevent a goal.
32.  Direct defense to mark open men.33.  Direct defend to cover passing lanes to goal
.34.  Direct defense to force the play to strong side. 
35.  Direct midfield to cover passing lanes.  
36.  Think, don't react. 
37.  Move, don't stand still.
38.  Talk, and often.
39.  You are a field player.

Interesting...

One of the most fundamental changes I've seen is how they are coaching breakaways. "Back in my day" is actually a thing I have to say now. :D We were taught that it's all about timing, waiting for the ball to get slightly out of reach of the player and to pounce. Dive at their feet, but laid out perpendicular to the striker's advance. Always with the knee facing toward the closest sideline so that if he tries to cut inside, the ball hits off your torso/legs and away from the goal. What I see now is much more focus on "making yourself big" and staying upright as long as possible, ready to move laterally if the player tries to round you.

I'm still not sure I buy that approach, but it does mitigate or reduce that amount of times you get rounded and forces the striker to make a decision, as opposed to being the aggressor.

Rochester v St. John Fisher
St. John Fisher
Bias? – Played against Rochester, and know a graduate of St. John Fisher

   Was just about to write how St. John Fisher moves the ball pretty well, and thought Rochester was just chasing.  Then, a back holds on to the ball too long, gets stripped at the 18 and the Rochester forward buries it calmly.  Rochester 10, St. John Fisher 0.  Big defensive blunder.
   2.5 minutes into the first half.
   Rochester scored again on a header from 4 yards out.  The St. John Fisher keeper sat on his line.
   St. John Fisher has been owning possession, but Rochester is dangerous.  Clearly the first goal was them being opportunistic, but they press high enough that turnovers can be dangerous.  And I will say, St. John Fisher just looks exposed defensively.  Lots of gaps and little help from the midfield.
   Think St. john Fisher does well with space but Rochester doesn't give them any.
   Rochester is dangerous on corners.
   Rochester is slowly showing its dominance on both sides of the ball.
   Rochester keeper reluctant to come off his line on a high ball, results in a corner.
   Again, St. John Fisher gets stripped in the back, and Rochester has a 2v1.  Forward who won the ball slots a forward to his right who one times a ball.  St. John Fisher made a great save to his near post. 
   Starting to wonder if it is worth putting the ball in the box on free kicks.  Are the odds better that you can be more dangerous than if you just float one in?
   St. John Fisher doesn't stay with their man.  Rochester does these very effective give and goes ... thank the Fisher defenders not tracking back.
   15 minutes down.
   Every time St. John Fisher wins a ball, they are surrounded by Rochester players.
   St. John Fisher keeper coming up big.
   Rochester can work the ball up field, and with St. John Fisher's loose defensive posture, it is a bit easy.   
   And like a drill in practice, Rochester moves the ball from the back to their wing who puts the ball across to a forward who taps the ball in.  Rochester 2, St. John Fisher 0.
   Not sure I am going to hang around much longer for this one.
   Rochester keeper comes out well for a ball lumped into the box.  Comes all the way out to the 12.  Refreshing to see.
   St. John Fisher just too slow moving the ball in the back.  Rochester is salivating at the chance to steal another ball.  Rochester does like the press.  I do think they would have a hard time dealing with a team that could move the ball a little quicker and with purpose.  Think at this point St. John Fisher is playing a bit dispirited.  Is that even a word?
   14 minutes left.
   I do think that St. John Fisher can get a goal back if they can get the ball, and a runner, behind the Rochester defense.  But they have to do it from closer than midfield.
   10 minutes left.
   Rochester is a good hustle team, but not terribly effective at moving the ball in tight spaces.  They need room to maneuver and space to run into.  St. John Fisher has been a little better in the last couple of plays of denying them both.
   Rochester of course can score another 3 goals easily.
   Ok.  Think that's it for me on this one.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 27, 2021, 09:23:19 PM

Ok.  I am done.  I have to finish my ASMR Shoe Shine videos on YouTube.

Out.

Lulz. Line of the thread. Now I have to leave to see if this actually exists.

Quote from: Centennial1 on September 28, 2021, 08:14:51 PM

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 27, 2021, 09:23:19 PM

Ok.  I am done.  I have to finish my ASMR Shoe Shine videos on YouTube.

Out.

Lulz. Line of the thread. Now I have to leave to see if this actually exists.

@Centennial1.  Oh, it exists ... and it is awesome.

Mount Union v Wooster
Wooster
Bias? – Not the first time watching.

   15 minutes in and Mount Union is up 1-0.  Didn't see the goal.
   Mount Union does well in possession.  Able to move it into tight spaces in the midfield.
   Wooster called for a tremendously weak or non-existent penalty kick. 
   Keeper goes to his right, ball goes the opposite side, upper corner.  Really well-placed ball.  Mount Union 2, Wooster 0.
   20 minutes down.
   Wooster just can't the numbers around the ball, while Mount Union is defending tight and deep.
   Mount Union keeper sits on his line when a throw in goes into his six.  I don't understand this.
   Don't think the announcers are loving the ref much... can't blame them.
   Mount Union does well when they win the ball deep and move forward as a team.
   Wooster just can't get a hold of the ball, beyond being able to keep it in the back.  Soon as it passes midfield Mount Union presses and wins the ball.
   17 minutes left.
   Wooster is starting to apply some pressure in the middle of the field.  Mount Union is having to go long or down the line.
   I can see why Mount Union is ranked in the region.  Solid defensively and make plays happen in the attack.  Will be interesting when they face Otterbein and John Carroll.  I think both teams are legit.
   Halftime.  Many games to watch so calling this one early.

Johns Hopkins v McDaniels
McDaniels Golden Arches Field
Bias? – I had a player go to one, and a chemist to another.

   McDaniels looks like a lovely place.  Beautiful grass field.
   McDaniels defenders need to stop jumping in.  Johns Hopkins has good enough players to welcome the opportunity to make the defender look bad.
   If I were the McDaniels head coach, I would play with two left backs.  Seems to be the only part of the field Johns Hopkins goes to in the attacking third.
   And doing what Johns Hopkins does, they got it to the right wing who took it to goal and shot it just wide far post.
   Johns Hopkins owns the ball.  Don't even think its close.  Don't think McDaniels has completed more than three passes in a row.
   Every time McDaniels has gotten the ball they have hoofed it forward ... for Johns Hopkins to recover the ball and start all over.
   Its not a matter of if but when will John's Hopkins score.
   Now, they are good, but Johns Hopkins is very predictable on attack.  If your team is not egomaniacal about the ball, when Johns Hopkins starts passing between their backs ... let them.  Just make sure you have numbers on your left.  That's where they are coming from.
   I would add that Johns Hopkins midfielder really don't move for the ball.  As if they know they wont get the ball from their backs.
   17 down in the first.
   Hopkins keeper comes out strong for a floated ball to the 12.  How refreshing to see.
   Johns Hopkins center backs are the creative ones on the team.
   Want to say something about McDaniels, but they haven't done anything.  The fact that Johns Hopkins hasn't scored yet says more about them then it does about McDaniels.
   Too slow with the ball.  If Johns Hopkins were quicker, they would have two goals by now.  Meanwhile they have resorted to launching every ball up top ... that they haven't won yet.
   Honestly, I love soccer.  Just not sure how much more of this I can watch.  Maybe its because it is a mid-week game.
   Am starting to think Johns Hopkins isn't THAT good.  Not even sure they deserve to be ranked.  They strike me as very one dimensional.
   Ok.  15 minutes left in the half and I am calling it.  I am slowly being killed by the law of thermodynamics.
   And just as I type that, Johns Hopkins scores an ugly melee in the box type goal.  Johns Hopkins 1, McDaniels 0. 
   Ok.  Now I am done.

Calvin v Chicago
Chicago
Bias? – My favorite piano bar is there, and

   22 minutes left in the half.  At zeros.
   Chicago seems to be more aggressive on the attack.  Hold possession well in Calvin's half.
   Calvin sitting deep defensively and when they get possession seem content to keep the ball in the back.
   Haven't been watching long, but most of the play is in Calvin's half.
   Calvin is disciplined defensively.  And patient.  I will give them that.
   Chicago is just going up against a wall of Calvin defenders when they get 30 yards out.  Real difficult to break it down.
   Chicago is very disciplined.  Calvin can't get beyond midfield because there is nothing there for them.
   10 left.
   Calvin is an enigma to me.  If I were a betting man, from what I have seen these last 15 minutes, I would put a 20 on Calvin playing for a draw.
   Will say if Chicago can move the ball quickly, they can get through Calvin.  It's when they slow it down that Calvin become impenetrable.
   And on a nice set piece from the 18 that should have been called a PK, Chicago with the go ahead.  Taps it to a player more central about 22 yards out who one times it on frame.  Keeper gives up a bad rebound and a Chicago player is there to hit it into the back of the net.  Calvin 0, Chicago 1.
   5 minutes left in the half.
   Calvin now has a sense of urgency on the ball.
   Since getting scored on, Calvin is now pushing to get forward and have had a couple looks at goal.
   Halftime.  Want to catch a few more games.

Franklin & Marshall v Muhlenberg
Muhlenberg
Bias? – Not the first time I have watched them play.

   Another lovely night game at Muhlenberg.
   Muhlenberg is taking it to F&M.  Hold a majority of the possession and mostly playing in their half.
   But soccer is a cruel mistress.  One of the first forays down to the Muhlenberg box, ball gets clearly to an F&M player sitting at the top of the box and volley's the ball into the back of the net.  F&M 1, Muhlenberg 0.
   6 minutes down.
   Muhlenberg is aimless up top.  I get the sense that they are looking for a lucky break or something like that to get on the board.  If a goal comes it will be F&M makes it happen, not because Muhlenberg was doing anything other than pressing.
   I liken Franklin and Marshall to Calvin, from what I have seen.  A team built for the press and long ball.  Although I think Calvin has better ball handlers.
   Franklin and Marshall has certainly perfected the strategy of kick and hope.
   Muhlenberg needs to stick with what it does well.  Otherwise, the game is chaotic and I think F&M thrive in that.
   Franklin & Marshall just wants to isolate you 1 on 1 and then go at you.  How they do that, they don't care.  And they are effective at it.  May be sacrilege, but I don't rate F&M that highly. 
   And unbelievably Muhlenberg levels it up.  Nice through ball to player running through .... Away from goal mind you ... takes a touch, turns, and chips a ball to the six... Keeper comes out, punches the ball .... Right into his defender who uses his face to put the ball in the back of the net.  F&M 1, Muhlenberg 1.
   Glaring goalkeeper error.  16 minutes remaining on the clock.
   Its devolved into a game of kick ball since the goal.
   And it seems Muhlenberg has beaten F&M at their own game.  Big kick from the keeper.  Muhlenberg player with his back to the goal kicks the ball overhead that happens to land at the chest of a forward running to the 18, who takes it down and hits a ball far post for the second goal of the night.  F&M 1, Muhlenberg 2. A well taken goal.
    Muhlenberg feeling it now.
   Halftime. 
   Game is definitely not over and think it could still go either way.  Not convinced Muhlenberg has more goals in them unless they come from F&M mistakes.  And obviously, can't count out F&M.  They deserve the respect.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on September 29, 2021, 08:51:43 PM
Johns Hopkins v McDaniels
McDaniels Golden Arches Field
Bias? – I had a player go to one, and a chemist to another.


   If I were the McDaniels head coach, I would play with two left backs.  Seems to be the only part of the field Johns Hopkins goes to in the attacking third.

   Johns Hopkins owns the ball.  Don't even think its close.  Don't think McDaniels has completed more than three passes in a row.

   Now, they are good, but Johns Hopkins is very predictable on attack.  If your team is not egomaniacal about the ball, when Johns Hopkins starts passing between their backs ... let them.  Just make sure you have numbers on your left.  That's where they are coming from.

   Johns Hopkins center backs are the creative ones on the team.

   Too slow with the ball.  If Johns Hopkins were quicker, they would have two goals by now.  Meanwhile they have resorted to launching every ball up top ... that they haven't won yet.

   Am starting to think Johns Hopkins isn't THAT good.  Not even sure they deserve to be ranked.  They strike me as very one dimensional.
   Ok.  15 minutes left in the half and I am calling it.  I am slowly being killed by the law of thermodynamics.
   And just as I type that, Johns Hopkins scores an ugly melee in the box type goal.  Johns Hopkins 1, McDaniels 0. 
   Ok.  Now I am done.

This is poetry. This is what I've been saying. Appleby (the coach) is good at implementing a system, but, it's, like... Not a good system?

It works against middling and crappy teams, but when you get the Qfinals, you get found out. Loads of talent (maybe not top 5 talent, but still) and you just sort of box them into this system. I will say... It makes sense given the types of students that permeate Hopkins. They need a system to thrive.

One thing I noticed playing Hopkins that I had never seen before is that they had set plays the bench would call out during the run of play. I was defending in front of their bench so I could hear it and eventually figured it out but when certain situations developed the coach would yell out a number which corresponded to the forward lines making specific runs and a specific pass being made. I had never seen that anywhere else.

Quote from: d4_Pace on September 29, 2021, 09:34:35 PM
One thing I noticed playing Hopkins that I had never seen before is that they had set plays the bench would call out during the run of play. I was defending in front of their bench so I could hear it and eventually figured it out but when certain situations developed the coach would yell out a number which corresponded to the forward lines making specific runs and a specific pass being made. I had never seen that anywhere else.

What's funny, if I'm catching your timing the right way... That was player directed back then.

Pomona-Pitzer v. Redlands
Pomona-Pitzer
Bias? – I like to visit.

   This game is from a few weeks ago.
   Video is going to make this a going to make this a bit difficult to follow.
   Both teams feeling each other out.  Redlands more imprecise than Pomona.
   Pomona does a good job of getting control of the ball inside their half but breaks down once they cross midfield.
   Redlands has a longer range of passing and gets into the attacking half.  No one has really tested the goalkeepers yet, but things are starting to stretch out.
   Pomona starting to press, forcing Redlands to start going longer.
   Redlands has a solid back line and a couple of talented midfielders.  Need to move the ball a little quicker and clean up some of the wasted balls they are giving up.
   Pomona is feeling it and pressing higher, and Redlands really doesn't have an answer for it.
   Game is largely between the 18s right now.  Each trying to find a way through.
   Redlands keeper looks shaky off his line.
   And like that, a missed clearance from the Pomona back line gives Redlands an opportunity.  Ball gets out wide and is crossed in for an easy header from 3 yards away.  Pomona-Pitzer 0, Redlands 1.
   Redlands now sitting back, content in letting Pomona come to them and try to break out quickly.
   Pomona left back takes too many touches.  Is good holding the Redlands forward up, but can be vulnerable on a turnover.
   Redlands letting Pomona have the right wing.  The outside mid on that side doesn't track back and leaves that side wide open for Pomona to exploit.
   7-minutes remaining.
   And Redlands gets punished from that left side.  Ball sent across that Redlands does not clear, and lands at the feet of a Pomona forward about 12 out.  He settles and very calmly takes a touch and with his instep, passes it into the back of the net far post.  Keeper dove but no chance.  Pomona-Pitzer 1, Redlands 1.
   4 minutes left.
   Redlands midfield doesn't put up much of a challenge to Pomona.  Lots of space to move the ball around.
   And Halftime.  Pomona-Pitzer 1, Redlands 1.

Kenyon College v Wittenberg College
Wittenberg
Bias? – Played one in a snowstorm and another where I scored a goal.

   Let us all come together to make it illegal to send the ball long from kickoff. I think this will go a long way at coming closer to world peace.  Who is with me?
   Popcorn ball to start the first 10 minutes or so, but Kenyon clearly trying to get a hold of the ball. 
   Couple of good chances for Kenyon, one where the Wittenberg keeper came up with a big save.
   Kenyon can handle the ball, but they go long more times than not.  That and when there are 5 Kenyon players around the ball.
   #8 from Kenyon is talented on the ball, and does hunt for it.
   Wittenberg in a 4-3-3, defending in 3-1-2-2-1.  This devolves under pressure but when the ball is high, thats what they are trying to do.
   #3 from Wittenberg steps into the midfield when they do manage to have some semblance of possession.
   Between Kenyon #8 and #10, they do have the ability to get through the Wittenberg midfield, just need to connect better.
   Kenyon looks a little unsettled defensively.  On corner 3 float free middle to near post, while the other mark man to man.  So hit it far post, or make runs to see if you can't have another midfield at the top of the box to receive the ball.
   Kenyon #2 looks like the CDM.  Doesn't do anything dramatic with the ball, but does a good job in keeping possession of the ball.  On corners, he looks to sit back post at the 18 to head the ball back into the middle.
   Wittenberg has parked the bus in the back, and Kenyon keeps try to force its way in.  Needs to spread the field and start making some run. 
   Kenyon will have 6 players in their half.  2 center backs, the outside back stepping into the middle, and two central midfielders, including #2.  When they try to play the ball and stretch Wittenberg, it's so much easier to get to their 18.  If not, they launch the ball up to the lone forward who is going up against a 4-man back line... hoping they will get the second ball.
   Kenyon lacking patience.  Get the ball out wide very nicely and their instinct is to launch it in the box where it is congested.
   Wittenberg shift over so much that if Kenyon could get on the break on the week side, it would be lights out.  No balance.
   Wittenberg does not live by the principle of "Give the ball you want to receive."  So many times, do they put their teammates under tremendous pressure because they have to deal with terrible passes.
   Wittenberg defends at times with 8, and Kenyon still tries to break through with 3 or 4 players.
   This is the sort of game where Wittenberg will sneak a goal, and Kenyon will be banging on the door but no one will answer.
   I can see why Kenyon is considered one of the best in the region.  Not sure they deserve a look nationally, but would need to watch another game or two. 
   Halftime.  Am done.  Action packed day tomorrow.  Kenyon 0, Wittenberg 0.

SC, very interesting observations re: Kenyon and most resonate as accurate imo.  As "the Kenyon guy" on the site, a few thoughts...

First, I agree that based on how the game was going Witt could have nicked a goal against the run of play and stuck the Lords with a bad loss.  Witt rarely got out of own half, but they had arguably the two best chances of the 1st half with long balls over the top that nearly had the striker on the Kenyon GK 1v1.  This happens to Kenyon a lot and they often pay particularly against better sides (like the opening season game vs JCU and historically others).  I've said before that as an opponent of Kenyon I would bide my time, wait for the Lords to get extended into the other team's defensive half with the outside backs up. At any rate, Kenyon continued to dominate possession in the 2nd half probably 85/15 and got out of Springfield, OH with a 2-0 win (A gorgeous free kick first and then a nice cross by #8 (talented, smallish creative mid from TX reminiscent of another similar mid from TX a few years ago) and then a one-time volley into the back of the net from the super-fast Sam Carson (#4). 

My only slight disagreement was about the holding mid position.  #2 came out in first 10 minutes skying several balls way up in the air and some of his passes on the ground were bouncing around on the turf.  He settled in and was more solid thereafter but then his sub #7 scares the heck out of me giving up the ball in bad spots and also fouling to give Witt a couple of their only chances on free kicks from 35-40 yards out.  My biggest annoyance (which I see from other teams too) is when they have a mid, usually the holding mid, do the cycling back in their own half to receive the ball.  I'm sure it looks like that play is open but often there are two defenders running up the back of the receiver who is put in a position to cough up the ball in a bad spot unless he can make a quick, decisive turn in the correctly guessed direction.  I've seen a bunch of goals in numerous games given up on just those kinds of plays.  Kenyon gave up a goal to JCU just like that...soft pass into that pocket area to a mid with his back to the defense that gets stripped or intercepted and 4 secs later the ball is in the back of the net.

As for how to evaluate Kenyon I think your comment based on that 1st half was fair.  I'm biased but try to be ruthlessly fair.  The Lords are one of the top teams in the region and are worth a mention nationally.  If measured over the past 5-6 years Kenyon has been the #1 program in the region.  After repeated heartbreak they finally became a true peer with OWU in 2013 and 2014 (more heartbreak) and then have had the edge from 2015 to 2019.  OWU currently looks better and probably is better but Kenyon played 23 players last night (in a game that was still tight scoreboard-wise until about 4-5 minutes left), a third of whom are sophs and frosh still getting integrated.  Most of their key players from 2019 when they were on top remain.  No predictions and while I would favor OWU at the moment any OWU-Kenyon games will be super-competitive with the rivalry matching any rivalry in the country (including NESCAC, UAA, etc).  The games also should feature OWU's phenomenal Hector Gomez versus fellow AA Scott Upton (both #10).  The both went to St Francis DeSales, which seemed odd since Hector is from Columbus and Scott from Perrysburg, a suburb of Toledo.  Google helped me realize that St. Francis DeSales is some kind of franchise with outlets in Columbus and Toledo (although apparently one is DeSales and the other is de Sales).

Quote from: PaulNewman on October 02, 2021, 11:12:19 AM
SC, very interesting observations re: Kenyon and most resonate as accurate imo.  As "the Kenyon guy" on the site, a few thoughts...

First, I agree that based on how the game was going Witt could have nicked a goal against the run of play and stuck the Lords with a bad loss.  Witt rarely got out of own half, but they had arguably the two best chances of the 1st half with long balls over the top that nearly had the striker on the Kenyon GK 1v1.  This happens to Kenyon a lot and they often pay particularly against better sides (like the opening season game vs JCU and historically others).  I've said before that as an opponent of Kenyon I would bide my time, wait for the Lords to get extended into the other team's defensive half with the outside backs up. At any rate, Kenyon continued to dominate possession in the 2nd half probably 85/15 and got out of Springfield, OH with a 2-0 win (A gorgeous free kick first and then a nice cross by #8 (talented, smallish creative mid from TX reminiscent of another similar mid from TX a few years ago) and then a one-time volley into the back of the net from the super-fast Sam Carson (#4). 

My only slight disagreement was about the holding mid position.  #2 came out in first 10 minutes skying several balls way up in the air and some of his passes on the ground were bouncing around on the turf.  He settled in and was more solid thereafter but then his sub #7 scares the heck out of me giving up the ball in bad spots and also fouling to give Witt a couple of their only chances on free kicks from 35-40 yards out.  My biggest annoyance (which I see from other teams too) is when they have a mid, usually the holding mid, do the cycling back in their own half to receive the ball.  I'm sure it looks like that play is open but often there are two defenders running up the back of the receiver who is put in a position to cough up the ball in a bad spot unless he can make a quick, decisive turn in the correctly guessed direction.  I've seen a bunch of goals in numerous games given up on just those kinds of plays.  Kenyon gave up a goal to JCU just like that...soft pass into that pocket area to a mid with his back to the defense that gets stripped or intercepted and 4 secs later the ball is in the back of the net.

As for how to evaluate Kenyon I think your comment based on that 1st half was fair.  I'm biased but try to be ruthlessly fair.  The Lords are one of the top teams in the region and are worth a mention nationally.  If measured over the past 5-6 years Kenyon has been the #1 program in the region.  After repeated heartbreak they finally became a true peer with OWU in 2013 and 2014 (more heartbreak) and then have had the edge from 2015 to 2019.  OWU currently looks better and probably is better but Kenyon played 23 players last night (in a game that was still tight scoreboard-wise until about 4-5 minutes left), a third of whom are sophs and frosh still getting integrated.  Most of their key players from 2019 when they were on top remain.  No predictions and while I would favor OWU at the moment any OWU-Kenyon games will be super-competitive with the rivalry matching any rivalry in the country (including NESCAC, UAA, etc).  The games also should feature OWU's phenomenal Hector Gomez versus fellow AA Scott Upton (both #10).  The both went to St Francis DeSales, which seemed odd since Hector is from Columbus and Scott from Perrysburg, a suburb of Toledo.  Google helped me realize that St. Francis DeSales is some kind of franchise with outlets in Columbus and Toledo (although apparently one is DeSales and the other is de Sales).

@PaulNewman.  All fair points and know Kenyon's pedigree.  I just didn't watch enough.  Regarding #2, the first ten minutes were nothing but seeing how high everyone could kick the ball.  I may have not noticed the sub but I did notice a couple of times where your annoyance looked like it was about to happen.  And I do like #8.  Think he is kind of special out there.

Thanks for the input.  I don't know these teams/players so hearing about the individuals helps make a bit more sense of what I am watching.

MIT v Coast Guard
Coast Guard Academy
Bias? – Even saying MIT makes me feel dumb and I admire the service academies.

   Beautiful setting for a game... right next to a body of water... which is no surprise given that it is the Coast Guard Academy.
   Coast Guard sitting deep and letting MIT have the ball.
   MIT is patient and moves the ball around the back a lot.  Waiting for the opportunity to get the ball forward in a dangerous spot.  Especially on the left wing where they seem to attack the most from.
   And like that from the left, MIT sends a ball across where two MIT forwards are being marked by 2 Coast Guard defenders.  Keeper gets cause in no mans land.  Ball rebounds off of an MIT player and lands at the feet of another who buries it in the back of the net.  MIT 1, Coast Guard 0.
   MIT is taking the game to Coast Guard.  15 minutes down in the first half.
   MIT does have numbers back when they are defending.  Makes it difficult for Coast Guard to get anything into dangerous spot.
   Coast Guard is now trying to deal with the MIT pressure.  They are not comfortable with it.
   MIT is feeling it.  They are moving the ball quickly.
   Coast Guard does have to do better defensively when they are near the ball.  Too many outlets for MIT to take advantage of.
   MIT does have to be careful in the back.  Careless at times with the ball.  Coast Guard is good enough to take advantage of it when given the opportunity.
   So long as the score is the way it is, MIT is not in a hurry.  Keep possession in the back waiting for the right opportunity to spring someone loose up top.
   Coast Guard is pressing a bit higher, but MIT is not giving an inch. 
   MIT defends with 9 on set pieces.  Lot of bodies competing the high balls in the box for Coast Guard.
   MIT is very selective when they go forward.  And when the do, the odds are that they will get dangerous.
   Defensively, Coast Guard has to get higher and compress the space, especially when MIT is in their half passing the ball around in the back.
   Coast Guard needs to be selfish with ball.  They keep giving it back to MIT.  Need some patience.
   MIT will score before Coast Guard does, unless Coast Guard can change things up at the half.
   Coast Guard sitting so deep that they can't win a ball and keep it.
   Halftime.  Done here.  Will need to watch again, but not too sure they deserve a national ranking ... but like I said, need to watch more.

Body of water is the CT River and Coast Guard's campus is amazing. I was tempted to apply but back in the stone ages of the mid 90s, they offered very few majors and I didn't have interest in being an engineer. But the campus is amazing and worthy of the other service academies.

Unfortunately, not able to cover as many games today with notes.  Here are a couple that I did manage to do before my weekend went haywire.

Catholic v Elizabethtown
Elizabethtown
Bias? – Watched one not the other.

   Dead ball from 30 out, deflection and catches the keeper going the other way.  Doesn't go in by defying the laws of physics.
   Elizabethtown sat back for the first 15 or so and let Catholic have its way with the ball.  Now they are growing into the game.
   Elizabethtown is prone to errors in the back that Catholic could take advantage of.
   Catholic can control the tempo of the ball just beyond midfield, then it devolves.  They are looking to spring their left wing with a long ball over the top.  Or, through the press they are looking to recover the ball and go to the races down the middle. 
   Every time Catholic launches the ball, all you hear is "Second Ball!!"
   Someone should teach #12 to hold the ball up instead of trying to turn into 3 Elizabethtown defenders.
   Most of the play in Elizabethtown half.
   Elizabethtown had a pretty good stretch of possession in Catholic's half.  Didn't result in anything, but they have the capacity to break down the defensive posture of Catholic.
   Catholic defense really falls apart organizationally when they are forced back on a quick counter.  Ready to be exploited by a quick Elizabethtown attack.
   #18 from Catholic is the only player who has some semblance of an idea of what to do with the ball when he gets it.  Opts mostly for the simple pass but think its because of him playing CDM.
   I don't think Elizabethtown has made the Catholic keeper get dirty yet.
   This is where playing keep away would help one of the teams. 
   I do find it amusing the instruction one hears from the sideline.  Never about what to do with the ball.  Always about pressing, getting out, hard tackle.... 
   Elizabethtown front three don't mark.  They wait to react for the ball near them.
   Catholic made some subs up front, I don't notice a difference between them.  Probably a 30-yard gap between the forward line and the midfield... if you can find them since they run around chasing the ball all over the field.
   If Elizabethtown can just hold the ball and diffuse Catholics kick and chase, they could do something.
   If I were the head coach of Elizabethtown, I would let Catholic forwards get the ball, then I would just go on the attack once they give up the ball on a bad touch or bad pass.  If I were the Catholic coach, I would hold the ball between the midfield and back line and keep knocking it around... then watch the gaps open for the forwards to run through.  I am neither coach.
   And like that.  Turnover beyond midfield on a bad 10-yard pass into pressure.  Elizabethtown passes the ball (On the ground!) to the center forward who turns and incomprehensibly goes between two Catholic defenders .... Who don't get the ball.  The forward sends the ball (On the ground!) to the winger who takes it to the line, and incomprehensibly turns a defender at the end line.  The winger takes the ball and drives it on the ground to another forward maybe 6 yards out, who buries the ball for the go-ahead goal.  Catholic 0, Elizabethtown 1.  Incomprehensible because Catholic could have stopped Elizabethtown on several occasions on the attack but didn't or couldn't.  And the ball was dummied by one attacker.  If the second player doesn't bury it, there were two other Elizabethtown forward sitting back post waiting for the ball, wide open.
   Catholic lacks in ideas going forward.   Common theme from all four (?) games I have watched.  They look like they hold the ball, but that possession is deep in their half.  When it comes to translating that possession into a cogent attack, it always starts with a long ball to the wing.
   Elizabethtown was opportunistic on its goal.  Can't say they played well, but they were patient and just took advantage of some of the glaring errors that Catholic has.
   Halftime.  I'm out.  Game could go either way still.  Neither team impresses enough on the attack to think they will score more goals, and defensively they both look like they are a mistake away from conceding.

Washington College v. Ursinus
Washington College
Bias? – Watched one, not the other.

   Right off the bat, Ursinus is vulnerable in turning over the ball in the back.  Washington is pressing high up on them and they are not being good stewards of the ball.
   Ursinus' only real possession is passing the ball between the two center backs and the keeper.
   Don't understand why on a corner that is floated into the six, why the Ursinus keeper stays on his line.
   And in that deep possession, keeper gets pressed and loses the ball.  Washington forward one times a ball that hits off the post.  Ursinus is counting their stars for not having gone down 1-0.
   Ursinus is doing a better job holding the ball, albeit with a certain fragility.  They seem to be a pass away from disaster.  Washington really hasn't gotten a hold of the ball and is sending everything long out of the back.  But they are pressing high and forcing Ursinus to work it out of the back or try to get it to their outside mids.
   Aside from the ball off the post, I think Ursinus has had the better of the play with Washington just chasing.  Ursinus just can't break down the back line so easily.
   As the clock keeps ticking, Ursinus is getting more comfortable.  Washington seems to be struggling in possession.  A little too static in midfield and the inaccurate passes into the middle aren't helping much.
   When Washington back's get the ball, not many options in the midfield because Ursinus is doing a good job marking the midfielders ... and the midfielders really aren't showing for the ball.
   And Ursinus is rewarded for it's work.  Corner kick that's swung out, Ursinus player gets up and masterfully heads the ball in the back of the net from the 12.  Washington 0 , Ursinus 1.
   So on the corner, 5 Ursinus players start their runs at the 18.  Not sure who, but there are three defenders marking them.  Washington has 7 players inside the six, not marking anyone, with one defender covering any short play. So many players just covering air.  It's a goal on a corner that really shouldn't have happened.  Granted I don't like players who float on corners.  Can understand one just charged with going after the ball, but everyone should have a role.
   And then like that, Washington punishes Ursinus for diving in.  Washington recovers the ball about 30 yards out and passes it out wide.  Instead of just holding him there the Ursinus player over commits allowing the Washington player to take a touch into the middle and slot a ball between two defenders to a forward running into the box. The Washington forward does well to hit it low and to the far post while off balance.  Washington 1, Ursinus 1.
   In response, Ursinus is trying to break down Washington again. 
   Washington continues to be dangerous on set plays.
   And it goes to halftime all even at 1.

Quote from: jknezek on October 02, 2021, 01:36:33 PM
Body of water is the CT River and Coast Guard's campus is amazing. I was tempted to apply but back in the stone ages of the mid 90s, they offered very few majors and I didn't have interest in being an engineer. But the campus is amazing and worthy of the other service academies.

It's worth noting that the campus of Connecticut College borders that of Coast Guard and shares some of the same water views.

Quote from: Ommadawn on October 03, 2021, 12:04:37 PM

Quote from: jknezek on October 02, 2021, 01:36:33 PM
Body of water is the CT River and Coast Guard's campus is amazing. I was tempted to apply but back in the stone ages of the mid 90s, they offered very few majors and I didn't have interest in being an engineer. But the campus is amazing and worthy of the other service academies.

It's worth noting that the campus of Connecticut College borders that of Coast Guard and shares some of the same water views.

Very true. I remember visiting both at the same time. Both are beautiful NE small college campuses.

Washington & Lee v. Hanover
Hanover
Bias? – Second time watching one, first time for the other.

   This game is from earlier in the year.
   Hanover moves the ball well, just can't get that last pass right.
   W&L is largely just trying to deal with Hanover's movement off the ball, and when they win the ball, try to get it forward.  In my book they are forcing it, but it's my first time watching them so don't know if this is normal.
   W&L right wing is a very solid player.
   Hanover is trying to press all over the field.  That won't last much longer.
   W&L is quick on the attack.  They can get very dangerous in the blink of an eye.  Hanover might have better control of the ball, but W&L have the instinct to get to goal.
   W&L seems to like to work the ball on the left, then try a long ball to the right wing.  Hanover has been covering this so far.
   Hanover forwards are on a different page than the midfield.
   Hanover center forward #99 is looking to get through rather than hold the ball up.
   Why do defender's feel compelled to try to win the ball when the forward has their back to the goal?
   W&L set play on the side, player runs over the ball and heads toward the middle of the 18.  With no defenders tracking him, he receives the ball from the player left at the ball who one times a shot.  It ended up being blocked, but it was a nice uncomplicated play.
   For some reason the video kept bugging out and I didn't get to see W&L's first goal.  Washington & Lee 1, Hanover 0.
   I think W&L is a good team, just not sure I understand them being ranked #1.  They are not as effective with the ball as the usual suspects.  Watch, now they will win it all.
   They do cover defensively very well.  Keeper is small but has been solid.
   Hanover is effective with the ball, at least in 3/4s of the field, why they don't place greater emphasis on spreading the field out as much as possible is beyond me.  Obviously they are concerned with their defensive posture above all else, but if they wanted to win this, they have to, at some point play on terms that would advantage them.
   Halftime.

Just an update on the pass ratio analysis.  Again, my formatting has a lot to be desired, but the underlying spreadsheet is awesome!

BEST 15   
Passes   54
Bad Passes   6
Pass Ratio (Passes:Bad Passes)   8.40
Attack Ratio   40%
Passes per Minute   5.4
   
MIDDLE 23   
Passes   45
Bad Passes   8
Pass Ratio (Passes:Bad Passes)   5.73
Attack Ratio   42%
Passes per Minute   4.5
   
BOTTOM 72   
Passes   33
Bad Passes   9
Pass Ratio (Passes:Bad Passes)   3.50
Attack Ratio   28%
Passes per Minute   3.3
   
ALL AVERAGE - 110   
Passes   38
Bad Passes   9
Pass Ratio (Passes:Bad Passes)   4.42
Attack Ratio   35%
Passes per Minute   3.8

Couple things that has become clearer to me over the course of the last month watching games.  First off, I think the better the team is at moving the ball, over time, will wear out lesser opponents.  Second, in the top grouping there a couple of teams that may have moved the ball well statistically, but watching the game you realize they really didn't offer much more than possession in the back and just over midfield.  Three, the press, chase, run, run, run model all over the field doesn't last for 90 minutes.  It translates into long balls and bad passes.  Four, there are a handful of teams where I wonder why are they not better?  And then there are teams that I say to myself they are not THAT good.  And finally, as a general rule, I think most teams have spent so much time working on defensive shape and midfield support, that they have forgotten about forwards and have let their goal scoring com from luck, defensive errors and brute force.  I am not sure if I am missing it or not.

As far as my game reviews go, I may try a few without mentioning the teams so I can be a little more honest.  Don't know who reads these things and have issues with calling out players/coaches if they would deserve to be called out.  I get not everyone believes in brutal honestly in the soccer world.

If the W&L goalkeeper isn't the shortest player on the team, then he's the second shortest. Given the team has more than 3 backup keepers, it tells you something about the starter!

Besides the passing metrics,  I wonder if being reliant on one or two goal scorers might be a kind of weakness  (vs a team where the scoring is spread out among more players).

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 06, 2021, 12:40:49 PMAnd finally, as a general rule, I think most teams have spent so much time working on defensive shape and midfield support, that they have forgotten about forwards and have let their goal scoring com from luck, defensive errors and brute force.  I am not sure if I am missing it or not.

First off, I think it's good for you to put the teams out there. Lots of very honest analysis on here and unless I'm sorely mistaken, I don't there's ever been any "official" blowback. It is what it is. They're getting paid decently to coach a game. They can handle a little honesty.

Second, to the bullet above. Totally agree, I'd just add that a lot of those teams rely on the vagaries and lucky bounces of set-pieces, including a really strong desire to have a guy that chuck into the box on long throws.

Quote from: Hopkins92 on October 06, 2021, 02:51:56 PM

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 06, 2021, 12:40:49 PMAnd finally, as a general rule, I think most teams have spent so much time working on defensive shape and midfield support, that they have forgotten about forwards and have let their goal scoring com from luck, defensive errors and brute force.  I am not sure if I am missing it or not.

First off, I think it's good for you to put the teams out there. Lots of very honest analysis on here and unless I'm sorely mistaken, I don't there's ever been any "official" blowback. It is what it is. They're getting paid decently to coach a game. They can handle a little honesty.

Second, to the bullet above. Totally agree, I'd just add that a lot of those teams rely on the vagaries and lucky bounces of set-pieces, including a really strong desire to have a guy that chuck into the box on long throws.

I agree with Hopkins that we all appreciate your analysis.

Second, from my days coaching, I do agree that many teams spend a great deal of time on defensive shape. I would also say that it can be very difficult to find and recruit goalscorers at this level. I have seen very many goalscorers turned to CBs or DMs or other spots at the higher levels. You would think that because of this more teams would spend time working on finishing. Just my observations.

Thanks for the kind comments @Hopkins92 and @Backheel18.  I did one game today from awhile back and came up with this.  One and only time that I run it through an Anonymizer Machine.

   Mauve lines up with seems like a back four, but the left back steps high into the midfield which tells me in possession they try to run a 3-4-3.
   Peach looks like it lines up in a 3-1-4-2.  Looks to create numbers in the center of the attack, especially if they can catch Mauve in transition.
   Again, I think the long ball off of kick off is the worst play in the game.  That said when you have players like Mauve #12 who jump into the ball and head it sideway, you can see what teams launch it.  The ball only goes 10 yards off his head when it should have gone at least 30 yards.  Who teaches players to head the ball this way?
   Peach #18 does well to settle a ball, tries to turn it back to keep possession, but plays a ball between two defenders and it lands at the feet of Mauve #27.
   Mauve #27, after winning the ball tries to drop it back for possession, not even a 5 yard pass and gives a ball that Peach #18 wins back.  Mauve #27 should have used his left foot but instead opts for the outside of his right foot.
   I get high energy at the start but am starting to think that maybe a tactic should be to purposely slow the ball down for 10 minutes.
   Mauve #31 has an opportunity to break the ball forward but instead passes it to Peach #25.
   The result leads to a goal.  Peach #7 plays a ball high to a Peach Center Forward, who heads the ball behind him.  The Mauve defender is late stepping to the Peach Center Forward.  The other center back isn't goal side and slow to react when his man gets the ball right down the middle.  He goes so far to reach in for the ball, but loses a step in the process, giving the Peach forward a clear shot on goal from 12 out and only the keeper to beat.  Mauve 0, Peach 1.
   Mauve #1 squared up on the shot from the forward.  Not sure that was the appropriate technique there.  If he had kept his feet tight and maybe got his body weight forward, he may have been able to make a play.  Or even by getting big he may have made it more challenging on the Peach forward.
   Mauve is so intent on pressing they forget about handling the ball.
   Mauve #1 can't punt the ball, especially when rushed.
   For all his work, Mauve #12 can't connect a pass.  Not to mention he seems to go where ever.
   Peach #6 Defender does good work chasing a ball down, but then telegraphs a ball down the line that gets blocked by Mauve #31.  Why he didn't trap the ball I have no idea.
   Peach #7 is solid in the midfield.
   Peach organized in the attack.  Two up top, one out wide, and three trailing.
   Mauve #27, right foot trapping ability is terrible.
   Peach #18 stays connect and steps high forcing Mauve #31 to drop back deep.
   Peach doing well to stretch out Mauve.  Mauve can't cope with the space defensively.
   Mauve #32 clears a ball into a Peach player, ball rebounds all the way to a forward who goes one on one with the keeper who comes up with a save.  Mauve #31, #32 and #28, are walking back 30 yards from behind the play.  Leaving 3 defenders on their own.  I would sub them out.
   Peach #27, righty, holds off his defender and acts as a good target man.
   Mauve #28, righty, is a midfielder who can't connect.
   Peach #25 acts as a holding mid.
   Mauve #32, righty has tried three passes into the middle and has missed all three leading to Peach counters.
   This isn't so much of Peach doing great things, they are just taking advantage of what Mauve is giving them.
   Peach #27 and #28? Backs to the goal do well playing off of each other, holding it up for midfielders to join in, or turning and taking on their defenders.  They have the liberty right now because Mauve have not adjusted to try and choke them out of plays.
   Peach sets up give and goes between the two center forwards and the outside mids.  Easy to do since Mauve don't track their man.
   Mauve #24?, lefty, from midfield, launches the ball over the goal on a free kick.  The line was at the 18.
   Mauve is trying to step it up, just have the ideas of a paper cup. 
   Mauve #12, righty will receive the ball and run across the field to try and line up a shot with his right.  Very rarely turns and faces.
   Left side for Mauve is the weak side, especially in the second half.  Mauve #25, Mauve #22, Mauve #9 when he shifts, can be turned or beaten.
   Peach defends corners at the six, with 9 players.  2 in the front, 3 in the middle, and 3 far post.
   Peach does well to transition through Peach #7 and Peach #25
   Peach #20? Righty, good ideas on attack.  Doesn't seem to defend much.  Hangs on the left half of the field.
   Mauve has 5 midfielders.  Only two do anything.  Mauve #6, #20, and Right mid are cones.  Stay in pressure and don't have the ideas to get out of it.

Tufts v Trinity
Trinity
Bias? – I don't know one and hate when games go behind a pay wall.

   21 minutes left in the first half.
   What a beautiful grass field.
   Not as fluid as Messiah ... not sure anyone is ... but Tufts dominate and move in possession very well.  Unlike Tufts I think they have a setting that has them push to goal, sometimes forcing it and leading to turnovers.  That instinct/desire/obsession with getting to goal, especially in the final third ... haven't seen from other teams.
   Trinity is just trying to manage the constant pressure on goal.
   Will say, Tufts is susceptible to the turnover and counter, but they do so well at swarming the turnover that Trinity can't cope with the lack of time and space.
   Meanwhile, Trinity has a free kick from 20 yards out, and instead of getting it on frame, they try some stupid play then ends up with Tufts have a goal kick, and Trinity without a shot on goal.
   I don't think Tufts likes playing when they haven't scored.  They have this continued urgency to score.
   Tuft's #5 is a beast in the middle of the field.
   I think if Trinity wants a result, they need to be real compact defensively, and counter quick.  The moment the counter doesn't go anywhere they should just get in their defensive shell.
   Trinity is doing a good job making it difficult on the Tuft's forward line from getting the ball easily.  Everything is either made into a 50/50 or they don't leave room for the forward to do anything with the ball.
   Tuft's left back is a menace.  Why they don't spring him forward more, I don't know why.
   On corner, Tuft's is organized and looks like they can be lethal.  #5 crowds the keeper then runs to the corner, 3 or 4 players spread between the 6 and 12, and one goes far post.  Trinity has to be on it's toes to keep track of it all.  Think the Trinity keeper should be a bit more assertive on some of them.
   I like Tufts #8 or #9, can't tell which number it is... the guy with the man bun.  He is all over the place.
   Halftime at 0-0.

Messiah v Lebanon Valley College
Messiah
Bias? – I think one is the best in the country and the other is good.

   5 minutes in and Messiah has had two great chances, both times denied by a couple if brilliant saves by the LVC keeper.
   Wow.  Run of play for Messiah in the first ten minutes.  LVC wins the ball and goes on a quick counter with a long ball out to the wing.  LVC #18 gets a back pass to the 18 and one times the ball and with a fantastic strike, hits the side net.  Messiah 0, Lebanon Valley 1
   Interesting to note that on the counter, if LVC #10 doesn't strike the ball, he had three team mates to his right who were running to goal.  Either one of them could have scored.
   Messiah is looking totally discombobulated after the goal.  Missing easy passes.  Another counter almost led to a second goal if not for a great save by the Keeper with Mullet.
   Supposedly its Homecoming and it looks crowded.
   Messiah needs to calm down and get a hold of the ball.  No need to panic.
   Messiah #5 is a good player.
   LVC is scary on the fast counter.  I mean very fast and very scary.  Really making a meal of the Messiah defensive posture.
   Announcers are saying LVC #18 had to come off cause he hurt himself on the celebration.
   LVC players are making some great runs through Messiah's defense and not being picked up.  If I were a gambling man, I would put $20 on LVC getting a second this half.
   Think they are having a crisis of confidence, but Messiah #12 is good.  Great playmaker out of the back.
   LVC not making it easy for Messiah to get through them.  So tight and challenge for everything.
   And Messiah equalizes on a cross to the far post where Messiah #23? was wide open to head down and put it past the keeper.  Messiah 1, LVC 1
   20 minutes left in the half.
   Messiah still struggling to connect out of the back.  Turnovers in some pretty awful spots.  Really imprecise.
   And now, on a corner, skips off a near post defender and the ball goes far post where a player taps it back to Messiah #22 who hits the ball top net.  Not a chance to stop that one.  Messiah takes the lead 2, LVC 1.
   Again, it's a theory, but full press for 90 minutes is not sustainable.  At some point you need to come up with some soccer.  Otherwise, you have to choose to attack or defend because you can't physically do both.
   What Messiah does so well is switching the point of attack.  Forces LVC to constantly shift to defend.
   Messiah #5 just hit a wonderful instep shot that banged off the cross bar.  He is a special kind of player.
   LVC looks like they are dragging now.  Think the fact that they have been working so hard for 35 minutes has cost them.
   Another corner, this time buried into the net by Messiah #9 from 6 yards out.  Messiah 3, LVC 1. 
   Soccer is a cruel mistress.  At one point you think you have this game in hand, and 20 minutes later, you are looking for the bus.
   Halftime.  Unless LVC has something in their bag of tricks, this is a tall mountain to climb.

The pressing pressing pressing approach works enough that coaches will continue to employ it forever. It's very American and is tough to shake.

Quote from: Hopkins92 on October 09, 2021, 07:38:47 PM
The pressing pressing pressing approach works enough that coaches will continue to employ it forever. It's very American and is tough to shake.

I know.  And there is definitely a place for it.  My point is that I have yet to find a team that can sustain it on both ends of the ball for 90 minutes.  Or at least that is my latest theory.  Trying to figure out how I can test for that.

I mean, it's the biggest beef against US collegiate soccer is that it subverts the pathos of the game.... You put 11 guys out there and then see who holds on. Just changes a lot of of fundamental aspects of the game.

Washington v Johns Hopkins
Johns Hopkins
Bias? -  I like geese and blue jays.

   Much like a chess match.  Both teams trying to find the others weakness.
   Pretty even in the first 15 minutes.
   Johns Hopkins purposely holding the ball in the back, literally standing on the ball, trying to get Washington to step up and press, Washington isn't buying.
   Washington very compact and Johns Hopkins is not as fluid as they have been in previous games.   Also lack that outlet on the right wing because Washington isn't giving it to them.
   Very tight in the midfield for both teams.
   Washington keeper almost had a howler outside the box but decided to swat the ball with his hand and take the yellow instead of letting it get messier.
   Think Washington #3 is a pretty decent midfielder.  Sits deep but gets the ball moving.
   Will say when JHU connects in the midfield and can do some give and goes, they move fast.
   Think the Washington keeper could be a liability this game. Making some poor decisions on when to come out or not and struggles with balls into the box.
   And like that Johns Hopkins goes ahead.  Washington #22 tries to play the man instead of getting the ball, and JHU #5 takes the ball down the line.  Drops it to JHU#17 who is stepping into the box.  When two Washington defenders close him down he slots a ball to the 12.  The three defenders are all at the six.  And JHU #11 one times the ball that goes upper far post for the go-ahead goal.  Washington Keeper couldn't do a thing with it.  Washington 0, Johns Hopkins 1.
   Washington having a tough time getting the ball under control.  Trying to force it too much.  Just settle down.  Plenty of time on the clock.
   JHU keeper is pretty solid. Not afraid to come out for high balls and very secure in holding onto the ball.
   Not sure Washington can figure out how to stop Johns Hopkins through the midfield, nor how to get a clear look at goal.
   JHU #17 is very solid on the ball.  Can get through players to make a play out of nothing.  Plus he has cool hair.
   Halftime.  Don't think it was a particularly good game, and expected more out of Washington.

Gettysburg v Franklin & Marshall
F&M
Bias? – I've walked through the peach orchard and flown a kite.

   Confession.  Not a fan of Franklin & Marshall.  Think their whole strategy is to create and capitalize on mistakes.  For all the emails they send out about their "philosophy," I kind of expected more.  And will say, I don't think they are as good as what the rankings say.  There I said it.
   First 15 has been very chaotic.  Lots of ping pong, tennis, and the occasional foosball game.
   Long throw by F&M#24 into the box.  Gettysburg keeper comes out to punch but doesn't get very far.  Lands at an F&M players feet who from 12 drills a shot that the Gettysburg keepers saves, and the ball is subsequently cleared out.
   F&M purposefully play short in the back to stretch out Gettysburg.  When there is enough movement, they get the ball out wide to the outside backs (F&M #66) to try to drive the ball forward at that point. 
   F&M Keeper is solid coming off his line for balls in the air.  Very solid.
   F&M #66 and F&M #45 on the right side, connect well and are a handful for the Gettysburg defense.
   F&M does work the ball occasionally, especially what the ball is in the final third.  They are looking to get the ball swung in from the wing into the middle.
   Gettysburg is being patient on the attack and making the most of the few opportunities they have.
   F&M #20? takes a 25-yard shot that hits off the crossbar.  That was interesting.
   Some video issues?
   The Gettysburg orange numbers on a blackish/greyish jersey are hard to read.
   Gettysburg #13 with the long throw.  But the F&M keeper confidently grabs it in the air.
   And halftime.  Pretty even.

College of Wooster v. Ohio Wesleyan
Wooster
Bias? – I played with Ian Banda.
   I am always surprised when I watch OWU how passive they seem at the start, almost like they are waiting to impose themselves on the opponent.  Maybe passive is not the right word.  Maybe more like methodical.
   Wooster is trying to push the envelope, but OWU doesn't let them get through easily.
   OWU #10 is such a good player.  Has a great sense of timing about the game.  Understands when it's time to attack or time to defend.  When to press, or drop off.
   As time ticks, Wooster starts to pull apart.  Defensive posture in the middle is real haphazard, especially in transition.  OWU can get 30 yards yup the field if they move the ball quickly.
   Wooster backs are not doing a good job of connecting into the middle.
   Wooster just hoping to connect on a long ball with COW#7?.
   COW#2? can be turned at the end line ... surprisingly so. 
   OWU#7 is pretty masterful at drifting into the midfield to get the ball, turn and make a play out wide.
   OWU keeps [robing switching the point of attack, trying to stretch the back line.  So far, COW has kept in front, but clearly OWU is getting closer to goal.
   COW continues to look for the long ball to catch OWU off balance.  I think defensively, they are too disciplined to let that happen.  But they do win a ball and send it across for a header that the OWU keeper must make a big save on.
   OWU is very purposeful about getting the ball out of pressure.  This, I think is a key piece in not only their attack, but how they are able to maintain shape defensively.
   And then like that, OWU has a corner, taken by OWU #10.  The ball is cleared out back to him where he is one on one His two supporting back are 10 yards away in the 18.  OWU #10 pushes the ball back down to the line, catching COW#7 off step.  Before another defender COW #24 can come into support, OWU#10 hits a perfectly floated ball to the center of the six where OWU#2 buries it far post with a flawless heard.  Wooster 0. Ohio Wesleyan 1.
   13 minutes left in the first half.
   After the goal, OWU is feeling it.  COW is back on its heels.
   OWU keeper has had a couple of tests and has acquitted himself well.
   And halftime with the Battling Bishops up, 1-0 over the Fighting Scots.

Tufts v. Middlebury
Middlebury
Bias? – These guys again??
   Lovely looking place for a game.... And the fall colors!
    Interesting and something I don't see very often.  Corner for Tufts early on that is cleared for Middlebury that goes all the way back to the Tufts keeper, who settles it outside his box.  There are two defenders back with them.  Everyone call to hold the ball so Tufts can get back into shape in the back, before the keeper plays the ball to a back.   It's a simple thing and maybe meaningless, but it's the many simple things that differentiate great teams from good teams.
   Middlebury#9 looks like he is a handful to defend against.
   Most of the game played in Middlebury's half.  Tuft's has a bit of a heavy metal style to them.  They are driven to score.  The psychology around playing them must weigh have on any opponent that plays them.
   Middlebury can't get the ball under control.  Tuft's is relentless.
   Middlebury needs to figure out a way to get and keep a hold of the ball.  Only way to mitigate Tuft's pace is to stretch them out defensively. 
   Will say that Tift's players move for the ball.  Middlebury players, not much.
   22 minutes in and Middlebury has a decent stretch of possession that ends up in a bad pass to Tufts#5.  Switching the point of attack.  Not forcing anything.  Just trying to find the next open man.  Makes Tufts look mortal.
   If I were coaching against Tufts, I would let them come to me.  Defend and press only in my have.  Wait for the penetrating pass to try and pick off and just go to the races and see if I can't get a lucky goal.
   Since Middlebury has been a bit more patient and sorted out defensively, they are starting to put pressure on the Tufts goal.  They have gotten to the box with a lot more ease than Tufts has.
   Middlebury#23, with space looks like he would be dangerous. 
   Middlebury#6 is a decent conductor.  Understands possession. 
   Another thing I find interesting with Tufts, is that when they turn it over and a player with the ball gets behind them, they are quick on the professional foul.
   Middlebury is starting to get it.  Quick switches and making high % passes are making it difficult for Tufts.
   I don't have anything to compare them to.  I really haven't seen Tufts play except for the games I watched this season.  I get why they are good.  There is an edge to them, and they have a load of individual talent.  They are all bought into how they play.  But it doesn't do it for me.  Do they have another gear depending on who they are playing, perhaps?  Not sure how this team compares to other Tufts teams, but their history is probably a huge edge for them.  Maybe I am missing something.
   Halftime.  Tufts 0, Middlebury 0.

I don't think you're missing anything and it's all in your post.  Tufts isn't that pretty but they're skilled, very physical and overwhelming without being dirty although I got a sense Aroh could lose his temper and teams should try to mark him out as well as Van Brewer.  And they keep shape and balance like you said.  Midd one time had a semi-break and Tufts had amazing transition so what looked like what would be a good chance ended up like 2 v 7 with Tufts having the numbers back even though they had just been pressuring in the Midd 18.  Aroh is arrogant and someone on other team needs to match that.  As you said, Tufts dominated the first 20 until Midd settled in a bit, but still feels like a D1 team playing against a good D3 team.  Tufts must have a heck of a weight training program.  Even 5'7 Van Brewer is jacked.  #25 is huge like Aroh and fouls almost every play, they get in their hacks, but again, without going over the line.  They're probably a lot more like Amherst than they like to admit.  They could possibly lose today, but I have a hard time seeing who is going to beat them in big NCAA games.

Quote from: PaulNewman on October 10, 2021, 03:37:25 PM
I don't think you're missing anything and it's all in your post.  Tufts isn't that pretty but they're skilled, very physical and overwhelming without being dirty although I got a sense Aroh could lose his temper and teams should try to mark him out as well as Van Brewer.  And they keep shape and balance like you said.  Midd one time had a semi-break and Tufts had amazing transition so what looked like what would be a good chance ended up like 2 v 7 with Tufts having the numbers back even though they had just been pressuring in the Midd 18.  Aroh is arrogant and someone on other team needs to match that.  As you said, Tufts dominated the first 20 until Midd settled in a bit, but still feels like a D1 team playing against a good D3 team.  Tufts must have a heck of a weight training program.  Even 5'7 Van Brewer is jacked.  #25 is huge like Aroh and fouls almost every play, they get in their hacks, but again, without going over the line.  They're probably a lot more like Amherst than they like to admit.  They could possibly lose today, but I have a hard time seeing who is going to beat them in big NCAA games.

Yeah I see why they are good.  Without a doubt.  And yes, am wondering if they do one-armed pushups as a team ....  :o

Bates v Amherst
Amherst
Bias? – Pre-game, none.  Post-game, much.

   Messiah will have more completed passes in 5 minutes then Bates and Amherst have completed in 20 minutes ... combined.
   When the Bates Keeper gets the ball, Amherst#16 literally stays with him until he punts the ball.  Doesn't allow him to put the ball on the ground.  Forces him to get rid of it in 6-ish seconds.
   Most exciting this to watch was a flip throw by an Amherst#5.  Which is certainly dangerous.  But the Bates Keeper isn't making it any easier by not coming out for the ball.
   I get games that are knocked down, drag out fights ... league games can be like that.  But usually, you can find redeeming qualities in the game.  You can see beyond the fouling, kick ball and total chaos.  Not with this one.
   I see what Amherst is trying to do.  They are trying to get the ball up to the front line and isolate players 1 on 1, and then defensively just physically punish any Bates player who has the audacity of touching the ball.
   Everything is a push or a hard tackle, and in the meantime the referee just lets it happen.
   I don't know if the field is cut long, but it looks like it is.  Which makes keeping the ball on the deck a bit more challenging.
   If I coached a team that played the way Amherst does, I would resign and become a Professional Slap coach.
   Again, love that there can be so many styles, but there is a certain Neanderthal like quality to how Amherst plays.
   Wish I had something to say about Bates.  They are trying to get the ball on the ground and play but they just struggle to keep it for longer stretches.
   And no surprise, Amherst scores a decent goal.  Amherst #10 receives the ball outside the box, and dribbles into space through the defense and finds himself with an open shot on the keeper.  He strikes it well and hits the top of the net.  Bates 0, Amherst 1.
   It was actually a nice goal and give Amherst #10 credit for playing and looking like a soccer player. 
   I don't know what Bates was doing defensively on that goal.  Now I know how Moses felt at the Red Sea.
   On Amherst corners, every available player is inside the six.  They have had maybe ten corners/long throws ... they have all ended in fouls on the keeper.
   The referee is bad.
   Halftime Bates 0, Amherst 1.  I really wanted to like this game.  I really did.  Amherst has been taking care of business and being a NESCAC game I thought it would be exciting ...

Emory v Washington University
Washington U
Bias? – My wife leaves Emory boards all over the house and know an accomplished artist at one.

   Emory owns the ball.
   Washington U just can't get a hold of the ball. 
   Emory is solid and organized.  Most of the play and Emory possession is in WashU's half.
   Emory being very patient with the ball to start.  Have no rush on trying to get the ball forward.
   When WashU gets the ball, they move it ok in the back, but have difficulty trying to do something with it beyond midfield.
   I am impressed with Emory.  More so than in previous games that I have watched.  Can they translate their possession into opportunities in front of goal?
   Can't read numbers.  Video is too distant to read them.
   An observation that just dawned on me.  I am not sure I have seen a team mark man to man.  Think they pick up players as necessary, but no one seems to track players anymore.  Wouldn't even call this a theory yet.
   Maybe because of the view of the field, but I think if I were a coach playing with 3 up top, I would go man to man on the three backs that most teams.  The fourth back I would have my outside mid cover, then the CDM I would push my CAM on to.  I wonder what would happen then.
   Team water break.  The game is clearly not being played in Northwestern PA.
   What beautiful place to play.
   WashU with its first real opportunity on goal but went just wide.
   Game seems to be between the 18s with each trying to break the other defensive posture. 
   Any goals will have to come from crosses into the box.  Not that there is a ton of room, but for both teams, the easiest way to goal is to get it wide and long and whip it into the box.  Of course set plays.
   17 minutes left in the half.
   Not sure if it is the heat, but bit of a slow game.  That and don't think either team wants to make a mistake.
   WashU is solid defensively, with two very solid center backs.
   Halftime.  Looks like a bit of a chess match, with one side opting for the French Defense, and the other opting for the Scandinavian Defense.   

Wilmington v Mount Union
Wilmington
Bias? – I've been to Wilmington, Delaware, and I went to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

   Mount Union lacking the defensive organization I have watched from previous games.  And their control of the ball is a bit haphazard.
   Wilmington has some skillful players.  Wilmington #6, #10 #7, #8
    Better than I expected.
   When Mount Union settles down and controls the tempo, Wilmington just ends up chasing. 
   Mount Union just can't make it happen in the final third.
   Mount Union #6 is a hammer.  And everything is a screw.
   Mount Union can connect in the final third. Wilmington Keeper just comes up big on a Mount Union cross that is headed at point blank range.  Legit should be 1-0 for  the Purple Raiders.
   Wilmington is making it difficult for Mount Union at every step.  Shift over on the ball very well, usually outnumbering players around the ball.
   Mount Union needs to shift the point of attack much quicker.  And in general, needs to do better controlling the ball and moving it.  If a player holds it for too long, they are swarmed by at least 3 defenders.
   Most of Mount Union's danger in front of goal are ball launched into the box.
   Wilmington is bending not breaking.  Very compact in the back.  Back line of 5 it seems with 4 ahead of them 5, 10 yards max.  Very difficult to penetrate without any movement.
   And like that, a long throw by Wilmington is not cleared out by Mount Union and falls Wilmington#16? who one times it into the back of the net to the keepers left from 10 yards away.  Poor clearance by Mount Union #6.  Wilmington 1, Mount Union 0.
   17 minutes left in the half.
   Watching Mount Union, there is something I noticed a lot of teams do on the attack.  For all intents and purposes, few teams attack with depth.  Every forward and attacking midfielders line up across the defensive back line, and don't have much in the way of support if the ball gets knocked back toward midfield.  Counterattack just waiting to happen.
   Wilmington defend with 8, to Mount Unions 4 on attack.  Mount Union resorting to shots from 35 yards out.
   Someone please explain to me the value of having a single forward chase the ball when the other team is knocking it around the back three?  Watch out, am developing another theory ... but don't think it is ready for prime time yet.
   Halftime.  Wilmington 1, Mount Union 0.  Can see why both teams are getting regional looks. 

Drew v Catholic
Little Rome
Bias? – Watched both teams multiple times.

   Drew #8 with a nasty tackle.  Deserved yellow card.
   Drew owns more of the ball.  Would say they are more organized.  Catholic seems to make it up as it goes along.
   Drew Keeper looks comfortable coming off his line.  Catholic likes to drop it in deep close to the keeper.  Not sure that is smart in this case.
   Watched Drew play The College of New Jersey and thought Drew does seem to build with a purpose.  They have the players to do so.
   Catholic does try usually in their half to move the ball.  Once they cross midfield they just don't have the ability to keep the ball tight.  Catholic #12 has pace but his touch only works in space.  If I were the Drew coach, I would have someone tight on him always.  He will drop the ball back if he doesn't have the room.  I am not the coach.
    Drew #13 is waiting for his opportunity to break.  Just not getting the balls yet.  He is good at finding the right gap to go through.
   Drew #3 is better with the ball as CDM than Catholic's CDM #18, but #18 is much more active and instrumental in moving the ball.  If I were the Drew coach, I would try to lock him up.  Catholic would have problems switching the field.
   Drew #13 just rifled a ball off the crossbar after picking off a terrible pass from the left back.  On the ground, through the middle... to no one.
   I think Catholic have keeper troubles.  Just very unsure of how to play, especially balls that require judgement.
   Catholic sets up for corners with 9 players inside the six, while 4 Drew players, including Drew #13 are outside the six.  Drew #13 is on the 12.  Drew #24 sits at the 22 with no one around.  Perfect for a pass to one time it on frame.
   Drew is just so much more at ease.  Catholic looks uncomfortable.
   Catholic's midfield, #18, #24, #20, is a three-legged stool ... with only one leg... #18.  I don't think I have seen either #24 or #20 connect a pass forward.  In fact, they both have turned the ball over that have led to Drew counters.  If I were the Catholic coach, I would sub them out for someone else.  If there is no one else, I would sub them out for some cones.  I am not the coach, but I do have cones.
   Catholic #7 who I think is a good player from previous games, isn't the same today.  Real quiet.
   Drew is knocking on the door.  Really making Catholic chase.
   Catholic #20 seems insistent on taking 7 touches so he can arrange his feet and the ball, so he can make a 10-yard pass to his center back.
   If Drew scores it will be because of #10 and #11 who work the ball well together and #13 just taking advantage of space.
   Drew getting a little bit stretched and Catholic is able to get it into spaces.
   I would press Catholic #5 every time he gets the ball.  A liability with the ball.
   How do I know Catholic has a keeper problem?  First, on a simple ball that came to him, he bobbled it.  Second, on a through ball he came out of his box, when his defender just wanted to head it back to him he bobbled it as well.  In goal, if you don't do simple things well, it's problematic.
   Drew works mostly down the middle and their left.  Need to mix up the point of attack.
   I think Drew #24 is talented but needs to get involved in the play.
   For Drew to score they are going to have to catch Catholic on a counter or against the run of play.  For Catholic to score, they will need to create chaos and get on the end of a sloppy ball.  Both teams have the punch to score of some stupid foul set piece too.  There are plenty of those.
   Halftime 0-0

Quote from: PaulNewman on October 10, 2021, 03:37:25 PM
I don't think you're missing anything and it's all in your post.  Tufts isn't that pretty but they're skilled, very physical and overwhelming without being dirty although I got a sense Aroh could lose his temper and teams should try to mark him out as well as Van Brewer.  And they keep shape and balance like you said.  Midd one time had a semi-break and Tufts had amazing transition so what looked like what would be a good chance ended up like 2 v 7 with Tufts having the numbers back even though they had just been pressuring in the Midd 18.  Aroh is arrogant and someone on other team needs to match that.  As you said, Tufts dominated the first 20 until Midd settled in a bit, but still feels like a D1 team playing against a good D3 team.  Tufts must have a heck of a weight training program.  Even 5'7 Van Brewer is jacked.  #25 is huge like Aroh and fouls almost every play, they get in their hacks, but again, without going over the line.  They're probably a lot more like Amherst than they like to admit.  They could possibly lose today, but I have a hard time seeing who is going to beat them in big NCAA games.

Was at the game in person, and Midd had some good chances even after going down a man with 30 minutes left in regulation.  Tufts was very lucky to escape with a yellow when Campbell took down Saint-Louis as the last defender.  Referee made typical mistake of not looking around prior to the foul, but judging the position of players after the foul had occurred.  I think this was a very important psychological result for Midd.  They came away pissed that they did not win, and they will be up for a rematch down the road.  This game highlighted everything that is wrong with NESCAC officiating:

1. Allowing one coach to whine and question calls all day with no repercussions
2. Allowing some early hard fouls with no cards, followed by trying to get the game under control later
3. Flat out incorrect decision to stop the clock in first OT when both teams had players at the table to sub in and ball went out for a corner kick. Ref stopped clock to allow Tufts to take a set piece that they otherwise would never have gotten off
4. Not visible on video, but when Paoletta got a card for decking Roberts at the end of the second OT, Midd players were asking for a red card (It was not a red, IMO).  Tufts #23 gets in the face of Midd GK Grady and pushes him.  Midd #25 Nelson runs over, yells get the %*#% off my goalie, and pushes him down.  Ref was oblivious to the whole thing and asked AR if he saw anything, to which the reply was "No"

Having seen quite a few NESCAC games, the officiating is simply way too permissive and not at the level it needs to be.

Quote from: College Soccer Observer on October 11, 2021, 09:57:21 AM
Was at the game in person, and Midd had some good chances even after going down a man with 30 minutes left in regulation.  Tufts was very lucky to escape with a yellow when Campbell took down Saint-Louis as the last defender.  Referee made typical mistake of not looking around prior to the foul, but judging the position of players after the foul had occurred.  I think this was a very important psychological result for Midd.  They came away pissed that they did not win, and they will be up for a rematch down the road.  This game highlighted everything that is wrong with NESCAC officiating:

1. Allowing one coach to whine and question calls all day with no repercussions
2. Allowing some early hard fouls with no cards, followed by trying to get the game under control later
3. Flat out incorrect decision to stop the clock in first OT when both teams had players at the table to sub in and ball went out for a corner kick. Ref stopped clock to allow Tufts to take a set piece that they otherwise would never have gotten off
4. Not visible on video, but when Paoletta got a card for decking Roberts at the end of the second OT, Midd players were asking for a red card (It was not a red, IMO).  Tufts #23 gets in the face of Midd GK Grady and pushes him.  Midd #25 Nelson runs over, yells get the %*#% off my goalie, and pushes him down.  Ref was oblivious to the whole thing and asked AR if he saw anything, to which the reply was "No"

Having seen quite a few NESCAC games, the officiating is simply way too permissive and not at the level it needs to be.

Watching online, it's hard to read the dynamics of the referee.  But as a referee myself, I am surprised at how permissive most ref's I watch are when it comes to the early fouling.  I get you don't want to dole out yellow cards 5 minutes in, but if it is warranted, so be it.  Usually helps later in the game calming the more terrible angels of our nature.

That all said, I know we talk about how do we make college soccer, US soccer, youth soccer ... I think the  one conversation that is sorely lacking is how do we make refereeing better.

An interesting note.  In the NYU/Carnegie Mellon game there was a clear red card that should have been handed out right off the bat.  CMU striker gets past goalie, goalie takes him down from behind.  Gets a yellow, not a red.  PK awarded and CMU scored...but NYU should have been playing with 10 men basically the whole game.  There were a ton of injuries in this game as well, a fight at the end, then the goalie getting a red card after the game winner was scored in 2OT for going after the CMU bench.  Total mess.  NYU the deserving side (they're legit) and the goalie is terrific.  But the refereeing was a full blown mess...and literally, kids dropping like flies during the game.

Kenyon v Denison
Denison
Bias? – Multiple times for each.

   Kenyon has better control of the ball while Denison is trying to absorb the pressure.  Kenyon is a bit imprecise when it comes to connecting top.
   Another observation that I have in watching this game, and Denison in particular, I am struck at how off the ball defending is so ... zonal?  And that defending is focused on the ball, not necessarily stopping the pass from originally happening.
   Denison seems to moving a little too slow on the attack.  They are predictable regardless of where they are attacking from.
   On what appears to be a long throw that is cleared out by Denison, the ball lands at the top of the box where the original thrower ... Kenyon#18? ... who takes a touch and sets himself up with his left.  Denison shifts to prepare for a cross, including the Denison keeper who left his near post pretty open.  Kenyon#18? drives a low ball with his left to the near post and catches the keeper.  Kenyon 1, Denison 0.
   27 minutes left in the half.
   On corners, Denison holds two by the ball, puts three or four big guys at the six, and a couple of players at the 12.  All of Kenyon is defending.  Kenyon Keeper really has no room to move.
   Kenyon does transition well when they lose the ball.  Denison is insisting on trying to get the ball behind the Kenyon back line by sending it long, but it hasn't worked once.
   Denison#22?, the holding mid, is a good ball player.  Denison would do well if he could dictate more of the tempo of the game.
   Aside from the goal and some long throws into the box, not much seems to be happening inside the 18s.  In fairness both teams have been making it difficult to work the ball inside 35 yards of either goal.
   Kenyon#15 is very active on the right side.  Comes up from the back given the opportunity.
   Kenyon#8 is someone to watch out for.  Not the biggest of players, but he has the speed and the ideas to hurt Denison.
   Floated clearance from Denison back to midfield is controlled by Kenyon who slots a player at the circle.  He takes 20 yards and passes wide to a team mate now one on one with the Denison defender.  He drops it outside to the winger who takes a couple of touches into the middle at the corner of the 18, and hits it with his right peg.  A forward I think distracts the keeper but the ball goes far post for the goal.  Kenyon 2, Denison 0.   
   That's was a quick counter on the recovered ball.
   Unfortunate for Denison as there are only 38 seconds left on the clock.
     And halftime.  Unless Denison can perform some magic, not sure they have the wherewithal to turn the score board around.

Luther v University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Luther College Soccer Field
Bias? – Think one is a franchise and the other is kind of as well

   And now for something completely different.
   Nice grass field at Luther College.
   Luther controls the game out of the gate.  UWW can't get a rhythm going to start.
   Video moves a lot but will make the most of it.
   Luther#37 is a powerful outside mid. And Luther #7 is a left wing, equally dangerous.  The two of them are a handful. Luther gets the ball out left very quickly looking for them to make something happen..
   And UWW with the first big chance rifling a ball off the right post that had the Keeper planted.  The rebound came to a UWW forward (Can't tell the number) who hit the ball, but the Keeper became unplanted and made a real good save.
   Was going to type that this was a bit chippy grabby the first 10 minutes, and on a foul in the UWW, a quick restart to #7 behind the UWW right back, Luther#7 went one on one with the UWW Keeper and slotted the ball far post.  Luther 1, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater 0
   First, I am not sure what the foul was.  Second UWW#24 with a real heads up quick restart catching UWW asleep at the wheel.  Great assist.  Third, why did the UWW not come further off his line?  He tried to stay at the six.  I guess this is one of those examples of modern goalkeeping that I just don't understand.
   I think UWW coach is arguing that very point.  Along with the ball was moving when he kicked it.  Get that, but it's not like UWW is doing great and they got robbed.  Luther has been taking it to UWW since the first whistle.
   Another team, UWW that crowds the six ... and levels the keeper.
   Video is making me dizzy.
   This is my first time watching either team.  And neither team is justifying their record.
   Luther is a bit of a one trick pony on the left.  Johns Hopkins has a thing down the right, but they move the ball so much better.
   Luther is feeling inspired.
   UWW can get a hold of the ball easily.  Nor are they able to connect.  Luther presses and is physical.
   I do get the sense that the ref lost the plot...
   Luther is lightening quick on the attack coming from the left..  Think UWW is struggling dealing with it.
   UWW is starting to come alive, at least by playing with some energy and purpose.
   UWW#5 is lazy.  If I were the Luther coach, I would make his like difficult every time he got the ball.  Tries to be too cute.  But he does have cool hair.
   It is amazing what it is taking for this ref to call a foul.
   This time, Luther#18 gets the ball on the left side, takes it down the line after beating the right back UWW#8? and leaving the rest of the defense a bit out of shape.  Puts the ball across and land at the feet of a player (Luther #10?) at the far post about 18 out.  Takes a few touches across the box and then strikes the ball far post beating the keeper to his left.  Luther 2, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater 0. 
   11 minutes remaining.  Think I am out of this one.

So, I took a look at all the teams that had the highest pass ratio in a game, and I had watched them more than once.  Once you take into account all the games, the average becomes somewhat predictable.

Just for reference, anything under 5:1 pass ratio is the lowest, 5:1 to 7:1 is the middle group, and 7:1 and higher is the top group.

		Bad	% of	Passes in	Pass Ratio	Attack	Passes	Passes
	Passes	Passes	Bad Passes	Attack	(Passes:Bad Passes)	Ratio	per Minute	Per Game
Messiah	360	50	14%	121	7.20	34%	6	540
Johns Hopkins	246	35	14%	58	7.03	24%	4	369
Washington University	109	16	15%	4	6.81	4%	2	164
Chicago	91	14	15%	43	6.50	47%	5	410
Muhlenberg	75	14	19%	19	5.36	25%	1	113
Eastern University	62	12	19%	18	5.17	29%	3	279
Ohio Northern	77	16	21%	0	4.81		1	116
Kenyon	119	27	23%	32	4.41	27%	2	179
Catholic	226	52	23%	61	4.35	27%	4	339
Mount Union	143	34	24%	16	4.21	11%	2	215
Gettysburg	107	27	25%	8	3.96	7%	4	321

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 12, 2021, 10:21:19 AM
Sorry, can't figure out the table thing.

Don't worry, I'll set it up for you when I have some spare moments this morning.

Quote from: Gregory Sager on October 12, 2021, 10:59:24 AM

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 12, 2021, 10:21:19 AM
Sorry, can't figure out the table thing.

Don't worry, I'll set it up for you when I have some spare moments this morning.

Thanks @Gregory Sager.  And it wasn't for lack of trying.  I'll figure it out at some point.

You have to use table tags. It's a pain. It's why for the polls I do I created a macro to write all the table code so I just cut and paste from excel into a message. Otherwise it would either be a mess, or take me way too long.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 12, 2021, 10:21:19 AM
So, I took a look at all the teams that had the highest pass ratio in a game, and I had watched them more than once.  Once you take into account all the games, the average becomes somewhat predictable.

Just for reference, anything under 5:1 pass ratio is the lowest, 5:1 to 7:1 is the middle group, and 7:1 and higher is the top group.

	Passes	Bad Passes	% of Bad Passes	Passes in Attack	Pass Ratio	Attack Ratio	Passes per Minute	Passes Per Game
					(Passes:Bad Passes)
Messiah	360	50	14%	121	7.20	34%	6	540
Johns Hopkins	246	35	14%	58	7.03	24%	4	369
Washington University	109	16	15%	4	6.81	4%	2	164
Chicago	91	14	15%	43	6.50	47%	5	410
Muhlenberg	75	14	19%	19	5.36	25%	1	113
Eastern University	62	12	19%	18	5.17	29%	3	279
Ohio Northern	77	16	21%	0	4.81		1	116
Kenyon	119	27	23%	32	4.41	27%	2	179
Catholic	226	52	23%	61	4.35	27%	4	339
Mount Union	143	34	24%	16	4.21	11%	2	215
Gettysburg	107	27	25%	8	3.96	7%	4	321

SC, you didn't list a number for Ohio Northern's attack ratio. If you want to post it or PM me the number, I'll add it in.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 12, 2021, 10:21:19 AM
So, I took a look at all the teams that had the highest pass ratio in a game, and I had watched them more than once.  Once you take into account all the games, the average becomes somewhat predictable.

Just for reference, anything under 5:1 pass ratio is the lowest, 5:1 to 7:1 is the middle group, and 7:1 and higher is the top group.

		Bad	% of	Passes in	Pass Ratio	Attack	Passes	Passes
	Passes	Passes	Bad Passes	Attack	(Passes:Bad Passes)	Ratio	per Minute	Per Game
Messiah	360	50	14%	121	7.20	34%	6	540
Johns Hopkins	246	35	14%	58	7.03	24%	4	369
Washington University	109	16	15%	4	6.81	4%	2	164
Chicago	91	14	15%	43	6.50	47%	5	410
Muhlenberg	75	14	19%	19	5.36	25%	1	113
Eastern University	62	12	19%	18	5.17	29%	3	279
Ohio Northern	77	16	21%	0	4.81		1	116
Kenyon	119	27	23%	32	4.41	27%	2	179
Catholic	226	52	23%	61	4.35	27%	4	339
Mount Union	143	34	24%	16	4.21	11%	2	215
Gettysburg	107	27	25%	8	3.96	7%	4	321

Made it pretty, but I see that Sager beat me to it.

Anyway, maybe one of us can help get you set-up to always post with the table tags.  I assume you are using an Excel spreadsheet, in which case it wouldn't be too hard to provide cells to add the table code.

I win the timing, Christan, but you win the aesthetics. ;)

Ohio Wesleyan v Kenyon
Kenyon
Bias? – Watched both a number of times.

   Simply a beautiful field and a beautiful place for soccer.  Loved the opportunity I had to play there.
   Kenyon#15 will do damage on the right.
   OWU#5 Left back is slow with the ball, under pressure he could cough it up.  But he is big.  And a liability. If I were the Kenyon coach I would put my fastest winger on him and give him the ball
   Just when you think OWU is just going through the motions of a game, not having much of the ball, adjust trying the figure out the game, they win a ball at midfield and go two on one.  OWU#7 draws the defender and slots OWU#2 at the PK spot.  Kenyon Keeper does a great job stepping off his line and coming up with a big save.
   Kenyon clearly the aggressor here trying to get forward as quickly as they can.
   OWU doing what OWU does, absorbing the pressure and waiting to pounce up top when there is a turnover.
    OWU slowly starting to get some control of the game.
   28 minutes left in the half.
   Great to watch two very talented teams sort out each other and figure out how to play them.  That and the skill level is incredibly high.
   OWU#27 hs to be one of the best center backs I have seen so far.  Great intuitive defender, with skill.
   Kenyon#8 is not big, but he is a talent.  Carries the ball well and looks to get it forward.  Against the physicality of OWU may be a bit of an issue.
   OWU not as compact as in other games, seem to be giving space to Kenyon through the midfield.
   Kenyon has to be careful defensively.  OWU has gotten dangerous from errors in the back.  Two clear opportunities OWU missed in this half.
   OWU has a clear size advantage on Kenyon.
   OWU#10 not having the impact I've seen him have in other games.  Not getting touches on the ball in places he can make something happen.
   Kenyon has had the better of the play with OWU just managing their ball movement by closing it down in OWU's half.
   And that's the half.  Can't see either team justifying by their play, to be ahead on the score board.  Really, aside from the two clear OWU chances, not sure there was much more.
   And not that it is having an impact, but don't think this Ref is good.
   Much more impressed with Kenyon's midfield than OWUs.  Move the ball well and transition to attack very well.
   Picking the game up with 10 minutes left in regulation.  Kenyon definitely looking for the goal.  OWU keeper has had to come up big a couple of times.
   OWUs lack of precision with the ball, is a gift to Kenyon.
   OWU resorting to fouls to slow Kenyon down.  Kenyon#15 flies down the line and has to be stopped some how ....
   In five minutes, I've seen 3 or 4 yellow cards.
   Think OWU will welcome this half coming to an end.  They look disjointed and tired.
   Going into the 2nd OT.  Momentum for everything I have watched has been with Kenyon, but OWU may be bending, but they are not breaking.
   OWU#10 is very good.  But at times tries to do too much.  Takes that extra touch, or tries to get through one more guy ... not as effective that way... But then he does something that you realize how good he really is.
   Maybe its because you had to get on a bus midweek to Gambier, Ohio, but OWU just looks spent.  What do they say about Tuesdays, rain and Stoke?
   And with 2:25 left in OT, Kenyon get's its just rewards.  OWU#28 gets the ball tied up in his feet and take by Kenyon#8.  He goes around one defender and passes midfield.  Passes to Kenyon#21 and trips up the one defender fronting him by going to his right.  Takes another touch and hits a worm burner from the 22 and beats the OWU Keeper to his lower right.  Ohio Wesleyan 0, Kenyon 1.
   And on that note ... more games.

Swarthmore v Lycoming
Lycoming
Bias? – None before, none after.  I have no feelings after watching 30 minutes.

   Swarth#14 is a liability.  Decision making is slow and gets himself into trouble or makes a bad pass.
   Swarthmore is much more comfortable with the ball, but still leaves much to be desired.  Lycoming just can't connect unless Its to the winger on the right.  Think he is Lycoming#29?
   Swarthmore waits to force an error.
   I don't know who it is, but every time a Lycoming player has the ball, all I here is "DO IT! DO IT!"  I mean, is this what we have become?
   Most of the play is in Lycoming's half.
   After watching OWU and Kenyon, this falls far short of what I was hoping for.
   May just call this one way too early.
   After hearing "DO IT!", I wish I was a calmer more reserved coach in my youth.
   There is like ¾ of the field where there is no one because they insist on playing on ¼ of the field.  If I were the Swarthmore coach, I will tell all my outside players to get as wide as possible, then I would move the ball and watch how Lycoming can't compete.  I am not the Swarthmore coach.
   Another bad ref.
   Lycoming#26 doesn't run.  He walks everywhere.  If you can get on the break on the right quickly, you can catch him late to cover.
   Too many touches ... too many touches.
   Am done with this one.  My eyes are bleeding onto my keyboard.  And I have a nice keyboard that would be a shame to mess up.

Washington v Catholic
Catholic
Bias? – Watched both.

   Catholic#24 can't connect a pass, neither can Catholic#5.  For all the work Catholic#16 does, he comes up empty.
   Washington slowing the play down by knocking it around in the box.
   And like that.  A common Catholic goal from what I have seen.  Push the ball forward at all speed and create as much chaos around the area then take advantage of a poor clearance to hit the ball.  Catholic#16 pounces on a loose ball at the 18 and drive home a low driven shot to Washington Keepers right.  Washington 0, Catholic 1.
   Washington is too sedated right now.  Catholic is all amped up while Washington is still in on 95 stuck in traffic.
   Catholic#29 will send the ball blindly when under pressure.  When not under pressure, he looks to send the ball to Catholci#7.
   Washington does not really press high, lets Catholic play in the back waiting for the long ball.
   Poor, lazy pass from Catholic#3, leads to an innocuous throw in Washington's own half. A long throw down the line to Washington#11 who turns Catholic#29 who tried to play the man and not the ball.  With Catholic#29 on the ground and out of the play, Catholic #4 jumps in to win the ball but Washington#11 goes around him and drives a ball on the ground to a Washington player sitting far post who taps it into the open net.  Catholic#29 is out of the play, Catholic#5 is out of the play, I don't even know where the Catholic#18 is.  Can count the number of silly mistakes, starting with Catholic #5 arguing over a throw in.  Washington 1, Catholic 1.
   In all the games I have watched, Washington remains calm and poised regardless of the score.  I think that's their strength.  In all the games I have watched, Catholic is chaotic on attack, and chaotic in the back.  It is their strength ... and their weakness. 
   That was just great work by Washington#11 to create something out of what should have been nothing.  I mean it was a throw in.
   Maybe it's the goal, maybe its that it's not possible to keep the tempo they want, but you can see Catholic dropping deeper to defend.
   And Washington is feeling it, just had a goal disallowed for offside that was an excellent build up.
   Catholic#7 has shifted over to the right for some reason.  Seems to be allowed to float wherever he likes.
   Goal by my favorite player, Catholic #7.  Recovers a ball cleared out on a corner and sends it back outside.  He then runs unmarked from the 18 to be on the end of a driven ball by Catholic#31.  Washington 1, Catholic 2.
   It looks like it is pouring in DC.
   I don't see Washington NOT being able to get a second goal.  Catholic lacks such discipline in transition that I can see more mistakes in the back being capitalized on.
   And wait.  Did I just see that correctly?  Washington recovers a ball on a terrible touch by Catholic#21 .  Washington#10(?) recovers the ball and launches the ball from beyond midfield over the Catholic Keeper who is on the 22ish and it goes in for the tying goal.  I mean when Carli Lloyd scored a goal like this in the Woman's World Cup it made Sportscenter.  Catholic#4 gives a crappy ball to start, and why that pass?  Washington 2, Catholic 2.
   3 minutes left in the half.
   When you make subs, you should make them to change something about the game.  If you are subbing for more energy or to give someone a blow, I think you are doing it wrong.
   Ok.  Halftime.  Catholic is slowly falling apart because they don't have much soccer to keep it together, and Washington is starting to string it together because they can play.

Seem to be having video issues with the Muhlenberg game.  Will see if I can take a look tomorrow and will post if I can get it to work for me.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 12, 2021, 05:57:49 PM
Ohio Wesleyan v Kenyon
Kenyon
Bias? – Watched both a number of times.

   Simply a beautiful field and a beautiful place for soccer.  Loved the opportunity I had to play there.
   Kenyon#15 will do damage on the right.
   OWU#5 Left back is slow with the ball, under pressure he could cough it up.  But he is big.  And a liability. If I were the Kenyon coach I would put my fastest winger on him and give him the ball
   Just when you think OWU is just going through the motions of a game, not having much of the ball, adjust trying the figure out the game, they win a ball at midfield and go two on one.  OWU#7 draws the defender and slots OWU#2 at the PK spot.  Kenyon Keeper does a great job stepping off his line and coming up with a big save.
   Kenyon clearly the aggressor here trying to get forward as quickly as they can.
   OWU doing what OWU does, absorbing the pressure and waiting to pounce up top when there is a turnover.
    OWU slowly starting to get some control of the game.
   28 minutes left in the half.
   Great to watch two very talented teams sort out each other and figure out how to play them.  That and the skill level is incredibly high.
   OWU#27 hs to be one of the best center backs I have seen so far.  Great intuitive defender, with skill.
   Kenyon#8 is not big, but he is a talent.  Carries the ball well and looks to get it forward.  Against the physicality of OWU may be a bit of an issue.
   OWU not as compact as in other games, seem to be giving space to Kenyon through the midfield.
   Kenyon has to be careful defensively.  OWU has gotten dangerous from errors in the back.  Two clear opportunities OWU missed in this half.
   OWU has a clear size advantage on Kenyon.
   OWU#10 not having the impact I've seen him have in other games.  Not getting touches on the ball in places he can make something happen.
   Kenyon has had the better of the play with OWU just managing their ball movement by closing it down in OWU's half.
   And that's the half.  Can't see either team justifying by their play, to be ahead on the score board.  Really, aside from the two clear OWU chances, not sure there was much more.
   And not that it is having an impact, but don't think this Ref is good.
   Much more impressed with Kenyon's midfield than OWUs.  Move the ball well and transition to attack very well.
   Picking the game up with 10 minutes left in regulation.  Kenyon definitely looking for the goal.  OWU keeper has had to come up big a couple of times.
   OWUs lack of precision with the ball, is a gift to Kenyon.
   OWU resorting to fouls to slow Kenyon down.  Kenyon#15 flies down the line and has to be stopped some how ....
   In five minutes, I've seen 3 or 4 yellow cards.
   Think OWU will welcome this half coming to an end.  They look disjointed and tired.
   Going into the 2nd OT.  Momentum for everything I have watched has been with Kenyon, but OWU may be bending, but they are not breaking.
   OWU#10 is very good.  But at times tries to do too much.  Takes that extra touch, or tries to get through one more guy ... not as effective that way... But then he does something that you realize how good he really is.
   Maybe its because you had to get on a bus midweek to Gambier, Ohio, but OWU just looks spent.  What do they say about Tuesdays, rain and Stoke?
   And with 2:25 left in OT, Kenyon get's its just rewards.  OWU#28 gets the ball tied up in his feet and take by Kenyon#8.  He goes around one defender and passes midfield.  Passes to Kenyon#21 and trips up the one defender fronting him by going to his right.  Takes another touch and hits a worm burner from the 22 and beats the OWU Keeper to his lower right.  Ohio Wesleyan 0, Kenyon 1.
   And on that note ... more games.

I watched a big chunk of this too. Both sides have skilled players, and the game speed was high. Both teams could go deep in November. The only thing I would add to your observations were how vicious the game was. Brutal tackles, studs-up slides, largely ignored by the ref. Looks to me like OWU has fully subscribed to the Serpone school of winning (Or did they come first? Dunno). I hereby propose a parallel championship: NCAA ThunDIIIerdome™: Two teams enter. One leaves.

Quote from: Centennial1 on October 13, 2021, 09:38:56 AM
I watched a big chunk of this too. Both sides have skilled players, and the game speed was high. Both teams could go deep in November. The only thing I would add to your observations were how vicious the game was. Brutal tackles, studs-up slides, largely ignored by the ref. Looks to me like OWU has fully subscribed to the Serpone school of winning (Or did they come first? Dunno). I hereby propose a parallel championship: NCAA ThunDIIIerdome™: Two teams enter. One leaves.

@Centennial1 ... I am so into NCAA ThunDIIIerdome™.  Tina can make a comeback too - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gcm-tOGiva0

Some coaches never do nothing nice ... and easy. They always do it nice ... and rough.

Elizabethtown v Muhlenberg
Muhlenberg
Bias? – Multiple times watching both.

   Muhlenberg is dominating.  Etown really can't get out of it's own half in an organized way.
   I think Muhlenberg#4 is a good defender. 
   Muhlenberg will score.  Etown is defending deep in their half and are vulnerable to counters.
   Etown looks for quick counters by Muhlenberg#4 and Muhlenber#33 do well in preventing any danger from happening.
   I've said this before watching Muhlenberg, think they have a real issue on the attack.  Think they lack ideas and are generally just moving north and south.  Don't have ideas on the attack.  If I were the Etown coach I would just make sure my back line has everything in front of them.
   Etown is bending as I do think they are outmatched.  Defensive posture is too loose and allows for Muhlenberg to take advantage of balls in the air and quick runs between the backs.  They just don't read it well.
   Muhlenberg midfield I think is very good defensively but are hammers on offense.
   Etown's best player just so happens to be the goalkeeper.
   Muhlenberg#8 is very good.  Perhaps the best player on the team.
   Etown literally defends inside their 18.  Can't keep Muhlenberg from getting so high up.  It is untenable.  And they literally have no attack.  It get's cut off before it even starts.
   Etown#8 is a liability in possession.  Holds the ball too long and can be stripped.  I would bait him in getting the ball then press.  He will likely cough it up.
   Figured it would take a free kick from outside the box to get their first goal.  Muhlenberg has a free kick from 30 out.  3-man wall, Muhlenberg#9 steps up and goes over the wall to the upper corner to the Etown keepers left.  Very nice.  Elizabethtown 0, Muhlenberg 1.
   In spite of the goal, Muhlenberg#9 is pretty inconsequential as a forward.  Whether as a false 9 or a real 9, or any variation of any position on the field.
   I think Muhlenberg has a keeper problem.  Doesn't seem too secure with his hands.  That's and he is terrible off his line on high balls.  A liability.
   Muhlenberg is up, and they are letting Etown back into this game because they are losing balls in the midfield and turning it over far too easily.  Do they even try to posses the ball? 
   Halftime.  Elizabethtown 0, Muhlenberg 1.  I am either getting more critical since watching so many games, or I am just my understanding of what is a better way to play is warped.  I expected more out of Muhlenberg although I shouldn't since this has been a common theme in all the games I've watched.  Etown strikes as a good conference team, but beyond that, just isn't at a level that makes it compete outside of it.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 14, 2021, 10:04:40 AM
Elizabethtown v Muhlenberg
Muhlenberg
Bias? – Multiple times watching both.

   Muhlenberg is dominating.  Etown really can't get out of it's own half in an organized way.
   I think Muhlenberg#4 is a good defender. 
   Muhlenberg will score.  Etown is defending deep in their half and are vulnerable to counters.
   Etown looks for quick counters by Muhlenberg#4 and Muhlenber#33 do well in preventing any danger from happening.
   I've said this before watching Muhlenberg, think they have a real issue on the attack.  Think they lack ideas and are generally just moving north and south.  Don't have ideas on the attack.  If I were the Etown coach I would just make sure my back line has everything in front of them.
   Etown is bending as I do think they are outmatched.  Defensive posture is too loose and allows for Muhlenberg to take advantage of balls in the air and quick runs between the backs.  They just don't read it well.
   Muhlenberg midfield I think is very good defensively but are hammers on offense.
   Etown's best player just so happens to be the goalkeeper.
   Muhlenberg#8 is very good.  Perhaps the best player on the team.
   Etown literally defends inside their 18.  Can't keep Muhlenberg from getting so high up.  It is untenable.  And they literally have no attack.  It get's cut off before it even starts.
   Etown#8 is a liability in possession.  Holds the ball too long and can be stripped.  I would bait him in getting the ball then press.  He will likely cough it up.
   Figured it would take a free kick from outside the box to get their first goal.  Muhlenberg has a free kick from 30 out.  3-man wall, Muhlenberg#9 steps up and goes over the wall to the upper corner to the Etown keepers left.  Very nice.  Elizabethtown 0, Muhlenberg 1.
   In spite of the goal, Muhlenberg#9 is pretty inconsequential as a forward.  Whether as a false 9 or a real 9, or any variation of any position on the field.
   I think Muhlenberg has a keeper problem.  Doesn't seem too secure with his hands.  That's and he is terrible off his line on high balls.  A liability.
   Muhlenberg is up, and they are letting Etown back into this game because they are losing balls in the midfield and turning it over far too easily.  Do they even try to posses the ball? 
   Halftime.  Elizabethtown 0, Muhlenberg 1.  I am either getting more critical since watching so many games, or I am just my understanding of what is a better way to play is warped.  I expected more out of Muhlenberg although I shouldn't since this has been a common theme in all the games I've watched.  Etown strikes as a good conference team, but beyond that, just isn't at a level that makes it compete outside of it.

Watch the second half.  Completely different game.

Wilmington v Ohio Northern
Ohio Northern
Bias? – Watched each multiple times.

   Wow.  Watching Wilmington because they seem to have a new sense of self and have been winning games.  I like ONU because historically they have been good.  And 2.30 into the game, Wilmington gets a set piece from a foul.  Ball is played in and comes out, in the air to Wilmington#0? who hits it from 25 out.  ONU Keeper who I like is casually walking out and is 3 yards out when the ball is struck, so clearly not expecting anything ... Doesn't react until the ball is coming at him goes over him into the back of the net.  What a bomb of a goal.  Wilmington 1, Ohio Northern 0.
   ONU is comfortable with holding possession in the back but doesn't seem to have mobility up top so that when they do cross midfield, they have options.  Wilmington is doing well staying compact and waiting for their opportunity.  They are OK with ONU keeping possession in the back.  It's harmless to them.
   One ref must not have made it since it's the dreaded Two-Man system.
   Wilmington has been the better on attack than ONU.  A lot of turnovers for ONU are all self-inflicted.  Don't seem to have the energy and the urgency to their passing.
   Just based on what I am watching and having seen John Carroll, Otterbein, Mount Union, ONU, and Wilmington, I think the OAC may be a battle of two.  Wilmington and Otterbein.  John Carroll and ONU seem to be lacking something.
   Am a fan of the ONU keeper but can't say this is his best game.
   ONU can't seem to get forward easily.  Lack of movement by their forwards, lack of ideas, and Wilmington really being compact doesn't help.
   Wilmington looks as though they will get another.  Two dynamic forwards and a pretty good midfielder (Sorry, cant see the numbers too well.) making hay out of ONU's back line.
   Halftime.  Wilmington 1, Ohio Northern 0.  ONU was a bit of a disappointment.  Expected more out of them.  Wilmington continues to impress.

Hey SC - in the future it would be great if you put the link to the games you're reporting on. I'd like to check some out at times. Thanks!

Quote from: Ejay on October 14, 2021, 12:32:52 PM
Hey SC - in the future it would be great if you put the link to the games you're reporting on. I'd like to check some out at times. Thanks!

@Ejay, will do.  Never thought of that,  but will going forward.  Thanks for the suggestion.

Gettysburg v Salisbury
On the battlefield near McPherson Ridge and Barlow Knoll
Bias? – Watched both a few times.
Link - https://www.centennialconference.tv/gettysburgbullets/?B=284492 (https://www.centennialconference.tv/gettysburgbullets/?B=284492)

   2.5 minutes in, with most of the play in Salisbury's end, they break.  Gettysburg310 powers his way through two defenders and beats the center back who tried to poke the ball away.  Takes a touch and from 22 away, he hits a shot that is blocked by Salisbury#8(?), but the ball drops to Gettysburh#9 and hits it past the keeper from 7 yards away.  Gettysburg 1, Salisbury 0.
   Tough hole for Salisbury to be in, especially on the road. 
   Gettysburg was clearly taking it to them from the start.
   Gettysburg is very organized and setup to defend very quickly.  Gettysburg#3 is very deliberate in making sure he is in the right spot on both sides of the ball.
   Salisbury trying to get something forward.
   Gettysburg#16 needs to be watched if you are defending against him.  He moves about in the space and can turn quickly and make something happen.
   Salisbury is defending deeper and deeper.  Letting Gettysburg to move the ball around the back, closer to midfield.  And when they go on attack, they let themselves down with that poor passing. 
   Salisbury have some speed that they could use, thinking Salisbury#19, if they could get him the ball.
   Salisbury#9 is a liability.  Let him get the ball and press him.  He will cough it up.
   Gettysburg#13 is a sold center back.  Reads the game well.  Gettysburg#10 deals with the ball very well and dictates the play well when he gets the ball.  I would be giving it to him more.
   Salisbury starting to get closer to the Gettysburg keeper.    Helps that they are pressing a bit higher up the field and not dropping back so deep.
   Halftime.  Gettysburg up by a goal.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 10, 2021, 07:27:47 PM
Emory v Washington University
Washington U
Bias? – My wife leaves Emory boards all over the house and know an accomplished artist at one.

   Emory owns the ball.
   Washington U just can't get a hold of the ball. 
   Emory is solid and organized.  Most of the play and Emory possession is in WashU's half.
   Emory being very patient with the ball to start.  Have no rush on trying to get the ball forward.
   When WashU gets the ball, they move it ok in the back, but have difficulty trying to do something with it beyond midfield.
   I am impressed with Emory.  More so than in previous games that I have watched.  Can they translate their possession into opportunities in front of goal?
   Can't read numbers.  Video is too distant to read them.
   An observation that just dawned on me.  I am not sure I have seen a team mark man to man.  Think they pick up players as necessary, but no one seems to track players anymore.  Wouldn't even call this a theory yet.
   Maybe because of the view of the field, but I think if I were a coach playing with 3 up top, I would go man to man on the three backs that most teams.  The fourth back I would have my outside mid cover, then the CDM I would push my CAM on to.  I wonder what would happen then.
   Team water break.  The game is clearly not being played in Northwestern PA.
   What beautiful place to play.
   WashU with its first real opportunity on goal but went just wide.
   Game seems to be between the 18s with each trying to break the other defensive posture. 
   Any goals will have to come from crosses into the box.  Not that there is a ton of room, but for both teams, the easiest way to goal is to get it wide and long and whip it into the box.  Of course set plays.
   17 minutes left in the half.
   Not sure if it is the heat, but bit of a slow game.  That and don't think either team wants to make a mistake.
   WashU is solid defensively, with two very solid center backs.
   Halftime.  Looks like a bit of a chess match, with one side opting for the French Defense, and the other opting for the Scandinavian Defense.

I watched bits and pieces of this game, but I thought there was a significant difference between the halves.  In the first half, my observations were consistent with yours, as WashU could barely get the ball past the center line, and when they were able to do so, they'd lose it within the next few touches.  They never launched anything that I would actually describe as an attack.  The second half was quite different.  The Bears were much more dangerous and seemed to have more chances than Emory, although not overwhelmingly so.  I missed the overtimes, as the Red Sox were on by then.

And it sure would be nice if whoever is manning that camera would zoom in a little so that the jersey numbers were legible!  Jay Murry, if you read this....

Quote from: Buck O. on October 14, 2021, 10:54:08 PM
I watched bits and pieces of this game, but I thought there was a significant difference between the halves.  In the first half, my observations were consistent with yours, as WashU could barely get the ball past the center line, and when they were able to do so, they'd lose it within the next few touches.  They never launched anything that I would actually describe as an attack.  The second half was quite different.  The Bears were much more dangerous and seemed to have more chances than Emory, although not overwhelmingly so.  I missed the overtimes, as the Red Sox were on by then.

And it sure would be nice if whoever is manning that camera would zoom in a little so that the jersey numbers were legible!  Jay Murry, if you read this....

Don't doubt it.  I just watch so many games that if I have to choose what I watch.  Only watch full games when I am asked to.  And yes, while I was watching it felt like I was a mile away.... squinting to make out the shape on the backs of the shirts ....

I watched a decent chunk of this game's second half. Agree with Buck O.'s assessment.

I'm also chuckling about the "from a mile away" streaming angle. I found myself being distracted by looking at the cool architecture and other things going on off the field. Beautiful campus. Lousy camera angle. (Though, to be fair, the unwatchable streams are the ones that are tight to the field and way too low. Camera is whipping around like crazy and it rarely zooms in when play is on the far side, which makes it impossible to really follow. I see that angle and I'm moving on.

I prefer to be a mile away rather than field level and 2 feet away.  And like you @Hopkins92, I will move on if it's so close.  Don't want the headache that invariably comes if I watch too long....

Talk about triple platinum plated first world problems!

I shout at the screen if the camera is in too tight AND doesn't follow the ball. Drives me nuts, especially as this usually happens at the end of a field  -- in other words when one team might have a chance to score.

Quote from: Hopkins92 on October 15, 2021, 11:02:00 AM
I watched a decent chunk of this game's second half. Agree with Buck O.'s assessment.

I'm also chuckling about the "from a mile away" streaming angle. I found myself being distracted by looking at the cool architecture and other things going on off the field. Beautiful campus. Lousy camera angle. (Though, to be fair, the unwatchable streams are the ones that are tight to the field and way too low. Camera is whipping around like crazy and it rarely zooms in when play is on the far side, which makes it impossible to really follow. I see that angle and I'm moving on.

Word of advice, then: Don't check out an Illinois Wesleyan home game. You'll save yourself the mental equivalent of whiplash.

The one saving grace of a low-angle, tight-to-field camera is that the camera mic picks up sideline chatter, if you're into that sort of thing. A lot of times it's just inane clichés of encouragement or protests of calls/non-calls by bench players, but sometimes you'll actually hear a coach shouting out tactical instructions to his team -- a nice sort of insider bonus that you typically don't hear in sports broadcasts.

Quote from: Another Mom on October 15, 2021, 11:43:23 AM
I shout at the screen if the camera is in too tight AND doesn't follow the ball. Drives me nuts, especially as this usually happens at the end of a field  -- in other words when one team might have a chance to score.

That happens in every D3 sport, and it's the bane of watching D3 livestreams. Too many camera operator jobs are given out to student workers who just can't wait for a stoppage in play to look at their phones.

Connecticut v Bowdoin
Bowdoin
Bias? – Watched one multiple time and I am a fan of Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.

   Bowdoin is really pushing to get the ball forward quick.  Connecticut is more methodical.
   Bowdon takes the lead ten minutes in.  Ball floated behind the defense to Bowdoin#5 who slots the ball past the Connecticut Keeper who had come off his line and was caught a bit late.  Connecticut 0, Bowdoin 1.
   Bowdoin #5 is a talented midfielder.  Bowdoin#21 is a great holding striker.  Big and strong Connecticut struggle to get the ball from him.
   Bowdoin is doing well both sides of the ball.  Getting into attack, but also defending in numbers. Conn really hasn't had a good look to goal.
   Conn not connecting up top.  Do a good job getting past midfield but that last stretch.
   Connecticut Keeper is good on distribution but his judgement off the line is suspect.
   Connecticut is starting to get closer to goal.  Conn#18 does well to spray the ball on attack.  Why he has so much time I don't know.
   Bowdoin starting to lose more balls in the attack.  Not holding it up as much.
   Conn seems to like, or at least being more effective down the right wing.  I could see a goal coming from there.
   Error by Bowdoin#10 leads to a goal for Connecticut.  Inside the box, he shielded the ball from Conn#4 waiting for it to go past the end line.  It slowed and Conn#4 poked it to Conn#25 who passes to Conn#8 at the top of the box.  He drills a low ball, and rebounds into the back of the net.  Connecticut 1, Bowdoin 1.
   Bowdoin now seems a bit rattled. Just heard on the audio that they are saying Connecticut's goal is going up as an own goal.
   Connecticut is pinning Bowdoin back more and more.  When they switch the ball quickly, Conn opens up the Bowdoin defense. 
   Bowdoin back line seems organized, not sure the midfield support is as effective for them.
   Conn#13 is a handful on the right.  He started the play that led to Conn's goal.  Quick feet, and does well to trip up the defender when he goes one on one with them.
   Bowdoin is most dangerous when they can switch the ball quickly  to the right wing.  Seems to be a ton of space that can be take advantage of by Bowdoin#19.
   Correction, Connecticut Keeper is very suspect off his line.  I would keep challenging him for the ball in the air.
   And halftime. Connecticut 1, Bowdoin 1.  Connecticut is the better, but Bowdoin is being effective when it gets out quick.

Buck O., thank you for your input regarding our camera shot.  I will take a closer look before i get started with my PBP and ask the camera operator to zoom in a little bit tighter.  I think we might be able to zoom in to where half the field is in the shot, and then pan slowly left or right as needed to follow the ball.

We are in a transition phase following the departure of Chris Mitchell last year.  He quite simply was the top SID at all levels, for my money.  Without going into great detail, he was the engine that made our network run smoothly and aesthetically pleasing; and he did the work of three people.  It is taking us a while to adjust and return to our level of excellence.

Bear with us...pun intended.

Not really sure what thread to talk about W&L on; they are up 4-0 at the half. The EMU announcer wins "most colorful commentary", which I like!

Ohio Northern v John Carroll
John Carroll
Bias? – Multiple times watching both.
Link - https://boxcast.tv/view/mens-soccer-vs-onu-728407 (https://boxcast.tv/view/mens-soccer-vs-onu-728407)

   Weather is a factor.  Looks like an absolute downpour.
   Both teams trying to possess the ball to some success.
   Both teams have had a great opportunity denied by the goalkeepers.  Ohio Northern had a great shot denied, and John Carroll had a header tipped over the bar.
   I'd say both keepers are two of the best I have watched this season.
   And the first to strike is Ohio Northern!  Corner kick for ONU.  One player checks to the ball drawing out a defender, 3 ONU players inside the six, and one hovering at the 12.  Ball is sent inside the 6 for ONU#21 to head it in to the back of the net.  Ohio Northern 1, John Carroll 0.
   This goal leads me to a larger point on modern keepers.  First off there were a total of 11 players inside the 6.  I think goalkeepers today are taught to stay on their line.  This would have been a ball that I would expect the keeper to come out and make a play on, instead of the ONU player having a free header.
   ONU is now feeling it, and JCU still in a little shock.
   JCU struggling to connect in midfield.  When they have the ball in the back, don't seem to have the confidence to play it short, instead opt for something over the top.
   This isn't just an ONU and JCU thing.  Just something I noticed.  Playing "out of the back" is not difficult.  And think most teams do work it around the horn, but getting the ball into the midfield is where most teams have no idea.  And am starting to think it's because of a couple of things.  First off, when it does get into the midfield they tend to take too many touches.  Second, this is where ideas getting forward come to die.  I think teams don't focus on how to get the ball up top, or create opportunities for goal, so midfielders don't know what to do.  And then finally, I think the midfield and forward line is where positions go out the window and players just go wherever they want.
   See John Carroll getting a goal as they are starting to get dangerous.  Just had one great shot cleared off the line.
   And halftime.  Despite the goal, think it's pretty even, both taking shots at each other.  Second half will be interesting but am out.  More games ....

Swarthmore v Franklin & Marshall
Franklin & Marshall
Bias? – Multiple times for each.
Link – Franklin and Marshall College on the CC Digital Network (centennialconference.tv) (//http://)

   F&M just thrives in chaos.  If I were a coach playing against F&M, my first order of priority would be possession on the ground, anywhere on the field, and never necessarily looking to get the ball forward, just make them run for a good 10 minutes.  That's what they want to do anyhow.  I am not a coach.
   Swarthmore is trying to knock it around but loses it when it is trying to get forward.  They need to be a bit more patient.
   F&M just presses and bangs the ball forward into dangerous positions.  Swarthmore is just defending for dear life.  They have given up 5 corners in as many minutes.
   F&M really is about getting the ball up to F&M#20.  He can be dangerous.
   Strikes me that F&M is playing a game of numbers.  If we can get 20 balls into the middle in front of the goal, at least one should go in ...
   For Swarthmore its not the build up play that is dangerous for them, it's the ball that gets sent out as they are defending and F&M recovering it and driving the ball back in.  That's where they can get hurt.
   Swarthmore sitting so deep, it keeps inviting F&M to keep pressing.  Invariably when Swarthmore do get the ball to their forwards, they have to slow it up to allow everyone to catch up with the play.  This allows F&M to set up defensively. 
   And why we love soccer.  Swarthmore with a free kick for 40 yards out.  Ball is played into the box and headed out to Swarthmore#6 who hits the ball one time.  Ball hits off an F&M defender and bounces to Swarthmore# who looks to be offside.  Turns and strikes the ball, keeper gets behind the ball but comes off him into the net.  Appears the AR raised his flag for off, but the center ref overruled him.  Would also say that the F&M Keeper didn't handle the shot well.  That should have never gone in.  Swarthmore 1, Franklin & Marshall 0
   Think F&M #22 has ideas when he gets the ball but not enough traffic coming through him.
   Again, with subs, F&M doesn't change despite being down a goal.  They just double down on being a hammer.  I know this is their bread and butter ...
   Halftime.  Am done.  Find F&M to be a bore.  Think Swarthmore is a bit more technical but needs to figure out how to keep the ball from longer stretches.
   More games to come.

Johns Hopkins v Ursinus
Ursinus
Bias? – Bias?  What bias?
Link -  Ursinus College on the CC Digital Network (centennialconference.tv) (//http://)

   Johns Hopkins has clearly owned the ball.  In the first 10 minutes, I think they have made a record 82 passes.  Only Messiah made more passes in that time frame, 83 passes, against NYU.  And have to say it was the most inconsequential passing I have watched this season.
   In the first five minutes, Ursinus only made 4 passes, and in that time they got a corner and long throw into the box.
   Johns Hopkins seems to be going down the left this time around, not the right.  Maybe that have read my previous game notes?
   And why we love this game.  Ursinus with a free kick just beyond midfield plays it short to Ursinus#33 who puts it across into the box.  JHU#22 should have gone with Ursinus#33 but doesn't. JHU defender goes up for the ball but doesn't get to it, and the JHU keeper comes out for it, but gets caught out and doesn't get the ball.  The ball drops to Ursinus#14 who taps it in for the go ahead.  Johns Hopkins 0, Ursinus 1.
   Ursinus has done as little as possible with the ball but took advantage of defensive and keeper errors.
   This has been a game of Johns Hopkins own making.  They possess the ball in their own end very well but really seem to lack ideas going forward.  Don't think JHU#18, the right wing, has touch the ball yet.
   JHU outside backs/outside mids turn the ball back every time they are under pressure.
   This is not a case of Ursinus playing great.  They are disciplined when they don't have the ball, and they don't dive in.
   Meanwhile, JHUs offensive tactic seems to be ... force it through a dense back line.
   Weather had gotten ugly.  Not sure who that helps/hurts.
   Sometimes you do indeed need to go back, to get forward.  This is not the case for Johns Hopkins.  They are going back to going back.  Ursinus is clearly not biting on getting stretched. 
    And halftime.  Not sure I have much more to say than I already have. 

Messiah v Eastern
Eastern
Bias? – Am told this was a great game, and it was.  Watched the whole thing.
Link –  Eastern University (team1sports.com)  (http://eastern%20university%20(team1sports.com))

   Messiah starts doing what it does, looks to keep possession. 
   Eastern is showing itself to be a little feisty.  Really forcing Messiah to play into tight spaces.
   Once Messiah crosses midfield, Eastern seems to man mark and take away passing options.
   Reamrkable thing about Messiah isn't their possession, its where that possession takes places.  Their defensive posture starts with possessing the ball in the other team's half, which they do with close to 55% of their possession.  No other team does this nearly as effectively.  And they did this with 83 passes in the first ten minutes of the game, 44 of which were in Eastern's half.
   Eastern can't get a hold of the ball comfortably.  Messiah doesn't let them even start.
   The other thing about Messiah is that share the ball with each other so much, players make runs for the ball because they know that they could receive the ball.
   Controversy.  Lovely served in ball that is headed by Messiah#15, Eastern Keeper makes the save to his right, bobbles it off the post, then gets it.  Doesn't look like it crossed the line but the Referee calls it a goal.  Messiah 1, Eastern 0
   Eastern#2 really is the player who got beat on that.  Messiah #15 let him step right in front of him, six yards out giving him the free header.  Goal or not, that's poor defense.  And Eastern#3 knows it and calls him out.
   The Eastern Keeper made a shoelace save that could have easily been a goal.  Excellent on his part.
   And you go from possibly going down 2-0, to coming back down field and tying it up.  Messiah#7 is stripped of the ball deep in his half after he tried to take a touch to the outside with a man on his back.  He could have easily dropped it back to Messiah#8.  Eastern#19 goes with the ball and slots it back and into the middle to Eastern#10 who reaches to hit the ball from 22 yards out and hits it opposite post.  Messiah Keeper the Mullet looks like he shifter over far too much and is on his line.  He should be out at least 3 yards off his line and maybe more central.  Ball stays on the ground and hits the back of the net to Messiah Keeper the Mullet's left.  Messiah 1, Eastern 1
   This is where Messiah hurts itself, skilled players think they can always be skillful and get away with it. 
   Messiah#23 is a catalyst on attack.  I would figure out a way to neutralize him.
   Halftime.  Messiah 1, Eastern 1
   Second half starts where it left off.  Messiah deep in Eastern's half, looking for that perfect pass that gets the to goal.  Eastern maintains its discipline and doesn't allow for many spaces to take advantage of.
   Messiah#22 is a fantastic center back.  Think he may be one of the best I have seen.
   Eastern going into what seems like a gale force wind and has a tough time getting it forward.
   Eastern's plan is to get on the attack quick and push it with tempo, otherwise defend.
   Will say this is one of the best games I have watched.  Messiah on the one hand with dominance on the ball, on the other with Eastern doing a fantastic job defensively, but also leaving open the quick counterattack that can be dangerous.
   Eastern being opportunistic on it's attacks, earns a free kick by the sideline 25 yards from the end line.  Floats the ball in and Eastern#12 gets up in between two Messiah players and heads it far post.  Nothing the diving Messiah Keeper the Mullet could do to save that.  Messiah 1, Eastern 2.
   10 minutes left in the second half.  Great Caesar's Ghost!
   Eastern Keeper is certainly coming up big with key saves at key moments in the game.  Just made a save on a header that could have been the equalizer. 
   And with 3 and half left, Messiah levels on a cross from Messiah#10 to the big bald man up top, Messiah#21 who is at the back post, heads it back into the middle and another player heads it into the net from the six.  Messiah 2, Eastern 2.
   And we are going into OT.
   Have to say, think the tying goal may have deflated Eastern a bit. 
   In OT, the Eastern Keeper made a one handed save to his right on a Messiah header.  Spectacular.  Had my vote for Man of the Match.
   And on a long-range shot, he made another upper corner save to his right.  Love watching an inspired goalkeeper.
   On to the second OT.  Eastern in here is because of their Keeper who has probably made 5 great saves that should have been goals.  And dare I say he saved the first goal that should have been allowed.
   And like that, Messiah sentences it 2 minutes into the second OT.  Another corner that is cleared.  Ball ultimately lands at Messiah's feet who hits a shot.  It looks like Messiah#13(?)deflects the ball and the Eastern Keeper makes a point blank save, but on the rebound, puts it in.
   Fantastic game.  Eastern showed a lot of poise and discipline through out knowing that Messiah would have the ball a lot.  Messiah kept working until it found the goal.

So, I watched both of these games kind of simultaneously. It helped that they were offset so during one team's HT I could flip over.

The contrast in the quality and overall belief in both teams was stark. Even when Eastern went up 2-1, it still felt like Messiah was very dangerous and goal would be with the run of play. Hopkins, by contrast, just seemed to lack cohesiveness in the final 3rd (sorry to be redundant in places on this board) but they never really threatened, other than hoping for a scramble to pop to someone in the box.

(Also, found the Eastern stream pretty charming, as that guy was clearly working with students to man the substitution horn, clock, keeping track of subs and adjusting camera angles all while calling the game.)

Quote from: Hopkins92 on October 17, 2021, 04:36:05 PM
So, I watched both of these games kind of simultaneously. It helped that they were offset so during one team's HT I could flip over.

The contrast in the quality and overall belief in both teams was stark. Even when Eastern went up 2-1, it still felt like Messiah was very dangerous and goal would be with the run of play. Hopkins, by contrast, just seemed to lack cohesiveness in the final 3rd (sorry to be redundant in places on this board) but they never really threatened, other than hoping for a scramble to pop to someone in the box.

(Also, found the Eastern stream pretty charming, as that guy was clearly working with students to man the substitution horn, clock, keeping track of subs and adjusting camera angles all while calling the game.)

Agreed on all counts.  Messiah is never out of a game because they can find the open man in the blink of any eye.  I don't know if it is the games I am watching or what, but I keep expecting more for Johns Hopkins.

Finally, really enjoyed the Eastern announcer.  He was definitely wearing multiple hats.

"Finally, really enjoyed the Eastern announcer.  He was definitely wearing multiple hats."
"(Also, found the Eastern stream pretty charming, as that guy was clearly working with students to man the substitution horn, clock, keeping track of subs and adjusting camera angles all while calling the game.)"

And he did all that in the middle of a thunderstorm.  Well done...from an old MC Guy

St. Olaf v Bethel
Bethel
Bias? – I know neither team
Link –  Men's Soccer vs. St. Olaf College - Bethel University Athletics (http://men's%20Soccer%20vs.%20St.%20Olaf%20College%20-%20Bethel%20University%20Athletics)

   @PaulNewman mentioned he thought St. Olaf should be in the top 10, and I hadn't seen them play, so found this game from September 15th.
   St. Olaf keeper is suspect.  Not sure off his line, and also slow with the ball at his feet.
   Little choppy in terms of play.  Neither team controlling the ball well although if I had to bet, Bethel has a slight edge.
   I haven't watched either so not sure what is normal play for either team.
   St. Olaf has some big guys down the center of the field
   Lots of lost balls trying to connect long for St. Olaf.  Would say they should get a hold of the ball for a little but don't show much patience for that.
   St. Olaf#7 is a big dude.
   And like that St. Olaf scores.  Win a header on a keeper clearance.  Lands to St. Olaf#10, who sends it out wide to St. Olaf#2(?).  He beats his man to the line, then megs the center back who came in support.  He slots the ball to the across the six and St. Olaf#10, who followed up on his pass, scores.
   Goal came against the run of play but bother the outside back Bethel#4 and the center back for Bethel really need to defend better.
   Bethel defends better man on man.  No real organization defensively.  St. Olaf is better organized and recover better on defense.
   Everybody wants to spring the forwards with a great ball.  End up being cleared out by the defenders.
   Players for both teams taking far too many touches to get a flow going.
   Bethel is struggling to get out of their half and St. Olaf is getting closer and closer to goal.
   And St. Olaf strikes again.  St. Olaf#15 makes a run down the line.  His defender and the outside back hover to the ball letting him go.  St. Olaf#21 takes a touch then slots it into the space for St. Olaf#15 to run onto the ball, cut it into the middle, then strike it into the back of the net from 10 out.  Woeful defending by Bethel#3, Bethel#4. And Bether#14 who was late to step in to challenge on the shot.
   And halftime.  St. Olaf is clearly superior but probably could be ahead by more if they weren't so wasteful in possession.  They are physical and do compete for balls.  Can see why they are ranked in the region.

SC, I didn't initially see your reference to 9/15.  Was that the only one with video available?  I ran my mouth about St Olaf without having seen them play a minute this year!  My impressions are based on secondary and tertiary sources and my proprietary algorithmic device.  Anyway, I would guess the draw with Chicago or outing this past weekend with Gustavus might be better for evaluating.

The Oles are led by Coach Travis Wall, maybe the greatest player in OWU history...and you're probably familiar with him as you seem like you are an Ohio guy.

Quote from: PaulNewman on October 19, 2021, 03:55:27 PM
SC, I didn't initially see your reference to 9/15.  Was that the only one with video available?  I ran my mouth about St Olaf without having seen them play a minute this year!  My impressions are based on secondary and tertiary sources and my proprietary algorithmic device.  Anyway, I would guess the draw with Chicago or outing this past weekend with Gustavus might be better for evaluating.

The Oles are led by Coach Travis Wall, maybe the greatest player in OWU history...and you're probably familiar with him as you seem like you are an Ohio guy.

@PaulNewman.  Yeah, seemed to be the only game I could find.  I will watch them again this weekend.

Hope v Alma
Alma
Bias? – None.  First time watching one.
Link –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xjry6yRcWDU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xjry6yRcWDU)

   Windy Michigan day.
   Another team that when someone heads the ball all you hear is "SECOND!"
   Alma has to endure 3 consecutive corners at the very start of the game.
   Alma creeping back deeper and deeper defensively and resorting to long balls. 
   Hope has been playing in Alma's half since the start.
   Hope with the first real chance of the game with a nicely placed ball into space between two defenders and a well-timed run by the forward.  Went mano a mano with the keeper and the Alma keeper won.
   And remarkably Alma goes ahead in their first real chance at goal.  Nice switch by the center mid who finds his winger Alma#23 isolated 1 on 1.  Does a step over and takes it to the line and crosses it far post where Alma#4 heads it into the  back of the net from six yards out.
   Definitely against the run of play, Alma catches Hope.  The man back post looked wide open.  Where was the defender? 
   Alma is pressing now, with a little more urgency.  Plenty of time on the clock.
   And like that we are even.  Hope, going down the left side again, puts the ball across on the ground.  Keeper makes the save on the initial shot but leaves the rebound to be drilled into the back of the net.
   Clearly, Hope is liking going down the left side nearly as much as Johns Hopkins does on the right.
   32 minutes left in the half.
   Hope moving the ball much better than they had been.  As if the goal has calmed them down.
   I like Hope#7 in the midfield.
   Defensively Hope seems to fall into disorganization quite easily.  Think Alma could take advantage of it.
   Alma sitting very deep trying to defend Hope who is just doing a very good job holding the ball and shifting the point of attack.
   I like the way Hope plays, but think they need a more active front line if they want to score more goals.  Seems a bit predictable.  If I am the coach for any team playing against them, I would double up on my right.
   Halftime.  Think that's it for me.  Think Hope is talented and their regional ranking is justified.

big MIAA game tonight if you have time to watch - Kalamazoo at Calvin https://vimeo.com/event/804816 (https://vimeo.com/event/804816)

I also watched a bit of this game. Hope had big advantage in shots (22v4) and corners (9v1), but simply can't put the ball in the net. Hope is skilled and well coached, but hasn't exactly lit up the scoreboard all season.

For the first goal, Alma basically caught the Hope defense sleeping. No reason a player should be that wide open on the back post. Even on the counterstrike, the play took a couple of seconds to develop.

Hope had two scrappy goals inside the 6 yd box.

Funny moment - at the end of the game, they announced a crowd of over 800. Then a hot mic caught the press box staff say "800...my ass".

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 19, 2021, 04:22:12 PM
Hope v Alma
Alma
Bias? – None.  First time watching one.
Link –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xjry6yRcWDU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xjry6yRcWDU)

   Windy Michigan day.
   Another team that when someone heads the ball all you hear is "SECOND!"
   Alma has to endure 3 consecutive corners at the very start of the game.
   Alma creeping back deeper and deeper defensively and resorting to long balls. 
   Hope has been playing in Alma's half since the start.
   Hope with the first real chance of the game with a nicely placed ball into space between two defenders and a well-timed run by the forward.  Went mano a mano with the keeper and the Alma keeper won.
   And remarkably Alma goes ahead in their first real chance at goal.  Nice switch by the center mid who finds his winger Alma#23 isolated 1 on 1.  Does a step over and takes it to the line and crosses it far post where Alma#4 heads it into the  back of the net from six yards out.
   Definitely against the run of play, Alma catches Hope.  The man back post looked wide open.  Where was the defender? 
   Alma is pressing now, with a little more urgency.  Plenty of time on the clock.
   And like that we are even.  Hope, going down the left side again, puts the ball across on the ground.  Keeper makes the save on the initial shot but leaves the rebound to be drilled into the back of the net.
   Clearly, Hope is liking going down the left side nearly as much as Johns Hopkins does on the right.
   32 minutes left in the half.
   Hope moving the ball much better than they had been.  As if the goal has calmed them down.
   I like Hope#7 in the midfield.
   Defensively Hope seems to fall into disorganization quite easily.  Think Alma could take advantage of it.
   Alma sitting very deep trying to defend Hope who is just doing a very good job holding the ball and shifting the point of attack.
   I like the way Hope plays, but think they need a more active front line if they want to score more goals.  Seems a bit predictable.  If I am the coach for any team playing against them, I would double up on my right.
   Halftime.  Think that's it for me.  Think Hope is talented and their regional ranking is justified.

I like the way Hope plays, I just think they don't have the ideas about what to do when they get in the final third.  Seems to break down.  But they dominated the game as far as I was concerned.  The Alma goal was the first time they really got to Hope's 18 and they made the most of it.

Quote from: fishercats on October 19, 2021, 06:58:14 PM
I also watched a bit of this game. Hope had big advantage in shots (22v4) and corners (9v1), but simply can't put the ball in the net. Hope is skilled and well coached, but hasn't exactly lit up the scoreboard all season.

For the first goal, Alma basically caught the Hope defense sleeping. No reason a player should be that wide open on the back post. Even on the counterstrike, the play took a couple of seconds to develop.

Hope had two scrappy goals inside the 6 yd box.

Montclair v RPI
RPI
Bias? – Watched both a few times.
Link –  Men's Soccer LIVE! - Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Athletics (rpiathletics.com) (http://men's%20Soccer%20LIVE!%20-%20Rensselaer%20Polytechnic%20Institute%20Athletics%20(rpiathletics.com))

   MSU#CantSee center forward is very dangerous when he can get the ball on his left.
   Can't see Montclair numbers because they are wearing gray uniforms with red numbers.
   RPI controls the ball better, Montclair likes to get forward as quickly as possible.  Once in RPIs half, Montclair does a good job of moving the ball.
   Both teams have good of possession.
   RPI with the first real chance at goal with a glancing header that went off the far post and bounce out to a Montclair defender who cleared the ball.
   Unfortunately, hard to tell numbers for both teams.  Love the wide high up camera view, and the commentator is great.  Just hard to make out the numbers.
   One thing that RPI is doing better than Montclair is off the ball runs.  RPI is getting ahead of where a play is out by making a number of runs that become options for the ball handler.
   I like RPI#LongHairKidintheMiddle.  He is really dissecting the game.  He should get the ball a lot.  And Montclair should mark him tight.
   Montclair just complains a lot.  MSU#Murphy is leading the charge arguing over calls.
   RPI#2 is deceptively quick and is able to stop Montclair counters.
   Montclair is getting countered very effectively by RPI. 
   RPI can be dangerous when they get the ball to a player between the Montclair defensive and midfield line.  Not compact and there is plenty of space.  Also, Montclair midfielders don't get back that quickly.
   RPI will score on a cross, and someone heads it in.  You heard it here first.
   RPI does have to be careful defensively because MSU#CantSee center forward can punish you on a mistake.
   Montclair is getting forward a bit and getting to RPIs box but can't get that last pass to land somewhere they can be dangerous.
   This is a game between two good teams, both trying to do what they do best.  Think they are still trying to figure out the other teams weaknesses.
   Halftime Montclair 0, RPI 0.

Wheaton V Rutgers Newark
Newark
Bias? – The camera angle is making this unwatchable.
Link –  Men's Soccer vs Wheaton - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ESoSXq7Uqs)

   Sorry, I can't watch.  Recording from field level.
   Wheaton 0, Rutgers Newark 1
   12 minutes

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 19, 2021, 08:11:18 PM
Wheaton V Rutgers Newark
Newark
Bias? – The camera angle is making this unwatchable.
Link –  Men's Soccer vs Wheaton - YouTube (http://men's%20Soccer%20vs%20Wheaton%20-%20YouTube)

   Sorry, I can't watch.  Recording from field level.
   Wheaton 0, Rutgers Newark 1
   12 minutes

Top notch of the line

Connecticut v Mitchell
Mitchell
Bias? – Watched one multiple times and didn't know the other was a college.
Link – Think I am figuring out this LINK thing (https://boxcast.tv/view/mitchell-mens-soccer-vs-conn-college-10202021-762924)

   Don't think this is a marquee matchup, but a number of folks thinks I need to keep looking at Connecticut as a nationally ranked team, or at least than 19th, where I have them ranked.
   Mitchell already playing with fire with playing it out of the back against Conn.  Not that they aren't doing well, but they are doing this just outside their 18.  Conn has pressed and recovered the ball and has gotten into dangerous spaces.
   Conn is all over Mitchell.  Don't think Mitchell has crossed midfield.
   Have to give Mitchell credit.  Conn is the much better team.  Would have been easy for the Mitchell coach to have told his guys to just launch the ball out.  But no, they are actually trying to connect out of the back.  Conn is not giving them any room to breath, and maybe Mitchell knows this is a game where they don't really have a chance, but I like that they are working the ball in very tight space and trying to get out without breaking out the Good Kick.  They will be the better team for it.
   Conn is having difficulty breaking Mitchell down. They are getting into the area but it's so congested.  If I were the Conn coach, I would spend some time moving the ball around to draw them out.
   Mitchell tries to break out, but they don't have anyone up top to get the ball to.
   20 minutes in and Connecticut Keeper just touched the ball for the first time.
   Conn is very imprecise once they get to the 18.  Wild shots, not setting anyone up, lacking depth in the attack, forcing passes.  Makes it easy for Mitchell to defend.
   And like that Mitchell commits a foul in the box and Connecticut is awarded a PK.  Was a bit of a scrum, but clearly the Conn player was tripped up.  Connecticut#12 steps up to take it and buries it to the Mitchell Keepers left.  Connecticut 1, Mitchell 0
   Mitchell just too inaccurate with their passing, especially when they finally get on the attack.
   The amount of opportunities Conn is having, I would have expected more  goals than just one coming from a PK.
   When Conn keeps the ball moving quickly, Mitchell is no match.
   Halftime.  Connecticut 1, Mitchell 0.  Not much to say really.  Mitchell is out matched, but thought Conn would have scored more.
   Am out.

Appreciate the Conn analysis, Simplecoach. If you have time to catch Otterbein v. Wilmington tonight that will be the best game to watch all day imo.

Quote from: ConnAlum on October 20, 2021, 05:48:37 PM
Appreciate the Conn analysis, Simplecoach. If you have time to catch Otterbein v. Wilmington tonight that will be the best game to watch all day imo.

It's on the list of games I need to watch. 

If you look deeper into the boxscore Conn was playing with 11 reserves. 3rd game in 5 days against an 0-10-3 MItchell. This Win is a Loss for their OWP and it will take the Tufts match just to even out the OWP

Quote from: Mr.Right on October 20, 2021, 06:46:28 PM
If you look deeper into the boxscore Conn was playing with 11 reserves. 3rd game in 5 days against an 0-10-3 MItchell. This Win is a Loss for their OWP and it will take the Tufts match just to even out the OWP

I figured as much.  It didn't look like the same team.  I don't know the players, but did notice that I didnt recognize most of the players I had watched in previous games.

Franklin & Marshall v Haverford
Haverford
Bias? – One does not play soccer, the other tries.
Link Look at that, another game link (https://www.centennialconference.tv/haverfordathletics/?B=274778)

   Corner for F&M 1 minute into the game.  Ball is sent far post in the six.  Haverford Keeper goes up for the ball .... And it goes right through his hand.  F&M player right there to head the ball into the back of the net.  Franklin & Marshall 1, Haverford 0.
   Am only 5 minutes in and don't think I can watch much longer.  My eyes are bleeding.
   How can I explain this game?  Run, run, kick, kick harder, header, kick, throw in.  That sums it up.
   I think Haverford tries to play, but F&M is a destroyer of the game.
   I think the F&M coaching staff is responsible for an egregious dereliction of  duty.  This is not soccer what they pretend to play.  This is more akin to the ancient Mayan game of Pok Ta Pok.  Think any mention of the game of soccer should be removed from their website. 
   If Haverford can be quicker on the ball, they should know that and F&M player is going to press them and dive in, they should learn to use that momentum against them.
   Starting to see some nice Haverford combinations.  Sorry, can't see the numbers to highlight players.
   After the goal Haverford has learned to settle the ball down and deal with F&M's Neanderthal ball.
   I feel dirty even for ranking Franklin & Marshall in any poll, and may even go so far as to not ... on principal.
   F&M does not make subs to change the dynamic of their play.  They make subs to because someone is not running enough.  I find it amusing considering all the spam the coaches send out about how they like to play.  And yes, it is officially spam for me.    No better than the emails I get from that Nigerian Prince who wants to give me 5 million dollars in exchange for my help.
   Haverford tries to move the ball on the ground, but the pressure makes them cough it up.  They need to be quicker at shifting the point of attack.
   The way F&M plays, they chase to the ball.  Proximity to the ball is what matters.  So they play as a team very concentrated around the ball.  If I were the Haverford coach I would purposely go side to side for a while, and quickly, just to have them chase and open up the field and spread F&M out.
   F&M does not have midfielders, they have field goal kickers.
   Haverford just had they first real play on goal, went wide, but it was a series of good one touch passes that catches F&M out of synch because they chase the ball instead of marking the man.
   16 minutes left.
   I know they don't win but I am rooting for Haverford.
   Another great opportunity for Haverford on a set play and the keeper comes up with the save.
   And this is how you have to play to beat the F&M Swarming Bees.  Ball gets cleared out by the F&M defender (What else did you expect?) and one of Haverford's center backs gets the ball in Haverford's half.  Takes a touch around a on rushing F&M bee and puts a pass to midfielder at the middle stripe.  Takes a touch and since the F&M midfield had stepped up high to chase the original ball, the Haverford outside back makes the run down the line and receives the ball on the run just past midfield.  He one touches a pass to a midfielder further up the field, with 15 yards from the nearest F&M bee, takes a touch and slots a ball between the F&M center and outside bees.  Again, F&M spends more time focused on the ball than the man.  The Haverford center forward runs between the two center backs and slots it past the F&M Keeper who comes off his line.  Franklin & Marshall 1, Haverford 1.
   There are 12 minutes left.  I am happy Haverford leveled, but I can't punish myself anymore.  I think I am going to lodge a complaint against F&M to the UN Human Rights Council.  No soccer loving fan or player should be exposed to this sort of thing.

That's glorious. Pok Ta Pok? Hilarious.

I'm a beekeeper and a soccer fan. I think you've done a disservice to bees by comparing F&M to them. Bees give us a honey and pollinate our fruit trees!

F&M gives us Neanderthal ball. Maybe hornets is a more apt comparison?

Be thankful you don't live in NESCAC land.

What's sad is that Wagner's resume is outstanding and I'm sure has many recruits and their parents salivating...

3 year captain at Messiah
Three-time NSCAA/Adidas Mid-Atlantic Region Coach of the Year
Second All-Time in Centennial Conference Wins
Four NCAA Sweet 16 Appearances
Two NCAA Elite Eight Appearances
Sixteen Straight Winning Seasons
Coached 10 All-Americans, Three CC Players of the Year, One National Defender of the Year

I've said it elsewhere this week: You can play this system in American high school and college ball. If you were limited to 5 subs per game, you simply couldn't sustain that style of play. You don't need All Americans or All Conference players to run around with your hair on fire for 15-20 minutes.

I watched just about that entire game and Haverford are a bit unlucky to not get a result. That said, you have to finish for that system to work and F&M definitely has guys with a nose for the goal. They just do what they need to win, very consistently.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 21, 2021, 09:11:07 AM
Franklin & Marshall v Haverford

   I think the F&M coaching staff is responsible for an egregious dereliction of  duty.  This is not soccer what they pretend to play.  This is more akin to the ancient Mayan game of Pok Ta Pok.

Quote of the day.

Quote from: SimpleCoach on October 21, 2021, 09:11:07 AM

    I think I am going to lodge a complaint against F&M to the UN Human Rights Council.  No soccer loving fan or player should be exposed to this sort of thing.

Wait a minute, are you suggesting that the F&M coaching staff is responsible for the collapse of Mayan civilization? I think you are!

I think I agree!

Quote from: Ejay on October 21, 2021, 09:57:30 AM
What's sad is that Wagner's resume is outstanding and I'm sure has many recruits and their parents salivating...

3 year captain at Messiah
Three-time NSCAA/Adidas Mid-Atlantic Region Coach of the Year
Second All-Time in Centennial Conference Wins
Four NCAA Sweet 16 Appearances
Two NCAA Elite Eight Appearances
Sixteen Straight Winning Seasons
Coached 10 All-Americans, Three CC Players of the Year, One National Defender of the Year

As far as I am concerned, that's the equivalent of the offer I got from the Nigerian Prince-in-Exile.

Quote from: Maine Soccer Fan on October 21, 2021, 09:52:09 AM
I'm a beekeeper and a soccer fan. I think you've done a disservice to bees by comparing F&M to them. Bees give us a honey and pollinate our fruit trees!

F&M gives us Neanderthal ball. Maybe hornets is a more apt comparison?

Be thankful you don't live in NESCAC land.

I beg forgiveness of Bee's.  I promise to do better.

Otterbein v Wilmington
Wilmington
Bias? – Watched both a number of times.
Link – got this LINK thing down pat. (https://boxcast.tv/view/mens-soccer-vs-otterbein-424021)

   OAC contest.
   Oh my gosh.  18 seconds in and Otterbein scores.  Ball out to the wing.  Typical, Wilmington defenders are more focused on the ball, and don't pick up the player running down the wing, who receives a pass and puts it across.  Puts it behind defenders and big Otterbein#9(?) hits it far post.  Otterbein 1, Wilmington 0.
   Double oh my gosh.  Wilmington levels.  Ball out wide and is floated in to the 12.  Wilmington#6? Out jumps his defender Otterbein#12 and gets on the end of cross.  Header floats to the near post.  Otterbein Keeper could only watch.  Otterbein 1, Wilmington 1.
   Both teams seem pretty evenly matched.  Otterbein is definitely looking to get the ball to the fee of big Otterbein#7 so he can hold it up and drop it back to a midfielder.  He is good at that.  Wilmington seems to have a more balanced attack and doesn't mind getting the ball out wide on either side, but does prefer the left.
   Both teams have had an opportunity on goal that easily could have made it a 2-2 game.
   Feel like this game is a just reward for watching the ritual sacrifice of soccer that F&M performed against Haverford.
   Neither defense has figured out how to stop the other from getting to the 18.
   Otterbein shows a little more patience with the ball.  Wilmington tends to jet forward.
   Otterbein needs to be less casual in the back.  Otterbein#12? Got stripped of the ball.  Wilmington forward took the ball and hit it off the post.  Should have been another goal.
   Wilmington#6? is a heck of midfielder.  Vazquez?  Sorry, Wilmington #s are hard to decipher.
   Otterbein has some players that make set pieces dangerous.  Someone is always on the end of the ball that is delivered.
   This is a very good game of soccer.  I could quibble with some judgement errors and choices of what players make, but credit to both teams.
   Wilmington#23, right winger, is a handful when he gets the ball to feet.
   Silly foul leads to a free kick on the sideline about 25 yards from the end line.  In swinger.  Not sure what the Wilmington defense was doing, but the ball is floated near post where two Otterbein players are running with their defenders behind them.  Keeper is frozen in his spot.  Looks like it was an own goal on a deflection by Wilmington#42?, who also kept, I think, the Otterbein players onside.  Apparently they did not touch the ball, since the player who is awarded the goal was Otterbein#6?.  Otterbein 2, Wilmington 1.
   And halftime.  Otterbein 2, Wilmington 1.  Entertaining with some good play by both sides.  My faith in humanity has been restored.

I've always been on the fence about Neanderthal ball, the NESCAC style, etc.  Last I checked, they keep score in this game and the object is to score more than the other team. So while I find a lot of teams unwatchable, they're certainly effective at winning games which is ultimately what you'll remember. But I think there's some kind of middle ground that's the sweet spot - I just don't know where it is.

This is the same reason I sometimes struggle with the youth trainers who work primarily on 1-2 touch drills and rarely practice shooting or scrimmage.  Sure you're helping 9 year old Johnny become a better passer of the ball, but Johnny is not going to be a professional, statistically won't likely play in high school or college either, and for the most part just wants to score goals and run around the field with his friends.  9 year old Johnny is not going to learn to love the game because he's learned to play out of the back. And 30 year old Johnny is never going to have this conversation:

Mikey: Did you play soccer growing up?
Johnny: Yes
Mikey: Did you have fun? What do you remember most?
johnny: Our team played the game beautifully. You should have seen our composure in the defensive 3rd and our off the ball movement in the attack.

Quote from: Ejay on October 21, 2021, 12:36:20 PM
I've always been on the fence about Neanderthal ball, the NESCAC style, etc.  Last I checked, they keep score in this game and the object is to score more than the other team. So while I find a lot of teams unwatchable, they're certainly effective at winning games which is ultimately what you'll remember. But I think there's some kind of middle ground that's the sweet spot - I just don't know where it is.

This is the same reason I sometimes struggle with the youth trainers who work primarily on 1-2 touch drills and rarely practice shooting or scrimmage.  Sure you're helping 9 year old Johnny become a better passer of the ball, but Johnny is not going to be a professional, statistically won't likely play in high school or college either, and for the most part just wants to score goals and run around the field with his friends.  9 year old Johnny is not going to learn to love the game because he's learned to play out of the back. And 30 year old Johnny is never going to have this conversation:

Mikey: Did you play soccer growing up?
Johnny: Yes
Mikey: Did you have fun? What do you remember most?
johnny: Our team played the game beautifully. You should have seen our composure in the defensive 3rd and our off the ball movement in the attack.

But the only reason the other style works is because of our substitution rules. If college and h.s. fell in line with international rules, and even higher level club competition rules, you couldn't play kick and run and win. Johnny learning to play the right way is what U.S. Soccer wants because it is what U.S. Soccer needs. Johnny learning how to bash and smash and sprint for 10 minutes at a time is only effective because we insist on our brand of domestic soccer.

It's a catch 22. By the time kids are good enough to be identified and added to Academies and National Programs, 12 or 13 at the earliest, though I know the academies have younger teams it's almost pointless to project athletic abilities of pre-pubescent children, it's too late to re-teach them soccer. So we have to teach them soccer when they are young, if we have any chance of developing good players, and then watch our middle school, high school and college coaches ruin the hard work.

Thankfully fewer and fewer of our elite prospects are choosing to be ruined, instead staying with Academies and simply taking college courses. Because playing in h.s. and college is a dead end for the elite. Everyone else? Sure, once you hit 14 or 15 and it's clear you are simply very, very good but not elite, knock yourself out. It's easy to go back to kick and run to fit in on a h.s. or college team, and if you have any kind of speed and size, those coaches will happily take you.

Quote from: Ejay on October 21, 2021, 12:36:20 PM
I've always been on the fence about Neanderthal ball, the NESCAC style, etc.  Last I checked, they keep score in this game and the object is to score more than the other team. So while I find a lot of teams unwatchable, they're certainly effective at winning games which is ultimately what you'll remember. But I think there's some kind of middle ground that's the sweet spot - I just don't know where it is.

This is the same reason I sometimes struggle with the youth trainers who work primarily on 1-2 touch drills and rarely practice shooting or scrimmage.  Sure you're helping 9 year old Johnny become a better passer of the ball, but Johnny is not going to be a professional, statistically won't likely play in high school or college either, and for the most part just wants to score goals and run around the field with his friends.  9 year old Johnny is not going to learn to love the game because he's learned to play out of the back. And 30 year old Johnny is never going to have this conversation:

Mikey: Did you play soccer growing up?
Johnny: Yes
Mikey: Did you have fun? What do you remember most?
johnny: Our team played the game beautifully. You should have seen our composure in the defensive 3rd and our off the ball movement in the attack.

Agreed @Ejay.  One of the things I really enjoy about soccer is that the game and player sort of dictate how it will be played so you can have a big range of styles.  I like them all.  There are a few teams though that offend my sensibilities for some reason, probably because it is so far removed from anything that does resemble soccer.  I would put F&M in that category.

I don't think Johnny needs to learn to play out of the back, but I do think he needs to learn how to play.  Has to learn to love having the ball at his feet.  Learn to love the idea of working off the ball to get the ball, and to freely give the ball away to a teammate that may be able to do something better with the ball. 

Yeah the college substitution rules are just dumb. I guess they help incentivize increased participation with more people getting game time but that seems like a weird goal for this level of play.  I've seen arguments in the past that it may help reduce injuries, but I think the increased physical nature of play it encourages just leads to different types of injuries not an overall decrease.

The biggest effect of the rules is a leveling of the playing field. Teams are able to counter deficits in ability by throwing bodies at the problem that can press and defend in 15 minute power shifts.

Goucher v Catholic
Catholic
Bias? – I know the outcome but will just be basing my observations on the first half.
Link –   Catholic v Goucher (https://landmarknetwork.tv/goucher/?B=312070)

   Landmark contest.
   Ok.  Why do teams, at the kick off, drop it back for the player to then boot it down to the outside back?  Well, Goucher taps the ball back, the player puts his head down and hits it toward Catholic#31 who is the right back.  He proceeds to chest the ball down right to Goucher#22 who takes a touch into the box, takes a shot that hits the side net.  That's why teams do it.
   If I were the Catholic coach, that would have merited a substitution.  I am not said coach.
   Not even 45 seconds in and the Catholic defense is nowhere.  Ball set long to a forward who is one on one with the Catholic Keeper, who makes the save on the shot.  Score should be 2-0 for Goucher already.
   Goucher doesn't even pretend to play short. 
   Catholic#4, Catholic#31, and Catholic#15 should be pressed every time the ball goes to them.  There first touch is always HEAVY.
   If I am the Goucher coach, I man mark Catholic#7 tight, and Catholic#12 tight.  That's where the threats are will be created from.  I would also put a lid on Catholic#18 who is connecting the back line and the attacking mids. 
   There is a large gap between Catholic back and the midfield that Goucher could exploit... if they could.
   Goucher wisely lets Catholic play with the ball in the back.  Once it crosses midfield, they close everything down.  Goucher is managing to get a bit dangerous when they win the ball and get forward.  By no means is Catholic's defensive posture invulnerable.
   Catholic#29, despite his size, is prone to dive in on challenges.  Goucher#11 just dropped him with a cut back and had an attempt on goal that let to a corner.
   Catholic is more organized and better on the ball than Goucher.  Goucher is wasteful with whatever opportunities they have with the ball.
   Catholic just had a golden opportunity to score a point-blank shot.  Catholic#7 runs with the ball then passes it out wide to Catholic#15 who drives it across the box.  Goes across the 6 about knee height.  Catholic#6 is on the end of it who swings with his right foot, and it comes off his foot and goes behind him.  I think that defied the laws of physics.  Should have been a goal.
   Goucher on corner can put 2 players at near, four in the back spread out in a line.  With one at the top of the box.  Another player about 30 yards out at the top of the box.  This is for an inswinger. 
   Catholic sets up with 8 players inside the six, and one at the PK spot.
   And like that, Goucher gets one on a set piece.  Goucher#7 who is one of the players at the near post, goes up free and heads the ball in from 3 yards out.  Goucher 1, Catholic 0.
   Catholic has a Keeper problem.  No way should he not been there on that ball.
   Catholic#4 delivers a terrible ball to Catholic#18 that gets picked off by Goucher#11 who goes to goal, takes a shot and Catholic Keeper makes a kick save.  If I were the Catholic coach, I would make a sub.
   In the first half alone, Goucher had, aside from the goal, 3 clear opportunities to score.  And dare I say, should have been goals.  Catholic has had one.  By my count, should be 4-1 Goucher.
   And again, nice combination play up top from Goucher that leads to a close range shot that the Catholic Keeper saves.  This was the result of Catholic#20 from taking too many touches into pressure.
   Catholic#20 vindicates himself with a nice run far post where he is slotted and one times a ball to the back of the net.
   Halftime with this one at 1-1. Goucher 1, Catholic 1. 

Quote from: jknezek on October 21, 2021, 12:52:17 PM
But the only reason the other style works is because of our substitution rules. If college and h.s. fell in line with international rules, and even higher level club competition rules, you couldn't play kick and run and win. Johnny learning to play the right way is what U.S. Soccer wants because it is what U.S. Soccer needs. Johnny learning how to bash and smash and sprint for 10 minutes at a time is only effective because we insist on our brand of domestic soccer.

It's a catch 22. By the time kids are good enough to be identified and added to Academies and National Programs, 12 or 13 at the earliest, though I know the academies have younger teams it's almost pointless to project athletic abilities of pre-pubescent children, it's too late to re-teach them soccer. So we have to teach them soccer when they are young, if we have any chance of developing good players, and then watch our middle school, high school and college coaches ruin the hard work.

Thankfully fewer and fewer of our elite prospects are choosing to be ruined, instead staying with Academies and simply taking college courses. Because playing in h.s. and college is a dead end for the elite. Everyone else? Sure, once you hit 14 or 15 and it's clear you are simply very, very good but not elite, knock yourself out. It's easy to go back to kick and run to fit in on a h.s. or college team, and if you have any kind of speed and size, those coaches will happily take you.

Quote from: d4_Pace on October 21, 2021, 01:21:11 PM
Yeah the college substitution rules are just dumb. I guess they help incentivize increased participation with more people getting game time but that seems like a weird goal for this level of play.  I've seen arguments in the past that it may help reduce injuries, but I think the increased physical nature of play it encourages just leads to different types of injuries not an overall decrease.

The biggest effect of the rules is a leveling of the playing field. Teams are able to counter deficits in ability by throwing bodies at the problem that can press and defend in 15 minute power shifts.

I would suggest that the phrase "incentivize increased participation with more people getting game time" may be the key to why the substitution rules are the way that they are at the D3 level. Offering various sports has always been a means of getting students on D3 campuses, and with the financial pressures that institutions of higher education are under these days, this fact has turned athletic departments at a great many D3 schools -- particularly the tuition-driven ones, which make up a large percentage of D3's membership -- into de facto arms of their schools' admissions departments. In fact, many schools impose recruitment quotas upon their coaches that they have to meet each year.

This not only impacts the number of players that you're bringing in each season, it impacts retention as well. It's especially tough if your program doesn't have a reserve/JV team to act not only as a developmental vehicle but as a release valve to keep players who are not in the varsity rotation from being frustrated over the fact that for them soccer is all practice and no participation. And if you do have a reserve/JV team, and you've got a freshman who is very promising but isn't ready for varsity play, you're going to want to give him as much time in reserve/JV games as possible, which cuts into possible game time for other players and increases pressure upon the sophomores, etc. You might find yourself trying to hold on to as many of your players as possible in a way that causes the least amount of damage to your program as possible, and that might mean turning all of those warm bodies into cannon fodder that you can throw out there and play high-pressure, dump-and-chase soccer for what d4_Pace aptly describes as "15-minute power shifts."

Just suggesting the possibility that this ugly style of soccer may be an artifact of outside forces acting upon the soccer program.

Chiming in here on substitution rules

1.  According the NCAA by-laws, you cannot have different playing rules (i.e. sub rules) for different divisions.  When the coaches were last surveyed in 2018, the only group where a majority wanted to further limit substitutions was Division I and II men.  DIII men and all divisions for women were opposed.
2.  For many schools outside of D1, large rosters sizes are a financial benefit for the instutition because it draws students to the school.  More tuition paying students is generally seen as a good thing.

Quote from: College Soccer Observer on October 21, 2021, 02:48:17 PM
Chiming in here on substitution rules

1.  According the NCAA by-laws, you cannot have different playing rules (i.e. sub rules) for different divisions.  When the coaches were last surveyed in 2018, the only group where a majority wanted to further limit substitutions was Division I and II men.  DIII men and all divisions for women were opposed.
2.  For many schools outside of D1, large rosters sizes are a financial benefit for the instutition because it draws students to the school.  More tuition paying students is generally seen as a good thing.

Exactly. And this illustrates how D3 athletics differs from D1 and D2 not just in structure but in institutional utility and methodology.

Washington v Swarthmore
Washington
Bias? – Watched both multiple of times.
Link –  Washington v Swarthmore (https://team1sports.com/washcollsports/?bfplayvid=312728)

   Must be something in the water.  Not even 20 seconds in and Washington comes down the field, passes it out to the left and has a one on one with the Swarthmore Keeper.  Buries it from about 8 yards out. Washington 1, Swarthmore 0
   Swarthmore, despite the goal, is trying to control the tempo of the game.
   Not trying to be critical but finding this hard to watch because of the video feed.
   Pretty even match from what I can see.  Each trading possession for stretches.  Washington is a bit more direct than Swarthmore.
   Don't think this is the more interesting of games.  A game of the midfield and trying to break down the other team.
   Swarthmore just had its first real look at goal.  Pass down the right side, crossed in, Washington Keeper with a save, and the rebound is cleared off the line.  Swarthmore starting to find gaps.
   Washington is also finding some gaps in Swarthmore's back line.  Getting interesting.
   As it approaches halftime, will say the Washington Keeper has come up big a number of times this half.  Just made a save on a volley right on the line that's world class.
   Going to call this one short at half.  Washington 1, Swarthmore 0.
   Think I am done for today.

I love it.  You can tell individual and collective blood pressures are rising as we get into the "serious" portion of the season.

Sorry to add to the detour here in this thread but gotta push back just a little on these quality of play, substitution, and alphabetical rankings debates which mostly have been tilted to one side.

I find the "kick and run" and all the iterations on that to be a default stance that is just a bit lazy and almost meme-ish.  I'm sure others disagree, but level of competition as I've said IMO accounts for 70-80% of that.  Not to pick on any one team, but playing Finlandia can make you look like Barca, and playing a very good team, especially one with superior athletes that presses, can make you look like a town U12 squad.  I also enjoy (as long as my team isn't the victim) a tournament battle where an overmatched team plays their collective hearts out defending while hoping for a luck goal or taking the game to PKs.  Anyway, and I'm gonna keep saying this, it's D3....no matter how much we love it or how great we think our team or some other team is, it's still D3.  Also wanted to add that at least for me watching on stream vs in person makes a huge difference.  I would think teams looked awful on video and in person I'm always impressed by the speed of the game, the overall skill of many players, how little time they have on the ball with opponents running up their back and doubling them, etc.

I really, really disagree with the substitution complaints, on multiple levels.  Many of the best teams, including Tufts, Messiah, OWU, Kenyon, etc routinely use 18-19 players....not as charity, but because that helps them WIN.  Secondly, I would argue that a happy team is a team more likely to win and to win in big spots.  It's not like it isn't restrictive...you come out in 1st half and you can't go back in.  You can go back in once in the second half.  Not sure why some are convinced that "at this level" (with implication being that's a high level) means D3 soccer should mimic La Liga or even that D3 soccer has anything to do with the USMNT or anything close to that.  If the soccer is just too "ugly" for ya, then don't watch lol.

I'll admit I don't get carrying super-large rosters, but I accept that there is something to the bringing in tuition model out of necessity.  That might explain why colleges do that, but not sure why a bunch of 18 and 19 year olds fall for it.  Saying I could be on a roster I'd never play on, or maybe get some minutes on the reserve squad, or get a kit even if I get to take it home, would not be decisive for me in choosing school X or school Y.  I mean, in that case, there are a ton of schools worthy of getting an education at, and if being on a varsity sports team is THAT important to ya then why not go to a similarly good school where you're more likely to actually play?  But to each his own.

As for the alphabetical rankings.....seems like a non-starter as far as being an issue.  Is waiting a week to see what number your team comes in at that hard?  I mean D4, come on, are you really unsure about where Tufts stacks up???

I would also just add that the margins of difference especially on the better teams (but maybe also the not so good) between players can be razor thin...like between the bottom half starters and the next 5-6, and between the first 5-6 subs and the 5-6 after them.  I especially feel for GKs who go to a school and sit all 4 years.

We literally just read from D4 that Cano, the clear man of the match for Tufts and a challenger to Aroh for most key player, didn't get to play that much his first couple of years.  One would think he at least had to think there was a good chance he eventually would get the playing time I'm sure he always wanted.

Think everyone is raising good points.  Sorry I unknowingly stirred the pot with my comments about Neanderthal ball played by Franklin & Marshall.

I will say from my own experience, D3 is not professional nor should we expect it to be.  I get why substitutions are the way they are and I think that's fine.  Do I think it changes how teams play, I am sure of it.  But I do think it is a good thing that more than just 11 kids get to play.

Having said that, does it mean I have to like how a team plays?  No.  I was being specific to Franklin & Marshall.  There are teams I like, teams I don't.  I don't care that they win or not.  To me it's about aesthetics.  In F&M's case however, I am burned by some of the nonsense they put out as guides for how they want to play... Build from the Front nonsense.  I mean, read some of this and then watch them play ... Dip Soccer Blog (https://www.dipsoccer.com/blog-posts/)

Anyhow, love seeing this thread discuss issues of the game.  It's what I hoped I would find here.

RE:  too many substitutions as a primary cause of poor soccer...

Let's just take the top 3...Messiah, the consensus/unanimous "play the best soccer" team in D3 has been playing 23...as in twenty-three.

W&L has been playing between 17-21.  Tufts has been playing 17-18 and that's with two players in the usual rotation out with injuries.

Quote from: PaulNewman on October 22, 2021, 08:14:40 AM
RE:  too many substitutions as a primary cause of poor soccer...

Let's just take the top 3...Messiah, the consensus/unanimous "play the best soccer" team in D3 has been playing 23...as in twenty-three.

W&L has been playing between 17-21.  Tufts has been playing 17-18 and that's with two players in the usual rotation out with injuries.

No one has said you can't do it, most teams just don't because it is easier to play kick and run with near endless fresh bodies.

I don't think the argument is that unlimited substitutions prevents you from playing "good" soccer its that it allows you to get away with the other style. If you have the talent and depth then you can certainly play 23 guys who all know how to keep possession, play your system, etc. But if you are only only allowed to play 15 guys you are not going to try to press for 90 minutes win second balls etc.

That being said the trade off is then that those lessers teams will adapt again and would probably end up just sitting deeper, defending their box and looking to counter even more so than they do now. 

Ultimately I think your point about talent gaps dictating style is a very good one. Messiah keep the ball like no one else but ultimately no one in DIII is Barcelona or City. I think if we get a Messiah Tufts rematch Messiah's possession will suddenly seem a little less pristine (they probably would still have the ball 55/60% of the time it just would be a little less comfortable).

But it's not like a weak team is gonna play better soccer if they only get 3 subs.  Just don't think the suggested correlation between overly generous substitution rules and bad soccer holds.  A bad team is gonna play bad soccer, whether they play 12 or 30.  If they are a little tougher to play because they're not so good, but fresher, I'm not sure how that doesn't seem preferable.  In other words, imo it's not the amount of subs that determines whether you play "kick and run."  Weak teams who would only get a few subs would just lose by more dramatic margins.  Their tactics wouldn't be forced to improve (as this argument is going), and indeed they'd do even more of it even less effectively.

Quote from: d4_Pace on October 22, 2021, 08:36:08 AM
I don't think the argument is that unlimited substitutions prevents you from playing "good" soccer its that it allows you to get away with the other style. If you have the talent and depth then you can certainly play 23 guys who all know how to keep possession, play your system, etc. But if you are only only allowed to play 15 guys you are not going to try to press for 90 minutes win second balls etc.

That being said the trade off is then that those lessers teams will adapt again and would probably end up just sitting deeper, defending their box and looking to counter even more so than they do now. 

Ultimately I think your point about talent gaps dictating style is a very good one. Messiah keep the ball like no one else but ultimately no one in DIII is Barcelona or City. I think if we get a Messiah Tufts rematch Messiah's possession will suddenly seem a little less pristine (they probably would still have the ball 55/60% of the time it just would be a little less comfortable).

Agree with most of this and think you're making my point.  A bad team with even more limited resources is going to resort to even more desperate (and possibly more onerous) measures.  They are NOT going to play better soccer.  As an opponent I think I'd rather them come out and try to press me instead of camping the whole team in their own final third the whole match.

And agree with you on Messiah-Tufts, which of course will work both ways in terms of an opponent having an impact they aren't used to.

Bottom line...the substitution correlation gets made all the time (and not just here), and it's not clear to me at least that the correlation holds to the extent often suggested.

Quote from: PaulNewman on October 22, 2021, 09:46:11 AM

Quote from: d4_Pace on October 22, 2021, 08:36:08 AM
I don't think the argument is that unlimited substitutions prevents you from playing "good" soccer its that it allows you to get away with the other style. If you have the talent and depth then you can certainly play 23 guys who all know how to keep possession, play your system, etc. But if you are only only allowed to play 15 guys you are not going to try to press for 90 minutes win second balls etc.

That being said the trade off is then that those lessers teams will adapt again and would probably end up just sitting deeper, defending their box and looking to counter even more so than they do now. 

Ultimately I think your point about talent gaps dictating style is a very good one. Messiah keep the ball like no one else but ultimately no one in DIII is Barcelona or City. I think if we get a Messiah Tufts rematch Messiah's possession will suddenly seem a little less pristine (they probably would still have the ball 55/60% of the time it just would be a little less comfortable).

Agree with most of this and think you're making my point.  A bad team with even more limited resources is going to resort to even more desperate (and possibly more onerous) measures.  They are NOT going to play better soccer.  As an opponent I think I'd rather them come out and try to press me instead of camping the whole team in their own final third the whole match.

And agree with you on Messiah-Tufts, which of course will work both ways in terms of an opponent having an impact they aren't used to.

Bottom line...the substitution correlation gets made all the time (and not just here), and it's not clear to me at least that the correlation holds to the extent often suggested.

You are focusing on only one side of the coin... the less talented team. All you have to do is look at some of the better teams, F&M, many of the NESCAC schools, and many more, to realize that the incentive to play good soccer, even for the better team, is not there. The incentive to be big, strong, fast sprinters, and interchangeable pieces is there, whether it is the better team or the worse team.

The goal is to change the incentive. Take away some of the ability to be that interchangeable bash and sprint team and you will see more teams trying to play a different brand. Will weaker teams still pack the box and hope for a counter? Of course. That happens at all levels. But at the top levels of any soccer pyramid, it is rare for a bash and run team to win... except in the U.S. h.s. and college ranks. And the reason for that is the rules incentive. Now, do bash and run teams always win? Of course not, but when you help even the playing field, or even tilt it toward that style, then you get more and more of that style and it is hard for teams who want to play a different style to do so. You don't only have to be better, you have to be significantly better.

Anyway, I don't think you are going to convince me, and I'm not going to convince you. But I hate the sub rules, I hate the limited practice rules, and I really hate the style most h.s. and college teams play because the incentive is there to play those styles.

Touche, interesting, and I'll accept we aren't going to agree.  Would you also prefer other sports like basketball and football to have more restrictive subbing?

And just on a totally personal, selfish level, I would hate for one of my kids to be #16 on a team that never plays more than 13-14, especially if the margins between #8 to #17 are razor thin to sometimes undetectable or subject to marginal fluctuations back and forth.

Quote from: PaulNewman on October 22, 2021, 10:07:41 AM
Touche, interesting, and I'll accept we aren't going to agree.  Would you also prefer other sports like basketball and football to have more restrictive subbing?

And just on a totally personal, selfish level, I would hate for one of my kids to be #16 on a team that never plays more than 13-14, especially if the margins between #8 to #17 are razor thin to sometimes undetectable or subject to marginal fluctuations back and forth.

I don't watch basketball, and football... well I'm too young to remember the game before the platoon system was implemented, but I wonder if it wasn't a more interesting game. Specialization of 300lb offensive lineman is odd for any athletic endeavor. I do believe it would be a less violent sport without the platoon system. If you had to play both sides, you simply couldn't throw your body around the way they do now and it would probably look more like rugby.

As a side note to this already ridiculously off-topic post, I love Rugby Sevens. I think it's a sport Americans would really like if it could crack the crowded sports landscape. Fast paced, quick games, fluid movement, large fields. Rugby Union and Rugby League are ok, but Sevens is super fun to watch.

One point of clarification because I realize my long post about Amherst vs Tufts last week could have been misinterpreted as I see references to NESCAC, F&M and others as kick and run examples and I described both teams that I saw live as not playing particularly attractive soccer.

I absolutely did not mean that they were playing kick and run (which, as I say, gets thrown around pretty easily).  I mentioned the impact of the wind and both teams struggling to get the ball on the ground and maintain possession.  But it was not kick and run.  Both teams defended aggressively and made life difficult for the other, and the action was highly competitive.  That said, both did pass around the back and attempt to connect with midfielders, and when forwards did get some service they tried to be and sometimes were creative and attempting to make real soccer plays.  There were skilled soccer players all over the field who imo were trying to play decent soccer.

FWIW, Amherst used 5 subs vs Tufts over 108 minutes, and against Wesleyan in a game that went the full 110 minutes, Amherst essentially used 4 subs (with a couple of others getting 1 minute and 2 minutes respectively).

I really appreciate someone bringing up the dump and run style of play and it's prevalence in D3 soccer.  My son has fantastic technical skills, amazing passing and a high soccer IQ and wants to play the beautiful game. He found himself in a collegiate program that has said they were planning to change their style and try to "play." They got a couple of good goal scorers up front and then just opted to bash, kick, run and hope.    It's been a tough and frustrating for him as a player and us, as parents. 

Quote from: susanc on October 22, 2021, 12:46:33 PM
I really appreciate someone bringing up the dump and run style of play and it's prevalence in D3 soccer.  My son has fantastic technical skills, amazing passing and a high soccer IQ and wants to play the beautiful game. He found himself in a collegiate program that has said they were planning to change their style and try to "play." They got a couple of good goal scorers up front and then just opted to bash, kick, run and hope.    It's been a tough and frustrating for him as a player and us, as parents.

It's not just D3. It's college soccer.  Watch the D1 game and they're playing over the midfield too. 

And we all have kids that are technically strong with great soccer IQs. They've been playing the game for a long time and their training sessions are structured to create those types of players.  But ultimately, the teams who win most often are those who play more direct (not kick and run, but direct) because you're not going to tiki-taka your way down the field to score a goal.  Rather your going to use your flank speed and strength up top, and the holding mid who plays the beautiful game beautifully will get lost in the shuffle unless he also happen to be fast, or strong, or big.

Quote from: jknezek on October 22, 2021, 09:55:51 AM

Quote from: PaulNewman on October 22, 2021, 09:46:11 AM

Quote from: d4_Pace on October 22, 2021, 08:36:08 AM
I don't think the argument is that unlimited substitutions prevents you from playing "good" soccer its that it allows you to get away with the other style. If you have the talent and depth then you can certainly play 23 guys who all know how to keep possession, play your system, etc. But if you are only only allowed to play 15 guys you are not going to try to press for 90 minutes win second balls etc.

That being said the trade off is then that those lessers teams will adapt again and would probably end up just sitting deeper, defending their box and looking to counter even more so than they do now. 

Ultimately I think your point about talent gaps dictating style is a very good one. Messiah keep the ball like no one else but ultimately no one in DIII is Barcelona or City. I think if we get a Messiah Tufts rematch Messiah's possession will suddenly seem a little less pristine (they probably would still have the ball 55/60% of the time it just would be a little less comfortable).

Agree with most of this and think you're making my point.  A bad team with even more limited resources is going to resort to even more desperate (and possibly more onerous) measures.  They are NOT going to play better soccer.  As an opponent I think I'd rather them come out and try to press me instead of camping the whole team in their own final third the whole match.

And agree with you on Messiah-Tufts, which of course will work both ways in terms of an opponent having an impact they aren't used to.

Bottom line...the substitution correlation gets made all the time (and not just here), and it's not clear to me at least that the correlation holds to the extent often suggested.

You are focusing on only one side of the coin... the less talented team. All you have to do is look at some of the better teams, F&M, many of the NESCAC schools, and many more, to realize that the incentive to play good soccer, even for the better team, is not there. The incentive to be big, strong, fast sprinters, and interchangeable pieces is there, whether it is the better team or the worse team.

The goal is to change the incentive. Take away some of the ability to be that interchangeable bash and sprint team and you will see more teams trying to play a different brand. Will weaker teams still pack the box and hope for a counter? Of course. That happens at all levels. But at the top levels of any soccer pyramid, it is rare for a bash and run team to win... except in the U.S. h.s. and college ranks. And the reason for that is the rules incentive. Now, do bash and run teams always win? Of course not, but when you help even the playing field, or even tilt it toward that style, then you get more and more of that style and it is hard for teams who want to play a different style to do so. You don't only have to be better, you have to be significantly better.

Anyway, I don't think you are going to convince me, and I'm not going to convince you. But I hate the sub rules, I hate the limited practice rules, and I really hate the style most h.s. and college teams play because the incentive is there to play those styles.

I think that you've nailed it here, Jknezek.  Earlier, Paul, you said, "Many of the best teams, including Tufts, Messiah, OWU, Kenyon, etc routinely use 18-19 players....not as charity, but because that helps them WIN."  And that's right.  They play that way because they want to win.  But the current substitution rules are the reason why that strategy is the best strategy.  More restrictive substitution rules would mean that playing large numbers of players, and letting the subs "press and defend in 15 minute power shifts," as D4 put it, is no longer the preferrred strategy.  I mean, it would still happen to a limited extent.  As we've all seen, it's common at the highest levels of soccer to play a forward for 65-70 minutes and then sub him out for fresh legs.