Friday, August 03, 2007
2007 HS Soccer
Hard to believe that captains practice is starting in the next week or so. Time for some high school soccer talk. With the relative parity last year, will this year provide one or two dominant teams? Who are your favorites to win State for AA and A? Who will be the surprise teams? Who are the favorites for Mr. Soccer? Note the links for getting to the coach's site, schedules and stats and the State high school league.
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495 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 400 of 495 Newer› Newest»sibley 5 north 1
Osseo 1 Hopkins 1
LV north 1 Apple Valley 0
Champlin Park 2 Maple Grove 1
all hail sibley for beating the amazing North St. Paul Polars!! Sibley 4 State!!@!!
Wayzata 1-0 over Edina. Edina dominated play the whole game and Wayzata had very few scoring opportunities. A missed assignment led to a cross which turned in to a goal for Wayzata. Wayzata seemed to sit on their heels alot and didn't look like a number one team.
Wayzata is always ranked highly. The rankings are highly influenced by past reputation. I'm sure the rankings wont be too accurate for another week or two, when people have finally seen who can really play. Wayzata is good, but #1?
Wayzata did not play well at all last night. They started with their starting GK on the bench with an injury and Monasterio up top to try to help with their lack of scoring. That wasn't the right solution. They did out shoot Edina in the first half (aided by a strong wind) and seemed to have a bit more of the play.
The second half saw Edina come to life. They clearly used the wind to their advantage lobbing a lot of long balls into the box. They didn't seem to really build the play but to rather launch it into the dangerous area just in front of the box or actually in the box. In fact, their GK had a shot on goal in that second half.
Edina is a good team. They lost a game they probably shouldn't have. They have now lost two Conference games (Wayzata and Armstrong 2-0 last week). They will need to find a way to win. Wayzata on the otherhand has a strong team and has found a way to win despite only scoring 12 goals. They haven't given up a lot of chances. They haven't played their best yet but I am sure that will but it together. They are still working to find the combinations and when they do they will be a team to contend with. There are a number of other strong teams out there and I look forward to seeing them play. EP and Edina are the two best teams I've seen. Look forward to seeing Apple Valley, Osseo and Anoka. Any other strong squads?
P.S. The Wayzata goal was scored on a set play. Monasterio hit a ball from about 35 yards out to Paulson at the far post who headed it back to the near post and an on rushing Morales who put it away. Nice execution on the set play. As we've heard something like 70% of the English premier goals are scored on set plays. Wayzata seems to be in about that range right now.
What's the story with lakeville North? Are they that good?
Can we please drop Mounds View and Woodbury from the ranking? What a joke.
woodbury rocks my sox!!!
In the past 3 years 43% of the goals in the Premiership were scored off of set plays. Men's World Cup is just slightly higher. The older the boys/men get the more the reliance on set plays to score.
Edina fell in to a classic high school pattern, when the players get fatigiued they rely on longer passes directly to the front, many resorting to "dump and run". Patience and pace of the game is still an "educational point" for players at this age.
My impressions was this was not a game necessarily determined by skill or tactics, but the "unfolding" of the game. Another day another time, Edina comes out on top.
A tip of the hat to both.
how did woodbury get ranked in the first place? if past record is any indication, they shouldn't have begun the season ranked at all
Anon at 1:38 pm - nice job. It is a real treat to read one persons opinion put in such a well thoughtout manner. I hope that we get a chance to read others thoughts on high school games yet to be played across Minnesota. Please keep the cards and letters coming!
Now we've got an interesting topic! What (and whom) determines if a goal is scored on a set play or just one that someone believes looked like a set play? Like many things in life, the best laid plans often don't work out as intended...and the free flowing, spontanious nature of soccer (as compared to american football, for example) is one of the game's great attractions.I don't dispute the value of "set plays," just argue that they may not be as "set" as some believe.
A header off a corner or free kick - that's a set play. A free/corner kick that scrums around and doesn't get cleared cleanly by the defense often times gets lumped in the same category. I would agree with anon 8:47am that there is a lot more "spontaneity" at this level and in this game. The first 50 offensive plays of the game are not already scripted out and taped to the center mids wrist.
anyone see the Maple Grove vs. Elk river game??
M.G. should of crushed champlin park but couldnt put one away
Is Osseo on a downfall?
any comments?
Osseo hasn't beaten anyone of note other than an iffy MPLS south team.
Osseo plays Maple Grove on Tuesday.
This could be a preview of what the section championship turns out to be. Whos the favorite?
MG & Osseo won't beat Champlin. Their biggest challenge will be their ego's, mouths & coach. They are a talented group of boys but you can't help but wishing for someone to slap them down hard.
My vote is going towards MG. Osseo has tied 2 and lost 2 of their last four games and may not have the confidence they started with. MG seems to be figuring out how to play as a team but still need work on finishing.
Champlin has a week back four, and thier mouths will really get them into trouble. I cant see them pulling it off at the end of the season. Look for Maple Grove or Osseo in the section final.
Yes, Osseo is a pretender. Dispatched 4-nil by Armstrong.
Maple Grove is a strong team. I saw them play against elk river and was very impressed. They had a rough first half, but got it goin in the second half and finally put one away late against what looks like a strong elk river team. What chances does maple grove have in the future? Does anybody see any stand out players?
I also saw the MG vs Elk River game but got there midway through the first half so I didnt see which players started the game.
For MG, #6 is obviously a very skilled player but may need to use his team more. #1 was playing very well at stopper and uses his size to his advantage. The GK, being only a Junior looks strong and we will probably see a strong Senior year from him.
On ER's side, #11 is quick and has good ball control. #9 plays very aggressive and isnt afraid to go in hard. Not much only two players can do though.
Some weak spots for MG; a couple of their players in the back (#11 and #28) seem easy to get past but that may be due to inexperience and i have heard something about #11 playing with an injury but im not 100%. #3 at outside mid looks slow and appears to ruin MG's pace at times. At the top, #7 and #50 stand around alot and look like they dont even want to be on the field.
Some weak spots on ER; #7 in the back takes the ball up the field a lot and, although he is quick, tends to lose it and forces his teammates to cover for him. #10 at forward trys too hard to beat everyone and gives the ball up when they need it most. The GK is not very aggressive and enjoys staying close to his line.
It wasnt a very physical game, only a few fouls called and single yellow card (Delay of game), but MG seemed to dominate the field when going for 50-50's and overall control throughout the game.
Although being 5-2-2, Osseo may have a tough time on Tuesday because MG is looking very strong. ER should get a morale boost also after playing the 2-6 Andover team.
I was much more impressed by MG and they are definately a team to look for in October.
d.krewe
Another week spot on MG is #15. Hard to notice because he stands in the middle and hides. (must be younger player)
Also I have heard that most of MG's D play other positions on club teams. I saw them play earlier in the season and they are looking much better.
Osseo is good but like MG has leadership problems starting with the coaching.
Should be a good game Tuesday. Hope to see it.
i think maple grove is starting to gel. they are really starting to move the ball around and set up good opportunities
You must be kidding. MG plays bootball! Or keep away from the other team and there own teammates. They are far from "starting to gel".
Sept. 16th AA rankings:
1. Wayzata (1)
2. Anoka (3)
3. Apple Valley (2)
4. Eden Pairie (5)
5. Champlin Park (7)
6. Lakeville North (-)
7. Hill Murray (9)
8. Edina (-)
9. Henry Sibley (-)
10. Maple Grove (-)
It takes a few weeks to weed out the over-hyped teams from the preseason polls and first few weeks. I think we finally have the 10 best teams represented here. Although I'm not quite sure about the order... that should work itself out though
Watched The Totino Grace Team against Wayzata last Saturday. Totino Grace had Wayzata 1 - 0 with 4 minutes left in the game Wayzata did get a goal. Went into Overtime game ended 1 - 1. Great game but Totino gave Wayzata a run.
Anoka is my pick for state. They play hard. They are my pick for state this year.
Champlin are everyone's favorite team to lose. Dirty soccer.
Osseo--can beat weaker teams on individual skill, but will have a tough time once a teams defense gets familiar with each other.
MG--haven't seen them, but heard that #6 is a star, but they have no goal scorers. They graduated a loaded team.
I heard Hopkins was OK, but a little thin on the outsides.
When you say Champlin plays dirty soccer is it, physical or what. Dirty soccer....trash talking, cheep shots, cocky??? They are sure rising in the rankings and must be playing well.
Totino and Wayzata did play a good game. Wayzata played without their starting GK again and they had two key players playing injured. They may be better served taking the time to heal.
Wayzata seemed to have more of the possession and outshot TG 20 to 7. SOG were 10 to 4. WHS continues to have trouble finishing. They need to get that on track to make a big run at the end of the season. TG is a better team than their record indicates.
Wondering if anyone has seen Cretin Derham Hall play? What are your thoughts on the team? They seem to be having a good year, but based on previous threads about some of the other teams in the Suburban East maybe it is an indication of the weakness of the other teams.
Has anyone seen lakeville north or hill-murray play? havent heard much about either team
havent seen lakeville north play but hill-murray is a very strong team. They move the ball around well and have a couple very skilled players. Look out for them in october
We all know that MG is 6-2-1.
Started hard and did good.
playing good. MG boys my little gangsters try to win the osseo game on teusday. Try your best. It's not the end of the world.
My adivce to you is that don't let the forwards get thru you and don't let them run. Cause you don't want that to happen. Play DDDDD boys.
Don't listen to what people say on this blog.
Just do your thing.
#50 #6 #3 #11 #7 and #14 show your work, because i know that u guys are the best.
ya all gona beat the osseo soccer team.
peace.
champs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I agree, I've watched Maple Grove in the past few weeks, they really have been starting to put pieces of the puzzel together with each week , they have extrmely strong players, such as #6, #10, #1, #3, and their junior GK, watch for these players to step up in the battle vs Osseo on this tuesday and later on in the season in October.
Lakeville North has been managing to win, but is not overpowering.
The other night I caught Eden Prairie and Eagan on local cable. EP dominated Eagan from the outset.
Then EP subbed 6 players and they played even better.
The Prairie Dogs are the best team I have seen this year.
EP has a ton of talent. I would be surprised if they weren't in the mix at the end of the year. I also think they are better than Anoka. They have a lot more depth.
Champlin--lots of language and elbows. No fun playing them. They also lack a star in a field of decent players.
Anoka--psycho hockey coach will hurt.
MG and Osseo--up and down, coaches are not helpful, no depth at MG, no teamwork at Osseo.
Don't know about Anoka but right on about Champlin, Maple Grove, & Osseo.
#8 on burnsville, i think his name is Ahmed Bobana, i watched him play a couple weeks back, so far 8 goals and 1 assist, also made the regional pool team at ODP camp this year, could he be in the mix twards mr. soccer, what do you guys think?
I'd say he doesn't stand a chance.
Where has he played in the past? Why in his senior year is he just showing up? I think alot of the time Mr. Soccer is a player who has generally been a player that has impressed people for more than one year. Which is why the Wazata kid is a favorite.
Regional Pool ODP selection, well...whatever...doesn't impress me much anymore. Same with ODP State Pool selection, it just doesn't mean much anymore.
the wyzata kid- monestario ya has been around, and he too makes odp region pools, plus everyone knows of him. him, keido pour, mallace are best in the state
both wayzata kid and KP have been living off their playing reputation from 2-3 years ago. neither has improved and are basically the same players they were as sophmores. I would argue neither deserves mr. soccer, but one or both are likely to win it. Mallace is an above average player, but not a real stand out. i wsh i had more suggestions but this years crop is way down after the past 3-4 years of many top notch players in the mix.
I agree, if Monte were all that Wayzata wouldn't be having so much trouble finishing. Vint is the best player on that team and does all the hard work and sets things up and he deservers Mr. Soccer for AA.
whay ya all think about MG forwards.
Are they good?
In my opinion i think they have started doing better than before.
#14 and #50 Are good in playing.
But #7 is quick, Knows where the ball goes and have a skill for one touch. #14 likes to run to the corner because he is smart.
#50 know the feet work and the hard hit.
What you guys think about these forward when ther going to play the osseo team?
ok, so did I say monti, no I said the Wayzata kid. hmmm...I wonder which one.
I wonder why the selection crop seems small this year?
MAPLE GROVE soccer should be able to beat a cocky osseo team tomorrow because there falling apart do to there very average schedule. #6 on maple grove is a serious contender for mr.soccer because of his speed and footwork. Although the points aren't a raving factors, he has had to play a tough schedule in the north suburban confrence. also they have two sophmores who are pretty good and you will notice them more next year then this year. maple grove is a sure contender for section finals.
Just spent a wet night in Burnsville watching the Blaze beat Eastview 3-0. The field was soaked but playable.
Burnsville dominated most of the game, especially in the first half. The main advantage was Burnsville's very strong midfield play led by #8 Ahmed Gobaba. Jimmy Karageorgiou, #11, had the hat trick.
i hope osseo beats maple grove, maple grove needs to learn that their egos arent going to win games
i think people should wait and see how the osseo vs. mg game pans out. osseo a chance, not a standout team but definately a team with talent.
Hopkins 1 Wayzata 0
Wayzata is cleary not the favorite anymore. On the other hand hopkins are one of the suprises this year.
Apple Valley 2 Eden Prarie 2
Osseo - Maple Grove rescheduled to wed.
anybody know much about benilde? thought this was a rebuilding year after they lost a big senior class
I thought Hopkins plays well. Hopkins has 3-4 real players--a big forward, a few strong mids/stopper. The skill fell off quickly, with ouside mid/back especially.
I heard that Hopkins was great defensively. Who is in their section? For having only 3-4 real players they just beat the Number #1 ranked team.
It sounds like Wayzata has all the tools to be one of the top two teams, but either ego's or coaching is keeping them from playing up to there potential. I haven't seen them play nor has anyone I talked to seen them play. This opionion is based on what I've read here and game results, so it is probably suspect.
I think Wayzata will drop to 3-4, EP will go to #1, and Hopkins & Burnsville will rise. MG & Osseo will rise and fall depending on tonights game results.
Hey Tomass, you seen any games? What'd yah think man.
Wayzata doesn't have finishers...simple as that.
And that is something that is hard to teach.
Hopkins has a fast, good footwork mid. # 4 he is a straight up baller. If a team can stop him it will really help your chances against them.
why do all the MG people keep coming on here hyping up their forwards and #6? #6 doesnt stand a chance for mr. soccer so just stop with the hype. also, wayzata still is one of the top 2 teams, just because they lost 1-0 to an above average hopkins team doesnt mean they are "not the ones to beat."
wayzata is still the "team to beat", it just happened that one team accomplished this task
I didn't see the Wayzata vs. Hopkins game last night but I did hear that they played very poorly. They have a few injuries that are slowing them down. Carter (GK) is out with a knee injury, Vint has an injury he has been playing with since the EP game and it just hasn't been given a chance to heal. Don't be surprised to see him on the bench with Carter for a couple of weeks or more.
Wayzata has been playing a strong schedule, as usual, but they just haven't really pulled it together. They have the ingridents to make a run but they are going to have to play much better. They aren't the best team in the state right now. They have the potential, but they have a long way to go.
wow if their starting GK is out, along with their best player, for a few WEEKS thats going to be rough. what is vints injury
My apologize to Wayzata, I should not have formed an opinion based on the blog nor scores, and I should know better than to try.
The injurys are a huge part of high school soccer, which is why I'm still leaning towards EP. I've seen them play and they have a very deep bench. Individual skills Wayzata may have them beat, but overall level of skill I think it just maybe EP.
Well, I'm not an MG fan, but #6 is quite good--I'd like him on my team! Their forwards are not a threat. They lost to Osseo 2-1 last night. I didn't see the game, but I know these teams hate each other. Questionable PK is what I heard.
The PK was deserved - What was questionable were all the refs offsides calls - the reffing this year has been very disappointing -
I watched Vint for Wayzata at the Totino Grace Game. Tie 1-1 Vint is ok but he was stopped by the strong Defense #7 , #8 & #9 with TG shut him down. Don't underestimate TG. They had a difficult schedule and have played top schools they are definite contenders.
TG has an excellent team, and a tradition of good boys soccer. I would be shock not to see them at State. Who is in their sectional?
Wayzata will still be #1 as there is not other clear favorite...which is kind of sad. Their coaching is very chummy with the rest of the HS coaches and tied in tight to ODP and the media. The rich get richer...
In TGs Sectional you have Benilde, Fridley, Col Heights, North Branch, Irondale, Spring Lake Park, Cooper might be a couple more.
Keeper Spies having a banner year. He is very strong.
MG is still in the game boys?
Aint no body quiting.
MG will be back after the anoka Game Tonaght.
Still in the race for the championship.
Don't be jelous.
MG is A good team?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????/sdfahsdjkfhalsjdfhklajs yoo0000000020545612
goalpost, coaching on the girls side I have only seen bits and pcs of any boys games. So the fragmented view of teams does not give me a very good opinion on any of them. I'll see more during section games.
So I'll stay out out of this fray.
Sorry mate!
Sections have been realigned this year Spring Lake Park and Irondale are now in the same section as Centennial, Champlin, Maple Grove, Moundsview, Osseo and Park Center.
tomass...
techno polka? Like Skuter?
Tomass
WOW! You ARE a brave man. Girls, whoa a whole team of them sends a shiver down my spine. Give me testosterone any day.
Girls actually do what you tell them. Most boys listen and then go do what the hell the want. Coaching is totally different. And the team-social dynamics issues! Wow.
I saw most of the MG vs Osseo game. Very physical and not very well played. (or coached) Emotions run high in rival games like this so not a good one to judge either side. The PK was a good call.
I saw the Maple Grove/Osseo game. Heard that it would be good. NOT!
I like the way the coaches from both teams try to change things up if something is not working. NOT!
(I am a soccer fan, NOT a MG or Osseo fan just thought I was in for a good game. NOT!)
Stupid foul in box, good call.
People who don't know about soccer just shut the hell up and dont type anything.
If you know about soccer go ahead.
@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
so how about that hutton guy from av? hes leading the state in goals (2A), and has had a goal in like 10 straight games except the lakeville game.
Girls soccer is one of the biggest jokes in sports. sorry tommas, but watching girls play soccer is like watching a bunch of 5th graders playing kickball at lunch. they have NO CLUE what to do or were to be on the field. i would rather watch a game of baseball then a girls soccer game, and i HATE baseball. a bunch of blind guys could form a soccer team, and all of them could have never played soccer b4, and they would beat any girls team in the state, no, sorry, in the usa. girls soccer is a big joke and there is nothing more to say about it. if u r a girls soccer player or coach, STAY OUT OF THIS BLOG! ur not wanted, and ur opinion is not wanted.
Hutton has a good shot at MR SOCCER if he keeps scoring the way he has been. good overall player and knows how to get the ball in the back of the net. if he keeps up the GREAT play he has my vote for MR SOCCER
anon1102 - too funny! LOL. You're (old fashion in my spelling ways) entitled to your opinion. Sounds like your a bit insecure in your own gender world. I'll make sure at tomorrow's practice I have the girls bake and knit something for you after our rousing 15 minutes of kick-ball practice
anon 1107 am - there should have been a comma seperating techno (dislike) from Polka which I do enjoy (95.5 Sunday mornings out of New Prague)
anons dissing players - if you're so bold in your negative comments about players why not be bold enough to say who you are or at least let me know the next time you play so I can provide a critique of your game.
Mom and Dad must be so proud of the cowardly smack talker they're raising.
Tomass,
Here's a link to some techno polka...no kidding!
It's a hoot.
Check it out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpSaFbO2sjI
anon- 722 - I will now have that song going through my head all day long. I will have to see if they have anything on iTunes.
Funny lyrics in the subtitled version - stupid, stupid man
Thanks for sharing!
Hutton from AV will be Mr. Soccer for AA. He has already demonstrated consistent play, individually and team playing up to ability, and leadership. The others mentioned on this blog are inconsistent and not the complete player Hutton is. And AV has not had one in a while (or ever?) and the coaches like to spread it out.
Mallace is hands down the most skilled player in the state no argument and he's showing it this season. However, I don't think skill alone will be able to win it. Hutton is a player with solid skills who works really hard. In the end he'll probably be the favorite because of his numbers.
Mallace is not even close to the most skilled player. But I'm glad his Dad (Anon 12:31 thinks so.) Nor is he in the top 5 of all seniors. He is a nice kid (I had him in camp once as a youngster) but he is not an upper eschelon player.
Have you seen him play recently?
I saw most of 2 Sibley games versus S. St. Paul and Mahtomedi. He is one of the better players on a solid team, but I can't see him being a Mr. Soccer candidate. Sometimes it is difficult for parents, family members, good friends, etc. to see things as they are.
hey anon 9:32, I think most coaches out there would agree that you're kidding yourself if you believe mallace is not a viable mr. soccer candidate.
mallace and montestario can receive all the hype they want, but if they dont perform for the stats, they wont win mr soccer. Mr soccer is becoming more and more of a joke that is based primarily off of stats. Take last year for example. No knock to the Abe Gibbons, but i think i could score 20 goals in the mpls city conference with one leg. There were plenty of players who play in tougher conferences who didnt get recognition because they didnt put up the stats. mr soccer should be based on who makes their team better. not just who can individually pad their stats
At this point of the season I'd have to say Hutton from AV has the advantage in Mr. Soccer race. He's in one of the best (if not the best conference) conferences scoring lots of goals and his team is one of the best in the state.
It all adds up to Mr. Soccer.
Mike Hutton leads the conference in goals but his brother leads the conference in assists. Without doubt, both are outstanding players but who gets the glory - the goal scorer or the play maker?
goal post said this awhile back but i thought id bring it up.. he asked why teams such as anoka, champlin park, and coon rapids arent in the mix. uhh looks like anoka and champlin are both top 6 in the state and coon rapids is decent so looks like he was a little off
Their conference is usually overlooked. I remember when Park Center went the entire season with one loss--never rated. Finally broke into the rankings in the last week--number 9. They lost in the Dome. While overlooked, the conf. champion is usually in the top 4 in state.
Hutton's brother is Nick. He has been playing injured as of the last 4 game with a pulled quadricept and so his game is pass to mike. Wait til he is at full health and we'll see who can stop AV.
thanks anon 9:52, or should i just say AV waterboy!
Rochester Lourdes 0
Benilde-St. Margare'ts 2
Are they the real deal? Who are their top players?
anon 9:52... Lakeville north already did.
MG vs Anoka
At MG Stadium @7:00 after Girls game.
MG
MG
Anoka
Anoka
Coon Rapids has a better coach compared to most of the Anoka Hennepin District coaches but has no or little depth with players. They look to be inconsistant but injuries are to blame. If he can keep his starters healthy during sections they are a pretty good team.
CP has more depth but their coach has little understanding of the game and is generally telling the boys to "boot the ball". Anoka's coach is much the same but understands team dynamics much better.
There is a referendum in the Anoka Hennepin School District this fall that will raise property taxes about $330 a year. I don't think it will pass. If it doesn't the school district has told us that activity fees will go up to $500 per student unless of course you qualify for free or reduce lunch.
It will dramatically change high school sport in the largest school district in the state. And is probably the last time you will see any of these school advance out of the sections.
I'd really like to see how MG does against a very tough Anoka team. Coming off a hard loss to Osseo, it'll be interesting to see how MG responds.
I am sure that they will respond how they have always responded by doing NOTHING. Look to see the same players in the same positions.
anon 11:14.. benilde is the real deal. they played eden prairie to a 1:1 tie early in the year and are getting better. huge game on thursay with SLP. no real superstars, just a solid team
what about gunner knutson? that kids a stud for sure. hes like the best player for benilde
I think the player with most overall talent is Keido Pour.
He should win Mr. Soccer.
He's the best HS player in the state.
Stats alone will not win Mr. Soccer. They will certainly get someone some attention. Poure (F) and hutton (F) this year, will be near the top in stats and will win mr soccer for A and AA respectively. Just as grandstrand (GK) and gibbons (MF) won last with good stats. None of these players ability can be outlined by stats alone...go watch them play, see how they dominate and control the game. The other names thrown around this year are good players, but do not display the leaderhip and game changing abilities like the players mentioned earlier.
MG put up a good game against Anoka. Scoring first and controlling the game. Anoka put one in about mid-way through the second half. Anoka ended up winning on a header with 3 minutes left in double overtime. Overall a very well played game by both teams. They both really impressed me. Look for both of them in October.
i also saw the Maple Grove vs. Anoka game. #6 played very well for mg along with #10. For Anoka, Aaron Vogt, #6 up front, and #4 also played well. Great game overall with an exciting finish. Look for both teams in October.
Who are you kidding - MG has NO ONE up top that is going to carry them into October.
I don't know about the need for someone up top. While it would be nice, the MG team is doing OK w/o a scorer--see SLP and Hopkins, both good teams. I didn't see the Anoka MG game, but I definitely see Anoka advancing this year. MG will have a tough time in sections, having already lost to 2 teams. (Osseo and CP.)
Is this a MG fan blog?! (I'm a former Osseo player) What the heck? I went to the Anoka/MG game last night. They are a balanced team. Fun game with a fun end. MG is a strange team. They seem to get fair results without a ton of individual talent. Opposite previous years, where they could have done very well and didn't.
Oh--and MG #6 could be a nice addition to any local college team.
New rankings are out???Hmmmm
Week of September 23, 2007
1. Anoka (2)
2. Apple Valley (3)
3. Wayzata (1)
4. Champlin Park (5)
5. Eden Prairie (4)
6. Lakeville North (6)
7. Hill Murray (7)
8. Minneapolis Southwest (-)
9. Edina (8)
10. Henry Sibley (9)
Others: St. Louis Park (-), Osseo (-), Hopkins (-)
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anon 1136 - gunnar knutsen ? just by name alone he gets my vote for Mr. Soccer.
Lakeville North and AV should swap places.
I believe that MG will be tough in october, beacuase last night they played hard against a good team(anoka). They put them in pressure.
They will be back.
anon 211- that change matters how in the whole scheme of things when these polls don't get you any further or deeper into the post -season play?
nice to see a once again very strong lake conference.. 3 in the top 10.. just sucks that they are always in the same section so only one gets to go each yr. especially when your with a state championship team in your bracket, you could be top 2,3 in state and not go. not complainin, just showin how strong that section will be, and to look out for those.
Saw Anoka MG game and both looked good. Anoka has more talent but MG really held there own. Anoka will be hard to beat. Noticed MG line-up changes. Worked well. We will see if they are for real tonight.
MG is in a real slump now after losing to Centennial. They need to figure out a lineup that works the best and moves the ball around. Right now it's just bootball and takes #6 right out of the game. It'll be interesting to see how they do in sections
I think someone other then the coach is making the decissions. They went back to there old ways tonight. It will be a short season.
who cares about mg?!?! im sick of hearing about an unranked, uninspired, and untalented team when there are other teams twice as good!!
According to Strib 9-25-07 , Ryan MacArthur, Zimmerman? #2 scorer in the metro area.
anon 629 - you stated that fact for what reason?
ryan is a cool kid and much better than people give him credit. His parents should promote him more and more just like others do. too bad he is not from zimmerman not the western surburbs. Maybe someone should recommend him moving to get the accolades he deserves. what do you think?
the play on the field speaks for itself. How does bias promotion help his cause in being a better player or teammate?
He moved to the western suburbs he wouldn't have as good of stats - Would be just another player!
And see you promote kids needlessly on this site and then you have people that feel the need to downgrade the player he may be.
When you promote players you open them up to critism. As you read these post you will see with every acolades come critisms. If a player feels he would get more attention playing for another school the parents should move. I think they went that route at one time and left SSM an came back to be the big dog in a little school.
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To the state champion!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Teutonic Twits......
I think Zimmerman plays some pretty questionable teams. If he is that good, too bad. Every year the stat lists have kids from small outstate schools, mankato, etc... Nobody really scares when you score a hat-trick against Rogers or St. Francis. Not saying it's fair, just my view.
I think play on the field is only a part of the awards process. Somekids are a lock before the season for All-state, etc... Others can play great the whole year. I think a player's summer accomplishments are wildly over-valued in the process. But that's how it works. ODP is a joke too, but that's another story.
macarthur was nothing at SSM so i dont blame him for leaving
anon 805 - play on the field is not all about stats, it's more about how well you make your teammates better. It's how you help make your team function one level higher than the competition.
It's pretty tough to measure since it is not quantitative so go ahead and award Mr. Soccer on stats. I'll take the player that is the glue of the team every time.
macarthur was a regional pool player... so its not like only a few people think hes the real deal. also, if you look at the competition hes against, he has the same on his team, so hes not getting any help either. personally i think KP should get Mr. Soccer, but look for mac to become a very strong candidate next year
No other player dominates the HS pitch this year like Keido Pour.
If that is the criteria then he is a lock for Mr. Soccer.
KP is the real deal. All I'm trying to say is that good players on small teams get minimal recognition. KP is not a good example of this--his past dictates where he can play.
I'd love to have mroe recognition of the great player on a mediocre team, but it doesn't happen enough. The people reading this blog are not your typical HS soccer coach...
Anon 10:49
When was Macarthur a regional pool player? Not this year I checked. I beleive he made the State Select ODP team. For '90, TB was the only MN player to make the regionaal pool. Next year is a long way away to start promoting for Mr. Soccer. If he's a junior lets not even talk about it, dad.
Remember that Mr. Soccer is a Senior award. Tomass has hit the nail on the head for Mr. Soccer. The players he described end up with decent stats, unless they are across the back line. If they are in a tough conference, they will typically still be near the top, but not neceassarily the top. I can't see how many HS coaches do anything but vote for Poure for A and Hutton for AA.
more better?! no more better stuff about a bad mg team!!
no way macaurther for mr soccer. ryan schlit for eagan is the lock. 10 goals in 4 games alreay this year? thats pretty danm good. saw him have a hat trick againts bloomington jeffereson tonight. storngest Jr in MN
I still say Nick Hutton should be Mr. Soccer for selfless play that puts AV in a position to win each night. And I'm not his Dad. By the way, if folks are using MaxPrep for their statistics, it's incomplete. There are many teams not posting there.
Glad to see the young man from Eagan is back playing after the problems he had earlier. Hopefully he has learned his lesson
What happened to Monasterio?
I agree with the comments made earlier there are many players out there that don't get the stats because they have had to move to the back line to shore up the defense.
Many of you players have to see the big picture pretty much anyone can play the forward position to score goals but it takes the ten men to stop the shots on goal or to pass a ball to a forward. I personally believe forwards are over rated. I used to put my weakest players in that position because the stronger players are the ones that play Mid & Defense. Unfortunately, everyone recognizes the people who score the goals. There are many out there that play in positions that they typically do not and make adjustments to help the team. Those are the players I would take any day over some player that thinks because he makes a goal is the best player on the team.
Pretty much anyone can score goals? Now that's funny. Athletic, skilled players play forward or mid, athletic unskilled players play defense. General rule there are always exceptions.
I've seen many a player with quick feet (who can dribble or pass the ball) benefit in the stats from the kid who draws attention and makes things happen. The problem is with Mr. Soccer, is telling the difference between the two. The check mark in the score column does say how the player score just that he did.
Mr. Soccer isn't the kid who score the most he's the kid who makes stuff happen for his team. Either by scoring or getting his setting his teammates up to score.
the trouble is that most people rarely get to see all of the qualified candidates. Most of them vote on heresay.
anon 8:37, what are you talking about? anyone can score? i do agree that defense wins championships, but it takes skilled players to score in big games.
Anon 8:37, you must be talking about U8s and putting your weakest players up top. Your reasoning is silly.
Take last years Mr. Soccer winners. Paul Grandstrand, Mr. Soccer for A was a GK and a defender. I would be willing to bet he scored less than 5 goals in his entire high school career. I saw him play 2 times as a junior, on defense, and 2 games as a senior in the net. He always stood out on the pitch with his play. Abe Gibbons, Mr. Soccer AA, was a midfielder and acually played defense in 1 of 3 games I saw him play last year (against Armstrong) and played holding midfield against Hopkins. He was able to control the games and accumulate stats, mostly assists, while winning balls and starting the attack. The prior year winners, Bradon Miller, great stats as a forward and Ryan Vint another goal keeper. Prior year Mr. Soccer, when there was only 1, was John Stillwell, who played mostly defense and occasionally up top, have below average stats.
So only 1 forward (Miller) and 2 with great stats in the past 5 Mr. Soccer recipients. All were very deserving and the best players.
I think you will see the best players and most deserving players win again this year with KP for A and Hutton for AA.
Champlin park lost three straight games.
what the hell is going on.
MG won two games. that is cool.
What the hell is going on.
Does any body have an answere please?
wow
MG, MG, alot of talk for an uninspired team. And, they give out programs at every game so the anon that keeps pumping up #6 must be his dad! Why don't you just say his name - David Sheller - or are you afraid you'll be found out?
Defense wins games in my opinion. Yes you have to have someone who is up front and can put the ball away. But again Defense wins games. The well rounded player who can play any position is the player I would pick for a College pick.
So lets have some conversation as to what teams will be big for Sections and State Title.
eden prairie and lakeville should come out of their sections. theres not much else to them. av and bville as well as sibley have a tough section...so we'll see
Anon 10:33 relax dude, you need to skip what you don't care about. contribute something, instead of ripping on others here. Personally, I don't care about Mr. Soccer for may reasons. But people can talk about the AV boy or KP all day long. Maybe their fathers are posting here. Who cares? They should be proud if their kid is a rockstar on the pitch.
The best stuff here is written by someone--be someone, OK? Tell me why Champlin Park always starts fast and ends up losing to poor teams in October? Why does AV always do well with athletic teams but few truly skilled players? Why do the Northern Suburbs typically get the shaft in rankings and recognition? (Yes, I realize that Anoka is #1, and EP probably will win state, etc.)
Add something, why don't you?
YO bro! I think you right.
lets talk about something helpful.
CP lost their main striker to an
ACL tear in the Park Center game. The sophmore striker has quick feet and nose for the net but needs the ball set up in front of him to score. Since the loss of the junior stiker they have not had a practice but one game after another. They need a bit of re-tooling but have plenty of talent to still get the job done.
Mallace had hat trick on Sat. Big match tomorrow: Sibley vs.undefeated Hill Murray. Sibley's defense will determine how far it can go in a tough section. Sib's Barklow should be first team all state.
Mallace had a hat trick but should have been given a red for throwing a punch. Some of these name players get away with unsportsman conduct.
I was at the match and there was no doubt that he threw the punch but the officials only gave him a yellow. He should have been Red carded but that would have been his 2nd and he would have to sit 4 games.
He is a dirty player and people should not give him all the credits he is getting. He is not as good as his press.
Why did he throw a punch? Whether he's not a good as he's press or not, I would think throwing a punch would be a pretty cut a dried red, unless something else on the pitch was going on.
He threw a punch because he was frustrated that a smaller player was marking him and had taken the ball a few times. The Richfield player performed a legal slide tackle, and Mallace came down on top of him with an elbow to the back and then threw another punch to the middle of his back.
This was at the beginning of the 2nd half and Mallace was heard at the end of the first half that he was going to get the Richfield player, so he better watch out. The Richfield player was also given a yellow but the official did not explain why. He said the slide tackle was fine.
Mallace is just a spoiled kid that when he can't get his way he retaliates. I was told by a former Sibley player that Mallace has been a dirty player for a long time.
both of sibleys center backs are all state material. but other than that they're pretty thin
mallace is not a dirty player, he lost his temper one time in a meaningless game. hes still in the top tier of the state of players. also, refs do not favor players just because of theyre ability.
Just saw Lakeville North is still unbeaten... are they that good or just lucky? heard their keeper Glassman is pretty good and their sweeper keeps them in it, think his name is Roach...
ANON 5:14
What world are you from? Think about what you said.
If you have ever seen the kid play you would know that he always pushes the envelope.
I guess if he lost he's temper it's ok. I mean it not like you can hold him accountable or anything, obviously the ref didn't so why should anyone else.
Personnel, I think he should have been thrown from the game. When he sat the next 4 games it would have been educational for him and his teammates to discover how important there behavior is in meanless games.
sibleys center backs didnt look too hot when they played hill
mallace is one of the cheapest players ive ever seen, he plays dirty and whines about every call
Leave the kid alone I have played against him at club and school level and he is one skilled player. Hard and passionate but not dirty. I think someone is a little jealous !!!!
Lets talk soccer and not rip on players.
haha are you joking?! I've played against him at both highschool and club and hes never failed to play cheap and whine any of the times i have
Ok we all get it you don't like him. Get over it !!!!!
Lets talk soccer
lets talk about MG vs Park Center.
Park center is cand of coming back.
what did you think? if you want to talk about soccer.
MG should beat PC tommmorrow. they have been playing better after a rough few games.
I'm thinking that Section is pretty wide open--Champlin lost their star forward, Osseo has suspect defense and fights among themsleves, MG makes it a game with any team (good or bad!). Centennial is coming on as well with a strong young team. I don't see PC in the mix; did you see what happened against CP? Good Lord.
Getting back to taking a swing at a player.
As a Player, Coach, & Scout, players that cannot control their anger on the field and takes swings at other players therefor getting a yellow or red cards are a liability. Those players need to think. They are hurting the rest of the TEAM.
I have talked to many Coaches who believe they are a liability and can hurt the TEAM. Not only by not being on the field, but the position it puts the rest of the squad by playing short. Also brings the rest of the TEAM down. We never should support violence on the Pitch.
Coaches is poll is out where is St. Louis Park in the Poll and why are they not posted?
How does the Coaches Poll work and who votes in this are there only a select few or do all the coaches vote.
Any information on this would help the Lads and others see the light.
Some coaches vote. Others throw it in the trash, because that's what they think it is, and dont have time to take care of it. I'm a HS coach. I don't vote. It's voluntary. The ballot doesn't come in the mail anymore.
I misread the poll I meant where is Benilde
The coaches poll is done on Sundays via the MSHSSCA (www.mshssca.org) website. All high school coaches are invited to vote online but many choose not to.
The results are supposed to be posted Sunday evening or Monday sometime but rarely are. Most times, the results are in the newspaper on Tuesday and then posted online.
Hope this helps
Now that we are later into the season, who are the favorites for each section?
are there any freshmen or sophmores who are standing out already that could have mr. soccer potential in the future?
ive heard talk bout many of the same teams but no1 seems to be tlakin about WBL when they recently just ended an impressive 9 game undefeated streak in a very difficult
MG beat Park center 3-2.
MG play hard the first half. The freakin water was so bad you couldn't be able to move the ball were you wanted. The second half Park center controlled the game. They scored to goals. Which was 15 minutes difference.
MG 8-4-1
PC 6-6-3
CP 10-2-2
I saw the MG - PC game. Before the game there was a meeting with what appeared to be coaches and referees. At one point someone kicked a ball to show that when it hit the puddle it would stop. Lots of water everywhere. I have always wanted to be a fly on the wall when these discussions are going on. Crazy decision to play on that field...
In the first half it was clear who did not want to play. MG playing kick ball and PC trying to play on the ground. Once PC got used to the field conditions they dominated the second half, but could not tie it up.
The refereeing was horrible, as usual. The last MG goal and 1 of the PC goals were obviously OS...
wow i just looked at lakeville norths section and there will be absolutely NO competition for them
Someone to look for Mr. Soccer down the road may be Paul Yonga with Totino Grace. Excellent player great ball control and smart player sees the field.
Totino Grace played Robbinsdale Cooper they beat them 5-1. Wet conditions made it very difficult to play a good game on both sides. The Back Line continues to be very strong and really is the Heart of the Team.
class A zzzzzzzzzz
Anon 10:30 Hard to look at Cooper as a real result, as they are a terrible team this year. I'm sure they have won a game, but not much more than that.
No surprise that MG barely beat PC. They barely beat bad teams and barely lose to good teams. Odd.
I think Anoka plays surburban and outstate teams, so they should have no problem. My guess is that Southwest will beat Edina again in the "city" section. Wayzata will play Hopkins, possibly lose in their section final. Champlin will lose to Centennial in their final. (?!)
Tough to talk about future Mr. Soccer, but it does seem that most kid's wins include prior year's achievements. Yongas dad is a well-known summer coach/promoter, kind of like Buzz Lagos. (The Thunder was started to showcase his kids.) But Joe's kid is good.
Anon 8:02 - if Buzz efforts was to showcase his kids and Thunder grew, not bad for soccer dad efforts - huh. I am sure MA, Magee, Sanneh, Swallen, and host of others did not care if Buzz was promoting his kids. The kids were good in their own right.
Maybe all the overrated and overpaid DOCs making money off MN soccer showcase your kids and see MN soccer grow.
Anyone knows who is the highest paid DOC and what Buzz got paid?
Let's compare and see who really has the interest of MN soccer at heart!
I don't know who has found the money train with MN club soccer. Tudor? Pez? Certainly there is money to be had.
Wasn't it interesting to see Tony Sanneh on the bench at Thunder games? Hmm.
Yes, yes lets begin the self promotion of the Super Eagles now. B-0-R-I-N-G!!! Are we talking next years Mr. Soccer or two years from now. Alot changes in one year of soccer let alone two. If I were Mr. Yonga I'd check with the Wayzata group to see how much I wanted to promote my kid. I don't know if they would recommend it.
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