With all the nonsense in the previous posting, its time to let the kids play. Looks like MN weather will keep the games from starting for a few more days. Hopefully the fields will hold up. Good luck to everyone in the tournament!
Schedule and results here: http://www.mnyouthsoccer.org/events/statecup.cfm#sched
1,034 comments:
1 – 200 of 1034 Newer› Newest»Good luck to the play-in teams. It looks like the weather will hold today and the games will finally be played.
any results for the u15 girls?
U15G:
Eastside 1, Blackhawks 0 (OT). Even game, could have gone either way.
U15G:
St. Croix 2, Wayzata(Premier 02?) 1
Didn't see the game, just the score.
Let us all wish for good weather and that we send quality teams to regionals. No upsets!!
Bangu U13 over Dakota Rev. No lefse. 2-0. The Rev looked good and have a lot of talent. Bangu controlled play, but the Rev shut out #17 and played smart defense. Best of luck to both teams.
2-0? That's all the goo girls could manage? I thought this team was the favorite. If they can't do better against a younger team, I doubt they will win the campionship
As has been stated often there are no high level teams at this age group.
Come on, The Bangu coaches are smart they were holding back for two reasons one not to show too much, two taking it easy on a younger over matched team. They will be the champs.
I believe the Kickers won the U17 play-in
when do they post all the updated schedules? anyone have any insight? are they pushing everything back or just rescheduling early games out past the next games?
They win 2-0 and they are no good. If they had won 6-0 someone probably would have blasted them for running up the score. I doubt the field conditions allowed for a highly skilled game. Love to hear some commentary from those in attendance.
the fields all looked to be in good shape
fields were fine...swedish smurf, you were there coaching the rev, what's your take?
Here's what I saw.
The fields were in good shape, as the wind picked up and it started snowing it got cold.
Bangu was on the attack the majority of the time. They had some good chances and got one in the first and one in the second. The rev clogged the box and helped each other well on defense. Bangu could have been more aggresive on the attack and made more shots. They seemed to take an extra touch, looking for that perfect pass or shot, and the Rev caught up to them.
The Rev laid back with 8, sometimes 9 back and left 1 or 2 up top. It looked like they wanted to try to get a ball through and hope for a rush. They really weren't able to get that through ball at all. The Bangu defense did a good job of taking that away. The Rev did attack a couple of times, but Bangu did a good job clearing and the rev didn't have a shot on net.
Hats off to the Rev, they came with a game plan and with a couple of breaks could have had some success.
anon 849...
According to the MYSA weather line, the Sunday games will be rescheduled. The recording says the schedules will be updated Monday afternoon. My guess is, the games that were supposed to take place on Sunday will be the only ones changed and the rest of the schedule will remain the same.
MYSA would have to be complete idiots to change the entire schedule. No way they would do that. Sunday's games might go to next weekend, but that would mess up ODP, so my guess is they'll go to the following weekend.
I stopped by the 13 play in game yesterday. At first I thought I was on the wrong field. Smurf on one side and MA on the other. I thought maybe the 14s decided to play afterall...LOL
On the U13 play-in game,
Neither team looked sharp. We (DR) have a couple of very talented players who caused some problems for bangu, and our gk made a couple of point-blank saves that were impressive. #17 from bangu is a special player and will cause most teams a lot of trouble. The fields were fine. The weather was cold, but the flurries did not affect play. Both teams had difficulty switching play. DR did not transition well as the game went on because we used up so much energy on the defensive side of the ball. As for bangu, they will probably be the team in the tournament with the most depth and athleticism, and they are ok on the technical side as well, but they looked shakey at times on defense in transition and really should have created more against an opponent a full year younger. Bangu's group will now make them look better than they might be (BNG and PL not strong, not sure about Edina). As for DR, we will focus on winning the south district and being premier at 13!
Fields where in good shape if they can stay like that through the whole cup that would be great.
Not much to say about the REV Bangu game, the better team won.
In the first half Bangu did only hav one or maybe two real good scoring opportunities. The goal came from a shot outside the box that the GK got her hand on but she was not able to push it over the cross bar (the GK can not touch the cross bar even when she jumps=)
The girls that was supposed to play in goal had her first communion so she and a forward (who's sister had her first communion) had to miss the game.
Not and excuse but it meant that the girl who played in goal (she is very good in net) could not play on the field. She is a very solid field player as well. So two solid fields players where gone.
In the second half Bangu put a lot more pressure on the REV girls, they did so with a lot of crosses. In the second half Bangu was very dominate, the second goal came with about 6 minutes to play. Bangu capalized on a individual mistake and scored a good goal.
The goals they scored could have been avoided, however Bangu also created 3-4 clear opportunities that should have been goals had it not been for the REV GK or Bangu players putting the ball wide.
To anon 10:40. We did not ask the girls to play any different than they have in the past except that we asked on of our girls to keep an I on the player you mentioned and the girl we asked to do so did an excelent job.
The reason it looked like we had 7-8 kids in or around the box was because of the pressure Bangu put on.
The two forwards actually stayed to high and that is something we need to work on, could be because they where not used to being as domintaed as they where.
We where very proud of the girls efforts and attitude towards the game. Overall it was a good experience for the girls and hopefully they will be back next year and have a even better experience.
As far as Bangu I have said all along that they will win the cup and I have no reason to change that.
Swedish Smurf
Since the u13 State Cup Champion has already been decided, maybe we can cancel the remaining games in order to allow the other age groups to get caught up their postponed games ;)
10:02 - why can't SS have an opinion? At least he is a coach who has played many of the teams, can offer an informed/educated opinion, and is not a biased parent. Let us know who you think is going to win.
Nice recap smurf. I thought your girls played well.
Let's have the next 5 posts exclusive to any team except Dakota Rev and Bangu. Tonka, PSA, Woodbury alll are legitmate contenders for State Cup. To listen to all the Dak
Rev and Bangu parents and others all leagues should be cancelled too so we can crown champs today. Let's hear about some other team for a minute.
I love all of the magnanimous commentary on here about, "Good luck to all teams." What does that really mean? In that pointless spirit, good luck to MA and to the happy Smurf and to the officials (even the bad ones), to MYSA officials, to all coaches, to parents walking their dogs between fields (you'll need it), to those parking cars in the street and in the lot, to local vendors and to anyone who happens to be in Coon Rapids during a State Cup game or even during the tournament (even to Coon Rapids residents as long as the tournament is on). Good luck, too, to anyone who knows someone in Coon Rapids, but can't be there for a game.
Also, to the bangu parent who is praying for no upsets, good luck to you and to your opponents (especially to your opponents).
A special note of good luck to Tom Moriarty.
I think I covered everyone. I just hope all of these people are able to have good luck the whole time, particularly when playing against each other.
Good luck to all bloggers, too.
See what a happy place the blog can be.
Smurf,
As someone who has absolutely no interest in the U13 bracket, I want to say that I sure hope you will continue to offer commentary here on your team's sterling performances even while they are not in the tournament. Can we get some practice summaries? : )
Geez, all we've had are a few play-in games and it is already getting a bit snarky in here. There is relief in sight! After pool play the vast majority of bloggers disappear as their daughter's teams are no longer playing.
U-13 predictions:
Group A: Tonka, but think Bville could surprise.
Group B: I cant say their name out of respect for poster 10:23.
Group C: Wings.
Group D: Maplebrook. Hows that for a "nonfamiliar" team to the speculation on this Blog. PSA very good also, but Maplebrook is my darkhorse to surprise.
No mention of those other two clubs here. :)
FYI, Smurf was asked for his thoughts on the game. He is not the coach of that team, but was assisting. Dokken coaches that team.
Anon 1029 said:
"Also, to the bangu parent who is praying for no upsets, good luck to you and to your opponents (especially to your opponents)."
So 1029 are you saying that only Bangu teams should hope for no upsets? I beg to differ. There are 7 age groups. I would say Bangu definitely has the best team in 2 of them. WBY and SCV have one and 3 age groups are wide open.
10:37,
Woodbury, despite their performance at JFG against high-level older teams and in bad conditions, will push Tonka in group A (U13). That group will be decided when those two teams meet on Tuesday.
Also, PSA will club Maplebrook. Blackhawks will be PSA's best test in the group stage.
Wings may get pushed by a decent Kelix team in Group C.
How about the semis?
Bangu over PSA. Tonka over Wings in a close one. Bangu wins comfortably in the final.
To 10:33am
Don't read it if you have no interest in it. Someone asked for my 2 cents worth and I gave it.
I would like a summary of the Wayzatta and St Croix U15 game, have heard that those are both good teams and that it was unfortunate that they had to play in the play in game.
However I doubt any one will do that since they risk being made fun of by people who are anon and can not stand for who they are or what they think or say.
Swedish Smurf
Bangu girls have 4 returning State Cup champs. Three of those 4 are repeat winners from 2006. I would rate them all as favorites at this point in time.
Several knowledgeable coaches have said the U13 team should also be considered a favorite but that's questionable.
Let's see how many of these teams are upset.
Anon 10:37. I could be all wet with this prediction. I have not seen them play 11v11, but did see at 8v8. I agree that may be a difference maker. Maplebrook U-13 girls are 12-0 as U-12's summer season and 6-0 fall season as U-13's . PSA also very strong record.
Why are you so confident in PSA v Maplebrook? have you seen them play lately? I am not a parent of either team, just a parent of kids in this age group .
Smurf, thanks for your post. I thought your take was thoughtful and valuable. Don't pay attention to the people who come on here to get under people's skin. Maybe whoever takes over this blog can make people register and do away with anonymous postings.
11:27 I agree with you, SS usually has thoughtful insight and his posts are appreciated. But please to all including 11:27, let's not keep the endless he said she said junior high crap going.
U13's! You people are treating this as a U13 World Cup, there will be MANY MANY more chances for your dd's to perform. Dont worry if your team was beat or won. Big deal. Your over all goal and big picture should be U17/18. That is where you will see soccer players playing the game the way it was meant to be played. Till then, all of this stuff should be for training and learning how to play the game.
As for SS adding his .2 cents worth. I do not agree with ANY coach getting on here and telling others what they thought of any game or player, it will always lead to someone taking it the wrong way. This adds to all the complaining on this site. The MA Blog is just as bad. I think its very unprofessional.
It's people like SS and MA that SHOULD be posting on here to give all you parents a dose of reality at times. Is the a parent blog or a soccer blog? At least SS is bringing some soccer to this site. If you want to drive that away and sit her and type about how great your child, team, or club is, keep bashing SS. Pretty soon he'll leave just like MA, WH, and others.
As for blogs like Abboud's, Kaasa's, Alberti's, Isquierdo's, etc. I'm ALL for them. At least we're hearing from professionals in their field, not a bunch of parent fricking idiotic complainers like those who proliferate this site and who have dragged what could have been a good forum into the mud its in now.
Shut this down and someone restart something where people need to register. It will be far, far more quiet and far more beneficial to the game.
12:36 relax nobody takes this stuff that seriously. Please calm yourself.
And you ppl wonder why everything else has shut down?
LOL people don't truly take anything they read here or any coach blog seriously do they? I doubt anyone posts here about specific teams or players unless they have an agenda. The coach blogs obviously have an agenda, which is OK in my book. I wouldn't change a thing, this is excellent entertainment, of which the U13-14 parents are the best!!
I actually like the mix of personalities and expertise on this board. The solid coaches opinions mixed in with the parents thoughts. Sure we get the occasional goofyness but who cares. For any discussion focusing on youth soccer not to include the Coaches and the parents thoughts would to me seem incomplete. Other than the players, the coaches and the parents are the predominant influences on MN youth soccer. Clearly and in my opinion thankfully not everyone agrees. I value the different viewpoints. Some I think are crazy , others I think are completely logical.
Everyone can take what they want from this board. It is OK to have all points of view heard and appreciated from the perspective of the individual giving it.
Coaches, remember without an interested parent group you're out of work.
Parents, without high level coaches your kids development is left in the hands of Former Football (American) players like myself. Trust me SS and MA are a better choice.
Now the scandanavian troll and MA are mentioned in the same breath? Smurf, you must be doing great work! I bet MA is nervous that Dakota Rev will pass bangu now!
1:28 People seem too often to forget these are still little kids playing a game. Most of the coach blogs I've read are egotistical garbage and a waste for anything beyond entertainment. I agree with whomever reminded us that the parents pay the freight. We as an industry so to speak need to remember if we fail to heed that and police our own we imperil ourselves. There are few youth sports in which so many people are making a living exclusively. Coaches need not to bow to parents but need to remember there are other options out there and if it becomes too difficult or nasty or confusing we will lose kids to other activities.
Interesting that Anon 12:36 wants everyone to have to register, I assume to make all who speak accountable for their words, yet he/she makes their rant anonymously ?
Yes I know , I have left my posting unsigned also. My soccer knowledge would likely not pass the Anon 12:36 test hence my continued annonimity.
From what I have heard the U14 games that where cancelled this weekend will be played next Sunday at 6:00PM. Think some teams have MRL next weekend, could be a headache for players, coaches and especially managers.
Swedish Smurf
12:36, if you really want to talk soccer, then go to Bigsoccer.com, its free. Its not about U13s and 14s. Its a much bigger picture than MN Youth Soccer. Go to BS.com and learn about the National League, College recruiting, etc etc etc.
To date, I havent seen DOCs from the Texans, Eclpse, PDA etc have coaching blogs on any blogsite.
as a parent of a CC player i enjoy reading all the posts here "good" and "bad". it seems to me that when coaches and parents do predictions and post assessments of games/players/outcomes even at the u13 level, it shows an interest level that will keep the players and families involved if applied properly. i would argue that most coaches are not skilled as delivering honest feedback to a player and their parents when it is 'negative' but like most professions hope the 'issue' goes away through less playing time and less focus. part of creating a buzz for an event (or a sport) includes good and bad. this is a place where people can see that type of discussion at least in general and the amount of thought that can go into the decision and analysis process. it is probably no coincidence that girls soccer has a higher participation rate in MN and the number of posts and passions elicited here are higher. for those of us with real jobs that can't watch soap operas, this is as good as it gets!
The MYSA Web site has the revised schedules on line. Basically, the U13 Girls and U14 boys rescheduled to Saturday and U13 Boys and U14 girls rescheduled to Sunday.
2pm, you haven't looked hard enough. I also think it takes a bit of a different breed to do DOC work and have interest or time to keep up a blog. Take that how you will, but many DOCs I know couldn't piece 2 sentences together let alone an entire website.
Agree parents and coaches need and feed off each other. I'm no longer supportive of a negative blog like this in our soccer climate, but you haven't seen anything unless you've seen the blogs in other more competitive soccer cities. To one degree or another, all parents are coaches are the same. Parents will ALWAYS tout their kids, coaches will ALWAYS tout their teams and clubs. Those who tout loudest or have the most to tout about usually are deemed the bad guys.
Ever seen the youth hockey blogs? This one is no worse than those (might actually be a bit tamer). The hockey blogs are full of "name the best PeeWee A players", etc.... threads - talk about being overrun by parents....
actually I believe there is a lot less pettiness on the hockey blogs......and in order to post you have to register and take a moniker. That way at least your posts are associated with a moniker from the same individual.
13s and 14s begin group play tonight. What are the best match ups tonight?
I think on the U13 side it's Tonka/Woodbury and Wings/Wayzata. On the U14 side Eagan/NSSA and Rev/Wings.
So.... anyone have any thoughts/predictions on the U13 and U14 age groups? Any players to watch for that are the real deal?
There is a Wayzata girl 13 plays 14 don't know which team though. She is hands down the best 13 year old in the state.
U13 Tonka/Woodbury should be a good and competetive game and so will Wayzatta/Wings at U13.
U14 REV/Wings play Thursday
Have a feeling Blaine and Bangu green will be close. I will pay close attention to NSSA/Eagan IMO the most competetive game of the night at U14.
To JK heard the Bangu team that is playing EP is pretty good =) so you may want to watch that game for a while.
Swedish Smurf
Anon 8:11, your daughter is good, but I wouldn't say "hands down the best 13 year old in the state." There are several players that are as good or even better.
13 Woodbury Tonka The 13 game of the day. Winner will be a legit. challenger for winning it. Tonka has the edge at midfield and keeper WDB has the edge at forward and JE coaching. With what she did with the Inferno this team should be great too. Wings game close second Wings will win.
jk at first I was amazed anyone would ask about this age group yet again and particularly about specific players, but let me guess, is jk code for "just kidding" as in the texting world?
Here are some players to watch...
There are some good players scattered throughout U13.
The keeper for Tonka has to be consider one of, if not the best, keeper in the age group.
Bangu blue (U14P) has three very talented players. A blonde forward, their center mid and the right side defender.
Burnsville picked up a couple of good players, a tall blonde player and a smaller defender/mid fielder.
At U14, MAs team is always fun to watch. They have several talented players and a U12 who is playing up who has to be considered the best player in the state at her true age group.
We've already heard the parent of the U13 play up for Wayzata, she's good.
I'm sure there are more, but that's a start.
How about a poll on the most creative ways to plug your daughter? Mentioning many others in the same post is good. The best IMO though is something like this "we played TSFC last night and gave them a good game, we just could not stop #88 and she was the difference maker. She is the real deal!"
Let's try to focus on teams, not invdividuals (especially at this age). It usually turns into a slippery slope and disintegrates into back-and-forth one upping the other. Also, I would leave the evaluation to the coaches as they usually can recognize talent better than us parents. A forward who can run fast to chase long balls may not necessarily be a better player than a tough as nails never make a mistake center back, but the former gets the glory while the latter gets the respect and wins games.
I would not leave it to coaches either as they usually promote a player as a way of promoting themselves or someone else. Just leave individuals out of it. 917 is right. We have already seen some foolish comments about individuals just in the last few posts.
906 you are very perceptive :) Amazing isn't it?
Jeez 65 post already and we have not gotten to group play yet. This should be interesting to follow, can't wait to read the ground breaking dialogue that is going to posted here.
88 is a stupid number for a footballer
plenty of good games tonight so i hope there is a slew of pent up useful chatter afterwards...especially given much of the noise is u13/u14 on this board and those games kick off in full tonight...i am looking forward to the play by play!
If the prognosticators are correct it is likely that FR and SA games will be washed out. Will MYSA play on Memorial weekend if necessary?
wow, no results yet? I mean the games have to have been over for nearly an hour.
U13
Burnsville 3 St. Croix 0
Tonka 1 Woddbury 1
Bangu South 5 Edina 2
Bangu Blue 7 Prior Lake 0
Wings 2 Wayzata 0
Kelix 1 Minneapolis United 1
PSA 0 Bangu Wast 0
Maplebrook 1 Blackhawks 0
U14
NSSA 4 Eagan 1
Bangu Blue 4 Eden Prairie 0
Blaine 0 Bangu Green 0
Bangu White 4 St, Croix 0
Srry, typo on the U13 Burnsville/St. Croix score, should be
Burnsville 6 St. Croix 0
Tonka and Woodbury looked very good, as did Maplebrook and Bangu Blue. I did not see Wings, but they should be very good, too.
Stupid question - how does the scoring work? Is it just x number of points for a win/tie/ 0 for a loss, or are their points for shut outs, etc.?
Sorry, I meant "there".
3 points for a win
1 point for a tie
Max goal differential is 3
...no points for shut out or goals.
Wow, awful quiet in here for all of the soccer that was played by the 13's last night! Who would have guessed that when the kids started playing the adults would stop talking? Kind of nice, actually.
My conclusion is there were lots of Dakota Rev people in here now gone!
Surprised that PSA only managed a 0-0 tie with one of the Bangu U12 teams. A couple of lopsided games - Bangu Blue/Prior Lake 7-0and Burnsville/St. Croix 6-0.
At the U-13 age a few items that seem at least somewhat surprising to me.
Bangu South (I think they are one of the u-12 teams) beating Edina badly.
Burnsville destroying St Croix. I like bville as a team but 6-0 WOW
PSA and Bangu East (another U-12 team?) playing to a 0-0 tie.
No surprise but curious if Prior lake is that bad or if Bangu 14p just had a slow night in the play in game. Looks like they were very decisive in the 7-0 victory last night.
Woodbury and Tonka 1-1, JE is going to make that team at Woodbury as good as the Inferno team she helped build to a national ranking. Sounds like they played well last night.
11:19...
I believe you're right the east and south bangu teams are U12 play-ups.
I did not see either of those teams play, so I couldn't tell you anything about them. But some say they are both pretty good.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I only know they're 12s because my daughter is with the 13 blue team.
The U13 Woodbury team will never be as good as Inferno without turning over 2/3 of their roster. There is not a team at this age group, Bangu included, that will ever be a highly ranked team nationally unless the talent is consolidated within the next 2-3 years. You have to wonder in the current environment if that will happen.
having been there way to much into the darkness and walking and watching parts of many games (i am a soccer dork) it is clear we were watching early spring/late winter soccer on bad fields in cold weather. people seem to be raving about Woodbury/Tonka but I saw very little there of high level play. i guess when they play their next games against others there may be a better barometer. the Prior Lake team (sorry to be harsh) isn't a c1 team so I wouldn't infer anything from a 7-0 win. Bangu v bangu in that bracket for certain. it is clearly going to be true that the bangu teams are the most prepared based on winter training and out of town early events. that said, i didnt think they were spectacular or shoulder above (like last years u13 team). all in all nothing seemed clear from last night except a few teams are clearly weak and the u14 Bangu premier team has an easy path to the semi finals. I suspect the next games (obvious statement) will shed light on things. its fun to be out there though!
Anyone watch Bville play ? earlier on this or the old State cup board they were mentioned as a sleeper. Very decisive victory last night. Are they that strong ? I saw them last year and they looked good, but 6-0 is a dominating win.
11:41 I don't know about the 2/3 turnover but they were ready to play and it is apparent that they have trained over the winter. She is a "star" coach who may be the one to draw this age group together in the present environment. Nice deal to have a high profile woman coach, a bonus for all.
I think it's much like the Bangu/Prior Lake game, you can't tell much because I'm not sure how strong the opponent is. We will know more about Burnsville after their next game (against Woodbury) on Saturday.
1141 was being charitable, 2/3 is minimum. They are like a few other teams with a decent nucleus but a long ways off from being able to compete out of state.
agree with anon 12:34. U16 WDB has almost a monopoly on all the best U16's out there. at the current U13 level, i doubt one team has more than 3-5 of the best players at the age group. to achieve the same kind of success as the older team, she would have to duplicate the same thing.
forgot to add....however, she is one outstanding coach.
(Tounge in cheek for those who may over react.
The problem might be that you couldn't consolodate in Woodbury. They may not let any former Bangu players join their club so she wouldn't be able to coach them.
for what it is worth, when I watched Burnsville (I am 11:52) the ball never left their offensive end and they seemed to have some fairly fast players and a good attack upfront. again, scv looked like they were running in quicksand (similar to Prior Lake). my dime store analysis says they will give both woodbury and tonka a run for their money and it would probably be a good game to watch. i believe their coach came from Woodbury which makes it interesting also
The best matchup of the tournament will probably be played tonight between Shattuck and Bangu Blue.
Looks like it will be a nice evening for it. Hopefully MYSA have obtained some good officials for this one. Not saying that the once so far have been bad but the majority of the referee's in the state may be in over their head if they have this one.
My guess it will go to PK's
Swedish Smurf
what... again... makes one a "high profile" or "star coach"? I would think you might need more than a few Minnesota state cups on your resume... I would think.
Let's see . . . in their last three national tourneys, JE's team finished 2nd, 1st and 1st. I would think a MN team might need a "star" coach to get those results.
LOL. Truth in advertising would suggest that it be mentioned that the two "1'st" place finishes refer to winning a pool in a showcase tournament in which there are no playoffs or true champions determined. One of these tournaments involved no nationally ranked teams in their group, as the top teams at the tournament were playing each other in national league play. I agree that JE is an excellent coach and in the top tier in the state. Please don't embellish accomplishments, it is not necessary.
How about if a coach compiled a record of 1-5-3 in 3 years at regionals with the win against North Dakota. GF 6 GA 19. Would that be a star coach?
Let's be honest here, if you substituted another club with those same results and more to the point a male self promoting coach, we'd be reading here how he has to be the face and voice of high level Mn. soccer. She is a great coach especially in light of all the turmoil there in the past few years. I was not there to see her team but it sounds like she is doing a super job AGAIN.
Come on now, this has been pleasant the lat few days let's get back to the games played and teams that played.
This may may been reported on earlier, but I missed it because of all the other noise: are the CR fields in poor/OK/great?
|Fields looked pretty good on Sunday. The grass hasn't taken yet due to the cold weather so it plays fast (when dry) but overall the fields are fine.
Caught a few minutes of the Bangu PSA game. Bangu team was scrappy and did well I say PSA had an off game. They will be there at the end.
well.i'm pretty sure the bangu blue has been holding off.
everyone here should stop trying to act like experts and realize the truth.
no one stands a chanse against this bangu team.
just send them to the regionals now.
I think 7:55 was talking about the U12 Bangu team, not Bangu blue. Calm down.
Any word on the U18 Shattuck v Bangu game tonight?
5:59, you know that was a 12 year old team your daughter was playing, right?
After watching many games last night it is evident that skill with the ball is lacking on many teams.
Bangu Blue 18's 1, Shattuck 0.
SSM dominated early, but when one of their players was fouled (their coach referred to it as the type of foul that, "could end a career")and had to sit out for 10 minutes, the game slowly changed.
Bangu's goal was the result of a poorly executed pass along SSM's back line that was picked off. After a save and a scramble, the ball was put home.
Shattuck was extremely impressive in their footwork and technical ability, and bangu's team speed was apparent throughout. Shattuck was unlucky not to score a goal, as they hit the bar in the opening minute and had several shots that would have been difficult saves blocked by bangu defenders. They also forced numerous fouls in bangu's back third in the second half, but their execution at set-pieces was lacking. Bangu's best attacks were counters and they produced several very good opportunities late in the game when SSM was throwing people forward. Overall, it was an entertaining game, and either team could easily have prevailed.
A fair analysis of game. Very disappointed number 15 had to play for SSM. She appeared hurt and should have been replaced ,although her brave play help keep bangu counter attacks from scoring. Hats off to her and shame on SSM coachs for allowing this to happen.
As a Bangu parent I was very impressed with SSM. Iy is really a shame that they cannot move on to regionals as they clearly deserve to do so. I cannot understand the MYSA format for this bracket. This should have been a round robin affair. The game was evenly matched for the most part. Bangu's speed was the difference. My hats off to the SSM team... they played very hard.
Why would a team that cannot win atate cup in a mid level soccer state "clearly deserve" to go to regionals? Nothing against SSM here, I just do not understand the sentiment in general. These were two solid teams, but certainly not among the top tier in the region.
The U18 girls in MN has a wildcard spot - so the MN State Cup Champion and 2nd place team both will go to regionals this year. It will be Bangu and North Metro, who defeated the Bangu White team in a shoot out last night.
12:21 - this is not an uncommon theme there. It is not the first time I've seen a players health put at risk. That kid was, is hurt... she has a scholarship and a future ahead of her, if the SSM coach, being the expert he is, was so concerned about her career, what the #$*%? was she doing back in that game?
could one of the SSM experts please answer that?
Hold your fire until you know all the facts. Some players tend to limp around and act like they are on their last legs when there really isn't much wrong with them. The coach knows his players better than the fans. I am not saying this is the case with this player, don't know her, but it certainly is possible.
Wow, a lot of talk about a hard foul. I didn't hear any talk about the u13 girl who had another girl intentionally stomp on her head (hard) in a play in game. The girl ended up with a concussion.
No one was complaining about that. I spoke to her dad and she's doing fine now, but cannot remember half the game, she kept asking who won.
No outrage over that one?
Yes, now that you tell us about it, I am outraged.
With a concussion that severe she should have been brought to the hospital immediately. What was her coach thinking about? Weren't her parents at the game? That is outrageous.
Yes, her parents were there. She was brought to the doctor after the game once she started asking about the score etc...
Bangu was able to exploit the aftermath of #15s injury / foul and score the winning goal. But IMHO, SSM dominated Bangu most of the evening. Every now and then you come away from a game thinking "the better team didn't win tonight". I would bet every Bangu parent, player and coach left that field with a gigantic sigh of relief. SSM was a pleasure to watch and their fans were refreshingly enthusiastic.It’s really too bad the draw didn’t work out differently. I would have liked to see last night’s game as the U18 final.
8:17 I was at the game and in no way saw any cheap shots on either side of the ball. I am sorry one of the players ended up injured, but until your post was conmpletely unaware.
I think you make an overly strong statement to say "intentionally stomped on her head". Like I said earlier I was at the game I think you are refering to (Bangu vs REV) and saw no "dirty " play on either side.
I was at the U18 SSM/gu game, too, and that foul changed everything. #15 was dominant in her space until that foul and SSM's running and precision passing on the flanks in particular had bangu frazzled. To bangu's credit, they hung in there and their pressure produced the game's only goal. SSM was quick in tight space and dominant 1v1 (and much sharper technically), but they lack endurance at key positions, and as they tired, bangu's hard running in space forced a lot of defensive running by SSM, which stretched their shape and took away their ability to build consistent attacks as they did early on. As someone without a horse in this one, I agree that SSM deserves to be at regions (NM will not fair well (remember when they lost to the blue team by 10 goals last year?, and the white team failed to advance in a weak JFG tournament a couple weeks back). I think it's interesting that there is outrage about SSM's #15 playing hurt (she was out of the game with her team playing short for 10+minutes, so I assume she was checked out and wanted to reenter), and no one has said a word about the foul. I don't think there was intent to injure, but it was a hard foul that would have resulted in a dangerous set-piece, and there was no call. That seems noteworthy as well. Either way, give SSM credit, as they made a strong impression for their program.
Let the whining and excuse making officially begin. I am sure we will hear much more over the next month.
If there was no call why do you call it a foul? Perhaps hard tackle is a better term? Are you saying the game was poorly reffed and may have cost your team the game?
8:53 get real. The Rev girl did stomp on the Bangu players head, and then other players on the Rev laughed about it. Another player was told to "watch" a player, which was translated into holding her jersey and locking her arm so she couldn't move. The first girl should have received a yellow card, at a minimum. The other Rev player, who Swedish Smurf mentioned earlier, was called for the foul only once, when it happened consistently througout the game. Yes, I am a Bangu parent, but there were some ugly actions out there by the Rev team, when they would have been much better off just playing a clean game of soccer.
I personally know the PROFESSIONAL FULL TIME training staff at SSM, and I can tell you if there was fear of further injury or danger to her career, she wouldn't have been out there.
I hope EJ took notice of her last night though (#15) - the lightening should be talking to her.
Ref the SSM/BBlue game last nite, Yep, SSM did not deserve to advance if we could not score. Hats off to BBlue.
To the poster who thinks they arent deserving...This team with mostly U17 players have beaten the #1 and #2 U18 teams in the Region. StLouis (Twice) and Magic.
Good Luck to BBlue at Regionals.
To a few of the other BBlue parents, see ya at the Lightning games this summer!! Looking forward to it. #10s dad
Sounds like the U18 game last night was like a boxing prize fight. The quicker, more skilled boxer won on the judges cards in the early rounds, but the fighter who is also skilled, but with more endurance, wore the other fighter down and won the balance of the fight. From a soccer standpoint, that would also not be the first time that has happened. I was not there, so those are just my observations from reading some of the posts.
SSM has to have the highest parent/blogger ratio around. Either that or a few who are very active.
9:06 I respectfully disagree with your thoughts. The game was very clean. I have no doubts the U14Premier Bangu team was frustrated that they could only put up one goal in the first 65 minutes of play on a group of community based 12 year girls. But for you to distort the facts as you have in the fore mentioned post is unbelievable !
I will assure you if any Rev player would have been disrespectful of an injured player Coach Dokken would have had thier butt on the bench at the next break in play. I know him, and the parents of most of these kids, they play hard but they play clean . I was at the game and saw no cheap shots on either side.
9:27 - I respectfully disagree. You must not have been watching carefully because the ref called several of the cheap shots. Maybe the coach should ask the girls about the trash talk that happened on and off the field. I guess you don't know as much as you think.
Doesn't Bangu require their girls to wear magic headgear to protect and send soccer specific messages check payable to the Get Rich Quck Corporation?
9:32 - I am glad to hear that no Bangu team has ever been fiesty on the field with any sort of "trash talk".
Any time two top level teams play it gets intense, talk is talk. I didnt hear it, I doubt you did either, I do know that kids (and clearly some parents) will blow small items into something more than they are, but really "sticks and stones".
9:32 OK if the ref called the "cheap shots" you referred to, and they were as abundant as you say, how many yellow/red cards did the ref issue ?
If none, maybe, just maybe, you are seeing things through biased eyes. If so, you certainly wouldn't be the first to do so. I think all parents want what is best for their kids.
I don't have knowledge of your allegation, but can you really say you, as a parent close to the situation, are impartial ?
If I were the coach of this U12 Dakota Rev team, I'd tell the parents to knock off all the grandstanding they are doing about their team. You are not a top level team until you actually achieve it. Because you are a U12 team playing U13 means nothing. Let the girls play and praise and accolades will come only after they actually prove themselves. Parents should keep out of it - they are only setting their team up for ridicule and failure.
You're right, when I think of "grandstanding parents" the first club I think about is Dakota Rev, or for that matter any of the other community based clubs in MN.
If only the Community Clubs could learn to be Humble and accepting like Bangu parents.
Are you kidding me !?!
BTW, Haven't seen any grandstanding by the REV contributor, only defense of what they believe to be false allegations.
Well said, From what is on the official MYSA site last fall and now this spring the Dakota Rev team is 2-5. Not customarily a "top team"
Agree with Anon 10:33
If you are a REV parent/parents on this blog stop it. Nothing good will come out of parents discussing a game situation that we already know people will not agree on.
I remember the situation had no idea she was seriously injured, have talked to both Ben and MA multiple times since the game and this morning was the first time i heard about it.
I will contact Ben (The U13 coach) and check on the player and wish her the best on the teams behalf.
Also to REV parents let the girls play and enjoy the game in a competetive environment and stop talking about them on soccer blogs. Especially when they are no longer in the tournament in question.
The bottom line is Bangu was the better team and they won. I know the players have moved on time for you as parents to do the same.
Swedish Smurf
The posts today are very telling. Last night there was a U18 State Cup battle between SSM and Bangu. The players on those two teams will soon represent almost a dozen different Division 1 colleges (including UCLA in 2009). But this State Cup thread is full of talk about girls who’ve barely physically matured. It makes you wonder …
Agree with Socmom
Two very good teams played what I have heard was very good teams. I did not get the permission slip signed so I missed the game:(
However felt a need to make sure the REV parents stopped.
Swedish Smurf
Great Post Socmom!!
I was also at the Bangu/SSM game last night and I will say it was very entertaining. I would compare the game to the recent Man U vs Barcelona champions league game. Bangu was Man U, they got numbers behind the ball and made SSM try to play through 9/10 playeres most of the night. SSM played the prettier soccer as you would hope for a team that trains 5/6 times a week, but they were never able to break the Bangu defense down in the final 1/3 of the field. With the exception of the early post SSM really did not generate many good scoring chances. They never asked the Bangu keepers to make one difficult save. Bangu on the other hand countered well and could have had at least one more goal that was cleared off the line. Was SSM the better team on the ball, yes, did they have more posssision, yes. Were they the better team, that I would say no, they had great individuals but the better team was Bangu, the executed a game plan and continued to adjust and I did not see much adjustment by SSM.
A couple of other observations.
-#15 from SSM deserves a purple heart, I have never seen a player with that type of injury still have an impact on a game, her courage should be commeneded I wish her the best.
-For a program that recruits nationally and wants to showcase their program, it was somewhat interesting that they only subbed one player out of the game, that does not show much faith in the rest of the team and reflect poorly on the development they are doing with all of their players.
-Bangu's 3 defenders were outstanding, they won the game for them and did a great job of taking away SSM ability 1v1
-the atmosphere at the game was very fun, seemed more like HS fall soccer than a state cup game. I have never been a fan of SSM playing in MN state cup but last night was a great showcase for soccer in MN
Finally, to the parent of SSM#10, classy response, lets hope both sides keep it that civil and respectful. The U13 crap that is being posted is rediculous and should stop what is done is done and I am sure if there is an issue the REV and Bangu coaches can handle it.
SSM v Bangu was a very good match.
Interesting perspectives from many posters regarding both teams.
My take is that Bangu was fitter and faster. Speed kills.
Too bad both of these sides aren't going to regions.
Agree with socmum except I would have singled out that some girls in last nights game are attending Columbia rather than the school mentioned. I know this is a soccer blog and not an academic blog but it is possible that academics are at least as noteworthy.
11:56: I singled out UCLA because they were the highest ranked soccer school represented last night. And, frankly, it’s not everyday someone from this region commits to the #1 / #2 program in the nation. Every girl heading to play Division 1 soccer deserves a nod, IMHO. But, the fact is, SSM #10 was really quite impressive. I do not know her personally or have any connection to SSM. But she was sure a lot of fun to watch.
I'd like to comment on the great match last night, but I'm still rolling on the floor about the "Julie is going to make the Woodbury u13 team as good as the Inferno?" I have never heard such an ignorant comment before on this blog - and that's saying a lot. The only way Julie will coach another top level team is if she joins Bangu/Thunder, and from what I've heard, neither Julie nor Bangu want anything to do with the other.
Hats off to SSM and Bangu. Very entertaining game last night. Better team on the day won.
I understand and agree, I simply am more impressed with someone who attends an Ivy league school. Good luck and much success to all these young women in their college careers and more mportantly, their post college careers.
12:37 That type of vicious comment is not ok. I hope all the Bangu/CC/ others get on here and support the idea of not attacking coaches. Whomever made the positive statement regading her has a right to the opinion. Disagree but stop the mean stuff. Better yet be kind in all you do and say.
I'm entitled to my own comments as well. I didn't say Julie was not a good coach for I think she is. I said the poster who thought Julie was going to turn the current u13 Woodbury team into another Inferno was ignorant.
12:37,
Pick yourself up off of the floor and try to wipe off the mud. Your post is shameful and moronic. The attacks on individuals who do not participate in all of the crap that is posted here are pedantic and pointless. I am not a friend of JE (not close, actually and not a parent of a player she has coached, either) but I am familiar with her work, and your assertion that she will never again coach a high-level team unless she joins the gu-birds is both insulting and indicative of your limited intelligence. MA has tried to lure her and her team to bangu for years without any success. Whether you like her or not, she has done a very good job with Inferno and I am certain that she will be able to coach high-level teams as long as desires. Good coaches find good teams and vice-versa. Do you think Tim Magnuson cares if he coaches for bangu? That's funny, actually. I suppose you think he's not a good coach, either (definitely get your head checked in that case). There are a bunch of high-level coaches around who want nothing to do with bangu. I am not taking a shot at bangu, but your assertion and your presentation are ridiculous and you should try to show an ounce of class. As far as the Woodbury 13's go, the jury's still out. They will not be another Inferno, but it is unlikely that this age group will produce that type of team in any age group, and they were among the top handful of teams in their age group last year. You ought to let her do her work without posting such dung here.
How about a change of pace?
Anyone know how North Metro managed to take Bangu 18s into a shootout and win?
North Metro v Bangu (Singer) in U18 State Cup Final.
Yikes ...
Answer: Bangu white is not a good team, particularly by bangu standards (imagine what the blue team would do to that bunch).
Correction in the 1:17 entry: It should read that the U13 age group is unlikely to produce an Inferno-like team in any club.
12:37 1:13 JERKY REMARKS PLEASE STAY AWAY FROM PLAYERS SO YOUR MEAN SPIRITED NEGATIVITY DOES NOT RUB OFF ON THEM
The 15s and the 14s group C start play tonight. What are the "games to watch?"
socmom I think EJ coached NSSA, is that the same team (what's left of it) as North Metro?
You guys are all idiots. I'm not slamming Julie!!!!!!!!! I'm commenting on the comments about her turning the current u13 WAA team into another Inferno. Anyone who thinks that is even a possibility is clueless. Who is going to move to Woodbury when that club is floundering with the loss of TE? They also have no chance of out-drawing a centralized Bangu or Thunder or whatever club. No chance.
Also, JE is a coach, not a miracle worker and would have to overhaul 90 percent of that roster to even come close to the Inferno.
C'mon idiots, keep replying and showing your complete lack of understanding.
My daughter is not U13, but if she were, I WOULD DEFINITELY CONSIDER MOVING HER TO WOODBURY.
Why? I think that JE is the top coach at that age group. Why wouldn't I want my daughter to play for the top coach?
I would think that enough people will see that is true, and at least go through tryouts at woodbury this fall.
Not all parents are so blind as to follow the masses, and instead may look to find the best coach and role model for their daughter.
How about Bangu vs. St. Croix at U15? Hasn't St. Croix had some success out of state this spring?
As long as you can't seem to stop, Let's stop talking about how big of s percentage needs to be changed on a team. These are children who have a full season ahead of them. Let it rest.
The Rev/Wings match up at 14 may be a good one.
Weather could be an issue, rain and up to 20 MPH winds. Anybody have any thoughts on how this may benefit any particular teams style vs another team ? Refering to tonights games.
The weather will help the weaker teams, it always does.
2:10,
What are you talking about? TE? Nobody knew who he was when he was there, and fewer people at Woodbury care that he's gone. In fact, from what I hear, both parties seem to be better off. Woodbury has made a bunch of positive changes (many at JE's urging, as I understand)and word is that the new DOC there is a promising addition.
Let JE coach her teams. As far as I know she hasn't told anyone this team will be another elite team. There's no reason to write about her in here.
That's the spirit - defend someone and chump someone else. Who would take your opinion seriously doing that?
We go from wrongly bashing one to bashing two? Stop now please.
You people all need Valium.
I have sons, no daughters. I know basically zero about the girls side of MN soccer only because of the fact that I have boys. I read this thread to see what life was like in here. I have concluded that most of you are psychopaths.
everyone please get a life.
FYI u13 watchers...
Although JE is a large part of the development of the U13 Woodbury team, and trained them in the fall and half of the winter, she is staying on as an assistant coach. If it went unnoticed, KK current transfer player to the U of M who came from a top 8 program in the nation, and looks to be another promising female coach to come out of Minnesota, is commanding the side lines.
For others who talk of an "Inferno" forming and a 90% needed turnover, lets be realistic, these girls are 13 years old and the top players in the age group are at least a couple years from emerging.
As a coach and youth soccer fan, I would suggest people start to focus more on individual development, and let the other things fall into place.
Excited to see how the 13 bracket plays out!!!
Thursday results...
U14
Bangu Blue 4 - Eagan 0
NSSA 1 - Eden Prairie 1
Bangu White 4 - Blaine 0
Bangu Green 2 - St. Croix 0
Wayzata 1 - Northern Lights 0
Dakota Rev 2 - Wings 0
The sunday games in groups A and B will decide who advances...
Bangu Blue vs NSSA
Bangu White vs Bangu Green
U15
Bangu Blue 4 - Eastside 0
Wayzata 4 - Woodbury 0
Bangu White 3 - St. Croix 0
Eden Prairie 3 - Coon Rapids 0
16 Girls Let's hear some predictions in this group beyond the Inferno who are the favorites. What other teams are strong?
i am not a soccer expert like many of the people here but i walked the fields for u13 opening night and offer my predictions for saturday (plus predictions are better than insults)
bangu14 4-1 bangu 12
edina 3-0 prior lake
tonka 4-0 scv
wood 2-2 burns
mus 2-1 wyz
wings 2-0 kelix
bangu 12 1-1 mpb
psa 2-0 bhk
My prediction for Sturday is MYSA figuring out when to reschedule the games.
7:25,
(for what it's worth)
Very solid predictions. I might give woodbury a slight edge over Burnsville (maybe 2-1) but that game could go either way. Also, Tonka is 4-0 better than SCV, but they tend to struggle with finishing, so I might say 2-0.
I'm more concerned about tonight's games. It looks like it will clear out in time for the games on Saturday.
I fear the fields will still be too wet though.
where is Kelixx??? I few weeks back I saw an article in the Star Trib about Minnesota's "biggest premier club" and I can't help but notice they don't even play state cup?????
I'm new around here. Someone help explain?
Mnfutbol - is there anyway to start a thread for just U13 girls?
Woodbury will do well against Burnsville. The game against Tonka the other night was two evenly matched very strong teams. They are the cream of this group and will show it Saturday Woodbury 2-1.
My 2cents on the above predictions. I think the most interesting game is Woodbury v Burnsville, I think Bville could surprise a few teams this year they have added a few nice players to an already pretty good team.
I disagee with the MUS v Wayzata, I think this tilt will go Wayzata's way.
I like Maplebrook over the talented u-12 Bangu team, Think Maplebrook is another pretty accomplished team and may be a bit too much for the 12's.
To the poster/s who is/are tired of the u-13 talk, Don't read or pay attention. without that group this board is pretty empty. Plenty of room in cyberspace for more than one discussion at a time :)
Weather permitting, the 16s hit the pitch tonight. What are the games to watch?
U16 game of the night is PSA vs Bangu, those are the two top teams in that group.
PSA looks very strong. They will beat Bangu in the U16 group.
South fan
Game of the night, yes. Top teams in that group? Don't know how you can say that when Edina beat Bangu last weekend and was just edged by PSA. It's a three horse race in that bracket.
kind of agree with 7:47. Unlike TV, you can't change the channel.
If Woodbury is the cream of the crop in its U13 group, why only a tie with Tonka?
Tonka is one of the best teams in the u-13 field, a tie was a good showing. I think wdby is good, but the "cream of the crop" in this age group is the Bangu 14p. They are deep and have an ability to score that is missing with so many of these younger teams.
Many teams have a scorer or two with good leg strength, the teams that do the best are the ones with a broader mix of scorers with good leg strength). Of course the rest of the game must be there too, but that appears to be the difference at this age in my opinion.
Expect to see a repeat of the SSM/Bangu U18 game tonight when the U16 PSA team plays Bangu Blue. Ironically, PSA will take on the U18 Bangu approach of playing a faster more physical game, while the Bangu team will have better skills and more possession. PSA will win in a close match; if the conditions are bad, PSA will dominate.
How about SCV vs SCV ?
SCV would seem to have the edge, but don't count out SCV as they play hard. With the weather strange things can happen so SCV could win or lose (actually I can guarantee both - unless they tie). How's that for expert analysis?????
Boy the team canada, I mean SSM people have gotten awfully queit.
it was a bad beat for SSM, no matter how you slice it. There has to be a reason why a program with regional, no... national... no... international access to talent - not to mention one that has their kids exclusively for 6-8 months for training 4-5 times a week doesn't beat a local team from a soccer weak state. It underscores whats wrong with the girls program.
On the otherside though, you can see the boys program charging ahead full throttle. Carter's legion is untouchable by MN club soccer standards and will legitimately contend for a regional, maybe national title.
I know that SSM wants the girls there to balance gender issues... BUT THERE IS A REASON US SOCCER DOES BOYS RESIDENCY AND NOT GIRLS.
There are many reasons in fact.
What are these reasons?
109, Is it because male players have done so well internationally and can compete at the top level? not. Maybe the do have residency because they need to do something to get them to at least try to compete with other countries top teams. The womens side is already there. Just a thought. Don't get me wrong the women could do a lot more and if they don't they won't be near the top for long. See USA vs. Brazil. Ouch!!!
It is not because the USA is so good at producing talented women's teams. More so that many other countries have historically not put much value on womens team sports. That is changing however and they will catch up eventually.
It is not because the USA is so good at producing talented women's teams. More so that many other countries have historically not put much value on womens team sports. That is changing however and they will catch up eventually.
Me thinks it might have a bit more to do with the perceived differences in how the two genders emotional and socially react and deal with a boarding/residency program.
me thinks you are on to something there
1:37 is right. The key word being "perceived". Perception is not reality, however.
The other issue is parents...
Caution - big generalization approaching...
Parents seem to be more willing to allow their teenage boys to leave and pursue their dreams, than they are their teenage girls.
Big socialogical question as to why that might be. One that I am sure surpasses the expertice and IQ of this blog, my own included.
Say, how about those u13s???
super big generalization coming here...caution....
Put 20 boys together and at the end of 9 months they are all best friends, put 20 girls together for 9 months and WWIII has a chance of breaking out (and I'm the father of both teen age girls and boys). One is constructive, the other can be destructive.
Post a Comment