8-2-09 DOWN IN FLAMES
Fans cried, players held their heads low... and teams around the league breathed a sigh of relief as the Wanderers self-destructed Sunday evening against longtime rival Curran Management.
The champs fell 1-2 to the youngsters. The opponents worked hard all game... but did not necessarily create their own goals. Unfortunately, some sketchy field conditions turned some simple clearances into terror for the Wanderers. Curran capitalized and finished on one such occassion early. The Wanderers were not worried and began working the ball. Some great lateral movement opened up the field for them to move forward. Christian switch to Willey, Willey ate the space and gave to Sonny who was providing great width out on the paint. Sonny cut the grain and bent a great ball into Hickman running on. One touch goal... 1-1. The Wanderers pushed on. C fired high, Christian headed wide and fired wide. Elie lurked forward with a nice effort. And Williams had a few chances turned away... but the half would remain knotted.
The second half was a clone of the first. Early on Curran capitalized on the long grass which foiled a Wanderers back pass. 1-2. The Wanderers again created a multitude of chances. A couple post strikes, keeper stretching shots and virtually everyone had a hand in it. However, it is important to note, the refs turned a blind eye to the harassment that was targeted at big man Waldrupe. Tyler was clearly a force on the corners and Curran was blatantly obstructing and downright shoving him out of the play. This was resulting in many missed chances and devestating counter attacks. The clock was winding down and so was the Wanderers season. 1-2 was the final.
It was clear to see the Wanderers were not the same team as years past. Not only by the "500" record, but the coordination on the field was just not there. The quality was seen... on occassion but not consistent. A disappointing way to end a season that was hopeful of a third consecutive title.
7-29-09 FIRST ROUND BEAT DOWN
And so it was the Rowdies who would find themselves facing off against the 2008 champs in the first round. A great situation for the Wanderers as no travel was necessary and the Wanderers had good reason to want to revenge against the side that embarrased them weeks earlier.
The game lived up to the Rowdies good name... as Mehdi and the Rowdies "Grenier replacement" moved toward fistacuffs within the first 15 minutes. So each team played with 10 for the remainder of the day. Minutes after the incident the Wanderers imposed their will. Willey found C who shielded his man a layed a nice heel pass to a through running Christian. Christian provided a nice cross for Hickman... Hick did what Hick does... and it was 1-0. Not for lack of chances, but the game would stay 1-0 till half.
The second half saw the Wanderers at their best unloading three more goals. Hickman provided a highlight for Mr. Brooks on an acrobatic header. 2-0. C provided Hickman with his second on the day... and then Pat White rounded out the day with a PK even after he had finished his shot anyhow. A 4-0 routing was in full effect... but the Rowdies were still willing to create issues. A defender known simply as "tuna" decided to throw a headbutt into Christian after he was clearly winding up to crank Corlton. This situation then erupted into a good oldfashioned manch throwdown, as the gangster began to show their true colors... surrounding Christian and company. Tyler tossed a couple like rag dolls to show who was in charge. But in the end, the refs decided to end it and send the Rowdies packing for next year.
A good way to start the playoffs. Nice tending by Brunette, Elie steering the ship and Hickman with 5 points. Off to Gilford for the wekend.
7-21-09 ENDING ON A GOOD NOTE
It is about time the Wanderers show some mental fortitude. A weekday travel to the unfriendly home site of Newton FC. A squad filled with youngsters, who are typically a handfull for the Wanderers. But today would be different as the visitors came to prove a point, on the eve of the postseason.
Sporting two subs, the Wanderers took the field with a quality side and made it count. The clear key to the game was the Wanderers shutting down the youngsters attack. Brunette was stretch once or twice for quality saves... but most chances went wide or were squashed by David. Mehdi commanded a tough back line, crunching a couple guys for good measure, and organizing a terrific shut out effort. The game was slippery and extremely fast... but the elder Wanderers definitely had the better possession, while the home side was again, content to play old fashioned US Soccer Boom Ball. Disappointing to see such youth playing such crap... especially when they have some talented midfielders who were unnecessarily bypassed consistently throughout the affair.
The first half showed Brunette preserving an empty net with a nice soaring tip save... Mehdi manhandling a scrappy attacker, and Hickman pressuring on a few occassions. But all finishes remained elusive for both squads. The referees were definitely doing their best to ruin the game... but the Wanderers were determined to win. However, it would take till the second half to break the home side. It was again, Hickman who would finish his 8th of the year. An attack down the right side found Christian at the back post, a one time drop pass and Hick put it far corner. Great goal 1-0. The game details got a bit fuzzy as the game progressed due to a bad satellite feed... but it is said that the Wanderers scored an insurance goal late in the game for a 2-0 victory. Newton did have a few chances but Brunette was determined to keep a clean sheet.
A great win that proves the Wanderers are still a force to be considered in this post season. Vegas odds have not been released as some games still remain throughout the league. But it would be a bad bet to abandon the squad full of experience and success, even if the 2009 season was soft. One can be assured there are some frustrated competitors on the Wanderers side that are itching to make a statement before the fall arrives.
7-19-09 SHORT TRACK
A commanding victory over DEArarat was followed up by a game of missed opportunities. A packed crowd watch a back and forth game finally get decided in the last 5 minutes... when the Generals big man finally broke through for the game winner.
The Wanderers opened up early with a great strike from Hickman. Corlton recieved and layed off for Hickman at the 18. Hick put a laser inside the near post. The lead was short lived as Dylan's favorite referee gifted the Generals with a pk. Flo had made a beautiful slide tackle at the 18 but the youthful ref once again blew his chance to be a big man. The Generals finished 1-1. Unfortunately, the Generals didnt stop there, they added another moments later to take the lead 2-1 on a near post cross that was tapped in. This was devestating, as the Wanderers made the lengthy travel with 12 men and the home side had 20... easy.
The Wanderers went back to the drawing board. Chances were plentiful for the visitors for the rest of the half... and Brooks was able to tie the game back up before the half ended. Willey made a great attacking run out of the back.... served a nice ball to Hickman. Hicks chance got deflected and Brooks was there to pick up the pieces. 2-2 and a great battle throughout the first half.
The second half continued with great chances both ways. The Generals were content to drive the ball long to their monster forward who is typically responsible for 20 goals per season. And the Wanderers were best suited when playing to feet and hitting their targets up top. It looked as though the Wanderers would get the go ahead on a few occassions. Corlton was foiled on another breakaway... and Christian could not covert on his well created chance when he found himself in alone. A lack of finishing was clearly the downfall of the day.
Unfortunately, the monster was able to get one more chance in the final 5 minutes. A long ball skipped through and he was able to beat Brunette on a one on one. And that was that, the Wanderers could not get the job done on the road... despite some inspired play at times. Perhaps the bumpy goal mouth didnt help??? Perhaps the champs have something left to show the fans as the post season approaches.
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7-15-09 WANDERERS BACK ON TRACK???
Victory could not have come at a better time or place this week. The Wanderers dismantled D1 rival DEArarat 4-1. DEArarat did gift the visitors a goal in the first 15 minutes, as the keeper cleared a ball right to Hickmans feet for a simple finish. But after that... the Wanderers earned three more throughout the game for a commanding victory.
After Hickman gave the Wanderers the lead, the visitors commanded the game from front to back. Not that Ararat didnt have chances... they just werent as dangerous. Then Mr. Brooks kept a play alive on the endline, fed the ball to Pat White at the 12 yard area for a nice finish. 2-0. With a two goal lead at half the Wanderers felt this could be a changing point in the season.
The second half started with a scare. A DEA forward crushed a volley from 25 yards out. But out of nowhere, Brunette sailed across the goal for a memorable save. A great way to come back from a tough game last sunday. From then on the confidence was soaring high. The Wanderers added two more by way of Corlton and a PK by Mehdi, earned by Brooks. The Wanderers had a 4-0 lead before Ararat was able to finish off a scrapper.
But the key to victory was clearly organization and workrate. The Wanderers were led by a very vocal Mehdi in the backfield. He and Tyler were rock solid in the middle. And their direction worked hand in hand with Christian and White in the center mid. The tracking and closing of field space was very effective. In addition Willey was attacking out of the back like his old self. A tremendous detriment to the opposition. If the Wanderers keep that style of play, they can definitely revive the season and remind everyone who they really are. And show the young newcomers to the league what the game is all about.
Travelling to Hamilton Wenham on Sunday will be tough. But historically the Wanderers have success there. It will be interesting if they can keep the momentum of Wednesday win.
7-12-09 EMBARASSMENT AT HOME
Things took a turn for the worse this Sunday, as the Wanderers took the field against and undermanned Curran Management. Simply stated, Curran played an offsides trap which stumped the Wanderers until the second half. The Wanderers scored two, missed about 5 others. Curran scrapped in three cheesy goals... but unfortunately a goal is a goal.
The visitors walked away with a mind boggling 2-3 victory. Frustration has clearly set in on the Champs. Organization is severely lacking. Something has to be done, especially as the Wanderers travel to the DEArarat's historically unfriendly site of West Rd. Park this week.
7-7-09 THE BOWLING ALLEY STRIKES AGAIN
It was back to Sandown to face off against arch rivals... Kingston. The two teams seem to have grown to have a health respect for each other over the last couple year. Yet the home field of Kingston has proved to be a tough location for the Wanderers to get a win.
Well things looked promising in the first 10 minutes as the Wanderers had a clear advantage in possession and quality of play. But then thing turned ugly. The youngster ref began to show his true colors. He was clearly out of his league... handing out two yellows in his first two calls. This didnt sit well with Dylan who promptly got his yellow transformed into a red. So the Wanderers were quickly relegated to 10 men for the remaining 80 minutes of the game. It looked as though the Blues would be fine however, as they continued to control the play. Mehdi spearheaded the three back system and the Wanderers continued to connect the dots all over the pitch.
With the right win completely submerged the Wanderers focused much of the attack on the left and center. Rob took a position up top and nearly made good on his debut up top... but the keeper made a great tip save over the bar. Then Willey made a great run out of the back but narrowly missed the set up from Christian. Good stuff was happening and the Wanderers were confident they could pull out of their season long slump. At half things were looking positive dispite the short squad.
The Wanderers continued their quality play throughout the second half. Corlton narrowly missed a header and Hickman fired on high. But about halfway through the bowling alley had its way. The narrow minded attack of the Braves took advantage on a counter and the foward barrelled his way through for the go ahead 0-1. This was pure devestation for the champs. The Wanderers battled back but would be denied time and time again. Hickman had a wonderful attempt as he controlled a ball at the 18, turned on his marker and cranked a shot off the crossbar. Nice stuff. Then it looked like Kingston would go up by two. A pk was called, but Brunette saved the shot and the rebound... simply amazing.
As if the rollercoaster wasnt crazy enough, the Wanderers earned a PK as Willey blasted his way forward with a great attacking run out of the back. However, Rob was robbed by the keeper to keep the visitors down by one. Ahhhhhh.... the final whistle blew and the Wanderers dropped another three points. Frustration.
6-28-09 REMATCH OF 08 FINAL
The Wanderers successfully defeated the HW Generals in their first meeting since the 08 finals. The Wanderers eagerly awaited the arrival of the 08 runner-up... but what arrived was a merely a shell of the Generals squad. The roster was clearly outfitted with "fill ins", which were very young and rambunctious.
The rain arrived just in time for kick off making the pitch extremely slippery and downright dangerous. It was clear the Wanderers had the better squad this day, but it was safe to say they were not playing very organized. Fortunately the competition was not very threatening. So, it didnt stop the home side from opening the scoring in the first 10 minutes. The goal saw Rob Dow loft a nice service to Hickman on the back door. Justin headed home for the go ahead. 1-0. The first half proceeded with some nice possession by the Wanderers and plenty of scoring chances. Dave had a simple half as the back four were having an easier day than the previous outing (lets not talk about that). The Wanderers would add to the lead when they added another from their rookie Tyler Waldrupe. The goal was created by the guru. Pat made a rare blazing run out of the middle into some space on the right side. His service was cut into the box for Tyler who was arriving late. Great finish for a 2-0 lead. As the Wanderers lengthened the lead, the young additions to the Generals began to leave their feet and take advantage of the wet conditions. Tempers would escalate well into the second half.
In the second half the visitors continued to chip away at the Wanderers with late slides and heel kicks. The Wanderers continued their assault to ensure the victory before retaliating. Hickman added his second of the match with a finish off a Corlton cross. 3-0. But soon, the Wanderers couldnt hold back and it was the Jamaican that gave the youngster exactly what they were asking for. Upon being kicked in the heels, Corlton made his assailant eat his elbow. A quality move well out of the officials view. The visitors continued their dangerous tackles infuriating the home side and the refs rewarded them with yellows. Even the veteran Generals were ashamed of the behavior of the young recruits. Unfortunately the Generals did get one back, through one of their 30 somethings. A well struck shot from the rightside of the 18 somehow sailed over Brunette into the high upper ninety. A wonderful shot, or.... completely lucky......
The result was a much needed win in the messiest of circumstances. Next up for the Wanderers is Kingston. A huge rivalry... the Braves are currently undefeated while the Wanderers have struggled early. It looks as though the Wanderers have all men available for selection for Wednesdays matchup. And a road win would go a long way toward getting the Wanderers back on track, especially in a very unforgiving venue for the defending champs.
6-25-09 ROWDIES DISASTER
The Wanderers crashed an burned against a very weekened Rowdies roster. That being said... the Wanderers didnt have their full crew... but with 90% possession a win should be a given. All that needs to be said is: 95% possession for the Wanderers to 5 breakaways for the Rowdies. The Rowdies converted 4 goals on their free runs. Christian (looking very elderly due to moving his house all day) got one back on a great feed from Pat White but that was far from getting the points back. Shocking to say the least.
6-24-09 SWEEPING THE STORM
The Wanderers swept the season series with the Hampstead Storm on Tuesday night on a slick Piscat Park Field. The Wanderers held a long lead until late in the game when they surrendered a PK. But the veterans of D1 stomped out the flames by adding two more to secure the victory.
The Wanderers started off extremely poor. They were having a terrible time building out of the back and the turnovers were much to frequent. Finally after a good 5 minutes they got their feet under them and started moving. Combos were working and things seemed to be improving. About 15 minutes in the Wanderers took the lead when Christian and "fill in" youth Danny Connolly worked a combo up the right flank. Christian gained the endline and cut a ball back for Donald who finished. 1-0. They lead would hold all game. Brunette was forced to save the day twice will some aerial brilliance... but the game seemed in hand. Then some tight defending at the top of the box resulted in an upended Storm attacker. PK was the call and Brunette's shutout was foiled. 1-1.
The Wanderers could not afford another embarassing nonwin. So they cranked it up. Elie served a great ball into Donald. Donaled turned, beat his man and served returned the first half favor to Christian. C. Gagnon made no mistake. 2-1. Cory Grant would add the insurance goal minutes later. Christian played provider for the second time on the day. 3-1 final. Not a great performance, but very effective. The back four had a great day, and the attack was sufficient. The Wanderers need to put their season back on track for good.
6-21-09 WANDERERS STRUGGLES CONTINUE
OK, stop me if you've heard this one before: The Wanderers started the game with only ten men and proceeded to concede an early goal while still trying to sort themselves out. Unfortunately this happened again this weekend against PJ O'Sullivan's, and even though the Wanderers fought back to take the lead, a late goal for PJ's meant that only a single point could be salvaged on the night.
A wise sage once told me that the most important time of a game is the fir ten minutes. That is a time that the Wanderers have struggled to get a hold of this season. As the boys in Blue were still getting their muscles warm and brains adjusted, PJ's worked the ball over the bumpy field. An awkward ball into the box deflected off of a defender and in an attempt to avoid an early corner, a Wanderers defender kept the ball in play. As everybody scrambled to find the ball, find their man, or cover the goal, the ball squirted out to a PJ's attacker who had ample time to collect himself at the corner of the 6 and tuck it far post. Another Wanderers game, another early goal. Perhaps the goal accelerated the warming of the muscles and the adjustment of the brains, because the game was promptly taken by the throat by the Blues. With approximately 98% possession, an attack that continuously featured two forward-moving defenders, and the arrival of two youngsters who are still trying to master the art of reading a schedule, the Wanderers owned the rest of the half. A couple lazy balls into their box via crosses or wind-aided bombs from the opponent's 8-foot keeper, but nothing to cause a problem. With about ten minutes left in the half, the Wanderers would open their account. A short goal kick from Brunette to Dylon, who loosed a cross-field dart into the path of Brooks, who laid a deft service into the box for Carlton, who calmly control and then slotted past the keeper. End-to-end in about 30 seconds... very nice. Before the half ended PJ's would win a rare indirect kick 12 yards out, but a wasted opportunity meant the half would end 1-1.
As the second half started, the Wanderers continued dominating the play. Flo, Willey, Richard, and Dylon finding a balance between defending and joining the attack. Sonny and Brooks working the sides, with Hick, C, Corey, and Donald interchanging and holding the ball nicely. Eventually a Wanderer attacking down the left would lose his marker and serve a nice ball into Hickman, who calmly headed the ball down inside the back stick. With a lead in hand, the Blues continued to ping the ball around... but for all of the pining around the back of the net, and an all important insurance goal, seemed to be elusive. And that would turn out to haunt them. With no more than 5 minutes left in the game, the Wanderers conceded a free kick about 22 yards out. Brunette setup his wall, but in retrospect it may have been 1 man too short. The shot came in, moving and shaking like a booty in a T-Pain video. The initial shot was saved well and pushed off to the side, but a poor rebound was left too close to the goal for comfort. As defenders scrambled clean up the spilled ball, the opponent had it skip aimlessly off his head... right into the path of a crashing attacker who buried the equalizer. Tough break, but it could have been avoided.
The 2-2 draw gives the Wanderers only 5 point on the season. An unusually low number for a side with high expectations. But there's still a long way to go. Stringing together a few good results will get the boys back on the right track.
6-18-09 Rocky Start for the Champs
The Wanderers had rainy travels back to the field were they were quite embarassed last season. Newton FC is filled with youth and the Wanderers were looking to get revenge for a 3-5 loss to NFC last year. However, cards were not stacked in their favor as they arrived with a hampered squad to do both injuries and coaching commitments. A 0-1 loss last night gives the champs a 1-1-1 record to start the year.
Despite the low numbers, the Wanderers held their own and had their chances but in the end surrendered a 0-1 loss to the home side. Newton was clearly playing at a faster pace... but the Wanderers were able to set up just as many scoring chances. Newton converted their goal very early in the first half. A turnover at midfield created a very fast attack that resulted in a serve and nicely tucked finish inside the far post. With seven of the Wanderers 11 in the over 30 bracket their age... it was clear they needed to pick up the pace against the "half their age palumbo crew". That they did. The game began to even out. 5 minutes later the Wanderers had their chance to tie. Cory beat his man endline and served a great ball across for Christian who was unmarked on the 6. But the ball skipped off his wet boot and missed the cage. Newton had one more good chance go by the far post and the Wanderers had a couple corner headers turned away. Sonny had a long range effort that looked promising but in the end was collected by the keeper. A fast paced half, and the Wanderers held their own.
The second half was much of the same... but the Wanderers played a bit better. Newton's best chance came off a poor clearance in the back but the forward missed miserably. On the other end, the Wanderers created four great chances. Tyler had a nice header off a free kick serve from Christian. Cory had a header cruise wide and another chance that was literally stopped on the goal-line against the post. Pat tried his luck with a shot from 25, but ex-wanderer Palumbo rescued his team by blocking the shot. In the dying minutes it looked like the Wanderers would get the tie. Pat earned a free kick and played a quick restart to Christian. In alone, but the ref whistled for offsides!!!! Even the defense admitted to keeping him on. Devestating to the visitors who had battled valiantly to keep the game close.
0-1 loss in the end, but a reasonably nice game considering the weather. It is difficult to score when Hickman and Dylon are out of the line-up. Plus the Wanderers were missing other key personnel in Pat White and Matt Willey. No worries, it is a long season and the Wanderers will play Newton again.
Unfortunate to see Palumbo on the other side. He was a great compliment to the Wanderers 2008 championship team. But no hard feelings, as he joins his brothers to play in his home town.
6-7-09 Wanderers vs Rowdies, Oldschool
It seems Rowdies management has done some recruiting to boost their squad for 2009. After the Wanderers dismantled them twice last year... one being a quarter final beating, rumors began to swirl of an off-season signing spree. With the homecoming of over thirty Wanderer Grenier, the Rowdies gained a huge addition to the squad... and with that others have followed. The Rowdies bench was deep and they played a very direct style. Center back to Grenier all day. Their midfield was purely for looks.
The game was very fast and competitive. The Wanderers Pat riddled midfield is proving to be a great combination. And Mehdi up top was a fire-ball from the first whistle (things must have gone well north of the boarder this weekend). The back line was keeping Grenier under raps in the first 45... and converting everything into excellent transition. However, about 15 minutes in, the Wanderers suffered a severe blow. Mehdi was carving up the defense until suddenly he pulled up lame on one run. He was retired for the day with a hamstring pull. Not good for now... not good for thirties.
The game went on and Donald substituted for the injured. Anyhow... Christian and Cory took up shop on the wings and were creating havoc and width for a very well rounded Wanderers attack. The Wanderers possession was dazzling and creating a flurry of chances. Christian put Donald and Dylan through on at least a hand full of occassions. The trouble was the ref was very tight on his offsides rulings. And Dylan's chances were foiled by deflections and saves. Great stuff all around. The Rowdies were dangerous on a few occassions despite thier one dimensional attack. Grenier fired one high and another midfielder stretched Dave for a nice tip save. The half would end at 0-0 but the Wanderers were dominant in possession, scoring chances and corners. Excellent half of soccer.
In the second, in appeared the depth of the Rowdies bench began to play a role. With one sub, Hickman arriving at half... and a few Wanderers playing their second match of the day... their game slowed down. Possession was less and the result was more Rowdie pressure. Now the game was back and forth, and the Wanderers were having trouble keeping the ball, which is their typical success. Fortunately, the Rowdies were very rushed in their attack creating hasty and misguided shots. Then it appeared Hickman would take the lead. A nice through ball put him on a breakaway behind the D. One on one... wait... two on one a Dylan was in too!!! But the result was the keeper taking down Hick and the ball before he could pass or shoot. Wow.
Then the tides shifted. The Rowdies were pressuring heavily with a plethera of balls directly into Daves box. A turnover in the back landed at the feet of a Rowdie forward. He make a couple of crafty cuts under composure (something not seen in a rowdie uniform for the last couple years) and tucked it into the side netting. Nice goal for a 0-1 lead.
But the Wanderers were not going down without a fight. They stormed back Willey and Christian were creating overlaps up the left and narrowly missed on a number of provided crosses. Finally, the Wanderers settled down just long enough to get one back. A small window of second half possession saw the ball move left to right. Flo recieved and arrowed a ball through for Cory. Cory served a beautiful ball into the box for Hick who had found space. A great diving header to the back post and it was 1-1. The final 15 minutes were at a furious pace. The best chance for the win fell to the Wanderers. Donald was put though on a great ball... but the keeper came up big as he blocked the shot.
1-1 tie. The Wanderers need to continue their possession for 90 minutes to be successful. When in possession they prove to be untouchable.
6-2-09 SEASON OPENER 2009
Rolling on... the Wanderers post a 3-2 win against D1 rival Hampstead Storm. The visiting Storm was equipped with a college aged squad while the Wanderers fielded extreme youth coupled with seasoned veterans. The opening 30 minutes did not show well for the two time defending champions. The glaring sun, bumpy field and downright slow reflexes gave way to an early Storm goal that would hold their lead all the way to half.
The Wanderers were having difficulty adapting to the speed of the opponents, as they were constantly under pressure and trying to play their pretty soccer on a less than pretty pitch. After the Storm opened up a 1-0 lead the Wanderers began to battle. About 20 minutes in things began to turn as the Wanderers began moving the ball a bit better. They were finally remembering how to target Hickman and work the give and gos. Thankfully, any lingering turnovers were being squashed by a solid back line of Willey, Flo and newcomers Rob and Tyler. The center backs so far have proved worthy replacements for Alan (retired) and Oscar (drinking a beer). On the attack youngster Cory was making great combinations on the right flank and set up Dylan and Sonny for chances. Hick also fired high on a nice take. But the equalizer would remain elusive for the first 45.
At half the name of the speech was composure. The experience of the Wanderers was certain... and by adding just a little speed to their game things would surely turn. That they did... the second half was nothing like the first. The Wanderers were all over the Storm for the first 40 minutes. High pressure was creating turnovers and the Wanderers began their well known possession game. Five minutes in... substitute Justin, fresh out of choices, went long to Donald... D chased it down and took advantage of a defensive error and tied the game at 1s. That was an easy one but the Wanderers wanted something more classy. Chance after chances was created. Unfortunately they were all resulting in corners. 5 Corners and still no conversions. Christian had a volley just miss the 90... Donald was turned away inside the six and Mehdi cranked one high. Finally, Dylon went on a solo run into the box, flicked a defender and craftly cut another to tuck home the go ahead. 2-1 Wanderers. The home team continued to dominate the half. 30 minutes in the two new center back combined on a free kick. Rob served a low drive into the box and Tyler one timed a great shot into the low left netting 3-1.
The game had changed dramatically and the Storm obviously did not see it coming. It seemed as though the game was in hand for the Wanderers until the Storm got one back, from an unlikely source. Hick decided he wanted to make a game of it. Holding onto the ball like a Fat Kid with a Cheeseburger, Hick dribbled to his heart's content before backpassing it directly to the Storm forward. Dave did his best but the breakaway was too clear... 3-2. This gave the Storm new life. They threatened with two more chances in the last 5 minutes. One was stopped by super Dave on a semi breakaway... the other cleared away on a corner kick. 3-2 was the final.
Truth is the Wanderers have to come together. The veterans know what works as they have two championships to show for it. And the youth will add the speed and stamina the Wanderers need. Once everyone adapts the strategy and style of the Wanderers, they will be unbeatable.
6-9-08 NHSC CHAMPIONS 2008
The Wanderers successfully captured their second D1 title in two years. Saturday afternoon HFC defeated the HW Generals in a well played match with plenty of action. It was Dylon Broadley who delivered the death blow to the Generals with a thunderous strike from the 18.
Though they were missing both Hickman and Simmond... the Wanderers were content with the roster available for Saturday's final. Bavota, Katane and Broadley all shared time up top. Each had their chances but HFC only needed one. Behind them was a midfield of regulars... except Jones... who got moved up as there was a abundance of defenders. Jones rose to the occassion and had perhaps his best game all year. And rounding out the Wanderers side was the back line. Comprised of Willey, Flo, Elie, Alan and Oscar, all played solid and helped Brunette record his 7th shutout of the year.
The Wanderers had one of their most solid performances from front to back. Each player truely contributed to the victory. The Wanderers showed as the better team in the first half, with chances coming early and often. The first was shot set up by Palumbo... dribbling middle he heel passed it to Christian coming behind. Christian unloaded a strike to the low corner, but the keeper responded with a great save. The next chances were all Mehdis, as he was playing the checking forward role. In on the six a couple times it was either the keeper, a swarm of defenders or a close miss that stopped him from getting a goal. So close they could taste it. Sonny and Jones had a few serves sent in from the right wing that tested the defense and the keeper but again, the Wanderers were scoreless.
Down the other end, David was only called upon a couple time in the first. The Wanderers back line was healthy and not letting anyone through. With an impressive first half, HFC should have had a goal. Surely now...Pat won a freekick 20 yards out, Mehdi struck a wonderous bender but was denied by the cross bar. Now the clock was winding down, Flo started a move out of the left back that found Bavota. With the ref counting down, John went on a solo run leaving a sea of defenders in his wake... but the final touch just escaped him and his chance was stopped by the keeper. 0-0 at half but HFC was confident.
HW changed plans in the second half. It was obvious they were sick of having HFC play the ball around them... so they high pressured. This did produce some results, as the Generals began putting some chances on goal. Now the game was back and forth. HW's big man up top had a two shots stopped by David and a diving header hit the side netting. HFC sounded back with Sonny splitting two men on the dribble and feeding Mehdi through on a breakaway... but Katane couldnt fool the keeper. Still later Palumbo combined with Christian who volleyed high. Then it was Jonesy's turn, after finding space on the wing, Flo launched a diagonal ball across the field Jones took two dribbles and zapped a laser at the near upper ninety. A great stretch by the keeper kept it out.
HW came right back with a few corner kicks. Some tight defending in the back continued the score at 0-0. Finally, with 15 left the Wanderers saw the light. Pat created a move up the left flank, "player of the year" Palumbo found "player of the match" Broadley with a well placed ball behind the defender. Dylon brought it down and fired a gun from the 18. The keeper had no chance as the ball whipped by. 1-0 great goal. Now it was time to hold the fort. HFC continued to play possession when possible and was content to stay home and preserve the victory. HW gave a few more great efforts. In peticular, Alan, Elie and Oscar won every air ball in the box over the larger HW forwards. Just when it looked like the Generals would equalize, Willey finished off his great game with a bone crunching tackle on the six to stop a definite goal. Dang.
Final score: Wanderers 1, Generals 0. Excellent game with both teams playing hard yet extremely fair. No cry babies on this field... I think they all lost in the earlier rounds. Once again a great performance from the back line creating another shut out. While the defensive performances may not earn highlight reel references (unless you crush someone), their work certainly secured the title victory.
6-9-08 Finals roster posted
Keeper: David Brunette
Defenders: A. Gagnon, C Florek, C Jones, E Monteiro, M Willey, O Wall
Midfielders: C Gagnon, J Palumbo, M Katane, P Mulcahy, S Gagnon
Forwards: D Broadley, J Bavota
6-7-08 Wanderers advance to D1 final after crunching Capitol City
The rain refused to stop, so the Wanderers travelled to Seacoast United Fields to host the Capitol City Boys... and girl. There wasnt much energy in the air, as HFC had pounded this opponent twice already this year. Nevertheless, victory was a necessity to get the Wanderers into the final.
News from the eastern front (bracket semi): Newton leads HW Wenham 3-0 at half. And so the Wanderers kick off, with a quality squad and two subs. Possession was quick on the turf and the Wanderers teased the defense with their superior abilities. Some decent chances were created early from Justin and Corlton but HFC only found the net about 15 minutes in. After a slew of back four passes, Christian received the ball... played a triangle game with Hick and Palumbo... then slipped one through to Palumbo. James took two dribbles and placed it by the keeper. A very nice 1-0. Concord came down a few times in frantic attack style but nothing too demanding.
The Wanderers created a few nice ones of their own. Sonny turned playmaker for this match, serving multiple "silver platter" balls out of the left flank. One in particular beat the whole d and landed on Palumbos foot. From the 18 he chipped it by the keeper but just missed the right post. Another chance was created by Willey who found Justin's head... but just missed.
Finally about 30 minutes in, HFC scored their second. Elie received a switched ball from Flo. Elie glided forward from midfield, a quick give and go with Corlton, and Elie was in home free. A strike to the far post for 2-0. So smooth it looked like it artwork. A chance for a third also started with Flo, as he crunched some forward and immediately sprung Palumbo down the flank. The cross was just missed by Mehdi. 2-0 at half.
In the second half, things were downright ugly... but it didnt matter. Concord decided to high pressure to disturb the HFC possession. It was unsuccessful, but HFC certainly didnt play their game either. Regardless, there was still a good deal of opportunities. Then about 20 minutes in Corlton and Sonny combined for a "goal of the year" contender. The "playmaker" did a "stop and go" aka "show and pull" aka "now you see me now you dont" aka "see ya" to the young defender out on the wing. Instead of launching it across, he bent a ball back to Corlton at the 18. C preped with one touch and struck a dart with his second. The ball made a b-line for the upper ninety just out of the keepers reach. Beautiful build up and strike 3-0.
The game continued with some disappointing workmanship but it was plenty enough to keep the opponents scoreless. Oscar and Alan continued to crunch the opposition, Oscar even kicked a girl. The game could have had more goals but HFC settled for four. And the fourth game from none other than Mr. Willey. With a full crew of defenders, Willey was made to play midfield... and he didnt disappoint. After a gameful of winger runs and serves, Willey scored his second on the year provided by Hickman. Hick received the ball on the right at midfield. A quick glance across showed a blue blur streaking through a majestic wide open pasture. Actually, it was Willey sprinting down the wing so wide open he could have set up a picnic. Hickman switched it over and Willey finished from the 18. 4-0 and the routing was complete.
News from the eastern front (bracket Newton vs HW): After leading 3-0 at half, Newton conceeds three goals and fails to score on 2 of their own pks. Shootout shows HW scoring 3 and Newton scoring 1. Apparently out of goals and no defense... Newton loses and the Wanderers will meet the HW Generals in the final. Wow
The Wanderers advance to the D1 final for the second year in a row. This match up will show some mature soccer as both teams have a roster of veterans and quality youngsters. Big game.
6-3-08 Wanderers crush Damage Inc.
Finally HFC played on a pitch equal to their playing ability, and it paid off, with a 6-1 spanking of DamageInc. Once again the heavens were gloomy, but miraculously, two vicious looking storms just missed the field. There was a quick sun-shower 15 minutes prior to kick off that slicked the field but that was it. With excellent conditions and a full roster, the Wanderers inflicted serious Damage on the Damage.
The starting line up was solid and the subs were no slouches either. Corlton started the game with a shot right off the kickoff... testing the tiger baum and the keeper. From the getgo it was all HFC moving the ball all over the level field and the opposition was simply dizzy. Pat and Mehdi were tackling like it was playoffs. And the back line was stomping anyone who tried to get fresh.
Then HFC decided it was time to score. Ball movement out of the back found Mehdi in the middle... Christian noticed the "runway" open down the wing and received the ball from the Moroccan. A few paced dribbles into the box and a cross to John created a simple touch in. 1-0. More chances were created all over. Mehdi had a couple shots, Pat combined with Corlton for a few and Sonny stretched the keeper on his own and then set up both Palumbo and Hickman. Too many to recount. About 15 minutes later, Christian collected a ball and dribbled middle. After playing tick tack with Palumbo, Christian fired a shot into the low corner for a 2-0 lead. The game seemed easy... however Damage did get a late first half tally to make things interesting. Pouncing on a loose ball, a forward just squeezed one inside the far post. 2-1. And it would stay that way into the half.
Maybe it was the weekend, a nice field, or location, but there was a very sizable crowd that gathered to watch this matchup. They got their money's worth in the second half as the Wanderers finished four more goals. Chances were plentiful but it wasnt until Willey loomed forward that HFC got their third. It came when Corlton unleashed a laser that the keeper could not hold and Willey was there for the finish. He could have set up a picnic but instead he tested his skillls by finishing "onetime" into the side netting. 3-1. The next two goals completed Bavota's hatrick. One was a pass from Corlton where John roasted his marker a tucked it in. The other was a nice through ball from Pat... John kicked it the pace and was home free to further embarass the keeper. 5-1 now. (You heard correct... a through ball from the guru).
The Wanderers finished the match with Hickman taking advantage of a poor clearance by a Damage defender. As usual, Hickman soared above his marker and headed it home. 6-1 whoa. Damage did manage to strike the post from no angle once... but the majority of the play was down their end. The Wanderers defense was steady all day, but most of it was with ball distribution and starting the counter attack as there wasnt as much pressure as the typical day.
Next up: the Wanderers will face the winner of Capitol City and the Kings. Both teams were pummeled earlier in the year by the Wanderers... but you never know. Surprisingly, the Kingston Braves have been eliminated by their spinoff team, Newton. Should HFC meet Newton in the finals, the one arm bandit and company deserve a serious spanking.
7-31-08 Commanding opening to the Playoffs
Even after spotting the Rowdies home field advantage, HFC walked away with a 4-1 playoff win yesterday.
Manchester Memorial HS was cleverly selected by the soccer gods this week, as the thunderstorms somehow skipped right by allow the game to be played. The Wanderers were clearly the favorite and it showed as the Rowdies were content to pack it in behind midfield, while HFC knocked it around and looked for openings. It was also evident (after about two seconds) that the Rowdies strategy was to steal the ball and immediately kick it to Mr. Bundesliga. And only Mr. Bundesliga. If they could reach him.
Nevertheless, HFC commanded the play swinging from side to side. It seemed the wings were wide open and thats where 3 of the 4 goals came from. About 15 minutes in, Palumbo beat a man or two outside and served a great bending ball into Hickman. Hickman skillfully placed it home 1-0. Mr. B had a few chances but other than that... it was literally all Wanderers. But... the Rowdies did equalize on somewhat of a fluke. A free kick was awarded about 30 yards out. It was served into the box from distance, out of everyones reach, but the Rowdie forward flashed his hand out. An apparent handball had Brunette frozen and it flew right by. It was believed to be a hand. 1-1. No worries, except for lightning.
The Wanderers continued their dominance and answered right back with virtually the same build up as the first tally. Once again Palumbo spun a couple defenders up the right side and sliced central. A nicely placed ball to Corlton and C finished. 2-1 Just like that. As the half continued HFC had multiple chances all just skirting wide or being cleared away. The half would finish 2-1 but it could have been more. The keys were some nice build up out of the back through the mid. And some great work rate by the HFC central midfielders not allowing the Rowdies time to pick their targets.
The second half was a continuation of the spanking. Plenty of room up the wings, as the Rowdies again pack inside their half. The third goal swung from right to left and found Christian up the wing. After a few dribbles, Christian found Palumbo with a long driven diagonal missle. Palumbo carressed it like his ladyfriend, bringing it down under control, and proceeded to unleash a shot into the goal. 3-1
By this time the Rowdies were feeling the oppression. 3-1 with no sign of redemption gave way to a few whacks. Pat was assaulted several times by Mr. B and Mehdi took a cracking as he earned the 4th goal. After a week of grief from his Mrs... Willey pitched in a great performance and lurked forward to assist on Mehdi's goal. A few passes connected out of the back and Willey overlapped into the central midfield. Morphing into a playmaker, Willey slipped a nice ball through to Mehdi who had made a long run out of the mid. In behind the d, Medhi placed into the side netting and received a late slide tackle at the knees for his trouble. 4-1 Wanderers.
The game was clearly out of reach for the Rowdies despite their efforts and sportsmanship. The Wanderers did get a little messy in the end but the score would stand. 4-1.
Good performance after two full weeks off. A good warm up for Sundays match against Damage Inc. However, the Wanderers will definitely look to sharpen up their game as they get deeper into the post season. Tickets are going fast for the western D1 semi... get them while they last.
Editors note: Mr. B should probably switch teams.
7-17-08 Wanderers edge Curran at Close of Regular Season
The Wanderers shifted the home field over to Sportsman this evening playing host to Curran Management for the second time this year. The result was a 3-2 victory, which HFC made difficult for themselves. After taking an early 2-0 lead, the Wanderers squandered the advantage and played a 2-2 tie well into the second half... before earning the victory.
With a smoother surface, HFC immediately began the possession. At times it seemed to be a little too much, as the 8th or 9th concecutive pass would be turned over. But regardless, HFC was dominating. About 10 minutes in, the Wanderers connected a few out of the back finding the foot of Stopper, James Goodwin. James turned dangerous as he served a nice throughball to Bavota. John turned on the wheels creating a one on one and finished easy. 1-0 HFC. The half continued with the Wanderers playing an interchanging midfield... inside out... outside in. Then it happened... one of the nicest combinations was created on the left out of the back. Flo, Elie, Pat and Mehdi played tick tack toe up the left to midfield. Just as Curran began to close it down, Mehdi found Christian up the center as the outlet. Free as a bird, Christian dribbled straight at the 18... dished to Justin... and Hick drove it into the far side. 2-0. Beautiful if I do say so myself.
Unfortunately, the Wanderers became over confident. Content to just "go through the motions", they became "too pretty" and not sharp. The result... Curran came right back with two of their own. 2-2. One was a giveaway at midfield creating a counter, and one was a giveaway at their own 18. Poor. HFC did start to get serious creating a few more chances, but the tie would carry into halftime.
The second half showed a new team. The back line tightened up, Willey moved to midfield, Christian returned from his 20 minute hibernation and everyone was moving the ball faster and with more purpose. This created multiple chances for home team. Willey was "lighting up" his wing serving the ball consistantly. Justin had a few shots and John just missed a breakaway chance set up by Pat. Corlton had a left footed shot go just high (probably because the defender told him he as only righty). All the while, Elie, Flo, Jones and James were shutting down every problem Curran created... and turned it into a healthy HFC attack. Curran could not comprehend the ball movement, thus, could not adjust to stop the onslaught of HFC chances.
Finally, with twelve left to play, Bavota got the ball on the left wing. Beat his defender endline and served a perfect ball across the goalmouth. Christian sliced a run in behind the d and volleyed it home. 3-2 Wanderers. With time left to play, HFC maintained the possession to eliminate another Curran comback. With composure and serious attitude, the Wanderers held the lead right to the end. 3-2 final.
After four games/wins in six days... the Wanderers will have a 10 day break before the playoffs. Well earned and a good time to rest.
7-15-08 Wanderers Dismantle Capitol City
HFC successfully navigated the Legacy pitch and a boatload of wreckless tackles to defeat Capitol City 4-0. The CC youngsters were outclassed for the second time this year by the Wanderers but they did put up a fight. Brunette posted his typical game by stopping four or five serious threats to ensure the shutout.
The goals have come from a variety of sources this year... today was no different as Katane and Broadley scored two each. The scoring started early with Bavota playing a nice ball across to Christian who volley it into the side netting. That one would be called offsides but Bavota played provider again by gifting Mehdi with a goal with the first five minutes. 1-0 Wanderers.
The whole first half displayed a bumpy possession game by HFC. The midfield and back line were pumping on all cylinders playing pinball around the opponents. Unfortunately, the bumpy surface spoiled most of the attacking chances resulting in a single goal total in the first. Capitol City did have one speedy forward who was consistantly stomped by the back four. But when he occasionally broke free David was up to the challenge. 1-0 at half despite an overwhelming display by HFC.
In the second, Katane struck again in the first two minutes. With parenting duties looming over his shoulder, he started the second half expecting only 5 minutes of playing time. He didnt even need that... after pick pocketing the peg legged keeper, Mehdi was presented with a decision. Simply give the ball to Bavota and return the earlier gifting... or shoot himself. Selfishness prevailed Mehdi had two and he immediately left the field to nurture the newest member of the Wanderers family. 2-0 Wanderers.
The next 20 minutes had HFC pinging the ball all over creation. Besides the lumpy field intercepting passes for Concord, the Wanderers would have had possession all day. Pat was distributing the ball so much, he wore holes in his brand new boots. Everyone had plenty of touches on the ball... thats the HFC way. Anyway... it was time to score again and this time Dylon created a contender for "goal of the year". After the ground created some trouble... Willey properly played a one time floater into the box over a defender's head. Dylon controlled it with his chest, and with a defender on his back, elevated himself into a perfect bicycle. The cycle was completed with a shot over the keeper and under the bar. Wow- 3-0 HFC.
As the game began to wind down... Concord got a bit irritated with their inability to compete. Their bench turned into a flock of seagulls, squawking at the refs continuously. Bavota was also repeatedly heckled from the bench. Goodwin had opponents talking trash to him... and if you know James that just doesnt happen ever. Christian got into a slight rumble with "muscles" out on the wing after a clean tackle. And then Dylon decided to add insult to injury... the keeper distributed a ball right to Broadley. From about 35 yards out, Dylon lofted a ball into the side netting to complete the routing 4-0.
Good win overall. HFC has successfully recovered from their slump. A noteworthy performance from the back line posting another shutout. With a strong group of defenders... it appears all HFC needed was some organization and consistency. With Elie Monteiro as sweeper, the Wanderers are posting shutouts again. This allows Alan, Flo and Jones to crunch anyone who gets dangerous and Elie to sweep up the pieces. It seems to be working well in the abscence of Oscar the Sweed. With the playoffs around the corner this could prove to be an important piece of the puzzle.
On the attacking side... be ready for Hickman to breakout. While performing well as always, Hickman is due for some goals as well as Bavota. However, there is no doubt each would have had a couple if the field hadnt spoiled a few setups from the midfield providers.
7-13-08 Palumbo Hatrick leads Wanderers
The Manchester Kings historically give HFC a hard time, despite their lack of quality. Sunday proved no different as the Kings scored 30 seconds into the game and gave the Wanderers a run for their money.
The town of Bedford has clearly neglected Legacy Park. The field has more craters than the moon and is literally a hazard to play on. With such a difficult canvass to work on, it is no wonder that a mistouched pass out of the back created a breakaway for the Kings and a 1-0 lead. After spotting the visitors a goal, HFC dominated ball possession and created countless number of chances throughout the first. There were so many chances, the fans even got to see Mulcahy fire a shot.
The best chances of the first half came off a few long shots from Mehdi and Dylon. A few more were created off corners. Unfortunately, none of them would find the netting. In addition the Kings keeper was stopping everything. In one instance Dylon navigated his way behind the defense and accross the endline... then dropping a pass the Christian arriving in the 18. Christian fired a shot... saved... back to his foot for another and the keeper denied that one too! Richard had a few shots saved as well. Basically, everything the keeper did not stop, was foiled by the potholes.
Amazingly, HFC was down 0-1 at half despite 95% possession led by Mulcahy and at least 15 great scoring opportunities.
The second half would be different. The attacking side was a little smoother for passing and shooting... and that is where Palumbo took over. After 10 minutes of pure offense, Hickman fired a shot that earned a corner. Christian served a bender to the fly Palumbo who noded it home. 1-1. He wasnt done there... 5 minutes later Richard found Dylon cruising down the right wing. Dylon served a low ball accross the box, Hick got a piece but Palumbo got the whole thing as his sliding touch found the netting for his second. 2-1.
The half continued with the Kings getting a little irritated. They earned a few yellows and a bench red for hassling the ref. Regardless, the HFC onslaught continued. Mehdi combined for a great "one two" at the 18 but the keeper made a great save. Justin "dummied" a cross leaving Christian wide open... but his shot was also turned away by the netminder. Finally, Palumbo completed his hatrick after a flurry of shots. Another cross from Dylon found Palumbo who volleyed a shot off the bar... Hick's rebound volley was saved by the keeper... but Palumbo arrived for the second rebound volley and finished it. 3-1.
The Kings did apply some late pressure playing long ball to their olympic sprinter. But the Wanderers back line was tight. Manchester did get a second goal. A mistake looping pass, miraculously found their outside midfielder, who fired the shot of his life past David. 3-2 Final.
Not to be overlooked, Brunette did have some great saves. Alan, Willey, Flo and Jones held the fort well dispite the one speedy attacker. But the day did belong to Palumbo with his three tallies. Good win against a team that has been a "thorn in the side" of HFC in the past.
7-12-08 Hickman posts shutout in 1-0 victory
The longest road trip of the season... against the leagues top goal scorer... on a Saturday... with no keeper!!! Things were not looking good for the Wanderers who desperately needed to get back on the winning track. But some slight personnel changes proved to be key in a 1-0 victory.
Justin Hickman (HFC leading scorer) volunteered to play goalie, with the absence of Brunette. Elie Monteiro was placed in the sweeper position for his organizational qualities, and Corlton was used as a target/withdrawn forward to help mobilize the attack. It was clear the changes were a benefit, as Elie created a military style defense with everyone tight and organized. Plus, the HFC midfield always had an outlet pass to Corltons feet up front.
The recent losses clearly had an emotional impact, as HFC came out knocking it around but moving forward with a little more conviction than usual. In the early going HFC had many chances, as Pat was evenly distributing the ball. Dylan and Willey were finding room to move forward out of the back resulting in a few 25 yard strikes. And Mehdi also had a long range opportunity go wide. About 20 minutes in Corlton got the best chance of the first half... C recieved a ball at the 18 beat a defender and and placed a shot past the keeper but was denied by the post. 10 minutes later, Christian dribbled in from the wing and chipped a ball over the defense to Kareem. Kareem brought it down but was robbed by the keeper. A few more chances tested the Generals but they didnt break. The opponents had a couple free kicks in the first half that posed issues... but a well organized HFC back line held strong. The one serve that did get through was met by a high flying Hickman who made the save and absorbed a hit for his efforts. 0-0 at half.
In the second, the game opened up a bit. HW had an army of players but the Wanderers held strong with their magic number 12. The open game gave HFC more room the play their passing game... and now they were finding Corltons feet more often. This was trouble for the Generals as the Wanderers were now flowing beautifully with the ball creating a plethera of chances. Kareem had a few, Corlton had a few, Richard and Sonny had a couple and the midfield was pitching in with their own. But it would be a good 30 minutes before the net was found. Mehdi and Kareem combined... instead of giving it back to Mehdi, Kareem took the game on his own shoulders. Apparently broad enough to carry the load, because K beat his defender inside the box and finished far post. 1-0 Wanderers.
The game continued to open up. The Generals threatened with 4 corner kicks but Hickman was home and wasnt letting anyone in. It was great to see a high work rate from the Wanderers. The run tracking and communication was sharper than ever, preserving the lead. It look as though HFC would go up by two when Alan earned a PK through pure grit. Corlton determined to redeem his PK status, took the spot... nope... denied again. Hickman was called upon late in the half... as a Generals counter found their key forward at the 18 with enough time to strike. But Hickman didnt have to stretch far for the save and gave no rebound. Further attacks earned some dangerous free kicks for HFC but the game would end 1-0.
Nice work all around. The final three games of the regular season should be wins if HFC continues these performances.
7-9-2008 HFC hemorrhages 4 second half goals in defeat
After taking a early and commanding 2-0 lead into half-time... the Wanderers conceeded four second half goals in a stunning loss to TN. A wise sage once told his u14 team, "if a team is to be successful, they have to post shutouts, and never ever give up more than one goal". This has proven true also for the Wanderers. Any game they have given up more than one goal they have lost.
The game was played on a lengthy surface creating some difficulty but nothing to blame the loss on. HFC started strong, stringing together some nice passing and with the field a bit narrow, HFC was patient... with Flo and Willey switching the fields back and forth until something opened up. Then about 10 minutes in... A combination at the top of the 18 with Sonny and Mehdi was disrupted by a defender, quickly Sonny switched gears and found Corlton square. C fired a low shot into the right side netting for the 1-0 lead. TN pressured a few times but were only able to test David from distance.
30 minutes in, HFC went up by two. In a long sequence of passes that seemed endless... endless... endless... and seemed to be going nowhere... Corlton finally created mastery with a curling serve meeting Palumbo who slipped by his marker into the box. Palumbo cleverly redirected his header over the rushing keeper and inside the near post. Beautiful stuff... 2-0 Wanderers. The lead was protected into the half.
Then it happened... HFC stopped defending as a unit and looked like a block of swiss cheese. With holes all over... the younger, quicker TN took advantage. Their deceivingly fast forward collected a stolen ball at midfield and found his way all the way to Brunette (and the goal). 2-1. Then a soft pass put Willey under unfair pressure and the ball skipped through behind Flo. With his mark one on one with the keeper, Flo did his best to disrupt the shot but it resulted in a PK. Brunette made a great save... but the Wanderers were arguing and let the TN kick taker get his own rebound. 2-2. Embarassing.
Still controlling much of the ball, HFC went on the attack and took back their lead about 5 minutes later. Goodwin found Christian who had strategically wanderered to the right flank. With time to pick a target he placed it right on brother Alan's head. Alan finished a great header. A nice, emotionally healing, combination, after the two had a scuffle late in the first half. 3-2 Wanderers. Some great combinations were now starting out of the back, finding the feet of Pat and the other midfielders but it was all pointless when this happened...
Deteriorating back into swiss cheese mode... HFC conceeded two more. Goal 3 made a TN forward look like the video on our home page. And goal 4 was a corner kick header which as totally uncontended. 3-4 TN. A final last second solo effort from Palumbo earned a PK for the Wanderers. Elie stepped up to take it... a nice shot but he placed it an inch wide right. Time up... HFC drops their 3rd straight loss.
With the playoffs only four games away... HFC needs to post some wins, or they will find themselves travelling everywhere in the post season. It is clear, the team as a whole needs to play more disciplined defense if they are to win. Scoring chances are still in abundance... but so are the goals against. Who will step up to lead the Wanderers back to tight marking, midfield grit, shut outs and league domination. Not much time...
7-6-08 DEArarat edges over HFC
Trouble continued for HFC Sunday, as they dropped their second game straight. The Wanderers were missing a few key personnel and it proved to be deadly. DEArarat was able to counter attack with one or two forwards and were able to finish the few chances they created. At the other end HFC had plenty of chances and narrowly missed or were outright denied by the keepers.
HFC controlled early and created a few nice chances. Hickman smacked a tight angle shot off the outside of the post and Mehdi forced the keeper to tip one wide. After about 15 minutes, HFC entered the twilight zone and started turning the ball over consistently. DEA was gifted a few opportunities, and managed to capitalize on one. About 30 minutes in, a young DEA forward made a flat run along the defense to recieve a through ball. He was able to dribble by two or three HFC backs and put the ball in the goal. 0-1 badguys. It looked like the matrix, as it appeared the HFC defense was standing still??? He wasnt that good.
Regardless, the Wanderers gained control again for the last 15 minutes. It looked like the equalizer had arrived when Christian pounced on a loose ball in the box. A one time crush of the ball looked labelled for the goal until the keeper appeared out of nowhere and tipped it over the bar. The following corner kicks applied serious pressure but were unable to find the netting. 0-1 at half.
The second half was better for HFC, as they appeared more dangerous and were getting into the box more frequently. But again, there was a meltdown. Another throughball found its way through the HFC back line to one forward. Dave got a piece of the original effort... but the rebound was Ararat friendly. 0-2 DEArarat.
Urgency was the name of the game with about 35 minutes to go. HFC got up a going. James and Christian were flying up the right flank producing a multitude of great chances. Service into the box was plentiful... but the finishes were just missing. Then Hickman collected a ball at midfield and played a great ball through for Mehdi. Mehdi fired a great low shot toward the far post, but the keeper was able to kick-tip it inches wide.
Finally with 18 minutes left... Kareem posted a goal. Most of the chances were resulting in corners. A nicely lofted ball into the box found Kareem soaring above his marker. He noded it down low for his 8th on the season. 1-2. With time winding down... HFC didnt slow down. Minutes later Christian and Kareem created a quick attack... instead of shooting Kareem played a great ball accross to Bavota who had crashed the back door. A well timed diving header was found... but the ball just missed the far side. Unlucky. A few more chances were had but none could save this match for HFC.
It is evident that a "return to basics" is necessary for HFC to rebound from their last few performances. Look for a change in strategy and passion in the remainder of the season. The Wanderers are not out of this by a long shot.
7-2-08 LONG BALL NIGHTMARE FOR HFC
The Wanderers will be seeing throughballs in their dreams tonight. A second roadtrip to Kingston this year resulted in a 3-1 loss for HFC, as they receive their second loss on the year. The match was a good, hard fought game overall, with more sportmanship between the two sides than anyone has seen in the past.
Now for the action... HFC was not equipped with their full roster, but most would agree they had twelve that were capable of winning this matchup with the Braves. The game was back and forth early with both teams getting chances... but then HFC began to gain some control with their passing game. Kareem, Hickman and Christian each had shots on goal, but nothing serious enough to ripple the twine. Then the slipperly, Palumbo squeezed a nasty "give and go" with Kareem that put him in behind the "d" inside the 18... but was unable to release a shot. Then the nightmare began. Kingston turned on the switch titled "Throughball Heaven". They played solid defense with 10 men behind the ball and were content to fire the ball long. They went ahead when a long ball skidded off the head of a Wanderer back and sent the opponents in on a breakaway. 0-1 unlucky.
HFC was irritated but not rattled, as they have been down before and pulled out wins. They continued to control the majority of the play getting plenty of chances, but just not dangerous enough. Kingston had a few more opportunities in the first. And while they lacked flare or creativity, they had plenty of intensity and grit. At the half it was 0-1 Braves lead.
The second was very similar to the first. But as time wore on HFC was getting stretched out as they pressed for a goal. The increased space in the back spelled trouble for HFC. Another long diagonal through ball found a Kingston forward in behind the Wanderers back line. Brunette made a great initial stop... but the rebound fell to the foot of a forward to put it away. 0-2.
HFC was hurting. The narrow field eliminated their wide attack, which forced them to attack exclusively down the middle. Precisely, not the way to play. Regardless, a little creativity created a few more chances. Alan, Corlton and Justin each had shots but they all sailed high. Finally, a fantastic chance. Corlton served a great ball onto the foot of Kareem as he angled a run into the box. A great one time redirection on goal.... but the keeper denied him with a terrific diving stop. Just when HFC was gaining some momentum, the Braves finished off a third. Willey, Oscar, Flo and Jones were shutting down the majority of the missles but the assult was oppressive. Their third was nothing special, but effective, as they powered their way forward in their game plan and finished of a cross that slide through the box. 0-3. embarrassing.
The Wanderers continued to play and finally broke the ice. Flo served a long ball into the box, the clearing header came out to Christian who fired a volley forcing the keeper to make another big save. This time he left a rebound for Corlton. 1-3. With 10 minutes remaining... HFC had enough prime chances to at least equalize if not win. On one, Kareem fired a shot that left a tasty rebound... but no one wanted it. On a second, Kareem was brought down well inside the 18... only to have the ref (totally out of his league) walk the ball back to about 20 yards out. Shocking to say the least!!! And a third chance, Corlton served a corner right to the head of the youngster inside the 6... wide open, unfortunately it skipped of his head/shoulder and looped over the bar. A few other chances also escaped the Wanderers in their comback effort.
Not the Wanderers day. Possession is great but waiting till the end to get dangerous against the Braves (twice this year) has only resulted in a tie and a loss. Kingston has perfected their counter attack and plays tight defense, making them a formittable contender again this year. Inevitably the two shall meet again... surely HFC will bring their "A" game. You rarely win games when you give up 3 or more goals.
6-29-08 WANDERERS WALK OVER DEArarat
All were expecting a signature battle between these long time rivals... but it never arrived. It is now apparent that DEA's merger with Ararat has resulted in a lack luster squad that lacks in numbers.
After their own terrible showing on Thursday, HFC were back with nearly their full roster and certainly the quality needed to beat the meager opposition. DEArarat had ten men but didnt even attempt to make a game of it... as they employed a "shell up" defense with 9 of their 10 sitting on their own 18. This was actually pretty effective. Rarely seen, the "Bordom Technique" created some obstacles for HFC resulting in many missed chances and a shocking 1-0 score at half.
Chances in the first half were plentiful and typically created after HFC connected with roughly 800 passes in a row. Early on, Justin found himself one on one with the keeper on a nice through ball by Corlton... shockingly Justin could not finish. Then it was rookie, Palumbo's turn. Williams lofted a beautiful ball over the defense, James outpaced the defender and volleyed a great strike off the post. Shortly after... it was Palumbo again waltzing his way through a maze of defenders but could not release a shot as he fought with the bumpy ground. The terribly bumpy pitch actually acted as an added defender for the visitors as it foiled my HFC chances. Virtually everyone was involved in the attack as DEA just sat back, probably dreaming of the post game adult beverages.
Finally, HFC landed on the board. Jamie Williams beat a defender baseline and served a low ball across. Just as Christian went to touch it in... his marker did it for him, striking it perfectly into his own side netting. 1-0 Wanderers. A pretty boring half has this reporter at a loss for more material.
The second half showed much of the same, except HFC picked up the pace a little. Honestly, no one really wanted to play the snails pace that DEA was setting. Regardless, the Wanderers struck early. Richard Simmond found a hole in the "shell", Christian sliced a ball through and Rich slipped it by the keeper. 2-0. A few minutes later, Justin and Sonny narrowly missed a header off another serve from Christian. As the game progressed, Pat and Corlton regulated the distribution, while Willey, James, Flo and Jones took turns shutting down DEA's only offense #6. He did more running than their whole team, both with his mouth and feet. I dont want to be too bias... Brunette did have one save to make... and it was a great save.
As the second half wore on Palumbo again tooled a few defenders and was denied by the post. And again the post was DEA friendly, when Richard released a pretty, right footed, bender that escaped the keeper but not the woodwork.
Not much more to say. 2-0 HFC wins. Not much fun to watch or play. Even with 10 or 11 men, most thought DEArarat would have more fight in them. Hopefully, that is not where the club is headed, as DEArarat has a storied history with some good players. If any DEA elders/veterans were watching they surely shed a tear at the orange uniforms and the "Turtle Defense". DEA never went down without a fight thoughout their glorious existance.
Anyway...........The two meet again next week... surely DEArarat will come prepared.
6-26-08 HFC HANDED FIRST LOSS OF THE CAMPAIGN
The Wanderers wanderered into Newton on Thursday with a severely hampered squad. The first time this year they have struggled with numbers. Between injuries and commitments, HFC was primed for their first loss of the year.
A wet pitch with thick grass made conditions unpleasant... but no excuse for the lack luster performance. With only two true defenders on the roster this evening, Newton exposed the back line with a plethera of through balls. No exaggeration, 98% of the Newton game was a direct ball up the center of the field to the waiting speedy forwards. While ugly, it proved effective over the hampered HFC defense.
Newton scored in the first 5 minutes off a long ball. A great shot found its way into the upper corner. No fault of Brunette's, great shot, but odds are he will never hit that shot again in his lifetime. 0-1 Newton. Minutes later, HFC still reeling from the high pressure long ball... the Wanderers conceeded a free kick at the 18. Newton played a quick restart as the ref called for 10 yards... and Newton walked in for their second. Clearly a ref error... but he let the goal stand. 0-2 Newton.
The Wanderers did knock the ball around and created chances but where denied by the keeper or just plainly missed the cage. Not very good soccer played by HFC compared to previous outtings. But it was only 0-2 at half... and anything is possible.
But the anything never arrived. Again the long ball pummelled the HFC back line. It was like a bombardment of scud missles flying in every minute. If the back line wasnt under pressure, Brunette was required to make a signature save and get assaulted for his efforts. Again, Newton finished one of one million through balls and extended their lead to three. 0-3.
HFC battle back. Kareem one again finished off a classic strikers chance. Mehdi looped a great ball over the outside defenders head and Kareem struck a fantastic goal. 1-3. A few mifield combinations had Bavota feeding Hickman at the 18. A blast from Hick had the Newton keeper sprawling for the save but Kareem was their for the rebound. 2-3.
Just as Hampshire gained some ground... Newton added another. At least this time, it wasnt a long ball. Their outside midfielder weaved his way through the HFC defense and tucked it by Dave. 2-4... painful. And then they added another as time was escaping HFC.
Justin Hickman did find the net one more time, late as HFC never said die. But it was the not the Wanderers night. 3-5 Hampshire takes their first unexpected loss of the year. The eleven that showed did not perform and certainly were not set up to defend a youthful side content to play kickball.
Hampshire faces off against D.E.Ararat on Sunday at home. The DEA management took their sponsorship to the darkside this year. Lets see if their investment will pay off.
6-24-08 FOUR UNANSWERED IN 2ND HALF = VICTORY
The T-storms cleared Tuesday night just in time for HFC to host long time rival Curran Management. It was a wet field but the rain pushed out the humidity making it a great night to play under the lights.
While it was a great night to play, HFC got off to a slow start. The thick grass played tricks on their typically smooth passing game and Curran had youth on their side, playing long ball to their advantage.
And then it happened, Curran scored first... putting HFC down for only their second time this year. It came off a free kick. A Curran midfielder served it into the box at the six. Some poor marking left three intruders open and one of them easily nodded it home. 0-1 Curran.
HFC moved on sharing the ball as best as possible... but could not equalize anytime soon. The game was pretty physical with the youngsters flying in at every tackle. Finally, HFC got their break. Rookie Kareem Smith provided the tally. Dylon, served a splendid ball in from the right back and Kareem instinctively "one timed" the cross into the side netting. 1-1
The half ended... HFC was clearly the better team but was not showing it. With a nice crowd on hand (47,243)... the Wanderers had to give them something to cheer about. Some reconfigurations were discussed at halftime and HFC came out with renewed vigor.
The result... 4 unanswered goals. HFC finished off a flurry of second half chances. Not to say Curran didnt have any. In fact, Dave Brunette single handedly preserved the lead on many occasions with several "one on one" stops.
Goals came from every angle. Christian slid a pass through the back line for Corlton. 2-1. Richard went on a solo run... fired a missle that stretched the Gilford keeper on the save, but Justin was there to finish it off. 3-1. 15 minutes later, Justin added to his points with his second of the night, and then Kareem rounded out the scoring with his second. 5-1. With all the second half scoring, one cannot overlook the solid defending of HFC.
Alan and Oscar held solid in the middle, while Jones and Flo tightened up the flanks. A noteworthy performance by Florek. Under constant pressure, he continued to distribute never turning the ball over... and pounded an opposition coming his way.
Overall, a nice comeback victory, but not the Wanderers we have seen in the early part of the season.
6-20-2008 GET UP TO SPEED
For those of you fans who have followed us over from DEA, you are aware of the roster. However, HFC did add a few noteworthy players to keep your eye on. James Palumbo has proven to be a dangerous winger. He has integrated well with the Wanderers passing game and has tallied a considerable amount of points in the early going. In addition, John Bavota is a lightning fast forward who was acquired in the same deal as James. John has a history of scoring league leading amounts of goals and will be a serious threat up top.
In the back, HFC has seen the return of Alan Gagnon and Chris Florek from last years injuries... they add experience and depth to the already solid back line.
While we have been away... and reports unavailable... HFC has used their superior passing game to dominate most opponents. The league is talented this year, but so far the Wanderers have proven to be the best and hope to continue. Check back in!!! Game recaps and updates are now streaming!!!
6-20-2008 CAMPAIGN 2008
After DEA abondons long-time support of local talent, Corlton Simmond revives the HFC Wanderers to create the newest addition to the NH Soccer Conference. The transfer of Christian Gagnon created a mass exodus from the DEA side and HFC immediately inherited the full ex-DEA and 2007 championship roster.
The Wanderers have been in hibernation since their days in PASL (Professional Arena Soccer League)... where they won two Northeast championships and finished runner-up in their final season of 2005. With a great history and a strong youth feeder system, HFC should be a force in the 2008 NHSC division one. Clearly, the roster is looking to repeat as champions and bring the hardware over to the HFC Wanderers label.
No hard feelings appear evident in the split with DEA... perhaps just a parting of ways. Longtime rival Ararat's O-30 association with DEA has proved strong and with that came a merger... thus changing the times. Regardless... with the HFC roster providing pure quality, sponsorship opportunities were plentiful and competitive. In steps Patrick Mulcahy and HFC. Pat's "In the Net Soccer Academy" has won the bidding rights and provided new kits for the team, while St. Anselm College provides the home field (unfortunately under construction at the moment).
Unfortunately, technical difficulties have plagued the HFC media machine. Sponsors have battled over rights to game reports and the Wanderers had refused to award a media contract until bidding disputes and legalities were settled.
Finally the smoke has cleared. With 9 games completed... game reports, roster, schedule and photos are now available. Posting a 7-1-1 record to date, HFC is currently in first place halfway through the season. Stay tuned for updates.