We would have 2 sessions today. In the morning session we would do some possession, some 1 v1 as well as some crossing and heading.
Possession:
The day began with some possesional stuff and it was black against red initially. The objective was to get to 35 passes, and despite the free touches, only 1 touch passes would count. I was the counter for the black team and we got off to a flying start. As a team we knocked the ball around well however I was not very involved other than my numerical chanting. I got a few touches but they were certainly not sharp as I lost the ball on my initial touch. We ended up winning the initial game but losing to the yellow team in our second. This was pretty much how things would go for the kid as I would struggle in the possessional stuff all day.
1v1:
We then went into a 1v1 drill, where the ball was played out wide to a wide player and he would have to take on a defender 1v1 and cross. Bob Lilley set up some parameters in which we had to beat the defender in and cross. The parameters ensured that if we cut in we would be going directly to goal and not accross the box. Two strikers and two defenders were in the box and they would battle as you crossed. Ofcourse, I was jumping for joy inside as 1v1 is my bread and butter. My team was defending initially and my defending is actually very good so I easily stuffed my first opponent as I encouraged him to dribble down the line. I faced the same guy every time and unfortunately for him, he could not get past me. He did once by cutting inside but he went outside of the boundries set up. We then switched to attacking, and I opted to go first. The ball was played out to me, I cooly controlled the ball and then attacked my defender. I shaked and feinted with step overs before pushing the ball by him and rifling it into the near post for a goal. The second ball I received, my defender was a stumpy central midfielder. This was absolutely unfair and I didn't even bother to waste anytime and pushed the ball and ran past him easily before crossing. I saved my best for last as I recieved the ball, pushed it forward and attacked the defender at pace. This time I cut inside swiftly, a central defender opted to try to tackle and he too was dismissed. Approaching the lowly keeper I opted to touch it to my right before backheeling the ball into the path of my striker who finished aplomb. (1v1 stuff for me is like asking a fish to swim.) Easy stuff for me, even though my team lost as we only scored 3 goals, 2 of them from the kid.
Crossing and Heading:
The teams were then split into two groups were, I ended up joining the yellow group and began the crossing drill. It was simple in that, the ball would be played into a target striker who played the ball back to a midfielder who played it out wide, either left or right, where players would whip in crosses and we had to score against 2 defenders. Once again, I was sloppy, my initial pass asked a lot of the wide player and Lilley went in on the kid. I got my head to a few crosses but failed to score. We eventually built up into a game but it was very direct and I wasn't very involved. I left the drill a little frustrated as I felt I wasn't taking responsibility to get myself into the game.
More Possession:
We switched with the other half of players and went into some more possessional stuff. We were split up into 7v7 with 2 players, who would always play on the team in possession. We were restricted to 3 touches initially. Once again I began slowly. My touches were ok but as I played 1 and 2 touches the opposition always seemed to be reading my passes and intercepting them. My frustration grew and I began to put out more and more effort with little results. We broke for water and then went into 2 touchs. I was beginnig to lift my game now but still I was not satisfied with how I was playing. My touches weren't sharp enough and I just was't getting into the zone. We got another break and went into free touches but the emphasis still being placed on playing quickly.
Moment:
Despite the fact that I was struggling their was one moment of skill that I must share in detail. A tackled was made and the ball spilled out and was running out of bounds. I sprinted to prevent the ball from going out of bounds and was able to stop the ball on the line. My momentum took me off the pitch and I slammed on the brakes to get back to the ball as soon as possible. In that moment of transition, I observed a defender coming at full speed to tackle me. With him speeding in, I proceeded to step to the ball and gently tap it between his legs, before tip-toeing around him like a bull fighter avoiding a raging bull. More defenders swarmed and despite rounding another the ball was poked away. In any case it was definitely the cleanest meg (salad) that I saw over the combine. Best of all, the assistant coach, Bill Sedgwick and General Manager Pat Ercoli, were in full observation and seemed to have really enjoyed the moment. (lol)
Directional Play:
We then broke again and went into some directional play. There were 2 small goals at each end. My team once again began slowly as the other team were able to possess and move the ball through us like we weren't even there. We were 2 nil down, lucky that it wasn't 3 and being outplayed. My frustration grew and I began to run more and more in an attempt to put more pressure on our opposition. We were still struggling when I realized that the striker (player furthest forward) on our team was not stretching the other team and they did well to compress the space. So I began to run into the space behind the opposition and demand long balls. Before we knew it we were able to stretch them out and play some short passes as well as mix it up. We were level in no time, 2-2. We broke one more time for more instruction and when we returned it was a massacre. We possessed the ball well, I ensured that we stretched the opposition, defended as a team and we easily won 2-0. I felt good about showing leadership and I was even able to score but I wasn't very satisfied with my play. That was the end of the morning session and we had 2.5 hours before the next session. So everyone rushed to get some lunch and maybe even a little rest.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Friday, January 8, 2010
Rochester Combine - First Day
As a player I took another step to returning to the professional pitch by participating in the Rochester Rhinos soccer combine held in Buffalo. The Combine was held at the The Sahlen's Sports Park http://www.sahlensportspark.com/ an indoor facility in Elma, New York from January 5th-7th. I went up on the 4th of January with two friends, Nicholas Lynch and Ricky Griffin. The ride was a little treacherous as the snow came down but we made it safely. The schedule was demanding, given that I was not in the best of shape. I'm not sure who was coming off the Xmas season. One session at 2pm on the 5th, two sessions on the 6th and one session on the 7th was good enough to bring in some serious lactic acid and sore muscles. In any case we were up for the ride, rough as it may be.
First Session:
When we arrived the Head Coach of the Rochester Rhinos, Bob Lilley, broke down exaclty what the set up would be. We would be broken up into three different teams of 12, black, red and yellow. We would each play two games, thirty-five minutes each. So each team would play a total of 70 minutes. The teams were asked to play specifically in a flat 4-4-2 formation, with the central midfielders playing alongside each other as opposed to a diamond. I was placed on the black team and given the number 7 jersey. I was not nervous heading up to the try outs as I've been to combines and try-outs before. I also knew that Coaches are interesting creatures and you could be picked for a number of different reasons. Yes, you have a say by how you play but, its only one factor. So I wasn't nervous, I would play my game, have fun, return with atleast one story and give it my all. But as everyone got together on the pitch and we warmed up I began to feel a little butterflys.
We were playing the first game, against the yellow team. I would start out on the left phlank. The initial sparring was patient and our team began well. I was not in the best of shape so I decided that I would really pick and choose when I would apply serious pressure on the opposition, when I would get forward and having gotten forward, when I would get back. A game that I like to refer to as the Arshavin Ghost, ultimatly I was using my brain to compensate for my lack of lungs and legs. I would make sure though that I was always an option for my left back and central midfielders. My first touches were simple and shrugged of the initial nerves. I kept possession well, found my footing and patiently waited on an opportunity to show my best attributes.
Moments:
I played very quickly, my decisions were swift resulting in me using 1 and 2 touches. Eventually, the ball drifted into our central midfielder who picked it up and I had ghosted out wide left into the final third. The ball was played perfectly out to me on the floor and I controlled it on the run as the right back approached. I took one touch to dress the ball with the outside of my right foot before rocking violently to my right with a step over, pushing it forward with my left and gliding by the defender. I crossed with with my next touch off the left dangeroulsy on the floor. Neither defender or striker getting to the ball as it rolled in and out of the box. (The defender came to me a minute later and was like: "Good move!" LOL!!)
A second opportunity arose when the same thing happened, the ball being played from the midfield out wide to me on the left, isolated with a defender. This time I opted to go inside. I attacked the defender before dropping my shoulder to the left and cutting across him. However, I fired directly at the keeper.
The game really came well to me as another moment came, this time I had ghosted centraly as the ball was being built up on the right side of the pitch, when it came across. I received a pass from the central midfielder. I was inside now and the ball coming a little behind me, I recieved the ball facing the right side and turned, spinning 180 degrees caressing the ball with my right foot, so that I was now facing the left. I looked up to see a midfielder on the run and played a through ball with my left foot between the right central defender and the right back. The streaking midfielder was through but unfortunately failed to control the ball.
We were really dominating the Yellow team and we eventually scored from a set piece situation. I also probably should have scored from two crosses. As I began to get more offensive, I began to disregard my defensive responsibilties. Eventually, one of our strikers broke into the box and crossed on the floor. I had made a strong run into the box but was a little too late. This happened on two occasions and would have been great for me to have grabbed a brace. That would have really done well for my arguement nevertheless our team won 1-0.
Second Game
We actually had to play the very next game, so we had a drink and were back on the pitch. We didn't start well in this case as the Red team proceeded to possess the ball really well. Knocking it 1 and 2 touches around our team. I think we were a bit tired but in any case we pushed on. I didn't have as sharp as game as my initial 35 minutes. Our team was struggling as the red team possessed.
I lost the ball a few times and eventually switched to the right. And I had a decent opponent in Kwame, an American born Nigerian, who probably had one of the better showings at the combine. He was strong, fast, technical and got forward well. I once again disregarded my defensive responsibilities luckily the red team failed within the final third. On a few occasions I was able to receive the ball on the counter. I was able to touch it by Kwame down the phlank and cross once again dangeroulsy. I cut the ball back but there was no one coming in late as our strikers crashed to the near and far post.
My last moment came with the final play of the game as once again, I received the ball out right, 1v1. This occasion I decided to go inside, attacking Kwame with two step overs, before dragging the ball inside, shrugging off two challenges and curling the ball outleft with the outside of my right foot.
We tied this game 1-1 despite being outplayed. We had scored from a through ball to one of our strikers. He some how got of a rifle of a shot that flew into the roof of the net. The best goal of the entire combine and a good word for his claim on a contract. The red team equalized in the last minute off a set play. Burning.
Strategy and Psychology
Psychologically I was very focused as I didn't know who the competition was so I anticipated really good players and wanted to be at my best. I was a little nervous but really focused. Another factor was that I wasn't in shape, so I had to be even more focused as I knew I couldn't run as much as I would like. I knew I had weapons in my arsenal, specifically speed and skill but way too often I allow the game to come to me. Whatever the hell that means. In this case, I was intent on using my weapons strategically. I would save my energy and only when the opportunity was clear would I bring out the speed and skill. I wanted to be at my absolute best upstairs because I knew I didn't have the legs and lungs. I wasn't at my best so I had to make sure I was smart. I wasn't looking to make my name everytime I recieved the ball. I wanted to have moments where I would specifically stand out. The plan was well executed as the game was kind enough to present itself favorably.
Overall
The first day was very well even though my play declined as the day progressed. I was often out of position defensively as I didn't get back after attacking, something that Bob Lilley straight up said to me. I did lose the ball on a few occasions as well. I didn't score or have an assist but with 2 dangerous crosses, 1 shot, 1 through ball, twice getting dangerously into the box and decent possessional play (plus we didn't lose) I would give myself an 8.5 on the day.
First Session:
When we arrived the Head Coach of the Rochester Rhinos, Bob Lilley, broke down exaclty what the set up would be. We would be broken up into three different teams of 12, black, red and yellow. We would each play two games, thirty-five minutes each. So each team would play a total of 70 minutes. The teams were asked to play specifically in a flat 4-4-2 formation, with the central midfielders playing alongside each other as opposed to a diamond. I was placed on the black team and given the number 7 jersey. I was not nervous heading up to the try outs as I've been to combines and try-outs before. I also knew that Coaches are interesting creatures and you could be picked for a number of different reasons. Yes, you have a say by how you play but, its only one factor. So I wasn't nervous, I would play my game, have fun, return with atleast one story and give it my all. But as everyone got together on the pitch and we warmed up I began to feel a little butterflys.
We were playing the first game, against the yellow team. I would start out on the left phlank. The initial sparring was patient and our team began well. I was not in the best of shape so I decided that I would really pick and choose when I would apply serious pressure on the opposition, when I would get forward and having gotten forward, when I would get back. A game that I like to refer to as the Arshavin Ghost, ultimatly I was using my brain to compensate for my lack of lungs and legs. I would make sure though that I was always an option for my left back and central midfielders. My first touches were simple and shrugged of the initial nerves. I kept possession well, found my footing and patiently waited on an opportunity to show my best attributes.
Moments:
I played very quickly, my decisions were swift resulting in me using 1 and 2 touches. Eventually, the ball drifted into our central midfielder who picked it up and I had ghosted out wide left into the final third. The ball was played perfectly out to me on the floor and I controlled it on the run as the right back approached. I took one touch to dress the ball with the outside of my right foot before rocking violently to my right with a step over, pushing it forward with my left and gliding by the defender. I crossed with with my next touch off the left dangeroulsy on the floor. Neither defender or striker getting to the ball as it rolled in and out of the box. (The defender came to me a minute later and was like: "Good move!" LOL!!)
A second opportunity arose when the same thing happened, the ball being played from the midfield out wide to me on the left, isolated with a defender. This time I opted to go inside. I attacked the defender before dropping my shoulder to the left and cutting across him. However, I fired directly at the keeper.
The game really came well to me as another moment came, this time I had ghosted centraly as the ball was being built up on the right side of the pitch, when it came across. I received a pass from the central midfielder. I was inside now and the ball coming a little behind me, I recieved the ball facing the right side and turned, spinning 180 degrees caressing the ball with my right foot, so that I was now facing the left. I looked up to see a midfielder on the run and played a through ball with my left foot between the right central defender and the right back. The streaking midfielder was through but unfortunately failed to control the ball.
We were really dominating the Yellow team and we eventually scored from a set piece situation. I also probably should have scored from two crosses. As I began to get more offensive, I began to disregard my defensive responsibilties. Eventually, one of our strikers broke into the box and crossed on the floor. I had made a strong run into the box but was a little too late. This happened on two occasions and would have been great for me to have grabbed a brace. That would have really done well for my arguement nevertheless our team won 1-0.
Second Game
We actually had to play the very next game, so we had a drink and were back on the pitch. We didn't start well in this case as the Red team proceeded to possess the ball really well. Knocking it 1 and 2 touches around our team. I think we were a bit tired but in any case we pushed on. I didn't have as sharp as game as my initial 35 minutes. Our team was struggling as the red team possessed.
I lost the ball a few times and eventually switched to the right. And I had a decent opponent in Kwame, an American born Nigerian, who probably had one of the better showings at the combine. He was strong, fast, technical and got forward well. I once again disregarded my defensive responsibilities luckily the red team failed within the final third. On a few occasions I was able to receive the ball on the counter. I was able to touch it by Kwame down the phlank and cross once again dangeroulsy. I cut the ball back but there was no one coming in late as our strikers crashed to the near and far post.
My last moment came with the final play of the game as once again, I received the ball out right, 1v1. This occasion I decided to go inside, attacking Kwame with two step overs, before dragging the ball inside, shrugging off two challenges and curling the ball outleft with the outside of my right foot.
We tied this game 1-1 despite being outplayed. We had scored from a through ball to one of our strikers. He some how got of a rifle of a shot that flew into the roof of the net. The best goal of the entire combine and a good word for his claim on a contract. The red team equalized in the last minute off a set play. Burning.
Strategy and Psychology
Psychologically I was very focused as I didn't know who the competition was so I anticipated really good players and wanted to be at my best. I was a little nervous but really focused. Another factor was that I wasn't in shape, so I had to be even more focused as I knew I couldn't run as much as I would like. I knew I had weapons in my arsenal, specifically speed and skill but way too often I allow the game to come to me. Whatever the hell that means. In this case, I was intent on using my weapons strategically. I would save my energy and only when the opportunity was clear would I bring out the speed and skill. I wanted to be at my absolute best upstairs because I knew I didn't have the legs and lungs. I wasn't at my best so I had to make sure I was smart. I wasn't looking to make my name everytime I recieved the ball. I wanted to have moments where I would specifically stand out. The plan was well executed as the game was kind enough to present itself favorably.
Overall
The first day was very well even though my play declined as the day progressed. I was often out of position defensively as I didn't get back after attacking, something that Bob Lilley straight up said to me. I did lose the ball on a few occasions as well. I didn't score or have an assist but with 2 dangerous crosses, 1 shot, 1 through ball, twice getting dangerously into the box and decent possessional play (plus we didn't lose) I would give myself an 8.5 on the day.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Fantasy Week 17
Fantasy Fantasy Fantasy!!
Fantasy EPL Overload?! No such thing... despite the mid week games and the need to make well researched trades twice in one week, our managers will continue to look to get a competitive edge. Those who deligently studied for final exams and lost sleep while finishing final papers, will certainly rely on luck to stay abreast. Those of us that understand the time demands of our team selection, even in the name of our beloved studies, shall not give in. Memorizing the weekly schedules, scrutinizing home and away forms and spending way too much time deciding who should wear the virutal arm band are some of the symptons that are indicative of our determination. Whether we have spend too much time or not nearly enough will not matter as Saturday it is on like onion, and popping like popcorn as the week 17 gets into gear.
Player Selection is the order of the day and thanks to the Scott Shot research team we have our picks. We select our team based on a lot of different factors: Opponents, Previous fixture, player phsychology, Team history, and many more factors, one of which is sheer instinct. This week we have selected a few players who have the potential to be week 17 stars. So without further ado:
Sylvan Ebanks Blake
The Wolves striker that was so prominent in last season's rise to the premiership has not delivered for Mcartny. However, with a crucial 3 points at stake against last year's Championship competitor Burnley, I expect Mcartny to demand results from not only the Wolves but especially Ebanks-Blake. The Wolves rested their starters mid week against Mancheter United and the team will be fresh and ready for the visiting Burnley. Burnley has conceded 27 goals on the road and have conceded an average of almost 3.5 goals per away game. I highly doubt a clean sheet for Burnley and with Sylvan Ebanks-Blake spear heading the Wolves attack, don't be surprised if he goes for a double or even a hat trick.
Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres
It seems as if something is wrong at Liverpool. We haven't seen the team really get into the gear that we know they can. Steven Gerrard has not come even close to the level that we know he can play at. Fernando Torres has been out for the majority of the season but is slowly returning. I however feel it is only a matter of time before the Liverpool heros have a monster week. I expect a full strength squad to be fielded tomorrow and when Torres and Gerrard are together for 90, anything is possible. I expect Portsmouth to be put to the sword by a refocusing Liverpool squad.
Didier Drogba
The Ivorian is certainly looking like the prime candidate for the Golden boot this EPL season. Drogba heads to West Ham a team that despite their home advantage lets, in more goals at home than away, 19 and 15 respectively. Maybe this has something to do with Zola's attacking philosophy, emphasized with home field advantage, which leaves holes at the back. In any case, Zola has vowed to stick to his attacking philosophy despite the visiting Chelsea. Last year the fixtures were very bland in regards to goals, Chlesea winning both 1-0. I however think that Drogba, rested mid week, will surely be on the score sheet, maybe even more than once. The striker has recently displayed a deadly form as he scores goals with such ease. Facing a team with such a horrendous defensive record, strap the armband on the Ivorian this week.
Fantasy EPL Overload?! No such thing... despite the mid week games and the need to make well researched trades twice in one week, our managers will continue to look to get a competitive edge. Those who deligently studied for final exams and lost sleep while finishing final papers, will certainly rely on luck to stay abreast. Those of us that understand the time demands of our team selection, even in the name of our beloved studies, shall not give in. Memorizing the weekly schedules, scrutinizing home and away forms and spending way too much time deciding who should wear the virutal arm band are some of the symptons that are indicative of our determination. Whether we have spend too much time or not nearly enough will not matter as Saturday it is on like onion, and popping like popcorn as the week 17 gets into gear.
Player Selection is the order of the day and thanks to the Scott Shot research team we have our picks. We select our team based on a lot of different factors: Opponents, Previous fixture, player phsychology, Team history, and many more factors, one of which is sheer instinct. This week we have selected a few players who have the potential to be week 17 stars. So without further ado:
Sylvan Ebanks Blake
The Wolves striker that was so prominent in last season's rise to the premiership has not delivered for Mcartny. However, with a crucial 3 points at stake against last year's Championship competitor Burnley, I expect Mcartny to demand results from not only the Wolves but especially Ebanks-Blake. The Wolves rested their starters mid week against Mancheter United and the team will be fresh and ready for the visiting Burnley. Burnley has conceded 27 goals on the road and have conceded an average of almost 3.5 goals per away game. I highly doubt a clean sheet for Burnley and with Sylvan Ebanks-Blake spear heading the Wolves attack, don't be surprised if he goes for a double or even a hat trick.
Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres
It seems as if something is wrong at Liverpool. We haven't seen the team really get into the gear that we know they can. Steven Gerrard has not come even close to the level that we know he can play at. Fernando Torres has been out for the majority of the season but is slowly returning. I however feel it is only a matter of time before the Liverpool heros have a monster week. I expect a full strength squad to be fielded tomorrow and when Torres and Gerrard are together for 90, anything is possible. I expect Portsmouth to be put to the sword by a refocusing Liverpool squad.
Didier Drogba
The Ivorian is certainly looking like the prime candidate for the Golden boot this EPL season. Drogba heads to West Ham a team that despite their home advantage lets, in more goals at home than away, 19 and 15 respectively. Maybe this has something to do with Zola's attacking philosophy, emphasized with home field advantage, which leaves holes at the back. In any case, Zola has vowed to stick to his attacking philosophy despite the visiting Chelsea. Last year the fixtures were very bland in regards to goals, Chlesea winning both 1-0. I however think that Drogba, rested mid week, will surely be on the score sheet, maybe even more than once. The striker has recently displayed a deadly form as he scores goals with such ease. Facing a team with such a horrendous defensive record, strap the armband on the Ivorian this week.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Purpose: Scott Shot Blogspot!!
Scott-Shot Blog-Spot will be an outlet for the kid. I will write from the perspective of a Soccer player, coach, fantasy manager, pundit and scholar. The pieces that will be produced will come from my experience and views as I continue to wear these different hats within the soccer world.
Playing:
I am currently playing for the Barnstonworth Rovers in the Cosmopolitan League in New York City. The team is quite talented and doing well but due to the participatory mentality, the squad is under acheiving. Yet still the often humourous interaction of young men in a competitive environment is always unpredictable, entertaining and provides a huge joy to my life. The joy of playing the game in such an environment has also opened my eyes to the lack of romanticism in my own game. Having played with such a serious, result based mentality over the past 2 years has severly restrained the expression and personality that I played with during my teenage years. The step-overs have dissappeared, megs and piles (sombreros) are few and far between, snakes are non-existent while the brand new move that I branded 'The 2010' has been in the closet for so long it is now dusty. As I strive to restore my innate expressive and inventive play, I will still try to hold onto productivity. How this dynamic tug of war pans out will be detailed right here on Scott Shot.
Coaching:
I am currently coahcing the Elmont Rush. They are an Under-13 girls team full of personality and energy. The girls are very new to the organized soccer as the team is approaching a year old this spring. Despite having not secured a win just as yet they are certainly improving. When I began coaching the Rush they were winless and had not scored a goal. Since then we have drawn 3 games, scored a cool 6 goals and were very close to grabbing our first victory. We are currently in the off season hence indoors. The indoor sessions are very technique based, geared towards passing and moving. Their technique and tactical awareness is slowly improving and hopefully the girls will be able to translate the indoor work onto the field when we go out doors in the spring. That will be where the real fun comes in as competition will recommence. And whether I return to the 4-3-3 or opt for a untraditional 3-4-3 and detail the reasoning and under tones of my strategic planning will provide entertainment.
Fantasy Manager:
Fantasy managment is one of the most connecting aspects in my life as all my friends are seriously involved. We often have to restrain ourselves from spending too much time discussing whether to captain Steven Gerrard or Didier Drogba. Though many may think an idle past time the thought process that goes into selecting ones team, buying, selling and holding onto players, based on so many different factors is a science. Though slightly luck based there is a reason why the same people lead the league year in and year out. The competitive energy within the Fantasy league is often ferocious as the forum is often bombarded as managers throw words like daggers at each other. As a fantasy manager the thought process, mistakes, lessons, failures and success provides a roller coaster of a ride as I strive to be the virtual Mourinho.
Scholar Student:
I have become very interested in reading soccer books. I recently read, Inverting the Pyramid by Jonathan Wilson, which was absolutely great. I am currently at the back end of Soccernomics by Simon Kuper and Stefan Szymanski. Soccernomics is good but I have many issues with some of the ideas and how they go about exmining them. The chapter reviews and thought provoking ideas will be examined through my eyes here. The list of soccer books is almost infinite so the pieces will be incessant.
Pundit (Self Proclaimed):
Every soccer player or soccer fan has their views on the game, players, managers and happenings within the soccer world. Though my thoughts on such are often not interesting enough to voice I occasionally do have views on the game that are worth voicing. Hopefully I will come up with some decent material.
The truth is that self expression is necessary and as my thoughts and life revolves around the game of soccer, a soccer blog seems like an simple means to free some of my ideas and thoughts. Hopefully my readers will enjoy it as much as I know I will.
Playing:
I am currently playing for the Barnstonworth Rovers in the Cosmopolitan League in New York City. The team is quite talented and doing well but due to the participatory mentality, the squad is under acheiving. Yet still the often humourous interaction of young men in a competitive environment is always unpredictable, entertaining and provides a huge joy to my life. The joy of playing the game in such an environment has also opened my eyes to the lack of romanticism in my own game. Having played with such a serious, result based mentality over the past 2 years has severly restrained the expression and personality that I played with during my teenage years. The step-overs have dissappeared, megs and piles (sombreros) are few and far between, snakes are non-existent while the brand new move that I branded 'The 2010' has been in the closet for so long it is now dusty. As I strive to restore my innate expressive and inventive play, I will still try to hold onto productivity. How this dynamic tug of war pans out will be detailed right here on Scott Shot.
Coaching:
I am currently coahcing the Elmont Rush. They are an Under-13 girls team full of personality and energy. The girls are very new to the organized soccer as the team is approaching a year old this spring. Despite having not secured a win just as yet they are certainly improving. When I began coaching the Rush they were winless and had not scored a goal. Since then we have drawn 3 games, scored a cool 6 goals and were very close to grabbing our first victory. We are currently in the off season hence indoors. The indoor sessions are very technique based, geared towards passing and moving. Their technique and tactical awareness is slowly improving and hopefully the girls will be able to translate the indoor work onto the field when we go out doors in the spring. That will be where the real fun comes in as competition will recommence. And whether I return to the 4-3-3 or opt for a untraditional 3-4-3 and detail the reasoning and under tones of my strategic planning will provide entertainment.
Fantasy Manager:
Fantasy managment is one of the most connecting aspects in my life as all my friends are seriously involved. We often have to restrain ourselves from spending too much time discussing whether to captain Steven Gerrard or Didier Drogba. Though many may think an idle past time the thought process that goes into selecting ones team, buying, selling and holding onto players, based on so many different factors is a science. Though slightly luck based there is a reason why the same people lead the league year in and year out. The competitive energy within the Fantasy league is often ferocious as the forum is often bombarded as managers throw words like daggers at each other. As a fantasy manager the thought process, mistakes, lessons, failures and success provides a roller coaster of a ride as I strive to be the virtual Mourinho.
Scholar Student:
I have become very interested in reading soccer books. I recently read, Inverting the Pyramid by Jonathan Wilson, which was absolutely great. I am currently at the back end of Soccernomics by Simon Kuper and Stefan Szymanski. Soccernomics is good but I have many issues with some of the ideas and how they go about exmining them. The chapter reviews and thought provoking ideas will be examined through my eyes here. The list of soccer books is almost infinite so the pieces will be incessant.
Pundit (Self Proclaimed):
Every soccer player or soccer fan has their views on the game, players, managers and happenings within the soccer world. Though my thoughts on such are often not interesting enough to voice I occasionally do have views on the game that are worth voicing. Hopefully I will come up with some decent material.
The truth is that self expression is necessary and as my thoughts and life revolves around the game of soccer, a soccer blog seems like an simple means to free some of my ideas and thoughts. Hopefully my readers will enjoy it as much as I know I will.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Fantasy Tips for Dummies - The Last Encounter
68 minutes into week 14, glaring at the online update for Manchester City v Hull City I had come to the conclusion that my fantasy week would be rainy. I fought back the urge to throw my Blackberry Storm as my captain; Adebayor was being substituted by Mark Hughes. We all know the importance of having your captain deliver, and 2 points is absolutely unacceptable for the player whom we hand the virtual arm band. What made this worse was that while remaining up to date on the Man City game, I was glued to the television watching Rooney’s unimpressive hat trick. Of course, the night before I wrestled with logic, emotion and numbers in putting together my team and Rooney was a consideration for captain. I immediately immersed myself in self-pity, ‘You’re just unlucky’ I proclaimed. But I refuse to accept that tenuous excuse. In hind sight I came to the conclusion that history is the lesson in this loss. If I had looked at this fixture last year I might have seen that City may not deliver the goal fest I had been expecting. This edition’s tip is that the previous encounter can be a crucial indicator in the fantasy world, more specifically on the psychological state of a team.
Man City v Hull at Eastland’s 2008/09
Last year, this fixture was a turning point for Hull as Man City put them to the sword in a 5-1 thrashing at Eastland’s. Hull City manager Brown actually berated his team on the pitch at half time. (Hence Bullard’s comical celebration) That loss was the beginning of Hull’s 08/09 plummet and close encounter with relegation. The same managers locked horns today, with largely the same personnel on the pitch. Psychologically, Hull City may have had an advantage not only because of last years result but also because of the vividness of what happened. Certainly though, history tipped the odds against a goal fest for the City strike force. If I had factored last year’s fixture into my analysis I may have more strongly considered Rooney for captain who was due a performance, despite how unconvincing he has been, a decision worth 30 fantasy points. Many may be unconvinced by my argument but guess what? I don’t care. Lol. No, I do, and we actually have an opportunity to somewhat test my theory. Tomorrow we have two games with notable history.
Arsenal v Chelsea at the Emirates
Chelsea returns to the Emirates where they pummeled Arsenal 4-1 last year. I predict a low scoring stalemate here, despite Arsenal’s innate attacking mentality, the remnants of last years burning defeat remains. Such a margin will not repeat itself, at least not in Chelsea’s favor. The history here slightly differs from that of the Hull game as Ancelotti is a new variable in this equation. Arsenal is not only suffering from injuries but need to win tomorrow to challenge for the title. Chelsea, sitting atop the tables and enjoying their trade, will not be complacent but last year’s massacre and a depleted Arsenal will certainly not provide extra motivation for the Blues. Psychologically, Wenger has more wood to fire up a more than capable Arsenal. Expect the Gunners to stand up tomorrow to a tough Chelsea. Prediction: 1-1
Barcelona v Real Madrid at the Nou Camp
A game with history is an understatement when describing Real Madrid v Barcelona and though it does not concern our EPL fantasy managers it is a game that will attract the attention of all football pundits. The social, political, and economical implications that have followed this magnanimous football fixture are of the deepest and richest in the world but I do believe there is some clues in looking at recent encounters between these giants. Real Madrid was dispatched 2-0 in this fixture last year but the last time Madrid faced Barca, they were annihilated 6-2 in Madrid. That is the crucial fixture to take into account and would imply that another Barca victory by such a margin is unlikely. However Real Madrid v Barcelona is very different than a Chelsea v Arsenal. Though bearing some similarities as both games involve 2 footballing giants, Real Madrid v Barcelona, arguably El Clasico of all Classicos, decides the not so competitive La Liga. Chelsea v Arsenal does not decide the Premiership. Despite the score last year, I expect Madrid to come to win, not to save face. They believe they can win at the Camp Nou and will approach the game as such. Barcelona, at home will attack from the get go. Expect anything in this one, Madrid could win by a big margin, Barca could do the same as the biggest offensive guns of the game will be locked and loaded on both sides. I shall not try to predict this one. The hatred that these two clubs have for each other provides a football feast every year and this year will be no different. Prediction: I have no clue but as a Barca fan I want them to win. If I had to though... Barca 2 Madrid 1.
Conclusion
Now in truth, these two games are not entirely similar to the Hull City v Man City game but provide examples of how previous encounters may give clues to the psychological state of the personnel involved in an upcoming fixture. As the EPL approaches its half way mark, teams will begin to face each other for the second time of the season. Top managers will be reviewing initial encounters for clues to separate the fantasy dynamite and from the fantasy duds. Adebayor was a dud this week, Rooney on the other hand, dynamite but in the future the roles may be reversed. One thing though is clear, that fantasy points are to be gained in examining the previous encounters of a fixture. Managers able to foresee the fantasy C4 of the future by looking to the past will be the ones to explode ahead as the Barclays EPL approaches the Holiday season.
Man City v Hull at Eastland’s 2008/09
Last year, this fixture was a turning point for Hull as Man City put them to the sword in a 5-1 thrashing at Eastland’s. Hull City manager Brown actually berated his team on the pitch at half time. (Hence Bullard’s comical celebration) That loss was the beginning of Hull’s 08/09 plummet and close encounter with relegation. The same managers locked horns today, with largely the same personnel on the pitch. Psychologically, Hull City may have had an advantage not only because of last years result but also because of the vividness of what happened. Certainly though, history tipped the odds against a goal fest for the City strike force. If I had factored last year’s fixture into my analysis I may have more strongly considered Rooney for captain who was due a performance, despite how unconvincing he has been, a decision worth 30 fantasy points. Many may be unconvinced by my argument but guess what? I don’t care. Lol. No, I do, and we actually have an opportunity to somewhat test my theory. Tomorrow we have two games with notable history.
Arsenal v Chelsea at the Emirates
Chelsea returns to the Emirates where they pummeled Arsenal 4-1 last year. I predict a low scoring stalemate here, despite Arsenal’s innate attacking mentality, the remnants of last years burning defeat remains. Such a margin will not repeat itself, at least not in Chelsea’s favor. The history here slightly differs from that of the Hull game as Ancelotti is a new variable in this equation. Arsenal is not only suffering from injuries but need to win tomorrow to challenge for the title. Chelsea, sitting atop the tables and enjoying their trade, will not be complacent but last year’s massacre and a depleted Arsenal will certainly not provide extra motivation for the Blues. Psychologically, Wenger has more wood to fire up a more than capable Arsenal. Expect the Gunners to stand up tomorrow to a tough Chelsea. Prediction: 1-1
Barcelona v Real Madrid at the Nou Camp
A game with history is an understatement when describing Real Madrid v Barcelona and though it does not concern our EPL fantasy managers it is a game that will attract the attention of all football pundits. The social, political, and economical implications that have followed this magnanimous football fixture are of the deepest and richest in the world but I do believe there is some clues in looking at recent encounters between these giants. Real Madrid was dispatched 2-0 in this fixture last year but the last time Madrid faced Barca, they were annihilated 6-2 in Madrid. That is the crucial fixture to take into account and would imply that another Barca victory by such a margin is unlikely. However Real Madrid v Barcelona is very different than a Chelsea v Arsenal. Though bearing some similarities as both games involve 2 footballing giants, Real Madrid v Barcelona, arguably El Clasico of all Classicos, decides the not so competitive La Liga. Chelsea v Arsenal does not decide the Premiership. Despite the score last year, I expect Madrid to come to win, not to save face. They believe they can win at the Camp Nou and will approach the game as such. Barcelona, at home will attack from the get go. Expect anything in this one, Madrid could win by a big margin, Barca could do the same as the biggest offensive guns of the game will be locked and loaded on both sides. I shall not try to predict this one. The hatred that these two clubs have for each other provides a football feast every year and this year will be no different. Prediction: I have no clue but as a Barca fan I want them to win. If I had to though... Barca 2 Madrid 1.
Conclusion
Now in truth, these two games are not entirely similar to the Hull City v Man City game but provide examples of how previous encounters may give clues to the psychological state of the personnel involved in an upcoming fixture. As the EPL approaches its half way mark, teams will begin to face each other for the second time of the season. Top managers will be reviewing initial encounters for clues to separate the fantasy dynamite and from the fantasy duds. Adebayor was a dud this week, Rooney on the other hand, dynamite but in the future the roles may be reversed. One thing though is clear, that fantasy points are to be gained in examining the previous encounters of a fixture. Managers able to foresee the fantasy C4 of the future by looking to the past will be the ones to explode ahead as the Barclays EPL approaches the Holiday season.
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