Tough Break for Undermanned Firecrackers

The team we played yesterday was a pretty technical team. They passed the ball well, kept our forwards honest with the off-side traps, and scored. The really had the numbers advantage, keeping fresh legs on the field, while we could only sub two positions at a time.

It wasn't only bad news that came from the game yesterday. I was impressed with the effort that everyone present gave. We kept the game close, even though we were outgunned all over the field. The score was 1-0 at halftime, and the ref's were nice enough to give us a 15 minute break. Sweeper Antonio Favela, along with another solid performance from the defense did a great job in shutting the other team down. Breakaways were thwarted, and open players were shut down quickly. Chris Stirm, in his debut for the Firecrackers, put in a spirited game, and no doubt that when his endurance catches up to his skill and desire, he'll be a great asset to the team. Keeper Travis Bianchi put in anther Keller-esque game and saved quite a few shots that could have just as easily gone in. The offense had a couple close chances, with four shots either hitting the post or just sailing wide. Jeremy Basanese was in the right place for a full volley just a few yards out, but when he connected, again it just sailed wide.

I like our odds for this next year. I think the team we just played will be the team to beat this season. With their addition to the league, we will have to take each game very seriously. As far as I know, only the top four teams will make the playoffs, and there are now 10 teams. *UPDATE* There are 12 teams in the league this season, divided into two brackets of six teams each. We have to finish either 1st or 2nd in our bracket to advance to the playoffs. Winner plays the second place of the opposite bracket in the semifinals. We have a bunch of new teams this year, so we always have to be on our toes. Every game is important.

With that in mind, having 9 players missing is ridiculous. I realize that people have other obligations, and are sometimes out of town, whatever. The breakdown comes when no one knows where anyone is. Only two players told me that they would not be able to be at the game. We have all known that the game would be on the 25th--ever since our last game. I thought about initiating a pizza fund, with people paying a $5 fine when you miss a game, or perhaps docking playing time... but I think that we are above that. I think that we got off on the wrong foot and can pick up our effort for the rest of the season. We belonged winning the championship game last season, and we have this season to show everyone that we can win it.

Please come next Monday. If you can't make it, at least let me know so I can plan accordingly. Let's get out there and win!

Sorry, no photos this week. Check back next week for more action shots!

sjfirecrackers.com man of the match: Antonio Favela

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Location: Watson Bowl

Also, only one player responded to my request for player input regarding the championship game.

Here are Travis's remarks: (thanks Travis!)

"First of all I think that the web site and all the pictures are really cool.

I think that we have a great team here with enough talent to go beyond the league that we are in. A little bit of bad luck is all that stopped us from beating that team yesterday. We got away from what I think our strongest assets are. I have not been on the team for very long but have played against you guys and with enough good players to see that we are better than we played yesterday. I also think that we came out too cocky yesterday. It made me nervous when we were talking about how, when we got up, we were going to split up the time.

If we can keep this team together and learn the strengths and weaknessess of each of us, there won't be too many losses in our future.

You have put together a good team though and I am just happy to be a part of it. We'll get em next time.

Travis"