Shorthanded Firecrackers Eek Out Win

 31 July 2006

David Ahlgren

 In a trend that is a little disheartening, the Firecrackers continued their winning streak with minimal number of players.  In a replay of the last regular-season game of last season, the end result was a little different.

 The Firecrackers introduced two new players this game for the Summer season; one returning and one new face.  Many of you will recall Chad Hale from Kairos days, and we’d like to welcome Chad Salstrom into the midfield.  Welcome guys!

 The game started out with the Firecrackers having only 10 players.  Then midway through the first half, an 11^th arrived, only to see Antonio Favela have to excuse himself at halftime.

The shortage of players forced the Firecrackers to play a little out of position, with Dave Ahlgren playing sweeper, two new players in the midfield and no subs.  The old 3-4-2 lineup.

All things considered, the Firecrackers played well, completely dominating the Real Aztecans, in a 3-1 win.  Even though we were a man down, it felt like we could pass how we wanted on the enormous Watson Park Bowl.

Sean Stonehouse recorded three more goals, as he did the last time the Firecrackers gave the Real Aztecans a 11-0 thrashing.  Assists came from John Basanese, Brandon Stirm (in his last appearance for the ‘Crackers this year—good luck at college!) and Donny Fugate.

The game could have been more lopsided, but a tired group of guys had trouble finding the net.  Several point-blank shots were sent over the net, tended by Chicago Bear Middle Linebacker, Brian Urlacher. 

It was a sad day also, for the Nike ball.  The person that brought him to the Firecrackers, also took him out of this life.  John Basanese shot him well over the 20-foot fence that separates the Bowl and what used to be a garden area, never to be seen again.  RIP Nike ball.

Let’s get a better attendance next Monday and have some fun out there!!!

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