We have had a patchy season with a few wins, draws that should have been wins and loses to some less fancied opponents.
We have worked hard on improving individuals who inturn will assist the team in their relevant positions. I say positions as we have managed to turn defenders into midfielders, attackers into wingers and midfielders into attackers.
With this team flexibility we have experimented with our players positioning and formations, having said that we look forward to a stronger second half of the year with a target of achieving 20 points from our 9 second round games.
We come up against an UNDEFEATED South Melbourne team this Sunday and kick off at 1.45pm so come in a have a look at this team of great fellas as they look to tamper SOUTHS unblemished record and move forward to an improved second stage of the year.
Spiro Kargas
Coach U15A
Thursday, 19 June 2008
Round 8 - U9 Yellow - Match Report
Saturday 14th June v’s Glen Waverley
Hard Fought Low Scoring Win:
A tough and scrappy encounter for DRSC U9 Yellow, on a day that saw them being challenged by a physically bigger and imposing Glen Waverley side. Both teams began the day undefeated with high expectations. On an uneven pitch and full sized goals, there were sure to be plenty of chances created. But gaining control of a ball bouncing unpredictably was always going to be difficult.
The Rovers began well and exerted relentless pressure, but the Glen Waverley defence held firm by pressing back in numbers and creating an impenetrable cluster in front of goals. The boys in yellow switched up a gear and became more creative, as the usual avenues to goal were blocked. Working the ball from the right, the ever reliable Cheyne pushed forward from the midfield to latch onto a loose ball just inside the box and blast home the first goal into the bottom right corner.
Both teams were now getting plenty of possession in the midfield, but were unable to convert it to real pressure on goal. It took a magnificent through ball, which was well read by Joshua who made a perfectly timed run to get behind the Glen Waverley defence. With the impending one on one contest against the keeper, the good money was on Joshua to slot the ball home, only to be denied by what could only be referred to as a crude professional tackle from behind that brought him down. With his confidence high, Joshua stepped up to take the free kick which he duly smacked into the top right corner of the net: 2 – 0.
The second half presented few highlights, except for a second goal from Joshua which just snuck in under the outstretched arms of the opposing goal keeper. Two more exceptional saves followed restricting the Rovers to their equal lowest score for the season and the game finished at 3 – 0.
As this will be my final report for the season, I’d like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the club for allowing me to participate as team manager. I’d like to thank all the boys and their families for making this such an enjoyable season to date, my own family for putting up with the over exuberant excitement and rants before, during and after each game. I would especially like to thank the coach, Peter Haloulos who once again this year has been extremely dedicated to training the boys. He drives long distances and has committed himself to the discipline and improvement of the boys’ skills and tactical nous for the game we all love.
I have every confidence the team will continue to perform brilliantly and my hope is that the boys follow the credo and above all have fun.
Well done to all the boys and the coach.
Next week we meet Mooroolbark at home with a 10.30am kick-off.
Train Hard, Play Fair & Have Fun
Hard Fought Low Scoring Win:
A tough and scrappy encounter for DRSC U9 Yellow, on a day that saw them being challenged by a physically bigger and imposing Glen Waverley side. Both teams began the day undefeated with high expectations. On an uneven pitch and full sized goals, there were sure to be plenty of chances created. But gaining control of a ball bouncing unpredictably was always going to be difficult.
The Rovers began well and exerted relentless pressure, but the Glen Waverley defence held firm by pressing back in numbers and creating an impenetrable cluster in front of goals. The boys in yellow switched up a gear and became more creative, as the usual avenues to goal were blocked. Working the ball from the right, the ever reliable Cheyne pushed forward from the midfield to latch onto a loose ball just inside the box and blast home the first goal into the bottom right corner.
Both teams were now getting plenty of possession in the midfield, but were unable to convert it to real pressure on goal. It took a magnificent through ball, which was well read by Joshua who made a perfectly timed run to get behind the Glen Waverley defence. With the impending one on one contest against the keeper, the good money was on Joshua to slot the ball home, only to be denied by what could only be referred to as a crude professional tackle from behind that brought him down. With his confidence high, Joshua stepped up to take the free kick which he duly smacked into the top right corner of the net: 2 – 0.
The second half presented few highlights, except for a second goal from Joshua which just snuck in under the outstretched arms of the opposing goal keeper. Two more exceptional saves followed restricting the Rovers to their equal lowest score for the season and the game finished at 3 – 0.
As this will be my final report for the season, I’d like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the club for allowing me to participate as team manager. I’d like to thank all the boys and their families for making this such an enjoyable season to date, my own family for putting up with the over exuberant excitement and rants before, during and after each game. I would especially like to thank the coach, Peter Haloulos who once again this year has been extremely dedicated to training the boys. He drives long distances and has committed himself to the discipline and improvement of the boys’ skills and tactical nous for the game we all love.
I have every confidence the team will continue to perform brilliantly and my hope is that the boys follow the credo and above all have fun.
Well done to all the boys and the coach.
Next week we meet Mooroolbark at home with a 10.30am kick-off.
Train Hard, Play Fair & Have Fun
Wednesday, 18 June 2008
Round 8 - U15A Girls - Match Report
U15A GIRLS END SANDRINGHAM 2 YEAR WINNING STREAK
This was a game to remember and which was long awaited after our monumental 1-2 loss earlier on.
There was a growing belief mounting and instilled by Bill Mihaloudis (coach) that the invincible Sandringham can and will be beaten.
On a perfect day for soccer in Sandringham our girls came out ready to battle (on sheer skill). Knowing that the slightest mistake could be costly. It was a strong cross from from a corner delivered by our own gun - Renee Zebic that ended up jumbled in the pack and just spilled out for a precise placement by the "Eveready" Siobhan Gray.
Jubilation for getting away early sent our mighty midfielders Elise Kyrgios, Bree Mirabella, Demi Mihaloudis and Coterill into action. Working this ball and trying to find another break.
The defenders, Natasha Lusi, Mel Feore, Supryia Lal, Emma Jones and Tessa Sernio were courageous, methodical and alert as they fought off several counter attacks as only sandy can mastermind. Supryia's speed and blocks answered Ashley Whitakers (Sandy's star striker and speedster) and kept her goalless which was an outstanding effort.
The team certainly held together and played to plan much to the coaches delight. End of 1st half found the score 0-1 to our favour.
Shortly in from half time, Sandringham was out to score. A scurry of plays in front of Sandy's goal resulted in a penalty being awarded against us.
Sandy's WPL player Hanna Whittaker (no relation to Ashley) sent the ball firmly to the right corner just passing our dynamite keeper Christina Katsambanis who dived desperately but the ball was hit firmly and went to the back of the net making it 1- 1.
Our girls just came back even more determined a credit to them all. Strikers Lia Privitelli, Mel Maizels, and Squirt White eager and on the ready to pounce. They fought hard to score and mounted pressure on the Sandy defence and a spot kick was awarded to Donny just outside the 18 yard box. Renee Zebic loaded up and torpedoed yet another missile resulting in to a top left corner goal. Too fierce and too fast skimming passed the sandy keeper. Much to the amazement of all the gob stopped onlookers! what a shot making it 1-2 and we were back in front and on track for our first win.
To top it off the deciding third goal came off a rebounded header from a sandy defender picked up by our trusty Tessa Sernio and placed over the pack at the feet of her amigo Lia Privitelli.
As only Lia can on many other countless occasions, weaved through and took on the last 2 defenders with guts and skilfully squeezed the ball from the left corner post into the right corner passing the goalie at the tightest of angles. Game over 1-3.
The had come and classy Sandringham were very gracious in defeat. It is a rivalry that is respected and admired for it brings the game of girls soccer to a new level.
After 2 years Sandringham had their first loss and it was almost surreal!!
Regardless, we know and look forward to many more hard fought duals. This time it went our way. we embrace the showcase of great sportsmanship, skill, tactics and gusto that only these two teams bring under respected and able coaches.
It doesn't get any better than this, not so much the winning but the journey to get there.
Too bad John Kyrgios (Assistant Coach) Euro 2008 doesn't match up....Priceless.
Well done to all the U15A Girls and the Coach.
coaches comments
"it was a proud moment for our team and our club today beating Sandringham for the first time in the last 4 encounters.
Last season, Sandringham showed why they were the bench mark by winning all games and ending up undefeated and finishing on top of the table.
I knew that everytime we played them, we were capable beating them.
For the first time this season, we played consistent football for all 70min and applied pressure every time Sandringham had the ball and did not give them opportunities to have any shots on goal from close range.
They were shut down completely which was a huge credit to the way our girls played.
It was an outstanding team display with every player contributing to the entirety of the game."
This was a game to remember and which was long awaited after our monumental 1-2 loss earlier on.
There was a growing belief mounting and instilled by Bill Mihaloudis (coach) that the invincible Sandringham can and will be beaten.
On a perfect day for soccer in Sandringham our girls came out ready to battle (on sheer skill). Knowing that the slightest mistake could be costly. It was a strong cross from from a corner delivered by our own gun - Renee Zebic that ended up jumbled in the pack and just spilled out for a precise placement by the "Eveready" Siobhan Gray.
Jubilation for getting away early sent our mighty midfielders Elise Kyrgios, Bree Mirabella, Demi Mihaloudis and Coterill into action. Working this ball and trying to find another break.
The defenders, Natasha Lusi, Mel Feore, Supryia Lal, Emma Jones and Tessa Sernio were courageous, methodical and alert as they fought off several counter attacks as only sandy can mastermind. Supryia's speed and blocks answered Ashley Whitakers (Sandy's star striker and speedster) and kept her goalless which was an outstanding effort.
The team certainly held together and played to plan much to the coaches delight. End of 1st half found the score 0-1 to our favour.
Shortly in from half time, Sandringham was out to score. A scurry of plays in front of Sandy's goal resulted in a penalty being awarded against us.
Sandy's WPL player Hanna Whittaker (no relation to Ashley) sent the ball firmly to the right corner just passing our dynamite keeper Christina Katsambanis who dived desperately but the ball was hit firmly and went to the back of the net making it 1- 1.
Our girls just came back even more determined a credit to them all. Strikers Lia Privitelli, Mel Maizels, and Squirt White eager and on the ready to pounce. They fought hard to score and mounted pressure on the Sandy defence and a spot kick was awarded to Donny just outside the 18 yard box. Renee Zebic loaded up and torpedoed yet another missile resulting in to a top left corner goal. Too fierce and too fast skimming passed the sandy keeper. Much to the amazement of all the gob stopped onlookers! what a shot making it 1-2 and we were back in front and on track for our first win.
To top it off the deciding third goal came off a rebounded header from a sandy defender picked up by our trusty Tessa Sernio and placed over the pack at the feet of her amigo Lia Privitelli.
As only Lia can on many other countless occasions, weaved through and took on the last 2 defenders with guts and skilfully squeezed the ball from the left corner post into the right corner passing the goalie at the tightest of angles. Game over 1-3.
The had come and classy Sandringham were very gracious in defeat. It is a rivalry that is respected and admired for it brings the game of girls soccer to a new level.
After 2 years Sandringham had their first loss and it was almost surreal!!
Regardless, we know and look forward to many more hard fought duals. This time it went our way. we embrace the showcase of great sportsmanship, skill, tactics and gusto that only these two teams bring under respected and able coaches.
It doesn't get any better than this, not so much the winning but the journey to get there.
Too bad John Kyrgios (Assistant Coach) Euro 2008 doesn't match up....Priceless.
Well done to all the U15A Girls and the Coach.
coaches comments
"it was a proud moment for our team and our club today beating Sandringham for the first time in the last 4 encounters.
Last season, Sandringham showed why they were the bench mark by winning all games and ending up undefeated and finishing on top of the table.
I knew that everytime we played them, we were capable beating them.
For the first time this season, we played consistent football for all 70min and applied pressure every time Sandringham had the ball and did not give them opportunities to have any shots on goal from close range.
They were shut down completely which was a huge credit to the way our girls played.
It was an outstanding team display with every player contributing to the entirety of the game."
Tuesday, 17 June 2008
Round 8 - U12B - Match Report
Rovers v Glen Waverly
Rovers travelled to Wheelers Hill Secondary College after losing top spot last week after their bye. With Rivals Box Hill Inter taking the lead at the top of the table and having a bye this week it was an opportunity for Rovers to reclaim top spot. The pitch looked to have suffered from the few days rain that we had before the game.
From the start the boys looked to pile the pressure and it did not take long before Harry found the net to give us an early lead. Reacting quickest at a goalmouth scramble he calmly put away the ball with the keeper stumbling. Despite the pitch Rovers maintained their intricate passing game and were constantly exposing gaps in the opposition defence. Shortly after another goal to Cameron extended the lead. With the Box Hill Inter coach in attendance watching the game, our boys yet again did not disappoint.
Mike and Adrian looked unbeatable in defence, repelling the opposition attacks at will. The midfield were eager to push up the field, looking to get their names on the scoresheet. A handball in the box gave us a penalty. Our regular penalty taker Cameron stepped aside to give Damien a sot at scoring his first for the season, which he took with ease sending the ball crashing into the top right corner of the net. 3-0 to Rovers at half time.
The second half presented a different challenge to Rovers, with Glen Waverly attempting to salvage the game and defending in numbers. With most of their team back in defence our booys were finding it quite difficult to break them down. There were some great runs by Jake, Damien, Josh, Stefan and Adrian, however the boys continually found themselves running into the wall of defenders. later on in the half Jake was able to find some space on the edge of the box and let rip a shot into the roof of the net.
Congratulations to the boys for keeping their passing game together on such a harsh pitch. The 4-0 win was enough to see us reclaim top spot on the ladder drom Box Hill. 4-0 the final score - an impressive performance.
Scorers: Harry, Cameron, Damien, Jake
Goal of the Week: Jake
Rovers travelled to Wheelers Hill Secondary College after losing top spot last week after their bye. With Rivals Box Hill Inter taking the lead at the top of the table and having a bye this week it was an opportunity for Rovers to reclaim top spot. The pitch looked to have suffered from the few days rain that we had before the game.
From the start the boys looked to pile the pressure and it did not take long before Harry found the net to give us an early lead. Reacting quickest at a goalmouth scramble he calmly put away the ball with the keeper stumbling. Despite the pitch Rovers maintained their intricate passing game and were constantly exposing gaps in the opposition defence. Shortly after another goal to Cameron extended the lead. With the Box Hill Inter coach in attendance watching the game, our boys yet again did not disappoint.
Mike and Adrian looked unbeatable in defence, repelling the opposition attacks at will. The midfield were eager to push up the field, looking to get their names on the scoresheet. A handball in the box gave us a penalty. Our regular penalty taker Cameron stepped aside to give Damien a sot at scoring his first for the season, which he took with ease sending the ball crashing into the top right corner of the net. 3-0 to Rovers at half time.
The second half presented a different challenge to Rovers, with Glen Waverly attempting to salvage the game and defending in numbers. With most of their team back in defence our booys were finding it quite difficult to break them down. There were some great runs by Jake, Damien, Josh, Stefan and Adrian, however the boys continually found themselves running into the wall of defenders. later on in the half Jake was able to find some space on the edge of the box and let rip a shot into the roof of the net.
Congratulations to the boys for keeping their passing game together on such a harsh pitch. The 4-0 win was enough to see us reclaim top spot on the ladder drom Box Hill. 4-0 the final score - an impressive performance.
Scorers: Harry, Cameron, Damien, Jake
Goal of the Week: Jake
Monday, 16 June 2008
Round 8 - U14A - Match Report
U14A Glen Waverley vs Doncaster Rovers 15th June
Proudly sponsored by Wet Water Pools.
On a typical Melbourne winters grey overcast day with a cool breeze blowing from somewhere, the game was set for a good win by the Rovers, out for redemption after an off week. All the dads predicted a 4-0 win before the game even though the pitch looked like a soggy mud heap with more mud than grass.
The game started with Rovers quickly in control as the Glen Waverley “Dynamites” looked ready to evapourate into thin air. Within the first minute Rovers were on the attack. A Great linkage of passes allowed Alex to get behind the defense and with a delicate cross found Phil, whose deflected header opened the scoring.
The referee awarded an ‘own-goal’ (bad luck Phil), but nevertheless 1-0 to Rovers after less than 2 minutes.
Rovers attacked again immediately, but Alex was caught offside.
Every time the Glen’s cleared the ball it came back with ever increasing interest, this sounds like my bank! (Sorry Steve).
At the 4 minute mark, a quickly taken free-kick by Alex, found Drew, who ran past his man and neatly volleyed over the advancing keepers head for a good goal from 20 metres.
The next play, Drew put in a good cross but the chance was lost.
Soon after, with Rovers pressing hard, Chris put in a well weighted corner that was superbly volleyed home by Joel.
Three goals in the first 7 minutes was the sort of stuff we dream about and Rovers were definitely playing instinctively, with early balls to the strikers feet, certainly paying dividends.
There was certainly no “power” in the Dynamites forward line as Nick, Joel, Michael Piccoli, Jansen, and Chris repelled all that came their way, and there was little work for Luke in the Rovers goal.
In midfield, Phil, Dion, and Steve were getting plenty of ball and Alex and Drew were well in the play.
Half-time score: Glen Waverley 0 : Rovers 3
After half time Rovers continued on their way with good passing into the forward line, although, like the latter part of the first half, several opportunities went begging.
Alex collected a through ball from Elliott, down the left flank, just over the half-way line, and in a great solo effort beat his man, then the keeper to put away the goal of the day.
With a few rotations off the bench Rovers continued to attack but frittered away chances as players started to hang onto the ball for one or two touches too many allowing the defence closing time. Dion put in a good pass to Phil but the shot was high. Michael Palomares had a couple of chances but they went wide. Phil had another good chance but his header hit the cross bar and bounced out. Nick Vass also had some chances along with Matt, Chris and Alex. Elliot had a few good runs on the left side as play was all one way. Most of the second half Rovers crowded their forward line with players coming into the centre and leaving the flanks open, instead of opening the flanks and leaving the centre open.
Several crosses went unrewarded. Many more shots went begging, as players went through the motions, and the intensity had dropped away.
Scores at full-time: Glen Waverly 0 : Rovers 4
GO ROVERS !! – Next week the big one!!!
Can we be the first team this season to take a point or “3” from League Leaders Knox City.
Let’s all take up the challenge!!!!!!
Proudly sponsored by Wet Water Pools.
On a typical Melbourne winters grey overcast day with a cool breeze blowing from somewhere, the game was set for a good win by the Rovers, out for redemption after an off week. All the dads predicted a 4-0 win before the game even though the pitch looked like a soggy mud heap with more mud than grass.
The game started with Rovers quickly in control as the Glen Waverley “Dynamites” looked ready to evapourate into thin air. Within the first minute Rovers were on the attack. A Great linkage of passes allowed Alex to get behind the defense and with a delicate cross found Phil, whose deflected header opened the scoring.
The referee awarded an ‘own-goal’ (bad luck Phil), but nevertheless 1-0 to Rovers after less than 2 minutes.
Rovers attacked again immediately, but Alex was caught offside.
Every time the Glen’s cleared the ball it came back with ever increasing interest, this sounds like my bank! (Sorry Steve).
At the 4 minute mark, a quickly taken free-kick by Alex, found Drew, who ran past his man and neatly volleyed over the advancing keepers head for a good goal from 20 metres.
The next play, Drew put in a good cross but the chance was lost.
Soon after, with Rovers pressing hard, Chris put in a well weighted corner that was superbly volleyed home by Joel.
Three goals in the first 7 minutes was the sort of stuff we dream about and Rovers were definitely playing instinctively, with early balls to the strikers feet, certainly paying dividends.
There was certainly no “power” in the Dynamites forward line as Nick, Joel, Michael Piccoli, Jansen, and Chris repelled all that came their way, and there was little work for Luke in the Rovers goal.
In midfield, Phil, Dion, and Steve were getting plenty of ball and Alex and Drew were well in the play.
Half-time score: Glen Waverley 0 : Rovers 3
After half time Rovers continued on their way with good passing into the forward line, although, like the latter part of the first half, several opportunities went begging.
Alex collected a through ball from Elliott, down the left flank, just over the half-way line, and in a great solo effort beat his man, then the keeper to put away the goal of the day.
With a few rotations off the bench Rovers continued to attack but frittered away chances as players started to hang onto the ball for one or two touches too many allowing the defence closing time. Dion put in a good pass to Phil but the shot was high. Michael Palomares had a couple of chances but they went wide. Phil had another good chance but his header hit the cross bar and bounced out. Nick Vass also had some chances along with Matt, Chris and Alex. Elliot had a few good runs on the left side as play was all one way. Most of the second half Rovers crowded their forward line with players coming into the centre and leaving the flanks open, instead of opening the flanks and leaving the centre open.
Several crosses went unrewarded. Many more shots went begging, as players went through the motions, and the intensity had dropped away.
Scores at full-time: Glen Waverly 0 : Rovers 4
GO ROVERS !! – Next week the big one!!!
Can we be the first team this season to take a point or “3” from League Leaders Knox City.
Let’s all take up the challenge!!!!!!
Sunday, 15 June 2008
Round 8 - U10 Yellow - Match Report
Yul be happy with Magnificent Seven
Saturday 14 June (away) v. Berwick.
With most of the squad on hand, the Rovers gunslingers were ready for a good old fashioned shoot-out at the JT corral, down Berwick way.
Hearing rumours of a tough encounter ahead, the convoy of hustlers were down the Monash ready for battle.
Shaven headed and dressed in black, Yul would have been impressed if he were there himself!
Despite all this, Rovers were left in the Inn for the first 10 minutes, going down one nil. It didn’t take long before Rovers were back on track. Responding to Calvera’s chant of ‘adios’, the eleven ran out to meet their challenge. Lead by Chico (Yanni), Eli (Alex) and Britt (Josh) up front, chances were created and converted by Yanni and Josh. Charlie Bronson (Jeremy), began to command the backline, and order was restored ready for the half-time entertainment back amongst the villagers.
A strong start to the second half and the pressure began to tell. Vin (Jonathon S), Harry Luck (James), Hilario (Ari) and Lee (Matthew) began to reload in the midfield. A sweet corner from Lee (Matthew) was headed in by Britt (Josh), who completed his hat-trick with a left foot strike.
Mario (Jason), Miguel (Jonathon N), Pepe (Matty), Sotero (Jonathon M), Bernardo (Lachie), Tomas (Anton) and Filene (Kirk) all stood up to the few challenges Berwick threw at them, and despite a late goal, Rovers’ Magnificent Seven was achieved.
Britt (Josh) 3 and Chico (Yanni) were on the mark in the 4 – 2 victory., whilst Hilario (Ari) put in a strong performance down the left.
Well done boys.
Training on Thursday, 6pm at Donvale Reserve.
Next week, home v Beaumaris, 10.00am kick-off at Anderson Park.
Season:- P 7 W7 D0 L0 Gls For 35 Gls Ag 8.
C’mon the Y1s
Saturday 14 June (away) v. Berwick.
With most of the squad on hand, the Rovers gunslingers were ready for a good old fashioned shoot-out at the JT corral, down Berwick way.
Hearing rumours of a tough encounter ahead, the convoy of hustlers were down the Monash ready for battle.
Shaven headed and dressed in black, Yul would have been impressed if he were there himself!
Despite all this, Rovers were left in the Inn for the first 10 minutes, going down one nil. It didn’t take long before Rovers were back on track. Responding to Calvera’s chant of ‘adios’, the eleven ran out to meet their challenge. Lead by Chico (Yanni), Eli (Alex) and Britt (Josh) up front, chances were created and converted by Yanni and Josh. Charlie Bronson (Jeremy), began to command the backline, and order was restored ready for the half-time entertainment back amongst the villagers.
A strong start to the second half and the pressure began to tell. Vin (Jonathon S), Harry Luck (James), Hilario (Ari) and Lee (Matthew) began to reload in the midfield. A sweet corner from Lee (Matthew) was headed in by Britt (Josh), who completed his hat-trick with a left foot strike.
Mario (Jason), Miguel (Jonathon N), Pepe (Matty), Sotero (Jonathon M), Bernardo (Lachie), Tomas (Anton) and Filene (Kirk) all stood up to the few challenges Berwick threw at them, and despite a late goal, Rovers’ Magnificent Seven was achieved.
Britt (Josh) 3 and Chico (Yanni) were on the mark in the 4 – 2 victory., whilst Hilario (Ari) put in a strong performance down the left.
Well done boys.
Training on Thursday, 6pm at Donvale Reserve.
Next week, home v Beaumaris, 10.00am kick-off at Anderson Park.
Season:- P 7 W7 D0 L0 Gls For 35 Gls Ag 8.
C’mon the Y1s
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