Some notes and reflections on the season.
1. The league is more even and competitive this year. Some teams that were less dangerous last year have improved (Salisbury, Northern Lehigh are good examples). I think that is a good thing as a rising tide lifts all boats and compels us to play better soccer. Of course, some teams are down a little as well but on balance the league is more competitive.
2. Some good things – with the exception of our away game @ Northern Lehigh, we have consistently been able to create enough scoring chances to win games. This is a credit to our players as they can transition well and create threat going forward. Of course we want to finish more of these chances but we must recognize the good in the chance creation which by in large has been outstanding. It is also worth noting that of the games we have lost, 5 have been by 1 goal and two of these in the final moments. If just half of those games went the other way or even if the two NL and Salisbury games we won were the official league games – we would be playing leagues.
3. Holes that need fixing – there are a number of these but I will focus now on two:
We are looking always to get better on set pieces – an area that has really hurt us – including in our most recent game both in conceding the chances from fouls and in defending them. Over half of our goals conceded have come from these. There is a silver lining here in that we CAN FIX THIS for the districtxi playoff and will do everything we can to do it.
Getting the culture right. We still miss kids with attendance. We still look outward instead of inward sometimes. We still need work being a connected orchestra.
Looking Ahead:
We are looking to get a scrimmage with Easton next week to tune up for districts. To every player , senior to freshman, let us finish this race with strength and honor – full gas and nothing left. It is a great blessing to coach these guys and I know they have an awesome playoff run in the them. Let’s get to work (everyone) on Monday with an awesome practice. Look for a google meet over the weekend as well (to be posted when I have my schedule for the weekend better known).
