ACC Tourney [R]

Congrats to UVA...Does Duke make the NCAA tourny? UMD seems to be hammering NCSU early... Tonight's 8 o'clock game should be the best game of the day....

 

Clemson vs North Carolina

I think Ricky Lewis will have a dynamite game tonight since he was snubbed by the ACC in regards to the all conference team.

Also, several of the Clemson players who were rested last Sunday should be healthy so I look for a good performance tonight.

 

cards

What's with UVa and 4 yellow and one red, to just one yellow for Duke?
BTW---UNC-2-Clemson-2@40 min.

John

 

Re: cards

 

Clemson 3, UNC 2. Looks as if Clemson has gotten there act together. Thinking back to this past Sunday's 3-2 ovetime win against Western Illinois, it was a good idea not to play Dimelon Westfield, Steven Rhyne, and Paul Souders. Way to go boys, we're all proud of you!!!!!

 

CU/UNC was quite enjoyable -- despite the result not quite turning out the way I wanted!

Everything Clemson did offensively in the first half turned to gold. The first was a gift from UNC's backup keeper, who came out for a ball that he had no chance of getting, and CU headed it into the back of the net about 2 minutes into the match. Testo tied it shortly thereafter with a steal and a breakaway that Warren initially saved, but Testo fired home the rebound. Clemson went back ahead on a beautiful spin move by Westfield, who sliced through Carolina's defense and calmly put the ball into the corner. Again, UNC had the answer with a Testo bomb from the top of the box that Warren never had a prayer at touching -- a great goal. Steven Rhyne answered with a bomb of his own from about 20 yards out that, even as a UNC fan, you had to say "wow."

Clemson didn't hold the ball too much in the first half, but they scored on almost all their opportunities. They sat back a bit more in the second half, and did a reasonably good job at holding UNC off. UNC had its chances, and when they did, Warren was there to keep Clemson ahead -- including a great 1 v. 1 save versus Kneipper. Although UNC applied good pressure, it wasn't a total onslaught.

Westfield was absolutely the MOTM (well, Warren could be considered as well). He really challenged UNC's backs, and they never looked quite comfortable defending -- especially Stokes and Porter. I was a little surprise that Westfield went out with about 22 minutes left and didn't return. After he left, Clemson's counter wasn't nearly as dangerous. Pause and Fumo stepped up defensively tonight, but the whole of UNC's defense was pretty shaky. Marcus Storey picked up an early injury, returned, but was not overly effective all game, although there were a few nice Storey/Lewis duels.

Clemson deserved the win, but whoever suggested that UNC's loss of Williams could make a huge difference was spot on. While Jay Batt had no chance on the second and third goals, the first one was probably his mistake, and on a night where UNC's defense needed some rhythm, their top keeper wasn't there to provide any organization.

With that, we now sit back and prepare to watch FIXXXER and Jenagrantfan trade barbs. . .

 

Man, what a LONG day! Man, what a FUN day! I had a blast but I'm spent.

The first game was mildly interesting till UVa cranked it up a knotch and sent Duke back to Durham with its tail between its legs. Everyone knows Esky and Gibbs are studs and they had 2 goals and a goal and an assist respectively. But what made Virginia dangerous today was the play f its midfield, specifically Ryan Kelly and Jake LeBlanc. Both had strong games and if they continue to play well, UVa will be tough.

As for the second game, all I can say is poor Mitchell Watson. He's actually a really good GK and he made several nice saves but in reality, the poor guy never had a chance. Maryland scored in the second minute and it was all over from there.

With the first 2 games beling blowouts, I took a couple of walks around the facility to check it out and so some people watching. It's a great little stadium, perfect for the WUSA, A-League and events like this.

As for the pople watching, let's just say that if terrorists had struck the stadium tonight, they could have really set our soccer movement back a lot of years. Among the noteables I saw were US assistant and U23 head coach Mooch Myernick, AEG big gun Kevin Payne, United technical director Dave Kasper, Fire coach Dave Sarachan (and that black guy who was Braldey's assistant in Chi-town last year whose name I forget), Burn coach Mike Jeffries, Wizards coach Bob Gansler, Crew coach Greg Andrulis, Revs coach Steve Nichol, Quakes coach Frank Yallop and LA assistant Ralph Perez. The only 2 teams I didn't see represented were Colorado and the MetroStars but just because I didn't see them doesn't mean they weren't there. There were also some people who ollked like coaches from some A-League teams including Richmond and Rochester.

During the UVa game I asked Ganlser who he liked and he chuckled and said, you can't teach goal-scoring. I assume that was an Alecko Eskandarian reference. Gansler was polite but not very chatty. I wished him well and moved on.

Now to the Clemson-UNC game. Man, what a thriller. Not the prettiest or best played game but very close, very competitive and very entertaining.

I don't have the energy for play-by-play but I'll say who I thought stood out (and didn't).

*Doug Warren - with the U23 coach watching, he gave an Olympian performace. Made several great saves, was dominat on crosses and couldn't be blamed on either goal. The first was a breakway after a very bad gaffe by Justin Moore and he stoned Testo the first time but the rebound bouned right to Testo and he had an open net.

The second one came after a poor clear on a corner kick and Testo got the ball at the 18 and just laced a lazer to the corner and Warren hd no chance. Otherwise, he was flawless. If there's a better goalie in college soccer, I want to know who it is.

*Ricky Lewis - After getting dissed by the coaches in the all confernce picks, I was watching him closely figuring he would come out with something to prove. At first I was thinking that maybe the coaches knew what they were talking about because the first 20 minutes Lewis was kind of shakey. But after that he calmed down and by the time the game ended he was the best player on the pitch. He won EVERY battle for a 50-50 ball, never got beat 1-v-1 distributed superbly and ws overall very confident on the ball. He is super fast but seems to have bulked up some since last year and he moves effortlessly from flank to flank.

*David Testo - This guy just has the knack. His first goal was kinda lucky but his second goal was awesome. He looks like he could play mid or forward and he has nice presence.

*Matt Crawford - What a motor this guy has. He's the anti-Grinch because his heart must be 3 sizes too BIG. But it's not just a work ethic He is a great passer, isn't afraid to shoot from distance and he is a leader, organizing the midfield the entire game.

*Chase Hilgenbrink - Spent much of the first half battling Marcus Storey and kept the speedster in check. He's a natural lefty and he looks good pushing forward. A late bloomer who could be a real stud next year as a senior.

*Ryan Kneiper - Man, what a handful. Still don't know if he'll be the next Brian McBride or the next AJ Wood but at the college level, his size and movement off the ball makes him a bear to deal with.

*Storey - Didn't do much offensively but he was always dangerous and there wre a few times when he was open with space but UNC couldn't get him the ball. But what really impressed me was how hard he worked on D. Last year, I thought that despite his wheels, he was too one-dimensional to make a strong mid but yesterday he was very active defensively and was a big pain in the ass for Clemson's attackers.

*Dimelon Westfield - Like all great strikers, he doesn't waste too many chances and he scored on both of the good ones he had. His second goal was particularly nice since he basically created it himself.

There were others but I'm tired and time to hit the sack. More tomorrow.

 

A long day, but a good one...even if UNC lost.

Not much to comment on in the first game. Duke tried to hold it close for a while. Eskandarian was at times brilliant, and those flashes allowed for goals. His first goal was an unbelievable turn and an absolute cracker into the upper 90...though I could have done without the Mutombo-esque finger waving afterwards. It was a good goal, but there is no need to disrespect the opponent like that. I sometimes feel Alecko will get his stuff handed to him at the next level. Sure, he's crafty and has an unbelievable shot, but willl he be able to withstand the game physically...because there are going to be people hunting for him if he keeps his attitude.

Maryland absolutely dominated a terrible State team.

Shocking.


The final match of the night was by far the best, as we all assumed before hand. Carolina came out strong and had the better of the play, but Clemson scored first on a misplay by Batt. Testo, answered. The 2nd Clemson goal was nice with Westfield turning. Testo's second was real class...and even Warren was left looking. But the third goal by Clemson had to be one of the best I've seen on the college level in a while. He took the ball on a short hop about 20 away and hit an absolute rope that never got more than 3 yards off the ground. Rhyne ran like a madman to his bench, and who could blame him. I doubt he'll score another like that ever again.

The first half 3-2...who'd have thunk it? The second was much different, with Clemson content to sit back more and let UNC cross an attempt finishes. The story of the 2nd half though was Doug Warren. I think it's safe to say he's the real deal. He made 3 or 4 real saves and is such a calm presence in the back.

Other thoughts:

-Logan Pause is one of the best overall players in the college game. Always an attacking player before this year, he's has proven that he can take his game to the back line. He didn't lose a ball tonight out of the back and won plenty. He's strong in the air, organizes well, and is the leader of the team.

-Ricky Lewis is a beast. He may not be All-ACC, but we all know those teams are worthless anyway. He has definitely put on some muscle and he was great. Don't expect to see him in a Clemson uni this time next year though.

-Testo showed lots of game. He will get a chance somewhere...we'll see how he takes it.

-Clemson won the game, and I wouldn't be surprised if they win the whole ACC tournament. But the loss is not all bad for UNC. They get a whole week off and then get to play in the NCAA's. No injuries, plenty of rest, get Ford Williams back. They probably won't play at home, but the Heels will be ready in the NCAA's.

 

I won't say much too much about the games--Sandon, Cantona, Carravigo, and others have done a nice job of summarizing the action.

My observations:

The first two games were the least competitive ACC tournament games I've ever seen. I know I may have selective memory, but these were painful to watch. I've been to every ACC tournament over the last 10 years, and I can't recall seeing such bad mismatches. One of the most exciting things about the first day of the tourney over the years has been the parity of the conference, the close games, and the potential upsets. Day one in this regard was a disappointment.

NC State doesn't even get any respect from their home town paper: http://sports.newsobserver.com/sports/index.html. I swear there were three games yesterday? We can only hope to open the paper next week to read the news of George's termination. These young men of NC State deserve better!


The officiating in the UVA/Duke game was perhaps the poorest I've seen all year (and I've seen 33 games now).

The Clemson parents and supporters were the worst group of obnoxious people I've ever encountered at a college soccer match. I think Trevor Adair is a class act. He's a man of integrity, and the best the ACC has to offer, but their parents are awful. The anger! And over every triffling little thing! It was a very entertaining game. If you're a Clemson fan and you're reading this, PLEASE MAKE AN EFFORT TO ENJOY YOURSELF! Life is too short. That said, I'm hoping Clemson gets absolutely shelled tonight. I want these people to have the worst experience of their life. And then, I'm hoping your beloved Tigers get bounced in the first round of the tournament. You deserve it! (My apologies to Coach Adair.)

I'm glad I got that off my chest. Now maybe I can find a seat tonight where no one around me is wearing orange, and enjoy the games myself.

 

You know post like yours should be put under a separate title called whinning.

Face it fans are all bias including the terps. I won't go into details because this sight has better uses but I was at the Clemson vs Marland game this year and I could say the same for the Maryland fans that you said about Clemson.

Enough on that but your wish for a blow-out tonight will not happen and you will be whinning about something else tomorrow. Clemson vs Virginia in the finals and then it only gets better for the Tigers from there. Look forward to seeing all the Tiger fans in Dallas next month.

 

Face it fans are all bias including the terps.

I know this is true. In this instance though I'm not biased. I could care less who wins the tourney. I don't have a dog in this fight. I had the opportunity to sit with the fans of every other school in the tournament as well (including Maryland). I've had the opportunity to sit with fans at 33 other games this year. I chose to mention the Clemson fans because they were the most angry, obnoxious, and clueless people I've had the misfortune of being around in a long time. So, in that regard you idiots won the prize! You shouldn't be bragging, you should be embarrassed for your school!

 

Man you need to get a life and get over the small stuff. Of all the games yesterday the only one that was competitive was the Clemson vs North Carolina game. I assure you if you were amongst the Carolina fans you would have the same statements. Competive games bring that out in fans. Please take note's tonight and see if you view is different as the terps have a long night ahead of them

 

What a beautiful Friday morning! Wish I was in Cary, NC, but I can assure you it is a great day here in Hotlanta... Nothing sweeter than a little vengeance.

Barbs??? Nah, no need. The cream rose and advanced and that is all the barb that I need. North Carolina native Ric Flair used to have a little saying, "You may not like it, but you might as well love it, because you most definetely have got to live with it!" Ok, so maybe one little barb...

From what I was able to gather, Doug Warren proved that even though he is #2 in the ACC, he is #1 in the country. I'm sure he went out Friday, or for the entire tournament for that matter, to prove that he is the best in the league. Same goes for Ricky Lewis. I wouldn't expect either of these two to have anything less than stellar performances all weekend. I'm sure those MLS coaches and GM's that Sandon mentioned could care less that both these guys got screwed over on the All ACC lists...

Heard that there were some truly spectacular goals from both sides. Hopefully the semi's will give us 2 more great games and I'll even go as far to say that the NCAA Final Four this year will be hard pressed to beat this group of 4 teams.

 

k1v1n.....

get a life buddy. you go to college soccer matches to enjoy the entertainment and athleticism on the field not to indulge yourself with the fans. I hope Clemson goes all the way!!!!!

 

Maryland vs Clemson on internet Radio

Below is the link to listen to tonight's game between Clemson and Maryland.


http://www.wmucradio.com/

 

If I had a life I wouldn't have been to 33 games this season. (#34 and #35 tonight. )

 

I like that k1v1n, enjoy the game and hopefully those mean Clemson fans will leave you alone but I would not count on it as they will have plenty to cheer for tonight.

 

You know, now that I think about it I'd have a really hard time pulling for a Cirovski lead team over Adair. I take back all that stuff I said about hoping Clemson gets shelled. I'll go back to being neutral. Good luck to all!

 

I think you need to step back and look to see who is the angry one here. At least those people "have a dog in the fight." They have their son's who are playing in the biggest conference tournament in the country. They know what their kids have sacrificed and what they have sacrificed. Without knowing any circumstances, I would tell you to relax. I personally know most, if not all, the parents that you are referring to and I say with absolutely no hesitation that they are ALL good people and class acts. You are right about Trevor Adair and he only recruits good kids to play in his program. Just because the game (winner) means nothing to you doesn't give you the right to blast people for being passionate about something they care very deeply about.

Secondly, I would take serious exception to being called an idiot. We throw around a lot of trash talk here and it's almost always in good fun, but certainly in the spirit of competition. You are now making it personal, and even though I wasn't there, take great offense to your comments. Did you have assigned seats? Unable to move? If you have that big a problem, then address it with someone. The times that I have had problems with parents, fans, etc. I at least had the guts to address it with those people before I ran to a public forum to bash them. If it's that big a deal to you, then deal with it. I certainly wouldn't be calling people idiots behind their backs, it may give the impression that you are a coward.

Lastly, I think that you are a liar. I think that you do have "a dog in the fight." Why would you be so fired up about this if you didn't? I will never be convinced that this incident is as bad as you've tried to make it sound. I've seen these people at their worst and it just ain't that bad...

 

Take it easy over there.

 

Well, k1v1n is a friend of mine, and he's no John Kennedy, but he's certainly not a liar or a coward...just a very passionate fan. His kid doesn't play for an ACC team, so he does not have "a dog in this fight."

Can't we all just get a long, sing kumbawya, and hug each other?

 

Geez Fixxer, don't make me take back what I just took back. Trust me I'm not mad. It was just an observation that your fans and parents were clueless and rude. If they'd really upset me I could and would have moved. (Even if I was there first.) I was having too much fun laughing at them.

 

PLEASE MAKE AN EFFORT TO ENJOY YOURSELF! Life is too short. That said, I'm hoping Clemson gets absolutely shelled tonight. I want these people to have the worst experience of their life. And then, I'm hoping your beloved Tigers get bounced in the first round of the tournament. You deserve it! (My apologies to Coach Adair.)

k1v1n, his comment on you being a liar seems valid with your above comment that you were having too much fun. Based on your original post, which is the paragraph above, I don't think you were amused so drop it and sit far away from anybody tonight and enjoy the Clemson style of play.