Game vs MAF Sharks

Sept. 22nd, 2019 | Canton, MA

The Lady Gunners back in action on a sunny Sunday afternoon, excited to compete, explore the opportunity to bounce back from a tough game the previous week.  Friday's training session was a success where the team worked on defensive shape, transition to offense, with a focus on possession. An added bonus; Molly returned for the first time this season!

First half- Defensive Side
A sound display of defensive shape; not perfect, but effective from the Lady Gunners. The Sharks were sending long balls, which proved troubling at first. Once adjusted, the dangerous attacks were neutralized.

First half- Offensive Side

Gunners found their possession game early in the first half. By far, a much improved performance from their previous game, consistently connecting passes in the midfield; clearly a contrast from their opponent.  0-0 at the half; an even match up thus far. 

Half Time Adjustments

The possession was a bright spot, therefore encouraged to continue executing combination plays.  The challenge? Lack of scoring opportunities created: shot, crosses, fouls in the offensive were non existent for the Gunners. Our objectives was to create more chances in their end.

Second Half

Sharks came out aggressive offensively in the second half.  Gunners responded well enough to sustain; they are a resilient bunch. An unexpected down fall was the Lady Gunners' inability to cross midfield on Goal Kicks! Surprising, but clearly an advantage for the Sharks, who pushed a high line, won most of the kicks, went straight to goal every opportunity given. 

Final Result

Sharks broke the deadlock on a shot created from a corner kick. Their second goal hit our defender's back, went into the net; an unfortunate one. With seconds left, they managed a third for a 3-0 final. Lady Gunners played a competitive game, the score does not reflect that, but they lacked offensive potency in the final third. Our training session this week surely will address it. As usual this resilient bunch will respond well.

Players of the Match
Honorable mention was a solid defensive line, especially with Molly's return, stabilizing it with calm skills once in possession of the ball.  However, the outstanding players were on the offensive side. The two players  who consistently created sound offensive plays were Maddie & Ryan.

Ryan: excellent playing with her back to goal, controlling the ball well on her first touch, before deciding on her options.
Maddie: great composure on the ball, with sound vision to feed the ball into splits, space, finding the open player. 

Congrats to you both on a well deserved Players of the Match Award!!

Game vs WKSC

Sept. 15th, 2019 | Westford, MA

The Lady Gunners came into their second game of the season with confidence, gained from their season opener.  Quickly, this group found out how fragile confidence can be.  From the start, they were pinned down by endless attacks, without any real response to neutralize this. 

First half- Defensive Side
The Lady Gunners could hardly sustain the offensive pressure WKSC brought consistently throughout the game.  Their opponent generated numerous shots, most saved by the our keeper, and gave the Lady Gunners plenty of defensive work.

First half- Offensive Side

Gunners had very few opportunities to connect passes, which is their strength.  The triangular combination in midfield was non-existent today.  WKSC simply did not allow our midfielders any time or space on the ball. With such pressure, no momentum was built; tough all around.   

Half Time Adjustments

With many questions to ask, few answers to offer, we identified one factor that could possibly help the Gunners improve; connect passes through the midfield. The few times executed, it brought some glimpse of hope, but short lived as WKSC really would not allow it. 

Second Half

WKSC had the skilled players, physical ability, and the numbers to sustain their dominance. Quite frankly, WKSC executed their game plan well,  and outplayed the opposition. Lady Gunners happen to be at the unfavorable end, but sometimes one must give credit where it's due. Though the Gunners kept the score close at 1-0 at the half, the final score was 4-0.  

Final Result

One thing we can always count on with the Lady Gunners is their effort; they never leave the field without giving all they have.  Honestly today, it was tough to identify that, but later found out many players had nagging injuries.  True to their character, nobody made excuses, but simply played through it. The plan now is to get healthy, have a great session Friday, and be ready to battle on Sunday!

Players of the Match
A week earlier, the Lady Gunners showed their potential; this week they were exposed. Both games present opportunities to learn, grow, and compete without making excuses.  The two standouts representing such characteristic were Aurore and Alyssa.  Both kept their side in the game, without their effort could have been a slaughter very early on.

Aurore: great job on your countless saves. 

Alyssa: excellent work leading the back, making goal saving defensive plays all game.

Congrats to you both on a well deserved Players of the Match Award!!

Gunners vs CSP United_ Season Opener Fall 2019

Sept. 8th, 2019 | Cumberland, RI

The Lady Gunners opened their season this Sunday vs. CSP United, a very talented, physical team.  A few factors to point out: Gunners had no subs,  outclassed by size significantly, outnumbered, and a forward doubtful about playing (just getting over a stomach bug).  Most important factor: Lady Gunners never make excuses;  just guts, determination, and shear desire to succeed! 

First half- Defensive Side
With new players added this season, it's always difficult to determine how chemistry will develop. We did not have long to wait.  Defensively, the Gunners were sound. Everyone recovered quickly behind the ball when possession was lost, and sprung forward as a unit on offensive transition.

First half- Offensive Side

Gunners were potent offensively, showing flashes of brilliance at times, and possession with purpose.  Midfielders exploited wing play consistently, slicing thru midfield with accurate passes, creating numerous scoring opportunities; it was an enjoyable display of skilled passing to watch.  

Offensive Results

Gunners used  passing combination to their advantage the entire game. None better than the one when they switched the point of attack to the weak side, immediately combined back through middle with a one touch return pass. The ball was then crossed, creating a perfect opportunity deep in the box for Gabby to slot home a great shot for a 1-0 lead.

Half Time Adjustments

We simply asked the Lady Gunners to keep playing with the same intelligence, intensity, and sharpness. Only caution: slow down the game tempo, in consideration for potential fatigue towards the end, (playing without subs). 

Second Half

Physical play was blatant at times, though the Gunners were clearly at a disadvantage due to size, being younger, there was no sign of backing down. The officiating was consistent for both sides, therefore it was fair play.  CSP United equalized from a rebound created by a corner kick. A late penalty given gave CSP a 2-1 win.

Players of the Match
What they lacked in man power, size, they made up for it with heart, determination, and skilled play. The team chemistry displayed, toughest to carry through a physical battle, and great team character won the entire squad the Players of Match Award.

Congrats on a stella performance Ladies!