MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 18 – Doncaster Rovers vs. Box Hill
Conditions: An overcast day with a strong breeze blowing across the ground diagonally. The teams were playing on the top smaller ground instead of the main pitch. Pitch condition was average with heavy sandy areas in both goal mouths.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Give their all for this game
• Play passionately and powerfully from go to whoa
• Play our brand of soccer and not get sucked into aerial ping pong
• Show Rovers who REALLY IS the best side in the competition
First Half – The team started brightly and inside 2 minutes, a one on one with the keeper and De Blasio lead to a fine save by the keeper. BH was clearly playing a superior brand of football and the midfield and forwards were controlling the ball inside the Rovers defensive half. Rovers were relying on long balls through to their forwards but the defensive quartet of Mills-Warthold, Bondole, Kasapidis and Orlando had no trouble cutting off these balls. As a result, our stand in keeper (Chris from the Under 14’s) had little to nothing to do. (In fact, apart from coming out to some through balls, he did not have to make ONE SAVE throughout the course of the game). Rovers were controlling the midfield with only the Rovers captain (# 8 I think??) offering any midfield competition. On the back of our first meeting, we had considered man marking him or the Rovers number 2 but neither player was exerting sufficient influence to force us to do this, mainly due to the fine play of all the midfielders. Lee in particular was having probably his best game of the year and Bircham and Becker were ruling the middle of the park. BH were fashioning a number of chances and it was clear a goal was coming. A lovely through ball found De Blasio on the edge of the box and a fine low shot across the keeper made the score 1-0 to BH’s good on approx 20 minutes. Pagotto was subbed for Clark at 25 minutes. Some half chances came and went for BH and some nice crosses into the box and interplay between Lee, Orlando and Becker were highlights of the half as it came to a close. Rovers had not fashioned a shot on goal apart from free kicks and a speculative shot from near the half way line.
Half time score 0 - 1
Second Half: No changes were made to the team. The coaching team could sense a real feeling and purpose to the team today and it was lovely to see. All the lads were pumped and the spirit and friendship in the squad is an intangible asset that is very valuable. The 2nd half started where the 1st left off though in the first 5 minutes or so, it was clear Rovers had been asked to play more balls around on the deck. There were 2-3 passages of good play by Rovers but no where in a position of the ground to hurt BH. As the game progressed, Chris had to come off his line to retrieve a couple of through balls but again, no real danger was forthcoming. BH then started to fashion chance after chance. In particular, a free kick taken by Mills Warthold went like a tracer bullet and seemingly into the far top corner, but a great leaping header off the line cleared the shot for Rovers. A number of close calls for Rovers in the box resulted in scrambled clearances and saves by their keeper who had had a good game and had kept them in the match. Mazzollini replaced Orlando who had played another great game. Mazzollini took up where Orlando left off and played well and with strength. Bondole and Kasapidis were like rocks in defence and showed the way. A number of strange decisions by the referee puzzled the BH coaching staff but he was equally poor for both teams. Given the closeness of the match, no further changes were made. I was sorry for this but balanced a desire to play the lads, against ensuring the team won the league by what I feel is a true representation of how much better a side we were in the year. Rovers were difficult to break down but given just a smidgeon more luck, a 2 or 3 nil score line would have been fair on the balance of play I believe.
Final Score 0 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: Rovers had a strong defence and this and their keeper is the cornerstone to their success this year. In addition, their captain is a good player and can distribute the ball and evade tackles. In general, they rely on long balls through to players up front and only displayed an ability to play the ball around on the deck on a few occasions.
Box Hill: This was the BEST way to finish off the year. Rovers had decided to make statements proclaiming them to be the best team in the comp. Following this result, they finished 9 points adrift and in 4th position so that was put to rest.
At the end of the game, we huddled and I thanked and congratulated all of the players for their efforts and commitment throughout the year. I told them, all players, from those who played all matches to those who played off the bench, had ALL HELPED US OVER THE LINE. Everyone gave of their best and tried their best and as coaches, myself and Perry could ask for no more.
This has been the most enjoyable year to date in my coaching career, and I hope all boys will come along to Super League trials and give it a shot. I also hope my support staff in Perry, Peter and Connie, see their way clear to ‘saddle up again’ in 2010.
Finally, my warmest thanks to the Box Hill President, Vice-President, Committee members, Head Coach and all the volunteers and helpers around the club that make BOX HILL THE BEST JUNIOR CLUB IN VICTORIA.
BBBBBBBOOOOOOXXXXX WWWHHHAAAATTTTT………………………….BOX HILL !!!!
Coach: John Di Martino 7th September, 2009
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Round 17 - Glen Waverley
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 17 – Box Hill vs. Glen Waverley
Conditions: Teams faced a windy day with the wind favouring the skate park end. BH lost the toss and played to the old Clubrooms end of the ground. The referee was my favourite guy – from 2 weeks back
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Play as quickly as possible
• Play to feet and move the ball around
• Shoot hard and often but most of all…….
• ENJOY The game
First Half – Given sickness and training non-attendance, the team started with Bryden and Mills-Warthold in the centre of defence, James on the left and Jake on the right as wing backs. Glody was trialled as a forward. Chris V from the BH started slowly……..AGAIN. Coaching staff couldn’t believe the lethargy and lack of anticipation and passion being shown. What was most disconcerting was BH’s inability to pass and hit feet which is the team’s strength and what its success has been built on all year. In addition, the defence, midfield and forwards were too far apart horizontally allowing the GW mids some room to move and to play long balls forward. After 15 minutes of basically poor soccer, a poor clearance and inability to quickly clear the lines lead to a speculative shot from the GW player. It took a mild deflection but true to our bad run of luck, it ballooned over the keeper and JUST under the cross bar. Nguyen was hit on the face by a ball and was replaced by De Blasio. However, none of the 3 forwards had any impact and time after time, refused to play the ball back OR maintain the ball and bring others into the game. After 25 Clark was replaced by Pagotto but an ineffectual and disappointing half ended with the BH boys down a goal.
Half time score 0 - 1
Second Half: Again, the team was stung into some action following the break but in another twist, after only 5 minutes play, a cross/shot lead to a poor punch and the ensuing mix up resulted in a scrambled second goal for GW. Unbelievable!!! They, like Ringwood the week before, had had two speculative efforts and had scored twice. This finally seemed to kick the pants of the BH players and their intensity and passion levels rose and they started playing to feet. It was good to hear some encouragement and drive from the players urging each other on, especially Orlando who was vocal and driving the team on. A fine piece of individual play and dribbling skills by Pagotto led to a drive across the face of goal that nestled in the far corner and BH were back in the game. The old adage ‘2-0 is the worst score in soccer’ was found to be true again. From this point, GW could not muster a single attack and within 5 minutes, Pagotto drove a thunderbolt from near the edge of the box past the GW keeper and scores were tied. We then had further pressure build on the GW defence and Lee replaced Orlando who was exhausted after a great day’s effort and commitment. However, free kicks, shots at goals and runs into the box hit the wall, were weak and ill directed or directed straight at the keeper or reactions and anticipation from midfielders and forwards was non-existent. We couldn’t find the vital winner and in the last minute of play, Pagotto seemed to find room for a chance to shoot but lost control at the last moment. The whistle blew and BH had managed to dig themselves out of what was a huge hole……..many ‘phew’s, that was close’ were muttered in the pancina (bench).
Final Score 2 - 2
Overall Comments
Opposition: GW relied on long kicks and fast breaks and one of these lead to their opening goal. They were well covered by the last man defender who cleaned up loose balls but who play was erratic as pressure was piled on in the 2nd half. Again, committed and passionate and strong defensively given numbers in defence.
Box Hill: A poor display in the 1st half. Not one player can say I played to my ability, I controlled the ball and hit feet or I made intelligent decisions. It’s baffling but we need to get over this and concentrate on the last game of the year against Rovers and play at our best from the first kick to the last !!!!!! ONE MORE TEST awaits us……….
NOTE: Training all week is mandatory for all. We will be concentrating on nothing but formation, structure, quick feet and play to feet.
However, I can now finally say, we have the chocolates!!! Well done to all players coaches and parents for your effort and support al year, bring on Super League…….BUT WE HAVE THE CHOCOLATES!
IMPORTANT: READ THIS EXCERPT FROM THE ROVERS BLOG THIS WEEK. IF THIS DOESN’T FIRE YOU UP, NOTHING WILL…… “ROVERS – the last game coming up, wouldn’t it be nice to show Box Hill who is the best side in the competition”
Coach: John Di Martino 31st August, 2009
Match Day 17 – Box Hill vs. Glen Waverley
Conditions: Teams faced a windy day with the wind favouring the skate park end. BH lost the toss and played to the old Clubrooms end of the ground. The referee was my favourite guy – from 2 weeks back
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Play as quickly as possible
• Play to feet and move the ball around
• Shoot hard and often but most of all…….
• ENJOY The game
First Half – Given sickness and training non-attendance, the team started with Bryden and Mills-Warthold in the centre of defence, James on the left and Jake on the right as wing backs. Glody was trialled as a forward. Chris V from the BH started slowly……..AGAIN. Coaching staff couldn’t believe the lethargy and lack of anticipation and passion being shown. What was most disconcerting was BH’s inability to pass and hit feet which is the team’s strength and what its success has been built on all year. In addition, the defence, midfield and forwards were too far apart horizontally allowing the GW mids some room to move and to play long balls forward. After 15 minutes of basically poor soccer, a poor clearance and inability to quickly clear the lines lead to a speculative shot from the GW player. It took a mild deflection but true to our bad run of luck, it ballooned over the keeper and JUST under the cross bar. Nguyen was hit on the face by a ball and was replaced by De Blasio. However, none of the 3 forwards had any impact and time after time, refused to play the ball back OR maintain the ball and bring others into the game. After 25 Clark was replaced by Pagotto but an ineffectual and disappointing half ended with the BH boys down a goal.
Half time score 0 - 1
Second Half: Again, the team was stung into some action following the break but in another twist, after only 5 minutes play, a cross/shot lead to a poor punch and the ensuing mix up resulted in a scrambled second goal for GW. Unbelievable!!! They, like Ringwood the week before, had had two speculative efforts and had scored twice. This finally seemed to kick the pants of the BH players and their intensity and passion levels rose and they started playing to feet. It was good to hear some encouragement and drive from the players urging each other on, especially Orlando who was vocal and driving the team on. A fine piece of individual play and dribbling skills by Pagotto led to a drive across the face of goal that nestled in the far corner and BH were back in the game. The old adage ‘2-0 is the worst score in soccer’ was found to be true again. From this point, GW could not muster a single attack and within 5 minutes, Pagotto drove a thunderbolt from near the edge of the box past the GW keeper and scores were tied. We then had further pressure build on the GW defence and Lee replaced Orlando who was exhausted after a great day’s effort and commitment. However, free kicks, shots at goals and runs into the box hit the wall, were weak and ill directed or directed straight at the keeper or reactions and anticipation from midfielders and forwards was non-existent. We couldn’t find the vital winner and in the last minute of play, Pagotto seemed to find room for a chance to shoot but lost control at the last moment. The whistle blew and BH had managed to dig themselves out of what was a huge hole……..many ‘phew’s, that was close’ were muttered in the pancina (bench).
Final Score 2 - 2
Overall Comments
Opposition: GW relied on long kicks and fast breaks and one of these lead to their opening goal. They were well covered by the last man defender who cleaned up loose balls but who play was erratic as pressure was piled on in the 2nd half. Again, committed and passionate and strong defensively given numbers in defence.
Box Hill: A poor display in the 1st half. Not one player can say I played to my ability, I controlled the ball and hit feet or I made intelligent decisions. It’s baffling but we need to get over this and concentrate on the last game of the year against Rovers and play at our best from the first kick to the last !!!!!! ONE MORE TEST awaits us……….
NOTE: Training all week is mandatory for all. We will be concentrating on nothing but formation, structure, quick feet and play to feet.
However, I can now finally say, we have the chocolates!!! Well done to all players coaches and parents for your effort and support al year, bring on Super League…….BUT WE HAVE THE CHOCOLATES!
IMPORTANT: READ THIS EXCERPT FROM THE ROVERS BLOG THIS WEEK. IF THIS DOESN’T FIRE YOU UP, NOTHING WILL…… “ROVERS – the last game coming up, wouldn’t it be nice to show Box Hill who is the best side in the competition”
Coach: John Di Martino 31st August, 2009
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Round 16 - Ringwood
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 15 – Ringwood vs. Box Hill
Conditions: Teams faced a windy day, with strong gusts favouring one end. The pitch was short and narrow but well grassed – too well in fact as it was very long thereby limiting both teams an ability to pass the ball to feet.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Concentrate on what they do well
• Play as they played on Tuesday night
• Start strongly and keep the pressure on them
First Half – BH started slowly (again) and found it difficult to play to feet and put quality balls through to the forwards. Despite being advised before the game that all passes would need extra power given the grass, BH played like they were on Darebin. It was clear from the start that BH would have trouble breaking down a resolute defence and packed midfield, with Ringwood employing only one forward. After 10 minutes or so, a cheap free kick near the corner of the 18 yard box was beautifully taken by the Ringwood player. The ball sailed over the keeper and into the top corner for Ringwood to score. This appeared to sting BH into greater urgency (though it baffles me still why the team needs to stung into action ) and a fine run by Pagotto from near the half way line ended up with a fine finish and the scores were level. The midfield was struggling to link through to the forwards and the ‘rub of the green’ wasn’t going with the team. Balls would hit our heels, fall under out of control, just be too long or just be cleared by the Ringwood GK. However, a team makes its own luck and BH was not sticking to their passing game and quality of movement on and off the ball. In addition, an element of frustration was creeping into the team and some players were trying to ‘do it on their own’. The half ended and it was clear we would need to improve!!
Half time score 1 - 1
Second Half: Becker came on as did Tolo and Bryden. Given the score, we had to persevere with Jordan in goal which is not what we wanted. His influence on the left side of the team is sorely missed. Bryden and Tolo started strongly as did Becker and their influence and some greater effort by the team lead to a number of good moves. Lee was providing good width and attacked the Ringwood defence a number of times. With Becker dominating the centre of the field, we looked better and stronger but often, the ball would not travel well on the grass, crosses were poor or missed, and the final touch or control was poor. To make matters worse, it appeared the referee was calling any foul on the opposition but BH got nothing. This may be a view built on frustration but that’s how it appeared. A challenge near or just in the box by Kasapidis resulted in a penalty for Ringwood. The first effort was very weak and was saved by Mills-Warthold, but the ball wasn’t cleared and a hopeful looped shot, hit the bar, bounced down hit Mills-Warthold and bounced in. It was just ‘one of those days’. Again, BH lifted and tried to find a string of passes or a move that would result in a clear shot. A great cross from the right was just missed by De Blasio, Nguyen tried to use his pace to get by and Pagotto put in some nice crosses but nothing came off. With 5 minutes to go, a free kick from 25 metres or more was rifled to goal by Kasapidis and hit the cross bar flush and bounced back into play……..!!!!! Nothing would go in and I was resolved to not getting the result. The Ringwood players were booting the ball long and out at every opportunity and were determined to get a win and hold us out. The final whistle blew and the BH players were beaten for the first time in the season and had wasted their opportunity to wrap the league up. Very disappointing.
Final Score 1 - 2
Overall Comments
Opposition: This was a team who knew what they could do and what they couldn’t do. They knew the ground and played high and long at every opportunity. They defended well and were committed and strong. They had a fast forward and a good midfielder who they tried to use as often as possible. A good effort and their parents and coach were rightly proud of them.
Box Hill: We suffered through an inability to adjust to the conditions and (I don’t think anyone would argue with me here) a day when whatever could go wrong did go wrong. Balls bounced just too far, control was just too long, and crosses were not good enough or cut out by the 1st man. I cannot say the team didn’t try but a lack of football smarts by all lead to our downfall. We need to stick to our guns, play as we play and the results will come. The few times we did play the ball around Ringwood couldn’t get near us but there just wasn’t enough of this play. We suffered from some players trying to take on 1 too many players and win the game on their own and this cost us. To be fair to the team, the goals against us were the result of a great free kick and an unlucky ending to a penalty kick.
We have Glen Waverley this week a Wembley on our final home game for the year. We must win to secure the title from Malvern who are playing Ringwood at the Malvern home ground. A result for them baring a major surprise means we must win to be secure.
We were very lucky that Doncaster lost 3-0 at home to Bulleen so they are 8 points behind with two games to play. We must win our last two games to secure the championship by 6 points which I believe undersells how good we’ve been through the year.
Coach: John Di Martino 24th August, 2009
Match Day 15 – Ringwood vs. Box Hill
Conditions: Teams faced a windy day, with strong gusts favouring one end. The pitch was short and narrow but well grassed – too well in fact as it was very long thereby limiting both teams an ability to pass the ball to feet.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Concentrate on what they do well
• Play as they played on Tuesday night
• Start strongly and keep the pressure on them
First Half – BH started slowly (again) and found it difficult to play to feet and put quality balls through to the forwards. Despite being advised before the game that all passes would need extra power given the grass, BH played like they were on Darebin. It was clear from the start that BH would have trouble breaking down a resolute defence and packed midfield, with Ringwood employing only one forward. After 10 minutes or so, a cheap free kick near the corner of the 18 yard box was beautifully taken by the Ringwood player. The ball sailed over the keeper and into the top corner for Ringwood to score. This appeared to sting BH into greater urgency (though it baffles me still why the team needs to stung into action ) and a fine run by Pagotto from near the half way line ended up with a fine finish and the scores were level. The midfield was struggling to link through to the forwards and the ‘rub of the green’ wasn’t going with the team. Balls would hit our heels, fall under out of control, just be too long or just be cleared by the Ringwood GK. However, a team makes its own luck and BH was not sticking to their passing game and quality of movement on and off the ball. In addition, an element of frustration was creeping into the team and some players were trying to ‘do it on their own’. The half ended and it was clear we would need to improve!!
Half time score 1 - 1
Second Half: Becker came on as did Tolo and Bryden. Given the score, we had to persevere with Jordan in goal which is not what we wanted. His influence on the left side of the team is sorely missed. Bryden and Tolo started strongly as did Becker and their influence and some greater effort by the team lead to a number of good moves. Lee was providing good width and attacked the Ringwood defence a number of times. With Becker dominating the centre of the field, we looked better and stronger but often, the ball would not travel well on the grass, crosses were poor or missed, and the final touch or control was poor. To make matters worse, it appeared the referee was calling any foul on the opposition but BH got nothing. This may be a view built on frustration but that’s how it appeared. A challenge near or just in the box by Kasapidis resulted in a penalty for Ringwood. The first effort was very weak and was saved by Mills-Warthold, but the ball wasn’t cleared and a hopeful looped shot, hit the bar, bounced down hit Mills-Warthold and bounced in. It was just ‘one of those days’. Again, BH lifted and tried to find a string of passes or a move that would result in a clear shot. A great cross from the right was just missed by De Blasio, Nguyen tried to use his pace to get by and Pagotto put in some nice crosses but nothing came off. With 5 minutes to go, a free kick from 25 metres or more was rifled to goal by Kasapidis and hit the cross bar flush and bounced back into play……..!!!!! Nothing would go in and I was resolved to not getting the result. The Ringwood players were booting the ball long and out at every opportunity and were determined to get a win and hold us out. The final whistle blew and the BH players were beaten for the first time in the season and had wasted their opportunity to wrap the league up. Very disappointing.
Final Score 1 - 2
Overall Comments
Opposition: This was a team who knew what they could do and what they couldn’t do. They knew the ground and played high and long at every opportunity. They defended well and were committed and strong. They had a fast forward and a good midfielder who they tried to use as often as possible. A good effort and their parents and coach were rightly proud of them.
Box Hill: We suffered through an inability to adjust to the conditions and (I don’t think anyone would argue with me here) a day when whatever could go wrong did go wrong. Balls bounced just too far, control was just too long, and crosses were not good enough or cut out by the 1st man. I cannot say the team didn’t try but a lack of football smarts by all lead to our downfall. We need to stick to our guns, play as we play and the results will come. The few times we did play the ball around Ringwood couldn’t get near us but there just wasn’t enough of this play. We suffered from some players trying to take on 1 too many players and win the game on their own and this cost us. To be fair to the team, the goals against us were the result of a great free kick and an unlucky ending to a penalty kick.
We have Glen Waverley this week a Wembley on our final home game for the year. We must win to secure the title from Malvern who are playing Ringwood at the Malvern home ground. A result for them baring a major surprise means we must win to be secure.
We were very lucky that Doncaster lost 3-0 at home to Bulleen so they are 8 points behind with two games to play. We must win our last two games to secure the championship by 6 points which I believe undersells how good we’ve been through the year.
Coach: John Di Martino 24th August, 2009
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Round 15 - Malvern
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 15 – Box Hill vs. Malvern City
Conditions: Teams faced a windy day, with strong gusts making the ball swirl in the air. Sky was cloudy and overcast threatening rain which didn’t eventuate. The wind however didn’t favour any end so little advantage was found kicking either way. BH lost the toss and kicked to the Old Clubrooms end. The Referee advised the BH Coach before the game that his ‘pet hate’ was hands in the back at heading contests – this would be the cause of some angst later in the day
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Keep the 4-3-3 structure and shape, even when under pressure
• Play simply on the ground especially in light of conditions
• Move quickly and with purpose
• Play to win
First Half – BH started slowly and within 5 minutes it was evident to everyone that the team had left their commitment, passion and intensity in the change room!!! Despite being told what was required, how to not take the Malvern team lightly, how their passion and desire would be strong, it was clear no-one in the change room had listened. Passes went astray, BH couldn’t hit feet, there was little to no movement up front and the midfield was having trouble controlling the middle of the park. Given this and the passion displayed by Malvern, it was no surprise to find BH 1-0 down after 15 minutes where poor defensive play and decision making lead to a simple goal for Malvern. This appeared to spark BH into some action and a handball in the penalty box resulted in a penalty. This chance went begging however. I was starting to feel it was going to be ‘one of those days’. Things went from bad to worse when a silly free kick presented Malvern with the ball 25 metres out. It was duly headed in on the far post by the Malvern defender Lloyd. However, the flag was raised by our linesman who advised the referee the BH player had been pushed in the back by Lloyd. To our amazement, he duly allowed the goal somewhat contradicting his advice prior to the match that hands in the back were not permitted. I uttered a question or 2 in his direction but was duly waved away.
After a few minutes a fine run by Becker through the middle of the park was halted by 2 Malvern players tackling him. The free kick however went to Malvern!!!! I asked the referee how the player carrying the ball can have the free kick given against him. (I asked a few times………I admit). He then came to the middle of the ground and asked me to meet him there. I advised I wasn’t allowed out of my technical area. He duly gave me permission to leave the technical area. I met him in the middle of the ground on the sidelines and asked him my question again regarding the ball carrier being penalised. He advised I couldn’t question him. I advised I was just asking for an explanation. A little more tooing and froing, and………….Di Martino gets his second red card in 35 years of football participation. Off to the sidelines with me. The game continued and after 10 minutes of further lack lustre play, BH went into the change rooms deservedly 0-2 down
Half time score 0 - 2
The team was told a number of home truths shall we say at half time by the coach standing behind the fence near the grandstand. Forwards were lazy, defenders didn’t support of play the simple option, midfielders intensity was scrappy and they weren’t linking with the forwards, etc. In addition, I demanded a forward always be on the last man given they were playing slow defender 10 metres behind the defensive line.
Second Half - This had the desired effect. BH started brightly and after 60 seconds had scored their first through De Blasio. We were pumped and ready to go!!! Becker then shot from outside the box and managed to squeeze the ball under the keeper – 2 all - and then a corner lead to a rare Bircham goal. We were 3 – 2 up after 10 minutes of play. Malvern tried to push and lift but we were winning the tackles and playing balls to feet. Pagotto was on fire crossing and linking and providing great support to Nguyen and De Blasio up front. Becker and Bircham had lifted and Drossas was doing a manful job. A number of good crosses and chances were not taken up. A fairer result would have been 5 goals instead of the three alone. The game then degenerated into somewhat of a stale mate with coach annoying the hell out of Seb De Blasio – who had made the mistake of standing with me - with my constant questioning of ‘How Long, How Long to go’. Finally, the whistle went and we had squeezed an unlikely win given the 1st half ‘issues’ and poor play.
Final Score 3 - 2
Overall Comments
Opposition: A good team who had some strong and tall players in midfield and defence. They were committed and willing and given BH’s lack of penetration and intensity, really dominated the 1st half.
Box Hill: An abominable display in the 1sthalf. A disgrace given the team’s real ability and it is baffling how the intensity and passion just isn’t displayed at times. If anyone out there knows how to fire the team up from the 1st half rather than the 2nd, there’s one coach who’d like some advice!!
Much better in the 2nd half but why it takes a bollocking to get everyone moving is beyond me. But all credit to the team who picked themselves up, dusted themselves off and did it, albeit the hard way.
We have 3 games to go and we CANNOT, MUST NOT and WILL NOT take the 2 games against Ringwood and Glen Waverley lightly. Nothing is won yet and I don’t want to go to Doncaster on the final day and have to play for the title. Nor do I want to win it by 1 or 2 points. I firmly believe we are the best team by 9 points min and this is what we deserve.
A game against Essendon Royals Super League may give us a good indication of where we are at given it appears we may be in SL next year …….. note the word ‘MAY” No Chocolates YET!!
Coach: John Di Martino 17th August, 2009
PS – I wish to apologise for my behaviour and being sent off the field. Though refraining from swearing and going too far, I set a poor example to the team. I apologise to the team and their parents and the club in general. However, I will support and back all players and carriers that get no protection from referee’s every time.
Match Day 15 – Box Hill vs. Malvern City
Conditions: Teams faced a windy day, with strong gusts making the ball swirl in the air. Sky was cloudy and overcast threatening rain which didn’t eventuate. The wind however didn’t favour any end so little advantage was found kicking either way. BH lost the toss and kicked to the Old Clubrooms end. The Referee advised the BH Coach before the game that his ‘pet hate’ was hands in the back at heading contests – this would be the cause of some angst later in the day
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Keep the 4-3-3 structure and shape, even when under pressure
• Play simply on the ground especially in light of conditions
• Move quickly and with purpose
• Play to win
First Half – BH started slowly and within 5 minutes it was evident to everyone that the team had left their commitment, passion and intensity in the change room!!! Despite being told what was required, how to not take the Malvern team lightly, how their passion and desire would be strong, it was clear no-one in the change room had listened. Passes went astray, BH couldn’t hit feet, there was little to no movement up front and the midfield was having trouble controlling the middle of the park. Given this and the passion displayed by Malvern, it was no surprise to find BH 1-0 down after 15 minutes where poor defensive play and decision making lead to a simple goal for Malvern. This appeared to spark BH into some action and a handball in the penalty box resulted in a penalty. This chance went begging however. I was starting to feel it was going to be ‘one of those days’. Things went from bad to worse when a silly free kick presented Malvern with the ball 25 metres out. It was duly headed in on the far post by the Malvern defender Lloyd. However, the flag was raised by our linesman who advised the referee the BH player had been pushed in the back by Lloyd. To our amazement, he duly allowed the goal somewhat contradicting his advice prior to the match that hands in the back were not permitted. I uttered a question or 2 in his direction but was duly waved away.
After a few minutes a fine run by Becker through the middle of the park was halted by 2 Malvern players tackling him. The free kick however went to Malvern!!!! I asked the referee how the player carrying the ball can have the free kick given against him. (I asked a few times………I admit). He then came to the middle of the ground and asked me to meet him there. I advised I wasn’t allowed out of my technical area. He duly gave me permission to leave the technical area. I met him in the middle of the ground on the sidelines and asked him my question again regarding the ball carrier being penalised. He advised I couldn’t question him. I advised I was just asking for an explanation. A little more tooing and froing, and………….Di Martino gets his second red card in 35 years of football participation. Off to the sidelines with me. The game continued and after 10 minutes of further lack lustre play, BH went into the change rooms deservedly 0-2 down
Half time score 0 - 2
The team was told a number of home truths shall we say at half time by the coach standing behind the fence near the grandstand. Forwards were lazy, defenders didn’t support of play the simple option, midfielders intensity was scrappy and they weren’t linking with the forwards, etc. In addition, I demanded a forward always be on the last man given they were playing slow defender 10 metres behind the defensive line.
Second Half - This had the desired effect. BH started brightly and after 60 seconds had scored their first through De Blasio. We were pumped and ready to go!!! Becker then shot from outside the box and managed to squeeze the ball under the keeper – 2 all - and then a corner lead to a rare Bircham goal. We were 3 – 2 up after 10 minutes of play. Malvern tried to push and lift but we were winning the tackles and playing balls to feet. Pagotto was on fire crossing and linking and providing great support to Nguyen and De Blasio up front. Becker and Bircham had lifted and Drossas was doing a manful job. A number of good crosses and chances were not taken up. A fairer result would have been 5 goals instead of the three alone. The game then degenerated into somewhat of a stale mate with coach annoying the hell out of Seb De Blasio – who had made the mistake of standing with me - with my constant questioning of ‘How Long, How Long to go’. Finally, the whistle went and we had squeezed an unlikely win given the 1st half ‘issues’ and poor play.
Final Score 3 - 2
Overall Comments
Opposition: A good team who had some strong and tall players in midfield and defence. They were committed and willing and given BH’s lack of penetration and intensity, really dominated the 1st half.
Box Hill: An abominable display in the 1sthalf. A disgrace given the team’s real ability and it is baffling how the intensity and passion just isn’t displayed at times. If anyone out there knows how to fire the team up from the 1st half rather than the 2nd, there’s one coach who’d like some advice!!
Much better in the 2nd half but why it takes a bollocking to get everyone moving is beyond me. But all credit to the team who picked themselves up, dusted themselves off and did it, albeit the hard way.
We have 3 games to go and we CANNOT, MUST NOT and WILL NOT take the 2 games against Ringwood and Glen Waverley lightly. Nothing is won yet and I don’t want to go to Doncaster on the final day and have to play for the title. Nor do I want to win it by 1 or 2 points. I firmly believe we are the best team by 9 points min and this is what we deserve.
A game against Essendon Royals Super League may give us a good indication of where we are at given it appears we may be in SL next year …….. note the word ‘MAY” No Chocolates YET!!
Coach: John Di Martino 17th August, 2009
PS – I wish to apologise for my behaviour and being sent off the field. Though refraining from swearing and going too far, I set a poor example to the team. I apologise to the team and their parents and the club in general. However, I will support and back all players and carriers that get no protection from referee’s every time.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Round 14 - Whitehorse
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 11 – Whitehorse vs. Box Hill
Conditions: Thin cloud masked the sun making conditions a little cool. A breeze was favouring one end and this, in conjunction with the small narrow ground and distinct slope, would mean the winning team would have the advantage down the hill
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Consider this a danger game as we were confident Malvern are vulnerable and beatable next week
• Take the game up to them
• Improve on tackling and contested ball from Casey game
• Play to teams strengths
First Half: Team was without Lee (injured) and Pagotto who was only able to play 15 minutes on doctor’s advice. Mills-Warthold started in goal again (I more week Jordan, I promise :-) ). BH started brightly, with Becker showing the way by competing effectively for aerial balls. A cross was met 1st time by Clark but his volley was wide. A subsequent corner led to a speculative volley over the head by Mazzollini and this just went over the bar. It was clear after 5 minutes what Whitehorse’s tactics consisted of. Play deep, and hoof ball long to running forwards but there was little interplay and passing evident. Nguyen had a good long range shot in the middle of the half but it wasn’t proving a good day for the BH forwards. Clark was clearly physically drained after a bout of the flu, and Nguyen and De Blasio were, well……….having a ‘bad hair day’ shall we say. Some brilliant build up play by Becker, Mazzollini and Jake lead to a cross but no one was there to put it in. A number of chances fell to Clark who couldn’t put them away. De Blasio had an opening but shot tamely at the keeper. BH was clearly the superior footballing side and all were playing their part. Drossas was doing well at full back, Jake was strong and creative and Kasapidis and Bondole were their usual imperious best in defence. Bircham and Becker were dominating midfield and showing themselves more than willing to tackle and compete strongly. All in all, a good 1st half by BH but no reward to show for it.
Half time score 0 – 0
Second Half: The team was sent out with no changes. Team talk focussed on us maintaining the pressure, maintaining shape and keeping the ball moving and the rewards would come. The half picked up where the 1st half left off. Whitehorse was clearly rattled and had no answer to the pressure being applied in midfield and defence and could not mount a serious attack. After 10 minutes, Clark who was clearly fatigued was replaced by Bryden. Bryden went to Full back and Orlando moved to wide left. Soon after this he squandered a DEVINE open chance and succeeded in blasting over the bar from 6 metres……Coaches were starting to get the ‘this isn’t going to be our day feeling’. However, at the 16 minute mark, a great wide run by Nguyen and cross lead to
the ball falling to Orlando and he struck it firmly into the goal. From this point on and to their credit, Whitehorse started to apply a little more pressure. Drossas was given a rest and Orlando went to left full back. Pagotto played wide left and had some influence but again, was hampered by injury. Tolo came on and played right mid and applied himself diligently, following the coaches instructions to play strongly and defensively. Whitehorse by this time was starting to get ugly. Verbal stoushes and niggly frees crept into the game and the game as a whole degenerated. Mills-Warthold made some good saves though was never really put in danger. He did very well and his efforts to play in goal are appreciated by all the coaches and his team members. After a scrappy last ten minutes, the whistle blew and we had succeeded in getting the desired result.
Final Score 0 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: A strong and willing team but very scrappy. Clearly not able to string passes together when confronted by good opposition. Apart from a strong centre back (recruited from Malvern after their ‘falling out’) they had no player that would make the BH team. Also, many had a very negative and ugly outlook on the game and their opponents. They know how to play their ground effectively and stifle any real movement or play by other teams.
Box Hill: Given ground size and conditions, I was proud of how the boys fought it out to the end. All played their part and what may have been a major stumbling block for the season, was overcome. The 4-3-3 structure is suiting our style of play and I am really looking forward to a full strength side with all players available, going out onto the park and putting on a real show. There is still room for improvement and Malvern who struggled to beat Casey 2-1, cannot and WILL NOT be taken lightly.
NOTE: Doncaster lost at home to North Caulfield so they are now 8 pts behind with Malvern second 6 points behind. We are getting there step by step buts STILL, NO CHOCOLATES!!!!!
4 weeks to go and UNLESS VERY ILL, SEVERELY INJURED OR IN A WHEELCHAIR all must train!! …..
Coach: John Di Martino 10th August, 2009
Match Day 11 – Whitehorse vs. Box Hill
Conditions: Thin cloud masked the sun making conditions a little cool. A breeze was favouring one end and this, in conjunction with the small narrow ground and distinct slope, would mean the winning team would have the advantage down the hill
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Consider this a danger game as we were confident Malvern are vulnerable and beatable next week
• Take the game up to them
• Improve on tackling and contested ball from Casey game
• Play to teams strengths
First Half: Team was without Lee (injured) and Pagotto who was only able to play 15 minutes on doctor’s advice. Mills-Warthold started in goal again (I more week Jordan, I promise :-) ). BH started brightly, with Becker showing the way by competing effectively for aerial balls. A cross was met 1st time by Clark but his volley was wide. A subsequent corner led to a speculative volley over the head by Mazzollini and this just went over the bar. It was clear after 5 minutes what Whitehorse’s tactics consisted of. Play deep, and hoof ball long to running forwards but there was little interplay and passing evident. Nguyen had a good long range shot in the middle of the half but it wasn’t proving a good day for the BH forwards. Clark was clearly physically drained after a bout of the flu, and Nguyen and De Blasio were, well……….having a ‘bad hair day’ shall we say. Some brilliant build up play by Becker, Mazzollini and Jake lead to a cross but no one was there to put it in. A number of chances fell to Clark who couldn’t put them away. De Blasio had an opening but shot tamely at the keeper. BH was clearly the superior footballing side and all were playing their part. Drossas was doing well at full back, Jake was strong and creative and Kasapidis and Bondole were their usual imperious best in defence. Bircham and Becker were dominating midfield and showing themselves more than willing to tackle and compete strongly. All in all, a good 1st half by BH but no reward to show for it.
Half time score 0 – 0
Second Half: The team was sent out with no changes. Team talk focussed on us maintaining the pressure, maintaining shape and keeping the ball moving and the rewards would come. The half picked up where the 1st half left off. Whitehorse was clearly rattled and had no answer to the pressure being applied in midfield and defence and could not mount a serious attack. After 10 minutes, Clark who was clearly fatigued was replaced by Bryden. Bryden went to Full back and Orlando moved to wide left. Soon after this he squandered a DEVINE open chance and succeeded in blasting over the bar from 6 metres……Coaches were starting to get the ‘this isn’t going to be our day feeling’. However, at the 16 minute mark, a great wide run by Nguyen and cross lead to
the ball falling to Orlando and he struck it firmly into the goal. From this point on and to their credit, Whitehorse started to apply a little more pressure. Drossas was given a rest and Orlando went to left full back. Pagotto played wide left and had some influence but again, was hampered by injury. Tolo came on and played right mid and applied himself diligently, following the coaches instructions to play strongly and defensively. Whitehorse by this time was starting to get ugly. Verbal stoushes and niggly frees crept into the game and the game as a whole degenerated. Mills-Warthold made some good saves though was never really put in danger. He did very well and his efforts to play in goal are appreciated by all the coaches and his team members. After a scrappy last ten minutes, the whistle blew and we had succeeded in getting the desired result.
Final Score 0 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: A strong and willing team but very scrappy. Clearly not able to string passes together when confronted by good opposition. Apart from a strong centre back (recruited from Malvern after their ‘falling out’) they had no player that would make the BH team. Also, many had a very negative and ugly outlook on the game and their opponents. They know how to play their ground effectively and stifle any real movement or play by other teams.
Box Hill: Given ground size and conditions, I was proud of how the boys fought it out to the end. All played their part and what may have been a major stumbling block for the season, was overcome. The 4-3-3 structure is suiting our style of play and I am really looking forward to a full strength side with all players available, going out onto the park and putting on a real show. There is still room for improvement and Malvern who struggled to beat Casey 2-1, cannot and WILL NOT be taken lightly.
NOTE: Doncaster lost at home to North Caulfield so they are now 8 pts behind with Malvern second 6 points behind. We are getting there step by step buts STILL, NO CHOCOLATES!!!!!
4 weeks to go and UNLESS VERY ILL, SEVERELY INJURED OR IN A WHEELCHAIR all must train!! …..
Coach: John Di Martino 10th August, 2009
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Round 13 - Casey Comets
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 13 – Casey Comets vs. Box Hill
Conditions: Teams were moved to play on the main pitch at Comets Stadium. Pitch is well grassed, and of a good width though a little uneven in patches. The wind was heavily favouring one end which compromised both teams ability to play a good style of football.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Keep the 4-3-3 structure
• Play simply on the ground and diagonally
• The 11 fit players had to commit fully given injuries and lack of a GK
First Half – BH started with 11 fit players and one reserve that was not fully fit, though stripped to play in case of emergency. Lee, Pagotto and Bryden were injured and Bondole was unavailable. Box Hill started the game well and the new 4-3-3 structure was allowing plenty of width and also helps to ensure the forwards stay apart from one another. Tolo missed a glorious chance after 3 minutes when the ball was cut across the box, but he blasted over the bar when the goal was gaping. Unfortunately, this type of miss was to be all too prevalent throughout the game. BH were dominating the game and moving the ball well and a number of through balls lead to goals to De Blasio and Nguyen. However, the 15 minutes of good play then degenerated into BH looking for someone else to do the hard work. Casey were coming into the game and were having some reasonable possession, especially their #2 on the left who was a very creative and willing player. A free kick and an open shot on goal resulted in Mills-Warthold tipping both onto the cross bar. Bircham and Becker had had quiet first halves though Becker was crunched early in the game and may have been seeing stars……
Half time score 0 - 2
Second Half: The team was asked to lift their game play and intensity to that of the 1st 15 minutes and to take responsibility as there were no fit reserves and no-one could help them overcome the odds stacked against the team as a whole. Unfortunately, Casey scored after 4 minutes, almost as pay back for a glorious chance missed by Box Hill just prior to the Casey goal. Becker was then fouled in the box and the resultant penalty was coolly converted by Kasapidis. It was clear now that Casey had decided a more physical type of game was warranted and a number of heavy challenges went unnoticed by the referee who should have taken control of the game. Box Hill then scored a fourth and fifth before Casey scored again following poor marking and a good cross allowed them to score. The ball did not appear to cross the line but the referee gave the goal. Then, after a few minutes of the restart, the referee awarded a free kick to Casey after a drop ball because the BH player allegedly touched the ball before it hit the ground!! To add insult to injury, the 10 meters he measured looked like 15!! BH were so far back they needed binoculars to see the ball………. The free kick rebounded off the BH cross bar and post before going out. Finally, suffice to say that Nguyen and De Blasio need to think about how to better
beat the onrushing GK. We spurned AT LEAST 5 glorious chances, more like 8. They need to dink the ball over, shimmy and go round the keeper, etc. We will work on our structure and how to beat the keeper during training this week.
Final Score 2 – 6
Overall Comments
Opposition: Team is willing and physical, and are held together by their central defender Karim and on the forward line by the blonde #2. Apart from that, they tried to play football and string passes together but were not skilled or trained well enough to do so.
Box Hill: Given the massive disruption to the team and its structure, I am immensely proud of all the players on the day. All gave and fought for the team and delivered the required result. Everyone gave all they could and I cannot say they did not try their best.
From myself, Perry, Peter and Connie and the club, well done!!!
This week, given the return to training of all players (thank goodness!! ), we will work on width, possession of the ball and playing the ball out from the back, rather than kicking long. In addition, contested headers and tackles need to be worked on and encouraged as an all the time reqmt, not a sometimes reqmt. We will also work on beating the GK when through one on one. We CANNOT waste our chances against Malvern and Whitehorse.
Remember and ask yourself the following:
Am I willing to do anything for the next 5 weeks to drag my team over the line?
We now have Whitehorse and Malvern in the next two weeks. Two wins, and the season will effectively be ours as I am certain Doncaster will drop points against North Caulfield or Bulleen – both these teams are playing better now than at the start of the season.
Coach: John Di Martino 3rd August, 2009
Match Day 13 – Casey Comets vs. Box Hill
Conditions: Teams were moved to play on the main pitch at Comets Stadium. Pitch is well grassed, and of a good width though a little uneven in patches. The wind was heavily favouring one end which compromised both teams ability to play a good style of football.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Keep the 4-3-3 structure
• Play simply on the ground and diagonally
• The 11 fit players had to commit fully given injuries and lack of a GK
First Half – BH started with 11 fit players and one reserve that was not fully fit, though stripped to play in case of emergency. Lee, Pagotto and Bryden were injured and Bondole was unavailable. Box Hill started the game well and the new 4-3-3 structure was allowing plenty of width and also helps to ensure the forwards stay apart from one another. Tolo missed a glorious chance after 3 minutes when the ball was cut across the box, but he blasted over the bar when the goal was gaping. Unfortunately, this type of miss was to be all too prevalent throughout the game. BH were dominating the game and moving the ball well and a number of through balls lead to goals to De Blasio and Nguyen. However, the 15 minutes of good play then degenerated into BH looking for someone else to do the hard work. Casey were coming into the game and were having some reasonable possession, especially their #2 on the left who was a very creative and willing player. A free kick and an open shot on goal resulted in Mills-Warthold tipping both onto the cross bar. Bircham and Becker had had quiet first halves though Becker was crunched early in the game and may have been seeing stars……
Half time score 0 - 2
Second Half: The team was asked to lift their game play and intensity to that of the 1st 15 minutes and to take responsibility as there were no fit reserves and no-one could help them overcome the odds stacked against the team as a whole. Unfortunately, Casey scored after 4 minutes, almost as pay back for a glorious chance missed by Box Hill just prior to the Casey goal. Becker was then fouled in the box and the resultant penalty was coolly converted by Kasapidis. It was clear now that Casey had decided a more physical type of game was warranted and a number of heavy challenges went unnoticed by the referee who should have taken control of the game. Box Hill then scored a fourth and fifth before Casey scored again following poor marking and a good cross allowed them to score. The ball did not appear to cross the line but the referee gave the goal. Then, after a few minutes of the restart, the referee awarded a free kick to Casey after a drop ball because the BH player allegedly touched the ball before it hit the ground!! To add insult to injury, the 10 meters he measured looked like 15!! BH were so far back they needed binoculars to see the ball………. The free kick rebounded off the BH cross bar and post before going out. Finally, suffice to say that Nguyen and De Blasio need to think about how to better
beat the onrushing GK. We spurned AT LEAST 5 glorious chances, more like 8. They need to dink the ball over, shimmy and go round the keeper, etc. We will work on our structure and how to beat the keeper during training this week.
Final Score 2 – 6
Overall Comments
Opposition: Team is willing and physical, and are held together by their central defender Karim and on the forward line by the blonde #2. Apart from that, they tried to play football and string passes together but were not skilled or trained well enough to do so.
Box Hill: Given the massive disruption to the team and its structure, I am immensely proud of all the players on the day. All gave and fought for the team and delivered the required result. Everyone gave all they could and I cannot say they did not try their best.
From myself, Perry, Peter and Connie and the club, well done!!!
This week, given the return to training of all players (thank goodness!! ), we will work on width, possession of the ball and playing the ball out from the back, rather than kicking long. In addition, contested headers and tackles need to be worked on and encouraged as an all the time reqmt, not a sometimes reqmt. We will also work on beating the GK when through one on one. We CANNOT waste our chances against Malvern and Whitehorse.
Remember and ask yourself the following:
Am I willing to do anything for the next 5 weeks to drag my team over the line?
We now have Whitehorse and Malvern in the next two weeks. Two wins, and the season will effectively be ours as I am certain Doncaster will drop points against North Caulfield or Bulleen – both these teams are playing better now than at the start of the season.
Coach: John Di Martino 3rd August, 2009
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Round 12 - Bulleen
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 12 – Box Hill vs. Bulleen
Conditions: Mainly sunny with some cloud and some gusty breezes. Pitch in reasonable condition but green grass is virtually non existent in centre corridors. Still flat and level but showing evidence of wear and tear.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• 110% from the start of play
• Defensively strong in first 10-15
• Be ready for hard tough play as Bulleen will want revenge
• Keep the ball on the ground
• Tackle hard, tackle often
This week’s blog will be short and succinct and take a different format to previous.
There is little to comment on with regard to Box Hill as the team was unable to cope with the physical pressure of Bulleen. Box Hill pumped the ball long every chance they got, yet the balls played out from the back and through the midfield by BH often missed the target, were poorly directed and weighted and or chose the wrong option. We constantly played high balls in to forwards who were man marked and covered by 1 or 2 additional players – a lack of footballing intelligence evident!! Despite being told to play the ball round and use our strengths, we didn’t seem to be up for the contest. As usual at home, a mix up led to Bulleen scoring a goal on one of their brief foray’s forward.
Half time score 0 - 1
Second half was little better, BH reverted to 4-4-2 and to be honest, were rarely troubled by Bulleen. But still, the contest and desire to win a hard ball, tackle an opponent, and use our skills and play was not displayed. The refereeing was inconsistent and slow, and Bulleen used every time wasting trick in the book, as I would have told them if I was their coach. BH won a penalty for an infringement in the box and scored. We had some half chances after that but never really looked like scoring
Final Score 1 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: As I indicated to the team prior to the match, Bulleen were humiliated on their own ground by BH in Round 3. As such, I felt and advised the team Bulleen would play defensively (which they did) and they would be hard and physical (which they were). They played 3-4 at the back, man marking de Blasio the entire game always having a spare man at the back. They had a speedy and skilful left mid who caused us some issue.
Box Hill: Shocking……… I could write pages on what the team lacked and didn’t do correctly. But I won’t.
Every player needs to take a good long hard look at themselves and decide whether and how much they want this championship.
More importantly, if players harbour a desire to play in Super League, they must first win this league, then decide their appetite for a league that is 5 times harder and faster than the A league we are in.
Look at yourself and assess:
Did I present for the return pass?
Did I pass effectively and to feet?
Did I think and make the right decision?
Am I willing to do anything to win a hard ball or do I do ‘just enough’….?
Am I willing to put my body in the line for my team mate?
Do I jump for every header and win every ball I compete for?
Did I give everything or just enough, leaving responsibility to others?
Am I following the tactics and instructions given to me by the coaching staff?
Do I play selflessly or SELFISHLY……….?
Am I willing to do anything for the next 6 weeks to drag my team over the line?
The BH Player’s first chance to redeem themselves comes Tuesday night against Fawkner who are 8 points clear in North 15A league, then against Casey away
Training is mandatory for all for the next 6 weeks UNLESS I know you are injured or VERY unwell…….
Coach: John Di Martino 27th July, 2009
Match Day 12 – Box Hill vs. Bulleen
Conditions: Mainly sunny with some cloud and some gusty breezes. Pitch in reasonable condition but green grass is virtually non existent in centre corridors. Still flat and level but showing evidence of wear and tear.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• 110% from the start of play
• Defensively strong in first 10-15
• Be ready for hard tough play as Bulleen will want revenge
• Keep the ball on the ground
• Tackle hard, tackle often
This week’s blog will be short and succinct and take a different format to previous.
There is little to comment on with regard to Box Hill as the team was unable to cope with the physical pressure of Bulleen. Box Hill pumped the ball long every chance they got, yet the balls played out from the back and through the midfield by BH often missed the target, were poorly directed and weighted and or chose the wrong option. We constantly played high balls in to forwards who were man marked and covered by 1 or 2 additional players – a lack of footballing intelligence evident!! Despite being told to play the ball round and use our strengths, we didn’t seem to be up for the contest. As usual at home, a mix up led to Bulleen scoring a goal on one of their brief foray’s forward.
Half time score 0 - 1
Second half was little better, BH reverted to 4-4-2 and to be honest, were rarely troubled by Bulleen. But still, the contest and desire to win a hard ball, tackle an opponent, and use our skills and play was not displayed. The refereeing was inconsistent and slow, and Bulleen used every time wasting trick in the book, as I would have told them if I was their coach. BH won a penalty for an infringement in the box and scored. We had some half chances after that but never really looked like scoring
Final Score 1 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: As I indicated to the team prior to the match, Bulleen were humiliated on their own ground by BH in Round 3. As such, I felt and advised the team Bulleen would play defensively (which they did) and they would be hard and physical (which they were). They played 3-4 at the back, man marking de Blasio the entire game always having a spare man at the back. They had a speedy and skilful left mid who caused us some issue.
Box Hill: Shocking……… I could write pages on what the team lacked and didn’t do correctly. But I won’t.
Every player needs to take a good long hard look at themselves and decide whether and how much they want this championship.
More importantly, if players harbour a desire to play in Super League, they must first win this league, then decide their appetite for a league that is 5 times harder and faster than the A league we are in.
Look at yourself and assess:
Did I present for the return pass?
Did I pass effectively and to feet?
Did I think and make the right decision?
Am I willing to do anything to win a hard ball or do I do ‘just enough’….?
Am I willing to put my body in the line for my team mate?
Do I jump for every header and win every ball I compete for?
Did I give everything or just enough, leaving responsibility to others?
Am I following the tactics and instructions given to me by the coaching staff?
Do I play selflessly or SELFISHLY……….?
Am I willing to do anything for the next 6 weeks to drag my team over the line?
The BH Player’s first chance to redeem themselves comes Tuesday night against Fawkner who are 8 points clear in North 15A league, then against Casey away
Training is mandatory for all for the next 6 weeks UNLESS I know you are injured or VERY unwell…….
Coach: John Di Martino 27th July, 2009
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Round 11 - Manningham
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 11 – Manningham vs. Box Hill
Conditions: Sunny with some cloud but a lovely day. Pitch in had a significant slope down to one corner. It varied between grassless in the centre corridor to quite lush on sides and n corners. A good breeze was helping one end markedly.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• 110% from the start of play
• Retain possession
• Be patient and wait for the right opportunity
• Keep the ball on the ground due to breeze
• First tackle the hardest
First Half: Team was sent out in a 3-1-4-2 formation. Bircham was selected as the holding midfielder, with Kasapidis partnering Nguyen up front (De Blasio had been absent from training all week due to illness so started on the bench. Box Hill commenced going up the hill and into the face of the breeze. Manningham started, as suspected with a 5-6 man defence, ensuring multiple defenders were present on all our forwards, Nguyen in particular. This lead to an almost non existent midfield for the Manningham team. As such, Becker, Orlando and then Mazzollini and our wide mids were given large amounts of room to play, with Lee and Mills-Warthold lending good support on the overlap and in support of the forwards. To some degree however, this lead to the BH players having too much time on the ball and selecting the wrong options versus those times when we play better teams and we have less time on the ball, we actually move it better and more speedily.
The Manningham coach also resorted to many interchanges, in an attempt I would guess to limit the damage to his team. Their structure however lead to them having to resort to kicking the ball long out of defence only to have it returned almost immediately by the BH backs and mids. A couple of ‘nervous’ challenges, i.e. refusal to head the ball lead to a couple of anxious moments for the bench and coaching staff. BH were probing well and getting to the 18 yard box but weight of numbers and poor final pass selection meant the 1st goal was quite a while in arriving.
Good interplay between Pagotto and Bircham, and a cross by Kasapidis lead to Nguyen opening the scoring after 15 minutes. Becker let fly with a number of shots but he displayed an inability to ‘hit the target’ rule. Pagotto then broke his duck since joining the team and after taking what seemed to be too many touches, fired low and hard into the corner of the net to make it 2-0.
Half time score 0 - 2
Second Half: A number of changes were made in an effort to get more goals from the team and to allow all players on the bench to play at least a ½ of the game. Drossas went to Left wide mid, Lee to Right wide mid, Bryden to the Right back position, Kasapidis to defensive midfield, and the centre mids were Bircham and Mazzollini with De Blasio partnering Nguyen. Becker was rested to keep him fresh for the Bulleen game next week. After a promising start, Bryden was replaced by Orlando as he rolled his ankle and had to sit out the rest of the game. Nguyen started brightly and fired over the top of the bar. Kasapidis carried the ball well and also fired over the top. De Blasio ran on to a well placed ball and made the score 3-0 to BH. After 15 minutes, Pagotto and Clark replaced the two ‘Sams’ in midfield and combined reasonably well, though Pagotto needed to be told a couple of times to work harder up and down the park as a midfielder. In addition, the two forwards were running away from the ball again and not playing as well as they did last week by coming and meeting the ball and turning away as well as moving around. A good cross by Drossas led to the 4th goal by Nguyen. Having the slope and the breeze was allowing BH to swarm forward and attack as they wished. Some poor first touches were letting us down as were poor crosses into the box that fell short or were plucked out by the Manningham GK. Crosses by Drossas and Mills Warthold as well as nice interplay through to Pagotto by Bircham lead to 2 more goals for BH.
Final Score 0 - 6
Overall Comments
Opposition: Manningham played as most teams will play against us in the second round. Large numbers of players behind the ball, stout and resolute defending and no ambition to play soccer on display. They were rarely able to string a number of passes together and they were constantly being changed around by their coach with multiple interchanges. In truth, I felt sorry for them as they cannot and will not learn anything this year except to ‘kick it long’.
Box Hill: Given conditions, and the way Manningham played, to get 6 goals is a good result. We must learn though, that having extra time on the ball to play it about does not give us license to waste our opportunities and chances. We must improve our first touch as well as this was poor at times. What was most pleasing was how all players contributed and played their part in the win, including the reserves.
Bullen next week – I think the team and coaches are looking forward to playing them on our field and show them just how good we are. They will defend and try to kick us off the park so we must be patient and controlled. Our skill, ability and team spirit will deliver us a good win again, if we do what we do best – PLAY FOOTBALL THE EURO WAY, THE BOX HILL WAY…….
NOTE: Malvern lost to North Caulfield 4-1 putting BH 6 points clear and 21 goals goal difference in front. Close, but still NO CHOCOLATES !!!!!
7 weeks to go and UNLESS VERY ILL, SEVERELY INJURED OR IN A WHEELCHAIR all must train!! …..
Coach: John Di Martino 20th July, 2009
Match Day 11 – Manningham vs. Box Hill
Conditions: Sunny with some cloud but a lovely day. Pitch in had a significant slope down to one corner. It varied between grassless in the centre corridor to quite lush on sides and n corners. A good breeze was helping one end markedly.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• 110% from the start of play
• Retain possession
• Be patient and wait for the right opportunity
• Keep the ball on the ground due to breeze
• First tackle the hardest
First Half: Team was sent out in a 3-1-4-2 formation. Bircham was selected as the holding midfielder, with Kasapidis partnering Nguyen up front (De Blasio had been absent from training all week due to illness so started on the bench. Box Hill commenced going up the hill and into the face of the breeze. Manningham started, as suspected with a 5-6 man defence, ensuring multiple defenders were present on all our forwards, Nguyen in particular. This lead to an almost non existent midfield for the Manningham team. As such, Becker, Orlando and then Mazzollini and our wide mids were given large amounts of room to play, with Lee and Mills-Warthold lending good support on the overlap and in support of the forwards. To some degree however, this lead to the BH players having too much time on the ball and selecting the wrong options versus those times when we play better teams and we have less time on the ball, we actually move it better and more speedily.
The Manningham coach also resorted to many interchanges, in an attempt I would guess to limit the damage to his team. Their structure however lead to them having to resort to kicking the ball long out of defence only to have it returned almost immediately by the BH backs and mids. A couple of ‘nervous’ challenges, i.e. refusal to head the ball lead to a couple of anxious moments for the bench and coaching staff. BH were probing well and getting to the 18 yard box but weight of numbers and poor final pass selection meant the 1st goal was quite a while in arriving.
Good interplay between Pagotto and Bircham, and a cross by Kasapidis lead to Nguyen opening the scoring after 15 minutes. Becker let fly with a number of shots but he displayed an inability to ‘hit the target’ rule. Pagotto then broke his duck since joining the team and after taking what seemed to be too many touches, fired low and hard into the corner of the net to make it 2-0.
Half time score 0 - 2
Second Half: A number of changes were made in an effort to get more goals from the team and to allow all players on the bench to play at least a ½ of the game. Drossas went to Left wide mid, Lee to Right wide mid, Bryden to the Right back position, Kasapidis to defensive midfield, and the centre mids were Bircham and Mazzollini with De Blasio partnering Nguyen. Becker was rested to keep him fresh for the Bulleen game next week. After a promising start, Bryden was replaced by Orlando as he rolled his ankle and had to sit out the rest of the game. Nguyen started brightly and fired over the top of the bar. Kasapidis carried the ball well and also fired over the top. De Blasio ran on to a well placed ball and made the score 3-0 to BH. After 15 minutes, Pagotto and Clark replaced the two ‘Sams’ in midfield and combined reasonably well, though Pagotto needed to be told a couple of times to work harder up and down the park as a midfielder. In addition, the two forwards were running away from the ball again and not playing as well as they did last week by coming and meeting the ball and turning away as well as moving around. A good cross by Drossas led to the 4th goal by Nguyen. Having the slope and the breeze was allowing BH to swarm forward and attack as they wished. Some poor first touches were letting us down as were poor crosses into the box that fell short or were plucked out by the Manningham GK. Crosses by Drossas and Mills Warthold as well as nice interplay through to Pagotto by Bircham lead to 2 more goals for BH.
Final Score 0 - 6
Overall Comments
Opposition: Manningham played as most teams will play against us in the second round. Large numbers of players behind the ball, stout and resolute defending and no ambition to play soccer on display. They were rarely able to string a number of passes together and they were constantly being changed around by their coach with multiple interchanges. In truth, I felt sorry for them as they cannot and will not learn anything this year except to ‘kick it long’.
Box Hill: Given conditions, and the way Manningham played, to get 6 goals is a good result. We must learn though, that having extra time on the ball to play it about does not give us license to waste our opportunities and chances. We must improve our first touch as well as this was poor at times. What was most pleasing was how all players contributed and played their part in the win, including the reserves.
Bullen next week – I think the team and coaches are looking forward to playing them on our field and show them just how good we are. They will defend and try to kick us off the park so we must be patient and controlled. Our skill, ability and team spirit will deliver us a good win again, if we do what we do best – PLAY FOOTBALL THE EURO WAY, THE BOX HILL WAY…….
NOTE: Malvern lost to North Caulfield 4-1 putting BH 6 points clear and 21 goals goal difference in front. Close, but still NO CHOCOLATES !!!!!
7 weeks to go and UNLESS VERY ILL, SEVERELY INJURED OR IN A WHEELCHAIR all must train!! …..
Coach: John Di Martino 20th July, 2009
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Round 10 - North Caulfield
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 9 – Box Hill vs. North Caulfield
Conditions: Cloudy with some gusty breezes. Pitch in good condition given a week off though grass is virtually non existent in centre corridors. Still flat and level but showing evidence of wear and tear.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• 110% from the start of play
• 1-2 touch soccer
• Keep the ball on the ground
• First tackle the hardest
First Half: Team changed shape this week. Given lack of goals scored against and strength of defence overall particularly through the middle, a 3-1-4-2 formation was chosen. The defensive mid position this week was taken by Lee in place of the proposed incumbent Kasapidis (suspended for this game). Nguyen was late for the game and was replaced in the starting 11 with Di Blasio. The intent was to allow the central mids to not have to retreat too far back and as a result assist and link with the forwards more effectively. Initial interplay was OK by BH but passes to forwards were missing targets or getting miskicked. North Caulfield were playing with a 1 man strike force, 4 in defence and 5 in midfield which stifled some of the BH play. What disappointed the BH coach was the apparent lack of desire to commit fully to a physical contest. Some players put in just enough, but not enough and this will be addressed this week at training. Players must realise the body has to be committed to win tackles and contests and if a player approaches a tackle or contest half heartedly, they are the ones that will get injured. Some poor kicking from defence and lack of quality decision making led too many attacks breaking down. In addition, some poor decision making by Yu in goal led to great frustration on the bench. Eventually, some fine interplay between Bircham and Clark led to a great cross but no-one was on the far post – again!! We then had a period of 5 minutes where every pass and kick seemed to miss a BH target and land at the feet or head of the opposition. One change was made with Bircham being replaced by Pagotto. Pagotto went wide left with Sam M going into the middle of the park with Becker. Becker was one of the few players committing his body and fighting for every ball. On the 30th minute, some great 1 touch football on the deck split the opposition defence and Di Blasio score with a nice clean stroke into the corner. The half ended soon enough.
Half time score 1 - 0
Second Half: To be frank, the team was given a bollocking at half time. Changes were made and the quality of play in the second half was marginally better from the start. Nguyen came on for Drossas and played easily the best half of football for the year. His passion and commitment to present an option, play the way he was facing and assist the midfield was exemplary and he should take this game as a turning point in his career. Some lovely play by Di Blasio (who also was exhibiting far better decision making and thought processes in his forward play) led to a great chance falling to Nguyen who blasted over the bar from close range. Some interplay on the right between Orlando, Clark and Becker was symptomatic of the BH play – retained possession but we weren’t penetrating. Again, this will be addressed at training this week. Poor play on the right then led to a Caulfield free kick that resulted in a header hitting the BH post – lucky for us but given the number of times we have hit the post and cross bar thus year, it’s about time we had some luck too. A free kick 25 yards out was fired toward the top corner by Pagotto and just missed – quality shot. The team as a whole was fighting well and controlling the game and a goal was coming. Then Nguyen took control of the ball 20 yards out, attacked the bye line and fired a strong low cross across the goal and Di Blasio met it at full pace to tap it in for the second goal. BH played out the last 5 minutes to the end and a relieved bench and coaching staff reflected on a hard fought win, but a win none the less. Sometimes, you have to win ugly.
Final Score 2 - 0
Overall Comments
Opposition: As I indicated to the others on the coaching/support staff for BH, North Caulfield is always hard to beat. They scratch, kick and contest for every ball and play ugly which sometimes leads to the opposition playing ugly. This is what occurred and I was always worried for this matches result. They have a number of tall strong players and will not allow time on the ball. I believe they are capable of taking points off Malvern and Doncaster through the second round.
Box Hill: A reasonable effort only. We started better in the first 5 than in the past few games but lack of hunger, passion and sheer fighting for the ball needs to improve. Football is technical but physical as well and the physical aspect will only get harder next year IF we make SL. Some players better learn this over the next 2 months or they won’t make the SL squad for this reason alone. The second half was better than the first and the interplay between Di Blasio/Nguyen and the rest of the team was a vast improvement. We also saw a number of shots by Becker, and though the shots were weak at times, it indicated the new structure was allowing the mids to link with the forwards. However, our last touch into the box and through ball is not coming off at times. The awareness of when to play quickly and when to build slowly requires improvement. Some players too are too defensively minded and they must learn to lift their eyes and look forward as well as back.
Team was told in the change room no one can miss training for the next 8 weeks UNLESS VERY ILL, SEVERELY INJURED OR IN A WHEELCHAIR!! We must work hard for just 8 weeks, get 8 victories and win the league. We are close, but no chocolates yet lads…..
Coach: John Di Martino 13th July, 2009
Match Day 9 – Box Hill vs. North Caulfield
Conditions: Cloudy with some gusty breezes. Pitch in good condition given a week off though grass is virtually non existent in centre corridors. Still flat and level but showing evidence of wear and tear.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• 110% from the start of play
• 1-2 touch soccer
• Keep the ball on the ground
• First tackle the hardest
First Half: Team changed shape this week. Given lack of goals scored against and strength of defence overall particularly through the middle, a 3-1-4-2 formation was chosen. The defensive mid position this week was taken by Lee in place of the proposed incumbent Kasapidis (suspended for this game). Nguyen was late for the game and was replaced in the starting 11 with Di Blasio. The intent was to allow the central mids to not have to retreat too far back and as a result assist and link with the forwards more effectively. Initial interplay was OK by BH but passes to forwards were missing targets or getting miskicked. North Caulfield were playing with a 1 man strike force, 4 in defence and 5 in midfield which stifled some of the BH play. What disappointed the BH coach was the apparent lack of desire to commit fully to a physical contest. Some players put in just enough, but not enough and this will be addressed this week at training. Players must realise the body has to be committed to win tackles and contests and if a player approaches a tackle or contest half heartedly, they are the ones that will get injured. Some poor kicking from defence and lack of quality decision making led too many attacks breaking down. In addition, some poor decision making by Yu in goal led to great frustration on the bench. Eventually, some fine interplay between Bircham and Clark led to a great cross but no-one was on the far post – again!! We then had a period of 5 minutes where every pass and kick seemed to miss a BH target and land at the feet or head of the opposition. One change was made with Bircham being replaced by Pagotto. Pagotto went wide left with Sam M going into the middle of the park with Becker. Becker was one of the few players committing his body and fighting for every ball. On the 30th minute, some great 1 touch football on the deck split the opposition defence and Di Blasio score with a nice clean stroke into the corner. The half ended soon enough.
Half time score 1 - 0
Second Half: To be frank, the team was given a bollocking at half time. Changes were made and the quality of play in the second half was marginally better from the start. Nguyen came on for Drossas and played easily the best half of football for the year. His passion and commitment to present an option, play the way he was facing and assist the midfield was exemplary and he should take this game as a turning point in his career. Some lovely play by Di Blasio (who also was exhibiting far better decision making and thought processes in his forward play) led to a great chance falling to Nguyen who blasted over the bar from close range. Some interplay on the right between Orlando, Clark and Becker was symptomatic of the BH play – retained possession but we weren’t penetrating. Again, this will be addressed at training this week. Poor play on the right then led to a Caulfield free kick that resulted in a header hitting the BH post – lucky for us but given the number of times we have hit the post and cross bar thus year, it’s about time we had some luck too. A free kick 25 yards out was fired toward the top corner by Pagotto and just missed – quality shot. The team as a whole was fighting well and controlling the game and a goal was coming. Then Nguyen took control of the ball 20 yards out, attacked the bye line and fired a strong low cross across the goal and Di Blasio met it at full pace to tap it in for the second goal. BH played out the last 5 minutes to the end and a relieved bench and coaching staff reflected on a hard fought win, but a win none the less. Sometimes, you have to win ugly.
Final Score 2 - 0
Overall Comments
Opposition: As I indicated to the others on the coaching/support staff for BH, North Caulfield is always hard to beat. They scratch, kick and contest for every ball and play ugly which sometimes leads to the opposition playing ugly. This is what occurred and I was always worried for this matches result. They have a number of tall strong players and will not allow time on the ball. I believe they are capable of taking points off Malvern and Doncaster through the second round.
Box Hill: A reasonable effort only. We started better in the first 5 than in the past few games but lack of hunger, passion and sheer fighting for the ball needs to improve. Football is technical but physical as well and the physical aspect will only get harder next year IF we make SL. Some players better learn this over the next 2 months or they won’t make the SL squad for this reason alone. The second half was better than the first and the interplay between Di Blasio/Nguyen and the rest of the team was a vast improvement. We also saw a number of shots by Becker, and though the shots were weak at times, it indicated the new structure was allowing the mids to link with the forwards. However, our last touch into the box and through ball is not coming off at times. The awareness of when to play quickly and when to build slowly requires improvement. Some players too are too defensively minded and they must learn to lift their eyes and look forward as well as back.
Team was told in the change room no one can miss training for the next 8 weeks UNLESS VERY ILL, SEVERELY INJURED OR IN A WHEELCHAIR!! We must work hard for just 8 weeks, get 8 victories and win the league. We are close, but no chocolates yet lads…..
Coach: John Di Martino 13th July, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Round 9 - Doncaster Rovers
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 9 – Box Hill vs. Doncaster Rovers
Conditions: Cloudy with sunny breaks. Pitch in good condition though grass is virtually non existent in centre corridors. Still flat and level but showing evidence of wear and tear.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Intensity at ball
• Concentrate on what we do well (Passing, interplay, supporting team mates, etc)
• Play to feet
First Half: Team was forced to substitute Yu, the team’s goalkeeper, with Mills-Warthold due to a flu/virus impact. This removed one of the team’s potent forces on the left and he was substituted by Orlando. Rovers clearly started the game with greater verve and intent and a number of long balls forward were saved and cleared by the defence. Mill-Warthold was rarely troubled and was not called upon to make any significant saves. After 10 -15 minutes, BH started to control the middle of the park and numerous wide runs by Lee and balls through to Clark and Nguyen looked promising but the final touch or cross was poor leading to few chances to score or trouble Rovers keeper. After 20 minutes, Mills-Warthold replaced Orlando at Left back and Yu went into goal. Unfortunately, after only a few minutes on the field, a mix up in defence allowed the Rovers striker to stop, look up and lob our keeper for the first goal of the game. This seemed to galvanise the team and the half was dominated by our midfield and defence, with sterling performances by Bircham and Becker in the middle of the park allowing Mills-Warthold and Lee to get chances to cross the ball and make penetrating runs. De Blasio replaced Clark with 5 minutes of the half to go and his intensity for the game was good. The referee was spoiling the game with some strange decisions and wasted at least a minute by discussing the ‘loudness’ of the Rovers coach – who was just coaching as he should. BH coach approached the referee at half time asking why no time on was allowed given injuries, etc and he advised adding time on in junior games was his prerogative. This would be turned about in the second half.
Half time score 0 - 1
Second Half: The team was encouraged to trust and believe in themselves and what we play for. There was no need to panic given Rovers scored due to our mistake and rarely troubled us or our keeper in general game play. Bryden was replaced by Orlando, De Blasio and Nguyen played up front. Within 3 minutes of the restart BH scored after good follow up work by De Blasio. This gave BH a lot of impetus and belief and the team pressed Rovers well into their half. Unfortunately, the referee had decided the yellow tickets in his pocket were itching him and a number of cards were displayed to BH and Rovers players for tackles that were hardly vicious of cynical in nature. A concern in the second half was Becker being troubled by what appears to be a hamstring injury and he was replaced by Clark halfway through the half. Bircham was working tirelessly in the middle of the ground, Orlando was doing a great job at Wing back, Lee was making run after run but again, the final touch or pass or cross lacked a little polish. De Blasio was competing better (and even got a header!!) and created the best chance of the game after a strong run down the right and flashing a strong, low cross in that Nguyen couldn’t get a touch too. Just prior to this, Nguyen hit the post from close in and from a very sharp angle. Pagotto flashed a free kick just over the bar and it seemed the goal would come. However, with 5 minutes to go, Kasapidis received his second yellow after a strong tackle and was sent off. A number of ½ chances fell to rovers and a through ball almost saw their striker through but excellent recovery work from Orlando prevented a strike on goal. Unfortunately, the delicate balance of the game did not allow us to play Tolo or Drossas but upcoming games should allow them to get good game time.
PS - This half the referee decided extra time was warranted and played 39 minutes, completely reversing his earlier explanation for no extra time in the first half – strange……..Inconsistent and used his cards to exert authority.
Final Score 1 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: Overall, a strong unit, playing to their strengths of power and commitment to the ball. They perhaps lacked some polish but they are committed and will compete hard in every game they play.
Box Hill: A fair effort overall. We started poorly in the first 5 (again!!!!) apparently not looking switched on. The second half was good and BH completely dominated the play. However, our last touch into the box and through ball is not coming off. A number of players lifted their game and intensity this weekend which was pleasing. Overall, the team are still the most competent team in the league BUT…….the first round is over.
Teams know how we play and our strengths and will not allow us the comfort of 7-0 victories again. They will stack defences and try to salvage a point. This means we need to increase our commitment, effort and energy levels and play to our strengths even more. But more importantly, we must learn to be patient. The goals will come if we play correctly, retain possession and work our bollocks off. No more or less will be required for the rest of the year and we cannot afford to drop points to teams like North Caulfield, Manningham, Bulleen, etc.
We cannot become complacent. We must work harder and believe in our work and ourselves.
The results will come for us if we do this…………
Coach: John Di Martino 29th June, 2009
Match Day 9 – Box Hill vs. Doncaster Rovers
Conditions: Cloudy with sunny breaks. Pitch in good condition though grass is virtually non existent in centre corridors. Still flat and level but showing evidence of wear and tear.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
• Intensity at ball
• Concentrate on what we do well (Passing, interplay, supporting team mates, etc)
• Play to feet
First Half: Team was forced to substitute Yu, the team’s goalkeeper, with Mills-Warthold due to a flu/virus impact. This removed one of the team’s potent forces on the left and he was substituted by Orlando. Rovers clearly started the game with greater verve and intent and a number of long balls forward were saved and cleared by the defence. Mill-Warthold was rarely troubled and was not called upon to make any significant saves. After 10 -15 minutes, BH started to control the middle of the park and numerous wide runs by Lee and balls through to Clark and Nguyen looked promising but the final touch or cross was poor leading to few chances to score or trouble Rovers keeper. After 20 minutes, Mills-Warthold replaced Orlando at Left back and Yu went into goal. Unfortunately, after only a few minutes on the field, a mix up in defence allowed the Rovers striker to stop, look up and lob our keeper for the first goal of the game. This seemed to galvanise the team and the half was dominated by our midfield and defence, with sterling performances by Bircham and Becker in the middle of the park allowing Mills-Warthold and Lee to get chances to cross the ball and make penetrating runs. De Blasio replaced Clark with 5 minutes of the half to go and his intensity for the game was good. The referee was spoiling the game with some strange decisions and wasted at least a minute by discussing the ‘loudness’ of the Rovers coach – who was just coaching as he should. BH coach approached the referee at half time asking why no time on was allowed given injuries, etc and he advised adding time on in junior games was his prerogative. This would be turned about in the second half.
Half time score 0 - 1
Second Half: The team was encouraged to trust and believe in themselves and what we play for. There was no need to panic given Rovers scored due to our mistake and rarely troubled us or our keeper in general game play. Bryden was replaced by Orlando, De Blasio and Nguyen played up front. Within 3 minutes of the restart BH scored after good follow up work by De Blasio. This gave BH a lot of impetus and belief and the team pressed Rovers well into their half. Unfortunately, the referee had decided the yellow tickets in his pocket were itching him and a number of cards were displayed to BH and Rovers players for tackles that were hardly vicious of cynical in nature. A concern in the second half was Becker being troubled by what appears to be a hamstring injury and he was replaced by Clark halfway through the half. Bircham was working tirelessly in the middle of the ground, Orlando was doing a great job at Wing back, Lee was making run after run but again, the final touch or pass or cross lacked a little polish. De Blasio was competing better (and even got a header!!) and created the best chance of the game after a strong run down the right and flashing a strong, low cross in that Nguyen couldn’t get a touch too. Just prior to this, Nguyen hit the post from close in and from a very sharp angle. Pagotto flashed a free kick just over the bar and it seemed the goal would come. However, with 5 minutes to go, Kasapidis received his second yellow after a strong tackle and was sent off. A number of ½ chances fell to rovers and a through ball almost saw their striker through but excellent recovery work from Orlando prevented a strike on goal. Unfortunately, the delicate balance of the game did not allow us to play Tolo or Drossas but upcoming games should allow them to get good game time.
PS - This half the referee decided extra time was warranted and played 39 minutes, completely reversing his earlier explanation for no extra time in the first half – strange……..Inconsistent and used his cards to exert authority.
Final Score 1 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: Overall, a strong unit, playing to their strengths of power and commitment to the ball. They perhaps lacked some polish but they are committed and will compete hard in every game they play.
Box Hill: A fair effort overall. We started poorly in the first 5 (again!!!!) apparently not looking switched on. The second half was good and BH completely dominated the play. However, our last touch into the box and through ball is not coming off. A number of players lifted their game and intensity this weekend which was pleasing. Overall, the team are still the most competent team in the league BUT…….the first round is over.
Teams know how we play and our strengths and will not allow us the comfort of 7-0 victories again. They will stack defences and try to salvage a point. This means we need to increase our commitment, effort and energy levels and play to our strengths even more. But more importantly, we must learn to be patient. The goals will come if we play correctly, retain possession and work our bollocks off. No more or less will be required for the rest of the year and we cannot afford to drop points to teams like North Caulfield, Manningham, Bulleen, etc.
We cannot become complacent. We must work harder and believe in our work and ourselves.
The results will come for us if we do this…………
Coach: John Di Martino 29th June, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Round 8 - Glen Waverley
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 8 – Glen Waverley vs. Box Hill (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Overcast with sunny breaks and cool conditions. Pitch was bumpy and poorly grassed in centre corridor and goal mouths but wings were well grassed. Pitch was a good size encouraging good ball movement.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
· Concentrate on 2 touch
· Break the lines!!
· Play balls diagonally
· Compete for every ball
First Half: Box Hill started brightly enough and some good interplay was evident. However, balls to forwards were predominantly vertical in nature and sprayed over the top of the forwards heads. This was done despite the team being told to play to our strengths of playing the ball on the ground and to play diagonally. Some good forward runs and crosses by Orlando and Mills-Warthold showed they had listened to instructions as balls into the box were fired in 1st time or after 1 touch as requested. GW were comfortable defending our balls through given they were playing a deep sweeper behind the two forwards of Box Hill. Neither Box Hill forward played up to the last man which made his job very easy. A number of 1 on 1’s with the GW keeper did not result in scores and it was left to Bryden to cross a ball in to the box which sailed over the keepers head into goal. Great team spirit as displayed as the team congratulated Bryden. However, after this the last 15 minutes or so were lack lustre to say the least. Decision making was poor, balls to forwards were being flicked on when control, lay the ball back to the midfield and playing again would have been the better decision. Also, the midfield seemed to be unable to link up and play with the forwards in attack which will be addressed this week at training. In addition, there was a lack of intelligent decision making displayed by the defence at times. Holding the ball when playing early was the right thing to do and vice versa. Our GK was rarely troubled or called upon to save shots. All in all, 5 out of 10 as a score for the team’s 1st half.
Half time score 1 - 0
Second Half: After discussing the effort or lack thereof, a more committed and structured display by Box Hill lead to some good chances, brilliantly capped off by ‘the wee man’ in Clark who headed in from a cross. Given his height, his ability to score with his head does put the acid on forwards and midfielders who seem unable or unwilling to score with a header. A number of changes were made in an effort to rest players for the important game against Doncaster Rovers next week and Orlando and Mazzollini were put into centre midfield with Drossas replacing Pagotto. Nguyen scored twice after good pressure and build up work and Orlando then followed up a cross and some goal mouth scrambles to score on the far post. Kasapidis martialled the defence well but there appeared to be some drop off in the midfield pressure as a number of hopeful balls forward resulted in one on ones with Kasapidis and their forwards. This cannot happen against better teams which may have better quality forwards that get by Kasapidis. We must ensure there is never a 1 on 1 in defence. Bondole and Becker had glorious chances to head in from close range late in the game and a one on one with the GW keeper and Becker resulted in a poor finish and no score. In actuality, the score line is a bit flattering for GW as 7 to 8 goals was probably a fairer score line. Overall score for the team – 7 out of 10
Final Score 5 – 0
Overall Comments
Opposition: The GW defence was strong and ably led by their sweeper who was fast, committed and strong. De Blasio, as an ex GW player, was man marked by another GW defender and was unable to exert much pressure or deliver any real fire power for BH as a result. Their midfield and forwards were constantly under pressure and they were not able to muster a meaningful shot on goal.
Box Hill: A reasonable effort only. What is disappointing is the team’s inability to ‘lift itself’ up for games where we are expected to win and the team having to be spoken to strongly at half time before we see what they are capable of. I am not sure if complacency is setting in or whether we need to up the intensity at training. There were good individual efforts but every player should analyse their performance and determine where they could have done better, made a better decision, worked harder to get the return pass, etc. Everyone has a good deal of improvement in them!!
After a good result for us (Malvern drew with Ringwood) we are now 3 points clear on top but we face a resurgent and clearly defensively strong team in Doncaster Rovers at Wembley this Sunday. They have let in only 5 goals all year and recently have mustered reasonable scorelines against teams lower on the ladder. Hence, we must be defensively strong, and attack them at 110% from the first till the last second. Malvern have GW this week and after their disappointing effort this week, will surely bounce back to get 3 points. This means we MUST NOT and CANNOT afford to drop points against Doncaster.
Also, this week each team member will receive their mid year evaluation, authored by the coach and assistant coach. Given we are half way through the year, it is imperative players know their strengths but more importantly their weaknesses and where they can improve. The evaluations, how they are taken by the players and their reactions will also be vital pieces of information on which players are capable of and want to step up to Super League level.
Don’t get comfortable Box Hill. When you’re on top, it just means you have to work even harder to stay there…………
Coach: John Di Martino 22nd June, 2009
Match Day 8 – Glen Waverley vs. Box Hill (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Overcast with sunny breaks and cool conditions. Pitch was bumpy and poorly grassed in centre corridor and goal mouths but wings were well grassed. Pitch was a good size encouraging good ball movement.
PLAN: Team was asked to:
· Concentrate on 2 touch
· Break the lines!!
· Play balls diagonally
· Compete for every ball
First Half: Box Hill started brightly enough and some good interplay was evident. However, balls to forwards were predominantly vertical in nature and sprayed over the top of the forwards heads. This was done despite the team being told to play to our strengths of playing the ball on the ground and to play diagonally. Some good forward runs and crosses by Orlando and Mills-Warthold showed they had listened to instructions as balls into the box were fired in 1st time or after 1 touch as requested. GW were comfortable defending our balls through given they were playing a deep sweeper behind the two forwards of Box Hill. Neither Box Hill forward played up to the last man which made his job very easy. A number of 1 on 1’s with the GW keeper did not result in scores and it was left to Bryden to cross a ball in to the box which sailed over the keepers head into goal. Great team spirit as displayed as the team congratulated Bryden. However, after this the last 15 minutes or so were lack lustre to say the least. Decision making was poor, balls to forwards were being flicked on when control, lay the ball back to the midfield and playing again would have been the better decision. Also, the midfield seemed to be unable to link up and play with the forwards in attack which will be addressed this week at training. In addition, there was a lack of intelligent decision making displayed by the defence at times. Holding the ball when playing early was the right thing to do and vice versa. Our GK was rarely troubled or called upon to save shots. All in all, 5 out of 10 as a score for the team’s 1st half.
Half time score 1 - 0
Second Half: After discussing the effort or lack thereof, a more committed and structured display by Box Hill lead to some good chances, brilliantly capped off by ‘the wee man’ in Clark who headed in from a cross. Given his height, his ability to score with his head does put the acid on forwards and midfielders who seem unable or unwilling to score with a header. A number of changes were made in an effort to rest players for the important game against Doncaster Rovers next week and Orlando and Mazzollini were put into centre midfield with Drossas replacing Pagotto. Nguyen scored twice after good pressure and build up work and Orlando then followed up a cross and some goal mouth scrambles to score on the far post. Kasapidis martialled the defence well but there appeared to be some drop off in the midfield pressure as a number of hopeful balls forward resulted in one on ones with Kasapidis and their forwards. This cannot happen against better teams which may have better quality forwards that get by Kasapidis. We must ensure there is never a 1 on 1 in defence. Bondole and Becker had glorious chances to head in from close range late in the game and a one on one with the GW keeper and Becker resulted in a poor finish and no score. In actuality, the score line is a bit flattering for GW as 7 to 8 goals was probably a fairer score line. Overall score for the team – 7 out of 10
Final Score 5 – 0
Overall Comments
Opposition: The GW defence was strong and ably led by their sweeper who was fast, committed and strong. De Blasio, as an ex GW player, was man marked by another GW defender and was unable to exert much pressure or deliver any real fire power for BH as a result. Their midfield and forwards were constantly under pressure and they were not able to muster a meaningful shot on goal.
Box Hill: A reasonable effort only. What is disappointing is the team’s inability to ‘lift itself’ up for games where we are expected to win and the team having to be spoken to strongly at half time before we see what they are capable of. I am not sure if complacency is setting in or whether we need to up the intensity at training. There were good individual efforts but every player should analyse their performance and determine where they could have done better, made a better decision, worked harder to get the return pass, etc. Everyone has a good deal of improvement in them!!
After a good result for us (Malvern drew with Ringwood) we are now 3 points clear on top but we face a resurgent and clearly defensively strong team in Doncaster Rovers at Wembley this Sunday. They have let in only 5 goals all year and recently have mustered reasonable scorelines against teams lower on the ladder. Hence, we must be defensively strong, and attack them at 110% from the first till the last second. Malvern have GW this week and after their disappointing effort this week, will surely bounce back to get 3 points. This means we MUST NOT and CANNOT afford to drop points against Doncaster.
Also, this week each team member will receive their mid year evaluation, authored by the coach and assistant coach. Given we are half way through the year, it is imperative players know their strengths but more importantly their weaknesses and where they can improve. The evaluations, how they are taken by the players and their reactions will also be vital pieces of information on which players are capable of and want to step up to Super League level.
Don’t get comfortable Box Hill. When you’re on top, it just means you have to work even harder to stay there…………
Coach: John Di Martino 22nd June, 2009
Monday, June 15, 2009
Round 7 - Ringwood City
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 7 – Box Hill Inter vs. Ringwood (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Overcast with sunny breaks and cool conditions. Again, no breeze or advantage to either end. Pitch is starting to show wear and tear but still good grass coverage and nice and flat. Team sent out in a 4-4-2 formation
PLAN: Team was asked to:
· Use team strengths (passing, 2 touch, etc)
· Compete for every ball
· Ensure no early goals against to prevent giving Ringwood any hope.
· Play balls diagonally, not flat or vertical
First Half: Changes to the team were as follows: Bondole and Kasapidis were given a ‘rest’ for the 1st half, Bryden and Lee were selected as central defenders and performed admirably while Orlando was given the right wing back role and Drossas played right wide mid. The game started as a stalemate with Ringwood lacking forward pressure but they were reasonably strong defensively. Their defensive strength came as a result of a combination of factors: strength in numbers by playing 9-10 players behind the ball and an overall size advantage. At one point, a wide cross was met by all 11 players of Ringwood being within 25 metres of their goal. After a number of good plays wide and crosses, including hitting the post (again!!), Nguyen broke the deadlock by controlling the ball well in the box and shooting. This was followed up quickly by Drossas who got onto a cross and following up well on the rebound as his initial shot also hit the woodwork. Box Hill displayed, at times, an excellent ability to play the ball around on the deck and use 1 and 2 touch soccer. Drossas competed well and gave his all. Ringwood midfield was admirably led by a good player called Gino and he caused us some issues late in the half by holding the ball well and getting by defenders to lay the ball off. However, our GK was rarely troubled or called upon to defend his goal.
Half time score 2 - 0
Second Half: Substitutions were as follows: Tolo, Kasapidis, Bondole and De Blasio on, for Pagotto, Bircham, Lee (injured) and Drossas. After a good start to the half, with the ball being passed fluently and solidly by the defence and midfield, De Blasio was able to quickly put the 3rd on the board for Box Hill following good support work by Tolo. De Blasio had earlier rifling a thunderous shot that unfortunately went straight to the keeper so a goal was clearly in the offing for him. As the half continued, after some good interplay, a good through ball by Pagotto was defended well and saved by their defence. Numerous chances, crosses and shots followed and De Blasio stepped up after a good headed through ball by Nguyen to slide the ball wide of their Keeper for the 4th. More good work by the midfield and Mills-Warthold. Box Hill made some further chances and a corner was partially saved but a thunderous left foot volley by Becker resulted in BH’s fifth goal. Then a glorious chance to Nguyen after superb build up play led to a skied shot way over the bar when a side foot was all that was required. The final 10 minutes were subdued and some late changes were made to the team to rest player’s inc. Bryden and Becker. Tolo battled manfully for the last 10 after sustaining a foot injury.
Final Score 5 – 0
Overall Comments
Opposition: A strong team with a number of tall and strong players. They’re central midfielder Gino was clearly skilled and strong and was a great asset in their midfield. In addition, their #8 defender was very quick and held Nguyen well in one on ones. They clearly were martialled to pack their defence and midfield and BH will face this more and more as the season progresses. Ability to hold ball and pass was limited.
Box Hill: A good overall team effort. Everyone who played contributed to the result. Players such as Drossas and Tolo who have had limited game time showed they have something to offer. Pagotto improves every week as his fitness level improves, and ability to pick out a pass and deliver a cross is excellent. There is plenty of improvement in him though. De Blasio was a potent force in the 2nd half but the team needs him to deliver for 70 minutes. Orlando displayed his best game for the year in his wing back role. The midfield and defences ability to pass the ball around was shown at times but greater emphasis on this aspect is required as this is a key strength of the team. We must also learn to deliver shots from out of the box with greater power and direction as this is one way to beat a packed defence.
On another note, Malvern beat Whitehorse. Effectively, the season is now down to a 2 horse race with us leading the ladder by 1 point from Malvern.
EVERY GAME IS NOW VITAL!!!! WE CANNOT AFFORD TO DROP ANY POINTS!!
The teams intensity at training and especially games must continue to be delivered at 110% if we are to succeed in our aim of winning the league.
No-one can drop off and feel comfortable – the best team on Sunday will play and be made up from those squad members that commit at training – no exceptions……
Coach: John Di Martino 15th June, 2009
Match Day 7 – Box Hill Inter vs. Ringwood (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Overcast with sunny breaks and cool conditions. Again, no breeze or advantage to either end. Pitch is starting to show wear and tear but still good grass coverage and nice and flat. Team sent out in a 4-4-2 formation
PLAN: Team was asked to:
· Use team strengths (passing, 2 touch, etc)
· Compete for every ball
· Ensure no early goals against to prevent giving Ringwood any hope.
· Play balls diagonally, not flat or vertical
First Half: Changes to the team were as follows: Bondole and Kasapidis were given a ‘rest’ for the 1st half, Bryden and Lee were selected as central defenders and performed admirably while Orlando was given the right wing back role and Drossas played right wide mid. The game started as a stalemate with Ringwood lacking forward pressure but they were reasonably strong defensively. Their defensive strength came as a result of a combination of factors: strength in numbers by playing 9-10 players behind the ball and an overall size advantage. At one point, a wide cross was met by all 11 players of Ringwood being within 25 metres of their goal. After a number of good plays wide and crosses, including hitting the post (again!!), Nguyen broke the deadlock by controlling the ball well in the box and shooting. This was followed up quickly by Drossas who got onto a cross and following up well on the rebound as his initial shot also hit the woodwork. Box Hill displayed, at times, an excellent ability to play the ball around on the deck and use 1 and 2 touch soccer. Drossas competed well and gave his all. Ringwood midfield was admirably led by a good player called Gino and he caused us some issues late in the half by holding the ball well and getting by defenders to lay the ball off. However, our GK was rarely troubled or called upon to defend his goal.
Half time score 2 - 0
Second Half: Substitutions were as follows: Tolo, Kasapidis, Bondole and De Blasio on, for Pagotto, Bircham, Lee (injured) and Drossas. After a good start to the half, with the ball being passed fluently and solidly by the defence and midfield, De Blasio was able to quickly put the 3rd on the board for Box Hill following good support work by Tolo. De Blasio had earlier rifling a thunderous shot that unfortunately went straight to the keeper so a goal was clearly in the offing for him. As the half continued, after some good interplay, a good through ball by Pagotto was defended well and saved by their defence. Numerous chances, crosses and shots followed and De Blasio stepped up after a good headed through ball by Nguyen to slide the ball wide of their Keeper for the 4th. More good work by the midfield and Mills-Warthold. Box Hill made some further chances and a corner was partially saved but a thunderous left foot volley by Becker resulted in BH’s fifth goal. Then a glorious chance to Nguyen after superb build up play led to a skied shot way over the bar when a side foot was all that was required. The final 10 minutes were subdued and some late changes were made to the team to rest player’s inc. Bryden and Becker. Tolo battled manfully for the last 10 after sustaining a foot injury.
Final Score 5 – 0
Overall Comments
Opposition: A strong team with a number of tall and strong players. They’re central midfielder Gino was clearly skilled and strong and was a great asset in their midfield. In addition, their #8 defender was very quick and held Nguyen well in one on ones. They clearly were martialled to pack their defence and midfield and BH will face this more and more as the season progresses. Ability to hold ball and pass was limited.
Box Hill: A good overall team effort. Everyone who played contributed to the result. Players such as Drossas and Tolo who have had limited game time showed they have something to offer. Pagotto improves every week as his fitness level improves, and ability to pick out a pass and deliver a cross is excellent. There is plenty of improvement in him though. De Blasio was a potent force in the 2nd half but the team needs him to deliver for 70 minutes. Orlando displayed his best game for the year in his wing back role. The midfield and defences ability to pass the ball around was shown at times but greater emphasis on this aspect is required as this is a key strength of the team. We must also learn to deliver shots from out of the box with greater power and direction as this is one way to beat a packed defence.
On another note, Malvern beat Whitehorse. Effectively, the season is now down to a 2 horse race with us leading the ladder by 1 point from Malvern.
EVERY GAME IS NOW VITAL!!!! WE CANNOT AFFORD TO DROP ANY POINTS!!
The teams intensity at training and especially games must continue to be delivered at 110% if we are to succeed in our aim of winning the league.
No-one can drop off and feel comfortable – the best team on Sunday will play and be made up from those squad members that commit at training – no exceptions……
Coach: John Di Martino 15th June, 2009
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Round 6 - Malvern City FC
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 6 – Malvern City vs. Box Hill Inter (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Overcast and cool conditions. No breeze or advantage to either end. Pitch, though large, was poorly grassed and quite bumpy in some places hindering ability to pass on the deck. Team sent out in a 4-2-3-1 formation
PLAN: Team was asked to do four things:
• Improve starting efforts compared to previous two weeks
• Keep structure and shape and defend stoutly
• Keep control of the ball
• Attacking mids to not get ‘caught up’ defending apart from tracking players
First Half: The importance of the game was evident early on as the winner would go clear at the top of the league table. Within minutes of the start, it was clear our lone forward was being man marked by one of their defenders. In addition, their best defender was being played as a loose man and his ability to ‘clean up’ was helped by the poor choice of BH’s balls forward. Given the lack of penetration being achieved, we decided to substitute Pagotto and Becker (injured) and shift back to 4-4-2 in order to start exerting more forward pressure. This had limited success as forward and midfield movement practiced through the week was not very evident. Malvern were resorteing to long balls forwards to their strikers. In the main, these were handled easily by our defence, but midfield pressure to prevent Malvern’s movement forward was lacking and a change would be required at half time. The 1st half was a tight tussle, played in general in the middle of the pitch, with neither side using the grounds width sufficiently and far too many balls were played forwards in vertical, rather than diagonal lines. In the last 5 minutes of the half, Malvern started to exert more pressure forwards but our Keeper was never really troubled. A tight half, changes were necessary and had to be successful if BH were to get the desired result. BH had displayed some ability to pass the ball around where Malvern displayed little capability to do the same.
Half time score 0 - 0
Second Half: Bryden was subbed for Mazzolini, with Orlando moving to left of midfield. The game appeared to recommence as the previous half ended. After 5 minutes Nguyen was instructed to play wider on the right and pressurise the full back. This planning would prove fruitful. At the 10 minute mark, a Malvern free kick from 30 metres out hit the crossbar which was fortuitous for BH. However, from this point, BH pressured Malvern to a greater extent and they were unable to mount a serious challenge from then on. Kasapidis and Bondole marshalled and controlled the defence and they were ably supported by Mills-Warthold and Bryden. Bryden, who started shakily, improved greatly after 10-15 minutes which was very pleasing, especially his pressure to retrieve lost balls, do an overlap and cross into the box. In addition, De Blasio started moving around the forward line more and used his strength to pressure their backs and create opportunities for him and others. A number of good runs down the right and crosses resulted in a good shot fizzing wide of the far post by Nguyen and also a good low shot was well saved by their keeper. The goal appeared to be coming but time was running out. Finally, with 7 minutes left to play, De Blasio succeeded in pressuring their defence whereby a quick shot by Nguyen rifled into the net. BH resorted to preserving their lead and despite their best defender moving forward, no serious attack on goal resulted from Malvern. Our only concern was the ref who felt 5 minutes of extra time was warranted and the half went 40 minutes before he blew for the end of the game. Victory and BH go top of the ladder again!!!
Final Score 0 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: A strong team with a number of quality players however their right back was a little slow and BH exploited that fact. They displayed little ability to string passes together, though they tried and hence were resorting to long balls forward. They clearly are the best team BH has encountered this year and they are unlikely to drop many points through the season. They will push BH all the way I believe. After moving Nguyen to the right, it was strange they allowed our fastest forward to attack their slowest defender, leaving their tall fast defender central.
Box Hill: This game showed that our boys have learnt that games are sometimes won through sheer graft, work and tireless effort. Winning the league does not come without blood, sweat and tears.
The loss of our strongest midfielder put a lot of pressure on players such as Bircham, Orlando, Clark, Lee, Mazzolini, etc, but all battled manfully and are to be commended. The defence was strong but the team in general relies on Bondole and Kasapidis to ‘clean up’ after them. Greater midfield structure and shape to be able to link the Backs and Forwards is required as well as preventing their midfielders to play forwards.
Pagotto showed good touches in his first outing and will benefit from training to build fitness. De Blasio starting working harder off the ball in the second half and helped build the goal. Nguyen did well to pressure the full back after being instructed to do so and his efforts in the last 25 minutes were excellent.
Little of the forward movement practiced through the week was evident and requires more work. Communication was better but can improve.
Team was advised that the commitment and effort at training will continue to intensify as NO TEAM can be taken lightly. One slip and all the good work will be undone. The team now focuses on playing the women’s PL side on Friday night as a practice match. They will not be taken lightly.
Coach: John Di Martino 1st June, 2009
Match Day 6 – Malvern City vs. Box Hill Inter (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Overcast and cool conditions. No breeze or advantage to either end. Pitch, though large, was poorly grassed and quite bumpy in some places hindering ability to pass on the deck. Team sent out in a 4-2-3-1 formation
PLAN: Team was asked to do four things:
• Improve starting efforts compared to previous two weeks
• Keep structure and shape and defend stoutly
• Keep control of the ball
• Attacking mids to not get ‘caught up’ defending apart from tracking players
First Half: The importance of the game was evident early on as the winner would go clear at the top of the league table. Within minutes of the start, it was clear our lone forward was being man marked by one of their defenders. In addition, their best defender was being played as a loose man and his ability to ‘clean up’ was helped by the poor choice of BH’s balls forward. Given the lack of penetration being achieved, we decided to substitute Pagotto and Becker (injured) and shift back to 4-4-2 in order to start exerting more forward pressure. This had limited success as forward and midfield movement practiced through the week was not very evident. Malvern were resorteing to long balls forwards to their strikers. In the main, these were handled easily by our defence, but midfield pressure to prevent Malvern’s movement forward was lacking and a change would be required at half time. The 1st half was a tight tussle, played in general in the middle of the pitch, with neither side using the grounds width sufficiently and far too many balls were played forwards in vertical, rather than diagonal lines. In the last 5 minutes of the half, Malvern started to exert more pressure forwards but our Keeper was never really troubled. A tight half, changes were necessary and had to be successful if BH were to get the desired result. BH had displayed some ability to pass the ball around where Malvern displayed little capability to do the same.
Half time score 0 - 0
Second Half: Bryden was subbed for Mazzolini, with Orlando moving to left of midfield. The game appeared to recommence as the previous half ended. After 5 minutes Nguyen was instructed to play wider on the right and pressurise the full back. This planning would prove fruitful. At the 10 minute mark, a Malvern free kick from 30 metres out hit the crossbar which was fortuitous for BH. However, from this point, BH pressured Malvern to a greater extent and they were unable to mount a serious challenge from then on. Kasapidis and Bondole marshalled and controlled the defence and they were ably supported by Mills-Warthold and Bryden. Bryden, who started shakily, improved greatly after 10-15 minutes which was very pleasing, especially his pressure to retrieve lost balls, do an overlap and cross into the box. In addition, De Blasio started moving around the forward line more and used his strength to pressure their backs and create opportunities for him and others. A number of good runs down the right and crosses resulted in a good shot fizzing wide of the far post by Nguyen and also a good low shot was well saved by their keeper. The goal appeared to be coming but time was running out. Finally, with 7 minutes left to play, De Blasio succeeded in pressuring their defence whereby a quick shot by Nguyen rifled into the net. BH resorted to preserving their lead and despite their best defender moving forward, no serious attack on goal resulted from Malvern. Our only concern was the ref who felt 5 minutes of extra time was warranted and the half went 40 minutes before he blew for the end of the game. Victory and BH go top of the ladder again!!!
Final Score 0 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: A strong team with a number of quality players however their right back was a little slow and BH exploited that fact. They displayed little ability to string passes together, though they tried and hence were resorting to long balls forward. They clearly are the best team BH has encountered this year and they are unlikely to drop many points through the season. They will push BH all the way I believe. After moving Nguyen to the right, it was strange they allowed our fastest forward to attack their slowest defender, leaving their tall fast defender central.
Box Hill: This game showed that our boys have learnt that games are sometimes won through sheer graft, work and tireless effort. Winning the league does not come without blood, sweat and tears.
The loss of our strongest midfielder put a lot of pressure on players such as Bircham, Orlando, Clark, Lee, Mazzolini, etc, but all battled manfully and are to be commended. The defence was strong but the team in general relies on Bondole and Kasapidis to ‘clean up’ after them. Greater midfield structure and shape to be able to link the Backs and Forwards is required as well as preventing their midfielders to play forwards.
Pagotto showed good touches in his first outing and will benefit from training to build fitness. De Blasio starting working harder off the ball in the second half and helped build the goal. Nguyen did well to pressure the full back after being instructed to do so and his efforts in the last 25 minutes were excellent.
Little of the forward movement practiced through the week was evident and requires more work. Communication was better but can improve.
Team was advised that the commitment and effort at training will continue to intensify as NO TEAM can be taken lightly. One slip and all the good work will be undone. The team now focuses on playing the women’s PL side on Friday night as a practice match. They will not be taken lightly.
Coach: John Di Martino 1st June, 2009
Monday, May 25, 2009
Round 5 - Whitehorse
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 5 - Box Hill Inter vs. Whitehorse (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Overcast but no rain. No breeze, good turf, good grass coverage, with a temp of 18 degrees. Excellent conditions. Team sent out in a 4-4-2 formation
PLAN: Team was asked to do three things:
· Start at 100% intensity and raise it from there
· Shift the ball quickly and do not stop it dead ever
· Keep structure and shape
First Half: Within 1 minute of the start, a long ball forward caught out our midfielders and defenders off guard and after a tussle, their forward fired a low hard shot into goal, despite a valiant attempt by Yu to parry the ball with his left hand. Whitehorse were clearly very happy with the result and through strong and resolute defending, and a higher level of commitment and effort, were able to parry any forward moves Box Hill engineered. A number of shots from outside the box did not test the keeper, though a one on one with our forwards could have resulted in a goal but their keeper’s effort was excellent to keep the ball out. Box Hill fell into the trap of playing Whitehorse’s game, that is, aerial ping pong where the team’s strength lies in playing the ball around and maintaining possession. Our midfielders were rarely able to find our forwards whose lack of movement and inability to make a pre-emptive rather than a reactive run was fundamental to not finding good scoring opportunities. In addition, a poor first touch affected us and crosses from wide areas too often fell short of landed in the penalty area where their keeper was able to mop up. I would give the team 4 out of 10for this half.
Half time score 0 - 1
Second Half: Coach, Asst Coach and Head coach at BH, asked for a better effort in the second half. Changes to midfield and defence lead to a better and more cohesive structure. Whitehorse had clearly decided a single goal was all they could achieve and played a 5-3-1-1 structure, stacking the defence and midfield. The entire 2nd half was played in Whitehorse’s half, with Box Hill probing and trying to find a way through. After some good work on the left, Mills-Warthold played a good cross in from the left which resulted in a scrambled equalizer for Lee. For the next 20 minutes, the play, movement and desire for the contest improved dramatically. A number of GOLDEN chances then were spurned by the team through poor quality finishing, selfish play, poor final touch and distribution and the woodwork. Anecdotal stats indicate 12 shots or scoring opportunities in the last 15 minutes or so. The team was shuffled to try to change the forward structure as the two forwards on the day could not manufacture space for themselves or create space for others to work into. Whitehorse had no meaningful shots on goal in the second half and the result clearly meant a lot to them
Final Score 1 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: A strong team that played with heart and desire. They were unable to string passes together and their coach wisely played to their strengths being commitment and a formation that frustrated Box Hill. They will continue to frustrate better teams.
Box Hill: Again, one of the worst team efforts the team has displayed this year. Defence was reasonably solid after the first goal was scored and let little through but getting caught out early twice in two weeks is worrying. Midfield played balls too long forward and were unable to make incisive passes for goal scoring opportunities due to the lack of side to side and diagonal cutting moves by forwards and attacking midfielders. There were some good switches of play but again, the final ball through or cross too often fell to their Keeper. We must learn to sometimes go back to move forward and create space to move into. Communication levels were poor.
Again, a very disappointing day as it is clear some players still believe things ‘will just happen’ and are not able to commit fully from the 1st second.
Training will concentrate on playing a 4-2-3-1 structure this week to ensure no early goals are scored with a prospective switch to 4-4-2 depending on the games state of play. In addition, diagonal and curved runs that start before the ball is played will be practiced so we can develop this style of play in our forwards and attacking mids.
Team was advised that the coaching staff will now only pick the team that shows me the commitment and effort at training that I need to see on game day. Too much is riding on this weekend.
The most important week of the year now looms for the team - we MUST beat Malvern to go top and retain leadership or we risk falling away and the prospect of ‘catch up’ football for the rest of the season. We beat them 4-0 earlier this year so we can do it !!!
No second chance guys…………
Coach: John Di Martino 25th May, 2009
Match Day 5 - Box Hill Inter vs. Whitehorse (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Overcast but no rain. No breeze, good turf, good grass coverage, with a temp of 18 degrees. Excellent conditions. Team sent out in a 4-4-2 formation
PLAN: Team was asked to do three things:
· Start at 100% intensity and raise it from there
· Shift the ball quickly and do not stop it dead ever
· Keep structure and shape
First Half: Within 1 minute of the start, a long ball forward caught out our midfielders and defenders off guard and after a tussle, their forward fired a low hard shot into goal, despite a valiant attempt by Yu to parry the ball with his left hand. Whitehorse were clearly very happy with the result and through strong and resolute defending, and a higher level of commitment and effort, were able to parry any forward moves Box Hill engineered. A number of shots from outside the box did not test the keeper, though a one on one with our forwards could have resulted in a goal but their keeper’s effort was excellent to keep the ball out. Box Hill fell into the trap of playing Whitehorse’s game, that is, aerial ping pong where the team’s strength lies in playing the ball around and maintaining possession. Our midfielders were rarely able to find our forwards whose lack of movement and inability to make a pre-emptive rather than a reactive run was fundamental to not finding good scoring opportunities. In addition, a poor first touch affected us and crosses from wide areas too often fell short of landed in the penalty area where their keeper was able to mop up. I would give the team 4 out of 10for this half.
Half time score 0 - 1
Second Half: Coach, Asst Coach and Head coach at BH, asked for a better effort in the second half. Changes to midfield and defence lead to a better and more cohesive structure. Whitehorse had clearly decided a single goal was all they could achieve and played a 5-3-1-1 structure, stacking the defence and midfield. The entire 2nd half was played in Whitehorse’s half, with Box Hill probing and trying to find a way through. After some good work on the left, Mills-Warthold played a good cross in from the left which resulted in a scrambled equalizer for Lee. For the next 20 minutes, the play, movement and desire for the contest improved dramatically. A number of GOLDEN chances then were spurned by the team through poor quality finishing, selfish play, poor final touch and distribution and the woodwork. Anecdotal stats indicate 12 shots or scoring opportunities in the last 15 minutes or so. The team was shuffled to try to change the forward structure as the two forwards on the day could not manufacture space for themselves or create space for others to work into. Whitehorse had no meaningful shots on goal in the second half and the result clearly meant a lot to them
Final Score 1 - 1
Overall Comments
Opposition: A strong team that played with heart and desire. They were unable to string passes together and their coach wisely played to their strengths being commitment and a formation that frustrated Box Hill. They will continue to frustrate better teams.
Box Hill: Again, one of the worst team efforts the team has displayed this year. Defence was reasonably solid after the first goal was scored and let little through but getting caught out early twice in two weeks is worrying. Midfield played balls too long forward and were unable to make incisive passes for goal scoring opportunities due to the lack of side to side and diagonal cutting moves by forwards and attacking midfielders. There were some good switches of play but again, the final ball through or cross too often fell to their Keeper. We must learn to sometimes go back to move forward and create space to move into. Communication levels were poor.
Again, a very disappointing day as it is clear some players still believe things ‘will just happen’ and are not able to commit fully from the 1st second.
Training will concentrate on playing a 4-2-3-1 structure this week to ensure no early goals are scored with a prospective switch to 4-4-2 depending on the games state of play. In addition, diagonal and curved runs that start before the ball is played will be practiced so we can develop this style of play in our forwards and attacking mids.
Team was advised that the coaching staff will now only pick the team that shows me the commitment and effort at training that I need to see on game day. Too much is riding on this weekend.
The most important week of the year now looms for the team - we MUST beat Malvern to go top and retain leadership or we risk falling away and the prospect of ‘catch up’ football for the rest of the season. We beat them 4-0 earlier this year so we can do it !!!
No second chance guys…………
Coach: John Di Martino 25th May, 2009
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Round 4 - Casey Comets
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 3 - Box Hill Inter vs. Casey Comets (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Overcast but no rain. No breeze, good turf, good grass coverage, with a temp of 18 degrees.
PLAN: Team was asked to ensure no drop off in intensity and impact was evident. Game day plan was high quality and quantity of movement OFF the ball, two touch passing and play and use of the ‘cut in’ for wide midfielders and wing backs to overlap.
First Half: Prior to the game, the team was told that the bar in terms of intensity and effort and quality had been set very high given the performance against Bulleen. They were asked to ensure the same level of commitment and intensity was evident against what can be considered a lesser quality team. Given this, a silly free kick given on the edge of the area inside the first 5 minutes, lead to a shot on goal and a score for Casey. It was clear that the majority of the players had come with a poor mind set and intensity and desire for the game. All seemed to look to someone else to lead the way. After 14 minutes, an excellent strike on goal by Bondole levelled the scores before in the 21st minute, a cross come shot found its way into the far corner of the net and the score was Casey 2, BH 1. The team then squandered numerous chances to score including a tap in, two running shots on goal and two free headers from corners that were not well directed. After the second Casey goal, the team appeared to lift a little and this lead to the chances but placing the ball in the net, by simple play and accurate finishing seemed beyond them.
Half time score 1 - 2
Second Half: Coach, Asst Coach and Head coach at BH, demanded a better effort in the second half. The team had abandoned the team principles and rules and were asked to re-evaluate their desire and intensity. For the next 23 minutes, the play, movement and desire for the contest improved dramatically. De Blasio goaled to even the scores and two fine finishes by Nguyen low and hard into the net lead to a score line of 4 – 2. The smallest player on the field then scored with a fine header, strong and well directed. The last 12-15 minutes were uneventful as it was clear the result had been secured and Casey defended stoutly. Rotation through the team allowed all players some time on the pitch and all played their part. Casey had no meaningful shots on goal in the second half.
Final Score 5 - 2
Overall Comments
Opposition: A strong team physicaly but lacked ability to play the ball on the deck and make meaningful interplay toward goal. I was impressed by their team spirit and level of effort. They had come to play and will take points off some teams in the lower part of the league table. Last man defender was very quick and strong and impressed.
Box Hill: In contrast to last week’s excellent effort, one of the worst team efforts the team has displayed this year. Defence was reasonably solid and let little through and the two goals scored against us were essentially the only shots on goal Casey had in the game. Midfield played too many balls out in front of the forwards that were hit too hard or misdirected. Forwards were a step too late moving forward or wasted good chances in an effort to ‘hit the skin’ off the ball though this aspect improved in the 2nd half. In addition, interplay on the large home field seemed less incisive than that played last week which was surprising. Communication levels dropped as well and must lift.
A very disappointing day as it is clear some players still believe things ‘will just happen’.
This level of effort and work ethic cannot be presented as truly representative of who and what this team is and what we want to achieve together.
The two most important weeks of the year now loom for the team as a significant gap could be opened up on our closest rivals – IF we do the job!! After Whitehorse dropped 2 points against Doncaster yesterday, this coming Sunday is our chance to move 5 points clear of that team. The subsequent week, we play Malvern away from home and after the Long Weekend break; Malvern and Whitehorse play each other which could result them sharing the points.
It’s all in our hands now…………..
Coach: John Di Martino 18th May, 2009
Match Day 3 - Box Hill Inter vs. Casey Comets (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Overcast but no rain. No breeze, good turf, good grass coverage, with a temp of 18 degrees.
PLAN: Team was asked to ensure no drop off in intensity and impact was evident. Game day plan was high quality and quantity of movement OFF the ball, two touch passing and play and use of the ‘cut in’ for wide midfielders and wing backs to overlap.
First Half: Prior to the game, the team was told that the bar in terms of intensity and effort and quality had been set very high given the performance against Bulleen. They were asked to ensure the same level of commitment and intensity was evident against what can be considered a lesser quality team. Given this, a silly free kick given on the edge of the area inside the first 5 minutes, lead to a shot on goal and a score for Casey. It was clear that the majority of the players had come with a poor mind set and intensity and desire for the game. All seemed to look to someone else to lead the way. After 14 minutes, an excellent strike on goal by Bondole levelled the scores before in the 21st minute, a cross come shot found its way into the far corner of the net and the score was Casey 2, BH 1. The team then squandered numerous chances to score including a tap in, two running shots on goal and two free headers from corners that were not well directed. After the second Casey goal, the team appeared to lift a little and this lead to the chances but placing the ball in the net, by simple play and accurate finishing seemed beyond them.
Half time score 1 - 2
Second Half: Coach, Asst Coach and Head coach at BH, demanded a better effort in the second half. The team had abandoned the team principles and rules and were asked to re-evaluate their desire and intensity. For the next 23 minutes, the play, movement and desire for the contest improved dramatically. De Blasio goaled to even the scores and two fine finishes by Nguyen low and hard into the net lead to a score line of 4 – 2. The smallest player on the field then scored with a fine header, strong and well directed. The last 12-15 minutes were uneventful as it was clear the result had been secured and Casey defended stoutly. Rotation through the team allowed all players some time on the pitch and all played their part. Casey had no meaningful shots on goal in the second half.
Final Score 5 - 2
Overall Comments
Opposition: A strong team physicaly but lacked ability to play the ball on the deck and make meaningful interplay toward goal. I was impressed by their team spirit and level of effort. They had come to play and will take points off some teams in the lower part of the league table. Last man defender was very quick and strong and impressed.
Box Hill: In contrast to last week’s excellent effort, one of the worst team efforts the team has displayed this year. Defence was reasonably solid and let little through and the two goals scored against us were essentially the only shots on goal Casey had in the game. Midfield played too many balls out in front of the forwards that were hit too hard or misdirected. Forwards were a step too late moving forward or wasted good chances in an effort to ‘hit the skin’ off the ball though this aspect improved in the 2nd half. In addition, interplay on the large home field seemed less incisive than that played last week which was surprising. Communication levels dropped as well and must lift.
A very disappointing day as it is clear some players still believe things ‘will just happen’.
This level of effort and work ethic cannot be presented as truly representative of who and what this team is and what we want to achieve together.
The two most important weeks of the year now loom for the team as a significant gap could be opened up on our closest rivals – IF we do the job!! After Whitehorse dropped 2 points against Doncaster yesterday, this coming Sunday is our chance to move 5 points clear of that team. The subsequent week, we play Malvern away from home and after the Long Weekend break; Malvern and Whitehorse play each other which could result them sharing the points.
It’s all in our hands now…………..
Coach: John Di Martino 18th May, 2009
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Round 3 - Bulleen
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 3 – Bulleen vs. Box Hill Inter (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Perfect. No breeze, good turf, reasonable grass coverage, sunny and no clouds with a temp of 18 degrees. Pitch was very narrow and short + I believe goals are not regulation Height. Full size new artificial pitch was available but left vacant and we were instructed to play on the small pitch unlike all other ‘A’ league teams on the day. Perhaps in an effort to ‘limit’ us
PLAN: Team approached game to use very high pressure and high speed tactics, play hard but fair and contest for every ball every time whilst retaining control of the ball on the deck and fast 2 touch interplay
First Half: BH started well and Bulleen tried to contain forwards via man on man pressure and a spare sweeper. Team was being pressured by Bulleen who employed strong physical tactics to try to put us off our game. However, we gave as well as we got and eventually, our faster interplay and ability to pass the ball around crisply and quickly indicated a goal was forthcoming. BH scored its first goal 15 mins in with a fine through ball to Nguyen leading to a chip over the keeper. A second goal soon followed and Lee finished a fine switch of play by firing low and to the far post at a sharpish angle. To date, Bulleen had not managed to fashion one shot on goal out of open play. All players in defence and midfield were playing a strong, controlled game and despite the small pitch, our ability to move the ball and hit feet was very impressive. In addition, it seems the ‘penny has dropped’ as all balls in the air were contested strongly and eventually, it was evident Bulleen players did not even attempt to compete in the air. There was an air of despondency in the Bulleen team at half time exemplified by their coach openly berating a player when being substituted in full view of other players and their parents.
Half time score 3 - 0
Second Half: Orlando replaced Clark at half time and played wide left midfield with Bircham dropping into central mid with Becker. The team started the game just as they had left off at half time and 3 smashing goals by De Blasio exemplified the team’s power and commitment to push on. One goal by De Blasio where he picked up the ball and cut in to smash it into the far corner was worthy of a mature age players power and presence. Another spectacular piece of play was Bondoles retention of possession after a challenge in the middle of the park and his perfect through ball to De Blasio – wonderful vision. Nguyen added a 7th and after 3 games, De Blasio and Nguyen have scored the same number of goals in each game – great competition between them is evident and this is healthy for the team. After the score was 5-0, midfield and defensive players that had given there all were rested and the subs were used and all players that came on continued to support and work the game as had players that had been rested. This is one of the most pleasing aspects of this team – it is a team and we all play our part and there is excellent camaraderie in the squad. A lack of ‘heroes’ makes the coach’s role far easier. At the end of the game, all players and coaches shook hands and a begrudging ‘good game’ from the Bulleen coach was received. Their plan to ‘limit us’ on the small pitch had failed miserably.
Final Score 7 - 0
Overall Comments
Opposition: Little to say in a positive light. Had 2-3 players that exhibited some ability and had 1-2 strong defenders, but their structure (or lack of) and inability to pass a ball between each other, meant they were never able to mount a serious challenge. Forward play seemed to be based on pumping the ball long to players who weren’t that quick or strong to receive the ball in any case. I believe they had one shot from open play that went way over and all other shots were from free kicks. Their effort and commitment dropped easily after the first and second goal. Little team spirit was displayed.
Box Hill: The best team effort the team has displayed bar none. Ability to hold ball and retain possession was exemplary especially in light of the tight pitch. Defence was solid and let nothing through and was perfect in ability to clear and work ball through the midfield. I would like to see more goals from midfield and defenders and perhaps against Casey we can experiment a little to give players time to experience different positions (however, this depends on how we track early in this game - no risks will be taken). Structure and shape and ability to shift was very good but can still improve. GK was displaying better communication skills and was better able to switch play and come off his line. There is room for improvement but getting there.
Suffice to say it was the most memorable and best win I have been involved in and myself, the assistant coach and team manager and medical officer were ecstatic with the performance. I was very proud for them and the club – they are becoming excellent ambassadors for the club as a whole. Hard work, commitment to the team and the plan is paying dividends.
Coach: John Di Martino 13th May, 2009
Match Day 3 – Bulleen vs. Box Hill Inter (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Perfect. No breeze, good turf, reasonable grass coverage, sunny and no clouds with a temp of 18 degrees. Pitch was very narrow and short + I believe goals are not regulation Height. Full size new artificial pitch was available but left vacant and we were instructed to play on the small pitch unlike all other ‘A’ league teams on the day. Perhaps in an effort to ‘limit’ us
PLAN: Team approached game to use very high pressure and high speed tactics, play hard but fair and contest for every ball every time whilst retaining control of the ball on the deck and fast 2 touch interplay
First Half: BH started well and Bulleen tried to contain forwards via man on man pressure and a spare sweeper. Team was being pressured by Bulleen who employed strong physical tactics to try to put us off our game. However, we gave as well as we got and eventually, our faster interplay and ability to pass the ball around crisply and quickly indicated a goal was forthcoming. BH scored its first goal 15 mins in with a fine through ball to Nguyen leading to a chip over the keeper. A second goal soon followed and Lee finished a fine switch of play by firing low and to the far post at a sharpish angle. To date, Bulleen had not managed to fashion one shot on goal out of open play. All players in defence and midfield were playing a strong, controlled game and despite the small pitch, our ability to move the ball and hit feet was very impressive. In addition, it seems the ‘penny has dropped’ as all balls in the air were contested strongly and eventually, it was evident Bulleen players did not even attempt to compete in the air. There was an air of despondency in the Bulleen team at half time exemplified by their coach openly berating a player when being substituted in full view of other players and their parents.
Half time score 3 - 0
Second Half: Orlando replaced Clark at half time and played wide left midfield with Bircham dropping into central mid with Becker. The team started the game just as they had left off at half time and 3 smashing goals by De Blasio exemplified the team’s power and commitment to push on. One goal by De Blasio where he picked up the ball and cut in to smash it into the far corner was worthy of a mature age players power and presence. Another spectacular piece of play was Bondoles retention of possession after a challenge in the middle of the park and his perfect through ball to De Blasio – wonderful vision. Nguyen added a 7th and after 3 games, De Blasio and Nguyen have scored the same number of goals in each game – great competition between them is evident and this is healthy for the team. After the score was 5-0, midfield and defensive players that had given there all were rested and the subs were used and all players that came on continued to support and work the game as had players that had been rested. This is one of the most pleasing aspects of this team – it is a team and we all play our part and there is excellent camaraderie in the squad. A lack of ‘heroes’ makes the coach’s role far easier. At the end of the game, all players and coaches shook hands and a begrudging ‘good game’ from the Bulleen coach was received. Their plan to ‘limit us’ on the small pitch had failed miserably.
Final Score 7 - 0
Overall Comments
Opposition: Little to say in a positive light. Had 2-3 players that exhibited some ability and had 1-2 strong defenders, but their structure (or lack of) and inability to pass a ball between each other, meant they were never able to mount a serious challenge. Forward play seemed to be based on pumping the ball long to players who weren’t that quick or strong to receive the ball in any case. I believe they had one shot from open play that went way over and all other shots were from free kicks. Their effort and commitment dropped easily after the first and second goal. Little team spirit was displayed.
Box Hill: The best team effort the team has displayed bar none. Ability to hold ball and retain possession was exemplary especially in light of the tight pitch. Defence was solid and let nothing through and was perfect in ability to clear and work ball through the midfield. I would like to see more goals from midfield and defenders and perhaps against Casey we can experiment a little to give players time to experience different positions (however, this depends on how we track early in this game - no risks will be taken). Structure and shape and ability to shift was very good but can still improve. GK was displaying better communication skills and was better able to switch play and come off his line. There is room for improvement but getting there.
Suffice to say it was the most memorable and best win I have been involved in and myself, the assistant coach and team manager and medical officer were ecstatic with the performance. I was very proud for them and the club – they are becoming excellent ambassadors for the club as a whole. Hard work, commitment to the team and the plan is paying dividends.
Coach: John Di Martino 13th May, 2009
Monday, May 4, 2009
Round 2 - Manningham
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 2 – Box Hill Inter vs. Manningham (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Perfect. No breeze, excellent turf, good grass coverage, sunny and no clouds with a temp of 18 degrees.
PLAN: Team approached game to use high pressure and high speed tactics, whilst retaining control of the ball on the deck.
First Half: BH started well, moving the ball and retaining possession for 27 touches before Manningham touched the ball. Good composure and structure was displayed however incisive movement resulting in shots on goal were not evident for the first 10 minutes. Manningham were clearly retaining 4-5 men in defence and midfield in an effort to stifle Box Hill and resorted to playing long balls out of defence to their running forwards. Our makeshift defensive pairing of Lee and Bryden stood up well, albeit with a few scares at times. As the half progressed it was clear that once a goal was scored, more could follow. The Box hill midfield was bossing the centre of the park with Becker and Clark controlling and holding play and trying to use the width of the home ground. After 15 minutes the first box hill goal was scored by Nguyen, quickly followed up by De Blasio. De Blasio scored and absolute cracker before half time to make the score line 3-0 for the home team. A good team effort overall and most pleasing was the way the late changes in the back line were accepted and team rules and structure adhered to without question.
Half time score 3 - 0
Second Half: Team started with the Bondole/Kasapidis centre formation in defence which would only make the team stronger in defence. An ‘ambitious’ shot from half way from Kasapidis went into the goal after bouncing over the defence and over the keeper – excellent! This appeared to break their confidence and more goals came through Nguyen and De Blasio. What is most pleasing is to see the forwards start to understand that side foot goals into the net are just as valuable as rockets that bulge the net. The midfield had a period of 10-5 minutes in the middle of the half where we lost some structure and the midfield ‘hole’ appeared. After confirming capability and energy, to their credit the midfield improved and structure was regained. Clark in the middle of the park gave his all and after another solid and quality display, Becker was subbed off to have a respite. Mills-Warthold, Mazzollini and Orlando were solid all day in all positions. In all, all rotations through the team were accepted and instructions to players coming on and off the ground were adhered to which is pleasing and makes a coaches job much easier. All substitutes did their job and contributed to the team result.
Final Score 7 - 0
Overall Comments
Opposition: Strong team with a reasonable centre half who saved their bacon many times. Speedy forward tried to cause some problems but our defence stood up well. Team resorted to long balls out of defence and stacking the back line which I suspect will become more prevalent as the team progresses through the year. Poor ability to hold and lay the ball meant passes were rare and Box Hill pressured them well
Box Hill: Excellent overall team effort. Ability to hold ball and retain possession is improving. Defence was solid but still ‘scares’ me at times. Against better opposition, inc. Bulleen, Whitehorse and Malvern, we may be caught out. Midfield needs to engage and support forwards more so as to get on scoresheet as reliance on two forwards not sufficient. Structure and shape and ability to shift are getting better but more talking from GK and defence through to the midfield must improve.
A sterner test this week may result in a 4-2-3-1 structure being employed - TBD
Coach: John Di Martino 5th May, 2009
Match Day 2 – Box Hill Inter vs. Manningham (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: Perfect. No breeze, excellent turf, good grass coverage, sunny and no clouds with a temp of 18 degrees.
PLAN: Team approached game to use high pressure and high speed tactics, whilst retaining control of the ball on the deck.
First Half: BH started well, moving the ball and retaining possession for 27 touches before Manningham touched the ball. Good composure and structure was displayed however incisive movement resulting in shots on goal were not evident for the first 10 minutes. Manningham were clearly retaining 4-5 men in defence and midfield in an effort to stifle Box Hill and resorted to playing long balls out of defence to their running forwards. Our makeshift defensive pairing of Lee and Bryden stood up well, albeit with a few scares at times. As the half progressed it was clear that once a goal was scored, more could follow. The Box hill midfield was bossing the centre of the park with Becker and Clark controlling and holding play and trying to use the width of the home ground. After 15 minutes the first box hill goal was scored by Nguyen, quickly followed up by De Blasio. De Blasio scored and absolute cracker before half time to make the score line 3-0 for the home team. A good team effort overall and most pleasing was the way the late changes in the back line were accepted and team rules and structure adhered to without question.
Half time score 3 - 0
Second Half: Team started with the Bondole/Kasapidis centre formation in defence which would only make the team stronger in defence. An ‘ambitious’ shot from half way from Kasapidis went into the goal after bouncing over the defence and over the keeper – excellent! This appeared to break their confidence and more goals came through Nguyen and De Blasio. What is most pleasing is to see the forwards start to understand that side foot goals into the net are just as valuable as rockets that bulge the net. The midfield had a period of 10-5 minutes in the middle of the half where we lost some structure and the midfield ‘hole’ appeared. After confirming capability and energy, to their credit the midfield improved and structure was regained. Clark in the middle of the park gave his all and after another solid and quality display, Becker was subbed off to have a respite. Mills-Warthold, Mazzollini and Orlando were solid all day in all positions. In all, all rotations through the team were accepted and instructions to players coming on and off the ground were adhered to which is pleasing and makes a coaches job much easier. All substitutes did their job and contributed to the team result.
Final Score 7 - 0
Overall Comments
Opposition: Strong team with a reasonable centre half who saved their bacon many times. Speedy forward tried to cause some problems but our defence stood up well. Team resorted to long balls out of defence and stacking the back line which I suspect will become more prevalent as the team progresses through the year. Poor ability to hold and lay the ball meant passes were rare and Box Hill pressured them well
Box Hill: Excellent overall team effort. Ability to hold ball and retain possession is improving. Defence was solid but still ‘scares’ me at times. Against better opposition, inc. Bulleen, Whitehorse and Malvern, we may be caught out. Midfield needs to engage and support forwards more so as to get on scoresheet as reliance on two forwards not sufficient. Structure and shape and ability to shift are getting better but more talking from GK and defence through to the midfield must improve.
A sterner test this week may result in a 4-2-3-1 structure being employed - TBD
Coach: John Di Martino 5th May, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
Round 1 - North Caulfield
MATCH DAY EVALUATION
Match Day 1 – North Caulfield vs. Box Hill Inter (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: In a word, atrocious and not conducive to playing a quality style and control of the Ball. VERY windy, blowing across the park with rain showers, and temperatures in high single digits. Ground was short but wide, goals of questionable size, excellent surface.
First Half: BH started well, moving the ball and keeping it on the ground. A number of chances were not taken but in the 10th minute or so, Adam De Blasio made a well timed run to move onto a good ball from midfield and calmly slotted home with a side foot shot. BH then started to create a number of further chances which weren’t taken due to poor decision making (Should cut the ball across goal from the bye line, Coaches instruction to shoot low and often not adhered to, etc). This allowed the Caulfield team to stay in the game and gain confidence. Their one and only tactic of repeated long balls forward eventually caught our defence out and allowed their striker to put a ball into our net after a series of blunders, not tackling, not putting the ball out of play. Not playing ‘safety first’in the back line had lead to a number of further chances which due to poor finishing and a general lack of quality, Caulfield were not able to finish off. What was very disappointing was BH’s refusal to play the ball on the deck and repeatedly push balls forward in the air, despite instruction not to play this way. Giving the ball away in defence and midfield and not contesting hard enough was also disappointing and cannot be accepted. Better teams would punish us. Half time score 1-1
Second Half: Following a small ‘discussion’ and reiteration of what is required and accepted, the effort in the 2nd half was much improved. Better intensity and the improved ball control lead to a number of chances whilst Caulfield had few shots of any real effort on our goal. Some defensive ‘miskicks’ were a cause for concern as was turning into the play rather than out and away form a defensive viewpoint. Jake Orlando offered significant upside on the left of midfield and Gabby Tolo contributed well on the right when substituted late in the game. Again, many good chances were not taken but Mitch Nguyen slotted a ball calmly away for the winner. We controlled the game well till the end though the shape of the team was a concern generally. Joel Becker placed some nice balls around the park and was generally the most effective player on the day.
Too much space between the defenders and midfielders was evident late in the game and a large hole in the centre of the park allowed Caulfield some room to move. This aspect of our game will be worked on Tuesday night. Final Score: Box Hill 2, North Caulfield 1.
Overall Comments
Opposition: Strong and battling team who relied on long balls forward which they punished once. Control of the ball was poor and they were rarely capable of stringing some passes together.
Box Hill: A superior skill level and structure was displayed at times but we had some lax moments when we made poor decisions and didn’t battle for the ball or contest effectively in 50/50’s and headers. Given the number of chances we had, the result is disappointing. As stated to the team, we must take chances and kill off games and not allow the opposition a sniff of hope. Training will be centred on Tactical shape and structure, throw in plays, communication and movement between striker and a central attacking midfielder to be employed.
Coach: John Di Martino 26th April, 2009
Match Day 1 – North Caulfield vs. Box Hill Inter (Under 15 A’s)
Conditions: In a word, atrocious and not conducive to playing a quality style and control of the Ball. VERY windy, blowing across the park with rain showers, and temperatures in high single digits. Ground was short but wide, goals of questionable size, excellent surface.
First Half: BH started well, moving the ball and keeping it on the ground. A number of chances were not taken but in the 10th minute or so, Adam De Blasio made a well timed run to move onto a good ball from midfield and calmly slotted home with a side foot shot. BH then started to create a number of further chances which weren’t taken due to poor decision making (Should cut the ball across goal from the bye line, Coaches instruction to shoot low and often not adhered to, etc). This allowed the Caulfield team to stay in the game and gain confidence. Their one and only tactic of repeated long balls forward eventually caught our defence out and allowed their striker to put a ball into our net after a series of blunders, not tackling, not putting the ball out of play. Not playing ‘safety first’in the back line had lead to a number of further chances which due to poor finishing and a general lack of quality, Caulfield were not able to finish off. What was very disappointing was BH’s refusal to play the ball on the deck and repeatedly push balls forward in the air, despite instruction not to play this way. Giving the ball away in defence and midfield and not contesting hard enough was also disappointing and cannot be accepted. Better teams would punish us. Half time score 1-1
Second Half: Following a small ‘discussion’ and reiteration of what is required and accepted, the effort in the 2nd half was much improved. Better intensity and the improved ball control lead to a number of chances whilst Caulfield had few shots of any real effort on our goal. Some defensive ‘miskicks’ were a cause for concern as was turning into the play rather than out and away form a defensive viewpoint. Jake Orlando offered significant upside on the left of midfield and Gabby Tolo contributed well on the right when substituted late in the game. Again, many good chances were not taken but Mitch Nguyen slotted a ball calmly away for the winner. We controlled the game well till the end though the shape of the team was a concern generally. Joel Becker placed some nice balls around the park and was generally the most effective player on the day.
Too much space between the defenders and midfielders was evident late in the game and a large hole in the centre of the park allowed Caulfield some room to move. This aspect of our game will be worked on Tuesday night. Final Score: Box Hill 2, North Caulfield 1.
Overall Comments
Opposition: Strong and battling team who relied on long balls forward which they punished once. Control of the ball was poor and they were rarely capable of stringing some passes together.
Box Hill: A superior skill level and structure was displayed at times but we had some lax moments when we made poor decisions and didn’t battle for the ball or contest effectively in 50/50’s and headers. Given the number of chances we had, the result is disappointing. As stated to the team, we must take chances and kill off games and not allow the opposition a sniff of hope. Training will be centred on Tactical shape and structure, throw in plays, communication and movement between striker and a central attacking midfielder to be employed.
Coach: John Di Martino 26th April, 2009
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
