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
Sunday, August 30, 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
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