So, what has happened in the Huntsville soccer scene since my last post?
Alabama A&M's men's team played their final match, an 0:8 nationally televised loss to the University of Memphis to finish 0-0-11. A sad ending to a once great program.
Showing posts with label Alabama A and M. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alabama A and M. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Catching Up
As you can tell, I've been taking a break from the blog. Running the PWT-blog is a voluntary effort on my part and after the NPSL Championships last August, I was burned out. So, in an effort to prevent future bouts with burn out, don't expect the frequency of future post to quite meet past levels.
So, what has happened in the Huntsville soccer scene since my last post?
Alabama A&M's men's team played their final match, an 0:8 nationally televised loss to the University of Memphis to finish 0-0-11. A sad ending to a once great program.
Rocket City United parted with its third coach in its four year existence. Desmond Armstrong will not remain in the club, but will remain a feature in the area by opening Desmond Armstrong's Soccer Village in Greenbrier. RCU will looked to better 2010's third place finish in the NPSL Southeast Region. To help in this effort, RCU has hired Jan Henner to be it's Operations Manager. Henner was previously on the staff at Bundesliga side 1899 Hoffenheim, and will run the RCU Academy. As for the top position, it appears the leading candidate for head coach at RCU is Martin Methodist College Women's coach Gerry Cleary. Next year's team will begin taking shape this Saturday, when RCU holds tryouts at Pt. Mallard Park in Decatur.
Speaking of Martin Methodist, they will serve as the virtual home team during the 2010 NAIA Women's Soccer Championships held in Decatur next week. I'll be calling several of the games from the Jack Allen Soccer Stadium including the final next Saturday at 5PM. You can watch the live webcast of all the matches.
A women's league will begin this spring in affiliation with HASL. The league format will most likely be four teams playing 6 to a side. For more information, contact Suzy Pelmar.
So, what has happened in the Huntsville soccer scene since my last post?
Alabama A&M's men's team played their final match, an 0:8 nationally televised loss to the University of Memphis to finish 0-0-11. A sad ending to a once great program.
Monday, September 13, 2010
College Weekend Wrap-up
This weekend brought more of the same from the local outfits.
A&M Swept Aside in Two Blow-outs
It was anything but classic for Alabama A&M team that has been a shadow of their former selves at the Evansville Classic tournament this past weekend. The Bulldogs fell at the feet of University of Evansville 9:0 on Friday night. In the second match yesterday afternoon, Abraham Kassaye provided the only bright spot with a 25 yard blast to keep A&M from the shutout in a 7:1 drubbing against Bradley University.
UAH Falls To Union 1:0 in OT on Own Goal
After a 251 minute drought, UAH had finally scored a goal as Tomoaki Matsuo rose to meet a well driven Jarred Muggleton free kick. Matsuo nodded a looping header back across the goal and over the heavy footed Union University goalkeeper, but as the Chargers exclaimed with relief to cheer the long awaited goal, the celebrations were muted by the AR's flag snapping to attention. No goal. Offside.
In a match that was dominated by strong defending, neither the Chargers or Union was able to create many chances. Union preferred spraying shots from distance while UAH attempted to attack without much midfield support. Despite this, UAH had the better looks at goal. In addition to the previously mentioned nullified goal from Matsuo, the Charger's lanky forward Tony Stock came closest to breaking the deadlock when he strode into the penalty area and lashed a vicious stroke that left the Union keeper hoping for intervention. That intervention came in the way of the right post and the regulation time ended scoreless.
As the sun began setting the first overtime period passed without note and only 1:27 into the second a harmless cross passed across the UAH goalmouth. Inexplicably, UAH defender Dylan Peppia dropped to the ground and attempted to head the ball clear, but only managed to direct it into his own net. The mistake from the freshman ended the match in a decidedly frustrating fashion, another 1:0 loss for the Chargers.
The scoreless streak? It's now 282 minutes without a goal.
Wallace State Cruises to Another 3:0 Win
To keep this post from becoming all "doom and gloom", I'd like to report that Wallace State Community College in Hanceville is having a stellar season. WSCC defeated Hinds CC 3:0 behind two goals from Luis Helguera and solid goalkeeping from Huntsville's own Drew Hannan.
A&M Swept Aside in Two Blow-outs
It was anything but classic for Alabama A&M team that has been a shadow of their former selves at the Evansville Classic tournament this past weekend. The Bulldogs fell at the feet of University of Evansville 9:0 on Friday night. In the second match yesterday afternoon, Abraham Kassaye provided the only bright spot with a 25 yard blast to keep A&M from the shutout in a 7:1 drubbing against Bradley University.
UAH Falls To Union 1:0 in OT on Own Goal
After a 251 minute drought, UAH had finally scored a goal as Tomoaki Matsuo rose to meet a well driven Jarred Muggleton free kick. Matsuo nodded a looping header back across the goal and over the heavy footed Union University goalkeeper, but as the Chargers exclaimed with relief to cheer the long awaited goal, the celebrations were muted by the AR's flag snapping to attention. No goal. Offside.
In a match that was dominated by strong defending, neither the Chargers or Union was able to create many chances. Union preferred spraying shots from distance while UAH attempted to attack without much midfield support. Despite this, UAH had the better looks at goal. In addition to the previously mentioned nullified goal from Matsuo, the Charger's lanky forward Tony Stock came closest to breaking the deadlock when he strode into the penalty area and lashed a vicious stroke that left the Union keeper hoping for intervention. That intervention came in the way of the right post and the regulation time ended scoreless.
As the sun began setting the first overtime period passed without note and only 1:27 into the second a harmless cross passed across the UAH goalmouth. Inexplicably, UAH defender Dylan Peppia dropped to the ground and attempted to head the ball clear, but only managed to direct it into his own net. The mistake from the freshman ended the match in a decidedly frustrating fashion, another 1:0 loss for the Chargers.
The scoreless streak? It's now 282 minutes without a goal.
Wallace State Cruises to Another 3:0 Win
Thursday, September 9, 2010
College Round-up
Huntsville Teams Both Start Season With Losses
Both Alabama A&M and UAH have gotten off to a rough start with two losses in their first two games.
A&M's final season started off in an inauspicious manner as the Bulldogs gave up 13 goals in a weekend tournament in Las Vegas, losing to UC-Riverside 5:0 and tournament host UNLV 8:1. Abraham Kassaye tallied the team's only goal.
UAH seem to have a tough time scoring goals, as the Chargers fell on the road to Lincoln Memorial University 1:0. The home opener yesterday was not much better when UAH was dropped 3:0 by Clayton State University. In both games, UAH registered only a single shot on goal.
Ugh, it could be a long year for the local college teams.
Huntsville's PT Huang's Virgina Tech To Feature On FSC
Former Grissom High player and current VaTech redshirt freshman PT Haung may make his national television debut Friday night at 7PM during the NSCAA's Game of the Week on Fox Soccer Channel. The game will feature the Hokies (0w-0d-2l) and South Florida (1w-2d-1l).
Both Alabama A&M and UAH have gotten off to a rough start with two losses in their first two games.
A&M's final season started off in an inauspicious manner as the Bulldogs gave up 13 goals in a weekend tournament in Las Vegas, losing to UC-Riverside 5:0 and tournament host UNLV 8:1. Abraham Kassaye tallied the team's only goal.
UAH seem to have a tough time scoring goals, as the Chargers fell on the road to Lincoln Memorial University 1:0. The home opener yesterday was not much better when UAH was dropped 3:0 by Clayton State University. In both games, UAH registered only a single shot on goal.
Ugh, it could be a long year for the local college teams.
Huntsville's PT Huang's Virgina Tech To Feature On FSC
Former Grissom High player and current VaTech redshirt freshman PT Haung may make his national television debut Friday night at 7PM during the NSCAA's Game of the Week on Fox Soccer Channel. The game will feature the Hokies (0w-0d-2l) and South Florida (1w-2d-1l).
Friday, August 13, 2010
2010 Season To Be The Last For Alabama A&M Men's Program
Of course, while I'm taking a break from the blog, one of the biggest stories of the year breaks.
Yesterday, the Alabama A&M athletic department announced the elimination of the Men's Soccer program after the 2010 season. Citing budgetary cuts, Athletic Director Betty Austin decided to end one of the most successful programs in the school's history. A winner of two national championships under the stewardship of head coach Sallah Yousif, the program compiled over 200 wins in 21 years.
Phone calls and emails to the A&M Athletic Department have not been returned at the time of this post.
This is a truly sad day in Huntsville soccer and the community as a whole. The program has not only recruited great soccer players to the area but valuable members of the community, who after their playing days were over continued to contribute to the value of the area.
Yesterday, the Alabama A&M athletic department announced the elimination of the Men's Soccer program after the 2010 season. Citing budgetary cuts, Athletic Director Betty Austin decided to end one of the most successful programs in the school's history. A winner of two national championships under the stewardship of head coach Sallah Yousif, the program compiled over 200 wins in 21 years.
Phone calls and emails to the A&M Athletic Department have not been returned at the time of this post.
This is a truly sad day in Huntsville soccer and the community as a whole. The program has not only recruited great soccer players to the area but valuable members of the community, who after their playing days were over continued to contribute to the value of the area.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
RCU Falls In Preseason Opener
Tonight, Rocket City United gave up a first half counter attack goal to fall to Martin Methodist College 1:0 in the first preseason match of the year held at Point Mallard Park in Decatur.
RCU took the field with an eleven that will look vastly different from the squad that is expected to suit up for the first team on May 22nd. Neither team seemed interested in threatening the opponents goal until MMC worked some nice passes together in the 40th minute and discovered themselves up by a goal when a looping header from eleven yards found the back of the net. RCU responded with pressure that resulted in substitute forward Daniel Perry smacking a shot over the head of the MMC keeper only to rebound off the crossbar. When a MMC defender failed to clear, Brandon Sanford lifted his shot inches high from close range and the half ended with MMC up by a goal.
As the teams tired in the second half, the game opened up and the teams traded misses. RCU squandered several terrific crosses from left back Daniel Segewitz, including a four yard header nodded wide by returning center back Steve Van Horn. The story of the match was lack of finishing, perhaps due to rust and fatigue, and the MMC goalkeeper earned the shutout without having to make a save. Despite this, RCU coach Desmond Armstrong was happy with the play of the team, especially the play of former Alabama A&M center back Samadu Matumba who looked very comfortable marshaling the backline.
Segewitz on MMC preseason friendly from Ryan Harbaugh on Vimeo.
RCU took the field with an eleven that will look vastly different from the squad that is expected to suit up for the first team on May 22nd. Neither team seemed interested in threatening the opponents goal until MMC worked some nice passes together in the 40th minute and discovered themselves up by a goal when a looping header from eleven yards found the back of the net. RCU responded with pressure that resulted in substitute forward Daniel Perry smacking a shot over the head of the MMC keeper only to rebound off the crossbar. When a MMC defender failed to clear, Brandon Sanford lifted his shot inches high from close range and the half ended with MMC up by a goal.
As the teams tired in the second half, the game opened up and the teams traded misses. RCU squandered several terrific crosses from left back Daniel Segewitz, including a four yard header nodded wide by returning center back Steve Van Horn. The story of the match was lack of finishing, perhaps due to rust and fatigue, and the MMC goalkeeper earned the shutout without having to make a save. Despite this, RCU coach Desmond Armstrong was happy with the play of the team, especially the play of former Alabama A&M center back Samadu Matumba who looked very comfortable marshaling the backline.
Segewitz on MMC preseason friendly from Ryan Harbaugh on Vimeo.
In other RCU news, the club will field a full reserve squad that will play 8-10 matches including matches against the other NPSL Southeast Region teams. Reserve games will be held 3 hours prior to each first team match throughout the season.
Monday, March 22, 2010
RCU Roster, No MLS Strike and Red Bull Arena Excitement
RCU Begins Roster Building
Rocket City United coach Desmond Armstrong has begun building its roster for the 2010 campaign. After a week of practices, Armstrong has begun the job of filling out the 26 man roster he hopes to use to defend the NPSL South East Region title. Most of the players participating in the workouts this past week were local talents including several members of the UAH and Alabama A&M squads. There were also several returning members from last year's RCU team who impressed during the preseason workouts.
Pshew! MLS Strike Averted
MLS and their players have agreed on a 5-year Collective Bargaining Agreement that has averted a threatened strike by the players. While not granted free agency, the players did win concessions to create a "re-entry draft" for out of contract players at each seasons end. Also, the majority of player contracts will be guaranteed and player pay will be increased with minimum salaries set at $40,000 and the salary cap increasing by $200,000.
Jewell of a Stadium
The New York Red Bulls successfully opened their stadium with a 3:1 defeat of Brazilian Club Santos. Here's a nice little video of all of the action in the stands and on the field.
Rocket City United coach Desmond Armstrong has begun building its roster for the 2010 campaign. After a week of practices, Armstrong has begun the job of filling out the 26 man roster he hopes to use to defend the NPSL South East Region title. Most of the players participating in the workouts this past week were local talents including several members of the UAH and Alabama A&M squads. There were also several returning members from last year's RCU team who impressed during the preseason workouts.Pshew! MLS Strike Averted
MLS and their players have agreed on a 5-year Collective Bargaining Agreement that has averted a threatened strike by the players. While not granted free agency, the players did win concessions to create a "re-entry draft" for out of contract players at each seasons end. Also, the majority of player contracts will be guaranteed and player pay will be increased with minimum salaries set at $40,000 and the salary cap increasing by $200,000.Jewell of a Stadium
The New York Red Bulls successfully opened their stadium with a 3:1 defeat of Brazilian Club Santos. Here's a nice little video of all of the action in the stands and on the field.
Monday, November 9, 2009
College Roundup
A&M Wraps Up Rebuilding Year With A Loss
Alabama A&M finished the year on the road with a 0:2 loss at Central Arkansas University on Saturday. CAU's Joseph Cervantes provided all the offense that was needed. A&M finished the rebuilding year with a record of 4 wins, 12 losses, and 1 tie. A&M head coach Salah Yousif is looking forward to next year as he expects several prospects to strengthen a line-up that has gained valuable experience this year.
UAH Falls In GSC Final
University of Alabama-Huntsville fell to the University of West Florida in the Gulf South Conference Final on Sunday afternoon. UAH's stellar defensive corps could not stop the creative UWF attackers. In the 35th minute, UWF's Jay Mainville caught UAH on a breakaway and was able to slot the shot past Tyler Earley for the 1:0 lead. That scoreline held through the half.
In the 64th minute, UAH got a break when UWF's Sean Reynolds was ejected after a second bookable offense. While UAH pressed for the equalizer, it was UWF who added to their lead when in the 68th minute, Stephen Munoz stroked home a penalty to make it 2:0.
The teams were back on level footing in the 70th minute when UAH's Christian Ramirez was shown his walking papers after a second caution. In the remaining 20 minutes, the Chargers could not come up with the vital goals and the Argos were crown GSC Champions for a fourth straight year.
UAH had several representatives on the All-tournament team:
Alabama A&M finished the year on the road with a 0:2 loss at Central Arkansas University on Saturday. CAU's Joseph Cervantes provided all the offense that was needed. A&M finished the rebuilding year with a record of 4 wins, 12 losses, and 1 tie. A&M head coach Salah Yousif is looking forward to next year as he expects several prospects to strengthen a line-up that has gained valuable experience this year.UAH Falls In GSC Final
University of Alabama-Huntsville fell to the University of West Florida in the Gulf South Conference Final on Sunday afternoon. UAH's stellar defensive corps could not stop the creative UWF attackers. In the 35th minute, UWF's Jay Mainville caught UAH on a breakaway and was able to slot the shot past Tyler Earley for the 1:0 lead. That scoreline held through the half.In the 64th minute, UAH got a break when UWF's Sean Reynolds was ejected after a second bookable offense. While UAH pressed for the equalizer, it was UWF who added to their lead when in the 68th minute, Stephen Munoz stroked home a penalty to make it 2:0.
The teams were back on level footing in the 70th minute when UAH's Christian Ramirez was shown his walking papers after a second caution. In the remaining 20 minutes, the Chargers could not come up with the vital goals and the Argos were crown GSC Champions for a fourth straight year.
UAH had several representatives on the All-tournament team:
2009 GSC Men's Soccer All-Tournament Team
Most Outstanding Player
Frank Cope, West Florida
Stephen Munoz, West Florida
Matt Tanner, West Florida
Tyler Earley, Alabama-Huntsville
Kyle Goncalves, Alabama-Huntsville
Brian Hadley, Alabama-Huntsville
Oscar Leon, Alabama-Huntsville
Devin Schleif, Alabama-Huntsville
Tony Stock, Alabama-Huntsville
Robert Mingo, D, Christian Brothers
Payam Pourjavard, Ouachita Baptist
Monday, November 2, 2009
Alabama A&M Falls to #20 UAB
Alabama A&M fell to intrastate rival University of Alabama-Birmingham 1:0 Sunday afternoon at John Hunt Soccer Stadium. A&M held the 20th ranked team in the country scoreless for 82 minute before UAB's Curtis Ushedo's header deflected off a defender past A&M goalkeeper Paul Musoke.
After frustrating UAB in the first half with solid defensive work and great saves from Musoke, A&M coach Salah Yousif's men turned up the pressure in the second half and twice had opportunities in the area only to shoot wide of the mark.
A&M coach Salah Yousif talks about the loss
UAB and former RCU midfielder Michal Mravek talks about the game and his time with RCU
After frustrating UAB in the first half with solid defensive work and great saves from Musoke, A&M coach Salah Yousif's men turned up the pressure in the second half and twice had opportunities in the area only to shoot wide of the mark.
A&M coach Salah Yousif talks about the loss
As the Bulldogs showed flashes of potential, UAB displayed the solid defensive work and midfield fluidity that has kept them among the top programs in the country. UAB created several chances but it was the woodwork that twice denied the breakthrough. The rest of the Blazer's forays were disrupted by the industrious A&M defenders.
UAB and former RCU midfielder Michal Mravek talks about the game and his time with RCU
In the 83rd minute, the Blazers won a free kick in a dangerous position and former Rocket City United midfielder Michal Mravek stepped over the ball. Mravek who spent part of this past summer playing with RCU while recuperating from a knee surgery whipped in a driven cross which Ushedo rose to meet. Ushedo's header was redirected off an unsuspecting A&M defender into his own goal for the only goal of the match.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
College Roundup
A&M Take Down Memphis 3:1
Fueled by two second half goals by Abraham Kassaye, Alabama A&M recorded thier fourth win of the season by upending regional foe the University of Memphis Tigers 3:1 last night at Mike Rose Stadium in Memphis, TN. The Bulldogs only had 6 shots to the Tigers 16, but made the most of those shots while A&M goalkeeper Paul Musoke did his best to disrupt the Tigers attempts at goal by making 8 saves on the night.
Cesar Ramirez got A&M off on the right foot by converting a 31st minute pass from Eric Kamya from six yards out. In the 53rd minute, A&M doubled the lead when when Moses Semakula put Abraham Kassaye behind the Memphis defense to find net. Memphis pulled one back when Parker Duncan was hauled down in the area and Thomas Shannon converted from the spot. However, Kassaye's goalscoring wasn't finished and in the 73rd minute, he bent a shot from the left side of the penalty area into the opposite corner of the goal for the final goal of the contest.
A&M will take on intra-state rival University of Alabama-Birmingham on Sunday afternoon. UAB comes into the match ranked at No. 20 in the nation.
UAH Held To A Scoreless Draw
In the final home match of the season, University of Alabama-Huntsville and Christian Brothers University battled to a 0:0 tie. Junior UAH goalkeeper Tyler Early was undoubtedly the man of the match making 8 saves in his third shutout of the '09 campaign.
UAH Goalkeeper Tyler Earley talks about the game and the conference tourney
The overtime period was a back and forth affair that somehow had neither team really threaten the opponents goal.
The draw earns UAH the second seed in the upcoming Gulf South Conference tournament next weekend in Pensecola, FL where they will meet this same CBU team in the conference semifinals. UAH coach Tafadzwa Ziyenge thinks provided the right mental focus, the team could do well in the tournament.
UAH coach Tafadzwa Ziyenge discusses the season and the GSC tournament
Fueled by two second half goals by Abraham Kassaye, Alabama A&M recorded thier fourth win of the season by upending regional foe the University of Memphis Tigers 3:1 last night at Mike Rose Stadium in Memphis, TN. The Bulldogs only had 6 shots to the Tigers 16, but made the most of those shots while A&M goalkeeper Paul Musoke did his best to disrupt the Tigers attempts at goal by making 8 saves on the night.
Cesar Ramirez got A&M off on the right foot by converting a 31st minute pass from Eric Kamya from six yards out. In the 53rd minute, A&M doubled the lead when when Moses Semakula put Abraham Kassaye behind the Memphis defense to find net. Memphis pulled one back when Parker Duncan was hauled down in the area and Thomas Shannon converted from the spot. However, Kassaye's goalscoring wasn't finished and in the 73rd minute, he bent a shot from the left side of the penalty area into the opposite corner of the goal for the final goal of the contest.A&M will take on intra-state rival University of Alabama-Birmingham on Sunday afternoon. UAB comes into the match ranked at No. 20 in the nation.
UAH Held To A Scoreless Draw
In the final home match of the season, University of Alabama-Huntsville and Christian Brothers University battled to a 0:0 tie. Junior UAH goalkeeper Tyler Early was undoubtedly the man of the match making 8 saves in his third shutout of the '09 campaign.UAH Goalkeeper Tyler Earley talks about the game and the conference tourney
CBU dominated the early portions of the match and were able to get off 20 shots although the Earley and the UAH backline held strong. As the time ticked away, UAH and Gulf South Conference player of the week Kota Kashiwagi were able to string together some chances including a golden opportunity in the 87th minute that saw freshman Tony Stock's attempted dink over the charging goalkeeper go inches high over the right corner of the goal.
The overtime period was a back and forth affair that somehow had neither team really threaten the opponents goal.
The draw earns UAH the second seed in the upcoming Gulf South Conference tournament next weekend in Pensecola, FL where they will meet this same CBU team in the conference semifinals. UAH coach Tafadzwa Ziyenge thinks provided the right mental focus, the team could do well in the tournament.
UAH coach Tafadzwa Ziyenge discusses the season and the GSC tournament
The other Gulf Coast Conference semifinal will feature No. 1 seed University of West Florida vs the winner of Friday's match between Harding and Ouachita Baptist.
Note: I have to apologize for the fuzzy look of the game footage. My little handheld video camera just isn't designed for that sort of thing.
Note: I have to apologize for the fuzzy look of the game footage. My little handheld video camera just isn't designed for that sort of thing.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
A&M Lose On Friday and RCU SuperLiga Tryouts Announced
I just got back from being out of town this weekend. So, here's what happened we missed.
A&M Lose Low Scoring Affair to SIUE
Alabama A&M traveled up to north for Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville's homecoming soccer game. The wet conditions and boisterous crowd of about 1500 seemed to dampen the Bulldog's spirit as they were limited to 6 shots. A&M keeper Paul Musoke made six saves but couldn't keep stop SIUE forward Chris Anzalone's 66th minute rebound sitter that would prove to be the games sole score.
RCU Announce SuperLiga Tryouts
Tryouts for the RCU SuperLiga team will be held on Wednesday October 28 and Wednesday November 4th at 7pm at Madison County High School. The SuperLiga will feature some of the south's premier amateur clubs. Players wanting to tryout for RCU should send an email to info@rocketcityunited.com.
A&M Lose Low Scoring Affair to SIUE
Alabama A&M traveled up to north for Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville's homecoming soccer game. The wet conditions and boisterous crowd of about 1500 seemed to dampen the Bulldog's spirit as they were limited to 6 shots. A&M keeper Paul Musoke made six saves but couldn't keep stop SIUE forward Chris Anzalone's 66th minute rebound sitter that would prove to be the games sole score.
RCU Announce SuperLiga Tryouts
Tryouts for the RCU SuperLiga team will be held on Wednesday October 28 and Wednesday November 4th at 7pm at Madison County High School. The SuperLiga will feature some of the south's premier amateur clubs. Players wanting to tryout for RCU should send an email to info@rocketcityunited.com.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Wednesday College Roundup
UAH Makes It Three In A Row
UAH took hold of a 66 minute one-man advantage to down University of Montevallo 2:1 for its third consecutive victory after going winless in its first six contests. Good work by Gulf South Conference player of the week Kyle Gonclaves got UAH started quickly. In the 6th minute, Gonclaves got behind the UM defence and was hauled down in the area for a kick from the mark. Junior Rob Eckensweiler's spot kick was denied by Robert Mueler in the UM goal, but the referee ordered a rekick due to encroachment by the UM defenders. Tomoaki Matsuo stepped up for the second attempt which Mueler was unable to stop.
In the 24th minute, UM junior foward Petar Triva was sent off for a second bookable offense. UAH doubled the lead in the 67th minute when Devon Schleif pushed into the attack from his normal left back position to unleash a wicked shot from outside the area. The left footed bender froze Mueler in his tracks as it settled into the near post netting.
UM would get a consolation goal in the 86th minute when sophomore midfielder Phil Jackson was awarded a penalty. Jackson stroked the spot kick home for the 2:1 final result.
A&M Fall To Dayton 3:0
Despite taking 18 shots, Alabama A&M could not convert and was shut out for a 3:0 loss at the University of Dayton. A first half goal from Ben Murray and second half goals from Evan McCreary and Alex Torda were enough to seal the deal for the Flyers.
A&M host their first home match of the season against the College of Charleston on Saturday at John Hunt Soccer Stadium at 1 PM.
UAH took hold of a 66 minute one-man advantage to down University of Montevallo 2:1 for its third consecutive victory after going winless in its first six contests. Good work by Gulf South Conference player of the week Kyle Gonclaves got UAH started quickly. In the 6th minute, Gonclaves got behind the UM defence and was hauled down in the area for a kick from the mark. Junior Rob Eckensweiler's spot kick was denied by Robert Mueler in the UM goal, but the referee ordered a rekick due to encroachment by the UM defenders. Tomoaki Matsuo stepped up for the second attempt which Mueler was unable to stop.In the 24th minute, UM junior foward Petar Triva was sent off for a second bookable offense. UAH doubled the lead in the 67th minute when Devon Schleif pushed into the attack from his normal left back position to unleash a wicked shot from outside the area. The left footed bender froze Mueler in his tracks as it settled into the near post netting.
UM would get a consolation goal in the 86th minute when sophomore midfielder Phil Jackson was awarded a penalty. Jackson stroked the spot kick home for the 2:1 final result.
A&M Fall To Dayton 3:0
Despite taking 18 shots, Alabama A&M could not convert and was shut out for a 3:0 loss at the University of Dayton. A first half goal from Ben Murray and second half goals from Evan McCreary and Alex Torda were enough to seal the deal for the Flyers.
A&M host their first home match of the season against the College of Charleston on Saturday at John Hunt Soccer Stadium at 1 PM.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Weekend College Round Up
Both of Huntsville's college teams came out of their weekend contests undefeated. Alabama A&M topped Jacksonville Invitational hosts Jacksonville University 2:1 on Friday and earned a 1:1 draw with Stetson University. UAH opened their Gulf South Conference play on Friday with a 4:3 overtime win at Harding University and followed up yesterday with a 1:0 win at Ouachita Baptist University.
UAH Opens Conference With Two Road Wins
Two goals from sophomore Kyle Gonclaves and one late from freshman Tony Stock forced overtime with HU to turn what could have been disaster into a chance for glory. With time running out on the first OT period, junior Brett Hughson realized that glory and converted a ball from junior Sean Kerber for the 4:3 winner.
UAH sophomore midfielder Oscar Leon's second half strike was all that UAH would need to rack their second conference win in as many tries over OBU. Despite the final score, it was a bit of a one sided affair as UAH would pound the OBU goal with 15 shots on the day. OBU's goalkeeper pulled in 9 saves in a fruitless effort while UAH's Tyler Early recorded the shut-out with one stop.
A&M Win One, Tie One In Jacksonville
A&M goalkeeper Paul Musoke was undoubtedly the man of the match in Friday's 2:1 A&M win over JU. After going down 1:0 in the first half, A&M got a goal early in the second stanza from Abraham Kassaye to level the score. Then in the 67th minute, A&M won a free kick just outside the penalty area, Musoke took a jog up the field to line up over the ball. And with Jose Luis Chilavert-like precision drove a low drive eluding the wall and into the left corner of the JU goal. Muskoke added 6 saves to his stat line to preserve the victory.
A&M followed up that victory with a well earned draw yesterday on the road to undefeated Stetson. Stetson pinched a goal just before half-time when Ryan Asare-Bediako finished off a cross in the dying seconds. A&M battled back and in the 69th minute, Cesar Ramirez assisted Eric Kamya's deflected shot which eluded the Stetson keeper for the equalizer. Neither team could register for the remainder and the match ended with a 1:1 draw.
UAH Opens Conference With Two Road Wins
Two goals from sophomore Kyle Gonclaves and one late from freshman Tony Stock forced overtime with HU to turn what could have been disaster into a chance for glory. With time running out on the first OT period, junior Brett Hughson realized that glory and converted a ball from junior Sean Kerber for the 4:3 winner.
UAH sophomore midfielder Oscar Leon's second half strike was all that UAH would need to rack their second conference win in as many tries over OBU. Despite the final score, it was a bit of a one sided affair as UAH would pound the OBU goal with 15 shots on the day. OBU's goalkeeper pulled in 9 saves in a fruitless effort while UAH's Tyler Early recorded the shut-out with one stop.
A&M Win One, Tie One In Jacksonville
A&M goalkeeper Paul Musoke was undoubtedly the man of the match in Friday's 2:1 A&M win over JU. After going down 1:0 in the first half, A&M got a goal early in the second stanza from Abraham Kassaye to level the score. Then in the 67th minute, A&M won a free kick just outside the penalty area, Musoke took a jog up the field to line up over the ball. And with Jose Luis Chilavert-like precision drove a low drive eluding the wall and into the left corner of the JU goal. Muskoke added 6 saves to his stat line to preserve the victory.
A&M followed up that victory with a well earned draw yesterday on the road to undefeated Stetson. Stetson pinched a goal just before half-time when Ryan Asare-Bediako finished off a cross in the dying seconds. A&M battled back and in the 69th minute, Cesar Ramirez assisted Eric Kamya's deflected shot which eluded the Stetson keeper for the equalizer. Neither team could register for the remainder and the match ended with a 1:1 draw.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
College Roundup
A&M Drop Two More Close Ones
Despite scoring five goals in the past two games, Alabama A&M came away without results as they dropped two one-goal decisions in the Hyatt Place Select Invitational tournament this past weekend in Nashville.
On Friday against Belmont University, A&M fought back from a three goal deficit on the back of Rogers Atugonza hat trick. The final goal came with just over a minute of regulation remaining and forced the teams into overtime. In the overtime, Belmont's Justin Hay scored the game winner in the 95th minute for a 4:3 final score.
Sunday afternoon's match saw A&M battle the soggy elements, give up a lead and fall 3:2 to Lipscomb University. A&M took the lead in the 21st minute, when Eric Kamya found Abraham Kassaye for Kassaye's team leading 5th goal of the season. At the half hour mark, LU fought back with two goals in 5 minutes to take a 2:1 lead into halftime. In the second 45, LU's Garrett Pettis hit net for what turned out to be the game winner after A&M's Samadu Mutumba pulled one back in the 82nd minute. A&M could not find the equalizer in the remaining 8 minutes and suffered it's 7th defeat of the 09 campaign.
UAH Draw At Covenant In A Gunslinger
Goals were in abundance as UAH rallied from two down late to earn a 4:4 draw a Covenant College on Saturday afternoon. Sean Kerber got the Chargers off to a good start with a goal in the 12th minute. CC responded with 2 tallies in the space of 12 minutes to take the lead into the end of the half.
CC added another goal before UAH's Brandon LeMier cut into the CC advantage. CC returned the favor two minutes later for a 4:2 lead. The final 15 minutes of regulation saw UAH spring to life. Tony Stock narrowed the difference in the 83rd minute before senior Devon Schleif knotted the score at 4:4 with 3 minutes left in regulation. Two periods of over time could not produce a winner and UAH comes home with a result on the road.
Despite scoring five goals in the past two games, Alabama A&M came away without results as they dropped two one-goal decisions in the Hyatt Place Select Invitational tournament this past weekend in Nashville.
On Friday against Belmont University, A&M fought back from a three goal deficit on the back of Rogers Atugonza hat trick. The final goal came with just over a minute of regulation remaining and forced the teams into overtime. In the overtime, Belmont's Justin Hay scored the game winner in the 95th minute for a 4:3 final score.Sunday afternoon's match saw A&M battle the soggy elements, give up a lead and fall 3:2 to Lipscomb University. A&M took the lead in the 21st minute, when Eric Kamya found Abraham Kassaye for Kassaye's team leading 5th goal of the season. At the half hour mark, LU fought back with two goals in 5 minutes to take a 2:1 lead into halftime. In the second 45, LU's Garrett Pettis hit net for what turned out to be the game winner after A&M's Samadu Mutumba pulled one back in the 82nd minute. A&M could not find the equalizer in the remaining 8 minutes and suffered it's 7th defeat of the 09 campaign.
UAH Draw At Covenant In A Gunslinger
Goals were in abundance as UAH rallied from two down late to earn a 4:4 draw a Covenant College on Saturday afternoon. Sean Kerber got the Chargers off to a good start with a goal in the 12th minute. CC responded with 2 tallies in the space of 12 minutes to take the lead into the end of the half.
CC added another goal before UAH's Brandon LeMier cut into the CC advantage. CC returned the favor two minutes later for a 4:2 lead. The final 15 minutes of regulation saw UAH spring to life. Tony Stock narrowed the difference in the 83rd minute before senior Devon Schleif knotted the score at 4:4 with 3 minutes left in regulation. Two periods of over time could not produce a winner and UAH comes home with a result on the road.
Friday, September 18, 2009
A&M and RCU news
Kentucky Free Kick Downs A&M
Freshman University of Kentucky forward Matt Lodge's free kick from 30 yards in the 26th minute was enough to secure Alabama A&M's 5th loss of the season. A&M goalkeeper Paul Musoke was the man of the match recording 6 saves and keeping the Bulldogs within reach of the 22nd ranked Wildcats.
RCU South Region Champions T-shirts Available
RCU's Champions T-shirt
Today is the last day to pre-order your 2009 NPSL South Region Champions T-shirts. They are $10 and will be available by September 30. To pre-order a shirt, please e-mail info@rocketcityunited.com with requested size.
RCU All-time Scoring Leader Heads Home
RCU's Rafa Barbosa will be sorely missed
RCU's captain and all-time scoring leader Rafa Barbosa is moving back to Brazil. The dynamic forward who has lead RCU in scoring for both of the clubs two seasons has decided to return to his native country to help with his mother's business. He leaves RCU with a world class production rate of 18 goals and 8 assists in 22 matches.
Always a class act, I caught up with Rafa earlier this week at the UAH men's soccer match. "It's been fun," he said in his understated delivery.
With a wry smile he added, "I talked to Andy [Zorovich, RCU team president] about maybe coming back next summer for an appearance." A testimonial match for the lanky Brazilian would be a terrific recognition for the most prolific player in the club's history.
Freshman University of Kentucky forward Matt Lodge's free kick from 30 yards in the 26th minute was enough to secure Alabama A&M's 5th loss of the season. A&M goalkeeper Paul Musoke was the man of the match recording 6 saves and keeping the Bulldogs within reach of the 22nd ranked Wildcats.
RCU South Region Champions T-shirts Available
RCU's Champions T-shirtRCU All-time Scoring Leader Heads Home
RCU's Rafa Barbosa will be sorely missedRCU's captain and all-time scoring leader Rafa Barbosa is moving back to Brazil. The dynamic forward who has lead RCU in scoring for both of the clubs two seasons has decided to return to his native country to help with his mother's business. He leaves RCU with a world class production rate of 18 goals and 8 assists in 22 matches.
Always a class act, I caught up with Rafa earlier this week at the UAH men's soccer match. "It's been fun," he said in his understated delivery.
With a wry smile he added, "I talked to Andy [Zorovich, RCU team president] about maybe coming back next summer for an appearance." A testimonial match for the lanky Brazilian would be a terrific recognition for the most prolific player in the club's history.
Monday, September 14, 2009
A&M Shut Out At UNC-Wilmington
Alabama A&M dropped it's 4 consecutive match with a 2:0 defeat at the hands of University of North Carolina-Wilmington. A 10th minute goal by Etienne Boulanger and a 59th minute strike by Shawn Guderian was enough to propel UNC-Wilmington to the shutout win and the UNCW/Courtyard by Marriott Classic title. A&M's Abraham Kassaye and Terence Jones were named to the all-tourney team.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
A&M, UAH Both Fall Late
UAH Gives Up Late Hat-trick To Clayton State
Rocket City United midfielder and Clayton State University captain Kyle Timm got the best of his RCU teammate Tyler Early, as CSU downed UAH 3:0 behind sophomore forward Leighton Fedricks' first career hat-trick. Early had kept his team in the match with some stellar saves until the breakthrough in the 77th. Four minutes later, Timm fed Fedricks for the second goal and in the 83rd minute, Fedricks made it 3 in the span of 6 minutes.
A&M Fall To Late Appalachian State Penalty In OT
Alabama A&M ran out of legs as they twice built and surrendered of one goal leads before finally succumbing via an Appalachian State penalty with less than two minutes left in the second period of extra time. Rogers Atugonza had a hand in both A&M goals as he assisted the 27th minute strike by Abraham Kassaye and cleaned up a loose ball from close range for the second goal in the 60th minute. The Atugonza poach was bookended by AppState goals from Nate Latigue and Sean Dreybus. It was all tied up at the end of 90 minutes and AppState got the better of the chances in the extra time prior to the dramatic penalty whistled for a handled ball. Arie Muniz converted the spot kick and handed AppState the victory.
Rocket City United midfielder and Clayton State University captain Kyle Timm got the best of his RCU teammate Tyler Early, as CSU downed UAH 3:0 behind sophomore forward Leighton Fedricks' first career hat-trick. Early had kept his team in the match with some stellar saves until the breakthrough in the 77th. Four minutes later, Timm fed Fedricks for the second goal and in the 83rd minute, Fedricks made it 3 in the span of 6 minutes.
A&M Fall To Late Appalachian State Penalty In OT
Alabama A&M ran out of legs as they twice built and surrendered of one goal leads before finally succumbing via an Appalachian State penalty with less than two minutes left in the second period of extra time. Rogers Atugonza had a hand in both A&M goals as he assisted the 27th minute strike by Abraham Kassaye and cleaned up a loose ball from close range for the second goal in the 60th minute. The Atugonza poach was bookended by AppState goals from Nate Latigue and Sean Dreybus. It was all tied up at the end of 90 minutes and AppState got the better of the chances in the extra time prior to the dramatic penalty whistled for a handled ball. Arie Muniz converted the spot kick and handed AppState the victory.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
College Roundup
Both of Huntsville's teams were unable to hold onto a 2 goal leads, as Alabama A&M were downed against Sacramento State and University of Alabama-Huntsville were only able to come home with a point at Trevecca Nazarene.
A&M, playing the second match of the St. Mary's of California tournament, held the lead after 39 minutes from two strikes from Abraham Kassaye. The first was set up nicely from a Cesar Ramirez cross, while Kassaye ran onto a lead pass from Eric Kamya for the second score.
After pulling one back in the 40th minute on a rifled 25 meter goal from State's David Norton, the game was altered significantly in the 66th minute. A&M goalkeeper Paul Musoke was sent off for taking down Max Alvarez in the area. A&M's backup goalkeeper Daniel Obfinsua was unable to turn back Alvarez's kick from the spot. With the match tied and State brimming with confidence, A&M futilely attempted to diffuse the Sacramento attacks. It took 10 minutes for State's Alvarez to notch his second goal of the match and the game winner. State's Scott Crandall cleaned up a rebound for the final tally of the day and a final score of 4:2.
A&M's Terrence Jones and Abraham Kassaye were named to the all-tournament team.
UAH also built a 2 goal lead in their match against Travecca Nazarene University in Nashville. UAH got off to a good start in the 22nd minute as Brett Houghson scored from a feed from Brandon Lemier. UAH continued to apply the pressure and it paid off in the 38th minute with a goal from Kyle Goncalves for a 2:0 lead. TNU would not lie down however, when in the 63rd minute, Jordan Ennix drew one back, and 7 minutes later Benji Bussel fed Javier Delgados for the game tying strike.
The overtime periods saw UAH pepper the TNU goal looking for the game winner that would not come and the referee blew full time on the 2:2 draw.
A&M, playing the second match of the St. Mary's of California tournament, held the lead after 39 minutes from two strikes from Abraham Kassaye. The first was set up nicely from a Cesar Ramirez cross, while Kassaye ran onto a lead pass from Eric Kamya for the second score.
After pulling one back in the 40th minute on a rifled 25 meter goal from State's David Norton, the game was altered significantly in the 66th minute. A&M goalkeeper Paul Musoke was sent off for taking down Max Alvarez in the area. A&M's backup goalkeeper Daniel Obfinsua was unable to turn back Alvarez's kick from the spot. With the match tied and State brimming with confidence, A&M futilely attempted to diffuse the Sacramento attacks. It took 10 minutes for State's Alvarez to notch his second goal of the match and the game winner. State's Scott Crandall cleaned up a rebound for the final tally of the day and a final score of 4:2.
A&M's Terrence Jones and Abraham Kassaye were named to the all-tournament team.
UAH also built a 2 goal lead in their match against Travecca Nazarene University in Nashville. UAH got off to a good start in the 22nd minute as Brett Houghson scored from a feed from Brandon Lemier. UAH continued to apply the pressure and it paid off in the 38th minute with a goal from Kyle Goncalves for a 2:0 lead. TNU would not lie down however, when in the 63rd minute, Jordan Ennix drew one back, and 7 minutes later Benji Bussel fed Javier Delgados for the game tying strike. The overtime periods saw UAH pepper the TNU goal looking for the game winner that would not come and the referee blew full time on the 2:2 draw.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
A&M Suffers First Loss
Alabama A&M was held to three shots in a 1:0 loss to St Mary's College of California. The Gaels took an early lead as A&M keeper Paul Musoke made a good save on Emmanuel Sarabia's 13th minute drive, but redshirt freshman Justin Girder was on hand to convert the rebound. St. Mary's stifled the A&M attack throughout the rest of the match for the one goal victory. On Sunday, the Bulldogs play Sacremento State in the second match of the St. Mary's tournament. Sacremento State defeated UC Riverside in their first match of the two match tourney.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
A&M Wins Season Opener
Alabama A&M kicked off the 2009 regular season yesterday with an 2:1 victory on the road over Mercer University. Junior forward Abraham Kassaye led comeback for the Bulldogs with a goal and an assist on the day.
Despite being outshot 16-12 by Mercer and giving up the opening goal in the match, A&M persevered. In the 72nd minute, Mercer broke the deadlock when Chrispine Ong'Ango slid in to clean up a rebound off a good save by A&M goalkeeper Paul Musoke.
A&M responded immediately as Kassaye played a terrific ball for junior Eric Kamya to slot home. With less than 5 minutes remaining, it was Kassaye who gathered a loose ball in the area and drove home a far post shot for the game winner.
A&M will now travel to Morgana, CA to participate in the St. Mary's Tournament where they will face the hosts, St. Mary's College of California, on Friday and Sacramento State on Sunday.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Mayor's Cup Recap
Saturday saw the return of the Huntsville college soccer derby known as the Mayor's Cup in the form of a preseason exhibition match. Alabama A&M traveled across town to take on UAH and after a scoreless first half, the crowd of about 100 was treated to fiery affair that saw both teams tally once from good build up and once by exploiting their opponents mistakes for a hard fought but entertaining 2:2 draw.
It was UAH who broke the seal covering the goals with good work down the left side where a cross was met at the back post for a side footed volley that awoke a confidence in the blue and white squad. A few minutes later, an enterprising UAH forward intercepted a weak goal kick and rocketed a missile inside the near post for a 2:0.
UAH Coach Tafadzwa "Lincoln" Ziyenge discusses the upcoming 09 season and the Mayor's Cup
The second UAH strike seemed to have awoken the sleeping A&M Bulldog, however. As the confident UAH midfield stroked passes together, they were met with determined challenges from the A&M defenders. After several clashes fit for an MMA ring in the center of the midfield, the referee was forced to stop the action to have a word with the coaches to remind them that this was just a preseason friendly, after all.
At this point, the speed and inventiveness of the A&M attackers ratcheted up the pressure on the UAH defenders. With less then a quarter hour left on the referees watch, that pressure paid dividends. Nice work by the A&M number 10 to find a streaking A&M winger who rounded his defender to the endline where he rifled a pass that was met by a lunging sidefooted finish by a hard charging forward in the strikers channel. A few minutes later and A&M worked from the same blueprints as the first goal, but before he could release a shot the winger was clipped from behind for an undisputed penalty. The A&M central defender stepped up to stroke home the final blow in the day's bought and a level score of 2:2.
Alabama A&M Coach Salah Yousif talks about his young squad and the Mayor's Cup
It was UAH who broke the seal covering the goals with good work down the left side where a cross was met at the back post for a side footed volley that awoke a confidence in the blue and white squad. A few minutes later, an enterprising UAH forward intercepted a weak goal kick and rocketed a missile inside the near post for a 2:0.
UAH Coach Tafadzwa "Lincoln" Ziyenge discusses the upcoming 09 season and the Mayor's Cup
The second UAH strike seemed to have awoken the sleeping A&M Bulldog, however. As the confident UAH midfield stroked passes together, they were met with determined challenges from the A&M defenders. After several clashes fit for an MMA ring in the center of the midfield, the referee was forced to stop the action to have a word with the coaches to remind them that this was just a preseason friendly, after all.
At this point, the speed and inventiveness of the A&M attackers ratcheted up the pressure on the UAH defenders. With less then a quarter hour left on the referees watch, that pressure paid dividends. Nice work by the A&M number 10 to find a streaking A&M winger who rounded his defender to the endline where he rifled a pass that was met by a lunging sidefooted finish by a hard charging forward in the strikers channel. A few minutes later and A&M worked from the same blueprints as the first goal, but before he could release a shot the winger was clipped from behind for an undisputed penalty. The A&M central defender stepped up to stroke home the final blow in the day's bought and a level score of 2:2.
Alabama A&M Coach Salah Yousif talks about his young squad and the Mayor's Cup
Note: Despite attempts to contact the school's media relations, I've not been able to locate rosters for either team. If anyone has the names and numbers of the players, I'd greatly appreciate it.
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