Strikers Red vs. TSC Bordeaux

Ben Brenman Park

3:00 p.m.

In third week action, the Strikers Red faced a talented and athletic TSC Bordeaux team. We appeared a bit overwhelmed in the beginning as our opponent kept possession with quick passing, which threw us off our game. We did show moments in which we kept possession and tried to find our rhythm. I think we can learn from playing a team like we did on Sunday. We can learn from the way they kept the ball moving between their teammates and did not allow us to defend effectively. However, I think we also learned that if we pressured them and not let them face our goal, we can cause turnovers. So on the one hand, we have to learn that putting our heads down and trying to dribble past 4 players is not as effective as passing around them but also that we should not play intimidated against a good team. Also, we should not get down on one another and stay positive, because every game is a learning experience and chance to build not only our game awareness and skill but also individual and team character.

This week's clip is of Lionel Messi highlights. It is important to watch his close control of the ball by using small touches on the ball. We have been practicing this during practice; however, I think it is beneficial to see how this skill relates to the game. He proves that you do not need fancy moves to be an incredibly effective dribbler. He uses quick feints and dribbling speed to get his opponents off balance. In addition, his close control allows him to make the decisive pass at the right time. Also, watch how quickly he attacks, finds space, and always probing to get behind the defense.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jenupVFSzjs

Alexandria Strikers Red vs. Calverton Cerritos Academy

William Tyler Elementary School

9:00 a.m.

In second week action, the Strikers Red played a hard fought match on a bumpy and rocky field. From the first touches on the field, the players knew it was going to be much harder to dribble and judge the bounce of the ball. Therefore, we tried to focus on playing quickly by passing and understanding that the game was not going to be pretty. The boys showed great resilience and mental toughness even under a great amount of pressure towards the end of the game.

This week's clip is from the United States vs. Brazil match during the Confederations Cup, the tune-up tournament for last summer's World Cup. It is an excellent example of how to counterattack using quick passing and moving without the ball. See how in three total passes, the United States goes from their own goal box to Landon Donovan having a relatively easy finish in front of Brazil's net. Also, you may recognize Charlie Davies, D.C. United's current forward, who passes Landon Donovan the ball for the goal.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7ifHbADhxs&feature=related

Coach Ryan

Alexandria Strikers Red vs. ASA Gladiators

Crownsville Hospital #1

1:30 p.m.

In first week action, the Strikers Red put in a solid performance and quickly implemented concepts practiced during the previous week. The Strikers Red did an excellent job of getting the ball wide and crossing the ball into open teammates. Two of our goals came directly from crosses, which is something we worked on during practice. I was pleased with our effort, and our willingness to look for open teammates when under pressure. I think the boys demonstrated improvement from last season, and it is only the first game of the season!

Below is a video of Barcelona and their incredibly efficient style of passing and moving without the ball. Every player on their team is very gifted on the ball; however, the only really dribble the situation calls for it (i.e. when they have 1v1 chances and to get out of tight pressure). Otherwise, they try to use their teammates to maneuver around defenses. Take a look at the types of combinations they use that we are trying to work on in practices: give and gos, overlaps, getting the ball wide and crossing in front of the goal, and most of all, that killer pass to give a teammate a chance on goal.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLhKJt82GFo&feature=related