END OF YEAR RECAP

THE STORY SO FAR...

Moss and Roy are BIG Spartan Fans!

ENERGIE:
You guys have exceeded my expectations!

Despite some enormous drubbings, your spirit remains high.
And most importantly, you've operated as a team.

I promised that this team would not be heavy with improvements and insights.
For a while I thought that we could lead with making ENERGIE more competitive.
My mistake, and I'll go back to letting you guys enjoy the game!

But...
There are some things you can do to be more competitive.
More communication: let your team mates know what's going on around them
Better Defending: you need to cover the man and let others know what you are doing

So, I'm bit of a hypocrite, but it's important this you guys get some guidance on how to improve.
No more heavy stuff.

LOKOMOTIVE:
Where do I begin?

Such talent on this team, including two high finishers in the Golden Pear.
So what's not working?

Some of you are playing out of position.
You're in a role that is containing your abilities.
We'll talk about that on field.

Second, we need to talk more out there.
When we talk, and listen to each other, we actually do very well.

Don't leave the Keeper to his own devices.
The only person that doesn't come back is the Cherry Picker role.

Score some goals...
I can't believe how many times we just don't score!
That's where practice comes in.
Experience the moment and learn from failures.
Right now we're not.

STATS:
DECEMBER 13th:
(SG) Matt (PK)

(SB) Devon

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(SG) Matt
(SB) Conner


DECEMBER 20th:
(SB) Jesse (G)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(SG) Wayne
(SB) Trevor

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

FROM THE SPARTANS CLUB MANAGEMENT

Santa gets into the Soccer Season!

The Baron and his staff wish all players and their families a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

It's been an up and down season for us, but things seem to be coming together.

What I really like about Energie is the fact that you guys keep trying, keep moving and never give up.
And you lot have a lot of fun doing it.
That't the mark of a great team...well done!

Lokomotive has been enduring a rough gelling period.
Some games are well played...others have been stinkers.
But remember that once we operate as a team, there's very few losses ahead of us.

So sit down for the next few days...
Enjoy the smell of cooked goods and whatever else may find their way to you.

It's a great time of year...and enjoy it to its fullest.

Regards,
The Baron

LOKOMOTIVE TAKES FIRST WIN OF SEASON

UNINSPIRED EFFORT LEADS AGAINST WORST TEAM

The Guys are Glad the Monkey is off their Back

With the Monkey finally off their backs, Lokomotive can finally start looking forward to a season of more wins and more triumphs.

The Team seems to play the same as their opponents.
When we play a gifted team, we rise to the occasion.
When we play a bad team, we get lazy and glide for the win.

There will be more chances to gel as a team, and this needs to form the basis of our efforts.
We need to be vocal.
We need to be open.
We need to move about.

Scoring is a lot easier when we're all on the same page.

ENERGIE PLAYS STRONG GAME BUT FALLS TO LEAGUE LEADERS

Every now and then we play against teams that are just over our ability.

Despite some strong playing and great team work, the ending was forecast within the first few minutes.

There a few things we can take away from this game.

First, we never gave up despite being the weaker team.
We discovered that our formation is probably better as a 3-2-1
We needed to talk more and help each other as a team.

Keep the energy levels high...you guys are still having a lot of fun.

STATS:
(SB) Cory (A)
(SB) Conner (G)
(SB) Devon (G)
(SB) Andrew B (A)
(SB) Cory (G)
(SB) Mitch (A)
(SB) Ramon (G)
(SB) Ramon (A)
(SB) Cory (G)
(SB) Mitch (GWA)
(SB) Baron (GWG)
(SB) Cory (G)

KEEPER:
(SB)  Trevor (WIN)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(SB) Cory
(SG) Anders

SNATCHING DEFEAT OUT OF THE JAWS OF VICTORY

LOKOMOTIVE CRASHES AFTER SURGE AND LOSES GAME

Pumped up with three goals...then a sudden stop!

Both Spartan Teams were on the losing end Sunday, facing different opponents but also enduring different challenges.

Baron Says [ENERGIE]:
From all accounts, you gave the game your best.
Decimated by injuries, it was obvious that the legs were just not there.
But...
There are simple things that could have been done.
Remember that the team builds from the Defense, and works up from there.
Keep open and short for the pass.
Most of all, have fun with the game!

Baron Says [LOKOMOTIVE]:
This is an incredibly talented team.
What I love about this side is that individual weaknesses are complimented by someone's strengths.
But the guys aren't playing together for the whole game.
Notice that when we act like a TEAM, we are unstoppable.
Last game the Defence was let out to dry...half their goals could have been stopped.
And we have stopped better opponents!
Subbing was the pits at the end.
Remember that at the end, we should be subbing every 2-3 minutes.
This keeps us fresh and stops their counters.
It also gives us renewed vigour for our own attacks!
We were like a bunch of pylons out there.
No one was looking for the easy pass.
No one looked like they wanted to score.
And that's why we lost...we let ourselves down and have no one to blame but a lack of "play"

LOKOMOTIVE deserves better than the crap we pulled last Sunday.
And once we figure that out, the wins will come naturally.

STATS:
(SG) Howard (A)
(SG) Anders (G)

(SB) Andrew B (A)
(SB) Mitch (G)
(SB) Trevor (A)
(SB) Devon (G)
(SB) Zach (A)
(SB) Conner (G)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(SG) Matt
(SB) Mitch

LOKOMOTIVE PULLS OUT PERFORMANCE

BLACKS LEAD BY DEVON AND TREVOR TIE OPPONENTS

Trevor is crazy over his second Assist!

It was another tale of different clubs as Energie and Lokomotive made their ways in different manners.

The Greys, overloaded with injuries, were unable to stop the onslaught of last year's runner ups. Brought up from Yellow FC was Baron's friend Nelson, who took over when the score was 5-0 for the bad guys.

{Baron Says}:
Energie needs to focus on the good that came out of this game.
We realized that we needed a Keeper of extraordinary prowess on this day.
Even so, lots of injuries and the tenacity of our opponents spelled certain loss.
Remember, it's never a dishonour to lose against a superior foe.
All you can do is play your best and learn. And this is the best time to pick up experiences that work and don't work.

Lokomotive started off shakey, looking too rested after a week off.
Their challenge was to overcome a 3-1 deficit at the half.
Things looked desperate, but two members of the team stepped up in a big way.
Devon seemed to get re-energized and completed his Hattie before game ends.
Trevor, stuck between the pipes, contributed heavily to the game, assisting on two.

{Baron Says}:
Each game Lokomotive needs to improve their team play.
Little by little each game.
There's no reason why this team can't be in the top three.
I was also very pleased to see the frustration of last week forgiven and players competing in their finest.

STATS:
(SB) Trevor (A)
(SB) Devon (G)
(SB) Trevor (A)
(SB) Devon (G)
(SB) Andrew (A)
(SB) Devon (G)
(SB) Craig (A)
(SB) Andrew (G)

KEEPER:
(SB) Trevor (TIE)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(SG) Nelson
(SB) Devon

TWO TEAMS AND ALMOST SAME RESULT

GREYS ARE TOPPLED WHILE BLACKS EEK OUT TIE 

Baron Looks Pensive!

IN action first, were the men of Lokomotive, looking for their first win of the season.

Things got off to a quick start, with an absolutely brilliant goal by the good guys.

Lokomotive increased the lead to two by half.

Then things fell apart. 

Foregoing any proper subbing, the bad guys bought themselves a shot that dipped just beyond Trevor's fingers.

The madness in subbing continued, and the game was tied with 2 minutes left in the game.

Baron says:

We were in control of the game as long as we made our subs count. But when the shifts lingered, their fresh legs overcame our tired lads and we were lucky that the game was over. They clearly had the initiative and we couldn't do anything with half full half tanked.

Across town for the night game, Energie faced their toughest opponent to date.

Their opponents, last year's "A" Division runner ups were quick to get on the score board. In fact, controlling the game wasn't an issue for them. They kept a running six goal margin even after Energie scored.

Baron says:

Red was clearly superior in all aspects. They controlled the game, and let it be known that they could have run up the score. We can learn a lot from them, and the way they play. But Energie isn't at that level of prowess or team work at this point in time. Who knows in the future?

STATS:

(SG) Wayne (A)

(SG) Adam (G)

(SB) Ramon (G) **substituted for injured player

(SB) Mitch (A)

(SB) Adam T (G)

(SB) Devon (A)

(SB) Conner (A) 

KEEPER: 

(SB) Trevor (TIE)

MAN OF THE MATCH:

(SG) Andrew

(SB) Trevor

ENERGIE SPEEDS AHEAD!

TOUGH MATCH WITNESSES THE DOWNING OF LOKOMOTIVE

Lokomotive Fans are rallying before the game!

In a highly exciting match up Sunday, the Greys overcame the Blacks in a fiercely contested match.

Energie, attempting to start a win streak, scored first on a blooper that just missed the Keeper's outstretched gloves.

After that, the Blacks maintained possession and attack, finally pocketing one inside the twine before half.

The Second Half saw Lokomotive continue their dominance on field, but it was Energie that scored the tie breaking goal.

"It's a tough decision," said Scott of the Greys,"and we walked away with a lucky win. They were overpowering, and we somehow made it through."

"It looked like our team was relying too much on individual efforts," related Craig of the Blacks," and less on the team aspect. We had our shots, we had our possession, but their Keeper made all the difference."

STATS:
(SG) Anders (A)
(SG) Mark W (G)
(SG) Mark W (GWA)
(SG) Matt (GWG)

(SB) Conner (A)
(SB) Devon (G)

Keeper:
(SG) Gui - WIN

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(SG)  Gui
(SB) Conner

ENERGIE WINS THEIR FIRST!

BOTH SPARTANS MIX IT UP IN WILD AFFAIRS!

Anders Falls while scoring a goal!

It was a tale of two teams Sunday night as Energie started out the evening in front of jubilant fans.

They were not to be disappointed.

The scoring started quickly, and just kept going.
Led by Centre Mid Fielder Adam, the Greys couldn't do any wrong.

"We were in total control of the game," remarked Captain Scott of the Greys,"we subbed well, we got out there and wore them down."

Final of that game was 6 - 2.

In the Northern part of town, our local heroes faced a traditional foe, the former VfB Dynamo Spartans.

The bad guys got off to an early start, netting 3 goal to nil at half time.

But things changed around quickly after the arrival of Captain Trevor who took his place between the pipes, relieving Grey Keeper Gui who was on loan.

Worn down after repeated attacks, Yellow couldn't stop the come back.
Unfortunately, as time was running down, Lokomotive came short, losing by a single goal despite lots of chances.

"Games go like this," said Trevor,"but it's reassuring to see the guys pick up themselves and continue to work for the win."

Coach Baron had this to say about the games:
[ENERGIE]: I was very pleased with the way they came out. It wasn't a sprint to them, it was a marathon, with calculated breaks and sprints. The guys came together as a team, and won as a team. Kudos to their efforts!
[LOKOMOTIVE]: A heart break of a loss. We wore them [Yellow] down to a point where we dictated the pace and the initiative in the second half. It was just by luck that we didn't end up tying or beating them. But that's alright for a team that hasn't played together before. We're still on track for the long haul!

STATS:
(SG) Adam (A)
(SG) Matt (G)
(SG) Adam (A)
(SG) Dayton (G)
(SG) Andrew (GWG)
(SG) Andrew (A)
(SG) Matt (G)
(SG) Anders (G)
(SG) Gui (A)
(SG) Adam (G)

(SB) Craig (A)
(SB) Zach (G)
(SB) Ramon (G)
(SB) Devon (G)

KEEPER:
(SG) Gui (WIN)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(SG) Adam
(SB) Ramon

SPARTAN FOOTBALL RETURNS TO THE DOME

BOTH TEAMS BEGIN THEIR SEASONS!

Devon looks on as the Defender passes back!

It was an interesting day for both Spartan Teams.

TSV Spartan Lokomotive got off to a quick start, only to have it erased, and then came from behind to secure a tie. The action was intense, and most of the play occurred within the opponent half.

"It's obvious that this young and vibrant team has a competitive edge," said Craig Forrest of TSN."With some tight playing, they could well become one of the top teams."

Energie Spartans FC, in the mean time, held their opponent 1-0 at the half. Although they ended up losing, the experience gained by this team was immeasurable.

"The team looked like it had lots of fun, and that's how football at this level should be played. Go for a run, try to improve your diminishing and aging skills. That's what REC football is all about."

Some tough challenges await the teams this Sunday, and fans are eager to witness the results!

STATS:

(SG) Dayton (A)

(SG) Andrew M (G) 

(SG) Matt (A)

(SG) Andrew M (G)

(SB) Craig (A)

(SB) Andrew B (G) 

(SB) Andrew B (G)

(SB) Devon (G) 

(SB) Andrew B (G)

KEEPER:

(SB) Trevor (TIE) 

MAN OF THE MATCH:

(SG) Guillermo

(SB) Andrew B 

SPARTANS END OUTDOOR SEASON WELL

TEAM FINALLY WORKS AS A CONCERTED EFFORT AND PERFORMS WELL!

Fans were pleased with the effort!

To My Outdoor Spartans:

What a season!

First off, I wanted to say thank you for the support over the season. I met some new players and was enriched by the experience.

Being a REC league, there is always going to be a diversity of talents on the team. Some are more skillful than others in certain aspects. Remember that for the future in all your endeavours.

It will serve you well to remember that the square page will not fit into the circle peg. As your Captain and Owner, I needed to be cognizant of this fact in every game. Some of you will appreciate this in the years to come.

We faced numerous obstacles on our path.

First and foremost was the cancelling of games. As the Convener explained to me, this was not the League's decision but the City's call.

Unfortunately this had the effect of killing any sort of gelling that we were making. It made us rusty and that hurt the game's progression for us.

Our next challenge was finding enough people on the pitch. Our average attendance was 13 men. That's from a roster of 23 individuals.

That also lengthened our time to gel as a team.

Our last game was very well played, and we held our own against a team that was destined to win it all.

I hope that all of you learned something and grew from the experience on field.
I can relate that this season allowed me to understand the game a bit better.
In whatever you do...always learn, and improve yourself. Otherwise, it's just meaningless!

I thank each of you for the time we spent on field.

For some of you, it's now time to settle into the indoor league.
For others, it's time to mend and rest, until the next time!

SINGLE ELIMINATION PLAYOFF

FLU BUG DECIMATES SPARTAN TEAM WITH OTHERWISE GOOD EFFORT

Jesse at Training Fields

Despite a 6 to 1 loss last Sunday, our local heroes were optimistic about their chances on the upcoming match today.

"Last week we had Nine players start, two of which were sick," stated Baron," we finally had Twelve at half, but it felt more like nine players due to the illnesses"

This week, the Spartans are off against the Destroyers, who gave them a thorough schooling last game.

"Of course, in that game we scored more on ourselves than the Destroyers," commented Jason," but this will be different. There are no plans to score on our goal."

Many of the team stepped up, and new ideas were discovered.

Stuff like communication and passing the ball to their own players seemed to work fairly well.

This should continue in this game.

Baron has promised a night of debauchery should his team pull off what would probably be considered a huge upset.

But then again....anything is possible in one game.

STATS:
Matt (A)
Jesse (G)

MAN OF THE MATCH
Trevor

PLAYOFFS BEGIN FOR SPARTANS

UP AGAINST FIRST RANKED GUNNERS

Guys,

It's been a mix and match season this year.

We did pretty good, two wins, two ties, and an assortment of rained out games.

This isn't the best season we've had as Spartans, but it got us into the playoffs despite the city determining that rain cancels soccer games.

Over the season, we had 23 men signed up.

On average we had 13 show up on the field per game.

We lost many to injuries, but also had some guys pay fees and not show up.

This really impacted on our play.

Our drubbings were more or less on games where we fielded 10 players.

A few games we would have won if not for the lack of subs.

Going forward we'll play for the honour of the team.

It was a rebuilding year, and we have a lot of prospects for the future.

First Playoff game:

Hydro Field 3

1700h

Check out the map link to the side. 

Hydro Field 2 is the first one on the east side.

I believe Field 3 is just south of it.

MAN OF THE MATCH:
Mike A

AND WIN NUMBER TWO

SPARTANS OVER DURHAM UNITED FOR TWO IN A ROW

The Team is Crazy!

It was a good feeling to be Captain and Owner of the Spartan team after last night's overwhelming victory over Durham United.

We not only created a wining streak, but did it against a rival that now fell below us.in the standings.
Currently, we are seventh place.

This Spartan team has been under achieving....and for reasons that aren't excuses.
A mixture of bad weather and less than stellar attendance have meant that the team hasn't "GELLED" until recently.

Is there room for improvement?
Of course there is...lots of it.

Our defensive plays are a bit weak.
Our mid field, despite the many subs, didn't exactly cover the defense and this allowed some chances against Kevin.
Our new position, CENTRE, was a bit confused.

But if we all strive to LEARN, ADAPT, and OVERCOME, the latter we shall do.

To the next game my SPARTANS!

STATS:
William (G)
Brandon (A)
Jesse (G)
Kevin (A)
Scott (GWG)
Jesse (GWA)
Devon W (G)
Kyle (A)
Jesse (G)

KEEPER:
Kevin

MAN OF THE MATCHJesse

SPARTANS WIN

AN EXCELLENT EFFORT DESPITE SHORT ON MEN

Who's that in net?

The Spartans scored first and never looked back in a game that showed a lot of heart and some glaring weaknesses.

They had 37 shots on net, yet only four eluded the very agile and able opponent Keeper.

For the first time in the season, the Spartans actually dictated the pace and play of the game.
There was an 86% possession rate.
In fact, there were only 4 shots on the Spartan goal, and two went in by the back up Net Minders.

Fans were overjoyed by the spectacle.
There was a good amount of sportsmanship to go around.
The game was played well, and even the opposing team enjoyed this game the most in the season.

Going forward:
We need to keep our formation and know what we're playing.
We need to keep the opponents from our 18.
We need to practice shots that actually hit the twine.

Great Job players!

STATS:
William (G)
Keith (A)
William (G)
Jesse (A)
Matt (GWG)
Keith (GWA)
Jesse (G)
Devon (A)

KEEPER:
Mike (starting goalie nets points)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
William

GOOD EFFORT BY THE SPARTANS

NO SUBS...NOT  A FULL TEAM...BUT LOTS OF HEART

Keith Carries William off the field

Spartans!

What we discovered, much to our chagrin, was that a beginning nine player squad CANNOT win the match.

By the time we managed to peak at eleven players (half time) we were spent, nursing injuries and only one goal behind.

I'm not too concerned about the last two goals.
The second may have resulted by a grievous mistake, but fatigue does play a role in this action.
The Third goal was simply a body not responding as it should, allowing for a quick deposit inside our twine.

Until the 75th minute we were in the game.
We had our chances, but realistically, an eleven man team cannot compete against a team of their skill level with substitutes.
Given the fact that we had three injured on field, I believe we did really well keeping it close until our legs gave out.

It's holiday season, and I get it. Lots of you are off and doing the good life.
Kudos.
But if you are, please (PLEASE) let me know that you're not making the game.

Much of our sad sack existence this year has been due to the weather and the fact that people don't show up to the games.
No one really knows how someone will react, or operate in the clinch situation.
The other teams have had time to gel, and know each other.

Bottom line, communication both on field and off will save us lots of problems.

We're still in this playoff hunt. if we snag 3 out of 5 games, we're in and that's when the fun begins.

STATS:
MAN OF THE MATCH
Jason

NEW FORMATION

NEW IDEAS BRING NEW EFFORTS

Easy to Play...difficult to Master

Whenever we change the way we've been doing things, it's always difficult to master the new way quickly.

Although we know what to do, we have second thoughts, and that in turn gives the advantage to others.

The motto of the Spartans, "Learn, Adapt, Overcome" is the common practice in any sport.

We must Learn our strengths and weaknesses, as compared to the team against us.

We must Adapt to their way of playing.

We must Overcome them with exploiting their weaknesses and recognizing our own.

It's not an easy thing...but with enough effort we can put on a good show...and that's what it's all about.

STATS:

MAN OF THE MATCH:

Kevin

CIVIC WEEKEND BREAK BRINGS NEW HOPE TO THE TEAM

A TIE AND BLOW OUT ARE THE BASIS FOR REFORMATION

Mayhem after a string of disappointments

The Spartans ended the first half of the season with two ties. That's the good news.

For half the games, the result was decided by a single goal. In one game in particular, the REF was a factor in our opponents keeping that one goal lead.

For the other half of the games, we received some bad results.

The most important thing is to realize that all of us need to learn, adapt and overcome.

Sometimes the teams against us are just better. But that doesn't excuse us for giving up and letting our team mates down.

The new half has started out horribly, but from that we will adjust the roster, and see who plays best with who...and more importantly how.

Dig in, and let's see what this second half will bring.
After all, you get what you give.

STATS:
July 19th:
Willliam (G)
Matt (A)
Mike A (G)
William (A)

KEEPER:
Kevin

MAN OF THE MATCH
William

July 26th:
MAN OF THE MATCH:
Mike A

SPARTANS GET FIRST DRUBBING OF THE SEASON

VERY LOW TEAM EFFORT CONCEDES GAME "NOT EVEN CLOSE"

Ain't No Fixin' This!

It was a game unlike any in this season....for the first time our Spartan Heroes were utterly and convincingly beaten.

"We had our chances," said Baron in the post game media scrum," but we couldn't operate as a team, and were punished for it."

At the very least, two of the goals were simply not warranted. In one of these instances, the defense simply failed to react to an attack, which left its end within the twine.

Failing to use the SchwerPunkt was another reason our local men of the pitch couldn't get it together. After a great first goal, utilizing the Baron's on field battle plan, a mid attack was undertaken. It failed in just about every aspect.

What our Chrome clad Heroes need to do next game, is to buckle down, substitute on a regular basis and play smart.

STATS:
Keith (A)
William (G)

MAN OF THE MATCH
Kevin

SPARTANS LOSE ANOTHER

REF PLAYS 12th MAN AND RUINS GAME

All we ask is that the CALLS are F-A-I-R

Spartans,

Last game made me think quite a bit.

We discovered that a different formation brought about more control, more offensive punch and a better game for us as a whole. That's a good thing, and I thank the team members who offered their opinions in the matter.

I believe that we're on our way to becoming a force within the league...whenever the games actually get played, which is a weather matter...and we can discuss later.

I want to get to the meat of this discussion.

The main official, otherwise known as the REFEREE.

Did he cost us the game?
I will tell you "no".

Some of those penalty shots were warranted. I'd hate to say it, but that's the absolute truth.

The last PK and the "retake" (taken by another player faux pas) was absolute garbage.
Our man was clearly fouled and the REF decided to call a penalty shot only due to his "12th man" status.
I know that this was too much for many of you...and justifiably so!

What we need to understand is:
a) we don't take our frustration out on the other team...this plays into the REF's plan
b) we don't talk to the REF, we don't make eye contact.
c) My job is to talk with him.I will say my peace and react based upon his retort.

What this Spartan team needs to do is understand that this is a REC league.
Don't pretend this is the final day of the World Cup...
DO NOT PLAY DIRTY
We need more discipline on the team.
If we don't...REF's will copy that disaster we had last game.
It's a fact...so let's clean up our acts.

As an aside, realize that we haven't lost by more than a goal each game.
And we are still attempting to get to that GEL zone.
I can only see good things for this team...so let's tone down the roughing!

STATS:
Jesse (A)
Kieth (G)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
Kevin

SPARTANS LOSE FIRST OF THE SEASON

SINGLE GOAL BREAKS THE SHUT OUT

Baron talks with Reporters

The new Spartans are proving to be a force on the field these days.

In the days of old, the Spartans would concede a few sloppy goals, come back and attempt to make a game of it.

These days our local heroes are giving it their all, and coming up with impressive results.

Out of the gate, the Spartan defense made short work of their opponent's attacks, blunting the attacks and sending a counter to the opposite goal.

At half time, it was nil to nil.

And that's how it remained until the 72 minute when an unlucky bounce from the Keeper landed on the feet of an unmarked Village Inn Forward. With all net in front of him, it wasn't a hard goal.

The good guys kept it real for the next 18 minutes, having numerous chances, but nothing to hit the twine.

"It was a great game," commented Spartan Owner Baron,"with many missed opportunities on both sides. What we need to do is play better, and more like a team. My gut feeling is that this team will only get better as they get to the "GELLING" point.

STATS
Man of the Match:
Darrel

SPARTANS TAKE TO THE PITCH

SPIRITED PLAY NETS THEM FIRST TIE OF THE SEASON!

Kevin makes the impossible Save

With an all new team, the fans were expecting a good game, complete with a Spartan drubbing.

What they got was an exciting game that proved that the team could be a force in the Darlington League.

"I'm very proud of my players," commented Coach Baron after the game,"they gave it their all and matched one of the best teams in our league"

The home team Rovers went out to an early start, only to have the lineswoman call the play back due to an offside.

From there, the Rovers pressed against the novice Spartans. Time and again, the Spartans moved the play back, and finally attacked in the Rovers end.

A lucky penalty shot that hit the cross bar twice before entering the net gave the Rovers the lead at half time.

Not to be outdone, the Spartans wingers focused, and launched a flurry of attacks, pocketing one in the twine in the second half.

Again, the REF became involved and awarded the Rovers another penalty shot.

It was Keeper Kevin who made the save, and the clearance, which nearly resulted in another Spartan goal had the discouraged REF not called the game on a clear break a way.

"Some harsh calls by the REF," stated Baron," but we came up big and showed that he wasn't going to dictate the game despite his lack of objectivity."

Will out local heroes give fans their money's worth next game?
Ticket go on sale May 30th.

STATS:
Keith (A)
Jesse (G)

Keeper:
Kevin (TIE)

MAN OF THE MATCH
Kevin

SPARTAN OUTDOOR BEGINS

FANS HAVE HIGHER HOPES FOR THIS SEASON!

As your Captain and Owner, I'd like to welcome each and every one of you to the Spartans Team of 2015.

I value team play and sportsmanship above all else.

We will not play dirty.

We will not hassle the REF, even if they prove to be terrible.

We will play as we wish to be played against.

Most of all, we play for the joy of playing.

By now you have received an email or call by me, THE BARON.

Respond to the email, ask questions, and we'll get you the game plan for this year.

Unfortunately the league was late with getting me your names...so an initial get together is impossible.

Our motto: Learn, adapt, overcome has many meanings.

For me, it's all about setting goals each game, and meeting or exceeding them.

At our level, no one cares if we win or lose the season.

But as your team leader, I want each and every one of you to grow as a person.

Here's to a fun season in a country where summer is all too short!

INDOOR SEASON ENDS

SPARTANS BLACK COME UP BIG IN LAST GAME

Captain Shawn looks on as Andrew talks with Scott

Spartans!

I wanted to take a brief moment to talk about the game.

Black won 5-0, thus ending the playoff round.

What differentiated the two teams was the communication.
Black continuously let their guys know where to be and what the situation was.
Yellow, for the most part, was silent.

This translated into few chances for Yellow, who were hard pressed to shoot within the 18.


END OF THE SEASON NOTE

There's a lot of good from our indoor season.

I have always underlined our mission: Learn Adapt Overcome.

You can lose the season, and still win as a player.
Each game should be a mission for you...set a target and meet that level you set.
If you don't, figure out why, and improve next game.

THANKS TO ALL PLAYERS

As your Coach and Owner, I want to personally thank all of you who took part in the season.

There were many up and downs, but I'm proud to have been your teacher and supporter.
None of you should be upset about the season.
Many of you played well.
Even more of you became self aware and improved substantially from the beginning.

And that's what you need to centre upon.
In decades to come, what will you remember?
Will you remember the good times, the fun you had?
After all, why are you playing this game?

I hope to see many of you returning in the Fall.
We'll create smaller teams to ensure more playing time.
We may also have more teams, and more players to continue our quest.

Until that time,
Rest your wearied bodies,
Your tired minds
and your depleted spirits!

--The Baron 

SPARTAN VS SPARTAN

IDEAS FOR SUNDAY'S GAME

It's All in the...uh...

SPARTANS!

I'd like our last game to be a fun one.

We've done the finals before, and it's time to spice things up.

These ideas were generated by your fellow players from both sides, and I'll go with a vote for the most popular.

IDEA 1:

We play Yellow vs Black. Plain and simple.

IDEA 2: 

We play Yellow vs Black. Reverse Style

Traditional forwards play defense. 

Traditional defenders and Keeper play forward.

IDEA 3:

We play Yellow vs Black. Play anywhere style.

You sub onto any position you want...Keeper included.

IDEA 4:

Everyone goes into a pot.

Anders and Scott will pick teams based upon 1, 2, 2, 1, 1, 2 ... format.

Then everyone plays in whatever position they wish.

Don't worry about the logistics...it's actually easier than you think

OTHER IDEAS:

I'm open to other ideas.

Please email me and I'll stick it in.

The survey does have an option to "pick another"

Visit our site often so that we get a good voting turnout!

STATS:
(B) Abe (A)
(B) Devon (G)
(B) Leigh (A)
(B) Devon (G)
(B) Devon (G)

(Y) Ryan (A)
(Y) Anders (G)
(Y) Ryan (A)
(Y) Stephen

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(B) Devon
(Y) Ryan

SPARTANS BLACK WIN ANOTHER

YELLOW BACKS FALL SHORT IN TOUGH GAME

Always a great game against the Spartan Teams

The on pitch action was fast and furious, as the two Spartan teams did battle as only good friends could.

"I'm always pleased to pit brother vs brother," said Baron in a post game scrum," and this is no exception."

Once again, the Blacks worked to potential, utilizing superior team work to shut Yellow down and limit their options.

"Black was really good on their level," stated Yellow Captain Anders."They controlled the pitch, lulled us in and then counter attacked."

"Yellow played very well, and we were lucky to walk away with the 4-2 result," admitted Captain Scott of the Blacks.

The difference between the two were the actions taken on field. 

Black continued to work as a team, cutting Yellow's chances at passing and moving the ball around.

Good communication was key, and Yellow was often sent scrambling on the defense after a squandered attempt at net.

There was also a difference in Keepers, with Trevor maintaining a shut out until the very last few minutes.

"Overall it's a great time to try new tactics, and strengthen those habits we've found that work." Baron offered both teams.

STATS:

(Y) Ryan (A)

(Y) Blaze (G)

(Y) Ryan (A)

(Y) Jeremy (G)

(B) Mike S (A)

(B) Devon (G)

(B) Abe (A)

(B) Devon (G)

(B) Scott (GWG)

(B) Andew B (G)

KEEPER:

(B) Trevor (W)

MAN OF THE MATCH:

(Y) Blaze

(B) Andrew B

SPARTANS TAKE A STEP BACK

THERE'S TONNES OF OPPORTUNITY FOR IMPROVEMENT

Yellow Never Strays from a Challenge!

IT was a bad day for our local heroes as they both suffered severe drubbings at the hands of traditional league foes.

For Black, it was an end of some great playing.

While they were able to stymie their opponents for select times last week, a lack of subs really affected their ability to storm back.

In addition, their often lackluster challenge attempts led to some long range goals that should never have been allowed.

"There's a lot of room for improvement," Baron stated in a post game scrum," and we need to focus on getting a few more wins in that column."

On the other side of town, Yellow faced their toughest game yet, as they faced their first place rivals without stars John or Nelson, both out with injuries.

It was a bit of a Turkey shoot, with injury riddled Bryan taking the spot between the posts and being left to his own devices.

A lack of communication and adherence to the formation did little to aid in the Yellow cause, although a spirited come back attempt by Stephen certainly added some excitement.

"Yellow has a lot of ability," Baron was heard saying in the locker room,"but refuses to follow simple soccer attack rules."

This coming Sunday features a battle of Spartan vs Spartan.

Tickets go on sale Friday, and the half time show will feature Kids Rocke.

STATS

(B) Andew M (A)

(B) Devon (G)

(B) Andew B (A)

(B) Devon (G)

(Y) Anders (A)

(Y) Issa (G)

(Y) Jeremy (A)

(Y) Stephen (G)

(Y) Stephen (A)

(Y) Jeremy (G)

MAN OF THE MATCH:

(B) Leigh

(Y) Leo

SPARTANS CONTINUE TO IMPROVE

BLACKS NOTCH ANOTHER IN THE WIN COLUMN

Abe, Andrew M, Devon, Andrew B all score!

It was a mixed result for Coach Baron and his crew on both pitches last Sunday.

"I was very pleased with the results of both sides, despite the mistakes," Baron commented during the post game interview.

Yellow played very well, and seemed to be more organized as Baron took the field and dictated how he wanted his lads to play.

They went down by two early in the game, but managed to learn, adapt and stymie their opponents in the second half.

The main theme of the match was communication. With that in tow, the Yellows generated more chances on the opponent net, while limiting goals against them.

"The loss was unfortunate," said Baron,"but the lads were great on the pitch, and the game was a lot closer than the 3-1 score let on"

In the second game, the Blacks took an early 4-1 lead, squandered it, and then went ahead to stay.

It was their second win of the second half season, and it looked good.

"What I enjoyed about my Blacks, was that they talked on the field, moved about, and definitely were the better team. There were some anxious moments, but the 5-4 win really sparks joy. We deserve to win, and got the proper result."

With both teams on the grass this Sunday, the Baron hopes that it'll generate two wins.

"I would love to see that both teams notch one in the "W" column. And they can do it...it just takes adherence to the principles which I have instilled upon them.

STATS:
(Y) Issa (PK)

(B) Devon (A)
(B) Andrew M (G)
(B) Andrew B (A)
(B) Devon (G)
(B) Abe (G)
(B) Abe (A)
(B) Devon (G)
(B) Abe (GWA)
(B) Devon (GWG)

KEEPER:
(B) Leigh (W)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(B) Andrew M
(Y) Ryan

WHAT CONSTITUTES A TEAM

BARON HAS SOME HARSH WORDS AFTER TWO BLOW OUTS

Soccer is like Chess...exploit weaknesses of position!

"We have some fine players on the pitch," commented Baron after some less than stellar performances last week." but for some reason, we just can't get it together. And that really stinks, since these lads deserve a better record than they have."

MODES OF IMPROVEMENT -- BARON STYLE

1. COMMUNICATION
If you're not talking to your team mates, the battle is already lost.

Telling people who to cover, where to position themselves, to get back into position, that there's a cherry picker, etc. That's how we do things.

We communicate with an effective style. Not with harsh words. Harsh words produce like responses.
We talk to each other to add information...to improve our position.

Next games, I want more info style communication.
If you're shy or unsure, please start practicing in front of the mirror.

2. FRUSTRATION
The team that is frustrated is playing a man down.

Frustration is like a disease. It infects, it is contagious, and before you know it the team falls apart.

Keep your angry words to yourself. Better yet, leave them in the trash can by the door and pick them up as you leave. I will NOT entertain this on my pitch.

Take this energy, turn it around, and make something productive out of it. Lead by example.

If someone screws up, I want words of encouragement...not words denoting shame. That player knows that they did something wrong. They feel badly. What you're doing is bringing a man's failure to light. Would you enjoy that treatment from a trusted team mate?

3. REMINDING YOU WE ARE A COUNTER ATTACK TEAM
There are a lot of teams in this league who have talent way above our own. And that's okay, because we've tied and beaten them.

Why?
Because we acted as a team!

A counter attack strategy has three main points:
a) we defend and break up attacks (this includes the midders coming back to destroy attacks upon us)
b) we give no opponent a free shot (always harass them...never give up)
c) we gain possession, and move it up the field for a shot at goal

CONCLUSION:
In our Spartan vs Spartan game, think about how a 7 man Black team, beat the 11 man Yellow team.

Black communicated effectively; they ensured that each man had information to do his job

They kept cool, even when Yellow scored two and were pressing with a superb attack.
In fact, words of encouragement was the way of the night.

They broke up Yellow's attacks; harassed the attackers, closed passes to Yellow players.
They denied clean and clear shots
Then they took possession and brought it up to score.

Guys...we can do this. Three simple steps.
My challenge to you as men is to accept these ideas, and use them to make the most of our last games.

STATS: (TWO WEEKS AGO)
(B) Mike A (A)
(B) Andrew M (G)
(B) Andrew M (G) - PK

(Y) Anders (A)
(Y) Jeremy (G)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(B) Mike S
(Y) Aaron

STATS: (LAST GAME)
(Y) Shawn (A)
(Y) Ryan (G)

(B) Andrew B (A)
(B) Devon (G)
(B) Andrew B (G)
(B) Devon (G)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(B) Leigh
(Y) Nelson

SPARTAN VS SPARTAN

BLACKS DOUBLE UP ON YELLOWS TO TAKE FIRST WIN OF SEASON!

Andrew, Abe and Mike S connect for the Win!

It was an action packed and high rolling affair on the pitch last Sunday, as Oshawa's heroes met upon the field of battle.

In what can only be described as a tight first half, the Black's went ahead on a solid shot that fooled Yellow's Keeper.

From there, the Blacks were able to score three more times. One of those goals would be nominated for "Goal of the Season".

"I nodded to Andew M," explained Abe,"took the shot and he directed in the net off his head. Took all about one second."

Yellow exploded in the second half, not losing their traditional penchant optimism.

Anders redirected a rebound with a cheeky toe lift.

Shortly thereafter, Ryan, being left unguarded in the 18, notched one in.

A tired and sparsely subbed Black team managed to hold on for the win, including an outstanding save from their Goal Keeper Trevor, who saved a penalty shot.

"Overall, I'm impressed with my lads," said Baron, " they did a great job, and the game will go down as one to remember."

STATS:

(B) Mike S (A)
(B) Andew M (G)
(B) Mike S (A)
(B) Andrew M (G)
(B) Andew M (GWA)
(B) Mike S (GWG)
(B)  Able (A)
(B) Andew M (G)

(Y) Anders (G)
(Y) Ryan (G)

KEEPER:
Trevor (WIN)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(B) Andrew M
(Y) Anders

SUPER BOWL SPARTANS!

CLASSIC MATCH BETWEEN YELLOWS AND BLACKS!!

Things are Heating up in Downtown Oshawa!

Fans are elated and overjoyed at the prospects of seeing their home town heroes facing each other on the pitch today.

For Spartan fans, it's not about American "hand-egg", it's all about fancy foot work, headers and amazing saves between the posts.

"I'm always happy to see my boys rise to the level of competition in this league," revealed Baron in a pre game work out.

This time around, it'll be the spirited Yellow Backs captained by Anders and Shawn, verseus the high flying scorers of Black, led by Scott and Terry.

"We'd love to see some revenge over the previous game," stated Scott," we've learned a lot from our opponents, and hope that this gives us some prep for future games."

"All things aside, I think that this will be a game with our superior defense going against their renowned offense," analyzed Anders." Devon is going to be key in this game. Like, the guy isn't leading the Golden Pear for nothing. He's on a tear, and we need to end his points streak."

STATS:
(Y) Bryan

(B) Andrew B (A)
(B) Abe (G)
(B) Andrew B (G) PK
(B) Andrew B (A)
(B) Devon (G)
(B) Abe (A)
(B) Andew M (G)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(Y) Aaron
(B) Mike S

DOUBLE HEART BREAK

BLACKS AND YELLOWS LOSE ON LAST MINUTE PLAYS

Aaron can't believe that Goal went in

It was a double loss for the good guys last Sunday.

The Blacks went down by two early goals.

"We looked like a bunch of beer league goons," stated Assistant Captain Terry,"We just couldn't get anything going properly."

But the second half inaugurated a new zeal in the Spartans.
In fact, the Blacks were hammering their opponents, though only one goal made it to the twine.

"They had posts, cross bars and one line save by a Defender," said TSN's Craig Forrest,"They were simply unlucky not to be ahead by three or four."

The last play of the game saw Golden Pear challenger Andrew M header a nifty cross, only for the ball to spin into the goal post at the last minute.

"sometimes, that's how the ball bounces," said a dejected Andrew M.

On the other side of town, the Yellow Backs were against the top "B" league team.

Despite them going ahead by one in the first, the Yellow stormed back, actually taking a  lead when Bryan was too obviously fouled in the 18.

"I don't see much," said the REF," but this was just so visible that even I had to award a penalty shot."

Their opponents scored just a few minutes after, off  a sloppy clearance.

Then, with only 5 seconds left in the game, the Yellow Backs were sent to the dressing room  as the defeated team. A poor set of direction screened John, and allowed the game to change from a tie.

"Sometimes we'll get games like this," Coach Baron related in a post game interview with reporters," where a lucky chance settles the game. But the lads need to take it to the showers that they didn't get pasted like before. This is a new year. And they're not getting drubbed."

STATS:
(Y) Anders (G)
(Y) Bryan (G) PK

(B) Andrew M (A)
(B) Devon (G)

MAN OF THE MATCH
(Y) Stephen
(B) Leigh

SPARTANS GO UNDEFEATED IN FIRST GAMES

TOP FINISHES AGAINST TOP TEAMS

Yellows add another WIN to the column

It was a good weekend for the good guys!

The Blacks, having come off a tie last week, resumed their stride with another tie against the top "B" team.

Action was swift, and both sides had numerous chances to send the game away. But some great team efforts kept our boys in it at all times.

"There's a certain amount of respect for opponents of that quality," Baron said in a post game scrum,"but this team skirted the boundaries with their physical play and diving."

Near the end of the game, the REF lost control of the game. Matt was pushed into the boards, and retorted with some fist-a-cuffs. Baron was also accosted on the field, resulting in him hip checking an opponent to the ground.

"Physicality will always be dealt with in kind," Spartan Terry was heard yelling.

Later that day, across town and to the left, the Yellow Backs were pitted against Spartan outdoor team mates.

The play was furious, and the result intense.

Down one at the half, the Yellow Spartans came back with a roar, downing the Lions 2-1.

"It's a pleasure to see my Yellows win a game against the second rated team in the "B" league," smiled Baron, who seemed to really enjoy himself off pitch. "and this is simply a taste of what's to come. Will we win every game? No. But will we be in every game? I'd say yes."

Some fast and furious action will hit the fields this Sunday. Fans are requested to come early and support their stars!

STATS:
(B) Harold (A)
(B) Andrew M (G)
(B) Andrew M (A)
(B) Harold (G)
(B) Andrew B (A)
(B) Devon (G)

(Y) Ryan (A)
(Y) Blaze (G)
(Y) Bryan (AWG)
(Y) Ryan (GWG)

GOALKEEPERS:
(B) Leigh (Tie)
(Y) John (Win)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(B) Harold
(Y) Ryan

BUILDING ON MOMENTUM

BOTH SPARTAN TEAMS LOOK GREAT FOR 2015!

Andrew B goes for the shot!

Spartans!

First I'll address the Blacks, who tied their opponents last game.

You were the dominate team.
You deserved to win.

You didn't deserve what the REF had to say or do.
The official definitely won the game for them, playing the 8th man.

But we're going to have to get used to it!
For some reason this particular REF loves to screw with us.
Let's play extra hard next time this idiot with a whistle is on our field.

Yellow Backs!

You played the toughest team in the league.

You scored first, but the goal was called off.

Even then, you guys played with heart, and fended them off again and again.
In fact, with 15 minutes to go they were only up by one goal.
They were frustrated. They were stretched to the max.

We're ready to take the next step...and improve with each game.

TO BOTH...

The playoffs are in three months.
We're going to be ready!

STATS:
(Y) Michael T (A)
(Y) Blaze (G)

(B) Andrew B (A)
(B) Devon (G)
(B) Steve (A)
(B) Devon (G)
(B) Mike S (A)
(B) D-VON (G)

KEEPER:
(B) Leigh (tied)

MAN OF THE MATCH:
(Y) Bryan
(B) Devon