Next Match ~ Friday, August 28, 2009 @ 7:00 p.m.

Great turnout and great match last weekend, as Evendale FC players brought a little (gulp) defense to the game. Outstanding keeper play by Steve B. and the Keeper-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named (mainly because I do not know it). The Rocket broke the scoring draught late in the first half, scoring not with his licensed-as-a-deadly-weapon right foot but a chest-trap on a put back. Paulo responded by tucking one neatly into the side-netting, to bring the sides level at half. Adding a bit of levity to the match, another player-who-shall-not-be-named "just missing" from about six, launching a touch shot about 30-40 yards over the crossbar, with the touch of a Baby Elephant. Second half featuring a stronger offensive showing, as tired legs gave way to counter-attacks, in what was likely our most competitive match of the season ... which leads me to one important reminder:

Do not make any challenge on a player from behind for any reason ... there were probably 3-4 "close calls" in terms of over-aggressive plays, which is great competition but inconsistent with the purpose of this game. Please refrain from making a play on the ball unless and until you are in front of (or goalside) of the player in possession, even if you can get the ball first, even if you feel you can do so "safely," and even if it means allowing a goal to be scored. There are several perfectly "legal" plays and challenges that we prohibit in this particular pickup game, in order to reduce the risk of injury.

By popular demand (10 total votes), we are returning to FRIDAY EVENINGS at 7:00 p.m., starting this week. Please post a comment below and indicate whether you are IN or OUT this week ... and please try to encourage the friends, associates, and "lurkers" to post comments as well, since I think some players decide whether to come or not based upon the numbers. As always, bring light and dark shirts so that we can make even teams, and check the website for weather cancellations (i.e., we are suppose to get rain tomorrow night).

See you on the pitch ...

Jogo Bonito!