EMFC Rangers - '95 Boys

Rangers News

A Season Defined by One Goal?

The Ranger's spring was, in several ways, a season defined and determined by a single goal. At the beginning, our one goal was to finish among the top three in a league that was clearly top-heavy. In pursuit of that objective we came to realize that a one goal advantage was seldom a safe lead. On at least two occasions, one more goal would have given us a win and the 2 extra points we needed to secure that third place position regardless of the result on our final weekend. As we entered our last contest on Saturday we thought that the ONLY way to achieve our one goal of finishing in the top three was to defeat the opponent that we faced that day. However, as it turned out, one more goal and the resulting draw would have been enough to meet our objective. Alas, on Saturday the Rangers could only muster? one goal.

Our performance last weekend was far from "poor", and as a coach I was quite satisfied with our efforts. The Rangers and the Fury were probably the two most evenly matched teams in the league and the intensity of this competition was rivaled only by the neighboring rugby games at Delta Park. Despite our coming short, Saturday's game was a very appealing contest to watch. The overall skill level was excellent and both teams appeared to have an above-average appreciation for how the game SHOULD be played. Passes had purpose, players had vision, and teams played as cohesive units. Neither team played like they were "afraid to lose" (though the stakes were high for EMFC and Alameda). Both teams played like they were "determined to win". Bottom line? this was a very high-quality U12 soccer game and the Rangers should be proud of the way they battled on the last day of the season!

I suppose the highlight for the Rangers came courtesy of Nathan Starnes. Immediately after falling down 0-2, Natron took the ensuing kick-off and navigated through the entire Fury defense, breeched the 18 yard box, and calmly looped a shot over the keeper and into the upper right-hand corner. Perhaps "calmly" isn't the best word to describe Natron's shot? Composed, yes, but "sedate", no. Frankly, I think the boy was pretty ticked-off! It was a great individual effort for sure, but I think it also says a lot about how this team has grown up over the spring. The fall season was rough. State Cup could only offer moral victories. The first part of the spring was mediocre. It would have been easy for the Rangers to lay down and surrender another goal on Saturday, but instead they continued to fight back. It seems that, maybe for the first time this year, the Rangers really do believe in themselves and their ability to control a game. Last weekend, the boys played in a way that would make any coach proud. Last weekend, the Rangers played with confidence, determination, and skill. Last weekend, EMFC didn't win the game, but I know they won the respect of all who watched them play. If for no other reason, any spectator could tell that every Ranger had something on his mind? one goal. You've taken a big step lads! On to the next chapter?

- Coach Cool

P.S.- It's been a wonderful two years Rangers! Thanks to all the players and families that made this group so special. Know that this coach will ALWAYS be a RANGER!!