We kicked off our season under the lights against defending national champion Ohio Wesleyan on Friday night. Mom, Dad, and Nelson arrived for kickoff in front of a record breaking crowd of about 1800 fans...the place was rockin. I played about 25 minutes between both halves - made good passes and won a lot of 50/50 plays...it was very scrappy and fast out there...always fun to have fans screaming "cmon Zimm!" We went into the half tied 1-1 and after 2 overtime periods we ended in a 2-2 tie. We weren't disappointed but certainly felt like we could've won the game.
On Saturday we all jumped in the car and headed up to D.C. to watch Tyler and the CUA men's team open their season against Dickinson. Tyler played great and was one of only a few subs to rotate in the game...he created some great scoring opportunities from the outside mid position and is certainly well-prepared to play at the college level. I like the way Catholic played and I see a lot of potential for the team and their program...a tough 3-2 loss for them in OT but a promising season lies ahead...who knows, we may meet in the NCAA tourney ;)
Back at CNU this afternoon we played against York in front of a more modest (but still very enthusiastic/supportive) crowd. A lot of our guys looked tired...it was extremely hot and humid...I came in the first half with about 20 min. to go but nothing started clicking with the guys...we went into half down 2-0 - a position we aren't used to being in. We started the second half slow again and I was pumped just to get back into the game...came in flying and helped set up a goal to get us on the board. Coach pulled me out after about 10-15 min. and I was a bit frustrated because I felt that I'd really helped turn our momentum around. I came back in with about 10 to go but we came short of tying the game...overall I'm pleased with my individual effort but discouraged by our result. Here's a link to the game article.
Overall I'm disappointed that our style of play is limited to a long ball, kick and run strategy. It doesn't work against athletic, well-coached teams. Click here for good article about how a possessive style of play leads to quality scoring opportunities. Hopefully we'll find ways to possess the ball more because that's how our best scoring opportunities came this weekend.
Very thankful for all the support and encouragement from my family and friends this weekend...this last go around of soccer wouldn't be possible for me if it wasn't for them. I had a blast seeing everyone this weekend and it was fun having Nelson visit in the locker room with the team and stay for a sleep over in the apartment last night...already looking forward to another visit next weekend. Staying positive and moving forward.
