Tampa Prep’s hopes of a second state title were dashed on Friday night as the Terrapins were never able to find their rhythm against a strong Delray Beach American Heritage side that earned a 2-0 victory for its third state title.
The Tampa Tribune’s Jarrett Guthrie details the game here.
Seminole and Palm Harbor did advance to their respective finals today, the Warhawks coming through a torrential downpour for most of the game to edge Lynn Haven Mosley 1-0 in overtime while Palm Harbor eased past Miami Lourdes 2-0.
Berkeley Prep will try to earn its first state title this morning as it faces Plantation American Heritage at 11 a.m. PAH is going for its sixth state title, all earned since 2000, and its second straight, and enters as the No.9-ranked team in the country according to ESPN Rise.
If you can’t get to Pepin Stadium, you can follow all the action here, as TBO.com will be webcasting the game live.
Elsewhere, the St. Petersburg Times' Eduardo A. Encina reports that Hillsborough County is interested in keeping the State Soccer Finals in Tampa for the next two seasons. The county holds a two-year option, and Hillsborough County Athletic Director Lanness Robinson believes the tournament is "good for the community."
In boys action on Friday night, it was a tough night for Hillsborough County teams as Sickles, Newsome and Berkeley Prep all fell one step short of the final four with region final losses to Seminole, Auburndale and Fort Myers Bishop Verot respectively.
Newsome was unlucky not to reach its first final four in a 3-2 defeat to Auburndale, the Wolves controlling more possession and creating more chances. Unfortunately, they were unable to take advantage of their superiority where it mattered most, missing a first half penalty and having a second half goal ruled out on a close offside call, and the Bloodhounds made them pay.
Seminole played giant-killer again, defeating Sickles in a penalty shootout after the two sides had played to a 1-1 tie through regulation and overtime. After upsetting East Lake on Tuesday night, Warhawks coach Rick Masi told the Times' Joey Knight he wasn't competely sure he could explain the Warhawks playoff run.
Berkeley Prep couldn't hold on to a halftime lead against Bishop Verot, falling 2-1 to the Vikings. In a text message after the game, Buccaneers coach Tim Cooper said his side got away from its normal style of play, and paid the price for it.
That leaves Tampa Prep as the lone Hillsborough side remaining, the Terrapins’ match against Vero Beach St. Edward’s being postponed until today at 1 p.m.
In Pasco County, Mitchell reached the state final four for the first time with a 1-0 victory against Celebration. The Tribune’s Mike Camunas was at the game, and filed this report on the Mustangs remarkable run.
With Seminole already through after its shootout victory against Sickles, Palm Harbor can make it two Pinellas teams in the final four with a victory against Orlando Olympia this afternoon, the Hurricanes match being postponed on Friday night as well due to the heavy rains that swept through the state.
Showing posts with label Sickles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sickles. Show all posts
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
Preps: Gryphons, Wolves look to reach first state finals
It’s a big night for Sickles and Newsome as both schools try to advance to the state final four for the first time in either of the boys soccer programs histories.
Sickles is at home, where they have been dominant all season, to take on a surprising Seminole squad that upset East Lake 4-0 on Tuesday night. The Gryphons needed a penalty shootout to get past district rival Gaither, and will look to put in a more composed performance, getting into their passing rhythm better despite still being without key midfielder Michael Bazja, currently in Puerto Rico with the Region III Olympic Development Program.
Newsome, on the other hand, appears to have all of its mojo working as it hosts Auburndale. The Wolves pulled off a miraculous comeback against Plant City on Tuesday night, winning 4-3 in overtime after being down 3-1 with 20 minutes to go. At the center of the comeback was Steven Gonzalez, who now has hat tricks in his last two games. The Wolves will need to be at their best against the Bloodhounds, who despite only being a district runner-up are ranked No.46 in the ESPN Rise Fab 50. Their loss to Lakeland George Jenkins in the district final was the Bloodhounds first loss of the season, and they have had state title pedigree before, winning in 2005 and 2007.
For a look at Berkeley Prep, Tampa Prep and their opponents tonight, click here.
In Pasco county, Mitchell will face Celebration in the first region final in program history. The Tampa Tribune's Mike Camunas takes a look at the match-up here.
Sickles is at home, where they have been dominant all season, to take on a surprising Seminole squad that upset East Lake 4-0 on Tuesday night. The Gryphons needed a penalty shootout to get past district rival Gaither, and will look to put in a more composed performance, getting into their passing rhythm better despite still being without key midfielder Michael Bazja, currently in Puerto Rico with the Region III Olympic Development Program.
Newsome, on the other hand, appears to have all of its mojo working as it hosts Auburndale. The Wolves pulled off a miraculous comeback against Plant City on Tuesday night, winning 4-3 in overtime after being down 3-1 with 20 minutes to go. At the center of the comeback was Steven Gonzalez, who now has hat tricks in his last two games. The Wolves will need to be at their best against the Bloodhounds, who despite only being a district runner-up are ranked No.46 in the ESPN Rise Fab 50. Their loss to Lakeland George Jenkins in the district final was the Bloodhounds first loss of the season, and they have had state title pedigree before, winning in 2005 and 2007.
For a look at Berkeley Prep, Tampa Prep and their opponents tonight, click here.
In Pasco county, Mitchell will face Celebration in the first region final in program history. The Tampa Tribune's Mike Camunas takes a look at the match-up here.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Preps: Stout shines for Sickles, Seminole stuns East Lake, Newsome records remarkable rally in region semifinals
It wasn't the same level of play as their previous two encounters, thanks mainly to the high stakes involved, but the intensity between Sickles and Gaither last night lived up to all the pregame hype.
In the end, though, it was Sickles goalkeeper Brandon Stout who stole the show, stopping all three Gaither shooters in the penalty shootout to send his side through to the Class 5A-Region 3 final. According to Stout, it was the first time he had accomplished such a feat in a shootout at any level, and as I wrote here for the Tampa Tribune, before a shot even got taken, you could tell before the shootout began that Stout was at the peak of his game.
The Gryphons will face Seminole in the region final after the Warhawks stunned district rival East Lake 4-0. As The St. Petersburg Times' Bryan Burns writes here, it was the first time in five meetings this season that the Warhawks had defeated the Eagles, and they did so by playing a flawless game, taking an early lead and racking up a 3-0 advantage by halftime.
In Class 5A-Region 2, Newsome's remarkable run in their first region tournament continued thanks to Steven Gonzalez, who scored a hat trick including the game-winner, as the Wolves rallied for a 4-3 overtime victory against Plant City. The Tribune's Jarrett Guthrie was at the game, and filed this report.
The Wolves will now host Auburndale, which continued its run from being a district runner-up to the region final with a 2-0 victory against Ridge Community School on Tuesday.
In Class 4A, Jesuit's season came to an end against a strong, and experienced, Palmetto team trying to make its second straight run to the final four. As the Times' Eduardo A. Encina writes, Jesuit's youth was a key factor in the 4-1 defeat, but Coach Bob Bauman remained confident his side would be back and stronger for it next season.
Mitchell, on the other hand, is going to its first region final after the Mustangs defeated Land O' Lakes 3-2. As The Times' Izzy Gould writes, early goals from mistakes by the Gators proved crucial for the senior-heavy Mustangs.
The Mustangs will face Celebration in the region final after it defeated Ocala Vanguard 2-1.
Berkeley Prep set up the showdown with Fort Myers Bishop Verot most had been anticipating with a 7-1 victory against Clearwater Central Catholic. Kevin Harvey and T.J. Roeh each scored twice for the Buccaneers, Roehn reaching the 104 goal-mark for his career, putting him one behind Tyler Davis for the Buccaneers school record.
Bishop Verot has just as easy a time against DeSoto County, the No.22 team in the latest ESPN Rise national rankings earning a 6-1 victory.
Tampa Prep also cruised into the region final, Wes Sever notching a hat trick for the Terrapins in a 7-1 victory against Indian Rocks Christian. The Terrapins will travel to face Vero Beach St. Edward's in the region final after the Pirates defeated Evangelical Christian 3-1 to advance to the region final.
In the end, though, it was Sickles goalkeeper Brandon Stout who stole the show, stopping all three Gaither shooters in the penalty shootout to send his side through to the Class 5A-Region 3 final. According to Stout, it was the first time he had accomplished such a feat in a shootout at any level, and as I wrote here for the Tampa Tribune, before a shot even got taken, you could tell before the shootout began that Stout was at the peak of his game.
The Gryphons will face Seminole in the region final after the Warhawks stunned district rival East Lake 4-0. As The St. Petersburg Times' Bryan Burns writes here, it was the first time in five meetings this season that the Warhawks had defeated the Eagles, and they did so by playing a flawless game, taking an early lead and racking up a 3-0 advantage by halftime.
In Class 5A-Region 2, Newsome's remarkable run in their first region tournament continued thanks to Steven Gonzalez, who scored a hat trick including the game-winner, as the Wolves rallied for a 4-3 overtime victory against Plant City. The Tribune's Jarrett Guthrie was at the game, and filed this report.
The Wolves will now host Auburndale, which continued its run from being a district runner-up to the region final with a 2-0 victory against Ridge Community School on Tuesday.
In Class 4A, Jesuit's season came to an end against a strong, and experienced, Palmetto team trying to make its second straight run to the final four. As the Times' Eduardo A. Encina writes, Jesuit's youth was a key factor in the 4-1 defeat, but Coach Bob Bauman remained confident his side would be back and stronger for it next season.
Mitchell, on the other hand, is going to its first region final after the Mustangs defeated Land O' Lakes 3-2. As The Times' Izzy Gould writes, early goals from mistakes by the Gators proved crucial for the senior-heavy Mustangs.
The Mustangs will face Celebration in the region final after it defeated Ocala Vanguard 2-1.
Berkeley Prep set up the showdown with Fort Myers Bishop Verot most had been anticipating with a 7-1 victory against Clearwater Central Catholic. Kevin Harvey and T.J. Roeh each scored twice for the Buccaneers, Roehn reaching the 104 goal-mark for his career, putting him one behind Tyler Davis for the Buccaneers school record.
Bishop Verot has just as easy a time against DeSoto County, the No.22 team in the latest ESPN Rise national rankings earning a 6-1 victory.
Tampa Prep also cruised into the region final, Wes Sever notching a hat trick for the Terrapins in a 7-1 victory against Indian Rocks Christian. The Terrapins will travel to face Vero Beach St. Edward's in the region final after the Pirates defeated Evangelical Christian 3-1 to advance to the region final.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Preps: Sickles No.6 in NSCAA, No.15 in ESPN Rise polls
Sickles boys soccer squad has moves up to No.6 in the National Soccer Coaches Association of American national prep poll, and to No.15 in the ESPN Rise Fab 50 rankings ahead of its game against Gaither in the Class 5A-Region 3 boys soccer semifinals tonight.
The Gryphons were ranked No.10 by the NSCAA in the last set of rankings two weeks ago, and edged up one spot in the ESPN rankings from last week.
Sickles is No.2 in the State behind Melbourne in the NSCAA regional rankings, with East Lake ranked No.6 in the region. The Eagles are also ranked No.23 nationally by ESPN ahead of their game tonight with Seminole in the other Class 5A-Region 3 semifinal.
On the girls side, Palm Harbor moved up to No.8 in the ESPN Rise Fab 50 after its advancement to the state final four on Saturday with a 2-1 win against Apopka. The Hurricanes didn’t break into the NSCAA Top 10, though, currently ranked No.9 in the regional rankings, behind Berkeley Prep which currently sits in the No.7 spot.
The Gryphons were ranked No.10 by the NSCAA in the last set of rankings two weeks ago, and edged up one spot in the ESPN rankings from last week.
Sickles is No.2 in the State behind Melbourne in the NSCAA regional rankings, with East Lake ranked No.6 in the region. The Eagles are also ranked No.23 nationally by ESPN ahead of their game tonight with Seminole in the other Class 5A-Region 3 semifinal.
On the girls side, Palm Harbor moved up to No.8 in the ESPN Rise Fab 50 after its advancement to the state final four on Saturday with a 2-1 win against Apopka. The Hurricanes didn’t break into the NSCAA Top 10, though, currently ranked No.9 in the regional rankings, behind Berkeley Prep which currently sits in the No.7 spot.
Preps: Sickles-Gaither rematch highlights region semifinal schedule
The first two meetings beween Sickles and Gaither have been outstanding affairs, Sickles winning the regular season meeting and edgeing out the Cowboys in a penalty shootout for the 5A-District 9 title just over a week ago.
If you're a fan of soccer, and haven't got an obligation to another school to be at their game tonight, go and see this game, Sickles High, 7 p.m. tonight.
For a look at all of the region semifinals involving Hillsborough and Pasco County teams, here is the preview I wrote for the Tampa Tribune this morning.
The St. Petersburg Times' Bryan Burns takes a look at the four games involving Pinellas County teams, including the one all-Pinellas match-up of East Lake vs. Seminole here.
Can't make it to tonight's Sickles-Gaither game? Follow the Tampa Bay Soccer Blog on twitter at twitter.com/tbsoccerblog for live updates, and other scores from select area games.
If you're a fan of soccer, and haven't got an obligation to another school to be at their game tonight, go and see this game, Sickles High, 7 p.m. tonight.
For a look at all of the region semifinals involving Hillsborough and Pasco County teams, here is the preview I wrote for the Tampa Tribune this morning.
The St. Petersburg Times' Bryan Burns takes a look at the four games involving Pinellas County teams, including the one all-Pinellas match-up of East Lake vs. Seminole here.
Can't make it to tonight's Sickles-Gaither game? Follow the Tampa Bay Soccer Blog on twitter at twitter.com/tbsoccerblog for live updates, and other scores from select area games.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Preps: Panthers' stunning victory highlights region quarterfinals
Plant's first boys region playoff victory since 2003 likely couldn't have come in more dramatic fashion.
The Panthers scored on what was probably their final attack of the game to equalize on a header by John Fernandez before Danny Johnson scored in the 97th minute to give his side a 2-1 victory against Countryside on Thursday night, setting off crazy scene's at Dad's Stadium, writes the St. Petersburg Times' Eduardo A. Encina.
Plant has had a remarkable second season under Coach Chris Carbon, but this victory is, at least on paper, its most impressive to date. Now the Panthers will hit the road to take on a Palm Harbor side that only advanced past Bloomingdale 1-0 in a penalty shootout.
While losing in a shootout is always disappointing, Bloomingdale looks like a team on the rise. The Bulls only lose five seniors from this year's team should the rest of the roster return, and will have the highly talented Tevin Gage returning for his senior season.
Speaking of penalty shootouts, Gaither managed to squeak through against Port Charlotte after goalkeeper John Nardozzi made a save in the first round of sudden-death for a 2-1 victory, David Briggs having scored on the prior kick for what proved to be the game-winner.
The Cowboys will now get a district final rematch with Sickles, which cruised to victory against Punta Gorda Charlotte 3-0. As the Times' John C. Cotey writes, the Gryphons throw-ins, provided predominantly by Ben Wiley on Thursday thanks to Tyler Deming's absence, were crucial to their advancement to the region semifinals for the first time in school history.
There will also be rematches in the other two local 5A semifinals as Newsome routed Brooksville Central 7-1 behind Steven Gonzalez's hat trick, and Plant City edged out Ocala Forest 2-1, although someone should probably mention that the Raiders first loss came in the Wharton Invitational to Hillsborough.
East Lake and Seminole will also face off again, both sides easing through to the region semifinals as the Eagles defeated Pinellas Park 5-0 and the Warhawks blasted Northeast 7-1.
In Class 4A, the "unofficial Pasco County Championship" game, so dubbed by Mitchell coach Oscar Ubillus, is on for Tuesday night as the Mustangs will face Land O' Lakes for a place in the region final. Mitchell defeated Wiregrass Ranch 5-1 on Thursday night, while the Gators defeated Wesley Chapel 3-0.
Jesuit also moved on, but had to survive a late rally by Lakewood Ranch to hold on for a 3-2 victory. The Tigers will need to be better against a Palmetto team that romped past Steinbrenner 5-0 in Tuesday's region semifinal.
Berkeley Prep and Clearwater Central Catholic will face off again for a place in the Class 3A-Region 3 final, the Buccaneers cruising to a 5-0 victory against Frostproof, while the Marauders got two late first half goals to advance past Mulberry 2-0.
Tampa Prep will also face a rematch against Indian Rocks Christian after Anthony Baumann (four assists) and Wes Sever (four goals) allowed the Terrapins to cruise past Bradenton St. Stephen's 6-0. IRC advanced with a 3-0 victory against Out-of-Door Academy thanks to Cody Sitton's hat trick, but Seffner Christian's run came to an end with a 4-0 defeat at Florida Air.
The Panthers scored on what was probably their final attack of the game to equalize on a header by John Fernandez before Danny Johnson scored in the 97th minute to give his side a 2-1 victory against Countryside on Thursday night, setting off crazy scene's at Dad's Stadium, writes the St. Petersburg Times' Eduardo A. Encina.
Plant has had a remarkable second season under Coach Chris Carbon, but this victory is, at least on paper, its most impressive to date. Now the Panthers will hit the road to take on a Palm Harbor side that only advanced past Bloomingdale 1-0 in a penalty shootout.
While losing in a shootout is always disappointing, Bloomingdale looks like a team on the rise. The Bulls only lose five seniors from this year's team should the rest of the roster return, and will have the highly talented Tevin Gage returning for his senior season.
Speaking of penalty shootouts, Gaither managed to squeak through against Port Charlotte after goalkeeper John Nardozzi made a save in the first round of sudden-death for a 2-1 victory, David Briggs having scored on the prior kick for what proved to be the game-winner.
The Cowboys will now get a district final rematch with Sickles, which cruised to victory against Punta Gorda Charlotte 3-0. As the Times' John C. Cotey writes, the Gryphons throw-ins, provided predominantly by Ben Wiley on Thursday thanks to Tyler Deming's absence, were crucial to their advancement to the region semifinals for the first time in school history.
There will also be rematches in the other two local 5A semifinals as Newsome routed Brooksville Central 7-1 behind Steven Gonzalez's hat trick, and Plant City edged out Ocala Forest 2-1, although someone should probably mention that the Raiders first loss came in the Wharton Invitational to Hillsborough.
East Lake and Seminole will also face off again, both sides easing through to the region semifinals as the Eagles defeated Pinellas Park 5-0 and the Warhawks blasted Northeast 7-1.
In Class 4A, the "unofficial Pasco County Championship" game, so dubbed by Mitchell coach Oscar Ubillus, is on for Tuesday night as the Mustangs will face Land O' Lakes for a place in the region final. Mitchell defeated Wiregrass Ranch 5-1 on Thursday night, while the Gators defeated Wesley Chapel 3-0.
Jesuit also moved on, but had to survive a late rally by Lakewood Ranch to hold on for a 3-2 victory. The Tigers will need to be better against a Palmetto team that romped past Steinbrenner 5-0 in Tuesday's region semifinal.
Berkeley Prep and Clearwater Central Catholic will face off again for a place in the Class 3A-Region 3 final, the Buccaneers cruising to a 5-0 victory against Frostproof, while the Marauders got two late first half goals to advance past Mulberry 2-0.
Tampa Prep will also face a rematch against Indian Rocks Christian after Anthony Baumann (four assists) and Wes Sever (four goals) allowed the Terrapins to cruise past Bradenton St. Stephen's 6-0. IRC advanced with a 3-0 victory against Out-of-Door Academy thanks to Cody Sitton's hat trick, but Seffner Christian's run came to an end with a 4-0 defeat at Florida Air.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Preps: Sickles, East Lake each move up one in ESPN Poll
Sickles moved up one spot to No.16 in the latest ESPN Rise Boys Fab 50 when the new rankings were released on Tuesday afternoon.
The Gryphons host Punta Gorda Charlotte on Thursday in the Class 5A-Region 3 quarterfinals, and should they reach the region final could face a showdown with No.25 East Lake, which also rose one spot. The Eagles face Pinellas Park on Thursday.
In the girls poll, Palm Harbor University remained No.10 in the nation ahead of the Hurricanes match-up with Plant tonight in the Class 6A-Region 2 semifinals.
The Gryphons host Punta Gorda Charlotte on Thursday in the Class 5A-Region 3 quarterfinals, and should they reach the region final could face a showdown with No.25 East Lake, which also rose one spot. The Eagles face Pinellas Park on Thursday.
In the girls poll, Palm Harbor University remained No.10 in the nation ahead of the Hurricanes match-up with Plant tonight in the Class 6A-Region 2 semifinals.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Preps: Sickles retains top spot in final Hillsborough Poll
Sickles retained the top spot in the final Hillsborough Boys Coaches Poll of the season after its penalty shootout victory in the Class 5A-District 9 final against No.3 Gaither on Friday night.
The Gryphons will face Punta Gorda Charlotte on Thursday in the region quarterfinals of the Class 5A state tournament, and could face a rematch with the Cowboys in the semifinals should Gaither defeat Port Charlotte.
Jumping up five places to No.2 was Jesuit, the Class 4A-9 champions, while 5A-8 champions Newsome and 2A-9 champions Tampa Prep rounded out the top five.
Plant City dropped from the No.2 slot to No.6 after its loss to Newsome in the 5A-8 final, while Berkeley Prep re-entered the poll at No.7 and 6A-8 champion Plant earned the No.8 spot.
The full poll can be found below.
1. Sickles (21-1-3)
2. Jesuit (17-4-3)
3. Gaither (15-4-1)
4. Newsome (15-4-3)
5. Tampa Prep (14-4-2)
6. Plant City (13-2-2)
7. Berkeley Prep (10-8-3)
8. Plant (10-7-1)
9. Tampa Catholic (11-3-5)
10. East Bay (13-3-1)
The Gryphons will face Punta Gorda Charlotte on Thursday in the region quarterfinals of the Class 5A state tournament, and could face a rematch with the Cowboys in the semifinals should Gaither defeat Port Charlotte.
Jumping up five places to No.2 was Jesuit, the Class 4A-9 champions, while 5A-8 champions Newsome and 2A-9 champions Tampa Prep rounded out the top five.
Plant City dropped from the No.2 slot to No.6 after its loss to Newsome in the 5A-8 final, while Berkeley Prep re-entered the poll at No.7 and 6A-8 champion Plant earned the No.8 spot.
The full poll can be found below.
1. Sickles (21-1-3)
2. Jesuit (17-4-3)
3. Gaither (15-4-1)
4. Newsome (15-4-3)
5. Tampa Prep (14-4-2)
6. Plant City (13-2-2)
7. Berkeley Prep (10-8-3)
8. Plant (10-7-1)
9. Tampa Catholic (11-3-5)
10. East Bay (13-3-1)
Friday, January 29, 2010
Preps: Sickles leads way on Wharton Invitational All-Tournament team
Sickles led the way with three players named to the Wharton Invitational All-Tournament team, defender Gil Davis and midfielders Matt Brown and Boris Simeunovic all being named when the list was released on Friday.
Brown scored both goals in the Gryphons 2-0 semifinal victory against King, and added an assist in the final against East Bay, while Davis led a defense that conceded only one goal in five games over the tournament.
Finalist East Bay and King each had a pair of players named, David Castillo and Miguel Cerveleon being honored for the Indians and Jacob Baker and Christopher Lewis honored for the Lions.
The full team is listed below:
Keenan Kushner, Wharton
Gil Davis, Sickles
Jacob Baker, King
Christopher Lewis, King
David Castillo, East Bay
Boris Simeunovic, Sickles
Joey Perfetto, Newsome
Matt Brown, Sickles
Miguel Cerveleon, East Bay
Kofi Forkuoh, Hillsborough
Esgar Montelongo, Plant City
Brown scored both goals in the Gryphons 2-0 semifinal victory against King, and added an assist in the final against East Bay, while Davis led a defense that conceded only one goal in five games over the tournament.
Finalist East Bay and King each had a pair of players named, David Castillo and Miguel Cerveleon being honored for the Indians and Jacob Baker and Christopher Lewis honored for the Lions.
The full team is listed below:
Keenan Kushner, Wharton
Gil Davis, Sickles
Jacob Baker, King
Christopher Lewis, King
David Castillo, East Bay
Boris Simeunovic, Sickles
Joey Perfetto, Newsome
Matt Brown, Sickles
Miguel Cerveleon, East Bay
Kofi Forkuoh, Hillsborough
Esgar Montelongo, Plant City
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Preps: Palm Harbor girls still No.10, Sickles boys up to No.17 in ESPN rankings
Palm Harbor University's girls remained ranked No.10 in the latest set of ESPN Rise Fab 50 rankings after a 4-0 victory against Countryside in the Class 6A-Disrict 8 final last Friday.
The victory gave the Hurricanes their eighth straight district title. They will face Bloomingdale on Thursday night as they begin their pursuit of a second straight state title.
On the boys side, Sickles moved up five places to No.17 after its victory at the Wharton Invitational last week. The Gryphons are the favorites to win Class 5A-District 9, and could be headed for a collision course with East Lake, now ranked No.26 and the favorite in Class 5A-District 11.
The two teams could meet in the Class 5A-Region 3 final, should each advance that far.
The victory gave the Hurricanes their eighth straight district title. They will face Bloomingdale on Thursday night as they begin their pursuit of a second straight state title.
On the boys side, Sickles moved up five places to No.17 after its victory at the Wharton Invitational last week. The Gryphons are the favorites to win Class 5A-District 9, and could be headed for a collision course with East Lake, now ranked No.26 and the favorite in Class 5A-District 11.
The two teams could meet in the Class 5A-Region 3 final, should each advance that far.
Preps: Wharton Invitational title keeps Sickles on top of Coaches Poll
Sickles’ dominant performance in the Wharton Invitational kept the Gryphons on top of the Hillsborough County Coaches Boys Soccer Poll entering this week’s district championships, as the top eight teams in poll remained unmoved.
The only changes saw Tampa Prep move up one spot to No.9, and Wharton enter the poll as Berkeley Prep dropped out of the rankings.
The district tournaments could see multiple top five match-ups. Tonight sees No.2 Plant City and No.4 East Bay face off in the Class 5A-District 8 semifinals, and the winner could face No.5 Newsome in Friday’s final. No.1 Sickles and No.3 Gaither could also meet in the Class 5A-Disrict 9 final.
The full poll is listed below:
1. Sickles (19-1-2)
2. Plant City (12-1-2)
3. Gaither (13-3-1)
4. East Bay (13-3-1)
5. Newsome (12-4-3)
6. Steinbrenner (10-2-2)
7. Jesuit (14-4-3)
8. Tampa Catholic (11-4-3)
9. Tampa Prep (12-4-2)
10. Wharton (8-5-2)
The only changes saw Tampa Prep move up one spot to No.9, and Wharton enter the poll as Berkeley Prep dropped out of the rankings.
The district tournaments could see multiple top five match-ups. Tonight sees No.2 Plant City and No.4 East Bay face off in the Class 5A-District 8 semifinals, and the winner could face No.5 Newsome in Friday’s final. No.1 Sickles and No.3 Gaither could also meet in the Class 5A-Disrict 9 final.
The full poll is listed below:
1. Sickles (19-1-2)
2. Plant City (12-1-2)
3. Gaither (13-3-1)
4. East Bay (13-3-1)
5. Newsome (12-4-3)
6. Steinbrenner (10-2-2)
7. Jesuit (14-4-3)
8. Tampa Catholic (11-4-3)
9. Tampa Prep (12-4-2)
10. Wharton (8-5-2)
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Preps: Sickles up to No.22 in ESPN rankings; Girls districts start to hit crunch tonight
Sickles move up two spots in the latest ESPN Rise Fab 50 boys soccer poll on Tuesday, sliding the Gryphons into the No.22 spot.
The Gryphons have looked impressive all season, and overcame a slow start to earn a 3-0 win against Newsome on Tuesday evening to advance to the semifinals of the Wharton Invitational tonight. Sickles has reached the knockout stages of the tournament the past two seasons but has never won the tournament, losing in the semifinals in 2008 and in the final against Durant last season.
For more on that game, and the rest of the semifinalists, here’s my story for the Tampa Tribune this morning.
http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/jan/19/sp-sickles-reaches-semis/
East Lake also got a small bump up the rankings, moving up to No.29 this week. Should the Eagles come out of Class 5A-District 11, a potential match against the Gryphons could occur in the region final should both schools advance that far.
In the girls poll, Palm Harbor University has edged its way up to the No.10 spot of the poll, remaining the only bay area team in the Fab 50.
According to the St. Petersburg Times’ Bryan Burns, the Hurricanes appear set for a rematch with Countryside in the Class 6A-District 8 final.
http://hometeam.tampabay.com/blog/2010/jan/16/3502-pinellas-girls-soccer-district-preview/
The district tournaments start getting to the sharp end tonight in Hillsborough County, with berths in the region tournament at stake in tonight’s semifinals. Here’s a look at the county from The St. Petersburg Times’ Eduardo A. Encina and the Tampa Tribune’s Jarrett Guthrie.
http://hometeam.tampabay.com/blog/2010/jan/16/5129-hillsborough-girls-soccer-district-preview/
http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/jan/18/girls-soccer-district-preview/sports-prepsports/
The Gryphons have looked impressive all season, and overcame a slow start to earn a 3-0 win against Newsome on Tuesday evening to advance to the semifinals of the Wharton Invitational tonight. Sickles has reached the knockout stages of the tournament the past two seasons but has never won the tournament, losing in the semifinals in 2008 and in the final against Durant last season.
For more on that game, and the rest of the semifinalists, here’s my story for the Tampa Tribune this morning.
http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/jan/19/sp-sickles-reaches-semis/
East Lake also got a small bump up the rankings, moving up to No.29 this week. Should the Eagles come out of Class 5A-District 11, a potential match against the Gryphons could occur in the region final should both schools advance that far.
In the girls poll, Palm Harbor University has edged its way up to the No.10 spot of the poll, remaining the only bay area team in the Fab 50.
According to the St. Petersburg Times’ Bryan Burns, the Hurricanes appear set for a rematch with Countryside in the Class 6A-District 8 final.
http://hometeam.tampabay.com/blog/2010/jan/16/3502-pinellas-girls-soccer-district-preview/
The district tournaments start getting to the sharp end tonight in Hillsborough County, with berths in the region tournament at stake in tonight’s semifinals. Here’s a look at the county from The St. Petersburg Times’ Eduardo A. Encina and the Tampa Tribune’s Jarrett Guthrie.
http://hometeam.tampabay.com/blog/2010/jan/16/5129-hillsborough-girls-soccer-district-preview/
http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/jan/18/girls-soccer-district-preview/sports-prepsports/
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Preps: Sickles up to No.24 in ESPN Rise poll, PHU girls reach No.12
Sickles has moved up seven spots to No.24 in the latest ESPN Rise Boys Soccer rankings after a pair of victories against Gaither and King last week completed a perfect district schedule and gained the Gryphons the No.1 seed in the Class 5A-District 9 tournament.
The Gryphons are joined by Tampa Prep, who re-entered the rankings at No.29 despite a 4-1 setback against Berkeley Prep on Saturday while missing Anthony Bauman and Travis Simmons, and East Lake, which moved up nine spots to No.32 after a 3-0 win against Clearwater last week.
On the girl's side, Palm Harbor University remains the only bay area representative, but is nearing the Top 10, moving up 13 spots to No.12 as the Hurricanes continue their undefeated season.
PHU is now 15-0-1 after a 3-0 win against Countryside and a pair of lopsided victories against Tarpon Springs and Sarasota Riverview last week.
The Gryphons are joined by Tampa Prep, who re-entered the rankings at No.29 despite a 4-1 setback against Berkeley Prep on Saturday while missing Anthony Bauman and Travis Simmons, and East Lake, which moved up nine spots to No.32 after a 3-0 win against Clearwater last week.
On the girl's side, Palm Harbor University remains the only bay area representative, but is nearing the Top 10, moving up 13 spots to No.12 as the Hurricanes continue their undefeated season.
PHU is now 15-0-1 after a 3-0 win against Countryside and a pair of lopsided victories against Tarpon Springs and Sarasota Riverview last week.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Preps: Wharton Invitational schedule announced
The draw for this year’s Wharton Invitational has been announced, with the Pool D draw that will see current Coaches Poll No.1 face No.5 Newsome appearing the standout game of the first round.
Host Wharton has been drawn in the same pool as current poll No.2 and undefeated Plant City. The Raiders could also have the possibility of facing Sickles in the final should both sides find their way through the draw, which also sees Pasco County’s Land O’ Lakes included this season.
The tournament begins this Saturday at the Temple Terrace Spirit Fields on Highway 301, and will return to Wharton High’s stadium for Wednesday’s semifinals and Thursday’s final. The complete schedule is listed below.
2010 Wharton Invitational
At Temple Terrace Spirit Fields
Highway 301
Pool play
Pool A
Saturday, Jan. 16
Wharton vs. Hillsborough, 3:45 p.m.
Lennard vs. Plant City, 5:45 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 19
Wharton vs. Lennard, 8 a.m.
Hillsborough vs. Plant City 8 a.m.
Hillsborough vs. Lennard, noon
Wharton vs. Plant City, 2 p.m.
Pool B
Saturday, Jan. 16
Freedom vs. Alonso, 3:45 p.m.
East Bay vs. Durant, 3:45 p.m.
Alonso vs. East Bay, 7:45 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 19
Freedom vs. East Bay, 8 p.m.
Alonso vs. Durant, 10 a.m.
Freedom vs. Durant, 4 p.m.
Pool C
Saturday, Jan. 16
Plant vs. Land O’ Lakes, 5:45 p.m.
Bloomingdale vs. King, 5:45 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan 19
Plant vs. Bloomingdale, 10 a.m.
Land O’ Lakes vs. King, 10 a.m.
Plant vs. King, 2 p.m.
Land O’ Lakes vs. Bloomingdale, 2 p.m.
Pool D
Saturday, Jan.16
Newsome vs. Brandon, 7:45 p.m.
Strawberry Crest vs. Sickles, 7:45 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 19
Newsome vs. Strawberry Crest, noon
Sickles vs. Brandon, noon
Newsome vs. Sickles, 4 p.m.
Brandon vs. Strawberry Crest, 4 p.m.
At Wharton High
Wednesday, Jan. 20
Semifinals
Pool A winner vs. Pool B winner, 6 p.m.
Pool C winner vs. Pool D winner, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 21
Final
Semifinals winners, 8 p.m.
Host Wharton has been drawn in the same pool as current poll No.2 and undefeated Plant City. The Raiders could also have the possibility of facing Sickles in the final should both sides find their way through the draw, which also sees Pasco County’s Land O’ Lakes included this season.
The tournament begins this Saturday at the Temple Terrace Spirit Fields on Highway 301, and will return to Wharton High’s stadium for Wednesday’s semifinals and Thursday’s final. The complete schedule is listed below.
2010 Wharton Invitational
At Temple Terrace Spirit Fields
Highway 301
Pool play
Pool A
Saturday, Jan. 16
Wharton vs. Hillsborough, 3:45 p.m.
Lennard vs. Plant City, 5:45 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 19
Wharton vs. Lennard, 8 a.m.
Hillsborough vs. Plant City 8 a.m.
Hillsborough vs. Lennard, noon
Wharton vs. Plant City, 2 p.m.
Pool B
Saturday, Jan. 16
Freedom vs. Alonso, 3:45 p.m.
East Bay vs. Durant, 3:45 p.m.
Alonso vs. East Bay, 7:45 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 19
Freedom vs. East Bay, 8 p.m.
Alonso vs. Durant, 10 a.m.
Freedom vs. Durant, 4 p.m.
Pool C
Saturday, Jan. 16
Plant vs. Land O’ Lakes, 5:45 p.m.
Bloomingdale vs. King, 5:45 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan 19
Plant vs. Bloomingdale, 10 a.m.
Land O’ Lakes vs. King, 10 a.m.
Plant vs. King, 2 p.m.
Land O’ Lakes vs. Bloomingdale, 2 p.m.
Pool D
Saturday, Jan.16
Newsome vs. Brandon, 7:45 p.m.
Strawberry Crest vs. Sickles, 7:45 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 19
Newsome vs. Strawberry Crest, noon
Sickles vs. Brandon, noon
Newsome vs. Sickles, 4 p.m.
Brandon vs. Strawberry Crest, 4 p.m.
At Wharton High
Wednesday, Jan. 20
Semifinals
Pool A winner vs. Pool B winner, 6 p.m.
Pool C winner vs. Pool D winner, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 21
Final
Semifinals winners, 8 p.m.
Preps: Sickles, Plant retain No.1 spots
Sickles high’s boys and Plant high’s girls retained their top spots in the first Hillsborough County Soccer Coaches poll of the new year after both posted a pair of wins as the high school season resumed last week.
Still undefeated, Plant City’s boys moved up to the No.2 spot, while Jesuit dropped three places to No.6 after its loss to Steinbrenner on Friday night. The Warriors’ win wasn’t enough to jump them over the Tigers, though, as they moved up two spots to No.8.
No.3 Tampa Prep’s loss to Berkeley Prep on Saturday afternoon did not appear to be taken into consideration by the voters this week, as the result did not appear in either school’s listed record for the poll.
Gaither, which Sickles defeated 2-1 last Tuesday before beating Freedom 3-0 on Friday night, and Newsome, who will be the No.2 seed to Plant City in the Class 5A-District 8 tournament, round out the top five on the boys side.
Still absent from the boys top 10, though, is Plant, which defeated Alonso on Friday night to earn the No.1 seed in Class 6A-District 8.
Berkeley Prep’s impressive pair of wins against North Broward Prep and Tampa Prep allowed the Buccaneers to retain the No.2 spot in the girls poll, with Bloomingdale also holding steady at No.3. Newsome and Steinbrenner switched places from the final poll of 2009, the Warriors looking to complete an undefeated regular season when they face Strawberry Crest on Friday night.
The complete polls are listed below:
BOYS
1. Sickles (14-1-2)
2. Plant City (10-0-2)
3. Tampa Prep (8-2-1)
4. Gaither (12-3-1)
5. Newsome (10-3-2)
6. Jesuit (10-3-3)
7. East Bay (9-2-1)
8. Steinbrenner (9-1-1)
9. Wharton (6-3-2)
10. Berkeley Prep (7-6-0)
GIRLS
1. Plant (18-1-1)
2. Berkeley Prep (12-4-2)
3. Bloomingdale (12-4-2)
4. Newsome (12-3-3)
5. Steinbrenner (13-0-2)
6. East Bay (11-3-2)
7. Wharton (9-6-3)
8. Freedom (9-3-3)
9. Tampa Prep (9-5-4)
10. Hillsborough (11-2-1)
Still undefeated, Plant City’s boys moved up to the No.2 spot, while Jesuit dropped three places to No.6 after its loss to Steinbrenner on Friday night. The Warriors’ win wasn’t enough to jump them over the Tigers, though, as they moved up two spots to No.8.
No.3 Tampa Prep’s loss to Berkeley Prep on Saturday afternoon did not appear to be taken into consideration by the voters this week, as the result did not appear in either school’s listed record for the poll.
Gaither, which Sickles defeated 2-1 last Tuesday before beating Freedom 3-0 on Friday night, and Newsome, who will be the No.2 seed to Plant City in the Class 5A-District 8 tournament, round out the top five on the boys side.
Still absent from the boys top 10, though, is Plant, which defeated Alonso on Friday night to earn the No.1 seed in Class 6A-District 8.
Berkeley Prep’s impressive pair of wins against North Broward Prep and Tampa Prep allowed the Buccaneers to retain the No.2 spot in the girls poll, with Bloomingdale also holding steady at No.3. Newsome and Steinbrenner switched places from the final poll of 2009, the Warriors looking to complete an undefeated regular season when they face Strawberry Crest on Friday night.
The complete polls are listed below:
BOYS
1. Sickles (14-1-2)
2. Plant City (10-0-2)
3. Tampa Prep (8-2-1)
4. Gaither (12-3-1)
5. Newsome (10-3-2)
6. Jesuit (10-3-3)
7. East Bay (9-2-1)
8. Steinbrenner (9-1-1)
9. Wharton (6-3-2)
10. Berkeley Prep (7-6-0)
GIRLS
1. Plant (18-1-1)
2. Berkeley Prep (12-4-2)
3. Bloomingdale (12-4-2)
4. Newsome (12-3-3)
5. Steinbrenner (13-0-2)
6. East Bay (11-3-2)
7. Wharton (9-6-3)
8. Freedom (9-3-3)
9. Tampa Prep (9-5-4)
10. Hillsborough (11-2-1)
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Preps: East Lake boys earns victory, Durant, Newsome fight for position
East Lake’s boys moved one step closer to a Pinellas County Athletic Conference title with a win against Seminole last night. The St. Petersburg Times’ Bryan Burns was at the game, and filed this report, which also includes round-ups from Palm Harbor and Countryside boys and girls games, and details of a good district win for Berkeley Prep’s girls.
http://hometeam.tampabay.com/blog/2010/jan/06/county-roundup-east-lake-closer-pcac-title/
Elsewhere on the boys side, Durant moved its winning streak to five games with a 4-0 win against Tampa Bay Tech, all four goals coming in the second half as Billy Fanning struck twice to give him 16 goals on the season. The Cougars have the same record as Newsome in district (3-0-2), which defeated Armwood 5-0 on Tuesday, Carlos Galeano scoring twice for the Wolves. The two teams tied 3-3 when they met earlier in the season, but Newsome would appear to have the upper hand in securing the No.2 seed for the 5A-District 8 tournament as it hosts Tampa Bay Tech in its final district game, while Durant has to face current district leader Plant City on Friday.
In Class 6A-District 8, Bloomingdale and Wharton played to a 2-2 tie, opening the door for Plant to earn the No.1 seed in the district tournament. To earn it, the Panthers would need to defeat current third-placed side Alonso on Friday night.
On the girl’s side, Gaither took an impressive 2-0 win against Sickles though goals by Madison Henriquez and Ashley Acco. Bloomingdale also earned a convincing 6-0 victory against Wharton, freshman Elyse Fontecchio scoring a hat trick.
http://hometeam.tampabay.com/blog/2010/jan/06/county-roundup-east-lake-closer-pcac-title/
Elsewhere on the boys side, Durant moved its winning streak to five games with a 4-0 win against Tampa Bay Tech, all four goals coming in the second half as Billy Fanning struck twice to give him 16 goals on the season. The Cougars have the same record as Newsome in district (3-0-2), which defeated Armwood 5-0 on Tuesday, Carlos Galeano scoring twice for the Wolves. The two teams tied 3-3 when they met earlier in the season, but Newsome would appear to have the upper hand in securing the No.2 seed for the 5A-District 8 tournament as it hosts Tampa Bay Tech in its final district game, while Durant has to face current district leader Plant City on Friday.
In Class 6A-District 8, Bloomingdale and Wharton played to a 2-2 tie, opening the door for Plant to earn the No.1 seed in the district tournament. To earn it, the Panthers would need to defeat current third-placed side Alonso on Friday night.
On the girl’s side, Gaither took an impressive 2-0 win against Sickles though goals by Madison Henriquez and Ashley Acco. Bloomingdale also earned a convincing 6-0 victory against Wharton, freshman Elyse Fontecchio scoring a hat trick.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Preps: Sickles earns victory, No.1 seed
TAMPA – Sickles earned a hard fought 2-1 victory against rival Gaither on Tuesday night, clinching the No.1 seed for the Class 5A-District 9 tournament in the process in the first victory for the Gryphons seniors against the Cowboys.
The high-paced game provided many opportunities, but it was the long throw-ins by both sides that led to goals, the game-winner coming in the 57th minute as a throw-in from the left side went into the Gaither 6-yard box. The Cowboys were unable to clear the danger, and in the ensuing scramble the ball ended up in the net.
The lack of style points on what proved to be the game-winning goal didn’t matter to the Gryphons, who had to fend off a pair of late chances to preserve their win. Sickles goalkeeper Brandon Stout first came off his line to block a shot by Josh Santos, and Gaither’s Zach Wheeler shot wide just before the final whistle.
The Gryphons bench streamed onto the field in celebration at the final whistle after finally defeating their biggest rival.
“It’s a huge momentum boost,” Sickles defender Eric Krukar said. “There was a big burden on our backs this season and for the past four years, and we finally overcame it. It’s a huge burden lifted off our shoulders.”
The game was everything you would expect from a heated district and area rivalry, with both sides having half-chances early in the game to open the scoring. Gaither’s Ryan Foerstner went close to opening the scoring, but was unable to control a flick with the outside of his right boot, sending it over the crossbar off a long throw-in by David Barrientos. Sickles also had a good opportunity when a raking ball across the field found Matt Brown on the right, but he shot over from just inside the penalty area.
Gaither then could have taken the lead five minutes before halftime, Jordan See turning his defender well before putting a low ball into the center of the penalty area to Justin Santos, but Santos could only lift his shot over the bar from eight yards out.
Sickles took advantage of the reprieve a minute later as a long throw-in from the left was flicked on at the near post and Krukar poked his shot in from close range. Long throw-ins and corners have been a major part of Sickles’ attack this season, something Krukar said comes from the coaching and work the side does in practice.
“It’s really coaching,” Krukar said. “We execute the plays our coaches tell us to run in practice, and we execute it on the field.”
The Cowboys tied the game in the 53rd minute, a long throw from the right by Barrientos going to the top of the Gryphons’ 6-yard box. A Sickles defender tried to flick the ball away to safety, but instead saw it go into the far side of the net.
That didn’t appear to deter the Gryphons, who continued to push forward even after retaking the lead four minutes later. Gaither goalkeeper John Nardozzi had to make an excellent double-save to keep the score 2-1 with just under 10 minutes to go, and Joey Ltief shot wide with just under five minute left, slamming the ground with his hand after failing to hit the target.
The missed opportunities didn’t come back to haunt the Gryphons, though, as they remained perfect in district play.
“It’s one of those game that was very well played on both sides,” Sickles coach Tony Calvo said. “Gaither has always had a great program, but I think the boys, this is a very good win for them.”
Gaither had held a 4-0-1 mark in the past three season against Sickles, but were without starters Charlie Delmar and Steffan Seibel-Cortopassi which led to a lack of control in the center of midfield. The Cowboys will need to defeat Freedom on Friday night to assure themselves of the No.2 seed in the district. Cowboys captain See said that the Gryphons’ victory will only intensify the rivalry should the two sides meet again in the district tournament.
“It’s definitely feeds the fire that we’re going to want this a lot more,” See said. “Now that they did beat us, we want to give it back the next time we play them.”
The high-paced game provided many opportunities, but it was the long throw-ins by both sides that led to goals, the game-winner coming in the 57th minute as a throw-in from the left side went into the Gaither 6-yard box. The Cowboys were unable to clear the danger, and in the ensuing scramble the ball ended up in the net.
The lack of style points on what proved to be the game-winning goal didn’t matter to the Gryphons, who had to fend off a pair of late chances to preserve their win. Sickles goalkeeper Brandon Stout first came off his line to block a shot by Josh Santos, and Gaither’s Zach Wheeler shot wide just before the final whistle.
The Gryphons bench streamed onto the field in celebration at the final whistle after finally defeating their biggest rival.
“It’s a huge momentum boost,” Sickles defender Eric Krukar said. “There was a big burden on our backs this season and for the past four years, and we finally overcame it. It’s a huge burden lifted off our shoulders.”
The game was everything you would expect from a heated district and area rivalry, with both sides having half-chances early in the game to open the scoring. Gaither’s Ryan Foerstner went close to opening the scoring, but was unable to control a flick with the outside of his right boot, sending it over the crossbar off a long throw-in by David Barrientos. Sickles also had a good opportunity when a raking ball across the field found Matt Brown on the right, but he shot over from just inside the penalty area.
Gaither then could have taken the lead five minutes before halftime, Jordan See turning his defender well before putting a low ball into the center of the penalty area to Justin Santos, but Santos could only lift his shot over the bar from eight yards out.
Sickles took advantage of the reprieve a minute later as a long throw-in from the left was flicked on at the near post and Krukar poked his shot in from close range. Long throw-ins and corners have been a major part of Sickles’ attack this season, something Krukar said comes from the coaching and work the side does in practice.
“It’s really coaching,” Krukar said. “We execute the plays our coaches tell us to run in practice, and we execute it on the field.”
The Cowboys tied the game in the 53rd minute, a long throw from the right by Barrientos going to the top of the Gryphons’ 6-yard box. A Sickles defender tried to flick the ball away to safety, but instead saw it go into the far side of the net.
That didn’t appear to deter the Gryphons, who continued to push forward even after retaking the lead four minutes later. Gaither goalkeeper John Nardozzi had to make an excellent double-save to keep the score 2-1 with just under 10 minutes to go, and Joey Ltief shot wide with just under five minute left, slamming the ground with his hand after failing to hit the target.
The missed opportunities didn’t come back to haunt the Gryphons, though, as they remained perfect in district play.
“It’s one of those game that was very well played on both sides,” Sickles coach Tony Calvo said. “Gaither has always had a great program, but I think the boys, this is a very good win for them.”
Gaither had held a 4-0-1 mark in the past three season against Sickles, but were without starters Charlie Delmar and Steffan Seibel-Cortopassi which led to a lack of control in the center of midfield. The Cowboys will need to defeat Freedom on Friday night to assure themselves of the No.2 seed in the district. Cowboys captain See said that the Gryphons’ victory will only intensify the rivalry should the two sides meet again in the district tournament.
“It’s definitely feeds the fire that we’re going to want this a lot more,” See said. “Now that they did beat us, we want to give it back the next time we play them.”
Preps: Sickles boys edge up to No.31 in ESPN Rise poll
Sickles received a slight bump up to No.31 in the ESPN Rise Fab 50 poll released on Tuesday afternoon ahead of its crucial game against Class 5A-District 9 rivals Gaither tonight.
The Gryphons have only lost once so far this season, that coming to No.4 New Orleans Jesuit in the High School Classic just before the holiday break. Sickles is 4-0-0 in its district, and with a win tonight would secure the No.1 seed for the district tournament in three weeks.
East Lake was the other local team to earn recognition in the boys poll, coming in at No.41 with its 10-1-2 record. The Eagles host Seminole tonight in an important Class 5A-District 11 match-up.
Palm Harbor University is the only area the girls programs to be ranked this week, coming in at No.25. The defending Class 5A champions, now in 6A, are undefeated on the season at 9-0-1. Led by Catherine Brinkman and Zoe Lombard, the Hurricanes face Countryside tonight before hosting Tarpon Springs on Thursday and travelling to Sarasota Riverview on Friday.
The Gryphons have only lost once so far this season, that coming to No.4 New Orleans Jesuit in the High School Classic just before the holiday break. Sickles is 4-0-0 in its district, and with a win tonight would secure the No.1 seed for the district tournament in three weeks.
East Lake was the other local team to earn recognition in the boys poll, coming in at No.41 with its 10-1-2 record. The Eagles host Seminole tonight in an important Class 5A-District 11 match-up.
Palm Harbor University is the only area the girls programs to be ranked this week, coming in at No.25. The defending Class 5A champions, now in 6A, are undefeated on the season at 9-0-1. Led by Catherine Brinkman and Zoe Lombard, the Hurricanes face Countryside tonight before hosting Tarpon Springs on Thursday and travelling to Sarasota Riverview on Friday.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Preps: Gaither, Sickles face important district test
TAMPA – The top seed in the district tournament, and rivalry bragging rights, will be on the line on Tuesday night as Gaither plays host to Sickles in a key Class 5A-District 9 boys game.
Both the Gryphons and Cowboys enter the contest with 4-0-0 district records. With every other team in the district having at least two defeats, a victory would appear to create what would appear to be an easier path to the region playoffs three weeks from now when the district tournament begins.
Of course, with the No.6 seed Cowboys having knocked off the No.2 seed Gryphons 1-0 in last season’s district playoffs, Gaither coach Eric Sims pointed out that seeding can mean very little when it comes to predicting results. That said, he believes Tuesday night’s game is one that will help prepare his side for the postseason.
“I’ve seen Sickles play a few times, and they’re very experienced,” Sims said. “Games like this prepare you for the end of the year because of the high level. It’s exciting to play games like this.”
Gaither has held the upper hand in recent meetings between the two sides, with the Cowboys holding a 4-0-1 record against the Gryphons since the 2006-07 season. That hasn’t been lost on Sickles players, who are eager to create a different outcome this time around.
“Very big game, definitely,” Sickles goalkeeper Brandon Stout said. “We’ve always had some trouble with Gaither, but this year is completely different. We’re a lot stronger than what we were in the past couple of years, a lot more determined, more focused and we have a lot more skill.
“Gaither is a very good team, they have a very good goalie, good forwards, it’s going to be a pretty tough game.”
The critical match-up will likely involve Stout, and the Gryphons defense led by center back Gil Davis. Sickles has conceded 10 goals in 16 games this season which will provide a test for Gaither’s Jordan See, who has 13 goals, and the rest of the Cowboys attack. Sims was full of praise for Davis, who is headed to the University of Tampa’s soccer program next season.
“It’s going to be difficult for Jordan because Gil Davis is such a good defender,” Sims said. “Gil Davis is one of the best defenders in the state, by far, so that’s definitely a challenge for Jordan, and if you can get by Davis, you’ve got Stout who is on fire as well.”
Can't make tomorrow night's Gaither-Sickles game? Get live updates as they happen by following the TBSB at twitter.com/tbsoccerblog.
Both the Gryphons and Cowboys enter the contest with 4-0-0 district records. With every other team in the district having at least two defeats, a victory would appear to create what would appear to be an easier path to the region playoffs three weeks from now when the district tournament begins.
Of course, with the No.6 seed Cowboys having knocked off the No.2 seed Gryphons 1-0 in last season’s district playoffs, Gaither coach Eric Sims pointed out that seeding can mean very little when it comes to predicting results. That said, he believes Tuesday night’s game is one that will help prepare his side for the postseason.
“I’ve seen Sickles play a few times, and they’re very experienced,” Sims said. “Games like this prepare you for the end of the year because of the high level. It’s exciting to play games like this.”
Gaither has held the upper hand in recent meetings between the two sides, with the Cowboys holding a 4-0-1 record against the Gryphons since the 2006-07 season. That hasn’t been lost on Sickles players, who are eager to create a different outcome this time around.
“Very big game, definitely,” Sickles goalkeeper Brandon Stout said. “We’ve always had some trouble with Gaither, but this year is completely different. We’re a lot stronger than what we were in the past couple of years, a lot more determined, more focused and we have a lot more skill.
“Gaither is a very good team, they have a very good goalie, good forwards, it’s going to be a pretty tough game.”
The critical match-up will likely involve Stout, and the Gryphons defense led by center back Gil Davis. Sickles has conceded 10 goals in 16 games this season which will provide a test for Gaither’s Jordan See, who has 13 goals, and the rest of the Cowboys attack. Sims was full of praise for Davis, who is headed to the University of Tampa’s soccer program next season.
“It’s going to be difficult for Jordan because Gil Davis is such a good defender,” Sims said. “Gil Davis is one of the best defenders in the state, by far, so that’s definitely a challenge for Jordan, and if you can get by Davis, you’ve got Stout who is on fire as well.”
Can't make tomorrow night's Gaither-Sickles game? Get live updates as they happen by following the TBSB at twitter.com/tbsoccerblog.Thursday, December 24, 2009
Preps: New Orleans Jesuit, Melbourne, Sickles lead way on Classic All-Tournament team
New Orleans Jesuit’s Steven Cabos and Joe Hart were named the Offensive and Defensive MVP’s of the 16th High School Soccer Classic, with seven local players being named to the All-Tournament team that was released on Thursday morning.
Sickles was the only team outside of finalists New Orleans Jesuit and Melbourne to have more than one player named to the team, with midfielder Mike Bajza and defender Gil Davis representing the Gryphons.
Gaither’s Jordan See and Tampa Jesuit’s Austin Jurado were the other two players named from Hillsborough county schools.
Countryside’s Jagger Martinez, whose versatility was critical to the Cougars' run to the semifinals, and Palm Harbor’s Ben Sweat, who scored three goals in three games before the Hurricanes were eliminated in the quarterfinals, were also named to the team.
Land O’ Lakes was also represented, Jake Frahm being recognized for his strong play in midfield, and superb goal against Orlando Bishop Moore in the quarterfinals.
The full team is listed below:
MVP Offense – Steven Cabos – New Orleans Jesuit
MVP Defense – Joe Hart – New Orleans Jesuit
Ryan Price – Melbourne
Callum Wilson – Melbourne
Jake Frahm - Land O’ Lakes
Jordan See – Gaither
Claude Daigler – Orlando Bishop Moore
Pedro D’Avila – Orlando Dr. Phillips
Max McDaniel – Gulf Breeze
Jagger Martinez – Countryside
Ben Sweat – Palm Harbor
Tyler McDaniel – Lake Mary
Mike Bajza – Sickles
Gil Davis – Sickles
Brandon Curriston – Niceville
Andrew Palumbo – Fort Myers Bishop Verot
Austin Jurado – Tampa Jesuit
Sickles was the only team outside of finalists New Orleans Jesuit and Melbourne to have more than one player named to the team, with midfielder Mike Bajza and defender Gil Davis representing the Gryphons.
Gaither’s Jordan See and Tampa Jesuit’s Austin Jurado were the other two players named from Hillsborough county schools.
Countryside’s Jagger Martinez, whose versatility was critical to the Cougars' run to the semifinals, and Palm Harbor’s Ben Sweat, who scored three goals in three games before the Hurricanes were eliminated in the quarterfinals, were also named to the team.
Land O’ Lakes was also represented, Jake Frahm being recognized for his strong play in midfield, and superb goal against Orlando Bishop Moore in the quarterfinals.
The full team is listed below:
MVP Offense – Steven Cabos – New Orleans Jesuit
MVP Defense – Joe Hart – New Orleans Jesuit
Ryan Price – Melbourne
Callum Wilson – Melbourne
Jake Frahm - Land O’ Lakes
Jordan See – Gaither
Claude Daigler – Orlando Bishop Moore
Pedro D’Avila – Orlando Dr. Phillips
Max McDaniel – Gulf Breeze
Jagger Martinez – Countryside
Ben Sweat – Palm Harbor
Tyler McDaniel – Lake Mary
Mike Bajza – Sickles
Gil Davis – Sickles
Brandon Curriston – Niceville
Andrew Palumbo – Fort Myers Bishop Verot
Austin Jurado – Tampa Jesuit
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