Central Park Rangers FC

Small Goals Big Change New York City Tournament is back!

Catherine Pacilio — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 19:28:00 GMT

On Saturday, September 24th Soccer Without Borders will be hosting their 4th annual coed soccer tournament. As usual our club is a major sponsor with many of our players involved. This is the time to start creating small sided teams and fundraising. The top two teams who raise the most money will receive some amazing prize packets. Central Bar will be hosting an after party! to get more tournament information information and to register a team check out the link below.

http://swbsmallgoalsbigchange.weebly.com/index.html

Congrats to CPR - Soccer Resort Coed Tourney Winners

Andrew Faherty — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 15:39:00 GMT

CPR picked up another trophy for the cabinet, going undefeated and winning the SoccerResort tourney last weekend. It's great to see CPR showing the local and visiting teams what makes us the best all around club here in the city, and looking at this impressive roster, made up of players from across the various teams in the club - well thats just quality! Props to Meridyth for the organization efforts.

The team included...

Men:
- David Briefel (Whites)
- Chuck III (Blacks)
- Greg (Reds)
- Marko (Reds)
- Hans (Reds/Grays)
+ a few other friends, family and possible recruits

Women:
- Meridyth (Reds)
- Alexa (Reds)
- Alex (Whites)
- Lisa (Whites)
- Risa (Whites)

CPR Black's first season 2010-2011

Chuck Calcagni — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 13:31:00 GMT

CPR Black’s began its first season 2010-2011 in Metro 2 Division in Cosmopolitan League. After an undefeated spring leg and overall record of 10-4-2, CPR Black’s gained promotion to Metro 1 Division finishing in 2^nd place.

2010-2011 individual awards:

MVP: Chris Valentine

Golden Boot: Ben Krief

Heart of Team: Jesse Phillips

Looking ahead to 2011-2012 campaign in Metro 1 Division, CPR Black’s coaches are recruiting over the current summer break. If you feel you can be competitive on the field, please contact CPR Black's Captain.

White's Reserves are CHAMPIONS!

toph — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:06:00 GMT

Congratulations to the reserves for successfully defending their league championship with an impressive 2-0 win over NYAC. The team played with the skill and spirit that have characterized this season’s displays.

The game started evenly as both teams battled in midfield but were not able to create much in the way of goal scoring opportunities. That all changed however, when Nick cleverly played a free-kick into the edge of the area for Matt to lay off to Danny Riso. Surrounded by NYAC players, Riso pushed the ball between two defenders and unleashed a thunderous strike into the top corner. It was a classy goal of power and precision. With the bit firmly between our teeth we were now controlling the game in midfield. A set piece by NYAC was the cause of one moment of some concern. Though the one real low point in the first half was losing Andres to a knee injury, which sadly now looks to be a confirmed ACL tear. Our thoughts are with him as he faces several months of rehab on the sidelines.

We continued to show the greater determination to win in the second half as our defense stopped every attack and Jon comfortably dealt with balls flighted into the box. Daniel did well stopping NYAC’s playmaker from getting the ball and our opponents often seemed to be out of ideas how to get behind us. We, on the other hand, were creating plenty of opportunities and should have doubled our lead earlier. As it was, with about 20 minutes to go a fine move found Riso open on the right and he squared to an unmarked Muzza, who coolly slotted the ball into an empty net before turning away and peeling off his shirt.... not in celebration, but to show everyone he likes to workout in the gym! NYAC now pushed more players forward, but the defense remained resolute, with Joakim especially putting his manhood on the line. We also kept creating chances and in the end could have won the game even more convincingly. As it was, two goals were more than enough and at the final whistle the celebrations that were to last well into the night began. Everyone played an important part in the game, and indeed the whole season. You should all be very proud of yourselves... I know that Joe and I are very proud of what you have achieved and deserve the success of championships in consecutive years. It's especially fitting that Joe's last game coaching the team was this victory. The hard work and team spirit you have all displayed shows what we can achieve. I know we will be pushing for a three-peat next season!

Team: Jon (K), Joakim (RB), Nick Rudd (CB), Mark Supplee (CB), Andy Ma (LB), Andres (LW), Toph (CDM), Archie (CDM), Shane (RW), Dan Riso (CAM), Muzza (F), Matt Geswell (RB), Jacopo (RW), Chris Norelli (F), Jose (CDM), Brettski (CDM), Daniel Corrado (CAM)

Goals: Dan Riso (1), Muzza (1)

Firsts' Season Ends with Play-off loss to Pancyprians

Biffo — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 16:22:00 GMT

The firsts played fantastically well this evening but suffered a tough loss at the hands of the NY Pancyprians, the game finishing 3-0. We played the best football of our season in the first half and dominated large periods of the game. We created several chances as George, Mike and Eli all came close, as well as our having a couple of decent shouts for a penalty. At the other end the defence was doing an excellent job, and in the times they were breached Ben was unbeatable. Sadly, we were unable to keep that level of performance and intensity up, and with the Pancyprians showing their championship ability they were able to step up a gear in the second half and grab the goals that settled the tie. Still, everyone should be proud of their performance - I know Joe and I are very proud of you - and it's now time to look forward to next season and making sure that we play as well as we did in the first half more consistently and from the start of the year. I'm sure you'll all join me in thanking Joe for all his efforts with the first team. We achieved what we did with no small effort on his part.

TEAM: Ben, Mike, Pat W, Conor, Pat O, Kyle, Andy, Danny, Eli, Dave, George - SUBS: Dan Riz, Shane, Mark, Toph

Championship Weekend

Andrew Faherty — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 02:53:00 GMT

There are two big championship games for the club this Sunday, June 5th, so hopefully those of you that aren't playing can come out and help support the teams:

Sunday, 10am at Randalls Island

CPR Women's Red vs Vendeval for the NYMWSL D1 title

(with a win, we win the league http://www.nywomensoccer.org/standings.php )

Sunday, 5pm at Icahn Stadium, also on Randalls Island

CPR Men's White Reserves vs NYAC for the CSL D1 championship

(http://www.cslny.com/index.php )

White's Reserves progress to Final, defeating Pancyprians 4 - 1

toph — Mon, 23 May 2011 11:40:00 GMT

Congratulations to the reserves who are in the division final for the second time in a row and have the chance to defend their title. We beat the Pancyprians in convincing fashion 4-1, with Andres, Chris N, and Daniel's brace seeing us comfortably through. We started the game strongly and about 20 minutes in our superiority paid dividends as Andy swung in a cross to the far post that was firmly met by Shane, whose header was well parried by the keeper, only for Andres to swoop in and head in from close range. The rest of the half was a scrappy affair as the Pancyprians applied pressure, causing a couple of scares at the back that Jon did well to extinguish. The second period saw us make four changes and continue pressing, though Pancyprians continued to also apply pressure. Daniel, with fresh legs, was lively from the start of the half and it was he who clinically prodded the ball into the net when a surging move found him free in the box. But our two goal cushion didn't last long as a rasping Pancyprian strike from the edge of the area just about beat Jon inside the post. We didn't let this minor set-back affect us and the indefatigable Chris Norelli found himself in a one-on-one situation on two occasions in quick succession. The first saw him taking a heavy touch at the crucial moment, but he more than made up for it when he coolly buried the second chance and once again gave us breathing space. And it was Daniel again who completed a fine second half performance to put the final nail in the opponent's coffin as we comfortably saw the game off. Special praise to our defense, who did an excellent job of keeping things tight at the back. We now face NYAC reserves at Icahn Stadium on June 5th at a time to be determined. We will have to even better today's performance to beat them and make sure we improve our ability to keep possession of the ball. But having said that, we should also savor today's fine victory and enter the final with great confidence

Starting Line Up: Jon (K), Andy Ma (LB), Mark (CB), Nick (CB), Joakim (RB), Andres (LW), Toph (CDM), Archie (CDM), Shane (RW), Dan Riso (AM), Steve Murray (F)

Subs: Daniel (F), Chris Norelli (F), Jose (CDM), Matt (RB)

Goals: Andres (1), Chris Norelli (1), Daniel (2)

Schedule for 5/22+5/25

Andrew Faherty — Sun, 22 May 2011 02:04:00 GMT

CSL D1 SemiFinals:

Mens White @ Pancyprians, TBD on Weds night 5/25

CSL D1 Reserves SemiFinals:

Mens White Reserves @ Pancyprians Reserves, 2pm Randalls #74

In the Women's league title race:

Womens Red vs Battle Row, 11am East 6th

First in name calling but second in goals, a disappointing end to the Old Boyz campaign

Manohar Venkataraman — Tue, 17 May 2011 21:00:00 GMT

The last game of the season and nothing to play for, and the prospective attendance showed it. It was hard to blame the numerous dubious injuries or players not around, especially since the pitch was deep in Brooklyn and was the notorious Dyker Beach Park, possibly one of the worst fields in the league. Some last minute recruiting brought the Old Boyz to a barely minimum 12, and that included Becker who based on an abundance of voicemail and text evidence had had a memorable night previously.

With everyone dressed and ready to go at game time, the home team SC Gjoa showed minimal urgency in getting the show on the road. The only thing more amusing than their lackadaisical attitude was the fact they wanted to compound the lateness with only playing 30 minute halves due to a ‘parade’. Nothing doing. If the Old Boyz were going to trek deep into the suburbs, by jove they would play a 90 minute game if it killed them (not completely out of the realms of possibility, and certainly guaranteeing a Mr. Glass award for death).

Eventually at almost 30 minutes into game time Gjoa had 10 players ready to play and the whistle blew. CPR immediately started dominating with Stower rampaging down the sidelines with minimal resistance. Indeed, the attacks were almost too easy and a header was quickly flashed over the bar by Lim. Within 2 minutes a carbon copy cross from Hollins found Lim in an abundance of space and this time Lim buried it for CPR to take the lead. Or not. Although it is tempting to quote the usual disclaimer about offsides being hard to judge for a referee with no linesman, this call was inexplicable. With the ball floating over the heads of 4 defenders playing Lim onsides and running from outside the box, the call was a complete embarrassment.

Although the attacks didn’t stop, the cutting edge was just not there. On the times that CPR did muster a shot on target the splendid Gjoa keeper proved equal to the task, notably on two saves against Resnik & Hollins. Although usually stout at the back, the unfamiliarity of positions was causing mental anguish for CPR with handbags being flung and confusion reigning supreme. On one of their rare forays up the field, a nicely lofted ball gave the Gjoa striker a one on one which he finished well to give them a lead completely against the run of play.

Going into half time, the single goal lead appeared far from insurmountable. Although the lack of clinical strikers able to take on the defence was a disadvantage, the fact that in Hollins and D’andrea CPR had two midfielders perfectly capable of slicing through the middle balanced out the equation. The name of the game would be stamina, and also making the opportunities count against the formidable goalie.

Second verse, same as the first. Chance after chance came the Old Boyz way, and each time the ball either flew narrowly wide, the keeper stopped the ball or Cossette was inevitably offsides. Meanwhile the Gjoan midfielders disdain for defense was giving them an advantage during counterattacks as CPR’s increasingly fatigued midfielders were having a hard time tracking back. The backbreaker turned out not to be a defensive blunder but an accident of the dreadful pitch. With Shafranek in perfect position to intercept a through ball the ball hit one of the 50+ pieces of turf that comprised the “pitch”, allowing the striker a one on one that he clinically finished.


	A Scotsman or Mr. Glass? I know who I’m taking in that battle.

The Old Boyz now handled the adversity as poorly as they had the first season. Although continuing to gamely attack it seemed clear that the day was not going to be theirs, and the verbal diarrhea flew from all and sundry in every direction, culminating in Old Man of the Match Hollins’s memorable bellow ‘You’re all ***!!’ after yet another predictable short goal kick found its home target in acres of space.

Fortunately two things saved the game from being a completely forgettable experience. Firstly the Old Boyz finally received the benefit of a brutal refereeing decision, the ball being at least two ball lengths out when Hollins continued to drive past several gesticulating Gjoans before rounding the keeper and preventing the shut out. Perhaps the decision was a counterweight to the equally egregious handball the referee had claimed not to have seen (again) which led to the third goal for the opposition. The second and final psychological triumph came for CPR when Stower got up to his old tricks in winding up the opposition’s winger. After Cossette had clattered into an opponent with all the grace of a CPR team at an open bar, play stopped to have Stower and his counterpart yelling at each other. After the referee awarded the freekick to CPR, Angelo’s pitiful bleat could be heard all around the pitch, ‘ HE CALLED ME NAMES!’. Yes my son, he called you names. Here’s a tissue. You may have won the game, but the psychological war would be CPR’s to own.

As bad a tactical and intelligent game as the Old Boyz have played in years. The inability to make smart decisions on the fly and work with long time teammates is hard to explain, and hopefully an aberration. A disappointing season with 4 points fewer than the last two, with probably the biggest culprit being the loss of 23 goals from Gallagher & Fink. Bustamante and D’andrea have show ample promise, but some relatively younger attacking blood is sorely needed, as is some more consistence appearances by the squad as a whole.


	SC Gjoa’s Angelo, you are now an (infamous) CPL Over 30’s Legend. “HE CALLED ME NAMES!” Yes he did. There there. Maybe we could get you your favourite blanky?

Competition: SC Gjoa

Location: Dyker Beach Park, Brooklyn

Conditions: Drizzly but not cold, perfect footballing weather

Fans: 0

Result: 1-3 (0-1 at H/T)

Goals: 3:1: Hollins

Yellow Cards: Shockingly none

Red Card: None

Mike D’s aka No Shows: None, although based on Becker’s 3am phones and texts, this was very unexpected.

Conboy’s aka Reverse Mike D’s: None

”Mr. Glass” Fragility/Old Man Injury Award: Continued campaigning by Shafranek but no actual injuries suffered, also surprising given one of the worst fields in the league.

Old Man of the Match: Not really a close vote as Hollins play on both sides of the ball put him head and shoulders over most, a sentiment he seemed to share with the ‘You’re all ***!!!’ shriek.

Old Man of the Bar: None.

El Presidente (new award for Old Men who don’t make it to game but come to the bar): None

Team Bar Showing: 9 out of 12 (75%)

Team Bar Night: 4 out of 5. The team has been around long enough that the vituperative verbal disintegration on the pitch had no impact on the pub attendance and was easily laughed off at the bar. Disappointing as the result was, the day at the pub was excellent.

Team (No new profiles this week): Mark Becker (GK), Mark Resnik (DF) , Gavin Hamilton (DF), Scott Shafranek (DF), Lars Murray (DF), Dan Hollins, Steve Teesdale, Manohar Venkataraman, Willian D’andrea, Neil Stower, Trygve Cossette, Hyon Lim

Reserves End Cup Run with 2 - 1 Loss to NYAC

toph — Mon, 16 May 2011 13:35:00 GMT

The reserves played an excellent game in the state cup semi-final against NYAC today, but sadly succumbed to a 2-1 loss. Still, we played a great passing game and showed real spirit to battle through till the end. Everyone played their part and should be proud of the performance having made it to this advanced stage of the competition. For the record, the goal was scored by Matt Geswell (his first for the club) with an assist from Chris Norelli.

Reserves Defeat NY Croatia in 3 - 2 Thriller

toph — Mon, 16 May 2011 13:34:00 GMT

The reserves started slowly and conceded an early goal but it wasn't long before we got into gear and a great strike from Daniel was well saved onto the post, before Daniel buried his own rebound. We now had control of the game but didn't take several chances that came before the half ended. The second period saw both teams pushing to take the lead, but yet again we found ourselves behind to a scrappy goal we were unlucky to concede. With 15 minutes to go we were pushing more men forward in search of an equalizer. And we did find it, with a large dose of luck. A speculative effort by Roman from 40 yards bounced in front of the keeper and looped over the despairing goalie. And then in the dying minutes, Roman showed that he can also score goals of quality as he cut in from the right wing, beat a couple of players and buried his shot with his left foot past the keeper. It was a great goal and one that fittingly put us into the play-offs for a second year in a row. Congratulations to everyone involved with the reserves.

Schedule for 5/15/11

Andrew Faherty — Thu, 12 May 2011 03:10:00 GMT

Womens Red and White square off in another CPR Women's Derby 1pm at East 6th Street!

and in other action:

Mens White @ CD Iberia, 5pm at Icahn Stadium

Mens White Reserves @ CD Iberia, 3pm at Icahn Stadium

Mens Red vs NY Ukranians, 8pm Kaiser Park

Mens Red Reserves vs NY Ukranians, 6pm Kaiser Park

Mens Black vs FC Bravehearts, 4pm Randalls #74

Mens Over 30s @ SC Gjoa, 11am Dycker Field

CPR Firsts' Crash Out in State Cup Semi's

Biffo — Tue, 10 May 2011 13:15:00 GMT

In a replay of last year’s thrilling Manning Cup Semi-Final, the CPR Whites faced off against a talented Mineola Portugese side on a blustery Randall’s Island pitch. Mineola took an early lead after an opportunistic forward snuck behind the CPR defense and pounced on a mishit shot that otherwise would have dribbled out of bounds well wide of Ben’s goal. With Ronaldo-esque precision, the crafty Portugese striker proceeded to rocket a first time strike into the back of the net. This set the stage for an unlucky first half that saw CPR misfire on several quality chances.

The second half saw CPR transition into a more attack-minded style that created some good chances for forwards Kyle and George. Several runs at goal demanded quality saves from the diminutive yet spry Mineola keeper, (who was also noteworthy for his extended kneeling prayers at the start of each half) but the equalizer proved elusive.

This attacking style left The Whites exposed to a number of dangerous Mineola counterattacks, one of which led to a late breakaway that was coolly finished by a speedy winger. This effectively sealed the victory for the Long Islanders, who clearly were please to exact revenge on a CPR side that ended their cup run one year earlier. Sic transit gloria, but CPR will get them next year!

Profligate CPR Old Boyz make things harder than they need to in win over RTG

Manohar Venkataraman — Tue, 10 May 2011 00:10:00 GMT

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE

A 2pm start is a mixed blessing. It’s nice to be able to get up in a relaxed fashion and leisurely head to the field, but the pub time afterwards does not stretch languidly into the rest of the day. On this particular occasion the afternoon start was well needed given the combination of Kentucky Derby and Mark Dean’s wedding reception the night before. The abomination of the Chelsea capitulation against Manchester was not a great way to prepare for the game, but the weather was nice and the opposition mediocre to put it politely.


	Even by Old Boyz standards it was quite a Saturday Night. It was nice of Lars to volunteer to carry Jonny Lincoln all night.

Of course, the Old Boyz are notorious for playing up or down to their opposition. Although having put up a comfortable 3-0 victory against RTG earlier in the season there was no guarantee that CPR would dominate in the same way, and sure enough within the first 5 minutes they were down to a simple through ball right through the heart of the defence. Not long after that another incisive attack resulted in a second goal and a quick 2-0 deficit. The rumblings of discontent were not as loud as they could be as CPR had already shown the ability to attack themselves, with Venkataraman’s shot from 30 yards out producing the rare double cross bar bounce. Andy Jones was causing the defenders concern and Dan Hollins was marauding from his central midfield position, so much so that he started the onslaught for CPR by weaving past several defenders before scoring.

CPR were now on the upswing, and after pressuring the defenders to win a corner Nizam hit one deep that Hollins tracked all the way, a gorgeous left footed volley making it right into the corner to tie the game. The Old Boyz are well used to coughing up two goal leads so it was pleasing to be on the other side of the coin for a change. Constant pressure started to be exerted and with Hollins’s confidence overflowing he juggled the ball nonchalantly on the left side of the penalty area before lobbing it for Nizam to score.

Nothing is every easy for CPR, and they conspired to give back the equalizer to RTG. A lovely chip from the left made it over the despairing Becker and defender for both teams to go in at half time tied 3-3, in a wonderful game for the neutral spectator (of which there were probably none).

With RTG already dragging and having no substitutes and CPR having 4 it should have been time to just keep putting the pressure on and allow them to wilt in the warm sunshine. Indeed it looked like that would be the case when the Old Boyz came out gangbusters and rapidly put 2 goals in, the first almost directly from the kickoff and the next not long after. Inexplicably despite the fact they should be exhausted RTG continued to work hard, and were able to score another tactically simple but well executed goal, taking advantage of CPR sloth. Perhaps part of the adrenaline rush was the increasing physicality of the occasion as the referee’s pathetic inability to control the game drove players on each side to harder and harder fouls. Although there is no need to brandish red cards indiscriminately at this level, a few yellows and a stern talking to would have been enough to nip some of the handbags in the bud. It was a shame that an exciting game was marred by some foolishness at the end, but a 5-4 game is always fun to be a part of, and RTG certainly contributed to the spectacle.


	An enthralling game ended up in handbags thanks to the referee’s inability to control the game.

Competition: RTG

Location: Randalls Island #75

Conditions: Warm weather accentuated by 2pm start time

Fans: 4

Result: 5-4 (3-3 at H/T)

Goals: 2-1: Hollins

2-2: Hollins assist Nizam

3-2: Nizam assist Hollins

4-3: Jones assist Stower

5-3: Dean assist D’andrea

Yellow Cards: Stower (Shocking)

Red Card: N/A

Mike D’s aka No Shows: Paulo’s late failure of his personal fitness test ended up hurting nobody else but himself, as this was a game tailor made for him to pile on the statistics. T was also mysteriously absent.

Conboy’s aka Reverse Mike D’s: Mark Dean’s remarkable appearance after his previous night’s Wedding Reception exertions was topped by a combination of scoring a goal and not throwing up at any point.

”Mr. Glass” Fragility/Old Man Injury Award: Shafranek’s continuing to campaign for the award was probably a factor in his early limping off the field. He did eventually come back, but any time there was a gust of wind the team had to look around to ensure he was still standing.

Old Man of the Match: Hollins ensured there was no controversy over whether to award the OMoM to somebody present by showing up to the pub himself. He could arguably have been awarded the Man of the Match solely based on his sublime goal, but given the driving contribution from midfield to get the sluggish Old Boyz back in the game it was as clear cut an award as has happened in a while.

Old Man of the Bar: Nobody stood out, but a general good performance.

El Presidente (new award for Old Men who don’t make it to game but come to the bar): None.

Team Bar Showing: out of 15 (%)

Team Bar Night: 3.5 out of 5. Although not wide, the performance was deep as all who showed up stayed for quite a while. Plenty of good banter was had.

Team (No new profiles this week): Mark Becker (GK), Mark Resnik (DF) , Scott Shafranek (DF), Mark Edmunds (DF), Steve Teesdale, Lars Murray (DF), Steve Morse, Neil Stower, John Hodges, Manohar Venkataraman, Willian D’andrea, Mark Dean, Dan Hollins, Hakan Nizam, Andy Jones

Convincing win for Firsts' - 5-0!

Biffo — Mon, 09 May 2011 20:11:00 GMT

The firsts went into their game knowing that they needed a win to stay in the hunt for a play-off berth. Having no wins after the first 8 games this year - that's half the season! - a great effort in the spring and a run of one defeat in five has completely turned things around. And we couldn't have had a better start to the game today, as Kyle smashed in a scorcher with his left foot from the edge of the area after just 2 minutes.... and only 2 minutes later we doubled our lead as a flighted free kick by Eli was met by Danny Riso who looped his header over the keeper and in, to record a goal in his first first team start. The Croatians (and a rather vocal Jamaican) started to make a game of it and it took two saves by Ben on breakaways to keep our lead intact. But we also continued to create chances, and before the end of the half Kyle was put through in goal to show the Croats how it's done - 3-0. We came out in the second period determined to keep it tight at the back. But it wasn't long before we put the game well beyond Croatia's reach as Kyle grabbed his hat-trick, finishing a square ball from close range. We controversially got a fifth as a soft penalty was called as the keeper was judged to clip Riso in the box. Conor buried the spot kick to seal an emphatic victory. It was a great performance by everyone on a tricky pitch.

Results from 5/8/11

Andrew Faherty — Mon, 09 May 2011 02:41:00 GMT

Mens White shutout NY Croatia 5-0

Mens White Reserves beat NY Croatia 3-2

Mens Red lost 0-3 to Manhattan Celtic

Mens Red Reserves lost 0-1 to Manhattan Celtic

Mens Black beat Barnstonworth Rovers 4-3

Mens Over 30s beat RTG 5-4 (match report)

Womens Red and White were off, but next week battle each other in another CPR Women's Derby 1pm at East 6th Street.

Results from 5/1/11

Andrew Faherty — Sat, 07 May 2011 15:29:00 GMT

Mens White were off

Mens White Reserves cup run ended with 2-1 loss @ NY Athletic Club Reserve (D'Arpino Cup)

Mens Red were 1-1 with Moroccan Astoria Lions when the game was suspended for opposition attacking the ref

Mens Red Reserves drew 1-1 with Moroccan Astoria Lions

Mens Black were off

Mens Over 30s were off

Womens Red beat. Rovers1, 3-1

Womens White lost 1-2 to Scala

Schedule for 5/8/11

Andrew Faherty — Fri, 06 May 2011 12:36:00 GMT

Happy Mother's Day!

Mens White @ NY Croatia, 2pm Croatian Recreation Center, Boonton NJ

Mens White Reserves@ NY Croatia, 12noon Croatian Recreation Center, Boonton NJ

Mens Red @ Manhattan Celtic, 10pm at Pier 40

Mens Red Reserves @ Manhattan Celtic, 8:30pm at Pier 40

Mens Black @ Barnstonworth Rovers, 12noon Randalls #74

Mens Over 30s vs RTG, 2pm Randalls #75

Womens Red and White are off, but next week battle each other in another CPR Women's Derby 1pm at East 6th Street.

CPR Old Boyz cup run cruelly cut short at the death

Manohar Venkataraman — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 21:15:00 GMT

John Hodges (eventually) guest reporting

The CPR Old Boyz's League Cup match against BWG Cosmos had all the makings of a Hollywood ending, but in the end it turned out to be a heart-wrenching Shakespearean tragedy with the Old Boyz falling 2-3 in the very final minutes.

A Sunday 8:00 AM start time once again provided the initial challenge to the Old Boyz, which Brindley’s Wagon Queen Family Truckster filled with half the team arriving with only 3 minutes to spare. But the Old Boyz were quick and ready a kick-off time, and had an advantage with sprightly Boyle, Engler, and Hartman in support for the League Cup.

The first half began with both teams playing into the wind with little success.

"It is a nipping and an eager air."
- William Shakespeare, Hamlet, 1.4

The first 40 minutes proved to be a mostly even match with both teams having some early opportunities. However, a Cosmos goal coming off of a corner kick put-back gave them the early lead just before halftime.

"All is not well;
I doubt some foul play."
- William Shakespeare, Hamlet, 1.2

Regardless, the Old Boyz’s spirits were high at halftime having played well as a team in the first 45. With a few tactical adjustments, the Old Boyz felt that goals could be had in the second half.

"The time is out of joint: O cursed spite,
That ever I was born to set it right!"
- William Shakespeare, Hamlet, 1.5

At the 70 minute mark, the Old Boyz felt it was time to go with 3 defenders in the back and push forward for the equalizer.

"More matter, with less art."
- William Shakespeare, Hamlet, 2.2

The more aggressive strategy proved to be a good one with Brindley scoring off a long Angry Birds-esque header.

"A violet in the youth of primy nature,
Forward, not permanent, sweet, not lasting,
The perfume and suppliance of a minute."
- William Shakespeare, Hamlet, 1.3

After the Old Boyz decided to revert back to their more defensive formation, BWG Cosmos were quick to reply with a second goal coming from an endline free kick which more resembled a curveball corner kick than a shot on target. Wind and diversions allowed the ball to travel straight into the corner of the net past Becker, however.

"One woe doth tread upon another's heel,
So fast they follow."
- William Shakespeare, Hamlet, 4.7

Not to be outdone, the Old Boyz pushed forward once again and were rewarded when Paulo’s shot was deflected in by a Cosmos defender, so technically an own goal.

"Though this be madness, yet there is method in't."
- William Shakespeare, Hamlet, 2.2

With little time left, and penalty kicks soon approaching to decide a place in the semifinals of the League Cup, the Old Boyz were confident that momentum was on their side. However, a deep cross that was unable to be cleared and subsequently put past a diving Becker turned out to be the game winner for the Cosmos.

"Something is rotten in the state of Denmark."
- William Shakespeare, Hamlet, 1.4

The final whistle blew, and the Old Boyz had lost the match but could not be disappointed in the manner in which we had constantly fought back and played well as a team.

Competition: Cup game vs. BWG Cosmos O30

Location: Randall's Island #73

Conditions: 50's with heavy cross winds

Fans: 1 (Jack's girlfriend)

Result: 2-3 (0-1 at H/T)

Goals: 1-1: Brindley

2-2 BWG own goal

Yellow Cards: None

Red Card: None

Mike D’s aka No Shows: None

Conboy’s aka Reverse Mike D’s: None

”Mr. Glass” Fragility/Old Man Injury Award: none

Old Man of the Match: Brindley

Old Man of the Bar: None

El Presidente (new award for Old Men who don’t make it to game but come to the bar): None

Team Bar Showing: 8 out of 15 (53%)

Becker, Resnik, Hodges, Hollins, Stower, Engler, Hakan, Andy

Team Bar Night: 2.5 out of 5

Team (No new profiles this week): Becker (GK), Resnik (DF), Teesdale (DF), Brindley (DF), Hodges (DF), Willie Boyle (DF), Hollins (MF), Paulo (MF), Stower (MF), Engler (MF), D'Andrea (MF), Trygve (F), Hakan (F), Jack Hartman (MF), Andy Jones (F)

Schedule for 5/1/11

Andrew Faherty — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Mens White are off

Mens White Reserves@ NY Athletic Club Reserve (D'Arpino Cup), 2pm at Travers Island

Mens Red vs. Moroccan Astoria Lions, 12 noon Randalls #75

Mens Red Reserves vs.Moroccan Astoria Lions, 10am Randalls #75

Mens Black are off

Mens Over 30s are off

Womens Red vs. Rover1, 11am East 6th

Womens White vs. Scala, 9am East 6th

White's Reserves progress in Cup, defeating NY Croatia 5 - 2

toph — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 11:49:00 GMT

The reserves continued their push for silverware in the cup this season with a comprehensive victory over NY Croatia reserves. CPR went ahead early when Dan Riso was put through on goal and punished the Croatian defense with a sharp cross-court shot into the bottom corner. Minutes later, some great evasive dribbling from Brettski moved the ball to Toph, who put Steve Murray behind the Croatian defense. Muzz squared the ball and Riso was there again to finish at the back post. 2-0 CPR. The Whites had a quick chance to go up 3-0 when they were awarded a penalty still inside the first half. Unfortunately, a great save from Croatia's keeper prevented the third CPR goal coming from the spot. But it would come eventually when Shane got through to finish his chance and make amends for his missed penalty.

Early in the second half, the victory looked threatened when Croatia lofted a long ball over the center of CPR's back line and Mark Supplee closed down the defender who was all too willing to go down. Since Soup was the last covering defender, the referee had no choice but to go straight red to Soup and CPR were down to 10 men. But that didn't stop the whites. In fact, after some quick adjustments to their shape the Rangers continued to attack, knowing that sitting back and inviting pressure would not make the tie any easier. Los Blancos were awarded for their gaul, when a well worked, patient move down the right flank with quick short passing from Jacopo resulted in Toph getting behind the Croatian defense from the center half position. The captain cut the ball back to the awaiting Dan Riso, who coolly finished to complete his hat trick. 4-0 CPR.

What followed was a surge of Croatian attackers. The opposition, with nothing to hold back, threw more potential goal scorers forward in the attempt to level the score. While they were able to peg the Rangers back with 2 goals it would prove to not be enough. In the last stages of the game, Muzza received the ball as an outlet and showed some great strength to shrug off a heavy challenge from the Croatian side's "big" defender and went through on goal. When the Scottsman finished his chance with a perfectly placed curler into the far post, the opposition's hopes for anything from the game were dashed. Muzz received a yellow card for his well-deserved celebration and CPR marched on to victory.

Starting line up: Jon (K), Joachim (RB), Nick (CB), Mark (CB), Andy Ma (LB), Dan Riso (LW), Toph (CDM), Brett (CDM), Shane (RW), Andres (CAM), Muzza (F)

Subs: (All used) Jacopo, Archie, Brian

Results from 4/17/11

Andrew Faherty — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 18:51:00 GMT

Mens White lost 0-2 to Mineola Portuguese (LISFL) (Manning Cup)

Mens White Reserves beat NY Croatia Reserve team (CSL), 5-2 (D'Arpino Cup)

Mens Over 30s lost 2-3 to BWG Cosmos (League Cup - Saunders)

Women's White lost 1-5 to Manhattan Kickers

everyone else has the weekend off

Next weekend is Easter weekend, so there shouldn't be any games, unless there are urgent make ups that get scheduled.

Schedule for 4/17/11 - a few Cup games

Andrew Faherty — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 16:06:00 GMT

Mens White vs. Mineola Portuguese (LISFL) 2pm Randalls Island #75 (Manning Cup)

Mens White Reserves vs. NY Croatia Reserve team (CSL), 12pm Randalls Island #75 (D'Arpino Cup)

Mens Over 30s @ BWG Cosmos, 8am Randalls Island #73 (League Cup - Saunders)

+ Women's White vs Manhattan Kickers, 3pm East 6th St.

everyone else has the weekend off

Victory for Firsts'

Biffo — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 01:04:00 GMT

The firsts came into the game knowing that three points were a must. The game started with both teams going through periods of possession, but just as we started to gain the upper hand a lucky ricochet put in a Stal Meilic player on goal and he finished unerringly. This only spurred us into action and minutes later a cleverly quick free-kick from Andy found George open at the back post and he skillfully headed the ball back across the keeper into the far corner for a classy finish. And soon after we took the lead, as another piece of class saw Andy stick a free kick from 20 yards right into the top corner – unstoppable! As the half wound down Stal had a couple of chances that whisked by our post, signaling that our job was far from done. We started the second period on top and within 10 minutes had stretched our lead. An exquisite pass from Dave to Eli found our flying fullback behind their defence and driving into the area Eli squared to George, who stroked in his second and our third. Unfortunately what followed put a dent in the weekend’s feel good factor as first Andy was red carded after getting into a rumble with a Stal defender and then the fat headed keeper, who also saw red… and then Lasse was sent off for a second yellow when needlessly blocking a free-kick. Playing now with nine versus ten, we used the space to our advantage and found openings to carve open the Poles.. making them start to look like, well, poles! Having made several substitutions, first Danny Riso calmly slotted in his chance when the ball popped out to him on the edge of the area with the keeper out of position… then Kyle scored a brace on his first team debut, very coolly and clinically slotting home two late opportunities in the area. 6-1 may have been a flattering scoreline, but it was testament to the sense of purpose we played with throughout and sets us up nicely and confidently for the run in.

TEAM: Ben, Eli, Pat W, Mike, Josh, Andy, Connor, Danny, Dave, George - SUBS (used): Danny Riz, Kyle, Mark, Ole

Strength in numbers help Old Boyz overcome Hoboken

Manohar Venkataraman — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 23:46:00 GMT

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Another strong turnout ensured that the Old Boyz would be able to handle the vagaries of the unknown pitch, which turned out not to be as large as feared. Another 2pm kickoff eliminated the chance of Mike D’s and also helped the players be in optimum shape. Unfortunately the opposition wasn’t quite as organized, with only 11 players at the start and two more sauntering over late in the first half. By that time CPR had already established a two goal lead.

They first signaled intent with an attack on goal that left Nizam a beckoning goal from 8 yards that he spurned, a jaw dropping miss that he will surely be seeing in his sleep. Soon after his blushes were covered up by one of the goals of the season. In space on the right, Hamilton espied Hollins long run and found him with an inch perfect deep right to left cross that Hollins rewarded with the finish it deserved. The Old Boyz forwards tried to put pressure on the Hoboken defenders but they were able to spread the ball around at the back reasonably well. However elsewhere CPR had more luck and were able to put some more pressure on the ball. During an attack developed from such pressure a freekick just outside the box was awarded, and was finished fiercely by Bustamante.

Hoboken’s reinforcements gave some of their players some much needed rest. With a little more running they were able to put some pressure of their own, winning a corner. This resulted in a superb header to bring them right back in the game. No surprise really, no two goal lead is safe as the Old Boyz have shown over the years. Half time arrived just in time to stymie Hoboken’s newfound momentum.

With healthier numbers and a solid squad it was upto the Old Boyz to turn their possession advantage into goals. Chances were being created but spurned. Meanwhile Hoboken’s only refuge was booting the ball upto their hulking center forward, who continually took advantage of the referee’s myopia by fouling the centerbacks who kept winning headers against him. None of this was much of a surprise, as the referee’s attitude before the game has provided an accurate indicator of his performance during the game. In this particular case, the referee already made expectations plain when he told every player near him that Trygve Cossette would not be allowed to play goal while wearing his glasses. Nothing would sway the tinpot dictator’s mind, not a call to the League President, not the opposition manager Lucien graciously indicating that he was okay with it. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, on comes another CSL referee with a vastly inflated sense of his power inversely proportional to common sense. He officiated the game with the usual vague knowledge of the offsides rule to accompany lazy positioning as well as inconsistent application of physical play.


	In predictable fashion the referee’s asinine behavior before the game is an accurate predictor of their incompetence during the game.

CPR were more than happy that unlike last week they were able to remove any significant influence of the referee out of the final result by scoring the third goal, a well worked play to Conboy whose nod onto Dandrea was the Coup de grace. There was still time for Becker to make a cameo at forward and bookend Nizam’s horrid miss with one of his own. A superb touch pass sent him one on one with the keeper, and taking the ball past him he realized that that was only half the battle. At least the ball was kept in instead of tamely trickling out, but nothing good was to result.

A solid result and a good platform to continue to build on their successful cup campaign.

Competition: Hoboken 1912 FC

Location: Brooklyn Inlet field, Brooklyn

Conditions: Nice spring weather

Fans: Another solid day for fans, approximately 7.5.

Result: 3-1 (2-1 at H/T)

Goals: 1:0: Hollins, Assist Hamilton

2:0: Bustamante

3:1: Dandrea, Assist Conboy

Yellow Cards: Hamilton, Hollins, Bustamante

Red Card: None, although at times it looked like they’d be a couple of double yellows.

Mike D’s aka No Shows: None

Conboy’s aka Reverse Mike D’s: None

”Mr. Glass” Fragility/Old Man Injury Award: Once again, the substitutes helped enough for the most part have anyone avoid any injury.

Old Man of the Match: A close vote but Shafranek narrowly edged out Brindley by virtue of making it to not one but two pubs, which in a vote this close was enough. Both of them played the full 90 and Brindley had some offensive chances as well.

Old Man of the Bar: None.

El Presidente (new award for Old Men who don’t make it to game but come to the bar): None

Team Bar Showing: 9 out of 16 including Brooklyn Brewery (56%)

Team Bar Night: 3 out of 5. Several members stopped at the Brooklyn Brewery close by to enable a quick drink with the Brooklynites, then it was off to Central Bar to watch the end of the Masters.

Team (No new profiles this week): Trygve Cossette (GK), Mark Resnik (DF) , Gavin Hamilton (DF), Scott Shafranek (DF), Scott Brindley (DF), Lars Murray (DF), Steve Morse, Dan Hollins, John Hodges, Paulo Bustamante, Manohar Venkataraman, Willian D’andrea, Mike Conboy, Mark Becker, Andy Jones, Hakan Nizam