The Class 1 Under 14 boys Orchard Valley Top Dawgs defeated
Redwood Juventus 2-0 in a thrilling encounter at the Morgan Hill
Soccer Complex to advance to the quarterfinals of the Snickers CYSA
State Cup for the first time in their history.
The Class 1 Under 14 boys Orchard Valley Top Dawgs defeated Redwood Juventus 2-0 in a thrilling encounter at the Morgan Hill Soccer Complex to advance to the quarterfinals of the Snickers CYSA State Cup for the first time in their history.
The Top Dawgs were unable to get anything going early because of the tough man marking by Redwood. The Dawgs were often pushed back into our their own half.
The Juventus had a great opportunity, which was cleared off the Top Dawgs goal line at a key time in the game.
Despite one or two players being “off form” the strength in depth of the Orchard Valley team showed with strong performances from the rest of the team to keep the game scoreless at the break.
In the second half coach, Brian Hall made some strategic and personnel changes. Within ten minutes the pressure paid off and the Dawgs took the lead on a combination play down the left that opened the Juventus defense and the Top Dawg striker powered a shot that ripped into the back of the net leaving the keeper helpless.
The best chance the Juventus had to tie was denied when the Orchard Valley goalkeeper made a crucial save.
That missed opportunity was the turning point in the game. With eleven minutes to go, the important second goal was scored.
A well rehearsed training routine resulted in the perfect flick on from a corner kick allowing the Top Dawgs attacking midfielder to head home. The demoralized Redwood team never recovered.
Top Dawgs controlled the game from that point on and their superior fitness was clear for all to see.
Coach Brian Hall was particularly pleased with the patience and discipline shown by the players and admitted that all teams need an ounce of luck to win any game or tournament.
The quarterfinal round will be April 12 at 8:30 a.m. at Morgan Hill Soccer Complex against the Santa Rosa United Strikers.
The Strikers were the state champions in 2001. If they win, they play in the semifinals on Sunday at the Complex also at 8:30 a.m.
