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2009 UK Tour Review |
| 93G and 94G Gold UK Tour Review |
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2009 UK TOUR REVIEW- The 93G & 94G girls teams played 5 games each vs English Academy teams, winning 9 and drawing 1. Although there were some talented players on the opposition squads, their top did not play against PSV Union -- these players typically play up (e.g. U18 or on the women’s team or reserves). The 94G played teams that were mostly younger (a mix of 12-14 year old players -- not unlike our own squad, but with more players in the 95 to 96 age range than 94). The Liverpool and Chelsea team had their first experience playing together and playing 11 v 11 when they played our 94 team (European teams don’t play 11 v 11 until U14) and it was also the first training game since May for each team we played. The 93G also played mostly younger players (we had some guest players too so this worked out). We had the benefit of being 3 weeks into our pre-season with our touch and fitness already pretty high as well as our chemistry. Indeed Everton canceled on us because they were still on summer break. Questions were asked about the level of competition; while it wasn’t as high as we would have liked because of the timing of their season and their top players playing up as stated above, we did find ample competition, especially with the 93G. We also had the benefit of being in good shape individually and collectively. Remember, we train often 2x more here at Union than girls' teams in most other countries (and even more than most US teams) and are improving week in and week out. We have the benefit of European training from the men’s side of the game along with extensive time input in terms of hours on the field both in practice and games. In other words, Union FC is a unique football environment and we prepared the players well for these games. This is not to say that players in other programs or in other countries do not train on their own -- very common -- to improve their game. It is important to be aware of the fact that our own players are improving rapidly so be sure not to undermine our ability as players and coaches! It wasn’t long ago that many of our teams and players weren’t even on the soccer map locally. Through hard work, high caliber material/teaching and adding players to our squad, our teams have improved. We play in a way that takes many years to develop. The style and philosophy are difficult to play and difficult to teach -- some of the technical, physical and tactical training the players are receiving are higher level than college soccer and can be found in men’s professional teams sessions throughout the world. Its normal that over time the players will start to exhibit some of the finest qualities you will find on the football field. Overall, the opposition was adequate and what we needed for our pre-season. Most of the younger players got some experience with the 93G team (some played in several games with ample time) who rested several injured players so the balance of the tour competition was good for them. Game Results. 93G vs. Croydon FC W 10:0 |