EAFC Kicks off the Season with League Openers and Tournaments
This past weekend, many of Eastshore Alliance FC's teams began their league and tournament campaigns with some exciting and challenging matches. Here’s a recap of how the teams fared:
2007B APX opened their ECNL-RL season with a dominant 4-1 victory over DeAnza. Despite the result, Coach Mark felt the score didn’t reflect the team’s true performance. “The scoreline flattered us,” he said. “We had some nice moments in possession.” He went on to say that there are areas that the team needs to work on, including better execution in the final third.
In NPL action, 2010B APX drew 1-1 against Blues FC during the opening weekend in Davis, CA. Coach Niall was disappointed with the performance, especially in the first half. “We did nothing we’ve been working on,” he remarked. “The second half improved, but we struggled to break down their defense. There’s work to be done."
The 2009B APX boys had a solid 3-0 win against San Jose Legends, though it wasn’t their best showing. “We lacked patience in the opponent’s half and didn’t pick out quality chances,” Coach Wissem said. The team ended the game with 10 men but showed grit by finishing strong.
In another strong performance, the 2009G APX started their NPL 1 season with a 1-0 win against Cal Odyssey. Coach Omar praised his team’s effort in possession and their ability to break down the opponent’s defense. “We struggled with pressing in the first half but did much better in the second,” he said. The winning goal came 10 minutes from the end when winger Isabel finished a 1v1 against the keeper. It was a particularly satisfying victory, as they had lost 3-0 to this team last season.
At the Davis Showcase, both 2012G Navy and 2012B Navy kicked off their 11v11 NPL campaigns. The 2012B Navy team impressed with three wins: 3-0 vs. SF Glens, 1-0 vs. Central Valley Surf, and a gritty 3-2 win against Turlock FC. Their build-up play and counter-press were key to their success. The 2012G Navy showed growth during their first NPL experience, with a 0-0 tie, a 2-0 loss, and a 1-0 victory. Coach Sam was pleased with their progress in maintaining possession and relieving pressure.
The 2012B Orange team had a tough 4-2 loss to San Pablo. The game was closely contested, but they struggled to capitalize on their chances, hitting the crossbar twice. They also conceded a few goals due to poor decision-making around their own box. They’ll have a chance to bounce back during the Almaden tournament on Labor Day weekend.
The 2013G Orange team drew 0-0 against Pleasanton Rage. Despite creating several chances, they couldn’t beat the opposing goalkeeper. Coach Luis emphasized the need for the team to improve their combination play in the final third.
Tournament Results:
The 2010G Orange team ended their San Ramon tournament with a 2-2 draw against De Anza Force. Despite dominating the match, they couldn’t convert their chances. Coach Rigo praised the team’s performance, particularly their resilience after falling behind 2-0. “The girls played their hearts out and were deserving of the win,” he said.
In tournament play, the 2010B Red captured the San Ramon Soccerfest championship with a 3-0 win, marking their third tournament win in four tries. They were clinical throughout the tournament, scoring three goals in every game and keeping three clean sheets. “It’s great to see them building the habits for success,” said Coach Joe. “I’m proud of their progress."
2010B Red posing with their tournament championship medals.
The 2008G APX had a strong showing at the San Luis Obispo tournament, reaching the final before falling 1-0 to Central Coast Mustang. Coach John was impressed with the team’s improvement throughout the tournament. “We maintained better possession and progressed well,” he said.
At the same tournament, the 2007G APX reached the final but narrowly lost 2-1 to Mustang. Coach John highlighted the team’s strong group stage performances, including a tie with Mustang and victories over Walnut Creek Surf and American River. “The girls showed great fight and created good chances. Despite the loss, it was a promising start to the season,” he noted.
Members of 2007G APX posing with their tournament medals.
Coach Rey’s 2008G Orange team also reached the finals at the San Luis Obispo tournament, facing a tough ECFC Salinas side twice. Despite a 2-0 loss in the final, the girls stood out for their calm possession and progression through the thirds, contrasting with their opponents' direct and physical style. “We dominated possession but conceded two late goals,” Coach Rey said. “I’m really proud of how the girls progressed throughout the weekend and bonded as a team. The SLO tournament was a fantastic experience."
2008G Orange posing with their tournament medals.
The 2007G Orange team also competed in the San Luis Obispo tournament. They finished with one win and two losses in what was their first time playing together since May. Coach Nasos noted the team’s improvement in grit and determination throughout the weekend. “We faced some of the best competition I’ve seen at this age group,” he said. “It was a tough challenge, but I’m hopeful they’ll carry the lessons forward.”
As EAFC's fall season gets underway, the teams are eager to build on their performances and continue developing as a club. The early results offer a promising glimpse of the potential across the board, with much to look forward to in the coming weeks.