Coach: Barry Oliver (0417 333 791)
Manager: Ian Kemp (0447 391 480)
Training day: Mondays
Training time: 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Training location: Duncan McKinnon Reserve

Our new U13 team has finally taken shape, with a total 14 boys currently registered and able to play. Skills and experience varies with a number of multi-season players returning to the field, whilst we also have some talented and evolving players hitting the turf (figuratively speaking) for the first time. As a newly formed team, and having two players unable to make Monday night training, coach Barry has had a challenge in pulling a cohesive team together for our first game day. But certainly, based on the fun factor already witnessed to date, we appear to have the right formulae in place. Welcome and congratulations, but please keep the recruiting radar working, as we really could benefit from an additional player into the squad.

The Falcon team members and strip numbers are:

• Daniel P (2)
• Alexander (Sasha) A (4)
• Joshua G (5)
• Rylie (6)
• Joshua B (7)
• Joshua H (8)
• Leon (9)
• David (10)
• Patrick (11)
• Daniel R (12)
• Alexander O (13)
• Elliott (14)
• Stephen (15)
• Nicholas (18)

Don’t forget the GE-JSC Casino Night is scheduled for Saturday 11 August 2007 (was 04 Aug) - click here for details
(posted at 11:30 13 June 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Duty Day - Sunday 27 May. Thank you to all parents for making our duty day a great success!
(posted at 11:30 13 June 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Duty Day - Sunday 27 May. Our team has been rostered for all-day duty at our home ground (Lord Reserve), with a full 8:30 am - 5:30 pm coverage of the Canteen & BBQ. This is a once-only a season duty, so it’s good to be able to put the duty day behind us early in the fixture. With a 3-person coverage needed across the day, we’ll need ALL parents on board to assist. Ian Kemp will be putting a detailed roster together over the next week, so please mark the day in your diary now. As a volunteer organisation, we survive (and depend) upon the extended team coming together and making the day run smoothly.
Thank you in advance.
(posted at 20:59 07 May 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Round 12: Glen Eira U13 Falcons vs Boronia - Sunday 22 July 2007

With just one loss for the season to date, top of the ladder Boronia was always going to be a challenge for the Falcons.  But a credible 3-3 draw back in Round 3 set the scene for a great return match on our Mackie Road home ground. And from all accounts it was indeed a great match!

Patrick and Josh H were unavailable due to family commitments and Josh B also sidelined owing to his lingering injury incurred last Monday, so the team we fielded was the core eleven with no bench. Given that Boronia had five on the bench and maximised (some would say excessively) their rotations, the boys did a fantastic job in achieving a 2-2 draw at the final whistle – a fair result for both team’s endeavour and true litmus test of the Falcon’s pecking order. Congratulations team!

My thanks to Peter Tamplin who took over the Team manager duties for the day in a rather eventful and vocal environment! 
 
Glen Eira goal scorers:

Ian Kemp
(posted at 15:45 04 August 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Round 11: Glen Eira Boys U13 Falcons vs Riversdale Raiders - Sunday 15 July 2007

The Falcons achieved a successful mirror image score line compared to our last outing, this time taking a well earned 2-1 win against the Riversdale Raiders on our home turf.      

Coach Barry was back in the director’s chair - fortunately not wearing his newly acquired fluorescent orange Deer beanie!  Still feeling the effects of his injury a few weeks ago, Alex O again assumed the ‘keeper responsibility for the match. Early action was fast with both teams pushing into their respective forward lines, but before the thermos’ had seen the light of day, a well positioned Sasha pass enabled Rylie to take control and score at the five minute mark. Just three minutes later, Josh B created the lead and received a timely pass, dodged the keeper and slotted our second goal home. A further attempt by Rylie soon after hit the top bar, deflected down and safely cleared by the Riversdale keeper. Certainly plenty of action and a spectacle to watch.

Elliott again showed his improved defensive skills, controlling and putting the ball to safety when it mattered.   Stephen followed suit with a confident game, reading the ball well and positioning himself to best advantage, providing a number of clearances and Alex O, ever reliable, taking a great save and allowing us to assume a comfortable 2-0 lead at half time.

Riversdale came out with plenty of spirit in the second half, attacking and creating opportunities for themselves, however solid defence by David and fast runs by Josh H proved invaluable. Our counter attack through Josh G’s solid shot for goal was unlucky not to go in and Leon tested the Riversdale keeper with a long 20m+ direct strike.

The opposition served up plenty of challenges for our back line, but Daniel P’s dogged and persistent defence style earned him the Coaches “kelpy” award for the day and much applause from the side lines. Riversdale finally broke through with a goal in the 50th but we soon had the ball at the other end with a lovely cross from Josh B in front of our goal – a resultant collision between Patrick and the keeper produced a loose ball and a quick thinking Stephen took an opportunistic shot but unfortunately just going wide.  Great effort though. 

Falcons ran out 2-1 winners and another impressive game by all players. Well done.

Glen Eira goal scorers:

Ian Kemp
(posted at 15:45 04 August 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Round 10: Glen Eira U13 Falcons Boys vs Nunawading City - Sunday 8 July 2007

As predicted, our match against Nunawading City indeed turned out to be a hard fought battle with the home team taking 1-0 honours in the last minutes of play.
 
Coach Barry was 150km away in the ice-cold Gippsland gaining inside information on deer hunting (Deers 1, Barry 0) allowing Mark Graham to take charge of the Falcons (aka Graham’s Thirteen) for the day. Sasha had called in sick and birthday boy Elliott assumed goal keeper role for the first half – a good move given that the goal square at the other end was like a glue pot – which we were soon to discover when attempting to score.

The boys put on an impressive 30 minutes, with all players demonstrating skill, poise and ball placement that often resulted in a Falcons forward thrust. Fine touches by Patrick, Josh B and Josh G, along with David, Rylie and Alex put the opposition under pressure and it looked like we could score at any time. But a couple of offside calls, an excellent Nunawading keeper and THAT glue pot all proved too difficult to overcome. Our attacking play generated a relatively quiet back line but Elliott, with support from the defence group, did an excellent job protecting our goal and finding a leading player from the goal kicks. Well done. The defence drills that Barry has been focusing on at training in recent time were certainly coming to the fore and perhaps a half time 0-0 score line did not reflect the good work the boys had created.      

Daniel R took over the gloves in the second half and quickly had his work cut out with a more attacking opposition whilst having the pleasure of negotiating the mud patch. For us spectators, the Nundawading ground provided a far more comfortable grand stand perspective, enhancing what was already a high quality match. On numerous occasions we applauded Josh H’s cheatah-like speed in running done his opponent and either winning or taking the ball to safety. Strong performances from Nick, Daniel P, Leon, Josh G and brave interventions from Stephen all provided us with a great spectacle to watch.  But alas, a successful strike from Nunawading with only a minute remaining in the game denied us the opportunity to equalise. An excellent team game with strong and even performances across all players. Well done team!

Glen Eira goal scorers: NIL

Thanks Mark, you did a great job as stand in coach and thanks also to Bruce Houghton for filling in as linesman.

Ian Kemp
(posted at 15:45 04 August 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Round 9: Glen Eira U13 Falcons Boys vs East Bentleigh - Sunday 1 July 2007

Round 9 turned out to be a high scoring 6-4 loss against our East Bentleigh opponents and played in very windy conditions. Once again, the goal keeper position proved to be a bone of contention with all “volunteers” taking a backward step. On this occasion, David fronted the net for the first half, with Leon taking the gloves for the second. Kicking with the strong wind, Patrick took advantage of a great pass from Rylie in front of goal and scored our opener early, followed by a well controlled Rylie goal just 5 minutes later. However, East Bentleigh created the opportunity and scored with a difficult deflection at the 20th. Josh G played a lovely push across to Rylie who once again found the back of the net. We needed to be in front at half time with this wind, but East Bentleigh exploited our defence and scored twice in the last five minutes taking the score line to 3-3.   

Barry pushed the hard defence line during the break, but our ability to trap and control the ball proved to be problematic, allowing East Bentleigh to take the advantage, kicking the next two goals, including an almost impossible sky ball over Leon’s head. The boys should be congratulated for their persistence in maintaining pressure at all the contests and some lovely touches and clearances when it mattered. Josh B added to his goal tally from last week by scoring late in the term and for a moment there was a sniff of a come back – quickly countered by the sixth and final goal from our opposition in the last minute of play.                

Many lessons learned, particularly in our defensive strategies – a key focus at Monday night’s training session and no doubt the boys will improve as they start applying these skills.

Glen Eira goal scorers:

Our ability to defend competitively in the second half of the season may well pivot around developing at least one semi-dedicated player for the critical role of goal keeper. To that end, Elliott indicated at training on Monday night that he would give it a go on a part-time basis. Good on you Elliott! The extended team will support you as much as we can, but we’ll need to supplement Elliott with at least one other player to create a back-up and allow him a balance of field play as well. I urge all players to seriously consider playing the position. It is extremely rewarding and you never know we may discover the next Mark Schwarzer!

Ian Kemp
(posted at 15:45 04 August 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Round 8: Glen Eira U13 Falcons Boys vs Croydon City Arrows - Sunday 24 June 2007

Result: Glen Eira 4, Croydon City Arrows 0
Glen Eira goal scorers:

Ian Kemp
(posted at 15:45 04 August 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Round 7: Glen Eira U13 Falcons Boys vs Hampton - Sunday 17 June 2007

Result: Glen Eira 1, Hampton 0
Glen Eira goal scorers:

Ian Kemp
(posted at 15:45 04 August 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Round 6: Glen Eira Falcons Boys vs Ringwood City U13 Boys - Sunday 10 June 2007

This game was always going to be competitive, with both teams similarly placed on the ladder after five rounds and the boys didn’t let us down. In our fastest and most frenetic match to date the match fittingly ended in a 2-2 draw - a fair and equitable result and a great spectacle for on lookers.

The Falcon’s started the day without key player Alex O, still out of action due to a lingering injury from the round 4 Cranbourne match.  So, once again, it was time to re-jig the team format with Nick H taking on the goalie gloves for the first time and finding himself under siege from the Ringwood City strikers from the outset.

The speed of play was fast and skill levels high on both sides, but Ringwood’s attacking play created early opportunities, finding the goals at the 4th and 7th minute mark. 2-0 and the game’s looking ominous for the Falcons.  But a great steal and forward push from Josh G set up Rylie for a Glen Eira goal immediately after.  Three goals in 10 minutes; at this rate we were going to end up with an AFL score line! Two more attempts (and saves) from both teams in a continuing fast pace game, when Josh G and Rylie again combined in some great teamwork to deliver the 2-2 equaliser just before half time.

The second half was a scene of unremitting attack and counter attack, producing many examples of good runs, forward plays, strategic moves and deft touches by all our boys. Rylie assumed the goalie mantle allowing Nick an opportunity to take the striker role – both earning their respective stripes with honour. The midfield enjoyed much of the action, giving Patrick, Sasha and Josh B plenty of run with support from David, Elliott and Daniel P.  Ringwood continued the pressure and looked like scoring the winner in the dying moments if not for a timely deflection if front of goal by Daniel R. Game saved and a well earned 2-2 draw.

Once again, congratulations to the boys for an impressive performance and for providing parents and on-lookers a great spectacle.

Glen Eira goal scorers:

Ian Kemp
(posted at 11:30 13 June 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Round 5: Sunday 3 June 2007 (Bye)

Round 4: Glen Eira U13 Falcons Boys vs Casey U13 Comets Boys - Sunday 27 May 2007

Result: Glen Eira 3, Casey Comets 0

Glen Eira goal scorers:

• Nick 1 (10)
• Rylie 1 (29)
• Josh G 1 (57)

Ian Kemp
(posted at 11:30 13 June 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Round 3: Glen Eira U13 Falcons Boys vs Boronia - Sunday 20 May 2007

An intriguing and eventful game on the Ferntree Gully pitch against a similarly experienced and sized team saw the Falcons fight back in the latter part of the second half to achieve a credible and well fought 3-3 draw.

The team again took a different shape with Coach Barry continuing the rotation of the keeper, this time Patrick taking the gloves for the full game. With a wing span of just 1.5m, that’s a challenge! Leon was missed (sick) but replaced this week by an equally tall Daniel R joining the team for the first time. Josh G appeared to have overcome his hamstring injury from last week and played well.

Boronia impressed early putting immediate pressure on our boys through a couple of corners and shots for goal in the first 15 minutes. A high goal shot by Rylie; a deflection off Alex O; and a great run and shot by Nick unfortunately all went wide of the net. In attack again, a great solo run by Rylie in front of goal invoked a Boronia foul, resulting in a penalty kick and straight forward first goal to the Falcons at the 19 minute mark. Our lead was short lived, as just 3 minutes later Boronia equalised with an excellent goal. Rylie took the concept of a head-to-head clash a little too literally, as he collided heavily in a high ball header attempt with his Boronia counterpart. Fortunately, no serious injury, but some very concerned parents and spectators on the side lines.
The 1-1 half time score board was a fair representation of the game so far.

Boronia jumped out of the blocks again in the second half, but a string of offside calls created some emotion amongst the opposition team. But just 5 minutes in, they took advantage of a scramble in front of goal and pushed the ball into the left corner for their second score. The pressure continued with two more shots, one hitting the post and many plays right in front of goal - but our defence players stood up well with composed and skilful clearances.  However, Boronia pushed ahead with a quick attack and goaled at the 43rd taking a 3-1 lead.

The Falcon’s again showed their determination and responded with positive play and creativity.  Rylie scored brilliantly just a minute later and following a great run up field by the mid-fielders presenting Rylie in open space with yet another successful opportunity at the 46th. The final few minutes were tense staving off more attacks by Boronia but the 3-3 score line remained.
A great team effort under intense pressure.  Well done boys!

Glen Eira goal scorers:

• Rylie 3 (19, 44, 46)

Ian Kemp
(posted at 20:00 29 May 2007 by Ian Kemp)

Round 2: Glen Eira U13 Falcons Boys vs Riversdale Raiders - Sunday 13 May 2007

Frog Hollow Reserve is well known for being a swampy pitch but this Mothers’ Day it was a dry, warm 24C and the scene for a tough, drawn out battle resulting in a 2-1 loss to a strong playing Riversdale team.

We fielded just 12 players with David calling in sick and then further impacted when Josh G re-injured his hamstring in the pre-match warm up and had to start on the bench, ice-pack strategically placed.

The first ten minutes was essentially an exploratory exercise by both teams, with the tall Riversdale team showing early confidence.  Alex O as first-half goalie made an easy save for the first real goal attempt of the game, but a long, high ball from Riversdale’s centre midfield at the 12 minute mark went over Alex’s head hitting the back of the net.

Riversdale maintained the pressure with yet another goal attempt five minutes later, this time going well wide.

The Falcons defence work was excellent, but we struggled to make play in our forward, with the ball always rebounding out of the opposition’s defence. Two Falcon corners were both cleared easily. Daniel P again showed his speed in defence, taking the ball safely out when Riversdale looked threatening. Half time and we’re 1-0 down.

Josh G took to the field in a defence role for the second half, while Josh H, perhaps a little reluctantly, put on the goalie gloves.  With virtually no time to settle, a scramble though midfield produced a loose ball and a surprising Riversdale goal in the first minute.  But to the boys credit, the Falcons regained their composure from that point and created numerous opportunities.  Rylie put a solid shot just wide, shortly followed by Alex O with a clear solo run but alas, into the goalie.  More attempts by Rylie, Josh B, Alex O and Leon all had the same result.  We couldn’t buy a goal!  A high ball from Riversdale’s forward line almost bounced over Josh H’s head, but somehow he maintained his balance and stopped an almost certain goal.

Time was running out for the Falcons but a great run down field by Josh B, Sasha and Patrick finally found a weakness in the Riversdale defence, with Patrick avoiding the goalie and hitting the back of the net at the 75 minute mark. The 2-1 loss was not a true indication of the amount of control we had and sets the scene for a great rematch come round 11.

Goal scorers:

• Patrick (75)

Congratulations boys for a great game!

Ian Kemp

Round 1: Glen Eira U13 Falcons Boys vs Nunawading - Sunday 06 May 2007

Congratulations to first-time coach Barry and the newly formed Falcons for a hard fought 4-3 win over Nunawading City. 

Pre-game positions and tactics were a tad fluid, but the boys came together well and quickly learnt each other’s strengths. Defence was the name of the game early, with the first goal by Nunawading not scored until the 23rd minute. Stephen was ever alert as first term goalie, Josh demonstrating new found speed and smart touches along with Sasha, Josh B and David all providing agility and determination around the field. First time player Daniel P annoyed his opposition with his persistence while Leonshone with his speed and equally clever play. Our first reply came with a great goal from Rylie in the 25th, followed up just minutes later with another, providing us with a 2-1 lead at half time. 

Coach Barry maintained a frequent rotation from the two man bench, but Nunawading persistence paid off as they equalised just minutes into the second half to maintain the pressure. Alexander O had provided solid-as-a-rock defence all game, but was moved forward and kicked us a goal ahead in the 38th, but again Nunawading equalised in the 45th. Josh G played forward first half and moved mid-field in the second, having a number of goal opportunities denied and Elliott showed poise with a great save during his stint as goalie. With just minutes to go, Patrick snuck the ball through the last line of defence for the sealer! 

Congratulations to whole team!

Goal scorers:

• Rylie (25, 29)
• Alex O (38)
• Patrick (51)

Don’t forget to review all the game results and ladder details on the FFV web site at http://www.soccervictoria.org.au/competitions/results/.
Our team is in the Milo Boys East 13 D division.

Ian Kemp