|
Williamsburg
Legacy 2 - 5 Vermont Voltage
July 26th, 2003
St. Albans, VC - 8:00 pm Kickoff
Brief
Summary by
Vermont
Voltage News Release
Northeast rivals advance in Eastern
Conference tournament
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Saturday, July 26, 2003 - Vermont Voltage
News Release - www.vermontvoltage.com
ST ALBANS, VT -- The defending PDL
champion Cape Cod Crusaders knocked off the regular season Eastern
Conference champion Richmond Kickers Future and the Northeast Division
Champion Vermont Voltage downed the Williamsburg Legacy 5-2 to set up a
battle of Northeast rivals Sunday for the right to move onto the league
semifinals.
The Vermont Voltage were determined not
to repeat history on Saturday night. After earning the Northeast
Division title in 2002, the Voltage bowed out of the playoffs with a 1-0
loss at home.
This Saturday night, Vermont found itself
down 1-0 at halftime, but changed the game when it came out for the
second session. The Voltage exploded for five second-half goals en route
to a 5-2 win over the Williamsburg Legacy in the Eastern Conference
semifinal.
Williamsburg went up 1-0 after only six
minutes of play. Carlos Garcia took a pass from Graham Albert and
one-timed his shot past Vermont keeper Andrew Olivieri.
Vermont scored almost as quickly in the
second half, when Geoff Thompson rose to win a header off a Bo Simic
corner kick. Just four minutes into the second, Thompson, six yards from
goal, headed the ball straight down, and the bounce flew past Noah
Palmer in net for the Legacy.
In the 55th minute, however, Williamsburg
went ahead again with Garcia’s second goal of the game. But just one
minute later, Bo Vuckovic pounded home a trademark free kick from 35
yards past the diving Palmer to tie up the game again.
Fifteen minutes later, Oliver Ellsworth
scored another game-winner when he took a perfect ball from Vuckovic and
knocked a low shot with the outside of his foot past Palmer. And in the
78th minute, Vermont sealed the game when Bo Simic’s corner kick hit a
Legacy defender and went in for the Voltage’s fourth goal.
Oliver Ocean capped the scoring in the
89th minute with a vicious left-footed strike into the roof of the net.
The Voltage win sets up an Eastern
Conference Championship to remember, as the Crusaders and Vermont have
been building a rivalry over the course of this season and last year. In
2002, the Crusaders took a US Open Cup spot away from Vermont and went
themselves, then celebrated the Eastern Conference Championship on the
field in St. Albans.
Cape Cod won the national title last
year, and this year are 1-1 against Vermont. On May 28, the Crusaders
won 2-1 at home, but the Voltage rebounded to win 3-1 in St. Albans on
July 5.
The game takes place at the Collins-Perley
Complex in St. Albans at 7:30pm.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 3 - 0 Richmond Kickers Future
July 20th, 2003
Busch Field, Williamsburg, Virginia - 12noon Kickoff
Brief
Summary by
Paul
Ring
Legacy Roll Into
Playoffs With Win
Down Rival Richmond 3-0
Williamsburg (July
20, 2003) – The Williamsburg Legacy ride into the playoffs on a high
note by defeating the leading team in the Mid Atlantic Division, the
Richmond Kickers Future, by a score of 3-0. A record crowd of 918 came
to cheer on the Legacy as the two top teams in the Mid Atlantic played
on the closing weekend of regular season in the PDL. With the win the
Legacy improve to 10-6-2 and head into the PDL playoffs winning 7 of
their last nine contests. Richmond ends their season on a sour note,
lowering their record to 14-3-1.
A quiet first half was
book ended by two Legacy goals. The Legacy wasted little time in scoring
as Bobby O’Brien (Virginia Tech) scored in the 10th minute by heading
in an assist by Robbie Wright (University of Virginia). After that,
however, neither team mounted any truly serious charge on their
opponent, although Noah Palmer did have a great save on a Richmond run
shortly after the Legacy’s first goal. O’Brien almost had another
score when he caught Richmond tender John O’Hara out of position, too
forward from the goal, but his attempted shot behind O’Hara banged off
the left post. Otherwise, play was unspectacular as two of the best
defenses in the league ground it out. In the 45th minute, however,
Legacy forward Carlos Garcia (William and Mary) sped forward to receive
an assist from O’Brien to bang it into the Richmond net to make it 2-0
Legacy.
Second half play
resembled that of the first, with the only break coming in the 82nd
minute when Wright scored unassisted to put it at 3-0. The final 45
minutes was filled with substitutions as the game’s outcome could not
change the playoff seeding from the Mid Atlantic, so starters were
rested while other were given valuable experience. Noah Palmer
(University of Maryland) completed the entire game in goal, pitching the
Legacy’s sixth shutout of the season.
PDL Playoffs begin next
weekend, July 26-27th. The Legacy will be traveling to St, Albans, VT
for their games. As a reward for the outstanding record and hard work
the team has recorded this season, the Williamsburg Soccer Club has
assured the team that it will fly to their playoff site so the team can
be at its most refreshed to take on the PDL’s finest. Because of the
costs associated with such an effort, fans are being given a unique
opportunity to help the team as they can sponsor one or more of the
players’ airfare to Vermont. Interested parties should contact the
Legacy at 757-220-3794. Sponsorships may be tax deductible, and fans air
tickers are also available.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 1 - 0 West Virginia Chaos
July 9th, 2003
Charleston, West Virginia - 6:00 pm Kickoff
Brief
Summary by
Staff
Reports
After extended delay the Legacy defeat the Chaos
1-0
The Williamsburg Legacy made its only trek to West
Virginia a successful one. After traveling the night before seven hours
from Williamsburg to Charleston, West Virginia the Legacy had to endure
an hour and half lightning delay. The delay came seven minutes into the
game with the score 0-0. But the trip was a successful one for the
Legacy after Clayton Voss scored 15 minutes into the second half to give
the Legacy the result and give them the three points they needed to
continue its move up the table.
The Legacy arrived in Charleston around 10:30
after traveling on the bus for a seven-hour trip from Williamsburg.
After getting a good night sleep and a great breakfast the players
convened for light training at about 11 am. The bus took the players
into a state park that look more for the outdoor wilderness types than
for a soccer game. But at the end of the road emerged a beautiful soccer
pitch inside a soccer specific stadium. The boys trained for about 45
minutes before an impending storm approached that was the foreshadow for
what was to follow during the evening.
The players returned to the hotel for a shower and
a rest and then met for lunch at about 1:30. The team traveled to a
local sports bar and had their usual pre-game meal. After the meal the
players either returned to the bus for some rest and videos or stayed
around and played a couple games of pool.
About 2 hours before the game the bus arrived at
the field. With the players resting some more, it started to rain, and
rain, and rain. The rain continued till about 35 minutes before the
game. At that time the team began warming up and the Chaos staff and
some players began the process of moving the tremendous water off the
field. And as time for the game approached the field was playable, some
water standing but playable. Play began just before 6 with very little
sprinkles and no real sign of a storm. It appeared the worst was over
and the teams could get down to business. Both teams look to play high
tempo from the start with both teams creating early scoring chances.
Many of which were created by water on the field. And just like that the
lightning came.
And the field was cleared and the wait began. And
although not extremely threatening or dangerous, it continued and
continued. The rain began to fall but never became a factor or concern,
but every 10 or 15 minutes another strike presented itself. And just
when things looked bleak the sky semi-cleared and game was again on.
The game itself was not very interesting or well
played. The rain on the pitch and the extended delay played a big part
in that. Both teams created several scoring chances but just when a goal
looks inevitable the water on the field would put a stop to it. And then
the possession by both teams became very erratic. This created several
counters by each team but once again it was either thwarted by the water
or superb goalkeeping by both teams. The half time came with the score
0-0.
As I sure both coaches mentioned at halftime, the
game was going to be decided by one mistake, one ball played into the
wrong field condition, or just pure luck and the game would end 1-0. And
sure enough 15 minutes into the second half, the Legacy's Clayton Voss
took advantage of one these breaks and buried 25 yard skimmer, making it
1-0. Unlike last Saturday's game between these two sides, the Legacy
could not break the game open. Instead for the next 30 minutes they had
to defend and defend. They did manage a couple scoring opportunities but
unfortunately the goal was not the result. Instead most of the chances
led to constant counters that the Legacy fortunately were able to
withstand till the end. The game ended 1-0.
The Legacy leaves West Virginia at about 9pm as a
happy bunch. Especially knowing that their climb in the table has
continued and the Playoffs are within their reach for the first time all
season. The win makes it 4-0-1 in their last 5 games and starts their
four game road trip with a win and hopefully with carry the momentum
through to the playoffs.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 6 - 0 West Virginia Chaos
July 5th, 2003
Busch Field, Williamsburg, Virginia - 8:00 pm Kickoff
Brief
Summary by
Paul
Ring
Legacy
Offense Erupts in Rout of West Virginia
Umana Scores Hat Trick in 6-0 Win
Williamsburg,
VA (July 5, 2003) – With the scoring opportunities the Williamsburg
Legacy had been creating in their past two games, it was only a matter of
time before they posted a big number on the scoreboard. On a steamy Fourth
of July Saturday, the visiting West Virginia Chaos felt the wrath of the
Legacy, who two weeks ago could only muster two goals on West Virginia
despite some thirty-odd shots, allowing West Virginia to escape Busch
Field with a 2-2 tie that day. Seeking to avenge their chance at a needed
win for the playoff picture, the Legacy would not allow the same mistakes
to happen again, connecting for six goals on 28 shots, while leaving West
Virginia scoreless. The win puts the Legacy at 6-5-1 on the year and are
threatening to move back into the playoff picture. After a midseason
cooling, the Legacy are 3-0-1 in their last four games. The loss drops
West Virginia to 2-9-1.
Such
potency was not immediately apparent form the start of the contest,
although flashes were sprinkled throughout the first half. In the opening
minutes, the Legacy all but had a sure goal, only to be denied when West
Virginia tender Chase Harrison (Virginia Tech) made a stunning save on
Legacy midfielder Randy Ugarte (Virginia Commonwealth), robbing Ugarte of
a score. From there on, the game settled down a bit as play revolved
around midfield, and the first half took on almost a serene pace. The
Legacy broke this calmness after the 26th minute, firing off a rapid
succession of runs on West Virginia’s goal, but none ended with a score.
In fact, the Legacy appeared to again be falling into the same trap of
past weeks, where the offense would mount great charges, only to end with
errant passes, missed crosses, or blocked shots. Indeed, despite 14 shots
in the first 45 minutes, the Legacy entered halftime scoreless, but thanks
to once again solid defense and keeping by Noah Palmer (University of
Maryland), West Virginia had also been kept at zero.
The second half was a
completely different affair as the Legacy burst out of the doldrums and
put an astounding six scores on the board. The first came quickly in the
51st minute as Bobby O’Brien (Virginia Tech) took a shot that just
banged off the post. Robbie Wright (University of Virginia) took the
rebound and pummeled it into the net to put the Legacy ahead 1-0;
O’Brien was credited with the assist. Quickly after, Jose Umana
(Virginia Commonwealth) would score the first of his three goals when he
broke free and blasted it past Harrison. Wright would repeat soon after in
the 66th minute as he and Ugarte broke free and faced Harrison 2-on-1.
Harrison stepped up for the block but was caught out in front as Wright
and Ugarte split the tender. Wright blasted the ball in to make it 3-0
with Ugarte getting the assist. The Legacy quieted for some period but
awoke in the 83rd minute as Umana scored on an assist from player-coach
Richard Butler (University of Alabama-Birmingham). Bryan Hinkle (William
and Mary), coming off a selection to the PDL Team of the Week, joined the
party with his late unassisted score in the 88th minute. Umana, not to be
denied the hat trick, score with second remaining in the 91st minute on an
assist from Helmis Matute (Virginia Commonwealth). The Legacy ended with 6
scores on 28 shots, while pitching their fourth shutout of the year.
The
Legacy kick off a four-game roadtrip with a Wednesday rematch a t West
Virginia on July 9th. The Legacy then visit Raleigh on July 11, Chesapeake
(MD) on July 13, and Greenville on July 18. The Legacy then return home
for their final regular-season home game of the year, as they take on I-64
rival Richmond Kickers Future on Sunday, July 20th, and 12:00 p.m. at
Busch Field.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 1 - 0 Chesapeake Dragons
June 27th, 2003
Busch Field, Williamsburg, Virginia - 8:00 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Paul Ring
Legacy
Defeats Chesapeake 1-0
Back to Winning Ways at Busch
WILLIAMSBURG,
VA (June 27, 2003) – The Williamsburg Legacy are back to their winning
ways at their home turf on Busch Field after downing the visiting
Chesapeake (MD) Dragons by a score of 1-0. The win puts the Legacy back
at the .500 mark for the season with a record of 5-5-2. Mid
Atlantic Division rival Chesapeake falls to 6-3-0.
Again
without its two starting forwards, Carlos Garcia (William and Mary) and
Brannon Thomas (William and Mary), the Legacy’s play mirrored that of
its game last week against West Virginia, where the Legacy held an
enormous advantage in shots, but failure to convert those into scores
left the game in a 2-2 tie. Indeed, through the first twenty minutes of
this game, the Legacy had already taken about half a dozen strong runs
on the Chesapeake goal, only to be denied a score on each. Meanwhile,
Chesapeake mustered a few good runs on the Legacy’s goal through the
first half, but otherwise could not mount consistent pressure on the
Legacy defense. The contest belonged to the Legacy offense, but that
fact did not translate into scoring as the first half ended with the
scored tied at 0-0. Chesapeake had almost scored in the 44th minute on a
breakaway, but their attacker was run down from behind by the speedy
Alex Brown (William and Mary) who prevented the shot.
Chesapeake
awoke in the second half and reversed the tide against the Legacy.
Through much of the first fifteen minutes of the second half, Chesapeake
orchestrated several strong runs on the Legacy’s goal, only to be
denied by the strong goal tending of Noah Palmer (University of
Maryland). One save, in particular, was especially brilliant as in the
57th minute Palmer blocked a shot one and one and then deflected the
rebound attempt on a dive to keep the match scoreless. The Legacy
eventually stemmed the tide and regained more ball control, but still
were scoreless. As was the case last week, the Legacy dominated in
shots, with a final tally of 21 to Chesapeake’s 9, but could not
secure any goals on those chances. However, unlike last week, the
Legacy’s defense and goal tending were stronger, giving the offense
time to assemble a perfect drive by holding off any advances from
Chesapeake and keeping the game scoreless.
The
Legacy almost broke the game wide open with an apparent score in the
71st minute, but it was invalidated due to an offsides infraction. The
Legacy were not to be denied, however, as Graham Albert (William and
Mary) took a pass from Bobby O’Brien (Virginia Tech) and put it
through the net to put the Legacy up 1-0; O’Brien was credited with
the assist. Albert almost doubled his pleasure in the 89th minute by
scoring again, but the capper was denied by a great save by Chesapeake
tender Mark Murphy.
Justin
Madrid, the youngest member of the Legacy at age 16, entered the game in
the 86th minute. Announced attendance was 871, the highest on the year.
Next week the Legacy will again face West Virginia at home on Saturday,
July 5th. Gametime is 7:00 p.m. at Busch Field.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 2 - 2 West Virginia Chaos
June 21st, 2003
Busch Field, Williamsburg, Virginia - 7:00 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Paul Ring
Williamsburg,
West Virginia battle to 2-2 tie
Legacy
can’t convert shots into scores
WILLIAMSBURG,
VA (June 21, 2003) – The Williamsburg Legacy took on the visiting West
Virginia Chaos tonight at Busch Field in a contest that ended in a 2-2
tie. The Legacy held a dramatic advantage in shots – 32 to 13 – but
could not convert the majority into goals. West Virginia, meanwhile,
made efficient uses of its precious few shots on goal. The Legacy are
now 4-5-2 on the year while West Virginia goes to 2-7-1.
The
tone of the game was established early as through the first 11 minutes
of the first half the Legacy had nearly scored on four great chances,
but each time the shot was saved or sailed wide. Meanwhile, West
Virginia struggled to get any offense going throughout the first half.
The one real run West Virginia strung together came in the 27th
minute, but it ended in frustration for the Chaos as Legacy keeper Noah
Palmer (University of Maryland) brilliantly saved a one-on-one shot.
The
Legacy broke open the game by finally connecting on one of their
attempts. Forward Robbie Wright (University of Virginia) put together a
great run and blasted the ball past West Virginia’s Christopher
McKinney for the goal. Jose Umana (Virginia Commonwealth) was in on the
assist to make it 1-0 Legacy. The score would remain 1-0 through
halftime.
West
Virginia quickly tied things in the second half as Brian Young put one
past John Connelly (Old Dominion) who had replaced Palmer in goal after
the half. West Virginia quickly seized on another opportunity, again
showing their great efficiency on shots. In the 65th minute
Stuart Bracher snuck one past Connelly to make it 2-1 West Virginia.
Young was credited with an assist.
After
a shot by Charlie Howe (Old Dominion) just missed, the Legacy put
together another run which this time they converted. Bobby O’Brien
(Virginia Tech) beat McKinney to tie the game at 2-2; Graham Albert
(William and Mary) had the assist. For the remainder of the half, the
Legacy would flirt several times with the winning goal, but every time
the team could not convert the shot into the score. In the final eleven
minutes of the second half, the Legacy took five great shots on goal,
but failed to score on any of them.
That
sent the game into overtime, which in PDL soccer consists of two
ten-minute golden goal periods. However, it was more of the same for the
Legacy who still mounted several good charges but could not score.
Meanwhile, the Legacy defense remained strong and Connelly played
solidly as the match ended in a 2-2 tie.
The
Legacy were without their two starting forwards tonight as both Carlos
Garcia (William and Mary) and Brannon Thomas (William and Mary) were
both absent. Garcia is serving a two game suspension due to a red card
versus Raleigh last week, while Thomas is currently battling what is
believed to be a benign brain tumor. Attendance at the game was 608. The
Legacy are back in action at home on June 27, at 8:00 p.m. when they
take on the Chesapeake Dragons.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 2 - 0 Northern Va Royals (Pro Select)
June 14th, 2003
Brentsville HS, Prince William, Virginia - 7:30 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Staff Reports
The
Legacy bounced back from a horrendous road trip the day before and
losses
to key personnel by beating the No Va Royals 2-0 at Brentsville HS.
The
game was interrupted by a one hour lightning delay in the first half.
Bobby
O'Brien was given a breakaway which he converted for the first goal
and
a 1-0 Legacy lead at halftime. In the second half Carlos Garcia scored
his
team leading 7th goal and the Legacy preserved the shutout for
goalkeeper
Noah Palmer, who made several big saves.
The
game was marred with 3 red cards, 2 to Northern Virginia and one to
Carlos
Garcia, who will probably miss a game in the near future.
The
Legacy played only 11 players in the match . Goalkeeper Noah Palmer,
defenders
Clayton Voss, Brian Hinkle, Jose Umana and Robbie Wright,
midfielders
Dane Wendell, Graham Albert, Charlie Howe and Helmis Matute,
and
forwards O'Brien and Garcia.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 1 - 2 Raleigh CASL Elite
(OT)
June 13th, 2003
SAS Stadium, Raliegh, NC - 7:00 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Staff Reports
The
Legacy took on CASL Elite on a beautiful night on a great surface at
SAS
Stadium. It was however Friday the 13th and it turned out to be a rough
night
for our team in many ways.
Despite
giving away a lot of possession in the first half, we scored a goal
when
Brannon Thomas slipped a ball with his head behind the CASL defense
and
Carlos Garcia scored his 6th goal of the season. Midway through the
first
period defender Jose Umana had to leave the game for stitches when he
was
elbowed in the head by Raleigh's John Izzo. He was replaced by
player-coach
Richard Butler, who completed the game at centerback.
With
about 20 minutes to go in the match, Brannon Thomas suffered a seizure
and
had to be taken to the hospital. The Legacy tried to hold things
together
but the cumulative effects of the losses and the humidity took its
toll
as Raleigh equalized 3 minutes later and won the game in sudden death
overtime.
Chris Norbet scored both goals for CASL.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 0 - 1 Richmond Kickers PDL
June 6th, 2003
Busch Field, Williamsburg, Virginia - 7:00 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Staff Reports
Legacy
Falls to Richmond
Undefeated
Streak at Busch Ends
WILLIAMSBURG,
VA (June 6, 2003) - The Williamsburg Legacy dropped a heartbreaker to
the Richmond Kicker Future Saturday in a hard fought 1-0 loss. The loss
marked the first loss at Busch Field for the Legacy, who in 13 previous
games had gone 12-0-1 at home. The Legacy, second in the PDL Mid Atlantic
Division, came into the game with a shot at capturing first place from
Richmond, but the loss solidifies Richmond dominance at the standings.
The
Legacy falls to 3-3-1 on the season.
The
Legacy offense never got going, absent its star forward Carlos Garcia
(William and Mary) through the first half, who was on the roster but was
still recovering from a sprained knee versus Wilmington (NC) suffered
last Saturday. Plagued by mistakes and mental errors, the Legacy lacked
consistent runs on goal as seemingly routine passes were missed or
intercepted. Meanwhile
Richmond dominated ball possession although its offense also struggled
in exerting pressure on the Legacy defense early. The game was scoreless
through the first half.
In
the 60th minute, Richmond broke the game wide open with an unassisted
score by Carlos Garay. Shortly after, Carlos Garcia entered the game for
the Legacy, but his presence, while improving the offense, still failed
to produce the chemistry needed for consistent runs and pressure on
goal. Mental mistakes still
occurred; wasting scoring opportunities, and the Legacy seemed
undisciplined. Still, the Legacy had two great shots tie the game late,
but each was just missed. Around the 80th minute, Garcia got a piece of
a shot by forward Brannon Thomas (William and Mary) and deflected it
towards goal, but it was just brilliantly saved by Richmond tender John
O'Hara, robbing Garcia of the tying goal. Again in the 90th minute the
Legacy
nearly forced overtime, when O'Hara fell in goal and Graham Albert
(William and Mary) hit a header that narrowly went wide of the post.
The
game would end there with Richmond taking the win and solidifying its
lead in the PDL Mid Atlantic Division.
Despite the loss, the Legacy played a hard game. Noah Palmer
(University of Maryland) was dazzling in goal and the game could have
easily been 3 or 4 to nothing had it not been for several magnificent
saves by Palmer. Palmer ended the night with 9 saves. The Legacy defense
also stood tall, allowing only one goal despite ball possession being
massively lopsided in favor of Richmond.
The
Legacy head on a three-day road trip, starting June 11 at Wilmington,
NC. The Legacy will then visit Raleigh on June 13 and Northern Virginia
on June 14 before returning home for Saturday, June 21 when the Legacy
will face West Virginia at Busch at 7 p.m.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 1 - 1 Greenville Lions Premier
June 1st, 2003
Busch Field, Williamsburg, Virginia - 7:00 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Staff Reports
Williamsburg-Greenville
Match Ends in Tie
Double
Overtime fails to break 1-1 score
Williamsburg,
VA, 1 June--- The Williamsburg Legacy came up just a little bit short
for their thirteenth straight victory while defending their home turf at
Busch Field. Facing the Greenville Lions, the Legacy battled back late
in the contest after being down 1-0 early to tie the game and preserve
their lifetime undefeated streak at home. However, today’s contest
marks the first time the Legacy have failed to win at Busch, the first
time in thirteen games. The match ended after two golden-goal overtime
periods with the score knotted at 1-1.
Although
the Legacy faced Greenville just last weekend, the makeup on the
Greenville team was vastly different as several players from Clemson who
could not make the trip earlier were suited up for today’s contest.
Greenville snatched the early lead in the fourteenth minute as forward
Charlie Roberts beat Legacy goal tender John Connelly (Old Dominion) one
on one. No Legacy defenders were ahead of the shot as Greenville was
able to block an attempted Legacy clear just prior to midfield and catch
the Legacy out of position. That score gave Greenville an early 1-0
lead.
Although
the Legacy took several good shots on goal in the first half, none of
them were converted for the score. The Legacy’s offense was stymied by
the absence of power forward Carlos Garcia (William and Mary) who was
left off the roster due to a sprained knee ligament suffered Saturday
night versus Wilmington. Without Garcia the Legacy seemed to miss the
catalyst needed to convert their opportunities into goals. Garcia,
however, is expected back to action shortly.
Greenville,
meanwhile, kept chipping away at the Legacy, taking several good runs on
the Legacy goal in the second half. However John Connelly excelled in
goal for Legacy, stopping several good shots in spectacular fashion.
Connelly had 8 saves on the evening.
With
time running out and their undefeated streak on the line, the Legacy
scrambled late in the second half to create scoring opportunities.
Finally, after one attempt was sent out of bounds on Greenville goal
keeper Taylor Tucker’s block, the Legacy were set up on a corner kick
in the 80th minute. Robbie Wright (University of Virginia) took the in
kick and deflected it to Graham Albert (William and Mary) who then snuck
it past Tucker for the score. That goal tied the match at 1-1.
The
Legacy’s hope for overtime were almost dashed in the 90th minute and
Greenville scored an apparent goal. However, an offsides penalty was
called on Greenville negating the score and sending the game into
overtime.
Overtime
in PDL soccer consists of two 10-minute golden goal periods where the
first score wins the game. After each team traded shots in the first
overtime period, the score remained 1-1. For the second overtime,
16-year old Justin Madrid (Grafton High School) replaced a spent Brannon
Thomas (William and Mary). It marked the first time the youngster saw
game action in his young career with the Legacy. Justin Madrid made
several great plays, including a steal, but he and the Legacy were
unable to get anything past Greenville. Likewise, Connelly and the
Legacy defense pitched a great overtime period and did not let
Greenville score so the game ended in a 1-1 tie.
The
Legacy are now 3-2-1 on the year. Announced attendance for the game was
477, which enjoyed partly cloudy skies and perfect spring temperatures,
a marked contrast to Saturday’s game. The Legacy are back in action at
home on Friday, June 6, when they face I-64 rivals Richmond Kickers
Future. Game time is 7:00 p.m. at Busch Field in Williamsburg.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 3 - 2 Wilmington Hammerheads
May 31st, 2003
Busch Field, Williamsburg, Virginia - 7:00 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Staff Reports
WILLIAMSBURG
DEFEATS WILMINGTON 3-2
Continues undefeated streak at home
(Williamsburg, VA,
May 31, 2003) The Williamsburg Legacy defeated the visiting Wilmington
(North Carolina) Hammerheads Saturday night 3-2 at a rainy Busch field.
After a 45-minute rain delay, which saw the field soaked, the turf
drained fairly quickly and even spots of sunshine broke through the
overcast skies. By the kickoff all the rain had ended but the wet field
still made for slick conditions.
Wilmington scored quickly after the start, taking advantage of a
breakaway, as the Legacy seemed out of sync early due to the delay. In
the 5th minute Wilmington midfielder Johnnie Keen took the rebound from
a Noah Palmer (University of Maryland) save and squeezed it past Palmer
for the goal. The Legacy tied the contest in the 24th minute when
forward Carlos Garcia (William and Mary) raced past two defenders to
beat Wilmington’s goal tender Billy Platz (a Chesapeake, VA native and
former William and Mary standout). Legacy forward Brannon Thomas
(William and Mary) had the assist on that goal to tie the game 1-1.
Legacy midfielder Clayton Voss (William and Mary) gave the Legacy a 2-1
lead on his breakaway goal at the 34-minute mark. After appearing
sluggish early, the Legacy dominated ball possession around the 35th
minute, keeping the ball squarely around Wilmington’s goal.
Late
in the first half, Legacy star forward Carlos Garcia was injured when
tangling with a Wilmington player. Although he first remained in the
game, he left the contest just before the end of the first half. After
examination Garcia termed himself fine and is expected to play in
tomorrow’s game. However, after Garcia was taken out, Wilmington
seized on the change to tie the game. Amid the confusion with the
substitution and line changes, Wilmington’s Jeff Johnson scored in the
42nd minute to make it 2-2.
The second half saw the Legacy take several good shots on goal,
but each was either blocked or went wide. Play became more physical as
frustration over missed shots and lost opportunities to break the
deadlock slipped by. Wilmington racked up 11 fouls in the second half
alone, while the Legacy were charged with 6 fouls in the second half.
With time running out and the Legacy looking to remain undefeated at
home, Clayton Voss (William and Mary) scored in the 81st minute on an
assist from Helmis Matute (Virginia Commonwealth). The made it 3-2
Legacy and where the game would end. The Legacy extended their winning
streak at home to 12 games.
The Legacy have little time to rest as they are back in action on
Sunday June 1. The Legacy will face the Greenville Lions premier at 3:00
p.m. at Busch Field. The Legacy has already defeated the Lions once
earlier in the season.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 2 - 0 Greenville Lions
May 24th, 2003
Busch Field, Williamsburg, Virginia - 7:00 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Staff Reports
LEGACY OVERPOWER GREENVILLE Williamsburg
reaches .500; Continues unbeaten streak at home
WILLIAMSBURG, May 24, 2003 - The
Williamsburg Legacy downed the Greenville Lions Saturday evening 2-0 as
the dynamic duo of forwards Brannon Thomas (William and Mary) and Carlos
Garcia (William and Mary) each scored in the second half to put the
Legacy at 2-2 for the young season. John Connelly (Old Dominion) pitched
a shutout with three saves on the night, sending Greenville to its
fourth straight loss. The win continues a winning streak for the Legacy
when defending Busch Field, one the included all of last season and one
game already this season.
The first half of the contest was won by
each team's defenses and goal keepers, frustrating the offenses, each of
which had numerous runs on goal. But neither team could convert the
opportunities for a score. Play was centered around each team's goal and
both offenses took several good shots, but they went wide or were
brilliantly saved. Greenville's defensive prowess, in particular,
manifested itself in a five minute period around 25 minutes into the
first half, when the Legacy mounted 4 straight runs on the Greenville
goal but each was thwarted.
The second half, however, would be a
different story with the Legacy clearly taking control of the game.
Right after halftime, at the 49th minute, Brannon Thomas scored on an
assist from Carlos Garcia to put the Legacy up 1-0. Shortly after,
around the 63rd minute, Randy Ugarte (Virginia Commonwealth), passed the
ball to Garcia just in front of the goal, but Garcia shot just missed
wide left. Garcia would get his goal minutes later in the 66th minute on
a beautiful shot that he finessed just under the crossbar for the score.
That goal made it 2-0 Legacy and that's where it would stay despite
three great shots by the Legacy in the final 10 minutes. But Taylor
Tucker, in goal for Greenville, brilliantly saved each attempt.
Conditions were greatly improved from
last week, with partly cloudy skies and mild temperatures. Attendance
was announced at 680. The win puts Williamsburg back at .500 as they
continue their Mid Atlantic Title defense. Next week the Legacy will
host the Wilmington Hammerheads on Saturday, May 31st, at 7:00 p.m. at
Busch Field.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 3 - 1 Raleigh CASL Elite
May 17th, 2003
Busch Field, Williamsburg, Virginia - 5:00 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Staff Reports
WILLIAMSBURG, May, 17, 2003 -- The Williamsburg Legacy
started their Premier Development League Mid Atlantic Division title
defense with a strong showing Saturday evening at Busch Field, defeating
the Raleigh CASL Elite 3-1. Rain fell the entire competition, with a
chill breeze proving for rugged competition. Legacy forwards Carlos
Garcia (William and Mary) and Brannon Thomas (William and Mary) strung
together a powerful combination of assists and goals to lead the Legacy
assault. John Connelly (Old Dominion) was exceptional in goal for the
Legacy, allowing only one attempt by, and stopping 6.
The game began with Williamsburg
dominating ball possession, but that did not mean the Legacy were safe
from Raleigh advances. Through the first 26 minutes, Raleigh had made
several runs on the Legacy goal, including three shots by Chris Norbet,
only to be denied a score by Connelly. The Legacy avoided the dangerous
play from that point on, controlling Raleigh’s advances more
effectively.
The Legacy broke onto the
scoreboard first with a goal by Brannon Thomas during the 29th minute.
Carlos Garcia had the assist to give the Legacy the early lead.
The Legacy continued to charge
Raleigh’s goal, but were unable to convert their scoring
opportunities. At the end of the first half, the score remained 1-0
Legacy.
Thomas began the second half where
he left off in the first, scoring in the 54th minute to give
the Legacy a 2-0 advantage. Garcia again was in with the assist. The
score came after three consecutive corner kicks for the Legacy, who
finally converted the chance for the goal.
Raleigh was able to get on the
board in the 64th minute with an unassisted goal by John Izzo
that snuck by Connelly. Following, Raleigh was able to mount several
more serious advances on the Legacy goal only to narrowly be denied a
score, but Raleigh was controlling ball possession much more effectively
than they had in the first half as the Legacy’s play became less
dominant.
Play was physical during the entire
competition but really heated up during the second half. In the second
half alone, the Legacy had 7 fouls to Raleigh’s 8. Several consecutive
fouls between both teams slowed played. With the stopped play leading to
extra time, Carlos Garcia was able to score on an empty Raleigh net in
the 91st minute. Connelly was credited with the assist.
Despite the rain, attendance was
announced as 426. Next week, the Legacy will again be at home to face
Greenville Lions Premier on Saturday, May 24. Game time is 7:00 PM at
Busch Field.
________________________________
Williamsburg
Legacy 2 - 3 Virginia Beach Mariners (A-League)
May 14th, 2003
Christopher Newport University, Newport News, Virginia - 7:00 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Brannon Thomas
Legacy falls to Mariners in tight, hard fought
game, 3-2. The Legacy started the scrimmage in a very good fashion,
keeping the majority of the possession, creating a number of chances and
limiting the Mariners potent attack to only a few chances. The Mariners
got on the board first with a goal by Aaron Brooks. The Legacy answered
in the second half with a goal by Carlos Garcia off a lovely assist from
Jose Umana (Chello). The referee then awarded the Mariners a very
questionable penalty kick in which Roy Lassiter calmly finished to give
the Mariners a 2-1 lead. The Legacy fought back hard and appeared to
have won a penalty kick when Carlos Garcia was pulled down in the box,
but the referee did not award the penalty kick. The Mariners collected
the ball and within a minute scored off a goal from Hamisi Amani-Dove.
Bobby O'Brien added a late strike to put the Legacy within striking
distance, but time ran out with the Mariners winning 3-2.
Saturday, the Legacy will look to improve upon
last season's 9-0 home record, when they take on Raleigh CASL Elite in a
rematch of last seasons first and second place teams. Game time is
scheduled for 5 P.M. at Busch Field on the campus of William & Mary.
Directions can be found at www.williamsburglegacy.com
. All WSC players get in free with a WSC shirt. Come out and support the
Legacy as we try to break our home attendance record of 672
________________________________
Williamsburg Legacy 1 - 2 Chesapeake Dragons
May 11th, 2003
Bowie State Stadium, Bowie, Maryland - 2:00 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Chris Friant
Click
for Some Great Photos
The Williamsburg Legacy traveled to Bowie, Maryland
for their second game of the season; also their second road game in two
days. Because of various commitments such as graduations, etc, the Legacy
traveled with a light squad. With the weather very hot and humid, this
could have proved a problem. But for the most part it wasn't even a
factor. On top of the weather was a very sloppy pitch with plenty of wet
long grass, not your ideal conditions for a team that plays possession.
Starting for the Legacy today was Palmer in goal;
Voss, Brown, Kaila, and Segares in the back; Hinkle, Umana, Albert, and
Matute in midfield; and up top were Thomas and O'Brien. Hansen subbed for
Matute with about 15 minutes remaining; with Voss switching to midfield
and Hansen playing right back.
The Legacy proved again that they can play
attractive possession soccer under any circumstances. On this day one team
could not have more possession or create more quality scoring chances
without getting the win. Playing behind for most of the game after giving
up another early goal, the Legacy attacked and attacked, but by halftime
could not get the equalizer.
The second half was much like the last 30 minutes of
the first half. Complete possession dominance. The Legacy created so many
chances to score, sending 8 guys forward into the attack, it seamed
inevitable that the team would score. Again only to see their result being
near misses. Then in the 58th minute with a creative combination play
between Albert and Segares, O'Brien was sent in to goal, creating an
excellent scoring chance that was unbelievably snuffed out by the
goalkeeper. Fortunately for the Legacy the ball bounced back to O'Brien
who slammed home the equalizer.
With the score now 1-1 Chesapeake seamed lost, and
with the constant pressure around the goal, it looked like the onslaught
was coming. Unfortunately the Legacy was unable to find the net again. At
times over the next 10 to 15 minutes the Legacy was creating 20 to 25
passes of possession inside the Dragons defensive third.
As with the case of teams playing possession in the
opponents half, teams are susceptible to the counter. The Dragons had two
of these opportunities in the second half, one clear breakaway in as
stoned by Noah Palmer. Unfortunately with about 10 minutes to go another
chance created the winning goal.
But the Legacy did not stop the constant pressure;
this time trying to create the equalizer again. Today would not be the
Legacy's day and the score ended with another tough loss.
Fortunately for the Legacy they return home next
Saturday to the friendly confines of Busch Field where they will take on
Mid-Atlantic runners-up Raleigh CASL Elite. Game time is at 5pm.
________________________________
Williamsburg Legacy 0 - 1 Richmond Kickers Future
May 10th, 2003
City Stadium, Richmond, Virginia - 2:30 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by
Staff Reports
The Williamsburg Legacy began their second season by
dropping a touch 0-1 decision to the Richmond Kickers Future at Richmond
City Stadium.
Starting for the Legacy was Connelly in goal;
Segares, Brown, Umana and Hansen in the back; Voss, Hinkle, Matutue, and
Albert in the midfield. Starting up front was Thomas and Garcia.
Although it turns out to be a very close affair, the
Legacy gave away an early goal. Off a loss of possession just inside their
half line, Richmond slipped the ball to Matt Delicant and the big Welshman
scored what proved to be the only goal of the match.
Both Legacy Strikers had clear breakways for the
first half. However, both were saved by Richmond keeper John O'Hein.
In the second half Randy Ugarte replaced Matt Hansen
in the 46th minute and with 10 minutes to go, Bobby O'Brien replaced
Clayton Voss.
Goalkeeper John Connelly made a big save late in the
game to keep the Legacy chance for a tie alive.
Although the game was statistically pretty even, the
Legacy did dominate on corners, 14-2. The Legacy with take on Chesapeake
on Sunday, May 11th, in an attempt to get back on the winning track
________________________________
Williamsburg Legacy 4 - 1 Team Chittum
May 3rd, 2003
Busch Field, Williamsburg, Virginia - 4:30 pm Kickoff
Brief Summary by Chris Friant
The Williamsburg Legacy began its 2003 season with a
4-1 win in a scrimmage with Team Chittum, a group of players consisting of
mainly ex-W&M players. Being that most of the Legacy was finishing up
their school requirements the team was forced to field a relatively
experienced team.
The team consisted of Legacy returnees: Carlos
Garcia, Graham Albert, Alex Brown, Brannon Thomas, John Connelly and
Johnny Kamara & Matt Hansen, who were only available for half the
game; Legacy Newcomers: Bryan Hinkle, Clayton Voss; Chris Madrid and 4
players from the Legacy Developmental Squad: Alex Phillips, Sean Charles,
Justin Madrid, and Patrick Brown.
Goals Scored by Charlie Garcia (2), Brannon Thomas,
Bryan Hinkle. Connelly went the distance in goal.
Click
here for the 2002 Game Summaries
|
