Colombia: The Ghost of Ivy Past

-->
“Throw out the Bears’ #21 ranking, throw out their 7-1 record, and throw out Colombia’s 2-5-1… the Ivy League starts now” announced color-commentator Mike Mancuso, staring out across a dew-laden Stevenson field before the open whistle sounded on Saturday night. This sentiment has been repeated year after year by coaches and veteran players alike, all having learned the inevitably turbulent battle that accompanies every Ivy League matchup, a battle often determined by one, vital goal. 

Tonight would be no exception.

Not only were the Bears about to open the most vital chapter of their season, but the painful overtime loss of last year to the Lions still lingered freshly in the minds of many-a-Bear, a loss that had challenged the Bears’ chances at an Ivy League title (though, for those of you who missed it, they did eventually scrap their way to glory). 

The whistle blew and the Bears attacked the Lions with energy and excitement, pinging the ball quickly with solid combinations sprouting up across the field. Per usual, the established back line remained stalwart as Schloss rose to the Lion’s one early challenge with a decisive punch out. Meanwhile, the left side was quickly exploited by the dynamic duo of Dyl and Tmac, while the center backs and mids looked to find the hulking frames of the twin tower strikers Belair and Big Ben in the air. 

Well the Bears pressed forward and began to produce chances – including a brilliant cross from Dylan flicked on by Gavey and put just wide by the boot of Ben – the Lions didn’t manage to put much together in terms of opportunities, content to pound the ball, goal-kick style, over the net.
Dylan and Gavey continued to push strongly up the wings, sending in scintillating crosses that just missed their mark, and Tmac had a go himself, shaking and baking inside the box and finishing with a chipper that sailed just over the bar. The half winded to a scoreless close after one final effort from Belair, and the Bears jogged off Stevenson unlucky not to have connected, but confidant that a goal would indeed come.

---

“Who wants it more for the next 45-65 minutes? That’s who’s going to win this game” ended Coach Laughlin as the Bears returned to the field. Almost immediately Big Ben and Gavey sent a clear message with some decisively crushing challenges against the Lion defenders, that yes, Brown was ready for the fight. 

And then the shots came. Tmac began the barrage, weaving his way into the left corner and down the end line, firing a dangerous ball across the mouth of the goal and just wide. Then Gavey struck a laser just wide of the post, and moments later Big Ben found the ball at his feet near the penalty spot but his attempt was deflected wide by a diving defender. 

A succession of corners flew by, battles followed, and then, finally the Bears pulled ahead. A long ball was flicked brilliantly on by the rearing dome of Maurey to a sprinting Bizzle who got absolutely jackhammered by a Lion defender. Without a moment of hesitation from the ref a deserved PK was awarded, and in similar fashion TMac stepped up and slotted it into the low right corner to give the Bears a 1-0 lead. 

Just minutes later the coveted second goal came for the Bears as Tmac sent Dylan up the wing, Dylan sent in a fantastic cross, and D.T. – using the unique capabilities of his flexi-feet – found a way to flick the ball in with the outside of his foot. 2-0 Good Guys! Unfortunately, the game wasn’t quite over as the Lions made good of perhaps their only chance of the game and rifled in a low drive from the top of the box, just underneath the previously untested Schloss to make it 2-1. But the Bears seemed destined for glory as they pushed on, unperturbed by the Lions’ goal, and with one last near slotter from Tmac, which the goalie was able to brush just outside the post, the game came to a close.

Revenge was had, another game was won, and the Ivy Season began with a solid display from the Bears who improved to 8-1 with the win, and proved their mettle on Stevenson once more. 

Next up, another jaunt down memory lane as the Bears will face Fairfield and seek to repeat (hopefully with a little less anxiety) their victory over the Stags.

Huskies, Pilots, and the Wild Northwest

-->

Reminiscent of many a beloved frigid morn from the Spring, the Bears awoke at the crushingly early hour of 4:30 a.m. to clamor aboard the bus, and begin the long voyage out to the Wild Northwest. There they would face their toughest challenge yet: two distant road games, two talented, unknown oppositions, and all in the course of three days. After some quality time in the airport (Men In Black 4) the boys arrived on foreign soil, chucked their stuff into the Seattle hotel and made the traffic-filled trek in “minibuses” to the den of the Huskies.

Shaking the stiffness from their legs, the boys simultaneously invented and participated in the first ever Washington Olympics including such events as “thread-the-tire”, “ping-the-crossbar”, and the classic: “catch-as-many-punted-balls-as-you-can.” The competition was fierce and records were set as Jason “hot-hands” Burnett – after smashing the record for most balls caught last year – set a new record for least balls caught (0), and Sam “Mac Miller” Groves earned gold in the crossbar challenge, trumping Comitis’ hit with an unprecedented double crossbar bounce.

 ---

The boys awoke the next morning, rested and ready to face the Husky hosts. Returning to the field, this time with more than Washington Olympic glory on their minds, the Bears eagerly warmed up for battle as the sun set, fans flocked in, and the lights flickered on across Husky stadium.

The whistle blew and the game took off as both teams began with energy. Perhaps it was the long ride in, or a case of shaking the nerves off on foreign soil for the Bears, but for the first quarter of the game the Huskies seemed at ease on the field, keeping possession and knocking at the door on several occasions including a few dangerous crosses from the flanks where they were able to show their speed and test the Brown backline.

Then it happened. After a Whalen shoulder check, the Huskies did what they do best and took advantage of a set piece (a theme that would continue throughout the game for Washington), heading the free kick on past the outstretched fingers of Schloss and making 1-0 after just 8 minutes of play. More of these opportunities arose as the Huskies pressed forward, forcing several scrums in the box, and some courageous charges from Sam. Though the Bears began to find their feet and keep possession, things remained relatively quiet on the offensive front save for one or two creative efforts from “the maestro” Tmac.

Meanwhile, the Huskies made use of their not-so-secret-weapon “the flip throw” (a tactic the Bears had lost many years ago with the departure of Howie the Hucker), whipping the ball dangerously into the 6’ from anywhere beyond the halfway mark, and forcing Schloss into some sticky situations. This would prove a constant threat for the Bears, as in the 28^th minute, having countered against Brown and striking the woodwork with a bending volley, the Huskies set up once more for a flip throw. As expected, a dangerous ball was whipped in, but this time it was also headed firmly into the back of the net…by Erob? It was an unlucky and painful blow for the Bears who found themselves struggling to find positives 2-0 down after just 30 minutes of play in a stadium of elated Husky fans.

The Huskies continued with this offensive pressure, riddling crosses and flip throws across the Bears’ box, and forcing the backline and Schloss to come up with some vital stops. But finally the Bears - bringing in some fresh legs off the bench - managed to pick up the tempo and forced Washington onto the back foot, opening up the game with a slew of corners, and letting Washington know the game was far from over as the half came to an end.

----

“The first 10 minutes of the second half we came out flying” Erob told me after the game. “Unphased by the score or how the first half went, the first goal came in about 8 minutes and proved to everyone on the field we could outplay those guys and win the game.” Whether it was the fiery halftime speech from Coach Laughlin, or simply the BMS mentality of determination that shone through, something changed in that second half. It wasn’t drastic, but could be found in the little things: a tough track back from Big Ben, a strong challenge from Markes, a commitment from each player to raise his level of intensity and desire just a bit, and that extra bit made all the difference.

Finally it came together. Starting with the ball at his feet in our box, Markes pushed up the right flank with confidence, slotting a leading ball to V, who battled with a Husky defender and found TMac just outside the Husky box. What happened next can only be described as a Barca moment, as Tom “return of the Mack” Mcnamara chipped a brilliant leading ball to V, who – like his distant Chilean relative Alexis Sanchez – lifted it confidently over the sliding Keeper to make it 2-1. The Bears were hungry again.

Then things really began to open up with Dylan dominating the left side of the field, Gavey taking on defenders and sending in cross after cross from the right, as the ball remained on the Husky’s half this time around. Another goal seemed imminent for the Bears at around the 60^th minute when Gorab put in a dangerous looking shot, and Gavey nearly tapped it away, but this chance was followed by a dry spell for both teams. But chances kept coming, and eventually Brown found glory once more, as Big Ben bobbed and weaved two defenders at the left corner of the Husky box and lazered a cross onto the forehead of the streaking Gavey, who pounded it home, celebrating with his infamous “Ratchet" dance, while Maurey opted for a series of Hulk-like yells. 2-2.

Pressure mounted as shots came for both sides as well as an array of tackles, best described as “chippy”, and a couple of deserved yellows. Still the question lingered, who would break the deadlock? The answer: the Huskies. In the 78^th minute, after a succession of quality passes, Washington exposed a hole in our backline, as their right winger slotted in a neat ball across the mouth of the goal which was flicked in cheekily to make it 3-2. Though the Huskies celebrated as if the game had been won, piling on top of each other to the raucous applause of their friends and families, the Bears were unperturbed, and took this moment of excessive celebration to regroup. The depth of this mental toughness was revealed in just under two minutes, as Daniel Taylor pounced upon the rebound of an Escalona shot and tied the game up 3-3 to the relief of Bear fans everywhere. After a few more flip throw-scrum-Schloss save combos, the whistle for regulation was blown and the two teams jogged off to prepare for the “golden goal” overtime that would soon follow.

“Huskies Drop Heartbreaker” was the headline that echoed across Washington’s campus the next morning, and who better to bring this about then the Brawniest, the Baddest, the Biggest, BEN MAUREY. Once again, the brilliant vision of Mcnamara paid off as he lofted a ball just over a leaping Husky defender to find the colossal pate of Maurey who hammered the ball home and, shedding his jersey in true hulk form, sprinted to the sideline to be swarmed by players and coaches alike (including a severe recommendation to re-shirt himself from Coach Biggs, so as not to receive another red card). It was a night to remember. A reminder of the unity and belief that rests as the backbone of this team, and an example of what Brown Men’s Soccer is capable of with our back against the wall. These are the games that define seasons. In the words of the young Tariq “I cannot think of a better feeling I have had on a soccer field with any team, ever.”

---

Once again it was time for the Bears to finish a tournament during the ever-challenging slot of a late Sunday afternoon. After a day of rest that the boys spent relaxing, eating, and visiting beloved BMS alum Dave Chichester on Bainbridge Island, the Bears returned once again to the Husky stadium to face the Portland Pilots.

As the whistle sounded to start the game, it was the Bears this time around who exuded confidence, pinging the ball around with ease, getting through some strong tackles, and denying the Pilots (who seemed to be in Auto-pilot mode) any real chances. After just 13 minutes of play, the Bears found the back of the net, as Gavey fired a brilliant corner to the head of Robertson who connected solidly, punching the ball into the lower right side of the net, in an act of total redemption

Though the Bears continued to play with energy, Portland began to wake up, and made it clear that they were ready for a battle as they began picking up their energy and creating some dangerous chances, along with some nasty looking tackles to boot. Undaunted, the Bears fought on, cheered on by a surprisingly large contingent of friends and family. The game itself, while certainly not boring, proved relatively uneventful compared to the nail biter from Friday. Though Portland did manage a shot or two, the Bears seemed to fall into a comfortable rhythm that would persist throughout the half, and truly, the rest of the match. 

After a quick halftime speech, the boys took the field once more, forcing the Pilots into defensive mode as Tariq ripped a speculative effort from just outside the box that ricocheted off the top of the crossbar. A minute later, Tariq sent a pass in to Tmac at the left corner of the 18, who took on a frightened Pilot with a quick step over – shot combo that rippled the back of the net. 2-0 good guys!
After succeeding in getting the highly coveted 2^nd goal, the Bears settled comfortably in the opposing half, with good movement off the ball, and a level of offensive prowess unseen before this weekend. TMac (who would later be crowned offensive MVP of the tourney) was a constant threat, taking defenders on with confidence, and forcing a spectacular save from the Pilot keeper in the 57^th minute. 

There were moments of complacency in the second half as the Bears were forced into some tight binds in the back, but the feeling that the Pilots would stage a come back was absent.
Then in the 65^th minute, Bobby “dangles” Belair fired home the death blow. The goal was the product of a surging run from Escalona, who, to the surprise of nearly everyone on and off the field, faked a classic “V volley”, choosing instead to find the feet of Belair, who swiveled past his defender, and sent home the final goal of the game to make it 3-0 Brown.

I could go on with details about solid play from every one of the Bears (including the debut of Mitch on the pitch), but instead I will cut to the chase and say that the Bear’s left Seattle all smiles. With two important wins in their pocket and a newfound offense that produced 7 goals in only 2 games (more than doubling their tally up to that point), BMS seemed to open the season’s narrative to a new chapter, proving that we CAN combine our typical stalwart defense with a plethora of goals to boot.

And now, some words of Wisdom from Captain Erob:

     This weekend revealed a great improvement in many players individually and as a squad. We proved to ourselves that were a fighting team, that no matter what the score, we're always in it. This will help us mentally in a big way as we enter Ivy play where the games are usually pretty tight. We found ourselves to be a team that can really move the ball and get goals from both the run of play and from restarts. This trip got us that much closer to discovering our identity.


Next up Colombia at home on Saturday night to begin Ivy competition! (Get ready for Gavey's newest celebratorydance)

Le-High et Le Low

For many, Saturday mornings are a time for slumber, to unplug the alarm clock and enjoy the lingering hours of the morning with eyes closed. But for the Bears this week, it was one-touch time. The game is simple: three teams, two goals, and one touch, but the crazed elation that accompanies this pre-gameday  ritual remains unparalleled in the BMS experience. This particular match included a wave of diving glory saves by Mitch, heartbreak for my goalless, yellow squad, and a stunning – though accidental – left-footed chipperooni from Erob, who celebrated with his classic “Que honda hue?” (a Texican term meaning literally, “what’s up man?”). But the crowning moment of glory must be bestowed upon Sam “the Sniper” Schloss, who ended the game with a resounding “Swoosh” as a goal kick turned shot curled gracefully past the outstretched fingertips of Kupstas and into the upper 90, sparking riotous celebration and a series of bizarre improvised dance routines from Schloss supporters everywhere.

After a quick shower and lunch, the boys dutifully boarded the bus for the long five-hour ride to Lehigh filled with movies, fruit snacks, and a death-like slumber from the young T Arns. We arrived unscathed at our hotel, greeted by the vast surrounding wilderness and a potential Lehigh scout using the latest in Pennsylvanian technology - a motorized hanglider

We waited hungrily for Chicken Parm to arrive, forced to listen to Penn locals V and Big Ben as they explained why WaWa’s had the best sub in the world, painting an image in most of our minds that for 4$ we could expect a sub like this. But soon we inhaled heaping portions of chicken parm and after a brief film session, shuffled off to bed for the boys to prepare themselves mentally and physically for the late afternoon match the following day.

------

With a quick morning jog, a hearty breakfast, and Ben “a la mode” Maurey dressed in his

Sunday Best, we set out, over the river and through the woods, to Lehigh’s field, conveniently positioned in the middle of nowhere, next to an amateur golf course. After a peaceful mile-long nature hike from the locker room to the field, the boys warmed up with energy, on this crisp summer day. I myself, continued with the wilderness experience, hunting for balls in the riverbed behind the field, amidst hordes of frogs, briars, and abandoned bottles of moonshine.

The game began without much fanfare, as neither team was able to string together any serious offensive progress. As the half progressed however, we began slowly and surely finding our rhythm. Though connecting through the midfield continued to be a problem for us, as pass after pass drifted leisurely to Lehigh feet, up top, Bobby “Bouchet” Belair provided a physical force against their backline, winning headers, adding high pressure, and battling with the goalie in the air. In the back too, we defended well, disallowing any real chances from the Mountain Hawks.

Finally, we picked up the midfield level of play, as flank players Voltaire and Gavey found moments of brilliance, getting forward and testing the Mountain Hawks backline with speed and speculative crosses. After a slew of corners from Kevin “the guy” Gavey, and near glory off a left footed volley from Markes that fell just wide, V “for Vendetta” Escalona pushed the ball up the left flank, and slotted in a brilliant cross to a streaking Bizzle who tapped the ball in deftly to make it 1-0 Good Guys. Things were picking up!

We continued in our dominance for the rest of the half, save for a heart-stopping save by the young South African Comitis, as he cleared a ball that looked to have beaten Schloss off the goal line in the dying seconds of the half. The whistle sounded, the boy jogged off to (in keeping with the wilderness adventure theme of the afternoon) their locker-room tent, and the question lingered… could we put this team away and bring intensity on this lazy Sunday afternoon?

-----

The second half started with a bang, as Alex “the-Markes-man” crossed the ball into Gavey who fired in a one-time rifle from five yards out, only to be denied by the lingering toe of the Mountain Hawks keeper. But if this was a “Bang”, it was followed by a resounding “fizzle” from the Bears, as Lehigh found their feet during the second half, combining and exposing some of our sloppy dribbling and passing.

There were glimpses of quality both defensively and on the flanks, as V, Gavey, Dyl and Markes put in several crosses that just missed their mark. But the remainder of the half was filled mostly with some questionable no-calls by the pitiless ref. The Mountain Hawks, inspired by our fading energy took advantage of this, wrestling with Tariq, having a crack at Gavey’s ankle, and after a brilliant give-and-go between Tariq and Alex, savagely sandwiching Markes in the box Wa-Wa style, but once again our appeals for PKs were met with indifference from the heartless officials.

After a few more shots from Gavey and Markes, and a brilliant connection from Markes to Bobby to D.T., who pinged it just wide from the corner of the 6 yard box, the final ten minutes of the game were terrifying. All of the Brown parents and fans who had been cheering without end (so much so that a dad from the opposing side threw a hissy fit, which was met with a polite rebuttal from the parents “We’re proud to be Brown!”) now gripped their seats as Lehigh riddled our box with a barrage of shots and crosses forcing some wall-like defending and desperate clearances.

It wasn’t the prettiest, but after the dust had settled, the Bears emerged victorious, with another shutout, another win, and an impressive 5-1-0 record. A huge thank you to Brown families and friends for their unwavering support on and off the field whether it be through shrieks of support or the literal tons of foods we feasted upon during the long bus ride home. Also shout out to Tim “Timmaaay” Whalen who was honored as Ivy League Rookie of the Week  for his vital, game-winning overtime goal against Boston University.

Next up, a long cross country trek to Seattle for the “Husky Classic” where the Bears will face # 20 ranked Washington hosts on Friday, and Portland on Sunday. Stay tuned!

The B. U. Battle: through the Specs of Schloss

Welcome back to the Brown Men’s Soccer blog. Let me first start out by disclaiming that this will be a futile attempt to fill in for our full-time blogger, Evan “old-man” Cole-man. In his fifth (perhaps sixth or seventh, but whose counting?) year with BMS, Evan has joined the team to help us with everything from practice (on the days that he actually shows up) to filming games (on the days that he actually shows up) to providing comic relief (always). In all honesty though, he was a legend on the pitch and I think I speak for everyone when I say that we are all very happy to have him back for another year.

On to Boston University…

Coming off of a 1-0 loss to Fordham, the team was eager to face BU on a beautiful Thursday night in Boston. After a lot of Hope Street, a lot of traffic, and a few parking mishaps, we finally arrived at Nickerson Field. We stepped on to the field for warm-ups with beet juice in our veins, ready for to battle against a very talented BU team who was coming off of a tough road series against the likes of St. Johns, UNC, BC, PC, UCONN, and Wake Forest.

    

The first ten minutes of the game lasted an eternity with a few BU players going down injured in their own half after some ferocious Brown pressure. After that, however, the game began to pick up. Most of the play occurred in the midfield, where freshmen Timothy “Timbo” Whalen (remember the name) and Tariq Akeel, grinded and battled. Although both teams failed to connect their passes in the final third, when BU did make it across into the Brown half, the defense was stalwart. Alex “I’m-a-sophomore-now” Markes continued to shutdown everything on his side of the pitch, winning 1v1 battles both on the ground and in the air. Needless to say, the rest of the backline remained organized and poised, showing why BMS has only conceded one goal during the course of this young season.

With more of the same in the second half, Brown began to put pressure on BU in the final 15 minutes. Kevin “the tank” Gavey wreaked havoc, constantly running past their back three. But, as it some times goes in this beautiful game, that final ball in the box could not be found. As the full time whistle blew, we came together knowing that we held the advantage going into overtime. What we didn’t know, however, is that it would only take 40 seconds to find the back of the net. Captain McDuff, using his Texas football intuition, chose to kickoff at the beginning of OT. Then, Tom “trickstick” McNamara launched the ball directly into a BU player’s hand, drawing a free kick for Brown within seconds. With Dylan “Calves” Remick standing over the ball, my only thought from across the field was ‘please, please find Bobby’s head.’ Sure enough, Remick curled in an outstanding ball to Bobby “Who said white men can’t jump?” Belair, who was being grabbed and pulled by his defender. His flick toward the center of the goal found Whalen’s bald head for a glancing header past the BU keeper’s flapping hands. GOAL BROWN! Here is a look at the ensuing celebration

   

While it may not have been the prettiest result, we got the job done and battled for over 90 minutes. These are the kind of wins that you come to appreciate as a senior---on the road, against a very talented opponent, in overtime.

The Brown Soccer Classic

The Good, The Bad, and The Painfully Close

Whether you're in the bleachers, dancing on the field, or bare-chested and pounding the fences, it's hard not to feel the breathtaking excitement of a night game underneath the beaming lights that surround Stevenson. With the Rhode Island State Classic Trophy and two hard earned victories tucked in their back pocket, the boys took the pristine pitch once again, this time exuding a new found confidence and energy that had been missing from previous matches. The opponent was the Cleveland State Vikings, a foreign presence to the Brown Dunkin Donuts Classic, but expected to be a challenge and offensive threat nonetheless, after their 3-0 thrashing of Michigan the previous week.

The game kicked off with an explosion of offense from both sides (with Cleveland pushing their outside backs high to attempt the rarely seen 2-5-3 formation). But the Bears kept an upbeat tempo about their movement, creating several chances and counterattacks, and cementing the feeling that a goal was soon to be found. Sure enough, after a wild scrum in the Vikings box in the 10th minute, Jameson "the Lochhead Monster" slipped the ball to the lingering left foot of Dylan, who pinged in a forceful, one-time, strike past the outstretched hands of the Vikings keeper, and just inside the left post to make it 1-0 Bears. This was the Friday night the fans had been waiting for.

As the half carried on, Cleveland picked up the pace, testing the back line and the gloves of Schloss.
But once again, the back five stood strong, winning headers and coming up with a few vital stops amidst an increasingly dangerous attack from the Vikings. After both Brown and Cleveland failed to capitalize on a heart-stopping chance a piece, the remainder of the half saw Tmac infuse the game with his Irish patriotism as he juggled and jigged past the Viking defense, inciting whistles, hoots and cheers from our shirtless section of hooligans on the far side of the field.

                                                                               ------

Coming out of the locker room, it was clear that we had learned from our mistakes against URI and PC, as this time we maintained a high level of energy, putting pressure on a back line that wanted to play "ticky-tacka" all day, and forcing them into turnovers and poor decisions. One other noticeable difference in the second half was our overly physical presence. Perhaps it was the excitement of the evening for the freshmen, or perhaps it was a series of military haircuts, but whatever the reason, the aggression was turned on high of our first years. This coupled with a few too many flops and an overly protective ref (in the words of one inquisitive fan, "How much for a new ref?"), led to a few yellow reminders, but it was clear that the Vikings wanted no part of this battle...

As the second half progressed, more opportunities began presenting themselves, until finally, in the 69th minute, we sealed the deal as Eric "Maté Monster" Robinson connected with a pass from Voltaire, and rifled the ball into the upper left corner, center-back style. After this, an increasingly disheartened Cleveland side seemed to accept their fate, as Brown pushed on, with shots from Jack "G" Gorab and Bobby "the fresh prince of" Belair falling just wide of the net, and a brilliant sliding challenge from Erob to deny Cleveland their one hope for redemption.

The whole experience was very refreshing, to see the boys play with hunger and energy for a full 90 minutes against a formidable opponent, in what must be described as the Bears best performance so far. Adapting to a new formation, we executed our game plan, and emerged with a 2-0 victory, and a near perfect start to the season with three wins, three shutouts, and proof that the hard work we put in during the summer and preseason indubitably makes us better. With only one day of rest, we prepared for Fordham who we'd face on a sweltering Sunday afternoon for the Brown Dunkin Donuts Soccer Classic Championship.

                                                                
                                                                              ------


For those of you who have witnessed and/or played in the Brown Soccer Classic before, you will recall the inevitable difficulty and exhaustion that accompanies the quick turn around for a Sunday afternoon game. For those of you who have not, let me just say that it is never a pretty thing to bare witness to for either side. But this Sunday for some strange reason was particularly painful to watch, or in the words of the legendary BMS Coach/Blogger Anders Kelto, "The outlook wasn't brilliant for the Brown eleven that day."

Back in hibernation mode, the Bears struggled to shake the stiffness from there joints and found themselves behind in the 10th minute of play after some uncharacteristically lazy marking left two Fordham players open at the back post to head home the ball with ease and make it 1-0, Rams. Although there were glimpses of the energy and hard work the boys had put in on Friday night, the few corners we won and the chances generated by Tmac were not enough to even the playing field. After a string of questionable "fouls" in which Erob and McDuff were scolded for jumping too high, and the Rams were rewarded for utilizing their classic "high-low" maneuver, the half ended in poor spirits, as Ryan "the General" McDuff was sidelined with a shoulder injury.

Whether it was the fire from Coach Laughlin's half-time speech, or several refreshing glasses of thick beet juice, the boys seemed finally to awake in the second half. The ball remained comfortably in Fordham's defensive half, as chances fell just wide for Gavey and Gorab in the opening minutes of the second half. But then lightning struck twice for the Bears, as Ben "Mad Dog" Maurey, reacting to a strong shove from behind and the building frustration of the squad, buffeted a Fordham defender with his forearm, and received the inevitable red card.

                                                                          ------

It was a devastating blow for the already exasperated Bears, but rather than cowering in the corner and bemoaning our wounds, we pushed through the pain. Raising the pressure and forcing the Rams onto the back foot, we switched into three at the back, pushing Dylan "the little engine that could" Remick high into the attack and forcing Fordham to resort to petty tactics which included a series of dirty challenges (five yellow cards in total) and s succession of time wasting cat naps by "injured players" who seemed to heal miraculously by some force beyond modern science after leaving the field.

With a flurry of corners, free kicks and speculative crosses, the Bears seemed destined to level the playing field, as we dominated in possession, energy, and creativity, with Erob "the Rock" Robinson getting stuck in, and eliminating any offense the Rams tried to muster with their extra man. But after a final free kick in the waning seconds of the game pinballed off a series of defenders and found its way to the crafty foot of Tmac at the top of the 6, the Bears still couldn't capitalize, as a wall of Rams prevented this final opportunity, leaving the Bears heartbroken at the final whistle. It was the first loss of the season for the Bears, but as Dylan reflected after the game, "it was a good learning lesson for us, and we will use it to move forward as a better team." The Bears had unfortunately fallen pray to what Captain Duff deemed the Sunday "trap game", but, as he mentioned, "it wasn't for a lack of effort."

 It is often difficult to reflect on the positives of a loss, but one thing that it always reminds us is of our own fallibility. With a departure from the lucrative dream of an undefeated season comes the realization that, in the words of Daft Punk, "Our work is never over." The depressing silence that hangs over the locker room, the bowed heads and "what ifs" that run through the minds of players and coaches alike, all fuel the flame for the remainder of a promising season. After perhaps the worst 50 minutes of soccer the Bears have produced this season, we proved that resilience remains a key piece of Brown Men's Soccer as we fought with heart and commitment in an inspiring second half. Although the result was not what we'd hoped for, I for one was impressed with the class the boys showed as they applauded the fans and signed autographs for young hopefuls, making sure that at least one day was made as the sun set over an empty Stevenson pitch.


The Bears return to action on Thursday at Boston University, where they will seek to rebound against the Terriers. See you then!

The Good Ole Ocean State Classic

Friends, Family, Fanatics and of course, Dave “The Flash” Flaschen, welcome back to another promising season of “real football…. BEAR’S STYLE!” Once again back on campus for my 5^th year (how many years is too many years?), my career playing on Stevenson has run its course, but my ability to get as close to the glory days as possible lives on, as I’ve been granted the opportunity to work with the team as a student assistant/blogger/glorified water boy for the year.

After a promising Spring season for the boys of 6 a.m. Blackstone runs, glorious Sunday ‘toca’ sessions, and an incredible journey to the home country of “El Gran Pepeciño” the 2012 fall season is now upon us. Goodbye’s have been said to the now married, “Iron Man” Culpy, the lush grass that once graced Stevenson field, and the unforgettable legendary class of “Super” seniors. But in lieu of these losses, BMS welcomes a new batch of 8 talented freshmen, a new trainer by the name of Dave “the Dude” Murray, and against all odds, a pitch that will probably last throughout the season.

After an outstanding display during preseason including a 7-0 thrashing over the optimistically named “Win”“Stars” Academy from Canada, and a convincing 5-0 triumph over Stonehill College, we began the season at home, under the lights against our Rhode Island rivals, URI in the Rhode Island State Classic. Revved up by a combination of dubstep jams

(like this gem), a brisk warm up and the team’s newest drink of choice, Beet Juice, the boys took to the field with energy and enthusiasm.

Taking control of the play early on, BMS dictated the speed and rhythm of the game from the get go, with fine performances from the freshmen middy Tariq, strong defending from our veteran back line, and some statement tackles from Kevin “the enforcer” Gavey. Then it happened, in the 23^rd minute, man down in the box, hesitation, and then that occasionally beautiful sound of the shrill whistle for a PK! The veteran striker T-Mac stepped up to the plate, and proved that even a new hairdo couldn’t stop him from finding the back of the net. 1-0 Good guys.

The first half continued with chances for both sides, including a few dangerous crosses from the Rams that were dealt with deftly by the back line and a pair of fine saves by senior keeper Kernan-Schloss. A frustrated URI side thought it wise to get chippy, and attempted to aggravate Gavey with a series of malicious tackles and shirt tugs, but were soon justly rewarded with a trifecta of yellow cars, as well as some clean but bruise-inducing tackles from the iron-clad winger.

The second half was a bit perplexing, as the bears returned to the field seemingly in hibernation mode. Meanwhile, the Rams had awoken, and took advantage of this opportunity, pinging the ball around and gaining confidence. Finally, after the Rams found the net only to have the goal be called back for offsides, the boys seemed to wake up. After a speculative effort by T-Mac that the goalie got his hands to, and a curling laser from Voltaire “V” Escalona that sailed just wide of the far post, the Rams had perhaps their best opportunity of the game from about ten yards out. But, luckily for the Bears the combination of Sam’s hulking form and beet stained lips proved too much for the Ram striker, who whiffed the ball far over the goal. The game ended as a nail biter, but once again, the Bears managed to pull together a 1-0 W, get the shutout, and christen the newly turfed Stevenson with a victory.

                                                                                          ---

After a two-day break, the Bears returned to action against the Providence Friars for the Rhode Island State Classic Championship hosted at URI (after extensive research the rationale for who hosts when still escapes me). The Bears once again began the game with energy as Bobby “Bizzle” Belair and Volatire put pressure on the Friars backline, and Dylan “run-a-lot” Remick pressed forward on the left side creating crosses and corners.

Though both sides produced a few decent chances, the first half proved an even battle up until the 42^nd minute, when Freshman Jameson “Blockhead” Lochead pinged a pass that found Big Ben Maurey in stride as he approached the left corner. Then, proving to Crouch, Carroll and Monstrous strikers around the world that big men ARE worth more than just their heads, Ben pinged a neat, left-footed ball across the mouth of the goal to find the streaking blur of Tommy “el Tomate” Arns who knocked in his first career goal at a vital moment for the Brown squad. 1-0 Bears!

The Second half once again started without much fanfare as it took a few minutes for the Bears to lumber back into gear. Perhaps where we seemed to struggle most was finding feet in the opposing half, as many a well-intentioned pass found its way off the pitch. As the half sped on, both sides had chances with T-Mac and V putting up several attempts that fell just wide of the net. The Friars had 1 or 2 heart-stopping moments including a heart-stopping clearance off the line from the Ryan “Snuffalupagus” McDuff and two fine saves from Schloss.

So the game ended 1-0, with the Bears finding away to scrap out a victory (Bearstyle!) and claim their first ever Ocean State Classic Trophy. Although the trophy itself appeared to have been the product of a Kindergarten art project gone awry, the boys nonetheless celebrated a great start to the season, with confidence, subs (thanks parents!) and a case of cookies that magically disappeared towards the front of the bus.

Cheers to All-Tournament Honorees Erob, Karl Markes, and Tariq, and to the Tournament MVP Dylan "I'm Sexy" Remick

Next up Cleveland State at 7:30 p.m. on Stevenson for the Brown Soccer Classic!

BMS: The Road to Success

Thank you for following along as we begin another journey with BMS.  The Spring was a great start for the team.  The absence of our seniors did not go unnoticed.  However, with an extended Spring season including our trip to Spain the "new group" had the opportunity to develop a new team identity. We had a great showing for the Alumni game, thank you to all that were able to make it.  As they do every year, the Alumni team put up a great fight but the returning group prevailed.  Some of the highlights included Paul the wall Grandstrand, Matt Britner previous Ivy player of the year, and John Okafor who was drafted by Chivas.
We hosted Bentley College as well and beat them handily.
We reported for preseason on August 16th and ran the 3-mile test on the 17th.

We have played two matches, one against the Winstars Academy from Toronto, Canada and the other against Stonehill College.  

In the match against the Winstars Academy we focused on speed of play.  We knew that our opponent was out matched physically and athletically.  So we wanted to work on polishing our game.  The final was 7-0.

Against Stonehill we had a much different mentality.  It was a very different opponent.  They wanted to match up with us and get stuck in, which they proved they could do.  However, our skill and athleticism was too much for them.  The final was 5-0.  

Voltaire Escalona has emerged after a lack of success his first two seasons.  He finished the preseason with the most points on the team: 9. 

We are excited as a staff and team to welcome back Evan Coleman who finished his final year of eligibility last year.  He has decided to come back and work as a coach/manager with the team.  From here on out he will be taking over the blog so you can look forward to a high quality of blog entries throughout the season.  

SEASON KICKS OFF THIS FRIDAY VS URI 7 PM.

GO BRUNO.