Before we can blink, we find that we are playing our last game of the regular season tomorrow.  Before we can make that transition into playoffs, there is still so much left to do.   We need to regain our momentum, and respond to the result of Friday’s game against Middletown, which was less than desirable.

Last Monday, we played Catonsville on a pristine turf field and on beautiful night.  It was their senior night and they had yet to lose a game.  However, that was before they met the Hawks. 

After a day in between, it was game day again.  This time, not only was it a conference game, but it was a game for local bragging rights: The Hawks vs. Thomas Johnson.  At half time, as we trailed by one, and coach reminded us that the best way to prepare for a game was in the warm-up. 

Our preparation had been sub-par, and it was evident from the very moment the game started.  The Patriots beat us to every fifty–fifty ball, and simply out worked us.

The second half was like a completely new game.  We came out with a fury that TJ could hardly contain.  Ten minutes in, we scored two goals in 90 seconds.  A third was put away as the game expired.  Although the game may not have been all 80 minutes of Urbana hawks soccer, we were able to respond to a less-than-energetic first half to pull out a win. 

The week wasn’t over.  Friday, senior night, we played Middletown for the conference championship.  It was a tough loss.  During the game, the atmosphere felt rushed and chaotic; we didn’t play the soccer that we know how to play.  The real challenge that remains for us is responding to this situation and gaining momentum for the weeks to come.

All the same, it was a good night to remember and thank our seniors.  As we get older, the seniors seem to be closer and closer to our hearts.  We are going to miss them so much.

Tomorrow, we play our rescheduled game at Century.  Hopefully, we will be able to step on to the field with a whole new attitude and desire that will carry us into the coming weeks.

Post your comments »