Let's hear it everyone, what did you see out there in the group round and how will the sweet 16 play out?
Just a few random thoughts...
1) West Coast plays a very pretty game and has a player that I think is one of the best in this age group. They make some mistakes in the back against pressure that cost them goals (and ultimately wins), but I really enjoy how their coach has them play. If they are able to add some talent next year (I have heard they will), they will be a very strong team.
2) Beach Milner plays a very disciplined game with a defense that bends but rarely breaks. They don't seem to have a lot of offensive firepower, but was impressed with how organized they are on defense.
3) Blues Holley played without any subs against Anaheim. They held Anaheim to 0-0 until very late in the game, when Anaheim scored on a ball through the goalie's legs. The Blues goalie against Anaheim is actually one of their better fullbacks, apparently forced into that role as they lost their goalie. While I think Anaheim was already through with the top spot in the group before the game started, I was impressed that Blues was able to battle Anaheim so well. Saw some of Anaheim on Saturday and they are certainly strong enough to win it all.
4) Speaking of goalies, there are some amazing ones at this age. Saw a few great saves this weekend by goalies that are really starting to understand how to play the position. The LAGSD goalie made a 1v1 save that was amazing.
5) Strikers OC has lost some really good players since the start of the year, but they are still solid. I'm not sure they can make a long run, but kudos to those girls for continuing to play well after the loss of their coach and some talented players.
5) The wind was horrible on Sunday, but not sure it made a difference in any results.
6) Ultimately, I didn't see anything this weekend that changed my mind on the favorites; SD Surf, Anaheim Surf, Legends and Albion. Didn't see LAGSB play, but they took care of business and certainly still have a chance.