FVCSL NEWS

FC INTERNATIONAL, CHAMPS AGAIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:49:07 EST

FC International put together a textbook game of teamwork to shut out Real Pacific 4/0 in the championship game. And their ability to make the most of set pieces served them well again.

Real Pacific had some jump in the beginning of the game, Craig Kobes with a huge opening in front of him, shooting wide. Jason Togeretz rolling a ball into the FC area, only to have the keeper Greg Stonely barely get to the ball first. Mark Peters was given an early yellow card for a tackle from behind before the game was 10 minutes old. Then, first goal: free kick on the Real goal, cleared out, right to Jason Flint, who drilled it back and in. Jeremy Meyer had a shot on the Inter goal, sending it over the keeper but off the crossbar; had that gone it, it would have given RP some momentum. In the 30-40 minute block, FC free kick into the RP area, Jayden Kuik batting the ball off the head of Reuben Zuithof, and punching another free kick away as well. Second goal: set piece again, this time off a corner kick that Kuik had in his sights, but it was headed just over him and into the RP goal by one of his defenders: own goal. Shortly before the half, Jeremy Meyer was in a race for a loose ball, and steam rolled the Inter player, earning himself a yellow card.

The second half was a struggle for Real Pacific, as International forced them into playing an individualistic game. RP couldn't get good solid teamwork going, and any shots they managed to get at the Inter goal were off the mark, the keeper hardly having to make a save. Kuik on the other hand, made a brilliant save off Jason Jorgenson from a Dan Woelders cross, and then another one, keeping the game at 2/0. However, Reuben Zuithof made a huge throw-in to a waiting Jason Flint and he had the corner open to score the 3rd goal for Inter. Then, another set piece, Dan Woelders on the end of that one, and bagging Inter's 4th goal. At the half way mark of the second half, Jorgie (or was it Flint?) banged a 35 yarder off the RP crossbar. And Flint (?)got a yellow card for a hard tackle. Late in the game, Inter was awarded a penalty kick for a take down by Real Pacific in their box. Jorgenson took the shot, careening it off the base of the post, and staying out.

International were the better team tonight, the victors, and take the trophy again this year. Real Pacific, valiant but vanguished opponents.

Awards given out for this season:

Male MVP: Dan Woelders, FC International

Female MVP: Kelsey Faber, Lynden Americans

Most Sportsmanlike Team: Celtic.

REAL PACIFIC OUSTS ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:58:40 EST

Real Pacific will meet FC International in the fvcsl final match after their 3/1 win over Oranje. This game was a scrap, getting overly feisty at times, RP going ahead in the first half, Oranje not willing to concede defeat. Oranje felt the affects of playing playoff matches three nights in a row but were up for the challenge.

Real Pacific's goals all came in the 10-20 shift in the first half, making it an uphill slog for Oranje. The fist goal, Brent Rook a shot into the box, keeper Justin Bontkes forcing the ball out, but Anthony Togeretz was there to drive the ball back past the keeper. The second goal, Rook in again, this time setting up Craig Kobes, marked but managing to squeeze the ball into the Oranje goal. The third goal, a 35 yarder by Jason Togeretz that Bontkes had his eye and hands on, but it squirted under him for a quick 3/0 lead. The next shift, Oranje's Stan deHaan galloped in on keeper Jayden Kuik, and got a shot away, Kuik made the save, but the ball popped up and over him into the goal. An Oranje comeback in the making? After that deHaan got the ball into the middle to Rick VanderHorst, who slashed his shot just wide. With about 10 minutes left in the half, Craig Kobes collided hard with Oranje's keeper Justin Bonktes, he grabbing a loose ball inside the Oranje 18yard box. This collison kept Bontkes out of the second half with what would seem to be a significant concussion.

Mark Sikma took over goal keeping duties for Oranje in the second half as they tried to claw their way back. The game had its rough moments, the referee gving out cautions and a couple of yellow cards, one to Stan deHaan with a frustrated push, and to Chris VanderHorst for a hard tackle. But lots of good skillful plays too, Rick VdHorst spin and shoot - wide, Brent Rook on the goal line to A-Tog, a shot, the save by Sikma, Ron Smouter to Andrew VanAndel, his shot saved by Kuik. A free kick, Kobes around the Oranje wall to the waiting Sikma. A David VanderGaag shot out of a crowd off the far Oranje post. And one more shot from Rick VdH that Kuik punched over the bar. The score stayed 3/1.

Oranje came from the lower end of Division 1 to make a serious playoff run, a finish to the year that they feel good about. Real Pacific has been nipping at the heels of FC International all year, being #1/#2 in the Division 1 standings. They get their chance for all the marbles in the final on Monday evening.

INTER ON TO THE FINAL

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 08:36:21 EST

FC International moved on to final round action with a 3/1 win over Celtic, a match which tested Inter but they prevailed.

Inter opened the scoring in the first ten minute block when they were awarded a free kick at the side of the Celtic 18 box. Mark Peters struck the ball into the area, right to the waiting Jason Flint who headed it deftly into the Celtic goal (see photo). Celtic keeper Russ Toet punched wide the next Inter effort, a rising bullet from Wil Folstad. Glenn Visscher had the Inter keeper Greg Stonely beaten with a good Celtic effort, but defender Josh Coleman cleared that loose ball away for his keeper. Steve VanDelft helped out his own goalie when Mark Peters cranked a 30 yard shot which Steve headed over the bar. At the 30 minute mark, Glenn Visscher teed up the ball for Burke VanderHorst at the 18, his shot struck just wide. Inter had a dangerous try with a huge throw-in from the sidelines that skimmed over the heads of both Flint and Peters, waiting inside the 6-box. In the last five minute block, a 22 yard free kick stroked by Jason Jorgenson curled around the wall and just wide of the post. Inter 1/0 at half time. A good half for both teams.

Second half started with a Jorgie break in to Flint, but Toet stopped that at the near post. Celtic had a frantic effort when Trevor VanDelft drove a ball at the keeper on the goal line; Stonely threw out his leg to keep the ball out, and there was a mad scramble of players trying to put the ball in, and keeping it out, with no goal resulting. The 10-20 block; lots of action, Daryl VanDelft wide for Celtic, Dan Woelders free kick back out to Peters, over, DanW combo with Chris Trauter, Toet the grab. Celtic drew even with Inter when Steve VanDelft feathered a free kick over a crowd to Burke vanderHorst and he picked his spot, over the keeper and under the bar. Mark Peters was given a yellow card after this, for a verbal discussion of some sort with the referee. Trevor VD had a mano a mano rush with Wil Folstad into the Inter end and still managed to get a shot away, Stonely making the grab. The game was starting to get a bit scrappy, with both teams working hard for the win. Finally a Folstad to DanW at the near post, another set piece, the ball getting by the keeper, Inter going ahead. Just before the final whistle, the referee awarded a penalty kick to FC Inter for a takedown in the Celtic area, and Jason Flint buried that ball to give Inter the 3/1 win.

Celtic, winners of Division 2 gave FC International, winners of Division 1 a good battle, with Inter the winner of this match.

SAINTS LOSE TO CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 23 Jul 2011 08:17:45 EST

(Many thanks to Mary-Anne VanderHorst for taking notes during this game; otherwise no game report.)

The Saints were missing two of their top goal scorers, which undoubtably was a factor in their 3/0 loss to Celtic, but Celtic's powerful defensive corps had something to do with that 3/0 score as well. They limited Saints shots on goal, giving their team a chance to win it on the other end of the field.

Actually, Saints started the game strongly and had Celtic on their heels till a nice rush by Celtic had a great pass fromTrevor VanDelft to Daniel VanderGaag and Dan smashed an unstoppable shot past Saints keeper Jesse Richardson. That seemed to wake Celtic up, or settle the nerves, which ever the case, and they were much more in the game after that. The Saints got a free kick which Jeremy Williams placed nicely in the box, but it was headed out by the Celtic defence, and a shot by Matt Dennis was saved by keeper Russ Toet. The Saints needed to do their own settling down, getting lots of play in the Celtic area, but frustrated with no results. Then a Celtic rush resulted in two corner kicks by the Stripes, but the Saints contained both of those, no goal resulting. Closely marked Ben Schoeber was taken down hard at one point, but no call resulted, and had another shot go high over the bar. Celtic's second goal came on a combined flurry in the Saints box, between Trevor VanDelft, Dan VdGaag and Glenn Visscher, with Trevor potting the goal.

The Saints admitted to being frustrated at the break, and got their game refocused for the second half. Steven Roersma got a pass to Ben Schoeber, to Nico Noordam, but this effort was again headed out of harms way by defender Steve VanDelft. Free kicks were traded by the teams, Burke VanderHorst sending his high over the Saints bar, and Clif VanderHorst banging one into the Celtic wall, going high to keeper Toet. The Saints got their chances in the Celtic end, but were forced to shoot wide or high, Caszie Schoeber doing just that, brother Ben prevented as well. The Saints just couldn't get good shots through to the goal. In the 4th shift of the half, Josh Togeretz was tripped up inside the Saints 18, and a penalty kick was awarded to Celtic. Kevin Hendricks cranked it into the back of the net, icing the cake for the Stripes.

The Saints put up a good fight, but Celtic has a powerful team playing as a unit right now, and are just plain, hard to beat.

LYNDEN: GREAT GAME, TOUGH LOSS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:00:18 EST

Lynden Americans and Oranje played a great playoff match that had to end in a victory for one team, and it was Oranje's night, though not easy. Either team could have won in a clean, hard fought, evenly matched game.

Oranje came out flying in the first half, and before the game was 4 minutes old, they had their first goal, on a Tom Vanderhorst crossing pass to Stan deHaan and he got his left footer across the goal area and in at the far post. Lynden came right back at them and Mitch Stevenson put some good testers on Justin Bontkes, together with Jon Kingma and Matt Hicks. EriK Swanson put the right combo together when he sent the ball to Matt Hicks who placed his shot just inside the far post. Swanson tried to add to that with his own run and shoot but was twice denied. Andrew VanAndel sent a very high cross into the Lynden end and Stan deHaan tried a header goal but keeper Gavin Willis was alert to grab that redirect. Willis was sharp again when he lunged to stop a 25-yarder from Rick VandeHorst. Oranje went ahead again when Leroy VanSpronsen broke Stan deHaan free and he dealt a shot that the keeper had no chance to stop. The score Oranje 2/1 Lynden at the break.

Lynden tested keeper Bontkes early in the second half with a Harvey Pelleboer shot but it went high to the keeper. Then a Jon Kingma free kick just outside the Oranje 18 that zoomed around the wall, but Rick VanderHorst headed it out of danger. A dangerous Hicks/Swanson/Stevenson attack was broken up by Bontkes as Lynden kept pouring on the pressure. Stan deH and Rick vdHorst both had shots at the Lynden goal that went just off the mark, with Mitch Stevenson seeing his spin and shoot saved by Bontkes and another shot headed away by John Zietsma. Stan deH sent in a goal line cross to Shelley Sikma on the Lynden doorstep, but it skimmed just over her head, missing the nod-in. Lynden came oh-so-close to scoring when Jon Kingma cracked the ball from the wing, and it came off the post to Matt Hicks who pounded the rebound back at the Oranje goal, but Bontkes made the save. Another shot from Lynden minutes later, Caleb Cragle off the cross bar, the rebound going to Hicks again, the save made by Bontkes again. The post helped Bontkes out once more, his best friend in the match tonight. Lynden could not get another shot past Bontkes, his posts or his crossbar, try as they might, and the final score was 2/1 Oranje.

An exceptionally exciting game, clean and competitive. While all the players had great games, the female players are to be commended. Both teams use their girls well, and they stepped up to the plate again tonight. But it's a team game, and both teams gave it their all. Well done!

ORANJE VICTORY OVER VITESSA

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:12:40 EST

Oranje ended Vitessa's playoff run with a solid 4/1 victory. Vitessa gave it a good shot, but could not finish their scoring chances, while Oranje had the touch.

Oranje got an early chance in the opening minutes, when Andrew VanAndel banged a shot off the crossbar, the rebound going to Tom VanderHorst who sent that back just wide. Matt Anctil, who was a workhorse for Vitessa during this match, and all year, had one of his many runs up the sideline with a crossing shot only to have keeper Justin Bontkes make the save. Kevin VanderBoom had a shot at the Oranje goal as well, receiving a back pass and blasting it at the net, Bontkes making the grab. Anctil had two more rushes and crosses, but no Vitessa teammate there to redirect into the Oranje goal. James VandeBurgt joined a Vitessa flurry in the Oranje end of the field, but no Vitessa finish there either. Stan deHaan tried to redirect a VanAndel pass but his header was just off the mark. In the 4th shift, Oranje's Leroy VanSpronsen stroked a great corner kick into the Vitessa area, and Rick Vanderhorst was there to head the ball in. Matt Anctil, another rush, defended tightly, but beat that, and slashed a shot on Bontkes that he had to dive to direct away. Score, 1/0 at the break.

Both teams tested the keepers early in the second half, Tim Erickson and Justin Bontkes both up to the task. Bontkes had to make a super save off Zack Vevers when he drove a hard shot point blank on Bontkes, but no goal for his effort. An Oranje corner kick in the 2nd shift had Chris VanderHorst head the ball just wide, but the next corner kick for Oranje, lauched by Mark Sikma curled right at the keeper. Erickson got a hand on it, but it got by him and high into the goal. Anctil got another shot away, as did Charis Siebenga, both blocked by Oranje defenders. Vitessa finally got on the scoresheet when Steve Miller forced his way through the Oranje d-line, free to shoot, picked his spot and scored. But in the last half of the half, Oranje forged ahead again, Stan deHaan collecting in a nice crossing pass from Tom VanderHorst and left-footing it deep into the goal. Stan got his second goal of the game on a similar play, this time the pass coming from Leroy VanSpronsen, same shot, same spot.

Oranje goes on to play Lynden in the next round of action.

PENALTY KICKS DETERMINE VICTOR

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:11:12 EST

(and empty camera battery determines only one photo to choose from...........)

Celtic and Valley United battled in an awesome playoff game that needed penalty kicks to determine the outcome, the win going to Celtic. These two teams both have strong midfields and there was lots of midfield play, neither team wanting to give an inch of pitch, while trying to set up their own strikers.

Celtic opened the game with an early goal when Daniel VanderGaag sent Trevor VanDelft cruising up the wing, and Trevor just kept goin' and goin' till he was on top of Jason Breukelman, and squeezed the ball in at the near post. The Stripes tried to add to that when they had a free kick which Burke VanderHorst got through the Valley wall, but Breukelman dove it away from danger. Maurice VanderLinde and Ivan Scheper tested Russ Toet with shots, both from a distance and saves were made. Celtic, another dangerous chance when Glenn Visscher's 25-yarder was deflected out but the ball went to teammate Dylan Bredenhof who centered the ball into the goal area, cleared off the line by a Valley player. In the third shift, Celtic's Burke VanderHorst had a shot deflected over the bar, with the resulting corner kick headed against the crossbar and out by Kim Bredenhof. Valley looked good when Ivan Scheper sent a breakaway ball up the field for Kent Ostermeier, but Toet just beat him to that freebie. In the last frame of the half, Mo Vdlinde had a spin and shoot at Toet that he saved and Breukelman had to dive and stretch to the limit to fingertip a Trevor VanDelft shot just wide. Celtic a slim 1/0 lead at the half.

Valley started the second half strongly and it paid off when Stu VanderHorst caught Kent Ostermeier cruising, and the Celtic defenders just a step behind; he drew the keeper out, and then drove the ball into the far corner to even the score. Celtic followed that with two forays, one long header by Glenn Visscher saved, and a Kevin Hendricks header that he flicked over the bar. Trevor VanDelft did the same. Celtic took the lead back when Burke VdHorst broke out Kevin Hendricks who had the goalie at his mercy, showed none, and shot to the far corner. Valley did not let up, determined to draw level, and they did, Mo VdLinde showing some deft foot work to keep posession of the ball beside the Celtic 18, then crossing the ball in. It rebounded off a Valley player's chest, and Matt Schouten pounded that juicy loose ball in to even the score. Game tied 2/2 at the final whistle.

FVCSL rules state that playoff games tied after 90 minutes go straight to shootout. The teams were tied after the first five shooters, both teams having one shooter miss the mark. Extra shooters: Celtic's scored, Valley's shot just wide. What a game! What a way to lose! Too bad somone had to lose! Both teams have had exeptional years, and Valley will do well next year. Celtic continues their playoff drive.

lost

Bored Assistant — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 08:52:12 EST

There were a pair of adidas cleats and a Celtiv soccer ball found after our game last night.

If your missing them please call me- 604 799 8999

ORANJE 2/2 REAL PACIFIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:40:05 EST

Real Pacific salvaged a 2/2 draw in a come from behind effort against Oranje. Jeremy Meyer said after the game, "we should have had them in the first half", the score being blank at the break. But hey, Oranje felt pretty good about their first half. And good about their whole game, Pacific relieved to get the tie.

Both teams had chances, a notable one a hard drive from Meyer where keeper Justin Bontkes had to make a good diving save. Rick VanderHorst had a scoring chance taken away when he was just outside the RP 18, and was taken down by the last defender. Free kick Oranje, no goal. Brent Rook missed for RP as did Jason Togeretz, also brother Anthony drifting one wide of the far post. Tom VanderHorst fed Rod VanSpronsen from the corner, and his flick-on was grabbed by keeper Jayden Kuik. Real had an edge in play the first half, but Oranje's defenders were blocking lots of shots and had a good half.

The second half opened with a Tom VdHorst dribble from center, he got around the RP defence and shot from the 18, just wide. In the second shift, Oranje pushed hard, the ball going back and forth, till Rick VanderHorst launched a 30 yarder that caught keeper Kuik off his line, and it went high into the goal. Oranje followed that with an Andrew VanAndel pass from Oranje's side of the field, Alicia Oger pressured the ball loose and Tom VanderHorst got a good shot past Kuik for a 2/0 lead. In the third shift, David VanderGaag got on a loose ball and drove a long shot over the Oranje bar, but not by much. Mark Sikma had a chance on the RP goal when he won a battle for a loose ball with Kuik and got a shot away but it hit the outside of the near post and stayed out. Pacific worked hard to even the score; Anthony Togeretz in a step by step race to the ball on the Oranje goal line, crossed it in to Brent Rook in the goal area, and he squeezed a shot between Bontkes and the post. Another rush for RP and a goal, but clearly offside and called back. But in the last 5 minutes, Pacific got pressure in the Oranje end again, and Jeremy Meyer managed to blast a ball out of a crowd and into the far corner to even the score at 2/2.

These teams meet again on Saturday. Should be an interesting match!! This one was very good!!

RP'S GOALIE HOT AGAINST CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 08:44:38 EST

Celtic had a good chance to win their match against Real Pacific, but were beaten by a hot keeper, Jayden ("that's my goal area") Kuik, who notched a 1/0 shutout for his team.

Celtic tested first, when Trevor VanDelft dribbled in, but his second touch eluded him, and Kuik made the grab. David VanderGaag tested Celtic keeper Russ Toet with a 25 yarder, but Toet crouched to clutch the ball. Both teams missed, Brent Rook putting a shot high over the Celtic bar, and Glenn Visscher pounding one into the side of the RP net. And a Celtic corner ended with Kim Bredenhof heading the ball just wide. Half way through the half, the sideline commentators said "pretty even game so far". Celtic built up pressure but Kuik took control of his box, and no Celtic success. Burke VanderHorst ran onto a bouncer and got good leg on it, Kuik needing to make an awesome save to keep the game at 0/0. Celtic had another go of it, Dan VanderGaag working the ball into Trevor VanDelft, but his redirection went past the sprawling keeper and off the base of the RP post.

Second half: Celtic pressure, Kevin Hendricks a floater that Jayden grabbed. Another rush, Brittani Kuik preventing Celtic finish, helping out keeper hubbie. Jeremy Meyer put pressure on the Celtic end, but his shot went across the area and out the other side. Kevin Hendricks, a shot that went on top of the Real net, not in it. ThenTrevor VanD, marked, but got a shot past the charging keeper Kuik, but just wide. And Trevor again, sent in by Kevin H, rolled it just wide of the far post. Real Pacific finally broke the stalemate in the 3rd shift when David VdGaag got the ball in, a Celtic defender got tangled up with legs and the ball, Jason Togeretz took advantage and drove the ball under keeper Toet. On the other end, a busy keeper made saves off Dylan Bredenhof, and another brilliant save, this time off a Nathan Chase shot. Then, Kevin Hendricks had keeper Kuik beat, only to have Lindsay Wildeboer bail out her goalie with an alert clearance. Celtic kept at it, but Jayden Kuik would not give them space in his goal area and preserved the win for Real Pacific. RP's Craig Kobes got a yellow card late in the game; his team got the hard fought victory.

Great game! Celtic deserved the win, but had to earn it, RP and their keeper denying them the victory.

CELTIC KEEPS RIGHT ON WINNING

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:21:19 EST

Celtic kept up their winning ways when they beat Oranje 2-0, though it was not an easy win. Oranje feels that they have been in every game of late, playing well enough to win, just not getting many a W in the process. Oranje kept the speedy forwards of Celtic at bay and off the scoresheet - no small feat! Celtic has all aspects of their game going well, and they showed that tonight, concentrating on good team defence, often double teaming Oranje's attackers when they needed to, with a quick transition game to boot.

Celtic certainly dominated the first half of the first half, , with Oranje's only early shot on goal a ball that Shauna Stam forced loose but not enough on it to get by Russ Toet. In the second shift, Celtic were helped by a goal from Kevin Hendricks, who let a soft 18 yard shot go and Ryan Sikma let it squeeze under him and into the goal, a shot Sikma would surely want to have back. Celtic had a combo go for naught when Tim VanderHoek shot scross the goal area, Nathan Chase saved it off the end line to Hendricks who punted the ball over the bar. Oranje finally got some quality chances after the half-hour mark when Tom Vanderhorst got a long tester on Toet, no problem, and Stan deHaan got a quick shot out of a crowd, the best chance of the half so far, but Toet made the good grab. Tom VdH shashed a left-footer on Toet right before the half, the keeper parrying it away.

Oranje took their domination turn, starting the second half strongly. Andrew VanAndel a cross from the corner, Toet grabbing it at the far post. Tim VdHoek of Celtic crossed a shot onto the Oranje goal, Sikma there for the snag. Tom vdHorst ran onto a rolling ball in the Celtic goal area for a glorious chance, but couldn't redirect the ball into the goal, the shot rolling wide. Oranje kept the pressure up, winning 4 corner kick opportunites in quick succession, but no goals resulted, Rick VanderHorst putting a couple over the bar as did Mark Sikma. At the half-way mark, Leroy VanSpronsen had his long shot dipsy-doodle on the way, but Toet got a touch on it to force it wide. Corner kick- again no goal. Finally a chance for Celtic when Hendricks sprung a galloping Trevor VanDelft loose, but keeper Sikma attacked the ball and won the race. Oranje had a sure goal later in the half, with Toet making two impossible saves, one off a hard shot by Tom VdHorst, the loose ball going to Leroy VanSpr, and he had the keeper down, but Toet flung himself at the shot and made the save. "I was lucky to get to that second shot," admitted Toet. Celtic mounted pressure, and Dan VanderGaag got a pass to Burke VanderHorst, but keeper Ryan crouched to grab that ball. Just before the final whistle, both teams were scrambling for a loose ball at the Oranje 20, when Dan VdGaag got mega-leg on the ball and blasted a low bullet to the far corner to seal the deal.

An entertaining game. Celtic has first place in Division 2 wrapped up. Oranje still believing and showing that they are capable of good soccer, and of moving up the Division 1 standings.

SAINTS AND VALLEY, 0/0TIE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 08:31:11 EST

What can best be described as an entertaining and evenly fought game took place between the Saints and Valley, ending with neither team scoring a goal. There were lots of chances, plenty of hard work but not scoring shots in this match. The Saints are a team with lots of good female players, and they had three on the field at all times, with three more on the sidelines, waiting for their turn to put in some strong play.

Caszie Schoeber is one of those girls and she had an early try for the Saints, in keeper Ali Eilander's space, and kicked the ball but the keeper was right there for the close grab. Matt Dennis got a shot in the Valley end as well, but Max VanLaar stopped that ball with his face, shook it off and stayed in the play. Both teams tried to penetrate the other team's end, but defenders on both sides of the pitch stymied those forays, blasting the ball up the field. This style of play didn't contribute to good buildups but it sure kept the ball away from their goal. Caszie came in again on the Valley goal, Ben Faber diverting her shot away, and Stu VanderHorst and Kent Ostermeier made their presence felt in the Saints 18-box but were swarmed by the Saints defence. Valley under attack again, Ben Schoeber getting a shot on Ali, who made the grab, and Ken Robertson in close with another shot, Ali there again. Then the keeper stole the ball off the feet of Stephen Vaartstra to keep the slate clean. Mark Bysterveld cranked a 20 yard shot through a crowd at the Saints goal, but it banged off the crossbar and stayed out. After Adelle Kroeger got a shot on Ali that she would have liked to get more on, Valley headed up the field, Kent Ostermeier spreading the ball wide to Maurice VanderLinde who had keeper Roger Schoeber diving onto the carpet to clutch. Robertson mounted another Saints attack up the wing, cut to the middle, then drove the ball high and wide. Valley got an almost-goal when Matt Schouten took a quick free kick from 30 yards, that squirted through keeper-Roger' s hands but went just wide.

The first shift of the second half had Ivan Scheper and Kent O-man testing the Saints keeper but Roger was up to the challenge and won the ball. In the second shift, Scheper had a sure goal on a 25 yarder that scooted along the turf, under the keeper but back off the post. Saints had a good chance of their own on a corner kick that went past Eilander, but his defence came to his aid, keeping the ball out. And another corner by Ben Schoeber that went through Ali's hands but skimmed off Arlena Vane, sending it wide. Valley chances again, this time a free kick that the Saints walled well, sending the ball out of danger. Following that a Matt Schouten run that Caszie Schoeber pressured wide, and his shot hit the side of the goal. Late in the game, a Saints free kick was handled by Ali, but came loose; Vaartstra nailed that ball over the bar. On his last rush, Vaartstra charged up the wing, sent the ball in to Adelle Kroeger and she struck her hard shot off the bar. Kent-O had one last go, streaking up the wing, the Saints keeper charged out, Kent had him at his mercy, and the open goal to shoot at, but just couldn't get good position for a good pass or shot.

That was it: lots of action, good match, clean play.

LYNDEN TIED ON TOP OF DIV. 1

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 08:30:34 EST

Lynden Americans are tied with FC International atop Division 1, with a close victory over Oranje. Definately a match that could have gone either way, but it was Lynden the victor and Oranje another loss in their struggles of late.

Stan deHaan got a solid rush on the Lynden goal in the first shift but was effectively impeded by Sarah Hicks and had two cracks that could not get by her and onto the keeper Gavin Willis. Zeff Mendoza got a ball in to Joel Wielenga whose header went over the Oranje bar. In the second shift, Eric Swanson got a shot on Oranje keeper Justin Bontkes that had some nasty back spin on it, cuz when Bontkes crouched to grab the low ball it popped over him and just barely over the bar. Oranje got some chances in that shift as well, a free kick from the side of the 18 that skittered through to the keeper and a Tyler VanVliet launch that keeper Gavin clutched to his chest. In the fourth shift, a loose ball in in the Lynden six-box bounced around jsut too much for Stan deHaan to drive into the goal. Minutes before half time, Rick VanderHorst had a ball come loose at about 22 yards, and cranked a riser past the keeper and into the net.

Early in the second half, Oranje keeper Bontkes came out on a ball, together with 2 Oranje and 2 Lynden players. The one who got to the ball was Jonathan Kingma who headed the ball over that crowd and into the open goal. Oranje had a chance to get that one back when Rod VanSpronsen found Tom VanderHorst but his header went over the bar. Lynden scored again when Jonathan Kingma crossed a ball through a crowd and into another, but Eric Swanson managed to get to it and headed the ball sideways into the goal. Matt Hicks had a good chance on goal as well, when a ball landed at his feet and he spun and shot, but just wide. Both teams had numerous other chances, most of which I neglected to write down (sorry) but one save of note was a desperate dive that Bontkes made. Was it an agressive pass back to the keeper or was it shot by Matt Hicks - I couldn't tell, but it did not go in the Oranje goal, thanks to Bontkes. That was it for this match, a 2-1 win for Lynden, and 3-2 for the Canucks. Congrats to both!

GREEN GUY NO HELP FOR R-PAC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 05 Jun 2011 08:02:16 EST

I did not see the game between Langley FC and Real Pacific, but was there when Real came to the match. They pulled out all the stops, bringing a Green Guy to help them against Langley FC. No confirmation if it was Force or Sully who attended, but I guess the Green Guys should to stick to Vancouver Canuck hockey as they could not deliver the victory for Real Pacific. Langley FC won a decisive 4-1 victory over RP, goals coming from Ron Scheper with 2, Jeff VanderGaag and Colin DeWit each bagging one. Anthony Togeretz got the lone goal for Real Pacific.

Langley FC is certainly a confident team right now, while Real Pacific will have to pull something more successful out of their bag of good luck charms next time. Nice touch though, RP!! And GO Canucks GO!!

LANGLEY FC ROLLS OVER ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 08:18:27 EST

Can you say slump? Can you say momentum? Oranje started the season with a bang, while Langley FC started it with a whimper. That is now reversed, Oranje mired in the L column, while Langley FC is getting a number in the W.

It was a pretty even game, all told, with both teams getting some shots in the first shift, Rod VanSpronsen (Oranje) just wide, Ron Scheper (Langley) a 15 yarder that keeper Ryan Sikma got a foot on. Rylan Kobes (Langley) hard over, and Rod again this time just over Langley's bar. Langley's Jeff VanderGaag got the first goal of the game when a high ball came diagonally to him, and he headed it back against the grain and in, the goalie caught flat footed. Oranje evened that up in the third time block when Tom VanderHorst dribbled through several yellow shirts and guided a 12 yarder just inside the post. Rubin Timmerman had a try for Langley when he worked through the middle but his shot was just wide. A handball in the Oranje area resulted in a penalty kick taken by Derek Scheper; low, post side and in, with Ryan Sikma guessing right but just missing. Yellow fought through the middle again, with Ron Scheper's shot going hard off the post and out. On the last shift, a goal mouth clearance rebounded hard back off an Oranje player, and past Langley keeper Dave Doornbos, just barely missing the empty goal mouth.

Second half, chances by Raymond Schouten for Langley and Mark Sikma of Oranje gained their teams nothing, and Jeff VanderGaag was sandwiched out of a scoring try by Tyler VanVliet and John Zietsma. Stan deHaan tried twice to set up team mates with crosses, Andrew VanAndel missing on his finish, and Tom VdHorst in the six-box, heading the ball over the bar. Ron Scheper didn't miss on his next attempt when he skinned an Oranje defender, schooled around him and blasted the ball into the net. Rubin T-man had another hard rush at the Oranje goal that keeper Ryan punched back, Rubin trying again, but this time off the cross bar.

Final score, 3-1 Langley FC. Weather - rain again!!! But not windy, for once.

SUMAS STORM STORMS BACK

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 31 May 2011 08:47:50 EST

I didn't get to this game till into the second half, but heard enough about it to know that Sumas Storm deserves a little bit of press. Wow! Another force to be reakoned with in Division Two. Young, fast, energetic. Able to overcome a 3-0 first half to gain a 3-3 tie.

First half, Oranje did all the scoring. Rick VanderHorst buried a ball that came rebounding off the keeper Rob Gelderman, back to the 18, and he got a shot that found the back of the net. Leroy VanSpronsen scored the second goal when he headed a ball in from Andrew VanAndel (?) And Stan deHaan scored the third goal for Oranje with his trusty left foot. Score, 3-0 at the half.

in the first shift of the second half, suddenly Storm bagged two goals of their own. Referee Ron Scheper admitted that he played a part in the first goal, getting in the way, Eric VanderHoek making the scoring shot. Scheper also felt that this turned the tide for Storm, and the second goal by the same player gave his team a lot of jump. By the middle of the half, his brother Dave VanderHoek drew the Storm level with Oranje with a hard shot sliced across the area, keeper Justin Bontkes diving, but just missing. Now the tempo and intensity really picked up, Oranje not wanting to tie or lose. They put lots of pressure on in the Storm end of the field, and got 5 or 6 dangerous shots, but each one high or wide. Bontkes made a super snag on a potential goal on a Storm shot, and the teams still tied. Keeper Gelderman kept his team in it as well, having to push a high shot just off and over the crossbar. Then Oranje was awarded a penalty kick for a hand ball in the Storm area. Point right? Rick VanderHorst stroked it well, but off the base of the post, and stayed out. In the ensuing fray, another handball on the side of Storm's goal, and a second PK call. Now, point for sure, right? Rod VanSpronsen took the PK this time, and over the bar! Unbelievable to both teams, and the spectators! A red card was given to a Storm player, too vocal in protesting the call (to his own regret). End of game - a 3-3 tie.

VALLEY SHUTS OUT CROSSWAY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 30 May 2011 08:07:08 EST

Valley United won a solid 4-0 victory over Crossway, but victories over the Reds won't come easy this year. They have bolstered their team, while still having AJ Lissemore leading the attack, Trevor Bodill stalwart on defence and Andrew Driscoll at the helm (or the stern I guess, since he is the goal keeper). But they have become much more skillful and fleet of foot. Valley has also improved, and Division Two will be much more competitive this year.

But tonight Valley did all the scoring. Karen Meerstra generated the first goal when she carried up the wing and passed to Maurine VanderLinde who pulled the ball to the middle, then left-footed it past the sprawling keeper, kissing the post on the way in. The second goal came off a perfect corner kick by Stuart VanderHorst, long to the far side of the six-box, Matt Schouten there to redirect hard in. VanderHorst got his own goal in the last block when he lifted a 25 yarder high over Driscoll, under the bar and into the onion bag.

The only scoring in the second half came from Matt Schouten who tapped in his second and Valley's 4th goal of the game.

Assuming the website has been updated, or trusting that it will somtime be updated, it is still safe to assume that Celtic is on top of the division, Valley is comfortably in second place, with Crossway a cozy middle of the pack.

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 29 May 2011 08:06:47 EST

FC INTER WINS EVEN MATCH

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 27 May 2011 08:32:15 EST

It took FC International till the last minutes to gain a win against Oranje in a very even and exciting, hard fought game. Inter and Oranje usually have pretty good matches, and this one was no exception, with Inter the victors by a 3-1 score.

Oranje got the first test on the Inter keeper Werner Engeler when Tom VanderHorst's wide pass to Stan deHaan was Stanned back into the middle to Rod VanSpronsen in the goal mouth, but saved away for a corner kick. Oranje mounted pressure again, this time Rick VanderHorst running a diagonal with his shot back across the grain going wide. Then Inter's Dan Woelders set up Eric Atsma on Oranje's 6, but no shot could be had. A corner kick found Atsma again, but again no Atsma damage. Jody Wandsura got in on a good try but keeper Justin Bontkes covered up that ball for no shot either. Oranje were almost burned by an own goal when a defender headed the ball, but back it went and just barely wide of the goal. In the 20-30 minute block, both teams were buzzing around when Lindsay Bisschop punted a 10yard softie off the Oranje crossbar and out. Back up field for Oranje, Stan deHaan running hard, squared the ball to Rick VdHorst, who's hard drive went just wide. Other end again, an FC throw-in was headed for the head of Jason Jorgensen in the goal mouth, but Bontkes stole it right off Jorgie's head. Back at em, Oranje's Mark Sikma rushed the ball up to Rick VdHorst but his finish was wide again. Inter's turn; Adam Peters squared the ball to Atsma but Oranje defended that away. The FC corner kick was bobbled several times by Bontkes but still made the save. Tom VanderHorst tested Engeler with a high shot but Engeler was waiting for it and made the grab. A Tom/Rick VdH combo ended with a Rick shot off the post and no goal. Good even half, tied at nil, nil.

Oranje opened the second half with a quick goal, when a middle pass back found Stan deHaan at the top of the 18 and he picked the left corner. In the 10-20 block, Inter had a free kick from the side of the 18 struck well by Wil Folstad who bent it to the far post. The keeper swung on it but the ball hit the post and went in. Later, Jorgie curled a high shot that went off the very top corner of the post/crossbar and stayed out. Following this, a free kick by Oranje was parried out by Engeler to a waiting Ron Smouter, but his header went wide. Lots of action, both teams trying to break the tie. Nate Meier, a hard shot saved by Bontkes. Andrew VanAndel, a wide shot on Engeler, not enough mustard on it. Rick VdHorst, a middle shot, smothered by Engeler. Jorgie, several cracks at the ball, all defended away. Wil Folstad, a beauty free kick, bent up and around the Oranje wall, off the Oranje crossbar. Tom VdHorst, a shot out of a crowd, Engeler made the grab. Inter looked to break the tie when Dan Woelders got a sure-goal shot, but Bontkes made a game-saver save. Inter got the go-ahead goal in the last minutes of the game when the referee deemed a challenge just inside the FC area to be worthy of a penalty kick. Jason Jorgensen struck that well, giving Inter the lead. This shook Oranje's composure, and in the dying minutes FC took advantage, and scored when Jorgie sent a ball in from the sideline and Dan Woelders daringly dove to head the ball sideways into the Oranje goal. You had to be there to appreciate that move!

Woelders was gratified that his team got a good goal to finish what was a very good game. Oranje were disappointed with a 3-1 outcome, but happy with their team play.

ABBOTSFORD SCRAPS OUT WIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 19 May 2011 08:55:42 EST

Abbotsford used to be known as the Silver Bullets; with the new blue uniforms they look more like Kokanee now! But they look good, and so did their play in the match against Oranje. They won with a 2-1 score in a close game.

The first half had a lot of back and forth for a while, as both teams got the blood going. Shauna Stam had a good early try for Oranje when her team worked the ball up to her, only to have her left-footer go over a crowd and to the waiting Abby keeper Adam Cender. Abbotsford had a serious threat on Oranje before the 20 minute mark when a loose ball not cleared out of their 18 was cranked by Paul Kuik; Justin Bontkes dove to push the ball just wide of the far post. Kuik got another try off a corner kick, but Bontkes blocked that one away. Rod VanSpronsen of Oranje tried to catch Abby napping with a quick free kick around an unready wall, but keeper Cender was ready, and made the grab. Abbotsford back at Oranje, Alan Boeve blasting in, but Bontkes blocked the ball out, only to have it go to Kuik who rifled the ball back in, but Bontkes could deflect that too, and Ardis VanderHorst sent that loose ball into the side of the netting. Before the 40 minute mark, Rick VanderHorst sprung Stan deHaan with a great pass, and deHaan scored with a shot off the far post and in. Andrew VanAndel had a chance to add to that when he shot point blank at Cender, but he blocked the ball out. Just before the half, James Bisschop stripped a ball on the Oranje 6, bullied his way through several players and shot on the Oranje doorstep, and in it went, no chance for the keeper.

In the opening minutes of the second half, the A-team burst down the sideline, Oranje cleared the ball , but to the middle and Alan Boeve punched a shot that Bontkes made a WOW save on. Stan deHaan and Shauna Stam each had shots on the Abby goal again, one saved wide and the other shot just wide. Some players got a little feistiness going, and Chris VanderHorst of Oranje got a yellow card to settle the teams down. Alan Boeve had a diagonal run and shot go wide of the Oranje far post, and Leroy VanSpronsen ran onto a breaking ball and shot, Cender making the snag. In the 30-40 minute block, Oranje put on the pressure, and Tom VanderHorst had 2 tries, a shot on a bouncing ball that went just over, and the next rush, another bouncer slashed just wide. In the last 5 minute block, Rod VanSpronsen and Ron Smouter were scrapping it out with Cender to try to win a loose ball in his area, but it ended up keeper's ball. Just before the final whistle, an Abbotsford free kick was well struck by Daryn Kobes into the Oranje area, with several players on both sides battling to make contact with the ball. It was Ray Lindberg of Abbotsford who finally drove the ball into the back of the Oranje goal to squeak out the narrow 2-1 win.

CROSSWAY SHUTS OUT ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 13 May 2011 08:31:19 EST

Crossway FC put together their third win of the season with a decisive 3-0 victory over Oranje. The Reds have added some players this year and the overall skill level of the team has certainly improved. And the story of the night would be that they finished their chances while Oranje did not.

Both teams had their share of chances in the first half, but since the rosters and numbers are still not accurate on the website, not all the names of playmakers will be mentioned. A.J. Lissermore is a familiar face in the Red lineup and made his presence felt early and often, with #31 and #21 adding prowess as well. Jared Stork got an early try on Oranje keeper Justin Bontkes but he punched away the long looping shot. Stan deHaan got a test shot on Andrew Driscoll of Crossway with Driscoll winning that challenge and Tom VanderHorst shot a ball wide of the Red goal. An Oranje free kick into the Crossway area was headed by a Red head, only to have the ball go backward, off their own crossbar and stay out. Natalie deHaan almost converted a long Andrew VanAndel pass into a goal when she cranked a shot from the corner of the 6 yard box that Driscoll flung his body at to save. Joel Visscher got Crossway on the scoresheet after 30 minutes when he jumped onto a loose ball and got a 10 yarder chest high on Bontkes, who blocked the shot but it popped up and just under the bar.

Visscher got his second goal early in the second half when he took advantage of an Oranje defensive breakdown, mounted a charge, pulled the goalie over and then shot back into the open net. Oranje tried to get their own goal but things were not working for them, passes not connecting or shots going off the mark. A Red free kick just outside the Oranje 18, taken by AJ was well struck but the wall did its job and the ball went off the wall and over the bar. Oranje finally had a quality buildup, a passing play from 4 different players, but Rick VanderHorst's shot sailed over. Andrew VanAndel had a great chance as well but his shot along the carpet from the side of the 18 sailed wide of the far post. And another Oranje chance, this time off a corner kick; a melee in front of keeper Driscoll, Stan deHaan's shot was right at the keeper. Another corner, this time deHaan headed the ball over. Crossway were not holding back, protecting their lead, and another charge netted their third and final goal, this time #31, Matt D (?) who found the open corner.

Oranje got the ball often enough, but not always with good control and that was certainly in part due to the strong defensive game of John Wiebe, Trevor Bodill, Jarod Stork, Brad, et al. They kept Oranje off the scoresheet and kept their team focussed on passing, good transition and quick marking. Oranje's whole team had one of those games, while cudos to Crossway for a game well played.

ORANJE SQUEAKS BY LYNDEN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 07 May 2011 08:29:47 EST

Oh, it rained and rained and rained! Spectators huddled under umbrellas. And two valient teams played soccer, and a good game it was in spite of the weather. Lynden has a new look to its team, many new, young players to add to their stalwarts. Matt Hicks, their big gun of last year is out with what may be a long term injury. Gavin Willis, the regular goalie for Lynden played forward due to a hurting hand, so Aiden VanDriel played in goal for the first half.

The game opened with Lynden generating chances, by Willis, Jon Kingma, Joel Wielenga and others. Yet, Oranje opened the scoring at the 10 minute mark when Rick VanderHorst tested the substitute keeper with a good low shot that squirted through the keeper's hands. Lynden came back at Oranje, especially when Jon Kingma drove an 18 yarder across the box and wide of the far post. On an Oranje counter attack in the 20-30 minute block, a Lynden defender tried to clear an errant ball out of their area only to have it smack right against a charging Stan deHaan and riccochet into the Lynden goal. Again Lynden came back, Darryn Kleyn centering a pass to Kingma but his shot spun just wide of the far post. An Oranje hand ball in their area saw a penalty kick awarded to Lynden and Kleyn made no mistake, roofing the ball for goal #1, Lynden. Oranje got that 2 point lead back again, when Tom VanderHorst took a long shot that went over the fingertips of the keeper, smacked high off the post, off the back of the unlucky goalie and into the net. Late in the half, Oranje keeper Justin Bontkes had to be alert to stop a 20 yarder from #23 (sorry, names and numbers didn't match on the website roster) to keep Lynden at bay.

Willis took over goalie duties for Lynden in the second half, and Mark Sikma tested him early with a left-footer along the turf that buried deep into the Lynden goal for a 4-1 lead. Lynden must be done for, right? They kept right on attacking, and Caleb Kriegal had one try that had keeper Bontkes beated only to have Tyler VanVliet clear the ball off the line. But Lynden would not be denied, and Jon Kingma got a good shot with the lots of Oranje goal to shoot at and made it count. Kingma tried to add to that, with another great shot, only to see defender Dan VanSpronsen make the timely clearance. Lynden was now having their way with Oranje, and Kriegal, in close to the Oranje area, shot across the area and away from the keeper to score, and it was suddenly 4-3. Oranje stepped up their pace, and Mark Sikma loaded a shot off a corner kick but Willis pushed that ball out of scoring range. Shelley Sikma tried to set up Stan deHaan, waiting in front of the Lynden goal, but Stan just couldn't put finish on that ball. Back came Lynden, Oranje hanging on by a thread, and Kriegal chopped another ball at the goal, Bontkes punching that over the bar for a game saving save. Try as they might, Lynden could not get the tie, and Oranje was very happy to get the victory.

And everyone was happy to get out of the rain, except the two young lads who spent the whole game rolling around in the puddles and the mud.

INTER POWERS OVER CELTIC

Fri, 06 May 2011 08:17:26 EST

FC International, last year's powerhouse and league champions continued their winning ways, but Celtic certainly made a game of it, and do not need to hang their heads, even in a 5-0 loss. Celtic's leader Burke Vanderhorst said after the game that his team enjoyed the game, even in defeat, and were impressed by Inter's shooting prowess, and the importance of taking shots.

international opened the scoring in the first 10-minute block with a low hard drive that Jason Flint took from about 25 yards out, a favorite part of the field for Inter to shoot from. The wet ball, scooting along the wet turf squirted through the hands of waiting keeper Russ Toet. Jason Jorgenson headed a Mark Peters free kick over the bar, and Toet made a diving save off of #23 (name?) near post shot. Celtic countered and a Glenn Visscher corner kick found the head of Nathan Chase, but the attempt went just wide. Visscher had his own challenge on the Inter goal, both he and keeper Werner Engeler on the carpet in frenzied action, but no goal to show for it. Celtic had at least 8 corner kicks in the first half, but could not convert on them. Jorgenson got Inter's second goal when he drove a ball out of a crowd and just inside the post. Celtic got good pressure on Inter with shots coming from Chase and Trevor VanDelft, who was sent in by a Kevin Hendricks pass, but both shots were just off the mark. Late in the half, Celtic pressure from Visscher/VanDelft/Chase but keeper Werner won the turf war and the ball. An even later Inter attack had Dan Woelders in on Toet, but Russ threw his body in the way of the ball and diverted it away. Celtic had too many chances to be behind 2-0 at the half. Hendricks of Celtic, whose smooth play making was evident, sat out most of the second half with a sore foot on a ball challenge with Peters.

An early Nathan Chase drive tested Engeler in the second half, but he caught that knee-high. And a G-Vissch/Julia VanLaar combo was kept out of harms way by Engeler. An FC corner kick generated the next goal. Toet could not grab the ball, which was cleared out, but right to Mark Peters, waiting for just such a gift, and he drove the ball hard along the ground and in. Burke VdHorst tried to get that back but his high ball bounced over Engeler and just over the crossbar. Josh Togeretz onetimed a shot for Celtic that went just wide. Celtic worked hard to get that elusive goal, with FC's defence thwarting their every chance. Eric Atsma was stopped by Toet on a low bullet, but got another chance on a 50/50 ball that he beat Toet to and nudged into the net. Again, Celtic came back, this time Dylan Bredenhof fighting a ball free and to the Burkemeister, who dribbled through numerous players inside the 18, then cranked a hard shot that went diagonal through the box and wide. Julia vanLaar swept an Inter corner kick away from the yawning goal mouth but Inter could not be denied too long. Celtic were missing their chances, not International, as Jason Flint got his second goal and Inter's 5th from 30 yards out (did I say a favorite spot for Inter to shoot from?) and it sailed over Toet and into the back of the goal.

FC International has not lost any punch from last year, and will be the team to beat it would seem. Celtic has impressed with their play in the early part of the season, and should do well with the additions they have made.

ORANGE 1/1 VALLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 05 May 2011 08:36:18 EST

Oranje and Valley played to a 1-1 tie in their first meeting of the season. Goal came in the first 10 minute block of the game and in the last 10 minute block, with lots of action in between.

Oranje scored first when Ron Smouter put the ball up to Leroy VanSpronsen, to Tom VanderHorst and the ball bouncing on the turf to Stan deHaan who managed to settle the ball enough to stroke a nifty left-footer into the left corner of Valley's goal. A second goal was averted when Valley missed clearing an incoming bouncer, but keeper Ali Eilander dove at deHaan's feet to steal the ball away. Another close call for Oranje came off a corner kick, Tom VanderHorst ready to head it, but keeper Ali batted it off his head, only to have it headed back in by Mark Sikma; Ali had to bat that ball away from just under the crossbar. Ben Faber finished off a Valley counter attack but his shot went high and wide. Faber had another shot, this time going wide on the left. Ivan Scheper followed that up with another great Valley effort with a left-footed shot from the right sideline, and Oranje keeper Justin Bontkes had to be sharp to parry that hard shot away. Kent Ostermeier, tightly marked managed to get a Valley pass to teammate Mark Bysterveld, inside the Oranje 6 yard box. but Mark couldn't get the finishing touch on it. Maurice VanderLinde slashed a skittering ball over Oranje's cross bar to finish out the half.

Valley ended up pretty much owning the second half, with Oranje getting few if any quality chances on net. The midfield battles were being won by Valley, and the Oranje defenders were kept busy clearing balls away from their goal area. Bontkes had to be sharp on two Maurice VdL shots from outside the 18. Oranje had one big rush when Tom vdHorst and Stan deHaan came charging up field, but Ben Faber and Tim VanderLinde handled them well and no shot could be made. Mark-B and Kent-O mounted their own attack on Oranje's end with the ball bouncing over keeper Bontkes only to have John Zietsma clear that out of danger. Matt Schouten and Maurice came scampering in to make more trouble but Justin and John had just enough to stop that dangerous threat. Valley was all over Oranje at this point. And late in the half, they got another good shot on goal: Chris VanderHorst was called for a deliberate hand ball in the box, that prevented a goal ("I'm a hockey goal - it was pure reflex", lamented Chris) and a penalty kick was awarded. Matt Schouten buried the shot into the twine to tie the game at 1-1.

This would be the final score. Many, many cars driving by the field were honking their horns and waving flags to celebrate this tie game. Or............. maybe it was because the Canucks beat the Predators!?

VITESSA ROUTED BY CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 03 May 2011 08:08:10 EST

An 8-0 win for Celtic! Was Vitessa that bad or were Celtic that good? You'd have to ask yourself that based on the score only. It bears some explanation. Vitessa fielded a team of only 8 players, while Celtic had a full compliment of players. Discussion with the referee determined that a team with 7 players may play a match without a forfeit, so the teams decided to make a go of it. Celtic allowed Vitessa to add one of their spectators to their team, and they even gave Vitessa one of their own spectators, who just happened to have his soccer shoes along. So, game on!

But it was a lopsided game, the field seemingly tilted towards the Vitessa goal. The smooth passing Celtic team had their way with the valient Vitessa side, and by half time had built up a 4-0 score with goals coming from Trevor VanDelft, and a second Trevor goal when the Vitessa keeper stopped a Kevin Hendricks shot but the loose ball was buried by the T-man. Goal number three was the result of a Krista Scheper feed to Nathan Chase, who dealt a soft left-footer to the back of the net. The over-worked Vitessa keeper Tim Erickson (?) thwarted the next attempts of Celtic, a rapid ping-ponging of 3 shots in his goal mouth, stopping them all, one cleared off the line by a trusty teammate. But Celtic added to their tally when Daniel VanderGaag sharply headed a Steve VanDelft corner kick past the keeper - no chance for a save.

In the second half, Celtic continued to switch their lineup around, already in the first half having defenders playing forward and the goal scorers taking a try at sweeper and stopper. Even keeper Russ Toet got to play out, replaced by Daryl VanDelft in goal. Toet took advantage of this, scoring his first goal of the season. Other Celtic goals were scored by Dan vdGaag, Dylan Bredenhof and Richard Welfing, resulting in the 8-0 score.

Celtic had fresh legs on the sideline the whole game. Vitessa had tired legs on the field for most of the game. But they did it, and they'll have better games if and when they field a full lineup. So, is Vitessa that bad and are Celtic that good?? Time will tell.

CL-DALE CLOSE BUT NO CIGAR

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 08:07:45 EST

Cloverdale and Oranje played a close game on Thursday evening but the win went to Oranje 2-1 in a close, and entertaining battle. Cloverdale has a very young side this year, Shelley Schoen, George Gunnink and Bryan Grim being in the veteran class, with a lot of young legs backing up their experience. Oranje has always been known as having older players, but a nice group of younger ones round out their squad this year.

Keeper Ryan Sikma was challenged by Cloverdale in the first ten minute block, especially on a rush and shot at the edge of the 6-yard box by Josh VanderPloeg but was up to it and made a couple of alert saves on quality chances. Julian VanDyke tested keeper Ryan again in the next 10-minutes but Sikma saw the shot and made the easy grab. Ron Smouter (of veteran vintage) tested new Cloverdale keeper Nic Voorhorst (new from Coaldale, Alberta, but not new to goal keeping) but it was keeper ball. Rick VanderHorst tested him as well, but Voorhorst parried the ball wide of the Clover goal. Aren VanDyke, back to fvcsl after a knee-resting hiatus got a shot from the 18, but his effort went over the bar. Natalie deHaan, new to Oranje had a late half rush stolen away by Anna Versluis to close out the half.

The 0-0 deadlock was tested early in the second half with shots by Aren VanDyke and Travis VanderGaag but both balls were snagged by Sikma. Travis VdG squared his next effort to Josh VanderPloeg but Sikma was onto it for the save. Tyler VanVliet tested Voorhorst when he slashed a shot in on the Cloverdale goal, with Nic diving to push the ball away. And he tipped another Oranje shot over the bar. Julian VanDyke finally opened the scoring when he took a shot from off the end line that squeezed between a prone keeper Sikma and the near post. Tom VanderHorst tried to even that up , but Cloverdale defender Matt Wendt grappled that away from the Oranje player, as he played his strong and steady game on the Cloverdale back line. Julian VanDyke sent his next effort rising high and just wide . Annemarie VanderGriendt (former Oranje) punched a high ball into the Oranje area; it came down to keeper Ryan and her brother Joel, with Ryan clutching the ball in for the save. Tyler VanVliet tested Voorhorst again with a ball that dropped inside the Cl-dale 18, but Voorhorst bravely grabbed that effort. An unmarked Rick VanderHorst got Oranje on the scoresheet when he keyed up a left-footer from 35 yards out, and rifled a hi-lite reel shot to the very top outside corner, over the desperate fingertips of keeper-Nic. Rod (ever trusty veteran) Vanspronsen kept the score even when he swept a ball away from the charging Aren VanDyke. Voorhorst kept the score even too, when Tom vdHorst chipped a ball to Natalie deHaan who redirected the ball, only to have Nic sprawl to save, and Voorhorst stole another ball away from a lurking Leroy VanSpronsen. Josh VdPloeg tried yet again to score on Oranje but Sikma did not back down and made the stop. Oranje got their second tally on the night, the result of a hand ball in the Cloverdale box. Rod VanSpronsen took the PK, struck it well and it became the winning goal. Julian VanDyke had one last glowing chance to even the score when a corner kick went over keeper Sikma, but his shot went over the yawning goal mouth.

Victory 2-1 to Oranje. Both teams had only one spare player, missing key ingredients to their team, but put in an entertaining effort. Well done!

ORANJE BEATS LANGLEY FC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 16 Apr 2011 08:56:36 EST

Oranje and Langley FC have both come into the 2011 season with a lot of returning players, but some new ones as well and will have to work out their teamwork with the inclusion of these newbies. The first meeting of the season between these two league original teams ended with a 2-1 victory for Oranje.

It's fair to say that Oranje carried most of the play in the first half and tested keeper Daryl Driegen several times, Andrew VanAndel charging a sideline ball that Driegen beat him to, and Mark Sikma (one of the remaining Oranje Sikmas, Phil and Tom both retiring, and Paul switching to a spare role) launching a long hard shot that Driegen crouched to catch. Chris VanderHorst (new to Oranje) cranked a free kick from the Oranje side of centre that Rod VanSpronsen flicked on with his head; Rick VanderHorst raced to get there, but Driegen just won the foot race and the ball. All this in the first 10 minute block. After that, Reuben Timmerman of Langley FC tried to test keeper Ryan Sikma only to have defender Tyler VanVliet block that attempt. A scramble in the Yellow box after an Oranje corner kick was finally finished when Rod VanSpronsen hustled to force the loose ball past hapless keeper Driegen for an opening goal at the 25 minute mark. Later in the half, Rick VanderHorst chipped a pass to a loping Tom VanderHorst but his left footer was clutched in by Driegen. Timmerman made a threatening run late in the half for Langley , but this time he was stymied by defender John Zietsma.

With rain coming down in earnest in the second half, Tom vdHorst had a chance on lots of net, with Driegen slipped out of position, but his shot went just wide. Rod vanSpronsen shanked one wide as well. Reuben T-man again got a try on goal, this time coming in hard, but Sikma slid to smother the ball. In the 10-20 block, Tom VdHorst spread the field nicely with a wide pass to Oranje newcomer Alicia Oger, but her left footer went wide right of the right side. Yellow had another try, this time newcomer Felix (last name?) launching a long shot on the Oranje net, but no Yellow teammate could get to the shot before Sikma did. Yellow was awarded a penalty kick when Oranje had a hand ball called in their area. Derek Scheper calmly and crisply buried his shot to even the score at 1-1. Jeff VanderGaag had a chance to add to Yellow's tally with a chance on goal but Ryan Sikma took it away. Oranje got a second goal with 10 minutes left, when their corner kick was saved off the end line by Rick VanderHorst, who cut back in, and put everything into his shot, squeezing it between the post and the keeper. Mitchell Philips had a try for Langley but his rushed shot went over the bar. Ron Scheper had a sure game tying goal from in close but saw it swatted away by Sikma, making a game winning save for Oranje. Just before the final whistle, Alicia Oger came running in on a 3-Oranje rush, and flicked the ball over the Langley keeper, only to see the ball take an impossibly high bounce, and sail just over the bar. Ouch! Overinflated ball, was the final verdict from her teammates.

Good match: both teams have something to build on. Hopefuly the rainy weather will end soon, improving the conditions for the faithful spectators.

FC INTERNATIONAL - #1

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 08:12:15 EST

FC International lead the league from the get-go this season and finished it with a win over Lynden Americans in the final to take the fvcsl trophy. Lynden gave it a good battle and are to be commended for their energy and drive for 90 minutes, but Inter was just too much for them to handle.

Jason Jorgenson, top scorer in the league added to his stats with the opening goal when his team loped in at mid-speed and Jorgie got a shot in, away from the keeper Gavin Willis, and into the far corner. He almost had another when he got a hard shot at the Lynden goal but Willis punched it away, only to have it go directly to Jason Flint, but his shot went off the post and stayed out. Erik Estrada then got a header on the Inter goal from at the 6yard stripe, but Josh Dejong helped his keeper by directing that away. Lynden again, Darryn Kleyn a pass over the Inter defenders to Matt Hicks but Engeler forced that away. Then a Mark Peters free kick from the center stripe that Lynden's Willis punched out of danger. Erik Estrada set up a Lynden attack with a ball for Nathan Chase to chase, but Nathan was stopped by Nathan Moes, who forced a corner. Later Moes came up the field to take a shot on Lynden's goal but his attempt went wide. Mark Peters got International's second goal when he ran onto a loose ball rolling free in Lynden territory and smoothly shot the ball into their goal - no chance for the keeper.

Early in the second half, a Wil Folstad pass to Jason Flint saw Flint's shot go wide. Then Jeff Bergen lined up the ball, ready to slam it into the Lynden goal, but Ben Faber slid in front of the ball to take that shot away. Lynden got on the scoresheet when Estrada stroked a free kick and curled it around the Inter defenders for Matt Hicks to pummel into the goal. But Inter got their cushion back when Flint squared the ball back to Jorgenson and he smote a goal scorer's goal with a bazooka to the high corner. No more scoring in the game, but Lynden had a chance on a corner kick into a crowd that Engeler had to force his way through to make the grab. And another attack, a free kick to Matt Hicks on top of the keeper, but it was keeper's ball. Jody Wandsura of Inter got an opportunity on the Lynden goal but her hard shot didn't make it all the way through. Then Jon Kingma and Matt Hicks on Engeler again, and he barely, but did win the ball. And a Hicks pass back to Estrada, whose shot Engeler had to push wide. Dan Woelders came at the Lynden goal several times, once to be sandwiched by Harvey Pelleboer and Laura Faber and another time when he got a shot on goal from the side of the 6yard box, but the ball rolled across the area and out the other side.

Well done to Lynden, for a game well played against FC International, a team very hard to beat. FC International, deserving league champions for 2010.

James VandeBurgt, when handing out trophies and awards first acknowledged the Christian nature of the league and thanked God for good health, good competition, protection from major injuries and a good season of soccer, AMEN to that!!

Awards

Bored Assistant — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 08:33:50 EST

CONGRATULATIONS TO:

Div 1 Champions - FC International

Div 2 Champions - Saints

Most Sportsmanlike - Oranje

Male MVP - Jason Jorgenson

Female MVP - Caszie Schroeber

League Champions - FC International

INTER WINS ON PENALTY KICKS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:45:22 EST

(photos - Justin Meyer)

FC International advanced to the fvcsl championship game with a win over Oranje, but it took penalty kicks to decide the game after being tied at 2-2 at the end of regular time. This game was an epic battle that either team could have won. Team veteran Adam Woelders admitted that their last wins have been tough games. After their only 2 losses of the season, to Real Pacific and to the Saints, they had a close victory over Oranje, 2/1, then they had to dig deep to come from behind and beat Celtic 4/3 in first round playoff action, and now Oranje again. They meet Lynden Americans tonight at 6:00 at Willoughby field, after Lynden beat Langley FC 1/0 in other semi-final action.

Both teams had chances in the first half: for Inter, a Mark Peters centering shot that John Zietsma (see Jumping-John photo, a player who should be in the running for male MVP every year) put out for a corner, a Sarah Titley punt that went high to Oranje's substitute goalie Tom Sikma, a Dan Woelders shot that Sikma smothered. Oranje: Rick VanderHorst from the corner that Werner Engeler fell on to smother, a Tom Vanderhorst high shot from the wing that went past the far post, and another Tom-try from the 18 that Engeler punched wide for a corner kick. Then, an Inter free kick by Mark Peters that Tom Sikma touched over the bar. The corner kick, both Eric Atsma and Dan Woelders inside the 6yard box, but missing the ball. Another shot from DanW as he turned and shot but it went over. Brother Adam doing defensive duties, denied an Oranje rush when he safely headed the ball back to his keeper. Inter broke the deadlock shortly before the 30 minute mark when Peters lifted a high free kick into the Oranje area and the keeper could not get at the ball before Eric Atsma headed it in. Inter almost added to that with a Jeff Bergen rush that a 2-Tyler (VanderGaag and VanVliet) combo hit the deck to block away. Oranje tied the score when Leroy VanSpronsen lifted a great corner kick into the Inter far post and Mark Sikma (see photo) could head in. Zietsma got a good clearance into the Inter end that Shauna Stam headed on, but it rolled to Engeler. And Tom VdHorst squared a ball to Rick VdH but his 20yarder went over the goal.

The second half opened with a weak Eric Atmsa shot that keeper Tom knelt to deal with. Then Shauna Stam squared a ball to Mark Sikma that was well blocked by Adam Woelders, with Mark's next shot at keeper Werner. Tyler VdGaag next tested Engeler from the end line but the keeper hugged the near post and made the grab. Inter, in on Oranje, Sarah Titley a shot blocked, Mark Peters, the loose ball, over. Oranje had a sure goal stolen from them by Jason Flint, moved back from his forward position to defender and it paid off when Tyler VdGaag's shot had beat Engeler but Flint cleared the scoring shot away from the goal mouth. Rod VanSpronsen took a good shot on a turn and one-time but his shot went wide. International got their second goal on a penalty kick when Oranje suffered an unfortunate hand ball in the box. Mark Peters made no mistake, burying the shot well. However, not too long after that, Inter was penalyzed for a hard tackle in their area, and Oranje got to take a penalty kick. Rick VdHorst took it, Engeler guessed right (see photo) but could not stop the well-struck ball. While international had chances, I think they would agree that Oranje took it to them in parts of the second half, and a Paul Sikma shot that he loaded up and drove hard at Engeler could well have put them in the lead, but Engeler managed to stop and snatch it. An Oranje corner kick had potential again when Tom Vdhorst headed a ball at the Inter goal, sister Jaclyn Penninga was in Engeler's space, but the ball just cleared her waiting head and went to the keeper. Jaclyn had a great defensive play on the other end when Rachel Peters was in scoring position deep in Oranje territory but Penninga prevented her from getting that ball. Last ditch efforts by both teams could not break the deadlock, and the game went straight to penalty kicks.

HUGE PRESSURE!! International shooters handled the pressure better than some Oranje shooters, putting their first 4 shots in while 2 of Oranje's first 3 shooters missed the mark, earning FC International the victory.

Oranje is very satisfied with their season, though admitting there were a couple of games they shoulda, coulda won, but their final drive and their playoff performance was total-team and that's all you can ask. International brings their power house team into the final game, their back line being bolstered by Will Folstad and Nathan Moes who have missed the last several games. Coach Mark Hicks of Lynden Americans said that the team has been playing very well of late, and hope that they are peaking at the right time. They'll bring it their all tonight!

Be there to see who takes the cup, as well as the awarding of individual MVP awards and the Most Sportsmanlike Team award. And be sure to thank the board members for their tireless work for the Fraser Valley Christian Soccer League. Without them there is no league. And thanks to Rueben Moes for his techie work, for without him there is no website.

ON, ON, ORANJE!

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 08:42:41 EST

Oranje and Real Pacific played in a quarter final matchup at McLeod field and Oranje is the team moving on to the semis, not knowing yet who their opponent will be until the Thursday matches are played. Real was missing their regular goal keeper Jayden Kuik, but the loss cannot be blamed on Brain Meerstra who filled in admirably, keeping his team in the game when they needed him to.

In the first 10 minute block, Oranje scored on a great team play, when Tom Sikma sent a ball to brother Phil, near the end line. Phil put the ball back into the front of the RP goal, head-high, and Tom VanderHorst barely had to nod to put the ball into the goal. David VanderGaag got a good shot on the Oranje goal when he drove a ball in that Ryan Sikma bobbled and then grabbed. Anthony Togeretz tried to penetrate the Oranje area but John Zietsma headed the ball away and Mark Bysterveld chased a ball to the end line and shot at the goal but Sikma made the save. Tom VanderHorst got another try on goal with a hard shot but it went off the back of Rod VanSpronsen and over the bar. Tyler (the Oranje) VanderGaag got a long high cross in that keeper Meerstra had to punch away before David (the Real Pacific) VanderGaag charged in, unmarked to strike a low roller wide. Score, 1/0 Oranje at the break.

The second half saw Real start with a little more passion, something that seemed to be missing from their first half, while Oranje had maybe a bit of letdown in the same department. Jeremy Meyer took a cross from about 10 yards out but couldn't get free to get the shot he wanted. Minutes later, he took a free kick for RP from 20 yards out and curled his shot well around the wall but the ball went off the corner of the crossbar and over. Oranje tightened up their game again, and kept Real Pacific from getting in close, reducing them to taking long shots: "They kept the area filled up and we couldn't work it in close" was an RP comment after the match. Tyler VanVliet was one of those crowding them out, and also punted a long ball up the field: Tom VdH and Brian Meerstra met up under the ball at the same time, but the keeper made the grab. Then Tom V and Tyler VdG charged in together but Peter VanBrederode and Lindsay Wildeboer capably snuffed that drive. Oranje's second goal came when Tom VdH passed to brother Rick, who gave it right back into an opening for Tom to run onto and shoot in, just inside the far post. The game was in the late stages when an Oranje player handed the ball in their own box. Penalty kick - Real Pacific, struck well and goal made by Jeremy Meyer. In the last five minutes, Ryan Sikma had to make a game saving goal when Meyer fed Mark Bysterveld and he drove a hard shot point-blank on Sikma who alertly grabbed the shot to preserve the lead and the victory.

Key to the match? Containing the big guns of Real Pacific and not giving them the chance to free wheel in the Oranje end of the field. It worked, and the only goal they could generate was the result of the penalty kick. So, new league champions this year, as Real Pacific won the trophy last year. Who will it be? Come out and watch the end of playoff action.

INTER SQUEAKS BY CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 08:02:16 EST

(photos - Justin Meyer)

You might be tempted to call it a David and Goliath matchup, what with Celtic ending the regular season 20 points behind FC International in the standings. Celtic would more likely call it "the little engine that could" and they almost did it, pushing Inter to the final whistle before conceding a 4-3 loss to the league leaders. International were in no mood to be knocked out in the first round of the playoffs like happened to them in their meeting with Cloverdale, the lion slayers of last year.

Celtic opened the scoring about two minutes into the game when Trevor VanDelft shot up the left side of the field and stroked a hard riser that flew past keeper Werner Engeler and into the far side of the goal. Then, at the 8 minute mark, a Celtic free kick was lobbed at the Inter goal; Black seemed to quit on the ball as it appeared to be keeper's ball, but Celtic's Glenn Visscher did not quit, got into the space and face of Engeler and headed the ball past him and into the goal for a 2-0 lead. Visscher ended up sitting out the rest of the game nursing an injury sustained during the game against Vitessa. Inter mounted several rushes, one flurry that ended with Nathan Moes blasting the ball over the Celtic goal. Then Jeff Bergen came in shoulder to shoulder right to the end line as Celtic would not let him cut in, and his centering shot was cleared away by Chris VanderHorst. Trevor VanDelft got another try on Engeler only to have the keeper dive to stop this shot. Black's efforts were consistently denied by Celtic as they were marking Inter very tightly, corner kicks, shots by Dave Olson and Eric Atsma all missing the mark or cleared away by a Celtic team effort. Defender Josh Coleman, who pounds many a ball up the field for Inter did just that on a blast from Black's side of the field but Celtic keeper John VanSeters read the bounce and grabbed the ball. Celtic scored again when having 3 corner kicks in a row; the 3rd effort was a short ball, put back to Burke VanderHorst and he put the ball back into the fray. Trevor VanDelft found the ball and a seam through the crowd and needled the ball through to the far corner. Inter's Jason Jorgenson slashed a late ball high over the Celtic goal to end the half and Celtic had them selves a 3-0 lead at the break.

Inter upped the action in the second half, needing to somehow get through those pesky Celtic and get shots on goal. So, it was Atsma a shot wide, Matk Peters a shot wide, Nathan Moes, long shot to keeper, Dan Woelders almost sprung loose - Celtic stopped, Bergen squaring a ball into the Celtic 6 yard box, Mary-Anne VanderHorst sweeping that out. Celtic defenders sweeping and stopping. Finally Jorgenson got a solid shot on VanSeters but John made the save. During that time, Celtic had their own chance when Josh Togeretz squared a ball to Daniel VanderGaag but he was well marked by Moes and could not get a clear shot. Later Burke VanderHorst got a through ball to Richard Welfing inside the Inter 18 but he mis-stepped and couldn't get a shot away. In the 10-20 minute block, Inter finally got on the scoresheet when Josh Coleman cranked a free kick from the center stripe that sailed over everyone, including the keeper and under the Celtic bar. Lindsay Bisschop tried to add to that but her punt from the 18 went over the bar. Trevor VanDelft almost, almost had a hat-trick goal for Celtic when he outraced an Inter defender for half the field, outmoved the keeper and rolled the ball barely, barely wide of the far post. In the 20-30 block, Mark Peters got a free kick low around the wall but VanSeters was onto it and smothered the shot. In the 30-40 block, Inter sensed a weakness in Celtic and exploited it. Eric Atsma spun away from his check and got a 20yarder on VanSeters, who dove well to poke out. The corner kick became a scoring play when Jorgenson dove to connect with the delivered ball and headed it into the goal. Inter smelled blood and went for the jugular. But not before Burke VanderHorst took a 20 yard Celtic free kick that bent around the wall but into the keeper's belly. Then Dan W and Jorgenson came in on VanSeters; Jorgie got the shot, with VanSeters getting a foot on it to kick back out. Jorgenson again, this time with huge pressure in the corner, got the ball free to Jeff Bergen in the middle and he scored for Inter to tie the game. Another Black Attack, this time Woelders who finally got past the Celtic defenders, shot the ball across the area and just barely inside the far post. Three goals in the space of 10 minutes; OUCH or WOW, depending on whose team you were on. Celtic tried so hard to tie the game up again, but it was not to be and Inter won the super good match.

Celtic's Mary-Anne VanderHorst and Julia VanLaar are to be commended for playing 2 full and strong matches, two nights in a row, as they were the only female players for both playoff games. Neither team had pedestrians, no watchers tonight, needing every player giving it their all in a very exciting match. The fans were treated to some great, great soccer, and thanks to the teams for that!

CELTIC SOLID VS VITESSA

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 08:03:11 EST

(photos - Justin Meyer. (Gotta love that sky!!)

Celtic won their playoff game versus Vitessa but it was not an easy win by any means. They needed a solid team effort to win 3-1 against a tenacious opponent.

Vitessa had their share of early penetration with Marcus VanNoort, Zack Vevers and Ryan Cree getting into the Celtic area but their forays were stopped or were off the mark. Ben VandeBurgt had a dangerous try as well in the 20 minute block, but no luck, no goal. Then, Evan Wong from deep in the corner, but his shot went to Celtic keeper John VanSeters, waiting at the near post. Later Celtic played a pass back to their keeper, which he couldn't pick up, so Henk Colijn alertly charged the ball, but with him touching it, VanSeters could now, and did pick up the loose ball. Celtic had a flurry of tries in the 30 minute block, with Vitessa breaking up everything, but not getting the ball out, till Celtic's Glenn Visscher took a long shot that went wide. Later #24 Dave Crumly (?) had a huge throw-in right into the Celtic 6yard box, but Celtic cleared that dangerous effort out of scoring range. Finally Celtic broke the scoreless draw when Steve VanDelft sent a long ball towards the Vitessa goal, Daniel VanderGaag running on to it, keeper Tim Erickson charging out at it, and Daniel just got the ball past the both of them and into the goal. Then a lofted lob from Dave Crumly that VanSeters collected in. Following that, Zack Vevers came in with Ben VandeBurgt running decoy and Vevers slashed a shot that the Celtic keeper had to dive to deflect out. The resulting corner kick gained them nothing. Richard Welfing had a good try for Celtic as he loaded up a banger of a shot, only to have Lucas VanderBeek alertly take that away. Then Henk Colijn charged in for Vitessa, only to have Steve VanDelft pull the same defensive move, and the score was Celtic 1/0 at the break.

Vitessa came out hard in the second half and Celtic had be valiant to retain their tenuous lead. The teams exchanged early free kicks, Burke VanderHorst sending one over the Vitessa goal. At the other end, Vitessa was creative, Ben VandeBurgt stepping over the ball, leaving the free kick for Evan Wong who slashed the shot across the area and the diving keeper, wide of the far post. Celtic notched their second goal of the game when Dylan Bredenhof broke in, just on side, waited out the keeper, deked around him and shot inside the far post. Not long after that, Celtic got their 3rd goal on an own goal: a Vitessa defensive clearance took a crazy spin, an unlucky bounce, and careened back and just inside the post, past the surprised keeper. Vitessa stayed in the game and were rewarded when Evan Wong popped a ball over to Ben VandeBurgt who dribbled a couple of strides and put his shot over keeper VanSeters. Celtic tried to add to their tally when Dan VanderGaag and Trevor VanDelft came in, keeper at their mercy, but Marcus VanNoort was there to help out and cleared the ball away. Vitessa then put pressure on the Celtic goal with lots of touches till finally Ryan Cree got a shot on the kneeling VanSeters, who clutched the ball in. Celtic had shots yet from Trevor VanDelft to Tim VanderHoek, who just couldn't get his head on it, and Richard Welfing whose shot was a one-handed grab for Erickson. And Ryan Cree got a shot on the Celtic goal, marked for the top corner, that VanSeters could reach and grab. Both keepers had lots of support from their defenders, Alan Schouten, and Kevin VanderBoom noteworthy for Vitessa, and the Celtic bros Steve and Daryl VanDelft, who together with Rob VanSeters and Chris VanderHorst swept a lot of Vitessa shots out of harm's way. Final score Celtic 3, Vitessa 1.

Ben VandeBurgt applauded and thanked the fans for watching, which was appreciated, since it was oh-so-cold on the sidelines, with a cold and bitter wind blowing. Thanks to both teams from the fans, for a game well played. Celtic go on to play FC International on Tuesday evening. Come out and cheer on your favorite team!

END OF SEASON FOR VALLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 08:57:01 EST

(photos - Justin Meyer)

Valley United met Oranje in a playoff matchup and lost to them 5-1 to bow out of 2010 soccer action. Oranje took the game seriously and played hard, remembering that it was Valley who knocked them out last season.

Oranje took the game to Valley early, and never really let them get loose to free wheel at will. In the first 10-minute stint, Oranje put together several rushes, Rod VanSpronsen to Tyler VanderGaag to a shot on keeper Ali Eilander, save. Rod in again, as well as a galloping Tom VanderHorst but Tim VanderLinde and Max Van Laar who played fearlessly took those chances away. And Shuana Stam tested with a high lob that Ali could pull in. Lawrence Jansen had the best chance for Valley but squandered it when he had the goalie beaten but his shot went across the goal mouth and out the other side. Oranje teamworked their first goal with a Tyler VdGaag cross to Tom VdH, hacked over to Phil Sikma, to TomV, to TylerV to TomV and his torpedo furrowed along the ground and straight into the corner. Kent Ostermeier led a Green rush up the wing and put a shot over the Oranje bar, but then Calvin VanderLinde took advantage of a flubbed clearance by Oranje and put a shot in from close to the penalty spot, catching the keeper flat-footed. Rick VanderHorst had the next potential goal for Oranje when he shot through a crowd but his shot curled wide just before the post. Later keeper Ali came out to get to a loose ball, together with Oranje's Rod VanSpr, Leroy VanSpr, Tyler VdG, and Valley's Mike VanLaar, Tyler Voorhorst and Jason Breukelman all hacking away to put it in or keep it out. Out won, and no goal. Lots of action: Rick VdH blocked by Jon Schouten, Lawrence Jansen prevented by John Zietsma and Jaclyn Penninga, and then duffing another shot wide, Ivan Scheper of Green smoking a 25yarder wide, Valley's Matt Schouten popped free on Oranje keeper Ryan Sikma, but the keeper punted the ball away. Finally Paul Sikma took a mighty throw in for Oranje right to Rod VanSpr and he chipped the ball over keeper Ali into the far side of the goal for Oranje's second. Shortly before the break, Tyler VdGaag and Max VanLaar got tangled up, all the wheels spinning and Tyler slid into the Valley goal. Penalty kick called, taken by Tom VdH, stroked just wide. Ivan Scheper a final shot, spinning dangerolusly, but keeper Ryan could swat it away. Oranje 2, Valley 1 at half time.

Oranje's third goal came early in the second half when Tom VdH redeemed himself when he pounced on a loose bouncing ball and punted it over the Valley keeper and in. Ken Ostermeier had trouble again getting a clear shot for Valley and was tangled up with Oranje-ers, leaving the ball for Ryan to lunge onto and steal. Paul Sikma figured in another Oranje goal, this time a free kick sent from the wing right to Rick VdH in the middle and Rick one-timed a shot to the far corner - no chance for the keeper. Then Leroy to Rod to Mark Sikma, save Ali. Stu VdH to Ivan to Kent, stymied by Sue Dehaas. Stu, lob-shot, saved by Ryan. Maurice (Mo) vdLinde to Kent, long shot went wide. Kent, point blank on Ryan inside the 6yard box, big save! Oranje got their fifth and final goal when veteran Rod VanSpr set up equally veteran-ish Ron Smouter who was running in and he ka-banged the ball into the net. Valley had several more chances, Mo VdL, Matt Sch, etc., never giving up but while they had the range, they were either high or wide again and again. Last Oranje push had Jaclyn Penninga punch a shot that went into the side of the Valley goal, and it would be game over.

Full marks to Valley United who played a spirited game. Oranje goes on to the next round after a couple of days of well deserved rest after playing two nights in a row!

FC INTER ENDS ON WINNING NOTE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 08:53:58 EST

FC International suffered losses in their last two matches, first to Real Pacific and then the the Saints. But they managed to battle out a 2-1 win over Oranje to end their regular season with a feel-good win. The win did not affect their standings, seeing as Inter had first place sewn up, but Oranje could have moved up a couple of positions with a win, and changing who they would meet in the first round of the playoffs. Moot point now, as they didn't win, though not for lack of effort, and they will play Valley United on Saturday.

Oranje opened the scoring when Mark Sikma tried his signature long shot from 45 yards out, and put it over helpless Inter keeper Werner Engeler, high, top shelf, just under the bar. Inter's Mark Peters worked to get that back with a high cross through the Oranje to Jeff Bergen; he crossed it back low to Eric Atsma but it was cleared away from him and away. Dan Woelders was launched on another Inter rush, but Oranje's keeper Ryan Sikma sped out to steal the ball away. Mark Peters capitalized on a 19 yard free kick that he got past the Oranje wall, the keeper and straight into the net and the score was tied. Mark Sikma had another try on the Inter goal when he dribbled to an open spot at the top of the circle and Engeler had to sprawl to save that one. Oranje pressured twice in the last stages of the first half, but shots went over, and hit the side of the net.

Inter started the second half with a couple of chances: Bergen chipped a shot barely over, and then tried to set up DanW in the area with a cross, but keeper Sikma hugged the ball, giving up nothing. On the other end, Rick VanderHorst saved a ball in the corner and chopped it on net but to a waiting Engeler. Mark Peters had another free kick later for Inter, and this one went to DanW who slashed a shot from the 18: Sikma saw it and grabbed it. Then a Tom Sikma/Mark Sikma/Rick Vdhorst rush ended with a shot just barely wide. Dan Woelders got Inter's second goal when he took advantage of a sparse Oranje defensive line, crossed through their area and then shot back against the grain to an open net. Eric Atsma tried to add to that with a quick shot that was slapped down by Sikma. Oranje worked hard to equalize and Tom VdHorst came close when he caught up to a ball and looked to have the keeper beaten, but #23 Jared Mayer (?) blazed across to deny the shot. So, Oranje's Rod VanSpronsen came in stride for stride with Adam Woelders and just managed to get a cross to Tom VdH, but this time it was #12, (no matching name on roster) who steamed in to prevent the shot. Later another free kick for Inter; this time Peters along the carpet, and Ryan snagged that one. Again an Oranje rush, Tom and Rick VdH , Tom got the shot, the keeper out of position but Mayer blocked the shot with his body, and no shot on goal. Now Ron Smouter, to Rod VanSpronsen, back to Mark Sikma for a hard shot, but wide. Oranje press again, Tom V to Tom Sikma to Leroy VanSpronsen swooping in, but he just missed contact on that juicy ball. John Zietsma, long drifter that Engeler touched out for an Oranje corner kick - unsuccessful. A Paul Sikma shot that Engeler forced out for a corner kick, but Oranje, try as they might could just not get that equalizer.

Good game, with lots of effort from both teams. Good thing the evening had cooled off, because the oppressive heat of the couple of days would have made for even more sweat on the field. Will these teams meet again in the playoffs? Time will tell.

LANGLEY WINS CRUCIAL LAST GAME

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 08:46:35 EST

The super-tight standings in the lower end of Division 1 made this match against Valley a critical game for Langley FC, wanting to avoid being relegated to Division 2. Their victory over Valley United would seem to have given them the edge they needed to avoid last place in the division. They brought all their big guns into this game, Ryan Hanawalt making a rare appearance, and Wes Driegen coming out of semi-retirement to bolster the back line, together with fellow veteran Dave Doornbos. The game was not as important to Valley, though they would have liked to finish the regular season on a winning note, and leap frog over Vitessa into second place in Division 2 again. Valley played with only 2 females, Karen Meerstra and Jolene VanLaar and without Matt Schouten, sitting out his red card suspension, and Kent Ostermeier, one of their high scorers.

Langley got their first goal of the game off a Ron Scheper corner kick, which he pinged off the far post, but out to Brad VanWoudenberg, who cranked it back into the back of the goal. Valley's Lawrence Jansen tried to get that back with a pass to Calvin VanderLinde, but his sideways header went to keeper Daryl Driegen. Dave Doornbos tested Valley keeper Ali Eilander with a long shot from just over half, but the keeper hugged the ball in for no goal. Another try on the Langley goal saw Ivan Scheper slash a 25-yarder wide. And Jason Breukelman, from the top corner of the 18 yard box, left footed the ball just over the bar. Kevin Stumph ranged in on the Valley goal, but was well defended by Max VanLaar and no shot resulted. Another Langley veteran, Derek Hoogerdijk tried to set up Yellow's second goal with a 22 yard free kick that Ruben Timmerman tried to toe in, but just missed. Then Timmerman tried to spring Ryan Hanawalt, who squirted through the Valley defenders but shanked his shot off the base of the post.

The second half started with a series of corner kicks for Langley, none successful. Then they forced a ball loose inside Valley's 18, but Jeff VanderGaag rushed his shot and wide it went. Rubin T-man had another chance when he came in stride for stride with a Valley defender: the keeper undecided, came out, leaving a yawning net for Ruben to shoot wide of. Ivan Scheper of Valley had a great try on a free kick from 20 yards out that he punted just over the bar, but not by much. Then Derek of the opposition Schepers, loaded up a shot that pounded hard off of Tyler Voorhorst, no shot on goal. Then Kevin Stumph, header over. Stu VanderHorst, a drive from just outside the 18, straight to keeper Daryl. So, Stu VdH from wide to a threatening Maurice VanderLinde, but Driegen stepped in between to snag. Then Ivan Scheper tried the same set-up to Mo, but Driegen stymied that again. Lawrence Jansen kept the Valley pressure up with a back pass to Jason Breukelman but his good shot went over, Stu VdH, well marked by Rylan Kobes in the Langley corner, and Stu's shot could only hit the side netting. Langley iced the cake with a good run and pass by Rylan Kobes to Ruben T-man, and this time Ruben's shot went into the open goal. At the very end of the second half, Valley had a free kick at the side of the 18, and Stu VanderHorst's finish on that was clearly going in, but was clearly handed out by a Langley defender. Clearly to all but the referee, who did not see the infraction. Scant seconds later, the game was over. Langley 2, Valley 0.

Playoff picture not clear yet, but stay tuned.

FC INTERNATIONAL - FIRST LOSS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 08:31:27 EST

One of the biggest matches of the fvcsl season took place between front runners FC International and Real Pacific, and........................there was no reporter at the game................. and no one doing a write up for the website, so you will have only this brief submission. Too bad there are not more fans and spectators who are willing to take the plunge and report on the games they watch, for this game should certainly have had the spotlight. It's not that hard, and you don't have to be a soccer expert: I mean, look at me?!! Come on folks, step up!

This was obviously a hard fought game, judging by the number of yellow cards dealt out by the referee to both teams. FC's Dan Woelders, having been yellow carded twice during the match, will miss Inter's next game against the Saints. Other yellow cards went to the two Jason's, Flint and Jorgensen of Inter, and Jeremy Meyer of Real Pacific. This writer does not know what warrented these cards, but suffice it to say that Real Pacific was determined to give International their first loss of the season, while Inter was just as determined to not let that happen. But Pacific did win, and Inter went down to defeat for the first time this year.

FC International has had first place wrapped up for some time already, and Real Pacific is in solid second place, though they had 3 standings points taken away due to the yellow card in this match, giving them 9 yellows on the season, resulting in that deduction. Abbotsford is nipping at Real's heels, but even with this deduction, Abbotsford cannot catch RP, even with a victory in the Silver Bullet's last match. Inter and Real both have 2 games left in the regular season, both playing on Monday and Friday.

Playoffs start July 10th! A new season? Anything can happen!

ORANJE/CELTIC BATTLE TO 2-1.

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 08:49:20 EST

Oranje, Lynden, Celtic and Langley FC are all scrapping it out in Division 1 to stay in the top division, the last team being relegated to Division 2 after this season, based on season standings. Tonight was Oranje and Celtic's turn to go at each other. These two teams have a mutual admiration for each other, and you can always count on good, clean, competitive matches, and this game was true to form. After a 0-0 tie in May, Oranje battled out a 2-1 victory, but it did not come easy.

Tim VanderHoek got the first sniff on Oranje's goal early in the game when he called for a pass, got it, shot it but Ryan Sikma alertly grabbed it. The game was still in the first 10-minute block when Oranje got on the scoresheet. Tom VanderHorst dribbled up the wing, cut in, scooted the ball to Tom Sikma who fed it further to Rod VanSpronsen and he cranked the ball past keeper John VanSeters. Oranje got a second chance when the ball went back and forth in the Celtic 6 yard box: Oranje head and again, and again, till Steve VanDelft crunched the ball away. Celtic came up with another quality chance when Richard Welfing set up Trevor VanDelft and Ryan Sikma had to dive to get his fingertips on the ball right by the post. Burke VanderHorst had another glorious chance when he got the ball, spun and blasted the ball, headed for the top of the goal, but Sikma lunged to poke it off the crossbar and over. BurkeV got another shot that curled through a crowd but Sikma made the save. Before the half was over, Oranje tallied a second goal when Rod VanSpronsen forced the ball free to Tom VanderHorst who took careful aim and got the ball around the prone VanSeters and in at the post. Just before the break, Oranje was awarded a free kick just outside the 18: Paul Sikma took the free kick but put it hard over the wall and over and wide of the goal (forever immortalized in the photo above). With scant time left, Celtic pressure resulted in Richard Welfing, deep in Oranje territory, popping a ball up off the crossbar and out, and Trevor VanDelft could only get on that loose ball and send it just wide. At the half, 2/0 Oranje.

Mark Sikma had an Oranje try early in the second half when he scudded a missile from 40 yards out along the carpet - John VanSeters falling on the ball to smother, having it squeak under him but not going any further, the save made. Then it was Tom VdHorst/Tyler VdGaag/Tom Sikma scrumming in the Celtic box but keeper John punched the ball out. Celtic was awarded a free kick from 35 yards that Steve VanDelft stroked low and hard into the crowded Oranje area, and Chris VanderHorst made a daring diving header to get at that and direct it in for goal. Celtic almost added to that when Glenn Visscher shot the ball with Ryan Sikma out of position, but a big heap of players on the goal line, Paul Sikma, Sue Dehaas, Ryan Sikma, Glenn in the mix of things, kept the ball from making it over the line. Tom VdHorst had another go-at-it for Oranje, ranging up the field but Tim VanderHoek denied him the shot, and Sue Dehaas did the same to a scooting Trevor VanDelft, forcing the unsuccesful corner kick. Celtic poured on the pressure and Oranje had to defend hard, with Tyler VanderGaag called on a too-hard tackle and given a yellow card. The Stripes kept at it, but couldn't get the ball through a rainbow of colors and bodies in the Oranje area. Last gasp efforts came off a high corner kick into a crowded Oranje area that keeper Ryan could see and punch away, and a Chris vdHorst shot out of a mass of players that Sikma could grab as well.

What a game, what a game! Well done, both teams. Final standings will not be known till the last game has been played, but Oranje has solidified their position in Division 1.

LYNDEN SETTLES FOR TIE - AGAIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 08:24:18 EST

Lynden Americans played a big game against Celtic on the Cloverdale field, no wind, no rain (!!), but no victory, both teams needing a win but settling for a tie. Last time these teams played back in May it was a 3-3 tie, now 1-1.

The game was almost 30 minutes old before the first real threat came, and it was in the form of Lynden's Gavin Willis sending a pass for Nathan Chase to charge onto but Celtic keeper John VanSeters also charged, winning the ball but giving up a corner kick. Darryn Kleyn took it well, and Chase headed it, but VanSeters clutched the effort to himself. Some minutes later, Kleyn sent a long pass to Ben Faber, but Steve VanDelft read that well and stymied that surge. In the last minutes of the half, Celtic had trouble bringing the ball up the wing, so Lyndenites stole it, and it became an All-Hicks goal with Sarah sending the ball up to her brother Matt who lofted a shot over the keeper and into the far corner. Lynden leading 1/0 at the break

Celtic came up with a near goal early in the second half when awarded a free kick from just outside the 18. Burke VanderHorst blasted a great shot just over the wall, but the ball bounced off the crossbar and stayed out. Dylan Bredenhof then tried to set up Tim VanderHoek with a hard cross from the side of the 18, but VdHoek was tangled up with a Lynden defender and goalie Marty VanDriel could clear the ball away. So Tim VdHoek tried another run up the wing, the keeper charged out, giving Tim a shooting chance but his shot went way over. Ben Faber had a shot go over the Celtic bar too, but his shot was of the floater variety. Chris VanderHorst was stepping up into the play a lot for Celtic and Trevor VanDelft found him on one occasion, but Chris was off balance and his left-footer went wide. Later Chris VdH would put a Lynden player off balance, and was given a yellow card for the play. Darryn Kleyn, ever the play maker, popped a nice ball to Matt Hicks, with keeper John VS back pedalling, but the shot went right to the goalie and the save was made. Hicks tried another rush but at 12 yards out, VanSeters was at his feet, deflecting the ball out. Kleyn took his own shot, a 25 yarder along the ground that keeper-John smothered, so Gavin Willis tried a high ball, but the Celtic keeper could snag that one too. Back to American territory, Chris VdH struck a solid ball that got into the Lynden area, but smacked off the back of a red shirt and stayed out. Both teams working hard, trying to break the other one down. Mary-Anne VanderHorst squared a ball to Tim VdHoek at 30 yards, and VanDriel had to be quick to get to it and make the save. Then Sarah Hicks put pressure in the Celtic end as she rolled a snappy shot along the end line, rolling out just before the post. With scant minutes left before the final whistle, Celtic was finally able to tie the game. Steve VanDelft sent a ball to an open Rob VanSeters who found Chris VanderHorst in close on the Lynden goal, and Chris picked his spot and stroked it in.

A tie! Really, a fair result, though no one likes a tie, especially if you have given it up. Coach Mark Hicks sighed after the game, "That's our 7th tie this season - too many!" But Lynden looks to be in pretty good shape to stay in Division 1. A relieved Chris VanderHorst, who played a very strong game for Celtic, had his own sigh, "A great time to get my first goal of the season, eh!" Yup!

CELTIC CLOSE, BUT NO CIGAR

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 26 Jun 2010 08:16:19 EST

FC International seemed ripe for the picking and Celtic gave it a good shot, as they tried to upset the undefeated league leaders. Inter were missing a couple of their regulars, notably Will Folstad and Jason Flint, but they always have players waiting to fill the void, and while they didn't seem to play with their regular killer style, they played well enough to beat Celtic 3/1.

Fact is, Celtic had good control of the play for the first minutes of the game with Tim VanderHoek and Trevor VanDelft combining on a rush and shot that crossed the area and went wide of the far post. Then it was Dan Woelders with one of his classic runs up the wing, and his shot did the same, across the area and wide. A Black corner came super-close when Jason Jorgenson got his head on the ball and flicked it off the Celtic crossbar. John VanSeters was playing in goal for Celtic and made several courageous challenges for the ball, especially when several times he stole balls off the Inter feet of DanW and mates. Inter looked sure to have scored when Mark Peters got a shot on goal that VanSeters thrust out again, straight to another Black player who put the sure-to-score ball back in to a gaping goal, but missed, just wide. On the other end, a Celtic free kick almost met with success when Richard Welfing headed the ball, but off the crossbar it went. Dan Woelders had another scoring chance when he shot just at the arc, and it was stopped by the face of d-man Rob VanSeters (OUCH). Goalie VanSeters came up with two more saves again before Mark Peters launched a rocket from almost 40 yards out that had perfect placement, inside the top corner; this time John VS could only watch the ball. The score 1/0 for FC at the half, with Celtic playing well in the game.

Celtic had a good try to equalize when Glenn Visscher got a good crack from the top of the 18, and keeper Werner Engeler seems slow to dive for it, but kept it out, none the less. Celtic kept pushing and their perseverance was finally rewarded when Trever VanDelft got a shot from the side that Engeler had to punch out, but it went to Dylan Bredenhof who drove in the 10-yarder. Inter tried to regain the lead off a corner kick, the ball skittering around in the Celtic area till #5(?) kicked the ball off the crossbar and out. Celtic kept up their energetic attack with Trevor VanDelft getting around the FC defence and slashing a shot but it went just wide of the far corner for no goal, a goal they really needed. A short while after that, Celtic was called for a handball in their box, and Jason Jorgenson took the PK, nailing it in for FC's second goal. No quit for Celtic, now behind a goal, when Glenn Visscher passed to Mary-Anne VanderHorst but her long looper hit the side of the goal. International got an insurance goal off the foot of Dan Woelders when he got a shot on VanSeters: John sprawled to get a hand on the ball but could not squeeze it, and the ball lay on the goal line for DanW to toe in. A 3/1 lead for FC Inter is pretty insurmountable, and Celtic could not do it. Still, a very well played game for Celtic, and another victory for the still undefeated International.

ORANJE 2-1 WIN OVER SAINTS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 08:24:54 EST

Oranje faced their match against the Saints as a must-win, as they fight to keep position in Division 1. The Saints are well ahead of the pack in Division 2. Oranje came up with the victory against a Saints team with a short roster, often having 4 girls playing per shift, and they did that very well, contributing to the gutsy performance of their team.

Oranje got the opening goal of the game when Andrew VanAndel sent the ball to the corner to an open Tom Sikma and he crossed the ball through the goal area to Rod VanSpronsen at the far post, who directed the ball in - no chance for keeper Jordan Dykman. Tom VanderHorst tried to add to that from 25 yards, a shot that he sliced just wide and Tyler VanderGaag couldn't quite get to the end of that shot either. Brenden Lochead of the Saints squared a ball from the sideline that Caszie Schoeber couldn't quite connect on so Lochead took the next try himself from 20 yards out, but keeper Ryan Sikma grabbed that ball and kept it out. Later Tom Sikma took a corner kick that Tom VanderHorst headed over, followed by a Tom VdH pass to Tyler VanderGaag, who dished the ball to Rod VanSpr, but his bullet was stopped by Dykman. Lochead tried again for the Saints when he walked across the field, unimpeded, and drove a left-footer across the area and just wide. Ben Schoeber punted a Saints shot over, and Lochead cranked a 23 yard free kick over the Oranje wall and over the bar, but not by much. Oranje had the last chances in the first half: Mark Sikma a hard shot just wide, Ron Smouter high in the 18 yard box, a shot that Dykman pushed just wide. A Phil Sikma corner kick that Tom VanderHorst headed just over, and the half ended 1-0 Oranje.

Oranje kept early pressure on the Saints in the second half, with Rick VanderHorst getting a couple of shots, just over, another deflected wide off the Saints defenders and another shot over. Brendan Lochead tried to get the Saints on the scoresheet when he came in stride for stride, marked by Tyler VanVliet and his shot hit the side of the net. Dykman had one of his headiest saves when Mark Sikma headed a ball into the goal area, on the line, the ball loose, and the keeper managed to grab the sure goal. Then Ron Smouter from the arc, over. Mark Sikma, cross to brother Tom's toe, Dykman the clutch. Lochead, fought through a crowd, shot on keeper Sikma, deflected over. Andrew VanAndel, found an opening, 25 yard riser, Dykman ready and stopped. Ben Schoeber a shot that deflected off an Oranje back, keeper Ryan read it and hauled in. The Saints finally managed to spoil the shutout when Ben Schoeber and mates forced the ball loose just inside the Oranje half of the field, and Jeremy Williams, breaking up from his defensive position caught the Oranje keeper flat-footed and bopped the ball inside the post. Oranje picked up their intensity, not wanting to settle for a tie, and were rewarded in the last 5-minute block when Tom VdH passed to Rod vanSpronsen, who found a pressing John Zietsma. The grizzly Oranje stopper jumped into a crowd, pumped the ball on goal, and Dykman got a hand on it but just not enough to deflect the ball over the bar, and it dipped just under, for the insurance goal for Oranje. Keeper Dykman was given a yellow card in the dying minutes when he challenged a racing Tom vdH for a ball just outside the Saints 18, and in the collision his high foot caught TomV in the neck.

Final score 2-1 Oranje. Oranje certainly out-chanced the Saints, with many shots going wide, or having a busy keeper, Jordan Dykman make the save. Coach Roger Schoeber was called on to be playing coach in this game, since his team was missing at least 4 starters. He was happy with his teams spirited effort but they didn't have enough to battle out a win tonight.

LYNDEN & ORANJE 1-1TIE AGAIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 08:30:51 EST

(photo - Justin Meyer)

Lynden Americans and Oranje played their second match-up of the season and came up with a 1-1- tie again. This time the game was played at Bender Field in Lynden and Oranje had to play without the passport-less Sikma quartet, Mark, Tom, Phil and Paul. But Tyler VanVliet and Tyler VanderGaag (in his first game of the season for Oranje) stepped up and filled the void adequately. The game was played in very windy conditions which certainly affected the play as did the grass field, which players other than the Americans are not used to playing on anymore

Lynden played into the wind in the first half, but it was as much a cross wind, which wreaked havoc at times, the ball dipping, spinning, drifting. Matt Hicks got the first shot on the Oranje goal when he got the ball over keeper Ryan Sikma, but also over the bar, for no point. Tyler VanderGaag took his first shot of the season, into the wind, which slowed its pace and went straight to keeper Marty vanDriel. After that, a cross came from the sideline through the Oranje goal area, with Darryn Kleyn waiting for it and bending for a low header but the ball went over the bar. Tom VanderHorst tested VanDriel when he dribbled through Lynden players and got a shot, but the keeper saw it well,and snuggled the ball into his chest. Tom VdH got another chance when he broke in alone on the keeper and was teeing up the perfect goal, only to have Ben Faber storm in and prevent his shot. Then John Zietsma helped out his Oranje keeper the same way on the return rush, and no shot for Lynden. The American goal came as a result of a Darryn Kleyn corner kick into the area. Oranje tried to clear it out, Lynden put it back in, back out, back in till finally Kleyn managed to find a seam through the goal area crowd and threaded the ball through and into the corner.

In the second half, Lynden made some adjustments to protect their lead, something they do very well. Nathan Chase was moved back to add speed to the solid wall, defensive line of Harvey Pelleboer, and Jan Kottlenberg. Ben Faber added offensive punch, when he came in off the wing and launched a shot that went off the Oranje post and stayed out. Erik Estrada made several forays into the Oranje end of the field, one where he got a shot that Sikma thrust over the bar, but his efforts did not reap rewards. And Darryn Kleyn cranked a long shot that bounced in front of keeper Ryan but he had read it well and pulled the ball in. In the Lynden end of the field, Harvey Pelleboer, a solid stopper, and his cronies kept stripping Oranje players of the ball, stopping all their tries, and sending the ball up the field to the one or two Lynden teammates playing high. Oranje finally got through when a Tom VanderHorst cross found Rod VanSpronsen almost at the corner of the 6yard box, but his bullet went super hard off the crossbar. Storm clouds started to move in, and the wind died down a bit as Oranje battled on, trying to break through that seemingly unbeatable American wall. They were finally rewarded when Rick VanderHorst got a ball into the middle to brother Tom and he nudged the ball over to Oranje-rookie Tyler VanderGaag. Newbie Tyler pumped the ball just into the top corner of the Lynden goal. The teams went back to center to resume play, the ball was moved, and the game was over. Talk about giving it all to the last minute! Oranje so relieved to gain the tie. Lynden disappointed to give up that oh-so-important point to rival Oranje.

Both teams have lots of ties this year, too many they would say, but a tie is still much better than a loss. Both teams neck and neck in the standings, with Lynden having two games in hand. Good tough competition.

SAINTS UNBEATEN STREAK ENDS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 08:13:03 EST

Saints had an unbeaten streak going of 10 games in a row, their last and only loss to Real Pacific on April 8th. But that all came to an end when they were defeated by Celtic with a 2-1 score. And Celitc hopes they are back on track after 3 losses in a row.

The teams played a pretty even first half, with the Saints mounting the first good attack. Matt Philipchalk in, together with Brendan Lochead and Stephen Vaartstra overlapping: lots of attackers, but no good shot to be had. The same result for a Celtic rush, when Glenn Visscher sprung a widely sprinting Tim VanderHoek, but the Saints defenders cleared that away, and not a shot on goal for Celtic. Burke VanderHorst almost got Celtic on the scoresheet when he cranked a hard riser from the top corner of the 18, and it went over the keeper Jordan Dykman, but off the crossbar and back out. At the 25 minute mark, Stephen Vaartstra scored for the Saints when he came in hard on keeper Russ Toet and dealt a hard shot from the arc just under the crossbar. Saints Clifton VanderHorst had a shot too, but it was too far out and didn't give Toet too much trouble. Trevor VanDelft of Celtic tore up the wing but was closely marked by the Saints and could not get a clear shot away and the ball went just wide. So, he combined with Daniel VanderGaag, going into the corner, to Dan, who sent it back to Trevor and he took the shot that snuck past keeper Dykman and into the far corner. Caszie Shoeber gave it a good try for Saints when she got a shot close to the Celtic goal but saw the ball go over the bar.

Celtic knew they had to keep the big guns of the Saints in check in the second half, and did that, marking Brenden Lochead, Ben Shoeber and Matt Philipchalk closely, and that worked for them, limiting them to shots from far out, or forcing their shots wide. And they managed to generate their own offence and goal when there was a big scramble in the Saints area, with the ball skittering around, and Glenn Visscher got it on the hop and made no mistake, putting it into the Saints goal to take the lead. Saints have another gunner, Stephen Vaartstra, and he stripped Celtic of the ball, dribbled in, passed to Ben Shoeber, who gave it right back to Vaartstra, but his shot went right to goalie Toet. Sara King got a shot on Toet as well, when the ball squirted through Celtic players in their area, and she was waiting at the 12 yard mark, but the bouncing ball was hard to connect with and her weak but heads-up shot was easy to save.

That would be the game, Celtic relieved to get the victory, and Saints determined to start working on their next unbeaten streak. Good test for both teams, good competition.

ORANJE HUGE WIN OVER REAL PAC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:14:10 EST

A big game for Oranje and Real Pacific ended up as a huge win for Oranje, beating the RP by a 3-2 score. After the game, Jayden Kuik, keeper of Real Pacific praised his counter keeper Ryan Sikma, claiming that Sikma "stood on his head to make some of those saves." Ryan did indeed have probably his best game of the season for Oranje, but it took a total team effort to beat the mighty Real.

Oranje opened the scoring in the second block of the first half, when Tom VanderHorst took a 25yard shot that cracked against the crossbar and spun down crazily, bouncing just inside the goal, questioned by the referee, but acknowledged by Kuik. Oranje followed that up when Phil Sikma sent a sweet free kick gently into the Real area. Tom VdHorst got a bit of head on it which the Kuik was ready for, but the ball dropped at the feet of Leroy VanSpronsen who put it in the back of the goal. Then Oranje worked and worked, trying to get Real off their game, with some success, as they started to showed some frustration, but it also increased their determination. Craig Kobes had a glorious chance for goal when he shot but the ball rebounded off the bar/post junction and stayed out. Jeremy Meyer tried after that but his shot was smothered by Sikma. Then it was a Sean Bredenhof long ball to Mark Bysterveld who directed it at the goal but Sikma jumped to snatch the ball away from Craig Kobes. Real Pacific scored when an Oranje goal kick ended up as a miss-pass: Mark Bysterveld took advantage, intercepted and tromped the ball just inside the post. Kuik made two late half saves off double rushes from Tom VdH and Leroy VSpr and the score was 2-1 at the break.

Pacific came at Oranje hard in the second half but the orange-clad team played just as hard back. Sikma made some outstanding saves in the half, off a long Bredenhof shot; crouched to save. Then David VanderGaag from the arc; dove to deflect. Then David VdG again through a crowd; dropped to the carpet to stop. Then an RP corner kick ricochetted of a player in front, Sikma stood his ground and blocked, RP pressure huge till Craig Kobes shot from the sidelines into Sikma's arms. Pacific kept hunting but launched shots that went wide. Oranje's back line of John Zietsma, Paul Sikma and company were part of the reason RP were not getting the shots they wanted as their strikers were swarmed by Oranje players every time they got the ball. Back up the field, Andrew VanAndel of Oranje got a solid shot through a crowd that Kuik could just see and grab. Oranje kept pressure up with lots of scramble from both teams. Rick VanderHorst, brother Tom, (the other Tom) Tom Sikma all involved but Shauna Stam got the shot that deflected high and came down to Kuik. Then Pacific was called for a take down in the box, right on the back line which resulted in a penalty kick. Taken by Tom VdH, he roofed it well for a 3-1 lead, Oranje. Pacific drew close again when Dave VdG shot from 40 yards out; Ryan Sikma was there but so was Mark Bysterveld who headed the ball away from Sikma and in for his, and Real's second goal.

Lots of chirping and a bit (!) of trash talk from both sides, but all is fogiven and forgotten, right teams? Lots of intensity, excitement and great soccer.

ABBOTSFORD WINS THE VALLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 08:07:11 EST

Abbotsford Silver Bullets keep right on rolling, winning a close match over Valley United. That gives them 4 wins in a row, as they build momentum to the playoffs.

Both teams had good tries early in the game. Matt Schouten connected on a corner kick but scooted his shot just wide of the Abby goal. And Greg Hamlin of Silver looked up, found Stan deHaan in his usual spot, way upfield, and sent the ball to him, but Stan drove the ball along the carpet and just wide of the far post. James Bisschop fought a ball free that the Valley keeper had to punch over the bar. But after that, it was a lot of long balls, balls that went way out, lots of throw-ins and not a nice flow to the game acccording to Silver's Rob Beukema who finds that this happens a lot on the Mcleod turf. However both teams got some teamwork going again, and Stan deH crossed a ball into the 6yard box that Tim VanderLinde had to clear out of harm's way and keeper Ali Eijlander had to cuff a corner kick away to keep the score at nil/nil. Matt Schouten/Kent Ostermeier/Lawwrence Jansen tried to combo the ball into the Abby net, but keeper Adam Cender would have none of that and denied the attempted shot. So, Kent O tried it solo, but his hard and dangerous shot was batted away by Cender. That didn't work so Ivan Scheper tried to set up Kent in the 6yard box but he was well covered by Anita Schouten and could only get a weak shot away.

The second half had more action and Stu VanderHorst started it with an easy riser that Cender snatched. Curits Schouten got a shot on Valley after some good Abby pressure but he drove the ball way over. Then Valley pressured, but Lawrence Jansen chipped his shot over. Jason VanderHorst tested Valley's Ali whe he directed a shot from the 12, but the keeper dove to prevent the goal.
Then Tyler Voorhorst to Kent-O but Cender came out far to clear away, and James Bisschop cranked a left footer that Ali leapt high to grab. Valley's best chance came when Stu VdHorst sent a hard roller for Jansen to run on to but Lawrence needed one more stride to connect well, now only getting a weak shot away. Finally one team scored: Abby flooded the Valley area, a free ball lay there, no Valley clearance so Rob Beukema, right in front, pumped it in. Valley wanted to get that back but several of their attacks were stymied by Greg Hamlin. Then Hamlin attacked back, went upfield, found Stan a-waitin' again, and Stan finished the rush with Abby's second goal. In the last minute of the game, Valley broke the shutout when Ivan Scheper hustled to save a ball of the end line, put it back to Ostermeier and Kent scudded it along the ground to the far corner. Good teamwork on that goal. Valley frustrated by their lack of success of late, but that kind of team play will bode them well if they keep it up. Abbotsford has an energetic skillful team, and that shows in the win column.

LANGLEY FC WINS BIG ONE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 08:29:15 EST

(photo - Su VanderHorst)

Langley FC made significant strides in the Division 1 standings with a big win against rival Celtic. This was a 6-pointer, with these two teams now having the same number of points in the standings.

Langley FC had the early energy in the match, Ruben Timmerman having an early shot on keeper Russ Toet that he dove to trap, and Brad VanWoudenberg rising a shot that went right into Russ' hands. Then a rush by Jeff VanderGaag that Toet challenged on and won, but the loose ball went to Kevin Stumph who blasted the ball over the bar. After that the game took a distinct "Pedestrian Pace" (picked that up off a World Cup broadcast) but that's what it was, slowish and ineffective for both teams. Celtic showed some good hustle towards the end of the half when Tim VanderHoek squared a pass to John VanSeters who flicked it on to Glenn Visscher but his shot was safely gathered in by backup goalie Mitchell Phillips. In the last five minute block, Trevor VanDelft had a glorious opportunity to open the scoring when he galloped in, unmarked, but shanked the ball way wide. This was surely the TSN turning point in the game (according to spectator and guest color commentator Tom VanderHorst), as 2 minutes later, Langley FC scored when Jeff vanderGaag cruised in on Toet, who was hugging the post, but Jeff''s shot threaded in between the post and the Russ and squirted to the back of the goal.

The second half opened with a Ruben T-man try again, a shot from deep in the corner that went deep into Toet's arms. And he tried again when he saved the ball off the sideline and slashed the ball thru the penalty area, only to have no Yellow mate to connect on the end of that. Celtic picked up their game, and Glenn Visscher had a shot that Phillips had to make a good save on, and Dan VanderGaag shot a bullet that went just over the Langley bar. And Dan of the VdGaag clan cranked another long but good shot that went straight into Phillips. Then it was Langley that put on the pressure. Brad vanWoudenberg striding in but Toet flung himself at Brad's feet and stole that ball away. Ron Scheper gathered in a pass, then laid a hard shot just wide. Jeff VdGaag blazed a blast that Toet alertly saved but put over the end line. The resulting corner kick was cuffed away by Toet but Lauren Bysterveld lobbed the ball over the keeper and into the open goal for Langley's second goal of the match. Finally Celtic pushed hard, and Glenn Visscher sent a cross into the Yellow area, looking for an attacking SteveVanDelft but Phillips stepped in between to prevent that. A final Celtic corner kick went to Trevor VanDelft who squared the shot, but wide it went. Too little, too late for Celtic. Langley FC happy with another victory.

ABBY KEEPS WIN STREAK ALIVE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 08:26:52 EST

Abbotsford Silver Bullets kept their win streak alive, making it 3 in a row with a close win over Celtic. Two closely matched teams; could have been anybody's win, but it was Abbotsford's tonight, with a 1-0 score.

The only goal of the game came in the first 10 minute block. Stan deHaan tussled for a ball together with stalwart Celtic defender Steve VanDelft; the ball popped up and over VanDelft right to a waiting Rob Beukema, who kicked the ball in. This was followed some minutes later with James Bisschop forcing a pass through to Stan deHaan but his shot went through the goal area and wide. John VanSeters came back for Celtic when he sprung Trevor VanDelft, but Abby's goalie, Adam Cender bravely snatched that off the attacking feet, something he did numerous times during the match. Alan Boeve has added a dimension to the Abby attack, especially when he patiently sent a cross to Stan deH who headed the ball sideways, just wide. Krista Scheper set up the next Celtic attack when she sent in Glenn Visscher but Melanie Beukema deftly denied G-Vish that opportunity. A late Celtic free kick by Burke VanderHorst had tying potential when Tim VanderHoek headed the ball in but Cender stretched to make the grab.

Celtic felt like they were losing the little battles for the ball in the first half, and cranked up their game a notch in the second but without the result they wanted. Russ Toet, their keeper, made saves to keep them in the game, early on Stan deHaan when he dribbled in from the sideline and took a shot: Russ stared him down and made the save. Then Stan sent in Alan Boeve on a break, mano a mano on Toet, but Boeve shot over the bar. Both keepers had help from their teammates, first Cender when Tim VanderHoek collected a Dan VanderGaag pass, won the battle with Cender but Greg Hamlin cleared the ball away. Jess Wildeboer did the same when she won a ball battle with Stan-the-deHaan-man and she shut him down. Then, long John Schouten pass to Stan, headed wide. Stan deH a hard left-foot blast, that Toet cuffed out at the post. Celtic's Burke VdH, a cross from the back line, Cender got a hand on it, leaving a loose ball that Natalie deHaan cleared away. Trevor VanDelft, a mad rush ending with Cender throwing himself at Trevor's ball-carrying feet again. Greg Hamlin of Abby got a yellow card when he tackled then continued the tackle on a Celtic Stripey. Last chances for both teams did not net results, and Abbotsford were happy to take a 1-0 victory to the bank. Celtic wanted this win badly (as they want every win badly) but for the sake of a funny bounce, this was a loss.

CLOVERDALE/VALLEY, 2-2-TIE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 08:31:53 EST

Cloverdale and Valley United played to a 2-2 tie on Monday evening, a finish with some controversy thrown in. Valley had numerous spares on the sidelines, with Cloverdale having only 2, and the female duo of Belinda VanWinkoop and Shelley Schoen were called upon to put in 90 minutes.

Valley had what they admitted to be a very slow start, and their best shifts didn't occur till late in the half. Cloverdale's first efforts came off the foot of Matt Wendt, who made a long run only to have his shot go way over. Cloverdale's Julian VanDyke put on Blue pressure which resulted in Josh VanderPloeg getting a dangerous header, only to see it go wide. And Dave VandeBurgt had a long soft shot that Valley keeper Ali Eijlander gathered in easily. On the other end, Doug Kieneker was playing in goal again, as he seems to have replaced Josh VanderPloeg, who has been pushed up to a mid/forward position. Kieneker grabbed in a long high looper from Maurice VanderLinde. Mo had another shot that he got off weakly, making a diagonal run, but it managed to sneak through the crowd, with keeper Doug there to pull in. Valley started to attack more, and the double-barreled rush of Ivan Scheper and Keng Ostermeier had Kieneker challenge and steal the ball from Kent-O. At the mid-mark of the half, Cloverdale's Julian VanDyke came on a rush and shoot that Ali tried to smother, had the ball come loose, and still managed to clear it away. But VanDyke tricked him with a 35 yarder that hung up in the breeze long enough to drop behind a surprised Eijlander and just under the bar. Kent Ostermeier tried to get that back with a turn and shoot on Kieneker but the keeper cuffed the ball over the bar. Max VanLaar gave the ball a Valley-go with a shot along the turf that caught Kieneker off guard, but not enough to get by him. A VanDyke shot from just outside the 18 curled just over and wide, and two rushes by Josh VdPloeg went for naught as well. One Cloverdale rush had Ali sprawling and helpless, only to see Brenda Meints help out and clear the ball out of the area. Late in the half, Ivan Scheper sent the ball to a breaking Mo VdL, his shot going just wide. And a Justin VdPloeg-Joey Zhang-Josh VdPloeg attempt curled just over. Score at the break: Cloverdale 1, Valley 0.

It took till about the 15 minute mark of the second half before Cloverdale added another goal, beating the Valley defenders, and Justin VanderPloeg beat a sprawling keeper Ali and put the ball into the open goal.

Now the controversy: Valley was awarded a penalty shot, after a hard tackle in the box by a Cloverdale player. Calvin VanderLinde took the shot, shot well, keeper guessed right, but missed and the ball went into the Clover-corner of the net. However, the referee whistled the play down because a Valley player had moved into the area too soon. But what to do? What is the right thing to do? The referee admitted that he could not remember the proper way to deal with this. No one else on the two teams did either. Finally he disallowed the goal and gave the ball to Cloverdale for a goal kick. Out came the Blackberry on the sideline, and before too long it came to light this was the wrong outcome of this call. FIFA rules state that in an instance such as this, the referee must disallow the goal, but have the penalty kick redone. However, the game had continued for some 10 minutes already, so, unfortunately for Valley, no way to undo this. However, Valley got on the scoreboard when Kent-O came ranging in on the Clover-goal and popped the ball up: Kieneker got a hand on it but couldn't keep it out. Shortly after that, Cloverdale's Matt Wendt was red-carded for a too-hard tackle as last man back and he had to leave the game. This was tough for Cloverdale as he is their stopper. their clean-up guy, and the line of defence now fell to George Gunnink and Shelley Schoen, she being one of the best female players in the league. Stu VanderHorst took the free kick, just outside the 18, but Cloverdale had built a blue wall of epic proportions and no way to get the ball past that. Valley tied the score late in the game when Stu vdHorst feathered a free kick 5 yards in from the sidelines into the Cloverdale 18, and Calvin VanderLinde got a good head on it, putting it away from the keeper and in. Ivan Scheper had one last try for Valley as did VanDyke one crack for Cloverdale, but not more scoring occurred. Final score, a 2-2 draw.

INTER STILL UNDEFEATED

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 08:41:51 EST

(photo - Justin Meyer)

FC International kept up their winning ways, with a 6-3 win over Oranje, but Oranje put up a good fight, as this is the first time this season that Inter has given up 3 goals in a game. Inter is a very good team: if you manage to shut down one of their leading scorers, as Oranje did to Mark Peters tonight, FC International has several more that can put the ball in the goal.

International had a good chance to open the scoring when Mark Peters struck a free kick just outside the 18, but Oranje's wall did the job, stopping the ball, giving Peters the rebound to strike again, but keeper Sikma saved that ball. Dan Woelders got Inter's first goal off a low corner kick that he could flick in at close range. Oranje tied that up when Rick VanderHorst got a throw in, cruised up the wing and slid the ball over to brother Tom, who shifted to space, and banged a long left-footer to the corner. Inter got that lead back when Eric Atsma broke Jodi Wandsura free and she challenged Sikma with a shot that he got a hand on, but did not keep out. Oranje tried to get that back, with Rod VanSpronsen working a ball free to Tom VdHorst, who turned and shot, but just over. Paul Sikma had a hard drive ago just wide, then set up Tom VdHorst off a free kick, but Tom's header went just wide. Jason Jorgensen, for Inter cranked a shot just over the bar from the 18 on the other end, and Dan Woelders sent a cross in to #12 (can't know who that is as that number does not match a name on the roster) and his hard shot went off the post.

Eric Atsma worked hard on the third International goal in the early part of the second half, when he forced the ball loose from Oranje defenders and their keeper who couldn't fight free to grab the ball. Jason Flint took advantage of that, pounced on the loose ball and pounded it in. Mark Peters had a chance to add to that when a Jorgensen attack was stopped and Peters snuck in behind to get a shot: Ryan Sikma saved that at the post. Stalwart defender Will Folstad tried to get in on the scoring action when he dribbled up through the field till Sue DeHaas stepped in and made a stop of that with the loose ball going to Inter's #5 (name?), stopped by keeper Sikma. Rick VanderHorst got a hard drive mid-field at the 25 that Inter keeper Werner Engeler had to make a tough save on, batting the ball to the sideline. Peters may have been kept off the scoresheet but he set up Dan Woelders nicely when Mark's shot from the side of the 18 was blocked out by Sikma but right to a waiting Dan who buried it for Inter goal #4. Oranje got their second goal of the game when they were awarded a penalty kick for a hand ball in the box, with the Inter player getting a yellow card on the play. Tom VanderHorst made no mistake, stroking the ball low to the corner. But Dan Woelders came right back, snuck in behind the Oranje defenders, ready for a pass and scored again, completing his hat trick. And Jorgensen unleashed a shot that Sikma dove to keep out but couldn't stop for goal #6, International. Oranje got a late goal when Rick VanderHorst thrashed a hard shot at Engeler. The keeper had to bat it back out, only to have Tom Sikma waiting in perfect position to slam the ball back and in the Inter goal.

Pretty tough to beat the soccer machine that is FC International, but full marks for Oranje for making them work for it.

LANGLEY FC, COMEBACK WIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 08:31:07 EST

(photo - Justin Meyer)

Langley FC seems to have Oranje's number as they won the second match up of the season against their "Original FVCSL Teams" rivals by a comeback 4-3 win.

It didn't look like it would go that way, as Oranje started strongly, getting early chances, one a bullet off the post by "I don't know who", and a hard Rod VanSpronsen shot that goalie Daryl Driegen had to grab. It took a while for Langley FC to get a shot on the Oranje goal but it was Kyle Mostert, through a scrambly goal area that got a shot through the crowd and behind keeper Ryan Sikma for Yellow's first goal. Tom VanderHorst almost got that back with a good strike that Driegen had to handle and then Tom Sikma (?) stroked a shot that banged off the crossbar, then the post and somehow stayed out. And Paul Sikma had a good crack that just missed the lower corner. At about the 25 minute mark, Oranje struck off a corner kick into the Yellow goal area that came back out to Rick VanderHorst and his hard shot along the ground found the far corner. Tom VanderHorst added to Oranje's tally when he broke in behind Yellow's back line, carefully directed his shot across Langley's area and past the keeper, in on the far post. Kyle Mostert evened the score not much later when Derek Scheper passed to him, a shot went over the goalie, off the bar, and Mostert spun and shot - IN for goal #2. Kyle almost got a hat trick when he ran diagonally inside the Oranje 18 and one-timed a volley that popped over the bar. Oranje gained the lead again, when Rod VanSpronsen stretched to win a lob, and send it back to Tom Sikma just outside the 6yard box. TomS had the goalie at his mercy and showed none, driving the ball in. Mitchell Phillips had a last try for Langley in the first half when he crossed the ball from the sideline into the middle but John Zietsma headed it right back out. Oranje lead 3-2 at the half.

In the second half the steady drizzle may have taken a bit off the tempo, another rainy day and game in Langley. Derek Scheper dippsie-doodled through Oranje players to get a shot but saw it go wide of the Oranje goal. Jaclyn Penninga had a sterling chance when Rod VanSpronsen passed a Phil Sikma corner kick back, and Driegen had to poke her solid, rising shot over the bar. Kevin Stumph tried to score for Yellow as he came in on Sikma but Ryan could grab the 20-yard riser. And Derek Scheper had a good 25yard try but straight to the keeper. Ruben Timmerman had a good effort as well with some nice moves in the corner but Sikma made a good grab on the shot he got away. Mitchell Phillips drove a header wide off a corner kick and Colin DeWit booted a long shot over, with the majority of play now in the Oranje end as they seemed to lay back and let Langley come to them. And they did: Brad VanWoudenberg tried a hard twisty shot on the Oranje goal (never a bad idea to take shots) and the wet ball squirted through the hands of keeper Sikma, and right through the 5-hole. Suddenly a tie game, and anything can happen. And it would. Rick VanderHorst tried to put his team ahead again when he broke into the Yellow end, but his shot zoomed just barely wide of the far post. Then it happened: Langley shot, Oranje hand-ball in the box. Derek Scheper took the shot, struck it well, low to the corner, no mistake, no more tie. Langley ahead 4-3. Tom VanderHorst had one more try for Oranje when he headed a close-in cross just wide, and the time ran out. Too little, too late, Oranje letting the game slip away. Or maybe Langley FC just took it!

Huge win for Langley FC. Huge loss for Oranje.

ABBY/ORANJE = EXCITING 1-1-TIE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 31 May 2010 08:34:15 EST

Abbotsford Silver Bullets and Oranje played to a 1-1 tie, leading you to think, bboorriinngg! But it was anything but that as both teams played for a win, and left everything on the field in the effort.

Calum Thomas and Jason VanderHorst gave Oranje an early scare when Calum found Jason in the 6 yard area, but JayV could not get good connection on the bouncing ball and it skittered wide. At the 12 minute mark, Oranje answered back with their own serious threat when Tom VanderHorst got a shot in from the side that keeper Adam Cender leapt high to deflect off the bar. Jason VdHorst tried to set up Silver's scoring leader Stan deHaan when he squared a ball over for Stan to deflect but keeper Ryan Sikma was ready and waiting and prevented the goal. So, Jason set up another deHaan, namely Natalie when he sent a ball into the area, head high and Natalie coolly nodded it into the Oranje goal. Oranje tried to equalize when Mark Sikma forced the ball loose and Shauna Stam got a shot that was deflected over the bar. Silver had more of the momentum in the first half and the only goal, but Oranje confident they could get that goal back somehow.

Oranje built up momentum in the second half, and came with rush after rush as they tried to tie up the game. Abbotsford admitted that they sorely missed back-line general Greg Hamelin as they had their hands full trying to keep their lead, while mounting their own counter rush when they could. Lots and lots of action and excitement. Tom VanderHorst from out of the corner, fed Rod VanSpronsen, but his hurried shot went hard wide. Silver's JayVdH bazookaed a Natalie deHaan pass over. Rick VanderHorst sprung fellow Oranje-man Andrew VanAndel, well marked, but got a wide shot away. Paul Sikma tested Cender, but Adam up for the grab. Abby return - Curits Schouten missed on a high shot, but didn't miss by much. Shauna Stam pass into space for TomV - his shot barely over. Tom into corner, and out to Mark Sikma, barely over again. Shauna to Tom in the corner, back out to Rick VdHorst, just wide. Tom in the corner again, out to Mark Sikma, solid header over. Same set up again, as Abby just could not shut that down; TomV to Tom Sikma, just missed the goal. Finally Abbotsford got a solid try when Stan deHaan did a whirl and shoot, but Oranje was back and Stan could not get the ball through the crowd. John Zietsma plays the same role as Hamelin, quarterbacking the defence, and keeping the game close. Back to the Oranje attack, Rick VdHorst, shot low to the corner that Cender scrambled to grab. Abby back, Calum Thomas, thrashed a shot through a crowd that Sikma had to be very sharp to grab and a second even harder one from Calum that he had to punch away. Natalie set up in the middle, got a shot on Sikma, not as hard, but just as dangerous. In Abby's goal, Cender playing tough for his team, tangling up both with Tom V and Rod VS but not giving an inch or a goal. Oranje flurry, finally Rick VdH getting a shot toward the post, Cender again impossibly pushing it wide. Corner kick followed: going in? Silver defender Daryl Hofsink helped his keeper by pulling it off the line. Would Oranje ever score? Finally on another Oranje Crush, Paul Sikma scudded the ball away from the keeper and inside the post to tie the game. Oranje kept a tight blanket on Stan deHaan but he managed to take a ball, run laterally and launch a shot, but his attempt went wide. And Daryl Hofsink took a good backpass and shot, but Sikma banged it out again. Oranje looked like they had a scoring play coming up when Rick VdH would surely break out brother Tom, with empty field in front of him, but Mandy DeWit bravely jumped in to incercept and prevent. Again, the play that was working for them, Shauna Stam, with Tom Sikma, and Tom VdH, a shot that Cender had to bang out. Last chances from Rick VdH went wide, went over, and hit the side of the net.

Finally, the final whistle. Very entertaining, very exciting! Ya had to be there!

CROSSWAY NO MATCH FOR VALLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 28 May 2010 08:57:05 EST

A short-handed Crossway team played against Valley United, having only 10 players come out to the match, while Valley had numerous subs on the sideline, and the Greens outlasted and outscored the plucky Crossway Reds 7-0 under rainy/misty/drizzly/soggy/any other adjective that could describe the wetness of the weather/ conditions.

The game was only minutes old when Lawrence Jansen opened the scoring with a long shot that he lifted over Crossway keeper Andrew Driscoll. Jared Stork of the Reds came in on the Green goal to try to tie things up but the Valley defenders denied him. And Valley's Stuart VanderHorst hammered an 18 yard shot just over the bar for no goal at the 10 minute mark. Maurice VanderLinde got Valley's second goal when he got a pass at the top of the 18, and wired a shot hard under the crossbar. Then Mo set up Kent Ostermeier when he settled the ball and made a nice pass to Kent who broke in, deked Driscoll and had the open goal to sink the shot into. Crossway got their best chance of the half when Addington Zimbiti worked the ball free and sent it to #8, Matt Aikema but his 25 yarder was saved by keeper Ali Eilander. Later, Valley's Ivan Scheper wound up on a ball to crank a goal opportunity from the 18, but Trevor Bodill stripped him of the ball before he connected. The last five minute block had quite some action, first when Mark DeJong of Crossway tried to fight loose and get a shot but he was well covered by Jolene VanLaar and his shot hit the side of the net. Then Valley added to their tally with a Matt Schouten floater shot from out wide that he curled past the keeper. And Jonathan Schouten sprung Ivan Scheper loose and he poked a ball into the far corner to give Valley a 5-0 score at half time.

Tempo of the game did not improve in the second half, what with the weather, the soaking wet field, and the lack of subs for Crossway. Valley switched up their positions, and Brenda Meints and Arlena Vane attacked the Crossway goal when Brenda rolled a ball in , but Doug Gough flung himself at the ball to prevent Arlena from getting it, and Doug to the rescue again when Kent Ostermeier attacked. Ostermeier set up Meints for goal #6 for Valley when he found her in the middle of the area, and Brenda alertly tapped the ball in. Jason Breukelman tested Driscoll but he was up for that shot and made the save. For Crossway, it was Jared Stork again, with two tries but no results. And Adi Zimbiti dribbled up through a green horde but his shot could only gain a corner kick. Mark DeJong came up with another try but keeper
Ali won that battle. Stu vdHorst rolled a ball along the soggy turf that Driscoll poked wide and Ostermeier tried to set up Karen Meerstra for a goal but she just couldn't quite catch up to the ball before it cleared the back line. Mo VdLinde and Lawrence Jansen combined on a Valley attack and Driscoll foiled that, but could not stop Mo next time when his beauty shot went in for marker #7 for Valley. Arlene Vane had one last kick at the can at the near post, but Driscoll got a hand on that to keep that one out.

Noble effort from Crossway, undermanned as they were. Valley climbing in the Division 2 standings.

CELTIC/ORANJE SCORELESS DRAW

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 27 May 2010 08:31:37 EST

(photos - Justin Meyer)

Celtic and Oranje played to a scoreless draw in their match at McLeod field. These teams are neck and neck in the Division 1 standings, and don't want to let the other creep ahead. This showed in their play as both teams seem determined to keep the other one off the scoresheet, but could not find the back of the net themselves. The first half was played in dry conditions but by the break, the rain had started falling.

Oranje had the first great scoring chance at the 10 minute mark when Tom VanderHorst made a long run up the flank and crossed the ball into the goal mouth. Rod VanSpronsen was there but just missed contact with his head and the ball went wide instead. AndrewVanAndel launched a long shot over for Oranje, and on the other end, Daniel VanderGaag tested keeper Ryan Sikma, who handled the shot, and his next shot went hard over. Leroy vanSpronsen gave brother Rod a pass at another crack at a goal, but Rod's dangerous shot dipped just wide. Trevor VanDelft, Celtic's eager striker had no success when he dribbled through the Oranje area and chipped a shot off an Oranje player instead of scoring, and another shot by Trevor along the goal line went to a kneeling keeper. Tom VdH fought through Celtic to get a cross into their area with both Leroy VanSpronsen and Andrew VanAndel in position but neither could connect. Paul Sikma sent a 40-yarder along the turf but saw it go wide as did an earlier shot from Rick VanderHorst. Score - blank at the break.

The teams traded early chances in the second half, the most dangerous being a Rick VdH shot that bounced to keeper Russ Toet, who misjudged or mishandled the wet ball and it almost went in. The same fate almost happened to keeper Sikma when a Dan VanderGaag pass from deep in the corner was fumbled by Sikma and Mark Sikma alertly cleared the ball away. Another Oranje chance was foiled when Rod VanSpronsen was coming in hard, and Daryl VanDelft had to be quick and clever to clear the ball away. A Phil Sikma corner kick into a crowded area full of orange/black/green/white bodies was kept out when Russ Toet swam through the masses to steal the ball of the feet, the line and the post. Glenn Visscher of Celtic floated a long shot over the Oranje keepers hands and head, and Trevor VanDelft was swarmed by Oranje defenders as he had two tries at scoring, as they did not want to give up that tie breaking goal. Neither did Celtic as the two-Tom combo rush of Sikma and VdHorst was shut down effectively by the two-VanDelft defensive combo of Steve and Daryl. Last minute shots by Richard Welfing of Celtic was caught by Sikma and Rod VanSpronsen on the other end went wide, and the game stayed scoreless.

Asking for comments on the game came up with the following response from Oranje's Paul Sikma, 'Mneyh". I think Celtic would feel the same, both teams rather getting a win but having to be satisfied with the tie. Oranje has a good undefeated streak going, and Celtic hopes to build on their own shorter one.

WARNING:BREAK-IN AT WILLOUGHBY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 18 May 2010 08:13:18 EST

WARNING TO ALL FVCSL PLAYERS AND SPECTATORS

I went to watch the match between Bethel and Celtic. I hid my purse in my vehicle; it was very well concealed. Yet, during the game, someone broke a window in my SUV and stole my purse. Since the purse had been well hidden, I can only conclude that this person was watching me while I covered the purse up, and knew exactly where to look for it and which window was closest. Nothing else was taken, not my GPS, CDs or anything else: the target was the purse. BE FORWARNED and do not suffer the same miserable fate as me. This parking lot is not safe.

LYNDEN/ORANJE, 1,1 DRAW

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 16 May 2010 08:05:35 EST

(photos, Justin Meyer)

Lynden Americans and Oranje played to a 1-1 draw, a result that pleased both teams, though of course they would have preferred a win. The game preceeding this one was also a draw, 0-0, between Valley and Vitessa, but neither team was satisfied with that outcome. They both would have been disappointed with their performance in their match, while Lynden and Oranje had a great time playing each other and left it all on the pitch.

Oranje opened the scoring early in the game when a Phil Sikma corner kick looked like a patented Oranje play, header by Paul Sikma, but his header went to the head of Rod VanSpronsen, and his head was the one that scored. After that there were too many chances and rushes by both teams to list them all, other than to say that both teams were goin'! Lynden has their racing and roving forwards of Nathan Chase, Ben Faber and Jonathan Kingma giving the opposition lots of fits, while Oranje put together their own threats. Mark Sikma almost added to Oranje's score when he launched a right-footed bullet that Lynden keeper Gavin Willis got fingers on to deflect off the crossbar. Lynden equalized when Nathan Chase came in hard, and Ben Faber got the pass from Kingma at 15 yards out: Faber picked his spot and put it in. Then it was, Tom VdHorst, shot on a pass from sister, Jaclyn Penninga, Oranje's Andrew VanAndel nice turn and shoot, saved by Willis, Kingma, a looper saved by Oranje's keeper Ryan Sikma, and a Lynden speedster, hard run, hard shot wide. Rick VanderHorst dealt a ball off to a zooming Tom Sikma whose hard drive went just wide. An Oranje corner kick into a crowded Lynden area saw Paul Sikma get a foot on it (instead of his head) but the shot was deflected out. And Lynden's Darren Kleyn had a shot going wide (?) that keeper Ryan grabbed. Lots of action by both teams, and the score was tied at the break.

The second half had both teams attacking and the crowd ooh-ing as neither was satisfied with a tie,and worked for the win. The Lynden female players, Laura and Kelsey Faber, and Sarah Hicks certainly asserted themselves, as did the Oranje trio of Jaclyn Penninga, Sue deHaas and Su VanderHorst, but there was not a bad player on either side, each team trying to get that victory. Darren Kleyn shot, Ryan Sikma bounce and save, Sarah Hicks, long shot and save by Sikma and Ben Faber a spin and shoot, over. Nathan Chase had what seemed to be a sure goal for Lynden when his shot went off keeper Sikma, straight to defender Dan VanSpronsen. The ball came off Dan and was marked for goal, but Sikma super-alertly made the Oranje-grab. Then, Jonathan Kingma a shot that John Zietsma got in the way off, Tom VdHorst, a riser over, Kingma a long shot that Sikma attacked to save, and Andrew VanAndel to Rick VanderHorst that went just wide. Oranje had another great try when a Paul Sikma free kick went to Leroy VanSpronsen, who attempted a bicycle kick (unsuccesful) to the cries of "Pele, Pele" from his teammates. VanAndel tried again for Oranje when he fought off his check and got a shot with Leroy on the doorstep but the save was made by Willis. On the other end, Jonathan Kingma of Lynden sent a shot way over. A free kick, back in the Lynden end was taken quickly by Oranje and the hard shot by Rick VdHorst was tipped just over by an alert Willis. Harvey Pelleboer and Dirk DeMooy got in the way of lots of Oranje "stuff" helping out their young goalie, who did a stellar job. Oranje's defensive line did the same, saving the tie, though both teams kept going for the win. Excitement till the last whistle, with the game ending in a 1-1 draw.

Both team enjoyed the game immensely, as did the referee. Kleyn said that his team would be happy with the tie, and so were Oranje. A win is always better, but a fair finish to a great game. Well done Lynden and Oranje! ON, ON!!!

ABBOTSFORD TAKES IT TO LANGLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 15 May 2010 08:25:04 EST

(photos - Justin Meyer)

There was no reporter in attendance at the match between Abbotsford Silver Bullets and Langley FC, but there certainly was a photographer in the form of Justin Meyer. Since he put together such a great photo collage, it deserves being put on the website, and a couple of notes with it, gleaned from players.

Abbotsford won this match by a score of 3-1. Goals were scored for the Silver side by Calum Thomas, Tim deHaan and Natalie deHaan. Lone goal for the Yellow team was scored by Kevin Stumph.

Two players were injured and had to leave the game. Melanie Beukema of Abbotsford took a hard shot ball straight into her face, hit the deck, and left the pitch with blood streaming out of her nose. Hopefully she will recover well and the swelling and bruising that will certainly follow will subside in time. On the other team, Matt VanderHorst went up for a ball, together with a Silver player, and came down awkwardly on his left leg. Major pain in his knee and after the game, was carried from the Willoughby west field to the east parking lot. Phew - way to go teammates! X-rays show no breaks but major fluid on the knee. Hopefully it will not keep Matt sidelined too long.

With this important win, Abbotsford draws very close to Langley in the standings.

INTER TOO MUCH FOR CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 14 May 2010 08:14:50 EST

(photo - Justin Meyer)

FC International added to their unbeaten streak with a solid win over Celtic, who would have liked to keep their own win streak going, after a tie and a loss. But FC International, skilled side that they are, shut out Celtic 4-0.

This reporter came late, the lure of dinner at White Rock being more powerful than the call of the whistle on the soccer pitch. So, International had built up a 2-0 lead before I knew it. The first goal was scored by skilled and wheeled Jody Wandsura, who had to play the whole game as well as Lindsay Bisschop as the only female players for Inter on the evening. The second goal, Jason Flint, who is nearing the scoring lead for Inter, he being a constant scoring threat for his team together with Dan Woelders, Eric Atsma , et al. There was a stretch in the first half where it was a lot of teamwork and attack by both teams, with no results, Daryl VanDelft being in a particularly threatening position for Celtic, only to miskick the ball. And Jason Jorgenson sending a good opportunity way over the bar. Trevor VanDelft made a good run for Celtic only to run out of field before getting a good shot away. International got their third goal of the game when Eric Atsma sent a ball across the area to Jorgenson, and he passed it on to Jason Flint who toed the ball in. Dan Woelders tried to set up Flint for the next goal but Steve VanDelft intercepted that try. At the 40 minute mark, Jorgenson sent a long pass into the Celtic goal area and the ball passed by Flint but Eric Atsma was waiting at the far post and potted a goal. The score was 4-0 at the half.

The second half saw Celtic keep FC International off the scoresheet, but it was all they could do, and mounting their own attack was not in the cards. Inter built up their rush effectively, and broke up Celtic's attempts at the other end. Credit to Celtic, who kept this scoring machine scoreless in the second half. Part of it may have been fatigue on the part of Inter, with only one spare body on the sidelines. Celtic certainly put up a wall of defence in the form of Chris VanderHorst, Steve VanDelft, Rob VanSeters, and the like, but they could not convert that into offence no matter how much effort expended, as Inter did not allow it. Dan Woelders was kept scoreless, as well as Mark Peters by Celtic, no small feat. But Celtic as a team were kept scoreless as well.

It will be interesting to see which team gives International their first loss. Any bets (if we were the betting types)? Celtic will win more games, that is a given, but not tonight.

BETHEL OUTDONE BY ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 14 May 2010 08:50:07 EST

Bethel brings a new and improved to the fvcsl this year according to Dan and Rachel Wagner, with more commitment and skill on the team this year, and a regular goal keeper who knows how to play goal. They feel that there team is ready to move up in the league, winning some games and playing a better and more competitive style of soccer. Yet they went down to an overpowered defeat when they came up against some very hot Oranje feet, losing 8-0.

Bethel kept Oranje to only 2 goals in the first half, the first one coming early when Mark Sikma took a pass just outside of the 18 and left-footed a crack to the far post, snapping it by the sprawling keeper Chris Harrington. Alyssa Hutchinson tested Oranje's backup keeper Tom Sikma early too, but could only get a weak shot on him and it was an easy grab. Brandon VanGenderen had a roller go straight to keeper Tom as well. On the other end, shots by Rick VanderHorst, and several by brother Tom missed the mark wide or over, and Dan Wagner and his defensive cohorts got in the way of several plays to keep the game close. Wagner made his own long run, the length of the sideline and finished it with a long cross to the far side of the area to team mate Robert Janzen but his shot just hit the side of the net. And a Wagner free kick from a long ways out sailed straight to keeper-Tom. Oranje added a second goal when a perfect Andrew VanAndel cross found Leroy vanSpronsen's head in front of the Bethel goal and Leroy flicked the ball in. Ron Smouter almost added to that with a shot inside the 6-yard box that keeper-Chris spanked out straight to Tom VdHorst who was nose-to-nose with him and shot it right back but a second stellar save on the play was made by Harrington. And a later crack by Rick VdHorst from the side saw the keeper hug the post and hug the ball.

In the second half, Mark Sikma replaced brother Tom in goal. in the first minute, and Oranje rush finished with a Rick VdH strike from the 18 that the keeper made a strong parry to keep out. But he could not stop the next one when Tom Sikma set up Andrew VanAndel who pushed a low roller between the keeper and the post. VanAndel set up the next goal when he saw Tom VdHorst streaking in: TomV had to beat 2 defenders but managed to get the ball in very close and scored - no chance for the Bethel keeper. He followed that up with another goal when he beat the charging keeper to a ball and had the open goal to sneak the ball into. That was goal #5 for Oranje, but Bethel did not quit or die. They worked the ball up field and Dan Wagner volleyed the bouncing ball hard at the keeper. Mark Sikma had to make a good save on the play. Hutchinson kept up his heroics on the other end facing shots from Paul Sikma, TomV and Andrew VanA but making good saves on them all. But Tom Sikma proved too much when he hustled to save a ball of the back line and score. Tom (hot feet) VanderHorst notched two more goals on a night when his efforts were well rewarded. Still, Bethel of the no-quit variety, got late game shots by Josh Denny-Keys, Jeremy Wiebe and Dan Wagner to try to wreck the shut-out, but it was not to be.

ORANJE SHUTS OUT VALLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 09 May 2010 08:19:00 EST

(photo(s) - Justin Meyer

Oranje and Valley played an entertaining game, a match between two fairly equal teams. Perhaps Valley a little stronger on mid-field, maybe Oranje a bit better on defence tonight. Certainly Oranje had the edge in chances on goal, but only one goal to show for it.

Mo VanderLinde had an early chance to get Valley on the scoreboard but his shot glanced off an Oranje defender and back to keeper Ryan Sikma. Valley had their first really dangerous try on goal when Matt Schouten came streaking in but John Zietsma took the shot away, giving up a corner kick with no result. Oranje did convert a corner kick into a goal when Leroy VanSpronsen struck a beauty into the 6-yard box and Paul Sikma had come in, was waiting and got his head on the ball for an unstoppable goal. Valley's Stu VanderHorst took a long bouncer that was stopped by Ryan Sikma and Andrew VanAndel drove a hard shot over the Valley goal that may have worked better as a chip shot. Tom VanderHorst and brother Rick both had solid chances, one wide and one to keeper Ali Eijlander, and the score was 1-0 Oranje at the half.

Oranje's Rod VanSpronsen showed some early hustle at the start of the second half with a shot on goal but keeper-Ali made a good stop for Valley. Oranje veteran Ron Smouter (about the same veteran-ness as Rod) got a great chance to score when Ali punched out an Oranje shot that Smouter drove hard back at him, but over it went. Tom VdHorst had a gift of a chance go wide, and Mark Sikma connected off a corner kick, but Eijlander dropped to smother that attempt. Paul Sikma took a pass but his shot went over, and Tom VdH came in again, but Tim VanderLinde took that chance away and took the ball up field. Matt Schouten had a glorious chance towards the end of the half, trying to equalize, but his hard shot went hard over. Oranje's back line played a strong game and stymied Valley's equalizing attempts, keeping them off the scoresheet.

CELTIC VICTORS OVER VITESSA

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 09 May 2010 08:15:50 EST

(photo(s) - Justin Meyer)

Vitessa would have liked to get back in the win column, but met a determined Celtic side, who had no desire to let that happen. The Green-White stripes were happy with their 2-0 win over a renewed Vitessa team, one that has added youth, speed and skill, and will win their share of games. However, tonight they had a limited lineup with only one female spare, and some of their players eventually ran out of gas.

Celtic took a very early lead when, in a full and scrambly Vitessa area, Trevor VanDelft still managed to boot the ball through the crowd and past keeper Tim Erickson. After Vitessa put pressure on the Celtic end, Dylan Bredenhof had a chance on Vitessa, but shanked his shot over. Vitessa had a super chance when hard working Ryan Cree had a super shot (see photos) but keeper Russ Toet could make the super grab. Henk Colijn of Vitessa had a try for goal but he was in too close, too much angle and no goal resulted. Ben VandeBurgt tried to set up Colijn again but was prevented by Celtic. And VdBurgt took his own looping shot, but that presented no problem for Toet. Brian Eigenraam sent a left-footer in on the Vitessa keeper but Erickson made the good snag. A tic-tac-toe play between Celtic's Daryl VanDelft, Richard Welfing and Burke VanderHorst was saved by Erickson as well and Glenn Visscher shot over. Yvonne Onderwater handily stripped Glenn Visscher of the ball minutes later, taking away another chance for him.

Two tight shots in close on Vitessa's had keeper-Tim rolling on the ground, and he flung his leg out to make an alert, athletic clearance. Daniel VanderGaag tested him too, and the keeper kept his team in the game with another plucky save. Colijn almost evened the score when he fought through a crowd in the 18-yard area but drove his shot just wide. And speedy Evan Wong put up a shot but Chris VanderHorst of Celtic headed that just over his own Celtic bar. Richard Welfing got an insurance goal for Celtic when a Josh Togeretz shot rebounded out; Welfing was waiting for just such a ball and had the open corner to bury it in. Evan Wong stayed fleet of foot the whole game and had another chance when, tightly checked, still got a shot away but Toet grabbed the ball at the near post. Colijn had a play similar to his last try, crowded area, etc., but again Toet could see the ball and make the grab. Charis Siebenga had another attempt for Vitessa off a throw-in but her shot went wide. Wong steamed up the wing last more time, and got a nice shot away that Toet had to be heads-up to save, preserving the shut-out.

The new-look Vitessa will win their share of games, but this was not one of them. Celtic also has several new faces in the line-up, who are gaining experience and settling into the team well, which bodes well for the rest of season.

REAL PACIFIC STILL UNDEFEATED

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 01 May 2010 08:32:06 EST

-photo-Justin Meyer

Real Pacific remained undefeated with a victory over Oranje, their only non-win being a tie against Lynden Americans. The 4-1 win keeps RP solidly on top of Division 1. It was a very cold, windy evening, making the ball do crazy things, dipping, swirling, getting held up, or floating in the gale. But the conditions were the same for both teams.

The first 20 minutes of the game had few dangerous plays, but Oranje's Rod VanSpronsen got the first good try after that when he outmuscled two RP defenders and chipped the ball over a charging keeper, Jayden Kuik, but the ball slo-mo-ed just wide of the gaping goal mouth. Mark Bysterveld of Real came back, dribbled in and lef-footed a shot from the 18 off the Oranje crossbar. In the 30-40 minute block, an RP buildup resulted in David VanderGaag cranking a shot into the cornerest of the corner of the Oranje goal for the game's and his team's first goal. Oranje almost got that back when Leroy VanSpronsen deftly struck a corner kick that Kuik had to bat out; the ball was headed back in by Paul Sikma and the sure goal was swatted away by an alert Kuik. In the last minutes of the half, Mark Bysterveld got a cross into keeper Ryan who deflected the ball away but right at defender Jacyn Penninga, who was charged with a hand ball in the box. Jeremy Meyer made no mistake, burying the PK low to the corner. the score 2-0 at the half.

Oranje was not disappointed with their first half, though and got a try on the RP goal when Tom VanderHorst came in on goal: was it a shot or a pass to a pressing Rod VanSpronsen? Which ever, the bouncing ball he shot squibbed just wide. Daryl Rolleman had a chance to add to Pacific's tally when he directed a corner kick to the goal but Jaclyn Penninga cleared that ball off the goal line. Oranje got what would be their only goal of the game when Su VanderHorst forced the ball loose at center, to Rick VanderHorst ; he dribbled through many RP players and slammed a left footer high across the goal area and in - no chance for Kuik. After that, Jeremy Meyer wove his way through Oranje players to get a strong shot away but Sikma made the stop and grab to keep his team close. But Anthony Togeretz scored for Real when he tried a 40-yarder: "I thought I'd just lift it and see what the wind would do with it." and the wind carried it high and just under the crossbar, for goal #3. Meyer got his second goal of the game from about 35 yards out when he got away from his check and cracked a shot high to the top corner, to put the game out of reach.

Real Pacific, a powerhouse again this year! Oranje didn't feel like it was a 4-1 game but the score sheet shows that it was.

LANGLEY FC DEFEATS ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:22:05 EST

(photo - Justin Meyer)

Langley FC got their third win of the season when they beat Oranje by a 3-1 score. This is as many wins as they had all of last year, suggesting they will be a force to be reckoned with this year, what with some new, young, speedy players added to their lineup. Dave Doornbos, who has been on Langley FC's roster for years noted that this win was the first one over a Division 1 team in a long, long time. Doornbos had to play goal and did a good job of it, though Oranje did not test him as often as they would have liked, or should have.

The Yellows tested Oranje's keeper Ryan Sikma first, when Kevin Stumph kicked a riser but it was straight to the keeper. He had to make a tougher save when the brothers Ron and Derek Scheper came at him, but Sikma managed to grapple the ball away from the feet of this dangerous duo. After that, there was a lot of back and forth play with nothing to show for it, and nothing to write either. Langley had a couple more chances toward the end of the half when Mike Timmerman shot from way back and the ball grazed the top of the crossbar. And newcomer Colin DeWit, (claimed when Aldergrove folded) shot from 25 yards out, but straight to Sikma. Oranje had a good chance on Doornbos when Rick VanderHorst sent a ball from the side of the 18 in to Shauna Stam who redirected the ball with her head but Doornbos made the grab.

The second half saw the first scoring when Derek Scheper crossed a ball into a ready Kyle Mostert who headed the ball in for the opening goal for Yellow. Stumph added to their tally when he skinned around a couple of Oranje players on the end line, slashed a shot from an impossible angle and the ball squeezed in on the near post. Mark Sikma drew Oranje closer again when he jumped on a loose ball and struck a long hard riser just under the bar and just over Doornbos. The second half continued with more action, and Colin DeWit tried to set up Ruben Timmerman but his diving header went wide. Stumph got his second goal of the game, and Yellow's third when he came in stride for stride with an Oranje defender, and had the keeper out of position to stop the rolling ball. Oranje tried to get that one back, with a Rod VanSpronsen shot but the long ball was an easy grab for Doornbos. Ruben T-man had another crack at a goal but keeper-Sikma got a foot on it, driving it back out, only for Stumph to get a stump on it but his shot went off the outside of the post. Andrew VanAndel got a couple of long shots for Oranje late in the game but none that resulted in a goal and the game ended 3-1. Oranje was missing something tonight, and will have to show more in their next outing. Yellow will be happy with the way their season is going so far, and hope to keep that drive alive.

FC INTER ADD TO WIN STREAK

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 08:41:50 EST

FC International added to their unbeaten streak for the 2010 season with a win over Valley United. A game that was fairly even in the first half, changed after the break with International taking over the game and winning the match 4-2.

The first half, played in cold, windy conditions saw both teams getting some chances with no early success. Inter could not capitalize on two early corner kicks, and Valley missed on a golden opportunity when Stu VanderHorst chased down a ball off the back line and centered it to Jason Breukelman who had position but could not get a good shot away. Mark Peters of the Blacks followed that, loading up a shot inside the Valley 10 but Max VanLaar took that chance away. Dan Woelders slashed a shot from the corner that no Inter player could connect on, and Eric Atsma came in with a scoring threat but Valley keeper Ali Eijlander stole the ball off his feet to keep the score deadlocked at 0-0. Inter balls drifted into the Valley end with the help of the strong wind, while Valley balls were slowed up. Breukelman had another good chance for Valley from 20 yards out that Inter keeper Werner Engler had to push just over the bar. Jason Flint had several chances for Inter, one stolen again by VanLaar and one way over but was rewarded in the dying minutes of the first half when he poked a shot through a crowded area and put it in the Valley goal for a 1-0 lead at the break.

The second half had Inter take control of the game as Valley struggled to put their game together. Mark Peters broke out from center, one on one with keeper-Ali and poked the second Inter goal into the corner. Ever dangerous Dan Woelders had two tries go wide, and another crossing Inter ball got past the keeper but Tim VanderLinde cleared it off the line to keep the game close. But a nice Black buildup had three players moving the ball in and the finish was by Flint who redirected the ball in - no chance for the Valley keeper. This was followed up minutes later by a Mark Peters run and a low drive in for a 4-0 lead. Valley finally got going and a three forward buildup were ready to destroy the Stu VanderHorst pass but Engler smothered the ball. Stu vdHorst got Valley on the board with a long 35-yrd drive that got past Engler, glancing in off the far post. A second Valley goal came off some good passing that ended with Matt Schouten squeezing a shot between the keeper and the near post.

That woud be the final score: FC International 4, Valley United 2. Engler admitted after the game that the two goals that got by him were well deserved by Valley; two great shots coming off great plays. International looks like they are ready to pick up from where they ended last season, with lots of wins to their credit.

VALLEY VICTORS OVER CLOVERDALE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 08:00:40 EST

Valley United are much truer to their name United this year, than they have been in years past, as their game has become much more organized, relying on teamwork rather than just speed and hustle. They showed this in a 2-1 win over Cloverdale. Mind you, Cloverdale was missing some key defenders, Matt Wendt, Mike Schouten, Dave VandeBurgt, and they certainly would have broken up a lot of the Green-team teamwork. However, it is what it is, and tonight it was Valley the victor.

This reporter missed the first half of the game, but both teams agreed that there were lots of chances for both teams in the opening scoreless half. Cloverdale captain and stalwart player, Shelley Schoen dared to say that their team had more chances than did Valley, but none that found the back of the goal. Valley players (meanies that they are) wanted attention drawn to the missed opportunity that Lawrence Jansen had as he had a wide open goal to shoot at and missed. Not the goal; missed the ball! Jansen himself was shaking his head at this gift of a chance, but nothing to show for it. Next time Lawrence!

The second half did not stay scoreless for long when a long Cloverdale ball from the sideline crossed the area to Paul Gaborlik who directed the ball back across the area and high over Valley keeper Ali Eijlander. Valley answered with lots of pressure and shots, including shots from Jason Breukelman and Stuart VanderHorst. Julian VanDyke tried to add to Cloverdale's tally when he ran onto a looping pass. Eijlander challenged but VanDyke could not get a controlled shot off the scooting ball. Valley started outchancing Cloverdale with Stu VdH hard into the waiting hands of Josh VanderPloeg, then one just over, and Maurice VanderLinde putting a left-footer wide. Lawrence Jansen tried to set up Ivan Scheper but Bryan Grim stepped in to take that play away. Max VanLaar did the same for Valley when VanDyke was pressing dangerously, Max clearing the ball safely off the field. Kent Ostermeier cranked a shot over the Clover-goal, and missed on a couple of other chances; Joey Zhang raced to catch up to a ball with lots of potential but couldn't quite get there. Josh VdPloeg got his save of the night and what will surely be one of the top saves of the year when he dropped to get a hand on a hard shot by Jansen from inside the 18. Stu vdHorst dealt a ball into the middle with several Valley players in position to do damage with the pass and they got on the scoreboard when Maurice, "Mighty Mo" VdLinde got on the end of the pass and launched a high shot that keeper Josh had no chance to stop. Valley continued to press and on the same 10-minute shift (75-85 minute mark) Mo got his second goal when he cranked a shot in close that VdPloeg could not keep out either. "That shift worked pretty good for me", quipped a relieved Mo. A late long Cloverdale clearance went to VanDyke but keeper Ali got to the ball just before him.

Referee D. Wagner appreciated the clean game, and commented on the level of skill exhibited by both teams. "That's the way the game should be played".

Real Over Celtic

Morris Klos — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 08:47:23 EST

Jayden Kuik found himself square in the sights of Celtic at Cloverdale Athletic Park last night, as he defended Real Pacific's lead between the goal-posts. He got the short-end of Tim Vandelft's yellow card offensive rush on Real's goal, but managed to maintain his composure enough to make one spectacular reflex save in the dying minutes of the game to help Real earn a 3-0 victory.

Craig Kobes opened the scoring with a perfect shot that sank behind Celtic keeper Russ Toet into the top few inches of net. Unfortunately Craig's thirst for a second goal got him into a very short but heated argument with referee Daniel Wagner over an offside call, and he earned himself a yellow card for that effort. Perhaps the best play of the game was a perfect pass from Jason to brother Anthony Togeretz, who then punched the ball quickly across and past a rushing Toet into the only visible twelve inches of net on the far side of the goal.

Brittani Heetebrij played smart and positioned herself perfectly to drive home a loose ball in front of the Celtic net to earn her second goal of the season. Lindsay Wildeboer shored up Real's defence with a Really strong game, using her speed and ability to read the play to shut down several Celtic advances. Steve Vandelft played some brilliant through-balls for Celtic but unfortunately they could not capitalize in Real Pacific territory and in the end, a very physical game was brought hard to both teams until the last minute of play.

ORANJE BOUNCE BACK

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 08:38:28 EST

Oranje lost their first game of the season to the Abbotsford Silver Bullets, but bounced back with a solid victory over Crossway FC. The Reds, who have added some new faces and upped their skill level have their first victory of the season under their belts but fell 4-0 to Oranje.

Oranje opened the scoring at the seven minute mark when awarded a corner kick. Wily veteran Rod VanSpronsen caught the Reds napping, still setting up, and made a quick pass to Phil Sikma who launched a long riser to the far corner. Oranje tried to add to that when Tom VanderHorst dished the ball to brother Rick, but his shot from the top corner of the 18 yard box went off the far post. So, Tom sprung Leroy vanSpronsen instead, and Leroy was in 1-on-1 with keeper Andrew Driscoll but shot just wide. Crossway had their best chance of the half off a corner kick that keeper Ryan Sikma alertly punched out to #9 (??) of Crossway (sorry, jersey numbers are not on the website yet) and his hard drive back in went off the crossbar. A Rod VanSpronsen corner kick set up Tom VanderHorst in the area but his header went wide to keep the score 1-0 Oranje. Mark_(??)_#7 of Crossway had a chance in the Oranje area but shot way over, and Rick VanderHorst had a solid shot met with a solid save by Driscoll to end the half.

The second half saw seasoned defender John Zietsma of Oranje take a run up and strike the ball: was it going to go wide? Andrew VanAndel made sure it went in the goal, jumping up to slash it across the goal mouth and in. A Crossway corner kick gave them the chance to get on the scoresheet ,but AJ Lissemore headed the ball just wide. The rest of the game could be summarized by saying Oranje dominated. Rick VdHorst shot stopped by Driscoll. Rick VdH shot off the crossbar. Tom VanderHorst got a ball, patiently waited out the lunging Driscoll and had the open goal to shoot at. Tom VdH got his second goal not long after that when he ran onto a rolling ball behind the Crossway defenders and sent a sharp angle shot over Driscoll and under the Crossway crossbar to complete the scoring. Crossway ended with their best chance of the second half when speedster Addington Zimbiti sent a hard riser at keeper Sikma, and Ryan had to be sharp to make the initial save and control the loose ball.

Crossway will get their share of wins this season, but tonight it was Oranje's solid, well earned victory.

Crossway Defeats Bethel

Matt Wolgram — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 08:45:58 EST

Division 2 rivals, Crossway FC and the Bethel Knights, began the 2010 season with an enthusiastic match. Fans of both teams waited in anticipation for the game to begin as several of Bethel’s players formerly suited up for Crossway. For the first ten minutes, play remained even, though the edge could be give to Crossway. Both teams began the half somewhat disorganized, likely warming up to new teammates and the beginning of a new season. Addington Zimbiti demonstrated fantastic skill as he darted around Bethel’s defenders, eventually leading to a partial breakaway, though unable to score. Shortly thereafter, strong play from Crossway’s defense prevented Jeremy Wiebe from capitalizing on his first chance of the year.

After ten minutes of play, Bethel found itself deep in Crossway’s end, though unable to manage even a single decent chance. After Crossway regained control and set up at the other end of the field, Zimbitiopened the scoring from thirty feet after David Hitchman’s blatantly unintentional handball. After twenty minutes, Bethel finally managed to produce its first shot, though a weak one from Robert Janzen. Two minutes later, Josh Denny-keys dispensed a solid shot, though Andrew Briscoe made a solid diving stop. Five minutes later, Joe Doyle managed a shot, though it sailed high and wide.

Nearing the end of the first half, Crossway doubled its lead after Trevor Schroeder deflected the ball past his own keeper, the goal being credited to A. Ghashghaee . Until halftime, Crossway dominated play, demonstrating real control of the game.

The second half began with Bethel failing to capitalize on a corner kick despite the ball bouncing around in Crossway’s box for what seemed like an eternity. Up to this point in the game, Matt Dyck showed himself to be Bethel’s hardest working player, hustling up and down the entire field. After a weak clearing attempt by Andrew Driscoll, Bethel scored its first goal of the season when Denny-keys let a shot go from the top of the box. Matt Dyck got ahold of the ball and booted it off of a Crossway defender and into the back of the net. After the substitutes entered the field for their first taste of action in the second half, both teams exchanged chances. M. Dyck scored again, bringing the game to a 2-2 tie after a corner kick, booting in a wildly bouncing ball.

After approximately twenty minutes of play in the second half, Crossway began to take full control of the play with Ghashghaee giving Crossway a 3-2 lead. Shortly thereafter, Joe Doyle scored what would prove to be the winning goal. At this point, Bethel seemed to have run out of steam. Nearing the end of the second half, play slowed due to injuries to both teams. The break in play allowed Bethel to regain some strength and an attempt at a comeback was evident. Josh Denny-keys managed to score after a throw in, but this goal proved to be Bethel’s last. Ultimately, Crossway established itself as the superior squad on the field – though two further regular season matchups remain for Bethel to make up for its first loss of the season.

REAL PACIFIC TRIUMPHANT

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 08:49:57 EST

(photo-Justin Meyer)

Real Pacific and Aldergrove played a good final match, good soccer in hot, hot conditions, the first half, sauna-like. The heat affected the players, with a seemingly lack-lustre game in the first half, but when the sun dipped down, the play picked up, and the competition and excitement heated up. Real Pacific, who finished in solid first place in Division 1, were 3-1 victors over Aldergrove.

Real Pacific opened the scoring some 4 minutes into the game. Jason Togeretz came in with the ball, and no Aldergrove player moved to challenge, not even the keeper giving JayTog a chance to shoot and score. Kevin Hendricks had the first Aldergrove shot of any quality at the 18 minute mark but hit the side of the goal. Mark Bysterveld tested Aldergrove keeper Harold Louwerse,had his hard shot batted back, shot again and Hal saved it again. There were lots of late tackles both ways as each team tried to stop the other and build up some kind of attack, but action was not smooth or successful. Attempts by Mark B of RP and Edwin Palsma of Aldergrove went nowhere. Craig Kobes had a late try when he came in, the Alder-defence turned in instead of out, and Kobes could get a shot away but no goal resulted.

The second half had more energy and Nathan Moes had an early try for Aldergrove when he and Jayden Kuik challenged for the same ball and Moes tipped it over the keeper but also just over the bar. Matt VanderGaag of Aldergrove was booked with a yellow card a while later, and Craig Kobes struck the ensuing free kick on the 18 and blew an arrow straight into the far corner. Mark B attacked again for RP but Tyler VanderGaag matched him stride for stride, giving keeper Hal the chance to blast the ball away. A short while later, the same Mark had a huge collision with the same keeper Hal, earning Mark a yellow card, as well as Aldergrove's Greg Hamelin for retaliation after that. At about the 18 minute mark, action started to pick up, with Tyler VanderGaag moved up to forward, to generate more offense. Kevin Hendricks dribbled in diagonally and finally got a shot away the Kuik had to dive to finger wide. Jordan Langelaar sent an Aldergrove shot wide and Hendricks mis-struck an Edwin Palsma pass, Mark Meerstra, set up to even the score, shot the gift-pass wide, as Aldergrove pressed to catch RP. They finally got a goal when they teamworked the ball up the wing, Hendricks got another chance to score and did this time, low along the ground to the corner. Pacific tried to answer back on the next kickoff, but Louwerse came out aggressively to clear the ball away from a charging Craig Kobes. Nathan Moes tried a dangerous pop-fly that Kuik, grabbed, jostled by Mark Meerstra but he held onto the ball. Aldergrove were now getting some close calls, definately not out of the game yet. They had their best chance of the second half when awarded a free kick just off center on the 18. Real put up a huge wall that looked like a red and white picket fence. Hendricks faked the shot, Langelaar took it and drove it through the wall, with Kuik somehow seeing it and stopping it. The area was full of both teams, (do the math!) but somehow the ball was cleared out of danger. Lots of physical play now, as the game got scrambly and scrappy for a while. Matt VdG had another great chance when he shot from just inside the RP side of center and the shot bounced just in front of Kuik, who had to be sharp to bobble, then grab the ball away from Meerstra. A tired Tyler Hoeksema got the insurance goal for RP when he took a chance with a 30 yard riser that went over Louwerse and under the bar. Aldergrove tried one more time with Colin DeWit shooting from long, Kevin Hendricks following up from in closer, and Tyler VdG from in tight, but this series gained them nothing either. Kuik certainly made the timely saves when he needed to and his team scored enough to win the game. Players on both teams should be commended for the energy they put into this game, especially the female duo from Aldergrove, Michelle deHaas and Keri VanderGaag who had to put in a whole game, and did it! Final score, Real Pacific 3, Aldergrove 1.

A large crowd had gathered to watch this match, and stayed for trophy presentations.

First place, Divison 2 trophy: Lynden Americans

First place Division 1 trophy: Real Pacific.

League Champions trophy: Real Pacific

Male MVP: Mark Peters of FC International

Female MVP: April Hendricks of Real Pacific

Most Sportsmanlike team: Oranje

And thanks to our Heavenly Father for allowing us all to play, watch and enjoy the sport of soccer.

ALDERGROVE - IN, ABBY- OUT

Ginny Vanderhorst — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 08:00:06 EST

(photo - Justin Meyer) Article co-written by associate writers Jeremy Meyer, Real Pacific and Glenn Visscher who took notes of most of the second half of the match - THANK YOU!)

The last semi-final game to determine fvcsl finalists took place between Aldergrove and Abbotsford, with Aldergrove eking out a 2-1 win and will face Real Pacific on Monday evening to play for league champions. The weather had settled down to a nice summer evening again, though the humidity on the rain-drenched pitch must have been high.

Aldergrove got the first goal of the game after both teams played a cautious opening fifteen minutes. Jordan Langelaar switched the ball from his right foot to his left and lifted a shot that looked to be going wide, but it curled back and snuck in just inside the far post. Kevin Hendricks came on a solo run, singlehandedly going through the Abby team but got in too deep and his shot did not result in another Alder-goal. Abbotsford's Andrew Selles was at the 18, ready and willing to load up and crank a ball that rolled to him ever so slowly but Matt VanderGaag prevented that shot completely. Aldergrove's next great chance came when Edwin Palsma crossed a ball from the corner that Mark Meerstra headed at the goal, but Adam Cender, the Abbotsford keeper flew through the air for a soaring save. Abbotsford evened the score when Rob Beukema, running wide, sent a ball to Stan deHaan, inside the 18, and Stan looked, aimed, shot and scored. More chances came for both teams: Hendricks in on Cender, ready to shoot at the corner of the 6yard box, but suddenly the ball was gone, smothered at his feet by the keeper. Graham Thompson in on Aldergrove goalie Harold Louwerse, who hesitated, allowing Thompson to get around him, but Matt vdGaag saved the goalie and the ball, putting it out of danger. Langelaar had one more crack at Cender when he came in, stutter-stepped and shot, but the save was made by Cender again.

The second half started much the same as the first, with action of note taking a while to get going, (here's where the new press took over with note-taking). Stan deHaan and Andrew Selles came up on an Abby rush and try, only to have Selles chest the ball wide. Graham Thompson did the same with a shot, ripping it wide. Mark Meerstra, coming back for Aldergrove, made a long run up the side, cut into the middle and slashed a shot just wide, followed by his familiar "ououoghghgh!" Aldergrove kept pressure on the Silver Bullets when a Jordan Langelaar free kick to Hendricks went just wide and another Langelaar free kick chipped well onto Colin DeWit's head was just high. DeWit got a shot on Cender as well, from inside the 18, well saved by the keeper and alertly kicked away. Mark Meerstra finally got the game winning goal on a quick passing play with Hendricks in the box and Meerstra snuck his shot just past the keeper. An Abbotsford free kick from right outside the box with 2 minutes left went just wide and that would be it.

Abbotsford certainly had a good year, going from a 4/1/14 record last year to a 10/3/6 record this year. Looking good for next year!

The championship game should be a goodie with both Real Pacific and Aldergrove bringing skill and energy to the pitch. See you there: Monday, Willoughby field, 7:30 p.m.!

LIGHTNING WOWS CROWD

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 08:48:20 EST

(photo courtesy of Justin Meyer, who has the Most Valuable Photographer award wrapped up.)

Cloverdale played their first game of the season and their last game for this season against Real Pacific, losing both matchups. The semi-final game was not spectacular, but the weather sure was, as a rainstorm complete with thunder and lightning caused referee Brennan to call a lightning delay for some 40 minutes, and spectators oohed and aahed at the awesome display. There was more fireworks over McLeod field than there was in Vancouver tonight, these fireworks, the breathtaking works of God. Cloverdale was outmatched tonight, especially because they did not have bench strength as they had against FC International and they lost 4-1 to the stronger Real Pacific.

Pacific almost opened the scoring after five minutes when Craig Kobes rang a hard shot off the Cloverdale post, begging the question, would this be the tempo of the whole game. But no, the game continued with seemingly little intensity from both sides, and when the game was called due to lightning, this was the one and only good try from both teams. After the 40 minute break, Cloverdale had to battle for the remainder of the half into the head wind that had blown the storm away. George Gunnink tried to ignite his team with a pass to Julian VanDyke but the ball hit the back of VanDyke's head, suggesting the kind of night that Cloverdale had. Mark Bysterveld of RP floated a wind-assisted shot that skipped right in front of keeper Josh VanderPloeg, bounced higher than he expected and flipped just over the bar. MarkB had another try but keeper-Josh stopped the first shot. A defender came to his aid, and tangled up with him, giving Craig Kobes the opportunity to shoot the ball in, over the prone goal keeper.

No half time break was taken and the team switched sides and continued playing. The wind kindly died for Real Pacific, now of no factor. Pacific scored their second goal with a header goal by Mark Bysterveld to an open corner to solidify their lead. George Gunnink tried to reel Real in when he drove into the corner and lifted a shot that Jayden Kuik had to palm up off the crossbar. On the Cloverdale end of the field, Jason Togeretz squared a header from the 18 that went over, but scored later when he stripped the ball off a Cloverdale defender, dribbled, paused, picked his spot and put it in, short side, between the post and the keeper - goal #3. Cloverdale had lost speedy forward Justin VanderPloeg by now, with a knee injury and the team seemed to be sagging. Yet, Bryan Grim took a long shot from his side of half that took a nasty bounce, then went wide. Cloverdale had their best chance of the game so far when Julian VanDyke forced Jayden Kuik to make a diving stop; the ball deflected back to George Gunnink who earned a corner kick. That would be costly to RP as Paul Gaborlik struck a sweet corner kick that curled, untouched, high into the corner of the RP goal. Pacific reestablished their lead with a Kevin Woelders pass to Craig Kobes on the 6yard line and he nudged the ball into the Clover-goal for RP goal #4 .

That would be the final score, 4-1 Real Pacific. Cloverdale was happy with their performance this season, gaining experience and better team play. Young players such as Matt Wendt moved back to defence, scoring prowess from Julian VanDyke and great support from Justin VanderPloeg, backed up by a steady core of veteran players and an eager goal keeper Josh VdPloeg indicate good things to come, according to teamleader Shelley Schoen. Real Pacific continues to power wash over opponents and have made it to the final game.

ALDERGROVE SHUTS OUT CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 08:24:21 EST

Photos by Justin Meyer. He named this collage "Celtic vs. Aldergrove mash-up" . I call it "Celtic vs. Aldergrove Magnifico"! What a great group of shots! But, the story, the story........

The last game of the quarter-final playoff round matched Aldergrove and Celtic, two of the original teams in the fvcsl, and Aldergrove contained Celtic, beating them 1-0, sending the A-team to semi-final action. These two teams were close all year in the standings. Celtic won both games in the regular season, the May 5th match played in monsoon conditions, the likes of which we have not seen much this year. But Celtic could not win the game that really mattered.

The first half could be best summarized as Celtic scrambling, Aldergrove passing, with many of Celtic's attempts just missing, or just bouncing away, while Aldergrove's just found their mark or just stayed away from Celtic. Aldergrove dipped into their reservist bag for this match, and benefitted from that when Colin DeWit took a free kick almost from the corner kick mark, sent it to the far post and Jordan Langelaar headed it in past Celtic keeper Russ Toet. At the 37 minute mark, Celtic tried and tried to tie the score when a free kick into the Alder-area had bodies flying, and legs flailing, but the ball came out instead of going in. In ther last five minute block, two dangerous balls came near the Cetic goal area, but Toet could grab them both.

In the second half, Celtic dropped their man-to-man play, which allowed them to play more of their own game, and their potential improved, but still without scoring success. Kevin Hendricks, the smoothly calm Aldergrove midfielder certainly had something to do with that, intercepting plays and passes, as did the defensive duo of Matt and Tyler VanderGaag. Jordan Langelaar almost had his second goal when he punted up a high kick that Toet misjudged and over him it went, but the keeper scooted back to bat the ball just off the line and out. Kevin Hendrick's 30-yard left-footer went wide of the Celtic goal and the score stayed 1-0. Celtic surged back with a Stu VanderHorst pass to Glen Visscher but Tyler VdGaag just intercepted that and cranked the ball right out of the park. Tim VanderHoek had a go at Aldergrove, trying to catch up to a John VanSeters pass, but Tyler VdG and Brad VanDelft pinched him out of that play. Burke VanderHorst had is 20yarder go wide, as Celtic pressed, and Aldergrove protected, keeper Harold Louwerse not having to make many saves. Celtic's best chance to even the score came on a 3-on-1 with John VanSeters carrying the ball in; he chose to shoot rather to pass and his hard crack hit the side of the goal. The last 15 minutes did not change the outcome though both teams played hard till the final whistle. No slam-dunk for Aldergrove and they were relieved to move on past Celtic.

Sideline veteran spectators Henk VanderHorst, Tom Wildeboer and Dick Scheper, (who filled this reporter's ear with lots of commentary during the game) observed that the quality of play has improved so much over the years of fvcsl's existence. Games like tonight, with fluid passing, communication, and daring defending all speak for the experience of the players and teams. And it allows teams like Cloverdale to advance to semi-final action, based on their team play, not some fluke. It bodes well for the league's future.

CROSS BORDER CLASH: ABBY WINS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 08:57:57 EST

(photo - Justin Meyer)

Abbotsford Silver Bullets move on to semi-final action with a win over the Lynden Americans. Lynden finished the season on top of Division 2 (with the Saints in hot pursuit) but did not have the game going their way this time. Perhaps it was because they were missing one of their "Triple Trouble Trio" up front, with Brent Ahrens absent, leaving Nathan Chase and Mark Hicks to do all the running up front, supported by Jonathan Kingma, Darryn Kleyn, Loren VanCorbach and Harvey Pelleboer in the middle. Perhaps it was mostly the long pass strategy that didn't work for them this time. Most certainly it was the brilliant play of Abbotsford goalkeeper Adam Cender, definately "man of the match", who put it a stellar game, stealing balls away from the Red and Blue at will.

It took a while for this game to get some hot action, but it came, and it kept going after that. Erik Estrada set up the first really good try for Lynden with a free kick across the Abby area to Matt Hicks and the ball went hard to keeper Cender who had to punch the ball up and off the crossbar for his first super-save. Andrew Selles went in for a go, running on to a breaking pass, but steady, dependable Laura Faber took the ball right off his feet and out of danger. Abbotsford tested again when Natalie deHaan got good head on a free kick that had the keeper bobbling, then grabbing the ball for another save. Later action had both Stan deHaan and Andrew Selles going hungrily at a loose ball in the Lynden area but neither could get enough meat on it to do the deed. Chase and Hicks put some pressure on the Abby goal, but not with the shots they would have wanted. Rob Beukema gave Silver one more good chance when he cranked a ball through the Lynden area and Stan deHaan cranked it right back, but hit the side of the goal.

Second half scoring was almost opened by Lynden with Erik Estrada carrying the ball, Melanie Beukema refusing to give him any space, but he finally got a shot on keeper Marty VanDriel. The shot got past the keeper, but Mike Broersma alertly cleared that ball off the line and away. Finally Stan deHaan, top scorer for Abby broke the deadlock when a ball rolled into perfect position for his patented left-foot shot and it was too hot for VanDriel. Abby got several more chances as it looked like Lynden was pressing up, giving their opponents more opportunities, none successful. Nathan Chase, top scorer for Lynden had a great chance to score when he broke in but Cender came out with reckless abandon, flung his body at Chase's feet and won the ball. Lynden's bad job of clearing the ball out of their area gave Graham Thompson a chance to shoot for goal, and his hard bullet went right in for Silver's second goal. Shortly after that, the referee settled the game down with yellow cards to a player on each team on different plays, as both teams were pushing hard. Lynden managed to pepper Cender with several good efforts, but the red-hot keeper stole goals away from Estrada and Jon Kingma, even one shot through a very crowded area that he somehow saw and smothered. Nathan Chase finally broke the shutout at the 82 minute mark, getting his team back in the game, and they worked hard to tie it up, but most of their efforts were from out too far as Abbotsford stymied their play making. Chase had one more charge up the wing and he slashed a shot from a sharp angle (see photo), the keeper got a hand on it and deflected it back in to the middle but no one else could connect and no goal to be had. Stan deHaan galloped back to the Lynden end of the field and got a low shot on keeper VanDriel, but he copied his couterpart in the other goal and came up with a brave, diving save to keep his team close. Finally Matt Hick's late game header was grabbed by Cender, ending the match at 2-1 Abbotsford. Exciting match, right to the end but someone has to win, and this was Abbotsford's game.

EPIC UPSET BY CLOVERDALE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 08:51:03 EST

This title was suggested by Cloverdale players and spectators, and that's just what it was, as they beat FC International in playoff action. Cloverdale dug deep and played as a team, taking a 3-2 victory over Inter. Dan Woelders lamented that his Inter squad were missing a couple of key backliners, but gave Cloverdale full marks for their win.

International opened the scoring at the 14 minute mark when Dan Woelders sprung a dashing Mark Peters, who collected the pass, turned a Cloverdale defender inside-out and slashed a sharp angled pass in to Bruce Mans who scored from in close. Mans added a second goal when he collected a long lob, took advantage of a Cloverdale defensive breakdown and scored again. Kyle Mosterd tried a shot on Werner Engeler of FC but the keeper saw it all the way and made the grab. Mark Peters cruised in on Josh VanderPloeg in the Clover-goal and loaded up a shot but that was blocked well by Matt Wendt. On the other end again, Justin VanderPloeg was robbed of a potentially dangerous ball by wily Will Folstad. In the dying minutes of the first half, Eric Atsma collected a ball inside a cluttered 18yard area, spun and shot but no problem for Josh VdPl. The score was 2-0 for FC International at the break, but Cloverdale did not look out of place.

International tried to score early in the second half when Matt Thiessen fed a soft pass to Bruce Mans, but keeper-Josh said "uh-uh, my ball" and no goal resulted. But Cloverdale got their first goal when Julian VanDyke punted a long ball for Justin VanderPloeg to run on to and drive past Engeler. Dave VandeBurgt had two chances for Cloverdale, one that he blasted into the next field, but the second one was just off the mark. Mark Peters tip-toed along the Cloverdale 18 yard line but his bullet bounced off Blue bodies. Julian VanDyke responded with a Cloverdale try when he spun away from an FC defender but his shot was just off the mark. But VanDyke did not miss on his next try when he lifted a shot from some 30 yards out and Engeler watched it float over his head and into the far corner, for a tie game. After that, Dave VdBurgt, called up from the reserves, but effective in the game tonight, saw a breaking Paul Gaborlik and dealt him a pass but Gaborlik's lunging shot went wide. Dan Woelders came in on an Inter rush but became a Clover sandwich and no shot was possible. International was frustrated by several offside calls as Cloverdale marked their big guns closely and they had little room to work their magic. Mark Peters did manage to get loose enough for a shot but struck it just wide. Jeff Bergen drove another shot in for Inter but VdPloeg saw it and handled it. Will Folstad was awarded a yellow card when he chased down a dashing Paul Gaborlik and knocked him head over heels in the race for the ball. Play got rougher as tension mounted. With about 10 minutes left, Cloverdale's Gaborlik sent a beauty corner kick into the Inter area, and the ball went in off Julian VanDyke's body, followed by an Inter body, for an own goal and a 3-2 lead. international almost got that back when Mark Peters lifted a pass to Dan Woelders which scuffed of his head; keeper-Josh juggled it, and (Cloverdale spectators holding their breath) came down with it right outside the goal line. Inter had two more chances to close out the game, but none that got them back even with Cloverdale and it was victory for Cloverdale.

George Gunnink and Bryan Grim, Cloverdale players of the "veteran" variety grinned after the game, "It sure is nice to have those young guys flying around up the field!" Dan Woelders sighed, "We lost games twice to Division 2 teams, both of them playing to beat us, and they did. Oh well, there's always next year." See you then FC International! Next round, Cloverdale meets Real Pacific.

REAL PACIFIC KNOCKS OUT VALLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 08:40:39 EST

Valley United came off a huge win over Oranje last Saturday but could not get the same result against Real Pacific, and have been eliminated from the fvcsl playoffs. Valley certainly played some of their finest soccer of the year in these matches and showed that they are capable of playing side by side with some of the top teams, even beating powerhouse FC International earlier in the season. Real Pacific only lost two games this season, both to Inter and are in good shape, going on to the next round.

Pacific opened the scoring in the first 10-minute block when they were awarded a free kick in the Valley end. Jason Togeretz squared the ball over to Jeremy Meyer instead of shooting, and Meyer's shot, though stopped by Valley keeper Jason Breukelman wasn't smothered and Tyler Hoeksema was there to tuck the ball under the keeper and into the goal. Valley evened that up when Maurice VanderLinde got a pop-over pass that sprung him into the RP end, and he did a pop-over shot to get the ball above keeper Jayden Kuik and in. Pacific took the lead again, about ten minutes later when Craig Kobes raced up the sideline to win a ball off the end line and passed in to Hoeksema who was in the perfect place, in the keeper's face to direct that pass in. Next rush, right off the kickoff, Valley cut that lead again with Matt Schouten doing the deed, deftly dribbling through a throng of RP players who allowed him to shoot high to the corner. The teams were tied at the break.

The second half started with a lot of tight, close checking, neither team wanting to give the other team any sniffs at the goal. Pacific used the back pass to their keeper often during the game, and used it well, getting opportunities to regroup. But Real Pacific were too much for Valley to contain, and a long, high cross from Tyler Hoeksema went to Jason Togeretz who headed the ball away from the keeper and high into the net. Sean Bredenhof threatened to add to RP's tally when he dipsy-doodled through the Valleyites, pulled the ball back and then pumped a shot off the crossbar. The next couple of minutes saw Yellow cards given to Tylers - Hoeksema of Pacific and Voorhorst of Valley on separate plays. Mark Bysterveld got the last goal for Pacific when he collected in a pass, put a deke on the challenging keeper and shot around him for RP's goal #4. Valley had late game chances without reward, notably one on a free kick that deflected wide off a Pacific player, a Calvin VdLinde shot that went wide and a shot that got past Kuik but rolled just wide.

Well done to Valley for their playoff prowess, and will the Real Pacific tide keep surging?

ORANJE OUSTED BY VALLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 08:03:55 EST

(photo, Justin Meyer)

Valley admits that they don't always bring their A-game to the pitch, but they sure did tonight, toppling Oranje 3/2 on what could be considered to be an upset. "Wow, we don't always play this way, but the win sure feels good!" Oranje had a 2/0 lead but let it slip away, in no small part due to the no-quit attitude of Valley. Both teams had reserve keepers in goal, Max VanLaar for Valley and Tom Sikma for Oranje, but both put in solid efforts for their side.

Mark Sikma opened the scoring for Oranje in the first 10-minute shift when he cannonballed a back pass from the top of the circle into the back of the goal. Oranje added to their lead when Shauna Stam fed a ball to Tom VanderHorst on her left and TomV drove a low shot to the far side of the Valley goal. Valley played hungry and Maurice VanderLinde struck a hard shot on Tom Sikma and had his next try blocked by Tyler VanVliet. Matt Schouten, also putting in a strong game for Valley had a line drive rebound off keeper Sikma with Shelley Sikma clearing that ball out of play. But the subsequent corner kick was well struck and found Jordan Fennema in a crowded Oranje area and he could head the ball in for Valley's opening goal. Tom VdHorst had the next try for Oranje when Mark Sikma squared the ball to him, but his one-timer scooted through the box and wide. And Ron (I'll never get a chance like that again) Smouter, in the middle, at 10 yards, sent his shot over the bar. Tim Schouten struck a super 25 yard free kick for Valley in the dying minutes of the first half when he curled the ball high around the Oranje wall and keeper Tom had to tip the ball out at the corner. So, 2/1 at the break.

Valley's strategy of trying to break out their fleet-of-foot forwards worked for them early in the second half when Ruben Timmerman got loose behind the Oranje back line; the keeper came out to challenge and Timmerman could chip the ball over keeper-Tom and in. Mo VdLinde tried to add to Valley's tally again after that but had his 30-yarder grabbed by Sikma and another shot go over the bar. Oranje dug deep to handle Valley but their efforts were not rewarded with goals. Rick VanderHorst sent a hard shot in that went off the crossbar and off the football uprights, and brother Tom had a (goal written all over it) shot from the side of the 18yard box squib off the (friend of Max) crossbar as well. Jordan Fennema got the game winning goal, and his second of the game when he ran onto a rolling ball that keeper-Tom came charging out to challenge for, but that left a yawning goal mouth for Fennema to shoot at and find. Matt Shouten had a late minute shot that Sikma dove to parry wide. Oranje could not break through the Valley team in the latter part of the game as Valley clogged up their 18-yard area, not allowing Oranje to get shots on goal, though they came with intensity. Oranje had nowhere to go with their shots, Valley protecting their lead well.

Good game for Valley, good game for Oranje, but the team going on is Valley, and the team licking their wounds is Oranje. ON, ON, Valley!

CELTIC SHUTS OUT VITESSA

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 08:27:01 EST

Celtic moves on to the next round of the fvcsl playoffs with a solid 2/0 win over Vitessa. Both teams were missing some key players, especially Vitessa who could have used their leading scorer tonight and couldn't generate too many quality chances, though not from lack of effort.

Celtic had many chances and many tries in the first half, but they all went over, or wide, or way over or way wide, compliments of Anthony Togeretz, John VanSeters, Keith Wildeboer, Glenn Visscher and company. It wasn't till the 41 minute mark that Celtic got a shot that was actually under the bar and between the posts. Steve VanDelft collected a ball out of a crowded Vitessa area, passed it back to Stuart VanderHorst and his line drive went straight in. Vitessa almost tied the game just before the half time whistle when Brent Marriot shot from the circle and keeper Russ Toet tipped the ball up and off the corner of the bar and the post to keep it out.

Vitessa could not even the score in the second half, though an early header from Henk Colijn was dangerous, but went wide. John VanSeters threatened to score for Celtic when he readied a shot inside the Vitessa 18, but Kevin VanderBoom took the ball and cleared it out of danger, something he did several times in the game. But VanSeters got a second try at the 64 minute mark when he got the ball on the same spot, and this time he pumped it in. After that it was Celtic's Tim VanderHoek - wide, Stu VanderHorst - keeper Tim Erickson dropped to get his hand on the low shot, Keith Wildeboer - header wide. Then it was Vitessa's Brent Marriot hustling to keep a sideline ball in, crossing it to Gary Hovius, but his header went wide. And teammate Ben VandeBurgt rolling a low shot just wide of keeper Toet and his trusty goal post. Those would be the only good scoring chances that Vitessa got in the second half as Celtic protected their lead.

Vitessa looks forward to next year, hoping to bring a core of players that will only improve with the experience of playing together, noting that Celtic brings that team cohesiveness to the pitch every game. Celtic hopes to build on this victory and keep their playoff run going.

McLeod Park

Bored Assistant — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 08:41:31 EST

Please be advised that the track will be closed from July 16, 2009 to August 31, 2009 for the resurfacing.

There will be fencing up around the track on both sides and the only way you can access the track is via one of the breezeways under the grandstand seating at the stadium. While using the oval field if it happens that one of the playing balls gets kicked or thrown into the construction area **DO NOT RETRIEVE IT** Contact Kelly McGivern at 7350 and advise her of this and she will contact the contractor and we will get the piece of equipment back to you.

Kelly McGivern
Support Clerk
Parks Operations
Recreation, Culture and Parks
Township of Langley
Ph: 604-532-7350
Fax: 604-532-7337

Langley FC Topples Valley

Morris Klos — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:18:44 EST

WILLOUGHBY - Langley FC put together a strong passing game with a strong back line led by Mike Timmerman, and a relentless front line assault by led by Ivan Scheper and Jeff Vandergaag, to earn a 5-2 victory last night. Valley came back from a one goal deficit but even led by a strong showing from Ruben Timmerman and Matt Schouten, they could not keep Langley FC from pulling away in the second half.

The game winning goal was was scored by Jeff Vandergaag at the 3-2 mark, and Ivan's goal (pictured above) put the game out of reach for Valley. Both teams have several exceptional players and fairly equal strength overall, and both spectators and officials commented that the game was exciting and a great show - well worth coming out for a couple of hours mid-week!

PLAYOFF GAME WRITERS WANTED!!

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:56:02 EST

Please try to have someone write up playoff games that your team is involved in. For instance, this reporter is out of town and cannot write up the Saints/Lynden game or the Langley FC/Cloverdale match, but it would be nice if someone would report on those exciting games, don't ya think??

VALLEY "NOT READY TO PLAY"

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 08:01:47 EST

Those were the words spoken by the Valley tailgate gathering after their 5-0 loss to Celtic: "I guess we weren't ready to play". This from a team that beat FC International 2-1 last month: they must have been ready that game!

The game was barely started when Celtic had their first quality chance: Burke VanderHorst running along the top of the Valley circle with a lane opening, but his shot went just wide. Celtic did score some minutes later on what looked to be a set play when Rob VanSeters dealt a free kick from just inside the Valley half to Anthony Togeretz who was just outside the corner of the six yard area. He passed to Chris Vanderhorst, waiting right in front of the keeper and he headed the ball in for his 3rd goal in 2 games. At the 40 minute mark, Keith Wildeboer was at the top of the Valley box, deked out the dark greens and left-footed a shot past keeper Geoff VanLaar. Valley had some rushes in the first half, but none that really tested Russ Toet's keeper abilities.

Celtic had an early chance to open the second half when Glenn Visscher got a good shot on goal but it was kept out with the combined effort of Geoff VanLaar and cousin Dorothy. The resulting corner kick was blown down when Daryl VanDelft was taken down in the Valley box. He took the resulting penalty kick and smoothly struck the ball into the goal for Celtic's 3rd goal. Matt Schouten tried to ignite his Valleyites when he pressured in the Celtic end but he was covered by a Celtic blanket and couldn't get a good shot away. Maurice VanderLinde tried with a header off a corner kick, but no success either when the ball went wide. Mo tried a combo with Kent Ostermeier when Celtic allowed them to squeeze in but the close-in shot went over the bar. Anthony Togeretz got Celtic's 4th goal of the game when a Chris VanderHorst through ball bounced to A-Tog in the middle of the box, and he found the back of the net. Celtic's scoring was capped by Burke VanderHorst when he broke in on a wide, loose ball and pumped a low shot under the Valley keeper for Celtic goal #5. Matt Schouten had two late shots on Toet, one calling for a good save, and the other going wide. And Kent-O had Toet bouncing as much as the ball was, when his shot deflected, Toet needing to scramble first one way, then the other but the ball stayed out.

Valley has one more game to play, a makeup game against Langley FC, a game early in the season which was called due to darkness. Both teams will want to head into the playoffs with a win fresh under their belts. Celtic has 2 wins in a row, and are ready to 'rock-em, sock-em!

ORANJE FINISHES WITH A WIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 08:51:33 EST

Oranje finished the regular season with a 5-1 win over Crossway, while Aldergrove trounced Bethel 9-0 on the other Willoughby field. Langley FC, in the early game, had to forfeit to Vitessa as they didn't have enough players to field a team, and the teams played a friendly instead. Crossway hopes to finish the season with a win next Tuesday in a make-up game against Abbotsford.

Players on both teams had no reason to complain about playing time, (unless it was too much time) as Oranje fielded only 11 players, while Crossway had 12. Both teams played an energetic game, not using lack of players for an excuse to slow down. Oranje dominated in the first half, and would do most of their scoring in that half. Their first goal came off a free kick which Phil Sikma lifted to his teammates waiting in the Crossway area, but a red shirted player tried to clear the ball out, heading it into Crossway's goal instead, for an own goal. Ben Evans tried to equalize when he intercepted an Oranje pass but his drive careened off Tyler VanVliet, just outside the Oranje 18. On the other end, Morris Klos did his Crossway keeper a favour when he blocked a Rick VanderHorst shot. Mark Sikma got Oranje's second marker when he alertly trapped a Crossway clearance and rifled it straight back at Driscoll and in - no chance for the keeper. Oranje's third goal was the result of a nifty pass from Rod VanSpronsen, running wide, to Rick VanderHorst who one-timed his shot off the crossbar. Leroy vanSpronsen was waiting for just such a juicy rebound, and drove it right back on goal and in. Oranje rounded out the first half scoring when Paul Sikma drifted a left-footer from 35 yards, and it soared high, just under the crossbar and in. A convincing 4-0 score at the break.

Crossway generated more chances in the second half, starting early with Jared Mayer shooting just over, and having a later shot redirected away from the Oranje goal by keeper Ryan Sikma. Red was finally rewarded for their effort when Mike Carter squeezed a shot between the post and Sikma to spoil the shutout. Both keepers came up with good saves for their teams after that. Driscoll on Paul Sikma when he headed a pass from his wife Shelley, but Driscoll made the good grab. Driscoll had help too, when Tom Sikma crossed a ball past the sprawling keeper but Trevor Bodill cleared the ball out of the open goal mouth. On the other end, Sikma had to be sharp when Morris Klos got a good feed but Sikma got a quick hand on the shot to keep it out. Claire Wirtz and Julie Tubbs combined on a Red rush but Sikma stopped their effort as well. Mark Sikma tested Driscoll twice on hard drives but the keeper pushed both shots wide. Rick VdHorst had numerous shots around or at the Red goal, but only one that Driscoll had to save. Morris Klos and Mike Carter each had shots on Oranje that Sikma did have to save. Oranje rounded out their scoring just before time ran out when Leroy VanSpronsen's cross found Tom Sikma lurking at the near post and Tom headed it in for goal #5 for Oranje.

Both teams had solid team efforts, but Oranje takes home a resounding win.

CELTIC DEALT TOUGH LOSS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 08:38:59 EST

photo, courtesy Justin (Bad-Knee) Meyer. This photo is worthy of MVP for the year. That is "Most Valuable Photo"!

Celtic were looking to redeem themselves after their recent 2-0 loss to Real Pacific, but the horizontal stripes were defeated by the vertical stripes again, this time by a 1-0 score.

Real Pacific admitted that Celtic played a stronger first half, but there were no spectacular chances from either team in the first 45 minutes. Celtic spread the ball through their whole team, handling RP well. Steve VanDelft punted a ball over the Pacific bar and Anthony Togeretz centered a long ball square to Glenn Visscher but GeeVish nodded the ball to keeper Kuik and no goals for Celtic. Craig Kobes of the Red&Whites chased a bouncing ball along the outside but could only get a roller onto a kneeling Green&White keeper Russ Toet and no goal for RP. Tyler Hoeksema tried to change that with a dangerous ball across the box but Joni Versluis had good position on Mark Bysterveld and blocked the pass away. Just before the half, a Rob VanSeters clearance bounced back off Craig Kobes but the riccochet went wide of the Celtic goal and the teams were deadlocked at nil.

Both teams generated more chances in the second half, and Real Pacific did that early, when Jeremy Meyer took a long low free kick that deflected off a Celtic player, just enough to squirt by Toet and the post. 'Own goal', declared the ref as the ball changed direction enough on the way in. Kobes tried to add to that with a shot from the circle that Toet deftly pushed wide. And a header by Stu VanderHorst inside the RP18 was caught by Kuik. Jason Togeretz of RP ripped a shot at the Celtic goal that ended up in the next park and Tyler Hoeksema slashed a ball that found its way through a multicoloured crowd with Toet seeing and saving. Celtic pushed hard and their sustained pressure resulted in Rob VanSeters laying a juicy pass into the 6-yard box. Tim VanderHoek slid to connect but the ball skimmed over his foot and out. RP played a very unselfish game tonight, but along with other Celtic mates, Daryl VanDelft played a strong game on the Celtic defence, his headers numbering in the double figures, to stymie RP's efforts. Both keepers played great as well, challenging for loose balls, and being in good position to take scoring chances away. Kuik had help with that though from Glenn Visscher, when Keith Wildeboer lined up and cranked a hard shot that pounded off fellow Celt, Visscher's body to stay out. And Kuik got help from April Hendricks as she got her head on a Stu VanderHorst cross, taking the pass away from a waiting John VanSeters. Toet made a great grab off a rising shot from JayTog to keep his team in the game. The game saving goal though, came when Glenn Visscher was sprung loose by Burke VanderHorst and Jayden Kuik had to be good to read the shot, get in position and punch the shot wide.

Both teams needed team efforts in this tough battle. Real Pacific ended up being rewarded with a win, a result that both teams deserved.

REAL PACIFIC PADS THEIR LEAD

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 08:34:13 EST

Real Pacific increased their lead atop Division1 with a 2-0 win over Celtic, aided by Abbotsford who tied FC International 1-1. Real Pacific has only been beaten twice this season, both times by FC Inter, and Celtic would have liked to add their name to that win column, but they will have to wait till July 6th when they meet RP again and hope to get revenge.

This game took a while to get spirited, but it did get that, with lots of physical stuff (sometimes too much) from both sides. Though there were some attacks and shots from both teams in the first half, the opening goal of the game did not come till the 32 minute mark. RP's Jeremy Meyer passed a ball to the far corner for Mark Bysterveld to run on to. Mark got a shot on Celtic keeper John VanSeters who blocked the shot out, but Craig Kobes was waiting for the loose ball and attacked the near post and VanSeters, clipping the ball over the goal line. Stu VanderHorst struck a free kick for Celtic that had potential to tie the game up but the shot was kept wide of the mark by Pacific (see photo). Stu V had a heads-up chance just before half time when he caught keeper Jayden Kuik napping way off his line, and he drove a 45yarder that Kuik had to hustle back for but the ball drifted just wide.

Some serious rainfall started just before half time, and that affected the quality of play during the second half as players had to adjust to the slippery turf. An early Real corner kick was headed just wide by Peter VanBrederode, and moments later a tic-tac-toe play between Anthony Togeretz and Glenn Visscher went off the football upright, plays that got both teams back in the game. And a Tyler Hoeksema/Chris VanderHorst shoulder to shoulder rush towards the Celtic area resulted in a RP corner kick but no goal. Mark Bysterveld retrieved a ball deep in the Celtic corner and passed it to Craig Kobes but he punted the ball over, for still no goal. RP set up their second goal of the game with a patented RP play when Jeremy Meyer saw a breaking Craig Kobes running wide. Meyer fed Kobes the ball who saw Tyler Hoeksema breaking in as well (there's never just one RP player breaking in) and Kobes gave the pass to Hoeksema who scored from in close. Meyer tried to get his own goal when he came hard into the side of the 18yard area, but keeper VanSeters came out just as hard to steal the ball away with a sliding grab. Celtic worked hard and dug deep to try to break the shutout, but it was not to be, and the game would end 2-0 Real Pacific. Quite an even game really, but Pacific scored on two good chances, while Celtic had trouble getting that quality finish.

ALDERGROVE BACK WITH A WIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 08:01:55 EST

Aldergrove probably thought, "well, if that know-it-all reporter knows anything, then we're due for a win again", so they did that, getting a 2-1 win over Oranje. Aldergrove had Jordan Langelaar moved up from the reserve squad, and he gave them spark up front, as well as creating options and space for Kevin Hendricks what with Oranje needing to mark Langelaar.

Aldergrove had test shots on Ryan Sikma in the first couple of shifts, one where Colin DeWit picked his way through Oranje for a soft shot and Matt VanderGaag getting a long floater in for Sikma to grab. Oranje followed that with a shot that was anything but soft or floating as Rick VanderHorst rifled a 35 yard bullet that zoomed into the top corner - no chance for Brian Meerstra. "That's a Shot!!" exclaimed a spectator! Kevin Hendricks had a couple of even-up chances, one stopped by the head of Sue Dehaas before Tyler VanderGaag got Aldergrove on the scoresheet when he skidded a shot up off an Oranje foot. The ball popped up to Sikma, who thought he had the ball but didn't have enough touch on it to keep it out. Sikma followed that up with a good save off a Hendricks shot that he parried wide and away. Justin Meyer had a chance when he skinned an Aldergrove defender: Meerstra came out to challenge and stopped the first shot and crawled to gather in the followup shot. Jordan Langelaar had a chance on the other end but was hampered and prevented by Mark Penninga, who turned his ankle on the play and had to leave the game. Matt VanderGaag drove an Alder-shot shot wide before Oranje's Meyer had another tough try on Meerstra with the shot deflecting back off the keeper. Steve Koning cracked the ball back but sent it over the bar. One last first-half try for Oranje came off a corner kick: Meerstra ("no respect for his own body", muttered the sidelined Tom VdHorst) dashed out and brazenly threw himself at the feet of Rod VanSpronsen who was settting up a big shot and took the ball away. Tied at the 1's at the break.

The second half had an early shot from Jordan Langelaar go straight to a Sikma in the middle of the goal mouth. At the other end, Rick VdHorst took a shot from the top corner of the 18 box that Meerstra had to push over the bar. Off the following corner kick, Rod vanSpronsen snapped the ball wide of the near post. Steve Koning of Oranje drifted a 25 yard riser for Meerstra to catch, but followed that up with a yellow carded offence for a tackle on an Aldergrove player. Koning also had a goal negated when the ref called him for pushing on a shoulder to shoulder grapple with an Aldergrove player. Justin Meyer tried to put Oranje ahead with a twisty-turney shot that went wide, but he hurt his knee in the process and had to leave the game. With Oranje now reduced to only one spare, many players started to run out of steam. They could no longer win the battles for the 50/50 balls and Aldergrove took advantage. Edwin Palsma won one of those balls in the Oranje end and got it back to Matt VdGaag but his crank went off the bottom of the post and stayed out. Kevin Hendricks took advantage of another scrambly moment in the Oranje area when he poked a loose ball into the goal for a 2-1 score. The lead held and Aldergrove are back in the win column, while Oranje has 2 losses in a row, something they haven't had since May 9th. They'll need a healthy lineup to get back on the winning track. Aldergrove may be starting to gel at the right time in the season. Time will tell.

REAL PACIFIC DRAW ORANJE BLOOD

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:56:55 EST

(photo by Justin (Toothless-wonder) Meyer)

It was the wrong game for Oranje to be stuck with a small bench, having players on holidays, at graduations and nursing a nasty ear injury (Tom VdHorst) and extracted wisdom teeth (Justin Meyer). Not enough fresh Oranje legs to keep up to those RP young legs.

Real Pacific came off the opening kickoff with a chance that Brittani Heetebry had a chance on inside the 6, but she fanned on the spinning ball and it was cleared away. Mark Bysterveld had to fly to catch up to a Real clearance but his shot went off the football uprights. Oranje had equally as many chances as Real in the first half, but Rod VanSpronsen and brother Leroy had shots that went over or wide, while Rick VanderHorst's shot was deflected wide by a diving Jayden Kuik. At the 30 minute mark, Tyler Hoeksema made a heads-up play when he had a good look, saw Craig Kobes in position for a pass, sent it right to him, and Kobes put the ball between Ryan Sikma and the near post. Pacific plays a wide field game, always sending in the long cross to an open player on the far side. Yet, Oranje played them evenly in the first half, and started the second half with confidence.

RP pushed hard from the get-go in the second half, and Craig Kobes tried to set up Hoeksema with a back pass. Tyler bazookaed a shot straight at Sue Dehaas, who took one for the team, blocking the shot with her body. A short while later, an RP cross came to keeper Ryan. He deflected the ball up, and it came down right to Dave Rolleman's head, who nodded it in for RP's second goal. Oranje tried to bounce back from that with up-field pressure, but when a Craig Kobes/Mark Bysterveld rush ended up with a MarkB goal to the far corner, it started to look like the beginning of the end for Oranje. They got shots at the goal, but not enough on the goal, but "RP closes the gap so quickly" lamented an Oranje player, not giving them time or space to set up the shot they really wanted . And generating their own chances with their quick transition game. Mark Sikma had one more crack at ruining the shutout when he got a shot through an oh-so-crowded RP area, but Kuik could snag that shot. A slow Oranje backpass to Ryan Sikma was stolen and exploited by Craig Kobes when he could rush the keeper, intercept and had Ryan beat and the open goal to fill, with his 2nd, and Real Pacific's 4th goal. Though Leroy VanSpronsen and Rick VanderHorst both had shots, they went wide, something that happened frequently during the match. JasonTogeretz had a spin and shoot drive go straight into a Sikma smother, and that would be about it. A lopsided victory for Real Pacific.

Oranje probably deserved a better fate than 4-0, but the best team won the match tonight. So ends their winning streak at 6 games, while Real Pacific got their 4th win in a row.

Lynden v. Real Pacific

Reuben Moes — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:50:21 EST

The game started off with Lynden applying pressure, with a Matt Hicks’ chip over the goalie, only to be stopped by a sprawling defenseman. That rush was followed by a hard shot by Ranelle Faber that was also blocked by the defense. Real Pacific answered the initial Lynden pressure with a couple of their own long shots, keeping Lynden’s keeper on his toes.

A very fast 2 on 1 for Nathan Chase and Matt Hicks was stymied by a faster Peter Vanb. The resulting corner kick was right into the box and headed just over the bar by a leaping Erik Estrada.

The first goal of the game came shortly after when a pass to Nathan Chase was headed through the Real defense for an Erik breakaway that he hit past the on-rushing keeper. 1 to nil Lynden.

20 minute lull.

About 20 minutes later came the next chance on a goal when Craig Kobes sent in a high cross to Shane Boes, whose header went just over the crossbar. Another rush from Real Pacific, who started to go on the offense, was slowed as a charging Marty VanDriel smothered the ball at the feet of Boes. And just as easily, the momentum switched again, with shots from Lynden, and a close call off the foot of John Kingma.

With the last sub of the first half off, Real Pacific turned it up a notch with big Jeremy Meyer hitting a bomb that exploded off the crossbar. A late corner kick by Real ended up bouncing to David Vdg., who put a short pass into the “Jeremy Meyer Zone“, who in turn unloaded another heavy shot, this time hitting the far post. Lynden survived the last five minute onslaught, with the help of Mr. Woodwork to keep them ahead in the game.

The 2^nd half began with Real, still excited from the last five minutes, flying out of the blocks. Lynden’s top scorer Chase is on the sideline nursing a right knee. Real comes up the field again, with some great passing, ending up with Craig Kobes sending in another long tester that Marty had to be careful with. Shortly after a long cross from Dave Rolleman gets controlled by Meyer, who turns, fires, but hits the post again! Craig attempted another long shot, this one curling hard, but Marty was there again, tipping it over the net. More hard work from Real earns them a free kick, which pinballs inside the eighteen yard box until cracked at the net by Peter Vanb.- just wide. Finally Real, with a long pass, a flicked-on header into the 18 yard box, and another header by a flying Kevin Woelders, puts the ball over the keeper and into the net to tie up the game.

Lynden answers the goal with a hard rush the other way, with Matt Hicks beating the charging keeper to a loose ball, and chipping it over him, only to have it bounce past the outside of the post. But for all the hard work, it only takes one mistake: a Lynden handball inside their own eighteen, which ended up in a penalty kick and a goal from Jason T. 2-1 for Real.

Lynden, instead of admitting defeat, is re-energized knowing they must score. A hurting Chase was subbed back in, and nearly scored off a loose ball from a corner kick, but was stopped by a defenseman inside the 6 yard box. Real answered with a Woelders shot that went high. Craig also sends a bullet from the left side, that gets stuck in the side netting. Real continues to push Lynden back with more shots and pressure.

Last subs are called, and it looks like Lynden has had it. But then the tide turns again. A cross from Andrew a.k.a. “Howie” ends up going to Erik, who turns from a Real defenceman and gets taken down inside the 18 yard box. A penalty shot is awarded. Howie is given the green light to tie it from the dot. He delivers a hard low shot to the right side of the net, but a completely horizontal Jayden Kuik gets both hands on it and makes an amazing save to win the game.

The exciting and fast game, well reffed by M. Klos, ends in a 2-1 win for Real.

ALDERGROVE TAKES A TOUGH LOSS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:06:40 EST

Aldergrove has had trouble with consistency of late, having a run of Win/Tie/Win/Loss/Win/Loss in the month of June, with their recent 4-1 loss to Celtic. The race for Division 1 supremacy is still between FC International and Real Pacific, but the next 4 teams are neck and neck, and interlocking games take on huge proportions. Celtic played this way, and gave Aldergrove almost no room to set up and score, while bagging 4 themselves.

The first shifts of the match were tight as both teams tested the other, with even chances on the net, no goals to be had. But Celtic's Chris VanderHorst found the opening they needed when he pushed the ball up the wing, Tim VanderHoek charged up with it, and made the perfect cross in to Burke VanderHorst and John VanSeters, on the doorstep of Brian Meerstra. VanSeter's ball to finish and Meerstra had no chance to keep it out. Daryl VanDelft made a Celtic run and long lob from the sideline but the ball went through the Alder-area and out the other side. Anthony Togeretz tried the same run and shot from the same spot, but his low drive did the same as Daryl's unsuccessful lob. Mark Meerstra, playing in only his 4th game of the season, added some hop-skip-and-jump to the Aldergrove lineup, but his chase down of a bouncing ball was one that Russ Toet could control and cradle. Towards the end of the first half, Glenn Visscher broke up an Aldergrove attack, countered on his own but his shot went to Meerstra. Matt VanderGaag drew his team even with Celtic when he and Russ Toet challenged for a loose ball. It seemed that Toet had won the race, but VdGaag put it over him and into the open goal. Celtic came right back at them off the following kickoff when Togeretz made a great run up the wing, with Chris VanderHorst open for a pass, but A-Tog had a clear lane to shoot and he did, and he scored, for a 2-1 score at the break.

Celtic kept pressure on Aldergrove in the second half, and forced them to move the ball before they were ready, time and again. Nathan Moes drifted a long early shot over the Celtic bar, and Keith Wildeboer countered with a pass that grazed off the head of Togeretz to Meerstra. Celtic had a free kick a while later, that they took before Aldergrove was ready. No goal resulted from that shot, but the following interplay left a ball open for Rob VanSeters to crank a 30-yard blast that caught Meerstra and his team flat-footed as the ball made it through and in the unguarded corner. Minutes later, Tyler VanderGaag took a potential goal away from Togeretz when he intercepted his line drive. Yet, A-tog would find the back of the goal again, when a corner ball came in along the ground; Aldergrove did not get a chance to clear it before Togeretz cranked it in.

A solid, team win for Celtic, and a confidence builder. Aldergrove faces Oranje next, another of those big Division 1 games.

VITESSA BOW TO CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:09:08 EST

This (absent) reporter's notebook was thrust into the hands of spectator Julia VanLaar with the plea, "take lots of notes so this game story can still make it on the website". This, Julia did, and what follows is a summary of her observations and recap. THANKS JULIA - YOU'RE HIRED!

Celtic opened the scoring in the first 10 minute block when Burke VanderHorst got his team's first goal of the game, and his first goal of the season. This caused his wife MaryAnne to exclaim, "He finally did something good for the Celtic, finally earning his salary!" Ben VandeBurgt tested Celtic's keeper Russ Toet with a shot on net from a free kick but it went straight to Toet. Celtic's second goal game off a pass from Anthony Togeretz to Stuart VanderHorst who tipped the ball on to Chris VanderHorst, and he put the ball in the net. Gary Hovius had a Vitessa shot go wide but that was followed up more successfully a while later when Ben VandeBurgt scored off a Vitessa corner kick rebound to make the score 2-1. Both teams had several more chances while completing the first half, but there were some slip-sliding issues as the pitch was wet from a recent shower.

The second half took a while to get some excitement going, causing rookie reporter Julia to note that "Krista Scheper has cool red cleats, Stu's shorts do not match his jersey very well and a Vitessa player has red socks that clash with his burgundy jersey". Tempo and intensity picked up in the second-sub block, a little too much so after a Vitessa shot that went over the goal. Russ Toet collided with Marcus VanNoort and was given a yellow card for his actions, and a penalty kick awarded to Vitessa. No goal was scored off the PK,with the ball ringing of the post instead. The ensuing Celtic trash talk resulted in referee Mike Wagner giving them a stern talking to about their play, both physical and verbal. Play settled down again and after Burke VanderHorst's shot on goal just missed, John VanSeters scored a nice goal. "He tipped it just around the keeper - definitely not a bullet of a shot, pretty slow" giving Celtic a 3-1 lead. Vitessa pushed on though, and Marcus VanNoort drew them back to within one when his shot just slipped through the fingers of Toet. John VanSeters reestablished the 2-goal spread shortly after that when he scored again to make the score 4-2. Gary Hovius headed in on a Vitessa breakaway but his shot went straight to Toet, protecting the lead. Final score: hard working game, with Celtic winning 4-2.

Last notes submitted: "Julia VanLaar did NOT write this. The writer remains ANONYMOUS! (please....)" Oops, too late Julia. Thanks though, and keep up the good work. (GV)

PACIFIC WAVE CONTINUES

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:53:58 EST

(photo courtesy of Justin "Shutterbug" Meyer)

Real Pacific kept their winning streak going when they won their matchup against Aldergrove at McLeod field, the Red/White Stripes beating the Blue/White Stripes for the second time this season. Spectators found the game to be fairly physical as both teams were in it to win, but referee Darryn Kleyn let them play for the most part, though one penalty kick was awarded and one yellow card given out.

Aldergrove found themselves in a hole before the game was 25 minutes old, when RP scored twice. The first goal came when Aldergrove missed a chance to clear a ball out of their area, giving Jeremy Meyer a chance to score instead, and this he did. Pacific's second goal was generated from a corner kick; big scramble in front of the goal, many bodies, lots of different coloured stripes, but Peter VanBrederode managed to squeeze the ball through all those bodies and in. Jayden Kuik was called upon to make a couple of good saves, one of the foot of Edwin Palsma inside the 18, and Kuik made the brave and successful challenge. Glen Hamelin tested Kuik as well, but the keeper dove to push the ball wide. Aldergrove was awarded a penalty kick after a bump or two inside the RP 18, and Colin deWit had Kuik guess the wrong way, and scored. Kevin Hendricks treated the fans to some gymnastics when he tried to get to a backline ball that Kuik was scrambling for as well, and Hendricks did a handspring over the keeper to avoid a nasty collision. Nice move, Kev! Aubrey vanderGaag got a chance close in but his shot deflected off the prone keeper, and stayed out, leaving the score 2-1 at the break.

Aldergrove tried to dig themselves out of the aforementioned hole with energetic play and ball movement and Nathan Moes jumped up regularly from his defensive position to try to help generate scoring chances. Michelle deHaas moved a ball crisply up the sideline for Matt VanderGaag, but his shot just missed the mark. Tyler Hoeksema of the Red/White Stripes hustled up his wing, settled a bouncing ball and shot straight at keeper Brian Meerstra. But Aldergrove had another clearance problem with lots of attackers and defenders. Mark Bysterveld took advantage of the confusion and banged in RP's third goal. April Hendricks added her own threat when she came in under a floater but Meerstra grabbed that out of the air. (Tom VanderHorst took the rest of the notes - thanks Tom). Bysterveld tried to add to his team's tally, once set up by Sean Bredenhof, but Meerstra made three successive saves, one in the brilliant column. Kevin Hendricks could not convert on a close volley, the same for Meyer who would like his close-in-over-the-bar-challenged-by-Meerstra shot back. Meerstra did the same when Hoeksema came in on another long, speedy rush but Brian wouldn't allow a good shot.

Final score, Real Pacific 3, Aldergrove 1. This result boosts Pacific ahead of FC International and gives them sole possession of first place in their division. Aldergrove and Oranje are neck-and-neck.

ANOTHER LOSS FOR LANGLEY FC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 08:42:56 EST

"We're not getting frustrated with each other, and that's a good thing. But we are getting frustrated with the number of losses this year', sighed Dave Doornbos. Once a league powerhouse, Langley FC is struggling to regain that form,but it is eluding them. Oranje players commented that the Yellow side was playing a much stronger, more unified game then when they met back in May, a 4-0 win for Oranje. But the outcome was still an Oranje victory, this time with a 3-1 score.

Langley has had to use Jeff VanderGaag in the back line, to replace Wes Driegen, out with a knee injury, and while Jeff plays a stalward defence, they could use a Jeffie-clone up front where they need his scoring touch as well. The Scheper trio of Ron, Ivan and Derek tried to generate offence and chances, and they did, but none that made it over the goal line. Justin Meyer had chances to add to his growing goal total, but didn't manage that tonight, but he did roll a ball through the Langley crease that AnneMarie VanderGriendt was very close to nudging in. Tom VanderHorst followed that up when he ripped a Leroy VanSpronsen centering pass just barely wide. After Steve Koning gained a corner kick at the 24 minute mark, Phil Sikma struck the ball into an area filled with lots of heads, with Mark Sikma power-heading it in, for Oranje goal #1. Jeff vdGaag and John Zietsma traded timely defensive clearances and Derek Scheper came close to equalizing but just couldn't quite connect on a ball in close, so still no goal for Yellow. Rod VanSpronsen crossed a ball in to a calling Rick VanderHorst, and Rick smoked a screamer that Driegen parried just wide and kept out.

Oranje would potentially wear Langley FC down in the second half, having 7 spares compared to Langley's 2, and that did happen, especially when Oranje hemmed Langley into their end for the beginning stretch of the second half. Sue Dehaas generated an Oranje rush that ended up going to Rick VdHorst: this time he shot a bullet that keeper Daryl Driegen got his hands on but the shot was too hard and too high, and tipped in under the bar. Oranje followed that up with much buzzing around in the Yellow area, with keeper Daryl doing his own buzzing . He had help from his team with Jeff VdGaag and Greg VanPopta both sacrificing their bodies to take shots away. Take shots was good team strategy for Oranje and Leroy vanSpronsen was rewarded when his 25 yard shot looped high, into the lights and dipped down just over Driegen and under the bar for goal #3. Derek Hoogerdijk had a great chance to score when he lifted a shifting shot on keeper Ryan Sikma that Ryan had to alertly bat over the bar for no goal. Yellow mounted pressure but no rewards, but Tyler VanVliet was given a yellow card on a tackle from behind when trying to shut Langley down. Langley was finally rewarded with a goal when Ivan Scheper crossed a ball into a crowded Oranje goal area, and Matt VanderHorst chipped the ball in over Sikma. More chances came from both teams, but none that resulted in goals, and the final result was 3-1 Oranje.

"Always fun to play Oranje!" "Always fun to play Langley FC!" "Always fun to ref these two teams!" "Always fun to watch these two teams!"

INTERNATIONAL BACK ON TRACK

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 08:58:48 EST

FC International bounced back from a surprising loss to Valley United with a lopsided 6-2 win over Celtic. "We were determined not to have the same outcome as we did against Valley", remarked Dan Woelders, who gave credit to Valley for playing them well. "We know that Celtic has a strong defensive side to their game and we would have to come at them hard". Yet, Celtic matched them step for step in the first half, once they got over their opening game jitters. The play was testing, testing, testing each other, sometimes feisty,with referee Mike Wagner having conversations with players on both sides at certain moments in the half. Yellow cards were even given to Jason VanDelft and John VanSeters of Celtic and Adam Woelders of FC Inter during different stages of the match, showing an intensity of play on the field, but not dirty play.

The Mark Peters/Dan Woelders combo tried to open the scoring with an early rush that was broken up well by the Celtic defence. A short while later, Celtic's Rob VanSeter's lofted a juicy free kick in toward the Inter goal that Glenn Visscher headed on to the keeper on the goal line, but the subsequent jostle by John VanSeters earned him his yellow card. Russ Toet, keeper for Celtic was tested several times in the half, but was up to the challenge and made good saves, notably off of shots from the aformentioned "dangerous duo". The teams were tied at the half, realistic of what happened on the pitch.

So, what happended in the second half? What did Inter say to each other during the break? Whatever it was, it worked as they set Celtic back on it's heels for several shifts and broke the game open wide. Mark Peters started the onslaught when a ball came into a crowded area, squirted out to him, and he nailed a good low shot to the far post. Minutes later, Peters broke through, had Toet at his mercy but showed none with a low shot to the corner again. Celtic tried to mount back, with Tim VanderHoek getting a shot in on Werner Engeler that dropped into his waiting arms, and a set up to Anthony Togeretz that Engeler won the race to nab. Peters showed pure skill when he won the ball back for Inter, outran the Celtic Defenders and beat the keeper with another great shot, and a 3/0 lead for the Blacks. Jeff Bergen tried to get onto the Inter scoresheet with a ball marked for the back of the goal, but Keith Wildeboer headed that shot away to keep the game at 3/0. Peters, the scoring machine of the evening, seemed to get through Celtic at will, stole a ball at the center line, outran Celtic, had Toet eye-to-eye and picked the open corner to score again. After that it would be an undefended Bergen who would score with a turn-and-shoot goal that went over Toet. What's happening? The first half, so even? Inter again, this time Dan Woelders taking advantage of a bad Celtic clearance, deep in their end, and a willing DanW put it deep in their goal for 6/0. Celtic finally gave themselves a shake to demesmerize themselves and try to get back in the game. Steve VanDelft set up the play that broke the Inter shutout when he delivered a nice ball for Anthony Togeretz to run onto and A-Tog cranked the ball over a hapless Engeler. Minutes later, Engeler made a sloppy goal kick that Togeretz intercepted and drove the ball right back at the keeper and in. Celtic seemed pumped and came on with renewed pressure. Toet settled down as well, and faced down DanW's two touches on the ball with two saves. But several more rushes and shots by Celtic could not reduce the Inter lead, and the game ended 6-2.

Definately a game of two halves: first half 0/0, second half 6/2.

ORANJE: STRONG START AND WIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 08:03:39 EST

Justin Meyer found his scoring touch and used it to the max in a decisive 6-1 win over Vitessa, with Meyer notching 5 of the Oranje goals. (I believe that's a fvcsl individual record, but I stand to be corrected.)

Three minutes into the game, Tom VanderHorst, deep in the Vitessa corner, lifted a long cross to Meyer beyond the far post, and Justin made a great nod to head the ball back across the goal area and in. Meyer had the jets going all evening and capitalized when he burst through the Vitessa back line to sprint onto a loose bouncing ball which he settled and slashed in. Meyer's third goal followed closely when Leroy VanSpronsen crossed the ball from the sideline into the middle of the goal area and the middle of Meyer's head. Goal! The virtual hats were thrown onto the field to celebrate the natural hattrick, but Meyer was not finished yet. Tom VdHorst punted up a long break-out pass that Meyer exploded through and onto again, and put his shot through the outstretched arms of Tim Erickson, the Vitessa keeper. Vitessa was not without their chances but even with Alan Schouten joining the rush time and again, they could not generate shots that were scoring chances. Oranje, on the other hand, notched a 5th goal when Phil Sikma cracked a 25 yard free kick that the keeper had to bat out, but brother Mark was right there to head the ball in. Shauna Stam had a chance to add to the Oranje tally when she one-timed a pass out of mid-air but knocked her "serious pow" (sideline comment) just wide. James VdBurgt of Vitessa went for a serious challenge through the Oranje line, but lost the ball in the process. Steve Koning made a hard run for Oranje to save the ball off the Vitessa end line, but his shot had too tight an angle and the keeper grabbed the ball. Charis Siebenga (see picture) waited for a coming cross but miskicked her attempt and Vitessa stayed off the scoresheet. Just before the half, Tom Sikma, Justin Meyer and Steve Koning were all in the Vitessa circle, but the ball was for Meyer and he buried in into the corner for Oranje's 6th goal, and Meyer's 5th.

After the break, Oranje switched their lineup and postions, concentrated on ball possession, and did not tally any more goals. Vitessa, on the other hand, started getting more shots on goal, but they were all on Ryan Sikma, and he caught them at will, especially on a good agressive run by Ben VandeBurgt with his shot rolling right to Sikma. The best Vitessa shot to this point was taken by Byron Vanderbeek when he got a high, hard shot on Sikma that Ryan had to spike out, away from the lurking Kevin VanderBoom. Brent Marriot of the plum-clad (well, what colour is it?) was in a crowd at the 20 yard line but managed to spin and shoot a riser to Sikma, and still no goal. Alan Schouten, long shot wide. Ben VandeBurgt, riser to Sikma. Marriot and Vanderbeek mounting an attack that was broken up by Rod VanSpronsen. Sue Dehaas squibbing a nice set-up from Oranje teammate Tom Sikma, and she had several more tries as did Shelley Sikma. Finally Vitessa would ruin the shutout when Charis Siebenga set up Ben VdBurgt who curled a pinpoint riser into the top corner. Moments later, Henk Colijn slashed a shot on Sikma that Ryan got his foot on to keep it out, and Tom VdHorst tried to get a last goal for Oranje but pinged it off the post, and that would be game. Strong start, strong win Oranje, 6-1.

(by the way, it's a nice colour, Vitessa!)

-p.s to Morris Klos: thanks for writing up the Valley/Inter game!

Valley Over FC Inter

Morris Klos — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 08:03:28 EST

Willoughby - Valley United took a 2-1 victory from top ranked first division FC International late Monday night. Matt Schouten opened the scoring for Valley by converting a penalty kick. Graeme Dueck responded for FC Inter twenty minutes into the second half by redirecting a perfect corner kick by Will Folstad. Ruben Timmerman answered for Valley soon after to take the lead which they fought hard to defend. Valley kept FC Inter from pulling out the tie and moved themselves up one position over Crossway to take fifth place in Division Two.

ORANJE OVER CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 08:57:33 EST

"We always have fun when we play Oranje" noted Celtic's Burke VanderHorst after suffering a hard fought 3-1 loss to the orange clad. "Both teams had lots of good chances, but Oranje had more finish, and Ryan Sikma gave up no rebounds for us to take advantage of." Oranje would agree that Celtic had some of the edge in play at times, but their opponent needed to score more than one goal, and that didn't happen tonight. Jack Dehaas of Edmonton, doing some early scouting for the CanRef soccer tournament in Vernon this August, felt that Oranje getting two goals in the first half of the first half gave them a solid edge and forced Celtic to play catch-up all night.

The first of those two Oranje goals came when Justin Meyer sent an easy roller in to Steve Koning who had time to pick his spot away from keeper Russ Toet and shot it in next to the post. Oranje's second goal was the result of a Rick VanderHorst long, hard lob from 25 yards that dropped in perfectly right under the bar. Ryan (no-rebound) Sikma stole shots away from Stu VanderHorst and later from a Tim VanderHoek/John VanSeters combination but couldn't stop everything. Celtic's Tim VanderHoek pulled a ball off the end line and cranked it into the area and into the goal off an Oranje player. Four Oranje players had their arm up in protest, but referee Mike Wagner told them that the goal was as much a result of that and advised them to play the whistle next time. Both keepers made other timely saves in the first half to keep the score at 2-0 at the break.

Russ Toet of Celtic kept his team in the game in the first 20 minutes of the second half with sharp saves off a Rod VanSpronsen drive, and Tom Sikma well-taken strike and a Shelley Sikma in-close mis-kick. At the other end, Chris VanderHorst bust through from his defensive position with a strong chance but Shauna Stam alertly cleared that away. Both keepers kept that up with saves: Toet on Tom VdHorst, and on Rick VdHorst's free kick. Anthony Togeretz set up Stu VanderHorst with a great pass but Stu lunged in the 6-yard area and just missed the A-Tog gift. Paul Sikma set up the 3rd Oranje goal when he sent a ball to Steve Koning, who chested it down, spun and lofted a high drifter that dropped in above Toet. "It pays to take shots', grinned Koning after the game. No matter what Celtic dished up after that point, Oranje was prepared to dish it out again, and kept Celtic from narrowing the gap, keeping the score 3-1. All the female players deserve commendation tonight. It was a treat to see the likes of a Krista Scheper take on a Paul Sikma, double her size. (?!) Well done!

Great, entertaining game, as always when these two teams meet.

BETHEL BEATEN BY ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 08:22:04 EST

Bethel, the newest team in the league is "still busy trying to work out our positions, our strengths and weaknesses as well as having a regular lineup", according to Jeremy Wiebe. They played most of the game with 4 female players on the field. The Knights met Oranje, most of whom have been playing together for several years, and who play a clean game, with lots of teamwork. Bethel also had to play with Trevor Schroeder in goal, not their regular keeper, but seems to be becoming that as time goes on. Schroeder did his best for his team in goal, but Oranje managed to get 6 goals past him and his team for a 6-0 victory.

Oranje scored a goal on each of their first two rushes down field. The first was a Justin Meyer cross in to Tom VanderHorst who made a soft chip shot over the outstretched arms of the keeper. Meyer got his own goal minutes later when he sent in a shot that deflected off a Bethel player, away from the keeper and in. Schroeder got some valuable help from his team in front of him, especially Daniel Wagner who headed a long Oranje cross back out of the goal area. At the 25 minute mark, a crowded Bethel end of the field did not stop Ron Smouter from sneaking a low shot through the crowd and in by the far low post. Another Oranje shot, struck well, was just as well cleared by Dan Harvey to keep his team in the game. Shauna Stam had her Oranje shot just miss the far corner, and redirected a late period ball wide as well. Lisa Walgram got a rising shot on Oranje's keeper Ryan Sikma off a pass back from Jeremy Wiebe, but Sikma made the grab. And Tyrus Hawkins set up Daniel Wagner nicely with a back pass but Wagner's shot went wide. Tom Sikma made a slick cross to Justin Meyer who just couldn't quite get his head on the ball, and the other Tom (VdH) rolled a shot along the crossbar and down, with AnneMarie VanderGriendt waiting to punt it in , but missed. Josh Denny-Keys of Bethel got a rising shot on Sikma, but the keeper had a good view of it and made the snag. Oranje played with a lot of ball control, passing a lot in the course of action, stopping Bethel from setting up much of the time.

An early Oranje buildup in the second half saw Tom Sikma get a shot on goal that Schroeder bobbled and Shelley Sikma was in position to pop that one in for Oranje goal #4. Tom Sikma followed that up with another rising shot that the keeper batted down and grabbed. Johnathan Nickel drove a long shot over the Oranje goal, not in the goal, but not long after that teammate Jeremy Wiebe probably had the best Bethel chance of the night when he got a great shot on Sikma but Ryan was on to it, and made the save. Oranje's fifth goal came when they flooded the Bethel 18 yard area, but Tom VdHorst was left alone and kicked the ball in. Ron Smouter iced the Oranje cake when he chased down a ball in the far corner, crossed it back in to Justin Meyer, inside the 6 yard box, and Meyer headed it in.

Daniel Wagner said later that he was enthused about how the Bethel team is improving; their passing is coming along, and they enjoyed the game against Oranje. Oranje, meanwhile, keeps their victory tally growing.

CANCELLED: Crossway vs Abby

Bored Assistant — Sat, 30 May 2009 08:34:12 EST

The 7:00 game at Mouat is cancelled tonight.

CELTIC MOUNTS COMEBACK WIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 30 May 2009 08:44:27 EST

"We're not very good at coming back from behind and winning a game" said Celtic Stu VanderHorst, but they did tonight, clawing back from a 1-0 deficit to gain a 2-1 victory over Cloverdale. That gave Celtic a win after two ties and a loss, while Cloverdale had built up a three game winning streak, now ended.

Julian VanDyke, Cloverdale's top scorer, tried to add to his tally early in the game when he got a shot on John VanSeters, in goal for Celtic and that shot came loose to Mike Schouten, eager to connect on the rebound, but no luck. Keith Wildeboer rolled a blast into Clover-keeper Josh VanderPloeg who slid out to smother the ball safely away from the co-attacker Dylan Bredenhof. At the 15 minute mark, Celtic's Burke VanderHorst struck a right footed free kick and curled it around the left side of the wall but VdPloeg saw and saved. Reserve Cloverdale player, Paul Gaborlik showed well when he skinned the Celtic defence and got a shot in, but keeper John made the grab. Cloverdale got the first goal of the game, the one that put Celtic behind, when shrewd veteran Mike Schouten left-footed a free kick at the edge of the 18, around the wall and into the top corner. Stu VdHorst had a chance to equalize late in the half when, out of a scramble in front of the Clover-goal, he drove the ball just wide of the post.

Glenn Visscher opened the shooting in the second half with his first of some 6 great scoring chances but his lob from 28 yards out when high over. Anthony Togeretz made a hard run in on a loose ball but keeper Josh met him at the ball and took it away. Visscher had a hard shot that went straight to the keeper and Dylan Bredenhof curled a hard 20 yard shot just wide. Celtic was taking pretty good control of the ball and the half when Stu VanderHorst scored on a high shot that goalie Josh lunged to keep out. However the play had been whistled dead before the shot due to a hand ball in the Cloverdale area. Stu took the Celtic penalty kick and made no mistake, driving it into the goal to even the score. Now that Celtic had tasted blood, they pushed hard and went for the win. Confusion in the Cloverdale area between the defence and their goalie resulted in Togeretz being in the right place at the right time, on the goal line and popped the ball in to take the lead. Cloverdale tried to reel Celtic back in again, twice sending long outlet passes to Mike Schouten, lurking in the shadows of the dark sideline, and on one, Chris VanderHorst had to make a desperate run back to take Schouten and the ball out of the play. The last 20 minutes or so became somewhat of a shooting gallery for Celtic as they kept most of the action in the Cloverdale end of the field. Shelley Schoen, Matt Wendt and the rest of the Cloverdale defensive corps were kept busy. Good win for Celitc, but Cloverdale is no push over!

FC INTERNATIONAL OVERPOWERED

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 29 May 2009 08:11:21 EST

photo, courtesy of Justin Meyer

F International, tied for first overall in Division 1, met a very determined opponent in Oranje, and went down to a convincing 3-1 defeat. Oranje certainly had an advantage in bench strength, as Inter started with no spares, till Mark Peters arrived in the dying minutes of the first half. Oranje had lots of fresh, eager legs on the sideline, and Peters would lament after the game that the lack of spares on their sideline was part of their undoing.

Oranje started the game strongly and had all the early pressure, repeatedly forcing Inter off the ball and generating their own chances. Oranje had numerous chances in the International end before the Black team had their first shot on goal at the 8 minute mark. Eric Atsma had several tries on the Oranje goal but was stymied by keeper Ryan Sikma or rebuffed by the Oranje defenders. Tom VanderHorst got Oranje on the scoresheet when, running cross-field, he wound up and got a sweet shot into the uppermost corner: no chance for Werner Engeler. Dan Woelders had a chance to equalize when he went in cold on Sikma but his left-footed riser went just over the bar. Oranje notched their second goal when Rod VanSpronsen and Tom VanderHorst burst through the Blacks. Tom drove in a hard shot from the 18 that Engeler got a hand on but the deflection ended up in the net, about the same spot as VdHorst's first goal. Matthew Thiessen got a tricky shot in from the corner that Oranje defenders cleared just over the bar, and a short while later, Jeff Bergen deflected a rolling ball over the Oranje bar. Paul Sikma had a ground shot that a diving Engeler had to push wide, and Mark Penninga, his Oranje teammate almost headed in an Oranje cross that came to him in the 6-yard box. The score 2-0 at the break.

After Eric Atsma played a ball through the Oranje area that no Black player could connect on, Justin Meyer tested Engeler with a soft left-winged riser, and Jeff Bergen tried to set up Mark Peters, International got themselves a goal. Bergen fed a ball to Dan Woelders and he snuck his shot under Ryan Sikma, at the near post. Inter was energized by that and a Black shot had goal written all over it when Sikma deflected a shot up and it came down to him and Mark Peters, both on the goal line, but it was save, rather than goal. Oranje tried to add to their tally with a 30 yard shot from Mark Sikma for Tom VdHorst and his head to run under, but the header went just barely wide. Minutes later, Mark Sikma was given a yellow card on a tackle from behind on Peters. Dan Woelders took the free kick from 20 yards out, and got the ball through to Ryan-S who bobbled, then buried the ball. At the 80 minute mark, Rod VanSpronsen broke through at 30 yards out but rushed his shot, and shanked it wide. Seeking to redeem himself, moments later he ran a diagonal inside the 18, shot back against the grain and caught the low, left corner for Oranje's 3rd goal. A couple more chances from both teams, notably when R-Sikma was jostled but grabbed a free kick shot connection away from Adam Woelders, and Justin Meyer had a shot that Shelley Sikma charged to finish but Engeler batted the ball away.

A big, big win for Oranje. Both teams now have a win against each other. When will they meet again - in the playoffs? Interesting!

LANGLEY/CELTIC SCORELESS TIE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 28 May 2009 08:51:34 EST

(photo-courtesy of Tom VanderHorst)

If a soccer game score is based on corner kicks, it was Celtic 14, Langley FC 2, or there abouts. Yet the outcome of the game was Celtic -0, Langley FC - 0. And the shots on goal were about the same as well, with Celtic getting lots of chances, but not the finish they wanted. It was not as lopsided a game as these opening remarks suggest, but Daryl Driegen, in goal for Langley Yellow, caught an awful lot of balls that Celtic intended to be goals.

Celtic had three corner kicks in succession early in the first 10-minute block that were all threatening but unsuccessful, and that would be the harbinger of things to come: lots of corners, no success. Celtic had the edge in the first half as shots with potential from Burke VanderHorst against the side of the goal, and Anthony Togeretz just wide. John Noort, playing forward again had his offensive try inside the 18 cleared out by Celtic defenders. Derek Hoogerdijk set up the best chance for Langley in the first half, actually in the game, when he lifted a great cross in to the charging Jeff VanderGaag but Celtic keeper Russell Toet was there at the same time to make the snatch.

Celtic started the second half with a strong buildup seeing Joni Versluis making a run and getting a shot on goal, but Driegen nabbed that one, something he did often in the game, taking away any chances that Celtic generated. Anthony Togeretz had several more Celtic chances, one on a nice turn and shoot that went through the area, and another on a breakaway ball that Driegen drove out of danger. Keith Wildeboer almost had a goal for his new (just born) daughter when he charged in on Driegen but the keeper dislodged the ball from his feet and then stole the ball away from an eager Tim VanderHoek as well. Glenn Visscher tried to beat Driegen with a juicy 30 yard lob but Daryl got his hand on it to deflect it off the crossbar and out again. John VanSeters unsuccessful as well.

That was it. Celtic, not enough finish, Langley FC, not enough shots. Still an entertaining game in a 0-0 tie.

ALDERGROVE & ORANJE TIE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 26 May 2009 08:40:27 EST

(photo - courtesy of Justin Meyer)

This game almost didn't take place as the regularly scheduled referee did not show up. But some panic cell phone calls were made and Dave (Save the Day) Doornbos sped over to Willoughby field to get the game going, albeit a late start. Thanks, Dave!! It turned out to be one of those nice,exciting, hard fought but cleanly played games that was a pleasure to watch, to play and to ref, with only a couple of foul calls on each team. The 1-1 outcome was a fair result, though no team ever likes a tie.

Quick action in the first five minutes! Oranje's AnneMarie VanderGriendt pressured the ball loose in the Aldergrove corner, Paul Sikma got the ball and squared it over to brother Mark, who drove a hard shot just off the crossbar and out. Down the field went the play, and Tyler VanderGaag made the same pass for Kevin Hendricks, but Hendricks' hard shot went in. That would be the difference in the first half: Oranje's shot stayed out, Aldergrove's shot went in. Good rushes and hard shots were traded by the teams with Oranje's keeper Ryan Sikma and Aldergrove's Brian Meerstra called on to be sharp in goal. Edwin Palsma, Hendricks, Colin DeWit, and Tyler VdGaag all challenged Sikma but they were just off the mark or Sikma was up to the challenge. Same for Meerstra, who faced down Rick VanderHorst, brother Tom, Steve Koning, Rod VanSpronsen but he was also not to be beaten. Shelley Sikma had a glorious opportunity for Oranje when she was in perfect position in the goal area to head in a cross, but couldn't quite get enough redirect on the ball, and wide it went. Aldergrove's Mel deWit (17 weeks pregnant, and still playing) went down with a painful looking ankle injury that took her out of the game, and the pregnancy/ankle combo will take her out of the season. Mel wryly commented, "It must be God's way of telling me it's time to quit". The last Aldergrove rush by a flying Tyler VdG needed a big challenge and rush done successfully by Ryan S. but he tweaked his ankle on it and pulled himself from the second half.

Same action in the second half, with Tom Sikma taking over the keeper duties for Oranje. Nathan Moes and Edwin Palsma a give and go that Tom-S stopped. Leroy VanSpronsen to Tom VanderHorst, headed to Meerstra. Kevin H., a long hard drive that Tom-S got a hand on. Steve Koning, a crack wide. Tom VdH just wide, same with Rod VanSpronsen, and on it went. But the save of the game surely was when Aldergrove's Kari VanderGaag got a pass square to the middle, and calmly punted a hard volley at Sikma that he had to alertly push over the bar in the 85-90 minute block. Oranje had one last attempt in the dying minutes to tie the score and they did just that when Tom VanderHorst crossed the ball into a very crowded Aldergrove area, and Rick VanderHorst managed to head the ball over Meerstra to make the score 1-1. The ensuing kickoff was quickly whistled down for full time, and the game was over. Well done, everyone!

CELTIC SHOT DOWN BY ABBY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 24 May 2009 08:46:25 EST

Maybe it was the two week layoff that made Celtic look somewhat disorganized, or maybe it was the style of Abbotsford's play that did it, but Abbotsford Silver Bullets played good enough to gain a 2-1 win and more space between them and Celtic in the standings. It didn't help that Celtic had to use forward John VanSeters in goal as Russ Toet was out of town, which reduced their fire power up front, taking away his scoring threat. But full marks to Abbotsford for getting back on the winning track.

Abby's Alan Boeve had the first chance on goal for either team when his shot slanted across the goal area. Celtic matched with their own good chance when Anthony Togeretz made a great cross to Tim VanderHoek in the area, but he just missed the header. So, Stu VanderHorst made a great pass to Tim and this time he connected with a long low shot into the corner of the net. Graham Thompson, who has become quite the quarterback in the Abby midfield, broke Alan Boeve free just over the center line and VanSeters came out to tip the rolling ball away from Boeve. Stan deHaan tested JohnVS but he batted that ball out, with Natalie DeHaan waiting but no go. A-Tog tried another Tim VdHoek setup but keeper Adam Cender was all over that to make the grab. The teams traded rushes, tips and touches with both keepers doing their share especially off of deHaans(s), Boeve, Thompson, Togeretz, Burke VanderHorst. At the 44 minute mark, a long ball was floated to the Celtic area, VanSeters came out but missed the challenge and the wind-driven ball was helped into the goal by Stan deHaan to tie the game.

The second half had lots of scrambly play, with no consistent ball possession by either team. Stu VanderHorst drove a 35 yard shot along the carpet which deflected off another player but Cender made the grab. Tim deHaan got a shot out of a scramble generated by Ardis Kuik but shot wide of the far post. Togeretz got one more shot at the 85 minute mark but couldn't get enough on the shot to beat the keeper. But Graham Thompson was allowed to make a run up the wing and get a shot away into the box that went off a Celtic defender and in. Own goal, otherwise Stan deHaan would likely have done the deed.

Abbotsford has changed their "big-boot-and-chase-it-down" game into one with more passing and teamwork, and it's working for them. Celtic, known for their teamwork, will just have to chalk this one down as "let's learn from this".

REAL PACIFIC TIED FOR TOPS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 23 May 2009 08:50:45 EST

Real Pacific won their Friday night game against Langley FC on Willoughby East field, while FC International was losing their game to Aldergrove on Willoughby West. This brings RP even with FC in the Division 1 standings. (FC was short-staffed, playing with only 10 players due to only one female in the line-up and playing Adam Woelders in goal, but that's another story!)

Real Pacific is a very fast team: everything they do is quick, including their first goal, which came early in the first half. Langley FC complained that Mark Bysterveld was offside, and that the ball did not go in off his foot, but off some other body part, but the ref saw it otherwise, and the opening goal stood. Kevin Stumph was in the lineup for Yellow and generated the first chance for Langley when Jeff VanderGaag flicked the long pass with his head but keeper Jayden Kuik was there to grab. RP got their second goal off a Jeremy Meyer corner kick that came into a crowded goal area, with Pete VanBrederode finding the ball and finishing the play. Stumph carried the ball up on a return play, making 5 or 6 dekes around RPers, but shooting the ball wide. Tyler Hoeksema of Pacific looked to add to his team's tally with a streak down the sideline but keeper John Noort came out to challenge and won the ball. April Hendricks got the third goal happening when she punted a long ball that lofted over the head of Mark Bysterveld right to his feet and his hard low shot went into the far corner. Pacific kept coming and coming and Hoeksema made a run up the sideline, booted a high cross to the far side to a diving Craig Kobes, who headed the ball in: a brilliant goal!

Real Pacific were kept off the score sheet in the second half as Yellow worked hard to keep pace with them and break up their rushes while also trying to create their own chances. A lot of midfield play up and down the field. Langley's rookie Scheper, Derek, started them off well when his 25 yard shot curled into the goal area, but was caught by Kuik. Yellow had switched keepers for the second half with Daryl Driegen coming in, giving John Noort a chance to show his offensive side. Noort contributed to Langley's only goal of the game when Ron Scheper struck a very good corner kick into a crowded area; bodies bouncing off each other, John (Too-Tall) Noort multi-covered, which left the ball for Jeff (I'm a head shorter than John) VanderGaag to head the ball in. Pacific had another good chance in the half with Daryl Rolleman dribbling the ball up the field and over to David VanderGaag, who shot across the box and just wide of the far post.

"A chippy game" was one opinion after the game. Chippy on both sides. Too bad. "That Real Pacific sure is fast and young!" was another comment. "Langley FC has played worse than this, and intends to keep getting better", was also overheard, as they look forward putting together some wins. Real Pacific has the 'putting together of wins' down pat.

ABBOTSFORD STREAK ENDED

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 22 May 2009 08:02:52 EST

Abbotsford Silver Bullets were coming off a two-game win streak, and wanted to add to that with a win over Oranje, but the Orange-clad were out to wipe out the memory of their last game, a nasty loss and it was Oranje that achieved their goal with a 4-2 victory. Stan deHaan, tied as the league scoring leader, was held off the score sheet tonight, and for the first half, so was his team.

Oranje had more of the ball possession in the first half then did Abbotsford, and looked like they might score at will. Tom VanderHorst got the first one when his short side rocket had keeper Alan Cender get a hand on it but not enough to keep the ball out. Stan deHaan tried to get that one back with a determined attack, but keeper Ryan Sikma got a hand on his hard shot, keeping it out. Oranje pressure resulted in their second goal when Tom VanderHorst crossed a ball in to Leroy VanSpronsen, close in, and Leroy could gently head the ball in to the goal - no chance for the keeper. Another concentrated Oranje attack had both Justin Meyer and Rod VanSpronsen in close, with opportunity to score, but Rod was the one to finish the play for a 3-0 lead. Oranje again: this time Tom VanderHorst squaring a pass to Justin Meyer, who turned and left-foot cranked the ball past the keeper. Abby was picking up their game, lest it seem otherwise, sending more midfielders up to put press Oranje. The new 2009 Bullets of Alan Boeve, Brian and Mandy DeWit, Daryl Hofsink and Graham Thompson all contributed to the added pressure, helping out the deHaan gang and the Beukema boys along with the rest of the Abby regulars. Stan deHaan had his best chance in the dying minutes of the first half when he had Sikma beat but rang his shot off the post. The rebound went to sister Natalie, who put too much leg on the shot and it went way over.

The second half was opened with a Tim deHaan quality shot, but a quality grab made by Sikma. Tim deH was stymied again when he ran stride for stride with defender Phil Sikma and couldn't quite get the shot away that he would have liked. Stan deHaan was clearly frustrated, especially when his 20 yard left-footer went wide of the mark. Justin Meyer had a couple of good tries, most notably a hard curler that went barely high and wide. He followed that up with a hard rising shot that keeper Cender pushed away from a threatening Shelley Sikma, and over the bar. Rick VanderHorst had a spin and shoot shot that Cender had to make a super-save on and a Paul Sikma's header off a corner kick was saved by Cender as well. Slowly but surely though, Abbotsford was taking over the midfield play and finally got results. On an Abby rush, keeper Sikma called for the skittering ball, but missed and Alan Boeve had an open goal to bury the ball. Playmaker Graham Thompson had several dangerous attempts go high or wide. But Tim deHaan made no mistake when he was sprung and he broke free to chip the ball over Sikma. Another T-deH point blank shot on Sikma was saved by the keeper. Silver made for an exciting finish , but could not close the gap. The final score, 4-2.

CLOVERDALE SHUTS OUT ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 10 May 2009 08:49:38 EST

"Chalk that one up in the stinker column" muttered one Oranje player. Another one was heard to say, "I sure hope the Canucks are playing better than us tonight" That pretty much summed up the game between Cloverdale and Oranje, as nothing the orange clad team tried got them on the scoresheet.

What did Cloverdale do right? According to George Gunnink, "We clogged up the area, and our midfielders gave us lots of help, blocking lots of passes and shots". Three times Oranje had free kicks and three times the wall took the ball. Any other shots that Oranje could get through the crush were right to the waiting hands of Josh (Big Air) VanderPloeg. Another Cloverdale player concurred with Gunnink: "We have Kyle Mosterd, Julian VanDyke and Joey Zhang up front, and the rest of us just hang back and try to get the ball to them".

Oranje did not look ready to play tonight, and the first couple of shifts were lackluster. Doug Schouten took advantage of that when he deked through and around a couple of Oranje players to notch Cloverdale's first goal. After that the Blue team had very little possession of the ball, only breaking up Oranje play and blocking Oranje passes, resulting in no Oranje finish.

The second half was more of the same, with Oranje trying to put together some teamwork, but not managing to get any consistent buildup. Cloverdale got their second goal, against the flow, when Julian VanDyke came in on John Zietsma and keeper Ryan Sikma and confused both of them to pop a header over Sikma. A deflating moment for Oranje, but it did wake them up and the urgency picked up, but not the success.

Cloverdale's play is consistently improving, according to Shelley Schoen and they look forward to building on this win.

p.s. ( The Canucks didn't play well either.)

LNGLY/LYNDEN: BY DAVE DOORNBOS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 09 May 2009 08:07:48 EST

Bailouts continue apace in the US of A

Last night proved that the bailouts show no sign of abating as fvcsl federal reserve chairman Daryl Driegen, continued to rescue stalwart industry giants Langley FC, who are going through some soul searching times thanks to the global soccer credit crunch. Noted an anonymous Langley FC defender David Doornbos, “the thing is, we’re not used to these grass conditions, and the natural undulations of the field caused some strikingly random ball movements that no one could foresee.” He was also quoted to say that “Langley FC is working hard to get competitive again, slashing it’s workforce in these ‘tough soccernomic times’”, pointing out that at last night’s game, the team only employed 2 women and 11 men, and carpooling to the game in Lynden to save on fuel costs.

In any case, even this leaner and meaner attitude didn’t stop the fvcsl federal reserve chairman from being called upon to bailout his defence again and again. His efforts were most notable in the second half, in one series of ridiculous saves, diving full out to his left to get his hands on the hard shot from a Lynden player, then crawling / scrambling to his left again to dive and get his elbow and ear on the rebound opportunity to close the door. As if this wasn’t enough, later on the chairman back-pedalled furiously on a chip shot, parried it into the air while falling backwards, bounced off the ground in time to volley (like the volleyball way) off the line past the eager forward to his defender to knock out the side.

This reporter doesn’t have the time or the editorial space to detail the numerous charging, sliding, breakaway destroying smothers, nor the leaping corner kicks steals. Suffice it to say, this reporter is almost certain he saw the CEO of certain unnamed auto industry manufacturers lurking around the field after game time, looking perhaps, for a bailout of their own.

The final score was a 1-1 tie of a hard fought battle, both teams played well, although both a little short staffed.

REAL PACIFIC SQUEEZE ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 08 May 2009 08:47:53 EST

Real Pacific is way ahead of Oranje in the fvcsl standings to date, but needed a strong game, a penalty kick goal and a flukey goal to squeeze out a 3-2 win. Oranje knew they would have to run with speed and determination tonight and had lots of spares on the sidelines, giving them fresh legs to keep pace with the young and speedy RP.

Pacific had the first good threat on goal when Mark Bysterveld had a breakaway; Ryan Sikma came out to challenge, forcing Bysterveld to shoot way wide. Tom VanderHorst answered back for Oranje when he gobbled up a loose ball forced by Paul Sikma, but shot over the bar. Tyler Hoeksema generated the first Real Pacific goal on a swoop up the sideline and a cross to the far side of the box to Sean Bredenhof who one-timed his blast into the goal - no chance for Sikma. Bysterveld got another chance in on the Oranje goal, but Sikma took control of his goal area and grabbed the ball away from the Byster-feet. At the 28 minute mark, Oranje pressured the ball loose and Rick VanderHorst blasted a 20 yard shot along the carpet into the far corner to even the score. FVCSL rookie, Tyler Hoeksema created several chances from his outside position but his own shot hit the side of the net, and his cross to Mark Bysterveld's head went off the crossbar. Craig Kobes closed out the half with two tries, one that Sikma punched away, and one that went wide of the mark.

Pacific kept up their pressure early in the second half, with Daryl Rolleman taking an off-balance shot that was off the mark, and Jason Togeretz, redirecting a squared pass to Sikma, who punched the ball wide. Pacific was awarded a penalty kick for (I don't know what), and Jason Togeretz sliced it in for RP's second goal. Pacific got their third goal on a surprise shot that Sikma will surely want to have another grab at. Jeremy Meyer took a very long free kick that touched no one, and drifted unexpectedly over the Oranje goal line. Meyer said after the game that he had no intention to score from that position but felt that the keeper was perhaps distracted by Craig Kobes, running decoy.

Oranje was not going to take that lying down and worked hard to get another goal. Leroy VanSpronsen was unlucky when his left-footed shot went high to RP keeper Jayden Kuik. Craig Kobes was kept off the score sheet when his stone-cold shot was saved by Sikma. Leroy VanS had another crack at glory, but he toed the pass from Tom VanderHorst over the bar. In the last five minutes, Oranje was rewarded with a late corner kick. The ball went into a crowded goal area, with another fvcsl rookie, AnneMarie VanderGriendt getting her boot on the ball and a goal for her team. Oranje was re-energized, and a well-struck free kick by Phil Sikma in the dying minutes had goal potential: Jayden Kuik fumbled the shot, but then bravely and brazenly grabbed the ball away from the pressing Oranje. Game over. Good entertaining, energetic game.

ALDERGROVE 2nd LOSS IN A ROW

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 06 May 2009 08:54:19 EST

(photo by Justin Meyer)

It was a dark and stormy night! No, it was worse than that: dark, windy, rainy, stormy as Aldergrove and Celtic met at McLeod field. The only good thing was that the few fans that braved the elements could sit under the shelter that the grandstand at that field provides. Celtic took the game to Aldergrove and went shivering home with a solid 3-0 victory, their first win ever (?) over Aldergrove in fvcsl play.

Aldergrove started the game with no spare players and it took till almost the end of the first half before they had 2 players to provide some relief. They certainly could have used playmaker Greg Hamelin, as well as Matt VanderGaag and Nathan Moes on defence. Celtic had lots of room in the midfield to set up their offence, while midfield and defence took away Aldergrove opportunities.

Celtic got their first goal early in the game when a hustling Anthony Togeretz scooted to save a ball out of the Aldergrove corner, crossed it over to Burke VanderHorst, who passed to an open John VanSeters. He sent his low shot away from Aldergrove keeper Brian Meerstra and in. At about the 30 minute mark, Aldergrove had their best chance to equalize when a long 35 yard shot by (?...sorry) squirted through Russell Toat's hand, but went wide. Two following corner kicks did not end up in goals for A-grove.

In the opening block of the second half, Edwin Palsma had his best chance of the game for Aldergrove with a long run, but he was closely marked and could not get away the shot that he wanted. Kevin Hendricks and Colin DeWit were also stymied by the Celtic coverage. Togeretz got Celtic's second goal when he collected a great pass from Glenn Visscher, made a left side rush, and threaded the needle with a calm poke that went through/under Meerstra and in. Meerstra made a couple of great saves to keep his team in the game, notably on a point-blank shot from Burke VanderHorst and the same kind of save off another Celtic (I forget who - my brain was starting to freeze). Aldergrove did not get the same pressure on Toat. Just before full time, a Celtic corner was headed smartly off the Aldergrove goal line by Kevin Hendricks, but Tim VanderHoek was ready, waiting and eager to drive that loose ball with a nice shot to the top corner and Celtic had their 3rd goal.

Aldergrove can, and will do better, but tonight was not their night.

Celtic enjoyed their total team win.

BOTH teams enjoyed HOT SHOWERS!

FVCSL WANTS........YOU.......

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 06 May 2009 08:12:14 EST

FVCSL wants YOU to be a SPORTS REPORTER!!

And so does Ginny VanderHorst, who does not want to be the ONLY Sports Reporter.

Coax your most faithful fan to step up, sharpen the old pencil and write up your team's games. It's not that hard. If it was I wouldn't be doing it!! Let's get more info and more variety on this website.

LANGLEY FC SHUT OUT BY ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 02 May 2009 08:42:19 EST

Oranje put together a total team effort in their 4-0 victory over Langley FC. Eager to get their first victory after 3 losses and a tie, they did it in style. Dave Doornbos of Yellow summed the game up by saying, "Oranje earned their good bounces with good effort, and then they made the best of them."

Both teams tested each other in the beginning of the first half, with dependable Ron Scheper of Langley FC getting the first shot on Oranje's keeper Ryan Sikma, but Sikma could see the shot and grabbed it well. Oranje's Rick VanderHorst got a couple of shots that just missed the Yellow mark as did a header by Justin Meyer. Keeper Ryan made a super save when a Yellow free kick went into the area and Derek Hoogerdijk deftly headed what looked to be a sure goal, only to have Sikma lunge to get a hand on the ball and direct it wide. He did the same on the ensuing corner kick. Oranje finally opened the scoring when a Tom VanderHorst shot deflected back off a Yellow defending body and Justin Meyer had the loose ball available to guide into the goal.

The second half was not old yet when an Oranje buildup was carried by Meyer who deked around a Langley defender and keeper John Noort was helpless to stop the pinpoint shot for Meyer's, and Oranje's second goal. Later, Greg VanPopta of Langley worked the ball in from the sideline and finished with a low hard shot, but his effort was directed wide by Sikma. Meyer potted his hat trick goal of the night when he ran up with the ball, crossed it to the wing where a racing Tom VanderHorst gathered in the pass and sent it back to the head of Justin at the far post, who only had to nod the ball in. Langley was not without their chances and Matt VanderHorst made a desperation shot from the sideline, only to have it go just wide. Oranje was relentless though, with their pressure and Rick VanderHorst left-footed a shot from the top corner of the 18-yard area: Langley keeper John Noort made the initial stop but an eager Leroy VanSpronsen was in his face to bop the ball over the line for Oranje's goal #4. Langley Yellow did not quit and their midfield kept trying to get the ball to tightly marked Jeff VanderGaag, whose best try was when he managed to slash a hard shot from the left side, but Sikma got his foot on it to keep the ball out.

Oranje, happy with their solid win. Langley FC unhappy with the loss, but a clean game between two teams who respect each other.

CELTIC AND ORANJE TIE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 08:39:47 EST

Celtic and Oranje played to a 1-1 draw in a game that was marked with lots of midfield play, evenly matched teams, and clean competition, the only exception being Phil Sikma who went down on a hard collision in the second half, and had to deal with "cobwebs" as he sat out the rest of the game.

These two team enjoy playing each other, knowing that the atmosphere on the pitch will be one of good competition and fair play, but both teams wanting badly to win. Celtic had only two female players for this game, with Krista Scheper and Nicole VanDelft playing strong games for their side. Krista even had the first good scoring chance for either team when she sprinted onto a loose ball just outside the 18 and Ryan Sikma had to reach to grab her high shot. Oranje had a nice free kick by Phil Sikma find the head of Tom VanderHorst, but his header was headed out just as firmly by Rob VanSeters. Moments later, Oranje's Jaclyn Penninga saw her good strike go wide, but not too wide. The half had lots of good midfield play with neither team generating many quality shots on goal, though Rob VanSeters rushed through Oranje terrritory and had a dangerous try go just wide. Glenn Visscher of Celtic drew a ball back off the Oranje goal line to Neil Dykstra who directed the ball just wide again and the half ended in a 0-0 deadlock.

The second half started with a Rick VanderHorst pass to spring Justin Meyer loose on John VanSeters, playing goal for Celtic, but VanSeters made the grab before Meyer met the ball. Rick VdH had his own crack from the sideline but at an almost an impossible angle, and VanSeters grabbed that shot as well. Celtic would finally open the scoring when Rob VanSeters put a long, beautiful shot over keeper Ryan Sikma, who was off his line, and in. Oranje had to, and did pick up their intensity, and Rod (self-professed pylon) VanSpronsen launched a riser out of a crowd, but straight to keeper VanSeters. Tom VanderHorst had another Oranje try go over the bar. Finally Justin Meyer, looking for his first Oranje goal, got that when his long run and shot squirted through a knot of Meyer/VanSeters/VanDelft, and made it into the goal. The game ended in a 1-1 tie.

Probably a good and fair result for both teams, though a win always feels better!

(apologies for the photo quality, but I'm an amateur...........)

de Haan Clan & Co. Push Past A

Reuben Moes — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 08:50:55 EST

Abbotsford FC simply out-hustled and out-paced the Aldergrove squad

– consistently being first to the ball en route to their 2-1 victory over Aldergrove FC. The game started slow with a quiet and, for the most part, uneventful first half. A pair of Abbotsford FC scoring chances from the feet of from Brian de Witt and Stan de Haan closed off the scoreless half.

But it didn't take long for the tide to turn and the waves to bring in the goals. Within the first ten minutes of the second half, Nathalie de Haan scored the first goal of the game

– what then side-lined Harold Louwerse poetically described as a "nice chip." Aldergrove responded with a surge; Colin de Witt hitting a post and a crossbar, before Kevin Hendricks scored the equalizer on a penalty kick in the 72th minute.

Undeterred, the hard-working Abbotsford team regained their control of the game on the next shift with Stan de Haan answering with a goal of his own

―muscling his way from the left side and pushing the ball past Brian Meerstra. And that's the way the game finished out, with Abbotsford holding on towards a 2-1 victory on a pair of de Haan family goals. As Captain and side-lined "coach" James Bisschop concluded post-game: "As a team they worked together. They put in a full 90 minutes." A well-deserved win on a clear spring night. Abbotsford FC drove home back east with their helds held high.

James Moes

LYNDEN AMERICANS OVER ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 08:05:24 EST

Lynden Americans showed that they will win their share of games this season, as they racked up a 6-1 victory over Oranje. They just kept running and running, using speed and energy to a lopsided win, beating Oranje to many a loose ball, or forcing the ball to come loose. Speedy offence and defence, skill all around

Oranje actually had the first chances to score, when Leroy VanSpronsen almost had a goal, only to have keeper Mark Feentra make the grab. Feenstra did that again when new Oranje player, Justin Meyer had a crack on goal. Brent Ahrens got the first goal of the game instead, when he took advantage of a disorganized Oranje goal area, pounced on a loose ball and tapped it in. Meyer had another Oranje chance when he was sprung loose but his shot scooted just wide of the Lynden post. Ahrens scored a heads-up goal after this, when Oranje cleared a ball out of their area straight to him, and Ahrens launched a torpedo right back and high into the top corner. Oranje drew back within a point when awarded a free kick just outside the Lynden 18. Rick VanderHorst rolled the ball over to a waiting Paul Sikma, who blasted the ball straight to the back of the goal. Loren vanCorbach had a spin and shoot shot saved by Oranje keeper Ryan Sikma, and Nathan Chase ran stride for stride with John Zeitsma but still got a hard shot away, saved by Sikma. Meyer of Oranje broke free for a long run and a good shot, but just as good a save by Feenstra. The score was a respectable 2-1 at the half.

The second half would be another story as the Americans took the game away from Oranje, outrunning them all over the field, a pitch which leaves much to be desired, but the same field conditions for both teams. Nathan Chase got a goal when he got a shot on Sikma: Ryan got a hand on it but not enough to keep it out. Van Corbach and Chase notched another one as they hustled in on the Oranje goal with Chase finishing the combined effort. A long Ben Faber cross from the sideline to Erick Estrada resulted in a header goal and the rout was on. Ben Faber got his own goal minutes later when he chipped a shot over Sikma for Lynden's 6th goal and that would be the final result.

Warning to other teams: the Americans are coming! As for Oranje: happy with their play in their loss to FC International, but not happy with their play in their loss to Lynden.

CELTIC WINS CROSSWAY CLASH

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 08:33:43 EST

Crossway FC won their first game of the new FVCSL season against Valley United, and would have liked to make it two in a row, but it was Celtic who got the two-win result, after winning their first game against Langley FC. Crossway has added some new players to their lineup who will add speed, experience and scoring power, making them more competive this year. Celtic's lineup has changed only a little, and their strengths at defence and midfield should bode well for them again this season.

Celtic opened the scoring early in the match when Tim VanderHoek laid a crossing ball along the 18 yard line for Glenn Visscher to redirect just inside the post. Celtic followed this up with several more attempts, notably a VanderHoek shot that went over as did a Steve VanDelft try, while Jared Mayer of Crossway had a strong, dangerous run taken away by Jason VanDelft. Nathan Square-Briggs was given a yellow card on a collision with Celtic Chris VanderHorst: the resulting free kick from the 20 was struck well by Visscher, but pushed away well by Crossway keeper Andrew Driscoll. Square-Briggs put up some skillful pressure several miutes later, but launched his shot just over and wide. Celtic's second goal came when Dylan Bredenhof tangled up with a Crossway defender but managed to squirt the ball through and it snuck over the goal line. Though Crossway had a couple more attempts at the Celtic goal, none were good enough to score.

No goals were scored for either team in the second half, though each team received a yellow card: to Daryl VanDelft and to AJ Lissemore, on the same crashup play. Glenn Visscher took another free kick later in the second half that Driscoll again cleared with a daring dive: Neil Dykstra of Celtic was right at the post, but couldn't get the ball to go in. Dykstra had another chance when Chris VanderHorst send him cruising, but he was defended well by Crossway's Alex Kim. Crossway could not find the back of the net for the rest of the game, but did not quit trying.

Final score: Celtic 2, Crossway 0.

The Start Of A New Season

Bored Assistant — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 08:49:16 EST

The FVCSL 2009 season is about to begin and we are looking forward to a great year.

Exhibition games will be played from Wednesday, April 1 - Thursday, April 9. The schedule has been posted.

Regular season play will begin on Tuesday, April 14 at 9:00 on the Willoughby East field. The schedule will be posted soon.

Teams are reminded to bring their referee payment to the games. Payment must be give to the ref at the start of each game. If a team does not have their money they forfeit the game. ($20/team for player refs and $25/team for non-player refs)

If you have any questions or concerns please contact the board.
Board of Directors:
Commisioner: Ron Scheper ( commisioner [AT] fvcsl.com )
President: Adam Woelders ( president [AT] fvcsl.com )
Treasurer: Leroy VanSpronsen ( treasurer [AT] fvcsl.com )
Secretary: Mary-Anne Vanderhorst ( secretary [AT] fvcsl.com )
Director: Ben Vandeburgt ( director [AT] fvcsl.com )

EPHESIANS 4:1-6 - Unity in the Body of Christ
¹As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. ²Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. ³Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. ⁴There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— ⁵one Lord, one faith, one baptism; ⁶one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

FC INTERNATIONAL - CHAMPS!

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 08:16:48 EST

FC International and Oranje met in the fvcsl final game, and FC Inter came out on top of a 6-1 score before a full set of bleachers at Willoughby field. Was it a 6-1 game? Not really, but Inter was certainly deserving of a solid win.

Oranje got the first kick at the can when Shelley Sikma went toe to toe with Adam Woelders on a ball close to the Inter goal: Adam won the battle, as they would do much of the night, and the loose ball went to Tom VanderHorst whose shot went just wide. Bruce Mans got the first tally for Inter when he headed a nice ball that keeper Ryan Sikma got a hand on, but not enough to keep the ball out. Leroy VanSpronsen tried to tie things up when Rick VanderHorst squared a ball to him but he could not get enough leg on it to get it past keeper Werner Engeler, and later, Mark Sikma had a shot straight at Engeler as well. Adam Woelders picked up a hard working goal when he took advantage of an over commited keeper Sikma who had come out very far, leaving only defenders to play keeper and it became an easy shot for Woelders. The next rush took some wind out of the Oranje sails when Mark Peters had his long shot slip through the hands of Sikma and dribbled in. Another goal followed soon when Wil Folstad ran up the wing and sent a long shot just inside the far post. A shooting gallery for Inter, it seemed. But there was no quit in Oranje. Mark Sikma hit the side of the goal. Rick VanderHorst rung a shot high off the post. Leroy VanSpronsen popped a volley that Engeler grabbed. Oranje would finally be rewarded when a Rod VanSpronsen corner kick was craftily headed in by Paul Sikma.

The second half started with a Bruce Mans rush that John Zietsma tusseled to stop, but keeper Ryan blocked that shot out. And an Oranje cross was stolen off the head of Steve Koning by Engeler. International added another goal with a Wil Folstad free kick that curled around the Oranje wall, and snuck in, far post. Few realized that it was a goal because it snuck through a hole in the net, but goal it was. Oranje kept trying but they could not get the results they wanted. Shauna Stam, wide. Tom VanderHorst off a Steve Koning pass, right at Engeler. Rick VanderHorst a shot that Engeler had to dive for and a Steve Koning shot that Engeler swam to save. After Morris Klos took a goalline shot that Engeler could grab, it was Inter's turn to shoot, but they would score with a Mark Peters slash through the area that found a hole in the net in the far corner for the final Inter goal #6. Oranje was ready and willing, but FC International were able.

International has built themselves a very strong team, but Adam Woelders would acknowledge that "Oranje played for 90 minutes. We just had lots of energy and more finish tonight".

Trophies were awarded after the game as well as were various accolades to individuals instrumental in keeping the fvcsl league the fine league that it is today. Male MVP went to Mark Peters of FC International. Female MVP was awarded to young and plucky Laura Faber of Lynden. Most sportsmanlike team award, (a very important award in a Christian league) was given to Oranje. Coach Henk VanderHorst affirmed that one team objective this year was "let the refs ref, no back talk, no tackles from behind, and it's nice to see that recognized." Real Pacific were the first place finishers in divison 2,in their first year in the league, and FC International were divison 1 champs as well as league champs.

Much thanks to the fvcsl board who keep this league going, and ultimate thanks go to God the Father for allowing us to enjoy healthy Christian competition.

PENALTY KICK VICTORY, ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 08:40:54 EST

Oranje and Celtic met twice in the regular season, with one tie and one victory for Oranje, both entertaining, competative games. That was the fare for tonight as well, as their playoff game was worth the price of admission (were any admission charged).

The first half would end scoreless, as both teams tested the other out and tried to stick to their game plan and strategy. The best chances for both teams came off a Tim VanderHoek hustle up the wing and cross to Anthony Togeretz but A-Tog could not get the shot he wanted off the bouncing ball. Celtic had another golden opportunity when VanderHoek got a shot on Ryan Sikma which he kept out, and John VanSeters followed up with the next shot that John Zietsma, covering in goal, kept out. And Tom VanderHorst loped in and had a long cross into the Celtic area that keeper Russ Toet grabbed. A late toe save by Sikma kept Celtic off the scoresheet.

It would not take long for Celtic to score in the second half when Anthony Togeretz took a long run up the wing and shot from quite an angle past keeper Sikma and into the goal. A return run by Mark Sikma met with no success on the other end, missing the top corner. Two minutes after their first goal, Celtic struck goal again when John VanSeters took advantage of goalie hesitation and got a shot past him and into the corner.

That woke Oranje up and a perfect corner kick went to Paul Sikma who headed a perfect ball into the Celtic goal. The teams traded chances, but Oranje would score again, when Shelley Sikma provided confusion in the Celtic end, leaving space for brother Tom VanderHorst to shoot a ball straight through the crowd and in, to tie the qame. Chances came thick and fast after that: John VanSeters, Paul Sikma, Anthony Togeretz, Leroy VanSpronsen, Burke VanderHorst (drew ooohhhs from the crowd), Stu VanderHorst, but the game would stay deadlocked.

Shootout!! Again!! It took eight shooters from each team before a victor was declared, with Ryan Sikma making a save, after shooters from both teams had scored to this point. Celtic was a very plukky opponent, and while either of these closely matched teams could have won, it was Oranje's night.

The final game of the fvcsl season will pitt FC International against Oranje on Monday evening at 7:00 at Willoughby field. Come one, come all!!

FC INTER ADVANCES

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 08:07:02 EST

FC International were given a good run for their money, and a good scare by Lynden Americans, and needed a come from behind, penalty kicks win to advance the fvcsl final.

Lynden outworked FC Inter for much of the first half, and outscored them by a 2-0 differential. The first goal for Lynden came off a free kick by Eric Estrada from just outside the 18 that the goalie Werner Engeler was there for the but the rebound came to Matt Hicks and he found the back of the goal. Before the half was too much older Hicks scored again. He and Nathan Chase came running up the left side; Hicks waited till the goalie committed and then curled a long kick around Engeler and inside the far post. Inter woke up and realized they had better pick up their game, and Mike Woelders responded with a nice header inside the 18 that keeper Mark Feenstra grabbed. And Dan Woelders came in, double teamed on a late rush, but no good shot to be had. The half ended 2-0 Lynden. What was Lynden doing right?

Both teams came up with chances in the second half, and the excitement would build. The first save was made by Feenstra, off a Dan Woelders rush, and the first one for Engeler was an Eric Estrada 25 yarder that the keeper had to punch over the bar. Inter almost scored when Bruce Mans received a corner kick, sent it on to Dan Woelders, but Dan-W's flick-on was grabbed out of the air above the goal line by keeper Feenstra. Mark Peters finally scored for Inter on a good spinaround and shot to the corner. That would change the game. How would Lynden respond? They responded with renewed offence, but so did the Blacks. Bruce Mans was sent in on an overlapping run that had potential, but Laura Faber bravely took that away. Lynden might have put the game out of reach had a Loren VanCorbach pass to Ben Faber reaped results; Faber had just Engeler and the post to beat, but the shot hit the post and stayed out. Feenstra made another goal mouth save on the Lynden end when a ball came off a Black head (Mans? or D-Dubya?) but he snatched the ball back out of the goal mouth. By the time the 40 minute mark came, Inter had Lynden looking somewhat bewildered and back on their heels, after handling the mighty strikers of Black so effectively all game. Dan Woelders came in on Feenstra, who came out to clear the shot, but it went right to Mike Opp who cranked a shot right over the retreating Feenstra, into the open goal. Tie game at the final whistle. Yellow cards had been given to Inter's Mike Woelders, Mike Opp, and Jonathan VanPopta during the game.

Shootout!! Both teams scored on their first two attempts. The next shots were a miss and a save, then Inter went ahead with another scoring shot, while Lynden did not. The winning PK for Inter was well struck by the female shooter, Jordan Brown.

Lynden Americans had a fine year, and an excellent playoff run. Thanks, and see ya next year, y'hear!

ORANJE OUSTS LANGLEY FC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 08:55:53 EST

"Hard fought!" "Even battle!" "Could have gone both ways!" "Good defensively!" "Fun!" All comments describing the Langley FC/Oranje playoff game. It took penalty kicks to decide the outcome, with keeper Ryan Sikma and the Oranje shooters having more success than the Langley FC side.

The first half of the match could best be described as, "tons of work, lots of hustle, tight defence on both ends, not many quality shots on goal and no goals to show for it." Derek Hoogerdijk of Yellow struck a fine free kick about 10 minutes into the game inside scoring range, but his shot glanced off the wall and Ryan Sikma could make the grab. Later, a charging Morris Klos of Oranje got on a nice through ball from Rick VanderHorst but could only get his toe on it, not his whole foot, no goal. Mark Sikma sent a pass to Leroy VanSpronsen but Leroy rushed the shot wide, and Shelley Sikma drove a shot along the carpet that Langley keeper John Noort knelt to grab and that would be the first half, the edge going to Oranje.

Yellow started the second half with more energy and drive than did Oranje and early pressure resulted in a shot into the side of the goal by Ron Scheper, and a quality cross from Greg VanPopta that AJ Lissemore drove way over. Rod VanSpronsen tried to generate a chance for Oranje but Steve Koning and Rick VanderHorst couldn't quite get to his cross. Joni Louwerse answered back for Langley with a shot off a corner kick that Sikma saved. Oranje almost got that elusive goal when a long Rick VanderHorst free kick went right in close to the goal, but the Tom&Tom duo of Sikma/VanderHorst both felt the ball streak just above their heads and wide. And a Morris Klos cross was just a smidgen too high for Steve Koning to get his head on, and the game stayed scoreless. Langley almost changed that though when Jeff VanderGaag was sprung loose, with a breaking ball, but Sikma timed his slide just right to steal the ball away. And John Noort would perform the same thievery when Paul Sikma made his patented long throw-in to Steve Koning who crossed it in to Rick VdHorst, but Noort smothered that chance. Morris Klos got the monkey off his back when he finally got Oranje's goal: a perfect pass from Tom Sikma came to Klos and he had the time to strongly lob a picture perfect shot over Noort for a great and timely goal. Would it be enough? A Derek Hoogerdijk try stifled by Sikma. A Tom VanderHorst run, carried, carried, launched, but just wide. With 2 minutes left, Langley FC would not be denied, when Ron Scheper got a pass to the closely marked Jeff VdGaag but he could just get the shot away and drove it into the corner,

Shootout! The second in a row for Langley FC. Ryan Sikma was up to the task and saved any Langley FC shots that were on goal, while several of their shooters missed the mark. Oranje had their first shooter miss, while the next two shots were unstoppable and gained them the victory.

Ron Scheper, stalwart leader of Langley FC said "At leat we made a game of it: that's better than losing 1-0." And make a game of it , they did! Well done to both teams!

CELTIC BATTLES PAST LCRC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 08:52:12 EST

The fans were cold, but the action was hot! "It was a battle out there!' sighed Stu VanderHorst, while savouring the Celtic victory over LCRC. And it was, as the fans were treated to a very competative game. LCRC, having lost the last meeting to Celtic by a 7-2 score, were in no mood to be manhandled again, and they weren't. There would be about 13 minutes left in the game before the deadlock was broken, and Celtic got what would be the only goal of the game.

The teams were even in the first half, both sides having chances, and taking away the other teams opportunities. Mare VanderHorst did just that when Chris (the Hammer) VanderHorst of LCRC ran up from his defensive position and loaded a torpedo, but Mare blocked the shot with her body to keep it out. Kevin VanderGaag had to battle the wind and the turf as he rushed in on a loose ball, but could not beat the elements to get the solid shot he wanted. After Burke Vanderhorst whaled on a loose ball that Justin-the-keeper-Bontkes grabbed, Nicole VanDelft got a dangerous shot in that Bontkes bobbled and Tim VanderHoek dashed in, but put himself rather than the ball into the goal. A mad scramble in front of the Celtic goal in the final minutes of the first half had lots of legs and lots of kicks till finally Rob VanSeters cleared the ball out. Hugo (Dad of Tim) VanderHoek, watching his last fvcsl game before moving to Smithers, summed up the first half "LCRC, more muscle (playing harder), Celtic more brain (playing smarter).

The second half saw the heroics continue, with all players on both sides contributing with offensive and defensive struggles. Greg Hamelin got a shot over John VanSeters but wide of the goal, with no chance for a threatening David Wildeboer to convert. Celtic pressure in the LCRC end that Neil Dykstra could connect on but not get by Bontkes. A Stu VdHorst cross to Richard Welfing's head that Darren Leffers negated. Celtic coming on, holding the flow at the moment. Excitement built as Justin Bontkes and Keith Wildeboer challenged on the same loose ball, but Wildeboer could not chip the ball over the prone keeper and into the open goal. Brian DeWit of LCRC had a very good chance for a goal when he intercepted a ball in the Celtic 18; he got the shot but also got the post, and a desperate clearance by Steve VanDelft saved that moment. Kevin VanderGaag: several attempts, no success, Ivan Scheper to Neil Dykstra's head, no success. Celtic, getting more pressure and ball control, were rewarded when Burke VanderHorst got a ball to Anthony Togeretz, and A-Tog flicked the ball on to Keith Wildeboer who held on just long enough to pick his spot, the far corner, and buried it - no chance Bontkes. More LCRC action from a Kevin Leyenhorst drive and a Brian DeWit strike, but no goal. Celtic, Burke VanderHorst, over, Stu VanderHorst pounding one at Bontkes, A-Tog, through the goal mouth and wide. Finally a final whistle, and the victors would be Celtic. Playoff quality action! Great game!

This means a new fvcsl champion this year, as LCRC were the reigning champs.

KEEPERS BATTLE, LANGLEY FC WIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 08:49:10 EST

Both keepers played a very solid, very aggressive, very involved game for their respective teams in the Langley FC/Cloverdale playoff matchup, and neither would be faulted for a loss, but someone had to win, and it would be Langley FC in the shootout who would claim the victory.

Cloverdale had the early chances off the foot of Matt Wendt, a dangerous crossing shot that sailed just over, and a deflection of a Kyle Mosterd shot that Langley FC keeper John Noort had to be very sharp to get a hand on. Cloverdale got the well deserved opening goal at the 15-minute mark on a good buildup that Mike Schouten finished with a left-footed shot from a sharp angle. Langley FC came right back though, and Ron Scheper set up the equalizer when he squared a shot into the area and Jeff VanderGaag was in front to deflect the shot in. Kyle Mosterd tested Yellow again when he had the defence beaten but his shot went through the goal mouth and out the other side. Ron Scheper of Yellow, on a rush was broadsided by Mike VanderGugten and Mike VdG received a yellow card for that aggression. Later in the game, Doug Versluis and Julian VanDyke received a yellow card for other infractions. The Blues had the edge in pressure and Mosterd had another try for his team that Noort alertly tipped wide. Cloverdale was hemming Langley FC in with their determined play, and Mike Schouten had another shot on Noort that Johnny had to grab. Ian Moes tested John VanderPloeg on the other end, but the rookie goalie did the job.

"Cloverdale had the game early, Langley FC had the game late", would be the assessment on the sidelines as the second half progressed. Ron Scheper took a Derek Hoogerdijk pass and sent it on to sis Jolene Moes, but Jolene was just too late to tap in the quality chance for Yellow. Cloverdale were robbed of a sure goal minutes later. Mosterd charged a loose ball, as did Noort with the challenge resulting in a loose ball going to Joey Zhang, and his hard (sure goal) shot went off the near post and stayed out. Cloverdale was winning the little battles on the evening; would they win the big one? Both teams stepped up their game a notch and had chances with no success. Julian VanDyke (Cl) off the side of the goal, Aren VanDyke (Lgly) over, Wes Driegen (Lgly) big defensive hustle back play to take scoring chance away, same play George Gunnink on Ron Scheper. With the last substitution, both teams checked their lineup to see who they would want in, should the game go to shootout. But a goalie slipup by Cloverdale almost meant the game, when the weak clearance was intercepted by Ron Scheper and his strong return shot was headed over the bar by George Gunnink - the play of the game, by George!.

Shootout!! John Noort made a savvy save off one Cloverdale shooter and the first 4 Langley FC shooters scored to give Yellow the victory. Cloverdale played a great game, and with their rookie goalie Josh VanderPloeg and their fresh young blood up front added to ther roster, they will just get better and better. Langley FC goes on to meet Oranje in the next round of the playoffs.

LYNDEN DOWNS REAL PACIFIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 08:47:04 EST

To call it an upset is a bit too strong, but it was a somewhat surprising outcome in the playoff game between Division 2 leaders Real Pacific and the second place team, Lynden Americans. Pacific, with the best goal differential in the Division 2 regular season, picked a bad time to suffer their first loss of the season, going down to a 1-0 defeat.

Both teams had a very hesitant start as they tested each other out, and it would take till the 20 minute mark of the game before either team had a good shot on goal, this one by Lynden's Ben Faber who stroked a shot that deflected off an RP player and wide. Laura Faber, who played a solid game for Lynden cracked another solid shot that the Stripes cleared away. A Lynden free kick some minutes later saw Eric Estrada facing a big RP wall but Estrada's free kick curled wide of the wall and wide of the goal. Real Pacific seemed to be struggling to find their game, to hit their stride, and this would continue throughout the game, in no small part due to the close marking of Lynden. On a Pacific miscue, Ben Faber took advantage and rolled a good ball along the ball toward keeper Jayden Kuik. Kuik sprawled to smother, but Nathan Chase beat him to the ball and had an open goal in behind the helpless keeper to score for Lynden. In the last 15 minutes of the first half, Real started looking real, and had some buildup with Jason VanderHorst getting a good shot on Lynden keeper Mark Feenstra and Mark Bysterveld stroking a shot off the football uprights. Bysterveld would get a yellow card a short while later when he checked into the Lynden keeper who was cradling the ball. Pacific's best chance of the first half came when Jason VdH found Mark Byst. with a nice crossing pass but M.B's dangerous shot went over.

Referee Wagner declared "a very (unexpectedly) scrambly half: I've never been hit by the ball so often".

Real Pacific could not find their range on the goal, and many second half shots were taken from far out or through a crowd as players started to press too hard. Mark Feenstra could get an eye on many shots, but a lot were right to him, making it easier to make the save. Pacific had the crowd 'oohing" when JayVee crossed a sweet ball into the Lynden box with both Craig Kobes and Mark Bysterveld in scoring position on the far post, but neither could make contact the ball and no goal resulted. Lynden had their own chances, what with Nathan Chase always in a high position waiting for a breaking pass. Loren VanCorbach broke in himself with dangerous shots on Kuik but Jayden was up to the task and made the save, and watched another Laura Faber shot go over a gaping goal. Pacific's coach implored his team for intensity, but his team could not get more out of the tank. Jeremy Meyer got a long sideline cross in that sailed just over the head of Craig Kobes, and that would be the name of their game tonight. Desperate play in the final minutes could not buy them a goal, and they went down to defeat to a very hard working Lynden side.

Coach Norm VanderHorst commented after the game, that Real Pacific could be happy with their first season in the league, "Our scoring touch left us in the last month, but we had a great year." Coach Darren Kleyn of Lynden was also very pleased with his team as he agreed with Reece Lodder's assessment, "In our matchups this year, Pacific usually got us in the second half, but not tonight".

Lynden goes on. Real Pacific - thanks and see you next year!

Playoffs; just goes to show, ya never know!"

SOLID WIN, CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 08:38:29 EST

Celtic and LCRC met in last game of the fvcsl regular season in a game that would determine both their final positions, and with the solid 7-2 Celtic win, they ended up above LCRC, clinching 4th place in Division 1. Not your typical LCRC game, and they will be happy to get some key players back for the playoffs.

The first Celtic goal came with some dispute as Ivan Scheper's first strike was stopped by Justin Bontkes and while he rolled to grab the loose ball, John VanSeters was also struggling to connect. Goalie interference? Not called, and the loose ball skittered to Neil Dykstra who pushed the ball over the line. LCRC had chance to tie the score when David Wildeboer had the perfect shot opportunity but gave the perfect pass to Bryan Grim instead, and he let go a perfect shot, with Russ Toet the perfect save. Darren Leffers had an LCRC try, as did Brian deWit and Saul Fuentes, with no success, but Celtic struck again when Ivan Scheper had a shot hit the crossbar and come down. Bontkes tried to grab the ball but Tim VanderHoek (who had one of his best games of the year) just beat him to the bouncing ball and drove it off the post and in. A third Celtic tally came off a Stu VanderHorst pass, squared to Anthony Togeretz in front and he nailed it in. Half time:3-0.

Jeff Bontkes tried to rally his troops with an inspiring pep talk at the half, ("we enjoyed it,' claimed Kevin Leyenhorst, "but it didn't help!") and their woes would continue. Chris VanderHorst started it off early for LCRC when he ran up from his d-position and struck a good shot at Toet, but Russ was up to the challenge and was sharp to grab the shot. Bryan Grim had a shot that bounced up and came back off the crossbar, only to hit an LCRC hand and the play was blown dead. (If they didn't have bad luck they would have no luck at all.) A bad goal kick by LCRC was intercepted by Tim VanderHoek, who passed off to A-Tog: he had Bontkes at his mercy but showed none, and got his second goal of the game and Celtic's 4th. Brian DeWit had some more LCRC bad luck when he drifted a long shot over Toet's outstretched fingertips but hit the far post and the ball stayed out. Finally LCRC got on the scoresheet when they were given a penalty kick for a Celtic handball and Saul Fuentes didn't need luck to stroke the ball low to the corner. Celtic goal #5 came when Stu VanderHorst broke John VanSeters loose with a leading pass and Bontkes had no chance on the shot to the corner . After a nice Dave Wildeboer cross to Darren Leffers shot and Toet save, and Tim VanderHoek shot and Bontkes save on the other end, LCRC scored again. Darren Leffers, inside the 18, got a slow rolling shot and with Daryl Hofsink in the goal area too, the ball rolled on in. Celtic closed out the game with two more goals, one on a Glenn Visscher pass to Tim VdHoek, who unselfishly (again) dealt the ball back to Stu VdHorst and he drove the ball in. Glenn Visscher iced the cake with the 7th Celtic goal.

Jeff Bontkes quipped after the game, "We're saving our good stuff for the playoffs!" Bring em on!

REMATCH GOES TO ABBY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 08:55:06 EST

Oranje Oranges and Abbotsford Silver Bullets met for the second time this season for a match that would change nothing in the final standings but a victory would be a nice end to the regular season for both teams. Last time these teams met, it was Oranje victorious, this time it was Abbotsford on the winning end of a 3-2 score. Oranje were missing several of their regulars due to injury or Stepping Stones camp. but would not use that excuse, admitting that Abby brought their A-game tonight.

Oranje got the first scoring chance of the game when Leroy VanSpronsen got a good cross in to Shauna Stam but her header skidded off her ponytail and keeper Jagersma made the snag. On the other end, Stan deHaan made a nifty sideline cross in to brother Tim in the middle, but Tim's foot swished just past the ball - no shot. Abby had Oranje on their heels for a stretch and Andrew Selles took advantage of this with a shot from a sharp angle that passed keeper Ryan Sikma and buried itself in the far corner. Oranje picked up their game and Rick VanderHorst received a throw-in and drove a left-footer that Hilmer Jagersma dove to save, with the ball going hard off the post. James Bisschop of Silver sent a nice cross to Rob Beukema lurking in front but Oranje's John Zietsma intercepted to drive that ball away, and Sue DeHaas did the same when Stan deHaan was in the danger zone. More Abby goal mouth pressure resulted in an Oranje hand ball. The penalty kick was stroked by Andrew Selles: keeper Sikma guessed right but couldn't quite make the grab, and Silver had a 2-0 lead. Abby teammates were preaching patience to each other, while Oranje was calling for control as they tried to reel the Bullets back in. They almost got on the scoreboard when Hilmer Jagersma came out to punch a free kick shot away. Oranje drove that ball right back past the sprawled keeper, but James Bisschop headed the shot out of the goal area. In the final minutes of the first half, Tom Sikma drove a long ball from outside the 18 that deflected in off an Abby defender and Oranje was on the board.

The second half's first good chance took a little while to come, but Paul Sikma of Oranje had it when he launched a rising bullet past the Silver Bullets but his shot rang off the crossbar. Leroy VanSpronsen chipped a nice shot over the bar, and Ron Smouter had chances but no results for Oranje as well. On the other end, Andrew Selles would have had a good shot on goal were it not for being blanketed by Tyler VanVliet. Abby had another glorious opportunity when Stan deHaan worked the ball up the length of the field and switched it through the area: Charis Siebenga allertly attacked the ball but her hard shot went over the bar. Abbotsford got their third goal of the game when Jagersma booted a goal kick up the field and hard working Stan deHaan outfought Oranje for the ball and shot a good ball inside the post. Oranje worked hard, hungry for another goal and were finally rewarded when team pressure resulted in a Rod VanSpronsen pass to a pressing John Zietsma and he found the opening between Jagersma and the post. Abby had one last kick at the can........actually the ball, when Stan deH streaked up the left wing and Andrew Selles streaked up the right wing but the pass by deHaan and the shot by Selles were saved by Sikma. On, on to the playoffs for these two teams!

Standings Falling Into Place

Daniel Woelders — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 08:59:35 EST

As the final games of the 2008 season draw near the fight for playoff positions intensify and begin to take shape. FC International with their crucial win over Aldergrove last Thursday drew near the league title and confirmed the number one position with a win over Crossway on Saturday. The battle for second looked to be determined by a make up game between Oranje and Aldergrove, unless Aldergove could steal at least one point in their match against Lynden tonight and that they did, tying the division 2 powerhouse 3-3. The win took them to 39 points in the standings, pulling them out of reach with Oranje who have now claimed the third place spot.

The four, five, six spots have yet to be determined in division 1, since a final game between LCRC and Celtic could see either team taking the four spot. If LCRC were to come out on top, it would give Langley FC an opportunity to tie Celtic in total points, given they are able to beat Valley in their final game. Abbotsford, being on the rough end of some tight games, is unable to catch Langley FC yet will no doubt be a tough team to beat during their playoff run.

Division 2 standings could have been made a month ago, with Real Pacific running away with 15 wins and no losses, yet were given a run for their money in their final game against Cloverdale, tying 1-1. Lynden, who has shown great strength against teams in both divisions, finished their season strong, tying Aldergrove and guaranteeing a number two spot in the second division. Saints FC and Cloverdale have also been confirmed as the 3 and 4 seeds entering the playoffs, as well as Crossway in the 7 spot. However, the 5, 6 spot is still up for grabs between Valley and Vitessa as they enter their final games against Langley FC and FC International.

As the playoffs begin at the end of the week, there will no doubt be a number of upsets and early faceoffs as teams battle to stay alive and claw their way to the final. Will it be a first ever division 2 playoff champion? Can a bottom seeded underdog go the distance and claim the trophy? With such talent in both divisions, the coming playoffs will no doubt be competitive and entertaining.

ABBOTSFORD FORFEITS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 08:10:02 EST

Abbotsford Silver Bullets knew they would have trouble fielding a full squad this evening, as a hockey tournament and a wedding pulled many of their players away. Abby and Celtic, their opponents, came to McLeod field knowing that a forfeit would be the likely outcome, but both sides wanting to play some soccer anyway. So, they played a friendly with Abby's side bolstered by several Langley FC players who still had something left in the tank after their matchup with the Saints. Nice to watch the comeraderie and good sportsmanship showing on the field.

According to my informed source, a forfeit means a victory for Celtic.

SAINTS MARCH OVER LANGLEY FC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 08:47:57 EST

Langley FC and the Saints met for their one and only game of the regular season, and the Saints were the winners, beating Langley FC 3-1. Langley had to play with a short bench again,missing at least four of their core players, a problem that has plagued them this season, and tonight they were competing with a hockey tournament, holidays and a wedding. But they did not want to use that as an excuse and gave the Saints credit for being first to the ball on much of the night. Dave Doornbos lamented, "We had to work too hard to play catch up instead of playing first to the ball, and we didn't have enough energy or players to play that way and win."

This writer missed the first half, but trusty sideline commentators and the referee Brennan could attest to the fact that Langley FC came under Saints pressure quite a bit during the first half, and looked a little slower against their energetic counterparts. Yellow got their only goal of the game on a penalty kick taken by Ron Scheper: good call, good shot, good goal. The Saints goal was an equally good goal, only a different kind, coming off a well struck corner kick taken by Ben Schoeber and David Tolkamp got the head on it: good corner, good header, good goal.

The second half was some 15 mintues old when the Saints had a nice buildup with Ben Schoeber loping up with the ball and he got it over to Matt Phillipchalk who struck a nice rising shot that keeper Noort could only wave at. Yellow came back with Ron Scheper carrying the ball up; Mike Timmerman jumped up into the play and his hard drive was pushed just wide by the Saints keeper, Dustin Jonkman (I think?). The Saints had another drive with lots of potential but Erica Noordam couldn't get enough foot on the ball to bury it. The Saints got their third and last goal of the game, the result of another corner kick that Langley cleared out but right to Clifton VanderHorst and he sent a hard header right back past the helpless Noort.

NO LIGHTS: ALDERGROVE/ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 08:39:17 EST

Aldergrove and Oranje were both pumped to take on the other team in a rematch of last week's game when Aldergrove got the late game victory over Oranje. Aldergrove wanted to prove that it wasn't a fluke, while Oranje wanted redemption. But ity wasn't o be. The lights at Willoughby field refused to come on, with a slight teasing flicker now and then.

Aldergrove opened the scoring when their signature rush, Hendricks/DeWit/Meyer finished with a Justin Meyer goal. Meyer had had an earlier header go hard off the Oranje post, and Mark Meerstra had a hard drive saved by Ryan Sikma. Oranje was not in the mood to let Aldergrove get any further ahead, and Morris Klos hustled in from the Oranje side of half, got a slick shot on Brian Meerstra that he saved, the rebound going to Rick VanderHorst, Rick cranked a sure goal shot, but Shane Welfing made a hi-lite reel effort to clear the ball out of the goal mouth. Klos had another run and shot on Meerstra, this time the loose ball went to Rod VanSpronsen but his shot was pulled off the line by the heroics of Kevin Hendricks. Later chances were from Rod Van Spronsen again, as well as from brother Leroy, and Michelle Dehaas of Aldergrove had a shot on Sikma off a corner kick clearance that Ryan could still see and saved. But it became too dark to see the ball and the play, because of the faulty lighting ,and referee Newcombe had to call the game.

It will be up to Oranje and Aldergrove to determine a new date to replay this game. Too bad, because it looked like a great game was in the making! Stay tuned!

CELTIC WINS LANGLEY FC REMATCH

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 08:17:52 EST

It seemed like a nostalgic little slice of history, Celtic and Langley FC playing on Credo's field, an adequate field that was used for all, or most of the fvcsl games in years gone by. But, now that teams have become used to the size and speed of the turf fields, both teams were hampered by the small, uneven surface. However, it was game on! And Celtic took the rematch with Langley FC by an identical, though reversed score of 3-2.

Both keepers were busy tonight, with John Noort of Langley and John VanSeters of Celtic getting more touches on the ball than several of their teammates. Yellow had the edge in play in the first half, and at one point had seven unanswered shots in the 10-20 minute block of play. Both keepers were tested, notably Jeff VanderGaag getting a header on VanSeters and another shot off a defender, Ron Scheper with two unsuccesful tries, AJ Lissermore wide, On the other keeper Noort, Burke VanderHorst a rising shot save, a Tim VanderHoek shot from a Stu VanderHorst pass, save, but Scheper would beat VanSeters with a spinning shot that skimmed off the face of a Celtic player and in it went. Celtic was relieved to be down only 1-0 at the half.

Aren VanDyke tried to up the tally when he received a little touch from (Dad of new son!) Greg VanPopta and sent a long floater just over the bar. AJ Lissemore did add to Langley's scoring when VanSeters came out to chase down a loose ball, leaving the goal open for Lissemore to drive in a shot from 25 yards out. Would Celtic be up to the challenge of a 2-0 deficit? They had an early opportunity when awarded a penalty kick. Ivan Scheper stroked it well, but John Noort saved it even better to keep Celtic at nil. The Stripes were coming on though, with VanSeters holding them in the game with his goalie play. He had some help from brother Rob when Jeff VanderGaag and John V-S collided on a challenge for the ball; a Yellow player drove the ball at the gaping goal but Rob V-S came in behind and chested the ball out. Now the game was Even-Steven with both keepers making saves, and both teams just missing on chances (Anthony Togeretz, Mary-Anne VanderHorst, Ron Scheper) It would be Keith Wildeboer who would successfully set up his team when he drove a hard shot in; it went off John Noort, up and down and up again, and Tim VanderHoek put it in, with Ivan Scheper ready to do the same. Burke VanderHorst sent a bouncing shot that almost picked the corner but Noort would have none of that and pushed the shot just wide. Celtic tied the score off a corner kick that went in to a scramble in front, with Keith Wildeboer pouncing on the loose ball and driving it in to the back of the goal. Tie game! Anthony Togeretz got the winning goal when he sent in a looping shot that was bobble, scramble, in! Ron Scheper had a last minute dangerous cross in to Jeff VdGaag but VanSeters punched that ball away and Celtic protected their lead and were rewarded with a win. Ron Scheper sighed after the game, "It was our game to win, and we didn't do it tonight."

PLAYOFFS begin next week...

Bored Assistant — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 08:50:34 EST

... and the schedule is now online. Click the Playoffs link at the top or bottom of the schedule.

GOOD GAME, CROSSWAY FC!

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 08:14:12 EST

Crossway FC is a remarkable team. No wins, 2 ties, the rest losses, yet they keep coming, playing with a positive attitude, having a good time playing soccer together. Something to be admired! Good for you Crossway Reds. Crossway had an import player on their roster this year, Dirk Willem ("our Dutchie") Kwant, and they took a team photo after the game for a souvenir for Dirk of his time playing in the fvcsl. And that's why Crossway's team photo is on the website today.

Crossway played what must have been one of their best games of the season as they gave Oranje a good run for their money. The Reds opened the scoring at the 10 minute mark when Rick Soehn stroked a free kick with pin point accuracy over a crowd and right into the top far corner of the Oranje goal. Oranje got that back in the next block of play when Tom Sikma took a pass in the 18 yard circle, turned and shanked a ball off the post and in. Oranje had several more chances as the first half progressed, but Crossway took many chances away, and players like Dan Wagner, Alex Kim and Kwant gave their keeper Andrew Driscoll lots of help to keep the game close. Oranje started to spread the field in the latter stages of the first half, and were finally rewarded when Mark Sikma made a calm run up from just over center and lofted a long shot which dropped in just under the crossbar to give Oranje a 2-1 lead at the half.

The second half had Oranje starting to gain control of the play though Crossway certainly held their own. But Oranje pressure got more organized and they gained a third goal when Rod VanSpronsen's first shot rebounded off Driscoll and Shelley Sikma lunged to push the loose ball over the line. Oranje scored again when pressure in the corner resulted in the ball coming out to Rick VanderHorst who slashed a shot through a crowd and Tom Sikma got his head on it for his second goal of the game. VanderHorst followed this up with an indentical shot three minutes later, but this time the shot went in unassisted for Oranje's 5th goal. Crossway did not lay down and give up, but kept coming, with Joe Doyle, Tim Visscher and Mike Carter being especially pesky in the Oranje end. Finally their second goal came on a long, long free kick off the foot of Dan Wagner that keeper Ryan Sikma lost in the setting sun, and he fumbled it and in it went, with Joe Doyle making sure, though the goal was Wagner's. With 5 minutes left, Oranje had a chance to add to their tally when awarded a penalty kick for a hand ball infraction but Morris Klos' well struck PK hit the inside of the base of the post and came.........OUT..........OUCH! Steve Koning had his last minute dangerous effort kept out by the Driscoll/Kwant combo, and that would be the game.

Oranje 5/Crossway 2.

LANGLEY FC DROPS CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 08:13:06 EST

Langley FC and Celtic met for the first time this season, and both teams had to juggle lineups in what seems to be "wedding weekend" in the fvcsl, with both teams missing some key players. John VanSeters was called upon to play keeper for Celtic and Langley FC played with a short bench.

Langley FC opened the scoring within 5 minutes of the opening kickoff when Ron Scheper got a sideline shot in from a nasty angle past the VanSeters duo of keeper John and defender Rob. Jeff VanderGaag tried to add to that with a hard shot from just inside the 18, but John VanS was ready for this one, and knelt to save it. But on another Jeff VdG attack, VanSeters came out far, too far, with a sprawling challenge, and Jeff could pull around him , had an open goal to shoot at, and filled it. Yellow's Aren VanDyke had a swivel and shoot opportunity that went wide, but the best Celtic try to this point came when Stu VanderHorst made a tough run up the wing to win a cross to Tim VanderHoek and Tim was unlucky to see his header stopped by Noort. Langley carried the play for a while, took the ball up the field, and Jeff VdG finished the play when he notched Yellow's third goal. Celtic knew it was imperative to get a goal before the half, and did just that on a long Ivan Scheper free kick that Anthony Togeretz could get a head on, and put in - no chance for Noort. Score 3-1 at the break.

Celtic played with more passion in the second half, and an early Glenn Visscher run from center to the six yard box went to Neil Dykstra who was playing up, but Neil couldn't quite get his toe on this dangerous ball. Ivan Scheper got the next Celtic penetration but John Noort was at the post to smother the shot. Big brother Ron Scheper of Yellow was on a near breakaway, running step by step with Keith Wildeboer and between the combined efforts of Wildeboer and keeper John, Ron could not get a shot away. Brother Ivan countered with a hard shot on Noort that the Yellow keeper had to punch away. A Rob VanSeters free kick from the Celtic side of the field went to Noort, who made a bad decision to kick the ball instead of catch, and his hard kick rebounded off nearby Tim VanderHoek (took one for the team) and the ball went to Togeretz who volleyed the ball past Noort. Celtic pressed on and had Langley retreating into a defensive shell, especially Dave Doornbos who was up to the challenge of a beautiful A-Tog first touch on a Celtic pass and DaveDee took the shot away. Glenn Visscher was finding his range in the later part of the game but was not rewarded with a goal, and though Celtic forced the play, they could not get that equalizer, and went down to a score of Langley FC 3- Celtic 2

LCRC WINS AGAIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 08:37:10 EST

LCRC United and Abbotsford Silver Bullets met for their second match of the season, and came out with the same result, a 2-1 victory for LCRC, but not an easy one. This reporter missed most of the first half, so had to depend on the game assesments from players on the pitch. Justin Bontkes opined, "We're missing 2 of our defensive quarterbacks, Chris VanderHorst and Jeff Bontkes, so we're having a bit of trouble staying organized." To say nothing of missing their leading scorer Kevin VanderGaag. Abbotsford opened the scoring when John Schouten laid in a great corner kick and Stan deHaan finished it with a beauty (the words of injured sideline commentor Jeff Bontkes) goal for Silver. Abbotsford were missing their regular goalkeeper Hilmer Jagersma, and Ben Beukema put in a valient effort in goal, but Oscar Fuentes took advantage of Ben's inexperience when he drew him out, shot across to the far post and scored. Saul Fuentes summed up the first half for me, when he said, "They dominate, we dominate, they score, we score, a pretty even half.

Two minutes into the second half, Oscar tried to break that deadlock when he got the ball over Beukema but not over Andrew Thalen who was facing his goal but flipped the ball over and out. Saul Fuentes had another LCRC try with a free kick that went over the Abby wall, but Beukema dove to drive that ball wide. Abby had a drive of their own stymied when Stan deHaan sent an excellent ball from the sideline to a charging Kevin Vanderboom but the short shot was caught by LCRC keeper Justin Bontkes. An LCRC drive from Greg Hanlin to a breaking Dave Wildeboer was stopped by a sliding Ben Beukema and a low, hard Kevin VdBoom shot was gathered in by Justin Bontkes on the other end to keep the game tied. Abby had their passing game going and John deVries and Rob Beukema combined on an attack, but Kevin Leyenhorst got his body in the way to block their efforts. And a crowded Rob Beukema, James Bisschop, Stan deHaan flurry saw Justin Bontkes ready, willing and able to make the save. Silver were certainly getting their chances but not the finish, a recurring fact that Rob Beukema lamented after the game, having lost numerous games in the dying minutes. But LCRC did finish a late-game counter attack when Oscar Fuentes lobbed a ball over keeper Ben for the go-ahead goal in added time. Right after that, Oscar went down on a twisting play that looked to have done serious damage to his knee. David Wildeboer was given a yellow card for his enthusiastic criticism of the the referee's judgement. Final score, LCRC 2, Abbotsford 1

A-GROVE LATE WIN OVER ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 08:02:53 EST

Aldergrove and Oranje met for the first time this season, and Oranje is already looking forward to the rematch between these two closely matched teams, Oranje losing the first go-round by a 3-2 squeaker. The game could be summarized as each team holding the edge at times, with the other team taking back control and putting on their own pressure. Both teams could be happy with their ball control, and team work, something which both side exhibited all night long, trying to take advantage of the other teams miscues. Both keepers were also called upon to make timely saves, and this they did, even with a 3-2 score.

An early Aldergrove corner kick resulted in an early scramble front of the Oranje goal, and Johnny-on-the-spot Zietsma cleared the goal line ball away. Coming back, Tom Vanderhorst got a left footed drive that keeper Brain Meerstra touched wide, and another Oranje rush, with Tom V and Mark Sikma coming in resulted in a high shot going over. Justin Meyer headed an Aldergrove free kick in but could not get that opening goal, which would go to Oranje instead. Mark Sikma floated a long free kick in from just inside Aldergrove's half; keeper Meerstra came out to grab but stumbled and fell, and the ball kept going and made it over Meerstra and over the goal line for Oranje's first goal - unlucky, Brian! Aldergrove tried to equalize when Justin Meyer climbed up and over the back of defender Tyler VanVliet and got his head on the ball, but Ryan Sikma made the grab. But the speedy duo of Kevin Hendricks and Meyer connected for Alder's first goal when Hendricks broke up the left side, received the pass, and send it back in to a covered Meyer who would not be denied again and got a no-chance shot away. Aldergrove picked up a quick second goal when a crowded goal area could not prevent a Meyer to Colin DeWit pass and Colin made the no-mistake shot for goal.

Oranje tried for an early equalizer in the second half but Meerstra bravely stole a corner kick off the boot toe of Tom VanderHorst. And Aldergrove looked to have an insurance goal when Justin Meyer sent a sideline pass in to Edwin Palsma but keeper Sikma toed that shot away. Meyer followed that up with an across the area run and shot but Sikma was there again. When Aldergrove commited a hand ball foul in their area, Rick VanderHorst struck the penalty kick, and drove it low into the corner to draw Oranje even. Neither team was satisfied with a tie, and Oranje's Morris Klos charged in on a loose ball with Meerstra just winning the race, while Meyer and Aubrey VanderGaag split around the Oranje D-line but Sikma was up to the double challenge and cleared the ball away. Oranje's Ron Smouter had a spin and shoot off a pass from Su VanderHorst that couldn't get past Meerstra, Tom Vee dribbled through a crowd but shot wide, and Morris Klos had a dangerous header in front go just wide as well. The last five minutes had an Edwin Palsma looping shot go to Sikma and a Rick VanderHorst Oranje ball go over. But with seconds left, Palsma got on the end of an Aldergrove drive and he got a shot through and in to gain his team the victory. Aldergrove's Matt VanderGaag went down with what looked to be a painful knee injury: let's hope it proves to not be too serious.

Oranje and Alderove will be back at it on July 10th. Should be a good one!

ALDERGROVE GOOD ENOUGH TO WIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:43:00 EST

Abbotsford played good enough to win and Aldergrove played good enough to win, but it was Aldergrove that got the win with 2-0 score. A game that both teams will admit was not their finest: too much kick and chase, too much physical, too much yip-yap. Too bad - both teams are capable of better. But it WAS nice weather!

Most of the first half was taken up by back and forth play that did not result in any real threat on goal. Neither teams could generate a really good scoring chance, though both expended a lot of energy with no return. In the last block of the first half, Colin DeWit of Aldergrove received a good ball off a corner kick but his header went wide. Abbotsford followed that up with a rush that had lots of potential, with Stan deHaan and Alder keeper Brian Meerstra both rushing at the same ball. Meerstra made the grab with way too much body language (not seen by referee Derek Hoogerdijk), but the retalitory contact by deHaan was seen by the ref, for which Stan got a yellow card. Minutes later Shane Welfing of Aldergrove was given a yellow card for extra unsolicited advice loudly given to the referee.

A little chippiness and lack of control crept into the second half and before long Aldergrove was awarded a penalty kick for a takedown in the Abby box. Kevin Hendricks took the PK: keeper Hilmer Jagersma guessed right, and almost had the save, but in it went. Abbotsford plays a lot of long ball, and Andrew Thalen did just that with a long free kick that went right to Meerstra. The next Abby pressure came from Stan deHaan who set up Andrew Selles close in on Meerstra, but Selles chopped it right over Meerstra and over the bar. Jagersma made his best save of the night, and one of the few he was called on to make when a free kick from about 22 yards out went into a crowd: eventually Kevin Hendricks slashed a shot through a lot of legs and bodies, but Hilmer could see it and dove to smother. When Jagersma and Mark Meerstra were involved in an unavoided collision in the box, another Alder PK was awarded and Hendricks got the second tally for his team. The physical contact and mouthiness continued between several players and eventually Mark Meerstra left the game with a sore quad and a yellow card.

Lots of positive players on both teams, and there surely will be better games from these two teams, but tonight was not stellar!

CELTIC&ORANJE DRAW 2-2

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 08:52:42 EST

Celtic and Oranje put on one of the most entertaining games of the season to date and came up with a 2-2 draw, as every player on both teams played hard and left it all on the field. Referee Newcomb claimed that it was the best game he had officiated this year, as far as comeraderie was concerned, and though it was a hard fought game, it was tough but clean and he did not have to make calls that would affect the outcome of the game. And he singled out the female players on both teams, remarking on their level of skill, finesse and guts, playing among all those big male lugs.

Celtic opened the scoring when at the 7 minute mark, after pushing in several times, ivan Scheper got the ball to Tim VanderHoek who was right on keeper Ryan Sikma, and got the ball past him for an early goal. Ron Smouter almost got that back for Oranje with a nifty header off a corner ball but Steve VanDelft cleared that ball off the line. Morris Klos charged in on another try for Oranje but Russ Toet challenged for, and won the ball. On the other end, Stu VanderHorst cranked a hard shot from the 18 that surely would have gone in , had it not hit the head of Tyler VanVliet at the 15. VanVliet went down, but shook it off and would be okay, especially since he had kept that sure goal out. Glenn Visscher had another go for Celtic when he chipped a shot out of a scramble in front but over the bar it went. Oranje got on the scoresheet when Su VanderHorst (formerly known as Vegter) centered the ball to Rick VanderHorst on the 25 yard line and he drifted a perfect shot into the very top corner - no chance for Toet. Rick VdH folLowed it up a short while later when he rushed in on a break, looking for the pass, and got it, this time shooting low to the far corner - again no chance for Toet. A very exciting half, with Oranje leading 2-1 at the break.

Celtic had the edge in play at the start of the first half, and continued that trend in the second half, Richard Welfing saved a ball off the Oranje goal line and got it back to Ivan Scheper who slashed a nice crossing shot in but it was grabbed by Sikma. Nicole VanDelft, playing mid, had a great chance but put it over the Oranje-bar. Burke VanderHorst would tie up the game when he came up from his mid-field position to punch a sweet far post shot in - no chance for the Oranje keeper this time. After that the game was even in score and in play, the teams traded rushes, chances, and defensive challenges. Steve VanDelft, shot, keeper Sikma saves. Rick VanderHorst - header over. Burke VanderHorst - spinning shot, over. John VanSeters - header - over. Morris Klos - into a crowd, IvanScheper the clearance, and Toet the grab. Mark Sikma - IN? Not IN? Not IN! And the game would fittingly end in a tie. Entertaining! Exciting!

CELTIC FEELS LIKE HOLLAND

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 08:59:55 EST

"We felt like the Dutch team tonight in our matchup against FC International", sighed Celtic midfielder Burke VanderHorst. "They didn't outwork us or outplay us, but they sure outcontrolled us." And that's what happened as FC Inter beat Celtic 4-0. International were missing their regular goal keeper tonight, and played two different teammembers in goal, and Celtic wanted to take advantage of this very thing, but FC Inter did not allow it, and as a result, Celtic did not have a whole whack of quality scoring chances.

Bruce (I'm back from Korea) Mans almost had a "welcome back to the FVCSL" goal when he received a Mark Peters pass, but Bruce was tangled up with Celtic's Neil Dykstra on the goal line, together with keeper Russ Toet and the ball, but Keith Wildeboer managed to clear the ball away in the nick of time. Burke VanderHorst and John VanSeters tried to open scoring for Celtic when they both were in position for a scoring header, but Burke's head put the ball just over the crossbar. At about the 25 minute mark, a Black trio came in on goal, and the short shot was deflected in by a Celtic defender trying for the clearance. Own goal. Anthony Togeretz of Celtic was given a yellow card for a tackle from behind before the break and Glenn Visscher popped a dangerous try over the bar and FC Inter led 1-0 at half time.

The Blacks opened the scoring before the second half was many minutes old when the scoring combo of Mark Peters to Dan Woelders worked their magic which resulted in a quick goal for Dan Dubya. They followed it up before too long when a corner kick went to Alan Devlin and he cranked the shot just inside the post for goal #3 for Inter. The next Inter pressure came on a rising Matthew Thiessen shot that Russ Toet got a VanDerSar-like arm on to keep the ball out. But International got their 4th goal when team scoring leader Mark Peters cruised in, cut across the area, and notched a shot into the back of the goal. Celtic finally got some good pressure going when Glenn Visscher drove the ball in, and Eric Atsma, keeper of the 2nd half had to be sharp to keep it out, followed by scrambly play till his team managed to get the clearance. Stu VanderHorst had a nice poke at the ball that went over, and Tim Vanderhoek had a late try thet went wide but all for naught. FC International put together a very complete game, and are very simply put, a very complete team.

AMERICANS VICTORIOUS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 08:29:06 EST

"So, Mark Hicks,' I asked, "What's the key to Lynden's scoring success this year?" "Well," Hicks replied, "It's our secret and if I told you, then you would know our secret and then I would have to kill you!" Okay, okay, keep your secret! But something is going right for Lynden as they have scored the most goals of any team in the league to date, and boast the best goal differential. They added a couple more goals tonight as they won a close game over Oranje with a 2-1 victory.

Lynden seemed to catch the Oranje team by surprise at the six minute mark of the match when they got their first goal. Oranje seemed to still be adjusting to the dense, slow-rolling grass of Bender Field when Jonathan Kingma took a ball away in the Oranje half and passed up to Nathan Chase. Ryan Sikma came out to challenge but Chase chased around him and forced the ball into the now unguarded goal. Rick VanderHorst tested Lynden keeper Ethan Neff with a 30yarder but Neff's fingers and the crossbar kept the shot out. Late in the half, Harvey Pelleboer was in a good position to head an American corner kick but Sikma was in a good position to make a Canadian save. Just before the break, defender Tyler VanVliet and Lynden forward Matt Hicks were tussling it out for a header in the Oranje box, but neither got it and a dangerous try was diffused.

Esther Berends (?-#4 girl) started the second half well for Lynden when she calmly kicked a ball to corner space for Nathan Chase to run onto; he sent it into the box, with one Lynden teammate twanging it off the crossbar before Loren VanCorbach got the low rebound and put the ball over the goal line. Oranje had to pick up their game, and Tom VanderHorst put the ball into a crowd with Rod VanSpronsen and Steve Koning there for the try but Steve Koning's crowded kick went over the bar. The next rush saw Ethan Neff duke the ball out, and a calling, cruising Tom Sikma received a later pass and rushed, but his shot went over as well. in the second block of 2nd half play, Tom Vanderhorst blasted a low torpedo, but his shot went just wide. Brent Ahrens, leading scorer for the Red/White/Blue dippsy-doodled in and around Oranje in their end, but was effectively covered on this attempt (and all night, as Oranje kept him off the score sheet) and he dumped the ball wide. Oranje finally got a tally when a low Rick VanderHorst corner kick went in off the butt of Steve Koning (hey, they all count Steve, no matter how you put it in!). Ryan Sikma made two timely saves off of Nathan Chase in the latter part of the half to keep his team close, but Oranje could not get that tying goal. Oranje acknowledged that the difference in the game was that they had trouble finishing the play in the Lynden half of the field, while Lynden Americans are certainly comfortable and effective on their home field.

CELTIC BACK ON WINNING TRACK

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 08:11:16 EST

Well, it was a NICE night for soccer, as the spectators had to shield their eyes from the SUN, instead of the RAIN for once. Celtic were looking forward to putting a game in the win column, following three losses, while Crossway, with two ties to their name, is still looking for their first win of the season, but it was Celtic's night with a decisive 7-0 win over Crossway.

It took till the 20 minute mark of the game before Celtic got their first goal, after testing the backstop behind the Crossway goal several, um, no - numerous times. Glenn Visscher sent a ball from just over centre that Anthony Togeretz could get to and he made no mistake, putting it to the left corner. Lindsay Bisschop set up Joe Doyle for a shot that Celtic keeper Russ Toet had to smother but Celtic would get the next goal when Togeretz squared the ball to Burke VanderHorst who swept the ball into the goal with his left foot. A short while later, Ivan Scheper set up A-Tog when his 40-yard free kick was just right for Togeretz to head in. A Celtic team rush up the left side was finished by Burke VdH with a shot that squeezed between keeper Andrew Driscoll and the near post, and it was 4-0 Celtic. A John VanSeters shot low to the corner, and a Wil Wildeboer goal just before half time made the score 6-0.

Celtic made some lineup adjustments, trying players in different positions in the second half, and only notched one more goal before the final whistle. Crossway had a couple more scoring chances in this half, notably when Mikayla Bay was on the end of a Joe Doyle pass and got a shot away for the Reds, and Dave VandeLeur when he received and shot a Tim Visscher free kick but Celtic keeper Toet was ready and able to make the grab. Stuart VanderHorst got the final goal for Celtic with a 30 yard ripper that rose into the top corner. Driscoll made two late saves in the dying minutes, one off a shot from Tim VanderHoek and another that came out of the goal mouth scramble that followed. And that was the game.........and a beautiful sunset!

FIVE GAME WIN STREAK - ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:53:39 EST

Oranje kept up their winning ways, with a 2-0 win over Langley FC, a matchup that saw two teams play a clean, entertaining game.

Yellow's first chance of the game occurred when Ron Scheper gave Kevin Woelders a leading pass and Woelders dove along the ground to try to head the ball in: no goal for Kevin, but surely some turf burn, according to spectators. Ian Moes got the next good attempt for Langley FC when he came in dangerously on goal but could never gain complete control of the ball for a good shot. Lots of midfield play in the first half did not result in success for either team, but Oranje was surely picking up their game. Yellow was unlucky to not score when a perfect Ron Scheper corner kick found the head of Jeff VanderGaag but the header grazed the top of the crossbar and went over. Oranje had their best chance in the last block of the half when Rick VanderHorst sprung a breaking Tom Sikma: keeper John Noort thrust the first shot away, with the rebound going to Rod VanSpronsen but he drove the ball straight back at a crouching Noort, who made the grab. The game was blanked at the break.

Oranje got their first goal early in the second half when Rick VanderHorst centered the ball to bro Tom who got a rising shot that Noort got a high hand on , but the ball snuck over and in. Kevin Woelders tried to even the score on a diagonal run through the Oranje area, but Paul Sikma matched him stride for stride making it difficult for Woelders to get his high shot away. Wes Driegen broke in on a determined run from his defensive position but John Zietsma kept him honest by forcing him outside. Oranje seemed to have a sure second goal when Rod VanSpronsen hustled in to the corner to win a cross into the 6-yard box, but bro Leroy bodied the ball against the post from a couple of steps out. They got that second goal, though, when Paul Sikma lifted a long free kick that went off a Yellow head and skipped on to and off the head of Rod VanSpronsen and in: no chance for keeper Noort. Langley FC pressed on and Wes Driegen cranked a far post shot from the corner of the 18 yard box, but the shot went off the top of the post of the inside of the bottom of the crossbar and stayed out! Driegen got another try for goal when he took a penalty kick for his Yellows but Oranje keeper Ryan Sikma punched that PK out (which he has done several times this year) - a mass of players slashed away at the loose ball, and it finally plunked off the (Ryan's best friend, by now) post and stayed out.

Final score: Oranje 2, Langley FC 0 (cross bars and posts don't count......!)

YA WANNA BE A SPORTS REPORTER?

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 08:03:29 EST

So, where have all the eager sports reporters gone? Game reports on this web site are getting remarkably one sided, or shall I say one-coloured..........actually two coloured. I have lots of fun writing up the games that I attend, but I don't go to all the games. Some teams have hardly been reviewed at all this year. (Maybe they prefer it that way.)

Anyway, if your team has a faithful fan that follows you around from game to game, from field to field, and from rain storm to rain storm, encourage them to give reporting a try. After all, if I can do it, they can do it!

LEAGUE LEGEND LEAVES FVCSL

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:06:45 EST

Henk Timmerman will be leaving the FVCSL and the province as he heads to RCMP Depot in Regina for RCMP training. Though the league hopes to get him back after he has completed that training, there is no guarantee that he will be back in this area.

The FVCSL certainly owes Henk a big thank you as he has been instrumental in setting up the league, serving as a board member, an active player and and referee. He has given of his time, expertise, knowledge and energy to make the league what it is today. Henk was recognized as league MVP last year, an accolade well deserved. Oranje coach Henk VanderHorst spoke highly of Henk T-man's commitment both to the league and to the level of soccer that the league has achieved, as well as Timmerman's expectation that the Christian character of the league to be the most important. He speaks for all, I'm sure when we wish Henk the Lord's blessing on his new direction in life, and that the Lord will protect him and keep him as he heads to Regina and temporarily leaves his family behind here in the Fraser Valley.

THANKS, HENK TIMMERMAN! MAY GOD BLESS

NO QUIT IN ORANJE WIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:52:11 EST

Oranje had to come from behind with 3 unnswered goals to pull out a hard fought 3-2 victory over Langley FC. Two of the original FVCSL teams met in a game that would be team and league leader Henk Timmerman's last game as he heads to Regina for RCMP training, and it was a good Oranje/Yellow matchup. The game could have been a win for either team, but it was Oranje's turn for a good team effort victory.

Yellow had the better start in the match, and Ryan Sikma was called upon to make early saves on shots from Jeff VanderGaag off a Kevin Woelders feed, and an Aren VanDyke shot that Sikma grabbed as well. Langley keeper John Noort had the same success on a following Oranje drive. But Sikma was beaten on a long shot from Aren VanDyke that he drifted in and Ryan got the fingers on it, but not enough to push the ball over the crossbar, and in it went. Yellow kept pressure on the ball after that and a goal area scramble after a corner kick had many players trying to clear and trying to score, but no goal for Yellow. Ever dangerous Henk Timmerman had a good chance for goal when he had a quick release, spin and slash, but it went off the crossbar. Shelley Sikma on the other end, outfought John Noort for the ball and got it back to Rod VanSpronsen, but Rod hit the side of the goal. Phil Sikma had a good rip on an Oranje ball that made it through a crowd but Noort could make the grab, and Henk Timmerman and Ian Moes both had chances that Sikma could grab. Minutes before the break, Jeff VanderGaag finished off Yellow team pressure when he got a short shot into the short side of the goal and Langley had a 2-0 lead. But Oranje came right back, and a minute later Rod VanSpronsen punched in a choppy shot and the score was 2-1 at the half.

The first rush of the second half showed that Oranje had not quit and Mark Sikma energy gained a corner kick. The corner resulted in scramble, scramble in the Yellow box, with Phil Sikma getting the ball through and over the Yellow goal line. Suddenly it was a new game, with the teams tied at 2! Half way through the half, Rick VanderHorst sent a ball to the corner for Mark Sikma and Sikma took the ball across the 18 and deflected a left-footer off a Yellow defender and in. Oranje would preserve the lead, partially through keeping a close defensive eye on Henk T-man who did manage to unleash one from the corner that Sikma had to crouch to grab, and another one from Henk's brother Mike that he had to force through the area. Tom Sikma generated one more try for Oranje and his shot went through the Yellow area and Rod VanSpronsen got on the end of that but hit the side of the goal (again). Victory to Oranje, 3-2.

Henk Timmerman sighed that it was time to move on: his soccer boots were shot, held together by tape and were headed for the garbage. May his RCMP boots serve him well.

LANGLEY FC LEAPFROGS OVER LCRC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 08:41:20 EST

Langley FC and LCRC played in very blustery conditions at McLeod field, and the wind played a huge factor in the game, as did the fact that Langley FC had lots of extra players while LCRC had only one spare. Langley Yellow took advantage of that, as well as having the strong wind at their backs and managed a 3-1 victory over LCRC and moved over them in the standings as well.

LCRC had a heart stopping moment in the first ten minutes when Aren VanDyke had a sure shot for goal when he connected off a corner kick, but Mandy DeWit saved the day and saved the goal for LCRC when she cleared the ball off the line. At the 15 minute mark, Ryan Hanawalt picked up a Jeff VanderGaag pass, dribbled through a bevy of Stripey players and slashed a shot past keeper Justin Bontkes to take the early Yellow lead. Leading scorer for LCRC Kevin VanderGaag tried to equalize when he snuck in and scooted the ball across the goal mouth, but it was just in reach of keeper John Noort. They would tie the score a short while later when the wind and wreaked havoc on a bouncing ball driven in by LCRC; Noort got a hand on the high bouncer but not enough, and David Wildeboer cut behind Noort and put the ball in. Wildeboer broke in on another blowing, breaking pass from Oscar Fuentes but shot just wide.

Langley FC were very aware that the wind would be an extra player for them in the second half, and they used it, while a tiring LCRC side had to battle head first into the wind. Derek Hoogerdijk tried to float an early wind-carried ball in, but his shot drifted over the crossbar. It would not an easy half for Yellow and LCRC was not without their chances but Langley FC would benefit from an LCRC own goal to take the lead. Kevin Woelders came in on Justin Bontkes, who made the save, but bro Tim Bontkes was unlucky when he tried to clear the ball away but ricochetted it off Justin and into the goal instead. In the last five minutes, a determined Ron Scheper iced the cake for Langley FC when he got them their insurance goal. Ryan Hanawalt gave it one more try when he cut across the LCRC goal area and cranked a left footer at Bontkes but Justin thrust that shot away, and that would be it for the game.

Oscar Fuentes was given a yellow card for too much chirping.

RAIN AGAIN: ORANJE/VITESSA

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 08:06:13 EST

Oranje put together a convincing team victory as they rolled over Vitessa 5-0 on this cold March evening. Oops, it is JUNE, it just feels like March! Baseball is smarter than soccer in that they cancel games in such nasty,wet , cold weather. However, if the FVCSL did that, there would have been a lot of rainouts this year.

"Vitessa gave us much of the field, and we took it, with a good game of ball control, passing and communicating' voiced Oranje coach Henk VanderHorst, and this indeed was the name of the game. Vitessa did not have too many chances at the Oranje keeper Tom Sikma who was standing in for Ryan (brand new Dad) Sikma, and the chances they got were handled by Tom-S. Mark Sikma set up the first Oranje goal when he sent a pass in to Rod VanSpronsen who seemed to have the goal but the Vitessa keeper batted the ball off the goal line, only to have Leroy VanSpronsen make sure the ball went right to the back of the net. Steve Koning followed that up some minutes later when he headed in a Rick Vanderhorst cross off the goalies hands and in. When Oranje was awarded a penalty kick, Mark Sikma took it but shot it over and wide, (but nailed the tree in behind the goal!). Ben VandeBurgt got the most dangerous try late in the half for Vitessa when he ran in stride for stride with defender John Zietsma: keeper-Tom stayed back and handled shots from VdBurgt and teammate Jeff Boess. Oranje ended the half with sustained pressure on the Vitessa area by 5 or 6 players but none could complete a scoring play.

Vitessa started the second half with a rush that had goal written all over it, set up by Henk Colijn, but the first shot rang off the crossbar and the rebound went to #5 (don't know his name) who was unlucky to head it off the same crossbar! Coach Kees VanVliet implored from the sideline, "Under the crossbar, Vitessa, Under the crossbar!" as this golden opportunity bore no results. Oranje's 3rd goal came off a penalty kick that Leroy VanSpronsen struck well, and the Vitessa keeper Tim Erickson got a hand on it but could not keep it out. Gary Hovius had a last good run for Vitessa when he raced up the wing but Tom Sikma came out to challenge and took the angle away and Hovius' effort went wide. Oranje's efforts gave them a 4th goal coming from a heads-up pass from Rick VanderHorst to Leroy VanSpronsen who made a beautiful cross to Tom VanderHorst's head and in went the ball. Shelley Sikma almost rounded out the scoring with a shot on goal, with the keeper fumbling the wet ball, but Steve Koning made sure the ball went in.

Players and spectators (yes, there were some!!) were all happy to head home to warm, warm showers!

ORANJE HAS LCRC'S NUMBER

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 08:03:53 EST

LCRC were shaking their heads at the end of tonight's match against Oranje, as they suffered their second loss of the season to the orange-clad. They were missing some key players, including their starting keeper Justin Bontkes and this forced them to play Saul Fuentes in goal, which took away some offensive thrust.

The first 30 minutes of the game saw a lot of back and forth action as both teams worked to establish their passing game, and test the other keeper. Mark Sikma and Rod VanSpronsen, together with Shelley Sikma combined to get action in the LCRC end and the shot had to be forced wide by Fuentes. Keeper Ryan Sikma had to be sharp in the Oranje end when David Wildeboer cruised in after a loose ball, and Sikma snatched it off his feet. Kevin VanderGaag got a shot out of a crowd, but he was tightly marked, as Oranje tried to do most of the night, and did not get the shot he wanted. MarkS and RodVS combined again when Mark got a ball over to Rod, who flicked it on to Shauna Stam, and she directed the ball on and into the goal, for a big goal for Oranje, as it would prove to be the game winner. Morris Klos was back in the Oranje lineup and jumped on a loose ball that squirted through a crowd, but went just wide. And Brian DeWit crossed a ball to a charging Dave Wildeboer, but that effort went wide of the Oranje goal. DeWit traded dying minute shots with Tom Sikma and the half ended 1-0 Oranje.

LCRC worked hard in the second half to get their strikers Kevin VanderGaag, David Wildeboer and Darren Leffers loose but Oranje worked hard to keep them in check and not let them finish their chances, though they hung on some in the last 15 minutes to preserve the shutout for Sikma. Speedster VanderGaag came in on a great rush and seemed to be free, but Paul Sikma came out of nowhere to take that shot away, and he had a later shot denied when Ryan Sikma made a great toe save. Morris Klos suffered the same fate on the other end when Tim Bontkes blanketed him and Klos could not get a clean shot unleashed. Ron Smouter had a shot for Oranje go wide, and LCRC worked it back up the field. They took advantage of space in Oranje's defence, got behind them ,and Darren Leffers scored, only to see the play called offside by the ref. Chris VanderHorst of LCRC had moved up in the later stages of the game to help get that badly needed goal cut loose a shot out of a very crowded, (with both teams) spot just outside the 18, but it went just wide. In the last five minutes of the game, keeper Ryan made another great toe save off of Darren Leffers and stopped a late game corner kick as well, and he and Oranje had their shutout and victory.

ALDERGROVE DOUBLES CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 30 May 2008 08:50:19 EST

Well, have Celtic ever given up 6 goals in a game? And have Aldergrove ever scored 6 against them? That's just what happened tonight as a solid Aldergrove team effort defeated Celtic 6-3. It took well into the first half before either team managed to test the other's keeper with anything dangerous, and it would be Celtic that scored first. Russ Toet, the Celtic keeper sent the ball up to John VanSeters and he broke a speedy Tim VanderHoek who got to the ball before keeper Brian Meerstra, got around him and scored. But a short while later, Toet took a goal kick (one that he would dearly want back) that went straight to Mark Meerstra and he drove it right back and in for Aldergrove's first goal. Meerstra followed that up with his and his team's second goal when he got control of a bouncing ball in the Celtic end, and connected and scored. Aldergrove pushed up again and Kevin Hendricks floated a long shot from the sideline that drifted high, right inside the far post for Alder #3. Celtic did not quit and got a well deserved goal when Ivan Scheper brought the ball up, Glenn Visscher came back to cross it in to John VanSeters at the top of the box and he nailed it in to keep Celtic with in one. But before the half, Aldergrove added to their lead on another nifty rush; they now seemed to have lots of room to make the play and the shot they wanted, and Justin Meyer curled a left-footer in for a 4-2 half-time score.

Tim VanderHoek had a chance to open Celtic scoring in the second half when he connected on a cross, but his hard shot thwacked off the crossbar - unlucky for him and for Celtic. Aldergrove had different luck though,when Kevin Hendricks drove a free kick along the ground at the Celtic goal and it was scramble, scramble, kick, kick, with Hendricks eventually outscrambling Celtic and chopping in the ball. Anthony Togeretz had an energetic drive on the Alder-goal that Brian Meerstra had to be sharp to parry away, but soon Aldergrove would add another goal, taking advantage of some Celtic confusion in their area, and Justin Meyer got the finishing touch on that play. Celtic created some Alder-confusion of their own when a team effort got the ball into scoring range, and John VanSeters was the one to finish that play to complete the Celtic scoring and the game scoring. Final score 6-3.

Rematch next week, and both teams will be gunning again, as they try to pass each other in the standings.

SAINTS MARCH OVER ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 27 May 2008 08:44:53 EST

The Saints put on a scoring show against Oranje tonight, and played a steady defensive game as well to beat Oranje, keeping them off the scoresheet with a 4-0 shutout. Rod VanSpronsen had the first scoring chance of the game on a nice attack from Oranje, but the Saints had the more dangerous when Nico Noordham got sprung, Adele Kroeger got stymied followed by Matt Phillipchalk who cracked a shot off the crossbar. The Saints got their first goal right after that when Ben Schoeber stroked a free kick that roofed in off the fingertips of Oranje keeper Ryan Sikma. Saints almost got another when a corner kick grazed off the head of Mika Yamamoto, but it didn't change direction enough to go in. Tom Sikma and Rick VanderHorst both had chances for Oranje with both dangerous but a little far out, and David Tolkamp had his Saint effort go wide. Keeper Sikma made two great saves in a row when Nico Noordham blasted one in at him, and the rebound went to Matt Phillipchalk with a scrambling Sikma making that grab as well. But Phillipchalk would not be denied again when Adele Kroeger made a nice cross in to him and he headed the ball in for goal #2 for the Saints. Steve Koning came close to notching a goal for Oranje when he fought through a crowd and cranked a shot off the crossbar and blasted his own rebound just over. Oranje sustained some good pressure for a time, with steadier buildups and about 6 unanswered shots, but none could bulge the onion bag.

Mika Yamamoto got a second chance for a goal early in the second half when she tried to finish on an Aaron Tolkamp cross but just couldn't connect. John Zietsma and Paul Sikma of Oranje charged up from their D-positions from time to time to try to generate some more offence, but the Saints D-line of Conrad Dykman and Dustin Jonkman were just as effective at shutting Oranje down. Phillipchalk got a couple more tries on the Oranje goal, one that Sikma had to tip over the bar, and another that grazed the outside of the far post. David Tolkamp was often a dangerous presence lurking in the Oranje end as well. Jon Vanderheyden generated the next Saints goal when his setup went to Phillipchalk, to Ben Schoeber who took his time to slide his shot just under a sprawling Sikma. The 4th Saints goal came when second-half keeper Jordan Dykman kicked the ball up the field and Vanderheyden sent in Nico Noordham behind the Oranje defence and Noorham rounded out the scoring. Shortly before the final whistle, Angela Dykman was given a yellow card for unacceptable language.

Good strong game from the Saints, while Oranje will have to get their scoring machine polished up, or dusted off, what ever the case may be.

SILVER SUNK BY CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 23 May 2008 08:39:53 EST

Celtic kept up their winning ways of late by defeating Abbotsford by a convincing 4-0 score. Abbotsford is struggling to put some victories together. "It is what it is" declared keeper Hilmer Jagersma, but their team stays positive and enjoys the game.

Celtic opened the scoring early in the first half when Burke Vanderhorst got the ball to Tim Vanderhoek and he to Anthony Togeretz, who put the ball into the back of the net. Andrew Selles tested Celtic keeper Russ Toet twice after that but Toet made both grabs and John VanSeters ran the same test on Silver keeper Jagersma on the other end when he ran cross-field and cut a shot loose that Jagersma dove to save. JohnVanS got a goal a short while later though, when Ivan Scheper let loose a shot that Jagersma stopped but JohnV got the rebound and drilled it in from a tough angle. Glenn Visscher tried to add to that tally with a free kick, but it went just over the Abby wall and just over the Abby bar. Tim VanderHoek had the same result when he was in the goal area and headed an Anthony Togeretz cross over the bar. Adrian Selles closed out the half with a good drive on Toet that the keeper had to be sharp to grab. Celtic had their patented passing game going well in the first half and led, 2-0 at the 45 minute mark.

Celtic did not keep that style of game going as well in the second half and Abby tried to take advantage but could not find the back of the goal, while Celtic managed to notch 2 more goals. James Bisschop of Silver worked hard but saw his good efforts go for naught especially on two drives early in the second half. And he crossed a ball into the goal area that Kevin VanderBoom had a chance at, but he and Toet tangled up, with Toet coming up with the save. Celtic teamworked the ball back up the field and Glenn Visscher ended the rush with a shot to the side of the goal. Rob Beukema tested Toet with a floater that could have been lost in the lights but Toet saw it and gathered it in. Anita Schouten set up one of Abby's most dangerous chances when she kept a ball in and found Bisschop, but James could not beat Toet.

It took till the last 5 minutes of the game for Celtic to get their last two goals, one on a cross from Ivan Scheper that Anthony Togeretz redirected into the goal. The last goal for Celtic came off a penalty kick that Scheper took for his team and struck it well into the back of the bag.

P.S. - HOPEFULLY SITE GURU REUBEN MOES CAN OVERRIDE THIS PHOTO BECAUSE OF COURSE IT IS WRONG................ sorry! GV

INTER OUSTS ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 21 May 2008 08:35:38 EST

Is FC International the best team in the league this year? Time will tell, but they certainly are a very good team, having strengthened their lineup in several positions. They proved to be too tough for Oranje tonight, who were only 2 points behind them in the standings before this 4-2 loss.

Mark Peters is one of the pieces of the puzzle added to the Inter team this year and they benefitted from his scoring prowess tonight as he got them two goals. The first one came at the 27 minute mark, when he collected the ball at center, ran through Oranje players to the 20 yard mark and unleashed a torpedo low to the corner. That would be the only goal of the first half, with Dan Woelders suffering several misses ("I hope I got all this year's missed goals out of the way tonight," he would quip after the game). Peters also had a very dangerous try from the corner skim off the crossbar and wide. Oranje was not without their chances, one off the head of Tom Vanderhorst, when he directed a corner kick wide. They had some good pressure in the closing minutes of the half and Mark Sikma also had an attempt for Oranje but could not get enough meat on the ball.

The second half opened with a quick rush and chance for Oranje when Rod VanSpronsen got a shot that keeper Werner Engler juggled and grabbed with Steve Koning waiting for the loose ball. Inter rushed right back and got a shot on keeper Ryan Sikma. Sikma kept the ball out, but he ended up on the outside of the post with the ball on the goal line. He crawled back just on time to grab the ball for no goal. The next Inter penetration saw Dan Woelders make a run through several Oranjers but cranked the ball off the upright. In a scrambley play a short while later, in a box full of both colors, Mark Peters got his second goal when he turned and left-footed the ball right where he wanted it, high under the crossbar. Dan Woelders tried to add to his team's tally when he broke in on keeper Sikma but RyanS got a foot on the shot and got a hand on the following shot. But the next rush for Inter got them another goal, this time with Mike Opp finishing the play. Again Oranje was not without chances as they tried to get that first goal but Engler was able to handle shots from both Mark Sikma and Tom VanderHorst. The Woelders/Opp combo tried to score again with DanW coming in point blank on Sikma, with Opp running decoy but Sikma stayed with the shooter and made the save. Oranje got on the scoresheet when Rod vanSpronsen ran hard to cross a great ball in to Tom Sikma who headed the ball past Engler, but the referee had just whistled the play down for a penalty kick, so no goal for TomS. Rick VanderHorst took the PK and stroked it in for a 3-1 score. Inter got their 4th goal when DanW took advantage of a bouncing ball, turned on the afterburners and scored. Oranje got a last successful kick at the can when Tom VanderHorst dribbled the ball in and out of a crowd, found space, and nailed a 25 yard riser up and in to make it 4-2.

Dan Woelders said after the game, "We strikers have confidence in our midfield that they're going to get the ball to one of us, and we can just go for it." And they do!

TOUGH LOSS, LYNDEN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 13 May 2008 08:50:30 EST

"So, Lynden, What's different about your soccer team this year?" "Well, " answered Dirk DeMooy for me, "We've added youth, speed and scoring touch! We're much more offensive minded than last year". And that was clear in the game against Celtic: last year Lynden was great at collapsing into their box and taking away any scoring space for the opposing team. Now they take the ball away and turn it up the field for a scoring drive. An exciting game at Willoughby field, where the outcome was not known till the final whistle.

Lynden Americans opened the scoring at the 17 minute mark when newcomer Erick Estrada got the ball out of a crowd and kicked a hard rising shot into the Celtic goal. Lynden were the stronger team in the first half, and had several more dangerous opportunities, especially when Ben Faber ran stride for stride with Celtic's Steve vanDelft and just got the shot away, but keeper Russ Toet made the save. Harvey Pelleboer got a long, strong shot away and Loren VanCorbach spun and shot for Lynden as well, but both shooters were denied. Celtic got on the scoresheet when Lynden took a player down in the area, and Celtic were awarded a penalty kick. Burke VanderHorst stroked a good shot past the keeper for goal. Laura Faber had a strong game for Lynden and had a good shot late in the half, but no goal. Celtic got a second penalty kick shortly before the end of the half for another agressive takedown in the box. This time it was Ivan Scheper's turn to take the shot, and he was rewarded with Celtic's goal #2. Ivey blasted a shot off the crossbar just before the half time whistle and the rebound was driven back in but Dirk DeMooy saved the American day, and the score was 2-1 at half time.

In the opening 10 minutes of the second half, Lynden had some pretty steady pressure going, and the ball ping-ponged in the Celtic goal area. Finally Erick Estrada got his chance and drove the ball through many bodies and into the goal to tie the game. Russ Toet made saves off of Loren VanCorbach and Harvey Pelleboer who had great scoring chances, but later got beaten by Brent Ahrens when Ahrens beat him to the ball, and scored into the open goal. Lynden had the lead, but would not keep it. Celtic had a corner kick and Ivan Scheper squibbed the ball along the ground, and it got through to Steve VanDelft who made no mistake and drilled the ball into the Lynden goal. Tie game! Celtic took the lead at the 37 minute mark of the second half when Anthony Togeretz charged for a loose ball together with keeper Mark Hicks and though Hicks had won these races earlier in the game, A-Tog beat him this time, and got the 4th goal for Celtic. Now it was Celtic's turn to collapse into the goal area and protect the lead. It worked for them, and they preserved the win and a hard fought 4-3 victory over a tenacious Lynden Americans.

Yellow cards were given to Harvey Pelleboer of Lynden and Russell Toet of Celtic during the course of the intense match.

IS REAL PACIFIC FOR REAL??

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 11 May 2008 08:47:41 EST

Yes, they are! And they proved it tonight when they put together a decisive 3-0 win over Oranje. This game dealt Oranje their first loss of the season, while Real Pacific has not lost a game yet.

"We made them play our game, and that gained us the victory" was heard in the RP huddle after the game, and coach Henk VanderHorst of Oranje would agree that RP earned the win tonight. They forced the play all night long, getting in the way of Oranje passes, and using their quick transition game to their own advantage. At the 11 minute mark of the first half, league leading scorer Craig Kobes and Oranje keeper Ryan Sikma were both challenging for the same ball, but Kobes won the challenge and eased the ball into the Oranje goal. Mark Sikma of Oranje had a hard shot go over the Pacific bar, and Sean Bredenhof of RP had a good crack go wide, but the best scoring chance of rest of the half was taken by Jeremy Meyer when he took a Craig Kobes pass and drilled a point blank shot at Sikma, who made a big-time save.

Oranje kept Real Pacific to that one goal for a long time, but eventually they added to their tally when Jason VanderHorst forced Ryan Sikma to clear a ball coming in, but the clearance was snagged by RP and Jeremy Meyer shot the ball into the unguarded Oranje goal. Oranje were close on a chance a little later when Dan VanSpronsen stroked a high ball that looked like a goal, but Jayden Kuik tipped the ball just over. Kuik was not tested that often by Oranje but was there when he needed to be, especially on a sliding challenge by Steve Koning that he snatched out of danger. Jason Togeretz and Alan Boeve both had chances for Pacific but no success and Shelley Sikma could not finish on a good Oranje drive either. Mark Sikma had a dangerous crack on Kuik but keeper Jayden gathered that one in for no goal. Real Pacific got their 3rd goal off a corner kick: Sikma juggled and lost the ball, and several players from both teams swiped at it but it was April (heads-up) Hendricks who put the ball in. "Man, that felt good" she quipped after the game! Oranje had one more golden opportunity to score when Mark Sikma careened a hard shot off the goal posted and Shauna Stam put the rebound just wide. Full marks for Real Pacific for their victory tonight!

LCRC SUFFERS ORANJE LOSS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 08 May 2008 08:50:59 EST

LCRC were just as surprised as Oranje was when the Orange tide came back from a 2-0 half-time deficit to score 3 unanswered goals and steal the victory from LCRC.

LCRC captain Jeff Bontkes said, "We've added some young blood to our team this year: we should be okay." And their young guns combined well with the older players in this match and won more of the ball battles in the first half, and had more of the luck of the bounce as well. It took about 25 mintues into the first half before either team had any real quality chances but Brian DeWit and David Wildeboer had chances for LCRC that Oranje keeper Ryan Sikma had to be sharp to take away. At the 34 minute mark, LCRC took advantage of some scrambley play in the Oranje area due to LCRC pressure and Kevin VanderGaag found the loose ball and drilled it into the far corner of the goal. Daryl Hofsink tried to add to that tally when he launched a hard shot that went over the crossbar, but not over by much. Just before the half time whistle, LCRC's Oscar Fuentes scored on a similar play as their first goal when he was allowed to shoot in the midst of an unsettled looking Oranje, and got the second goal for LCRC.

Oranje definately had to generate more offence in the second half, but how to do that. LCRC kept up their strong play, and finally gained a penalty kick when keeper Sikma was deemed to have interfered with an LCRC rival when both players were struggling for a loose ball. Kevin VanderGaag struck a very strong PK but Sikma made a very sharp and timely save for his team. This seemed to energize Oranje and this, combined with a lineup adjustment reaped rewards. At the 22 minute mark of the second half, Paul Sikma blasted a free kick along the ground from 30 yards out, and the ball squirted through the team and past a surprised LCRC keeper Justin Bontkes. Off the following kickoff, Oranje rushed in again, and Tom VanderHorst passed to Steve Koning who bulleted the ball right through the LCRC net. The tied score certainly injected new excitement into the game. Greg Hamelin dished the ball this way and that way, and LCRC had their chances from Darren Leffers, and Kevin VanderGaag, but it would be Oranje who would score again. They teamworked it up the field and Tyler VanVliet had a clean lane open up to shoot through, and shoot he did, as his shot went up and dropped right under the crossbar. No chance for Bontkes. The last 15 minutes were tense, with LCRC pushing to even the score and Oranje pushing to keep them from scoring. Oranje were relieved to hear the final whistle and stay ahead of LCRC in the standings with this victory. Good game!

South Aldergrove Field

Bored Assistant — Tue, 06 May 2008 08:45:14 EST

Wondering where the South Aldergrove field is?

Below is a link with a map for S. Aldergrove Park.

The field the FVCSL has is the field marked East Soccer. (bottom center/left)

http://www.tol.bc.ca/files/web_files/recreation/SouthAldergrovePark.pdf

CELTIC TAKES THE VALLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 04 May 2008 08:03:32 EST

Celtic and Valley United played this evening at McLeod field and while it took well into the second half of the second half for a team to notch a goal, it was Celtic who would achieve that and gain the victory. It was a well deserved win for Celtic who clearly outchanced Valley, but the defensive line of Valley and the good work of their goalie Geoff VanLaar made it difficult for Celtic to get that goal. Many of Celtic's shots came from too far out, but that's because Valley took away the opportunities, or filled up the box to take way the space.

Russ Toet was not without a workload in the Celtic goal especially from the feet of VanderLinde duo Calvin and Maurice but was not as busy as Valley keeper VanLaar who had great shots from John VanSeters, Glenn Visscher, Anthony Togeretz, Stu VanderHorst and Burke Vanderhorst to deal with. Valley would certainly have liked to have Matt Schouten for his scoring touch, but he was out of the lineup tonight, as was Tim Schouten, one of Valley's key playmakers.

Celtic owned much of the second half, but Valley kept up their hustle and their try. Max VanLaar got a dangerous shot off for Valley in the second half when he sent a looper in from the sideline that could have been lost in the lights but keeper-Toet found it and grabbed it for the save. Max later got another shot on goal when Toet threw the ball into the middle and VanLaar drove it right back at him. Celtic kept pressure on the Valley goal, most notably from Tim VanderHoek with a nifty header that went just over, a long dribble through lots of green bodies from Ivan Scheper that he sent just wide, and a free kick from Scheper that keeper Geoff juggled to save. Celtic finally got what would be the game winning goal when Burke VanderHorst had a hard drive come back off a green defender and Anthony Togeretz cranked that ball back through the Valley d-wall and past the sprawling Geoff VanLaar. Celtic had to protect their lead for ten long minutes, and after a corner kick scramble did not result in a Valley goal, they could play out the game and enjoy another win.

SILVER STILL WINLESS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 04 May 2008 08:37:12 EST

"Our success is low, but our optimism is high". That's how Abbotsford's keeper Hilmer Jagersma described the Silver Bullets season to date. Hey, the season is young, but every team likes to get that first win (and follow it up by more wins), but it was not to be tonight as Oranje beat Silver 2-1.

The teams met on Mouat field, a turf field that allows a lot of running, and the ball a lot of rolling: the opinion of referee Chris Vanderhorst was that there was a lot of running and rolling happening tonight. Both teams had chances in the first half, with Silver's Stan deHaan starting it with a shot to the near post that Ryan Sikma was there to handle. Later in the half, Sikma drop kicked a ball out to Tyler VanVliet lurking on the center stripe: VanVliet chased the ball down and got a very good shot on goal which Jagersma had to dive for to push wide. Stan deHaan challenged again when bro Tim chipped a ball to him, but Ryan got the touch on that one to send wide. On the following corner kick, veteran player Ron Smouter cleared a dangerous bouncing ball away from the goal mouth to keep the game scoreless. Oranje got on the scoresheet a short while later when Tom Sikma sent in a free kick that Tom (the other Tom) VanderHorst redirected with a nice header into the Silver goal. Abby had several good shots, notably from Andrew Thalen and Andrew (the other Andrew) Selles but Ryan Sikma was up to the task and snagged those shots. A fairly even half of play.

Oranje had a great chance in the second half when awarded a free kick, but Rick VanderHorst's shot curled around the wall but just skimmed over the crossbar. Abby's Kevin VanderBoom (newly acquired from LCRC) floated a surprisingly dangerous shot from the 25 that cleared the bar, but not by much. Oranje's second goal came off the foot of Rod VanSpronsen when he cranked a cross field pass high into the goal. Abby tried to get that back when Stan deHaan came breaking in with Andrew Selles running decoy, but keeper Ryan came out to challenge and stole the ball off the feet of deHaan. Abby's only goal of the game came off a penalty kick for a handball in the box and Andrew Selles calmly drove a shot low to the corner. Victory to Oranje. Abbotsford, maybe next time!

CLOVERDALE CONQUERED

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 08:14:41 EST

Cloverdale and Celtic were both looking for their first win of the season, with Celtic getting the conveted result, with a 2-1 victory in nasty, nasty weather conditions. (will spring ever spring??) The game started out with a pelting rain, that changed into a driving rain as the game progressed, the weather being no fun for players, fans and referee. But, on, on, the game must go on!!

The game started out with some back and forth play, with both teams testing out the other, till the 12 minute mark, when Celtic's Burke VanderHorst, just inside the Cloverdale half, popped a ball through to a breaking Tim VanderHoek and he got the ball over the challenging Clover-keeper Josh VanderPloeg, for the opening goal. Cloverdale had the chance to even the score when they were awarded a penalty kick but Celtic keeper Russ Toet punched the shot away. The half would end with that 1-0 Celtic lead.

Glen Visscher had a good Celtic try early in the second half but his crank went wide, but not too wide. Celtic newcomer Tim Plantinga was given a yellow card when he overran, or ran over a Cloverdale player but the ensuing free kick was sent over the Celtic goal. Celtic got their second goal of the game when Anthony Togeretz got shot on goal, which came back to Glenn Visscher who directed it to Richard Welfing (another newcomer to Celtic) and Welfing got the goal, his second of the season. Cloverdale got their best shot on goal off a corner ball that came out to Jessica VanderPloeg and she slashed a shot across the 18 yard box and Toet had to dive to redirect the ball just wide. Julian VanDyke missed on another Clover-chance when he had a near breakaway but sent his shot over the bar. On the other end, Josh VanderPloeg misjudged a ball coming on goal and Tim VanderHoek did not have enough time to settle the loose ball, and shot just wide of the yawning goal. Cloverdale's Matt Wendt was given a yellow card for a collision with the Celtic keeper just before Cloverdale finally got on the scoresheet. With minutes left in the game, Kyle Mosterd took advantage of a scramble and a loose ball, and drove a long low sweet shot into the far corner of the Celtic goal. Mosterd challenged again minutes later, but when he went up to head the ball, together with a Celtic player, both players went down, Mosterd with a possibly broken nose. Let's hope that's not the case. The game ended with that 2-1 score, and everyone headed to the warm, warm showers!!

ABBY GOES K.O. IN LAST FIVE

The Reporter Reporting — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 08:03:42 EST

On a nice Tuesday night LFC was host to Abbotsford at Willoughby. Both teams met in the exhibition rounds already, with LFC taking that one back home to Langley.

It was a very open first half with lots of plays up and down the field, some spectators might have thought they were at a tennis match; midfield sure had their hands full. Danger was happening on both ends of the field, although not a lot of scoring chances. Abbotsford had a couple of dangerous plays at the start, Stan Dehaan and Andrew Selles were very affective running the sides and then crossing it in the box, someone just had to run into the ball and we would have seen some early goals. LFC would have the next few, starting with a free kick from Henk Timmerman that Hilmer Jagersma had to stretch for and make a great save. Next was a run along the wing from Timmerman that went in for a low cross, through Jagersma’s legs and then being kicked into row Z by one of Abbotsford’s D-man before Kevin Woelders could tap it in. Abbotsford would come back with shots from Andrew Selles and James Bisschop, who was having a frustrating night with Mike Timmerman all over him and preventing him from using his speed. Jeff Vandergaag would have the next great chance, trying to get through 3-4 players, which he did, before fumbling the ball and just not being able to get a good shot on net. The first half would end in a 0-0 tie.

The second half slowed down dramatically and it seemed that the speed of the first half did both teams in. It was very messy and not a lot of passes were going where they were supposed to. Abbotsford again would have the first opportunity with a shot from Charis Siebenga that went wide of the net. Finally we would get our first goal of the game, Henk Timmerman send Jeff Vandergaag away and he put the ball through Jagersma’s legs in the net for the all important first goal. Abbotsford started to push a bit more, but it didn’t result in to many dangerous chances. The game seemed to die down until the 85^th minute when a corner from Derek Hoogerdijk was headed in the net by Vandergaag again to give LFC a 2-0 lead. Abbotsford was lost and seemed confused when a potential handball resulted in a breakaway by Henk Timmerman who managed to score on Jagersma who initially made the first save on Timmerman. LFC connected again seconds later when a scramble in the box resulted in Ryan getting a clear shot to put the ball in the net for the fourth goal of the game. Again seconds later LFC came on strong and Timmerman was short about one inch to get his toe on the ball and slide it into the net after Vandergaag created a scoring chance.

A very even game with Abbotsford losing it’s composure in the last five, which got LFC a big win. A bit too much for this game. Great game by both teams and this game could have gone either way.

For FVCSL.com, this is the reporter reporting.

Important Information about...

Bored Assistant — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 08:45:56 EST

Important Information About Turf fields

We do not have a permit for the fields until game time. This means that you cannot set up earlier. If there is absolutely no one on the field you can start your set up early, that includes warm-up.

Spectators are not allowed on the field, just players, coaches and referees. This means that spectators cannot have their lawn chairs or dogs on the field.

There are signs at the field, but these tend to be ignored.

Lets keep the Abbotsford, Surrey and Langley Parks and Recreation happy:)

Thanks for you co-operation.

photo by philipyk

LCRC NOTCHES SECOND WIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 08:53:05 EST

It was bitter weather at Neil Mcleod for both teams, but a bitter loss for Celtic as they were defeated 2-1 by LCRC. The formerly light blue-clad 2007 league champions are sporting new uniforms, vertical black and white stripes. Now the Celtic fans cannot yell, "Go Stripes" anymore, as there are more striped teams in the league than just these two.

A strong, cold wind from the north east wreaked havoc with the flow of the game and the flight of the ball many times during the game, but this affected both teams, and did not affect the outcome of the match. Kevin Leyenhorst of LCRC had the first decent chance to score, and had the ball settled and lined up, but his shot went through the goal area and past the far post. Dave Wildeboer, new aquisition for LCRC (the new unies must have attracted him) scored the first goal for LCRC at about the 30 minute mark when he turned and stroked a good shot into the Celtic net. Not long after that, Wildeboer set up a second LCRC goal when he sprung Brian (Dad of Beckham) DeWit past the Celtic D-line and DeWit was free to score. Rob VanSeters, playing forward for Celtic in the first half had an awesome crack at an almost goal when he shot from the 6 yard box but Justin Bontkes made a very brave steal off VanSeters' feet.

Celtic seemed to sag in the first half of the second half, and while they came back strongly they couldn't reel LCRC back in. Stu VanderHorst cranked a nice shot from 25 yards out that Justin-B gathered in safely. Greg Hamelin had a couple of tries on the Celtic goal, but had one shot go wide, and the next one go over. Richard Welfing, new this year to Celtic lineup, got a decent shot for his team but Bontkes rolled to make the grab. Anthony Togeretz sent in a long pass from the corner that Tim VanderHoek tried to head in but LCRC's Hamelin headed it out of danger instead. Finally, at the 30 minute mark of the half, Celtic pressure resulted in a crowded goal area and Richard Welfing was the one that connected with the ball and scored. Several more attacks by Celtic could not finish with a goal, while on the other end, Oscar Fuentes drove a free kick over the Celtic wall but Russ Toet was alert enough to punch the ball over the crossbar, and the game ended 2-1 LCRC.

Many frozen fans were happy to go home, though some brave souls stayed to watch Vitessa meet Real Pacific in the 9:00 game. This reporter wimped out and went home!

photo by Justin Meyer

"That didn't solve anything"

The Reporter Reporting — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 08:41:27 EST

I got inspired by Tom Vanderhorst’s forum post to write this. Even though he was at the game and could have written it, Tim Hortons got the better of him though I think.

With the two division system installed last year you can always expect a big game right at the start of the season, this year is no different with LFC hosting Aldergrove at Willoughby. Both teams were ready to play, neither wanted to give up that first goal though and that resulted in a balanced first half.

Some great scoring changed did come starting with a couple for LFC. Ryan Hanawalt send a great ball through on Henk Timmerman who shot the ball in the run, but Brian Meerstra was equal to the task and made a great save. Again LFC came on strong and this time it was Jolone Scheper who was all open on the side to receive a ball and give a nice pass to Hanawalt, who tried to chip it over Meerstra, but he brought his A-game tonight and would have none of it, great stop!! On the other end Aldergrove had a few good chances, the best coming from Colin Dewit who saw his shot hit the crossbar. This ended the first half with both teams happy to have not given up that all important first goal.

The second half was lot different, both teams knew a goal was needed to get those important 3 points. Aldergrove was pushing forward and that put LFC on their heels. Tyler “I’m still injured, I shouldn’t be playing “ Vandergaag was the first to open the scoring. With a great placed shot he beat John Noort who did manage to get a hand on the ball, but not enough. Even though Aldergrove players weren’t to impressed with Tyler playing, they did like that goal. Good to see teammates being worried about each other. This goal opened up the game, LFC had to score now and started to get of their heels and attack more. LFC’s goal would come soon when Timmerman saw Meerstra commit to much and was able to slide the ball past him in the net. LFC got some jump after that and a few minutes later Kevin Woelders would give Timmerman a great pass who once again was able to beat Meerstra, this time top corner. LFC would continue and had some great chance, but they could not get the insurance goal they needed. Aldergrove weathered the storm and started to push Kevin Hendricks up from defense, who was playing a great game against Jeff Vandergaag. Hendricks created some dangerous plays for Aldergrove and finally from a corner kick did Justin Meyer get the tying goal, a scramble in the box ended up on Meyers foot who made no mistake.

This game would end in a tie and Colin Dewit got the quote of the night by concluding that “nothing was solved”. A big thank you to the referee, Mr. Newcomb, who had the game well under control. Thanks Aldergrove and LFC for a good and clean game.

For FVCSL.com, this is the reporter reporting.

CELTIC VS ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 08:51:31 EST

Celtic and Oranje met for their season openers at a cold and windy Aldergrove field. Though the spectators shivered, the players warmed up to the task and came up with an entertaining game, with Oranje coming up with a 2-1 victory. Both teams played with short lineups, each having only 2 spares, and Oranje's Shelley Sikma and Shauna Stam put in whole, strong games as the only Oranje girls.

Celtic were the first to tally a goal at the 11 minute mark. Ivan Scheper took a free kick from about 25 yards out that he sent along the grass right to Rob VanSeters and VanSeters kept the ball low and drove it into the net. Oranje nearly equalized when Morris Klos booted a nice pass to Rod VanSpronsen who headed the ball off the post. At the 20 minute mark, Celtic's Ivan Scheper drove a long shot off the Oranje crossbar, unlucky to not add to his team's lead. At the 25 minute mark, when Celtic were called for a hand ball in the box, shifty Rod VanSpronsen stroked the ensuing penalty kick low to the corner; no chance for keeper Russ Toet. Morris Klos had several quality scoring chances during the game but could not buy a goal, shanking a bouncing ball wide, and later ringing another shot off the post. Wil Wildeboer almost got Celtic's second goal just before the half when he got a good shot from inside the 10, but Ryan Sikma got an Oranje toe on it to keep the ball out.

The second half opened with an early second goal for Oranje. Steve Koning was putting good pressure on the ball in the Celtic end, and the ball came back to Tom Sikma who drove a hard shot low to the corner. Oranje got the better scoring chances in the second half but did not see any more of them turn into goals. Mark Sikma headed a corner kick back at the goal ,but Mary-Anne VanderHorst cleared it off the post, and later she hampered Morris Klos and later again Shelley Sikma from finishing scoring chances. Oranje protected their lead well and were rewarded with the win. Both teams will enjoy having their missing players back for next game, but both teams put in a good effort tonight.

Forum is Back

Reuben Moes — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 08:10:34 EST

The forum has been upgraded and some anti-spam measures have been taken. Hopefully the spammers don't find us for a while. You can report any spam to webmasters[AT]fvcsl.com .

Thank-you everyone who lets me know when someone posted a link to a sweet porn site (funny?).

Because of the upgrade, I have to re-integrate it with the site. I haven't done that yet, but I am sure that won't be a problem for you all.

A little HELP?

Reuben Moes — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 08:58:09 EST

Hi FVCSLers. I am sure most of you are aware of the spam problem on the forum. We have the occasional user from Paraguay, or Cape Verde, or somewhere else in the world who thinks that our forum is a good place to drop a bunch of nasty links and pictures.

Since I don't visit fvcsl.com every day, I usually don't see these questionable posts until somebody sends me an email and tells me it's there.

It would be helpful if there were a few people (fvcsl.com regulars) who were willing help moderate the forum. If you are interested, send me an email (reubenmoesATgmail.com) and give me your forum username.

From: Reuben, the guy behind the computer.

2008 PRE-SEASON KICKS OFF

Morris Klos — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 08:07:02 EST

Willoughby - The Fraser Valley Christian Soccer League kicked off its preason schedule with a double header at Willoughby Community Park in Langley. The 7:00 game saw Langley FC humbled by Celtic with a final score of 6-4. Several noteable plays were Henk Timmerman's wheeling spin and perfect top-corner goal from just outside the 18; and Alicia Oger's 2nd half goal-keeping for Langley.

The second game kicked off at 9:00 between First Division rivals Oranje and LCRC. Led by Jeff Bontkes' coaching, LCRC held out for a 2-1 victory over Oranje with tight passing and good communication. Late evening both teams were greeted by a brisk rainfall, reminding everyone that it is still March, and a little less than 4 weeks until the '08 Season officially begins.

SOCCER TOURNAMENT

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 08:25:28 EST

The annual Canadian Reformed Churches Soccer Tournament took place this August long weekend at Townsend Park in Chilliwack, and everyone would agree that it was a very successful and very well run tournament. The facility was suburb, the fields were great, the competition was exciting and the concesssion stand (run by Aldergrove church) was outstanding! Compliments to the organizing committee for a job super-well done!

After stiff competition on Saturday and Monday, the out of town teams of Coaldale, Edmonton, Barrhead, St. Albert, Houston, Smithers,and Vernon were eliminated, as well as the local teams of Cloverdale. Langley FC and Valley United. This left Oranje, to battle Abbotsford and Celtic to take on Aldergrove for the honour to play in the final game of the tournament. The two combatants left standing were Aldergrove and Oranje, Aldergrove playing their third game of the day, and Oranje their fourth!

The final match would turn out to be anybody's game as both teams had to battle fatigue, the jitters, the heat and the wind. Aldergrove came out on top when they scored with some five minutes left in the match. Oranje certainly had their chances to score, and owned the first twenty minutes of the game with two shots from Nathan Moes that both went over the bar and Mark Sikma heading one wide off a corner kick. Aldergrove slowly regained the half and Kevin Hendricks had a first good chance for Aldergrove when he dribbled in from center but he miskicked the ball and it became an easy save for Oranje keeper Ron Doorten.

An early second half rush by Aldergrove stayed out when playmaker Kevin Hendricks set up Justin Meyer but his shot went wide. A short while later keeper Doorten gambled and charged a loose ball, but lost the gamble: Justin Meyer got the loose ball over to Mark Meerstra and he had the open goal to shoot at but shot wide. Justin Meyer followed that up with a hard shot of his own, but Doorten brazenly batted that away. Oranje had lots of push and pressure of their own in the second half, twice on hard fought shots by Rod VanSpronsen that went wide, and one on a free kick from Paul Sikma that curled around the Alder-wall but keeper Brian Meerstra dove to push it wide. Danny DeHaas lifted a shot over the bar and Leroy VanSpronsen got a pass to Kevin VanderBoom who was forced to shoot wide on another missed opportunity for Oranje. With some five minutes to go, Kevin Hendricks and Mark Meerstra were in on the Oranje goal and it would be Meerstra that would put the ball in for Aldergrove. Oranje tried hard to get the equalizer and had their best chance just before the whistle when Morris Klos fought the ball out of the corner to Paul Sikma, whose hard left-footed shot resulted in a goal mouth scramble, but keeper Brian Meerstra made the grab and the save and that was the game!

MVP's for the tournament as selected by committee were Lindsay Wildeboer of Celtic for the girls and Kevin Hendricks of Aldergrove for the guys. The trophy and hoodies went to Aldergrove while Oranje got second place finisher t-shirts. The referees of the tournament, Mike Wagner and cohorts were thanked for their fine job of officiating, and they in turn thanked the players for their sportsmanlike quality of play and of character. The weekend was closed with thanks to our heavenly God and Father for his goodness, grace, and safekeeping over this tournament.

See you next year, the Lord willing, in Smithers, when they will host the next tournament!

FVCSL 2007 AWARDS

The Reporter Reporting — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 08:28:10 EST

Most Sportsmanlike Team:         Valley United

Female MVP of the Season:         Mel Dewit

Male MVP of the Season:         Henk Timmerman

Regular Season Second Division Champion:         Abbotsford

Regular Season First Division Champion:         Langley FC

2007 FVCSL Playoff Champion:         LCRC United

LCRC UNITED TRIUMPHANT

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 08:55:27 EST

A crowd estiimated to be about 300 came out to watch the championship game of the season, an exciting game pitting LCRC United against last year's champs, Aldergrove FC. LCRC played with confidence, "a team that was on a roll and kept on rolling" to quote Henk VanderHorst, and came out with a decisive 5-2 victory.

LCRC took the first half as they played a strong game while Aldergrove looked somewhat tentative and shaky. The Blues opened the scoring at the 11 minute mark when Saul Fuentes took a free kick for LCRC just outside the 18 yard box, and expertly curled the ball into the top outer corner of the goal; no chance for keeper Brian Meerstra. Aldergrove tried to get a goal off a corner kick opportunity but Emily VanderGaag helped out her keeper, Justin Bontkes with a cool clearance. Jason Togeretz, top scorer for LCRC would be kept off the scoresheet tonight, but had two chances in the first half, one that he miskicked and went wide, and the other that he struck much better but Meerstra made the grab. Keri Versluis had a crack at a goal when she shot the ball out of a crowd but it went just wide of LCRC's goal. At the 35 minute mark, Greg Hamelin won a battle for the ball 20 yards out and pushed the ball forward to Kevin VanderGaag who turned and found the far corner of the Alder-goal . LCRC followed that up some 2 minutes later on a rush that saw Brian DeWit get a shot from just inside the corner of the 18 yard box, and Meerstra got a piece of it but not enough to keep it out. LCRC didn't allow Aldergrove to establish any buildup in most of the first half, and led the game 3-0 after 45 minutes.

Aldergrove regrouped during the break and were prepared to take the second half by storm, but an early goal by a sprinting Kevin VanderGaag was not in their game plan. The Alder-whites were energized though (What DID they drink at half time?) and were a different team, and were rewarded with a goal at the 8 minute mark. Kevin Hendricks got the ball at center, and sent a diagonal pass to a calling Justin Meyer, who scored on a crisp header. And the Whites showed that they were going to make a game of it when they scored their second goal when Kevin Hendricks to Colin DeWit resulted in Colin driving that shot in. Now LCRC were scrambling! Aldergrove kept coming but Justin Bontkes protected his team's lead when he made a brilliant save on a shot from Meyer after he was fed a sweet pass by Keri Versluis, and another dangerous shot from Kevin Hendricks that he stole away. Bryan Grim tried to add to the LCRC lead but was unlucky to see his drive bounce off the high post. Oscar Fuentes tried to add to to their lead as well, but Michelle DeHaas stopped him in his tracks. Oscar got another chance but Meerstra made the save. Persistence paid off for LCRC when a determined buildup and nice pass from Emily VanderGaag went to Kevin VanderBoom who slashed a low shot under Meerstra. "When is the last time that any team has scored 5 goals on Aldergrove?" was the question voiced on the sideline. Long ago! That would be the final score, 5-2, and throw in a yellow card to a player on each team, as the game had lots of intensity.

The fans were appreciative of the fine game put in by both teams. A new champ for the FVCSL! And everyone looking forward to a break, and then a new season of Fraser Valley Christian Soccer League action!

NO LANGLEY FC IN FINAL

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 29 Jul 2007 08:16:46 EST

For the first time in how many years (?) Langley FC is not in the championship game of the FVCSL and that is due in no small part to the tenacity and skill of LCRC United.

Langley's general Henk Timmerman got them the first goal of the game in the first 10-minute block when he had several tries on a ball that was scooting around in the Blues area and finally got a solid strike to score. LCRC started marking the Timmermeister closer after that and Chris VanderHorst became his very effective shadow. Kevin Woelders had a breakaway for Yellow but his shot hit the side of the net and Brian DeWit saw his shot for the Blues do the same thing. LCRC leveled the score when Kevin VanderBoom carried the ball up the wing, sent it in to Oscar Fuentes and it then went to Greg Hamelin who had come in to the goal area and scored from there. On the other end of the field, Yellow had earned three corner kicks in a row, and on the last one Joni Bredenhof bashed a cleared ball right back in but just a little high and wide.

In the second half, Lisa Bontkes had a scoring chance when she was tight against keeper Noort and headed the ball but it went straight down and stayed out. Jason Togeretz and Saul Fuentes added some danger-danger rushes and shots but no scoring. Langley had a good chance yet again when Dave Doornbos cracked a pass to Jeff VanderGaag who found Henk T, but he had a Blue blanket on him ,and could not score.

The game would end in a 1-1 tie and went straight to penalty kicks to determine the outcome. LCRC United came out the winner when they outscored Langley FC 4-2 in the shootout Langley FC takes the unfamiliar positon of spectators at the final game while LCRC United will meet Aldergrove for all the marbles on Tuesday evening,

INTER OUSTED

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 29 Jul 2007 08:54:38 EST

Aldergrove and FC International met in a semi-final matchup and though these teams were very similar in the regular season, a big difference in them tonight was that Aldergrove had fresh legs on the sidelines while Inter's only legs were on the field, attached to only 10 players. Playing a player down all night took it's toll on Inter who battled hard and gamely but went down to defeat 2-0. The Blacks kept up to the Whites quite well in the first half, and that's when they had their best scoring chances. In fact, Nathan Moes' shot was a warmup shot for keeper Brian Meersta along with a curl-in shot from Dan Woelders. Keri Versluis had a quality shot on Inter keeper Mike Woelders from the penalty spot that Woelders had to deflect over the bar, and Dave Rolleman received a corner kick that he launched over the bar as well. Dan Woelders made a right side rush for Inter and sent in a dangerous shot that was punched out by Meerstra. Nathan Moes pounced on that loose ball and blasted it back on Meerstra but he deflected it wide. Aldergrove took the last 20 minutes of that half over and a Colin DeWit/Mel DeWit combo could not get the ball over the Inter goal line. More pressure: Mel DeWit to Kevin Hendricks to Harold Louwerse went wide. Justin Meyer and Mark Meerstra had pressure on the Inter keeper as well, but no results and the game was deadllocked at 0-0 at the half.

Aldergrove broke that nil-nil tie early in the second half when they worked the ball up close to the Inter goal, and Keri Versluis got in close for a shot that didn't go in, but Mark Meerstra did get it in, barely. After that Black was just hanging on and trying to keep up to the energetic Aldergrovers. It would take till almost the 30 minute mark before Inter could muster a shot on goal, with James Moes trying to beat Meerstra but it didn't happen. Aldergrove got their insurance marker after that when a play from Matt VanderGaag went to Kevin Hendricks, went to Jusitn Meyer went to Mark Meerstra who got the goal for his mates. Shortly after that Mark Meerstra got his name in another column of the scoresheet when he and Black's keeper had a collision which they followed up with a shoving match. Both received a yellow card from referee Rod VanSpronsen but Woelders received a second yellow and was ousted for the "discussion" that followed. With inter down to nine players now, it wasa case of finish the game.

Inter ran till the final whistle but ran out of gas. Aldergrove goes to the final for the second year in a row.

INTER MOVES ON,CELTIC BOWS OUT

Calvin Vanderlinde — Sun, 29 Jul 2007 08:40:52 EST

The FVCSL playoffs tightened up a little more Thursday night when FC International took on Celtic in their quarter-final match to determine who would join Aldergrove and Langley FC as the third team to make it to the final four.

It was an ideal night for a soccer game. The sun had set but the lights were bright at the Willoughby turf field. The Celts were in their familiar green-and-white stripes while Inter doned their usual black uni's. The stage was set for a great game between two formidable teams and for one of them it was to mark the end of their 2007 season.

The game got off to an up-tempo start. Both teams worked the ball around well, holding on to possession as long as they could and trying to construct good attacks.

It was Celtic with the first real chance when Jon VanSeters sent a scorching ball only a foot wide of the far top corner of Inter's goal.

However it was 10-man Inter who managed to tally the first (and only) goal approximately 10 minutes into the game when Dan Woelders cut across the top of the Celtic 18-yard box and let go of a rocket, which deflected off a Celtic defender in front and left keeper Rob Gelderman with no chance of stopping the route of that ball which proceeded to test of the elasticity of the netting. 1-0 Inter.

Celtic was very aware that they were up against tough opposition in FC Inter, who had swept the season series between the two teams. Celtic did begin to take the edge in play and built up some attacks. However, early on Celtic squandered a number of their chances by sending a number shots way off target.

Celtic soon got their game together and came very close to equalizing after Burke Vanderhorst crossed a ball into the Inter-18-yard box and Jon VanSeter's diving headed connected with it but only found the crossbar and riccocheted out of play.

The two teams traded chances as Peter VanBrederode, off a Glen Visscher through-ball, couldn't beat Mike Woelders, Inter's keeper, with his low shot. Then on the counter attack a clever cutting pass by Dan Woelders found James Moes loose on the wing and he tested Rob Gelderman with a shot reminiscent of VanBrederode's chance a minute earlier. Both goalies showed that they had brought all they had to the table this night.

The Celts continued to press building up to Burke Vanderhorst testing Inter's keeper from long range but Woelders was up to the task. Soon after, on a Celtic free kick, Ivan Scheper found Glen Visscher who connected with a marvellous volley but sent the ball wide of goal again. Inter dodged another bullet when a tricky ball found its way into the box but the keepers hands found the ball before a leaping Peter VanBrederode.

The final good chance of the first half was a dashing rush by Inter's Dan Woelders down the wing but was tracked down by an even-more-dashing Rob VanSeters who made a textbook sliding tackle which succinctly removed that threat.

The second half carried on where the first half had left off (Yes it often does). On a Celtic turn-over in their own half Nathan Moes scooped up the loose ball found Hadassah Moes open on the far side and she lofted in a ball which led to Dan Woelders' header which beat Celtic keeper Rob Gelderman but could not beat the crossbar.

Celtic continued to try wear down their opponents by carrying most of the play and earning the bulk of the genuine scoring chances however that elusive goal would not come.

The panic began to set in and the fingernails were beginning to disappear but Celtic could not crack the goose-egg. Ivan Scheper had two good chances. The first was off a cheeky chip by Rob VanSeters which Ivan redirected via a header but keeper Woelders was up to the task. A few minutes later Ivan got a step on his defender and sent a powerful shot from the 18-yard line which Woelders could only get his fingers on and deflect over the crossbar. On the ensuing corner kick a wandering ball skirtted by the far post but no-one was there to hit it home.

On the counter-attack Jon VanPopta for Inter looked to have a lane-way for a shot but was closed down suddenly by Rob VanSeters, indeed so suddenly that the two went flying and landed in a heap and Rob was penalized with a yellow card.

At this point Celtic was putting the pedal to the floor and trying desperately for that goal to send the game to extra time. In the final minute Celtic had a free-kick as well as a corner-kick but alas there was no reward for their efforts. Much to the relief of FC International came the sound of the final whistle which marked the end of the road for Celtic.

It was surely an intense game to be at. A real treat.

FOUR TOP TEAMS ADVANCE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 08:07:43 EST

The four top finishing teams in the FVCSL Division One regular season advance to the top rounds of the playoffs, as LCRC United knocked out Oranje.

It was a game that looked like no one would ever score. Darcy Langelaar was playing in goal for LCRC and made it clear early in the game that the 18 yard box was his when he made a solid challenge on Daryl Driegen, took him down and robbed him of a shot at the edge of the box. Oranje took control of the greater part of the first half, and had some crisp passing going, along with shots to match. Steve Koning managed to connect on a John Zietsma pass from out of the corner that Langelaar had to handle and he had to do the same on a Morris Klos strike. Koning did well at the 35 minute mark to shake a ball loose and got it over to Tom VanderHorst but Tom was forced to take the quick shot and he launched it over the bar. In the last five mintues of the first half, Mark Sikma sent Rod VanSpronsen in with a leading pass and Rod had stepped around some LCRC defenders but not all, as Chris VanderHorst came out of nowhere to clear that shot away.

As much as Oranje had chances in the first half, the tables would turn and it would be mostly Blue in the second. Jason Togeretz got off an early shot off a Blue buildup that keeper Don Sikma had to sprawl to save. And a LCRC corner kick was headed nicely by Lisa Bontkes but went over the bar. Blue's Jason VanderHorst was unlucky when his hard blast went off a diving Daryl Driegen and off the crossbar. Later in the half, Oranje regrouped and finally regained some time in the Blues end of the field again and Steve Koning got a header with his back to the goal, but it went over. Oranje action continued when Paul Sikma got a good pass up to Morris Klos who got a bullet on the challenging Langelaar, but not past him. Leroy VanSpronsen got a shot too, but not the shot he wanted and it went wide. Daryl Hofsink had a couple of chances for goals as he twice received a corner kick but drove his shots wide, LCRC had worked Kevin VanderBoom, and Jason Togeretz rushes all night, built up by the play making of Greg Hamelin and his midfield cohorts, and it finally worked within 3 minutes of the end of regulation time. Oranje could not keep enough pressure on the ball to keep it up the field and LCRC caught Oranje on a slick counter attack: VdBoom fed a ball in to a racing Jason Togeretz and JayTog's shot went in at the far post.

I guess it's golf for Oranje and maybe glory for LCRC! They meet Langley FC in semi-final play tomorrow evening. Be There or Be Square!

Abbotsford Battles Aldergrove

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 08:03:57 EST

(written by Tom VanderHorst)

The picture and title show it all here folks. This game was a hard fought, playoff battle. Not to say that this was a dirty game, just a tough game with two teams who came out to play hard. Tyler Vandergaag won his first career game as a soccer coach with Aldergrove, or, as they like to be known - Mr. T and the "A-Team".

Abbotsford got the first good chance of this game, as Stan DeHaan shot a nice lefty, but this was tipped wide by Aldergrove keeper Brian Meerstra, as was the ensuing corner kick. Aldergrove followed up with a chance of their own, as Colin Dewit found a streaking Justin "It's My Birthday Today" Meyer, but no goal. Kevin Hendricks took a nice low shot that was deflected over the Abby net by Ron "I Can Kick it That Far in My Sleep" Thalen. Aldergrove then had a header chance and a shooting chance, from the head of Justin Meyer and the feet of Aubrey "Retirement is Not an Option" Vandergaag. James Bisschop almost opened up scoring minutes later, but Meerstra again came up with the save. In the last minute of the half, Meyer got the best birthday present yet from the feet of Dewit. The cross came in and landed exactly at his head. Meyer put the ball in, with no chance for Hilmer "He Could Play for the Whitecaps If He Wanted To" Jagersma. 1-0 Aldergrove at the end of the first half.

Abbotsford came out even stronger than in the first half, and earned a free kick early on just on the side of the Aldergrove eighteen. Aldergrove cleared the initial chance, but Abby kept up the pressure. Rob Beukema found Bisschop coming in and fed him a beauty pass, and Bisschop would make no mistake. The score was now 1-1. Aldergrove, however, responded, first with a nice chance by Matt "I Know My Cleats Don't Match" Vandergaag, but Hilmer made a very nice save on this. Minutes later, Harold "I Lost My Shaver" Louwerse flicked a ball up to Meyer, who head-flicked it on to Mark Meerstra, who ran through to get the game's third and last goal. Abbotsford kept up their pressure and earned a number of corner kicks, but coudn't find the equalizer.

The Abbotsford back line was kept well all game long by the Thalen brothers and Kevin Deboer, however, Aldergrove's defence did a superb job to keep Andrew "Golden Boot" Selles off the score sheet. Aldergrove FC goes on to play FC International, while Abbotsford "Welcome to Div. 1" FC look forward to the upcoming tournament for revenge. Great season Abbotsford!

SAINTS KNOCKED OUT BY LANGLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 08:03:59 EST

Saints FC were pumped to meet Langley FC in post season play after their solid playoff win over Lynden Americans, but their season would end at the hands (or feet) of Langley Yellow with a 3-1 loss. Saints had it tough with only one spare while Langley had depth on their bench, even seeing the return of Ron Scheper, who was potentially out for the season. The Saints' Brenden Lockhead tested John Noort early when he floated a high shot in on Langley's goal, but Noort was equal to the task. Henk Timmerman sped in on the Saints goal and nailed a shot past keeper Jordan Dykman, but trusty defender Dustin Jonkman blasted ithe ball right back out. The Saints got one of their best shots of the night from Ben Schoeber who launched a great, great shot on goal, but keeper Noort touched the shot over the bar. Yellow were the first team on the scoresheet when defender Dave Doornbos broke up a Saints rush, turned the ball up the field with a pass to teammate Henk-T, who made a heady pass to Kevin Woelders and Kevin finished the play with an on-the-carpet shot past Dykman. Clifton VanderHorst of the Saints tried to get his team back, but his hard shot went off a Yellow defender, but soon after that his team got a goal to pull them even with Langley. A corner kick went into a crowded area and the Saints crashed the goal with David Tolkamp getting a shot in for his team. Comments on the first half by the sideline "experts": "even score, even half"

Seven minutes into the second half, Langley would get their second goal and what would prove to be the game winning goal on a carbon copy of the Saints' goal: corner kick, crowded area, crash the net, with Alicia Oger getting her team the go-ahead goal. Jordan Dykman took two scoring chances away from Henk Timmermnan, one on a shot that bounced over his defenders and one that he grabbed off the head of the T-meiseter. Saints' Clifton VanderHorst as well as Matt Philipchalk and Dustin Jonkman did an effective job of keeping Henk off the scoresheet on the night, but he did have an assist on a goal by Derek Hoogerdijk who got that very, very ellusive goal when he worked in from the corner and got a left footed shot on Dykman that was just too hot for the keeper to handle. After that, Yellow dropped a lot of players back to a defensive role, and the Saints could not draw closer.

Saints, their first year in the league, made it into the second round of the playoffs. Who knows how far they will advance in 2008? Tune in next year!

ORANJE ADVANCES

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 08:35:08 EST

-written by Shelley Sikma

Well, they did write themselves that a Crossway win comes only once a year, but undoubtedly Crossway was hoping for different results than what they got on Tuesday night against Oranje. The scoring was opened five minutes in when Oranje got a free kick off a Crossway handball. Rod VanSpronsen moved the ball in quickly and Tom VanderHorst got a foot on the ball that ricochet in. With sun directly in his eyes Crossway keeper Andrew Driscoll made a number of tough saves to keep Oranje at bay. Midway in the half a corner kick from Oranje came dangerously into the box where it was volleyball spiked out of the air. Unfortunately it was by a red jersey and not their keeper, resulting in a card matching his jersey. Rod VanSpronsen buried the penalty kick in the back of the net. 2-0 Oranje.

Playing down a man for the remainder of the match proved tough for Crossway as Oranje would put two more in the net before the half. A scrambly play resulted in a goal from Steve Koning and Rod found Su Vegter wide open who put in a hard shot right into the side of the goal for a brilliant goal. Crossway got off a few great shots from Crossway's #10 but Don Sikma jumped to nab them out of the air.

After the half Oranje Daryl Driegen put one into the Crossway net and shortly after Paul Sikma drilled a hard rising shot that just snuck through Driscoll’s hands. Crossway was rewarded with a goal when Joe Doyle sped past the Oranje D to collect a through ball and bury into the Oranje net.

Thomas VanderHorst would net another one yet and Steve Koning another couple before the whistle would go. A tough loss for Crossway and a rare offensive showing for Oranje!

Final score was 9-1.

VICTORY (& PHEW) FOR CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 08:33:16 EST

Celtic and Cloverdale met in playoff action and it took till the final minutes of overtime to determiine a winner. Cloverdale started the game looking more settled than Celtic who played nervous and jittery for the first part of the match. Cloverdale's game plan was to win the defensive battles and hope for a quick counter rush and goal, and were very effective at working out the defensive game plan. Celtic forwards could not crack through Cloverdale's sturdy back wall; however, Celtic's defence also handled Cloverdale's gunners. Jason Heidi of Clover-blues had the first good try, but his hard shot glanced off teammate Mike Schouten and went wide, And Mark Bysterveld's sharp angle shot was grabbed at the post by Celtic keeper Rob Gelderman. Glenn Visscher countered with a 30-yarder that Clover-keeper Marc Schouten punched over. Dave VandeBurgt forced RobGee to make a high grab when he spun and shot from the 18. Towards the end of the half, John VanSeters sliced a cross in from the corner but Schouten made the grab. Cloverdale had one more good chance when Shelley Schoen put a nice boot on the ball from just over centre but Mark Bysterveld couldn't quite connect on that juicy pass and the game was scoreless at the half.

The story of the second half was tough, physical play from both teams, both determined to get that victory. It took till the 25 minute mark before Celtic had what looked to be a sure goal, when the ball skittered around in the Cloverdale goal mouth and no matter how many Celtic tried to get that finishing foot on it, Cloverdale finally managed to clear it out of danger. Truly, the fans on both sides of the field went wild! Celtic started to get the better build up and chances and a lunging Anthony Togeretz barely beat the goalie to the ball but drove the shot just wide. Celtic had trouble springing John VanSeters loose all night because of the blanket that Cloverdale threw over him, but finally he broke in, flanked by two defenders but he rang the shot off the base of the post. Mark Bysterveld pressured a ball loose and got another Cloverdale shot but Gelderman grabbed that at the near post.

The game went to overtime, two 7 1/2 minute halfs. It looked like Celtic was bound to score sometime and in the second OT half, they almost did when they had everyone up for a free kick which no one could bury, till Stu VanderHorst got the ball through with Schouten there to get the shot. Mark Bysterveld countered again with a nice crack on goal but Gelderman got the nice save. Another Celtic free kick in the Cloverdale end of the field finally broke the deadlock when Stu VanderHorst got on the ball, turned and cranked the shot in. The last minutes had frantic teams and frantic fans on both sides of the field, but a determined Cloverdale squad could not come up with the equalizer. Playoff action: ya gotta love it!

ABBY IN, VALLEY OUT

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 08:33:56 EST

(sorry for the lousy photo, but one shot and the camera batteries were empty......what a rookie!)

Valley United had a tough challenge ahead of them as they met Division leading Abbotsford in sudden death playoff action. While they matched the Silver Bullets with hustle, and energy, Valley could not match Abby's goal scoring finish and got beaten 7-2. The first half did not look like a 3-0 game, as both teams had lots of ball possession, but Abby made the most of their chances. Andrew Selles, the Silver's Golden Boot player, scored the first goal on a penalty kick that Valley goalie Jason Breukelman had no chance on. The same fate for Breukelman on Abby's second goal when a long clearance by Ron Thalen went to Selles, who found James Bisschop on the penalty spot, and Bisschop one-touched it in. Valley was not without their chances and Maurice Vanderlinde, Kent Ostermeier and Tim VanderLinde were all noteworthy on their tries that did not result in goals. A late-minute scrum had Andrew Selles get his foot on a crowded ball and bang the low shot under the Valley keeper to end the half.

Valley had a mountain to climb and were game, but an early goal on a Rob Beukema corner kick was put in by Selles (with Charis Siebenga making sure it went in) and a little oomph went out of Valley. Yet, Breukelman made some key saves off of James Bisschop and Rob Beukema to keep his team in it, and Tim Schouten was unlucky to strike a good shot wide. Valley had a threat put together when a blazing Maurice VanderLinde broke up the sideline and crossed the ball in to a blanketed Jeremy Meyer and he got a good shot on Hilmer Jagersma who was sharp to make the save. Katie Ostermeier had a glorious scoring chance and Jagersma had to reach to make that save as well. (If it wasn't for bad luck, Valley would have no luck at all!) Jay-Breuk made two key saves again, one off James Bisschop followed seconds later when he dove to get a hand on a Rob Beukema shot. But James Bisschop would not be denied again, and got goal #5 for Abby. Valley dug just a little deeper, and ran just a little harder, and the hard working combo of Mo VdL to brother Calvin to Tim Schouten finally resulted in a goal when Schouten slashed a shot under Jagersma. Energized, Valley quickly got a second goal from Tim Schouten when he turned and headed the ball in. Jeremy Meyer tried to add to that when a Mo VdL cross from the corner went through (how many?) players in the Abby area but Meyer whaled it over. Silver took the jump out of Valley when Rob Beukema scored with a long lob. and got a second goal on a header off a corner kick.

Dorothy VanLaar said of her Valley team after the game, "We might not always win, but we always have fun!" Good for you Valley, and see ya next year! And Abby's next opponent, BEWARE! Abby's hot-hot-hot!!

RED SURGE

The Reporter Reporting — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 08:08:14 EST

Written by Peter Ladefoged.

What comes around once a year? Christmas, your birthday, and a crossway win. The wet weather did not dampen the enthusiasm of both Crossway and Vitessa. Both clubs came out hustling and had early chances. Vitessa nearly opened the scoring, but failed to convert on a loose ball in the box. Dave Vanderlure. got a foot on a shot and sent it inches wide. Crossway also had it chances. What looked like a sure goal was cleared of the line by the Vitessa defender. In the second half Vitessa hit a shot off the crossbar. The rebound was lobbed at an open net, but Crossway defender Jody Cnoseen headed the ball over the cross bar to keep the score level. Halfway through the second half Crossway was awarded a free kick at the top Vitessa's box. Allan Devlin sent a hard shot at the goal. Striker Joe Doyle deposited the rebound to the back of the net. A few minuets later the scene was repeated when Joe Doyle scored of a corner to make it 2-0.Vitessa pulled a goal back when Matt Schouten scored in the 80th minuet. While Vitessa put on the pressure, they were not able to crack the Crossway defense, lead by outstanding contributions from Ben Schultz and Jody Cnossen

This had begun to look like a lost season for Crossway. After an optimistic start to the season the wheels feel of the Crossway wagon. While the results were not yet there, aside from two early season ties, Crossway was an improved team. At the midway point of the season Crossway had its lowest goal differential ever. The second half of the season quickly turned into a nightmare as the injury bug hit Crossway with a vengeance. In one week star players, Dave Hickey, Tim Vissher, and AJ Lissamore were lost with ankle injuries. As the weeks and losses pilled up so did the injuries. Defenders Trevor Bodill and Andrew Wirtz also suffered season ending injuries. In total eight players were lost for the season. As the season wound down there were several games where it was impossible to field a complete team. Despite the injuries and the mounting losses Crossway palyed hard and competed in every game. This victory was a huge boost to the team.

LCRC SINGS THE BLUES

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 08:56:15 EST

Celtic finished the regular season on an upswing as they won their second game in a row, beating Aldregrove, and now winning 3-0 against LCRC United. The Blues were missing several players and had limited spares but did not make it an easy victory for Celtic. LCRC had several early chances, most notably from Jason Togeretz, but defender Rob VanSeters shut down that try. Kevin VanderGaag also had potential when he was allowed to twist, turn and take near the Celtic 18, but shot wide. When LCRC committed a hard take down in their area, Celtic was awarded a penalty kick. Burke VanderHorst struck it well, just inside the post; no chance for keeper Justin Bontkes. Minutes later, there was a Blues&Stripes scramble happening in the LCRC area, and Stu VanderHorst curled a hard shot around the scramble but Bontkes was very sharp to parry the shot away. In the last minutes of the half, Greg Hamelin got a shot away that was marked for the far corner, but Celtic keeper Rob Gelderman dove to clear the rolling ball just wide.

Celtic took control of the game in the second half and were rewarded with their second goal at the 25 minute mark when Anthony Togeretz dealt a hard shot from the side of the 18, and there was not much space, but the shot went in on the short side. LCRC had chances of their own but no results as Greg Hamelin had his hard shot go right on goalie and Jason VanderHorst had a shot go high and wide. Their best chance came off a corner kick to Kevin VanderGaag right in front of the goal mouth, but his header went over instead of under the crossbar. Peter VanBrederode seemed to have another Celtic goal when he fought to get a loose ball into the LCRC goal but the play was called offside. Another Celtic rush saw Tim VanderHoek finally get a goal after two earlier attempts of his went high, and on the keeper. VdHoek got a good cross from Stu VanderHorst and this time put the shot cleanly into the goal. LCRC tried to spoil the shutout and seemed to have it done on a free kick in the Celtic area but Kevin VanderGaag drove that shot over the wall but off the cross bar. (It's just oneof those nights!!)

Braydon Kobes (see photo) was given a Yellow Card in this game for the worst jersey/shorts combination in the history of the FVCSL! Just kidding!

Celtic's victory over LCRC ensures Langley FC of first place in Division One

PLAYOFF PREVIEW

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 08:48:58 EST

Lynden Americans and the Saints had their last game of the regular season against each other and will also be pitted against each other in their first playoff matchup. Both teams suffered from a lack of bench strength and will hope to have a full compliment of players for their next tilt.

Saints opened the scoring in the first five minutes, as they started the game strongly and Lynden started the game scrambly. Both Lynden and the Saints had a couple of stabs at a loose ball in the Lynden end before David Tolkamp put the ball where it belonged, in the goal. The rest of the half had lots of back and forth play, with no real golden opportunities and the goal keepers were not asked to make any stellar saves.

The second half saw better scoring threats, and Laura Faber had a good try for Lynden that went through the Saints area and out the other side. David Tolkamp challenged for a loose ball together with Lynden keeper Ethan Neff, but no goal came of that either, and an unmarked Caszie Shoeber suffered the same fate on a shot she took on Lynden's goal. Lynden got their first goal on a long Harvey Pelleboer throw-in that went into a crowd, and teammate Loren VanCorbach got his foot on it and kicked it in. On the ensuing kickoff, Lynden mounted a rush again, and before anyone knew it, VanCorbach had scored again. The Saints mounted a dangerous rush of their own after that, but John "Orange Sox" slashed a hard shot wide. A late scramble around the Lynden goal resulted in a Ben Shoeber shot that went wide, and that was it for both teams.

Final score, Lynden 2, Saints 1

ORANJE OVER INTER

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 08:33:56 EST

FC International and Oranje met for the third and final time in the regular season, and with each team having won one game, they both would have liked to win this one, but the game on the night went to Oranje, 3-1. Final standings in Division One won't be known till Celtic and LCRC have their final meeting of the regular season.

FC Inter had no spares and played the whole match with 11 players, and Werner Engler played out while Mike Woelders took his place between the pipes.Wil Folstad and Engler both tested Oranje's Don Sikma early, but Don played "hop, slip and jump" to keep the ball out. At the 11 minute mark, Oranje got on the scoresheet when a Phil Sikma free kick was bobbled by the goalie, and Leroy VanSpronsen onion bagged the loose ball. Inter got that one back quite quickly when Hadassah Moes got a nice pass to Folstad who headed the ball over the Oranje defenders to an open Dan Woelders and DanW got a nice goal to pull his team even. Oranje threatened again when Tom Sikma saw his shot batted away by keeper Woelders with Su Vegter waiting for the loose ball that didn't come. Mark Sikma also got a good shot on the Inter-goalie off a rebounding Rod VanSpronsen shot and Folsted missed Oranje's goal on the wide side.

The second half was only 5 minutes old when Tom Vanderhorst worked the ball in from the sidelines and passed to Shauna Stam inside the 6-yard box: right time, right place, right shot, and Oranje had 2 goals. Phil Sikma alertly jumped on a loose ball and made the perfect pass to the open Rod VanSpronsen but his sure-goal blast went just over the bar. Don Sikma had to make a game-saving save when Wil Folstad sent Nathan Moes in and Sikma had to dive to direct the Moes shot wide. Oranje got their 3rd goal of the game when Inter was called for a hand ball in the box, and Rick VanderHorst buried the penalty kick in the corner. After Steve Koning got a shot on Woelders while on his butt, Dan Woelders made another break into the Oranje end and headed the ball over keeper-Don. Both players scrambled to catch up to the ball and Sikma's arms were just long enough to somehow batt the ball away from the yawning goal, and away from Woelders. Another game-saver for Sikma!

A couple of days rest, and playoffs! (...and don't ask me what I did to that photo, or how I took it......I have NO idea................)

ALDERGROVE - COSTLY LOSS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 08:33:01 EST

Could the race in Division One get any tighter? Yup! With Aldergrove losing an important game against Celtic, they who were in first place yesterday could still end the year in fourth place, and LCRC, with a win this week could end up with as many points as first place Langley FC! Ya gotta love the FVCSL!

Aldergrove seemed to have got the opening goal of the game at abut the 15 minute mark when a Justin Meyer shot was fumbled by Celtic keeper Rob Gelderman and he had to make a diving grab behind him to keep the ball out. Was the ball just over the line, or just not over the line? It was deemed to be no goal, and Celtic heaved a sigh of relief. Ten minutes later, Celtic scored a goal that needed no discussion when Anthony Togeretz leaped to connect with the ball and kicked it in for Celtic's first tally. A Celtic corner kick later in the half had danger written all over it, but Aldergrove worked together to keep that ball out, especially Michelle DeHaas who cleared the ball way away. Celtic got a second goal when Burke VanderHorst took a free kick for Celtic and it drove through a crowd, deflected a bit and went into the goal, Though both teams mounted attacks and counter attacks, no more scoring occured in the half.

Aldergrove came out strongly in the second half again, and Justin Meyer generated pressure and Aldergrove's first goal when he controlled the ball at the sideline and crossed it in to Mark Meerstra who headed the ball sideways into the Celtic goal. The action came more fast and furious as both teams worked to get that win. Anthony Togeretz had another nice strong shot on Alder's goal, but keeper Brain Meerstra made just as strong a deflecton over the crossbar. Burke VanderHorst had a dangerous shot go just wide after brother Stu sent him a nice cross from the sidelines. Kevin Hendricks of the Alder-whites broke through and around several Stripes and got the shot away but Rob Gelderman was in position to make the save. A charging Justin Meyer tried out his luck as well, but "no way" said Gelderman! Celtic returned to the Alder-end again and kept Meerstra busy, with Tim VanderHoek unlucky to just miss a loose, bouncing ball.. But Celtic got control back, and Burke VanderHorst did not miss as he got, ball, shot, score. Aldergrove drew closer again when they were awarded a penalty kick for a hand ball in the Celtic box, and Kevin Hendricks slashed that shot into the low corner. Celtic had one more good chance when Ivan Scheper launched a nice shot that curled just wide. And Aldergrove tried and tried to get that equalizer but could not beat the final whistle.

"Good, Spirited Gme!" were the words of referee Morris Klos.

SCORING SHOW!

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 08:18:51 EST

Surely a game that sees 12 goals scored (yes TWELVE) by the two teams deserves a little more press! Langley FC and FC International did just that as they threw an offensive onslaught on each other. Seeing as my husband and I had come to watch Lynden and LCRC and my intention was to feature those two teams on the website for once, and seeing as we decided to stay for only the first half of this game, and seeing as 6 goals were already scored in the first half, I can only flesh out the report of the first half a little. (Yes, yes, it would have been nice to see the second half, but who would have thought it would go like it did?!) As to the photo, (questonable quality) I took it of the sunset, which was beautiful!!

Inter did indeed start very strongly, grabbing two quick but slick goals on Langley FC, even without the presence of two of their high scorers, Mike Opp and Eric Atsma. A corner kick by Dan Woelders in the first ten minutes was just missed by Michelle Mans in the Langley goal area, but Adam Woelders made the short tip-in to score. Dan Woelders followed that up a short while later when he looped a shot over Yellow's keeper John Noort but stalwart Dave Doornbos cleared that off the line, only to see Wil Folstad deposit that loose ball in the goal instead. Langley FC were slightly rattled by those goings-on, but there's nothing like an answering goal to get a team back in the game. Jeff VanderGaag took his patented run up the flank with Henk Timmerman running as decoy, and Jeff sliced the shot under keeper Werner Engler. Yellow evened the score when Henk T-man made a perfect cross in from the corner out to Jeff VdG at the far edge of the 6 yard box, and Jeff made the diving header to score. By the 30 minute mark Langley teamworked the ball up the field and Henk T got his first goal with his familiar low, hard drive in. That would be one of four on the night for Henk (and seven in his last two games). Nathan Moes drew his never-quit Inter Blacks even again when he jumped up from his defense position and got a nice equalizer.

.................that's it for me! Half time! Went home! Too bad that there are no more writers for the FVCSL website, so that I could read about the second half too. Step up, scribes.........it''s fun being a reporter!

Have these teams saved any goals for in the playoffs? Other teams hope not, but I'm sure that Langley FC and FC International are honing their skills and tweaking their games for the matches that lie ahead!

CRAZY NIGHT AT WILLOUGHBY

The Reporter Reporting — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 08:08:13 EST

Langley FC played host to Inter tonight at Willoughby Park. It seemed that both teams decided to throw whatever strategy they had out the window and see who could score the most goals. In the end LFC was most efficient by winning the game 8-4.

This might even be the most goals ever scored in a game in the FVCSL. I thought it was worth a write-up. Being that I am a LFC member, I do not want this write-up to be disrespecting toward FC Inter. This game could have gone either way, it was very open. I have a lot of respect for Inter, just to make that clear. Also I was playing so a lot of details will be left out, I just don't remember. Mrs. Vanderhorst might have some, because she did start writing, but then realized there were no kids of hers involved in this game, so she left.......just kidding. Maybe you can supply a picture, i did see you take some.

Both teams had a very thin midfield to chose from and that Inter lost James Moes midway through the game with a pretty bad head wount didn't help either. This lead to a game where midfield was not very involved. LFC started of sleeping and before 20 minutes were even played Inter had a 2-0 lead by goals from Adam Woelders and Nathan Moes. LFC’s new manager Ron ScheperJ decided to make some changes and that turned the game around and LFC managed to score two fast goals by Jeff Vandergaag, Henk Timmerman added one about 10 minutes to half as well. Inter battled hard and scored a deserving goal just before half by Will Folstad. It seemed fare that both teams went for a “tea break”, as they call it in Europe, tied.

I know LFC was shocked at the goals scored in the first half and maybe Inter as well, because both teams started the second half feeling each other out, although Jeff Vandergaag had a huge chance about 2 feet in front of the net, but managed to shoot it over, you can ask him how he did that. Finally LFC broke the tie by a goal from Henk Timmerman, but right after that Inter came back with a goal from Josh DeJong. This game seemed like it was never going to have a winner. Both teams had huge changes during the later half of the second half but LFC was just putting it all in the net and that made the difference in this game. Jeff Vandergaag got his hat trick and Henk Timmerman also added two more goals to get four on the night. Finally Aren VanDijk finished it in the dying minutes with a solo run and a goal.

All credit to Inter, they were through the whole game as good as LFC, but even I have never seen this between two top teams. Great game guys, must have been fun to watch as well.

LYNDEN ADDS TO "W" COLUMN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 08:45:36 EST

Lynden Americans have only lost two games in their last twelve as they added a victory to the win column, beating LCRC United 3-1. That's an impressive stat, and the Red and Blues looked impressive in their match at Willoughby Field. The first half of the game had a lot of back and forth play with strong passing and ball movement from both teams. LCRC notched the first goal when a penalty kick was awarded for a Lynden hit in their area, and sharp shooter Kevin VanderGaag scored for his team. Lynden evened the score on "one of our nicest passing plays all season" when Harvey Pelleboer played give-and-go with Loren VanCorbach who gave it back to Pelleboer, and Harvey got the goal.

At the 11 minute mark of the second half, Loren VanCorbach put his team ahead when he took a very smart chip shot from outside the corner of the 18 yard box, and the ball floated high over the watching keeper Justin Bontkes and into the top corner. Scant minutes later, Lynden built up the play again, and VanCorbach got his second goal of the game, and Lynden's third on a shot straight in the goal from just outside the 18. LCRC tried to get back into the game, but Lynden's keeper Ethan Neff made several good saves, one off a hard drive from Kevin VanderGaag that the keeper batted away. Jason Togeretz came close for LCRC when he tipped in a Fuentes free kick, but Jay-Tog's shot went off the crossbar. Neff grabbed another dangerous shot off a corner kick that slid through the crowd and could have gone in at the near post. Lynden then set up their very effective Red Wall in their own end, and took away any other shot or rush that LCRC could muster. Full marks to Lynden for a team win.

LANGLEY FC TAKES GROVE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 15 Jul 2007 08:47:49 EST

Langley FC scored a decisive win over Aldergrove, winning 4-1, a game which saw Henk Timmerman break a six game scoring drought and get a hat trick for his team. Aldergrove started out strongly with a nice long cross from Kevin Hendricks to Justin Meyer, and Meyer's toes were not quite long enough to direct the ball into the goal. However, ten minutes later, a free kick taken by Colin DeWit was struck into the corner of the net by Meyer and Aldergrove had the early lead. Henk Timmerman showed glimmers of what was to come as he had two dangerous chances in the Alder end, one shot that squirted loose from Brian Meerstra and Timmerman was ready to eat that juicy loosey ball but Matt VanderGaag cleared the ball away. Mark Meerstra looked to have a certain goal for Aldergrove when he nimbly deked out Langley goalie John Noort and had the open goal to shoot at, but hit the side of the goal instead. At the 35 minute mark, Henk Timmerman got his first goal of the game when Ian Moes headed a nice pass forward to Henk and he drove a low shot into the goal, no chance Meerstra. Later a Henk T free kick for Yellow just outside the 18 was driven through the Alder wall, but Br-Meerstra parried that shot away well. After an Aldergrove rush went for naught, Timmerman got his second goal of the game when he launched a torpedo at the Alder-goal and in it went.

Langley FC played a solid game on the evening, and so did their keeper John Noort as he made confident saves off the likes of Mark Meerstra, Kevin Leffers, Colin DeWit and Kevin Hendricks. Langley FC picked up another goal early in the second half when they were awarded a free kick just ouside the 18 again, Matt VanderGaag being given a yellow card for a hard tackle from behind. Henk T-man's shot was carbon copy of the free kick in the first half, only this one went IN. Aldergrove almost got a catch up goal after this when a scramble in front of the Yellow goal saw Mike Timmerman and John Noort get their assignments crossed and Aldergrove had several "almost goals" before Langley got that ball out of there. Langley FC got their 4th goal when Ryan Hanawalt sprung Jeff VanderGaag who was just back from a one month injury layoff, and Jeffie showed that he has not forgotten how to run and how to score, and did just that . That would end the scoring though Aldergrove had several more attempts. The Alder-whites clearly miss defenders Tyler VanderGaag and James deHaas (out with injuries) but are making adjustments and will be a strong force in the playoffs, as will Langley FC.

TOURNAMENT POULES ARE SET

The Reporter Reporting — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 08:36:07 EST

The poules and schedule for the 2007 tournament are finalized. Poul three and four only have 3 teams and will cross against one team from the other poul of three. Look below for the poules and schedule.

Poul A
1	Edmonton
2	Oranje
3	Cloverdale
4	Barrhead

Poul B
5	Celtic
6	Houston
7	Valley United
8	Vernon

Poul C
9	Coaldale
10	Smithers
11	St Albert

Poul D
12	Langley FC
13	Aldergrove
14	Abbotsford

Field A
	8:00	Edmonton	Oranje
	9:15	Cloverdale	Barrhead
	10:30	Valley United	Vernon
	11:45	Edmonton	Barrhead
	13:00	Oranje	Cloverdale
	14:15	Langley FC	Abbotsford
	15:30	Cloverdale	Edmonton
	16:45	Barrhead	Oranje
	18:00	Aldergrove	Abbotsford

Field B
	8:00
	9:15	Celtic	Houston
	10:30
	11:45	Smithers	Aldergrove
	13:00	Celtic	Vernon
	14:15	Houston	Valley United
	15:30
	16:45	Valley United	Celtic
	18:00	Vernon	Houston

Field C
	8:00	Coaldale	Smithers
	9:15	Langley FC	Aldergrove
	10:30	St Albert	Abbotsford
	11:45
	13:00	Coaldale	St Albert
	14:15
	15:30	Smithers	St Albert
	16:45	Coaldale	Langley FC
	18:00

TOUGH TIE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 08:03:58 EST

Why should a team be disappointed with a tie against Langley FC but Celtic was just that as they let a two-goal lead slip away in their Tuesday evening match up. Credit to Langley FC who never quit and gained a hard fought tie.

Yellow notched the first goal of the game in the opening minutes when Ian Moes, in the first game of the year for him and his wife Jolene (just back from Europe) deftly nodded a Derek Hoogerdijk corner kick into the Celtic goal. Welcome back Ian! Henk Timmerman tried to add to that lead when he broke into the Celtic area but keeper Rob Gelderman stole the ball off Henk's feet. Celtic turned the ball back up the field and when Glenn Visscher forced the ball loose, Stu VanderHorst cranked that loose ball into the high corner of the Yellow goal for Celtic's first marker. John VanSeters almost broke that first half tie when he received a long pass and his shot got past keeper John Noort but Mike Timmerman cleared the shot off the goal line.

Celtic got the first goal of the second half on a nice team finish off a corner kick that went through the Langley FC area and John VanSeters passed it back in to Anthony Togeretz who tapped the ball into the goal. Henk T-Man had a good scoring chance again when he was twisting and turning in the Celtic area, trying to get a shot, which he finally did, but Gelderman was all over it and made the save. At the 25 minute mark, Celtic was awarded a free kick just ouside the Yellow 18 yard box. Glenn Visscher drove the shot in on John Noort, and Ivan Scheper anticipated the ball coming loose which it did, and Ivan was right there to drive in the rebound,. Celtic did not sit on their lead, but Langley FC was determined to reel them back in. They persisted and were buzzing around in front of the Celtic goal, and Aren VanDyke finally stung Celtic when his shot went in under keeper RobGee. With 10 minutes to go, Yellow mounted another determined rush. Celtic worked desperately to stop them but Yellow was just as desperate to score and Aren VanDyke did just that with his second goal, and the game tying goal. Ryan Hanawalt threatened to get a winning goal late in the game, but Gelderman made the grab and the teams settled for a tie.

TOP DIVISION TIGHTENS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 08 Jul 2007 08:14:02 EST

The standings got just a little bit tighter as LCRC beat league leading FC International 3-2. Combine that with the 0-0 tie between Aldergrove and Oranje and things are staying interesting in this division. LCRC United Blues were ready to "run and gun" and did just that with Kevin VanderBoom and Kevin VanderGaag combining on a rush that FC keeper Werner Engeler had to make a sharp save on. But the Kevin&Kevin combo would work the second time around when at the 20 minute mark when Kevin VcB passed to Kevin VdG who scored for LCRC. FC Inter had a good rush and dangerous chance but would not capitalize before LCRC added to their tally when a team effort from Kevin VdG, to Saul Fuentes, to Greg Hamelin was finished when Kevin Vander - Boomed it into the goal. Steve Funk of FC Inter was kept busy helping out his keeper when he cleared away another attempt by Kevin VdG and ran shouolder to shoulder with the cruising Greg Hamelin to prevent him from getting a shot as well. FC Inter would get their first goal of the game when Dan Woelders finished a play that Mike Opp started and Inter was on the scoresheet. Later in the game, opportunist Greg Hameliin would jump onto a loose ball at about the 25 yard mark and blow the shot under Engeler. Dan Woelders and Josh DeJong tried to work the ball through the Blue team and keeper but their teamwork could not get the job done. Inter would get a second goal off a free kick that Dan Woelders struck well, and Wil Folstad flicked in off of his head.

That would be it for both teams and LCRC would take the 3-2 victory home.

ALDER/ORANJE TIE 0-0

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 08 Jul 2007 08:51:22 EST

"Good movement guys!" was the opinion voice by Mikiah Zietsma, (age 2 1/ 2 years) of the game played between Aldergrove and Oranje. And this was the kind of matchup played by these two teams, with lots of ball control and action that ended up in a scoreless draw. Both teams had chances to score in the first half, and Oranje substitute goalie Daryl Driegen was tested early when Mark Meerstra skidded a shot at him, with Mel DeWit waiting for a loose ball that Driegen did not give up. Justin Meyer tried to combine with Mel DeW later but John Zietsma took that away. Oranje pressure at the 20 minute mark had Alder-keeper Brian Meerstra stretching tall to save a long high shot from Tm VanderHorst. After Mark Meerstra snuck in behind the Oranje D to shoot wide, Mark Sikma of Oranje made Brian Meerstra dive for a wide shot. Justin Meyer shanked another shot wide for his Alder-side before the half and the teams went into the break scoreless.

Both teams came up with more scoring chances in the second half , but none that would find the back of the net. Ron Smouter of Oranje cranked a left-footer past the far corner and Kevin Hendricks and Harold Louwerse did the same for their White team. Morris Klos of Oranje had the best scoring chance when he connected with the ball, but the ball connected with the cross bar and stayed out. Aldergrove upped the tempo in the last couple of blocks of the game and Driegen had to be sharp to keep the game even, stopping the likes of Hendricks and pushing a Matt VanderGaag shot over the bar. He followed that up by stealing a sure goal away from Justin Meyer and was there for the followup shot from Mark Meerstra as well. Aldrgrove thought they finally had a goal in the dying minutes but a bump on the keeper had play whistled dead and the shot after the whistle did not count.

Mikiah was right, "Good Movement Guys!" and kudos to both teams!

Aldergrove Over LCRC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 08:11:56 EST

By Tom VanderHorst (first story of the year)
Aldergrove and LCRC met at Willoughby field on a beautiful Wednesday night. Aldergrove has been doing well all season long, and LCRC has had a great season as well, especially as of late, winning their last seven in a row.

The game started with a mad scramble in the LCRC end. Some on the sidelines thought a brou-ha-ha would ensue, but cooler heads would prevail. (And a note to all you young journalists out there, any time you have the oppurtunity to use the word brou-ha-ha, you take it). Kevin Hendricks, picking up where he left off, ended up putting the ball in for the early lead of the game. Welcome back to the league and the Fraser Valley. LCRC with Kevin on Matt, forward on defence, Vandergaag on Vandergaag. Matt cleared the ball away however, to keep the Aldergrove lead. Mona Sytsma had a great left-footed shot, but this just missed the top corner. Kevin Vanderboom then streaked in and shot a nice low bullet on net, which was met by a "scintillating save" by keeper Brian Meerstra. Harold Louwerse then connected a nice pass to Colin Dewit, who crossed the ball in to Mark Meerstra. Mark couldn't connect with the header however. Greg Hammelin came up with a money pass to Jason VanderHorst and Jay let go a ripper, but it hit the side of the net. Kevin Vandergaag had another good shot, but this one snuck wide. Aldergrove ended the half with a number of nice chances but were met by good saves by substitute keeper Darcy Langelaar.

In the 2nd half, LCRC came out well, with two nice chances for Jason, but both were stopped by Brian. Justin Meyer responded then, with a good crack after several nice moves with the ball. One minute later, Justin almost showed us a replay of that goal, with the same number of nice moves and another nice shot. Darcy, however, would not be fooled again, and tipped it past the post. Kevin Hendricks then made a nice run up the left side and made a slick cross to Justin (again). Bryan Grim met him on the goal line and made the clearance to keep it 2-0. Greg Hammelin, who lurked dangerously in the midfield all game, had another nice shot, but this went just wide. This didn't slow Aldergrove down however. Justin seemed unstoppable, and volleyed a cross from Kevin but that skimmed past the post. On another rush, Darcy had to come out to stop Mark on a run, but the ball landed right at Harold, who made no mistake and put it home before Darcy had a chance to stop it.
Darryl Hofsink then made a good defensive play for LCRC as he stymied a rush for White. This went on to set up a chance for Kevin Vandergaag (again). But, with no respect for his own body, Brian Meerstra dove in to the danger to stop the play. Saul Fuentes killed the shutout minutes later however when he curled in a nice shot. No chance for the keeper on a beautiful shot. Darcy then made two more saves to keep his team in the game; one, a very good save on Mark, and the other, a very very good save that got some "Ooohh!"s and "Aaaah!"s from the crowd. These were not enough however, as the game went to Aldergrove.

INTER BEATS HEAT & CELTIC

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 08:36:27 EST

FC International and Celtic met at Willoughby field with limited lineups, Celtic having only 11 players and FC Inter having 13. However that would change when Inter's Eric Atsma went down with a painful knee injury in the first half. and would not return Subbing breaks became water breaks, as both teams had to work hard to beat the heat and survive the match. Teamwork and sportsmanship became the name of the game as both teams communicated together well, and helped their fellow teammates out. Referee Dick Scheper agreed that while there were some tough challenges, for much of the game he could have put his whistle in his pocket - a credit to both teams. Both teams had equal ball possession in the first half with Celtic's Glenn Visscher driving a Peter VanBrederode pass just wide, and Burke VanderHorst chipping a shot off the crossbar. Wil Folstad had a good chance for Black, but Rob Gelderman stopped it, had it slip loose and stopped it again. Tim Vanderhoek got a late shot for Celtic, but could not get enough mustard on it and Werner Engler made the save.

Momentum shifted somewhat to Black in the second half as they tried to wear Celtic down with the efforts of speedsters of Wil Folstad, Mike Opp and Dan Woelders. Dan "Dubya " drove a hard shot at the Celtic goal that Gelderman punched back into play and Lizzie Titley kicked the rebound just wide. Celtic couldn't contain Wil Folstad forever, and he broke through the team and got the ball under Gelderman for FC's first goal. Peter vanBrederode, Tim VanderHoek and Glenn Visscher had their chances on Inter's goal as did Rob VanSeters but they could not find the back of the net. Jon VanPopta of Inter was unlucky to hit the side of the Celtic goal for no-goal but the Blacks would get their second goal on a similar play as their first goal when Mike Opp took advantage of a Celtic turnover and he got the ball through the team and past the goalie just before the final whistle for a 2-0 win for Black.

TOUGH LOSS FOR VALLEY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 08:04:14 EST

It's too bad when one team has to lose a close game, but that's what happened as Valley lost an exciting game to Celtic. Both teams were raring for a win and the first half was played to a scoreless draw. Celtic carried more of the play in the opening half, with a couple of potential rushes and combinations for both teams.

The second half would produce many more scoring opportunities and both keepers had to be sharp to keep their team in the game. Valley's super-brave goalie Geoff VanLaar. made some super-saves for his team, and Rob Gelderman at the other end was tested as well, especially on an early try by Kent Ostermeier. The rushes started to come thick and fast, with Glenn Visscher seeing his left-footed shot saved by VanLaar followed by Anthony Togeretz heading a ball past VanLaar and past the open goal. Maurice VanderLinde cranked a shot off the Celtic post and Katie Ostermeier followed that up a while later when she got good foot on the ball but put the shot wide. Valley had their best chance go for naught when a streaking Mo VdL unselfishly crossed the ball to a charging Tim Schouten, and his shot ricochetted off the keeper's best friend. Lucky Celtic! Unlucky Valley! John VanSeters came charging back for Celtic but Geoff VL fearlessly grabbed the ball off of VanSeters' feet. A breaking Anthony (ATog) Togeretz had what looked to be a sure goal for Celtic when he headed a ball over Geoff VL but defender Devon Boes desperately stopped that ball on the goal line. ATog got another chance and this time got that hard-to-get goal when Burke VanderHorst launched a pass from Celtic's half and ATog managed to win the race for the ball and drive it into the Valley goal. That would be the only goal of the game dispite the best efforts of both teams. Good, intense game for both teams!

PLUMS VS ORANGES

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 08:49:16 EST

Vitessa and Oranje had a match against each other at Cloverdale field. According to Vitessa coach Casey VanVliet ,it was "a battle between the coaching seniors!" (him and Henk VanderHorst) Or did he say "the senior coaches"....? Which ever, it was a good game, Oranje coming up the winner. The first half had both teams displaying lots of ball control, but few good shots on goal. Oranje capitalized on one of their chances at the 17 minute mark when Paul Sikma jumped up to a loose ball and directed it towards the Vitessa's goal. Keeper Jayden Kuik had that shot lined up, but Phil Sikma got his foot on the shot and redirected it past the keeper with Kuik helpless to reposition himself.

Vitessa vowed to crank up their game in the second half, and Byron and Lucas Vanderbeek ran non-stop for their team up front, as did Jordan VanSpronsen, but Oranje would get the next goal. Ron Smouter did the work to get a pass to his choice of Steve Koning and Phil Sikma, but the pass went to Sikma who patiently picked his spot with a shot past the diving Kuik, Second goal of the game for Phil and for his team. More shots came from both teams after this and Lucas Vanderbeek had a nice run past the Oranje defence and put a long shot on keeper Don Sikma. Tom VanderHorst tested Kuik before Lynette DeHaas came back and snuck a short shot on Sikma which he saved and he did the same on a glancing shot from Darryl Rolleman. In the last five-minute block Rick VanderHorst made a long run for his Oranje team but he slashed his shot across the goal area. Vitessa returned with a nice build-up and were rewarded when Jordan VanSpronsen directed a sweet pass to Sean Bredenhof who got a good, low shot into the corner of Oranje's goal. Vitessa could not come up with the equalizer and the game went to Oranje 2-1

'FUN, CLEAN GAME!"

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 08:19:25 EST

"Nice Game! Fun Game! Clean Game!" Those were the observations of players on both Oranje and Celtic as well as referee Dave Doornbos. The win would go to Oranje in this second meeting of the season between these two teams. Celtic were the first ones to score at the 13th minute when Anthony Togeretz steamed through the Oranje back line and popped a shot over Don Sikma. Oranje took only 5 minutes to even the score when a good pass from Leroy VanSpronsen went to brother Rod who cracked a short shot through keeper Rob Gelderman. Later, Tom Vanderhorst got a low shot on Gelderman who made the save and while Oranje would have several chances they had no more decent cracks in the half (according to them). Celtic however, threatened several more times, most notably when John VanSeters shot a ball through Oranje's goal area and out the other side. Also, Glenn Visscher who got a shot; hard, low and on goal, but not in.

Both teams added more intensity in the second half, and Ivan Scheper had the first threat for Celtic as he snuck a shot at the near post, but Sikma was there for the save. Steve Koning lined up a shot on the other end but Celtic defender Neil Dykstra took that dangerous shot away. Eighteen minutes into the half, Morris Klos made a long run for Oranje but was taken down in the box, and a penalty kick was awarded to his team. Rick VanderHorst struck a smooth shot low to the corner and in for the go-ahead goal: no chance for Gelderman. Celtic came close to evening the score again when Anthony Togeretz got a shot past the pressuring Don Sikma and John VanSeters put the loose ball just outside the post instead of just inside the post. Oranje followed this up with several minutes of pressure in the Celtic end, and Steve Koning put a nice pass back to Mark Sikma who drilled a long curling shot at RobGee: he had a good look at the shot and made the grab. Mary-Anne VanderHorst tested DonEss with a nice high shot, but the save mde by Don. While Celtic worked together, passed well and challenged hard, it was Oranje who got the last good chances, when Ron Smouter ran onto a shot that came off of Gelderman and drove the shot back in: Gelderman made the diving save. Steve Koning tried to ice the cake for Oranje but his hard shot from inside the 18 went just wide. Even game, but a win for Oranje: 2-1.

STARS & STRIPES TIE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 17 Jun 2007 08:54:43 EST

It was a windy, blusteryy evening at Lynden's Bender Field, and players and fans alike were relieved that the rain showers stayed away till the end of the game. Celtic's first rush of the game came from Stuart VanderHorst who had a dangerous shot stopped by keeper Ethan Neff, who threw out his leg to make the save. Rob Gelderman, goalie for Celtic was tested in the first ten minutes as well, when Nathan Chase sent a nice cross to Darryn Kleyn but Gelderman jumped just in front of Kleyn to snatch the ball away. At the middle mark of the opening half, Loren VanCorbach lobbed the ball over the Celtic defenders to a breaking Kleyn and this time Kleyn got a nice shot across the goal area, and in the back of the goal. Later in the half, Kleyn went down hard, grabbing his ankle. He would have to leave the field and the game with an undetermined ankle injury.

In the second half it was obvious that Lynden threw up their defensive shell, and were determined to keep Celtic off the scoresheet. The Americans had few rushes into Celtic's end of the field, but did not give Celtic any room to get their passing game going. And any time Celtic tried to penetrate inside Lynden's 18 yard box, the Lyndenites collapsed and filled up the area with most of their team, effectively giving no room for shots to get through. This resulted in some frustration, much "chirping" and many "refs" on the field. In the last five minute block of the game, Lynden was penalized for a take down in their area, and Celltic was awarded a penalty kick. Ivan Scheper took it well, and scored with a shot just under the crossbar: no chance for Neff. A couple more rushes for both teams, and the game ended with a tie, Lynden 1, Celtic 1.

SELLES STRIKES AGAIN

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 08:09:49 EST

Andrew Selles, one of the league's top goal getters got two more for his Abbotsford Silver Bullets as his team tied Oranje 2-2. Both teams started off with good passing, and solid attacks with Tom VanderHorst of Oranje, and James Bisschop, Ben Beukema and Tim deHaan of Silver all getting quality chances. Bisschop would come the closest as he ran full-steam ahead and got a hard shot on Oranje keeper Don Sikma who had to be alert to steer the low shot away. Oranje followed that up with a corner kick that resulted in two good chances but Silver keeper Hilmer Jagersma and his team mates prevented that. Andrew Selles closed out the half with a long run and a long shot over the goal.

The second half started with Oranje's Tom VanderHorst taking a very hard shot that was blocked with his body by a brave Mike Broersma. Andrew Selles would get the first goal of the game when he chipped an innocent looking shot at the Oranje goal, but the spinning ball squeeked through the hands of keeper Sikma and over the goal line. Oranje got that back quite quickly when they were awarded a penalty kick for a take down in the box. Rick VanderHorst struck the ball well and a diving Hilmer Jagersma got a hand on the hard shot but could not keep it out. Selles had several more runs and shots for Silver as did Stan deHaan, but no goal. Steve Koning set up Tom VanderHorst for a nice shot, but no reward to them either. Koning was given a yellow card (first one of the season for Oranje) a short while later on a collision with the Silver goalie. Mark Sikma and Leroy VanSpronsen both had good shots for Oranje go wide or over, but their team would finally get the go-ahead goal when Phil Sikma sent a very unselfish heads-up pass to Morris Klos on the side, and Klos got a nice shot and a nice goal. Abby evened that up again when Rob Beukema crossed the ball to a waiting Andrew Selles in a crowded Oranje area, and Selles got his, and his team's second goal of the game. Entertaining game; 2-2 tie.

CELTIC/SAINTS TIE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 08:50:45 EST

Celtic and Saints. Two teams both coming off of two losses. Two teams both looking for a victory. Two teams settling for a confidence boosting tie. Celtic got an early goal at the 8 minute mark when persistence by David Wildeboer got the ball in close to the Saints goal and Burke VanderHorst connected with the loose ball and scored. Both teams had chances in back and forth action but it would be Saints who scored next. A defensive mix-up/crash-up by Celtic allowed Saints' Matt Philipchalk to get through and put the ball in the back of the goal. Celtic took the lead again when Stuart VanderHorst avoided a Saints challenge and drove a hard, rising shot that Saints keeper Jordan Dykman had squeeze through his hands and across the goal line.

Saints had the first chance for goal in the second half when they sent a long dangerous shot over the bar. Ben Shoeber also had a mean shot that was not too far off the mark. Josh JansenVanDoorn was lurking a lot up front, but had no goal success on the night. At the other end, Conrad Dykman played some solid cleanup for keeper-brother Jordan to keep the game close. The Saints tied the game up half way through the second half when they worked the ball close to the 18yard line and Brenden (don't know his last name cuz he's not listed on the Saints roster) drilled a shot high in to the Celtic goal. The Saints went on to take the lead a short while later on another sweet shot through lots of Celtic players by the afore-mentioned Brenden ____. Celtic evened the score again when Burke VanderHorst cranked a hi-lite reel free kick that bent around and above the wall and the Saints goalie, and into the net. Saints had one more chance when a loose ball in the Celtic area scrambled around, off players and off the post and was cleared away. Celtic and Saints a solid 3-3 tie.

DIV. "A" TIGHTENS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 08:17:57 EST

Langley FC suffered a loss to Aldergrove and may have suffered the loss of Ron Scheper as well, as he went down in the second half with what looked like a serious and painful ankle injury. The Yellows were already playing with a depleted lineup due to injuries to Wes Driegen (knee), Jeff VanderGaag (foot), Aren VanDyke (groin), Henk Timmerman out of the country and Brent Fennema moving away. That left them with only one spare and their girls played like troopers but Aldergrove wore them down and pulled off a victory, though Langley FC left it all on the field. Aldergrove opened the game strongly and Matt VanderGaag had 3 good chances for goals, but with no finish. Yet it was Langley FC who got the first goal at the 18 minute mark when Ron Scheper connected on a perfect free kick that grazed the tips of Brian Meerstra's fingers and the bottom of the crossbar. Matt VdGaag had another shot go through the goal mouth cleared away by the Yellow defence, and also headed a nice cross from Colin DeWit over the crossbar to round out the half.

The second half had both teams start with lots of energy, trading chances by Justin Meyer, Ron Scheper, and Colin DeWit. Aldergrove kept the pressure up and the defence of Joni Bredenhof, Mike Timmerman, and Greg Scholtens were kept busy helping out their keeper John Noort. Kevin Woelders would add to Yellow's lead when he twisted and turned with the ball and was allowed to unleash a shot outside the 18 yard box that no one could have stopped. Aldergrove tightened the game up a short while later when Colin DeWit cracked a free kick that grazed the head of a defender and went in. Both keepers owe a thank you to their d-line when Kevin Woelders got a shot past Brian Meerstra that James Dehaas cleared away and on the other end, Mike Timmerman rescued John Noort in a similar situation. Tyler VanderGaag tested Noort again with a sharp blast, but Noort got his hand out to just deflect the ball. The clearance went to Matt VdGaag but his shot was cleared away by Joni Bredenhof. In the last 5 minutes Aldergrove poured it on and a Kevin Hendricks shot went off the post and off Mike T-man and off several players on both sides before Tyler VanderGaag put it in the goal. Derek Hoogerdijk had a good try for the win, but Aldergrove got the victory in injury time when Justin Meyer got the winning goal after his team put lots of pressure on Langley FC. Final score: Aldergrove 3, Langley FC 2

INTER SHUTS OUT ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 08:12:05 EST

Oranje and FC International came into tonight's matchup, both with 6 wins under their belt, one of Oranje's wins being over FC Inter. Evenly matched teams, who played an even match, but FC Inter came up on top this time, moving them up in the Division A standings. The game was played in a misty drizzle, and that may have affected some of the quality of passing and shooting, which was tentative for much of the opening half. Rod VanSpronsen got the first try on goal for Oranje when fiesty Renee Zietsma moved the ball out of the corner to Rod but his good shot went just wide. Later, Don Sikma had to come out far to challenge Dam Woelders for a loose ball which drew a corner kick (see photo). The kick to Adam Woelders was headed wide. Eric Atsma had a nice shot on Sikma a while later but Sikma could make the save. There were a couple minutes of steady pressure by Oranje in the Black area off of 2 corner kick opportunities, but while the ball got moved around a lot, no score resulted. Morris Klos of Oranje and Dan Woelders of Black traded tries on goal , Dan dribbling from center to the 18 before shooting, followed by Rod VanSpronsen who's shot was steered wide by a diving Black goalie.

Oranje had an early chance in the second half with a corner kick but the Paul Sikma header went just wide. FC Inter had a shot that had goal written all over it til Jess DeHaas of Oranje cleared it away from the open goal. Wil Folstad had his hard shot from in close pushed away by a quick keeper Sikma, but would come back to get Black on the scoresheet. A free kick from 30 yards out was taken by Dan Woelders and he alertly found the unmarked Folstad who drove a smart kick into the goal. Oranje had a good chance to get that back when Mark Sikma, Shauna Stam and Paul Sikma all had cracks at the ball in the Black area, but it finally went over the bar and out of play. Another dangerous drive for Oranje was generated by Rick VanderHorst when he drove through Black and pushed a pass to the breaking Morris Klos, but the shot went just wide. FC Inter had lots of pressure in the Oranje area in the closing minutes of the game but a desperate Oranje finally got the ball out of danger. A last minute drive by Oranje's Daryl Driegen with a slick cross to Leroy VanSpronsen ended when Leroy's header went barely wide. Black closed out the game with a late shot by Eric Atsma and the game ended FC Inter 1, Oranje 0.

TOUGH GOAL KEEPERS!

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 08:13:17 EST

LCRC United and Celtic met for their second match of the season in a game that would be remembered (at least by the goalies) as a game where the goalies suffered some collisions. LCRC's Justin Bontkes was downed once, while Celtic's keeper Rob Gelderman took three hard crashes, but shook them all off to complete the game. The first half had good action at both ends, exciting rushes and lots of nice mid field passing, but also had two crashes when LCRC players and Rob Gelderman attacked the ball: neither incident resulted in goals. Celtic scored at the 25 minute mark when Tim Vanderhoek found Wil Wildeboer wide, and Wildeboer lined up the perfect cross back in to Glen Visscher who bent to head the ball into the goal. Before the half was over, Greg Hamelin of LCRC intercepeted a weak Celtic pass in ther end, and sent a hard shot to the low corner to even the score.

Early in the second half, Kevin VanderGaag left-footed a long shot through the Celtic area but Gelderman followed the shot and grabbed the ball. At the 28 minute mark Justin Bontkes suffered a collision with an attacking Wil Wildeboer: Wildeboer got untangled first, and put the loose ball into the goal to get the lead for Celtic again. Tim VanderHoek tried to add to that when he picked up a corner kick out of a crowd, but sent the hard shot over the bar. LCRC put pressure on Celtic and Kevin VanderGaag jumped on a loose ball just outside the six-yard box and scored for the go-ahead goal. Chris VanderHorst of LCRC took a nice back pass from his forward but drove the ball over the bar on another good chance for Blue. Anthony Togeretz had a good chance for Celtic on the other end when he was sprung loose by Burke VanderHorst but Bontkes made the fine save. A scramble off of an LCRC corner kick resulted in the Blues' 3rd goal when Oscar Fuentes sent a guided missile into the topmost corner of the top corner: what a shot! Gelderman was downed again in the waning minutes of the game, but the LCRC player had tried hard to avoid the collision. In the last 5 minutes, LCRC got their 4th goal when a corner kick ping-ponged off several heads before it went off of Jason Togeretz' head and in. Final score: LCRC 4, Celtic 2. Yellow card - Time Bontkes of LCRC

No More Credo

The Reporter Reporting — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 08:47:44 EST

All games that were scheduled on Credo have been moved to either Willoughby or McLeod except for the July 12^th game. Some times have also been changed because of this. Take a look at the website for your changes, it has been updated already.

ABBY TOP OF "B"

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 08:57:34 EST

Abbotsford and Celtic were both unbeaten in their last four games, but Abbotsford changed that with a victory over Celtic on a wet evening in Aldergrove. With this victory, Abbotsford takes over top spot in the B Division, while Celtic struggles at the bottom of A division. Celtic had the edge in the first half of the first half, and started strongly when Wil Wildeboer crossed a ball into the Abby area that Anthony Togeretz nodded at but could not nod in. Another Wil Wildeboer cross went to Burke VanderHorst but his shot went just wide. Stan deHaan tested early for Abby but his shot went wide. Stu VanderHorst came back with a well-struck ball for the Stripes, but it was well-saved by keeper Hilmer Jagersma. Ivan Scheper shot a ball out of a crowd that Jagersma had to make the sharp save on as well. James Bisschop brought the Silvers up the field again, but his drive went over the goal. Neither team could get a fluid passing game going (perhaps because of the fluid on the field?) and the half closed out tied at 0-0.

Abbotsford's game came together better than Celtic's game in the second half, especially when Rob Beukema set Stan deHaan up with a nice pass, but deHaan's left-footed shot was punched away by Celtic keeper Rob Gelderman. Abby kept the pressure up and got one of those "sloppy wet field, slippery ball" type of goals when Andrew Selles skittered a loosey-goosey ball through some Celtic defenders and past Gelderman. Abby Silvers followed that up with a very skillful goal when Stan deHaan sent a high cross into the Celtic 18 yard area where 2 team mates were running in, and Ben Beukema was the one who got his head on it and scored. Andrew Selles tried to bag another goal on a nice shot, but keeper Rob grabbed that one. With only 15 minutes left, Celtic tried hard to reel the game back in and Braeden Kobes got a nice shot on goal for his team, and Jagersma had to be sharp to make the save at close range. A couple more Celtic rushes were to no avail. It looked like Abby would add to their goal total when Celtic was called for a hand ball in ther area, but the penalty shot went over, and the score stayed Abbotsford 2, Celtic 0.

ORANJE SHUTS OUT CLOVERDALE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 08:37:25 EST

Oranje brought a total team effort to Cloverdale's home field and took a convincing 4-0 victory back with them. Cloverdale's Mike Schouten is among the top scorers in the FVCSL this year, but he and his teammates could not generate any scoring in the match against Oranje. The first half ended with neither team scoring, but Oranje certainly got the better chances, having some 5 shots go wide. Marc Schouten also played a very solid half in goal for Cloverdale, especially when he saw an unmarked Phil Sikma drive a shot on goal but Schouten sprawled to make the save. Schouten followed that up with good saves off of a hard shot by Morris Klos and a corner kick that was headed on goal by Rick VanderHorst. Steve Koning was lurking dangerously in the Blue area through much of the game but was not rewarded with a goal. Cloverdale had a couple of chances in the first half, on a nice shot from Mark Bysterveld and an attempt from out wide by Chris Schouten, but keeper Don Sikma made the grabs.

Oranje took the second half with 4 unanswered goals. Tom VanderHorst had a hard shot steered wide by Schouten and headed the following corner kick off the cross bar. But a corner kick several minutes later had a better result for Tom-Vee when he headed that one in, for goal. Cloverdale tried to mount some return pressure and Mark Bysterveld sliced a shot through the Oranje area that went wide. Oranje was very effective on the night with their corner kicks while Cloverdale was frustrated that most of their corner kick attempts were squandered when they ended up against the side of the net. Tom-Vee got his second goal of the game for Oranje when he dribbled through several Blue players and was almost stopped by George Gunnink, but he cut around him and got the shot in low under Schouten. Minutes later, a ball was bouncing around in the Blue area and hard working Tom Sikma (the senior Tom) got to the ball and put it in under Schouten. Not to be outdone, brother Mark Sikma got a hard shot on goal and though Marc Schouten almost had it, it got through him and in for goal #4 for Oranje. In the dying minutes of the game, Mark Bysterveld took advantage of an Oranje lapse, and got a clear shot on keeper Don Sikma, but the save was made for the shutout. A nice cleanly played game, and full marks to both teams for that! By the way - two of the original three teams of the FVCSL were in this match.

Langley Recovers Over Crossway

Morris Klos — Sun, 03 Jun 2007 08:14:39 EST

LANGLEY - In Crossway's second game in two days, Langley FC managed to squeeze one more goal than Crossway by full-time for a 2-1 victory, in spite of starting the game one player short. Henk Timmerman scored first for Langley FC. Joe Doyle's goal for Crossway stood for most of the game as Langley could not strike goal on their other offensive opportunities.

Patrick Peewee had a strong first game in the league, showing good ball control, and he finally scored the game winning goal for Langley FC in the last 20 minutes of play. Crossway could not find an equalizer because their defensive clears repeatedly came directly to Langley FC defenders at mid-field, and their offensive rushes broke down just outside of Langley's 18-yard box, with passes that were placed to quickly, and intercepted.

It was a strong showing for Crossway however, as they played one of their best games of the season against one of the league's finest.

Abby FC Muscles Past Crossway

Morris Klos — Sun, 03 Jun 2007 08:59:47 EST

Abbotsford FC stormed past Crossway for a 6-2 win at Willoughby, with goals from Ben Beukema (pictured above), Rob Beukema, Tim DeHaan, Stan DeHaan, Jason Devries and Andrew Selles. See the article "Silver Shines over Crossway" for more details.

Silver Shines Over Crossway

Morris Klos — Sun, 03 Jun 2007 08:52:08 EST

LANGLEY - Abbotsford FC produced six goals from different players to gain a win over Crossway FC at the new Willoughby field Thursday night. Crossway's defender's missed several opportunities to jump on loose balls in their own 18 yard box giving Abbotsford the chance to finish them off. Crossway got two goals on the match from Scott Humphries and Allan Devlin who were able to finally break through Abbotsford's defensive clearing tactics.

Both teams played a physical match through both halves and in the last ten minutes of the game, referee Rod VanSpronsen had to settle both teams with cards to Crossway's Scott Humphries, and Abbotsford's Mike Broersma and Andrew Thalen.

SNOW IN WILLOUGHBY

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 30 May 2007 08:25:26 EST

"Snowy conditions met the LCRC United and Oranje teams as they came to the new Willoughby field for their soccer match. The teams managed to overcome the white conditons and play a hard game. The kids on the sidelines played just as hard, trying to make "snowballs"!

SPEED KILLS

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 30 May 2007 08:18:54 EST

"They spread out the field and beat us with speed"' quipped Oranje's Rod VanSpronsen after his team suffered a 3-1 loss to LCRC Blues. Oranje and LCRC played the first FVCSL game on the new Willoughby field, and though it was covered with tree fluff (allergy suffers, beware!). it was declared a good field (maybe not quite as fast as McLeod). LCRC had the first good scoring chance generated by Greg Hamelin when he drove 2 close-in shots in on keeper Ryan Sikma, but Sikma batted them away. Justin Bontkes, goalie for the Blues was tested early on a curving shot off the foot of Rick VanderHorst but he ably snagged that one. At the 11 minute mark, Hamelin got a goal when LCRC took advantage of some Oranje defensive confusion . A short whiile later, Rod VanSpronsen tried to set up Tom VanderHorst with a crafty cross, but Tom's header dipped just low enough for Bontkes to get his fingers on and push over the bar. The following corner kick was headed by Mark Sikma, but Justin caught that one. Rod VanSpronsen had an incredible shot of his own that careened off the cross bar, and still no goal for Oranje. Blue's Kevin VanderGaag closed out the half with a nice shot that Sikma saved.

In the second half, Oranje struggled to find their form as Blue kept pouring it on. Shauna Stam had a potential chance for a goal but Jeff Bontkes came to the aid of kid brother Justin, and stole the ball away. LCRC got their second goal when Kevin VanderGaag ran onto a ball from 25 yards out, and snuck a hard shot under Sikma. On the next rush, Hamelin got his second goal and the third one for LCRC with Sikma helpless to stop him. Oranje regrouped and Rick VanderHorst set up Morris Klos but his fine shot was pushed just wide by Bontkes. Renee Zietsma sent a sideways pass to Rod VanSpronsen but his shot went wide as well. Mandy DeWit and Darren Leffers of LCRC also had good shots that went wide. Oranje finally got on the scoresheet when Phil Sikma took a free kick from 20 yards out and cranked it in to the far corner. That's all that Oranje could muster tonight, and the win goes to LCRC.

With Celtic tying Aldergrove 2-2 in their game tonight, the division just got a little bit tighter.

Battle for Langley

Morris Klos — Sun, 27 May 2007 08:36:58 EST

LANGLEY - The second game in Saturday night's FVCSL double header at McLeod Park saw a clash of titan teams Langley FC and FC International. FC Inter played with a short line-up and only one substitute. Langley pressed Inter back for most of the first half, but Inter's experience came through and they managed to create multiple scoring opportunities. Daniel Woelders scored first by following up hard on the ball and muscling it past Langley's keeper to give Inter a one goal lead.

The first half saw Dave Doornbos get a shot on goal for Langley, and both Henk Timmerman (pictured above in yellow) and Aaron VanDyke had great headers on Inter's goal; but Henk's ricochetted off the cross-bar, and Inter's keeper lunged in time to snag Aaron's header. Aaron and Henk almost combined again for a goal, but Henk's near perfect shot just grazed the top of the cross-bar at 1 minute before the half as Inter held on to the lead at half-time.

FC Inter brought a stronger second half to Langley FC but could not break through to score. Henk sent a perfect through-ball to Ron Scheper who sprung Kevin Woelders for a break-away on goal. Kevin sent a solid shot in to tie the game 1-1. Later in the half, Langley's Kieth Broersma jumped on a loose ball that came to him off the post, and drove it home to give Langley a 2-1 lead.

FC Inter came close to tying the game when Adam Woelders rocked a header down in front of Langley's net, but it rang off the cross-bar, and at full-time the final score remained 2-1 for Langley FC.

Saints Fair Game For Abby

Morris Klos — Sun, 27 May 2007 08:46:12 EST

It was fair...really; both teams played hard to give a point to the other team by full-time, ending it in a 1-1 draw...truly sporting! :) check out Ginny VanderHorst's article for details...

Saints and Silver Bullets Tie

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 27 May 2007 08:46:19 EST

The blue-clad Saints, who lead their division up to this point, played Abbotsford Silvers to a 1-1 tie at Neil McLeod field on Saturday. The opening half had both teams trying to get the first goal but neither team could accomplish that feat. Peter Coesel had a couple of good chances for the Saints, with one rush cleared away by silver keeper Hilmer Jagersma and another shot of his going wide. Andrew Selles had a ball brashly stolen right off his feet by goalie Jordan Dykman on the other end of the field,and James Bisschop had his shot go wide of the blue goal. Selles had another quality chance when he was sprung loose by Rob Beukema and he snuck the ball through the legs of keeper Dykman, but his subsequent shot went just wide. David Tolkamp had one of the best chances for the Saints side when he drove up the left side and sent a shot low to the corner but Jagersma made the sprawling save.

About half way through the second half the Saints scored off the result of an indirect free kick: the ball scooted around in the Abby area, with players and goalie scrambling around, and Nico Noordham got to the ball and put it in the back of the goal. Abby Silver Bullets evened the score when they worked it up through the blue team and Stan deHaan finished the play for his team when he got around the Saints goalie and scored. The rest of the half could be described as a lot of long balls and long clearances as both teams wanted to score but also wanted to preserve the tie. The defence of Andrew Thalen, Mike Broersma, and Rob Bisschop of Abbotsford and the back line of Justin Jonkman and Conrad Dykman of the Saints gave their goalies plenty of support and help to keep the score at 1-1.

WILLOUGHBY IS OPEN

The Reporter Reporting — Fri, 25 May 2007 08:00:01 EST

As of next week all games that were scheduled at Ron Ralph have been moved to Willoughby. They finally got the field done. You can look at the "fields" tab for directions.

Address of the field: 7755 202a St (behind R.E. Mountain Secondary School)

SCHEDULE IS UPDATED

The Reporter Reporting — Thu, 24 May 2007 08:44:42 EST

The schedule has been updated. Both players and referees can use this now and be sure it is correct. If you do see anything incorrect please contact your team manager so the issue can be resolved.

RED AND ORANGE CLASH

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 23 May 2007 08:14:07 EST

No, no, this isn't a fashion statement! This is just what happened as Crossway Red and Oranje Oranges met for a soccer match. Oranje picked up the solid victory with a 5-2 score, but Red's keeper Andrew Driscoll should pick up a Hero badge for several spectacular saves for his team. Both teams had some early chances but Oranje had the first serious threat when they were awarded a penalty kick for a Red handball in the box. Rick VanderHorst took a nice shot that was heading low to the corner, but Driscoll made one of his key saves to direct the ball away. He deflected another ball wide when Mark Sikma drove in a long hard shot. Red came close to scoring when the Oranje defenders missed a ball but Joe Doyle missed the goal. John Zietsma cleared Doyle's next attempt away. Oranje got their teamwork going and got a goal when Morris Klos found Rod VanSpronsen open and Rod sliced the ball in for goal #1. Before the ink was dry on the scoresheet, AJ Lissemore got that one back on a nice run and shot off of the ensuing kickoff. Late in the half, Tom VanderHorst found Rod VanSpronsen open again: same spot, same shot, same result for goal #2.

In the second half, AJ Lissemore got a dangerous shot away but keeper Ryan Sikma followed the shot and blocked it wide. Oranje notched another goal when the ball, in a crowd, came to Morris Klos, who settled it, turned and shot. Oranje seemed to have a sure goal when Mark Sikma drove a hard volley at the Red goal, but Driscoll sacrificed his body (big welt on the chest, Andrew?) to make the spectacular save. He threw himself in front of several more shots, but could not prevent Steve Koning's shot from going in. Red had a good chance at another goal off a corner kick, but Jess Dehaas was hugging the post and cleared that shot away. Tim Visscher attacked as well, but could not get the mustard on the ball that he wanted to: no Red goal. Ben Schulz took advantage of another Oranje defensive miscue and shot from the left side into the right side of the goal for hs team's second marker. Oranje added their last tally when Tom VanderHorst dished a sideways pass to Leroy VanSpronsen and Leroy finished the play. Dave Hickey seemed to have a goal to draw his team closer when he covered a lot of ground, and beat the goalie, but his shot went off the inside of the post and Rod VanSpronsen cleared that ball away, and the score stayed 5-2 Oranje

Mans Duo Call It Quits

Reuben Moes — Fri, 18 May 2007 08:29:29 EST

Bruce and Lydia Mans, both players for FC International have hung up their cleats for the season. Well at least their FVCSL cleats. Does that even make sense?

Well, today they boarded an airplane headed for Seatle where they went on another plane that went to Korea. Well there was probably another stop or two in there. They plan to teach english there for a year or so.

This isn't good news for FC International. They are losing their top scorer (kind of, because Bruce and Dan share the lead at 6 goals currently). Though Lydia has yet to score a goal, she is still a significant loss for the team.

I know, I should never write again.

Celtic and Langley FC Tie

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 17 May 2007 08:32:19 EST

Celtic and Langley FC played a "hard fought, exciting, fast paced, lots of running" match at Neil McLeod, and ended up with a tie game. Neither goalie had to make a ton of saves, but that's a credit to both defences who had to put in a very good effort to break up the other team's attacks, of which there were lots! Celtic got the first goal when Anthony Togeretz worked the ball through several Yellow players and scored with a nice shot to the corner. Kevin Woelders of Langley threatened when he came in stride for stride with Celtic's Keith Wildeboer and just got the shot away but keeper Rob Gelderman was there to snatch the ball out of the air. The Celtic defenders put the squeeze on speedster Jeff VanderGaag when he attacked, and too much squeeze resulted in a Yellow penalty kick. Wes Driegen absolutely cranked a hard "top shelf in the corner" penalty shot and Gelderman made a SUPERSAVE. Yellow attacked the rebound but RobGee saved that too.

The second half had lots of back and forth action as both teams wanted a goal: Celtic that insurance marker, and Langley FC that tying goal, and the Yellow-clad would be rewarded with a goal about 7 minutes before the final whistle. Over and over, Yellow had tried to break Jeff VanderGaag loose for a goal, but Celtic frustrated those efforts time and again. But the plan finally worked when Jeff got a shot in close that was too hot for Gelderman to handle, and it squirted into the goal. In the last minutes of the game, Henk Timmerman of Yellow moved up from his defensive position to try and notch that winning goal, but Celtic would have none of that and both teams had to be satisfied with a tie.

Aldergrove Whites-Out Oranje

Ginny Vanderhorst — Wed, 16 May 2007 08:07:23 EST

Aldergrove and Oranje, two teams with 4 wins each under their belt looked to add a game to their win column, but Aldergrove got the win, and a decisive one at that. Any team loves an early goal, and Aldergrove got just that when sloppy defensive play by Oranje in their area resulted in a Kevn Hendricks cross to Colin DeWit whose shot on goal was stopped by keeper Don Sikma, but the resulting rebound was shot in by Mark Meerstra. Oranje tried to get that right back when Shauna Stam fed a nice cross to Rod VanSpronsen but his shot went wide. Don Sikma came up with two hi-lite reel saves, one on a breakaway Justin Meyer but Sikma threw out his legs and got his toes on Meyer's shot. A second sprawling reflex toe save by Sikma off of Aubrey VanderGaag had the Alder-whites shaking their heads. James Dehaas picked up Aldergrove's second goal when he snuck the ball through the legs of an Oranje defender and squeezed a shot between the post and the keeper. The Whites added to their goals when Kevin Hendricks found an open Aubrey VanderGaag and Aubrey found the back of the goal with a long hard shot. All this in the first half! Oranje finished the half with a good cross by Rick VanderHorst that Rod VanSpronsen ran under and headed but Alder-keeper Harold Louwerse grabbed the ball. Tough half FOR Oranje! Tough half BY Aldergrove!

The second half had Oranje putting in much better pressure, but they could not overcome the big Aldergrove lead. Colin DeWit had a good strike for Aldergrove but it went just off the outside of the post. Rick VanderHorst (who had several scoring chances) had a good shot from the outside that Louwerse grabbed. Colin DeWit had two more chances for goal, but Sikma was there to keep it out, together with his defence who cleared the ball out of danger. Kari Versluis of White had a good try as well, but no success. Leroy VanSpronsen had a hard shot on goal that keeper Hal misplayed and Steve Koning almost forced the ball in, but just not. With Oranje applying lots of pressure, they were finally rewarded with a goal when Renee Zietsma stripped a White defender of the ball and Leroy VanSpronsen blasted the ball into the net. Later, a cross into a crowded White area found Rod VanSpronsen, but his attempt was caught by Louwerse again. Steve Koning tried a diving header for Oranje, but that went just wide, and Justin Meyer ran step by step with 2 Oranje defenders and saw his shot go wide as well. John Zietsma had one last crack for Oranje when he worked through the Aldergrove team, but a nice save by Louwerse.

Final score: 3-1 Aldergrove

Saints Suffer First Loss

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 13 May 2007 08:02:10 EST

The Saints FC suffered their first loss of the season at the hands (well, the feet) of Oranje, who climbed to 4 wins and 2 losses. Both goalies were tested early in the game with an easy save for Saints Jordan Dykman off of Rod VanSpronsen, and Oranje's Don Sikma stopping a low shot from David Tolkamp. Morris Klos gave Dykman a harder test, when he got a lot on his shot, but Dykman handled that one as well. Thomas Vanderhorst got a goal for the Oranje side when he dribbled through lots of players in the Saints area, and drove a left-footer across the goal mouth and into the corner. Play continued through the half with both teams exchanging rushes, but neither team finished them off. Sasha Genge (in photo)had a couple of shots for her Saints-side but no reward.

The second half had Chad Dykman threatening early for the equalizer but keeper Sikma would have none of that and made the save. Then Oranje turned the tide, and Rod Vanspronsen set up Tom VanderHorst for a hard shot that Dykman had to be sharp on. Leroy VanSpronsen then set up Rick VanderHorst for a good shot, but his hard drive went over the bar. The Saints gained the Oranje end of the pitch again, and Josh JansenVanDoorn connected on a ball that had gone off of several heads and feet, and got his team's first goal. The teams both had chances with Steve Koning of Oranje shooting wide, Nico Noordham of the Saints spinning and shooting wide as well, and Ben Schoeber missing the mark too. Oranje's Ron Smouter missed his first chance at a goal when he missed in close, but got a goal off of a Phil Sikma corner kick that Mark Sikma headed low to Smouter, and he scored: no chance for keeper Dykman. Chad Dykman got another shot on the Oranje goal later in the half, but keeper Sikma punched that one out of danger. Oranje got an insurance goal when they "teamworked" the ball up the field and Tom Sikma fed the ball to brother Mark who got Oranje's third goal of the game. David Tolkamp had one more good chance for the blue Saints, but it was not to be.

Saints coach was interviewed after the game and said, "If we had to lose our first game, it may as well have been to Oranje". Final score 3 -1 Oranje.

NEW TURF FIELD FOR LANGLEY

Morris Klos — Sat, 12 May 2007 08:39:26 EST

WILLOUGHBY - Finishing touches are being made to the new synthetic turf field in North Langley behind R.E. Mountain Secondary School on 202A Street. The project is part of a new Events and Recreation Centre that is being developed in partnership with the B.C. Ministry of Forests and Range, The Township of Langley, and the Langley Development Group.

Construction of the field, from start to finish, will take close to twenty 'good-weather' days to complete. The turf is initially glued to its foundation with each line separately cut and glued into place. Then more than two inches of a sand and rubber pellet mixture, is brushed into the two and a half inch tall artificial turf. This process raises the turf strands upright, and settles the sand and rubber pellets - over eight lbs. per square foot - to the base of the turf, creating an exceptionally durable and consistent playing surface for all weather conditions.

Senior Installer Jaques Zara (pictured above), Guillaume Goupil and two other co-workers with Quebec based Defargo Sports Surfacing, are working with local crews to finish the project over the next several weeks. The FVCSL has already booked the field for use upon its completion. This first phase of a world-class facility is another developing success story of public-private partnership in "The Birthplace of British Columbia".

Lynden Loss

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 10 May 2007 08:22:33 EST

"Our team was happy with the game we played, but would have rather come away with the victory" said Darryn Kleyn of Lynden Americans game against Oranje. Lynden has a young side, some new players and lots of speed, and energy but they could not get past the experience of Oranje, who have also added several new faces. Lynden squandered an early chance when a penalty kick they were awarded was shot just wide of the Oranje goal. A second threat off a Lynden corner kick was desperately cleared away by Oranje defenders. Tom VanderHorst had an early drive get directed just wide by Lynden but was not to be denied a second time. Hard work by Rod VanSpronsen found Tom in a congested goal area (with Renee Zietsma flattened to the ground), and this time his shot found the back of the net. A couple of minutes later, Mark Sikma started a play which midfielder Rick VanderHorst drove strongly in from 25 yards out, and Oranje had a 2-0 lead.

Lynden got going hard in the second half but Reece Lodder (in photo) was unlucky to watch his shot go just wide. Ben Faber had his long shot tipped off the crossbar by keeper Don Sikma to keep Lynden off the scoresheet. Oranje's team work and hard work could break up many of the rushes of Lynden and the Americans could not get that elusive goal. Late in the game, Rod VanSpronsen had a shot go hard off the base of the Lynden goal post, and the score stayed 2 - 0 Oranje.

Cloverdale Conquered

Ginny Vanderhorst — Thu, 10 May 2007 08:59:53 EST

Coverdale met Celtic on Credo field with a shortened lineup, playing most of the game with their four female players on the field, and they put in a gutsy performance. But victory was not to be theirs as Celtic picked up their second win of the season. Celtic picked up their first goal of the game when an energetic run by Rob VanSeters allowed him to feed the ball to Glenn Visscher and Glenn shot the ball low into the corner. Celtic got their second gaol a short while later when Anthony Togeretz set up Ivan Scheper on a similar type of play. This time the goalie, Dave VandeBurgt had the ball, but but it snuck through his hands. Jason Heida, newcomer to the Cloverdale side kept his team in the game when he tried a long high shot at the Celtic goal, and it went in above the outstretched hand of keeper Rob Gelderman. Heida had another chance for a goal when he and Alan Li of Cloverdale were chipping away at a loose ball in the Celtic area but the shot went over. Mark Bysterveld suffered the same fate when his shot went high and Anthony Togeretz shot just wide for Celtic. Mike Vandergugten of Cloverdale got yellow carded just before the half.

In the second half, John VanSeters tried to set up Tim VanderHoek for a Celtic goal, but stalwart defender Marc Schouten took that away. Veteran (very) player Arnie Versluis missed on an equalizer on a feed from Alan Li, but Anthony Togeretz did not miss when he ran onto a breakaway feed from Wil Wildeboer and A-Tog got his Celtic team up 3 - 1. Shelley Schoen had a very dangerous shot for Cloverdale but Gelderman was there to make the save, and Alan Li had another chance as did Mark Bysterveld, and but no goals resulted for Cloverdale. Same result for Burke VancderHorst as his shot went over the Clover-net.

The strangest play most of the crowd had ever seen was on a penalty kick awarded to Cloverdale. Mark Bysterveld took the shot, it was deflected away by keeper Rob, Alan Li pounced on the rebound and deflected the ball into the Celtic goal off of the referee! Goal? No Goal? Own Goal? It was determined to be a goal, and was awarded to Alan Li. And that finished the game. Final score, Celtic 3, Cloverdale 2.

Vitessa Brings 'A' Game

Morris Klos — Tue, 08 May 2007 08:53:25 EST

CLOVERDALE - Matt Schouten scored three times for Vitessa tonight to push back Valley United's repeated come-back attempts. The first goal of the game belonged to Ben Vandeburgt who drove hard into the penalty area, past several Valley defenders, and finished with a perfect shot to the upper right corner out of keeper Geoff Vanlaar's reach.

Vitessa continued to dominate the middle of the field, with several offensive bursts of brilliant ball movement, balanced by heads-up defensive plays from all their girls led by Yvonne Onderwater and Lorainne Bredenhof. Momentum stayed with Vitessa as their bench was as energized as their players on the field!

Early in the second half, Valley keeper Vanlaar's clearing attempt was caught by a rushing Henk Colyn; the rebound went straight up 30 feet and after a solid bounce at the top of the six yard box, was headed into the goal by Vitessa's Matt Schouten. Soon after, keeping up the pressure, Henk drove down the right side again, crossed the ball into Daryl Rolleman who rang a shot of the post; Vitessa's Michelle Struik couldn't get over the ball, and put the rebound just over the goal. Then Jeremy Meyer responded for Valley after he got behind Tyler Vanvliet, and just managed to touch the ball past a rushing Tim Erickson (pictured above) to notch another goal for Valley.

Perhaps the most impressive play of the evening was a hard drive by Matt Schouten, shoulder to shoulder around Valley's Matt Bredenhof, finishing with a solid rising shot, that struck the inside back post for his second goal of the evening.

Tim Schouten converted a direct kick at the top of Vitessa's penalty area to bring the score within one goal, however at the kick-off, Matt Schouten followed up hard on the Valley keeper and in the tangle, managed to squeeze the ball through for his third goal, bringing the score to 4-2 Vitessa.

Henk Colyn finished up a strong game with another trademark offensive follow-up into the penalty area and managed to head in Vitessa's 5th goal of the night to cap a solid win in a fast-paced and exciting match.

Title

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 06 May 2007 08:59:38 EST

Celtic and FC International Blacks played a game at Neil McLeod that saw both teams dominate at different times in the game, but FC Black came out on top with a 3-1 victory. Celtic dominated the first 15 minutes and saw their passing game rewarded with a goal. Their team effort had lots of players in the Black area, but Anthony Togeretz got to the loose ball and scored a nice goal for his team. Black started to assert themselves as the half progressed and were rewarded with their own goal at the 1/2 hour mark when Eric Atsma put a shot through some scramble and found the mark. Later in the half, Bruce Mans headed a corner kick over the reach of Celtic keeper Rob Gelderman for Black goal #2..

In the early part of the second half, Jon VanSeters of Celtic was given a Yellow card for a tackle from behind. Celtic looked to have a sure goal from Burke VanderHorst when he coaxed a ball toward the gaping Black goal but defender Nathan Moes cleared the ball away inches from the goal line. Bruce Mans tried to set up BJ Woelders for another Inter goal, but Gelderman dove to direct Woelder's shot just wide. But Inter pressed on and got that next goal when Dan Woelders ran onto a long breakaway ball that Gelderman also ran on to but Dan lofted the ball over the keeper for Inter's 3rd goal. Celtic worked hard to mount a comeback and after Tim VanderHoek sent one long, high shot just wide, he notched a goal when he finished on a free kick with a nice shot to the low corner. Later, Stu VanderHorst drove what looked to be the game equalizer with a 30 yarder, but it pounded off the crossbar. Black tried to add to their score when they had lots of pressure and touches in the Celtic area, but Celtic players got in the way of their efforts and kept the ball out. Celtic also had good scoring efforts by Wil Wildeboer and Rob VanSeters miss the mark and the game ended Inter -3, Celtic - 2.

Cloverdale Earns 3 Big Points

Calvin Vanderlinde — Sat, 05 May 2007 08:51:11 EST

Abbotsford and Cloverdale, two teams with identical records, faced each other head to head on Friday night. The skies were clear, there was a chill in the air and the field (Townline).... it was a swamp - complete with mudpits and puddles.

But the players came to play soccer and that they did. The first half consisted of both teams trading chances but never producing any chances of great value. With some clever footwork Abbotsford striker James Bisschop weaved his way through the Cloverdale defense but slipped the ball just wide. Soon after on the opposite end Cloverdale worked some good passing but Mark Bysterveld's lob towards the goal managed to find its way just over the net.

The flow of the game continued to teeter-totter between the sides with both teams playing a "dump and chase" attacking style.

This style of play continued into the second half. Then midway through the half Cloverdale managed to break the scoreless deadlock with a free kick from just beyond the corner of the 18-yard box. The kick was sent in and found the head of Mike Schouten who made no mistake and potted his league-leading 5th goal. (That's an average of 1.25 goals per game for this goalscoring machine)

Abbotsford really began to rally for the equalizer and worked hard to earn some quality chances. Tim de Haan had three good cracks at the net but couldn't get the ball past Cloverdale's keeper Marc Schouten who "stood on his head" (not literally).

With Abbotsford pressing up the field on the attack Cloverdale was able to launch quick counter-attacks. On one such play Joni Versluis outraced the Abbotsford defender to the ball and after some twisting and turning slotted the ball into the far corner of the net to double the lead for Cloverdale.

In the dying minutes both teams traded more good chances but none were coverted into goals. It was a hard-fought battle (on a what could've easily been mistaken for a real battlefield) and the game was always close. But at the final whistle the score line read Cloverdale 2 Abbotsford 0.

Yellow steals from Oranje

Ginny Vanderhorst — Fri, 04 May 2007 08:11:25 EST

Yellow grabbed a victory from Oranje in a game that either team could have won. "Our team would have been disappointed to lose this game", declared Yellow's teram captain, Henk Timmerman, but Oranje WAS disappointed to lose in the last five minutes of the game.

If truth be told, Don Sikma, the keeper for Oranje was the real thief in this game, as he made several game-saving grabs. Langley Yellow's first good chance came when Jeff Vandergaag drove a shot past the diving fingertips of Sikma, but off the base of the post. Rod VanSpronsen bent to head a Ron Smouter cross at the Yellow goal, but keeper Brent Fennema, smothered that one out. Oranje's corner kick scooted around in the Yellow area, and Shauna Stam had the first Oranje foot to the ball, and the first Oranje goal. Ron Scheper tried to get that one back for Yellow when he loaded up a shot and drilled it to the far top corner but Don Sikma made a Luongo-like save to deflect that sure goal away.

The first ten minutes of the second half saw Yellow apply the pressure with Ron Scheper and Jeff Vandergaag testing keeper Don, but he was up to the challenge and made good saves. Morris Klos of Oranje had three cracks at a ball that was skitteriing around in the Yellow area, and was unlucky not to notch a goal. And a Tom VanderHorst, Paul Sikma combo with Rod VanSpronsen adding the finishing header was well saved by Fennema of Langley Yellow.

The last five minutes of the game saw Yellow finally rewarded with two goals. The first one came off hard work by their forwards, and a ball kicked just in by an Oranje defender, instead of just wide. They followed this up scant minutes later when a crisp cross by Aren VanDyke was put in on a well-timed header by Jeff Vandergaag. Good game!

Celtic Stripes vs Crossway Red

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 08:40:17 EST

Celtic and Crossway played through a driving rain and soggy field conditions to put in a good game, with Celtic coming up the winner 3 - 0. Crossway certainly put in a good game and "the team has been in every game this year", according to team leader Peter Ladefoged. Glenn Visscher of Celtic opened the scoring early in the game with a lob over the Red goalie. Joe Doyle continued his fine play of last year with several good chances; the same can be said of AJ Lissemore, but neither were rewarded for their hard work. Rob VanSeters of Celtic had a nice shot deflected away by Red's keeper Andrew Driscoll, but Burke VanderHorst of Celtic got his team's second goal with his low shot to the corner from out of a scrum. Lissemore ended the first half with another fine shot.

Crossway started the second half strongly when Joe Doyle had Celtic keeper Rob Gelderman beaten, but defender Neil Dykstra cleared that shot away. Diane Snider and Ben Schultz had good chances for Red, while Andrew Driscoll had to make a couple of good saves the Crossway team, together with help from Dave Hickey and the rest of his defensive corp. John VanSeters of Celtic drilled a shot that Driscoll snagged, but Driscoll could not stop Stuart VanderHorst when he threaded his way through a crowd and lifed a shot high into the top corner for Celtic's 3rd goal. Other good shots came from Celtic's Ivan Scheper and Anthony Togeretz.

Celtic picked up their first win, and their first shutout for keeper Rob Gelderman, but Crossway put in a good game!

Where are the linesmen?

The Reporter Reporting — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 08:18:10 EST

The board would like to remind every team and every player in the league that during a game a team is expected to be on each of the field.

This allows that team to supply a linesmen for that side of the field. Each team is therefore responsible for their side of the field. If a team does not comply with this during a game, the referee will take action as he sees fit.

There is no home side or away side of the field, if you arrive later at the field then the other team, you proceed to the other side of the field.

There has been to much miscommunication about this, and referees do not have to remind multiple times during a game that the responsibility to line the field lies with the two playing teams.

CELTIC VS. ORANJE

Ginny Vanderhorst — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 08:20:10 EST

"Two teams with no stand-out players but both teams giving a total team effort." That's how referee Mike Wagner described the game played at Neil McLeod. Oranje dealt Celtic their second loss of the season, while picking up their own second win of the season in a hard fought game by both teams.

Both teams had chances early in the game, with Rod VanSpronsen threatening for Oranje, and Anthony Togeretz challenging Oranje keeper Don Sikma with a hard-fought shot that Don leaped up to grab. Ivan Scheper of Celtic had a clear lane to run in and take a dangerous low shot, but Sikma dove to save this one as well. Oranje got the first goal of the game from a hard drive off the left foot of Tom VanderHorst, after he got a nice feed from Mark Sikma: keeper Rob Gelderman had no chance on the shot. Glenn Visscher of Celtic was unlucky to see a close in shot of his go just wide, and Daryl Driegen had a shot go wide on the other end.

Oranje had more quality chances in the start of the second half, but keeper Gelderman stole a loose ball from the charging Thomas VanderHorst, and stopped a shot from Morris Klos to keep the score 1-0. Rod VanSpronsen and Rob Gelderman both charged at a loose ball, with ROD winning the race from ROB, but ROD clipped the ball over ROB and just wide of the goal. Later, an Oranje free kick squirted through the Celtic keeper's hands and Steve Koning was there to put the loose ball into the goal. Celtic had a chance to get a goal back when they were awarded a penalty kick for Oranje's take-down of Glen Visscher in the box. Burke VanderHorst sent the penalty kick low to the corner but keeper Don Sikma managed to make the diving deflection. Oranje notched their third and final goal of the game when a corner kick, well taken by Phil Sikma, was converted by Steve Koning. Celtic's Tim VanderHoek was denied a sure goal; he was just up to drive the ball into the Oranje goal when a sliding Phil Sikma came out of nowhere to drive the ball out of harm's way, and the game ended Oranje 3, Celtic 0.

Oranje Puts Squeeze on FCInter

Morris Klos — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 08:26:36 EST

LANGLEY – Division One rivals Oranje and FC International met on the Ron Ralph field at Mcleod Park for what promised to be an exciting match. The teams did not disappoint and brought exciting chances at both ends of the small field. Bruce Mans (pictured above in white) narrowly missed an opportunity at Oranje keeper Don Sikma’s feet as FC Inter repeatedly pressed their attack. However, it was Paul Sikma who struck first with a powerful shot for Oranje, converting an indirect kick past the FC Inter keeper who unfortunately also had to battle the low-setting sun.

Early into the second half, Mike Opp answered for FC Inter and tied the game at 1-1. Shortly afterwards, Morris Klos was taken down just outside the FC Inter penalty area. Rick VanderHorst placed the resulting free kick at the top of FC's six-yard box and Steve Koning finished it for his first goal of the season. With 20 minutes left in the game, FC’s keeper mishandled an Oranje bullet of a shot, and Rod Van Spronsen pressed hard, driving the ball home to advance his team's tally to 3-1.

Both teams continued to mark each other closely and leaned into the other with their shoulders, making for a clean but quite physical game; unfortunately FC Inter’s only goal scorer for the night buckled under the pressure, and was ejected for a verbal exchange with referee D. Scheper, and will also miss the next two games as a result. FC Inter still generated scoring opportunities despite being short one player but could not convert, in large part due to a solid Oranje defensive effort led by John Zietsma. Both teams will meet again in the beginning of June.

Meerstra Gets Win For Grove

Morris Klos — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 08:45:22 EST

LANGLEY - Mark Meerstra sent home a solid shot to net a victory for Aldergrove FC over Langley FC at McLeod last night. It was a cold evening but the action was fast with fairly even possession throughout the game.

The second half opened up several opportunities for Langley however they failed to find their 'first-game' finish. Mark's goal came mid-way the second half when Langley allowed last season's Championship winners to collapse their attack into the penalty area. It was a thoroughly entertaining match that set the tone for the first year of divisional play in the FVCSL.

Field Change: Ron Ralph Field

The Reporter Reporting — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 08:35:27 EST

We will NOT be using the new Willoughby Artificial field just yet. There is still work to be done, this means that all games at Willoughby will be moved to the RON RALPH NORTH FIELD, this is the field beside the McLeod Parking lot and unless you here back from the league it will remain that way for now.

Welcome to Pensylvania

Reuben Moes — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 08:45:38 EST

Hey all you hooligans who check the website every 5 minutes. We're back in business for the time being.

The website has been moved to pensylvania, and hopefully our spam problem has been solved. By the time the season starts, the website will start having more features which I hope you all will enjoy. FUN!

Also, if you're interested, or just a plain old nerd, you can see where we've moved to here: maps.google.com/maps

And if you're really up for it, here's some directions: maps.google.com/maps

Yellow Gaps Are Filled

Bruce Mans — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 08:45:26 EST

After losing longtime LFCer Rick VanderHorst to Oranje and veteren defender Vince VanBeelen during the offseason, Langley FC got to work quickly to fill in those gaps. Aren van Dyke has decided to sign a contract with Yellow after fulfilling his one year contract with Cloverdale last year. 2006 saw van Dyke return to action after a lengthy hiatus due to a serious knee injury. His return was marked by a healthy six goals from midfield and Langley will hope he can continue his current form. LFC have also signed defender Mike Timmerman who will rejoin his brother Henk after spending a few terms abroad playing for Valley United. The sturdy defender will have big shoes to fill, but his form in the FVCSL and during the off-season with Brand's Welding in the ASAMSL suggest the task is quite manageable. Unconfirmed rumours have also been circulated that forward Lindsay Bisschop has left the Yellow squad for Crossway FC. A possible replacement could be Sheila Bos, who played with LFC during the Edmonton tournament last term. Got a transfer tip fpr FVCSL.com? Email them to brucemans(at)gmail.com!

Oranje Makes Big Signings

Bruce Mans — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 08:33:06 EST

FVCSL.com has learned that Oranje has made four high-profile signings during the off-season transfer window. Oranje has spent a massive amount of money, signing Morris Klos, Thomas and Stuart VanderHorst, and Sue Vector.

Morris Klos, former captain and forward for Abbotsford FC has been picked up by Oranje for an undisclosed transfer fee. A recent move to the Langley area had led Klos to search for a team for some time now, and Oranje management jumped on the chance to sign the speedy veteren striker. Klos scored 8 goals for Abbotsford last season, and hopes to increase that tally this year.

Even more shocking was the recent signings of brothers Stuart and Thomas VanderHorst. Thomas VanderHorst, who led Aldergrove FC to two seperate Championships in 2006 (Edmonton and FVCSL Playoffs) has left Aldergrove for the chance to play alongside brother-in-law Paul Sikma, among others. The former Langley FCer settled in quite well at Aldergrove, and took an important leadership role in the team and scoring an impressive 7 goals from midfield. Leaving was no doubt a hard choice, however, the chance to play with his family members was too good to give up. Oranje has also signed Edmonton starlet Sue Vector, a move which also swayed Tom VanderHorst to move. Not much is known about her football career, however, playing alongside Tom, Morris and Stu will help!

Stuart VanderHorst, a young future talent, has blossomed impressively at Celtic FC, however, his contract was nearing an end and the 'Hoops' failed to lock up the midfielder, allowing Oranje to swoop in and sign him without a hefty tranfer fee. Stu Vanderhorst hopes the move will prove to be the perfect transition in his young career. He scored 5 goals for Celtic FC last season.

Got a tranfer tip for FVCSL.com? E-mail them to brucemans[at]gmail.com.

FC Inter Makes Moves

Bruce Mans — Tue, 03 Apr 2007 08:05:27 EST

It was a busy offseason for FC International, particularly when the news that Harold Louwerse decided to request a transfer to Playoff Champions Aldergrove FC. The departure of right-back Frank Reinick left an unopenned position which needed to be filled as well. Steve Funk has signed a multi-year deal with the black squad, and will probably fill in his role as a left-back defender. Funk was slated to join the team last term, however, medical reasons prevented that from happening. FC International have also signed veteren defender Will Folstad who will play on the right-back. Although Folstad is new to the League, he is no rookie to the sport. The defender has played for several years and looks to improve the back line for FC Inter even more. Got a transfer tip for FVCSL.com? Email them to brucemans(at)gmail.com.

Oranje Signs Another Vanderhor

Bruce Mans — Mon, 02 Apr 2007 08:53:04 EST

After failing to sign young Stuart VanderHorst from Celtic FC, Oranje have spent their cash elsewhere, signing veteren and former MVP Rick VanderHorst from Langley FC. Longtime speculation surrounded the defencemen, and many sources had him linked with a move to Aldergrove FC. The recent move of Thomas VanderHorst to Oranje almost certainly played a key role in the move.

"It was a tough decision to make," said VanderHorst at a press conference. "I spent a lot of time with Langley, and accomplished a lot there." Rick won back-to-back-to-back Championships with a legacy Yellow squad from 2002 to 2004, which has since been slightly disassembled.

The chance to play with family was definetly attractive, but my real motivation is to win the Championship again, and I can see this happening on Oranje."

With so many VanderHorst's making moves, FVCSL.com caught up with Burke VanderHorst to see if a move was on the horizon for him and his wife, Mary-Anne Vanderhorst.

"No, we're happy here. It has been a very rewarding experience so far and we both hope to bring back the Celts of 06."

Got a tip for FVCSL.com? Email me at brucemans{at}gmail.com.