BASC beat Force 2-0, end streak

All streaks have to come to an end (with the exception, of course, of the current Detroit Red Wings streak of consecutive home wins at the Joe) and so it wasn't terribly surprising that the miracle year of 2012 ended in February for the Force against BASC Red 2-0

The girls played well; well, well enough to tie at least. Both BASC goals came in the first half and both were on the "unlucky" side of things. My easily distracted spotter, Annabelle's Dad, had just mentioned that Kate hasn't had to touch the ball in 3 or 4 games -- as opposed to the shelling she endured all fall -- when BASC launched a strike from her right side that had some pace but was also looping. In stepping back to take it Kate got it on the top of her reach but couldn't hold on.

The BASC second goal came off a corner kick. Rhea took the ball off what looked to be her torso or shoulder but a rather jittery and uncertain ref immediately called for a pk. 2-0 BASC. The Force could have used a break there. That call could have gone either way. But Winstar has themselves a very, very talented ref/linesman that charms and informs parents along the sidelines helping all (well, me) keep their emotions in check. Hope this guy is paid well.

BASC played well, too. They were physical and skilled. Most importantly they intercepted Force crosses and clearing passes all night. This despite a great effort at midfield by Zoe. She was in on every play in the first 15 minutes of the game. The two Ss -- Sophie and Sophia -- both played well on D under significant pressure from Basc. Sophia ran down a streaking forward late in the first half to keep the game in reach.

Two often, though, the Force strayed from their ball control and possession game and dropped into some old habits, including long balls down the field right to the BASC keeper. The Force had minimal offensive opportunities. Jasmine did a nice job controlling the ball and sending a a perfect cross to "Stop on a Dime" Stasia in the box. But before she could strike she was knocked to the ground -- alas, no call. Kyra made some great runs up the right side but she, too, was sent to her seat by a bigger, physical squad.


BASC really stepped up the pressure late, but the Force D held tough. Zoe made a great clear when the Force ran into some backpass trouble again. And Jill delivered a bone jarring -- but quite legal -- tackle that made the two herniated disks in my back hurt --

What a baby I am. Emmi returned with her broken (ulna/radius) after less than 3 weeks. What courage.

Next week: Vardar East, another good test