Brian Morris' Five Goals Lead First Team To Victory, O-30 Legends Roll, O-30 Premier Stumble

First Team

Despite being separated by just two points in the table, the Kickers first team game vs. Beyond FC was essentially over after 45 minutes, with Brian Morris scoring five first half goals (James Z added a 6th) and the Kickers jumping out to a 6-1 lead. The Kickers were gifted a defensive blunder on the first goal, but strung together sequences of passes all over the field for much of the first half to set up the additional five goals. Things were a bit tighter (albeit a bit slower) in the second half, and to the opponent's credit, the game was hard fought for all 90 minutes. Beyond FC would add a second tally on a swerving rocket from 30 yards out, but the Kickers struck back on a cool PK converted by Khriswayne with 15 minutes to go, and the game finished 7-2.

Second Team

Kickers Reserves smashed a rather violent Beyond FC team where it counted; on the score sheet. Despite slide tackles from behind, metal studs, and challenges more than a second after the ball was passed, the Kickers were unfazed, putting seven past their opponents. Gio LoMonaco put on his scoring boots, adding a double, Albi Rexha scored two, David Anderson scored one, Lukas score one, and even David James, back from the Over-30 wilderness, got involved in the scoring. Letting up two goals was disappointing, but the Kickers have bigger fish to fry next week as they face Williamsburg International for a top of the table battle, sole ownership of the first place at stake.

Over-30 Premier

The Kickers Over-30 Premier put together one of their best first half performances and followed it with one of the worst second half performances which doomed another good effort.

Playing a 3-5-2 for the first time all season, the Kickers enjoyed more time on the ball and defended well through the first 45 minutes. Khouri Mullings (MVP) earned the go-ahead goal in the 20th minute. The Kickers kept that lead with some good team defensive play.

In the Second half, Pancyprian woke up and took the game to the Kickers, scoring one goal from inside the six, from 25 yards, and everywhere in between. Khouri had one more break away goal 60th minute, Nick Bill scored on a well deserved PK (70th minute), but Panycprian were too much for the Kickers as they eventually fell 6-3 to the Greeks.

Over-30 Legends

The MKFC Legends prevailed after a hard fought goal-less first half to beat NY Shamrocks Legends 3-0 in the second half. The first goal was a thumping header from Kevin Adamson-Jackes around the 70th minute, jumping over his 6'4" marker; the second, a Joe Whiteman special, and the last, a mazey dribble by Yadh Yaich through 14 players to goal.

Reserves Impress, First Team Draws - 10/21 Weekend Recap

First Team

The Kickers team started off on the right foot 10 minutes into the game, with a goal by Brian Morris. The goal was orchestrated by a dangerous transition play that started from the Kickers’ defensive end and led to a great through ball by Mathias. The team struggled for possession due to simple mistakes which have plagued them this year. Soon after the opening goal goal, the Kickers conceded from a shot from the top of the box that seemed to come out of nowhere. After reverting back to a 4-4-2 to shore up the back line the Kickers continued to push forward. A long ball from GK Ryan V found Brian Morris, who got a shot off that took a weird bounce and made its way into the goal for the 2-1 lead. Unfortunately, as it happened against Stal Mielec, FC Uliqini tied the game with ten minutes left when a counter led to a cross from the left side and a very nice finish by the opposing forward. Ryan V came up with a few big saves throughout the match to earn MVP, and the Kickers left with a 2-2 tie.

Reserves

The reserves were in the unfamiliar position of looking up the table at their opponents and played as if they had something to prove. It proved enough for a 2-1 victory for the Kickers to flatter FC Ulqini; Kickers dominated throughout, allowing only a two shots on target and peppering the Ulqini goal with shots and pressure. Antonio looked to continue where he left off last week (a two goal performance) when he forced the Ulqini keeper into an exceptional save within the first ten minutes. The pressure didn’t let off with close calls coming off of corners, open play, and even throw ins. Incredibly, the athletic Ulqinians managed to withstand the pressure for the entire half, and even created one chance of their own, that stand in keeper Jared Hirschowitz made light work of.

The second half proved more eventful, as a run by Pat Robak carved the Ulqini defense open before laying the ball off for Gio LoMonaco to expertly finish from the top of the box. Five minutes later, the Kickers went route one with a goal kick by Jared being flicked on for David Anderson to run on to. Composed and calm, David took his time before beating the keeper with a low shot into the far left corner.

Then things took a turn for the worse. The fitness of the opponents lead to late challenges by the Kickers, and a miscommunication with the referee caused a player to be sent off for a second yellow, even though it was unclear that he had received a first one. The ensuing free kick was finished off expertly by the best player on Ulqini, with an outside of the boot curler beating Jared. If anything, this focused the Kickers up, and Ulqini didn’t get a second chance to tie the game up. Final score, 2-1.

Over-30 Premier

The Over-30 Premier team only had 11 players which required a few players to play out of position against the CP Old Bhoys. A giveaway in the defense zone lead to the chip of our GK assisted by the wind and the Kickers were down 1-nil in the 15th minute. Khouri Mullings (MVP) attacked the oppositions defense and scored the equalizer a few minutes later.

In the second half, the Kickers needed to take better care of the ball and play simple defense to have a chance to come out on top, but they did not, CPR to score an easy goal in the 50th minute. The one bright spot was the goal scored by debutant Kristian Tirri in the 55th minute (assist by Khouri), but the Kickers struggled to create more of a threat after that. In the remaining minutes, CPR was able to find space and time inside the penalty area to strike home two more and put the game out of reach. CPR also missed a few late breakaways which kept this game from getting ugly.

Over-30 Legends

Kickers Legends played their best game of the season to date against the one the top teams from last season.

Playing America FC 1927 deep in New Jersey, Legends outplayed their opponents, whom they had never beaten, to an emphatic 4-0 win.

The Jerseyites started the game on the wrong foot, pinned in their half by the onslaught of attacking runs by Joe, Wale, Yadh and Dan. Wale was taken down in the box for an obvious penalty, but it was not given. Perhaps realizing his error, the referee promptly gave one when Dan was soon fouled as well, this time a bit gentler. Wale stepped up to the spot, kicked straight at the keeper, then stepped forward to bury the bouncing rebound, but crashed it off the top of the bar. There were immediate fears that this was going to be ‘one of those days’ quickly dissipated when midfield maestro Kevin sliced a pass through to an unmarked Joe, who, unchallenged, did not miss from 20 yards. Appearing not to realize their offsides trap was faulty, America stood and watched collectively twice more as Joe and then Yadh carried the ball unchallenged towards goal for easy tap-ins for Yadh and Wale, and the Kickers led 3-0 at half time.

In the second half, Legends adjusted to the Americas’ packing of the midfield by also shifting to a more defensive 4-5-1, resulting in a more measured, defensive posture. This effectively kept out the skillful Americas, yet created enough opportunity for Man of the Match Kevin Adamson-Jackes to score with a thumping header off a corner. The defense of Tim, DJ, Jesse and Jef, combined with the safe hands of Ulrich, gave America FC little opportunity to stage a come back.

State Cup Round 1 - 10/14 Game Recaps

First Team

In the first round of the State Cup, the Kickers team faced a familiar opponent, Panatha USA, whom they beat 8-0 a few weeks earlier in league play. Despite Panatha USA fielding a roster that hadn't just played an entire reserve match, the added energy was only enough to muster a few goals, which was no match for the Kickers nine. From the start, the game was never really in question. Though the Kickers were sloppy all over the field, they were able to connect on the few times they settled the ball down, passing through the Panatha USA defense with ease, and scoring four goals in the first half. The second half was more of the same, with even more space on the field giving way to five more goals—one blinding half volley from JamesZ—as the game became more and more out of reach. Final score 9-3.

Second Team

The Kickers Reserves flexed their potential might in a game against a team they had lost to in the opening game of the season. In the opening minutes Chris Smith scored into the bottom corner with a very un-English balletic pirouette to create space right before the finish. From there, barring a few lapses, it was all Kickers. MVP Antonio Ruiz got the double, the first being a curling shot right into the upper left corner and the second a tidy finish to wrap up the scoring. The best chance the opposing NY Ukrainians was was of the Kickers on doing, with Tommy Fitzpatrick getting into a tangle with an opponent in the box. The ensuing penalty kick rolled listlessly into the grateful arms of Connor Maines.

Over-30 Premier

For the second year in a row, the Kickers Premier come up short in PKs in the 1st Round of the State Cup. This time, it was to the Long Island Gaels (away) in Valley Stream. In spite of the rare occasion of playing on a grass field, the Kickers still looked the better side for most of game. In the 20th minute Khouri Mullings’ header was slotted home by Seamus Kelly. Less than five minutes later, the Gaels would push the ball forward down the right side of the Kicker defense and cross would find a striker unmarked with time at the top of the box who smashed home the equalizer.

Both teams enjoyed opportunities in the second half, with the Kickers best chance coming in the 50th minute, a cross from Marko found Seamus in the penalty area but the Gaels keeper (who had the game of his life) would push the header away to keep the score even.

In PKs the Kicker curse continued as we missed 3-4 opportunities. The Gaels would score three, and that's the way it ended.

Over-30 Legends

The Legends could not shake their own State Cup curse of going out in the first round. Despite dominating possession and Manhattan Celtics Masters' half of the field, Legends just could not get a shot on target. Masters on the other hand scored with every shot they managed to muster, scoring two in the first half and two in the second. Wale Bakare did pull one back for Legends from the spot. 1-4 final score.

Weekend Wrap-Up: Legends Top Gjoa 4-1, Premier Falls 3-2

The Kickers first team and second team were off this weekend. Both Over-30 teams were in action.

Over-30 Legends

With a deep bench, Kickers Legends were able to maintain control of the game for its entirety, with only a couple of lapses. Passing and moving well, midfielders Kevin, Dave, Christian, Slover, and then John and Danny, sprayed the ball around confidently and created several opportunities, but shooting practice clearly continues to be a priority. It was left to DJ to finally score, forging forward from his center-back position. Wale soon added to his season’s growing bounty with a well taken shot in the box, off a brilliant over-the-top reverse lob from Joe that would have impressed Iniesta. Gjoa had few chances as its forward line found no way past the defensive wall of Dave, DJ, Jess, Tim and then Jef) and Ulrich had little to do. Gjoa started the second half with far greater intensity and Kickers struggled to get the ball out of their own half for the first ten minutes, with their slim lead threatened. It took Danny the debutant to carry the ball all the way from midfield on a rampaging run for the insurance goal. Not only did Danny not celebrate scoring against his old team, he immediately took himself out of the game. Kickers’ complacency then put themselves in jeopardy by allowing Gjoa to counter 5 on 3, which Ulrich managed to save brilliantly one-on-one. Unfortunately, he had a bit of a fumble with a long shot that had little threat to give up a goal. It happens. Fortunately, almost immediately after, Scotti reacted positively, and managed to get an own-goal off a hapless Gjoa defender trying to block his pass. Game ended 4-1, and Legends climb to second place, just behind Cozmoz on a single goal difference.

Over-30 Premier

The Kickers Over-30 Premier went down 3-0, but could only muster a two-goal comeback, missing a few crucial 1 on 1 breakaways and having a goal called back for an offside call, eventually falling 3-2. Both goals were scored by Ardian, one in the 80th minute and one around the 85th on a PK.

Winning Weekend - 9/31 Kickers Game Recaps

First Team

The Kickers first team game was essentially over before it started, as Panatha USA fielded the same 11 players in the first team game that battled for 90 minutes against the reserves. With little effort, the Kickers pushed forward against a surprisingly effective offside trap for almost the entirety of the game. However, an early PK and a low cross slotted home, both by Albi Rexha (MVP), put the Kickers ahead 2-0 within 15 minutes. Despite some sloppy and lazy play, the Kickers managed to score 5 or 6 more goals before a red card to a Panatha USA defender deflated what little enthusiasm remained in the game, and the ref called it early. Alas, 3 points is 3 points.

Second Team

The Kickers continued their winning streak with a hard fought 1-0 victory over Panathanaikos. The Astoria based club brought a level of violence that probably wasn't warranted, with many cards being shown. Mathias making his first appearance of the season, put one of the many free kicks narrowly wide after Danny Challita was elbowed in the head. Despite the opposition's physicality, the Kickers dominated possession for much of the first half and generated plenty of chances that they were unable to convert. Jared Lichtarge even struck the crossbar after some good interplay.

The second half began with momentum shifting to the opposition, with a short, rare period of possession. However, the Kickers weathered the storm, and began dictating tempo again. As the game went on, it also became more chippy, and the Kickers drew a foul late at the corner of the box. Mathias once again stood over the free kick, delivering a ball to the far post where it was headed back into the mix by Lukas Seebacher for defender Ronan Waks to head into the net. This, as well as an impeccable performance at the back earned Ronan MVP tag for the week.

The Kickers saw out the game professionally, generating few chances in the waning moments of the game before the ref blew the final whistle to confirm their victory.

Over-30 Premier

The Kickers Over-30 Premier secured a 2-0 victory today over CP Greys. Both teams had chances but failed to score in the first half. In the 50th minute, some nice build up by the Kickers lead to Seamus Kelly tapping home for the go-ahead goal. After a flurry of chances by both sides, Khouri Mulling found Seamus Kelly (MVP) again to put the match out of reach. The defense played well down the stretch, and some fortunate point blank shot saves by FitzGerald (along with some luck of the woodwork), delivered the victory.

Over-30 Legends

With a bare-bones squad of 11, greatly abetted by the eventual arrival of Kevin, Kickers Legends ground out a 2-0 win against a resilient SC Eintracht. Despite playing most of the game in the Eintracht half, SC Eintracht actually had greater possession of the ball, though were not able to generate much forward momentum with it. Kicker Legends had much more penetration when it did have the ball, but finishing was poor, and both sides went to the break with nothing to show for their efforts. Second half continued in the same vein, though Kickers had more possession and much of the game was played in the Eintracht third of the field. Christian finally broke down the Eintracht resistance with a cracker of a shot inside the right of the keeper. And Kevin secured the win with a well-placed run to tap in from generous Joe who was one on one with the keeper.

9/23 Game Recaps

First Team

The Kickers first team suffered their first loss of the season, losing 4-2 to Stael Maelic. The Kickers started slow, went down 1-0, but eventually crawled back to a 2-1 lead after a beautiful volley from Brian Morris and a cross played across the box ricocheted off the foot of a defender and into the net. For the last third of the game, the Kickers failed to press high up the field and allowed a mediocre opposing midfield to turn half-chances into three soft goals, and steal three important points.

Second Team

The first half was dominated with composed possession for the Kickers. Stal Mielec pretty much allowing free movement through the midfield made for some nice Kicker combinations. However the combination play would always break down in the final third as a result of overpassing and no shots. The second half continued with strong pressure on the Stal back line with more shots on goal. The Kickers breakthrough happened on a free kick from 40 yards out 10 minutes into the second half. Jared H. hit a driven ball to the back post connecting with returning Kickers legend Michael Kahn, who was able to head the cross back to the far post of the goal. Pressure was kept on as 2 minutes after the opening goal, co-coach/player David won the ball wide in the Stal half. He was able to drive the ball to the goal line and provide a low cross back to the top of the box where Tommy was positioned to have a pass in goal and put the kickers 2-0 up. It must be said that kickers intensity dropped momentarily after the second goal. Stal’s only goal of the game came as a result of a (very avoidable) goalie error. Chris passed back to fill in keeper who picked the pass with his hands. Stal took advantage and took a quick free kick to score. The Kickers kept composure and were able to utilize the wings to feed crosses into the box. One of those crosses was spilled by Stal’s keeper and pushed in by Jared L.

Over-30 Premier

The Kickers started with 11-players with several players playing out of position. Hoboken had time and space in the midfield most of the first half taking shots from inside the 18 with nary a defender in sight to prevent the easy look at goal. Hoboken punished the Kickers four times in the first half, we looked lifeless. The only answer the Kickers had in the first 45 minutes was a nice service ball from Marko (Honorable Mention) to Nick Bill (MVP) for the convincing strike.

In the Second Half, the Kickers showed some they had life. When newcomer Niccoslo Ball, crossed it into the box where Nick Bill headed it home. A few minutes later, Marko Loncar would hit the free kick strike from 30 yards out to the low post and the Kickers were back in it. A few minutes later, Marko would strike home the PK equalizer after Hoboken was called for a hand-ball in the box. The come-back was complete. Our confidence was up and a few minutes later, Nick Bill's thrown-in would be headed home by Seamus Kelly for the go-ahead goal. The Kickers were on-top of it again with 10 minutes to go. But those 10 minutes were precarious as Hoboken pushed forward and had several quality looks at goal. Ulrich Lehmann was steady down the stretch between the pipes until the 89th minute when Hoboken caught the Kicker defense on the back foot and slipped the equalizer to the back post and that's the way it ended (5-5).

In spite of the courageous come back, we feel like we left points on the field. With one or two more quality players, this match would have tilted the Kickers way. With all the injuries and missing starters from our run at the Cup last season, we are not a complete team and need to find a way to get points when the opportunity is there for the taking.

Over-30 Legends

Kickers Legends managed a resounding victory over 0-39s debutant, and former 0-30s Champions, NYGreek Americans today at new home ground Bush Terminals, recording a 6-1 win. Although the first half was a frustrating affair with the skillful and well organized Greek Americans parking the bus well to deny Legends any goals in the first 40 minutes. Jesse Vozick surging forward from center back position had three excellent chances denied by the surprisingly agile if rotund keeper; two diving headers and an open goal. It was left to Dylan to open scoring with a 40 yard daisy cutter to give Legends to slim lead at the half. But the Greek American spell was broken and Legends poured in the goals.John Balson started the rout in the 3rd minute of restart, lobbing the keeper from close range. Kevin followed up with a cracker of a first time shot from the top of the box off a one-two with Scott. Joe did not miss on being slipped in by Yadh. Wale curled one into the right, and then finished another on the line, magnanimously conceding it to Yadh, whose placed shot was creeping in anyway. Greek Americans managed to get a consolation goal through a well placed free kick that fell fortunately to their striker. Final score 6-1. All played well with special mention to Dave Stopforth in midfield, and the return of John Slover.

Three Wins and a Wild One at Pier 40 - 9/16 Kickers Recaps

First Team

The Kickers first team got their second win in two games against an organized and energetic FC Japan side. Over 90 minutes, the Kickers created the majority of the chances, while Japan spent most of the game defending without creating anything near the Kickers' goal, save for a few set pieces. It took until the second half for the Kickers to break through when Jesus sent a quick turnaround shot toward the back post that found the back of the net. From there, Brian Morris broke through the defense and slipped a ball around the keeper to make it 2-0, then found the foot of Almir on a low cross across the 6-yard box for the Kickers’ third. In the last few minutes, with space open all over the pitch, Fooki dribbled around the goalie and slotted home from a tight angle to make it 4-0.

Second Team

The Kickers came out victorious with a 3-0 defeat over FC Japan Saturday evening. The Kickers set up with their best ball winners occupying the midfield to capitalize on the sloppy possession from the opponents. As expected, the game began frenetically, with plenty of possession turnover. The Kickers dominated what possession there was to have, but the breakthrough came on a turnover pounced on by Dennis, who rounded the keeper and squared it to Aussie Danny for an easy tap-in. This took the Kickers into halftime with a 1-0 lead.

The Kickers started the second half sharper, but again their next goal game from a turnover high up the field. Again, Dennis latched onto a lose ball that ricocheted off Pat's head, and this time buried the chance himself.

The last goal was rewarded after waves of Kicker attacks. After a bit of chaos on the box, the ball came wide to Pat who volleyed a square cross to Michael Kahn, on his return debut after a year and a half out injured, who lashed it into an open net from close range.

Over-30 Premier

Due to the previous game running behind, the Kickers Premier Over-30 started late vs. Celtic Legends at Pier 40. They played a full, 45-minute first half but only 20 minutes of the second half because another group showed up with a legal permit. At this point they were behind 4-2. The other group walked out onto the field in the middle of the game—which was still in full action—and refused to let us finish the final 20-25 minutes. After about 10 minutes of discussion, the referee decided to suspend the match. This result of the game will be sent to the league arbiter and the Kickers are expecting a full match replay.

Over-30 Legends

Kickers Legends’ new campaign got kick started by today’s 7-3 drubbing of reigning champions Doxa FC Legends.

In the first few minutes, returning vet David Stopforth’s first touch of the ball slid it across the penalty box for Wale Bakare to score, also with his first touch of the ball. Wake would score again minutes later by rounding the keeper after out running the champions’ back four. Christian Huguenot would add a third in the 15th minute to stamp Legends’ dominance. Some complacent passing in the back gave the ball up for a Doxa screamer to put them on the scoreboard. But the chaotic Doxa keeper soon allowed the ball to run under his feet, to be slotted into an open net by Joe Whiteman. Lax defending would cause the Kickers to concede a second goal for a halftime score of 4-2.

With sun and wind now at their backs, Legends resumed play in second half with strong possession, allowing Scott Conti all the time in the world to lob the Doxa keeper. Miscommunication between reassigned centerback Wale and Bruce would give up the third and final goal, before Wale made amends by first timing a corner kick cross into the Doxa net for his well deserved hat trick. Christian would end the day by stealing the ball from a surprised defender for his second and Legends’ seventh. Final score 7-3.

New Season, New Kickers - 9/9 Game Recaps

First Team

Back in the second division, the Kickers first team looked to set the tone for the Fall season, with ambitious goals after a disappointing end of the first division Spring season. That plan got off to a rocky start, as the Kickers went down 2-0 to NY Ukraine, who caught the Kickers defense off guard on a cross for the first goal, and a tough handball call in the box awarded them a penalty kick.

The Kickers changed things around a bit, perhaps used to defending for much of last season, and aggressively pushed forward on the attack, winning loose balls in the opponent's half, and putting each other in better positions to score. It paid off. The Kickers scored 5 unanswered goals, 3 by Brian Morris alone. Things got a bit hectic toward the end of the game but the Kickers defense did all it needed to keep the team out of any real danger. Final score: 5-2 win.

Second Team

The Kickers second team lost 2-0 in unfortunate circumstances. They hit the bar three times, moved the ball well and kept NY Ukraine mostly pinned with their backs to goal for the entire second half. Unfortunately, the soccer gods were cruel on this day to the reserves.

Over-30 Premier

The Over-30 Premier lost to their rivals 3-1. The score was not indicative our how the game went. Both teams were sloppy with ball, but it was the Shamrocks that took advantage of a Kicker turnover in the 10th minute to hit the perfect strike to the back post from 10 yards out to take the lead 1-nil. The Kickers would respond on a great finish by Nick Bill in the 25th minute. Both teams had opportunities but nothing to show for it at halftime.  

The second half was much of the same. Injuries to Khouri and Seamus meant the Kickers were playing a man down for nearly 25 minutes of the second half. In the 70th minute, the Rocks would earn a corner and would find a man unmarked on the back post to flick the header home and take the 2-1 lead. The Kickers would get the opportunity just five minutes later to even the match when the referee called for the hand ball in the box, but Adrian's PK was saved by the Shamrock keeper and with it the momentum went out of the Kicker sails. In the 80th minute, the Rocks would get one more when the free kick would catch the Kicker defense napping and the subsequent pinball would get knocked around the box before finding the back of the net. 

Over-30 Legends

The Kickers Over-30 Legends gave up a freaky goal in first 10 minutes, then dominated and pressed for the rest of the game but struggled to connect in wet, slippery conditions. Eventually, they lost 0-1 to CPR Legends. 

First Team Wins 3-1, Over-30 Premier Wins 1-0

First Team

On a foggy, slick Saturday night on Randall's Island, the Kickers first team jumped out head of NY Shamrock SC for a 2-0 lead at halftime. The first goal was scored when Jake Mann beat a defender and whipped a shot off the near post that found the feet of Lucas Shanks alone in the box who neatly slotted the ball home. Just before halftime, the Kickers were rewarded a penalty for a handball on a cross, which Bryan Baracaldo converted to go up 2-0. In the second half, the Kickers did a bit of defending, eventually conceding a penalty on a debatable handball of their own, and Shamrock pulled it back to a one-goal game. Just as the Kickers were looking to let their lead slip away, a corner kick skipped off the head of Chris Smith and onto the head of Mokrane Ait Belkacem waiting on the back post. At 3-1, the Kickers were able to kill off the remaining 10 minutes with possession and secure three much-needed points.

Over-30 Premier

The Kickers Over-30 Premier faced the Manhattan Celtic Bhoys tonight for a place in the League Cup Finals. In the 5th minute Ardian Hasco found Khouri Mullings with the square ball through the penalty area and this time, Khouri found the back of the net. As it would turn-out, that is all the scoring the Kickers would get in this match. But, that was also all the scoring the Kickers would need as Team Defense would take center stage the rest of the way. Celtic was limited to shots from distance which Fitzgerald was able to hold too as the Kickers held onto the victory.

5/13 Game Recaps - Tough Loss For First Team, Top Spot For Over-30 Premier

First Team

The Kickers first team lost a hard fought match against NYAC 2-0. A swerving volley put NYAC up 1-0 but the game remained mostly tight until the 80th minute when an unfortunate miscommunication saw the ball distributed to the feet of a NYAC striker who easily slotted home the second goal, and stole any hope the Kickers had of tying the game and stealing a point.

Over-30 Premier

When the Kickers Premier started an Over-30 team 10 years ago, winning Division titles and playing in Championship games was a right of passage  In last few years however, it's been nothing short of a struggle and disappointment (last season not even making the playoffs).  This season is different. With the infusion of new players (Filip, Marko, Mike, John, Aaron, Seamus), the Team is playing like the Premier side of old. Today was no different.  

Facing our bitter divisional rivals (the NY Shamrocks), the Kickers Premier needed a win or draw to claim the title but we knew this was no easy task, the Shamrocks are a quality side (representing the CSL in the NY State O-30 Cup Final vs. Germania of the EDSL). In the 5th minute, the Rocks would get the first look at goal, as a looping service ball found the feet of Riley on the 6-yard line. But Riley's one-touch strike was saved away by FitzGerald.  

The rest of the match would be a back and forth affair with both sides having opportunities but nothing to show for it. The Kickers best chance came on the 80th minutes when Ardian squared the ball just inside the penalty area to Khouri for a one touch strike to the corner but the Shamrocks GK anticipated well and got down for the save. The Rocks would get one more quality look inside the six yard line (85th minute) but the point blank shot hit FitzGerald squarely in the chest and when FitzGerald claimed the follow-up volley, the Rocks threat was over. 

This is how the match ended and how the Kickers claimed the top spot in the division.

No Contest for First and Second Team, Over-30s Split

First and Second Team

The Kickers first and second team both scrimmaged Zum Schneider on Randall's Island on Saturday night—a win and a loss, respectively—though since no referees showed up, the games will have to be replayed.

Over-30 Legends

Kickers Legends beat Barnstonworth Old Boys 2-1 with goals from Scott Conti and Christian to clinch the Division lead going into playoffs.

Over-30 Premier

Kickers Over-30 Premier lost 1-0, suffering their first loss of the season. The Kickers were hard pressed to score a goal in this one, GK Mike Fitzgerald made several incredible saves to give his any team hope at all.

Kickers Play Goalkeeper Shuffle: First/Seconds Lose, Both Over-30s Win

First Team

The first team lost to first place Cedar Stars Academy by a score of 3-0, despite not having a goalie. After a series of unfortunate events starting with Bernie moving back to Australia, and all other keepers being away or injured, the Kickers took the field against the first division leaders with the New Jersey version of Jorge Campos Jake Mann between the pipes. The Kickers defended much of the first half, getting lucky a few times, but also getting forward a few times of their own, and went into halftime only down 1-0, the lone goal sneaking by Jake's outstretched hand. The Kickers started the second half with more energy, transitioning better between defense, midfield and the two forwards. The Kickers would give up a second goal on a small blunder on their own defensive line, but spent the middle 20 minutes of the second half counter-attacking well, earning many free kicks around the 18-yard box. Cedar Stars ultimately tapped in a loose ball around the 85th minute to put the game out of reach, but a resilient first team will take away many positives competing for 90 minutes against one of the top amateur teams in the nation.

Second Team

The Second team battled Cedar Stars Reserves but came up short, falling 2-1. They also played without a goalie, and club legend DJ Stewart stepped in goal to keep the game close and competitive throughout.

Over-30 Legends

It was a beautiful night for the beautiful game. Scott Conti was clearly inspired as he single-handedly took Barnstonworth Vets to the cleaners with his hat-trick. Scott scored with a volley and two headers, his three goals complemented by Dylan Dodd's sizzling first time finish and Jesse Vozick's give-and-go with Gilad Bloom in the box to make it 5-0 for Kickers Legends by half-time. The passing was crisp and sublime and in the first half, looked like that other City team that plays in Light blue. Second half was not as pretty as Barnstonworth Vets rallied to take more control of the game and the Legends slacked off, but John Balson ended his goal drought for the Kickers' 6th goal. Tim Petersen, with a rare appearance in goal, kept a clean sheet with a couple of good saves and Scott Conti then added to the "Best Game of His Life" by stepping into goal, and making a save from a lobbing shot. Legends stay top of the table with this win, and has the chance to confirm a playoff spot as early as the next game with a win. 

Over-30 Premier

The Kickers Over-30 Premier picked up a good win on the grass at Randall's #81 vs. the Brooklyn Gunners. Ardian Hasko (MVP Honorable Mention), scored in the 2nd minute, assist from Nick Bill. Then (MVP) Seamus Kelly took over and scored the next four goals for the Kickers (10th, 50th, 70th, 80th minutes, Ardian, Khouri, Khouri, Colin on the assists). Brooklyn would get two back on miscommunications in the backline. There were nervous moments, but this match was never really in question. 
 

Reserves Move On In Midweek State Cup Tie

MKFC Reserves 4 - 0 Manhattan Celtic Reserves

After several days of administrative buffoonery, the Manhattan Kickers finally stepped out onto the field against the Manhattan Celtic Reserves to play a long-awaited make-up match at Randall’s Island’s field 75, on a temperate mid-week evening. The match began evenly, with the Kickers, of the First Division, holding the ball well and creating some dangerous chances. Despite moving the ball well, the Celtics seemed to putter out in the offensive third, cheaply giving away possession at the crucial moment. When the Kickers made the breakthrough mid-way through the first half from excellent wing play, the Celtic heads began to drop. That is not to say that it went all the Kickers’ own way. Had the Celtic been slightly more clinical in the opening stages, the game could have gone quite differently. By the time Almir collected his second goal of the game, off of an incisive central pass, the game started to look more and more like a possible rout. As tensions continued to build within the Celtic team, late tackles began flying in, leading the Kickers to take an equally assertive position. Through a little poor match management, the referee conspired to create an outright hostile situation, with Celtics players showing studs and exaggerating contact all overt the pitch. Both teams were lucky to go in at half time without any major injuries. The second half started much like the first, with the Kickers keeping their shape and defending strongly against an impotent Celtic frontline. When Tommy scored a wonder chip from deep in the left corner, roughly at the edge of the 18-yard box, it became clear that the Celtics were unlikely to make much of a comeback. By the time the fourth goal scored by Fabrizio Lepiz went in, though, the Kickers lost sight of their shape, and had to withstand wave after wave of tepid, Celtic fury. With the game ending 4-0, the Kickers must look ahead to the next round, while the Celtics can rest easily knowing that, at least in this universe, the result was never likely to go any other way.

3/25 Recaps: First Team/Second Team Stumble, Premier Win, Legends Tie

First Team

The first team tied CPR 0-0 on Sunday night at Randall's Island, taking only a point from a game where they could have really used all three.

Reserves

The Kickers reserves battled tired legs and some uncharacteristic defending against a few tricky opposing players and ultimately fell 6-0 to CPR reserves.

Over-30 Premier

With CPR Orange only fielding 9 players, this was going to be an easy one for the Kickers.  The only questions was- how many goals would we score? Aaron Vernnand got the scoring started in the 18th minute. Seamus Kelly took over and scored at hat-trick (25th min, 60th min, 85th min).  CPR would not get a single shot on goal all game.

Over-30 Legends

Kickers Legends were rusty at the outset and were not able to keep possession well, while SC Gjoa had a more controlled game. However, there was little threat to Guillermo in goal as the back four of Dave, Kevin, Jesse and Tim staved off the SC Gjoa offense easily. Kickers created few chances until the 44th minute when Christian Huguenot put his head down at the top of the box and booted in a dipping shot into the lower right corner out of reach of the diving keeper. A great goal for the lead. 

Legends, having shaken off the rust, started the second half very confidently and kept SC Gjoa pinned in their own half for the entire first 15 minutes before a counter-attack by Gjoa, which was stopped in the box resulted in a dubious penalty call. Against the tide, SC Gjoa equalized from the spot. 

Legends would press for the win, but Gjoa’s defense was well packed, and their speedy counter kept Kickers on their toes for a nail-biting end of the game, when points were shared.

A Win and a Win and a Draw - 3/18 Game Recaps

First Team

The Kickers first team took a point from Doxa SC in a cold, windy game that could have went handily in either direction. The Kickers were on the unfortunate side of a questionable penalty kick in the middle of the first half and had to dig their way out of a 1-0 hole. Late in the first half Brian Morris scored a turnaround volley to tie the score at 1-1. With the wind at their backs, the Kickers pressed forward, creating numerous chances around the box but lacking the final finish in all instances. The Kickers spent much of the 2nd half on their heels, but luckily the Doxa SC attackers were equally as poor in front of goal and couldn't find the game winning goal.

MOTM: Mokrane Ait Belkacem

Second Team

In one of the best performances of the season, the Reserve team got revenge the Doxa Reserves. Having faced the Kickers in the first split when they could only muster 10 players after a horrendous injury to Rodney Laveau, the Doxa Reserves seemed to come into the game expecting a similarly easy game, sitting back and allowing the Kickers to play. With plenty of time and space, the Kickers thrived, with the central midfielders thriving in particular, spreading the play and running Doxa ragged. Plenty of chances were created only to be stopped either by the referees questionable offsides calls or by our own mistakes. A good passage of play lead to Antonio Ruiz bursting through down the middle with the defenders grasping at any opportunity to stop him. Unfortunately, the only opportunity to do so was literally grabbing him, and down Antonio went, earning a penalty which designated penalty kicker Almir Hot dispatched with ease. Unfortunately for the Kickers this was not the only penalty decision in the game with one of the few Doxa attacks ending in a powerful if mistimed challenge by Fabrizio Lepiz. There was renewed vigor and urgency from the Kickers and specifically Fabrizio, determined to make amends in the second half when he barreled into and through his defender (legally) before laying a perfect cross onto the boot of Jared Lichtarge to power into the gaping net to earn the Kickers a comfortable 2-1 win.

MOTM: Jonas Jensen

Over-30 Premier

Same team, same time, same place and nearly the same result. The Kickers opened the scoring in the 18th minute when Seamus Kelly found Ardian Hasko for the nice finish. The Kickers would hit the post twice and keep the pressure on the opposition. Hoboken, with the help of a 20 mile an hour wind at their backs would get a few good looks of their own, but the defense lead by Filip Loncar and Mike Zaborki held them at bay.  In the 30th minute, Hoboken broke through but FitzGerald would get a "bear-paw" on it to push the shot aside. In the 52nd minute, Ardian would find Nick Bill for nifty flick to take the 2-nil lead.  In the 60th minute, Ardian would pay one back to Seamus, who would score for the 3rd goal of the match. In the 80th minute, Nick Bill would return the favor to Ardian for his 2nd goal of the match. With today's victory, the Kickers moved back ahead of the Shamrocks by 2 points and still have a game in hand.

MOTM: Ardian Hasko
 

SPRING KICKOFF - 3/11 Game Recaps

First Team

The Manhattan Kickers first team played the late game Sunday night vs. NY Greek Americans at Met Oval. The Kickers fielded a mixed lineup of new and old players, and managed not only to stay with the Greeks, but keep them on their heels and defending for much of the first half. A lack of execution in the final third kept the Kickers off the board, and the game was there to take away. Early in the second half, the Greeks scored back to back goals on weak shots that were deflected into the net by defending Kickers, and first team would eventually lose 4-0 to open the Spring portion of the season.

Second Team

In a game of two Almirs, Manhattan Kickers FC Reserves came from 2-0 down to grab a dramatic 2-2 tie against NY Greeks, on a brisk and clear Sunday evening at the Metropolitan Dome. The opening stages unfolded with the Greeks on the front foot. With five at the Back, The Kickers seemed like a team negotiating a promising but complicated formation. Despite several excellent opportunities for the Kickers, the Greeks capitalized on some exceptional build-up play of their own, and scored two quick goals. With the game firmly in hand, the Greeks took their foot off of the gas, killing the game off slowly without creating any clear chances. Meanwhile, the Kickers kept up a high energy counter attack but simply could not find the finishing touch. By halftime, the Kickers reasonably felt like the score did not reflect the balance of chances. Starting the second half by switching to 4-4-2, the Kickers attacking prowess began to pay off. Early in the second half, Almir had an guilt-edged chance to put the Kickers within touching distance, but he fluffed his lines and sent the ball just over the bar. But, with the unwavering confidence of Harry Kane, Almir just a few minutes later managed to exploit a high press; in the center of the pitch, he intercepted a truly awful pass across the back line. With the keeper in the soccer equivalent of No Man's Land, Almir effortlessly curled the ball into the bottom right-hand corner. The Greeks, who had been pretty confident up until this point, began to implode. Simple passes started going out of bounds; tackles missed entirely; the coach's blood pressure entered into the red zone. With one wave of pressure after the next and little support from the midfield, the Kickers created one chance after another. Eventually, their left back made a crucial error, losing his marker at the decisive moment. In an attempt to recover, he sprinted back towards his goal, only to be nutmegged by a pass from the right mid to the overlapping Jared Hirschowitz. Out of frustration and impulsiveness, he bumbled into the player, right inside the box. The referee did not hesitate before pointing directly to the spot. Almir, having just scored, marched to the spot, as the opposition bench howled and cursed at the official. In a matter of steps, the score was tied, Almir completed his heroic pathway to redemption. The ensuing ten minutes led to a series of opportunities that could have easily sealed the game for the Kickers. It's a shame that there wasn't just a bit more time, because the Greeks seemed much more likely to boot the ball into their own net than they did to score a winner. All said, 2-2 felt like a fair result, with both teams walking away with lots to build upon.

Over-30 Premier

Marko opened the scoring in the 12th minute after a nice build up from Seamus and Alex Petrovic.  Ardian followed 3 minutes later from some nifty give and go with Marko.  In the 25th minute, Anton earned the PK and Khouri converted to make it 3-nil.  David Reischfield would make it four just before half-time on some nice build up play from Anton and Khouri. Hoboken would see a little daylight but with some good defense, strong hands by FitzGerald and some poor execution from Hoboken the opponent was kept off the score sheet.  Hoboken pressed in the second half, the Kickers held strong and added one more for good measure when Mike Zabroski took the ball down the line and squared it too Seamus Kelly for the tap-in for the 5th and final goal.

Week of November 4th Results

First Team

On Sunday, The Kickers first team lost in disappointing fashion to Central Park Rangers. Despite a strong roster, the Kickers lacked an energy going forward and created little to no offense. Central Park Rangers scored once in the first half on a defensive miscommunication, and again in the second half during a scramble in the box, for a final score of 2-0.

Two days later, the Kickers first team traveled to Tibbitts Park in Yonkers to face Lansdowne Bhoys in the rain for a 3rd consecutive game. Lansdowne found space all over the field, amassing a 4-0 lead by halftime and converting on nearly every opportunity. The Kickers would fight back in a much closer contested second half, even sneaking forward for a goal of their own, but would ultimately fall 6-1 to the league leaders.

Second Team

The Kickers reserves suffered a demoralizing 4-0 loss due to lack of intensity, seemingly having lost their style of play they had developed throughout the Fall season.

Over-30 Premier

In the 5th minute, CPR would pounce on the ball at the top of the penalty area and strike one by FitzGerald for the 1-nil lead. That lead was short lived when (MVP) Ardian Hasko took the pass from Aaron Vennard and put it away for the early equalizer. 10 minutes later, Khouri Mullings (Honorable Mention) found Ardian for his second score of day. But CPR would find some daylight of their own just inside the penalty area to bring the match even once again (30th minute). Just before half-time, the silky combination play of Seamus Kelly to Khouri Mullings and the square ball to Alex Petrovic for what would be the game winner (35th min), ended the scoring at half-time.

Filip Loncar opened the scoring in the second half, putting one away from the Nick Bill throw-in (50th min). Seamus Kelly would get one of his own in the 55th minute from Alex Petrovic. Mike Zorborski put one past the CPR goaltender from Filip Loncar in the 60th minute. Khouri Mullings would finish the scoring on the day with two more goals (70th & 80th) both assists from Ardian Hasko. The Kickers O-30 Premier would cruise to the final 8-2 score.

Over-30 Legends

Legends continue to top their Division despite losing games, this one being 4th in the negative streak. Barely fielding a starting 11, Legends took the lead from a Jesse Vozick header. Celtics Masters came back with a top right corner strike, and then countered successfully to go 2-1 up at half-time. Without any subs, Legends struggled to make much headway, and conceded another in an unlucky corner. Final score 3-1 to the opponents. 

Everyone Slips, First Team Slides - 10/19 Recaps

First Team

The Kickers first team failed to convert a number of chances in the first half in the heavy rains on Sunday evening at St. John's University. Down 1-0 in the second half, the Kickers ran out of gas against a disciplined and patient Pancyprian Freedom team and ultimately lost 3-0.

Second Team

The Kickers reserves won a thrilling 2-1 win in the ridiculous conditions at St. John's University, holding off Pancyprian Freedom for the majority of the game and finding a late winner.

Over-30 Premier

The weather was the great equalizer as the Kickers were unable to play their typical ball control game. Khouri Mullings scored a PK in the 20th, but Megas pounced on the loose ball in the box and equalize shortly after. Marko Loncar scored a brilliant strike in the 30th minute, and again Megas found a strike of their own inside the penalty area to equalize before half. Khouri Mullings scored his second PK in the 50th minute, and Megas, yet again, pounced on a rebound in the 65th minute, and the game ended 3-3.

Over-30 Legends

Kickers Legends showed up thin against the #2 team in the other division and played competitively for the first half, missing an opportunity to take the lead when an open goal chance was tapped over the cross bar from two feet out. That missed opportunity would be punished in the second half when a miscommunication by the center backs resulted in the opposing striker getting behind the defense and slot home the opening goal for America FC 1927. Kickers Legends pressed and missed another opportunity in the goalmouth in the slick conditions, as well as hitting the bar twice. A soft penalty call on a collision in the box gave them an PK, which they converted, and ran away with the 2-0 win. Kickers Legends stay on top of the Division despite dropping points.

Quiet Kickers Weekend - 10/22 Game Recaps

First Team

The Kickers first team did not play this weekend. They are back in action vs. Pancyprian Freedom next Sunday on Randall's Island.

Second Team

The Kickers reserves fought hard against Lansdowne Bhoys reserves on Saturday afternoon up in Yonkers, but were unable to tally in a 3-0 defeat to one of the top teams in the league.

Over-30 Premier

The Kickers Over-30 Premier took care of the 3rd place CPR Orange at Grand Street, affectionally know as "the beach" (because of all the sand). Khouri Mullings started the scoring in the 10th minute on the assist from MVP Ardian. Ardian followed with three straight goals before half time (15th from Russ, 20th from Marko, 30th from Marko).  

In the second half, it was all Kickers. Khouri scored again in the 50th minute on an assist from Marko, Alex Petrovic scored in the 65th minute and Khouri scored again from a free kick in the 80th, capping off the 7-0 victory for the Kickers. There was nothing much for FitzGerald to do in this match as the stellar defense kept CPR off the score sheet helping to maintain the best goal differential in the division.

Over-30 Legends

The Over-30 Legends suffered a 4-2 loss at the hands of Cozmoz.