Overall the play was great. The weather; not so much. Rain, wind and freezing cold keep most fans away but the Battery staff did a great job in keeping the field pristine and running the show. The fans that did come were rewarded with a total of 22 goals scored in six games. A some fantastic goals they were too including a stellar diving-scorpion kick by Vancouver's Daigo Kobayashi that has gone viral on You Tube.
Odisnel Cooper |
The consensus in the Three Lions Pub following the final kick on Saturday is this Battery team is looking good, no doubt bolstered by the fact that 14 to 15 players are returning from the last years squad. But the returning Battery veterans look to have some competition this season. Antiguian national team player, Quinton Griffith looked very good playing right back and right midfield and has the wheels to get up and down the flanks. Cuban Evier Cordovez only came on as a substitute in two of the matches but showed strength up top. College of Charleston alumni, Sean Ferguson also was solid in the center of defense.
Quinton Griffith |
Other players on trail that impressed, Austin Savage with his game winning goal against Houston, Jarad Van Schaik worked the wings well and Gibson Bardsley didn't look out of place against the MLS squads.
Unfortunately we were unable to see the third Cuban, Maikel Chang. After looking very impressive in the Battery player trials, he was sidelined with a hamstring injury. He is the type of player that has the ability to take on defenders and has very good ball control.
Next up for the Battery, a preseason match with the College of Charleston listed for Thursday at
2 comments:
Match @ C of C is 2:30
Thanks for the correction on the time. updated the blog.
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