ACSL Food Bank Drive Update

For its second annual food drive, ACSL collected more than 170 items for the Westside Food Bank. These items will be distributed to families in need through a network of over 70 organizations serving the LA Westside.

Area shelters and organizations have reported the need is about 30-40% above normal, and over one million people in Los Angeles County - about 10% of the population - are currently seeking food assistance of some kind. Most say they never thought they'd be in such a situation, and it reminds us that being dealt a few bad hands in a row can really change one's circumstances quickly.

ACSL is proud to support the communities in which it plays and wishes everyone Happy Holidays!

More information on the Westside Food Bank can be found on their website: http://www.westsidefoodbankca.org/

Swamp Donkeys take ACSL Cup

The Swamp Donkeys took three straight wins Saturday to capture their first ACSL Cup, downing That's What She Said in the quarters (3-3) on penalties (2-1), and Esjberg FC (4-3) in the semi-finals, before toppling Del Rey City in the finals 6-4.

Del Rey's path saw them advance on penalties twice, against ACFC (4-4, PKs 2-1)and AWOL Select (1-1, PKs 7-6). Esjberg FC took the consolation final 9-4 against Esjberg FC.

Congrats to the winners and thanks to the players and officials for another successful season.

ACSL Week 6

Six teams have qualified for the league cup this coming Saturday. Esjberg FC, AWOL Select and ACFC topped their individual divisions while second-place squads Del Rey City, That's What She Said and Swamp Donkeys also advanced.

While Esjberg FC and the Swamp Donkeys were tied in points at 13, Esjberg took the Serie A title based on their head-to-head results against the Donkeys ... a 5-5 draw and a 4-2 win.

Esjberg FC and AWOL Select recorded the two best 1st-place records on the season and will receive a bye through the first round, while the remaining four squads (including EPL winners ACFC) will have to win three straight matches to hoist the coveted league cup.

ACFC will face Del Rey City in the first round at 9 AM, and if successful will be paired up against AWOL Select at 10 AM. The Cup and Consolation finals take place at 11 AM.

Congrats to the division winners and best of luck in the playoffs.

PS: any help with field set up (before the day's matches -- around 8 AM) and break down, following the Cup matches (around noon), would be appreciated.

World Cup decision

It is with great disappointment we absorb the news that the US has lost the 2022 World Cup bid to Qatar of all places. US Soccer put together an incredible bid, bringing enthusiasm for the sport in this country (and on the continent as whole) to an all time high.

We should take pride in the fact that the Bid Committee put together an incredible package and roused the support of millions of soccer fans.

The World Cup will eventually return to the US ... we're sure of that.

But for now keep growing this great sport locally by supporting soccer at all levels ... whether it's coaching and organizing youth soccer (the future of US success in World Cup), participating in adult soccer by both playing and providing opportunities for team play ... and by cheering on your local MLS or semi-pro side.

All will guarantee soccer's continued success here.

ACFC Update

As this year ends, I'm very proud of our progress in 2010.

Here are some of our achievements this year...

- Two first place titles in Santa Monica League 7s divisions.
- Two second place finishes in the Kick for a Cure Tournament in San Diego.
- Admitted into to the LA Premier League.
- 1st Place in the EPL division of the Angel City Soccer League (playing for league championship this Saturday)

As we enter 2011, our club is continuing to grow. We have big plans for the new year, so I want to let you know what will be happening....

1. As always, we'll be entering 3 teams in the Saturday 7 v 7 league at Santa Monica Airport (10 weeks, beginning in February). I will manage these teams, but I'll be looking for three guys to help with each team. Please let me know if you're interested in helping out with game day coaching and management.

2. Tom Bry and Pete Wasek will continue managing the 30+ Premier league team, which plays year round.

3. We will continue practicing on Monday nights at the Santa Monica Airport until January 10th. After that we will find a new field to use until we can return to the airport in April of 2011.

4. Starting in March or April, I'll be forming another 30+ team to play in the LA Municipal League. This team will allow more of our over 30 year old players to play competitive 11 aside matches and earn a spot on our Premier League team.

5. Ivan O'Neill will continue to manage our charitable activities. While we're happy to be organized to play a lot of soccer, we also want to give back to the community. Ivan will lead that effort and will be contacting you for help with this.

6. Rahoul Ghose continues to manage our websites. Please use the site as a resource for all club information. Rahoul is great about updating results and schedules and he writes our blog.

7. We subsidize some costs through small sponsorships and money we earn in our league, but our club is mostly funded through player dues. Playing on each of our teams costs money and Pete Wasek continues to manage our finances. With such a big club, it isn't easy to do, so please continue to pay your dues to Pete when he asks. Our leagues cost a lot of money, but we play on nice fields against excellent competition with good referees. This is hard to find and it's worth paying for. Our club does not make a profit. All money goes toward club expenses.

8. We will continue to recruit players in the off-season. If you have friends that you'd like to bring in, please let me know. We're looking for exceptional players. Please keep that in mind when you bring friends.

9. Angel City FC has a board of directors-- Dave Woirhaye, Kirby Adams, Rahoul Ghose, Pete Wasek and Myself. These guys donate extra time and work to organize the club and keep it running as well as it does. They are all volunteers and I thank them for their help.

I've enjoyed playing with you guys. It will take time to get to the top level, but we're on our way and are competitive everywhere we play. I'm proud of our club and I promise it will always be a club you can be proud of.

I'll keep you updated as we form all our teams for the next season.

All the best.

Ben Kull
newben@mac.com

ACSL Week 5

With one week left in ACSL regular season play, three* teams have sealed their berths in the Cup Round. AWOL Select* sits on 12 points, three up on nearest rivals TWSS in La Liga division and five points above Angel City FC (who mathematically can still qualify).

The Swamp Donkeys* and Esjberg FC* are tied on 10 points in Serie A, four points above the AC Allstars.

And the EPL is still wide open with ACFC and Malibu tied at nine points and Del Rey City in striking range on seven points. Week 6 will decide the final three playoff spots and the seeding -- two teams with the best overall records earn a bye through the first round, while other contenders will face three matches in a single day to hoist the Cup.

ACSL 2010 FOOD BANK DRIVE

Building on last year's successful food drive to support the Westside Food Bank, ACSL will again collect food items for the community this Fall, on Nov. 20 and Dec. 4. Because of your generosity, the next Ronaldo could eat your can of food, get strong, get good, win a World Cup, and build us all more fields with his take.

For the Spring, we'll ask you all to bring him some pre-conditioned cleats. More on that next season, but start saving your old gear. Our goal for the holiday season is to donate 300 food items.

Rules for donations: NO EXPIRED FOOD; NO glass please (except for baby food); Un-opened; Not individually wrapped; and Inner packaging intact.

Some ideas:

* Tuna, Vegetables, and Soup
* Fruits and Fruit Juices
* Pork & Beans
* Stews & Other Meats
* Pasta, Lentils, Pinto and other beans.
* Macaroni & Cheese & Packaged Dinners
* Instant Soups
* Hot and Cold Cereals
* Peanut Butter & other Nut Butters
* Nutritional Bars: protein, granola, energy
or breakfast bars

For those of you with lil' nippers, they could also use:

* Infant formula
* Jar foods – all flavors and stages
* Crackers, teething biscuits, and cookies
* Raisins & fruit snacks
* Juices: jars, cans, pouches and boxes
* Infant and children’s cereals

Thanks for your help and making ACSL a part of the community.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Angel City FC's Ivan O'Neill.

ACSL Week 3 Results

Scores

Angel City FC 5 - That's What She Said 6
AWOL Select 4 - Del Rey City 90 2

AC Allstars 4 - Esjberg 3
Swamp Donkeys 6 - Typhoon FC 3

ACFC 3 - Real Talk 4
Malibu United 3 - Del Rey City 3

ACSL Week 2 Results

SCORES

ACFC 10 - Del Rey City 1
Angel City 12 - Del Rey City 90 3
AC All-stars 4 - Typhoon 5

Swamp Donkeys 5 - Esbjerg 5
Malibu 10 - Real Talk 2
AWOL 5 - That's What She Said 1

NEXT WEEK'S MATCHES

9 AM: Angel City FC vs That's What She Said; AWOL Select vs Del Rey City
10 AM: AC Allstars vs Esjberg FC; Swamp Donkeys vs Typhoon FC
11 AM: ACFC vs Real Talk; Malibu United vs Del Rey City

Angel City kicks off ACSL with two wins

Angel City kicked off its third season of the ACSL Saturday with two wins and a loss.

ACFC knocked off the defending Spring champs -- Malibu United -- 4-0, and sit tied for first with Del Rey City (who clobbered Real Talk 6-1) in the EPL.

Angel City FC took out AWOL Select 6-1 and sit tied with That's What She Said -- who embarrassed Del Rey City 90 6-1 -- in La Liga.

And the AC Allstars lost a tough match to eternal rivals the Swamp Donkeys 4-2. The Donkeys top Serie A followed by Esjberg FC, who narrowly defeated Typhoon FC 2-1.

SCORES

Del Rey City 6 - Real Talk 1
ACFC 4 - Malibu United 0

Del Rey City 90 1 - That's What She Said 6
Angel City FC 6 - AWOL Select 1

Typhoon 1 - Esbjerg 2
AC Allstars 2 - Swamp Donkeys 4

NEXT WEEK'S MATCHES

9 AM: AC Allstars vs Typhoon FC; Swamp Donkeys vs Esjberg FC
10 AM: ACFC vs Del Rey City; Malibu United vs Real Talk
11 AM: Angel City FC vs Del Rey City 90; AWOL Select vs That's What She Said

TOP ANGEL CITY SCORERS

Heitor Herculano - 7
Sammy Xaylitdet - 2
Craig Blois - 2
Marius Sandvik - 1

Three wins and two titles for ACFC 7s squads

Angel City rounded out out the summer SMASL 7s season with three wins and two titles, a first for the club.

ACFC started the roll with a hard-fought, often scrappy 4-3 win over Del Rey City to take the Setanta Division cup. Down 2-0 early, ACFC rallied back on goals from David Woirhaye and Marius Sandvik. The squads then traded goals with Dan Klein netting a strike, before Craig Blois sealed the win -- and the title -- with a goal in the dying minutes. ACFC finished at 7-3-0 (including a voluntary default during the World Cup match between the US and Ghana). Logan Redlin -- who was named season MVP for his consistent performances between the posts throughout the summer season -- made several key saves in the close match.

Angel City FC -- which had captured the Sevilla Division title last week with a 5-2 win over Del Rey City Premier -- did not lie down on its laurels, taking a 4-2 win over a strong AWOL Select side to finish the season 8-1-1 (the one loss was a default during World Cup). Russ Muratov went on a scoring surge is search of the Angel City golden boot scoring title, netting a hat trick, while Michael Sharp scored a single. However Muratov's final season tally of 23 goals fell three shy of Woirhaye, who's single goal on the day boosted his total to 26 goals, handing the quick striker the golden boot.

The AC Allstars ended out the season with a 6-3 win over That's What She Said to take second place in the Santiago Division with a 7-3-0 record (including the World Cup default). Mike Gemballa and Volkert Besseling contributed braces with Klein and Blois adding singles of their own. A goal by Jonny Ibanez was disallowed due to some perceived contact in the goal mouth.

Registration for the spring SMASL season begins in November with play set to start in early February 2011. In the meantime 12 squads will be competing in the Angel City Soccer League starting Oct. 16 at Playa Vista. More info

August 28 matches:

Del Rey City (3) vs ACFC (4)
Goals: David Woirhaye, Marius Sandvik, Daniel Klein, Craig Blois

**ACFC are Setanta Divison champions with a 7-3-0 record

AWOL Select (2) vs Angel City FC (4)
Goals: Russ Muratov (3), Michael Sharp

**Angel City FC are Sevilla Division champions with a 8-1-1 record

That's What She Said (3) vs AC Allstars (6)
Goals: Michael Gemballa (2), Volkert Besseling (2), Daniel Klein, Craig Blois

**AC Allstars finish in second place in the Santiago Division with a 7-3-0 record

Top Goal Scorers: Summer 7s Season: Week 10 (final standings)

David Woirhaye: 26 (golden boot award)
Russ Muratov: 23 (honorary mention)
Michael Sharp: 9
Daniel Klein: 9
Matt Onheiber: 7
Mike Barthel: 7
Dave Wardell: 7
Craig Blois: 7
Marius Sandvik: 6
Mike Gemballa: 6
Volkert Besseling: 5
Miguel Lopez: 5
Sammy Xaylitdet: 5
Ben Kull: 4
Jonny Ibanez: 3
Peter Wasek: 2
Nico: 2
Geoff Berlin: 2
Brad Miller: 2
Ian Worrell: 2
Daniel Stafford: 1
John Paul Meyer: 1
Freddie DeLeon: 1
Blake Nickle: 1
Mark: 1
Christian: 1

Shutouts

Logan Redlin: 2 (season MVP)

Niky's Sports comes on board as ACSL sponsor

The Angel City Soccer League -- which resumes 7 v 7 play for a third successive season Oct. 16 at Playa Vista -- is pleased to announce that Niky's Sports has come on board as a league sponsor.

Niky's Sports is a Southern California based soccer company focused on meeting the high demands of the grassroots soccer enthusiast. Established in 1986, Niky's has since grown to six locations across Southern California plus a 7,000 Sq Ft warehouse to better serve their customers.

The company's latest store --- operated by manager Luis Orellana -- is located on the West Side at 11954 Wilshire Blvd, two blocks east of S. Bundy Drive. This shop features the same wide range of products as Niky's Flagship stores and also caters to local clubs, high schools, colleges and teams with great prices on team uniforms.

In 1999, Nikys-sports.com was launched. Through the web site Niky's are committed to providing the same grade of customer service that has made their shops No. 1 in California.

The ACSL welcome Niky's into the fold for the fall 2010 season. To date 11 of the 12 spots are filled with paid squads: ACFC*; AC Allstars*; Angel City*; AWOL Select*; Esjberg FC*; Real Talk*; That's What She Said*; Malibu United*; Swamp Donkeys*; Del Rey City*; and Del Rey City 2*. Typhoon FC is the last team on the list but the league is accepting wait-listed teams for that final spot.

Angel City on track for two division titles

Angel City have sealed at least one division cup and are on target for a second with one match left in SMASL summer 7s action.

Angel City FC recovered from an early 2-0 deficit against rivals Del Rey City Premiere to storm back with five second-half goals and the team's seventh win this season. The 7-1-1 record pretty much ices the Sevilla Division title, with Angel City's nearest rivals at least four points behind with one match to go. Adding to the stats is the fact that the team's only loss came from a default during the first week of play (during World Cup). AWOL Select are the squad's final adversary.

ACFC also moved one step closer to a cup in the Setanta Division with a 7-3 win over the LA Lekers, bumping the record up to 6-3-0. Matador FC and Del Rey City -- the other two squads in contention for the title -- squared off to a 1-1 tie, leaving ACFC two points up on Del Rey going into the final match against ... you guessed it ... Del Rey. A win or a tie will hand ACFC the silverware.

And the AC Allstars capped the weekend with a 8-2 drubbing of FPO Footbal Club. The Allstars will likely face off against That's What She Said next week for second place in the Santiago Division which looks like it will go to Power of the Pack. A win will tie the Allstars and TWSS on 18 points ... but the home side will have two wins against their rivals, which would seal second.

See you next week for week 10 (the final week of SMASL summer play). Also up for grabs will be the Angel City FC golden boot. David Woirhaye currently leads the race with 25 goals followed closely by Russ Muratov with 20.

Registration for the spring SMASL season begins in November with play set to start in early February 2011. In the meantime 12 squads will be competing in the Angel City Soccer League starting Oct. 16 at Playa Vista. More info

August 21 matches:

LA Leker (3) vs ACFC (7)
Goals: David Woirhaye (4), Marius Sandvik (2), Michael Sharp

Del Rey City Premiere (2) vs Angel City FC (5)
Goals: Mike Barthel, Michael Sharp, Dave Wardell, Croig Blois, Blake Nickle

FPO Foobal Club (2) vs AC Allstars (8)
Goals: Michael Gemballa (3), Daniel Klein (2), Craig Blois, Sammy Xaylitdet,
Brad Miller

Top Goal Scorers: Summer 7s Season: Week 9

David Woirhaye: 25
Russ Muratov: 20
Michael Sharp: 8
Matt Onheiber: 7
Mike Barthel: 7
Dave Wardell: 7
Daniel Klein: 7
Miguel Lopez: 5
Craig Blois: 5
Marius Sandvik: 5
Sammy Xaylitdet: 5
Ben Kull: 4
Mike Gemballa: 4
Volkert Besseling: 3
Jonny Ibanez: 3
Peter Wasek: 2
Nico: 2
Geoff Berlin: 2
Brad Miller: 2
Ian Worrell: 2
Daniel Stafford: 1
John Paul Meyer: 1
Freddie DeLeon: 1
Blake Nickle: 1
Mark: 1
Christian: 1

Shutouts

Logan Redlin: 2

ACFC, Angel City FC top divisions with two games left

ACFC moved into a Setanta Division tie with Del Rey City Saturday with an important 6-3 win over Matador FC. The squad's two remaining games -- against the LA Lekers and Del Rey -- are vital to ACFC taking the title this season.

Meanwhile, Angel City FC moved one step closer to a Cup victory in the Sevilla Division with a 10-1 drubbing of McDermitt FC, bringing that team's record up to six wins, one loss and a tie -- four points up on nearest rivals TMS. Angel City face Del Rey City Premier and AWOL Select in their final two tough matches.

And the Allstars capped the winning weekend with a 5-1 win over MT United to stay close to the Santiago Division rivals Power of the Pack and That's What She Said. The Allstars are four points off first place and play FPO Football Club and TWSS in their final two summer matches.

August 14 matches (thanks to Tom Bry for collecting stats this week):

Matador FC (3) vs ACFC (6)
Goals: David Woirhaye (2), Michael Sharp (2), Daniel Klein, Craig Blois

McDermitt FC (1) vs Angel City FC (10)
Goals: Mark, Craig Blois, Russ Muratov (4), Mike Barthel (2),
David Woirhaye, Ian Worrel

MT United (1) vs AC Allstars (5)
Goals: David Woirhaye (3), Christian, Mike Barthel
Top Goal Scorers: Summer 7s Season: Week 8

David Woirhaye: 21
Russ Muratov: 20
Matt Onheiber: 7
Dave Wardell: 6
Michael Sharp: 6
Miguel Lopez: 5
Daniel Klein: 5
Ben Kull: 4
Sammy Xaylitdet: 4
Volkert Besseling: 3
Marius Sandvik: 3
Mike Barthel: 6
Jonny Ibanez: 3
Craig Blois: 3
Peter Wasek: 2
Nico: 2
Geoff Berlin: 2
Ian Worrell: 2
Daniel Stafford: 1
Mike Gemballa: 1
John Paul Meyer: 1
Freddie DeLeon: 1
Brad Miller: 1
Mark: 1
Christian: 1

Shutouts

Logan Redlin: 2

ACFCs still vying for tops spots

Angel City 7s squads are still in contention for top spots in the Santa Monica Adult Soccer League with just three weeks left to play.

Angel City FC moved one step closer to a trophy in the Sevilla Division with a convincing 7-1 win over Esquire FC, vaulting the team's record up to 5-1-1 (the squad's only loss came from the season opener, a 3-0 default). Angel City FC is four points up on its nearest rival -- AWOL Select (the league standings should reflect 3 points for a win) -- and plays McDermitt FC next week.

ACFC stayed within three points of the Setanta leaders -- Del Rey City -- with an 8-4 win over the VCA Rebels, and play second-place Matador FC next week (who are 1 point off the top). ACFC's record is now four wins and three losses in what is becoming a tight race.

And the AC Allstars suffered an unfortunate 2-1 loss the Power of the Pack, dropping their record to 4-3-0 in the Santiago Division. The team -- four points behind Power of the Pack -- will need to win its three remaining matches to have any hope of catching That's What She Said, who have six wins and a loss on the season for 18 points. The Allstars play MT United next week.

August 7 matches:

VCA Rebels (4) vs ACFC (8)
Goals: David Woirhaye (2), Russ Muratov (2), Daniel Klein, Ben Kull, Sammy Xaylitdet

Esquire FC (1) vs Angel City FC (7)
Goals: David Woirhaye (3), Miguel Lopez (2), Russ Muratov, Jonny Ibanez

Power of the Pack (2) vs AC Allstars (1)
Goals: Geoff Berlin

This coming week (August 7) sees the following match-ups:
Matador FC vs ACFC: TBA - TBA
McDermitt FC vs Angel City FC: TBA - TBA
MT United vs AC Allstars: TBA - TBA

Top Goal Scorers: Summer 7s Season: Week 6

Russ Muratov: 16
David Woirhaye: 15
Matt Onheiber: 7
Dave Wardell: 6
Miguel Lopez: 5
Michael Sharp: 4
Daniel Klein: 4
Ben Kull: 4
Sammy Xaylitdet: 4
Volkert Besseling: 3
Marius Sandvik: 3
Mike Barthel: 3
Jonny Ibanez: 3
Peter Wasek: 2
Nico: 2
Geoff Berlin: 2
Daniel Stafford: 1
Mike Gemballa: 1
Craig Blois: 1
John Paul Meyer: 1
Freddie DeLeon: 1
Ian Worrell: 1
Brad Miller: 1

Shutouts

Logan Redlin: 2

Angel City 7s put three in the wins column

Angel City exercised a manner of satisfying revenge Saturday knocking off all three squads the teams defaulted to during the first week of play ... which coincided with the USA - Ghana match. Guess pride in country during World Cup does eventually pay off.

ACFC moved to a 3-3-0 record, just three points off the Setanta leaders Del Rey City with a hard-fought, come-from-behind 4-3 win over SBSG. Angel City FC spanked the now second-place TMS 9-4 to move into first place in the Sevilla Division with a 4-1-1 record. And the AC Allstars toppled a chippy Ye Olde Kingshead squad 4-1 to move to 4-2-0 in the Santiago Division and third place, three points off leaders That's What She Said.

July 31 matches:

SBSG (3) vs ACFC (4)
Goals: Marius Sandvik, Michael Sharp, Daniel Klein, Mike Barthel

TMS (4) vs Angel City FC (9)
Goals: Miguel Lopez (2), Ian Worrell, Nico (2), Dave Wardell, Russ Muratov (3)

Ye Olde Kingshead (1) vs AC Allstars (4)
Goals: Jonny Ibanez, Geoff Berlin, Brad Miller, Michael Sharp

This coming week (August 7) sees the following match-ups:
VCA Rebels vs ACFC: TBA - TBA
Team Esquire vs Angel City FC: TBA - TBA
Power of the Pack vs AC Allstars: TBA - TBA

Top Goal Scorers: Summer 7s Season: Week 6

Russ Muratov: 13
David Woirhaye: 10
Matt Onheiber: 7
Dave Wardell: 6
Michael Sharp: 4
Sammy Xaylitdet: 3
Ben Kull: 3
Volkert Besseling: 3
Daniel Klein: 3
Marius Sandvik: 3
Mike Barthel: 3
Miguel Lopez: 3
Jonny Ibanez: 2
Peter Wasek: 2
Nico: 2
Daniel Stafford: 1
Mike Gemballa: 1
Craig Blois: 1
John Paul Meyer: 1
Freddie DeLeon: 1
Ian Worrell: 1
Geoff Berlin: 1
Brad Miller: 1

Shutouts

Logan Redlin: 2

ACFC knocks off Cloverfield FC 3-2

The Angel City FC over-30s squad closed its first half-season in the LAPL with a 3-2 win over mid-tablers Cloverfield FC Thursday night.

ACFC dropped an early goal but tied the match 1-1 just before halftime off a well struck free kick from Ben O'Meara just outside the box.

Matt Onheiber doubled the lead at the 67-minute mark off a pass from Brandon Cole with a blazing, low shot into the left corner of the goal. And Cole added a third himself, knocking in a cross from Marius Sandvik in the 81st minute.

That third goal was instrumental in the win as Cloverfield notched a second minutes from time. But ACFC held on for the win. O'Meara was named MVP of the match, while keeper Pete Marlenga made several fine stops throughout to keep the game close.

ACFC posted a 3-3-3 record in the nine games it played, but finished 10th out of 12 teams as the squad inherited the bottom-table record from the team it replaced midway through the 22-game season.

ACFC now plays in the LAPL Cup round Thursday, August 5 against a yet-to-be-determined opponent at Crossroads with an 8 PM start.

July 24 7s SMASL Results

July 24 matches:

Del Rey City (2) vs ACFC (1)
Goal: Freddie DeLeon

AWOL Select (2) vs Angel City FC (2)
Goals: Dave Wardell, Russ Muratov

That's What She Said (1) vs AC Allstars (2)
Goals: Mike Barthel, Sammy Xaylitdet

This coming week (July 31) sees the following match-ups:

SBSG vs ACFC: 10:30 AM - Center
TMS vs Angel City FC: 11:30 AM - East
Ye Olde Kingshead vs AC Allstars: 12:30 PM - Center

Top Goal Scorers: Summer 7s Season: Week 5

David Woirhaye: 10
Russ Muratov: 10
Matt Onheiber: 7
Dave Wardell: 5
Sammy Xaylitdet: 3
Ben Kull: 3
Volkert Besseling: 3
Peter Wasek: 2
Daniel Klein: 2
Michael Sharp: 2
Marius Sandvik: 2
Mike Barthel: 2
Mike Gemballa: 1
Miguel Lopez: 1
Daniel Stafford: 1
Jonny Ibanez: 1
Craig Blois: 1
John Paul Meyer: 1
Freddie DeLeon: 1

Shutouts

Logan Redlin: 2

ACFCer Mike Lewis launches Dead Heroes Clothing

July 16th 2010 saw the launch of Dead Heroes Clothing and its debut range for Summer 2010.

Co-founded by Mike Lewis, guitarist in Lostprophets (and an ACFC alumni), this fresh new brand is one part modern streetwear, one part pop art culture, one part thrash metal, and with attention to detail culled from mod iconography.

With flat rate £3 shipping no matter how many items you order and no matter where you are in a world, Dead Heroes Clothing hopes to get shirts onto people in all four corners of the globe. The team hopes to follow up on its launch range with further new designs later in the year.

--
Dead Heroes Clothing
Email: info@deadheroesclothing.com
Web: www.deadheroesclothing.com
Twitter: @DeadHeroesHQ

ACFC loses nailbiter 5-4 to Coyotes

Despite two inspired comeback attempts, the ACFC 11s dropped a nail-biting 5-4 decision to the Coyotes Saturday night at Crossroads during LAPL action.

Playing their second match over three days (thanks to the LAPL's lovely scheduling department), ACFC found themselves down 3-0 (2', 26', 30') after 30 minutes following a shaky defensive start on the back line.

But momentum started to shift in favor of Angel City on 34-minutes when Marius Sandvik headed home a David Woirhaye corner kick. Greg Medzger doubled that tally seven minutes later with a cracking shot outside the box, which curled inside the right post, low and past a sprawling Coyotes keeper, to make it a close 3-2 at the half.

The second 45 saw ACFC continue to up their game and 15 minutes in Woirhaye tied the score at 3-3 with a brilliant shot from the right side of goal.

The next 20 minutes saw both teams get even more aggressive on the ball. But the Coyotes struck next at the 80-minute mark, converting a corner kick, and then added a fifth four minutes later off a shot from the right side which eluded keeper Jonny Ibanez.

ACFC battled back with a scoring drive from midfielder Matt Onheiber, and had several chances turned away in the dying minutes by the Coyotes keeper, including one shot by Woirhaye, which was tipped away by a foot.

Final score 5-4 ... a darn sight better than the 7-1 loss ACFC suffered during a league qualifying match against the Coyotes in May.

ACFC's final season match will be Thursday, July 29 (yes 12 days away) against Cloverfield FC at Crossroads, with an 8 PM kickoff.

The LAPL Playoff Round schedule has yet to be announced.

July 17 7s Results: SMASL

July 17 matches:

LA Lekers (3) vs ACFC (11)
Goals: David Woirhaye (4), Matt Onheiber (3), Marius Sandvik (2),
Craig Blois, OG

Del Rey City Premier (2) vs Angel City FC (6)
Goals: Dave Wardell (2), Russ Muratov (2), Mike Barthel, Sammy Xaylitdet

FPO Footbal Club (2) vs AC Allstars (11)
Goals: Ben Kull (3), Sammy Xaylitdet, Volkert Besseling (2), Mike Gemballa, Russ Muratov, Matt Onheiber, John Paul Meyer, OG


This coming week (July 24) sees the following match-ups:

Del Rey City vs ACFC: 10:30 AM - East
AWOL Select vs Angel City FC: 11:30 AM - East
That's What She Said vs AC Allstars: 12:30 PM - West


Top Goal Scorers: Summer 7s Season: Week 4

David Woirhaye: 10
Russ Muratov: 9
Matt Onheiber: 7
Dave Wardell: 4
Ben Kull: 3
Volkert Besseling: 3
Peter Wasek: 2
Daniel Klein: 2
Michael Sharp: 2
Marius Sandvik: 2
Sammy Xaylitdet: 2
Mike Gemballa: 1
Miguel Lopez: 1
Daniel Stafford: 1
Jonny Ibanez: 1
Craig Blois: 1
Mike Barthel: 1
John Paul Meyer: 1

Shutouts

Logan Redlin: 2

July 10 7s Results: SMASL

July 10 matches:

Matador FC (9) vs ACFC (2)
Goals: Matt Onheiber (2)

McDermott FC (0) vs Angel City FC (6)
Goals: Michael Sharp(2), Miguel Lopez, David Woirhaye, Dave Wardell, Russ Muratov

MT United (5) vs AC Allstars (6)
Goals: Jonny Ibanez, Daniel Klein (2), Dave Wardell, Volkert Besseling, David Woirhaye


This coming week (July 17) sees the following match-ups:

LA Lekers vs ACFC: 11:30 AM - East
Del Rey City Premier vs Angel City FC: 12:30 PM - West
FPO Footbal Club vs AC Allstars: 1:30 PM - East


Top Goal Scorers: Summer 7s Season: Week 3

Russ Muratov: 6
David Woirhaye: 6
Matt Onheiber: 3
Peter Wasek: 2
Daniel Klein: 2
Michael Sharp: 2
Dave Wardell: 2
Volkert Besseling: 1
Miguel Lopez: 1
Daniel Stafford: 1
Jonny Ibanez: 1

Shutouts

Logan Redlin: 2

Angel City takes two 7s wins

After dropping three 3-0 defaults last week to support the US national team in their efforts to move past the World Cup round of 16 -- as well as $120 in ref fees -- Angel City came back with two wins and a loss in week 3. (Seems national pride was not a concern for some squads ...)

Week 1 was again postponed, and possibly canceled due to a scheduling conflict between the league officials and the City of Santa Monica ... the second year in a row this has happened.

ACFC started the run with a hard-fought 2-0 win over the VCA Rebels with new keeper Logan Redlin minding the posts and recording the first shutout of the summer 7s season. Russ Muratov was back in form recording a brace.

The second match between Angel City FC and Team Esquire was equally difficult, with teams exchanging goals in a tight match before the home side broke away to a 7-3 win. Muratov and David Woirhaye each notched a hat trick, while Peter Wasek added a single off a curving shot from the left side. Redlin again was strong in goal.

By the third match, which saw many of the same players doing triple duty due to a July 4th long weekend absence of players, the AC Allstars ran out of steam losing a testy 10-4 match to Power of the Pack, who already racked up a 13-1 win over MT United last week.

This coming week sees the following match-ups:

Matador FC vs ACFC: 9:30 AM - West
McDermott FC vs Angel City FC: 10:30 AM - East
MT United vs AC Allstars: 11:30 AM - West

Top Goal Scorers: Summer 7s Season

Russ Muratov: 5
David Woirhaye: 4
Peter Wasek: 2
Matt Onheiber: 1
Daniel Stafford: 1

Shutouts

Logan Redlin: 1

ACFC 11s take second win of season topping second place FC Valhalla 3-2

Despite missing several regulars Saturday night at the Santa Monica Airport, the ACFC over-30s squad took down Valhalla FC 3-2 with a combination of hard work and strong team play.

The squad seemed to like playing on the full size field again and made use of the extra space to play more of a passing game against the LA Premier League's second-place side. Backed by a strong defence, led by sweeper Miguel Lopez and stopper Peter Wasek, ACFC battled back and forth in the first half creating several chances. Keeper Ian Benyo was strong between the posts, took ownership of his box and distributed the ball well on the counterattack. Bryan Moore, on the right side fed several plays through the midfield after taking the ball off Valhalla strikers.

The midfield was well served by Brandon Cole and Greg Medzger, while Freddie DeLeon again created havoc for the Valhalla defenders with his speed.

The half time whistle saw the teams tied at 0-0. But ACFC's calm demeanor took a turn for the worse as the whistle for the start of the second half sounded, when Benyo turned his ankle as he entered the field in a fluke accident. About 10 minutes in, Benyo had to be replaced by central defender Wasek in goal, while Medzger slotted into the stopping role. Valhalla immediately pushed forward to test the new netminder and earned the first goal of the game off a cross from outside the box 15 minutes in. Wasek managed to get his fingertips to the ball and pushed it onto the post, but it deflected in.

Ironically instead of taking the goal to heart, ACFC went on a tear, racking up three straight goals in just over three minutes courtesy of Brad Miller and a brace from Jacob Tudela on 67, 68 and 70 minutes.

FC Valhalla managed to get one goal back about five minutes later on a three-man rush. But ACFC held on for the win, their second this season since joining the LAPL. Wasek, who was forced to make several saves in the dying minutes, was named MVP of the match by coach Billy Alarcon, and assistant coach Kirby Adams, who is currently recovering from an on-field injury.

The team's record now sits at two wins, two ties and a loss with four games remaining in the regular season. All previous game scores were inherited from the team ACFC replaced.

The squad next sees action Saturday, June 26 against FK Dinamo at Crossroads with a 7:30 PM kickoff.

ACFC takes second straight draw

Playing old-time rivals Matador FC in a second game this week, the ACFC over-30s squad notched their second straight draw, coming back from a 3-1 second-half deficit to finish up 3-3.

ACFC started the match well, closing down the Matador strikers early and making several positive incursions into the opponents' goalmouth. In the later stages of the half the home side saw themselves up by a goal with David Woirhaye converting a Greg Medzger effort about 10 minutes from time.

The second half saw a minor breakdown in communication between the defence and midfield ... a predicament which resulted in three successive goals from a forward-pressing Matador.

But if ACFC's first three matches in the LA Premier League have shown anything, its that the squad has heart. The side gradually regained control of the ball -- and a large percentage of the overall possession. Forward checking saw recent acquisition Andrew MacDonald knock in a goal off a Dan Klein effort, after Klein took the ball up from the defensive area, combining a bit of individual ball skill with a large dose of determination.

About five minutes from the final whistle, MacDonald struck again, heading the ball past a sprawling Matador keeper off a long ball from Greg Medzger.

The team now has a record of one win, two ties and loss in their first four official LAPL outings.

ACFC next sees action June 19 against second-place FC Valhalla at the Santa Monica Airport field with a 7:30 pm kickoff time.

Angel City fights for Celtic FC 2-2 draw

Celebrating a new sponsorship with Apache Rental Group and Coach Billy Alarcon's 29th birthday, the Angel City FC over-30s squad came ready to battle mid-table rivals Celtic FC Tuesday night at Crossroads.

And despite dropping an early 1-0 lead three minutes in off a quick break, the team put on an inspired showing throughout the match with crisp passing sequences through the forwards and a tighter defensive formation as the game went on. Freddie DeLeon had several opportunities in the box, using his deft touch and quick speed to outsmart the Celtic defenders.

The back line lost sweeper Kirby Adams midway through the half to an ankle turn while "Steamboat" was blocking a shot about 30 yards out. But Dan Klein stepped into the role nicely, keeping the defence centered. Keeper Peter Marlenga was again strong between the posts, fending off several airborne crosses through a crowd of large Celtic strikers.

David Woirhaye finally converted a Craig Blois play in the box at the 36-minute mark to tie the match 1-1 at the half, much to the joy of the large contingent of ACFC fans on hand to boost spirits, a group which included a quickly recovering Tom Bry.

The second half saw Celtic FC again take the lead with a shot at the 55-minute mark. But ACFC battled back with midfield standouts Matt Onheiber, Craig Blois, Ben Kull and Greg Medzger all containing counterattacks in the Celtic end.

ACFC lost a second defender to injury about 15-minutes in, when Blake Nickle was forced to retire with chest pains after a collision near the ACFC goal ... he has since been diagnosed with a cracked vertebrae and possibly three cracked ribs and is expected to be out for an undetermined period of time to recover.

The back line was then changed a second time to Leo Wallach, Brian Moore, Rahoul Ghose and Dan Klein.

The final minutes of the second half saw end-to-end action, with ACFC chances and serious saves made by Marlenga at the home end.

Ben O'Meara notched the tying goal off a David Woirhaye run at 85 minutes to earn the point. But either team could have taken the win.

ACFC next see action the Saturday at Crossroads against longtime rivals Matador FC with a 6 PM kickoff.

Angel City sees silver twice in San Diego

Competing in the Men's Open and Men's B Divisions of the 2010 Kick for a Cure 6 v 6 Tourney in San Diego this past weekend, Angel City FC and ACFC both qualified for the Championship final but had to settle for silver for the second year running.

Angel City FC started slow Saturday racking up a 1-1 tie (Dan Klein) with TDAC Rovers and a tough 2-1 (Marius Sandvik) loss against the SD Storm Select. Sunday was do or die for the squad, which needed a win against Cortina FC for a chance to play in the Championship round. The match was close with Angel City finally breaking free in the second half to take a hard-fought 4-3 win off of goals from Ben Kull, Kirby Adams and David Woirhaye (the fourth was an own goal off a cross from the sidelines).

Coached by Billy Alarcon, Angel City met SD Storm Select for a second time in the final, going 2-2 through regular time and an OT period before moving on to the dreaded shoot-out tiebreaker, where the team was forced to settle for second ... again. Marius Sandvik and David Woirhaye struck for the home side during the match.

ACFC, in the Men's B Division, met less resistance on the Saturday, taking wins against FUBAR (which featured several younger teens) 5-0 (Marc Salomon; PK, Craig Blois (2), Marc Salomon, Mike Barthel), and a more competitive SBFC Managers 4-3, with a pair of goals from Mike Barthel and a single from Craig Blois in the second match, as well as a helpful own goal following a breakaway by Salomon.

Sunday saw ACFC face off against Pacific twice, once in regular play at 8 AM, and a second time in the finals. The early game saw a more disjointed side lose 4-0 to Pacific. But in the final ACFC finally took coach David Alarcon's words of wisdom to heart. The undermanned side stepped up with an injured Peter Wasek pitching in as goalie. Strong defence and a mobile midfield saw a much more competitive game where either side could have won. Pacific notched the lone goal mid-way through the first half, but ACFC pressed to the final whistle for the equalizer, generating several goal scoring opportunities. Lady luck did not shine down though.

All in all it was a great tourney and the club wants to thank the Kick for a Cure organizers for being such great hosts.

Special kudos to Peter Marlenga, who played seven matches between the posts for both squads, and to the Alarcon boyz for organizing and coaching the squads.

ACSL Playoff Results

Quarterfinals

ACFC (2) vs AWOL Select (1)
Goals: Nico Voigtlaender, David Woirhaye

Semi-Finals

ACFC (3) vs Malibu United (4)
Goals: Custis Smith (2), Nico Voigtlaender

Consolation Finals

Typhoon FC (12) vs ACFC (7)
Goals: David Woirhaye (5), Blake Nickle (2)

ACFC makes ASCL Cup Round

It wasn't easy ... and some might even say it wasn't pretty ... but despite being forced to play a man down for almost half a match, ACFC came back from an early 3-1 deficit against That's What She Said to take second place in the EPL with an inspired and gritty 5-4 final tally.

Miguel Lopez and David Woirhaye each notched a brace while Dave Wardell slotted in a single on the day. Volkert Besseling stepped between the posts for the match and made some quality saves.

Three of the ACFC goals were earned short-handed after an ACFC striker was red-carded for his behavior following an incident in the box.

ACFC will now face AWOL Select in quarter-final Cup Round at 2 PM, Sunday, May 30 and must win to advance to the semis. A win will pit the team against Malibu United (the top seeded first place squad) for a berth in the Cup Finals and a chance to reclaim the prestigious Tom Bry Honorary Cup.

The Swamp Donkeys (who topped the EPL after 20th Century Fox defaulted their week 6 match-up) face off against Del Rey City 90 in the other quarterfinal for a chance to play Typhoon FC in the semis.

Angel City FC -- who were out of contention for a playoff spot in La Liga -- did not fare well in their last match against Real Talk, losing a 4-1 decision with the lone home tally coming from Besseling. Angel City finished up the season in third purely by virtue of a +1 better goal differential than the fourth-place Real Talk. Malibu United and Del Rey City 90 took the top two spots in the division.

The AC Allstars, who also had no playoff hopes in Serie A, finished on a positive note, knocking off the LA Rovers 3-1 to stay in third. Jonny Ibanez wrapped two goals around a single strike from Mike Barthel to end the season. Typhoon FC and AWOL Select took the top two Serie A spots.

All three Angel City squads will return to Santa Monica Adult League Action on Saturdays starting June 19 at the Santa Monica Airport fields.

ACFC wins LAPL premiere 4-2 against O'Briens

The ACFC over-30s squad are already moving up in the LA Premier League rankings after taking a 4-2 win against O'Briens FC Thursday night in the team's league debut.

The squad dominated play in the first half, creating numerous chances, and notched their first goal at the nine-minute mark with Freddie DeLeon converting a David Woirhaye cross.

Continued pressure in the second forced O'Briens to score an own goal at the 48- minute mark -- with a defender trying to deflect a shot. But the Irish side finally knocked one in themselves eight minutes later. Angel City quickly regained the two-goal lead with Matt Onheiber scoring off a Leo Wallach throw-in soon after.

O'Brien's came within a goal at 64 minutes after a scramble in the box, but Brandon Cole sealed the win minutes later, heading in a low struck corner kick from Ben Kull. Final tally ... 4-2.

Dan Klein was named MVP of the game for his strong defensive role as sweeper throughout the match. Pete Wasek and Rahoul Ghose each earned a yellow card during the more scrappy moments of the match.

Angel City FC, who now move up to 10th place in the 12-team LAPL (having taken over for the now defunct FC 90 mid-season), now face veterans Avanti FC next Thursday at Crossroads with an 8 PM kickoff. Avanti beat Hollywood United this week to move into first place with an impressive overall record of 11 wins, two ties and a loss.

Test Predicts Risk for an Ankle Sprain During Sports

This simple test can help predict your risk for an ankle sprain

By Elizabeth Quinn, About.com Guide
Updated April 06, 2010

An ankle sprain is one of the most common sports injuries for athletes who play field or court sports. In fact, according to one of the largest descriptive epidemiological studies of ankle sprain in the United States, the majority of sports ankle sprains occur during basketball, with football, soccer and running following far behind.

If you play basketball, you might be interested in a simple test to predict your risk of an ankle sprain. Researchers found that a simple, inexpensive screening tool can predict which athletes may be more likely to have an ankle injury and developed a simple training routine to help reduce that risk.

The study found that athletes who were unable to complete a simple single-leg balance exercise were two-and-a-half times more likely to have an ankle sprain during the subsequent season than those who could complete the test.

In this study, 230 college and high school athletes who participated in football, soccer and volleyball were screened during their sports physicals using the Single-leg balance test.

The Single-Leg Balance Test

The single-leg balance test required that the athletes close their eyes for ten seconds while standing barefoot on one foot, keeping the other knee bent and not touching the weight-bearing leg.

The test was considered "positive" if the athlete was unable to perform the test on either one or both legs.

The participants were followed through the sports season to record any incidence of ankle sprains during sports participation. Over a 14-week season, these 230 athletes reported 28 ankle sprains. The study results indicated that athletes with a positive single-leg balance test result were significantly more likely to be among those reporting an ankle sprain.

The researchers concluded that although the single-leg balance test served as a predictor of ankle injury, the exact mechanism responsible for this increased risk of injury remains unknown.

Ankle Sprains Prevention and Treatment Strategies

If you play field or court sports and don't score well on the single-leg balance test, it would be a good idea to take additional preventive measures to reduce your risk of an ankle injury. Learn what causes a sprain, how to avoid one, and how you can recover faster if you do sprain your ankle.

* Diagnose and Treat Ankle Sprains
Do you know what to do if you sprain your ankle?
* Ankle Sprain Rehab Exercises
If you suffer a sprain, this program can help you heal faster.
* Prevent Ankle Sprains
This simple exercise helps reduce the risk of ankle sprain.

ACSL Breakdown after Week 5

EPL

There are three teams tied for first: Swamp Donkeys, 20th Century Fox and ACFC, all with 9 points off of three wins and two losses.

However, Swamp Donkeys lead with a GD of +7 followed by 20th Century with +4, and ACFC with +2. The 6-1 win against 20th Century helped a lot this week in the GD department, but the squad needs a win next week against That's What She Said to ensure a playoff spot (they are not in contention). The SDs and 20th Cen play in the other game, so someone's going to lose points. An ACFC win will guarantee a spot.

La Liga

With their close 3-2 win today against Angel City FC, Malibu United has already qualified for the playoffs. Del Rey City 90's 7-5 loss against Real Talk kept them in second at nine points while Angel City sits in third with six points. If Malibu United beats Del Rey next week Angel City still has a chance with a high scoring win against Real Talk. Del Rey's current GD is +5 while Angel City's GD sits at -2. It's a long-shot, but possible.

Serie A

Both AWOL Select and Typhoon have qualified for the playoffs. The AC Allstars have no chance of overtaking either team and will likely decide third and fourth in their game against the LA Rovers ... it's just pride at stake. The Allstars are only one point ahead.

Games: Week 5

ACFC (6) vs 20th Century Fox (1)
Goal Scorers: Volkert Besseling (2), David Woirhaye (2), Kirby Adams, Ivan O'Neill

Angel City FC (2) vs Malibu United (3)
Craig Blois, Nico Anderson

AC Allstars (1) vs Typhoon FC (7)
Mike Gemballa

A note from coach Billy Alarcon

I want to take this opportunity to....

CONGRATULATE you!!! Tonight, about 20 minutes after our game ended, I was contacted by the commissioner of the Premier League. He officially invited us to join the very prestigious LA Premier League. (For those of you who didn't make it out tonight, we won 3-1.)

We should hold our heads up very high boys. Not just for the way we played tonight, but because of HOW we play. We play hard and our work ethic is strong and that shows in our performance on the pitch.

This is a huge accomplishment for a still pretty young club. We owe most of this if not all of this to Ben Kull. His hard work and endless hours of devotion and leg work to not one but MANY squads helped build a club out of an idea at a wedding in northern California just two years ago.

In addition to BK's hard work, blood, sweat and I am pretty sure at least a few tears, this club has developed large enough to get noticed by this very competitive league. Don't get me wrong, you guys, which most of our 30's squad has been there from the beginning, have helped keep the integrity in which we were formed, in tact.

Anyway, congrats boys!! Mike will be contacting me tomorrow with all the details. But basically we are jumping into their season which has 8 games left. And at the end of that we will be participating in their Cup, which is similar to the LA Muni playoffs. So we have plenty of competitive football ahead of us. As soon as I get all the details I will forward them to all of you ASAP. But be ready for a game this coming week.

Once again, you guys played amazing tonight and need to remember that we are capable of playing like that week in and week out. More to come...

¡¡Viva ACFC!!

coach

ACFC earns an LA Premier League spot

UPDATE: ACFCs first league match will be against O'Briens FC, Thursday, May 20 at Crossroads with an 8 PM start
_________________________________________

The Angel City FC 11s over-30 squad is moving on up ... to the West Side ... after winning a spirited LA Premier League qualifier 3-1 against the LA Brits Saturday night at Crossroads.

Following the match ACFC were asked to join the league by LAPL officials ... the squad -- which previously competed in the LA Municipal League -- will now be playing in the final eight LAPL matches as well as a cup playoff round.

ACFC's qualifier -- the second test match in a week -- saw the local side facing off against a talented and fit Brits squad on the narrow Crossroads pitch. Play was even in the first half with chances on both sides, though ACFC were back on their heels for the first five. A strong midfield, bolstered by the return of Matt Onheiber and some great back checking from the likes of Ben O'Meara and Ben Kull turned the tide though.

In his first game back since cracking a rib, David Woirhaye notched his first of two goals on the night early in the second, heading a ball past the keeper off a header from Onheiber. Ten minutes on and ACFC took its second strike with O'Meara making an impressive, diving header off a cross from the right side of the pitch.

Two down, the Brits tried to fight back with some scrappy play in the midfield ... and with about 15 minutes left in the match a lofty pass from the left side made its way over keeper Christian Olde Wolbers and into the net. Despite the lucky goal, Wolbers had a strong match between the posts, controlling his box together with central defenders Kirby Adams and Pete Wasek.

Not satisfied to play out the remainder of the game in defensive mode, ACFC kept making runs up the field and with about five minutes left, Woirhaye sealed the win with his second goal, a shot past the keeper, who had already turned away several golden opportunities.

With the win, ACFC showed a solidarity and fire which dominated the team two seasons ago when it captured the LA Muni League title and Cup round. The squad was also thankful to have its cheering squad out ... all in all a memorable evening.

Announcements on the squad's upcoming schedule, fees and other league details will be made by Manager/Coach Billy Alarcon shortly.

ACFC 11s play LA Premier League tryout

The ACFC 11s over-30s squad will be playing its second of two tryout matches Saturday at Crossroads (7:30 PM) for a berth in the LA Premier League. Come out and cheer the squad on. (Location: Crossroads School, 1715 Olympic Blvd, Santa Monica, California, 90404 | bleachers available | map)

The league is at the mid-point of its 22-game season, but would allow ACFC to join now if its bid is successful as it appears one team has dropped out early.

Launched in October 2002 as a non-profit league that placed a high priority on contests with excellent sportsmanship, the LAPL now features 12 teams, including the likes of Hollywood United, Matador FC and FK Dinamo. A majority of games are played at Crossroads with some scheduled at the Santa Monica Airport ... all fields are turf ... no slide tackling seems to be the only rule change some will have to adapt to. Games are played Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturdays with kickoffs varying between 7 PM (Airport) and 8 PM (Crossroads).

One familiar figure at each game will be head ref Alex Gorin. Gorin is the "Law", as he has held the coveted post of LAPL Head Referee since the league's inception. From 1985 until 1991, he was a National Referee for the Premier Division of the USSR Professional Football League. Since 1996, he has held the National NISOA Referee title.

If ACFC's bid is successful the club will drop its participation in the LA Municipal over-30s League for the upcoming summer season.

Judging by ACFC's first friendly, against the top-ranked Coyotes -- which included some ex-Chivas players in the squad, the competition level will be high. But ACFC has already attracted several new prospects to the squad for 11s. Anyone interested in trying out for the over-30s squad should fill out the ACFC Player Info Form.

The 11s are coached and managed by Billy Alarcon, with help from ACFC alumni Tom Bry.

ACFC 7s results

ACFC 4 vs Swamp Donkeys 1
(2 win, 2 losses | currently in third place in EPL)

Angel City FC 1 vs Del Rey City 90 2
(2 wins, 2 losses | currently in third place in La Liga)

AC Allstars 3 vs AWOL Select 7
(1 win, 1 tie, 2 losses | currently in third place in Serie A)

The eight goals scored were from: Blake Nickle, Mike Barthel, Craig, Nico, Jonny Ibanez, Ivan O'Neill, Mike G, Matt O.

Ahhh ... World Cup ... nuff said

UMBRO website

ACFC takes trio of 7s wins

Congrats to the three home entries in the Angel City Soccer League. The trio of squads all notched tight one-goal victories Sunday at Playa Vista to move one step closer to a playoff spot. Now at the mid-season point, each squad has three return matches left.

ACFC 2 vs That's What She Said 1
(1 win, 2 loses | currently in third place in EPL)

Angel City FC 5 vs Real Talk 4
(2 wins, 1 loss | currently tied for first in La Liga)

AC Allstars 4 vs LA Rovers 3
(1 win, 1 tie, 1 loss | currently tied for second in Serie A)

The 11 goals scored were all single efforts from: Ivan O'Neill, Greg Metzger, Volkert Besseling, Pete Marlenga, Dave Wardell, Miguel Lopez, Mike Barthel, Custis Smith, Jonny Ibanez and Daniel Stafford.

Thanks to Ben Kull for getting me the stats.

ACFC Practices Resume in May

Angel City open practices ($5 drop-in fee) will resume May 6 at Playa Vista running on Thursday nights through June 17 from 6:30 to 7:30 PM. Practices then switch to Wednesday nights June 30 from 6:30 to 7:30 PM and run until August 11.

Complete information can be found on the ACFC Fixtures page.

An announcement on exclusive over-30s 11s practices will be released shortly. Two to three sessions will be scheduled in June following the the KICK FOR A CURE CHARITY SOCCER 7s TOURNEY in San Diego, June 5 - 6. The LA Municipal League resumes in early July. These 11s practices will be by invite only and are mandatory for anyone wanting to play on the 11s side.

Ben Kull steps down as ACFC Manager

ACFC would like to extend its thanks to Ben Kull for all the time and hard work he put into the founding and managing the LA-based soccer club. After two years of tireless efforts, Kull has decided to put more time into his on-field ACFC successes as a mainstay on both the over-30 11s side and in 7 v 7 league and tourney action.

Kull rebranded the Shockers in 2008 into what is now Angel City FC and saw the club's trio of squads rack up a bunch of accolades during his two year tenure with coach Billy Alarcon, including an LA Municipal League and Cup Championship, two Santa Monica Adult 7 v 7 league cups and an ACSL division championship.

Kull was also instrumental in the formation of the Angel City Soccer League, which filled in the playing gaps when other adult leagues were on break. The second season is currently in progress after a highly successful inaugural winter session.

The club now supports a roster of about 50 players and looks forward to continuing on with Alarcon assuming the dual role of manager and coach, with the help of ACFC board members Kirby Adams, David Woirhaye, Pete Wasek, Rahoul Ghose and Kull.

Kull's managerial skills will be sorely missed. He will continue to look after the 7s squads competing in the Santa Monica League and the ACSL.

ACFC over-30s 11s squad recruiting

Angel City FC is on the look-out for new soccer talents -- goalies, defenders, midfielders and strikers -- for the over-30s 11s squad which competes in the LA Municipal League.

If you are interested in trying out for a great local club, please fill out the Player Information Form to arrange a spot at the next convenient practice through Manager/Coach Billy Alarcon.

Prior competitive experience and a respectable level of fitness are required. League play resumes in July.

News about upcoming 11s specific practices, scrimmages and the league will be released shortly by Alarcon, the newly named Club Manager, who steps into the role following a successful first few years under the tutelage of Ben Kull, who conceived and built the club from the ground up. Kull will thankfully be staying with ACFC as an 11s player likely in a holding midfielder role.

7 v 7 season wrap-up

RESULTS: April 10, 2010

ACFC (0) vs LA Lekers (4)

Del Rey City (4) vs Angel City FC (2)
Goals: David Woirhaye, Miguel Lopez

AC Allstars (6) vs FPO Football Club (1)
Goals: Volkert Besseling, Dan Klein (3), John Gillen, Ben Kull

Top Goal Scorers | Winter-Spring 7s

38 David Woirhaye
24 Marius Sandvik
12 Luis Deveze
10 Anthony D'Marco
9 Daniel Klein
9 John Gillen
7 Mike Gemballa
6 Russ Muratov
5 Nahum Navas
5 Volkert Besseling
5 Ben Kull
4 Ronnie Roman
4 Peter Marlenga
4 Craig Nichols
4 Miguel Lopez
3 Nico
2 Pete Wasek
2 Ian Worrel
2 Matt Onheiber
2 Kirby Adams
2 John Paul Meyer
1 Peter Marlenga
1 Lazaro DeOliveira
1 Blake Nickle
1 Dan Stafford
1 Greg Medsker

ACFC 7s take pair of wins

Game recap: Peter Marlenga

The first game we went down 0-3 right away, then scored a spirited 4 in a row to be up at half. The second half was an obvious defensive battle as no goals were scored by either team. Everyone on Angel City hustled their asses off, and with a few good saves thrown in there, we pulled out a close one.

The second game saw the team struggle with a few defensive let downs and also missed offensive opportunities abound. Overall it was a rough game.

The third game was a good time seeing lots of different players score and putting Angel City above .500 for the day. Volkert and Manos capitalized on a few opportunities but left many on the table as well.

Overall we were 2-1 on the day. Ben Kull coached well and also got in some playing time too!

RESULTS: April 3, 2010

ACFC (4) vs Matador FC (3)
Goals: David Woirhaye (3), Craig Nichols

Dinosaurs of Reggae (7) vs Angel City FC (1)
Goals: John Paul Meyer

AC Allstars (8) vs MT United (2)
Goals: Volkert Besseling (2), David Woirhaye, John Gillen, Mike Gemballa,
Daniel Stafford, Dan Klein, Greg Medsker


Top Goal Scorers | Winter-Spring 7s

37 David Woirhaye
24 Marius Sandvik
12 Luis Deveze
10 Anthony D'Marco
8 John Gillen
7 Mike Gemballa
6 Russ Muratov
6 Daniel Klein
5 Nahum Navas
4 Ronnie Roman
4 Ben Kull
4 Peter Marlenga
4 Craig Nichols
4 Volkert Besseling
3 Nico
3 Miguel Lopez
2 Pete Wasek
2 Ian Worrel
2 Matt Onheiber
2 Kirby Adams
2 John Paul Meyer
1 Peter Marlenga
1 Lazaro DeOliveira
1 Blake Nickle
1 Dan Stafford
1 Greg Medsker

ACFC 7s: Tie, Win and a Loss

RESULTS: March 27, 2010

ACFC (4) vs LA Peru (4)
Goals: David Woirhaye, Nico, John Paul Meyer, Kirby Adams
Assists: David Woirhaye

Team Esquire (4) vs Angel City FC (5)
Goals: David Woirhaye (2),Nico (2), John Gillen
Assists: David Woirhaye, Nico, Matt Onheiber, Mike Gemballa

AC Allstars (2) vs Mar Vista sss-Keeta (5)
Goals: David Woirhaye (2)
Assists: Mike Gemballa


Top Goal Scorers | Winter-Spring 7s

33 David Woirhaye
24 Marius Sandvik
12 Luis Deveze
10 Anthony D'Marco
7 John Gillen
6 Mike Gemballa
6 Russ Muratov
5 Nahum Navas
5 Daniel Klein
4 Ronnie Roman
4 Ben Kull
4 Peter Marlenga
3 Nico
3 Craig Nichols
3 Miguel Lopez
2 Volkert Besseling
2 Pete Wasek
2 Ian Worrel
2 Matt Onheiber
2 Kirby Adams
1 Peter Marlenga
1 Lazaro DeOliveira
1 Blake Nickle
1 John Paul Meyer

ACFC 7s drop two, win one

ACFC's current top scorer David Woirhaye netted two hat-tricks and a single during play Saturday to bring his season's total to 28 goals.
Photo: Marius Sandvik

RESULTS

ACFC (7) vs FC Braziliense (9)
Goals: David Woirhaye (3), Ben Kull (2), Blake Nickle, Ronnie Roman
Assists: Ronnie Roman, David Woirhaye

LA Rovers (2) vs Angel City FC (7)
Goals: David Woirhaye (3), Peter Marlenga, Ian Worrel, Miguel Lopez,
Matt Onheiber
Assists: Miguel Lopez (2), Lazaro DeOliveira (2), Brandon Cole, Matt Onheiber

AC Allstars (2) vs FC Montalban (8)
Goals: Miguel Lopez, David Woirhaye
Assists: Volkert Besseling


Top Goal Scorers | Winter-Spring 7s

28 David Woirhaye
24 Marius Sandvik
12 Luis Deveze
10 Anthony D'Marco
6 Mike Gemballa
6 John Gillen
6 Russ Muratov
5 Nahum Navas
5 Daniel Klein
4 Ronnie Roman
4 Ben Kull
4 Peter Marlenga
3 Craig Nichols
3 Miguel Lopez
2 Volkert Besseling
2 Pete Wasek
2 Ian Worrel
2 Matt Onheiber
1 Peter Marlenga
1 Kirby Adams
1 Lazaro DeOliveira
1 Blake Nickle

Postponed 11s match rescheduled

Slamdance FC vs ACFC
Monday, April 5 | 7:10 PM | John Ferraro #6

It's going to be a busy week as ACFC also face Lions Soccer on Wednesday, April 7

ACFC 7s: loss, win, tie

ACFC started this week's trio of matches plagued by what has become an early game stigma for Angel City 7s in the past ... a lack of intensity and concentration ... and the result was a disappointing 7-3 loss to Del Rey City Premier.

While the squad did notch a trio of goals courtesy of club scoring leader Marius Sandvik (24 total on the season), they never seemed entirely in the game and succumbed on several occasions to costly mistakes. The good news is this was ACFC's first loss of the season and the team's 4-1-1 record still sees them tied for first place in the Setanta Division with Matador FC at 9 points. ACFC's GD is +16 to Matador's +9. ACFC next sees action against FC Braziliense March 20.

Angel City FC took the previous loss in stride and mopped up an inexperienced Brentwood Hood side 10-1 to improve their record to four wins and two losses.

Luis Deveze and a spirited (or some might say uncaged) Peter Marlenga each netted a hat trick with Mike Gemballa adding a brace and Ian Worrel and Miguel Lopez singles.

Angel City FC now sit in third place in the Sevilla Division, two points behind Dinosours of Reggae and Del Rey City. The squad faces the LA Rovers next week.

The final game, a rematch between the AC Allstars and That's What She Said (the only team to beat the Allstars this season) was a tough one which saw the home side up 2-0 at the half off strikes from Dan Klein and Russ Muratov.

That's What She Said bounced back in the second with a header off a corner and a strike from the side on the break. But either side could have notched the win at any time. The Allstars connected with the post or cross bar on four occasions, and the side even landed one in the net before the final whistle, but it was called back on a foul.

The final 2-2 tie still leaves the Allstars alone at the top of the Santiago Division, one point in front of FC Montalban and That's What She Said. The Allstars face FC Montalban next week.

RESULTS

ACFC (3) vs Del Rey City Premier (7)
Goals: Marius Sandvik (3)
Assists: Blake Nickle, Miguel Lopez, Ben Kull

Brentwood Hood (10) vs Angel City FC (1)
Goals: Luis Deveze (3), Peter Marlenga (3), Michael Gemballa (2),
Ian Worrel, Miguel Lopez
Assists: Volkert Besseling, Michael Gemballa, Luis Deveze, Dan Stafford,
Miguel Lopez (2), Pete Wasek

AC Allstars (2) vs That's What She Said (2)
Goals: Russ Muratov, Daniel Klein
Assists: Daniel Klein, Mike Gemballa


Top Goal Scorers | Winter-Spring 7s

24 Marius Sandvik
21 David Woirhaye
12 Luis Deveze
10 Anthony D'Marco
6 Mike Gemballa
6 John Gillen
6 Russ Muratov
5 Nahum Navas
5 Daniel Klein
3 Craig Nichols
3 Ronnie Roman
3 Peter Marlenga
2 Volkert Besseling
2 Ben Kull
2 Pete Wasek
1 Matt Onheiber
1 Peter Marlenga
1 Kirby Adams
1 Lazaro DeOliveira
1 Ian Worrel
1 Miguel Lopez

ACFC 11s take first win of season

The ACFC 11s over-30 squad finally notched one in the win column with a hard fought 1-0 decision against Slamdance FC Wednesday night at Griffith Park.

Angel City came to play despite the unseasonably cold weather and winds, putting on a hard-checking counterattacking game while maintaining a strong back line.

Bolstered by some strong goalkeeping by Peter Marlenga -- who notched the squad's first shutout this season, ACFC struck first at the 23-minute mark off a long ball from Marius Sandvik. Ben Kull took the ball into the box and chipped a lovely ball over a scrambling keeper and into the net. Kull was named MVP of the match.

At times the game was chippy, but despite three yellow cards, Angel City held their cool and shut down the Slamdance offense with diving blocks in the box and tough checks in the mid-field.

ACFC had the better scoring opportunities and even popped a second goal in near the final whistle ... but it was called back on an offside.

ACFC's first encounter with Slamdance FC earlier this season was postponed due to heavy rain.

The squad now face the Burbank Red Machine in a return match March 17 at Griffith Park with a 7:10 kickoff.

GAME STATS

ACFC (1) vs SLAMDANCE FC (0)

Goal: Ben Kull
Assist: Marius Sandvik
Shutout: Peter Marlenga
MVP: Ben Kull

Yellow Cards: Dan Klein, Ben Kull, Russ Muratov

ACFC recruits for new women's squad

Always a leader in the ACFC roster, sweeper Kirby Adams and wife Tomoko have taken it upon themselves to forge into new football territory for the club.

With the birth of their daughter Kaitlin Akiko Adams last week, ACFC can now plan on adding a new women's squad to the club ... in about 16 years. Kaitlin appears to have taken to the club colors and is already donning what appear to be the latest in adidas cleats for tykes.

Congrats to Kirby and Tomoko on their new addition to the ACFC family.

Mid-season matches post two wins and a tough loss

Angel City 7s squads hit the mid-season in stride with two convincing wins and a tough loss.

ACFC retained its lossless record posting a 13-2 blasting of the LA Lekers, with Marius Sandvik finally putting his right foot to use ... Sandvik broke a club record for goals scored in a single match, with eight. David Woirhaye added a hat-trick while Ben Kull and Lazaro DeOliveira rounded out the scoring with singles.

The squad sits in first place with five game to go boasting a record of four wins and a tie.

Angel City FC hit the fields next against cross-town rivals Del Rey City, tied for first place on points with three wins and a loss. Angel City kicked off the match well, leading 2-0 at the half off goals from Sandvik and Anthony D'Marco. But the squad lapsed in the second allowing four successive goals. D'Marco and Woirhaye notched singles to tie the game, but a late goal handed Del Rey the win, leaving Angel City FC in second place with three wins and two losses.

The AC Allstars rounded out the day with their fourth straight win, knocking off FPO Footbal Club 12-1. Russ Muratov led with five goals followed by Volkert Besseling and D'Marco with braces, and singles from Daniel Klein and Mike Gemballa. FPO notched two goals, one unfortunately being an own goal.

The Allstars 4-1 record leaves them tied for first and set to meet the only squad to beat them this season ... That's What She Said ... next week.

ACFC teams return to play March 13 for the second half of the 10-match season.

RESULTS

ACFC (13) vs LA Lekers (2)
Goals: Marius Sandvik (8), David Woirhaye (3), Ben Kull, Lazaro DeOliveira
Assists: Lazaro DeOliveira (3), David Woirhaye (3), Ben Kull, Kirby "Pops" Adams

Del Rey City (5) vs Angel City FC (4)
Goals: Anthony D'Marco (2), Marius Sandvik, David Woirhaye
Assists: Luis Deveze, Marius Sandvik, Ben Kull

AC Allstars (12) vs FPO Footbal Club (1)
Goals: Russ Muratov (5), Anthony D'Marco (2),Volkert Besseling (2), Mike Gemballa, Daniel Klein, OG
Assists: Daniel Klein, Volkert Besseling, Mike Gemballa, Russ Muratov


Top Goal Scorers | Winter-Spring 7s

21 David Woirhaye
21 Marius Sandvik
10 Anthony D'Marco
9 Luis Deveze
6 John Gillen
5 Russ Muratov
5 Nahum Navas
4 Daniel Klein
4 Mike Gemballa
3 Craig Nichols
3 Ronnie Roman
2 Volkert Besseling
2 Ben Kull
2 Pete Wasek
1 Matt Onheiber
1 Peter Marlenga
1 Kirby Adams
1 Lazaro DeOliveira

Angel City faces mixed bag of weather ... results

Angel City 7s squad faced a mixed bag of weather and results Saturday at the Santa Monica Airport.

ACFC kicked off the day under showers facing a tough Matador FC squad in a back-and-forth match which saw both sides leading at some point. Marius Sandvik led the side with a hat-trick, while David Woirhaye and Ben Kull added singles. Kull's tally game minutes before the final whistle to tie the match 5-5.

As the rains subsided Angel City FC faced an even harder prospect in the Dinosours of Reggae and quickly found themselves down 5-1 at the half. Several goals came off initial keeper saves which weren't cleared in time by the defence or mid-field. Angel City came on strong in the second half to try and tie the match, notching two goals and allowing none. But the squad couldn't recover from the first half deficit and fell 5-3. Craig Nichols scored a brace while Woirhaye added his second single of the day. The team showed a lot of spirit.

Under sunshine, the third match saw the AC Allstars facing what looked to be a tough MT United side, one of the four squads tied for first place in the Santiago division. But despite dropping an early goal when the defense failed to pick up a striker in the box, the Allstars took control of the initially physical game. Up 3-1 at the half off goals from Pete Wasek, John Gillen and Michael Gemballa, the Allstars added five unanswered goals in the second to finish out the day 8-1. Gillen added another pair, Wasek a single, Nichols a single and Volkert Besseling a lone tally.

The Allstars, with three wins and a loss, are now tied with two other squads for first place in the Santiago division -- FC Montalban and That's What She Said -- but the side narrowly has the best goal differential (+16).

Angel City FC, with three wins and a loss in the Sevilla Division, are tied for first with Del Rey United and the Dinosours of Reggae but also have a slightly better GD (+19)

ACFC remains undefeated in the Setanta Division with three wins and a tie, and are tops with a two-point lead over their nearest rivals, Matador FC.

ACFC teams return to play March 6 with only one match left before mid-season.

RESULTS

ACFC (5) vs Matador FC (5)
Goals: Marius Sandvik (3), Ben Kull, David Woirhaye
Assists: Blake Nickle, Craig Nichols, Kirby Adams

Dinosours of Reggae (5) vs Angel City FC (3)
Goals: Craig Nichols (2), David Woirhaye
Assists: Matt Onheiber, Ben Kull

AC Allstars (8) vs MT United (1)
Goals: John Gillen (3), Pete Wasek (2), Mike Gemballa,
Craig Nichols, Volkert Besseling
Assists: Dan Stafford


Top Goal Scorers | Winter-Spring 7s

17 David Woirhaye
12 Marius Sandvik
9 Luis Deveze
6 John Gillen
6 Anthony D'Marco
5 Nahum Navas
3 Craig Nichols
3 Ronnie Roman
3 Daniel Klein
3 Mike Gemballa
2 Pete Wasek
1 Matt Onheiber
1 Peter Marlenga
1 Kirby Adams
1 Ben Kull

Angel City Soccer League gearing up for Spring

The Angel City Soccer League is currently contacting previous squads that were involved in the inaugural season to determine interest in a spring league to be held Sundays at Play Vista from April 18 through May 30.

The league website acsl.angelcityfc.com as usual will be your best source for updated information. Stay tuned for details.

Angel City 7s post second week of winning ways

The Angel City 7s continued their run of wins, racking up another trio of victories Saturday at Santa Monica Airport.

Both Angel City FC and ACFC sit atop the Setanta and Sevilla divisions with 3-0 records while the AC Allstars moved into a four-way tie for first in the Santiago division at 2 wins and a loss.

ACFC kicked off the mid-day games with a spirited 5-4 win over LA Peru FC on the back of a hat trick from David Woirhaye and singles from Marius Sandvik and Dan Klein. The match saw ACFC get off to a quick lead in the first half, but Peru fought back in the second to keep things interesting.

Angel City FC then took to the field against a familiar Team Esquire side posting a satisfying 3-0 result which included a brace from striker Anthony D'Marco and a PK conversion from Woirhaye.

The AC Allstars capped the day with a 6-3 drubbing of former Santiago leaders Mar Vista sss-Keeta with John Gillen and Sandvik netting braces and Mike Gemballa and Luis Deveze earning single tallies. Playing a younger and often faster side, the Allstars used field smarts and a strong counterattack to build up a lead and put the game out of reach before the final whistle.

All three matches saw the return of Sergio Ramirez between the posts, who last saw ACFC action during LA Classic 7 v 7 tourney at the Home Depot Center in October.

ACFC teams return to play February 27 with only two matches left before mid-season.

RESULTS

ACFC (5) vs LA Peru FC (4)
Goals: David Woirhaye (3), Daniel Klein, Marius Sandvik
Assists: Ronnie Roman, Marius Sandvik, Kirby Adams,
Leo Wallach

Team Esquire (0) vs Angel City FC (3)
Goals: Anthony D'Marco (2), David Woirhaye (PK)
Assists: Luis Deveze, Marius Sandvik, Miguel Lopez
Shutout: Sergio Ramirez

AC Allstars (6) vs Mar Vista SSS-Keeta (3)
Goals: John Gillen (2), Marius Sandvik (2), Mike Gemballa,
Luis Deveze
Assists: Luis Deveze, Mike Gemballa, Volkert Besseling,
Dan Stafford


Top Goal Scorers | Winter-Spring 7s

15 David Woirhaye
9 Luis Deveze
9 Marius Sandvik
6 Anthony D'Marco
5 Nahum Navas
3 Ronnie Roman
3 Daniel Klein
3 John Gillen
2 Mike Gemballa
1 Matt Onheiber
1 Peter Marlenga
1 Kirby Adams

Spot the Everton Fan

ACFCer Mike Lewis fulfills a childhood dream on the eve of the Feb. 20 Red Devils vs The Toffees matchup in Everton. Should be a cracker.

PS: check out the well-known Los Angeles-based football club mentioned in the credits of The Lost Prophets latest release, The Betrayed (soon to be released on this side of the pond).

ACFC 11s drop to bottom

To say Wednesday night's loss to Lions Soccer -- a team that was previously winless after four matches with only a single goal to their credit -- was disappointing would be the understatement of the year thus far.

The Angel City FC 11s squad tumbled into the bottom of the Wednesday night division suffering a 4-2 defeat despite dominating the first half against Lions Soccer.

And while some calls during the game were unfortunate ... including two blatantly offside goals (LA Municipal Soccer stop giving nubs linesman duties), ACFC did have its chances, including a first half penalty kick awarded for a purposeful handball in the box.

Despite the missed PK, ACFC had a strong first half shutting down the Lions offense and generating numerous opportunities in the opponent's half. That first goal alluded the squad again though and it was 0-0 at the half.

The second half saw ACFC's offside trap defeated not by the Lions, but by horrendous officiating from the sidelines, leaving the squad 2-0 down after eight minutes of play.

The Lions converted a needless PK five minutes later to go up 3-0.

But ACFC kept pushing forward and notched two quick goalmouth tallies courtesy of Brad Colwell and Russ Muratov at the 61- and 63-minutes marks.

Despite pushing up for the equalizer, ACFC could not rally for the tying goal and five minutes before time the Lions finished the game with a final nail in the proverbial coffin.

With only a single point after five games, and a total of five goals, ACFC will need to drastically step up its game to make the playoffs this season.

The squad plays Fox and Hounds at Griffith Park, Feb. 24 with an early 7:10 PM start.

Feb. 13, 2010: ACFC Earns Trio of Wins

Nice weather brought out Angel City's scoring game this Saturday at the Santa Monica Airport fields as the three squads racked up a trio of wins and an impressive 23 goals.

David Woirhaye, who now tops the club scoring tables with 11 goals over three days of competition, notched seven goals over the three matches, with new additions Anthony D'Marco (4) and Ronnie Roman (3) close behind.

ACFC kicked off the day with an inspired win over FC Braziliense 7-4, taking advantage of quick checking and controlled ball play on the ground. Angel City FC continued the success with a hard-fought 10-6 win over the LA Rovers. Both squads boast 2-0 records thus far this season.

And the AC Allstars capped the day with a 6-0 win over what appeared to be a skilled FC Montalban side. Marlenga notched the shutout which gives the Allstars a 1-1 record now.

All three teams return to play February 20.

RESULTS

ACFC (7) vs FC Braziliense (4)
Goals: David Woirhaye (3), Ronnie Roman (3), Marius Sandvik
Assists: Blake Nickle (2), Ronnie Roman (2), Brad Colwell (2),
Marius Sandvik, David Woirhaye

LA Rovers (6) vs Angel City FC (10)
Goals: Anthony D'Marco (4), David Woirhaye (3), Peter Marlenga,
Matt Onheiber, Luis Deveze
Assists: Matt Onheiber (2), Luis Deveze, David Woirhaye, Marius Sandvik, Anthony D'Marco

AC Allstars (6) vs FC Montalban (0)
Goals: John Gillen, David Woirhaye, Marius Sandvik, Mike Gemballa,
Kirby Adams, OG
Assists: Mike Gemballa (2), Pete Wasek, Anthony D'Marco, David Woirhaye,
Kirby Adams
Shutout: Peter Marlenga

Top Goal Scorers | Winter-Spring 7s

11 David Woirhaye
8 Luis Deveze
6 Marius Sandvik
5 Nahum Navas
4 Anthony D'Marco
3 Ronnie Roman
2 Daniel Klein
1 Matt Onheiber
1 Peter Marlenga
1 John Gillen
1 Mike Gemballa
1 Kirby Adams

Feb. 6, 2010: Santa Monica 7s League results

ACFC (8) vs Del Rey City Premier (5)
Goals: Marius Sandvik (3), Nahum Navas (2), Daniel Klein (2), OG
Assists: Blake Nickle (2), Pete Wasek (2), Nahum Navas, David Woirhaye

Brentwood Hood (0) vs Angel City FC (14)
Goals: Luis Deveze (7), Nahum Navas (3), David Woirhaye (3), OG
Assists: Luis Deveze, David Woirhaye, Miguel Lopez, Ben Kull
Shutout: Christian Olde Wolbers

AC Allstars (2) vs That's What She Said (4)
Goals: David Woirhaye, Marius Sandvik

All three teams return to play February 13.

Top Goal Scorers | Winter-Spring 7s

7 Luis Deveze
5 Nahum Navas
4 David Woirhaye
4 Marius Sandvik
2 Daniel Klein

ACFC fight for 1-1 Glendale draw

Every game in ACFC's new top division experience sees the squad making huge steps towards former Div. C glory.

Meeting their third straight top table team Wednesday night at the newly reconditioned John Ferraro sports park, Angel City took on Glendale United, which sported two wins, two shutouts and a goal differential of +14 thus far this season.

Coach Billy Alarcon changed things up for the game, playing a 4-3-3 formation and a much more aggressive lineup to produce some much needed goals.

The game started on a scrambled note though as half the squad arrived minutes before kickoff due to traffic congestion on the 405 (go figure ... yes we hate the early playing slot).

Lateness aside, ACFC took the game to Glendale United for most of the match with early tackles and tight marking on the back line and in midfield, where captain and eventual game MVP Brandon Cole controlled distribution.

Chances were end to end with David Woirhaye and Leo Wallach tearing up the right flank, but it was Glendale who struck first late in the second half off a muddled free kick outside the box. The incident which saw Rahoul Ghose and a Glendale striker awarded yellow cards, gave Glendale the FK, even though the initial foul was against ACFC. The goal came after a scramble in the box, which narrowly missed being cleared.

The second half saw Peter Marlenga trading off with Dave Styles between the posts and a renewed effort to get the tying goal. Glendale appeared to slow down a bit, changing up their first half three to four striker formation for just two men forward. And chances came for ACFC, on several successive passes through the United defence, which played a fairly successful offside trap, aided by some questionable calls from the sideline officials.

Success came mid-half at the creative feet of Woirhaye, who found himself surrounded deep in Glendale territory by no less than five defending players. Undeterred, Worihaye held on to the ball and passed it forward on to himself -- and out of trouble -- before slotting a perfect cross into the box. JC Salinaszelaya met that cross with a looping header which cleanly beat the Glendale keeper.

For the rest of the match, ACFC kept the forward pressure on to get that second goal. Marlenga made at least two incredible saves off the Glendale counterattack ... including one just minutes from the final whistle.

End result ... a hard-earned point for Angel City ... Glendale United, no longer in first place.

Angel City hopes to continue its upwards rise next week at Griffith Park against Dinamo Spartak Feb. 10 with a 7:10 PM kickoff.

Five minutes can be a lifetime

Despite a marked improvement, Angel City dropped its second loss of the season to last year's division winners Burbank Red Machine 2-0.

The return of Kirby Adams to the sweeper position and Peter Marlenga minding the posts saw the squad on much more even terms in Div A. Hard tackles and strong defence off the back line and in the midfield kept the game at 0-0 until the closing stages of the first half, when the Red machine capitalized on a chip across the box. Marlenga had turned away numerous chances prior to the goal, including saving a PK. Less than five minutes later Burbank struck again with a shot from a defender outside the box, after Angel City failed to close him down.

The second half saw chances for both sides but no additional goals. Angel City did finally saw some of it old form back. But the squad will need to up its goal production during next week's match against Glendale United to pull out a win. The game kicks off at 7:10 PM at John Ferraro #5.

First two weeks a wash

This week's match against Slamdance FC has been postponed due to heavy rain.

The ACFC squad starting LA Municipal League play last week with a disappointing 6-1 loss to SC United, last season's League Cup winners. Mike Barthel scored the blues lone tally off an assist from Ben O'Meara after the team fought back to even terms in the second half. ACFC was down 5-0 at the half, but returned to form after the break to keep the second half 1-1.

ACFC plays Division champs Red Machine next week at Griffith Park with an 8:55 PM kick-off.

ACFC 11s kick off winter season Wednesday

The ACFC over-30 11s squad kicks off the 2010 winter/spring LA Municipal Soccer League season Wednesday night at John Ferraro with a first-time match-up against SC United ... it's a late kickoff at 8:55 PM.

United finished third in Division A during summer/fall action last season behind Glendale United and Burbank Red Machine, teams ACFC will face later this season as well. United posted a GD of +20 last season with 36 goals for and 16 against, and an overall record of 8 wins and 4 losses.

ACFRC narrowly missed playoffs last season finishing one point below third spot in Division B with an 8-5 record and a GD of +15.

ACFC moved into the "A" Division (now the Wednesday night 30s) after FC Perya was dropped from the league last season for too many defaults.

ACSL Food Drive

Welcome back and Happy New Year.

I just wanted to update you on the results of our holiday food drive. Ivan O'Neil organized the event and Pete Marlenga delivered the food. And many club members and league players donated food.

Thanks to everyone who helped out.

Cheers

Ben

PS: Here's Ivan's email about the event...

ACSL Community,

We would like to thank you for your generous contributions to the Westside Food Bank this past weekend. The Westside Food Bank staff were pleased and surprised to see our boxes show up on Monday.

Together, we donated 200 lbs of food. That's about enough to feed a family of four for two weeks.

If anyone was unable to donate last weekend but wanted to help, the Westside Food Bank accepts monetary donations on their website.

Thank you for helping others in this time of hardship.


On behalf of ACSL, I wish everyone safe and happy holidays,

Ivan O'Neil