Pistolas FC 2011

All the pregame talk, stats, and predictions should've been cause for concern - at least it seems that's the way Mr.Murphy likes his laws to go.

But on Sunday night, Murphy's Law - though close - did not come to fruition, as the brave Pistolas held on to survive with a 3-2 win over the lowly Cody F.C. team.

In fact, neither Cody, Steve, Maurizio, Albert or any of the former Vaughn Strikers were present (with the exception of Anthony on defense).  Cody F.C. showed up in full force with 5 subs, and presented quite a few challenges for the defence and keeper and were hardly the team from last year.

The Pistolas broke open the scoring midway through the first half to take an early 1-0 lead.  Shortly after, a striker on Cody F.C. came down the left flank and threw in a floating shot across the net into the top right corner.  A well placed shot or a little luck, it was 1-1.

Things evened up again at 2 heading late into the game.  Then, after playing sweeper for a considerable time in the second half, Eddy Megurian got that look in his face that says 'Im Just Gonna Take Over This Game'.  As if almost at will, Eddy picked up the ball in the defensive end, dribbled through sprawling defensive attempts by opposing midfielders and defenders, and notched in the 3rd Pistolas goal of the game; the decisive winner.

3-2 was the final, another Pistolas F.C. victory.  

Next week, we are in tough against a much improved FC All Stars team that sits 3rd in the league.  Yes this is the team that we tied 2-2 back in the friendly, but it seems as if they've really hit their stride and have really grown.  We'll need a full team for this match for sure.

Next Game
Date: Sunday July 29th
Field: Centennial
Time: 5:00 pm

Pistolas FC are moving in a new direction.  With 2 wins under our belt we are moving towards bigger and better things.

So going forward in this new direction, we've abandoned our previous logo/banner (which if you've already forgotten looked very slightly like this: http://www.mcfc.co.uk/default.sps?pagegid={CF6F2136-FB17-4EA6-A253-A57869C8EC94}&lid=SplashCitycard)

Instead, with the help of one of the worlds top graphic designers in graphic branding, we now have our very own, original, logo.

The Logo features two side profiles of a lion's head representing the two fierce halfs that we play each game.  The 'P' on the sheild was a simple but effective branding technique so as to become a recognizable and feared crest the world over.  Finally in the banner are the letters P,F,C standing for the Pistolas Football Club.

Now that this major step has been taken, there will be more news on the future direction of the club, coming soon within the next few weeks.

The History
You circled this date on your calendars in the preseason, and now it is finally upon us - the grudge match of the season. Following a disappointing season with Cody F.C. (formerly the Vaughn Strikers) last year, Mark, Ivano and Davidinho defected in 2007 to resurrect the Pistolas F.C. name and put together this years squad. Some familiar faces will grace the pitch this time on oppossing sides. This is definitely a derby of crosstown rivals thats shaping up to be a dandy to watch on Sunday and for years to come.

The Skinny
In 6 games this season, Cody F.C. have amassed a record of 0 wins and 6 losses and no ties for 0 points on the season and currently sitting 9th out of 9 in the standings. They've scored 2 goals for and have 34 against, with no shutouts.

The Breakdown
In this Sundays matchup against Cody F.C., the Pistolas are finally pitted against a team lower than them in the standings. This is a team that is suffering not only on the pitch, but mentally as well. A couple of quick goals by the Pistolas should warrant the phrase "here we go again" on the minds of Cody F.C. The team has only scored 2 goals in 6 games, and have given up an average of just over 5 goals a game. They'll be hungry for a win, but losing 6 straight must be waring on them now. Perhaps the 6 straight losses will mean a short attendance on their squad, a parralell to last years team when the going got tough.

The Keys
The Pistolas F.C. will need to be strong on the defensive end, and cant deviate from the progress they've made simply because we face a weaker team. Another key will be in goal; midfielder Colin McNicoll left last game with a pulled hamstring and is unfit to play, however, his determination has requested that he play in net. Ultimately this will be a game time decision based on his match fitness in which Scorpinho will get another brief stint upfront. Alternatively, Colin and Scorpinho may split the goaltending duties by halfs. Finally, the offensive unit will need to really come alive and press hard and getting early goals. Early goals will deflate the team quickly.

The Firepower
Eddy Megurian should have his way with this team as well as fellow speedsters J. Shumski and Charles Eppich. But don't be surprised if any number of players on this squad delivers an unlikely goal. Scorpinho is looking forward to possibly getting some time upfront due to the circumstances, and knows the opposing keeper all too well.

The Prediction
With the play of the last two weeks, and the commitment in attendance and on defence, the team has showed maturity and capability in winning any game. But that doesn't mean that they should be taking this team lightly. After all is said and done, Cody F.C. would like nothing more than to relish their first victory as well. Ultimately, however, I think the firepower and ball control is just too great for Cody F.C. and the boys will notch their second win.
Final Score: Pistolas 6 - 0

The long awaited taste of victory resounded deep in the hearts and minds of the Pistolas F.C. and their loyal fans this past Sunday as our heroes took to the field against Markham United (no relation to Manchester) and left with a nail-biting 3-2 win.

As predicted in a previous article, Eddy Megurian and Gus the Greek came out of the woodwork to provide the goal scoring with the former notching a pair including the go ahead goal.

"It was great to see the lads rally and never get down on themselves, especially after I let them down" said goalkeeper Scorpinho.  "On the first goal it was bouncing from side to side and I tried sliding in hard cleats up to prevent the sprawling stirker.  I felt my cleats ram right into his knee and thigh, but it wasn't enough to stop that crap ass goal.  I felt rattled after that.  On the second goal it wasn't an unlucky bounce.  What happened was as the bounce was coming in, both my feet got stuck, I tripped and dropped to my knees and the ball bounced over.  I was devestated that I had let our lead disappear against a team we were clearly better than."

Shortly after on a goal kick, Scorpinho reinjured his knee from last game and was forced to leave the game with 35 minutes left in the half.  Sweeper Rocco took his place in net and tended the goal well.

The most important part of the game was when it was tied 2-2.  It can become psychologically deflating to lose a lead or get scored on, but you cant even think of it - and thats what the troops did.  The whole team rallied to press forward for another goal which was fulfilled by the ever present Eddy Megurian.  The lead forced an all out defensive protection by the Pistolas squad.

Minutes later, Carlos Quinto went down with a very bad knee injury but there was no stretcher on the pitch (though some fans were even in tents on the stadium grounds).

As the final whistle went, the boys of the PFC yelled out in glory.

But the season is not over and we must start preparing for the next test.  The emails will be going out shortly.

In an exclusive interview with Eira, I've managed to attain this years playoff format - and pay attention because this is a doozy of format!

On August 5th the playoff will begin, with the first place team getting a bye, and the remaining 8 teams in action - so yes all teams make the playoffs (congratulations gentlemen we just qualified!)

In week 1, the 8 remaning teams will be seeded according to final standings and like the NHL or NBA 1 will play 8, 2 v. 7 and so on.  The winners of the 4 matches advance to the next week, but so does a losing wildcard.  The wildcard is determined by how many goals you lose by.  For example a 5-4 playoff loss equals out to a 1-0 loss - not my rule just passing on this format.

Aug. 12th - Week 2 of the playoffs will now have 6 teams.  The 4 winners from last week, the 1st place team that had a bye in week one, and the top wildcard.  Again the final standings will create the seedings and determine who plays who.  Of these 3 matches, the 3 winners plus one wildcard advances to the semi finals.

Aug. 19th - Week 3 will be the semi finals, and on Aug. 26th, Week 4, the 3rd place game and the finals will take place.

Now regardless of how teams do, the losers will continue to play each week, however, games may be during the week to get all games in (again just relaying what I've been told).

With that said, the wildcard presents many opportunities for advancing through the playoffs, but instead of worrying about that lets help out our position in the standings because as it stands 6 points in our favour would help our playoff schedule.

!VIVA PISTOLAS!

The Skinny
In 5 games this season, the Markham United have amassed a record of 2 wins and 3 losses and no ties for 6 points on the season and currently sitting 6th out of 9 in the standings.  They've scored 10 goals for and have 23 against, including 1 shutout.

The Matches
In their opening match, the Markham United were trounced 10-0 by the 1st place Markham Blues (Blue).  They followed that up with a 7-3 loss to the 2nd place GB United (yellow).  In their 3rd game against 3rd place Solun F.C. (the team we played last week) they lost 4-2.  In a game against the Titans they won 3-2 (the Titans ironically beat us 6-4 in that first game of the season and haven't won since).  Finally in their last outing 2 weeks ago the Markham United beat out the leagues worst team Cody F.C. by a score of 2-0.

The Breakdown
Markham United had an off week last week and might be showing some rust.  They are also, however, on a 2 game winning streak and have seem to improved each and every game.

The Pistolas F.C. are also coming off possibly their strongest showing to date and have improved on defence over the course of the season.  But without a win yet, the Pistolas F.C. will have to come out flying on all cylinders and prove themselves.

The Keys
The Pistolas F.C. will need to be strong on the defensive end first and foremost, playing a solid 4 rotation back with a sweeper directing the 'D'.  The Mids will have to build on last game, when they came back to support, but must be ready to sprint back upfield on the counter attack.  This is where substitutions will play a key role.  As last week showed, this team can compete with anyone when they have a full roster.

The Firepower
Eddy Megurian is due for a breakout game and a couple of goals, as is new sensation Gus the Greek.  Charles Eppich also showed signs of offense with his two goal performance last week bringing his season total to three, and Jay Shumski is also due with those wheels of his.  Colin McNicoll showed promise with his playmaking crosses and should add fuel to the fire.

The Prediction
This should be a well contested game that the Pistolas F.C. can't take lightly.  This is a must win game for them with the playoffs looming only weeks away.  After last week's game one can only be positive and feel that this revived club can finally break the spell and grab a win this Sunday.
The Score: 4-2 for the Pistolas F.C.

So far the emails have come in quick in response to this Sunday's attendance.

Confirmed (as of Wednesday) for this Sunday's game are:
1. Mark
2. Eddy M
3. Eddie M
4. Ronaldo
5. Davidinho
6. Ivano
7. Jason
8. John
9. Steve Ward
10. Charlize Eppich

Unsure:
11. Carlos Quinto

Injured:
12. Andrew Eppich

Can't Make It:
13. Marcello 'The Disappointment' Maiorano
14. Arbi

Have Yet to Reply:
15. Steve K. (though he doesnt check email Im sure he's in)
16. Rocco
17. Colin
18. Dave B.
19. Gus (the golden goal wonder)
20. Matt Dookie (though he's always there)

With a show of force in numbers, a new addition, and the return of some key players, the Pistolas F.C. showed up Sunday ready to complete.

With many subs on this hot, humid Sunday, the boys were able to change as frequently as possible giving energy up front to aging veteran Charles Eppich, who in turn potted the opening goal of the game.

Solun F.C. retaliated with a zinger of the crossbar that bounced back into play, followed by some acrobat dives and saves from keeper Scorpinho. Some flunky crosses by the Solun F.C. were saved and cleared out by the defence and the mids who got back, all of which came ready and committed to coming back and helping.

But on a miscalculated cross by the keeper, the Solun F.C. shot short side past a valiant dive by the keeper to tie the game at one entering the half.

The second half didn’t start quite as the Pistolas F.C. had hoped. Possession was mainly held by Solun F.C. in their offensive zone and they used the wind on some long shots on goal that sailed wide. In a painful error, the ball was lost on ‘D’ which led to a breakaway goal. 2-1 Solun F.C.

With plenty of time on the clock, the boys in black fought back hard and took control of the offensive play culminating with a ‘Goal of the Year’ candidate strike by Gus with a dazzling finishing header at the end of a glorious cross.

This amazing play was called back by the ‘ref’ on a very late, non existent call. All the Pistolas were justified in their anger over this bogus officiating. Coupled with other bad calls the Pistolas had their work cut out for them.

And on a following play where few will remember what even happened, three Solun players broke free and one blasted it in. 3-1 Solun F.C.

With the game winding down the boys would not give up the fight (no pun intended Shumski), and in the 78th minute, The Olden Boy Charles Eppich capped off some great passing with his second goal of the game. 3-2.

Regenerated, the Pistolas F.C. pressed on for the equalizer with Eddy Megurian taking a shot just deflected by the keeper and hitting the post. Carlos also had a chance or two with some headers.

All in all the Pistolas F.C. did not get the result they wanted, but this time it was not due to fault of their own. In a game fiercely competed that should’ve been at least a draw, a referee decided to leave his holier than thou imprint.

We competed hard and are still growing as a team. Having everyone show up was a big factor. Even if we had 12 guys, we wouldn’t have had the same result. We need everyone to win.

Thought no game is ever easy, our schedule has us playing the next 2/3 teams of a weaker caliber than we’ve faced to date. Our last game is against the F.C. All-Stars, the ginger colored team we played in the friendly who have grown strong and sit in 3rd place right now.

So let’s concentrate on next week against the Markham United. We have yet to win, so think all week how badly you want to win and let’s show up in numbers on Sunday ready to play. The email’s will be going out shortly.

NEXT GAME
Date: July 15th 2007
Time: 5:00 pm
Field: Same, Markham District High School - South Field

VIVA PISTOLAS!

If you haven't already heard, there's been a change in venue for this Sundays game.  It is now at MDHS South Field.  MDHS is the Markham District High School, home to our friendly game back in May.

Game time remains 5pm.  See you there.

PS - Great comment by 'Anonymous' in the post below.  I myself have been to all the games in Toronto and have seen some incredible talent and play.  My future star pick to look out for in the years to come?  Mathias Vidangossy from Chile....fricking incredible....and Giovanni dos Santos from Mexico ain't too shabby either....and if anyone from Team Canada is reading this, WHAT THE HELL IS SIMEON JACKSON DOING ON THIS TEAM!!!!! I BET ESKIMOS (INUITS TO YOU PC'S) COULD DO BETTER!!!!!

Yes Pistolas F.C. fans, the boys are regrouped, refocused, and back in action this Sunday July 8th against last year's championship team Solun F.C.

After a two week deserved hiatus for the clan, the group has responded well in emails in response to team voting on certain issues.  Only Rocco, Marcello, and Steve K., were absent in the voting procedures, but here are the results as follows:

In response to attendance at this upcoming Sunday's game, 14 out of 16 replies confirmed they'll be there, which puts us at 11 with 3 subs confirmed.  A great start.

In response to adding the 2 additional players, 14 out of 16 replies said yes.  I will be contacting Eira about this ASAP.

In response to a fair and frequent substitutions, 15 out of 16 voted yes, so the format will be discussed prior to the start of this Sunday's game.  Please be there early if you can to participate in this decision.

In response to playing the 5-4-1 formation it was fairly split with 8 voting yes, 7 voting no/not sure/not a fan of, and 1 non vote.  A lot of people stressed discipline at their respective positions which is essentially what we must do.  But perhaps a change in formation may work seeing as the 4-4-2 hasn't been.  Alternatively, I've placed a poll on the side where you can vote for which formation you think we should start in this Sundays game against last years champs.

This Sunday we face a tough test in Solun F.C.  Aside from winning last years title, they also had a tough game against this years top team, the Markham Blues, barely losing in the end 2-1.

We must rise to the occasion and show up in full force, help out on defense and get back on mid. Last year we had close games against this team and I feel this years team can beat them.  Make the best play, play as a team.  Look to teammates on the field.  Talk to each other.  Know everyones name.

Let's win.