Pistolas FC 2011

MARKHAM - It was a sunny evening that capped off a rain drenched season, and consistency won out in the end with the Markham Crush taking their first championship.

First off, in the third place game, Solun FC and Markham Dynamos squared off in a very hard fought game with Solun FC winning 3 to 2 over Markham Dynamos, to capture the consolation third place final.

In the Championship Final, Markham Crush won 2-0 over Limeys FC. Limeys FC came very close a few times to score but luck was just not in their corner last night.

That wraps up the 2008 season, but work at Pistolas FC is never done. PFC will be anouncing some new additions sometime this week, along with its continued pursuit to re-sign Eddy M.VP and Star Keeper Mark Cinerari. Stay Tuned!

MARKHAM - A tightly fought penalty shoootout quarter final match between Markham Crush and Solun FC, was nowhere to be found in the semi-final rematch this past Sunday night.

Advancing on the "wild-card" to cause an awkward rematch from the quarter finals, Solun FC were definitely not their usual selves as the Markham Crush cruised to victory with a 6-0 shalacking of the boys in white.

The victory puts them into the finals for the first time in league history. And with their first place league finish and semi-final decimation, they have got to be the clear odds on favourite to win the Centennial Cup Championship this coming Sunday.

In the other semi-final, Limey's FC - the first team this season to give the Markham Dynamo a run for their money - played the very same Dynamo team and pulled off the upset in a well battled mud match played in the rain of Ike.

With a 3-2 victory in regulation, Limey's FC also move on to the final for the first time in their club and league history.

The Markham Dynamo and Solun FC will play at 5pm at Centennial Field, in the consolation final for third place. These two powers will play in what could be considered a rematch of their 2007 Centennial Cup Final, however, with lesser stakes.

In the 2008 Centennial Cup Championship Game, Limey's FC will face Markham Crush in what should be billed as an interesting match.

The Markham Crush suffered only 2 losses all year; the first a crushing, decisive victory by a thin benched Pistolas FC squad; the second against the very same Limey's FC. Both the Crush and Limey's finished in the top four in the least goals against category, so expect a tight, defensive battle.

One can only imagine a well played game, and the experts at pistolasfc.com predict a 1-1 draw going to a shootout, where the Crush win due to a consistent goalie between the posts.

Game time, Sunday 7:00pm, Centennial Field.

TORONTO - Player-Owner Romerinho's return to the 2009 Pistolas FC roster is in doubt, after examining the '09 calendar and realizing he may miss between 6-9 weeks of the 16 week regular season due to International Duty.

Also, should the league decide to change its format regarding the number of games in the season, when the season begins, or whether or not one, two, or all long weekend games would be removed from the schedule as in other leagues, then that may affect his decision as well.

"It may not be until January or February at the earliest by the time I make a firm commitment or not to the club for the 2009 season. Of course, by revamping the roster, I'd expect that the club would proceed through the playoffs, where I'd be able to contribute from Round 1 onwards upon returning from some training, conditioning and playing in Europe," said Romeirnho.

"But to be fair to the club, and in the midst of Eckleton's move to the midfield, we will be searching for a quality striker who can find the net often."

Other rumours have circulated that another option for him would be to coach the team in the weeks leading up to his departure for Europe. And he'll be able to bring back some techniques and strategies from his tour as well.

Any which way, it will be an extremely tough decision for the man, the heart and soul of the team, to make within the coming months.

TORONTO - He got hurt in the 2008 preseason at BMO Field in Toronto. Running onto the pitch, his ankle rolled. He was never the same. But, being Ivano the "Raging Bull" Volpe, he roared on game in and game out playing through injury, and playing his game.

And he was effective. Playing through pain, he never showed it on the field, always charging, tackling, and dribbling the ball up the right flank, ever so often creating chances in the middle for the strikers.

A consistent, reliable player, the Raging Bull was a critical team member who gave the team chances to win every game. Often the victim of dirty opponent tackles, the Bull has always showed toughness and continued to fight for the ball, even though a card should've been given out.

Towards the latter part of the season, however, the injuries took a toll, claiming his groin, and causing severe shin splints that ultimately caused his absence from the Round 1 playoff game.

He'll be working on rehabilitating the many injuries he suffered during the offseason, and once cleared, will be hitting the gym regularly to regain fitness and speed. His presence in the midfield will be a welcomed return.

Also, 2009 will prove to be an exciting time for the Raging Bull, as he will also be gone for a few weeks overseas in July on International Duty.

One of the co-founders of the Pistolas FC organization, the Raging Bull is entering the 5th year of his eternal deal with the club. Previously, both he and Romerinho both played for Inter in the late 1990's, before venturing to play in Asia - Japan - and then returning to Canada to start Pistolas FC alongside Davidinho.

TORONTO - After all the rumours, chiefly his own, Ecuadorean midfielder Carlos Quinto has decided to not even to consider moving to FC Barcelona or Real Madrid, in favour of returning to a storied franchise in its own right, Pistolas FC.

Perhaps it was the lack of interest from the Galacticos or Messi's men, or perhaps his passion for playing at PFC was just too strong. Any which way, he will return to the PFC midfield rotation once he passess his medical and is deemed fit to play.

Playing with two screws in his knee, The Mighty Q almost retired after the 2007 season because of a swelling and pain in his knee. But his attempts at the 2008 season proved fruitful, and his presence was immense.

Always known as the bridesmaid (playmaker), but never the bride(goalscorer), he finished the year on a high notching his first goal against Silver FC in the final regulation game of the season.

"Carlos ranks right up there with Steve Ward as one of the most committed guys on the team. He's sacrificed alot game in and game out and is someone you can really count on to be at every game," said Romerinho. "Because of his loyalty to the club, I always knew he'd return and never for a moment thought he'd be leaving for Real Madrid or FC Barcelona........never."

TORONTO - Snake bitten no more. The era of Eckleton Richards as one of a cast at striker has come to an end, as he will not be back taking kickoffs and leading the front line.

However, there is a silver lining to the story, and that is that PFC will be getting a set of quick legs that can run all game in the newly reborn Eckleton Richards the midfielder.

Thats right fans, "Cobra Commander" has made the switch from striker to midfield where his stamina and workhorse attitude should help a midfield that needs to get back quickly to support the defence.

"When Eckleton first approached me with the idea of moving to midfield, I needed some time to digest the idea," said Romerinho, "I mean Eckleton has always been a threat upfront and has scored some pretty goals. But after deliberating on it for a while, I remembered that he's shown he can get back and run hard, and bring the ball all the way back up field, so I thought let's give him his wish. His fitness is one of the tops in the squad, and he's not afraid to muscle people off the ball. He will be a fantastic addition to our midfield."

And with his abilities to ride the flanks, don't be surprised if he cuts in from the wing for a few goals.

TORONTO - Jay Shumski has some unfinished business to take care of.

Having suffered a recurring ankle injury in the final month of play, his final regular season game ended in disaster as he was carted off by stretcher. Succumbing to his injury, he was a no go on defence in the playoffs, which deprived the line of his speed.

But he's back for 2009 with something to prove. He's got speed, heart, skill, and come 2009 health. Coupled with Rocco, Luch, Matt Dookie and Davidinho, the Pistolas FC defence seems to be shaping up.

"Jay's a true talent who knows his role and plays it well. He's definitely one of the reliable speedsters on the backline, and having him back is fantastic," said Romerinho.

The fans in the stands will definitely be thrilled to have him back as well, as many are his die-hard supporters.

TORONTO - Many will remember that memorable summer day when Davidinho emerged from his defensive shell to knock in two all but diving headers, showing the world he'd arrived.

Truth be told, Davidinho has actually long been with the Pistolas FC organization, and now prepares to enter his 5th season with the storied club as he rejoins in 2009.

A stalwart in the defensive midfield, and no stranger to the sweeper position when called upon, Davidinho showed a more offensive prowness this past summer and should be considered an extra clip of ammo in the Pistolas offence.

Wearing his trademark #15, fans and teammates alike will be more than happy to welcome him back to the roster.

MARKHAM - Limey's FC were in full form on Sunday as they decimated their opponents, Silver. Coasting to a 6-1 bashing, the Silver team never stood a chance. Limey's FC, a team that has been consistently strong all year long, earned a well deserved the victory and move on to the semi-finals next week.

But for both Markham teams, the Dynamo and the Crush - the top two teams during league play - it was a very close call, as they both escaped season ending losses in shootouts.

First, the Markham Crush played a tough game against perennial league contenders Solun FC - a team that lost to Pistolas FC in the 2008 semi finals, and loss to the Markham Dynamo in the 2007 finals - and when regular and extra time couldn't solve things, the shootout did.

The Markham Dynamo by all accounts squared off against an average at best team in Cornell FC, however, Cornell FC put up quite the fight and took advantage of the "Dynamo Slide" of recent weeks, forcing them to extra time and shootouts. Ultimately, the Markham Dyanamo were able to beat their former keeper of 2007, beating Cornell FC and advancing to the semi finals.

And in the wicked twist that pits a loser of the quarter-finals advance to the semi-finals, both Solun FC and Cornell FC had forced a shootout, however, Solun FC had more regular season wins, and will advance.

Ironically, Solun will play the Markham Crush in this Sundays semi-finals - a complete rematch of the quarter-finals, while in the other semi-finals, Limey's FC square off against the Markham Dynamo.

TORONTO - Defensive duo Rocco and Luch Picheca have re-signed with Pistolas FC for the 2009 season and bring back the firm wall on defence.

Rocco, now entering his third year with the club, has been the general on defence sweeping the line with his powerful voice and play. He has been the "Rock" of the defence for sure, and his return is a definite relief and a boost of confidence for the entire 2009 team.

Brother Luch joined in 2008, and did not disappoint. He had a strong year and was very defensive minded and reliable.

Above all, the brothers were committed, die-hard Pistolas who rarely missed any games and gave 100% every match.

The defence is starting to slowly shape up. Out of the 5 players already confirmed for 2009, 3 of them are defencemen. The team will need to shift its focus on the midfield and upfront in the coming weeks.

TORONTO - The G"olden" boy of the team, captain Charles Eppich, along with Steve Ward and Matt Dookie all exercised their player options and will be part of the new look 2009 Pistolas FC.

Team Captain Charles has been a key player in dealing with league officials both on and off the field, and though age (or Guiness) may have caught up to him and slowed him down later in the season, he was still rather speedy and finished the year with 6 goals on the year.

Steve Ward, the ironman record in games holder, was consistently there on the field week after week and was perhaps one of the top most committed members of the squad. His new shoes midseason appeared to do the trick, as he broke out on a streak in the latter stages of the year, and finished tied for second in scoring with 6 goals.

Matt Dookie's growth on defence continues two years in. He's been solid, chases down runs, and tackles like there's no tommorow. And never one to back down from opponents, his intimidating size often shuts them up first.

PFC will now turn its immediate attention to Keeper Mark C and Sweeper Rocco, and Eddy M.VP, all instrumental players in any success the team looks to acheive.

As for the rest of the squad, invitations to resign or tryout for next years team should be going out this week. Stay tuned.

TORONTO - An exciting chapter now begins for Pistolas FC as the offseason begins and a bevy of opportunities opens up to make this team more committed, more creative, more skilled, more defensive, and a hell of a lot quicker.

Having just barely missed out on the European Transfer Window which closed just yesterday, the likes of Christiano Ronaldo, Fernando Torres, Benzema, Adebayor, Dani Alves, Samuel Eto, Didier Drogba, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are all locked up for the year.

But before the mad rush to sign players begins, Team Player/Owner Romerinho (formerly Mark R.), along with Co-Founders/Assistant Directors Davidinho and the Raging Bull will meet with newly appointed Assistant Director Steve Ward and Team Captain Charles Eppich to discuss the current roster situation and the direction of the club. The group of 5 will collectively assess and evaluate any possible free agent signings.

The news has already created a buzz online in chatrooms around the world and here at home. Rumours are swirling around about the possible reuniting of Andrew 'Big Laser' Eppich (Pistolas FC '07), to the lineup. And the transfer of of Julius "Jules" Auyeung from Aurora Celtic would be a massive move that builds instant street cred.

Roman 'The Rainmaker,' and Mike Saliba are among other well known names that have been thrown around as well as a standout defensive back well known to Gus.

"With so many players to scout and so many interested parties, we may have to hold a few tryouts," Romerinho said laughingly, "but invitations to our offseason scrimmages will help sort things out, " said Romerinho. "Even though we don't play again for another 8 months, the roster needs to be finalized and submitted to the league by February, which gives us only 5 short months to decide."

We here at pistolasfc.com are bursting with anticipation and excitement, so stay tuned to this website daily for any upcoming news.

TORONTO - What went wrong?

That's the question Pistolas FC and their legions of online and stadium fans are left to ask themselves over the next 8 months.

The team dubbed "built for the playoffs" had enjoyed an outstanding run during the season, and were on track to cruise through the 1st round of the playoffs and then battle it out against the other top tier teams in the league. But the loss on Sunday to 10th ranked Silver has definitely shattered a season of hopes and dreams and left an angered squad searching for reasons for the collapse.

There are many possible reasons that could have contributed to the collapse. The weeks leading up to the playoffs had a number of games in a short span of nights to makeup rained out games, and as that built up so did the tired effect causing strain and injury to some players.

"Personally, looking back, I don't think I should've played in the final three regular season games against Silver, Inter Selects and the Titans," said Team Owner-Player Mark R, "I was in the middle of physio for my hamstring and pulled it in the game against the Titans. But we were short on subs, and I just love the game, so I always showed up. It was costly in the end as I was too tight to run and was ineffective for most of the game, sitting out the majority of the second half."

Ivano and Jay Shumski also battled injuries from too many games in too little time too close to the playoffs. Jay got hurt in the final regular season game, a game in hindsight he probably should have skipped in favour of the playoffs. His speed on defence was lacking big time.

Ivano's shin splints also started within that stretch of close games and grew progressively worse. He was hurting in the final regular season game as well, finding it difficult to run period.
Could his healthy presence made a difference? Most definitely.

All of these points ultimately reflect on two key components; scheduling and team committment.

The injuries to Ivano, Shumski, Mark R, Mark C, Gus, and others, along with the late arrival of Rocco and Luch in the Round 1 playoff game was due in part to horrible scheduling. The games were scheduled too close together, not allowing muscles to heal and repair with eventually caused undue strain, tear and deep bruising. But its something that also ties into general team committment shown by some more than others that made some carry a burden of too many games and minutes.

During plenty of games, there were close calls to playing short, or playing a few games with only one or two subs. In these games the legs wore down of the aging statesmen that carried the torch all season.

One thing's for sure, amongst the strides the club has made this season, there is plenty of improvements to be made, committment being a huge factor in roster spots.

And so begins the offseason, as Pistolas FC look to retool the roster and head to the transfer market for committed, skilled, quick, fit players. Next year's roster promises to be even better than this year as the club dedicated to once again capturing the championship.