Saturday, September 19, 2009

Dolphins vs. Goal Rush 9/19/09

Bright and early on the morning of Sept. 19th, the roar of a crowd could be heard by nearby Novato residents. No, it wasn't the San Marin football fans, but instead, was the the Novato U10 girls soccer team, the Dolphins and their fans, celebrating their first win of the season against the fast and furious Novato Fury. The Dolphins exectued an amazing game plan with spot-on passes, precise dribbling, and great communication. Their hustle and determination resulted in five goals (total) scored by Lindsey Loeber, Brittany White, Annabel Milliner, Jennifer Chin and Mariah Scott. Midfielders Isabel Gala, Molly Phelan, and Mckenzie Barnes constantly fed through-balls to the front line which resulted in several assists by the threesome. Gillian Rodgers and Rachel Houlihan showcased their ability to dribble through multiple defenders, while Maggie Duffield and Emilee Gendel (along with White) held the Dolphin's defensive line strong. The Dolphins came close to a shut out with the dynamic duo of Jacqueline Bondanza and Michele Malliaris taking turns as goalkeepers as well as solid defenders. The Novato Fury made a comeback right after halftime, making the score 3-1, but the Dolphins made two more 2nd half goals to make the final score 5-1.

Dolphins vs. Pumas 9/12/09

It was a cold and damp morning as the Dolphins started their morning early with team photos. The weather didn't dampen their spirits as they played their hearts out in a tough battle against the Pumas. It was slow going at first, but as their bodies started to defrost, so did their skills. Brittany White scored the Dolphins lone goal. Annabel Milliner and Jacqueline Bondanza played a solid defensive game. Maggie Duffield and Rachel Houlihan kept the midfield under control as they showed their endurance with constant support on defense and offense. Mariah Scott showed her versatility by playing on the field as well as playing in goal.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Dolphins vs. Novato Fury 9/8/09

It didn't seem to matter that the Dolphins had a long weekend off AND attended a full day of school because they were still able to bring passion and intensity to their second game of the season. It was "the battle of the defenses" between both teams as the score was tied 0-0 until about 20 minutes into the first half when the Fury struck first, making the score 1-0. It didn't take long for Brittany White to change that. Thanks to a perfectly executed play starting from the Dolphins side of the field, Rachel Houlihan was the one to put the plan into motion. She dribbled the ball up to half field where she passed it off to Emilee Gendel. Gendel then made a brilliant pass to White who weaved through players and blasted the ball past the Fury keeper. During the second half, Michele Malliaris played a near flawless game as defender for the Dolpins. Gillian Rodgers and Annabel Milliner teamed up as the dynamic duo, displaying their speed and control as each had several fast breaks on offense. Thanks to the amazing talents of Jennifer Chin and Isabel Gala in goal, the Dolphins only gave up a few goals. The Dolphins are looking forward to an action packed Saturday with team photos and their third game! See you on the field!

Dolphins vs. Hippies Opening Day 8/29/09




Despite the heat blazing well into the 100's, the Dolphins showed their skills in their first game of the season! The morning started off with the NYSA Opening Day Parade down Grant Avenue in Novato. Even at 9:00 a.m. the heat could be felt! The girls had a great time cheering their way down the street while their parents waved from the sidewalks. Opening Day is always fun to see all the teams come together to display their pride for Novato Youth Soccer!

After the parade, the girls gave it their all in their season opener vs. The Hippies. The Dolphins worked incredibly hard during the month of August and all their hard work paid off on the field! Brittany White, Emilee Gendel, Mckenzie Barnes and Lindsey Loeber all came within inches of scoring their first goals. We saw a stellar performance by the whole team, but notably by Maggie Duffield, Mariah Scott, Jacqueline Bondanza and Molly Phelan. Thank you to all the Dolphin players that volunteered in the goal. All in all, it was a great first game and we can't wait to get back out on the field! A huge THANK YOU goes out to all the Dolphin parents and family supporters! Thanks for being there to cheer on your team!