Dayton, May 6, 2018 - Dayton Dutch Lions FC had a very busy weekend with the our oldest (U18s) in a tournament and our youngest (U10s) playing local and all teams in between in action. The Mens' PDL team had a good week of training as well with over 15 guys arriving from all over the country and the Netherlands.
PDL Head Coach Dan Griest and his coaching staff have put together a strong roster of young men to contend for playoff contention. Four nights of training culminated with a Saturday afternoon scrimmage in Columbus with the expansion NPSL FC Columbus team. The Lions took a group of 20 players to the Grandview Heights HS stadium and came away with a 1-0 scrimmage win. Griest shared that the boys gave a solid effort, but the team looked like a group that was just getting to know each other. The Lions scored early in the second half on a JJ Williams penalty kick. More players will be arriving throughout the coming week as they prepare for their Friday, May 18th home opener.
The U18 boys took care of business at the Cincy West Soccerfest winning the U18/U19 Gold division. On Saturday, the morning match was a workman like 7-2 win followed by a very physical 1-1 tie that challenged the boys to stay focused on soccer. They needed a two-goal advantage win on Sunday morning to make the final and they played their most complete match with a convincing 4-0 win. The final was against the U19 Westerville United Black squad and was very worthy championship match. Both teams played an open attacking game of soccer and it was a pleasure to watch. The Lions scored first early in the second half and kept the lead until 6 minutes to play as Westerville found the equalizer. The overtime period went the Lions way as they scored to win the championship 2-1. Congratulations U18s!
The U10 boys continued their winning ways with a controlling 3-1 win over CUSA Crew. They sit atop the league standings with a record of 4-0-1. The boys were pressing all over the pitch which led to at least 8 quality scoring chances in both halves. Though they created many chances, they could only put three in the back of the net. They continue to receive positive comments ~ for the third straight match the referee spoke with Coach Ric after the game to share what a pleasure it was to see quality soccer being played at this age. Players talking, moving for each other and making passes instead of just kicking the ball. As one parent said after the game, "This game was fun to watch! They had some really nice moments of soccer. The process is working!"
The U13 team provided a roller-coaster match as they defeated the Oakwood United 3-2. They were in complete control of the game and led 1-0 at halftime. Unfortunately, a lack of focus led to some "kickball" soccer and Oakwood took the lead with back-to-back breakaway goals. The young Lions did not cave, but instead came back with a renewed commitment to playing their style of soccer. This led to two very nice goals and a deserving win. They currently have a record of 2-1-2.
The U14 boys two game winning streak came to an end with a 4-2 loss. The boys had a rough opening half with little communication and a lack of effort. This led to a 3-0 halftime deficit and a big hole to try and dig out of in the second 35 minutes. The Lions did make some changes and played some quality soccer that led to two goals in five minutes. Though they continued to press, they could not find an equalizer and conceded late as they pushed hard for a tying goal. They are currently tied for third place in the Premier 2 BPYSL division.
The U16 boys traveled to Columbus for their BPYSL match and gave a strong effort. They created at least 8 quality scoring chances, but could not find the back of the net. They lost concentration for just a few minutes and it cost them as they gave up the winning goal in the final 5 minutes of the match. The U16 Lions continue to stay competative in each of their matches.
The U17 girls played host to Club Ohio and had their chances to get a win, but the see-saw battle went the way of the visitors as the Lions lost 3-2. Each team worked hard going back and forth in scoring. The Lions twice scored to tie the match, but could not get the final goal needed. This team continues to improve as they work together.