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Seals Players Score for St. Mary's
August 29, 2008
 Goals from Samy and Claycomb not enough in St. Mary's Loss
 Anapolis, MD – The Saint Mary’s men’s soccer team opened the 2008 season with a 4-2 loss to the University of Maryland-Baltimore County in the Navy Invitational on a rainy Friday afternoon from the Naval Academy. Saint Mary’s got goals from Yousef Samy and Joe Claycomb (who played for the Seals U21 team this summer), but it wasn’t enough as UMBC's Andrew Gillis came off the bench to tally four points on a goal and two assists.
The Gaels took the pitch and put some early pressure on the UMBC Retrievers defense, as freshman Justin Grider and freshman Joel Fumia had good scoring opportunities within the first 20 minutes of the game. Unlike the Gaels, UMBC did not miss on their first two shot, as John Paul Waraksa fired a wide-open left-footed shot from the top of the into the right corner of the goal. Andrew Gillis set up the Waraksa goal in the 21st minute on a give-in-go from 18 yards out.
Gillis would set up the second UMBC goal, on a very similar play as the first goal. This time it was Levi Houapeu on the receiving end of the pass. Houapeu shot came from about 20 yards out and beat SMC goalkeeper Jason Badger to the upper left corner at the 34:12 mark. The Retrievers held the 2-0 lead into halftime.
Read the Full Story . . .
Other Notes:
Players from the San Francisco Seals will match up against The Santa Cruz Beach Soccer Club on Saturday, August 30 at 11am at the Main Beach in Santa Cruz in a Beach Soccer Exhibition Match. More . . .
Frogs Francise Shuts Down
August 24, 2008
The San Jose Frogs have decided to close down their franchise. The reason is not unfamiliar to the Bay Area - lack of fan support.
There is a large amount of passionate soccer fans in the Bay Area, but the interest to support teams playing at the higher levels seems to be less than required to support those teams for the long haul. Perhaps it is a lack of available time to attend. Perhaps it is a lack of understanding that soccer is a professional sport that young men and women can play in this country, and elsewhere through the opportunities the PDL, USL, and MLS provide.
Whatever the reason is, it is a fact.
In the past two years the Frogs and Seals had developed quite a rivalry. The Seals wish to thank Hartmut Esslinger for bringing a class organization to the Bay Area. They put together strong teams in each of their three years (one in the NPSL), and their players had considerable success, with 10 players drafted by MLS and European teams.
Read the full story on the Frogs website . . .
Thunder Bay Wins PDL Championship
 Saturday, August 9, 2008USL News Release
LAREDO, TX – The Thunder Bay Chill endured all the elements on and off the field Saturday night in Laredo to cap one of the most remarkable turnarounds in league history to become the first-ever Canadian champions of the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League. The visitors survived 100-degree heat, an initial deficit and a second half red card as they battled the defending champions to a 1-1 draw before capturing the title in penalties 4-1.
Two years ago, Thunder Bay only posted two wins on the season for a team-worst 2-11-3 record in nine years of play. Saturday night, it was two saves in penalties by Stephen Paterson that put the Chill down in PDL and USL history in front of 3,451 at Texas A&M International University.
You would not have expected the final result given Laredo controlled much of the possession in the match, allowing the hosts to get the initial scoring chances of the game before Thunder Bay began to find their own opportunities.
PDL Championship Saturday Night on FSC
August 7, 2008
On Saturday, August 9, the Laredo Heat will play host to the Thunder Bay Chill in the Premier Development League Championship live at 9:00 pm ET on Fox Soccer Channel. Both teams will be out to make league history by claiming the title. Having already made history as the first team to reach the PDL Championship game three straight years, the Laredo Heat will be looking to become the sixth team to repeat as league champion and the lowest seed to ever capture the title. The 13th-seeded Michigan Bucks beat the Heat in the first of back-to-back meetings in 2006 to set the previous mark for lowest seed. The other five clubs to win back-to-back championships are the Cape Cod Crusaders (2002-03), Chicago Sockers (1999-00), Central Coast Roadrunners (1996-97), Carolina Dynamo (1993-94) and Colorado Comets (1989-90). On the opposite side of the ledger, the Thunder Bay Chill, in their ninth year, have found unprecedented success in their franchise history and are looking to cap a remarkable two-year turnaround in which the club has gone from a record of 2-11-3 in 2006 to a mark of 17-2-1 overall in 2008. The Chill are only the second Canadian team to reach the final (Calgary 2001) and could be the first to win the PDL championship. Canadian teams have only won five previous championships in overall USL history. The Montreal Impact have two USL First Division titles (1994, 2004) and the Vancouver Whitecaps have one USL-1 title (2006) and two W-League championships (2004, 2006).
Prescott Joseph attends Earthquakes - Galaxy Game
August 5, 2008
The Seals Junior Clinic sponsored 17 tickets for children from the Prescott-Joseph program in West Oakland to attend the Earthquakes - Galaxy game at the Coliseum on Sunday . This is a photo of some of the children.
We sold tickets at retail price for this game to members of the Seals Junior Academy. The Earthquakes allowed us a discounted rate for this purpose. The difference was used to pay for the tickets for the Prescott Joseph children. The total amount raised was $925. This amount was sufficient to sponsor 17 children to watch the game. There was $90 left over. A check for that amount will be sent to Prescott-Joseph for their soccer program.
Donors were Juan Kong, who provided 4 tickets, Emily Green ($100 donation), Kenyatta Scott ($25 donation), and ticket purchasers: James Gray, Jacy Crawford, Patrick Mcguire and Issac Thrupp.
We are very grateful to these generous individuals who made it possible for the children of Prescott-Joseph to attend the Earthquakes - Galaxy game at the Oakland Coliseum on Sunday, August 3rd.
Yuri Morales, staff member of the SJ Earthquakes, made the arrangement possible.
The Prescott-Joseph soccer program is a West Oakland program. Seals coaches who run that program include Paul Aigbogun, Shani Simpson, Rawley Masaniai and Aziz Dieng. The program is funded by the Prescott-Joseph Center. It's a 6 week program that provides the children of Prescott-Joseph a daily exposure to soccer skills and training during the Summer. Prescott-Joseph, under the leadership of Dr. Washington Burns, MD, intends to expand the Summer Program to a year-round program. Dr. Burns hopes to start the program this coming Fall. Interested donors can send their support to Prescott-Joseph Soccer, c/o SFUSC, 120 Magellan Ave, San Francisco, CA. SFUSC is a non-profit affiliate of the San Francisco Seals that was established to support and initiate soccer programs for inner city children.
Vancouver Out - Thunder Bay to Meet Laredo in Final
August 2, 2008
  By Simon Fudge/whitecapsfc.com
Vancouver Whitecaps FC Residency fell to a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat at Thunder Bay Chill in the USL Premier Development League semifinal on Saturday evening. In the first-ever all-Canadian semifinal in PDL history, a crowd of 1,546 at Thunder Bay's Chapples Park saw a dramatic contest between two conference champions, with the game's decisive moments taking place in the four minutes of second-half stoppage time. After a goalless first half, Scott Milroth gave Thunder Bay the lead just after the hour mark, but just as he did one week ago in the PDL Western Conference semifinal against San Fernando Valley Quakes, Randy Edwini-Bonsu equalized in the final minute to seemingly set up extra time. Yet, the  extra half-hour would not be required, as the Chill's Alvaro Zendejas headed home a corner in the fourth minute of stoppage time to secure Thunder Bay's first-ever berth in the PDL championship final.
Laredo Heat 3-peat - Downs Austin
Laredo Heat Website Story
ORLANDO, FL -- Saturday’s Southern Conference Final between the defending PDL Champion Laredo Heat and the first-year Austin Aztex was a match-up between two clubs with a great friendship. Then the whistle blew. And, just four minutes later, the referee issued two yellow cards following a 10-player melee at midfield that also saw a player on the bench sent off.
Speaking with Austin’s owner Phil Rawlins before the match, things were expected to play out a bit differently.
“Laredo has been extremely helpful in our efforts to develop a competitive PDL team,” said Rawlins. “Shashi and JJ were supportive and helped us to prepare for this season. When we went down to Laredo, we arranged to bring both of our second teams to play a match prior to our PDL match. That was good for both of us.”
“Next season, when we move up to USL-1, our relationship with Laredo will be important,” added Rawlins. “They are focused on player development. Any time we want to send a guy down they will be an option for us. Likewise, if they have a guy they think is ready to play at the next level, we are an option for him to move up.”
One thing Rawlins was dead on about was his pre-game prediction.
“The first time we played it honestly could have gone either way,” said Rawlins. “The second match opened up a bit. Today is going to be our toughest game of the season. They are the reigning champs. That’s not a title they are going to give up very easily. It will be tight, a low scoring game.”
Chris Rodd Enjoying the Good Life in Norway
August 2, 2008
Last December the Seals announced that two successful seasons with the Seals and USF, defender Chris Rodd has signed a three-year contract to play in Norway for the Bryne Fotballklubb, a pro team that plays in the Adeccoligaen division, the second highest division of the Norwegian professional football league. Prior to 2005, and Adecco investing in the league, the league was known as Division 1.
"It's a dream come true," Rodd said at the time. "I was fortunate to have things happen this way. To get seen during my college days and to be signed by Bryne is amazing." We are pleased to report he is doing well, and living well.
Chris is currently in the middle of his first season with the team.. Currently in 11th place, the team was in 3rd place a few weeks ago, and are now only 8 points from the 3rd place team too right now in a pretty tight race.
"I have learned a lot, and the style of play is completely different than I have ever played in," said Rodd. "When you get the ball, the first thing you are supposed to do is go forward as soon as possible and every game has at least 40 crosses into the box so heading and clearances are a big part of my job as a center back."
Rodd made his debut in December in negative 5 celsius weather. "I had to wear pants, long underwear, gloves, neck warmers, etc. It was a shock in just the clothing. We wore pants in games all the way until the end of March and played in snow a few times as well," Rodd told the Seals Newsletter. "I have traveled to 3 countries to play teams and have even had the chance to play against Brann, which is in the UEFA cup this year."
 It's not all easy, and Rodd has learned that professional sports can be tough. "I have played in 11 of 16 games so far in the league and cup play. I was benched for a short period for not performing up to expectations so I had to play in the reserve games."
Not everyone can transition from the U.S. to Europe. Perhaps the most notable failure was Landon Donovan, who simply didn't enjoy the culture differences, among other things. Not so for Rodd. "I am really glad I made the decision to come play here. I live a very good lifestyle and I use my free time to learn Norwegian, read, and play the guitar. I have met some amazing people on the way too. The biggest difference I have to deal with every day is the pressure of winning and performing very well. Games are very important to the team, investors, and the community so there is a lot riding on everyone's shoulders every day."
We are glad to hear from Chris, and wish him continued success!
Vancouver Advances on 4-1 Win Over Tacoma
July 28, 2008
Vancouver Whitecaps News Release - www.whitecapsfc.com
 Sunday, July 27, 2008
FRESNO, CA -- Vancouver Whitecaps FC Residency captured the USL Premier Development League Western Conference title with a comprehensive 4-1 win over Tacoma Tide.
As was the case in Saturday's 3-1 victory over San Fernando Valley Quakes, Residency striker Randy Edwini-Bonsu was the hero, as he scored two goals and set up a third.
The two regular season encounters between these Northwest Division rivals had both been explosive affairs. Tacoma won big on home soil with a 4-0 result at the start of June, as the Washington State club handed Thomas Niendorf's youngsters their worst defeat of the season.
Three weeks later, Vancouver returned the favour, crushing Tacoma 5-1 at Simon Fraser University - much to the chagrin of the Tide coach, who is none other than former Whitecaps star Fran O'Brien.
Sunday's clash was the all-important rubber match, with the Western Conference championship on the line. With both teams playing their second game in as many days - and far from home at Fresno, California's Chukchansi Park with the temperature past 36 degrees Celsius - it was as much a test of character and resolve, if anything else.
Southwest Teams Eliminated from Playoffs
July 26, 2008
The Fresno Fuego and San Fernando Valley Quakes were eliminated from the PDL Playoffs today in the first round.
The Tacoma Tide and Fuego squared off at 7:30 pm in Fresno in a rematch of last years playoffs when the Fuego defeated the Tide 4-1. This year was a different story.
Tide forward and team captain Rory Agu was looking forward to coming in to Fresno and avenging last year's loss. Agu, who had 11 goals and 3 assists for the season did not score in the match, but he got his satisfaction. The first goal came just 19 minutes into the match with a long throw in from Dennis Sanchez to Daniel Scott.
Scott out leaped the Fuego defenders to knock the ball up into the air, and then got up over everyone a second time, to knock it into the net.
The Fuego brought the heat throughout the game, and stepped it up in the second half, getting off eight shots, but Tide keeper Jordan Jennings only needed to make one save. The Tide defended well, and took their opportunities when they could. In the 76th minute Tide forward Spencer Schomaker got the ball at his feet, turned, made a few cuts to defeat the Fuego defense, and slotted the ball past keeper Ryan Kenny his 10th goal on the year.
The Tide's final goal came off a Fuego corner kick when all 10 Fuego players were up for the corner, and Chase Tangney found himself alone on his own half to receive an onside pass from the clear. He took
the ball to the Fuego box and blasted the ball into the net to secure the 3-0
win.
The Quakes faced the Vancouver Whitecaps Residency at 4:30 pm also in Fresno. With temperatures hitting 102 degrees, this match was a tough one as the teams battled each other and the heat.
San Fernando Valley thought they had the match in the 82nd minute when Ferguson Agwa put the ball in the net for his 4th goal of the season. As time reached regulation, their hopes were high, but the game was leveled in the 90th minute when Randy Edwini-Bonsu put the ball in the net for his 10th goal of the season.
The Whitecaps finished off their victory in overtime with two more goals when Edwini-Bonsu got his second of the match in the 110th minute, followed by the Whitecaps third goal from Drew Russell in the 116th minute.
Sunday, July 27th Tacoma will face off against the Whitecaps in Fresno at 7:00 pm.
Burgos and Carr Named All Conference
July 25, 2008
The first round of PDL Honors were announce Friday, July 25th, and two Seals players were recognized for outstanding play this season: midfielder Efrain Burgos (Junior), and defender Doug Carr.
Carr ( Sonoma State) was solid in defense all season for the Seals. Playing typically in the center right, Carr supported Rich Halvorsen on his left, and Yousef Samy on his right. Carr played more minutes than any other Seals player throughout the season, as his 1,307 minutes was 140 minutes more play time than Rich Halvorsen who was second in play time with 1,167 minutes on the pitch.
Carr was often seen standing up the attack, ripping the ball away from an attacker, or effectively defending the net against a shot. Once he had the ball Carr was into the attack, bringing the ball up through the midfield and delivering the ball to the forwards or out the the wing.
"Doug was really solid for us," head coach Tom Simpson stated. "A real asset to us in defense."
Junior ( San Jose State) came on strong as the season progressed. Finishing the season with four goals and two assists, Junior earned himself 10 points. Always dangerous with the ball whenever he was near the goal, Junior also helped create chances. "I love this kid," said Seals forward Peter Lovell. "He sees the field so well, and his passes are incredible. Right on. He gives me so many opportunities with his play and passes - I just love him. I wish he were always in the game for me."
One of Junior's specialties is the free kick on goal. His ball has a great curve, and goalies have to be extra sharp.
Junior became an integral part of the Seals offense as the season progressed. "His work rate increased, and defense improved as the season went on," said Simpson. "We had several key games that really turned around for us when Junior went in there. He had a big impact in our match in Bakersfield."
Congratulations to both players!
PDL Playoff Schedule Set
July 21, 2008
The USL announced the PDL playoff schedule today as follows:
(All times listed are Eastern)
Central Conference
7/22: Kalamazoo @ Chicago – 5:00 – Divisional
Round
7/22: Colorado @ Thunder Bay – 7:30 – Divisional
Round
7/23: Toronto @ Cleveland – 7:00 – Divisional
Round
7/26: Divisional Winner 2 vs Divisional Winner 1 – 5:30 –
Conference Semifinal
7/26: Divisional Winner 3 vs Michigan Bucks* – 7:30 –
Conference Semifinal
7/27: Conference Championship – 7:00
Eastern Conference
7/25: Cape Cod vs Brooklyn – 5:30 – Conference
Semifinal
7/25: Newark vs Reading* - 8:00 – Conference Semifinal
7/27: Conference Championship – 7:00
Southern Conference
7/25: Bradenton vs Austin – 5:00 – Conference
Semifinal
7/25: Laredo vs Central Florida* - 7:30 – Conference
Semifinal
7/26: Conference Championship – 7:00
Western Conference
7/26: Vancouver vs San Fernando Valley – 7:30 – Conference
Semifinal
7/26: Fresno* vs Tacoma – 10:30 – Conference
Semifinal
7/27: Conference Championship – 10:30
*Denotes conference tournament host
Read the Full Story . . .
Seals Season Ends in 3-0 Loss to Frogs
July 20, 2008
 With the perfect scenario in hand - two games at home in perhaps the most beautiflul setting in all the PDL at USF Negoesco stadium, and needing one win for a playoff spot, and two wins to earn a division championship, the Seal were unable to come thru with so much as a single goal, in two games while giving up four goals to their opponents.
The Frogs came out sharp right from their warm-up routines, which were crisp and focused. When the whistle blew it only took the Frogs five minutes to bag their first goal.
Frogs midfielder Dan Oka stole the ball from the Seals, and putting a move on the Seals defense he broke in behind on the Seals defensive left and made a terrific shot into the far side of the net past Seals keeper Eric Conner. This has been a recurring theme for the Seals. Despite a defense that has been in the top ten all season with fewest goals allowed, most of those have been scored in under the first 20 minutes of play.
The Seals seemed a bit stunned, but as usual they picked up the tempo, and the defense got tough. I the 13th minute Seals left back Josh Leon came in hard with a defense play that caused him to receive a yellow card and a trip to the hospital. It appear Leon suffered a broken nose, and left at half-time to go to the hospital.
So . . . It Comes Down To Sunday vs Frogs
July 18, 2008
 Seals Struggle - Lose 1-0 to Bakersfield
As the song says; " No body said it was easy . . ."
Despite a significantly more powerful attack, despite an onslaught of 13 shots of which 9 were on frame, despite four extra minutes that Bakersfield graciously extended to near six after wasting time that did not fool the referee, the Seals could not buy a goal.
The Seals looked pretty good for much of the first half of the game in particular, though as has often been the case, the tough defense of the Seals gave up the only goal early. It came in the 14th minute of play.
Bakersfield was on the offensive, and as the ball came into the box in the air Seals defender Rich Halvorsen had his focus on the ball. Bakersfield forward Quincy Amalikwa crashed into Halvorsen knocking him down and giving Amalikwa an uncontested play against goalkeeper Eric Conner. Amalikwa won that confrontation, and it was all that was needed.
"That was a tough play right there," said Seals veteran Shani Simpson. "The referee could have easily called a foul as he clearly played the man. But that guy (Amalikwa) is the kind of tough player that everyone knows is dangerous before you take the field. Rich got caught not knowing where he was, and he was unprepared. Had Rich been aware of the player I'm sure that guy never gets the ball or a chance. Rich would have taken care of him."
In the 25th minute the Seals thought they had tied it up. Peter Lovell knocked in a goal off the play of Brigade goalkeeper Eric Franco who had saved a strong shot. Fans, and this writer standing on the defensive line of play, thought Lovell was clearly onside when the shot was taken. Franco made a solid save by diving and punching the ball out, but Lovell was charging, and put the ball into the net. But, the assistant referee saw the play differently, and the goal was disallowed.
"Unfortunate," stated coach Tom Simpson.
Sunday's match against the San Jose Frogs always was a meaningful game, as two wins this weekend would give the Seals the Division Championship. While that is still possible, it depends on other games. Now, the Frogs match is about making the playoffs. It is a must win for the Seals to ensure a playoff spot.
Reminder: Sunday's match is at USF Negoesco stadium, and game time is 7:00pm.
One Win = Playoff Spot - Two Wins = Championship
July 17, 2008
The Quakes and Fuego both won tonight which was the 2nd best scenario for the Seals. The Fuego losing and the Quakes winning would have been the best.
The Fuego defeated the Southern California Seahorses in commanding fashion by beating them 5-2. Fresno took the lead in the 10th minute on a goal by Jesus Santiago. Amaury Nunes scored the first of two goals for the evening in the 42nd minute off an assist by Fabricio Codeceira. The goal was Nunes' sixth of the season, and the assist was Codeceira's 10th. The Seahorses came back in the 46th minute, but three straight unanswered goals in the 66th, 80th, and 86th minute decided the game for the Fuego. The win gave the Fuego first place with 29 points, and one game left to play.
In San Fernando Valley, the Quakes held on against the Ventura County Fusion as the Quakes came burst out with three straight goals in the 44th, 51st, and 56th minute. Ventura got two back in the 73rd and 90th minute (an own goal), but it was too late for the Fusion, and the Quakes held on for the win.
But since the Quakes and Fuego both play each other the last game of the year that
means all the Seals need is one win in their last two games to clinch a playoff
spot.
Of course, two wins gives us the division.
So while we control our fate we also have a mulligan if needed.
Come on you Seals!
Next Up - Brigade & Frogs - Final Weekend!
July 16, 2008
Note: Start time for BOTH games this weekend have changed to 7:00pm.
The Bakersfield Brigade will come into Friday's game at USF Negoesco stadium having lost to the Seals in an ugly match in Bakersfield 2-0. They blame the Seals, the Referee's, and . . . whatever. The Seals felt lucky to get our of a very unfriendly atmosphere with the win, and with reasonably healthy players.
We don't want to kid ourselves, that this is anything other than a good team struggling with a poor outcome for the season. They will want to play spoiler, and will come out ready to play a hockey game if necessary.
"I'm not exactly sure how this got to be such a heated rivalry," said Seals head coach Tom Simpson, "But it is perhaps the most heated rivalry in the Conference."
The Bay Area knows cross town rivalry. We have the A's and the Giants, the Raiders and the 49ers, the Earthquakes and . . . Ok - they don't have one. But PDL soccer DOES, and it's the Seals and the Frogs.
You can bet that the Frogs would take consolation in playing the spoiler role for the Seals if they can. They are another team that had high expectations for the season, but have not had the same success as last year. It's been tough.
They started the season with a 3-1-1 record, and looked like they were going to pick up right where they left off last season when they just missed the playoffs. June was a struggle, and the Frogs finished just 1-3-2. July hasn't been any kinder. They will play the Brigade after our match with them on Saturday, and then play us on Sunday.
We hope to see you at USF this coming weekend as we tackle these two tough teams, and make our final effort for a playoff spot!
Peter Lovell Receives PDL Honors
July 16, 2008
The USL today announce the PDL Team of the Week Honors. Peter Lovell was recognized for his three goal weekend that helped put the Seals in first place in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference putting their playoff hopes fully in their own control.
"This is a great position to be in at the end of the season, your final weekend of play ahead of you, and you control your own future," said Tom Simpson, head coach of the Seals. "But we have to be prepared because these two teams have nothing to play for except to knock us out of the playoffs, and that makes these two strong teams very dangerous for us."
Lovell, who came to us from a recent stint in Italy, was born in Southern California, but was raised in Brazil. Lovell is the second Seals forward to receive a place on the PDL Team of the Week (Kellan Wilson received two honors earlier this year). Last week keeper Eric Connor received Team of the Week Honorable Mention for his performance against the Brigade with a 5 save shutout.
Read the Full Story . . .
Seals Take Charge of their Future
July 13, 2008
Two Wins, Six Points, Fusion Loss, All Combine to Put the Seals in First Place
 On Saturday night the Seals beat the Los Angeles Legends at USF in a dramatic win when Junior Burgos and Peter Lovell put away goals at the 82 and 89th minute of the match. This was a key win for the Seals who had to beat the Legends to keep in the race for top honors. This was not small task.
The Legends have been hailed as the class of the division for most of the season. The game was marked by an even battle for most of the match, with both teams exchanging shots on goal. The difference in the last minutes of the game was made possible by the addition of an aggressive striking crew that included Junior Burgos, Demetrius Omphroy, Kellan Wilson and Corey Woolfolk. Kellan Wilson's runs and shots on goal clearly put fear into the Legends defense. The attacks led to a direct goal from about 35 yards out that was stuck so hard by Junior Burgos the keeper did all he could do to prevent his hand from going with the ball into the net.
The Legends continued to press and shortly afterwards, Corey Woolfolk put a pass through to Peter Lovell that put the game away.
Sundays match against the Lancaster Rattlers at Chabot College was the second played by the Seals in 24 hours. The Seals haven't won two games within 24 hours this whole season. It's a very difficult task. After 45 minutes it looked like the Seals would run away with the match. Peter Lovell came up with 2 goals and Kellan Wilson a third. The Seals looked lethal with a 3 nil lead.
However, the Rattlers were not done. They continued a ferocious attack throughout the match putting the exhausted Seals under duress. To their credit the Rattlers came up with two goals against the historically stingy Seals defense. However, the Seals were battling for goal differential in this match and the effort to increase the goal differential combined with the exhaustion from two matches in two days worked against the Seals. The Seals did have a number of opportunities to extend the lead in the second half, so it wasn't one sided. There were three of four great opportunities, including a "shoulda-been-a-pk" that the referee missed. Or so we feel. Anyway, the Seals outlasted their opponents and the match ended a 3-2 win.
After the match, the Seals learned that the Ventura Fusion lost to the Orange County Blue Stars. The Blue Stars were near the bottom in league standing. However, as the Seals know well, you cannot underestimate any team in this division. All the teams play with pride and with intensity, from top to bottom. The Lancaster team has only won two matches in the 14 they've played, yet for much of the second half of this game, the Rattlers looked like one of the strongest attacking teams in the league.
The Seals next match is Friday night (July 18th), at USF Negoesco stadium against the Bakersfield Brigade. Game time has just recently been changed to 7:00pm.
The Seals will finish their season against the San Jose Frogs on Sunday (July 20th) also at USF, and that game too has been changed to a 7:00 pm start.
Both teams will be looking to play spoiler, as neither team has a chance to move on.
The Chase is On!
July 12, 2008
 We break down the Seals chase for the playoffs in the Western Conference
With the Frogs loss last night to the Orange County BlueStar they are now out of the
picture, leaving just five teams in the chase.
With a win tonight the Seals would eliminate the Legends from the race
which would leave only four teams standing: Fresno, Ventura, Seals, and
Quakes.
Fresno is in control of it's own destiny while the Seals and Ventura are
currently two points behind the leader's pace, with the Quakes are another three
points back. Ventura currently holds the tie-breaker over the Seals with a
superior goal difference of +11 vs. the Seals +5, so technically the Seals would
be in 3rd place with a win tonight.
The Quakes are currently the hottest team in the division and have two
games with Fresno over the final two weekends of the season. A split in this
series would serve the Seals well and position them for a division title run.
Ventura ends the season with tough road games against the Quakes and
Legends.
But it all hinges on the Seals picking up at least four points this weekend
and the full six could leave us in the driver's seat depending on the outcome of
the Fresno-Quakes game tonight.
Come on you Seals!
Next Up - LA Legends & Lancaster Rattlers
July 11, 2008
 Big Games this Saturday and Sunday
The Legends will come into Saturday's game at USF Negoesco stadium having played 14 of their 16 games. A win can go a very long way to securing a playoff spot. It will be a match between a stingy Seals defense (PDL top 10 with fewest goals allowed) and a powerful Legends scoring team (PDL top 10 in goals scored).
Two weeks ago the Legends swiped a victory from the Seals when some very bad calls by a referee gave the Legends a goal and took one away from the Seals. Hey, that's football!!
The Legends tied the Southern California Seahorses on Sunday night (July 6th), and take on the San Fernando Valley Quakes on Thursday night (July 10th).
"This week we'll make some luck work our way," voiced Seals head coach Tom Simpson.
Half-time entertainment will be provided by Seals supporters band The Clarence's
Also present at the match will be General Manager Jim Fitzpatrick of the San Francisco Bay Bombers roller derby team will be in attendance at the Seals-Legends match this Saturday. He will be available to sign autographs, and will be promoting the Bombers next home match at Kezar Pavilion on August 23rd vs the Chicago Pioneers at 8pm. Jim is a former Bomber skater and now the GM.
---------------Sunday's Matchup---------------
 On Sunday, the Seals won't forget that last year the Rattlers came into San Francisco and bit them - hard - they took a 2-1 win away from us here at home. This year the Seals escaped with a 1-0 win in Lancaster. "We need to be more dominant this time around" stated Simpson. "These next two weeks will show what we are made of." Note: Sunday's match has been moved to Chabot College, and will start at 4:00pm.Half-time entertainment will be provided by Justi*fy
 A portion of the proceeds from this match will go towards the Chabot Soccer program. We hope to fill the stands for the Seals AND for Chabot Soccer!
Player Highlight - Keeper Eric Conner
July 8, 2008
 You may recall that Eric started the season in the #2 position behind Dan Benton, who ultimately went to the Earthquakes after three matches with the Seals. In the seven games Conner has started this season for the Seals, he has 32 saves*, and 4 shutouts. Conner is now sporting a .857 GAA after 7 games with the Seals.
A record that any goalie would be pretty proud of, and frankly, is deserving of a look from the MLS as well. Of course, we hope that will be at the end of the season!
Eric is in his second season with the Seals. His performance this season is on a track to exceed his performance of the 2007 season, and his performance then earned him honorable mention for the PDL team of the year honors.
It hasn't been an easy road. A lot of players who have faced the challenges that Eric has faced would have quit. But that's just not a word he uses, nor an attitude he has. Read More About Eric . . . ------------- *Note: 32 saves in 7 games is correct. Our Newsletter incorrectly reported 20 saves in 7 games.
Conner Earns PDL Team of the Week Honorable Mention
July 9, 2008
The USL named their team of the week, and Eric Conner's performance was recognized with an Honorable Mention for his performance in goal against the Bakersfield Brigade.
The Seals were also recognized by the league for their accomplishments this year, and the challenge that faces them this season.
"Receiving an honorable mention between the pipes was the San Francisco Seal’s Eric Conner, who posted the same five save/shutout game as Patovic in a 2-0 win over the Bakersfield Brigade. The Seals are now positioned for a playoff run that, if successful, will be their first appearance since the PDL Seals lost in the 1996 final. Conner will assuredly be doing his part in helping the Seals to reach that plateau, he currently ranks 10th in the PDL in both Goals Against Average (0.857) and Shutouts (4).
To reach the playoffs the Seals must navigate the annual logjam that is the Southwest Division. The Fresno Fuego are looking to take the division for the second season in a row, but that feat will be a little more difficult given the departure of 2007 PDL MVP Pablo Campos on Monday, July 7 to Gothenburg, Sweden. Even without their top scoring threat, Fresno (26 points) holds a four point advantage on the second place Los Angeles Legends (22 points). To bypass the Legends, the Seals (21 points) must take three points away from Los Angeles this Saturday, July 12. One thing on the Seals have going for them is that all of their remaining matches are (at home)."
Seals Continue to Support Adult Soccer
July 2, 2008
Part of the Seals mission is to
promote soccer throughout the Bay Area, and to work with adult teams and clubs
to better promote the game.
We are pleased to announce a partnership with
the San Francisco Soccer Football League (SFSFL). The SFSFL teams are located
throughout Northern California. Games are primarily played in San Francisco at
the Polo Fields and Beach Chalet in Golden Gate Park, Crocker-Amazon Grounds,
and Boxer Stadium (formerly Balboa Stadium), but fields are also located in
Hayward, Portola Valley, San Jose, Pleasanton and Santa Rosa.
The SFSFL
season runs from March until November each year. There is a mid-season break
usually from mid June to late July. Games are played on Saturdays and Sundays in
the mornings and afternoons.
As part of this partnership the Seals will
donate a portion of all ticket sales purchased through the SFSFL website to the league.
Look for other events with the SFSFL as well.
The Seals also promote
adult women's soccer. Read about the Golden Gate Women's Soccer League
. . .
Seals Win in Bakersfield
July 6, 2008
 Competition for Playoffs Heats Up
The competition for the playoffs heated up for the Seals with a 2-0 defeat of the Brigade in Bakersfield Saturday night. Keeper Eric Conner kept the Seals in the match with five saves from eleven shots last night. Conner had three in the first half as the Brigade put pressure on the Seals stingy defense.
It took until the final seven minutes for the Seals to make their mark against the Brigade. Peter Lovell, who has been on a mission to help the Seals score goals since playing his first match for the Seals against the LA Legends on June 20th, scored the winning goal in the 83rd minute of the match. Justin Kim fed Lovell the ball for the finish.
Since joining the Seals three games ago, Lovell has scored three times, and had an assist. His performance has been outstanding, and came at a good point in the season, with Kellan Wilson off to Europe to watch the Euro 2008 (Kellan attended three matches!). "We had every opportunity to win a point in the game against the Legends," said Seals head coach Tom Simpson. "In the end our defense, who played well, just couldn't keep them out long enough. Peter's performance was certainly impressive against a tough defense like the Legends."
Kellan Wilson, back from his Euro 2008 trip, got the assist just three minutes later as Efrain Burgos (Jr) notched the insurance goal. It was nice to have Kellan back on the pitch, adding to the offensive pressure the Seals have been able to generate this season.
Keeper Eric Conner is now sporting a .857 GAA after 7 games with the Seals. You may recall that Eric started the season in the #2 position behind Dan Benton, who ultimately went to the Earthquakes after three matches with the Seals. In the seven games Conner has started this season for the Seals, he has 20 saves, and 4 shutouts. A record that any goalie would be pretty proud of, and frankly, is deserving of a look from the MLS as well. Of course, we hope that will be at the end of the season!
Next Up - Bakersfield Brigade
July 1, 2008
This Saturday night in Bakersfield will be the
most important match of this season. The Seals played very well in
their last game against the Seahorses and not bad the day before
against the Legends.
The Seals with one game in hand is essentially in
striking distance of 2nd place. This sets up the Bakersfield match as
the most critical match we have played to date. With the recent play of
strikers Peter Lovell (2 goals v. the Legends) and Anthony Grillo (2
goals v. Seahorses) as well as the welcome return of Kellan Wilson and
possibly Rawley Masaniai, the Seals should be well equipped to face a
stubborn Bakersfield defense.
The
Brigade are a tough club to figure out at the moment. Overall, they
are sporting a 3-2-7 record . . . yes, you read that right. The
Brigade have tied in seven games this season, and done so against some
of the toughest teams in the Division, including the second place
Legends (6-3-3) and the first place Fuego (8-3-2).
Read the Full Story . . .
Note: Our July 13th match against the Lancaster Rattlers has changed to 4:00pm at Chabot College in Hayward.
Seals in the Race - Resting for Final Month
June 28, 2008
The San Francisco Seals have a bye weekend at the end of June. Sitting in third place within striking distance of the playoffs is a good place to be, and resting up for 5 games in three weeks is equally useful.
"We've had a number of injuries here mid season, and this weekend will help our players heal a bit" says Tom Simpson, Seals Head Coach, and General Manager. "We have not been happy with some aspects of our game in June. This is a league with some really good talent, and you see the parity when you look at the standings. You can't make mistakes, or they'll cost you. We've just had a few too many of them at the wrong time. A play here or there, and the Seals are on top of the standings. So, our final games will be the judge and jury for us this season. I'm confident these guys can get the job done," added Simpson.
The Seals have 18 points from 11 games, and are just three points behind the LA Legends in second place, and five back from the leaders, the Fresno Fuego. Fresno has played 12 games to date. The Legends host the Fuego tonight, and come to play the Seals on Saturday, July 12th at USF Negoesco Stadium.
The next match is July 5th in Bakersfield against the Bakersfield Brigade.
Seals Win! Defeat Seahorses 2-0
June 21, 2008
Updated 6/27/08
After a heartbreaking loss in the last minute of the match against the Legends Friday night, the Seals defeated the Southern California Seahorses 2-0 with a goal in each half tonight.
San Luis Obispo's Anthony Grillo put two balls away for the Seals to secure the victory over the Seahorses on Saturday night. His first came in the 30th minute from an assist by forward Peter Lovell.
Lovell had a solid weekend for the Seals, as his assist in this game came on the heels of a two goal outing the night before against the tough defense of the LA Legends.
Grillo scored again in the second half, taking it on his own in the 54th minute.
Game Recap . . .
Seals Fall to Legends 2-3
June 21, 2008
The Seals made a strong showing last night in LA as they took on the LA Legends, who have been very impressive this season. Coming off a weekend where they only got 1 point out of 6, and needing to earn points this weekend on the road, the Seals scored first in the 5th minute of the game.
The lead held through the first half. Holding the Legends to a goose egg in the first half was quite a feat, considering they had scored 22 goals (second to the Fuego with 29) so far this season through 9 games coming into last nights match.
The Legends were frustrated. Among the best defense's in the entire PDL through 8 games, having only allowed a total of 6 goals against, the Fuego had just pummeled them for 6 goals in a 2-6 loss just the night before in Fresno. They seemed vulnerable. Then, in the 54th minute the Legends Davis Paul struck for a goal.
Tied 1-1, the Seals would have been content to take a point from the match. As the game went on, it seemed possible. But in the 8st minute Legends forward Ross Schunk hit the back of the net, and the Legends were on top.
The Seals did not quit, and Peter Lovell, who had scored the Seals first goal came right back to tie the game just two minutes later.
The Defense of the Seals has been stout most all the season. Mistakes have been costly, but we have had faith in our defensive play.
This night was a heartbreaker, as in the 89th minute Legend midfielder Bryan Fakkema struck for the winning goal.
Tonight (6/21) the Seals play the Southern California Seahorses at 7pm.
Game Recap . . .
Seals gain only 1 point of 6 available this past weekend
 By Coach Tom Simpson
The Seals finished the most difficult weekend of the season and ended up on the short end of a 6 point stick.
We knew this weekend would be tough. Kellan Wilson, who accounted for our seven of our first nine goals and already named PDL player of the week once and member of team of the week two weeks later, was absent because of a planned trip to the European Championships, Rawley Masaniai is nuturing a groin strain, and Eric Conner was on a planned visit to Canada. That presented us with a challenge which we did not measure well against.
We played 180 minutes of football this weekend. Defensively, we were horrible for the first 20 and adequate enough to shut our opponents out for the next 160. That was one of the few bright spots for the weekend. Another was the concerted effort of our guys who mustered up a strong attack against a resilient Quakes team who benefited early in the game from our sloppy defense. However the attack wasn't strong enough to outdo the Quakes who managed, with some luck, to keep us out of the net. Some individual play worth recognition was Stephen Cordova's header goal at the 12th minute of the match off Josh Leon's long cross from the left flank. Rich Halvorsen was nails on defense. Substitute midfielder Jeff Cosgriff provided a surge in mid-field control and helped organize the attack. Tyler Barry also came off the bench and helped plug the holes created by the early Seals defensive sloppiness. In the end, it was a case of too little, too late, as the Seals walked away with their second loss of the season.
Sunday's game against the Southern California Seahorses ended in a 0-0 tie. Although the Seals managed a point in this game, there was a frightening statistic that told the story. The Seals managed only one shot on goal in 90 minutes and could not convert on multiple corners. The bright spot in this game was our resilience: even though we played the day before while our opponents rested, we didn't give up a goal. Team captain, Rich Halvorsen, once again provided his usual strong work. He paired well with Tyler Barry. Doug Carr played his second game at defensive mid and performed well in place of the sorely missed Rawley Masaniai, and Lewis Sweeney notched a shut-out with solid goalkeeper play.
The coming weekend the Seals play the Legends in Los Angeles on Friday night and the Seahorses, once again, on Saturday night.
Quakes Game Recap . . .
Quakes Game Photo's . . .
Seahorse's Game Recap . . .
Seals vs Seahorses Today!
June 15, 2008
June 15th at USF Negoesco Starts at 2:00 pm
Father's Day Special! Any youth player who brings their Dad or Mom today can get their entire family in for only $4.00 each!
After a tough 2-1 loss yesterday against the San Fernando Valley Quakes, the Seals are up against the Southern California Seahorses today. The Seahorses are struggling this season. After six complete matches they are in ninth place with only 4 points from a 1-5-1 record. Friday evening they visited the San Jose Frogs who defeated them . The Seahorses record shows they can be tough, as power house LA Legends only managed one goal against them in a 1-1 draw played just two games back on the 31st of May. Only two teams have scored more than 2 goals against them this year. No one player has dominated their offense this season. Four different players have scored, and only one (Christian Rus) has two goals. For the Seals, today's game is a must win. A win will keep the Seals in a great position as we compete for the Conference Title going into next weekend when we travel south to meet the LA Legends and the Seahorses, our second double header weekend in a row.
Player Highlight - Yousef Samy
June 10, 2008
Yousef Samy joined the Seals this season, and has been a significant contributor as part of the defense, playing predominantly as right back, but also serving in the center from time-to-time. He has played every minute of all six games in which he has appeared. "Yousef is calm back there" acknowledged coach Tom Simpson. "He is smooth and confident. He's been a great contributor for us." Samy was born in Berkeley California 22 years ago. Both his parents were both born in Afghanistan, and as a result, Samy holds dual citizenship status. In 2007, Samy got a chance of a lifetime - he was called to play for the Afghanistan National Team! Read the Full Story . . .
Next up - Double Header Weekend @ USF
June 8, 2008
Saturday - San Fernando Valley Quakes
June 14th at USF Negoesco Starts at 2:00 pm
 This match is the first of two for next weekend (6/14 & 15).
With seven games completed, the Quakes find themselves with nine points from a 2-2-3 record.
Over their last three matches they are undefeated, with a 1-0-2 record. The lone win coming against a struggling Lancaster Rattlers in a 4-2 come-from-behind win at home.
Currently, the Quakes are in 7th place behind four teams tied with eleven points. Last season the Quakes finished in second place with 32 points, and were eliminated in the first round of playoffs by BYU.
The Match Sunday is the same day that the San Jose Earthquakes play at the Oakland Coliseum against the LA Galaxy. Many of us are making it a double header day, and anticipate that only the San Jose Quakes will come away as a winner!
------------------------------
Sunday - So. Cal. SeahorsesJune 15th at USF Negoesco Starts at 2:00 pm The Seahorses are struggling this season. After six complete matches they are in ninth place with only 4 points from a 1-4-1 record. they will visit the San Jose Frogs on Friday (6/13) before playing the Seals on Saturday. Their last three matches have been encouraging for them, as they have only one loss while putting together a 1-1-1 record. No one player has dominated their offense this season. Four different players have scored, and only one (Christian Rus) has two goals. Our goal is a win from both matches, which will put the Seals in a great position going into the following weekend when we travel south to meet the LA Legends and the Seahorses, our second double header weekend in a row.
Wilson Earns PDL Honors for 2nd Time
June 4, 2008
Kellan Wilson was named to the PDL Team of the Week for the second time this season for his goal scoring performance in the Seals away win last Friday (5/30) against the Orange County Blue Stars.
Wilson setup the first goal of that match in the 20th minute when he received a thru ball and split the Blue Star defense of Joel Smith and David Sias.
Wilson was on the run between the two defenders and appeared to have last man Sias beat on the way to the ball when he was taken off his feet about 25 yards out. “I thought he should have had an automatic red,” stated Head Coach Tom Simpson. “He was obviously the last man, and Kellan would be one-on-one with the goalie.”
Wilson encouraged referee Alejandro Mariscal to pull the red card, but Sias got off with a yellow card. Efrain Burgos Jr. (Junior) knocked in the goal.
Wilson scored in the 39th minute on a header with the assist coming from Junior. That goal tied the game at 2-2.
The winning goal, and Wilson’s second of the match, came in the 74th minute on an assist from Rawlston Masaniai. Wilson had pulled his man wide, and Masaniai put a thru ball behind the defense when Wilson’s man stepped up to challenge Masaniai. “I got in behind him, took a look, and just managed to power the ball past the keeper” said Wilson. “It was a great ball from Rawley, and it felt great to get that win!” he added.
Read more about the PDL Team of the Week . . .
Fusion Get Their Revenge – Defeat Seals 1-0 in Ventura
June 1, 2008
The San Francisco Seals suffered their first defeat of the season today in Ventura as the Fusion defeated the Seals 1-0.
Before the game Fusion Head Coach Graham Smith stated “. . . we are planning a revengeful evening for the cruel result we suffered at the home of the Seals last week. Strange officiating decisions saw us lose by the only goal in a very attractive game played by two sides that were determined to produce good open soccer.”
Apparently he hadn’t seen the video replay on line at the Seals website showing the Seals had suffered from that “strange officiating” by having a goal called back.
Never-the-less, in the 44th minute an open Bryan Byrne, who last played for the New England Revolution, headed in a corner for the game winning goal.
Seals keeper Eric Conner seemed to get a hand on the ball to make the stop, but the ball spun into the goal. Eric Lafon tried desperately to block the ball on the line, but was just a fraction late.
Read the Full Story . . .
Seals Give Orange County the Blues
May 30, 2008
 Come from behind 3-2 win
It was a game of ups and downs, but in the end it was the San Francisco Seals who were feeling up, and Orange County were left down with the Blues, as the Seals came from behind twice to defeat the Blue Stars 3-2.
Kellan Wilson struck again - twice - and Efrain Burgos Jr. (Junior) got his second of the season, and an assist as well.
Orange County got on the scoreboard first in the 20th minute with a goal by Fernando Monge as he shot the ball past keeper Eric Conner. Three minutes later the Seals tied up the score.
At times in the first half the Seals played like . . . well, like they had just had a 10 hour trip in a car, got out, stretched, changed, warmed up a little, and started to play . . . which is exactly what they had done. "It was a grueling two hours to get through LA to the field," said coach Tom Simpson. "But it seems like there is some magic in that formula. I don't think we've ever lost an away game when we've done that," he added.
The Seals pulled it out in the end. "It felt great!" said Wilson.
The Seals remain undefeated for the season, and move to Ventura for a 5pm game on Sunday night.
Keeper Dan Benton Signs with Earthquakes
May 28, 2008
 Seals keeper Dan Benton signed with the San Jose Earthquakes this past week. “Dan has been working out with the Quakes all season. In fact, he worked out with them in preseason as well. He’s done a terrific job for us in goal this year, and I can only wish him the very best!” said Seals Head Coach Tom Simpson.
At the time of his signing, Benton was 4th on the PDL Goal Keeper chart for saves this season with 20, and is sporting a 1.000 GAA (Goals Against Average) for the three game appearances this season.
“We are fortunate to have a terrific backup keeper, Eric Conner,” added Simpson. Conner has already had one shutout this season, and had three last year while making 51 saves, and finishing with a 1.153 GAA. Conner has had two starts for the Seals this season, and has already recorded two shutout's and 11 saves.
Conner was a runner up for the PDL All Star team last season.
Seals Lead Conference - Defeat Fusion 1-0
May 26, 2008
 On another cool night here in San Francisco, and the second home game of the season, the Seals earned a one nil victory over the Ventura Fusion to elevate the team into first place in the Southwest Division of the PDL. Efrain Burgos Jr. scored the winning goal on a PK, and that was all it took for the Seals to take their third win of the season, and remain undefeated. The win also marks the third shutout of the season for the Seals, as Goalkeeper Eric Conner recorded his second shutout in as many starts. Conner was starting in place of Dan Benton who was signed by the San Jose Earthquakes earlier in the week. Conner had an outstanding season for the Seals in the 2007 campaign, and received an honorable mention last season for his play. The Seals were more on target in this match, especially in the first half, as the Seals out shot the Fusion 17 to 12, with 5 of 9 shots in the first half on goal. Conner had a total of six saves with three in each half. Read the Full Story & View Video . . .
Seals to Participate in AYSO National Meeting
May 20, 2008
AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) - one of the world’s largest youth sports organizations with over 650,000 players, 250,000 adult volunteers and 50,000 teams - will be holding its 2008 National Meeting in San Francisco during Memorial Day Weekend. For two days prior to the Meeting, May 22 & 23, hundreds of visiting AYSO delegates and local volunteers will be participating in community mprovement projects in San Francisco’s Bayview-Hunters Point community next to Monster/Candlestick Park. The 2008 goal is to exceed 1,000 man-hours of volunteer time.
Projects include restoration, improvement and beautification at Bret Harte Elementary School, Gilman Playground and Alice Griffith Community Garden. There will also be a youth coaching class, two pro soccer games, soccer celebrities, two BBQs and pub crawl. In addition to AYSO, participating organizations include San Francisco Seals soccer, San Jose Earthquakes soccer, San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department, Bret Harte Elementary School and America SCORES.
As part of the Kick-off night Soccer Clinic Thursday night, the Seals U21 team will hold an exhibition match at 5:30pm, and the coaches & players will be available afterwards for Q&A. We look forward to the event, and to working with the AYSO in the future.
For more information about Kick-off night & the Soccer Clinic click here: Kick Off San Francisco
Learn more about:
* AYSO at www.soccer.org
* AYSO Section 2 at www.section2.org
* America SCORES at www.americascores.org
Seals & Orange County Draw 1-1
May 17, 2008
Updated May 19, 2008
On a foggy night in San Francisco . . . for something completely new & different . . . the Seals and the Orange County Blue Stars played to a 1-1 draw. The Seals took the early lead in the first half on a brilliant pass from Dimitrius Omphroy to Stephen Cordova, who finished the ball with a great shot.
Cordova thrilled the crowd of 340 with a cartwheel and back flip in celebration.
As happens in soccer, within ten minutes the Blue Star made it an even match on the board.
The Seals remain undefeated through four games this season, but needed a win Saturday night to keep pace with the San Jose Frogs who have played and won all their games except for the match against Seals in which we tied 0-0.
Bill Robertson Update - From Austrailia
May 12, 2008
Player of the Year & Youth Academy Team Finalists
 Bill Robertson was on of our standout players in the defense last season. When the Seals were done, Bill found himself in Austrailia playing for the Canterbury United FC Dragons and heading up the Academy team there (see article: Bill Robertson's Great Adventure).
Recently Robertson was awarded Canterbury's Player of the Year for his outstanding contribution to the team.
But Robertson's success was not limited to just his play for the team. As Academy Director and Head Coach, Robertson guided the Youth Academy team to the Finals in the the New Zealand National Youth League.
Wilson Strikes Again! Seals Win 1-0
May 9, 2008 - 11:30 PM
 Updated - 5/12/08
Kellan Wilson struck in the 83rd minute for the lone goal of the match, as the Seals take win number two in Lancaster.
The goal gives Kellan Wilson three for the season, as he continues to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in the PDL. The goal also keeps the Seals undefeated in three matches so far this season, as the Seals have two wins and one tie.
Wilson earned player of the week this week for his play against Fresno Fuego, when he came on late in the match to score twice, and lead the Seals to a 3-2 come-from-behind win. Wearing a big grin on his face, Kellan was to the point: "Yea, that was pretty fun."
We hope to bring you more details of the game this weekend as we get more details from the coach and players.
Kellan Wilson PDL Player of the Week
May 8, 2008
 TAMPA, FL – United Soccer Leagues announced today the USL Premier Development League Team of the Week for the third week of the USL season, honoring the San Francisco Seals’ Kellen Wilson as the Player of the Week.
Wilson upstaged his Team of the Week companions by coming off the bench in the 54th minute of a then 2-0 game in favor of the defending Southwest Division Champion Fresno Fuego. The Seals promptly staged a three-goal turnaround and defeated the Fuego 3-2 on their own Chukchansi Park turf.
The tide began to turn on Fresno in the 64th minute when pressure from San Francisco in the Fuego’s defensive third caused the referee to award a penalty kick. The Seals’ Carlos Diaz converted to make it 2-1 Fresno.
Continued pressure in the 80th minute saw Diaz find his way into the scorebook for the second time, this time on an assist to Wilson. And just four minutes later, the Seals took the lead for good on Wilson’s second strike of the evening. That goal was assisted by Stephen Cordova. (Note: the USL article states incorrectly that the assist was from Fabricio Codeceira).
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PDL Team of the Week
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Pos
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Name
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Team
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Highlights
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G
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Miguel Gallardo
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Austin
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Four saves in 0-0 draw at El Paso
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D
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Eric Winblad
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Los Angeles
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Assist in 1-0 win at Orange County
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D
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Brandon Howell
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Lancaster
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Goal in 2-2 draw against Bakersfield
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D
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Oliver Skelding
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Long Island
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Led team in 1-1 draw at New Hampshire
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D
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Matt Delaney
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New Hampshire
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Led team in 1-1 draw against Long Island
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M
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Mathew Davis
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San Fernando V
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Assist on winner in 3-1 win over So. California
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