Minnesota Stars Complete Two Weekend Scrimmages
The NSC Minnesota Stars played two scrimmages against Division 1 men’s college teams this weekend. Creighton University was first on the agenda with a game Friday morning. The Stars lost 1-0 to the Bluejays in a very cold and blustery game that saw Woodbury, Minnesota native Eric Miller feature at right back for Creighton.
The Stars rested many of their starters for these two games. Minnesota will have two important league games this week. First they will face the Puerto Rico Islanders in Bayamón, at Estadio Juan Ramon Loubriel on Tuesday evening, April 26, only to follow up with a game 4 days later on April 30th, (Stars’ home opener) against the Carolina RailHawks.
Minnesota opened up the game on Saturday against the University of Wisconsin Badgers by pressuring high and making the Wisconsin side chase most of the game. The Badgers did have a few good chances but Minnesota had more but didn’t take advantage of the opportunities.
The Stars finally broke through about 20 minutes into the second half. Goalkeeper Matt Van Oekel hit a long goal kick that Brian Cvilikas flicked on. Tino Nunez, who was active all game, broke though the defense and picked up Cvilikas’ flick. He released the ball with the outside of his right foot and under the Wisconsin ‘keeper to finally break the deadlock.
Minnesota came close just a minute later when Brian Cvilikas cracked a half-volley from 25 yards out and smashed the ball off the crossbar.
The Stars continued to press and finally new signing Amani Walker drove home the assurance goal with about 10 minutes left to play.
Wisconsin’s Paul Yonga showed well for the Badgers playing defensive midfield and senior transfer Arnel Zahirovic may have been the most dynamic player for Wisconsin. The junior Melbourne, Australia native who wore the captain’s armband for the game is sure to help the Badger defense this fall.
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I was rather uninspired by the Stars in the Friday friendly vs. Crieghton. From what I saw (I stayed for only the first half due to a family conflict), the Stars midfield really struggled to connect with Cosgriff and Cvilikas up top. The midfield of Moura, Woods, Gotsmonov and Rodruguiez were having a hard time controlling the ball. For me, the bright spots were Van Oekel, who made a spectacular save about 20 minutes in the match and the backline, who seems to be improving every time they step onto the pitch. I am keeping my eye on Woods. He seemed to pay better as his time went on. I hope he gets into the groove as I think he has a lot to offer his teammates.
It is also good to see Clements play more often. He did a great job recognizing opportunities to support and attack out of the back. Altman also stepped forward and made an impact. I would love to see Kyle in the midfield, however, I think his home is in back with the captain’s armband.
Keep working hard you Stars!
TUESDAY TUESDAY!!!!
PR Wins!!!