Murky clouds roll over the sky, blanketing the sun with shaows. Puddles on the sidewalk reveal tell-tale signs of previous rain. --Gothenberg, Sweden
Brilliant blue fills the sky, allowing the sun's rays to penetrate into the air. Sweat drips like faucets from those merely walking on the streets. --Rimini, Italy
Apparently, the vastly contrasting weathers of Sweden and Italy also applies to our ability to play soccer.
In Italy, letting in fifteen goals, scoring none, and losing four straight games was nothing less than a major disappointment, not only because of the humiliating defeats suffered by the players and coaches, but also because of the blow to the team's self-esteem and mental/emotional stability. The seemingly endless heat had lead us to seemingly endless defeats.
By the time the sky had been blanketed by the shadows of the sun, our losing streak had ended. The first game in Seattle-like weather gave way to our first win in Europe, an exceptionally satisfying sigh of relief as our team got back on track. We later played tough losing games against Brazil and Germany that could have gone either way, being only 2-0 and 1-0 respectively.
In our first playoff game in the B bracket, we won our first game against Brazil in PKs of a 2-2 game. Angel's last shot in the second half allowed for the strongest comeback Velocity has ever witnessed. The Malaysians in the second match proved to have superior ball control and shot opportunities, and although our defense was strong, it was apparent that the Malaysians played the better game. We were somewhat lucky that the halves were only 25 minutes, allowing us to win in PKs. The third game against another Brazilian team was rough; the referees barely called any of the fouls, and when they started to attempt to control the game, the Brazilians were up 3-0. Although we lost that round, it was the best Gothia Cup run that Currin had ever had.
All while under the familiarity of Seattle weather.
The amazing run of three play-off games (and also the not-so-amazing run of four straight losses) has allowed our team to grow in ways not possible in the states. I can imagine (oh so easily) going back to our regular select soccer league, playing Washington teams, and stepping on them like the first Swedish team we played. Reflecting on the soccer matches and team activities, I can see how our team has grown mentally, physically, and emotionally.
Dennis Ling #13
