APOLLO HAS UNDEFEATED SEASON WITH TIE VS CURINGA!
CURINGA FIELD, LONDON, ON. By (NR)
A capacity crowd of 39 were on hand to see Apollo finish their season undefeated with a tie against rivals Curinga 2-2. Last time these two teams met was early on in the season, and it was Apollo coming back to tie Curinga 1-1. This time around, it was Curinga's two late goals in the last 10 minutes to tie Apollo 2-2. Apollo missing 5 starters vs Curinga's 4 starters. So it was to be a tough game for both teams. 10 minutes into the game, it was Apollo's Marco Ianelli with a run down the right side, he then crossed it low to a wide open John Doris, who whiffed at it, only to be put in by Nunzio Raso to make it 1-0. It was Raso’s 10th of the year. "Great run by Marco and a great let by Doris,"said a happy Raso. Read More »
London White Eagles Win Classics Championship!
By sportsX
The teams for the Classics Over-35 Women’s Final booked their ticket for this game three weeks ago with Semi-Final victories. In the last match of the day, the London White Eagles squared off against Acton Villa as cool Fall temperatures settled on the Ontario Soccer Centre Turf Field under the lights. Now they were looking to book their ticket to the Western Classics Championships to be held in West Vancouver from October 5-11th. From the opening whistle, it appeared Acton Villa would be the side to make the trip as they started strong and hungry for a goal. Acton Villa’s best chance came in the 28th minute, when a long-range blast connected with the cross-bar and bounced back out. Read More »
LAWSL looks back at 2011!
By sportsX
The London and Area Women's Soccer League has wrapped up its 2011 season. With impressive team performances throughout the leagues and tournaments, we look back at the best of the best in the LAWSL.Premier Division St. Thomas, Portuguese and Marconi stood apart and challenged for the status of the top local woman's league right down to the wire. Marconi and Portuguese played a pivital game near the end of August with Marconi winning 1- 0 and winning the league. Portuguese was second (2 pts back) and St.Thomas was third (3 pts back). St Thomas beat Marconi in the City Cup and it was their second win in a row. Read More »
Galaxy's success a five-year process!
By John Matisz (LCN)
For the core group of the Under-17 Girls North London Galaxy "AAA" soccer squad, the past half-decade has been a long progression to the top. Starting in 2007 at the U-13 level, under the tutelage of time-tested bench boss Geoff Painter, the Galaxy has gradually climbed the provincial ranks. A victory over the Burlington Heat, which was decided by penalty kicks on Sept. 10 at the Ontario Cup final, garnered the club its first provincial banner. It's all a part of an evolution, one that has seen North London lose in the Ontario Cup quarterfinals at the U-14 level, drop the semifinal the following year and bow out in the final in 2010 as an U-16 entry. Read More »
WOSL Remaining Cup Finals!
Premier Division Cup FinalWed Sep 21, 08:30PM * Portuguese.vs.AEK * Marconi Club
Fourth Division East Cup Final
Fri Sep 23, 08:30PM * Curinga.vs.Marconi * Hellenic Centre
Fourth Division Challenge Match
Wed Sep 28, 06:30PM * Fourth East League Champ.vs.Fourth West League Champ * Hellenic Centre
League Cup Final
Wed Sep 28, 08:30PM * Marconi(P).vs.Croatia(P) * Hellenic Centre
Second/Third Division Challenge Match
Fri Sep 30, 06:30PM * Second Div League Champ.vs.Third Div League Champ * Hellenic Centre
The London Optimist Sports Centre
Is taking registrations for Indoor Soccer Teams, from Monday September 19 to Wednesday September 21st at the Soccer Dome on Cuddy Blvd from 4 to 9 pm. The league is run by the London Optimist Sports Centre.For more information please visit http://www.londonsoccerdome.com
Apollo Fc Blasts Benfica To Remain Undefeated!
September 13 - Hellenic Field, London, Ont. By (NR)
It was to be the the match of year in the 2nd Division of the MMSL but only for one team. Apollo Fc continued their torrid pace to an undefeated season by pummeling Benfica 4-0. The scoring began at the 9 minute mark of the first half when Apollo midfielder Tom Kenagy threaded a ball to Nunzio Raso who buried it after he collected the rebound to make it 1-0. It was his 9th of the year. Then at the 28 minute mark, Sean Mcburney laced a kick with his outside left foot passed the outstretched arms of the Benfica goalie to make it 2-0. Suiting up in net for Apollo was legendary keeper John Dreliozis who played in place of starter Mike Mastrandrea who attending to personal matters. Benfica were simply stifled when mounting any kind of offence. Apollo leads the league goals against with a paltry 7 goals against. Once again, Gamboso, Richardson, Makris, Doris and Marek were solid in the back. Apollo also dominated in the midfield with Kenagy, Pow, Ramsay, Knight, Frags and Paps. Simply outrunning Benfica and distributing at will. Read More »
London Ontario Soccer League Playoff Finals!
London's Recreational Soccer League for Men
Sunday Sept. 11, 2011
3RD DIVISIONAfrica Carib United ( 3 ) VS S.L. Bebados ( 2 ) City Wide #1 - 10:00 AM
2ND DIVISION
PLRSC ( 0 ) VS London Alliance ( 1 ) City Wide #2 - 11:00 AM
1ST DIVISION
Lebanon FC ( 3 ) VS Hydras ( 1 ) City Wide #1 - Noon
PREMIER DIVISION
Olympians ( 2 ) VS Napoli ( 2 ) City Wide #2 - 1:00 PM - Olympians win ( 8 - 7 ) in PK'S >>> Read More »
APOLLO CRUSHES TILSONBURG TO CAPTURE 2ND DIVISION CROWN!
Hellenic Field, London, Ont. By (NR)
It's official, Apollo captured the 2nd division crown with two games to go, in convincing style by whipping Tilsonburg 5-0. "What a year, what a team, what a feeling," said an elated player coach Frags. The tri-fecta trio of Kenagy, Pow, and Ramsey lit up the twine while Raso scored twice for Apollo. Mike Mastrandrea recorded another shutout for Apollo. Make it 10 shutouts in 16 games for Apollo and an unheard of 7 goals against. Tilsonburg were practically begging for the win, as they will now be demoted to 3rd division. Pow opened up the scoring in the first half on a free kick just outside the 18 yard box. It went off a defender and in the net. Moments later, Raso was sent in all alone on the left side and slid it to the goalie's right to make it 2-0 at half. A capacity crowd of 39 were on hand to see Apollo continue the scoring in the 2nd half. Raso then connected once again to make it 3-0. "I said Poo Pas to the goalie and he went the wrong way, and then it was easy for me to put it in," said a rested Raso. Read More »
LMS and Terry Fox Run for Cancer Research!
London On, Sept 10, 2011
By (LMS)
LMS and its players have raised $986.00 so far towards the 2011 Terry Fox run on Sunday, September 18th. We would encourage all LMS youth and adult players, coaches, and parents to participate in this 2.5k, 5k, or 10k, run while wearing your LMS apparel. We would like to double our year to date total to reach $2,000. Please encourage your teammates, family and friends to sponsor or sign up and participate in this fun, family oriented exercise while raising funds towards an important cause. The link is as follows; Read More »
LMS is holding fall assesments !
London On, Sept 10, 2011
By (LMS)
LMS is holding fall assesments for the boys and girls ages U9, u10, U11, U12, U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, U18.dates can be found on our wesbite or email president@londonmarconisoccer.com
Also we are taking registrations for indoor camps, for ages 4-8 and 9-16.
For more information contact president@londonmarconisoccer.com or visit www.londonmarconisoccer.com/ Read More »
One More Loss for London City !
London On, Sept 9, 2011
By (LCN)
Once again, London City found themselves unable to hold on to a early lead, falling 3-1 to the Serbian White Eagles in Canadian Soccer League action on Friday night (Sept. 9). Playing at the Cove Road Stadium, London was first to the scoreboard when Younan Samra nailed a strike from 25 yards out in the 17th minute of play. London City were unable to..... Read More »
London City settles for tie!
London On, Sept 3, 2011
By (LCN)
Any plans London City Soccer Club had of adding another three points to their 2011 Canadian Soccer League season total were tripped up by TFC Academy on Saturday (Sept. 3). Despite a pair of excellent scoring chances late in added time, London City was unable find the back of the Toronto net and were forced to settle for a 1-1 tie. Read More »
The 34th annual John Henderson Memorial Tournament taking place in London on September 2-5, 2011.To view Website details Click Banner!
The 34th John Henderson Memorial Soccer Tournament in full swing!
London On, Sept 3, 2011
By (LCN)
Soccer players, their parents and coaches have taken over London over Labour Day Weekend. Quite literally. The 34th John Henderson Memorial Soccer Tournament, hosted by London United Soccer Club, is in full swing. With 170 teams competing from Saturday-Monday (Sept. 3-5), the city is hosting what London United president Edwin Lauterbach says is the "largest three-day tournament in Ontario." Games are being played at various Forest City pitches, including North London Athletic Fields and London United Soccer Complex. Lauterbach estimates the 2011 edition of the tournament will provide the community with $3 million in revenue through accommodation, food and beverage and other spin-offs. Dedicated to John Henderson, the tournament will celebrate its milestone 35th year in 2012. Although Lauterbach did not know Henderson too well, he knows his philosophy off by heart: "Its all about the kids." Along with Lauterbach, key volunteers who make the enormous event a continual success are Aldo Caranci, Judy Lauterbach, Elaine Clements and Tara Barini. Read More »
Southend Dynamo Gentrit Raka keeps the ball away from London United Arsenal's Matthew Ryniec in the second half of their
game at The 34th Annual John Henderson Memorial Soccer Tournament in London, Ontario on Saturday, September 3, 2011.
DEREK RUTTAN/THE LONDON FREE PRESS/QMI AGENCY.
Read More »See Photos - >>>>>
By Steve Green (LFP)
The 34th Henderson minor soccer tournament, traditionally one of the largest in Ontario every year, has seen its entries drop quite a bit this year. But there's no need to worry the event has run its course -- it seems a website posting error wiped out a whole division. "I don't know what happened," Ed Lauterbach, president of the London United Soccer Club that has run the tournament for the last 20-odd years, said Friday with a low chuckle. "We lost a whole (boys) under-9 group, which historically has been one of our biggest groups. I'm not blaming anyone, but I think the (Ontario Soccer Association) didn't post that group on its website, so a lot of clubs thought we weren't running that group any more." Nevertheless, the tournament, which has around 150 teams in 26 divisions from under-9 to under-16/7 in girls and under-10 through under-17/18 in boys, is still in fine shape despite the fact the London Psychiatric Hospital fields that make up the bulk of the 23 pitches used for the tournament (North London provides six) are still facing the threat of being developed when and if the province ever sells the hospital and the surrounding grounds. Read More »
Mixed outcome for North London Galaxy teams
Women's Ontario Cup - Semifinals
By (LCN)
A pair of North London Galaxy soccer teams participated in Ontario Cup semi-final games Sunday (Aug. 28) afternoon. Being the head coach of both squads, Geoff Painter was forced to decide which match to attend. With his undefeated Women's club primed to cruise into the finals, Painter opted to assist his third place Under-17 Girls crew in Brantford. Oddly enough, the results shocked both Painter and a number of Galaxy players. "It's surprising," he said of the Women's team falling to the Richmond Hill Raiders by a score of 5-1, while the U-17's squeezed out a victory over the Vaughan Azzurri in a shootout. "We hoped for 2-out-of-2," he said, "I haven't got an explanation, sometimes weird things happen." Weird things did happen, as the Galaxy Women's squad made up of mainly 20-somethings allowed five goals in one game, just two less than they allowed over a 16-game regular season in which they went 14-0-2. Painter spoke to a number of players following the game who used the word "embarrassed" to describe their performance. At halftime, they were down 3-0 and could not recover. "They've never been beaten like this in five years," added the bench boss. Read More »
A friendly for diversity
By John Matisz (LCN)
It was almost as if it was meant to be. Off a last second penalty kick, the London Police Service soccer team evened the score against the Wafrika All-Stars Sunday evening (Aug. 28) at Beal Secondary School. The marker ended the game at 2-2. In its seventh straight year, the 2011 edition of the Wafrika All-Stars Versus London Police Friendly brought the all-time record between the two squads to 3-3-1. A tie in the match, as well the continuation of an even all-time record, represented the very nature of the event itself: friendly competition that promotes positive community relations. There are no winners or losers. Read More »
London City dumps Astros 2-0
By (LCN)
The stars were aligned and a night of hard work was finally rewarded for London City Soccer Club on Friday (Aug. 26). Playing at the Cove Road Stadium, London City blanked the visiting North York Astros 2-0 in Canadian Soccer League regular season action. In the previous meeting of these two clubs on May 29, London had managed to edge North York 2-1. Headed into this game, London hopes were hanging on once again coming away with three points for their efforts Scoreless at the half, it was London City #14, Ermal Murataj, with his first goal of the season, breaking the deadlock in the 56th minute of play. Read More »
Ontario Cup Weekend!
Men Ontario Cup - Semi Final
AEK London FC - Toronto Celtic FC (Penalty shoot out-Toronto win)Sunday August 28th, Kickoff 2:00 PM
Esther Shriner Stadium, North York Ontario
Woodbridge Strikers _ Scarborough GS United
Sunday, August 28 Kickoff 4:00 PM
Esther Shiner Stadium North York Ontario
Women Ontario Cup - Semi Final
North London Galaxy 1 - Richmond Hill Raiders Green 5Sunday August 28th, Kickoff 3:00 PM
Scarborough GS United 3 - Windsor Caboto Strikers 1
Sunday August 28th, Kickoff 5:00 PM
Both Games @ Hershey Centre Mississauga, Ontario
Streaker disrupts soccer game
By By John Matisz (LCN) - London City Soccer
As time winded down in a game between Toronto Croatia and London City at Cove Road Field Friday night (Aug. 19), history was made. It wasnt because of a remarkable strike, unbelievable save or sleek pass. Rather, it came from a man who decided to streak naked across the pitch during play. According to London City Soccers official Twitter account, it was the clubs first experience dealing with Read More »
London teams to kick it up a level
SOCCER: Later this month, four local sides will compete in the semifinals of their age and gender divisions of the Ontario Cup
By MORRIS DALLA COSTA, The London Free Press, August 10, 2011
It is one of the most difficult competitions to win. Heading into the Ontario Cup semifinals, four local teams have managed to survive travel, kicks from the penalty spot and tough competition to get that far. The semifinals of this tournament are the last weekend in August on neutral sites. Taking part will be FC London 98 Elite U13 boys, North London Galaxy U17 girls, North London Galaxy womens team and AEK London mens team that plays out of the Western Ontario Soccer League. FC London team is part of the boys FC Academy team that is the boys section of North London soccer club. It was quite a weekend for James Welsh, who is the coach of the U13 team and plays for AEK London. He went from coaching a 1-0 win over Woodbridge on Saturday, advancing to the semifinal, to be part of the AEK team that went to a shootout Sunday to defeat Vaughan Azzurri 4-3 on penalty kicks after they drew 2-2. Read More »
The Eurostar Academy is gaining a strong reputation overseas for developing top soccer talent in Canada.
SOCCER: European Coaches from Prague visit Eurostar
By Amarildo Shaqiri
Martin (UEFA B) and Jon (UEFA B) from SK Slavia Praha visited our training grounds on Wednesday. They thought our academy players were extremly technical and they haven't seen that before in the U12 and U13 age group. They enjoyed the practice very much and we look forward to having them visit with us again real soon. Read More »The Eurostar Academy, which for years has served as a breeding ground for some of Canada's top young soccer talent, is starting to gain a stronger reputation across the pond. The Academy consists of players ranging from U12 to U16 with teams competing in the prestigious Soccer Academy Alliance of Canada (SAAC). Read More »
City game postponed...
Friday, July 29, 2011
Due to wet field conditions, friday night game vs. Windsor Stars scheduled for 8:38pm has been postponed. More information will follow shortly as to when the game will be re-scheduled. Chicago comes up big with a 3-0 win over FC London to move on to the Conference Championship.
FCLondon soccer season came to an end...
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Chicago comes up big with a 3-0 win over FC London to move on to the Conference Championship.
City Has Victory Stolen In Final Minutes...
July 23, 2011
By STEVE GREEN London Free Press.
Soccer being the game it is, defences are under constant pressure. One mistake can and often does prove costly. But when a team's offence is struggling to boot, that pressure only gets intensified. London City's rearguard is feeling the heat these days in more ways than one. With City having scored only 10 goals in the nine games prior to Friday night's clash with the Brantford Galaxy at Cove Road Field, the 20 goals against loomed a lot larger. "It's a team game and we all have to do our part," said defender Brody Van Gestel, from Cambridge. "I know our defence is the strongest part of our team, but we're not used to playing with each other yet. We ll have different styles." And the offensive output has the defence playing more tentative, afraid to make a mistake, Van Gestel said. "We get angry at each other on the field when we make a mistake and no one wants to be the one to mess up and have everyone hating them," he said. "If we were scoring more, we could play more defensively (at the back), but since everyone wants to score, score, score, we only have a certain amount back (and vulnerable to a counter-attack)." It didn't get any easier for City Friday as they were without two of their five-defender rotation - Erald Pope and David Inglis have groin problems. Against the Galaxy, midfielder Justin Marques was drafted in at the back alongside Van Gestel, Daniel Vincent and David Harriman Duke. Read More »
FC LONDON PLAYOFFS vs Chicago Fire
Tuesday 7:00 EST in Chicago
By STEVE GREEN London Free Press.
SOCCER: Winner advances to Central Conference final four. Eight days after being burned 3-0 by the Chicago Fire, FC London returns to the Windy City looking to exact some timely revenge. The teams meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the Great Lakes Division semifinal, with the winner advancing to this weekend's USL Premier Development League's Central Conference final four in Pontiac, Mich. A London win would go a long way toward easing the sting of a week earlier as well as a 1-0 Fire win in the same semifinal game in 2009. "The guys are very excited," head coach Martin Painter said Monday. "Even though we lost to Chicago the last time, we're still confident. I think we'll play well enough to get a result. It's going to come down to execution at both ends of the pitch." FC London ended its regular season with a 1-1 tie Sunday in Ottawa against the Fury, with the majority of London's top players sitting it out. "I think we have an advantage this time in that a lot of guys were able to get some rest," Painter said. "And the last time, we were coming off a pretty demoralizing loss to Michigan a couple of days earlier. Read More »
City after playoff points
CANADIAN SOCCER LEAGUE!
By STEVE GREEN London Free Press - July 22, 2011
Mired in 14th place in the 15-team Canadian Soccer League, but having played only nine games, London City's players are still keeping the faith when it comes to making the playoffs. "In my mind, it's still the ultimate goal," said City captain Mike Marcoccia, who's hoping the push for the postseason will begin Friday night at Cove Road Field against the defending league champion Brantford Galaxy (5-7). "What we need to do now is slow down and really take things one game at a time instead of looking at the big picture. Obviously, the results haven't come the way we'd like, but I saw some positive things in our last game." That was a 1-1 home draw a week ago with the league-leading Montreal Impact Academy, with the visitors scoring in second-half stoppage time. "The first thing I said to the guys after that game was, 'We just beat the first-place team in the league for 89 minutes.' You've got to take the positive from any situation and we literally pounded on Montreal for 89 minutes. We just made one mistake and we got punished for it." Read More »
Hemming satisfied with situation!
By STEVE GREEN London Free Press - July 21, 2011
Tyler Hemming's pro soccer career has come full circle and while some might view that as a regression, he's not one of them. The 26-year-old Saunders secondary school grad is finishing up his first season with FC London of the USL Premier Development League, where he played with the Ottawa Fury in 2005 and 2006 while attending Hartwick College in Oneonta, N.Y. In between, he played seven games in the 2007 and 2008 MLS seasons with Toronto FC and also had stints with the Charleston Battery of the USL Division I, Montreal Impact of the North American Soccer League and the Austin (Texas) Aztex of the USSF Division 2. He also earned two national team caps for games against Cyprus and Jamaica. But he opted to finish up his sports management degree at Western -- he left Hartwick a semester early after being drafted by Toronto FC -- and that made joining FC London in a player-coach role an easy choice.FC London 5, Lynx 1
London goals: Scott Bibby (12th minute), Haris Cekic (36th), Jovan Ivanovic (55th), Jonattan Cordoba (69th, 75th)
Toronto goal: Randy Ribeiro (82nd)
Next: London ends its regular season Sunday in Ottawa with a noon game with the Fury. London then heads to Chicago for the Great Lakes Division semifinal Tuesday against the Fire. Read More »
Best of London area soccer gather at Masters!
By London Free Press staff - July 15, 2011
London area soccer teams will be putting all their best talent on display in one place on Sunday. The London and Area Women’s Soccer League, the men's Western Ontario Soccer League and the Middlesex Masters Soccer League will play the 2nd Annual Charity All-Star Games at the Hellenic Community Centre. "This event is about two things," said Abbi Lezizidis, All Games Coordinator. "One is raising funds for the Children’s Hospital of London and second, showcasing the depth of incredible soccer talent from the region." The women’s game is at 3 p.m. with the men going at 5 p.m. and the Masters at 7 p.m. There will be lots of actitivities, including half-time games featuring minor sports teams who accompanied the squads, selected by the Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association district coach, on the field before the game. "It's going to be a fantastic day of soccer," Lezizidis said. "Our own local World Cup where the best-of-the-best play for bragging rights." Read More »
Better teams start with basic skills!
By Morris Dalla Costa The London Free Press - July 8, 2011
Its really the right way to fix soccer in Canada. Even though the number of players that total about 60 are but a drop in the bucket in the ocean of youngsters who play soccer in Canada, you can't start a revolution without a first shot being fired. These players of varying ages are attending Academy Garrincha International Soccer Camp. They've been at it for several days with the camp ending Friday at City Wide Sports Park.
The idea of an academy is not new. Many soccer organizations and clubs have their own academy.
But it isn't the numbers that are important it's what is being learned that's vital.
As has been proven repeatedly over the years, a player can be billed as top-notch to the point of making a national team.
Yet when he or she gets to the top level against top competition, they fall short.
Jose (Garrincha) Figueiredo is the founder of Academy Garrincha.
Throughout the year, he is a mentor to individual players. He has no affiliation with a soccer club and does not want any
affiliation although he wouldn't mind seeing more collaboration within the soccer community.
For the first time in the two years the Academy has been inexistence, Figueiredo has held this international soccer camp.
His teaching staff is impressive. He has coaches from Finland, England, Belgium, Holland and the United States.
Read More »
Added time goal pains City!
By Morris Dalla Costa The London Free Press - July 15, 2011
Another game, another heartbreaker for London City. City led first-place Montreal Impact Academy 1-0 for 93 minutes and looked ready for a deserved win and three points in Canadian Soccer League play at Cove Road Field Friday. But with just a minute left in added time, impact substitute Bastien Bourgault snuck into the penalty area and struck a weak shot that went off a City defender and trickled into the net. The game ended 1-1 and while City earned a point they were stricken by ending. "I don't even know what to say," said City striker Younan Samra. "It's bad luck. No, it's not bad luck. It's something worse. I don't know what to call it." Read More »
Ontario Cup Weekend!
Men Div
Sun. July 10, 2011
AEK London FC (4) @ Ottawa Royals MP(2)
Penalty KicksAEK London FC travelled to the nation's capital to play a reapeat of last year's Ontario Cup Final against the Royals of Ottawa at Keith Harris Stadium at Carlton University. The game ended at 0-0 in regulation and AEK advanced by winning 4-2 in Penalty Kicks. The Yellow and Blacks will now face Vaughn Azzuri SC in the Quarter Finals at Joan of Arc Stadium in Vaughn, Ontario on Sunday August 7th. Kickoff Time is TBA.
For the second night in a row Haworth struck again!
By Morris Dalla Costa The London Free Press
When you have the Midas touch, everything turns to gold. In this case, when you have the Haworth touch, everything turns into goals. In a game that FC London really needed a goal, it was Carl Haworth who yet again found a way to score it. For the second night in a row Haworth struck a shot from distance that deflected off an opposing defender and found the net. It was Haworth's seventh goal in five games and it sparked FC London to a 3-0 win over Akron Summit Assault in a USL Premier Development League game Friday night at Cove Road field. London and Akron were locked in a tight game for 51 minute when Haworth managed to find another goal. The night before, during a 3-1 win over Ottawa Fury, Haworth scored the first goal in much the same way. Only in that game, his hard shot went off a defender and dropped over the goaltender. Read More »
Ceric magic maddening to Fury!
By Morris Dalla Costa The London Free Press
FC London have smoothed out what was a rough Premier Development League road. London defeated Ottawa Fury 3-1 Thursday at Cove Road Field in an entertaining match. The Blues have earned 10 points out of a possible 12 in its last four games. Their play of late is a relief to a club that has rarely struggled in its first three years in the USL. They didnt struggle Thursday. That was the best half weve played in three years in the league, coach Martin Painter said. We certainly deserved to be up by more than one goal. But we played great. Midway through this season, the big question before every game is which FC London team would show up, the good one or the not-so-good one. FC London went into the game hoping to extent its run of good play. Its a big change from last month when they lost three games in succession, all at home. London needed to take advantage of its games in hand. Going into Thursdays game FC London were in third place, well behind the Michigan Bucks who lead the Great Lakes Division, but London has played three fewer games. Chicago Fire is in second place having played one more than the Blues. Numbers forced the Ottawa Fury to play in the Northeast Division where they are 3-5-2. Read More »
Golden moment for Croatian Club!
SOCCER: North American all-star game on renovated pitch will highlight the anniversary celebration
By MORRIS DALLA COSTA, The London Free Press
Surviving for 50 years usually means winning a lot of battles. The Croatian Club of London has certainly done that. The club will celebrate its golden anniversary this weekend with soccer, the driving force behind the club, as its focus. "When you look at where we've come from, it's amazing," club president Peter Ostojic said. "There are a lot of things we've done that people said would never get done." There is a lot to celebrate. With Trillium grant funds, the club was able to make their facility handicapped-accessible. Theyve redone their soccer pitch, improved clubhouses and redecorated their hall. The Croatians will also hold the North American Croatian all-star soccer game with Canada playing the United States. Each Croatian club will be represented by a player, 30 in total. The game is Saturday and will be followed by a banquet. All players, are invited to attend. Clubs handle expenses for the players. The game becomes a moneymaker for the host club. It was also here in 1976 and 1993. Read More »
London Optimist-New Indoor Facility Update!
BMO and London Optimist Announce Sports Facility to Be Named BMO Centre.
Thur Jun 9/2011BMO Financial Group today announced the naming of the new BMO Centre, a soccer and sports facility for Londoners of all ages. The 110,000 square foot building will house four indoor playing fields, a club house, meeting rooms and an elevated walking track. The fields can also be converted into one regulation size soccer field, all under one roof. The BMO Centre will open in September 2011, just over a year after construction began. It is estimated that the new facility will be used by over 500 teams, playing in kids, men's, women's and mixed soccer leagues, with more than 600,000 people passing through its doors each year. " We are excited to be a part of this new community facility, which will bring together athletes of all ages and provide a state-of-the art home for soccer in London," said David Blyth, District Vice-President, Southwestern Ontario, BMO Bank of Montreal. "As the Bank of Soccer in Canada, the BMO Centre is a natural fit for us. " Located in downtown London, at 295 Rectory Street, the BMO Centre will provide opportunities for a wide variety of user groups, focusing on soccer but accommodating a number of other sports.
Read More » To View Slideshow click Here!
London Marconi Soccer became London First Fully wheel chair accessible Soccer Field.
Wednesday May 25 2011This project was started from an idea, say's London Marconi soccer President Mr. Dave DeBenedictis "because we saw an elderly gentleman came to watch his grandson play at Marconi, but struggled to go to the bleachers. John DeBenedictis, LMS vice president, came up with the proposal to ask the city for any funding, for this, they originally gave us $2000 and then increased it to $5000. Read more »
Ontario Cup Weekend!
Men Div
Sun. July 10, 2011
AEK London FC (4) @ Ottawa Royals MP(2)
AEK advances Penalty KicksLondon SLB Simple (1) @ Toronto Celtic (1) Toronto advances Penalty Kicks
London Marconi (0) Vs Woodbridge Strikers (3) @ Marconi Field 4:pm
Women Div
Sun. July 10, 2011
London Marconi (1) Vs Barrie Spirit
(1) @ Marconi Field 2:00pm
Marconi advances Penalty kicksNorth London Galaxy (1) @ Hamilton Sparta L1 (0)
Round Robin Tournaments Boys U- 16 Tier 1, Sat/Sun July 9/10 in Windsor
Group 2: London NorWest Marconi PhoenixRound Robin Tournaments Girls U- 16 Sat/Sun July 9/10 in Sarnia
Group 2: North London Galaxy 95Group 6: Sault Ste. Marie: London NorWest Shock
Round Robin Tournaments Boys U- 17 Tier 1, Sat/Sun July 9/10 in Waterloo
Group 4:London United LIghtningBoys U- 17 Tier 2, Sun July 10 in London
London Portuguese 94B Vs Windsor Caboto FusionRound Robin Tournaments Girls U- 17 Sat/Sun July 9/10 in Richmond Hill
Group 6: North London GalaxyGirls U- 18, Sun July 10 in London
Sarnia Spirit (0) Vs Waterloo Wild Wings (5) Penalty KicksUnder 21 Men, Sun July 10 in London
FC London U-21 (0) @ North York ANB Futbol. (1)If you know final results for any above teams feel free to email @ info@mdssports.net
WOSL Premier Div. AEK Back in winning form!
MDS Report
As with no Surprises AEK rebounded back in winning form after losing to St. Thomas 2 weeks ago, AEK got 4 straight wins. First win Vs Wallaceburg with a 7-0, then took on undefeated SLB-Simple winning 3-0, on Sun June 26- Ontario Cup Weekend took on Oakville Hrvat winning 3-2 then back home. Thur. June 30 Vs Croatia with a 1-0 win. All 4 games in 9 days, while London Marconi picks up their 2nd Ontario cup game winning 4-1 over Windsor Hellenic as well their 2nd league win Vs St. Thomas with a 2-0.The Standings sees AEK with 18 points, SLB-Simple 12, and St. Thomas dropped to third place with 10, points. Premier Standing Click Here
While in 1st Division - Portuguese and white Eagle holding first and second place with 12 points each, third and fourth spot is tied as well with Woodstock and English with 10 points each.
1st Div Standing Click Here
2nd Div. Standing Click Here
This past weekend the London Marconi Soccer Club showed that we are a Club of Champions!
Congratulations to the fellow teams: Sat/Sun. Jun 25-26
U15 Phoenix won the Whitby tournament. The Phoenix keeps on rising, as they have won 3 in row in WOYSL league play as well as winning the Whitby tournament.U16 Premier Hot Shots won the St.Thomas classic. Our new team has already jumped on the winning band wagon.
LMS Womens Premier team, played its 2nd round of Ontario Cup, had to travel down to Windsor with 14 players, but came away with a hard fought 2-0 win and have advanced to the 3rd round, on July 10th at Marconi Stadium
LMS Mens Premier team also advanced to the 3rd round of Ontario Cup with a convincing 4-1 win at home vs. Windsor Helenic with goals from Andrew Loage, Vince Camanitti, Alan Hirmis and Brian Pistor. The next round will be Sunday, July 10th at the Marconi Stadium.
A special thank you goes out to the Matrix players, coaches, parents and managers who hosted the U14 girls Ontario Cup Tournament at Marconi Club. The Matrix had the #1 and #2 ranked teams in Ontario in their group. The Matrix finished with a record of 2-1-1, they did not advance, but still showed that they are a force in Ontario, by playing the top ranked teams to the last whistle. The tournament was run perfectly - - great job Matrix family!
Dave DeBenedictis, 2011 President, London Marconi Soccer
Ontario Cup Weekend
Local Youth Boys/Girls/Men/Women!
Round Robin Sat/Sun. Jun 25-26
U-12 Boys - Group - Location: Stoney Creek
FC London Academy 99 Elite (Group Winner)
U-14 Boys - Group 2 - Location: Stoney Creek
FC London Academy 97 Elite (Group Winner)
U-14 Boys - Group 6 - Location: Windsor
London Nor'West Dynamite (Not Qualify)
U-14 Boys - Group 7 - Location: Flamborough
FC London 97 Premier (Not Qualify)
U-14 Boys - Group 9 - Location: Kitchener
London Nor'West Fusion (Not Qualify)
U-14 Girls - Group 4 - Location: London
North London Spartans (Not Qualify)
U-14 Girls - Group 6 - Location: London Marconi soccer Field
London Marconi Matrix (Not Qualify)
U-18 Boys - Group 6 - Location/Time
Sun Jun 26/11 - 11:00 am North London Stadium field
London Marconi Azzurri (0) Windsor Hellenic
(5)
Men: Sun Jun 26 - Location/Time Sun Jun 26/11 - 5:00 PM London Marconi soccer Field
Marconi (4) Vs Windsor Hellenic
(1)
Men: Sun Jun 26 - Location/Time Sun Jun 26/11 - Time:
2:30PM- Strathroy Portuguese Club
London SLB Simple (2) Vs London/St. Thomas
(1)
Men: Sun Jun 26 - Location/Time Sun Jun 26/11 Time: TBA - In Oakville
Oakville Hrvat (2) Vs AEK London FC
(3)
Men: Sun Jun 26 - Location/Time Sun Jun 26/11 Time: TBA - In Sarnia
Sarnia Fury (0) Vs Tillsonburg FC
(1)
Women: Sun Jun 26 - Location/Time Sun Jun 26/11 Time: TBA - In Windsor
Windsor Teutonia (0) Vs London Marconi
(2)
AEK 1st loss of season to St.Thomas !
WOSL- Premier Div.
Fri Jun 17, 8:30 PM Marconi vs Wallaceburg 3-1Fri Jun 17, 7:00 PM Sarnia Fury Vs SLB-Simple 0-2
Sat Jun 18, 6:00 PM Chatham Vs Portuguese 1-1
Sun Jun 19, 8:00 PM AEK Vs St. Thomas 0-1
Sun Jun 19, 8:00 PM Middlesex Vs Croatia 1-0
Week 5 WOSL
Upset of the week AEK first loss to St. Thomas 0-1.
While Marconi grabs first win of the season 3 -1 over Wallaceburg
Leading the table standings in the Premier Div. is SLB-Simple with 3 wins no loss, fallowing is St.Thomas with the big win over AEK in 3rd place standings. Full Premier Results/Standings: Click Here
WOSL- First Div.
While in the 1St Division, leader Portuguese lost to St. Mary's 1-2, Sat. June 18 at home.Following is White Eagles 2nd place Vs Bosnia winning 2-1. Full First Div Results/Standings: Click Here
FC London second loss of season to Indiana Invaders !
FC LONDON took on the Indiana Invaders this Saturday night at 7:30 at the German Canadian Club on Cove Rd. Indiania with a record of 2 wins, 3 ties and a loss will be looking to hand FC LONDON their second loss of the season. FC LONDON on the other hand are looking to increase their stanglehold on third place in the PDL, sitting only a few points back of first place with 3 games in hand. Final score was Fc London (0) Indiana Invaders (4)
Suspect defence negates City's creativity!
By MORIS DALLA COSTA, THE LONDON FREE PRESS
CANADIAN SOCCER LEAGUE: London's offence was clicking all night but the backline gave up too many good scoring opportunities in a 4-2 loss to the Mississauga FC EaglesIt's tough enough to score goals in soccer. When you get two, it's usually enough to win. Not for London City. The Canadian Soccer League franchise has struggled in the past and while it has gotten much better this year, until they solidify their watering backline, they will continue to struggle. Mississauga FC Eagles defeated City 4-2 Friday at Cove Road. It was a game rife with chances and nice offensive play with City creating more than its fair share. The problem was that the Eagles created even more. Photo Slideshow »-- After game: Read More »
Before game: Read More »-- City hoping to bounce back! The Londener: Read More »
City Lose in extra time 2-1"
Friday Jun 3/2011
Coming off a road victory that saw City fight back to win 2-1 last Sunday afternoon, the team found itself playing from behind again when the St. Catharines Wolves opened the scoring on a goal by Matthew Contino in the 24th minute of City's 2011 Home Opener. Contino was able to chest down a ball directed his way off a free kick, turn and burry it in the City net from close range.Mike Marcoccia - City's 2011 team captain - had an early chance for City in the 18th minute when he beat two Wolves' defenders and found himself inside the six yard box, only to see his chance ring off the cross bar passed a beat Claudio Perri in the visitors' goal. Read more »
The Londener Article: Read more »
Photographs from Friday night's Click here: All photo are courtsey of Cam Vassallo
WOSL Premier League"
By MDS Website report
Friday Jun 3/2011
Unlucky Marconi was beaten by powerhouse AEK in their second start of the season, as AEK pick up their second win in as many starts.
No surprises in the other 2 games between Chatham (1) vs Walleceburg (0) and SLB Simple (1) Croatia (0) No games for Saturday,
only one premier game on Sunday Jun 5/2011 Middlesex Vs St. Thomas, Where Middlesex is looking for their second win of the season.
Game is scheduled 8:00Pm in Strathroy soccer field Henk Van Dyk.
Haidar Al-Shaibani just one call "Canada National Team"
By Morris Dalla Costa The London Free Press
Stephen Hart the coach of Canada's national soccer team will name a 20-player roster for the Gold Cup in June. He will name his team from a 23-man preliminary roster, likely soon after Wednesday night's friendly against Ecuador in Toronto. Al-Shaibani is one of three goaltenders on the preliminary roster. The other two are veteran Lars Hirschfeld and 23-year-old Milan Borjan. But whether he makes the final roster or not, Al-Shaibani is still one pleased player. Al-Shaibani, 27, played with London City and North York Astros of the Canadian Soccer League, FC London of the Premier Development League of the USL and the Western Ontario Mustangs.That's hardly the background that captures the attention of soccer scouts in what is one of the most difficult sports for Canadians to crack at the professional level. Read more »
To leave a comment login with Facebook.
FC London first loss of season to Michigan Bucks!
By MORRIS DALLA COSTA, The London Free Press
Sat Jun 11/2011FC London was sent a message from the Michigan Bucks. You may be good enough to win the Great Lakes division title but you have to get through us to do it. The Bucks came to Cove Road on Friday and defeated FC London 2-1 in a USL Premier Development League game in front of about 800 fans. It was far from the greatest game in terms of entertainment. But FC London had its share of the play. The Bucks though came up big when they had to, a testament to their perennial status as a Great Lakes division powerhouse. Read More »
FC London faces test against Michigan Bucks!
Tonight, Fri, Jun 10, 7:30 PM Cove rd. German Can. Club
Thur Jun 9/2011FC London coach Martin Painter considers his club's 3-0 start to the USL Premier Development League season only a warmup to the real test. That comes Friday at Cove Road field. " That's going to be one of the tough games for us, a real test," Painter said. The Michigan Bucks will be in town. They are in first place in the Great Lakes Division with a 3-1-1 record, tied with Chicago Fire. London is next. " We've done well up to now but I dont think we've hit anywhere near top form," Painter said. " We're going to be facing some pressure in this one." Read More »
Gryphons face Laval in opener W-LEAGUE SOCCER
By Morris Dalla Costa The London Free Press
The London Gryphons appear to have beaten the weather; now they hope they can beat Laval in their home opener.
The Gryphons open their seventh USL W-League season Saturday at North London Stadium with a game against Laval Comets.
While London City of the Canadian Soccer League and FC London of the Premier Development League had to postpone their weekend home openers, the Gryphons look to have avoided the bad field conditions that have caused so many events to be postponed.
The Gryphons will play this season in the Great Lakes Division. The 12-game season will have them playing against teams such as the Ottawa Fury and Toronto Lady Lynx, two of the stronger teams in the W-League.
Weekend Results: Sat May 28, 2011. London 1 Vs Laval 2
Weekend May 20, 22, 2011 soccer results.
Friday May 19, 2011. Premier Div. Chatham (1) Sarnia Fury (6)Sunday May 22, 2011. Premier Div. Middlesex (3) Vs Marconi (1) Photo Gallery
Friday May 20, 2011. First Div. Woodstock (4) Vs Bluewater (1)
Saturday May 21,2011. First Div. Bosnia (1) vs Tillsonburg (2)
Sunday May 22, 2011. First Div. Strathroy (0) Vs Portuguese (3) Photo Gallery
Sunday May 22, 2011. Second Div. St. Thomas (4) Vs Hungarians (1)
Sunday May 22, 2011. Second Div. St. Columban (0) Vs LAC Juventus (3)
All Divisional Cups 2011 Photogallery!
May 14/15, 2011 Tillsonburg soccer fieldsPremier Div : All Photos
First Div : All Photos
2nd Div : All Photos
3rd Div : All Photos
Fourth Div East : All Photos
Fourth Div West : All Photos
All Divisional Cups Came to an end this past weekend!
May 14/15, 2011 Tillsonburg soccer fieldsFinalists
Premier Div : London Portuguese Vs London AEK - Wed Sept 21 -8:30 PM -Location: TBA
First Div : London Portuguese B Vs White Eagles - Wed. Sept. 14 - 8:30 PM-Location: TBA
2nd Div : St. Thomas Vs Olympians AEK - Wed Sept. 7 - 8:30 PM - Location: TBA
3rd Div : Norwest' Vs Middlesex - Aug. 31 - 8:30PM - Location TBA
Fourth Div East : Curinga Vs Marconi - Wed. Aug. 24 - 8:30PM - Location TBA
Fourth Div West : Taxandria Vs Pachuca - Tue Aug. 23 - 8:30PM - Location TBA
2011 WOYSL KICK OFF CUP-MAY 21-22
Winners and finalistBOYS U12 L4 WOYSL KOC 2011: FC London 3 vs. 1 Waterloo Strikers
BOYS U13 L3 WOYSL KOC 2011: Kitchener 3 vs FC London 0
BOYS u14 L3 WOYSL KOC 2011: FC London 3 vs. 2 NorWest Fusion
BOYS u16 L4 WOYSL KOC 2011: Southend Dynamos 1 vs. 0 Tillsonburg
BOYS u17 L3 WOYSL KOC 2011: Waterloo A 3 vs. 0 London United
BOYS u18 L3 WOYSL KOC 2011: Marconi Azzurri 1 vs 2PK Kitchener Spirit
GIRLS u12 L4 WOYSL KOC 2011: NorWest Bulldogs 0 Vs 8 Kitchener Spirit
GIRLS u13 L3 WOYSL KOC 2011: North London Supersonics 2 Vs 1 Eastside Kickers
GIRLS u14 L3 WOYSL KOC 2011: North London Spartans 1 vs. 0 Marconi Matrix
GIRLS u15 L3 WOYSL KOC 2011: Waterloo Wild (S1) 1 vs. 2 (S2) NorWest Wildcats
GIRLS u16 L3 WOYSL KOC 2011: Eastside Kickers 3 vs 0 North London Galaxy
GIRLS u18 L3 WOYSL KOC 2011 Byron Attack 2PK vs 1 Dorchester
All Teams Schedule/Results!
2011 Outdoor Teams With Player Openings Still Available
2002/2003 Under 9 Boys Mini Team
Still looking for Under 9 boys players to fill team roster. Team coached by former professional soccer coach and player - Andrew Loague.Contact: John De Benedictis, 519-495-3746 519-495-3746 , Email: john_debenedictis@yahoo.com
Strikers - 1998/99 Boys Premier L5
Still looking for Under 13 @ L5 Premier boys to fill team roster. Contact: John De Benedictis, 519-495-3746 519-495-3746 , john_debenedictis@yahoo.com
Divisional Cup Week
From May 7 to Sunday May 15/2011
Premier Division Cup/Schedule/Results »Click Here First Division Cup/Schedule/Results »Click Here 2nd Division Cup/Schedule/Results »Click Here 3rd Division Cup/Schedule/Results »Click Here Fourth East Division Cup/Schedule/Results »Click Here Fourth West Division Cup/Schedule/Results »Click Here Read more »
Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Facility - 925 Rectory Street, London. Took Place June 28/2010! 
|
He lobbied all levels of government to secure $2.5 million in funding to help build a $8 million, indoor soccer centre on Rectory St. across from the Western Fair.
The centre will open in March.
More than 17,000 children are now registered in London to play soccer — twice as many as in hockey and baseball combined.
“Like everyone else, you come (to Canada) with a dream. Everything I wanted fell into place,” he said.