That optimism was
quickly tested in the second game vs the Davis Phoenix, a premier team.
Davis immediately took control of the game with a goal in the first minute,
off a blazing run from the right forward beating our defenders and finishing
with a low shot. From then on, Davis speed, experience and strong tactics
took over and they scored often: in the 5th, 14th, 15th minute for a 4-0
halftime lead. "We had very little possession of the ball," said
Ed. "They immediately intercepted any passes as we went forward, and
they seemed to have us running in circles the way they were able to move
the ball. It was discouraging for our players, I'm sure, but we saw how
a well organized team plays. " Davis finished with three other goals
in the second half, two on headers and one off a fast break. "Yes,
it's tough to swallow a 7-0 loss, especially after our recent successes,"
said Ed. "But we knew we would be playing against good teams. This
helps us identify what we want to!improve in, and as long as we keep all
the games in perspective, we won't dwell on losses too much." The game
did highlight the need for Avalanche to maintain possession, to try to minimize
lofted balls against a good team, and to check to passes and not wait for
the ball to come to you.
