action shoots – Page 4

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Minnesota United, September 2, 2023

San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CARLOS GRUEZO (7) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Minnesota United at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
Sept 2, 2023

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Minnesota United FC 1
San Jose draw at home, prepare for D.C. United next week

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes and Minnesota United FC played to a 1-1 draw on Saturday night at PayPal Park. Forward Cade Cowell netted his first of the season to tie the match after Minnesota scored the opening goal.

The Quakes conceded an early goal but rallied with a 17th minute equalizer from Cowell. Jackson Yueill collected the ball at the top of the box after a corner kick to find Cowell on the left, whose shot deflected into the bottom corner of the net . The goal was his first of the season and 10th of his MLS career. Cowell is now the 11th teenager in MLS history to reach 10 regular season goals.

Both sides traded blows in the second half but neither team could find the winning goal. The Earthquakes nearly converted a diving header from Jamiro Monteiro in the 56th minute and Minnesota had a goal called back after video review for a handball four minutes later.

The Earthquakes will now prepare to travel to face D.C. United on Saturday, Sept. 9. Kickoff from Audi Field is slated for 4:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed globally on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app, as well as on local radio via 810 AM The Spread (English) and 1370 KZSF (Spanish).

GAME NOTESThe Earthquakes now hold an 9-9-9 record (36 pts.) during the 2023 MLS regular season and currently sit in eighth place in the 14-team Western Conference, but only four points from third place.

The Quakes hold a 5-4-3 record against Minnesota United FC, including a 3-2-2 record at home.

Midfielder Jackson Yueill tallied his fourth assist of the season and 16th of his MLS career.

Jackson Yueill made his 171st appearance for the Quakes, tied for fifth most appearances in club history with Joe Cannon.

MATCH INFORMATION
San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 1 Minnesota United FC
Saturday, September 2, 2023 – PayPal Park, San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 16,151
Man of the Match: Cade Cowell

Scoring Summary:
MIN (1-0) – Teemu Pukki (Emanuel Reynoso) 4’
SJ (1-1) – Cade Cowell (Jackson Yueill) 16’

Misconduct Summary:
SJ – Carlos Gruezo (caution) 31’
MIN – Emanuel Reynoso (caution) 40’
MIN – Michael Boxall (caution) 85’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Miguel Trauco, Tanner Beason, Rodrigues, Carlos Akapo; Carlos Gruezo, Jackson Yueill (C) (Michael Baldisimo 90+3’), Jamiro Monteiro (Niko Tsakiris 81’); Cristian Espinoza, Jeremy Ebobisse, Cade Cowell (Benji Kikanović 90+3’)

Substitutes not used: JT Marcinkowski (GK), Ayo Akinola, Matthew Hoppe, Jonathan Mensah, Tommy Thompson

SHOTS: 18; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 5; CORNER KICKS: 9; SAVES: 6

MINNESOTA UNITED FC: Dayne St. Clair; Miguel Tapias, Michael Boxall, Zarek Valentin; Joseph Rosales, Jan Gregus, Hassani Dotson, Emanuel Reynoso, Wil Trapp (C); Teemu Pukki (Mender Garcia 81’), Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (Ethan Bristow 64’)

Substitutes not used: Eric Dick (GK), Bakaye Dibassy, Franco Fragapane, Mender Garcia, Emmanuel Iwe, Sang Bin Jeong, Brent Kallman, Devin Padelford

SHOTS: 14; SHOTS ON GOAL: 7; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 5

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On tonight’s performance against Minnesota United FC:
“I thought we had much better positions while attacking in the second half, to neutralize [Emanuel] Reynoso, compared to the first half. The first goal came from poor positions while attacking, where we were on the wrong side of [Reynoso] and he was able to thread a pass into [Teemu] Pukki. I thought we had better positions while attacking in the second half.”

On Cade Cowell’s performance tonight and callup to the U.S. National Team:
“Cade is a player that can vertically hurt anybody. We’ll miss his verticality, and we’ll miss speed. I am really happy for him to get his goal tonight, really proud of him. He’s wanted it really bad. Anything can happen when you are shooting on frame, and a goal is a goal.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES CAPTAIN JACKSON YUEILL

On tonight’s performance and goals:
“I think we came out with the right urgency. I think that built up throughout the game. Our message at halftime was to be a little bit more aggressive, get more runs in behind, get more balls in behind and open up the field a little more. I think we did a good job of recovering more balls in their half and in the midfield and transitioning quick. I think we were unlucky to not get a goal but that we’re moving in the right direction still. Just looking to be more clinical in and around the box.”

On the end of season playoff push:
“We’ve started the season well and have been playing well the whole year. We’re going to keep doing what we’ve been doing and keep trying the things that we’ve been trying. We dominate, we create chances, we create opportunities and it’s about finishing those chances. Our conversations and mentality in the locker room is not if we make playoffs, it’s when. We go into each game ready to fight and ready to win. These last seven games will be our test but we have full faith in the group that we are going to accomplish our goals.”

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Ryan Negrette – Coordinator, Communications
rnegrette@sjearthquakes.com
C: 408.489.8891

Premier Rugby Sevens Western Conference Championships, July 15, 2023

Northern Loonies KAYLA MOLESCHI (17) finds some open pitch being pursued by Rhino x Loggerheads SHONA WESTON (8) and Rhino x Loggerheads ALI NAMOSIMALUA (9) during the Premier Rugby Sevens Western Conference Finals at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Seattle Sounders, July 12, 2023

San Jose Earthquakes Defender MIGUEL TRAUCO (21) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Seattle Sounders at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
July 12, 2023

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 2, Seattle Sounders FC 0

Quakes victorious at home, Espinoza breaks all-time club assist record

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Seattle Sounders FC 1-0 on Wednesday night at PayPal Park. A goal and record-breaking assist from Cristian Espinoza helped the Quakes earn three points at home and win the 2023 Heritage Cup. The Quakes opened the scoring in the 19th minute on a penalty kick from forward Cristian Espinoza. Jeremy Ebobisse was brought down in the box by the Seattle defense before Espinoza fired a shot into the bottom left corner to take the lead. Forward Jack Skahan almost doubled the lead in the second half, but his one-time volley in the box was ruled offside. San Jose eventually found their second goal in the 65th minute from defender Miguel Trauco, who struck a full volley from outside the box past Seattle goalkeeper Stefan Cleveland. Espinoza tallied the assist on Trauco’s goal and is now the all-time assist leader for the Quakes (51), passing club legend Shea Salinas. The Earthquakes will take a break from MLS league play and prepare for the inaugural Leagues Cup tournament. The Quakes will open the tournament on the road against the Portland Timbers on Saturday, July 22. Kickoff from Providence Park in Portland, Oregon, is slated for 7:00 p.m. PT and will be streamed globally on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app, FS1 and Univision.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes now hold an 8-7-8 record (32 pts.) during the 2023 MLS regular season and currently sit in fifth place in the 14-team Western Conference.San Jose currently holds a 14-15-9 record against Seattle, including a 6-5-5 record at home.With tonight’s win, the Quakes earned their second win of the season against the Sounders to claim the Heritage Cup for the second year in a row. The Heritage Cup is an annual competition between the two teams with North American Soccer League (NASL) heritage, taking place across both regular season matches. The Earthquakes have only lost once in their last five matches against Seattle and have not lost to their Pacific Northwest rival at home since May 12, 2021. San Jose have only lost once in 12 home matches this season (7-1-4). Forward Cristian Espinoza scored his 11th goal of the season and 26th of his MLS career. Espinoza has now successfully converted nine consecutive penalty kicks and has made nine of ten overall during his MLS career. He is now tied for the fifth most goals in Quakes history with Vako. Espinoza, who tallied his 51st MLS career assist on Trauco’s goal, now holds the all-time record for most assists in Quakes history.Defender Miguel Trauco scored his third goal of the season and of his MLS career. Goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski earned his fourth shutout of the season and 18th of his MLS career. Midfielder Tommy Thompson made his 200th career appearance for the Quakes, entering as a sub in the 85th minute. He is the fourth player to reach that milestone in team history.

MATCH INFORMATION2023 MLS Regular Season
San Jose Earthquakes 2 – 0 Seattle Sounders FC
Wednesday, July 12, 2023 – PayPal Park, San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 13,577
Man of the Match: Cristian Espinoza

Scoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Cristian Espinoza (penalty kick) 19’
SJ (2-0) – Miguel Trauco (Cristian Espinoza) 65’

Misconduct Summary:
SEA – Nouhou (caution) 41’
SEA – Leo Chu (caution) 45+4’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Paul Marie (Benji Kikanovic 90+1’), Tanner Beason, Rodrigues, Carlos Akapo; Miguel Trauco, Carlos Gruezo, Judson (Cam Cilley 90+3’), Jack Skahan (Tommy Thompson 85’), Jeremy Ebobisse (Ousseni Bouda 90+3’), Cristian Espinoza (C).

Substitutes not used: Emi Ochoa (GK), Jonathan Mensah, Daniel Munie, Will Richmond, Niko Tsakiris.

SHOTS: 15; SHOTS ON GOAL: 3; FOULS: 9; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 2

SEATTLE SOUNDERS FC: Stefan Cleveland; Nouhou (Reed Baker-Whiting 81’) Jackson Rogen, Yeimar Gomez Andrade, Cody Baker (Alex Roldan 46’); Joao Paulo (Josh Atencio 66’), Nico Lodeiro (C) (Dylan Teves 67’), Albert Rusnak, Leo Chu, Obed Vargas; Heber (Raul Ruidiaz 66’)Substitutes not used: Andrew Thomas (GK), Abdoulaye Cissoko, Fredy Montero, Andrew Thomas.

SHOTS: 9; SHOTS ON GOAL: 2; FOULS: 9; CORNER KICKS: 3; SAVES: 1

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On the team building strong performances and momentum:
“We started the game [last week] really well against LAFC. The game planning was really good, and the guys were executing. Tonight, we started similar in terms of our principles. We were trying to build pressure and win the ball and attack, but it was different also. We have to be ready to tweak each game and moment based on what’s available. What I want to grab are the things that have helped us compete. I feel like we have built momentum in a positive way in the past few weeks in terms of competing and responding. You just feel the guys are always ready to respond and compete, and I am proud to coach them. Those are the things we want to do with energy, enthusiasm, and intensity.”

On preparing for the inaugural Leagues Cup tournament:
“We’ll work in a positive way to get everyone full force. We want to approach Leagues Cup with as many healthy guys as possible. We are taking the next steps against very good opponents, which are going to be Portland [Timbers] and Tigres [UNAL]. We’re excited to have a little time off with family and friends to recharge our batteries, and then get back to work next week.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CRISTIAN ESPINOZA

On seeing how far he has come since first joining the club:
“I remember when I arrived here, I was very excited to play [at San Jose] and to play in the MLS, and to have this experience. To be honest, I didn’t expect what would happen [breaking the club assist record]. I am really happy with this moment and with everything that has happened before. I am very thankful for my teammates.”

On what this season means to him being a record breaker and an all-star:
“It makes me feel very happy because I can see all the effort and sacrifices that I made in every single training session since I arrived here paying off now. At the same time, I try to keep the focus on trying to help the team. I think that is the most important thing for me.”

####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Ryan Negrette – Coordinator, Communications
rnegrette@sjearthquakes.com
C: 408.489.8891

2023 Nevada District 1 Little League All Star Tournament

Here’s a link to all the years we currently have posted on the site for the Nevada District 1 Little League All Star Tournament. I have back to 2007 if you are looking for year’s prior, shoot me an email and I’ll load them. Thank you for your interest in my work!

Nevada District 1 Little League All Stars

For State… I have 2008, 2018, 2021 at this link… and 2010 and 2014 in the archives.

Nevada State Little League All Stars

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Portland Timbers, June 17, 2023

San Jose Earthquakes Goalkeeper DANIEL (42) kneels in the goal before the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Portland Timbers at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
June 17, 2023
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 0, Portland Timbers 0
Quakes extend home undefeated streak to nine, unbeaten in last five matches

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes and the Portland Timbers played to a scoreless draw on Saturday night at PayPal Park. The Quakes extend their home undefeated streak this season to nine games (6-0-3), their best home start to a season since 2005.San Jose featured a heavily rotated lineup due to national team call-ups, missing defenders Carlos Akapo and Miguel Trauco, and midfielders Carlos Gruezo and Jamiro Monteiro.Goalkeeper Daniel made a goal line save in the 47th minute to keep the match 0-0. Neither side was able to break the deadlock, with both teams hitting the post on multiple occasions.The Earthquakes will now prepare for two matches next week, first traveling to face Houston Dynamo FC on Wednesday, June 21. Kickoff from Shell Energy Stadium is slated for 5:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed globally on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app, as well as on local radio via 810 AM The Spread (English) and 1370 KZSF (Spanish).

GAME NOTESThe Earthquakes now hold a 7-5-6 record (27 pts.) during the 2023 MLS regular season and currently sit in fourth place in the 14-team Western Conference.San Jose now hold a 6-16-10 all-time record against the Portland Timbers, including a 6-4-6 record at home.The Quakes home undefeated streak (7-0-3) is on pace for their best home unbeaten streak since 2019 (10-0-2), and they have not lost at home since Sept. 24, 2022.San Jose have not lost at PayPal Park in 12 consecutive matches, with their last loss at the stadium dating back to Aug. 3, 2022.The Earthquakes have conceded one goal in four matches for the first time since Aug. 28, 2015.Goalkeeper Daniel has gone undefeated in his last five games in goal (2-0-3), making 26 saves and earning three clean sheets in that span.Midfielder Niko Tsakiris made his first start of the season and first since Oct. 9, 2022.

MATCH INFORMATION2023 MLS Regular Season
San Jose Earthquakes 0 – 0 Portland Timbers
Saturday, June 17, 2023 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 14,188
Man of the Match: Daniel

Scoring Summary:
None.

Misconduct Summary:
POR – Santiago Moreno (caution) 18’
POR – Dario Zuparic (caution) 44’
SJ – Cade Cowell (caution) 51’
SJ – Paul Marie (caution) 54’
POR – Eric Miller (caution) 64’
SJ – Tommy Thompson (caution) 90+1’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Tanner Beason, Rodrigues, Jonathan Mensah, Paul Marie; Niko Tsakiris (Jack Skahan 76’), Judson (Tommy Thompson 63’), Jackson Yueill (C); Cade Cowell (Benji Kikanović 90+4’), Jeremy Ebobisse (Ousseni Bouda 90+4’), Cristian Espinoza.Substitutes not used: JT Marcinkowski (GK), Cam Cilley, Daniel Munie, Will Richmond.

SHOTS: 12; SHOTS ON GOAL: 2; FOULS: 8; CORNER KICKS: 7; SAVES: 4

PORTLAND TIMBERS: David Bingham; Claudio Bravo, Dario Zuparic, Eric Miller, Zachary McGraw; Evander, Diego Chara (C), Cristhian Paredes, Dairon Asprilla, Santiago Moreno (Sebastian Blanco 72’); Franck Boli (Jaroslaw Niezgoda 72’). Substitutes not used: Hunter Sulte (GK), Noel Caliskan, Nathan Fogaca, Diego Gutierrez, Marvin Loria, Larrys Mabiala, Justin Rasmussen.

SHOTS: 16; SHOTS ON GOAL: 4; FOULS: 15; CORNER KICKS: 4; SAVES: 2

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On tonight’s result:
“I think the draw was fair. I liked our foundation in terms of build-up. We got into their half a lot, but we didn’t turn those finishing attack phases into crosses and shots in the volume that we wanted. I am happy with the foundation of how we moved the ball forward, especially against their high press. Getting zero goals against at home is always going to be positive and we’re going to grab that. We always want to win at home in front of our families and fans. At the same time, adding a point is positive. We’ll grab that, rest, and prepare for the next one.”

On goalkeeper Daniel’s performance:
“It’s great to have Daniel in a rhythm of staying healthy and having another positive performance. He is showing that he can be consistent in games as well, so credit to him. Congrats to Daniel in being important in tonight’s shutout.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES FORWARD CRISTIAN ESPINOZA

On tonight’s result:
“We kept their goals to zero, so that is a good thing for us. We keep improving our defense, but now we can focus on our offense. We have a couple days to work on that before we go to Houston. We will try to take three points there.”

On facing a solid Timbers defense:
“I think that the other teams have been more aggressive in marking me, Jebo [Jeremy Ebobisse], and Cade [Cowell]. They know that when we have space, we are dangerous. This is something that we can improve on. We can improve our movements in those situations when the defense is tight on our backs. We have a couple days to rest and to improve in what we can do better in. We will go to Houston with everything we’ve got.”
####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Pedro Ortiz – Manager, Communications
portiz@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.457.3512

San Jose Earthquakes II vs. Tacoma Defiance, June 11, 2023

San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder CAM CILLEY (19) during the MLS Next Pro match between the San Jose Earthquakes II and the Tacoma Defiance at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Philadelphia Union, June 10, 2023

San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder JACKSON YUEILL (14) during the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and the Philadelphia Union at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
June 10, 2023
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 2, Philadelphia Union 1
Quakes extend home undefeated streak to eight, snap Philadelphia’s nine-match unbeaten streak

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes defeated the Philadelphia Union 2-1 on Saturday night at PayPal Park. Jeremy Ebobisse and Miguel Trauco found the back of the net as the Quakes extended their home unbeaten streak to eight (6-0-2). They are also unbeaten in their last four matches (2-0-2).The Quakes opened the scoring early with an eighth minute strike from forward Jeremy Ebobisse. Cade Cowell, receiving a long ball over the defense, dribbled into space and found Ebobisse at the top of the box. He one-timed a low shot into the corner for a 1-0 lead. Philadelphia traded blows by scoring off corner kick in the 17th minute to finish the first half level. San Jose battled back in the second half to find the game-winner in the 57th minute from defender Miguel Trauco. Carlos Gruezo collected the ball near the top of the box and found Trauco, who fired his long-range shot into the top-right corner. The Earthquakes will next host the Portland Timbers on Saturday, June 17. Kickoff from PayPal Park is set for 7:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed globally on MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app, as well as on local radio via 810 AM The Spread (English) and 1370 KZSF (Spanish).

GAME NOTESThe Earthquakes now hold a 7-5-5 record (26 pts.) during the 2023 MLS regular season and currently sit tied for third in the 14-team Western Conference.San Jose currently holds a 5-5-4 all-time record against the Philadelphia Union, including a 3-2-2 record at home. Tonight’s win snapped Philadelphia’s nine-game regular season undefeated streak.The Quakes earned their first win against the Union since Sept. 8, 2013.The Earthquakes extended their home unbeaten streak to eight (6-0-2), becoming one of four MLS clubs undefeated at home this season. It is also the club’s first win against an Eastern Conference team this season.Forward Jeremy Ebobisse scored his seventh goal of the season and 51st of his MLS career. He is now tied with Brian Ching for sixth most goals in club history (25).Defender Miguel Trauco scored his second goal of the season and of his MLS career. His goal marked his first game-winning goal of his MLS career.Forward Cade Cowell tallied an assist on Ebobisse’s goal, marking his third assist of the season and 15th of his MLS career. Tonight was his first appearance since returning from the FIFA U20 World Cup.Midfielder Carlos Gruezo tallied an assist on Trauco’s goal, marking his third assist of the season and tenth of his MLS career.Goalkeeper Daniel has gone undefeated in his last four games in goal (2-0-2), making 22 saves and earning two clean sheets.

MATCH INFORMATION2023 MLS Regular Season
San Jose Earthquakes 2 – 1 Philadelphia Union
Saturday, June 10, 2023 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 15,512
Man of the Match: Miguel TraucoScoring Summary:
SJ – Jeremy Ebobisse (Cade Cowell) 8’
PHI – Damion Lowe (Kai Wagner) 17’
SJ – Miguel Trauco (Carlos Gruezo) 57’

Misconduct Summary:
None.

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: Daniel; Miguel Trauco, Tanner Beason, Rodrigues, Carlos Akapo (Paul Marie 81’); Jamiro Monteiro (Jonathan Mensah 86’), Carlos Gruezo, Jackson Yueill (C) (Judson 82’); Cade Cowell (Benji Kikanović 73’), Jeremy Ebobisse, Cristian Espinoza.Substitutes not used: Michael Baldisimo, Ousseni Bouda, JT Marcinkowski (GK), Tommy Thompson, Niko Tsakiris.

SHOTS: 10; SHOTS ON GOAL: 2; FOULS: 13; CORNER KICKS: 1; SAVES: 6

PHILADELPHIA UNION: Andre Blake (C); Jack Elliott, Jakob Glesnes, Damion Lowe (Jack McGlynn 24’), Nathan Harriel, Kai Wagner; Daniel Gazdag, Jesus Bueno (Quinn Sullivan 76’), Leon Flach (Chris Donocan 87’); Mikael Uhre (Joaquin Torres 76’), Julian Carranza.Substitutes not used: Joe Bendik, Brandon Craig, Andres Perea, Jeremy Rafanello, Matt Real.

SHOTS: 19; SHOTS ON GOAL: 7; FOULS: 21; CORNER KICKS: 6; SAVES: 0

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH LUCHI GONZALEZ

On tonight’s win against the Philadelphia Union:
“At the end of the day we put away our chances and that’s what is most important. I thought we were efficient in the chances we had, and we showed high quality in our finishes. Both of the goals were excellent. Defensively I’m really proud of the guys in the run of the play. I mean we conceded on a corner, but in the run of play defended well, covered each other and handled Philadelphia’s attack and found a way to win. These are not easy games; you have to grind through them and find a way. I’m proud that we put away our chances.”

On the team performing well in stoppage time:
“Recently I think we’ve just talked about it, reflected on it, and taken it very personal and focused on it as a team. How can we make it our strength? How can we make it San Jose’s time in stoppage time where we’re focused and excited? We’ve worked hard to put ourselves in that position and we’re excited to get the job done. We ourselves have intentionally tried to turn that script, turn that mentality, and approach it so we show more courage in it. It’s all a process. Every game is going to be a little bit different. We have to be ready to adapt. I am proud of our guys.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES DEFENDER MIGUEL TRAUCOOn scoring tonight’s goal and earning the win:
“Being able to score this goal, which was aesthetically pleasing, is special and it was helpful for us to earn the three points. That makes me really happy as well as the team’s full effort on the field. It’s a pleasure playing with this team because everyone played well and thanks to God I was able to score the goal, which makes me happy.”

On his thought process prior to scoring his goal:
“Those decisions come in the spirit of the moment. I try to take a shot whenever I have a ball in front of me and in front of the net. I had good control of the ball and I didn’t think about it twice. I had the confidence in shooting it towards goal and it turned out to be a beautiful goal. But most importantly is that it helped us earn the three points. That’s what makes me the happiest.”

####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Pedro Ortiz
Manager, Communications
portiz@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.457.3512

NIAA Girls Soccer 5A Northern Region Championship, November 5, 2022

It’s been a long LONG time since I’ve “blogged” so I thought I’d start with the end of the season Girls 5A Northern Region Championship game!

If you’d like to skip to the images…

https://bit.ly/2022NVGirls5ANorthChampionship

I’ve been around the area shooting regional sports since 2007 but today was the first time I got to… let’s just say “experience” the wind at McQueen High School… To say it’s remarkable is an understatement… it was BLOWING HARD today! Wow! But it didn’t seem to deter the girls from getting after it on the pitch today!

To give you a little background… McQueen came into this game as the #2 seed coming out of the regular season. Galena arrived as the #5 seed which meant they had to play away at Carson on Monday… being the #2 seed, McQueen had a first round bye. Monday Galena squeaked past Carson with a 78th+ minute go ahead goal to win 2-1. They then faced the #1 seed at Reed on Wednesday, they won on Penalty Kicks after the two 15 minute over time periods. McQueen faced Douglas on Wednesday at Wooster (did I mention it snowed Tuesday…) and were able to win 1-0. So heading into this game Galena had already played just shy of 5 halves of play in two games, McQueen played a single game…. to back up a quick second, during the regular season, Galena v McQueen resulted in two 1-1 ties, home and away….

From the start to the last whistle of the second overtime game it was game on for both teams. Both had some action in front of the goal and some balls bouncing around in front of the goal but nothing that wasn’t handled by the defense and we ended regulation and overtime at 0-0. (seemed familiar from the regular season results)

Onto Penalty Kicks… There’s always a lot of debate about penalty kicks…. some people like them, some people hate them… I’ve been involved with this game for 43 years now and I look at it like this… they’re a part of the game, you NEED to practice them to be good at them, you know it’s a part of the game so shame on you if you haven’t worked on them (you’ve likely worked for YEARS on other things, this should be added to the list, ESPECIALLY right before a tournament…).

To say a penalty shootout is nerve-racking is an understatement… I’ve been in several over the years as a player (not as a coach yet) and I was in the first five shooters… fortunately I converted (at least in the shootouts…).

The cruelty of the game and the shootout today snagged McQueen and gave Galena the Northern Region Championship.

Both teams will go on to play in the State Championship Tournament down in the Vegas area next week. Good Luck to both teams in Vegas, Rep Northern Nevada with your heads held high, we’re all rooting for you!

Onto the photos… it was a beautiful day aside from the wind… for photos, overcast is always good, kills the really hard shadows and you can somewhat still get away with shooting in any direction on the field… I still shoot from the south end of the fields when possible just incase the sun peaks out. I’ve tried to pick some photos that show the intensity of the game… The full gallery can be found here…

https://bit.ly/2022NVGirls5ANorthChampionship

A beautiful day for soccer. The scene before the game between the Galena Grizzlies and the McQueen Lancers, McQueen High School, Reno, NV

San Jose Earthquakes vs. Houston Dynamo, July 17, 2022

San Jose Earthquakes Forward JEREMY EBOBISSE (11) and the starting eleven huddle prior to the MLS match between the San Jose Earthquakes and Houston Dynamo at PayPal Park in San Jose, California

MEDIA RELEASE:
July 17, 2022
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Houston Dynamo FC 2

Quakes’ home unbeaten streak snapped at eight

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes fell to Houston Dynamo FC 2-1 on Sunday evening at PayPal Park. The loss, which was San Jose’s first at home since the season opener on Feb. 26, snaps the club’s eight-match unbeaten streak at PayPal Park.Following a scoreless first half, the Earthquakes broke through in the 53rd minute courtesy of team captain Jackson Yueill. Cristian Espinoza played a free kick into the box, which was headed goalward by Tommy Thompson. The slow, looping ball bounced off the crossbar before falling to Yueill for the first-timed finish.Houston then scored the equalizer in the 71st minute.San Jose appeared to re-gain the lead when Jeremy Ebobisse’s right-footed shot from close range beat goalkeeper Steve Clark, but a last-ditch goal-line clearance kept the score tied. Houston then took the lead moments later through Thor Ulfarsson.Despite several opportunities to find an equalizer late in the match, the Quakes couldn’t find a second goal.The Earthquakes will now prepare to host Spain’s RC Celta de Vigo in an international friendly on Wednesday, July 20. The match will kick off from PayPal Park at 7:30 p.m. PT and will be streamed live on ESPN+.

GAME NOTES
The Earthquakes currently hold a 5-8-7 record (22 pts.) during the 2022 MLS regular season.

San Jose is now 9-16-4 all-time vs. Houston Dynamo FC, including a 7-5-3 record at home.Tonight’s result sees the Quakes snap their unbeaten streak at three and their home unbeaten streak at eight.The Earthquakes are now 5-4-4 in MLS play under interim head coach Alex Covelo.Midfielder Jackson Yueill scored his fourth goal of the season and 11th goal of his MLS career.

MATCH INFORMATION

2022 MLS Regular Season
San Jose Earthquakes 1 – 2 Houston Dynamo FC
Sunday, July 17, 2022 – PayPal Park in San Jose, Calif.
Attendance: 13,445

Scoring Summary:
SJ (1-0) – Jackson Yueill (unassisted) 53’
HOU (1-1) – Sebastian Ferreira (Fafa Picault) 71’
HOU (2-1) – Thor Ulfarsson (Darwin Quintero) 76’

Misconduct Summary:
HOU – Tim Parker (caution) 28’
HOU – Matias Vera (caution) 43’
SJ – Jamiro Monteiro (caution) 45’
HOU – Fafa Picault (caution) 90’

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Paul Marie, Tanner Beason, Nathan, Tommy Thompson; Eric Remedi (Jack Skahan 83), Jamiro Monteiro, Jackson Yueill ©; Benji Kikanović (Cade Cowell 71), Jeremy Ebobisse, Cristian Espinoza.Substitutes not used: Matt Bersano (GK), Oskar Ågren, Ousseni Bouda, Jan Gregus, Will Richmond, Niko Tsakiris.

SHOTS: 16; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 6; CORNER KICKS: 8; SAVES: 2

HOUSTON DYNAMO FC: Steve Clark; Adam Lundkvist, Tim Parker, Teenage Hadebe, Griffin Dorsey; Hector Herrera ©, Adalberto Carrasquilla (Ethan Bartlow 90+2), Matias Vera (Sebastian Ferreira 69); Fafa Picault (Darwin Ceren 90+1), Darwin Quintero (Memo Rodriguez 80), Thor Ulfarsson (Tyler Pasher 80).Substitutes not used: Michael Nelson (GK), Sam Junqua, Zarek Valentin, Zeca.

SHOTS: 13; SHOTS ON GOAL: 4; FOULS: 12; CORNER KICKS: 7; SAVES: 4

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES INTERIM HEAD COACH ALEX COVELO

On the mistakes committed tonight:
“I think the mistake [on the first goal] was an individual mistake, and on the second goal we had to keep the ball out when there wasn’t a clear moment to build up, and that’s it. I don’t think it was because we were building up in the back that Houston had those opportunities. I think we committed individual mistakes and that’s why it’s a very simple analysis today.”

On why he didn’t make more substitutions:
“When you look at the team that we finished with, we had Jebo [Jeremy Ebobisse], who has 11 goals. You have Jamiro [Monteiro], an amazing quality player. We tried to be more offensive by bringing Jackson [Yueill] back as a ‘six’ and putting in Jack Skahan in his place, and with Cade [Cowell] and Cristian [Espinoza] trying to find crosses or individual actions on top. Shea Salinas has a Covid situation. We missed Marcos Lopez [due to yellow card accumulation]. Judson is injured because he has an old injury bothering him. So that’s all we have.”

SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES MIDFIELDER JAMIRO MONTEIRO

On what Houston did to shut San Jose’s midfield down:
“I didn’t feel like they were making it hard for me. They were really compact, so we didn’t have a lot of space in the midfield, but it wasn’t like they were hard on me. We didn’t have enough space in this game and a lot of our balls were coming from the side instead of the midfield.”

On how he will move past this result:
“I just forget this game. It already happened. We lost. Now we’re onto next week. We still have 14 games. Tomorrow is a new day. We have a new week, new chances. Every week is a new chance for us.”####

Earthquakes Communications Contacts:
Jake Pisani – Director, Communications
jpisani@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.483.0701

Pedro Ortiz – Manager, Communications
portiz@sjearthquakes.com
C: 650.457.3512

July 2022, not your normal July…

This is a tough one to write this year… with all good intentions I had every ambition to be out at the Nevada District 1 Little League Tournament this year… both life… and unfortunately death… both got in the way of that this year. We tried with all our best efforts to schedule to be available to be at the entire tournament (with how it turned out, with it split, there would have been no way but… intentions…)… and if 2021 was any indication, the tournament would be after July 4th. Unfortunately that wasn’t to be entirely. So I missed the entire pool play “section” of the tournament to begin with with a family vacation (gotta get in the time away when we can, crazy busy year we always have…).

This brings me to the championship round of the tournament… We arrived back in Reno at 10:00 AM, red eye flight to get us back… this would give me about 30 hours to get prepped for the tournament at Washoe. 10:30 AM my dad called… we all have those people we know when they call, somethings up and you pick up, no matter what you are doing, you stop and answer that phone. For me, when my dad calls, something is up. Don’t get me wrong, we talk often, but he doesn’t call anyone. We were at IHOP in Reno awaiting our table (red eye, no meals on the planes, Airport food at 6:00 AM in LAX didn’t appeal…)…

“They are taking Sue to the hospital”… Sue is my step mom. This isn’t one of those Dad ran off with some new girl kinda things. Sue has been my step mom for 43 years. If you ever met them, I introduced them as “my parents”. She’s very significant in our lives. Long LONG story short, about 6:10 PM on July 4th, my step mom accepted the call from God. To say that this put my dad in a tailspin is an understatement… as he said, “… everything I did was for us…” So after several more discussions with my dad on Monday, July 4th, I decided it best to drive down to the Bay Area to be with him for a few days.

This brings me to my “involvement” with the tournament. I’m gonna be very honest, I work very hard at these and really try to make something special for the people… 2007 was my first All Star Tournament… if you remove 2020 as a non-year, this marks my 15th year doing these tournaments (16th actual chronological years)… none of the kids competing this year were born when I started. Over the years we’ve developed a method of trying to create something special and no doubt about it, it’s been very hard. This year given I had two game slots, Saturday at 10:30 AM and Sunday at 10:30 AM (championship Sunday)… I’m not sure if I got much of anything for anyone so we might have to chalk 2022 up to Life and Death… So, for life I apologize, I had the best of intentions… for death, my step mom, Sue, was a wonderful woman. Remarkable that she chose to take on a single dad with a seven year old son. They never had any other kids, just me… and she was my dad’s everything. She is missed, will be missed and taken too soon but she’s no longer in any pain or suffering. We were blessed to have her in our lives for the time we did.

I know when you do something long enough bad things happen in the world and statistics of “life” will have an impact on you, we all hope and pray “not us” but we are not immune to the facts of life. Baseball, Little League is supposed to a celebration of life, the All Stars, celebration of success and achievement… however I’ve been involved with this tournament for so long that we have seen tremendous tragedy over the years. People we all know and love, gone… this year we had another and I’m simply speechless. Grig McCoy, a former Washoe Little League All Star, student at Galena High School, a kid I photographed… this isn’t supposed to happen. The plan is your parents buy photos of you and when you’re old, you share them with your kids and grandkids. That’s the plan. That’s the joy I want to try to bring to the world with my work. May Grig Rest In Peace and may God watch over his family and give them comfort in this difficult time.

It’s very cliche-ish but we all get “touched” with it at some point in our lives, life is precious, there is no tomorrow so live today. Hug your loved one’s and cherish the time you do have.

I hope to see you all soon.

Behind the Lens…