Varsity Boys Soccer - Fall 2009
Overall Team Record: 15-12-0 (5-5 in conference)
Goals for/against: (57-67)
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State Final Tournament Information
2009 Game and Practice Schedule
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Timothy Men’s Soccer Wins IHSA Class 1A State Championship With 2-1 (4OT) Victory Over Waterloo Gibault Catholic
Trojans Clinch First Men’s Team State Championship in School History
Game Summary
The 2009 Timothy Christian High School men’s varsity soccer team is the IHSA's Class 1A champion.
The magical 2009 men’s soccer post-season run ended in dramatic fashion- with Junior captain Corey Phillip’s championship winning goal coming 2 minutes into the 4th and final overtime period of the state final on Saturday, October 31st.
The Hawks of Gibault found the score sheet first off of a corner kick. A team famous for great defense and great execution of set pieces held the 1-0 halftime lead. This lead would hold until the waning minutes of regulation when senior midfielder Nate Middel hustled after a ball that was about to roll over the end line for a Trojan corner kick.
The entire Hawk defense had given up on the ball, but Middel’s hustle afforded him the opportunity to cross it. Junior captain Mike Pizzello, who had been brought out of the defense to join the midfield attack and give the Trojans more of an offensive threat, was on the end of the cross and ripped the ball to the back of the net to send the game into the golden goal overtime and the Trojan faithful into a frenzy. Pizzello had another chance to finish the game off in the final ten seconds of regulation, but the Hawk goalkeeper was equal to the task.
The Pizzello equalizer was made possible by an offensive minded line up switch. With 23 minutes remaining in regulation, senior sweeper Kyle Anderson subbed on and provided a quality defensive effort that allowed Pizzello to join the midfield attack. The move also put Nate Middel into the outside midfield position that set up his cross.
Throughout the second half and overtime, the offensive flow of play was dominated by sophomore Nolan DuBois. This same time period featured shut-down defending by freshman defender Adam Garza and senior defender Dai hee Cho. Senior goalkeeper Aaron Foster only gave up the one goal in the 111 minute of play and had seven saves.
In the IHSA state tournament, there are four 10 minute periods of golden-goal overtime (if you score, you win). The Trojans, rejuvenated by their dramatic comeback controlled most of the first three overtime periods, but ultimately couldn’t produce the game winner. The Trojan’s best chance to this point came in the second overtime where junior stopper Troy Ellens won a head-ball off of a Corey Phillip throw-in that was headed to the lower corner of the far post. The Gibault keeper made the save of the tournament, just getting some fingertips on the ball, ushering it past the post and out of bounds, and keeping the Gibault championship hopes alive.
By the fourth overtime, both teams were completely exhausted, but the Trojans continued to control the game in extra time. Just two minutes into the fourth and final overtime, Corey Phillip won a throw-in deep in Hawk territory. Phillip’s long throw-in was headed out of the goal box by a Gibault defender, but the ball bounced right back to Phillip. Phillip had only one man to beat and that is exactly what he did. With a championship-clinching move, Phillip blew past the defender, found room in confined space for a low, near-post shot that beat the Hawk goalkeeper, won the game, and set off a celebration the likes of which Timothy men’s sports had previously never experienced.
Post Season By the Numbers
Timothy’s playoff run was truly one for the ages. The Trojans amazing playoff run included 7 consecutive wins (in a regular season with only 8 victories), 10 separate periods of overtime, a successful penalty kick shootout victory, come-from-behind victories in both the state semi-final and the state final, and five consecutive 2-1 victories to finish off the season. Remarkably, the Trojans were only a 4th seeded team within their own region. The state championship is Timothy's first men's team state championship in the 99 year history of the school. Timothy now has 6 total state championships- 4 from women's track, 1 from women's cross country, and 1 from men's soccer.
Junior Captain Corey Phillip finished the post-season with 10 goals and 4 assists (20 and 18 overall). Phillip's championship-winning goal came in the 111th minute of play.
Post Season Nemesis
Entering the 2009 championship game, the Hawks of Waterloo Gibault had a playoff record of 33-1 over the past five playoff seasons. A true IHSA class 1A dynasty with 3 consecutive championships from 2005-2007, the only loss in the previous 4 seasons also came at the hands of Timothy Christian with a 1-0 defeat in the 2008 state semi-finals.
The Hawks are now 33-2 over 5 post seasons with both losses coming to Timothy Christian.
Scheduled Celebrations
The triumphant Trojans have two scheduled celebrations in which the Timothy community is invited to participate. On Tuesday, November 3rd at 2:15, the school will hold a pep-rally in the Huizenga Auditorium. Entrance is free- all in attendance are encouraged to wear red.
On Saturday, November 7th at 7:30 PM, the team will be recognized on the field and over the public address announcement at Toyota Park during the Chicago Fire/New England Revolution playoff game! Tickets players this game for non players/family members of are $25. If you are interested, please contact team mom JoAnn Favia at joann@financialsolutionsmidwest.com.
Other State Tournament Press
Chicago Sun Times
Chicago Tribune
Chicagoland Soccer News
IHSA Soccer Menu... note the beautiful red star
Elmhurst Doings
Elmhurst Doings #2
Daily Herald
Daily Herald Interview of Coach Gesch
Roster
Team members for the state champions include:
Blake Engelsman, Danny Leach, Adam Garza, Aaron Foster, Kevin Hansberger, Nolan DuBois, Ben Cook, John Bowman, David Kuenzi, Troy Ellens, Mike Euwema, Nick Groenewold, Jonathan Workman, Mike Pizzello, Nathan Middel, Colin Middel, Dai hee Cho, Brad Wieringa, Corey Phillip, nathan Slager, Kyle Anderson, Matt Robinson, Devon Loerop, Justin Rink, Ju Young Kim, and Rick June.
The Trojans were coached by head Coach Rudi Gesch, assistant coach Ryan Dekoekkoek, and assistant coach Mike Oosterhouse.
Timothy Christian Men’s Soccer Heads Back to State Championship After Dramatic 2-1 OT Win Over Peoria Christian
For the second time in two years, the Timothy Christian Men's Soccer team is headed back to the IHSA class 1A State Championship game. Falling just short to a strong Winnebago team in 2008, the Trojans hope to be able to finish off this year's run with a championship.
In a full team effort, the Trojans of Timothy Christian defeated the Chargers of Peoria Christian 2-1 with a Dave Kuenzi golden goal victory in the second overtime.
In a windy first half, a miscommunication on defense allowed the only goal that the Trojans would yield- but it was the game's first. Defenders Troy Ellens, Dae He Cho, Adam Garza, and Mike Pizzello deserve full credit for all but shutting down the potent Charger attack.
Trailing 1-0 at halftime and needing to come from behind for the victory, the Trojans looked to regroup in the second half. Junior Corey Phillip and Sophomore Nolan DuBois consistently found room to maneuver the ball against the Charger defense, and on a play 13 minutes into the second half, Phillip was able to get past several defenders and launch the ball into a dangerous position in the Charger goal box. Sophomore Forward Nick Groenewold met the ball ahead of the Peoria goalie with a perfectly timed run and one-timed the equalizer into the back of the net. Despite several more chances, the score at the end of regulation was 1-1.
After a scoreless first 10 minute overtime period in which the Trojans amassed several chances off of throw-ins and corner kicks, Timothy entered the second overtime ready to claim the victory. On a planned corner kick set-piece centered on misdirection, Corey Phillip found himself in a great scoring position and shot the ball into a mass of Charger defenders. The Peoria defense was up to the task, but gave up a rebound to senior forward David Kuenzi. Kuenzi, who has spent the majority of the season recovering from an injury, did not have a goal thus far this season- but his goal would prove to be the biggest of the year to this point. Kuenzi got the rebound and one-timed a shot into the back of the net propelling the Trojans back to the State Championship.
The goal was even more amazing because the Trojans had run this play well over ten times this season without one successful result. The team picked the perfect time to finally get it right.
The Trojans charged the field, happy to be going back to the IHSA Class 1A State Championship for the second time in two years. Timothy will certainly have their work cut out for them in the championship game, as the team will face the legendary Hawks program of Waterloo Gibault Catholic who defeated the Cougars of Keith Country Day 2-1 in an extremely physical affair in which two red cards were handed out.
Gibault has won state championships in three of the last four years, and will be looking for revenge against a Timothy program that, in 2008, handed the Hawks their only playoff loss in the past four seasons.
The championship game will take place on Saturday, October 31st at 7:30 PM. at North Central College. Come and cheer for Timothy- we hope to see you there!
Timothy Christian Men’s Soccer Defeats Westminster Christian 2-1, Wins Back-to-Back Sectional Championships
Trojans Head to IHSA Class 1A State Final Four for 2nd Time in 2 years
10.28.09
In a result that few predicted at the beginning of the 2009 soccer season, the Timothy Christian High School Men's Soccer team has won a sectional championship for the second consecutive year.
After graduating out 10 seniors representing well over 50 goals and 40 assists, many labeled this year for the Trojans as a rebuilding year. But the young and talented Trojans have grown up this season, and with the culminating win over Westminster Christian in the Lisle Sectional Final, the team has advanced to the IHSA class 1A final four for the second time in school history, and the second time in two years.
Despite rainy conditions, the Trojans definitely came ready to play. Junior captain Corey Phillip scored an unassisted goal a mere 30 seconds into the game to set up a great game for Timothy. Phillip's amazing individual effort beat several defenders and ultimately the Warrior's goalkeeper for the quick 1-0 lead.
On the defensive side of the ball, a pre-game line-up change and a staunch defensive strategy had Timothy prepared for the outstanding offense of Westminster Christian- which included a tandem of very good forwards in senior Ishmael Yemoh and sophomore Josh Beachler. Senior defender Dae He Cho and freshman defender Adam Garza did a phenomenal job shutting down this powerful combination for the vast majority of the game.
In one of the few defensive breakdowns of the first half, Westminster forward Yemoh found himself on a break-away one-on-one with senior Timothy goalkeeper Aaron Foster. Foster picked his spot, challenged Yemoh by sliding directly at the ball, and came up with the save of the year for the Trojans. Fresh off his dominating penalty kick shoot-out performance, Foster has definitely brought his best games to the biggest stages of the season for the Trojans.
With a half-time lead of 1-0, Timothy looked to finish off their old Private School League rival in the second half. Corey Phillip would score his second goal of the game and his 9th of the post season with 16 minutes remaining. On a perfect pass from co-captain Mike Pizzello, Phillip beat the Warrior defense again, and ripped a phenomenal shot past the quality keeper of Westminster. With an insurance goal and only 16 minutes between Timothy and the state semi-finals, the Trojans quickly transitioned to a more defensive line-up.
But the Warriors wouldn't go into the night that easily. Off of a great cross, Sophomore Josh Beachler headed a ball past Foster to bring the game to within on goal. Despite a great effort by Westminster Christian in the final minutes of regulation, the Trojan defense held firm and the sectional championship was theirs. The team rushed the field and celebrated with the hundreds of Timothy fans that had made the short trip to Lisle to cheer on their school.
Timothy looks forward to their second state appearance in two years. Timothy will face Peoria Christian, winner of the Chillicothe Sectional. Peoria Christian defeated last year's 1A 4th place team Rochester High School by a score of 3 to 1.
The final four teams in the 1A state tournament are all guaranteed two more games- the two semifinal matches, and then on to either the third place game or the state championship. On the other side of the bracket, defending 1A third place team Waterloo Gibault will take on Rockford Keith Country Day School. The semifinal games will take place on Friday, October 30th, at North Central College in Naperville. Timothy will face Peoria Christian at 5:30 PM. The 3rd place game and championship game will be on Saturday, October 31st at 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM respectively. Come and cheer for Timothy- we hope to see you there!
Men's Soccer Survives Regulation, 4 OTs, and Penalty Kicks With Francis Parker to Advance to Sectional Finals
10.24.09
In the IHSA class 1A Lisle Sectional Semi-final, eighty minutes of regulation and four separate golden goal overtimes were not enough for the the Trojans of Timothy Christian and the Colonels of Francis Parker. The game would be decided by penalty kicks, which the Trojans executed expertly- scoring 3 of their first 4 PKs, and allowing only 1 PK into the net.
In a hard-fought game, Corey Phillip opened the scoring for the Trojans in the first half. Phillip took a pass from co-captain Mike Pizzello through the defense and beat the keeper for the 1-0 halftime lead.
Francis Parker controlled much of the play for the second half but managed just one goal against a staunch Timothy defense. Senior Goalkeeper Aaron Foster finished the night with 11 saves, but he would save his best work until after overtime.
Despite several chances on both sides of the ball, neither team could finish more than their one goal scored in regulation. As the teams persevered through four golden goal overtimes, it became increasingly clear that this game would be decided by penalty kicks.
In an IHSA tournament penalty kick shootout, each team is required to send 5 players to shoot, and the team with the most goals at the end of the shootout wins the game. Corey Phillip, Mike Pizzello, Nate Middel, Troy Ellens, and Jon Workman were the chosen 5 for the Trojans. Junior Captain Corey Phillip started the shootout off on a good note placing his shot in the side of the net. Senior Keeper Aaron Foster would build on this momentum and save the first Colonel PK. Mike Pizzello followed suit by calmly placing his shot in the back of the net, and Foster again saved the next Francis Parker PK. Now in a great position to win the game, the Trojans sent Nate Middel to take his penalty shot, and Middel found the back of the net. The lone Francis Parker PK goal was scored on the Colonel's third shot. For Timothy's 4th shot, the Francis Parker goalie made a great save on Troy Ellen's would-be game-winner that was placed in a great location on net. But Foster's 2 PK saves proved to be more than enough as the 4th Colonel penalty kick sailed over the net, and mathematically eliminated Francis Parker. The Trojans rushed the field in front of hundreds of Timothy faithful, celebrating the team's second trip to the IHSA sectional finals in two years.
The dramatic win in penalty kicks was certainly a hard-fought victory, and the penalty kick portion of the win was especially rewarding for a team that spends so much time perfecting this specialty skill. Having saved 5 of 7 penalty kicks that he has seen in regulation, senior goalkeeper Aaron Foster certainly gave the Trojans confidence going into the nerve-wracking finish, and Timothy persevered.
Up next for the Trojans: the class 1A IHSA sectional final against a familiar foe: old PSL rival Westminster Christian. The two former conference opponents will square off for the right to represent the Lisle sectional in the state semifinals. Westminster Christian won their semifinal game versus Peotone High School by a 3-2 margin. The game will take place at Benedictine University on Tuesday, October 27th at 7:00 PM.
Timothy Christian Men’s Soccer Wins Back-to-Back Regional Championships
2-1 Victory Over Rival Chicago Christian Sends Trojans Back to Sectionals
10.20.09
In early January, the Trojans of Timothy Christian set two team goals: win the metro suburban conference in the first year in the league, and win a second Regional Championship. Both goals were lofty, considering that the defending IHSA class 1A runner ups had graduated 10 seniors from the 2008 team.
With a young team, the regular season was certainly filled with its share of ups and downs. The Trojans earned a respectable 5-5 record in conference, but fell short of the conference championship.
The second goal, however, was achieved in remarkable fashion.
The Trojans faced the Knights of Chicago Christian- familiar rivals from the old Private School League who entered the contest as the 2 seed in the region and earned every bit of that seed with a 15-7 record. With the first half played nearly to a draw, sophomore midfielder Nolan DuBois stripped a Chicago defender of the ball, passed it through to super-striker Corey Phillip. Phillip beat his man to the ball, went one-on-one with the goalie, and calmly placed the ball into the back of the net. Timothy would take a 1-0 lead into the second half.
A mere four minutes into the second half, the game changed dramatically. Senior sweeper Kyle Anderson was given a straight red-card for a play in the corner of the field after the ball was out of play. While the call was questionable, the Trojans needed to respond immediately. Playing 10 players to the Knights 11 would prove to be a difficult task- and the Knights were ready to capitalize on bobbled ball. A bouncing ball found its way out of senior goalkeeper Aaron Foster’s hands, and the Chicago Christian forward pounced on the ball and quickly found the equalizer.
The determined Trojans would not give up, and fought back to find the game winner with 13 minutes remaining in regulation. Junior captain Corey Phillip gave his teammates several opportunities to finish one of several long throw-ins, but the Trojans missed time and time again- until senior midfielder Nate Middel beat his defender and headed the ball into the net. Remarkably, this goal would prove to be Middel’s second game-winning goal in a regional championship.
With the now frenzied crowd cheering them on, Timothy needed to nurse the one goal lead for 13 minutes. The stellar defense did just that, completely shutting down the Knights attack. Senior defender Dae He Cho and freshman defender Adam Garza deserve special recognition for playing at such a quality level on such a big stage. The hard-fought victory was definitely well deserved.
Timothy now prepares for the Lisle Sectional semi-finals versus Francis Parker, who defeated Chicago Latin High School 2-1 in their regional championship game. The game will take place on Saturday, October 24th at 6:00 PM.
Trojans Upset #1 Seed Lisle in Regional Semi-Final 3-2
Will face old Private School League rival Chicago Christian in Regional Final
10.16.09
There was a lot riding on the IHSA class 1A Regional Semi-final for the Trojans of Timothy Christian and the Lions of Lisle High School. The two teams had met just a season ago in the Elmhurst regional with the Trojans squeaking by the Lions with a 2-1 final en route to finish second place in the state. As the Lions looked for revenge in the 2009 version of this match-up, the Trojans looked to stay on top of this rivalry.
Timothy opened the game on a tear, putting the first goal in the Lion net a mere 3 minutes into the game. The goal came off of a Corey Phillip throw-in and was finished off by Senior Nate Middel.
Lisle bounced back in a big way with two goals of their own- all within the first 12 minutes of play. The game settled down from a torrent pace for the remainder of the first half with the halftime score of 2-1.
Through a great second half effort, the Trojans slowly but surely gained back the momentum, and ultimately the lead. Sophomore midfielder Nolan DuBois was relentless on the ball and motivated the team to a higher level.
Senior Corey Phillip just continued to do what he does best- score big goals. Phillip took a Mike Pizzello through-ball, found himself one on one with the goalie. Phillip calmly slotted the keeper for the equalizer.
Later, Phillip took a pass from fellow forward, sophomore Nick Groenewold, beat the Lisle defender to the ball, got through the final line of defense, and again calmly placed the ball in the back of the net.
The Phillip goal came with 13 minutes remaining in regulation. It wasn’t necessarily smooth sailing for the Trojans closing out the game. The scariest moment for the team came when a Lisle shot found the near post but was ultimately collected by senior goalkeeper Aaron Foster (7 saves).
The win sets up an interesting match-up in the final- a chance to play old Private School League rival Chicago Christian for a Regional championship. The Knights of Chicago Christian took down the Warriors of Westmont in the first overtime period of their semifinal game. The game will be played on Tuesday, October 20th at host Timothy Christian.
Timothy Wins Regional Quarterfinal 5-1 Over Chicago St. Francis de Sales
10.13.09
In the first round of the regional tournament, the 4th seeded Trojans of Timothy Christian took on the 5th seeded Pioneers of Chicago St. Francis de Sales.
From very early on, the Trojans dominated possession on the field as well as the final result. Junior Corey Phillip had a hat trick- with all three assists coming from Junior co-captain Mike Pizzello. Senior Nate Middel finished a nice Jon Workman cross for another goal, and later headed home his second goal of the evening.
The lone Pioneer goal to find its way past senior keeper Aaron Foster (5 saves) was off of a penalty kick that was called at the corner of the box on a challenge for the ball. Beyond this moment, the night belonged to Timothy.
The Trojans look to build some momentum off of this win as they face Lisle in the regional semi-final on Friday. As host of region, the Trojans will have the home field advantage, but nothing will be taken for granted in this rivalry.
Trojans Regular Season Ends With Disappointing 3-2 OT Loss to Fenton
10.10.09
There are 10 conference games for each team in the Metro Suburban Conference, and Timothy entered the regular season finale with a chance to go out with a respectable 6-4 record with season home-and-away sweeps of Elmwood Park and Ridgewood, and with a chance to do the same to Fenton.
Timothy came out in the first half on this Saturday morning with a dominant first half effort. Goals by Junior Captain Corey Phillip (Pizzello Assist) and Junior Troy Ellens (Phillip assist) were both great goals. Phillip's goal was a left-footed volley and Ellens' was a headball off of a long throw-in.
The second half was controlled by the Bison of Fenton, and with time running out, the Bison tied it 2-2 to send the game into overtime.
After one 10 minute "golden goal" period, the teams switched sides. It didn't take long for the Bison to find the game winner just a few minutes into the second OT period. The goal ended Timothy's regular season and put the Trojans at a 5-5 record in a tough conference. The team now builds to the playoffs, where they hope that a difficult schedule has prepared the team for success in the post season.
Timothy Men's Soccer Repels the Rebels with Dramatic 3-2 Victory
10.8.09
Just two weeks ago, Timothy played host to the Rebels of Ridgewood in the first of a home-and-away regular season conference series. That game ended with a 3-2 Trojan victory- which would once again prove to be the winning result for Timothy.
An impressive first half saw the Trojans take a 2-0 lead. Goals by Junior captain Mike Pizzello (assisted by fellow Junior captain Corey Phillip) and Senior midfielder Nate Middel rounded out the scoring for Timothy in the first half. Middel’s goal was especially pretty- a headball directly off of a Corey Phillip corner kick.
In a second half focused mainly on defense and finishing the game, the Trojans ultimately earned the victory… but barely. Two Rebel goals scored within 2 minutes of each other with less than 20 minute remaining in the half put the teams tied with time running down. To further complicate factors, Ridgewood found an opening in the Timothy defense and had a player fouled in the box for a penalty kick. In what would prove to be the pivotal play of the game, senior goalie Aaron Foster saved the penalty kick and his team’s chances at victory.
To make matters worse for the Trojans, Junior defender John Bowman was issued a red card for a hard foul at midfield. Bowman was ejected from the game, and the Trojans were now down a man.
With four minutes remaining in regulation, Mike Pizzello was fouled 20 yards from goal, setting up a Timothy free kick. Pizzello blasted the free kick which deflected off of the wall and into the net. The Trojans fought off the Rebels and the final four minutes of the clock to seal the dramatic 3-2 victory. Timothy is now 5-4 in the school’s inaugural season in the Metro Suburban Conference with only one game remaining in the regular season.
Timothy Again Loses to Riverside Brookfield 6-1
10.6.09
The Trojans of Timothy lost 6-1 for the second time in as many games versus the tough conference opponent. Senior captain Jon Workman's beautiful volley goal in the first half represented about the only notable performance for the Trojans in this ugly loss.
Trojans Lose Saturday Match to Addison Trail 3-0
10.3.09
Despite holding Addison Trail in check through the first half, the floodgates opened in the second half as the Trojans allowed 3 goals to the speedy attack of Addison Trail.
Trojans Beat Bison 3-1, Improve Conference Record to 4-3
10.1.09
A lot of rain accompanied a lot of Timothy defense Thursday night, as the Timothy Trojans defeated conference foe Fenton High School 3-1.
The Timothy defense held the Bison of Fenton High scoreless until the final 3 minutes of the game. Quality play by defenders Kyle Anderson, Adam Garza, Dae He Cho, Troy Ellens, and keeper Aaron Foster (8 saves) helped to set the tone for this convincing Timothy victory.
Junior Captain Mike Pizzello scored the early goal, his 9th of the season, off of a free-kick set piece. Pizzello found a hole in the Bison wall and blasted the ball beyond the Bison goal keeper.
In a second half focused primarily on defense and counterattack, Timothy denied Fenton time and time again. An insurance goal came from Junior Captain Corey Phillip. Phillip found some space behind the Bison defense and co-captain Mike Pizzello found him on a through ball. Phillip would not disappoint, calmly passing the ball into the net.
It was forward Nick Groenewold who put the nail in the coffin with an unassisted penalty kick after being fouled in the box. The goal was Groenewold's second in as many games, as the sophomore as played very well of late.
The win improves Timothy's Metro Suburban Conference record to 4-3 with three games remaining in the regular season conference schedule.
Timothy Soccer Beats Elmwood Park 4-3 on Senior Night
9.29.09
For the second time this season, the Trojans of Timothy Christian squeezed out a win versus the Tigers of Elmwood Park. In addition to being an important Metro Suburban conference game, this particular home game was Timothy’s senior night, a night where the team seniors and their parents were honored before the game.
In the seesaw game, Timothy had leads of 1-0, 2-1, 3-2, and finally 4-3 to win the game.
Despite several chances, a shot that hit the post, Timothy’s lone first half goal was scored from a 50 yard+ free kick by Senior defender Kyle Anderson. A defensive breakdown lead to the Tiger’s equalizer, and the half-time score held at 1-1.
The half-time challenge as the Timothy Poms squad completed their first ever outdoor performance was for the soccer team to finish their chances. Three sophomores answered the call. On a through-ball from senior captain Jon Workman, Colin Middel headed the ball down to the ground, past the charging goal keeper, and calmly placed the ball into the net.
The Tigers would soon find the equalizer to put the score at 2-2.
Minutes later, off of a Corey Phillip throw-in, Sophomore forward Nick Groenewold finished his first varsity goal with a one-touch shot past the keeper.
The Tigers would soon find the equalizer to put the score at 3-3.
The next go-ahead goal of this back-and-forth affair came off another Corey Phillip throw-in that found Sophomore midfielder Nolan DuBois. This goal, with fifteen minutes remaining would prove to be the game winner, but the Trojans had to earn their victory. A good defensive, game management effort preserved the win despite 1/4th of the field lights blacking out for the final two minutes of the game.
Riverside Brookfield Dominates Timothy 6-1
9.28.09
Game summary coming soon.
Timothy Rediscovers Winning Ways vs. Earlville With 2-0 Saturday Victory
9.26.09
Being a part of the Metro Suburban Conference as well as a participant in the Pepsi Showdown has the Timothy Christian men's soccer team, a single-A school, playing mostly schools that are in division 2A or 3A.
In only the team's third game against a 1A opponent on the year thus far, Timothy's strength of schedule certainly showed that the team has learned from these bigger schools. On Saturday, September 26th, the Trojans of Timothy took on the Raiders of Earlville, IL. Earlville had ended Timothy's season in the 2007 season at the regional semi-final.
After dominating possession and having a Mike Pizzello head-ball goal called back due to an offside call, the half-time score was 0-0. Timothy made a few adjustments offensively, and two Nate Middel goals later, the Trojans had their 2-0 victory. Both Middel goals were assisted by Junior Captain Corey Phillip. Middel expertly finished both chances with powerful shots.
This game improved Timothy's record to 2-1 against 1A opponents, and gives the team hope as they gear up for the regionals.
Trojans Lose to Illiana 4-1
9.24.09
The first time that the old PSL foes met, Illiana shut Timothy out 2-0 on Timothy's home turf. A new feature of the Metro-Suburban Conference is that each team plays each other twice every season. Timothy took the wet Illiana field on Thursday with hopes of leveling the season series, but it was not to be. Two defensive mistakes in the first half allowed a familiar 2-0 Illiana lead at half-time.
The Trojans took the field in the second half ready to take back the lead. Corey Phillip scored off of a free kick set piece that was set up by a foul on sophomore forward Nick Groenewold. Despite several other good chances, the Trojans were held to this one goal.
The final two Viking goals were scored in the final 8 minutes of play, and the frustrated Trojans left the road trip without the win that they coveted.
Timothy Beats Conference Foe Ridgewood 3-2
9.22.09
With a season that has certainly not gone the way that the Trojans had originally hoped, Timothy's men's varsity soccer team rebounded in a big way with a win over the Rebels of Ridgewood High School. The win puts the team's conference record at 2-1, with another conference game set for later this week.
Junior Captain Corey Phillip assisted all three goals- two off of throw-ins and one in the run of play. The first half saw a dominating Timothy aerial attack. Two head-ball goals off of throw-ins were blown past the Rebel keeper by Junior Captain Mike Pizzello and Junior defender Troy Ellens. Ellens was a dominating figure throughout the game earning more headball wins individually than all other players on the field combined.
The Timothy defense allowed two goals in the first half to enter the second half at a 2-2 draw. It did not take long for Timothy to roar out of halftime. A mere 14 seconds into the second half, Sophomore Nolan DuBois and a host of other Timothy players expertly worked the ball through the Ridgewood defense, with DuBois finishing off the play by slotting the Rebel keeper.
The DuBois go-ahead goal proved to be the game winner, though Ridgewood certainly made the game interesting as the teams fought hard to the end. Timothy looks to build off of this victory with another conference game vs. Illiana this Thursday.
Lackluster Effort Finishes Off Pepsi Showdown: Trojans Lose 3-0
9.19.09
Irrational Positivity or any other efforts that Timothy could muster were proven useless on this Saturday afternoon game. Under the hot sun in Lyons Township for the final game of the 2009 Pepsi Showdown, Timothy took the field against Rolling Meadows.
An early penalty kick given up quickly put the Trojans down 1-0. The team never really bounced back, let in another goal in the flow of play, and allowed another penalty kick in the second half.
Despite the team's lackluster effort, senior Goalkeeper Aaron Foster had his best game of the season with some amazing saves, and a final save total of 14.
Trojans Lose 5-4 to Homewood-Flossmoor Despite Amazing Comeback
9.15.09
Giving up five consecutive goals to the Vikings of Homewood-Flossmoor in the first half and beginning of the second half was certainly not how the Timothy coaching staff drew up this game, but they're hoping that a few half-time adjustments just might have helped this struggling team turn the corner.
After a horrendous first half of soccer in which Timothy gave up four goals, including two very soft goals, the team was challenged to simplify the game, and to focus on three things: one offensive adjustment, one defensive adjustment, and a complete attitude overhaul. The new attitude: "Irrational Positivity." The only reaction to playing so poorly was to embrace the craziness of the moment, and encourage our team mates with the fervor of a state final match. The team certainly bought into this attitude change.
Despite allowing a quick goal in the beginning of the second half, the Trojans dominated the majority of the second half, scoring 4 times within a 23 minute period. Corey Phillip (1 goal, 3 assists), Mike Pizzello (2 goals, 1 assist), and Nate Middel (1 goal) helped the Trojans mount the impressive comeback. Middel's goal, the third goal that really had the team believing they could actually catch the Vikings, is easily the goal of the year thus far. Off of a cross, Middel ripped a volley out of the air and blasted the ball into the back of the net.
Time will tell if this dramatic shift was an anomaly, or of this team has indeed turned the corner. We'll find out on Saturday morning when the Trojans finish the Pepsi Showdown tournament.
Rival Illiana Beats TC at Home 2-0
9.14.09
The Trojans string of bad play continued tonight with a 2-0 loss versus long-time rival Illiana. The lone school to join Timothy in the transition from the Private School League into the Metro Suburban Conference, Illiana certainly came prepared to play a highly contested match. Unfortunately, the same could not be said for Timothy.
Giving up two early goals set the stage for a tough loss. While Timothy was able to slowly built a better offensive effort, but was ultimately held scoreless. The loss is the Trojans third in a row.
Timothy Loses 5-2 to Stagg High School
9.12.09
Though the game was tied 1-1 at halftime, the Trojans were fortunate to be tied with the Chargers of Stagg High School (Palos Hills, IL). Having given up 11 first half shots, Senior Keeper had already amassed 10 saves by the half.
Timothy's lone first half goal was scored on a beautiful play in which Senior Brad Wieringa distributed to Junior captain Corey Phillip. Phillip laid the ball off to fellow Junior Captain Mike Pizzello, then sprinted to the far post. Pizzello found Phillip on a cross, and Phillip took one prep touch and beat the goalie with a left-footed shot.
In the second half, the Stagg flood-gates opened up. The Chargers won the second half 4-1 and the game 5-2. Timothy's second half goal came on a Mike Pizzello penalty kick that was set up by Sophomore forward Collin Middel's hard work in the penalty area that drew the penalty.
Perhaps the Trojans had left some of their momentum and energy on the field the previous night. With a difficult Friday-night/Saturday Morning back-to-back game schedule, the Trojans left much to be desired, but the team remains hopeful that things will turn in their favor soon.
After a Sunday rest, Timothy will be right back in action against conference rival Illiana Christian on Monday night.
Timothy Loses Pepsi Showdown Match to O'Fallon 1-0
9.11.09
On Friday, September 11th, the Trojans of Timothy Christian welcomed the Panthers of O'Fallon High School out of O'Fallon, IL. The Panthers made the long trip from the St. Louis area to participate in a portion of the Pepsi Showdown tournament.
The Panthers showed tremendous talent and team skill throughout the game. Despite several quality scoring opportunities, the Panthers could only muster 1 goal in the first half. Timothy Senior Goalkeeper Aaron Foster collected 5 saves against the strong Panther attack, and the Timothy defense performed in a "bend-but-don't-break" mode very successfully.
The Trojan attack was able to generate some chances against the quality side from O'Fallon- including a Nolan DuBois shot that appeared to cross the O'Fallon goal line as time was running out in the first half, but the official saw things differently.
All in all, keeping the Panthers to a 1-0 loss constitutes a very good effort, though not the result for which the Trojans had hoped.
Forfeit Victory vs. Kennedy High School
9.9.09
Due to officials not showing up at the game, the Pepsi Showdown game vs. Kennedy High School was an official home forfeit for Kennedy High School.
Timothy and Kennedy were able to scrimmage, and goals by Corey Phillip (Nate Middel Assist) and Mike Pizzello off of a free kick rounded out the scoring for the Trojans.
Phillip's Hat Trick Propels Trojans to Overtime Conference Victory Over Elmwood Park
9.3.09
In the first ever Metro-Suburban Conference Game for Timothy soccer, the Trojans took on the Tigers of Elmwood Park. While Timothy certainly didn't play to their potential, the final result was a good one.
In the first half, Timothy gave up the early lead on a blast from long distance. Down 1-0, Junior captain Corey Phillip took a rebound, maneuvered around several defenders, and slotted home Timothy's first goal. He would double up his efforts a few minutes later off of a pass from junior Troy Ellens. The left footed shot found the corner of the net. The teams were tied 2-2 at half-time.
Senior defender Dae He Cho suffered a mild concussion on a head-ball challenge and was valiantly replaced for the duration of the game by junior defender John Bowman. Senior Brad Wieringa was among others who came off the bench to push the team toward a better finish. After giving up the go-ahead goal to be down 3-2, Timothy made a very strong push toward the end of the game. Junior captain Mike Pizzello found sophomore forward Collin Middel on a through ball into the box. As Middel wound up for the sure-fire game-tying goal, he was tripped from behind and Timothy was awarded a penalty kick. Corey Phillip calmly placed the PK in the back of the net for the 3-3 tie with 5 minutes left in regulation.
In MSC bylaws, no conference game ends in a tie. Games go to two 10-minute "golden goal" overtime periods followed by 5 penalty kicks for each team until a winner is determined. After two scoreless OT periods, Elmwood Park made their first PK attempt, and Timothy's Corey Phillip answered. The Tiger's second shot was saved by senior keeper Aaron Foster- this separation was all that the Trojans would need. With additional PK makes by junior captain Mike Pizzello, senior Nate Middel, and sophomore Nick Groenewold, the Trojans went 4 for 4 while the Tigers went 2 for 4 and were mathematically eliminated from the game.
Interestingly enough, Corey Phillip was challenged before the game by the coaching staff to "score 2 or 3 goals." He certainly did not disappoint.
Trojans Lose Back-and-Forth Affair vs. Lake View 5-3
9.1.09
With leads of 1-0 and 3-2, the Trojans of Timothy Christian certainly had their opportunities vs. Lake View High School. In the first round of the prestigious Pepsi Showdown Tournament, Timothy was unable to hold the lead (twice) and ultimately lost the game 5-3.
The scoring was started by senior Nate Middel's head ball flick off of a Corey Phillip thrown-in. Lake View roared back with two first-half goals to take a 2-1 lead. Then, with time running down in the first half, junior captain Mike Pizzello found fellow junior captain Corey Phillip on a through-ball that freed him behind the Lake View defense. Tripped from behind in the penalty box as time expired, Phillip was awarded a penalty kick. He did not disappoint, and calmly finished off the PK for a 2-2 half-time draw.
With momentum on Timothy's side, the Trojans dominated the first ten minutes of the second half. Seven minutes into the half, junior Nate Middel hustled to get to a ball going out of bounds, and played it on to sophomore forward Nick Groenewold. Groenewold one-touched a perfect cross to the streaking Mike Pizzello who hammered a header into the back of the net for the early 3-2 lead.
It was all downhill from there for the Trojans. Lake View answered Timothy in emphatic fashion, scoring 3 more times in the final 30 minute for the 5-3 win. The contest was certainly an entertaining one, with 8 quality goals scored- a feat that rarely seen in a high school soccer game.
Timothy Loses to Westmont 1-0
8.28.09
The Trojans were blanked at home with a 1-0 loss vs. first-year varsity team Westmont High School. The Sentinels of Westmont were awarded a penalty kick in the first half, but this was saved by Senior Keeper Aaron Foster, who finished the night with 7 saves.
While the Trojans were held scoreless, it certainly wasn't for lack of opportunities. Hitting three posts, and having several great opportunities miss the target, Timothy just could not find the back of the net.
Other than one defensive breakdown, this game was a solid defensive effort by the starting defensive foursome of Senior Kyle Anderson, Senior Dae He Cho, Freshman Adam Garza, and Junior Troy Ellens.
Timothy Men's Soccer Opens Season on Winning Note with 4-2 Win over Lisle
8.25.09
The last time that Lisle and Timothy met was in the 2008 Regional final. Tonight, the Lions and the Trojans held the rematch to open up the 2009 season. Both teams had large roster turnover with graduating classes that left only 4 returning starters on each side. With a fresh look and a new focus, the 2009 kicked off at Timothy Christian High School.
After a slow initial 15 minutes, sophomore midfielder Nolan DuBois found fellow sophomore Collin Middel for a nice shot from distance- the first goal of the season. The Trojans didn't let up and quickly tallied their second goal: Junior captain Mike Pizzello found fellow Junior Captain Corey Phillip on a through-ball that split the defense. Phillip beat the goalie to the ball and one-touched it past him for the 2-0 lead.
Mike Pizzello was not done yet, as he launched a free kick from 25+ yards that went around the defensive wall and ripped the back corner of the net. This goal already merits goal of the year consideration.
If the 3-0 first half score represented the potential that this team has, much of the second half might be more classified in the "room for improvement" category. Not quite as crisp defensively, the Trojans lost the second half 2-1, but won the game 4-2. Nolan DuBois rounded out the scoring with a scrappy rebound goal. DuBois finished the game with a goal and two assists and looked very much in control of the flow of play out of the center midfield position.
The win was a good first step for the season- a nice result with plenty to improve upon.