2007 (17U) State Premiership II Blue

Newcomers Collide

Chicago Fire visit Strikers FV in a matchup of two teams new to the Illinois State Premiership. While they both are newcomers, they are no strangers to high-level competition and success. Both clubs have pedigree and know how to win. Whichever team can leave with three points will surely feel great confidence and momentum as they conclude the competition.

Strikers FV are making a name for themselves early, they have begun the season undefeated, winning three of three. They are flying high on both ends of the field, scoring eight goals in the three games and having only two against. They sit second place but with two games in hand over first place Chicagoland United who they beat. Strikers have the joint leading scorer in Caleb Kelly with three goals, so they know they have someone they can rely on up top. A win against Chicago Fire would put them first with still a game in hand.

Chicago Fire moves up from the YSSL division 1 where they finished Champions and finished undefeated! Chicago Fire have not had the best start to their Premiership inaugural season however, there is still a lot to play for. As Champions they surely know how to turn things around. Chicago Fire has three points at the moment and have also, played three games. A win against Strikers FV can change their season completely and keep them within three points.

Coaches’ Pre-Game Interview

Two teams new to the Illinois Premiership. How do you feel your team has adapted to the new competition?
Chad Ransom – Strikers FV
So far, I think our boys have adapted quite well to the Illinois Premiership. We are off to a strong start with a 3-0 record, having played a couple of strong opponents in our first 3 games. While we are used to playing at a pretty high level of competition, it’s been fun to compete against some different clubs in the IL Premiership this year.

Gil Montero – Chicago Fire Youth SC
It’s been a rough start, but we have learned from our mistakes and showed improvement this past premiership game. This team has a good group of boys who are always in for competition and fight till the end.

What are some key takeaways from your teams start of the season?
Chad Ransom – Strikers FV
In our IL Premiership games, we’ve excelled setting the tone in games early, netting a few goals. It has put us in a position to better manage games and hold possession. It’s allowing our boys to play with confidence, takes some of the pressure off, have some fun.

Gil Montero – Chicago Fire Youth SC
We learned that it’s a more competitive level than what we were use too and we had to make adjustments quick if we wanted to improve. But, after a couple weeks, this team has worked hard to improve and grow as players and as a team.

What has the message been to the team as you approach a new competition, what does the mental preparedness look like?
Chad Ransom – Strikers FV
We talk a lot about our time together being a process or a journey. How can we get just 1% better every time we step on the field? That approach holds true, whether we are at training or in high level competition. Regardless of the result, there is always something we can learn or improve upon, and the boys are always looking for those moments where we can improve. We are fortunate to have a very competitive mindset collectively with our 2007 Premier team – the boys want to win every game, and believe they can compete with the very best teams on any given day. The guys show up, every game, dialed in and ready to compete, no matter who we are playing against.

Gil Montero – Chicago Fire Youth SC
I told the boys since last year that we needed to start getting ready for the next year because we knew our team would move up. Since then, I think the boys have made training a great learning and applying environment and supportive environment. Which helped them prepare for the pressure of the new competition. I tell them every game ‘Believe in yourself, trust your instincts, and most importantly, enjoy the game‘

Final Thoughts

Two teams who began the season a bit differently will meet up Sunday May 19th, at 11am. The truth of the matter is this game can be defining for both. If Chicago Fire can come up with the win, they will surely be able to take this momentum forward to the end and climb the standings. If Strikers FV remain undefeated, they may feel they can run away with the title. It will be an intriguing matchup and both coaches trust their squad’s ability and know how to get the best of them. Learning from past results is key to their preparation and both teams will be well prepared and ready for the challenge in front of them.