Continentials Set to Embark on Winter Campaign

(Morristown Nj-)
  
           Club President Ryan Vinton made a statement today, Proclaiming that the Morristown 1776, comming off a very disapointing summer campaign will resume their quest for a possible win here or there and even a title comming up this winter. He did not divulge into if he was going to Re-Sign player/coach Dan Clayton or Brady Macdonald  this season. Rumors have been speculating about Clayton's distrust with management and medical staff regarding his hip injury and Macdonalds desire to play another season. Many things need to still be worked out, but only time will tell

Keeper Herte On Trial

(Princeton,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC announced today they signed Chris Herte ,former Florida Institute of Technology keeper on a Loan deal, terms of the deal are not known.

The 6'2" Herte is expected to make his debut this Monday at Long Valley FC.

Match Monday 8pm

(Long Valley,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC will play Long Valley FC 18 at Rock Spring Park in Long Valley this Moday night (6/29) at 8pm.


Long Valley has a record of 1-3-1 with 8 goals forced and 16 conceded.


The club will also hold practice at Frelinghuysen 3:30pm tomorrow, Saturday.









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Continental Struggles Continue

(Morris Township,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC,currently immersed in the poorest run of form in club history, fell 7-1 yesterday to Pompton Lakes FC.

The result was truly a tale of two halves as Morristown trailed 6-0 at the break, and held their own in the second half as a looked to play with a lot of heart and passion in the latter period of play.

The skill seems to be there on the Morristown side but the intensity is often if not almost always lacking, expecially for a full 90 minutes.

Dave Scott scored his first 1776 goal for the lone Morristown tally.

Basher Blog: New Look Continetals Play Like the Old

           This supporter has been to every game this season and has seen  the same result from last two summer fixtures of 2008 until now..... LOSSES. A coaching change was implimented March 3rd, making current captain Dan Clayton manager, replacing with now healed first choice keeper Ryan Vinton. Also Charman of the Board, Vinton praised Clayton's motivational ability and soccer IQ. There is no doubt the lads have been fiester, more spirited, and the overall talent level is improved but as for his "soccer IQ", give me a break.

  His Choice to have a goalkeeper battle during meaniful games led to at least two losses. Not calling Mark Basso at all a lesser choice, but it put extra unnecessary pressure on the both lads  leading to unnecessary risks to try to impress the gaffer. His biggest blunder must be his substitutions. he has lads on shifts like its a bloddy hocky game. LET THE BOYS PLAY. I understand early in the season when people are not at their prime, but after a few games ease the rotation PLEASE! Clayton is still a good player but he should just PLAY and be fired as coach.

   I must admit that the talent level has risen, but mental mistakes late in the half have got to be erased, like the last fixture against Lake Parsippany, the game should have gone tied into half, but the inability to clear lead to a goal, which in the second half, they had to chase to game and conceded two more goals. Flashy or not, the boys need to play well tonight, or the gaffer will be canned.

MCSSA Match Added July 8

(Morristown,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC will play FC Fenerbache July 8th at Frelinghuysen Middle School at 6:30pm in an added MCSSA league match.

This will be 1776 last match before the playoffs are scheduled to start.

Bauer Blog: Dingler and Greskovich Set to Feature in Amateur Hour

Progress. That's the key word right now, something that has eluded us for as long as, or longer than, winning has. We've been on a sour streak for a while now, but something faint in the air is starting to smell a little sweeter. For the first time in a while we're posting goals. Genuine goals. Team goals. If you looked at the goals we scored last Summer, it started with Peter Luthi at the midfield, Peter Luthi powering his way up the field, and Peter Luthi finding the finish. The guy is a locomotive train/freak of nature. He's also on injured reserve. Our plight has been finding OTHER players on the pitch to get on the score sheet because our buildup has never been solid. But looking at our goals last night, playing through the midfield, checking back, making overlapping runs, confusing the opposition, and being creative... it's progress.

We still suffer from our mental lapses which often prove costly. At least three of the goals last night never should have been (then again, I'd like to think if the game hadn't been cancelled by lightning we would have bounced back and won). We are playing with some really brilliant style for stretches but then there's a team-wide temporary regression and it's a habit we need to break. I don't think we're at the "score at will" level, but when everyone does his job and executes the tactics we're going to start putting more on the board. We just need to find that extra "something" to build our lead and then sink our teeth into it and not let it go. We let leads slip away; we need to lock down, sink our cleats into the turf, and protect that lead like mama bear trying to protect her cubs. And stop making mistakes. The final two goals last night were bogus, from a free kick that never should have been and a pick and roll executed by the player and the official on Louie, but the back seven need to play like wild animals when we're trying to win.

While having our post-match gathering at Tavern off the Green, Rob (1/3 of the "Young Midfield Trio" feature from last week) made light of an interesting situation. Summer season debutantes "Kangaroo" Jack Taylor summoned some Thunder from Down Under to net the second goal of the night in his second appearance, and new player Cesar Bellido scored our third. Rob posted that miracle strike against Winter Rovers last week, and in the midst of a shared pitcher of Yuengling he pointed out that fellow new players Steve and James had yet to score.

This isn't amateur hour, guys.

I understand the friendly challenge was laid down to encourage some scoring from the other two-thirds of our new-look midfield, and I credit Rob for that. The truth is that our team is being built around the three of them and they've done tremendous work in distributing and creating and our goals of late have come from their work in the midfield. However, as much as they have to be credited for our improvement in form, I too would like to start seeing us bag a few more goals from the midfield. Let it be said on the record that if at least two of the three central mids score Wednesday night against Lake Parsippany, Red and I will pay for beer. (Note: Red doesn't know about this but he's always saying "if you score I'll buy you a beer" anyway so he shouldn't mind.) That's right, Rob laid down the challenge and I'm making it official.

I also want to see a defender find the net. Our wingbacks have been playing much higher now that our midfield is working more and I would love to see someone pull a killer shot, or for a defender to score off a corner or set piece. I'm hoping for a miracle strike from Brian Daire or a redemption goal for Mike Austin, something to really get the team fired up. Let's face it: if our defenders are scoring, than the attack needs to step up and not let defense do everyone's work.

Wednesday night we have to smell blood in the water and go for the kill.

Some thoughts on turf...
We are notorious for coming up with terrible results when we play on turf. I don't know what it is, maybe we got it into our heads that we're a bad team on turf and we make our own self-fulfilling prophecy. I think a lot of times we play teams that are used to the speed of turf and we just can't adapt. The facts are that we are a very quick team and that our 4-3-3 experiment should actually flourish with the space afforded by a turf field. I don't want any excuses after Wednesday night.

A couple more things to wrap up before matchday tomorrow:

• I wish our bench was loaded. We have some nice depth at wingback and wingers but the next best choices for center back after Charlie and Mugs are Red or me, and we're typically starting elsewhere on the pitch and not really fresh enough to spell one of our two starters. If we had someone who was an absolutely dynamite central defender who was ok with playing 20-25 minutes a game, we would be looking great at all times.
• Despite his ginger appearance, it's possible that Brian Daire may be the long-lost relative of Brazilian Dani Alves. We're actively investigating this possibility.
• We need to play with more balls on the ground. Through balls and passes to feet are crucial. We spent too much time on the turf pitch last week chasing balls through the air. I asked Tim, a 53-year-old Male from Mendham and president of the Mendham Chapter of the 1776 fan club, what his thoughts were about us playing more balls on the ground. Tim said, "I love it when you boys play with your balls on the ground. Especially Mike Pollock. That's the kind of thing I pay money to see." Pollock, currently on the inactive/ineligible list, was unavailable for comment.
• Steve Dingler had us do a toast to raping on Wednesday. Seriously, better choice of words next time?
  
• Steve Dingler also said "this isn't amateur hour" four or five times so yes, this blog was directed largely toward him.
  

Parsippany Gators Match Moved Til Thurs. 9:30pm

(Parsippany,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC confirmed this morning that the away match with Parsippany Gators, originally scheduled for tonight has been moved to tomorrow due to a field scheduling conflict with the Parsippany Rec. Dept..

The game will be played at Smith Field in Parsippany, right on Rt 46, with kickoff scheduled for 9:30pm.



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Bauer Blog: Young Midfield Trio Shows Great Promise

If you were to ask me to be honest about what I felt was the key contributing factor to the streak of poor form the team has displayed in my tenure here, I would say without a doubt that our lack of a dominant central midfielder to control and distribute the ball, and to bring that extra "something" to both ends of the field. In my opinion, a team should be built around the central midfield because that role does every job on the field and is responsible for providing the "look" of a team's style. During the inaugural season, Morristown 1776 claimed David Chase as that kind of player, and despite the final results the original squad was far more consistent in form and competition. Although Chase remains a Continental on paper, there is a lot of speculation about his status with the club and his future has yet to be determined.

In a conversation I had recently with my brother (fellow Continental Dylan Bauer) I said that a true central midfielder has to be a mix of a raging bull, a rabid wolverine, and a guerrilla warrior. Dylan asked me to clarify if I meant guerrilla or gorilla, and after I contemplated it, I told him both. Yes, like Planet of the Apes. You see, a great center mid needs to be aggressive, perhaps even ferocious, clever, conniving, cunning, courageous, and controlling, but unselfish and acutely aware. One does not train to be that way, it is in the blood or it is not. There's a certain mentality needed, along with a certain physicality and a high level of skill. I would be lying if I said I believed that we have that caliber of player on the roster right now. However, I feel that we have the talent right now to let multiple players work to become something more, to be everywhere on the pitch and feel like that one, perfect midfielder.

The idea came last week when Dan Clayton and I were brainstorming about how we would counter the speed of Winter Rovers, Monday's opponent. We decided that we should try to choke them out of the midfield by crowding it, forcing them to play to the outside and defending against the crosses in. The idea was to use a 3-man holding midfield with two forwards and a striker, the "Christmas Tree" formation used commonly by international clubs like AC Milan. Over the weekend leading up to the game, I was trying to think of who would be best suited to fill particular roles, and since Clayton was not going to be available to coach Monday I wanted to do the best I could to field a strong side in his absence with the ideas we had come up with.

When I saw the available talent for Monday's game, I knew immediately who I wanted to build that midfield trio around. I had hoped that new players James Greskovich, Steve Dingler, and returning NJSL player Rob Linepinuel would be available because I feel strongly that those players are the most comfortable with the ball at their feet and have great vision. Also, the three of them are still young and full of energy that they can go at least 75 minutes at a very high pace and very high workrate. Luckily, all three players were available for the new experiment on Monday.

I told them about how I wanted a lot of movement and a lot of overlaps in roles. No one had any strict role and I really wanted to give them control of how they played it. They were a little hestitant and a little usure of how it would go, when it was something we had never practiced before and probably no coach or manager has ever said, "go out and be creative and make this team play as you want it." A lot was riding on their shoulders but they settled in with extraordinary comfort and poise.

To open up more space, I moved the two forward players wide and high, more in the idea of how reigning kings of just about everything FC Barcelona, plays their game (see diagram above). The idea was to have the wingers pull their left and right backs out with them, to open up big gaps in between the fullbacks and center defense. This space was exploited by the midfield trio, making runs and holding space to look for passes (this wide play also gave Linepinuel the space and time to make his unbelievable 35-yard cracker of a goal Monday night). The two wings used the width and gaps to make diagonal runs, beating the left and right backs on their instep and weak foot and wreaking havoc in the box. Playing one power forward alone at the top usually is reserved for the most gifted strikers, but the tireless effort of Brady McDonald caused all kinds of problems for the Rovers defense through the first half, drawing double coverages and creating that high, open space in front of the box which led to the first goal scored. Because the midfield defended as much as they created chances, the wings had more time to track back and defend the outside without getting worn down.

There were many times were I was almost taken aback at how fluid, how natural, those three young players picked up the philosophy and clicked, finding themselves on the same page with very little experience playing together or in that system. Last Summer, former manager Claudio experimented with the 4-3-3 but we didn't have the creative and unselfish players then. We had great passing on the ground and movement through the air, and I probably witnessed more back passes to defenders than we have ever implemented.

Speaking of defense, nothing in the first 60 minutes would have worked as well as it did without the tenacity of the defense. The pairing of veteran Charlie Hyre and newcomer "Muggs" Naveendra is my dream duo to start every match this summer, and their solid play in the middle allowed wingbacks Brian Daire and Mike Austin (who never played right back before but had a very solid game filling in given our situation and I give him tremendous credit for it) to play higher up the field.

We have a lot of solid talent to pull off the bench when our match turnout is good, and everyone should take note of the play of Rob, James, and Steve to figure out their style. I seriously can't give enough credit to how well they made this idea work. Our goal is to be able to pull anyone off the bench, or start in their place, without skipping a beat. With a little practice and a few more match minutes in this look, I really believe that we can turn our season around and really compete for a shot at the post-season.

Fitness Dooms Continental Comeback

(Bloomfield,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC fell 5-2 to Winter Rovers at Brookdale Park in Bloomfield Monday night.

Morristown went down 2-0 in the first half but countered with a Russell Bauer goal just before the break.

The second half started with some back and forth play until Continental midfielder Rob Linepinuel struck with a 35 yard blast that found the upper corner of the Winter Rover net to notch the score at two with 20 minutes to play and set off one of the more passionate celebrations in Morristown history, but the Rovers struck with 3 late tallies as Morristown never again put a serious attack on net.

Fitness seemed to squash the Morristown comeback for the second time this year, the also tied the score last week againist New Providence late in the second half.

Morristown next plays Wednesday night at Parsippany Gators.

Winter Rovers Match Preview

(Morristown,NJ)- 6-1,3-1,6-1,2-1....... those are the 4 scores in previous meetings between Winter Rovers and The Morristown 1776 AFC, with Morristown losing all 4 matches.

Morristown has played the Rovers well at home losing 3-1 in 2007 and 2-1, a match they led with 20 minutes to play but failed to match the Rovers speed on the road.

The two 6-1 road debacles were the first match in club history in 2007 and the first match of the season just a year ago. Morristown hopes to neutralize the Rovers on the smaller pitch at Brookdale Park then the turf field at West Side Park they played on last year.

Morristown will be missing Dan Clayton, keeper Mark Basso and Ryan Deighan with previous commitments.

The match is set to kick off tonight at 6:30pm at Brookdale Park in Bloomfield.

Clayton Speaks On Goalkeeping Positional Battle

(Hope,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC Manager Dan Clayton controversially removed starting goalkeeper Ryan Vinton, in favor of long time first choice Mark Basso, at halftime of Monday's match with the score 1-1, sparking controversy amongst Continental supporters for pulling a keeper in a tight match, and leaving himself open to "Monday morning quarterbacking" when the club eventually fell 4-2.

Basso and Vinton have been locked in a positional battle for the first choice keeper slot since Vinton returned from injury earlier this spring, with neither player emerging as the clear number one.

"Our depth at keeper is a good problem to have." said the gaffer, "What we really have is two first choice quality keepers, I'm trying to play the hot hand and give them both time between the pipes."

"My plan is to stabilize the keeper slot by starting Vinton tonight and allowing him the full 90 if things go according to plan and then do the same thing with Mark on Friday. I'll reevaluate the position come the weekend, hopefully with a full 90 from each player to analyze."

Taylor Out For Blues Match

(Morristown,NJ)- Australian international and new Continental Jack Taylor will miss tonight's match with a hyper extended knee suffered during Monday's loss to New Providence Pioneers.

Taylor is also expected to miss Friday's match but is likely to return Monday when Morristown travels to take on rival Winter Rovers.

Catizone Returns

The youngest player ever to make a first team appearance for Morristown 1776, Louie Catizone is expected to be back on the pitch today for 1776.

Catizone was a regular starter at 17 years old for the 2008 MCSSA Continentals but was limited to only one appearance for the latest NJSL side due to Cross Country commitments that will see the youngster continue to run competitively at the college level this fall.

Continentals Ready For Parsippany Blues

(Morristown,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC face Parsippany Blues tonight, 6:30pm at Frelinghuysen Middle School in Morris Township, although players are asked to arrive at 6pm.

Morristown has never defeated Parsippany in 4 previous meetings.

Weather at match time could possibly involve rain showers, the match will be played rain or shine.

Only thunderstorms that pose a danger to players or supporters will delay on postpone tonights match.

Morristown (0-1) are looking for the first win early in the MCSSA season, the lost a nail bitter to New Providence Monday at Frelinghuysen.

Continentals Lose Heartbreaker

(Morris Township,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC opened their 2009 MCSSA season yesterday at Frelinghuysen Middle School facing old rival New Providence Pioneers.

1776 struck first as David Chase, from the sweeper position broke thru the Pioneer defensive line at the ten minute mark of the first half and beat the N.P. keeper.

Morristown held a lead on position in the first half and held off New Providence, including a goal line clear by defender Russell Bauer, for the first 43 minutes until a late first half tally sailed past Continental keeper Ryan Vinton to level the score at 1 apiece.

Manager Dan Clayton made the half time change to Mark Basso in the net and Basso made several quality stops to open the half. The Pioneers struck 15 minutes into the half to lead 2-1.

Morristown continued to stay back and counter attack and a chest pumping Clayton found the net off a Luis Guzman cross to tie the game once again with 10 minutes to play, but the Continentals allowed to quick strikes from the Pioneers at the 85 and 87 minute marks to fall 4-2.

1776 drops to 0-1 as New Providence goes to 2-0.

Morristown still has two home matches remaining this week at Frelinghuysen Middle School, Wednesday vs Parsippany Blues 20 and Friday vs Irvington Knights both at 6:30pm.

1776 Prepares For 3 Match Week

(Morristown,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. begin a busy fixture week as they play 3 times at Frelinghuysen Middle School, Today, Wednesday and Friday all at 6:30pm.

The Continentals start tonight with a match against familiar foe New Providence Pioneers, Morristown has lost to them the last two years in MCSSA play, 4-3 and 5-2.

Morristown welcomes a bunch of new players to its MCSSA roster including Mike Austin, Dave Scott, Mugs Naveendra, James Greskovich, Jack Taylor, Scott Hanaran, Cesar Bellido and John Alves. Returning from former Continental clubs are David Chase , Luis Silva, Luis Guzman and Louie Catizone.

Current Continentals Dan Clayton, Mark Basso, Russell and Dylan Bauer, Ryan Deighan, Ryan Vinton, Charlie Hyre, Mike Cheatham, Brady McDonald, Brian Daire, Rob Linepinuel and Tyquan Griffin are also on the roster.

Coach Red Announces Top 5 Female Celebrities

5/28- (Morristown, NJ)- Coach Red, last night outside "the tavern", gave some of the lads a taste of his sexual preferences, running through who he thought were the 5 hottest female celebrities on the planet. Here is a brief summary of how his list went:

1) Eva Mendes- From her bare-assed PETA campaign to her photo shoot

for Vogue Italia and her Calvin Klein perfume commercial that was too hot

for the U.S., the sultry star of five upcoming flicks is having a hard time

keeping her clothes on these days. [Insert grin here.]* Yes, coach Red loves

Cuban girls almost as much as he loves soccer.

2) Jessica Alba- Even The Love Guru could do nothing to still our thumping

hearts for this perennial hottie. We can’t wait for her to put her serious pants on

in the upcoming drama An Invisible Sign of My Own. And in 2010 we’ll surely

take our’s off to watch her reprise her role as a stripper in Sin City 2.* Red

implied that we would love to start a family with Ms. Alba.

3) Kate Bosworth- The actress' on-again, off-again romance with

Orlando Bloom frequently landed her in gossip columns, but in 2006,

her weight loss became an even more buzzed about topic. ** Red

blushed while talking about Kate, one of his favorite beauties.

4) Brooke Hogan- A while ago, Brooke Hogan's fame could be summed up in two

words: Daddy dearest. Brooke is none other than the daughter of wrestling icon Hulk

Hogan. For some time, she was largely recognized solely by her last name, but she is in

the midst of changing all that.*** Some say she looks like a man, but not Red. 

5) Lindsay Lohan- No list of beauty would be complete without LiLo. You’ll

soon be able to catch the sex icon in Labor Pains, a comedy in which she

pretends to be preggers. We’re hoping it’s not ours.* I guess Red had to include

at least one fellow Redhead!

Red's Honorable Mention:

Olympic Gymnast Nastia Liukin

Culinary Specialist Rachel Ray

Political Daughter Bristol Palin

* From MaximOnline.com's Hot 100 List

** From People.com's Kate Bosworth: Snapshot

*** From AskMen.com's Celebrity Profile: Brooke Hogan

Attention all young photographers!

 Morristown 1776 Association Football Club wants YOU!

 (Morristown Nj-)

   The Morristown 1776 Association Begins it's third year in the Morris County Summer Soccer league. The club is looking for young photographers who need to hone their skills or are in need of volenteer hours. For more information, contact the club at morristown1776@gmail.com

Club Unviels New Kit Design

The Morristown 1776 AFC released photos of the new club home shirt today to debut in the upcoming MCSSA Season.

The club will still wear jerseys by Augusta Sportswear but just a slightly updated style.

The new jersey is maroon with white sleeves and a maroon stripe on the shoulder.

It will feature familiar sponsor "Tavern Off The Green" across the chest and the club crest above the heart.

No NJSL Playoff Game Wednesday

(Morristown,NJ)- Several it appears incorrect reports of a Morristown 1776 AFC, NJSL Playoff match have been circulating in the past days.

The club issued a statement today:

"The club had never announced a game was scheduled or has heard anything to indicate it's playing from the NJSL or any potential opponet, we are however working on a makeup or possible scrimmage date with Maiwand FC from the NJSL.

The club is set to begin it's MCSSA season next Monday June 1st with a three match week. The club is scheduled to play Mon 1st, Wed 3rd and Fri 5th all at Frelinghuysen School in Morris Township.

We have somewhat entered MCSSA mode and should have a finalized(MCSSA) schedule in the next two days."

Naveendra Joins Club

(Morristown,NJ)-  Defender, Muguathan "Mugs"  Naveendra has joined The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. for the upcoming MCSSA season, the club announced today.


"Mugs" had been on trial at the club.

Tavern Off The Green Returns As Primary Sponsor

(Morristown,NJ)- Tavern Off The Green is returning for their 4th consecutive season as the primary sponsor of The Morristown 1776 A.F.C., the club announced today.

Tavern Off The Green is located at 127 Morris st in Morristown across from the Morristown Train Station. Show our sponsor some support by visiting(tell them your a 1776 supporter!).

Everyone at the club thanks Michelle, Jamie and everyone else at "the tavern" for their continued support.

List Of Current Trialists

(mORRIS tOWNSHIP,nj)- The Morristown 1776 AFC held trials yesterday for the upcoming MCSSA season.

The following is a list of the club's current trialists:

Harold Medina

Cesar Bellido

Artie Krivopal

Steve Dingler

Keith Mazzone

Luis C. Fuerts

James Greskovich

Javvier Vargas

Muguathan "Mugs"  Naveendra

Austin, Scott Added To MCSSA Roster

(Morristown,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC announced today that they officially added Mike Austin and Dave Scott to this years MCSSA roster.

With a influx of new trialists the club expects to add more players officially in the next few days.

Summer Training And Trials This Wednesday

(Morristown,NJ)-  The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. will be holding training and trials this Wednesday 6:15-8pm at Frelinghuysen Middle School in Morris Township.

ALL CURRENT PLAYERS are expected to attend, if you are unable please notify Ryan,Ryan, Red or Rus ASAP or email club@morristown1776.org or call (862)579-2652.

ANYONE INTERSETED IN PLAYING should also attend for a trial, we try to streamline the process and a decesion should be made after one session, if possible please bring the MCSSA paperwork (available here:http://sites.google.com/site/mt76wiki/interested-in-playing). Although no reservation is nesecary they are appreciated at club@morristown1776.org or call (862)579-2652.

DIRECTIONS TO FRELINGHUYSEN:

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Club Launches New Online Shop

For Immediate Release:
(Morristown,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. has launched a new online club shop for supporters to purchase all their official club merchandise from, http://mt76.mybisi.com/.

The new storefront features shopping cart and many payment options.

The club announced plans to expand the store in the near future, "We plan on having many more items available from the online store in the near future," said club chairman Ryan Vinton yesterday.

Visit The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. online store:http://mt76.mybisi.com/.

For more info on The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. please visit their website: http://www.mt76.org/.

Sundays Match Postponed

(Morristown,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC has postponed tomorrows home match vs Waldwick FC due to swine flu.

No seriously it is postponed due to Morristown's home pitch, Mennen Field still being closed.

Makeup is TBA, possibly a weeknight this week.

MCSSA Player Fees Due

The MCSSA season is rapidly approaching. That means MCSSA Player dues are due.

The fee is $100 for returning players.

There is also a $25 for new players for jersey purchase(returning players can order a replacement jersey for this as well).

Payment can be given to Rus, Red, Ryan or Ryan. Check payable to: The Morristown 1776 AFC.


A few new player slots still available.
contact club@morristown1776.org if interested for more info on playing.

Manager Clayton Releases Conditioning Plan

http://sites.google.com/site/mt76wiki/interested-in-playing/continetal-conditioning

"George" Can't Help Continentals Claim Carmichael Cup

5/10/09- As The Morristown 1776 AFC prepared to take the pitch Sunday against table leaders TrinJersey SA, they realized that they only had 9 lads. Heroically, Brady McDonald and Russell Bauer desperately searched for random people to play for the squad. Finally, right before the opening whistle blew, came "George", who looked like Ving Rhames. He courageously offered the Continentals his services in the Stokely Carmichael Cup.
Within a minute of kickoff, and George playing in Tommy Hilfiger jean shorts and a "Camp Staff" marroon t-shirt, Morristown fell one-to-nill after a TrinJersey cross and header. TrinJersey dominated much of the first half, with many shots on goal, despite some nice runs by Continentals McDonald, Daire, Clayton, Linepinuel and Bauer. The Continentals would fall three nill before half, but not until they had their greatest opportunity chip off the post. Former Continental Luis Guaman made his return with the lads, and after challenging the TrinJersey keeper on a through-ball, Guaman managed to knock the ball away from the keeper, but the shot hit the upper right post and flew out of bounds.

The second half showed much of the same, as TrinJersey seemed far too tall and far too fast for the lads. Morristown fell Seven to Nill by minute 75. The large crowd began to come together and push for the Continentals who were playing with much heart, and in the eighty first minute, the lads got their big break. Brady McDonald was sent on a long ball, which he put a beautiful touch on and then crossed it even more beautifully across the net. Awaiting the cross was Russell Bauer, who had timed his run perfectly and put a stellar finish to the magnificant play. The crowd, or as they prefered to be called the "Continental Army" went crazy, in a scene that was reminiscent of the movie Rudy. George was allegedly spotted wiping a tear off of his cheek after the touching moment.

Three minutes later, after the TrinJersey keeper was caught playing too high during a Maroon possession, recieved a long Rob Linepinuel chip over his head that looked as if it were destined for the glory hole. However, the shot chipped off of the near post, and the fans were hit with deep sorrow and pain.

The lads and George finished with heart, but at the end of the match, TrinJersey SA lifted the Stokely Carmichael cup with glory and pride after a 7-1 victory.

Game Notes:
-Charlie Hyre and Luis Guaman made their returns, and both were key performers
-Marco and Clayton both served in the net for Morristown
-TrinJersey SA had no idea that they were playing for the Stokely Carmichael Cup
-Many players, after the game, went home to celebrated Mothers Day with their moms
-Randao urinated on his shorts before the match after a poison ivy leaf scare
-Players on TrinJersey SA spoke with Carribean accents

5/9/09- Lads Await Stokely Carmichael Cup

On 5/10/2009 The Continental Lads will take on TrinJersey SA in what has been refered to as the "Stokely Carmichael Cup". Morristown has not played well against TrinJersey in the past, but hopefully forging the fixture as a cup game named after a famous Trinidad-born civil rights activist will spark the lads to play at their finest. Stokely Carmichael coined the phrase "Black Power!".

When asked about the significance of the Stokely Carmichael Cup, Sweeper Brian Daire said "Stokely Carmichael has nothing to do with Soccer or Mothers day, but I guess he was a cool guy".

But Stokely Carmichael is significant, since Morristown regularly field two players of color (Tyquan Griffin and BooBoo).

Did you know that Stokely Carmichael was once the Honorary Prime Minister of the Black Panthers? Well, it's true. And most of the Continentals are "Stoked" to be playing in his honor. Lets go Continental Army

Preliminary MCSSA Schedule Released

(Rockaway,NJ)- The MCSSA Office has released their preliminary 2009 schedule. Here's how it shapes up for The Morristown 1776 AFC:

Wed May 27- v. Irvington Knights
Mon June 1- v. New Providence Pioneers
Wed June 3- v. Parsippany Blues 20
Mon June 8- @ Winter Rovers
Wed June 10-@ Parsippany Gators- Smith Field 9:30pm
Mon June 15- v. NJ Hopatcong
Wed June 17- @ Lake Parsippany Raiders- Veterans Park 9:30pm
Mon June 22- v. FC Sparta
Wed June 24- v. Pompton Lakes
Mon June 29- @ Long Valley FC- Rock Spring Park

Sunday's League Match Moved To Noon

(Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ)- The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. and the NJSL Office both announced yesterdaay that Sunday's TrinJersey SA/Morristown 1776 Match would move it's kickoff time back from 9:30am to 12 noon,still at Union Ave. Middle School in Irvington.

The Morristown 1776 AFC is asking it's players to be at the field no later than 11:30am.

Directions:
http://motown76.blogspot.com/2009/05/upcoming-trinjersey-match-travel-info.html

Hyre To Play

The Morristown 1776 AFC is expecting to see the Spring return of central defender Charlie Hyre to the Continental fold on Sunday.

Hyre's veteran presence should help emerging star but aggressive defender Brian Daire in coverage in front of the Continental line.

Griffin Out

Defender Tyquan Griffin will miss Sunday's match with a family commitment.

Injury, Availablity Update Ahead TrinJersey Match

Clayton,Dylan Bauer and Linepinuel To Play

Three star Continentals not expected to play this Sunday vs TrinJersey SA are now expected to take the pitch.

Dan Clayton has cancelled a trip to play Sunday.

Rob Linepinuel has been upgraded to probable with a toe and lower leg injury.

Dylan Bauer is expected to make his return, he has missed the last two months after shoulder surgery.

Vinton Not Available

Ryan Vinton is not expected to be available Sunday with a work commitment.

Mark Basso is expected to tend the Morristown net.

Board Details Summer Budget Online

(Morristown,NJ)- In a continuted effort for The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. to continue succeed on and off the field, it has detailed the club's current budget on their official website www.mt76.org.

It has been using a new wiki like platform to expand the website and promises for details on the budget as well as other features on the site.

Link to club google sites wiki budget details below:
http://sites.google.com/site/mt76wiki/finance/summer-2009-budget

Play This Summer! (MCSSA Player Registrations)

MCSSA is coming up again. With only 3 games for the lads left in NJSL, it's time to start thinking about summer.

This will be Morristown's third season in the MCSSA summer season. Games are Monday and Wednesday Night.

Player fee is $100 for returning players and $125 for new players(includes jersey).

Click link below for MCSSA registration forms and more info on playing for The Morristown 1776 A.F.C.:
http://sites.google.com/site/mt76wiki/interested-in-playing

Board Releases Summer Budget

The Morristown 1776 Association Football Club, A Nj Nonprofit Corp. has released their 2009 Summer Budget.


AVAILABLE AT LINK BELOW:
http://sites.google.com/site/mt76wiki/finance/summer-2009-budget

Expected Lineup v. TrinJersey

Cheatham McDonald

Pollock d.Bauer

Carvallaro Mazza

Griffin R.Bauer Randao
Daire

Basso

The club anticipates having 11 players without subs sunday

PLAYERS PLEASE READ
If your name is on the list or not on the list and you will and you won't be their email club@morristown1776.org ASAP.

Notes From Board of Directors Meeting

(Parsippany,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. Board of Directors held a scheduled board meeting Monday night at the home of club chairman Ryan Vinton.

Among the issues discussed were the club's operating budget, which was itemized line by line for both income and expenses, from now until the end of the summer (August '09). The board preliminarly approved the operating budget and will post it online in the coming days for club members to view and scrutinize and to put the club more in line with IRS 501(c)3 Regulations(The Club is looking to pursue 501(c)3 Tax-Exempt Status with the IRS).

One decision the board made was to withdrawl the club from Trenton FC's Memorial Day Tournament due to a lack of players and to better fit within the operating budget.

The board also reportily discussed adding a fifth board member to eliminate the possibility of deadlocked votes amongst the board, their is no immediate indication of who the board would potentialy tap to fill the new vacancy or even if discussions reached the point of who could possibly fill this potential seat.

TUESDAY UPDATE: "Soap Opera" Atmosphere Continues To Surround 1776

(Morristown,NJ)- After another drubbing last Sunday things have looked bleak around Continental camp this week. The club and supporters has been very disappointed with unexpected absences and seem to put much blame on themselves for not enforcing enough.

Club chairman Ryan Vinton was quoted, "This is all hands on deck. If your on the active roster without a known injury, we expect adequate notice of you not showing up for a match.", in a article published yesterday.

Latest On Bedo

After rumors last week that Bedo had left the club circulated wildly through out Continental Land and he was a no show for Sunday's match, still neither Bedo's camp or The Morristown 1776 AFC are saying anything officially. The club and Manager Clayton are refusing to comment on the situation.

No Memorial Day Tournament

The Club has decided not to enter Trenton FC's Memorial Day Tournament. A substantial amount of players were not available that weekend. A friendly is still being considered by the board for that weekend.

Clayton Out

Club player/manager Dan Clayton will miss this Sunday's match vs TrinJersey SA for personal reasons.

Linepinuel Doubtful

Rob Linepinuel is doubtful this week with a lower leg injury suffered in last weeks match to compound with his already existing broken toe.

Manager Clayton had this to say, "It's most likely best if we rest him and get him ready for (NJSL)playoffs and the MCSSA."

Dylan Bauer Likely To Return

Fullback Dylan Bauer, who's US Marine deployment was delayed by a recent shoulder surgery is likely to return to the club this weekend. He has missed all of the Spring NJSL after injuring his shoulder in the ISP Winter League.

Upcoming TrinJersey Match Travel Info

The following info is on this Sundays (10 May,2009), The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. Match at TrinJersey SA.


Match Kickoff: 9:30am
GPS Address:UNION AVE MIDDLE SCHOOL, 427 UNION AVE, IRVINGTON, NJ

Players and supporters will be meeting at the Morristown Diner for a 8:30am departure for club carpool/caravan.

Driving directions are from Tavern Off The Green in Morristown.
227 Morris St, Morristown, Morris, New Jersey 07960
1. Head east on Morris St toward Washington Ave
0.3 mi
2. Turn left at Lafayette Ave/New Morris Ave
0.3 mi
3. Merge onto I-287 N/NJ-24 E via the ramp to Boonton
1.1 mi
4. Take exit 37 to merge onto NJ-24 E toward Springfield
9.6 mi
5. Take the exit onto I-78 E toward Newark/Garden State Pkwy
5.2 mi
6. Take exit 54 toward Hillside
0.3 mi
7. Turn right at Winans Ave
95 ft
8. Continue on Paine Ave
0.6 mi
9. Turn left at Union Ave
13 ft

427 Union Ave
Irvington, NJ 07111



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Player Ratings: V. RD Benders

Dan Clayton-Forward-5
Rob Linepinuel-Wing-6
Rus Bauer-Wing-5
Marco Carvallaro- Center Midfield (80 Min)-6
Tyquan Griffin- Left Back-6
Randao-Right Back-6
Brian Daire-Center Back-8
Ryan Vinton-Keeper(80 Min)-7
Marco Carvallaro-Keeper(On 80 Min)-1
Ryan Vinton-Forward(On 80 Min)-2

In such a defeat with only 8 guys the rankings were a little tough to do. No offense by the club really can't be blamed on the guys up top but no service means no results just the same and the forward scores reflect that. The D was under constant pressure and held up pretty way, all thing considered. Daire recieved the highest mark on the club for the 3rd straight match.

Low Numbers Pandemic Again Hits 1776 In Late Season

The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. have again encountered their own "swine flu" pandemic that seems to inflict its self upon the club late in every season recently, a lack of players.

Morristown was saying all the right things ahead of their Sunday NJSL League Match vs RD Benders, but only 8 players showed up for the showdown.

Among the missing were Continental regulars, Mike Cheatham, Brady McDonald, Mark Basso, Bedo and Mike Pollock.

This Morristown team, while short of skills seems to always bring a lot of heart to the pitch. But the club can in no way be expected to compete playing 90 minutes without subs and conceding 3 extra players to the opponents.

The past two seasons ('08 MCSSA, Fall NJSL) saw the same problem for Morristown.

"This is all hands on deck. If your on the active roster without a known injury. We expect adequate notice of you not showing up for a match.", said club chairman Ryan Vinton.

Shorthanded Contientals "bend" to RD Benders

(Paramus)NJ- As Day Broke the Continental lads were ready to avenge a 9-0 defeat when a then nine man squad played RD Benders on October 26th; However one minor detail was missed, half of the expected roster was not there.

Instead of suffering an embarrassing forfeit, Morristown played eight on eleven men. Mastermind strategist Dan Clayton shifted the lineup the best possible way by playing a 4-2-1 formation. Clayton utilized the speed of Russ Bauer by moving him from sweeper to midfield. The move seemed to payoff when after twenty minutes of conceding a goal a quick shift of direction of the ball by Clayton and Rob Linepinuel left Bauer with a through ball 18 yards out with the keeper to beat; However, the pitch betrayed the continentals on the play where the ball took an uneven hop and was misfired out of bounds.

"The defense kept us alive in the first half" Clayton said "If it wasn't for key saves by Ryan(Vinton) and the defense, it would have been a terrible day"



The beginning of the second half had much promise for the 76' when Clayton utilized his version of the "triangle offense" where Linepinuel,Clayton, and Bauer played simple passes up the field and led to some shots on net by the trio and a shot off the crossbar by Marco Carvallaro.

Things got chippy when a hard foul by Brian Daire led a player on RD benders to take a swing at Daire. Cooler heads prevailed.

Fatigue and sloppy conditions led to several goals late in the second half. The final score was 10-nil.


A very detested Clayton had some bold comments during the post game interview.

"I'm very proud of the way the boys played today. They played outnumbered the whole game but I'm proud of the tenacity the D played and they way Ryan (Vinton) played in the cage today. I'm glad we had some things going on offense. We need to put our chances away, you never know in the span of a game if there will be another chance, you might only get one."


When asked what happened to the other expected teammates Clayton responded:

"I honestly don't know, the people know who they are and they let down their team today. Everyone has cell phones or a way to communicate, I have nothing further to say about that"

He went on to say about the blog that has been hanging a cloud around contiential camp in recent days:
" Whoever said that comment has nothing to say now , because if they meant what they said they would have showed up to help the team and I would have bowed out and sat along with Rob (Linepinuel). I can only say it's sad when people ask for the benching of two injured players when they are the two most dedicated players, and the person making comments doesn't show up to help the team. It's now an afterthought because it's unwanted negativity and I have NO tolerance for it."


Notes:
-Rob Linepinuel suffered a lower leg injury an will be re-evaluated later in the week.
-Ryan Vinton had his best game of the season with 21 saves ( 2nd most saves in team history)

Blog Comment Causes Stir In Continental Camp

A comment recently posted on mt76.org, has raised some eyebrows around The Morristown 1776 AFC. The comment, in response to this weeks match preview was posted only by someone calling themselves "U KNOW!".

U KNOW! said...
NEED TO KEEP THE INJURED OFF AND THE WELL AND ABLE TO CONTRIBUTE ON THE FIELD THIS IS NOT A WHO CAN PLAY SITUATION AT THE MOMENT WE ARE TRYING TO GET A WIN JUST NOT PLAY SOCCER! IF UR INJURED CHEER FROM THE SIDELINE AND PASS WATER AROUND WE ARE NOT BEING HELPED BY HAVING INJURED PLAYERS ON THE FIELD THE SHIT IS KILLING THE SQUAD CHANGES ARE NEEDED FAST. IF NOT THERE WILL B A SHOCKING INTERVIEW COMING SOON!

Sources from within The Morristown 1776 AFC seem to believe it was likely the comment was posted by a member of the team.

Continental Home Pitch Issues Resolved?

(Morristown,NJ)- The New York Jets donated $200k to Morristown High School to assist the school in it's effort to install a artifical turf surface.

Could this be The Morristown 1776 AFC's new home field.

FULL STORY FROM DAILY RECORD:
http://dailyrecord.com/article/20090430/COMMUNITIES32/904300314&referrer=FRONTPAGECAROUSEL

Match Preview: Morristown 1776 v. RD Benders

(Morristown,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC will continue their quest for their first win since last June this Sunday, May 3 at 9am vs RD Benders at Westbrook Middle School in Paramus.

Mid-table RD Benders (5-6-3, 18 points), technically the visiting team (Morristown's home pitch, Mennen Field is still closed for turf damage), will play host to last place, The Morristown 1776 AFC (1-13-0, 3 points).

RD Benders has scored 30 goals and conceded 35 on the year, and defeated a 8 man Morristown 9-0 on October 26th. Morristown played the match down 3 men and without subs or a regular goalkeeper.

The Continentals plan on having a full squad for this match and hope that along with on field improvements they believe they've made will make the difference for Morristown in Sunday's match.

Morristown manager Dan Clayton said, "We're a different team than the fall, we're still looking for the results but we're much better. And we'll be playing with 11 guys this time."

RD Benders striker S. Aps is second in the league's goal scoring race with 13 strikes on the season. Teammate Bergsman has 5 tallies. Morristown's leading scorer is Brady McDonald with 4.

Vinton Available

Former 1776 Manager and current goalkeeper Ryan Vinton will be at the dispersal of gaffer Clayton on Sunday. Vinton missed the last two matches with work commitments.

Weather or not Clayton chooses to utilize Vinton is a subject of debate as Mark Basso played perhaps the finest game of his Continental career last week,perhaps laying claim to the first choice goalkeeper spot.

Basso and Vinton have split the time in the net this spring.

Clayton, Linepinuel Probable

Manager Dan Clayton is likely to play Sunday in his continued return from a hip injury. He scored his first NJSL goal on a PK last week.

Rob Linepinuel is also likely to play. He has a broken toe and a pulled groin that we're both suffered last week vs Vikings FC.

"He played well in training last night. That kid is quite a warrior.", said club chairman Ryan Vinton via telephone today.

Sunday's RD Benders Match Moved To Paramus

(Morristown,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC, with their home pitch, Mennen Field, still closed from winter flooding and turf damage have moved this Sunday's fixture vs RD Benders to the Paramus based sides home pitch, Westbrook Middle School in Paramus.

Kickoff is scheduled for 9am.


Driving directions to 550 Roosevelt Blvd, Paramus, NJ 07652
36.5 mi – about 46 mins
Morristown, NJ 07960

1. Head south on Bailey Hollow Rd toward Jenks Hill Rd 0.7 mi
2. Turn left at Mount Kemble Ave/US-202
Continue to follow US-202 2.4 mi
3. Turn right at NJ-24/NJ-53/W Park Pl/US-202
Continue to follow NJ-53 0.7 mi
4. Continue on South St 0.3 mi
5. Take the ramp onto I-287 N 6.1 mi
6. Take exit 41A to merge onto I-80 E toward New York City 18.8 mi
7. Take exit 62A-B for Garden State Pkwy toward Saddle Brook 0.6 mi
8. Continue toward Garden State Pkwy N 0.2 mi
9. Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Garden State Pkwy and merge onto Garden State Pkwy N
Toll road 1.3 mi
10. Take exit 161 for NJ-4 toward Paramus 0.3 mi
11. Keep left at the fork to continue toward N NJ-17 171 ft
12. Keep left at the fork to continue toward N NJ-17 0.2 mi
13. Keep left at the fork, follow signs for NJ-17 and merge onto N NJ-17 3.8 mi
14. Take the exit toward E Ridgewood Ave 0.2 mi
15. Turn right at E Ridgewood Ave 0.2 mi
16. Turn left at Roosevelt Blvd 0.5 mi


View Larger Map

Poker Tournament Friday!

(Lake Parsippany,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. is planning to hold a charity poker tournament this Friday night (May 1) at the home of club chairman, Ryan Vinton on Lake Parsippany.

The club is looking to raise funds for the summer MCSSA season.

This is a crucial fundraising effort, more details will emerge after tonights training session.

Continentals blare cannons; However not enough as they fall 6-2

(Parsippany NJ) – Continentals blare cannons; However not enough as they fall 6-2

As news spread late last week that continentals all time leading scorer and striker Peter Luthi was out for the rest of the NJSL season was cause for even more concern as the turbulent 08/09 NJSL season begins to wind down, it wasn’t for Interim manager Dan Clayton.

Clayton stuck with his 4-5-1 formation and replaced Luthi with himself. When asked why he stuck himself into the starting lineup he replied in the post game “I know myself and my limits, I believe with me coming back I could spark something” and he did. After being down two goals in the first 5 minutes it looked like the continentals were going to face another drubbing by Vikings FC who defeated them 11-1 on Oct. 19th.

The heat was a factor, with the game time temperature posted at 89 degrees with both teams leading to lethargic play. In the 32nd minute a flurry in front of the Vikings net, Bedo attempted a bicycle kick in front of the net but was forced down in the box and a penalty kick was awarded. Much debate was given on who should take the kick, but Clayton took the kick and buried it into the right corner closing the gap to 2-1. However; with continentals in celebration mode, lethargic play led to a Vikings goal thirty seconds later and opened up a two goal lead at 3-1.

The second half started with more lethargic play and mental mistakes by the back line and led to two goals to open the second half scoring at 5-1. With Brian Daire going down early in the second half Clayton decided to change the flow and put Mike “boo boo” Cheatham at striker and moved Russ Bauer to outside midfielder where he mostly played last summer. The manager also moved Rob Linepinuel to the other outside mid and put Bedo in the middle with Steve Sabo and Brady McDonald. That center tandem pounced onto a tired Vikings defense with fancy footwork and precision passing that fed Cheatham for the 2nd continental’s goal to bring it to 5-2.

The Vikings were relentless against Mark Basso who may have played his best game ever stopping 25 shots. He was replaced in the 78th minute after taking a blow to the ribs. Marco Carvallaro went into net after playing most of the game at center back. On a through ball that went in between both Clayton and Randao`, Carvallaro came out to face the Viking attacker and he chipped the on rushing keeper for the final tally of the game.
After the game Clayton was asked for his thoughts: “I believe based from the last time we played them we did positive things here today. Did I think we could have played better? Absolutely. Mental mistakes and communication is what killed us. I’m pleased on our conditioning, the midfielders came back to help on defense and we buried our chances when we had them. In the last 4 games the Defense has carried us in some, and our midfielders and strikers did today. We just need to bring that continuity together”

Notes:

- Clayton scored his 1st ever NJSL goal, and was taken out in the 85th minute after feeling a “pop” in his recently healed hip, he is day to day
- Cheatham also scored his first NJSL goal
- Linepinuel has a broken toe and will be re evaluated later in the week
- Mark Basso set the single season mark by a continental’s keeper with 25 saves in one game.

Luthi Out At Least 8 Weeks

(Morristown,NJ)- MT76.org has confirmed earlier reports that Continental Striker Peter Luthi will miss at least the next 8 weeks with a partial tear of his MCL.

This news comes as Morristown 1776 could least afford it too and means Luthi, the clubs all time leading scorer will miss the rest of the NJSL season and the beginning of the MCSAA season.

The club is targeting a late June return for the English born striker.

Clayton To Play Ahead Of Vikings FC Match

(Morristown,NJ)- Dan Clayton, current Morristown 1776 manager, has been upgraded to probable for tomorrow's NJSL match vs Vikings FC.

Clayton who has missed the last several months with a hip injury has served as the clubs manager while sidelined from the pitch. He first made his return a week and a half ago in a midweek fixture vs Sportsfriends but sat out last Sundays match with injury.

He has been rehabing at full speed the past week and is expected to play.

Vinton Out

Goalkeeper Ryan Vinton will miss his second straight Sunday match due to a work commitment. When reached for comment the former manager said, "I'm doing my best to rectify my Sunday morning availability and it should be fixed soon. It kills me to miss matches with the lads, but somebodys got to pay the bills."

Reports: Luthi Out At Least Remainder Of NJSL Season

(Madison,NJ)- Sources close to The Morristown 1776 AFC are reporting the club's all-time leading goalscorer, Peter Luthi will miss at least the remainder of the NJSL season with a MCL strain or tear.

Match Preview: 1776 v Vikings FC

(Morristown,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC, still winless in this years NJSL campaign travel to nearby Old Troy Park in Parsippany to face Vikings FC this Sunday (April 26) at 11am.

Vikings FC currently sit tied for 2nd with Lyndhurst FC in the NJSL NJ Division table with 25 points. They are 7-3-4 this year with 46 goals forced and 28 conceded for a plus 18 goal differential. Morristown is 1-11 with 13 scored and 81 conceded.

Vikings FC Forward Pereyra is 4th in the league in scoring, he has 9 goals this year. Terranova and Perussi have also scored 5 times a piece for Vikings.

Brady McDonald leads Morristown with 4 goals.

Morristown played Vikings FC at home at Mennen Field November 19 and suffered their worst loss in club history 11-1.


Late Added Notes:

-Peter Luthi will miss the match with a partial MCL Tear, he is out at least 8 weeks
-Dan Clayton will play, he is recovering for a hip injury
-Ryan Vinton will miss the match with a work commitment.

Sundays Vikings FC NJSL Tie Confirmed

(Parsippany,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 A.F.C. will face Vikings FC this Sunday, Apr 26 at 11 am at Old Troy Park in Parsippany.

GPS Address: 440 Reynolds Ave, Parsippany, NJ 07054


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Frankies at their "Finest". Continental Curse Continues...

(New Brunswick,NJ)-
The Morristown 1776 AFC traveled into New Brunswick on Sunday, 4/20 to take on Frankies Finest. The Continentals started the game with eleven lads, one more that they started with just three days earlier at Sportsfriends in the epic "Tea Party Cup".

The Continental Army played the game without either Keeper (Basso the Green Keeper and Ryan Beckimho Vinton) available. The lads would see striker Brady McDonald put on the keeper gloves for the first half, although the gloves looked more like batting gloves to many supporters. Frankies started off the game with dominance, maintaning possession and getting off many shots to test McDonald.

Finally, one shot from about 30 yards out drifted over McDonalds head and into the net. It would be the only goal Morristown allowed in that half, as they started gaining possession and saw various opportunities go wide of the net.

The second half started the same way. Frankies had numerous shots on goal, which now was being defended by Continental veteran Randao. Randao kept a clean sheet for the twenty minutes he played in goal. At that point, It looked like Morristown would keep this a one to nill game... But soon enough, Frankies poured on the goals, and by the final whistle, Morristown was defeated 6-0. The end of the game saw two Continentals go down injured, in Rob and Bayron... Rob ended up playing some goalie as did Pollock. One Continental reportedly farted at midfield after the game. The Continental Curse continues for now.......

Game notes:
*Morristown had four different goalkeepers during this game, none of which are actual keepers
*Bedo and BooBoo were seen fighting during the game
*Coach Clayton a no-show
*Bayron carried off the field by a female entourage
*McDonalds own goal puts him on top of the teams all time scorers list past Luthi
*Bauer urinated on baseball dugout

Club Considers Entering Memorial Day Tournament

(Trenton,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC, in an effort to bridge their fixture gap between the NJSL and MCSSA campaigns are considering entering Trenton FC's Memorial Day Weekend Tournament. Cost will be approx. $20 per player and will include a minimum of 3, 11 v 11, 90 minute matches.

Players let us know what you think in the comment section below.

Corner Kick Woes Down Continentals 3-0

(Wayne,NJ)- The Morristown 1776 AFC fell to Sportsfriends FC Thursday night under the lights at Sportsfriends Oval in Wayne.

The Continentals, having only one day prior knowledge of the fixture, started the match with only 10 players. Morristown conceded on perfectly placed header after a corner that keeper Ryan Vinton couldn't defend at the 15 minute mark.

Morristown again allowed off a corner that the defense couldn't clear off the line and squeaked by left back Randao guarding the far post in the 36th giving the friends a 2-0 halftime advantage.

It appeared gaffer Dan Clayton might of ignited a spark in his lads at the break as Peter Luthi drew and subsequently missed a penalty off the post in the 54th.

Only five minutes later a controversial decision marred a potential Continental goal when Luthi took a indirect free kick from about 25 yards that appeared to deflect off the Sportsfriends keeper before falling in the back of the net.

Sportsfriends ended all hope when another corner found the back of the net in the 76th.

Notes:

-Brian Daire played stopper/d-mid for the first time and looked to really fit it in the "destroyer" role.
=Manager Dan Clayton returned from his recent hip injury and played 90 minutes, he is doubtful for Sunday.
-Ryan Vinton played his first full 90 in the Continental cage since July 17,2007 in his continuing return from ACL/MCL reconstruction..... He will miss Sunday vs Vikings to quote, "rest my surgically repaired knee" and due to a job commitment.

Clayton to see specialist, Status for Sunday unknown

(Randolph,NJ)- Continental’s manager Dan Clayton will see an orthopedic specialist in Rockaway tomorrow to see how the progress on the injured labrum is doing. Clayton has gone on record that the injury is minor and he will be back soon, but this reporter was at continentals training facility last Wednesday to see Clayton labor at only half speed drills, and not look like the Captain that supporters have known and loved.

This reporter has also learned that the hip has not fully healed and that if the labrum is torn, it is considered career threatening. Tomorrow’s evaluation should answer a lot of questions. Has Clayton’s bright promise with the 76’ burned out? Stay tuned.

For more information labrum tears go to: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/acetabular-labral-tear-the-basics

Vinton Denies Leaving Club

(Morristown,NJ)- Ryan Vinton denied via text message rumors circulating earlier today that he was leaving the club:

"I'm not leaving the club in any way. This was clearly a lack of information. I simply have a possible job commitment I can't get out of and may be unavailable the next several Sundays."

BREAKING NEWS: Vinton to Leave Club?

(Morristown NJ)-
Sources out of Continentals camp are saying that former manager and current goalkeeper Ryan Vinton has left the team. Conditions of the separation could not be reached; However, when asked if it was about his possible demotion from first team keeper and anger towards manager Clayton all that was said was “no comment”

More surely to come, Stay tuned

Team Members now offered discounts at Modell's Sporting Goods

Rockaway NJ,
Thats right, all active members of the Morristown 1776 AFC now have the oppertunity to save 10% on any merchandise at any Modell's Sporting Goods through team weeks. Need cleats,shorts, and shin gaurds? Modell's has them. The coupon is not only good for sporting goods. Need a new pair of shoes or tee shirts? the coupon is good for most purchases in the store, however some restrictions apply. Please contact Ryan Vinton, Red, Or Randao for more info. If the team spends a combined 1,500$ for merchandise the team will get 5% back. So start buying! *Promotion runs through the end of the month*

Clayton's rehab progressing

(Hope, NJ)-

Former player and current Continentals “caretaker” manager Dan Clayton has been making strides towards a possible comeback onto the pitch. He has been sidelined with a torn labrum since Feb 24th and was placed on the injured list, three days later Clayton was named the new Continentals manager.

In that time Clayton has been using unique training styles and tactics to rave reviews by club supporters and mixed reviews by players saying they are being pushed too hard. “ I really could care less what people say either way” Clayton said via teleconference “ I believe what I am doing with the club is finally leading it towards playing the game right, that is key, if we continue to play well, victory will be achieved as well as additional fan support”

Asked when he will make his return as player: “I really haven’t given it much thought lately because I’m enjoying coaching the lads. Right now with the additions of Rob, Juan, Marco, Steve, and the depth we now have at goalkeeper including the reemergence of Tyquan (Griffin) and Randao’ we now have the depth to keep everyone fresh and have the numbers to implement my system.; However the doctors have now allowed me to bike, so I’m biking everyday with light jogging in about three to five days.”

“My target date has been April 19th Clayton said. But I want to make sure when I make my return I am one hundred percent, if I’m still physically not up to my own standards I will not play until my fitness and my overall health is improved. I believe when I can return we will be a better team but I am only one man, and it’s up to the other fifteen guys (currently on the roster) to do their part every game to win.”

This reporter believes that Clayton will help the team and based on his summer MCSSA performances at center back he could definitely bolster the defense of the Continentals who currently have a minus sixty-two goal differential in the fall-spring NJSL season; however, if he is back to one hundred percent, he could move to attacking midfielder. Time will tell.

Tomorrow's (4/5) game vs. Hispano is cancelled.. more info soon

Tomorrow's (4/5) game vs. Hispano is cancelled.. more info soon

Altidore Records Hat Trick For Nats

(Nashville,TN)- After a disapointing tie to El Salvador in the Central American country Saturday night, Wednesday's 3-0 win vs Trinidad was the spark the Americans needed.

Bob Bradley finally gave 19 year old, New Jersey born striker,Jozy Altidore, 90 minutes to show what he had againist a "good" CONCACAF side. Well Mr.Altidore answered with 3 notches and just as easily could have been 5. Does anyone doubt this kid should be starting over Ching?

TUESDAY UPDATE: Club Still Searches For Their "Battle Of Trenton"

Gaffer Appears Prepared To Be Stern

(Morristown,NJ)- In a conservation via telephone this morning Continental Manager Dan Clayton said, "A lot of guys might not like me, but i'm trying to coach the right way."

"We have to move to a more defensive mindset, we have a team of midfielders we have to use that to our advantage and have more heart and energy than our opponent."

He went on to say fitness and possession have to improve immediately.

Randao On History

Club Co-Captain and Board Member Ryan "Randao" Deighan said, "Turns out yesterday wasn't our 'Battle of Trenton', but it's coming. The Battle Of Trenton was the turning point in the American Revolution for the underdog Continental Army and occured just before Washington's Men marched to Morristown in late 1776 for which our club is named.

Whenever we do put on a streak of good form and some positive results that will be our 'Crossing of the Deleware and Battle of Trenton'."

Bauer Expects More

In a separate phone call with last weeks' armband wearer, Russell Bauer, the Continental Board Member was quoted, "We have to be more physical!".

Vinton Prepared For Less Playing Time

Reports out of Continenal camp suggest Mark Basso may see "a lot" of time in net this spring. Ryan Vinton, former manager and current goalkeeper returning from a knee operation said...

"I'm definitely rusty out there. I'm really still missing that first step. I'm just a player doing whatever Dan (Clayton) asks me to do for him on the pitch.

My knee feels pretty good, however coming back from a year off has really affected my general fitness."

Pollock Wants To Attack

Mike Pollock, Continental Utilityman and player of just about every outfield position in his now almost year with the Continental lads was asked today, how he felt about playing all those different positions?

"I went to Manager Clayton (during the match Sunday) and asked for a few changes in my position (from defense) to a few in the midfield and a few others and we started having our best offense of the day. Coincidence? I think not."

When asked he he saw himself as a leader with the club, Pollock answered, "I really feel the team is starting to look to me as an emotional leader. I try my best to lead with my firey intensity."

Captain Makes Intentions Clear

FLORHAM PARK, NJ - Team Captain Russell Bauer received his first booking while playing his first game as full captain in Sunday's fall against Maiwand FC, amidst a match teemed to the brim with drama and tension between and among the two sides.

Bauer was booked late in the second half after charging Maiwand's spot kicker from the wall during an attempted free kick. The very same kick was previousy gifted by Bauer, who violently (and seemingly intentionally) lashed out at the legs of another Maiwand player outside the 18. Though there was no card on the foul, the subsequent act of apparently leaving the wall before the kick forced the official's hand.

The issue being discussed off the field, however, was that this action was just the culmination of a very fiesty day for the Continental captain. Most notably, Bauer appeared to engage in loud verbal arguments with his own squad on the pitch in front of the vistiting team's fans. Many have been calling the new skipper's attitude into question following his second half display.

"There was a bit of a quarrel, I admit," commented Bauer in a phone call this morning. "It was a poor example for me to set to my teammates, that's for certain. It showed a lack of professionalism and discretion. Taking it out on the other team the way I did was no more right than what happened between certain teammates and myself."

Bauer attributed his frustration towards a culmination of mistakes made by everyone, including himself, which had caused the game to slip away into the second half.

"We had stopped communicating as well on the field. I was trying to get my point across, appropriately, but the back line had just stopped clicking the way we had been during the first half. It put me on edge, and when the blood is running hot and the adrenaline is pumping, it takes a lot to keep your cool.

"Clayton and I shared some words on the sidelines after the incident and I realized he was right and I wasn't being a good leader out there. I apologized to the Manager, and later to my team for getting out of line and I feel like we're ready to move past this."

Bauer insists there are no locker room rifts between him and any players involved.

"We're just looking forward, now. To next week and the rest of the season. We want to take what we learned from this game and make ourselves a better team. I think we made a lot of positive changes in the mid-season break. And I saw a lot of it on the field. Granted, most of our starting defenders were unavailable. And we still are lacking that strong midfield presence, and we have been discussing how we can make our transition up the field better.

"My biggest concern is that we play with a little more physicality. Obviously not the physicality that I displayed late in the game, but we need to carry ourselves with more authority and defend with our bodies more, playing more shoulder-to-shoulder when challenging attackers. We need to play big."

"We play Hispano next, and we really should have beaten them the first time around. We put a bullseye on this fixture a few months back knowing what we should have accomplished previously. We wanted to start the spring with at least four points but I would be happy to see us with three come Sunday afternoon."