ASC New Stars Shine Once More in National Amateur Tournament
In the riveting final of the National Amateur Tournament on August 6th in Moline, Iowa, ASC New Stars showcased why they’re one of the most formidable over-30 teams in the nation.
They squared off against the robust team of Levski Chicago, who they had previously defeated 2-0 in the 2020 semi-finals en route to their first national trophy. However, this year’s final was an entirely different ball game, with both teams bringing their best foot forward.
The Distinguished Lineup
Emmanuel Frias, the steadfast goalkeeper, was the last line of defense, with Daniel Ozuna sprinting on the right flank and Camilo Botero covering the left. In the heart of the defense stood the towering figure of Michael “Big Mike” Robertson alongside Derek Craig, both ensuring aerial superiority. Completing the shield was Eric Robertson, contributing to the trio known as the “Tres Leches.”
Midfield dynamo Walter Anoruo controlled the center of the park, with support from the agile Eric Robertson. Flanking them were the wingers Jovany Macias and Tayeb Ahmadi, whose runs kept Levski on their toes. Pulling the strings in the attacking third was Arturo Alvarez, and leading the frontline was the relentless Lukas Simon.
An Epic Duel
In a captivating showdown, ASC New Stars showcased their lethal prowess with Arturo Alvarez steering the ship as the central playmaker.
Only 5 minutes in, a dynamic play saw Eric feed Macias, who instantly found a streaking Arturo. Darting into open space, Arturo took his shot, only to have it deflected at the last second, staving off what could’ve been the game’s opener. This initial aggression translated into four corner kicks within the subsequent 4 minutes. From one such corner, Walter Anoruo almost registered a sublime one-touch goal, but it was foiled by a last-second defensive effort.
As the clock neared the 14th minute, Jovany set up Arturo, who made a penetrating run into the box. A defender’s intervention stopped what looked like a clear penalty situation. Seeing the evolving dynamics, Coach Miko retreated to the sidelines, handing the baton to Max. Levski Chicago tried to mount a response, but the brick wall of Big Mike and DC made sure Bebo, the ASC goalie, had little to worry about.
Come the 19th minute, Arturo, ever the menace, received a throw-in, skillfully slicing through the defense, but his pass was slightly too ambitious for either Eric or Max to latch onto. Just a minute later, Eric’s high pressing paid dividends on the right flank. He retrieved possession and found the elusive Arturo whose magical left foot sent the ball crashing against the post in what was the game’s most tantalizing opportunity till that point.
The deadlock was broken in the 22nd minute. Eric, capitalizing on a deflected cross, played a swift one-two with Jovany before delivering the ball to Tata, who takes out his opponent on his first touch and toe-pokes the ball past the Levski goalkeeper, erupting in his signature Matador celebration. Even with the lead, ASC’s relentless assault persisted. Near the 25th minute, Arturo, after navigating past two defenders, took a hit on the knee, ending his contribution for the day. Piotr, an ASC legend, took his place.
New legs in the form of Ryan and Gifford replaced Tayeb and Jovany, respectively. Their fresh energy ratcheted up the tempo, but Levski’s defense stood firm. With the second half underway, Raz stepped in for Camilo. Both flanks were guarded zealously by Danny and Raz, ensuring Levski’s wingers had no joy.
Seven minutes into the second half, Levski created a chance with a ground cross skimming across Bebo’s goal, but no one was there to turn it home. Two minutes later, a nimble pass by Gifford found Max, who was promptly fouled – another potential penalty situation. The 15th minute saw Levski equalize after Walter allegedly fouled a player in the box, and the ensuing penalty was clinically converted.
Subsequent changes had Jovany replacing Gifford, and both Miko and Tata stepping in for Max and Ryan. By the 20th minute, a promising sequence involving Piotr, Miko, and Tata was marred by miscommunication, spoiling a clear-cut chance. Eight minutes later, controversy arose as a Levski header seemed to breach Bebo’s line but was ruled out by officials.
In the 35th minute, a combination of Piotr and Jovany set up Miko, whose shot ricocheted off both the Levski goalie and the post. Soon after, another potential penalty situation arose when a header from Eric appeared to strike a Levski hand, but claims were waved away. Tempers flared in the 36th minute, resulting in Walter receiving a red card following an altercation.
Despite being a man down, ASC held firm. Bebo, in particular, showcased his mettle with vital saves. Six minutes of stoppage time added to the drama. In the dying moments, a towering header from Big Mike following a Raz corner rattled the crossbar. The final whistle soon followed, leading to the nerve-wracking penalty shootouts, with Camilo stepping in, eager for a shot at glory.
Magic Bebo & Unwavering Stars
The atmosphere is palpable; the ASC players are electric, their energy unmistakable. Coach Miko already has his list of sharpshooters ready: Raz, Jovany, Camilo, Eric, and Tata. Having weathered numerous penalty shootouts in various tournaments, having Bebo, known as “The Expert”, in goal is a distinct advantage for the yellow and blue.
Raz is first up, coolly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and slotting the ball to the left. Bebo is next, facing off against Levski’s previous scorer from regular time. This time, the striker changes his approach, but still manages to find the net. Jovany, stepping up next, exudes confidence and powers the ball straight down the middle. Levski’s second taker aims for Bebo’s right and successfully scores. ASC’s third, Camilo, mimics his former TAMIU college mate, choosing to keep it low and centered. Levski’s subsequent striker also shoots to his right; Bebo anticipates correctly but just narrowly misses a touch. Eric Robertson, showing no signs of fatigue from the full game, impeccably places his shot near the right post as the fourth ASC taker. With the game hanging in the balance, Bebo engages in a mental duel with Levski’s next taker. He raises his left hand, baiting the striker. The tactic works as Bebo, with a swift motion of his right hand, parries away the attempt. A truly mesmerizing save. Now, it’s all on Tata, the fifth taker. Avoiding any mind games with the goalie, he backs up, takes a breath, and unleashes a thunderous shot to the left post. The keeper dives correctly but is milliseconds late. Victory! ASC New Stars are crowned the O30 National Amateur 2023 champions for a historic second time.
This trophy, a testament to the indomitable spirit of a legendary team, is their tribute to Coach Taher Khalili. The season concludes, leaving behind memories of a glorious campaign.
Line up: Goalkeeper: Emmanuel Frias, Right back: Daniel Ozuna, Center Back: Michael Robertson, Center Back: Derek Craig, Left Back: Camilo Botero, Center Midfielder: Walter Anoruo, Midfielder: Eric Robertson, Left Wing: Jovany Macias, Right Wing: Tayeb Ahmadi, Center Attacking Mid: Arturo Alvarez, Striker: Lukas Simon
Substitutes: Luis Rivas (Goalkeeper), Frederick De Santiago (Right Wing), Piotr Kozlowksi (Center Midfielder), Salvador Lopez (Right Back), Ryan Morris (Right/Left Wing), Gifford Okatah-Boi (Left Wing), Maxwell Akuamoah Boateng (Striker), Carl Forsten (Left Back).
