Thanks for taking your time to check the stats.
I agree with your comments:
1. Wando's backline could not prevent Mann's front line from producing many high quality chances so SOG initially reported did not seem accurate.
2. Refs: The incorrect offside call that took away a Mann goal and came on a very late flag after the play. The PK was a harsh call but I'm OK with that one on the if you see it you call it basis but the offside miss makes it stand out.
3. Two great programs. This year Mann was the better team but Wando's returning yet again to state championship game was impressive.
After watching the game in person and on video, I agree with these comments. It was a soft foul, but it was a foul. It was unfortunate the refs called both the foul and the offside, which made the game appear closer than it actually was.
The offside call is disappointing. It not only took away a well executed goal from Mann, but it also took away a deserved second goal and assist from the two players involved in the goal. Number 16 scored two very good goals in that game, but one was disallowed. The first was the goal with three seconds left in the half. It started with a perfect pass through three defenders and ended with a goal that showed a whole lot of composure as the seconds ticked down. That goal probably changed the game.
The goal which was called offside, wasn't offside. Again, there was a excellent pass followed by a well placed shot into the corner of the goal. Fortunately, that call didn't affect the results of the game. The score is in the record books, and, despite the call, the best team that night did end up winning. These are two very good soccer programs. It was a fun game to watch, and I wouldn't be surprised to see them meet up again either in next year's Viking Cup or in the State Championship.
