As Germany beat Sweden for the Women’s World Cup title this Columbus Day weekend, the next generation of aspiring champions took a break from Downtown Soccer League play for a round of practice at the Battery Park City fields. Although no games were scheduled, the fields were available for open practice for all teams.
Lyon coach John Chow said he and co-coaches Luke Lois and Donald Smith have, like many teams, been working on improving the players’ skills in certain areas, such as corner kicks, direct kicks, goalie skills, throw-ins and passing. Coaches, parents and in some cases referees have all contributed to running practice sessions and giving players advice.
“I have seen a tremendous improvement by all teams in passing, covering of zones and teamwork compared with their younger years,” Chow said of the major 11 league.
Regular play will resume this week, with an evening Metrostars match at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday night.
