Carman Valley Leader- September 8, 2003- Kickers still in playoff race

 By Gene Still 
— The Carman Kickers’ hopes for a post season berth in the Manitoba Major Soccer League’s Fourth Division remained on life support despite a loss last Thursday. Rangers 2 Kickers 1Carman dropped a close 2-1 decision to their hosts the Grant Mill Rangers. Full details were unavailable as of press time, but the disappointing loss meant that the Kickers needed to win their last game and hope that Ragnarok and East Side lose their remaining games. Despite having a lineup that was bolstered by the return of leading scorer Lyle Vanveen, Carman was unsuccessful in its bid to register a much needed victory. Red Dogs 0 Kickers 0Carman was forced to settle for a 0-0 draw against the Red Dogs that at the time, still kept their playoff hopes alive. The tie came despite the fact the Kickers dominated most of their match against the visitors from Winnipeg on August 28. Kickers’ coach William Hoogerdijk said it was just a case of his club not being able to finish on offense. “We outchanced them 20-6,” Hoogerdijk said. “But it was just that we didn’t convert.” He spoke with a couple of his key players before the contest, which had serious playoff implications, about the need for strong performances. At the time, Carman was in 10th place, two points out of the eighth and final playoff spot. “Before the game with the Red Dogs, I went up to a few guys and really challenged them and they responded,” Hoogerdijk said. “Some teams collapse under pressure like that, but the guys played very well. “Overall, I’m very happy with the way we played.” The club was also without the services of Kendall Ferris who also plays for another soccer team and was unable to attend the match with the Red Dogs. Despite not having one of their top players, the other members of the team seemed to rally around each other and it showed on the field. “We played marvelously without him,” Hoogerdijk said. “Kendall’s an important member of our team, but the guys really did well. “I thought we deserved to win.” The Kickers remaining regular season contest was on the road in Winnipeg. Their season finale was set for Sept. 6 against St. James U2.