“There are 11 players in a football team. One individual don’t make the team.”
Nice weather, good pitch and strong squad on Saturday. It was versus CJC OLD BOYS. Played them a few times over the years with the results quite balanced between us. Referee turned up late, giving us a chance to play “monkey”. It was meant to be a way for us to practice our control and passing which is supposed to help us in a game.
We started slowly as it was a big pitch and it has been a while since we played on big pitches. Passes were not crisp enough and we couldn’t retain possession although we held our shape well. Not much chances were created by us. A break through the middle by Harold resulted in a shot wide. Poh attempted to lift the ball over their keeper went over the bar. Colin had a chance but shot wide. On the other hand, the opponents broke through and when squared through to an open player in front of goal, he ballooned it over the ball when it seemed easier to score. Half-time 0-0.
Half time talk were about being more fluid in our movement and passing. Working harder to press the opponents. But the initiative went to the opponents. Another break down the left wing caused problems, and a cross to the middle resulted in a shot that hit the post. We were still struggling to create chances but I felt that this is because of our rotation policy that didn’t give our players much time to settle down and gel. CJC then scored after a poor clearance from SK left their striker one on one with Sherman, who finished well. We tried very hard to push for the equalizer and got a few corners but didn’t make the most of it. Frustrations boiled over when Harold was clobbered from behind and a small scuffle ensued. But nothing much to make of it. We poured more and more people forward but couldn’t break down a resolute defence. Final score 0-1.
A defeat that was tough to swallow as most of us will agree that we were the better team. Notable efforts from a few individuals. Nick chased after a lost cause, kept it in and then swung in a good cross that many thought he couldn’t make it. Patrick ran his lungs out. Effort from Bee was outstanding when he chased after everything including his son. Henry did well when called upon and he tried when he bamboozled his way past a few opponents but also himself. Tough to make a call for MOM after this disappointing defeat but good efforts all around. I had to choose. This is my choice because he played his heart out, threw himself into tackles, made crucial interceptions, encouraged the team and was there when needed. Clarence is MOM this week. More of the same please.
Talented individuals, we have. Team work, we are working on it. Let’s keep on trying.
