Al Caliph took on Validus at Damai Secondary 25th August 2010. It was nice to see everyone on time and enthusiastic before the game despite the fact that we had to wait for a good 20 mins before we could enter the school. The spirit of the team was really high. Going into the game, we knew that we had to win it to bring us closer to the title.
We had a good start to the game. Our passing and movement were more cohesive and direct and we began to get our game underway straight from the kick-off. For most part of the first half, the Validus defence was under siege by our attack. It was route one football, but it was very effective. We had couple of chances but we were just unlucky to hit the target. Despite this, we never gave up as a team and we kept the pressure high up in the opponents' half. There were some scary moments that could have led to a goal. Apart from these few instances, the defenders,time and time again this season showed impeccable form and were not troubled throughout the rest of the game.
After failing to hit the target on many occasions, coach brought on Shahril in place of Karthi. This tactical switch paid dividends with just barely 10 minutes into his arrival, Shahril provided a pass that was met by Khai who controlled the ball astutely and drew first blood for Al Caliph. A well taken goal that took his tally to 22 goals this season.
The second half started the way we did in the first but we lacked the cutting edge in going forward. despite this, we maintained most of the possesion and could have a couple more goals that we did not convert. The margin could have been greater but a win is a win considering the circumstances. Omar and Zamri had an excellent game. They controlled the tempo of the game and are indispensable to the team. This game was an example of winning games with exceptional defending and taking our chances when it mattered. Good defences always win games and it was important that we kept a clean sheet.
After the final whistle, we knew that we were almost there. A deserved 1-0 victory. The scoreline could have been better but at the this point in the season, winning is all that matters. Well done guys. Lets carry this momentum forward into our next game and win the title that we so richly deserve.