Al-Caliph edge out Validus 1-0. It was a narrow win but doesnt reflect the true nature of the game where we had countless chances only to be daunted by some brave defending and bad luck.
Everyone played exceedingly well and I would like to mention those that caught my eye.
Zif put in a steady performance. Have to carry on improving positioning when defending. Mahdi did well too although have to restraint on giving free kicks. Bob and Z once again has to perform in central of defence as our 3 main defenders were away and another covering center back is out of the tournament. Nevertheless they did their job although I could tell that Z was unhappy at having to perform in that position once again. (Happy at midfield now right? Dont want to play left back?)
Faizal failed to add to his productive tally although he worked hard as usual. Jeff was himself however I think he is out of the tournament. He failed to get his knee to work. (Im sure if I put him as striker, sure knee ok.) Omar tried out for the team. I agree with captain's assessment that he is hardworking. He had provided adequate cover as DM. He is an all rounder and I have to constantly restrained him pushing forward so as to provide stability in midfield. The men response to him has been magnificent.
This was evident as Shy had raised his game 2 notches. Shy was elated to have played alongside him as it freed him to improve on his performance. He took the opportunity to better his performance. I hope that it is not one off and he continues to improve. Very rusty though. No more penalties taking especially early in the game.
Zam was hardworking on the day. He had a number of chances but was thwarted by some brave defending. He managed to break the duck for us finally. One of our better players on the day. Played on without much fuss and dedicated to the team's cause.
Tyrus was fantastic on the day. He was aware of his team mates positioning and wasnt afraid to meet the ball - something he had talked to me about. That alone won us a number of possessions.
Malik did good when he came on and wasnt overawed by the rough tackling although he has to practise apologising to opponent when a free kick is given against him. Faizal was vocal in supporting him. Kudos.
Team Performance
Malik and ZIf must cut out looking down. Look up. Thanks to Jeff to point it out to the players.
It was hard fought against a valiant team. We have to make our chances count. We are getting closer. I am glad that we are taking shots at goal. Now have to put them in.
There were a few excellent moves. Easy on the eyes. Work as a team and we be less tired and more productive.
We won a number of headers. I cant recall a game where we headed the ball more than this game. Nearly everyone used their head. Mark contrast to our first few games in the league.
Individual defending is getting better. Just remember my pointers and you will do ok.
Next we have to improve on trapping the ball better and set it on course for our next move forward.
We will keep progressing. Lets fight to the very end. Finally, I agree with Zif that the game was a feel good game. Lets get more feel good games.
MOM
Omar, Shy, Tyrus and Zam had votes for MOM. By majority, Shy has won the MOM for the game. Congrats! You know what to do.