Al-Caliph made amends to the recent draw with BL9110 with a 2-0 win over Stripes as they begin the second leg of the tournament.
It was a hot sticky day. The grass was trimmed although field was bumpy. These made the ball bounce hard and move very fast. It was a struggle early on to control and move the ball efficiently. Coupled with the hot weather, it was taking its toll on the players. Soon opponent was substituting players. I must say that we were coping with the weather very well. We just had to control our passing much better.
Chances were few and we finally manage to break the duck off a Bob's corner and headed in by Shy. We pounded on but the second goal was not forthcoming. In the second half, changes were made as we pushed on. In a sweeping move, and a classic example of what I WANT AND EXPECT, Aliff got to the end of Dinesh's pass. EXCELLENT!
We pressed on thenafter but the third goal was elusive. Game ended at 2-0.
Few Observations
Players came early To my surprise, the players came very early and were ready even before I came. That tells me that the team were eager to get on. Everyone was united for the team's cause and there was responsibility and ownership. The numbers were small however it says a lot about the characters of those who came. And for the first time this season, I didnt have to yell "WARM UP WARM UP".
Faizal's Dash To Di(ne)sh It was heartening to see Faizal dashing the 100m sprint across the field to Dinesh to hug and congratulate him for his pass that led to Aliff's goal. Such gesture would only motivate and encourage him more. There is still a lot that Dinesh has to improve. The table speaks for itself.
It was good that the team acknowledge and outstanding member in the game. Dinesh was mentioned a few times although Doc had a flag bearer as well. Although, it was a team effort and there was none really outstanding, for the voices of the people, I have been encouraged to award the Man of the Match to Dinesh.
Z Z made a hash of an opportunity when he decided to pass to Aizad. I don't recall having that in our manual. Maybe he wrote his own manual. The very least, this is a lesson learnt. I hope that everyone NOW SPIRITUALLY UNDERSTANDS why I gave specific instruction for such instances. Chances may be few and far between. We may never know when the next chance may come. That is why every opportunity counts. Minimise weakness, maximise strength.
Doc Doc, or affectionately called Kaduuk by Z, was reprimanded for what he did to Zif. I think it was uncalled for and I didnt let up the criticism all the way home even to sarbat. He gave me his reason, which I agree. I will take it up with Zif the next time. But I told him it was what he did before that that led to Zif getting a yellow card.
That was a blemish in an otherwise cordial team game. This game was meant to bring the team back together after the dismal showing previously. It has come to my attention that Doc had smsed a long and passionate apology to Zif who accepted it and also said that it was his mistake. Good spirit.
Whatever, it is, someone has to pay the $5 fine so it is a split among the two and maybe Shy who made the pass that was short. You guys sort it out.
I must reiterate that Doc has changed a lot since he first came into the team. From the brashed and fouled mood to a low key and at times caught motivating other players especially the younger ones. He needs some love. And thanks to Rauf for showing some to him.
Fitness I tried to call Zif and Shy the other day. When I got through, I discovered that both were jogging to shape up. Kudos! You guys are taking it by the scruff of the neck and pushing forward.
Yesterday, while going to the game, Doc also mentioned that he had been jogging, although for a day. Of course, as always, he had to complain that the route was too long and he had cramps. In the end, the jog became a walk. Still, I was VERY impressed that he did it as he did it without any company but just his walkman. That alone require IMMENSE self-motivation.
I am sure there are others who are like them. Malik I know plays soccer or jog because his mom says that he plays a lot. According to the mother, Malik had said, "Have to train, the team very good!". Keep it up people!
Bob Bob made the second goal when he made the quick pass forward. However, in the second instance, he delayed the pass when he had 4 upfront. We lost the ball. That was another lesson learnt. Another manual he authored himself.
Otherwise, he had another excellent game. He had to do a lot and doesnt complain. He just gets on with it even if it means running the length of the field and back. He knows his duty. Maybe one day, he will get the MOM. Then he can write the report.