Al-Caliph FC made a great start to the tournament by beating Amigos 2-1. The game saw our team having total control. However, some poor passing in the final third and poor finishing cause us much anxiety thoughout. And as if the Gods were teaching us a lesson, if we do not take our opportunity, or work as a team, in one swoop the opponent can break through and scored which was what happened exactly.
However, it was gratifying to see that the team soldiered on to find that elusive goal to level the game. The moment came when in the 32nd minute, Karthi connected cleanly off Zj. With 8 minutes left, the team were pumped to find the second to seal the win. Through Zj's quick thinking, we found that second on the 38th minute. Genius. Zj has been with us for a season and I am absolutely certain that he has a good footballing brain. He has the drive and urgency.
Game Analysis Our passing was good. We were asking for the ball and moving it around. We were making spaces and off the ball running was good.
However, we have to cut out on the extravagant passing. Decision making has to better and control of the passing has to be improved a lot more. And we need to be more lethal in front of goal.
Team Analysis In the final analysis, it was the perfect game for us to settle into tournament proper. Some have yet to get into their stride. There was some nervousness in their play, something I had expected. Remember, this is the tournament itself, not friendly. Therefore, we have to move fast and get into gear. For the others, it was an opportunity for me to see what you can provide to the team. Shahril for example, for he had believed - profusely, that he is unable to perform in central midfield. He proved himself wrong because in all honesty, he performed up to mark when called upon. A definite conversion in progress.
I was glad that we had 18 players. For the first time, I had plenty of options on the bench if things do not go right during the game. That should get everyone on their toes. Some did not have a proper game when called upon. The onus is on you when you have the opportunity to play. As I reiterate over and over again, all I need from you is to perform your darndest for at least 15 minutes. If you are tired, tell me, and I will have you replace - if situation permits. Contrary to norm, I will be very happy with your performance for that 15 minutes rather than a passenger for the whole 40. You want to play longer, build your stamina and technical skills. Be more confident and you will do ok.
Being the first couple of games, I will let the team get together and understand one another as we have plenty of new players and more to come in. Currently, I am in favour of the team building and forging a relationship during the game. If we can achieve this, then everyone will be happy to play for AND with one another. When that happens, our game will flow.
There are kinks that need to iron out which I will do as the tournament goes by. If things do not go the way it should be, I will be more aggressive in my remarks and choices. I will only allow a team performance. The burden is much higher this season with a sponsor on our back. There is so much more that I have to manage now and balance the team. This is a result oriented game but I will be more than happy with a whole hearted TEAM performance. In the game, its 80 minutes and I have only ONE chance to make it right. I WILL take that chance.
Sponsor I visited the sponsor, Mr Dino, on the same noon and informed him that we had won our first game of the tournament. And every game after that, that was all he needed to know. His desire is that the money he spent is spent on the team improving itself. This will require a collective effort and I believe we can. Mr Dino has a lot more in his mind for the team but for now, lets take it one step at a time.
Man of The Match I forgot to ask everyone's consensus but come to think of it, a lot of players did very well in the game. To mention a few; Zj, Cina minus the penalty, Omar, Zamri, Bob and to some extent Karthi. Hence, it was a good overall team performance and there was no single outstanding player. Therefore, there is no MOM for this game.