Aces in the Pack

Al-Caliph further stamped their authority in the league with a thumping 3-1 defeat of big rivals Aces Utd. Playing at Woodlands Ring Secondary School for the first time, the team required some adjustment after playing in much smaller fields in the past games. Our passes were not meeting their target and chances were not taken. Some players were having difficulty adjusting so much so that options were limited. At times we were too close to one another. The scorching weather didnt help.

I must say however, that the team adapted very well. The fact that we had ample support from the bench to carry the fight to the opponent helped the team a lot. The goal conceded was from a lapsed in concentration. It was a glitch. The team lifted itself up to push on. Soon, we found our footing and we were peppering attack after attack.

There were incidents or rather, behaviours I saw in the game which reminded me of the times when we first started. Im proud to say that we have changed a lot.

Tactics The team adhered to our tactics diligently. It is important that everyone know the way we were set up on the field so that everyone knew their role and responsibility. We had to make use of whatever opportunity that come our way within 80 minutes.

Im also proud to say that the team adjusted well tactically on the field. We are becoming more intelligent as a unit. Not there yet, but getting there, We were spreading the opponent thin, bringing other players into play, making use of the field to our advantage. We need to be sharper in our decision and selection of passes; control our passes; and set our sights on goal when the opportunity strikes. We are working as a team, but I know there's more room to improve. Only then we can be effective. Effective. Not elegant Syah.

In the last 20 minutes, both Bul and Khai showed that they can play together. Ive decided to give it a go again and they showed that it is possible if they want to. I will say it now that otherwise, one will have to sit out while the other plays. I have no qualms. First leg is coming to an end and I would need to settle any issues and iron out the rough edges. I would like to have a settled team come second leg. Experimentation will be to a minimal - when enforced - and I would have a clear idea who plays where best. We need to have an optimal squad playing each time I send out a team.

Defence The defence yet again put up a good performance. The stability at the back is down to minimal changes over the past seasons. The same players have been playing that position and with one another. This has resulted in a better understanding. The stand-ins, Zhaf and Bob, did very well. We are fortunate to have 3 utility players - no matter how short they are.

Substitution Echoing our respected opponent comments, we have enough reserves to make another eleven players. This is something that we have been blessed this year and I hope that we carry this through to the second leg.

Here, I would like to point out a couple of things. I have been patient with the recent delays during substitutions; searching for jersey, tying of boot laces, putting in the shin pads, combing of the hair etc... No more. If I request a sub, the sub has to be next to me within 3 seconds. Everyone will count the seconds. Every second late is a dollar fine. You have to be ready at the moment's notice. Else I will call the next player.

Those that are on the field and request for substitution, you will have to give me 30 secs at least to process. I need to know who to send out and importantly if theres an adjustment to be made. Then it will take another second or two for the sub to be ready. So signal to me, and carry on playing for a while till the opportunity allows me to make the change. DO NOT COME OVER TO ME! DO NOT ABANDON POST! I will know who I wouldnt go to war with.

Worthy of Mention Jeff had 50 minutes playing time, with a swollen toe. He provided some deft touches that could have resulted in goals had we taken them. He has to keep on working on his fitness. If that happens, we would have a whole new player in our stable.

Sponsor Mr Dino and son had front seat tickets. Well armed with a comfortable director's chair, Mr Dino were treated to a good fightback and excellent team spirit. It was definitely worth his expensive "match ticket". Maybe next time, there be pina colada under big umbrella. The team made his time spent worthwhile. I hope, it doesnt excite him too much with his current heart condition.

As he had honestly admitted, he really did not expect much from the game. So he was delighted with the way the team played and winning the game. All the excitement got to him, so much so that he has upped the ante. There is so much at stake now, and all I can say is that it is an opportunity not to be missed.

Just to tingle you guys, there are a few things that is happening behind the scene. When everything is in place, everyone will know. All I can say is that this squad is very very lucky. For now, lets get through this league.

Oh yes, Mr Dino has made training jerseys for the team. It is a mixture of medium and large sizes. As we are too busy to train, we will use the training tees during our warm-up. This will create uniformity in the team.

MOM The team as a whole did well. Unlike the previous game, it was difficult to pick an outstanding player. However, Zj had the edge with his confident performance. He took charge of almost all situation and ran himself to the ground. He has been a constant performer and this MOM award is deserving.

Support Echoing our esteem opponents once again, I am proud that we have supporters for the event. We had one of our biggest crowd in the game. Lets get more down. WAGs also can. Contrary to other managers believes, it will work well for the team when your opposite number comes, for us at least. See how tip top Zamri and Zhaf was. Nadeem played until sprained ankle...looking for some loooovvvveeeee.....

Thanks to all who came down.

Photos I think we should take photos of each game. Just a few to capture the game, the bench and supporters. A good season should be captured.

Fine I have waived the yellow card fines as it was given by the referee under duress from the opponent.

Doc is fined $20 for not doing the report for the previous game. Will award the $20 to the person who can do it. Has to be exciting and not brief of the brief.