Grinding Result

It was a grinding result. There was little flair and not much creativity. Our play was checkered at times. Whether its the weather or wrong sunday morning. Maybe it was a few makeshift or rotation of positions given our lack of numbers. Whatever it was, we were rough on the edges and there was no fluidity in our movement.

However, the team worked hard to get to the ball against a much skilful opponent and managed to squeeze in the goals. I am happy that the team is able to find other able scorers when Khai was having an off day. Maybe its because of the lady behind the video that spurred the team. Whatever the motivation, with our team, the goals can come from anywhere.

We have to minimise long balls and play short passes and to feet. It worked in the last game. Decision making has backtracked slightly. We need to improve on this.

Even when we are leading, lets pursue for more. Keep the adrenalin pumping. Make it fun-ner. HOWEVER, everyone has to work at it or else defence will suffer as mentioned by Kennerd. If I do see its not happening, then I will have to change things making it a bore.

Cina's expression "main monyet" is ungentlemanly. "Passing" will be a better word. Respect the opponent. Last thing we need is for it to fall flat on our face. When the opponent got the ball, they were taunting back. In the last game, Shy had exclaimed a phrase. The opponent managed to do otherwise and we had to hear them exclaimed it instead. So far these exclamations has done nothing to deflate the opponent. Instead it spurs them on. So make it simple and not jinx it the very least.

Worthy of Mention We had the lowest attendance with 15 players. However, the team worked hard to endure the scorching heat and worked together to get the result. That is the most outstanding characteristic of the team. Kudos to all.

The defence put up another good showing. Kennerd, Zj, Cina, Doc and Deva are becoming the foundation for which the team launch forward. Shy put up another scintillating display. MELEKAT DOK! (IT STICKS BRADER!) Very confident and it rubs off the players. Have I told you guys he is my cousin?

I was delighted with the two substitutes, omar and bul. They made an impact and contributed a goal. Omar was the live wire in that half - must be because he had enough sleep. Bul had difficulty getting into the game. The ball was not getting to him as we were mostly at the flanks. However, he persevered and does not trudge along head bowed. His persistence paid off when he scored the first goal out of nothing. His second goal was like an inspired substitution - ahem. Kudos to him and omar.

Leonard broke his duck after a disappointing miss last week. We need to get more goals from the left. Leonard has assimilated himself with the team quickly. When he gets his chance, he grabs it. He may make mistakes but he learns quickly. Im glad that he and Tyrus do not feel out of place in the team. In fact they contribute a fair share into the team. I like their attitude.

I have communicated to the organiser that last 2 referees deserve praise for their handling of the games. I have also requested that he sent my best wishes to the opponents for their professionalism even in severe adversity.

Man of the Match There was not much to choose between Deva and Cina for the MOM. However, Cina constant flapping at easy balls cost him the MOM. It was a mere a ball or two. That was how close the award was.

It was pleasing to note that team mates acknowledge contribution of their mates, especially Deva who quietly goes about his business. No fuss. I can tell you plainly that he is one of the players who will have difficulty in getting MOM because he has already set a standard. To get the MOM he has to surpass this standard that he has set. And I think he has gallantly done that. Mind you he has to leave newly wedded wife at home even after working OT everyday, yet be the first one to arrive at my doorstep, man utd didnt win the title… He deserved it.

Sponsor We were once again surprised by Mr Dino with his generosity. It was only Thursday last week that I tried to stop him from providing the tracksuits. Apparently, it was to no avail. “What to do, you guys make me excited!”.

However, I have, for the final time, wrote to him to request that he refrain from giving us the tracksuit this season. I was not forthcoming in my reason previously but I have now.

The reason is that the season is coming to an end. By now we have seen there is a filter of players. The core players is what we have been seeing week in and week out. Every season we will see players come and go. The attrition rate is about 30%. That is why every season we have to make new jerseys. Therefore, I had suggested that we keep the tracksuit production for next season or next tournament.

Having the tracksuits done next season will be more meaningful as then there be a full set of players. There will be uniformity if we do decide for the team to wear them every weekend. If not some new players may not have them and it wouldnt be financially prudent for Mr Dino. We should endeavour to stretch his dollar to last at least a season.

Further having it done next season or tournament, it will be an added incentive for most to stay. The team will have grown with one another and there be better understanding on the field.

Im waiting for his decision.

UPDATE : Tracksuit push to next season.

Administrative Issues I have edited last post to include Cina’s name in maintaining efficiency - in soccer terms.

I am still waiting for news on this weekend game. I have informed the organiser that we have to play for the next two weekends. In June, we are expected to rest and let the other games catch up. (isnt it always the case) Therefore, do remind me about this next weekend. Those going on holidays, study, marriage, honeymoon, elope let your captain know your intended dates. Shy please consolidate so that we can inform organiser when we are unavailable. Please be responsible. I do not want to once again write about Last Samurai.

Mr Dino informed me…no, he INSTRUCTED me, that those who do not write the report, they have to refund the $100. Deva quickly got his house in order although he works overtime everyday.

“Hi Abg Ali,

Sorry for the late report. I working OT to finish up so that everyone can read. Please help me vett thru and correct me if i am wrong. Been years since my last report.

Thanks.“

I think he wrote an excellent report.

You have everything to gain when you write the report. It may help you some day - work report, project report, school report, teachers report, police report…

Another report, against Sunday FC is not done yet. $20 is still up for grabs.

Tyrus fine $5.