X-S FC 2-1 SHAMROCK (FRIENDLY GAME OF THE YEAR)

It was a much needed morale-boosting victory for X-S after two previously close-fought league encounters ended in defeat. The fear of getting thrashed escalated even before the game commenced and it reached its zenith when the team conceded yet another scrambled goal. Ali was back to his rampaging best as he supplied two assists amidst countless mazy runs. Derek flew all the way from the land of the smiles to showcase a breathtaking display of fine Sawadeekap football.

First goal came after the team went a man down due to an injury sustained by Yasin. The game was suddenly brought to life as everyone seemed to kick into 2nd gear yet playing at his recreational best and rarely pressurized by whatever the outcome. A typical Ali slalom sliced the midfield as he attempted to switch play to the left. The ball took a fortunate touch off Hafiz's torso, immediately finding himself with plenty of space and time to coolly slot home the equaliser. A sublime second followed after some neat interchange of passes between Shaun and Ali culminating in Shaun striking a sweet right foot volley into the top left hand corner of the goalpost.

There was still time for near misses from both sides as the game drew to a nervy ending. Overall, a mighty fine performance all round which served as timely preparation for the upcoming league games. ... and a reminder that substitutions might not be necessary afterall.