X-S 2 - 0 HD Fusion @ Mayflower Sec
For the second game running, X-S broke the deadlock with a fluke goal, this time converted by Thaqif Osteros. His low shot went through the keeper's legs ala Massimo Taibi and Nuri burst out laughing loudest from the bench. His demands for first team football still falling on deaf ears though, for now.
A match full of incidents made the occasion more exciting than it should actually be... and by the time Mat Nur doubled the Happy Harpies' lead with a brilliant solo effort, the players were all too tired to celebrate or moan. One red card awarded to each team, a referee who is an enigma much like Carmen San Diego and arrival of 2 cars filled with 5 Dear Mr. Policemen marked a day to remember for fans and players alike.
Yet again, the formation debate rages on as the players prefer their comfortable and conventional 4-4-2 but Yarsene Wenger wants to play visionary with his dynamic 3-2-3-2. So far, the results are proving to be in favor with the new shape but evidently, honey badgers don't give a fuck. (To the manager's dismay.)
Club spokesperson Jose Booninho said, "Yarsene must be pleased to see the dressing room full again as players he had fallen out with in the past have returned to take part in the matches."
What is clear now is that, X-S FC may be here to stay after all...
Monday, March 05, 2012
X-S FC 2 -1 HAWKS
X-S claimed an impressive win against favourites HAWKS with a stellar performance. The field was literally littered with stars in their own right, from the defence to the attack. Wei Liang in goal made countless saves and hardly put a foot wrong. He was named MOTM by the field warden, the highest honour in Social Football in Singapore on matchdays. Naqib and Ernest marshalled defence, flanked by Yong Liang who shut out their dangerous number 8 for the full 90mins and Jin, an attacking wingback who enjoys taking on players. Thaqif and Izz took to the wings as Shaun and Boon anchored midfield.
Yazid opened the scoring in the first minute with some wonderful hard pressing straight from kickoff. As HAWKS passed it back to their goalkeeper, Yazid closed him down and the clearance smacked his stomach before bouncing in. Unconvential goal, because scoring with your feet is too mainstream. Our hero then turned clutching his stomach in pain as he returned to the centre circle.
The game continued in this end-to-end fashion but HAWKS slowly grew in confidence as the X-S midfield started to tire out and all the attacking chances X-S had were spurned. A delightful lob by HAWKS' chief playmaker over the X-S defence then allowed their striker to sidefoot home just before half-time. All square at half time.
The second half saw Mat Nur come in to strengthen midfield as X-S reshuffled from 4-4-2 to 4-5-1 to increase the numbers in the middle of the park. Shah came in at right back and Nuri played at right midfield.
The game continued the same way it ended, with HAWKS on the front foot despite their Indian chief (playmaker) going home at half time. Thaqif then decided to punch his weight in midfield to stop their number 21 and he replaced Shaun. That was when the tide changed and Mat Nur started dictating play with Thaqif to tie up the loose ends. The breakthrough came with a delightful exchange of passes between Hafiz, Mat Nur and Nuri. Mat Nur lofted a first time lob over the static HAWKS defenders and Hafiz raced through before slotting home easily. Indeed, that man is scoring goals by the trolley loads like an aunty shopping for groceries with $300 worth of NTUC vouchers.
It is important to note that Jusdriano had made his return to the pitch with great success in the second half, linking up with Hafiz and taking on defenders the only way he knows how; strength and close control. Hafiz even had time to do a Messi as he outrun and outmuscled his way down the left flank before cutting in and being fouled. Of course had he taken a tumble and not shot, it could've been a penalty. An example of this blossoming partnership was when Jus raced to the byeline and pulled the ball back only for Hafiz to smack it against the upright. Could've been the final nail in the coffin.
With many players losing their legs, Yasin finally came in to last the final 10mins (according to the ref, but it felt like 100mins). He got himself a kick in the shin for all his troubles. After much time-wasting tactics by Izz, Mat Nur and Yasin, the final whistle came and blew us off our feet into sweet surrender. Except we lost one matchball. Le Sigh.
X-S claimed an impressive win against favourites HAWKS with a stellar performance. The field was literally littered with stars in their own right, from the defence to the attack. Wei Liang in goal made countless saves and hardly put a foot wrong. He was named MOTM by the field warden, the highest honour in Social Football in Singapore on matchdays. Naqib and Ernest marshalled defence, flanked by Yong Liang who shut out their dangerous number 8 for the full 90mins and Jin, an attacking wingback who enjoys taking on players. Thaqif and Izz took to the wings as Shaun and Boon anchored midfield.
Yazid opened the scoring in the first minute with some wonderful hard pressing straight from kickoff. As HAWKS passed it back to their goalkeeper, Yazid closed him down and the clearance smacked his stomach before bouncing in. Unconvential goal, because scoring with your feet is too mainstream. Our hero then turned clutching his stomach in pain as he returned to the centre circle.
The game continued in this end-to-end fashion but HAWKS slowly grew in confidence as the X-S midfield started to tire out and all the attacking chances X-S had were spurned. A delightful lob by HAWKS' chief playmaker over the X-S defence then allowed their striker to sidefoot home just before half-time. All square at half time.
The second half saw Mat Nur come in to strengthen midfield as X-S reshuffled from 4-4-2 to 4-5-1 to increase the numbers in the middle of the park. Shah came in at right back and Nuri played at right midfield.
The game continued the same way it ended, with HAWKS on the front foot despite their Indian chief (playmaker) going home at half time. Thaqif then decided to punch his weight in midfield to stop their number 21 and he replaced Shaun. That was when the tide changed and Mat Nur started dictating play with Thaqif to tie up the loose ends. The breakthrough came with a delightful exchange of passes between Hafiz, Mat Nur and Nuri. Mat Nur lofted a first time lob over the static HAWKS defenders and Hafiz raced through before slotting home easily. Indeed, that man is scoring goals by the trolley loads like an aunty shopping for groceries with $300 worth of NTUC vouchers.
It is important to note that Jusdriano had made his return to the pitch with great success in the second half, linking up with Hafiz and taking on defenders the only way he knows how; strength and close control. Hafiz even had time to do a Messi as he outrun and outmuscled his way down the left flank before cutting in and being fouled. Of course had he taken a tumble and not shot, it could've been a penalty. An example of this blossoming partnership was when Jus raced to the byeline and pulled the ball back only for Hafiz to smack it against the upright. Could've been the final nail in the coffin.
With many players losing their legs, Yasin finally came in to last the final 10mins (according to the ref, but it felt like 100mins). He got himself a kick in the shin for all his troubles. After much time-wasting tactics by Izz, Mat Nur and Yasin, the final whistle came and blew us off our feet into sweet surrender. Except we lost one matchball. Le Sigh.
Monday, February 13, 2012
X-S FC 0 - 1 Vanguard
An unfortunate game for X-S FC as they lost their last GAFL Challenge Cup group stage match against Vanguard. X-S had a good control of proceedings from the get go, coming close on a few occassions as they restricted the opponents to long balls only. 0-0 at half-time and the huge turnout meant that changes had to be made to ensure playing time for all.
The second half started with differently as X-S switched from 4-5-1 to 4-4-2. Vanguard started to launch attacks on a more consistent basis as X-S struggled to get out of their own half. This problem was compounded as our two centre backs failed to adequately handle the opposition striker who came on at half-time and he rifled in a shot from close range after riding two challenges from the X-S defence.
This sparked a change in tactics and substitutions were made as X-S needed to take the initiative. The biggest flashpoint soon came about as Mat Nur hooked a shot at goal after the keeper had spilled a cross. The player on the line subsequently stretched out his right hand and clawed the ball away. X-S were up in arms and screaming at the referee who claimed to not have seen the incident. Chewy was the only one left playing football on the pitch as everyone else was in disbelief. An off-the-ball scuffle also resulted in yellow cards for both players involved.
The game ended as X-S piled on the pressure but nothing materialised. Thoroughly unfortunate, but this is football and luck simply wasn't on their side.
Nevertheless, a very even game as both sides seemed equal to each other. The unfortunate series of events meant that X-S had nothing to show for their efforts that Sunday morning.
Heads up lads. A fantastic performance and nothing to be ashamed of. We can be proud of how we played and conducted ourselves in the aftermath of the incident. Also big thank yous to those who came to support, even without getting any gametime. Promise that chances will come soon as this coming weekend, X-S face Meirda at Canberra.
An unfortunate game for X-S FC as they lost their last GAFL Challenge Cup group stage match against Vanguard. X-S had a good control of proceedings from the get go, coming close on a few occassions as they restricted the opponents to long balls only. 0-0 at half-time and the huge turnout meant that changes had to be made to ensure playing time for all.
The second half started with differently as X-S switched from 4-5-1 to 4-4-2. Vanguard started to launch attacks on a more consistent basis as X-S struggled to get out of their own half. This problem was compounded as our two centre backs failed to adequately handle the opposition striker who came on at half-time and he rifled in a shot from close range after riding two challenges from the X-S defence.
This sparked a change in tactics and substitutions were made as X-S needed to take the initiative. The biggest flashpoint soon came about as Mat Nur hooked a shot at goal after the keeper had spilled a cross. The player on the line subsequently stretched out his right hand and clawed the ball away. X-S were up in arms and screaming at the referee who claimed to not have seen the incident. Chewy was the only one left playing football on the pitch as everyone else was in disbelief. An off-the-ball scuffle also resulted in yellow cards for both players involved.
The game ended as X-S piled on the pressure but nothing materialised. Thoroughly unfortunate, but this is football and luck simply wasn't on their side.
Nevertheless, a very even game as both sides seemed equal to each other. The unfortunate series of events meant that X-S had nothing to show for their efforts that Sunday morning.
Heads up lads. A fantastic performance and nothing to be ashamed of. We can be proud of how we played and conducted ourselves in the aftermath of the incident. Also big thank yous to those who came to support, even without getting any gametime. Promise that chances will come soon as this coming weekend, X-S face Meirda at Canberra.
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
X-S FC 2 - 0 HD FUSION
X-S returned to full strength and showed what they were capable of as they rolled back the years to keep a clean sheet and score 2 goals against formidable opponents. Everyone played to the best of their ability and hardly put a foot wrong throughout the game.
Wei Jia even had time to pass towards his own goal and then make a sliding goal-line clearance just because he can. That was Hyder's only real test in the game, otherwise he was busy keeping his sheet clean. Ernest, Ipen and Yong Liang formed an unsurmountable triumvirate as they repelled attack after attack.
In midfield, Shaun and Taka provided cover and pressed the opponents hard to win back possession. They were succeeded by Daniel, Boon and Pai in the second half who worked to the same effect, with Pai adding flair and Boon adding silk to Dan's grit.
Solidity meant a clean sheet but goals win you games. Chief architect of the day was Fabreyas, playing in a roaming attacking midfield role trying to thread through balls and spread play. He also did what he loved best, running at the defence from time to time. He was ably supported on the flanks by Izz and WeiJia who ran the channels and provided options and created chances.
Hafiz and Yazid kept their defence occupied upfront; darting through the lines and holding up play well. First goal came from Hafiz's pass to Fabreyas, who held up the ball looking for options. Hafiz had made an immediate run from deep after the pass and was untracked. Seeing this, Fab dissected the backline with a perfectly weighted pass that left Hafiz with only the keeper to beat, and he buried his shot gleefully.
X-S kept possession and continued mounting attack after attack. A succession of corners ensued from the relentless pressure and Fabreyas' dipping centre was very well-met by the head of Hafiz who was unmarked. It looped into the far corner and X-S celebrated.
Second half continued very much in the same vein, except that HD Fusion pressed harder in search of a goal to bring them back into the game. X-S kept in tight at the back despite making numerous changes to the team and bringing in some new and some very old faces in midfield and attack. Nuri returned from his ACL injury and was looking to do a Henry at Arsenal, but it was not to be. Boon also returned from a long absence as Ali showed his continual improvement. Able to keep possession well and press opponents better than before, he can play an important role in the team if he keeps it up.
Next weekend will see a revitalised X-S face Vanguard. They will require a win to see them to the next round of the GAFL Challenge Cup. Allez Honey Badgers!
X-S returned to full strength and showed what they were capable of as they rolled back the years to keep a clean sheet and score 2 goals against formidable opponents. Everyone played to the best of their ability and hardly put a foot wrong throughout the game.
Wei Jia even had time to pass towards his own goal and then make a sliding goal-line clearance just because he can. That was Hyder's only real test in the game, otherwise he was busy keeping his sheet clean. Ernest, Ipen and Yong Liang formed an unsurmountable triumvirate as they repelled attack after attack.
In midfield, Shaun and Taka provided cover and pressed the opponents hard to win back possession. They were succeeded by Daniel, Boon and Pai in the second half who worked to the same effect, with Pai adding flair and Boon adding silk to Dan's grit.
Solidity meant a clean sheet but goals win you games. Chief architect of the day was Fabreyas, playing in a roaming attacking midfield role trying to thread through balls and spread play. He also did what he loved best, running at the defence from time to time. He was ably supported on the flanks by Izz and WeiJia who ran the channels and provided options and created chances.
Hafiz and Yazid kept their defence occupied upfront; darting through the lines and holding up play well. First goal came from Hafiz's pass to Fabreyas, who held up the ball looking for options. Hafiz had made an immediate run from deep after the pass and was untracked. Seeing this, Fab dissected the backline with a perfectly weighted pass that left Hafiz with only the keeper to beat, and he buried his shot gleefully.
X-S kept possession and continued mounting attack after attack. A succession of corners ensued from the relentless pressure and Fabreyas' dipping centre was very well-met by the head of Hafiz who was unmarked. It looped into the far corner and X-S celebrated.
Second half continued very much in the same vein, except that HD Fusion pressed harder in search of a goal to bring them back into the game. X-S kept in tight at the back despite making numerous changes to the team and bringing in some new and some very old faces in midfield and attack. Nuri returned from his ACL injury and was looking to do a Henry at Arsenal, but it was not to be. Boon also returned from a long absence as Ali showed his continual improvement. Able to keep possession well and press opponents better than before, he can play an important role in the team if he keeps it up.
Next weekend will see a revitalised X-S face Vanguard. They will require a win to see them to the next round of the GAFL Challenge Cup. Allez Honey Badgers!
Sunday, April 03, 2011
X-S 5-2 Astala Vista
Excerpts from the post-match interview:
"Jufri has 8 goals in 3 games for X-S FC, with 2 hat-tricks. And he has mentioned that his boots were very hot after being subbed off just now. Hotshot? Why not."
"Hafiz and Yasin are back among the goals again as they join Juf on the goalscoring charts today."
"The defence are complaining that at this rate, they will never be on the MOTM list. Keep trying, I say."
"Yong Liang was flying all over the pitch today and stood tall in defence with his no-nonsense approach." [Sorry I can't help it Yong :) ]
"Derek brought his swashbuckling wingback play from Thailand and managed to make Chewy misplace a pass cos he was just too fast."
Excerpts from the post-match interview:
"Jufri has 8 goals in 3 games for X-S FC, with 2 hat-tricks. And he has mentioned that his boots were very hot after being subbed off just now. Hotshot? Why not."
"Hafiz and Yasin are back among the goals again as they join Juf on the goalscoring charts today."
"The defence are complaining that at this rate, they will never be on the MOTM list. Keep trying, I say."
"Yong Liang was flying all over the pitch today and stood tall in defence with his no-nonsense approach." [Sorry I can't help it Yong :) ]
"Derek brought his swashbuckling wingback play from Thailand and managed to make Chewy misplace a pass cos he was just too fast."
Sunday, March 27, 2011
X-S FC 2 -2 Force Majuere
It was a beautiful Sunday morning
and the X-S boys came out to play.
The grass was green & Sun was burning
and it stayed throughout the day.
We defended well, our line was deep
Our leftback's name is Jasdeep.
He wore new boots that were White & Red
and for breakfast he ate Bonjour bread.
We conceded first to the boys in blue
and I can't remember how it went through.
But slippery singh has a knack for something
and his brilliant pass led to Hilmi scoring.
The second half began on level terms
but the opponents led through a sublime volley.
It felt terrible, like playing soccer in berms,
Our heads went down like we were licking a lolly.
Still, we kept pushing and we kept our shape
with Daniel playing like Scott Parker.
Farrell Tan was like Superman without a cape
But we all know he's still a f*cker.
Chewy and Hilmi kept attacking the wings
But what came next was stuff that made Kings.
The Captain lined up a harmless corner
And he scored from that, giving everyone a boner.
So it ended 2 all at the end of the day
Despite X-S having some players away.
We should all be proud and keep this up
Who knows maybe we'll end up with a cup.
It was a beautiful Sunday morning
and the X-S boys came out to play.
The grass was green & Sun was burning
and it stayed throughout the day.
We defended well, our line was deep
Our leftback's name is Jasdeep.
He wore new boots that were White & Red
and for breakfast he ate Bonjour bread.
We conceded first to the boys in blue
and I can't remember how it went through.
But slippery singh has a knack for something
and his brilliant pass led to Hilmi scoring.
The second half began on level terms
but the opponents led through a sublime volley.
It felt terrible, like playing soccer in berms,
Our heads went down like we were licking a lolly.
Still, we kept pushing and we kept our shape
with Daniel playing like Scott Parker.
Farrell Tan was like Superman without a cape
But we all know he's still a f*cker.
Chewy and Hilmi kept attacking the wings
But what came next was stuff that made Kings.
The Captain lined up a harmless corner
And he scored from that, giving everyone a boner.
So it ended 2 all at the end of the day
Despite X-S having some players away.
We should all be proud and keep this up
Who knows maybe we'll end up with a cup.
Monday, February 14, 2011
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.
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.
Monday, January 10, 2011
For those who still visit this blog still, this is gonna be a treat.
Yes, we lost. But if you ask me, I think it was a performance that we can be proud of. The opponents had some luck, so did we, but they were lucky first so it changes things a little. In the last two games, we were stringing passes together in midfield to attack, and it is something i have NEVER seen before from the back. Signs that we are finally playing football. I see our fullbacks getting forward and being more constructive with their passes, midfielders are passing to each other properly, instead of everyone just trying to hit the long magical killer pass forward like how we have always played. And this, my friends, is how football should be played. We are still not incisive enough in terms of the final pass, but learning to build-up is always a good start.
Over the years, I have observed that we always play well against good teams. And it's not just random casual observations, but when you're right at the back of the team, you can really see the drive and hunger of the players in front. When we play against good teams, we close them down fast and hard, in twos and threes, the challenges we put in are stronger and it really shows in the desire to win the ball. But whenever we play teams like astala vista, meirda, dunman, we just slack off. If we can have the right mentality, to go into every game thinking like we're playing reunite or elite, we can definitely brush idiots like astala vista off.
It's a MENTAL thing. It's like everyone one of us has this button inside that needs to be pushed, and we can play at a higher level after that.
Sunday, January 02, 2011
X-S records an emphatic 3-0 victory to open their account this season with captain Fabreyas providing the first 2 goals for Adam and Eng. Ipin sealed the win with a peach of a shot from the left. Eng returns with an imperious performance alongside partner-in-crime Farrell. Ipin staking a very good claim to a first team spot with his showing.
Manager Yarsene Wenger's decision to play tricky wingers Adam and Ernest might turn out to be a master plan, as X-S can now roam the wings.
Despite Wee Meng repeatedly insisting on passing the ball to the opponents, we cleared our lines with aplomb. Young goalkeeper Ariff passed the test with flying colours.
There was still time for the returning RonAlidinho to volley over TWICE in front of goal when Thaqif's long throws wrecked havoc in the opponents penalty area.
Note:
Let's have some common sense and fairplay guys. When we win, we want to win with pride and dignity. Not with the opponents hating our guts. Keep this is mind, it may cost us at the end of the season with all these stupid yellows as there will be point deductions.
Manager Yarsene Wenger's decision to play tricky wingers Adam and Ernest might turn out to be a master plan, as X-S can now roam the wings.
Despite Wee Meng repeatedly insisting on passing the ball to the opponents, we cleared our lines with aplomb. Young goalkeeper Ariff passed the test with flying colours.
There was still time for the returning RonAlidinho to volley over TWICE in front of goal when Thaqif's long throws wrecked havoc in the opponents penalty area.
Note:
Let's have some common sense and fairplay guys. When we win, we want to win with pride and dignity. Not with the opponents hating our guts. Keep this is mind, it may cost us at the end of the season with all these stupid yellows as there will be point deductions.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Hey guys, its been awhile. Thought I'd take some time off my busy schedule tonight to prep ourselves for season 2. As usual, I don't know how many can commit and how many cannot. Doesn't matter, its usual. What we need though, is some pride.
We were never a bad team. So why are we playing like one sometimes? God knows. I wonder what happened to the X-S of the first half of the season. It seems as though we've lost it.
Of course, that's not true. We're still a great team. We can match FMFC on their home turf, though we lost 2-1. We can trash Re-Unite. We can take a 3-0 lead within minutes against that team in green at Simpang Bedok. But then we we can also lose to Dunman All-Stars.
We need a boost. And to be honest, noone can push the team except ourselves. If you can will yourself to perform better and concentrate and improve with every minute you play football, we will be back stronger than ever. If we continue being complacent and just hit and hope, not listening to each others' opinions and continue making the same mistakes we've been doing, we'll never get out of this rut. And I speak for everyone.
I've been in charge of this team for as long as I can remember. It's been draining at times, heart-wrenching at times, extremely hilarious at times and fun all the time. Every season I start with new hope, new resolve and more expectations. Next season is no different. It's the first time in our history that we're staying on in the same league under the same organisers.
For now, we have about 2 weeks of rest from football. I hope the void fuels a hunger to succeed in you guys.
Here's a player-by-player analysis I've always wanted to do:
WL: You've been a great servant to the club. An ever-present. Through all these years you've improved much, but you dare not improve more. I think you can practice on your goalkicks. It would be a great asset to the team to have; accurate long-range missiles to chase. Secondly, confidence on the ball. There may be situations whereby you need to be able to play the ball at your feet. Before/after every game, just practice these 2 things. Grab someone to partner you and just go at it.
Boon: Aggression. I want to see more drive and fierceness from you. In fact, every player on the pitch. Its great that you're heading more, you've put most of your injuries behind. Still haven't lost that ability to make a telling pass. Secondly, have more confidence to shoot. You have a great shot, very straight n direct (I rmbr from street soccer). But we hardly ever see it on the pitch. So these 2 things for you to work on.
YL: Composure and judgement. You're almost complete. Can head, can use both feet. Its all good. But you need more composure. You need to practice your first touch so that you can make time and space for yourself on the ball. As a left back, you would normally have time and space but you seem to panic sometimes. Judgement-wise, sometimes you try to rush the play unnecessarily. I like your drive and hunger, but you'll have to talk more to your team-mates to adjust your style accordingly.
Dan and Shaun: As central players, you guys need a lighter first touch that can set yourself up immediately for a pass. You're both great ball-winners, undoubtedly. But there is also that chance of losing it with a poor first touch. Secondly, if we're in possession, you need to be more dynamic. Move into space immediately after your pass. 80% of the time, the opponent will stay and you'll have more time on the ball to plot your next move.
Wee Meng: Positioning and consistency. Counter speedy wingers by pushing them to where you want them to go. If you've got cover in the middle, usher them inwards. You don't always have to tackle them. And more consistency, you can play out of your skin sometimes!
Okay I'm tired already, but this applies to everyone including myself. We do make mistakes at times. What's important is we learn from them. The players above, don't feel victimised or singled-out. I have your names up there because I know you guys can play much better, and I need you guys to believe it too. There are others of course, I could go on all-day. But I need to eat dinner now. HAHA.
Keep the faith boys. See you soon.
P.S. Help me keep the blog alive leh!
We were never a bad team. So why are we playing like one sometimes? God knows. I wonder what happened to the X-S of the first half of the season. It seems as though we've lost it.
Of course, that's not true. We're still a great team. We can match FMFC on their home turf, though we lost 2-1. We can trash Re-Unite. We can take a 3-0 lead within minutes against that team in green at Simpang Bedok. But then we we can also lose to Dunman All-Stars.
We need a boost. And to be honest, noone can push the team except ourselves. If you can will yourself to perform better and concentrate and improve with every minute you play football, we will be back stronger than ever. If we continue being complacent and just hit and hope, not listening to each others' opinions and continue making the same mistakes we've been doing, we'll never get out of this rut. And I speak for everyone.
I've been in charge of this team for as long as I can remember. It's been draining at times, heart-wrenching at times, extremely hilarious at times and fun all the time. Every season I start with new hope, new resolve and more expectations. Next season is no different. It's the first time in our history that we're staying on in the same league under the same organisers.
For now, we have about 2 weeks of rest from football. I hope the void fuels a hunger to succeed in you guys.
Here's a player-by-player analysis I've always wanted to do:
WL: You've been a great servant to the club. An ever-present. Through all these years you've improved much, but you dare not improve more. I think you can practice on your goalkicks. It would be a great asset to the team to have; accurate long-range missiles to chase. Secondly, confidence on the ball. There may be situations whereby you need to be able to play the ball at your feet. Before/after every game, just practice these 2 things. Grab someone to partner you and just go at it.
Boon: Aggression. I want to see more drive and fierceness from you. In fact, every player on the pitch. Its great that you're heading more, you've put most of your injuries behind. Still haven't lost that ability to make a telling pass. Secondly, have more confidence to shoot. You have a great shot, very straight n direct (I rmbr from street soccer). But we hardly ever see it on the pitch. So these 2 things for you to work on.
YL: Composure and judgement. You're almost complete. Can head, can use both feet. Its all good. But you need more composure. You need to practice your first touch so that you can make time and space for yourself on the ball. As a left back, you would normally have time and space but you seem to panic sometimes. Judgement-wise, sometimes you try to rush the play unnecessarily. I like your drive and hunger, but you'll have to talk more to your team-mates to adjust your style accordingly.
Dan and Shaun: As central players, you guys need a lighter first touch that can set yourself up immediately for a pass. You're both great ball-winners, undoubtedly. But there is also that chance of losing it with a poor first touch. Secondly, if we're in possession, you need to be more dynamic. Move into space immediately after your pass. 80% of the time, the opponent will stay and you'll have more time on the ball to plot your next move.
Wee Meng: Positioning and consistency. Counter speedy wingers by pushing them to where you want them to go. If you've got cover in the middle, usher them inwards. You don't always have to tackle them. And more consistency, you can play out of your skin sometimes!
Okay I'm tired already, but this applies to everyone including myself. We do make mistakes at times. What's important is we learn from them. The players above, don't feel victimised or singled-out. I have your names up there because I know you guys can play much better, and I need you guys to believe it too. There are others of course, I could go on all-day. But I need to eat dinner now. HAHA.
Keep the faith boys. See you soon.
P.S. Help me keep the blog alive leh!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Unfortunately, our match was cancelled this Sunday. Unfortunate cos Nizar didn't get a chance to show his new red predators. Unfortunate cos its Meirda (AGAIN!). And unfortunate cos this would be a good prep for next week is Kampong Boyz.
Fortunately, we played a game on Friday. Fortunate cos Yasin gets to rest instead of playing a third match in 3 days amidst his busy project schedule.
Wee Meng was a revelation. Especially in the second half, the team returned to pitch galvanised and played the way a team on fire was playing.
Derek impressed having not touched a soccer ball (i presume) for many weeks, but I'm sure he's been busy touching other balls as usual. Although we may have lost, we played a team that has been training on a regular basis. A year ago, we played against Temasek Hall and we fought in what was a very good contest. This time round, we missed an aerial presence in defence.
(TBC)
Fortunately, we played a game on Friday. Fortunate cos Yasin gets to rest instead of playing a third match in 3 days amidst his busy project schedule.
Friday's Match Review: X-S v KE7
Wee Meng was a revelation. Especially in the second half, the team returned to pitch galvanised and played the way a team on fire was playing.
Derek impressed having not touched a soccer ball (i presume) for many weeks, but I'm sure he's been busy touching other balls as usual. Although we may have lost, we played a team that has been training on a regular basis. A year ago, we played against Temasek Hall and we fought in what was a very good contest. This time round, we missed an aerial presence in defence.
(TBC)
Monday, October 25, 2010
X-S FC Burnt Out?
X-S FC slumped to another disappointing defeat as their strikers continue misfiring and their defence keep leaking goals. From an unassailable lead and goal difference, they now have to win all their remaining matches with huge scorelines to win the league. What has gone wrong? Is it the loss of smiley Ronalidinho? The absence of Brazilian-waxed rightback Derek MyCorn? Or injury to British-Indian Bakar-Nuri LaSagna?
Stay tuned to find out @ YourMotherDownstairs TV.
X-S FC slumped to another disappointing defeat as their strikers continue misfiring and their defence keep leaking goals. From an unassailable lead and goal difference, they now have to win all their remaining matches with huge scorelines to win the league. What has gone wrong? Is it the loss of smiley Ronalidinho? The absence of Brazilian-waxed rightback Derek MyCorn? Or injury to British-Indian Bakar-Nuri LaSagna?
Stay tuned to find out @ YourMotherDownstairs TV.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Monday, October 04, 2010
Saturday, October 02, 2010
Sorry guys the previous post was really uncalled for. It's a bloody violation of man's rights.
Thereafter, we have managed to secure the services of Larissa Riquelme (remember her?) for a delicious photo shoot in remembrance of our (3-4weeks?) position at the the top of the table, and a further motivation to push on in our matches to come! Let the real men enjoy!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Monday, September 20, 2010
X-S FC vs Meirda
9am, 26 September 2010, Sunday
Sembawang Sec
Wear Yellow, Opponents in Black
Ali, this would be a good time to bring the Da Silva twins.
Time to up the game!
After the last friendly, I think some of you need a good kick up the bummy. Never waver in your self-belief, but also don't think too highly of yourself. A bad performance is a bad performance, never look for excuses.
We must play to our potential, and I know I train 3 times a week (not anymore since I'm not selected for next week's tournament boohoo) but I also know its not impossible for you guys to be able to play. Farrell, Daniel and Shaun don't train 3 times a week. How come they can control a ball?
All I'm saying is I want all of you to want to improve and try. You can see from our second-half performance that there was a marked improvement. Don't dilly-dally on the ball.
tbc.
9am, 26 September 2010, Sunday
Sembawang Sec
Wear Yellow, Opponents in Black
Ali, this would be a good time to bring the Da Silva twins.
Time to up the game!
After the last friendly, I think some of you need a good kick up the bummy. Never waver in your self-belief, but also don't think too highly of yourself. A bad performance is a bad performance, never look for excuses.
We must play to our potential, and I know I train 3 times a week (not anymore since I'm not selected for next week's tournament boohoo) but I also know its not impossible for you guys to be able to play. Farrell, Daniel and Shaun don't train 3 times a week. How come they can control a ball?
All I'm saying is I want all of you to want to improve and try. You can see from our second-half performance that there was a marked improvement. Don't dilly-dally on the ball.
tbc.
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