Friendly matches for the month of January 2008

Allow me to wish all ARFC warriors and their loved ones a Happy and Prosperous 2008 ahead.....

To usher in the new year, I have lined up a series of friendly matches in January 2008 as follows:

06 Jan @ 1700 hrs - Siglap Sec Sch;
13 Jan @ 1700 hrs - First Toa Payoh Sec Sch (artificial pitch) - we played there before
20 Jan @ 1500 hrs - Bendemeer Sec Sch (school besides St Wilfrid's pitch);
27 Jan @ 1500 hrs - Xin Min Sec Sch at Hougang Ave 8 (we played there before);

As usual, I will send SMS to you all to confirm your attendance....

Thanks and cheers...

Clarification on The New Paper's publication....

Dear ARFC warriors:

For the uninitiated, my best-ever Liverpool XI was featured in The New Paper dated 28 Dec 2007. But no, I did not get ANYTHING AT ALL from The New Paper......

My best-ever Liverpool XI + 7 subs

Dear ARFC warriors:

These are my choices:

GK - Bruce Grobblearr: Eccentric but excellent keeper. Who can forget his "wobbly-legs" saves in 1984?

Right-back - Rob Jones: Would be an established English international back then if not for his frequent injuries whenever called up by England.

Sweeper - Alan Hansen: Elegant and stylish defender who made defending look so easy and simple.

Stopper - Sami Hyypia: So valuable both when defending and attacking. Came up with a few goals as well over the years. Only slightly edged out Jamie Carragher and Mark Lawrenson in my team.

Left-back - Alan Kennedy: the 70s/early 80s version of Roberto Carlos. Who can forget his winning wonder in 1981 against Real Madrid that netted Liverpool the European Cup?

Right-mid - Steve McManamam: Trickery and mazy dribbling skills with so many assists. Liverpool was weakened when he left for Real Madrid.

Centre-mid - Steven Gerrard: Need I say more about this fantastic footballer?

Centre-mid - Graeme Souness: If only his managerial skills are so good as his footballing skills. A perfect foil for Stevie.

Left-mid - John Barnes: Though always looked slightly over-weight, his left-wing play was probably matched only by Ryan Giggs.

Striker - Ian Rush: Anyone who left this legendary striker out of any best-ever Liverpool XI team must be out of his/her mind.

Striker - Kenny Dalglish: How else do you think he earned his tag "King Kenny"?

7 subs (1 GK, 2 DF, 2 MF and 2 Strikers):

GK - Ray Clemence
DF - Jamie Carragher (for his versatility and uncompromised/dogged defending)
DF - John Arne Riise (Power-packed shots. Only weakness is his slower pace)
MF - Jamie Redknapp (Like Rob Jones, career blighted by injuries especially when called up by England. So stylish and wide range of passing)
MF - Javier Mascherano (A faster version of Souness)
Striker - Michael Owen (Obvious choice)
Striker - Peter Beardsley (A perfect replacement for King Kenny)


Feel free to post yours for your favourite team, but the subs must be 1 GK, 2 DF, 2 MF and 2 strikers.....

Cheers....

Match on 13 Jan 2008

Dear ARFC warriors:

I have lined up a friendly match on 13 Jan 2008 at 1700 hrs at the brand-new artificial pitch at First Toa Payoh Secondary School.

As usual, I will send out SMS to you all nearer the date.

Thanks.

Top 10 ARFC goal scorers

After last sunday's defeat of The Hiding Place, these are the top 10 ARFC goal-scorers:


ARFC Scoring Legend Haron - 114 goals
Deadly Robin - 69 goals
Unpredictable Blackburn - 63 goals
Influential Sebastiano - 50 goals
Speedy Hee - 49 goals
WO Neo - 48 goals
Powerful Alvin - 34 goals
Hard-man Tjioe - 32 goals
Sublime Khim - 28 goals
Kiat Gulam - 25 goals

In addition, Haron's goal last sunday was ARFC's 750th goal in its proud history and more ominously, it happened on his birthday (09 Dec) !!!

On behalf of ARFC, a happy belated birthday to him!!!!

ARFC victorious in hard-fought match

In a match attended by a sparsely-crowd of just 77 due to the continous downpour, ARFC brushed aside the challenge of Hiding Place at its homeground with a score of 3-1.

Prior to the match, ARFC received a huge blow when hard-running Guoxiong had to pull out as he was involved in a $77 million business discussion with Starhub. However, ARFC scoring legend Haron and talisman Derrick made surprise last-min appearances.

ARFC initially had just 11 warriors and of course all 11 made the starting line-up as follows:

Dependable Jinzhong as GK, astute-reading sweeper Elvis and Towering Toh at the heart of defence with unpredictable Blackburn and left-foot wizard Bernard flanking them. Sublime Khim annd Speedy Hee were the flankers with hard-working Tong and influential Sebastiano manning the middle of the park. ARFC scoring legend Haron and Powerful Alvin led the attack. Luckily, when the match was just 7 minutes old, Kiat Gulam and talisman Derrick turned up.

Supported by Haron's pregnant-yet-still-gorgeous wife Su, Kiat Gulam's attracetive wife, Joesphine and cutesy daughter Teajanz and influential Sebastiano's babelicious wife Caren, ARFC immediately went on the offensive and threatened with several chances. The opponent, however, held firm with some desperate defending.

Their defence was finally breached in the 7th min. Unpredictable Blackburn's Pathmanathan-like long-throw down the right flank found Haron breaking free. Displaying Peter Beardsley-like footwork and speed, Haron beat their 2 defenders, went to the bye-line and squared to the waiting powerful Alvin. Without breaking his stride, powerful Alvin gleefully side-footed the ball home. 1-0!!

Thereafter, ARFC continued its onslaught but did not ,manage to increase its lead. There were also some worrying moments when opponents newly scored, but ARFC's impressive defence held out well.

In the 27th min, ARFC finally increased its lead. Off Powerful Avin's well-floated corner, Towering Toh and Haron fairly challenged their keeper which resulted in the ball breaking loose in the 6-yard box. Speedy Hee, leaving up to his nick-name yet again, reacted fastest to poke the ball home. 2-0!!

Their intelligent striker however, pulled a goal back just before the half-time break with a cheeky lob over Jinzhong. That said, the fault was really down to influential Sebastiano who clumsily lost possession in the middle, and not due to ARFC's impressive defence. 1-2!!

The opponents' goal seemed to galvanise his team which came out all firing in the second half. ARFC also momentarily lost its rhythm and gave away possession too easily. Luckily, ARFC was not punished.

ARFC also nearly scored on a few occasions. In the 67th min, who else but Haron to settle ARFC's nerves. Sublime Khim started the move with McManamam-like dribble and footwork that left several defenders in their wake and had to foul him just outside the box. Up stepped Haron to curl the ball a-la-Matt LeTissier over the wall. The ball was so precise that their keeper simply stayed rooted to the spot. 3-1!!!

When the referee blew the final whistle, the 77 fans rushed onto the pitch and hugged every warriors as they acknowledged that ARFC had put in tremendous efforts for the win.

Comments on each ARFC warrior:

Dependable Jinzhong - Was faultless throughout and rescued ARFC on at least 2 occasions with superb saves. Man-of-the-Match;

Astute-reading sweeper Elvis - Once again led the defence well and broguht the ball out of danger situation on several occasions;

Towering Toh - Uncompromising but seemed to drop a bit in his usual-high standard. Hit the bar with a header and also nearly scored on another occasion;

Left-foot wizard Bernard - Was lost in the first-half but recovered to his usual display in the second-half. Nearly scored with an outrageous cross from the left-flank in the 2nd half;

Unpredictable Blackburn - Did well both in defence and attack later.

Sublime Khim - Opponents simply had no answer to his footwork and skills. Created 3rd goal.

Speedy Hee - Lost possession too easily in the first half but redeemed himself with a goal. Was very hard-working in the 2nd half and tracked back to help out defence many times in the 2nd half;

Hard-working Tong - Was his usual industrious self and covered almost every blade of the grass. Superb!!

Powerful Alvin - Powerful runs at defence, scored and created 2nd goal. But must learn to also defend from the front to ease pressure for the midfielders;

ARFC scoring legend Haron - I'm running out of superlatives already!!!!! Fantastic footballer!!!

Kiat Gulam - Was shaky in the 1st half but quickly went back to his assured display with many vital interceptions. We are slowly seeing the Kiat Gulam of old!!

Talisman Derrick - Most disappointing display I have ever seen from him since I know him way back in 1995.

Myself?? I lost possession so clumsily which led to their goal. Touches and passes were also not up to the mark. Lousy display which I was totally unhappy with myself. Maybe affected by Liverpool's kelong loss to Reading.

When opponent scored the opening goal...

Haron112goal

Haron70goal

ARFC in unlucky 4-4 draw

In an exciting match played on 17 Nov 07 (Sat) @ 9 pm at Tampines SAFRA, ARFC was held to an unlucky 4-4 draw by "Yellow Submarine" in front of the record attendance of 177,777 fans. Two main reasons contributed to the record attendance - (i) Towering Toh is making his come-back after his "fatherhood" hiatus; (ii) 'Spice Girls' is rumoured to be making their come-back by staging an appearance at half-time.

ARFC was also boosted by the presence of Caren, Jazlyn, Su (and baby Haron), Dora and Marco Mak, Brenda and Dylan Tan, Josephine and Teajanz Thng.

ARFC started the match with the regulars (minus determined Huiming) - Dependable Jinzhong in goal, astute-reading sweeper Elvis, Towering Toh, left-foot wizard Bernard and hard-running Guoxiong in defence; hard-working Tong, influential Sebastiano, talisman Derrick and sublime Khim in midfield; ARFC scoring legend Haron and powerful Alvin as strikers. The talent-studded subs were Kiat Gulam, Reliable David, unpredictable Blackburn, Speedy Hee and hard-man Tjioe.

ARFc immediately put the opponents under pressure with great movements, passing and off-the-ball running. However, once again, our forwards spurned the good chances created with poor control of the ball.

The opponents then punished ARFC with their first meaningful attack when their striker won the ball ahead of our keeper and put their team 1-0 up.

Despite one-goal down, ARFc continued its relentless pressure and was finally rewarded with an equaliser. ARFC scoring legend Haron won the ball ahead of their keeper near the 6-yard box and was upended by the latter, thereby giving the referee no option but to point to the spot. Upstep Haron to thump the ball home. 1-1 now.

Haron then had a chance to double his tally from sublime Khim's square cross but his goal was correctly ruled off-side. Unlucky!!

ARFC then took the lead when the ball was pumped high into the central area of the field. Hearing sublime Khim's shout, influential Sebastiano side-lobbed the ball for him to run through and slotted the ball past their keeper. 2-1!!

ARFC's defence then conceded a goal when unpredictable Blackburn, who had replaced astute-reading sweeper Elvis as the latter was heated up with the referee who was having a poor game, was late in closing down their ang-moh striker who shot home from close-range. 2-2.

ARFC the re-took the lead just 77 seconds before half-time when Towering Toh thumped a clearance deep into their half and powerful Alvin showed his mettle by sprinting clear and easily beat their keeper for a 3-2 half-time lead.

The fans then eagerly awaited the appearance of the 'Spice Girls'. True enough, there were 5 girls appearing but they were actually the wives/girlfriends of ARFC warriors, namely Caren, Su, Jazlyn, Brenda and Josephine!!! The fans then started booing but their boos soon turned to appreciative cheers after hearing the high performance singing and dancing standard from them. At the end of their performance on the song "Wannabe", where the fans were heard singing along "Tell me what you want, what you really really want........"the fans even presented a 77-inch tall bouquet of flowers to each of them.

When play re-start, ARFC then gifted the opponent another equaliser. Kiat Gulam, who had came in at left-back, played a straight ball to their ang-moh striker who shot home from 27 metres.

Again, ARFC threatened with so many chances that the commentators felt that a thrashing was inevitable. Hard-man Tjioe showed he is slowly regaining his touches and thunder shots with a superlative 37 metres pile-driver that was superbly saved by their keeper. The same keeper was to deny influential Sebastiano who similarly drove a 27 meters shot that looked destined for goal until the intervention of the keeper.

Not a team to be giving up, ARFC continued creating chances. In the 67th min, unpredictable Blackburn sent a diagonal ball out to the right to influential Sebastiano who won the race and laid the ball to ARFC scoring legend Haron who took a touch, looked up and curled the ball past their keeper for 4-3 lead.

The opponents then equalised for the 3rd time when their ang-moh striker outpaced our defence and shot home from an acute angle. 4-4 !!

In the post-match session, influential Sebastiano admitted that he had made a tactical blunder by taking off the super-impressive hard-working Tong who was controlling the mid-field with his tackles, closing down and hard-work. Not surprisingly, hard-working Tong won the Man-of-the-Match award and the prize of 77 condoms that come with it.

"Thank you for the prize. I will definitely make full use of the condoms by visiting St. James more often. For the rest of the ARFC warriors who might need it, please feel free to contact me....." enthused hard-working Tong.

Repentant Kiat Gulam apologises

In a packed room of reporters, a tearful Kiat Gulam apologises for his no-show on Deepavali day.

"I'm very sorry for failing to turn up due to my excessive binge the night before and me lying dead-drunk at Veerasamy Road. I realised that my irresponsbile action has caused much embarassment to ARFC, team-mates and fans. I know that you fans were disappointed at not seeing me on action. I promised not to do it again.

To show my sincerity, I would be performing 777 hours of charity work for Ren Ci Hospital to raise funds for the hospital so that the hospital can continue to give out interest-free loans to other organisations/companies............"

ARFC in thrilling 4-3 victory on Deepavali Day

In a match played on Deepavali Day, ARFC returned to its winning ways with a thrilling 4-3 victory over DARTS at ITE Balestier in front of 7,777. The low crowd was due to the Deepavali as our Hindu fans were not available. However, sublime Khim's family, Brenda and Dylan, determined Huiming's wife, YanXiu, influential Sebastiano's newly-minted wife, Caren, astute-reading sweeper Elvis' and hard-running Guoxiong's girlfriends, Anna and Tracie respectively, were present to lend their important morale and physical support to ARFC.

In fact, the festive occasion also hit ARFC as Kiat Gulam did not turn up as promised due to his heavy binge at a Serangoon Road pub with his business associates. He was later found by police lying on all fours by the Police at Veerasamy Road in the wee hours.

ARFC was further hit by the late withdrawal of hard-man Tjioe who was down with a flu. Fortunately, ARFC was able to enlist the assistance of both Kaixiang (Rendezvous FC defensive midfielder) and Edwin, a highly-rated defender/midfielder from the now-defunct Kampong Boys. Hard-running Guoxiong also forsake his $777-a-day earnings by closing his highly-successful mobile shop just to play in this match.

ARFC started with dependable Jinzhong in goal with astute-reading sweeper Elvis marshaliing the defence of determined Huiming, hard-working Tong and left-foot wizard Bernard. Hard-running Guoxiong was the right midfield and talisman Derrick started on the left, with influential Sebastiano and Kaixiang holding the central midfield. Powerful Alvin and Speedy Hee led the forward. Sublime Khim, unpredictable Blackburn and Edwin were the subs.

ARFC was determined to shrug aside their 4-1 debacle in theie previous match. Hence, when the match started, ARFC immediately gave their all and wanted to prove to the fans that last week's showing was just an "one-off". Indeed, ARFC had a couple of excellent chances but squandered off away.

Disaster struck in the 17th min. Hard-running Guoxiong lost the ball to the opponent who then broke our off-side trap to put them 1-0 up. Immediately after the goal, hard-running Guoxiong was replaced by sublime Khim and talisman Derrick switched to the right-side.

Not surprisingly, sublime Khim's entrance galvanised ARFC. Just minutes of his entrance, he delivered a Glenn-Hoddle-like through ball to talisman Derrick who then faced their keeper one-on-one. To the horror of the whole stadium, he shot meekly and weekly to their keeper.

Talisman Derrick, however, soon redeemed himself. Sublime Khim won the ball in midfield and sent in a cross to talisman Derrick who tried to flick the ball but their defender handled the ball, giving the referee no option but to point to the spot. Up-stepped powerful Alvin but his kick was saved by their keeper. Fortunately, powerul Alvin reacted the fastest and prodded the ball home for the equaliser and his 32nd ARFC goal.

Determined then saved ARFC with a world-class block on the line. Dependable Jinzhong also pulled off another great save, while our forwards continued to squander away some good chances. The first-half ended 1-1.

Edwin replaced Kaixing in the second half. 7 minutes after the re-start, influential Sebastiano sent the ball down the right flank to unpredictable Blackburn. Spotting their keeper off his line, he displayed superb technique and power by leashing the ball home from the right flank and the ball hit the net before anyone in the stadium knew what was happening. According to the subs sitting just nearby, the ball's trajectory did not move a bit even though it travelled at almost 177 km per hour. World-class and this was his 63rd ARFC goal, closing in on deadly Robin's 69 goals for the team.

However, the opponents equalised in a most comical manner. In his attempt to clear the ball, left-foot wizard Bernard inexplicably diverted the ball to their off-side striker ala Ronaldinho. Of course, the striker took up his invitation and duly tucked the ball home for their equalsier. 2-2 now.

ARFC did not give up. In the 67th min, Edwin, who was hugely impressive, won a header and the ball rolled to influential Sebastiano while sublime Khim continued his run. Influential Sebastiano took a touch and played a slide-rule pass to sublime KHim who then side-footed the ball home for his 27th ARFC goal.

The opponents equalised again through a header after some sloppy work by our left-hand side defence in the 77th min.

ARFC, however, had the final say in the match in the dying minutes. Again, sublime KHim won the ball and delivered a world-class diagonal ball to the lurking Speedy Hee on the right. Spotting their keeper off position, Speedy Hee expertly curled in the ball for the winning goal and his 48th ARFC goal, sparking 7 rounds of chants of "Hee! Hee!Hee!" from the fans.

The score-line was a fair result as ARFC was clearly the deserving winners. Though guilty of squandering many great chances, ARFC was much indebted to Dependable Jinzhong for pulling off at least 2 world-class saves to keep ARFC in the match.

Speaking to the Super Imports Night (SIN) car models after the match, Man-of-the-Match sublime Khim (not for the first time) thanked the fans for showing up on a holiday to support the team. He also thanked Brenda and Dylan for coming "Looking back, it seems that I would usually score whenever Brenda and Dylan are around."

When the SIN models tried to ask for his number to ask him out, sublime Khim politely turned them down by saying "Sorry, you girls may be sexy, but I think Brenda is way much better than all of you." Sublime Khim immediately left the interview room with Brenda and Dylan in tow, ignoring the black faces of the SIN models.

Deepavali Special

On behalf of ARFC, I would like to wish all our Hindu brothers a Happy Deepavali.

To celebrate this joyous occasion, a friendly match has been arranged on that day (08 Nov - Thursday) at 3 pm at ITE Balestier.

See you guys there....

TITS,MILK or BRA

You should know what he wants...

ARFC in sorry defeat

In a match played under 47 degrees celcius, ARFC was soundly beaten by a competent opponent 4-1.

ARFC got off to a strange start with some very uncharacteristic way-ward passings that seemed to give opponents confidence to build on their attack. However, ARFC managed to stay on its feet and the opponents could not find a way past our defence. In fact, ARFC had several chances but could not put them away.

Off a counter-attack, their quick striker exposed our slow defence to put them 1-0 up which remained the score-line at half-time. ARFC was booed off at half-time as well.

ARFC fans' incessant booing did not help the warriors at all. In fact, ARFC soon found themselves 0-3 down which prompted the fans to rain rotten-eggs, female panties with "menstrul blood", vomit, soiled toilet papers, etc onto the pitch.

In the 67th min, ARFC pulled a goal back when WO Neo heard powerful Alvin's shout and let the ball run through for the latter to thump in the ball into the bottom right-hand corner for his 31st ARFC goal.

HOwever, the opponents had the last laugh when they scored their 4th goal and thereby condemning ARFC to a rare 4-1 defeat.

Speaking after the 4-1 debacle, ARFC Captain Influential Sebastiano apologised for a poor showing by all warriors and vowed to do better in the next match.

After the match, the ARFC Board of Directors had a 77-min closed-door meeting. Emerging from the meeting with a deep frown, Kiat Gulam, one of ARFC Directors, told the gathering reporters that ARFC would refund the ticket fees to the fans for today's match.

"All tickets holders need to produce their ticket stubs at all 7-11 outlets to claim their refund. In addition, all fans would be given a free pack of 3 condoms for them to vent their "frustration" elsewhere", assured Kiat Gulam.....

Another come-from-behind victory for ARFC

In a game played under a water-logged paddy field full of mud, ARFC staged yet another come-from-behind 3-2 victory against a team of PRCs.

Prior to the match, ARFC scoring legend Haron and astute-reading sweeper Elvis had to pull out due to family commitments. As influential Sebastiano was late, ARFC had no choice but to start with only 10 warriors, namely Speedy Hee (as GK), unpredictable Blackburn as sweeper, determined Huiming as stopper, left-foot wizard Bernard as left-back and reliable David as right-back. hard-man Tjioe and hard-working Tong paired up at the middle, with Kiat Gulam and Tjioe's German colleague, a younger Berti Vogts look-alike, Hans, on the flanks. Talisman Derrick was the lone forward.

From what i heard, despite playing with just 10 men, ARFC created several openings that were all squandered by talisman Derrick. Influential Sebastiano then joined the team about 27 mins into the game but just minutes after his entry, the amateurish and anyhow-play opponents took a surprise lead off a free-kick. 0-1!!

Just 70 seconds into the 2nd half, the opponents extended their lead when they counter-attacked and scored. 0-2 now and the ARFC fans began booing the team for their lacklustre display.

Taking matters into his own hands, influential Sebastiano switched hard-man Tjioe to the left and he moved into the middle to partner hardworking Tong who was also told to cover more on the right flank as Hans was clearly tiring. The switch worked wonders and ARFC began pressing for goals.

In the 57th min, ARFC was finally rewarded for their preseverance. Left foot wizard bernard's cross was only half cleared and hard-man Tjioe took a powerful low shot but the ball was stuck in the pool of water in betweeb the penalty box and penalty spot. Up came unpredictable Blackburn who toe-pocked the ball home. 1-2.

7 minutes later, ARFC equalised. A great cross from the right by hard-working Tong (or is it unpredictable Blackburn) found left-foot wizard Bernard free at the far post. He connected with the ball powerfully but their defender used his hands to stop the ball from crossing the line. Again, Bernard was unlucky not to score from open play but at least he won a penalty which was duly converted with ease by unpredictable Blackburn. 2-2 now.

About 17 mins from the end, ARFC finally got the lead that they thoroughly and totally deserved. Reliable David and Hard-working Tong won the ball on the right and relayed the ball to unpredictable Blackburn. A series of wall passes between him and influential Sebastiano saw the latter breaking clear on the right flank. Looking up, the ball was squared to the on-rushing talisman Derrick and he won the ball ahead of their keeper and defenders, and proceeded to leash the ball home. 3-2 and the crowd went wild!!

The match, however, was ended early due to some mini scuffles. The Nigerian referee, who was later found to be a Nigerian con-man instead of a referee, contributed greatly to the frustrated play by both teams with SO MANY dubious and questionable decisions.

Speaking to reporters after the match, joint Man-of-the-Match hard-man Tjioe and unpredictable Blackburn felt that ARFC had only itself to blame for gifting the lousy opponents 2 goals and had to work hard for its victory. Nevertheless, both were glad that ARFC had once again displayed its famed spirit and team-work by working hard and get a victory.

The defence did very well for this game, as with hard-working Tong as well. However, talisman Derrick, despite scoring the winning goal, was rather wasteful in front of goal and lost possessions on many occasions. This could be attributed to the poor pitch condition. Also, if given a better pitch, the oppo0nents would surely be whalloped at least 7-0....

Half-century list

After last Saturday's late night match, influential Sebastiano has joined the elite "half-century scoring list" after scoring his 50th goal for the club. The fore-runners in the list are:

ARFC scoring legend Haron with 111 goals;
Deadly Robin with 69 goals;
Unpredictable Blackburn with 60 goals;
Influential Sebastiano with 50 goals.

Towering Toh became a father!!!!

Our Towering Toh became the proud father of his son, Gerrard Toh, on Friday....

On behalf of ARFC, congratulations to him and his wife....

FIFA's decision on WO Neo's goal

After a 7-hour deliberation, Mr Michel Platini, the Head of FIFA Disputed Goal Committee, has decided that WO Neo’s goal should be credited to him instead of an own goal. With the decision, which no appeal would be allowed, WO Neo has now scored 48 goals for ARFC.

Commenting to the decision, the “very smart football analyst” with “The Old Paper”, Mr “Tohaha Paipai” retracted his previous view and said that he totally agreed with the FIFA’s decision.

“FIFA’s decision is definitely correct. I should know. I have played football for many years.” He said. At this juncture, a fan pointed out his different view the previous night before FIFA’s decision. Looking slightly embarrassed, Mr “Tohaha Paipai” refused to answer and simply left the conference room for some nasi briyani at the Adam Road Hawker Centre.

ARFC's come-from-behind victory in its 200th match

In its latest-ever match kick-off time in its entire history, ARFC came from behind to snatch a 4-3 victory over Westminister at the all-new fantastic artificial pitch at Tampines SAFRA. As it as ARFC’s 200th match in its illustrious history, the stadium was packed to the rafters with about 100,777 fans. The wives and girlfriends of influential Sebastiano, ARFC scoring legend Haron, hard-running Guoxiong, astute-reading sweeper Elvis and talisman Derrick were also there to cheer on the warriors. The lovely son of talisman Derrick also provided much “entertainment” at the sideline.

ARFC was hit by the very last-minute withdrawal left-foot wizard Bernard due to some urgent personal commitment. Determined Huiming and Kiat Gulam were also missing. However, ARFC scoring legend Haron was able to make it after breaking fast as did deadly Robin who made a sudden appearance.

Dependable Jinzhong returned in goal with astute-reading sweeper Elvis, hardworking Tong, hard-running Guoxiong and reliable David Mak as the defenders. Sublime Khim, influential Sebastiano, hard-man Tjioe and talisman Derrick were the midfielders, with WO Neo and ARFC scoring legend Haron leading the line. For probably the first-time ever, ARFC’s 4 substitutes were all forwards, namely powerful Alvin, deadly Robin, speedy Hee and unpredictable Blackburn.

Right from the kick-off, ARFC warriors played like men on fire and bombarded the opponents’ goal. However, stiff defending by the opponents kept ARFC at bay. In the 17th min, ARFC was caught out by one if their counter-attack on the right. A misunderstanding by dependable Jinzhong and hard-running Guoxiong resulted in them snatching a surprise lead. 0-1.

Within 7 mins, however, ARFC equalised. Off an attack from our right side, WO Neo threaded the ball to sublime Khim who was breaking in from the left right up into the box. Displaying his trade-mark unselfishness, sublime Khim squared the ball across to talisman Derrick who controlled and placed the ball home for his 13th ARFC goal, thereby continuing his red-hot form. 1-1 now.

Off yet another attack from their right, the opponents regained the lead, albeit through a controversial off-side call. 1-2 now.

ARFC then made a string of substitutions. One of the subs, unpredictable Blackburn then promptly conceded an unnecessary penalty when he carelessly pushed their striker off a corner. Dependable Jinzhong, however, made amends for his earlier error by expertly saving the penalty and kept ARFC in the game.

In the 37th min, again from a dubious off-side call, the opponents increased their lead to 3-1 and ARFC looked dead and buried at half-time. The fans also jeered off the warriors for their lacklustre display.

During the half-time pep talk, all agreed that we did not play well and vowed not to let the fans down this time, especially since it was our 200th match in history.
In the 2nd half, ARFC started as what was like in the 1st half. However, some hesitant attacking and stubborn defending by opponents let ARFC down. The defining moment came in the 57th min when their tough-tackling Indian midfielder brought down talisman Derrick and thereby earning his 2nd yellow and red card. ARFC, however, sportingly allowed them to replace with another player.

17 mins later, sublime Khim won the ball on the left and laid it to the on-rushing unpredictable Blackburn who controlled the ball coolly and slotted in for his 60th ARFC goal!! However, ARFC paid a heavy price when sublime Khim had to limp off injured during the process.

In the 77th min, ARFC equalized!! WO Neo refused to give up on a seemingly lost cause on the right touch-line, won the ball and crossed it into the box. The ball appeared no danger but their keeper inexplicably spilled the ball into his own net!!! 3-3 now!!

Roared on by the fans to get a winner, ARFC responded with one in the 87th min. Influential Sebastiano played a wall-pass with unpredictable Blackburn who sent him racing clear on the right flank. Facing the keeper one-to-one, influential Sebastiano calmly placed the ball home for his 50th ARFC goal that sparked off delirium in the stands!!! His newly-minted wife, Caren, was ecstatic and nearly spoilt her newly-bought DS Lite when she threw it up into the air to celebrate.

After the match, influential Sebastiano paid credit to some midfielders like hard-working Tong, sublime Khim and speedy Hee who had to play defence due to lack of defenders. It was not easy but all 3 came through with flying colours.

Speaking on WO Neo’s goal, the “very smart football analyst” with “The Old Paper”, Mr “Tohaha Paipai”, felt that it should be credited as an own goal. “Surely it is an own goal. I should know. I have played football for many years.”

Nevertheless, the goal would be sent to the FIFA Disputed Goal Committee for a final decision.

ARFC's 200th match

For your information, this coming Saturday's match at the new artificial pitch at Tampines SAFRA would be our 200th match in our 17th-year history......

Separately, I will also be bringing my lap-top to show you what I have done for our magazine thus far. For those who have yet to give me your inputs + photographs, please do so ASAP.....

Thanks and cheers...

Friendly Match at the new artificial pitch at Tampines SAFRA

Dear ARFC warriors:

I have lined up a friendly match on 06 Oct (SAT) - yes it's a SATURDAY, at 2100 hrs - yes, it's a night game, at the all-new and fantastic artificial pitch at Tampines SAFRA.

You will surely enjoy playing as it's better than the pitch at St Wilfrid's.

I will be sending out SMS to you (as usual) soon.

Hope to have many players there...

Cheers and see you...

ARFC's 125th victory

After a 3-week hiatus, ARFC returned to its winning ways with a rather-easy 3-2 victory over Legion FC at Xin Min Secondary School.

Speedy Hee started as the keeper, with astute-reading sweeper Elvis, determined Huiming, left-foot wizard and reliable David Mak as the defenders. Sublime Khim, influential Sebastiano, hard-working Tong and Kiat Gulam were the midfielders, with unpredictable Blackburn and talisman Derrick as the forwards. Our only sub was Ryan, Kiat Gulam’s colleague and a Korean import who used to turn out for FC Seoul in his youth days. Because of his presence, several Korean babes were also present to give him physical and moral support.

Due to the 3-week break, ARFC was firing on all cylinders when the referee blew the kick-off whistle. The match was just 77 seconds when talisman Derrick broke free on the right wing and sent in a measured ball to sublime Khim just outside the penalty box. Displaying great anticipation and technique, sublime Khim met the ball first time and volleyed in the ball that somehow squirmed under the keeper’s body for a 1-0 lead and his 26th ARFC goal.

Just 7 minutes later, ARFC went 2-0 up. After a series of exchanges, hard-working Tong spotted talisman Derrick lurking on the right and sent in a beautiful ball to him. Talisman Derrick broke free, rounded the keeper and slot the ball into the empty net for his 11th ARFC goal. The Korean babes, sensing a thrashing, began chanting talisman Derrick’s name which seemed to spur him on. One Korean babe was even seen taking off her top and wave her top around.

ARFC totally dominated the match. Tragedy, however, struck in the 17th min. Speedy Hee, obviously not a keeper material, played the ball to their striker from a goal kick. The striker’s weak shot then inexplicably “sarong” Speedy Hee’s legs and pulled a goal back. The goal seemed to wake the opponents up and they began playing so much better. 1-2.

In the 27th min, their opponent equalized. Their midfielder took a long shot from 37 metres and Speedy Hee totally misjudged the flight of the ball which ended up in the net. 2-2 now.

ARFC realized that they have to lose their complacency in order to get something out of the match and began playing like they started the match. ARFC regained its lead right on the stroke of half-time. Unpredictable Blackburn, who was, well, having an unpredictable match, sent in an inch-perfect ball to talisman Derrick on the right. Bringing the ball down with a perfect touch, talisman Derrick unleashed a shot that had “goal” written all over it. True enough, the ball found the net at the bottom left-corner for his 12th ARFC goal.

In the second half, ARFC began tiring out and its cause was not helped by not having enough subs. Ryan, the Korean import, was obviously out of his depth. Nevertheless, ARFC still had a few chances but could not find the net.

In the 77th min, ARFC had to be indebted to determined Huiming who blocked a goal-bound header on the line. The opponent also had a last-min chance not taken.

The final score of 3-2 was in fact flattering to the opponent as ARFC was clearly a class above them. However, the two gifted goals to them seemed to motivate them. Furthermore, it was later realized that Ryan was in fact a basketball player from FC Seoul and not a football player!!

The defence, led by the imperious astute-reading sweeper Elvis and the doggedness of determined Huiming ala Jamie Carragher, once again stood out. Both full-backs also easily snubbed out their wingers. The midfielders also display good passing movements and unpredictable Blackburn, though guilty of losing too many balls, had several good passes and touches.

But the Man-of-the-Match clearly belonged to talisman Derrick, who obviously wanted to impress the Korean babes that he gave his all in the match. After the match, talisman Derrick was spotted exchanging numbers with Kim Hyun Hwan, the Korean babe who took off her top earlier. ………

Soccer trip+ holiday to Bali

Dear ARFC warriors:

We are planning a soocer trip + holiday to Bali this October 07.

Wives, children, girlfriends are most welcome...

Please let me know if you are interested.

Thanks..

Kiat Gulam's spectacular own goal

As described by hard-man Tjioe:

"It was a beautiful moment. He jumped in the air and caught the ball with both hands. And in one very swift and technical action, he threw the ball in his own net with his pair of lightning hands (Just like C.Ronaldo lightning feet). The opponent did not even see this. He did not think that it was a goal until the referee blew the whistle. Everybody was stunned and silent by this brilliant moment of magic."

ARFC in last-grasp 3-4 loss

In a match played under scorching sun at ITE Balestier, ARFC succumbed to a last-grasp 3-4 loss to a very experienced team made up of some ex-S-League and even an ex-M-League player.

As dependable Jinzhong was absence due to work commitment, Kiat Gulam volunteered to be the goalkeeper for the first half. His defenders were astute-reading sweeper Elvis, Towering Toh, determined Huiming and reliable David Mak. In the midfield, hard-man Tjioe, influential Sebastiano, left-foot wizard Bernard and hard-running Guoxiong were deployed. Up front, talisman Derrick was partnered by unpredictable Blackburn, leaving powerful Alvin, fearless Boon and speedy Hee as the substitutes.

Upon the start, the experienced opponents quickly seized control of proceedings with their slick passing and movement that had ARFC back-paddling. Nevertheless, ARFC still managed to create several good scoring chances, but talisman Derrick spurned 2 golden opportunities that came his way.

The opponent took the lead in a bizarre fashion after Kiat Gulam inexplicably spilled a weak shot to give them a 1-0 lead. However, the ARFC warriors told Kiat Gulam to put the set-back aside and concentrate on the match.

7 minutes later, ARFC found its equalizer. Influential Sebastiano intercepted a pass and seeing their keeper way off the line, he unleashed a high ball over their keeper, ala Xabi Alonso, from almost 47 metres out!! This was his 49th ARFC goal.

However, lightning struck twice barely minutes later. A quick counter-attack by the opponent saw their ex-M-League midfielder chipped a high ball into Kiat Gulam’s goal. The ball struck the cross-bar and somehow the rebound hit Kiat Gulam and triggled over the line. Unlucky!! However, the ever-faithful ARFC fans did not jeer Kiat Gulam but instead encouraged him to play on.

The half-time saw talisman Derrick taking over the goal from Kiat Gulam, with him pushing into the right-midfield role. Powerful Alvin also did not appear from the tunnel after feeling the ill-effects of his hand injury.

About 7 mins after the re-start, ARFC equalized yet again. Talisman Derrick’s high ball from goal resulted in Speedy Hee winning an aerial dual. He followed up on the loose ball and expertly poked the ball past their keeper. By scoring his 47th ARFC goal, Speedy Hee showed that he is back to business after missing nearly 2 months of football.

In the 57th min, ARFC took the lead for the first time in the match. Unpredictable Blackburn brilliantly picked out reliable David Mak who broke the off-side trap. Striding into opponents’ goal-mouth, he faced the keeper on a one-on-one situation. He then showed that he has not lost his Gary Lineker-like instinct by side-footing the ball home, sending the crowd into delirium. After scoring his 23rd ARFC goal, reliable David Mak dashed to the side-line where his lovely wife Dora Mak and adorable son, Marco Mak were sitting. Reliable David Mak then lifted Marco Mak up and down 7 times and also kissed his fore-head 7 times.

The goal seemed to sparked ARFC into more action. However, speedy Hee missed 2 super-golden chances to bury the opponents when he side-footed wide after being put clear.

The good times, however, did not last long. The opponents scored their equalizer after influential Sebastiano failed to close down the forward thereby allowing him to strike from just inside the penalty box. 3-3 now.

The opponents scored the winning goal with virtually, should be actually, the last kick of the match. The winning goal had the ARFC warriors and fans grasping in disbelief!!
3-4 and ARFC was indeed unlucky to lose the match.

more news on first goal-scorer in new jerseys

I have just been informed that the first-ever goal scorer for ARFC was David Mak, in a 2-3 loss in ARFC's first-ever match.

As for the first goal scorer in our second jersey (red/white broad strip), it was either Bob, Jesmond (both ex-players) or David, who each found the net in the 3-0 win on 10 Apr 1994 at Blk 367 Yishun field.

As for the first goal scorer (white and blue top), it could be Blackburn(2), Sebastian, Hee(3) or Tong, who were the scorers in a thumping 7-1 victory on 29 Oct 2001 at ITE Ag Mo Kio.

Can anyone provide further verification?

first goal in first jersey??

I have looked into our ARFC archive. The first goal-scorer in our very first jersey was either David or Robin as they were the 2 goal-scorers in our very first match which we lost 2-3. Can someone confirm the first scorer?

Unfortunately, our archive did not state when we started using our second and third jersey. Hence, we would be unable to establish the very first goal scorer.

First goal in new jerseys....

Our WO Neo scored the first goal in our latest jerseys. He has promised to treat us to drinks at St James Power Station this coming Friday..... :)

Now, I will go and look into our archive to see who are the other scorers to score first goal in our previous jerseys that we wore for the very first time...

Cheers...

Match this sunday (26 Aug) + required info for ARFC magazine

Dear ARFC warriors:

Our friendly match is on this sunday (26 Aug) at 3 pm at ITE Balestier. Pl bring along both sets of jerseys. I will send you a SMS as usual for you to confirm your attendance. Thanks a lot.

On our magazine, I will need you to provide the following details to me:

Full name (as in NRIC)
Date of birth
address
Height and weight (estimate will do)
Marital status
Current occupation
Current employer
Favourite football club(s)/nation(s)
Favourite football player(s)
Most memorable moments playing for ARFC
Any special/unique fact about yourself that we probably won't know.
Comments/opinions/views on ARFC and anything under the sun
Any other information that you want me to put in the magazine

Please JUST e-mail to me will do and not mass-email to all others.

Thanks a lot and looking forward to your information....

Cheers....

ARFC team news

Dear ARFC warriors:

Just wanna share my personal views on yesterday's match.

I was extremely pleased to see so many of the warriors' wives + children out yesterday. As you all know, we are at the age where career/family probably takes precedence over soccer these days. Hence, it was great to see our family members out to support us (the aging warriors) "struggling" on the field. I think we should try our best to involve our families more to build up our bond and possibly the future generations of ARFC warriors..... :)

If possible, after the ARFC magazine has been launched, we may look into an overseas soccer trip where we can also bring our families along. If the response to this suggestion is good, I will look further into it.

ARFC resumes its winning streak

After an almost 6 weeks’ summer break, ARFC continued where it let off with a comprehensive 5-2 victory over Chinese Swimming Club at Temasek Secondary School. As it was the first match after the summer break and also ARFC would be unveiling its new jerseys, the match was already sold-out 7 days before the match day, in a scene that reminds us of the old Malaysia Cup days when Singapore take on Selangor. Despite no more tickets, scores of fanatical fans still made their way to the match venue, causing a huge traffic jam that goes all the way to Changi Airport.

All ARFC warriors were enthusiastic about the match. Some of them even brought along their wives and children, especially sublime Khim’s wife and son who was supporting ARFC for the first time. However, the biggest applause from the fans was to semi-retired deadly Robin Giam who made his first appearance after nearly 5 years!! All in all, 19 ARFC warriors turned up, including used-to-be-speedy right-back Boon. However, he did not play due to high fever.

When the starting line-up was announced over the stadium, almost all the jaws of the fanatical fans dropped!! On the subs bench were influential Sebastiano, talisman Derrick, towering Toh, hard-running Guoxiong and unpredictable Blackburn. To top it all, sublime Khim and ARFC scoring legend Haron were also on the subs bench, nearly causing some of the fans to have heart-attack!!

Dependable Jinzhong started in goal, with astute-reading sweeper Elvis and determined Huiming at the heart of the defence. Reliable David Mak (father of Marco Mak) and Kiat Gulam guarded the flanks. In the midfield, hard-man Tjioe and hard-working Tong patrolled the centre and was supported by WO Neo and left-foot wizard Bernard. The forwards were powerful Alvin and deadly Robin.

ARFC wasted no time pressing forward to impress the fans and show that the summer break was worth the wait. Deadly Robin showed that he still has the touches and moves, and the defence, though aging, was a stumbling block. In the 17th min, ARFC took the lead. Reliable David Mak (father of Marco Mak) punted a long ball all the way to the opponents’ penalty area and their keeper spilled the ball after being challenged. The loose ball fell to WO Neo who expertly slotted the ball home to open the flood-gates. This was WO Neo’s 47th goal for ARFC. Once again, his daughter seems to be his lucky charm as whenever she is there, WO Neo would mostly always score.

ARFC increased its lead just moments later. Left-foot wizard Bernard spotted a clever run by powerful Alvin and released a superb through ball to him. Powerful Alvin’s pace and power proved too much for the defender and he side-footed home for his 30th ARFC goal. 2-0 now.

After taking a 2-0 lead, ARFC started a string of substitutions with all the subs being introduced. Complacency soon set in. In the 27th min, their right-winger broke through on our left and spotting dependable Jinzhong in a stray position, he pulled a goal back.

Disaster struck 7 mins later. The opponent took a free-kick and astute-reading sweeper Elvis pushed up his defence. However, WO Neo did not hear the shout and played their striker on-side who then headed in the equalizer. 2-2 was the score at half-time.

When play resumed, ARFC cooled down and played its usual passing game. All ARFC warriors were also fired up and determined to put on a good display.

7 mins in the half, ARFC regained its lead. Receiving the ball from talisman Derrick, ARFC scoring legend Haron displayed sweet foot-work and eluded 2 defenders. Seeing sublime Khim in a free position just outside the box, he touched a nice ball to him. Sublime Khim faked a shot, goes past the defender and fired an accurate ball into the bottom right-hand corner that gave their keeper no chance at all. This was sublime Khim’s 25th ARFC goal and he immediately ran to his lovely wife and son and kissed them.

7 mins later, ARFC furthered its lead. Off a superb corner taken by Kiat Gulam, deadly Robin headed the ball down to the path of talisman Derrick. Keeping his cool, talisman Derrick half-volleyed the ball home for his 10th ARFC goal. 4-2 now.

In the 77th min, ARFC put the result beyond doubt. Unpredictable Blackburn’s precise free-kick from the left found the head of on-rushing Kiat Gulam who nodded the ball in the corner for his 25th ARFC goal, causing his lovely daughter to jump up and down and only stopped when Kiat Gulam’s wife frantically stopped her.

When the referee, who again had a great game, blew the final whistle, the fans rushed onto the pitch to hug all the ARFC warriors who all had a great game. This was ARFC’s 124th victory. It was also rare that all 5 goals were scored by 5 different scorers.

Game this sunday + Team photo for new jersey

Dear ARFC warriors:

After a 4-week summer break, ARFC will resume its season with a friendly match this sunday at Temasek Secondary School at 3 pm. The school is located at No. 600 Upper East Coast Road. For those who drive, you may park your vehicle at Blk 155 or Blk 163 carpark and then walk across.

Please try to be there at about 2.30 pm as we will be taking a team photograph with our new jerseys.

Even if you cannot play due to injury and/or other commitments, do still try to be there. After the photo-taking, you may then leave.

Also, please bring along $47 for the jerseys payment.

Thanks a lot and see you this sunday....

ARFC Team Matters

Dear ARFC warriors:

I have just collected our new jerseys. The total cost is $2,040, inclusive of a solid pair of Umbro glovs for Jinzhong, 3 good Umbro match balls, 3 spare sets of jerseys and extra pair of socks.

After deducting our sponsor amount of $1,000, we would have to fork out $1,040. This amount would be divided by 22 players who have placed orders for the jerseys.

Once I am back from honeymoon on 10 Aug 07, I will arrange a match when we can take a new team photo. I believe Kiat Gulam will be the official photographer. Will keep you updated of the details.

On a separate note, I am planning to publish a magazine for ARFC which is in its 17th year this year. Hence, I would need some photos of you, be it personal, family (includung your children), or any other photos that you may want to inclue in the magazine. Each player would be given about 2 pages to be featured. I woul also need a short write-up of your personal particulars such as ocupation, DOB, address, etc....Will let you know the exact information required when I am back.

This magazine is also one promise which I have given to our sponsor when I was asking for the sponsorship amount. Hence, I hope to have all your co-operation which I think you all would be glad to give.

Thanks and cheers....

Jerseys

Our sponsor, Jaslin Ng, has sponsored us to the tune of $1,000. The jerseys have been sent for printing and are expected to be ready by this week.

The total cost is likely to be around $2,000. So, we would have to foot the remaining cost of $1,000, to be divided by all players unless someone wants to sponsor another $1,000.....

Cheers....

Thanks

Dear ARFC warriors:

For those who attended my wedding on 13th Jul, I wish to express my deepest appreciation to you guys.....I am especially delighted to see many "ang baos" of $77.77 which is of course my favourite number......

Thanks a lot and cheers..... :)

鬧洞房 (RA)

ROM of Sebastian + Caren - 070707

Note the extremely auspicious date.....

Note the extremely lovely couple....

Note the extremely happy-looking couple + Sebast's Grandma....

Note the extremely hunky ARFC warriors + their babelicious wives.....

Sebastian & Caren Solemnization..070707

How to board a bus .........

"Summer Break" for ARFC

In view of influential Sebastiano and Caren's wedding follow by honeymoon, ARFC will take a "summer break" till probably mid or end of Aug 2007 .

Meanwhile, see you guys on 13th July 07 (Fri) at Padang Room, Swissotel Hotel....

Cheers.....

ARFC's hard-fought 4-3 victory

In a see-saw match at ITE Balestier, the aging but experienced ARFC overcome a very youthful, speedy and hard-running team made up of mostly NS boys and ex-Prime League players 4-3 in front of the capacity crowd of 77,777.

Prior to kick-off, reliable David Mak (father of Marco Mak) announced his withdrawal due to his son Marco Mak’s high fever. Powerful Alvin also had swollen ankle like a pig’s trotter and thus could not make it. As a result, youth prodigy from Rendezvous FC, Zongzi was called up as guest player. ARFC also received a last-minute boost when used-to-be-speedy right-back Boon rushed back from a private cruise to join the team.

As dependable Jinzhong was away on work commitment, unpredictable Blackburn was in goal, with astute-reading sweeper Elvis back, Towering Toh, determined Huiming as left-back and used-to-be speedy right-back Boon at, where-else but right-back. Entrepreneur Guoxiong and hard-working Tong were at right and left mid respectively, and influential Sebastiano and hard-man Tjioe in the middle. ARFC scoring legend Haron and Speedy Hee were the forwards. Zongzi was the only sub.

The opponent impressed with their movement and passing that had ARFC back-pedalling. However, ARFC’s impressive defence held firm and kept them at bay. The opponent also committed so many dirty fouls in the opening minutes that irked the ARFC warriors. Fortunately, the referee was firm and kept the match under control with his excellent handling.

In the 17th min, ARFC won a free-kick just outside the right-hand side of their penalty box. Influential Sebastiano stepped up, looked up, saw ARFC scoring legend Haron’s signalling and delivered an exquisite ball over their keeper for ARFC scoring legend Haron to come in from blind side and thumped in a header to open the scoring. This was his 110th ARFC goal.

ARFC increased their lead in the 27th min. A quick one-two between influential Sebastiano and ARFC scoring legend Haron freed the former down the right flank. Wanting to square the ball back to the on-rushing hard-working Tong in the box, influential Sebastiano miskicked and the ball bounced up to the touch-line. However, their defender tried to clear the ball but succeeded to kick the ball to influential Sebastiano’s head and the ball ricocheted to hard-working Tong was who in the box. Instinctively, he pushed the ball into the net giving their keeper no chance at all. This was hard-working Tong’s 14th ARFC goal. His last goal for ARFC was on 07 May 2006 at Blk 367 Yishun Ring Road field when ARFC won 5-2 against Tjioe’s friends.

7 minutes before the half-time, their opponent pulled a goal back after hard-working Tong inexplicably headed their corner ball into his own net. Unlucky!!!

The score was 2-1 at half-time. Fortunately, powerful Alvin arrived to add another player to the team.

In the 57th min, the opponent drew level after unpredictable Blackburn, who is playing at left-midfield with Boon in goal, failed to close down their winger who unleashed a shot that trickled under the body of Boon. 2-2 now.

ARFC then had a great chance to pull ahead once more. However, powerful Alvin’s goal was correctly ruled off-side.

Boon then pulled off at least 2 world-class saves that kept ARFC in the game. Nevertheless, off a corner in the 67th min, their player out-jumped hard-man Tjioe to put his team 3-2 ahead. At this juncture, ARFC looked dead and buried.

7 minutes later, ARFC drew level. Influential Sebastiano, who just returned to the pitch after his “lao-sai”, spotted ARFC scoring legend just outside the box and passed the ball to him. He eluded 2 defenders to face their keeper one-to-one. Of course, with his pedigree, how could he miss and he obliged by side-footing the ball home for the equalizer. 3-3!!

Another 7 minutes later, unpredictable Blackburn executed a world-class cross-field ball to the lurking powerful Alvin. Hearing a shout from Speedy Hee for the bal, powerful Alvin moved away and Speedy Hee took over. Pushing the ball into the penalty box and closed down by their defender, Speedy Hee showed the crowd and the live telecast audience why he has such a nickname by out-pacing him and chipped the ball over their keeper for what eventually turned out to be the winning goal. 4-3 and this was Speedy Hee’s 46th ARFC goal and ARFC’s 720th goal.


A short while later came the block of the match and possible the season. Their tricky midfielder, after turning astute-reading sweeper Elvis, was about to pull the trigger when out of nowhere, hard-working Tong gave a Jamie Carragher type of block to deny him a potential goal. World class!!!

7 minutes before the end, powerful Alvin had a glorious chance to bury the match. After their player was sent off for a second bookable offence, influential Sebastiano winked at powerful Alvin and proceeded to deliver a slide-rule pass. However, powerful Alvin’s first effort hit the post and off the rebound, his goal-bound shot was cleared off the line. Unlucky!!!

When the referee blew the final whistle for ARFC’s 123rd ever victory, almost all the aging ARFC warriors fell to the ground due to cramps as they were severely stretched by the youthful opponent. But, as the saying goes, “Old is Gold” and ARFC once again lived up to its reputation.

Both stand-in keeper, unpredictable Blackburn and used-to-be-speedy right-back Boon played excellently with their blocks and reading of the ball which saw them rushed off their line to clear off several dangerous balls. Astute-reading sweeper Elvis, despite being disadvantaged by his lack of speed, used his experience so well that their forward did not even get past him once. Towering Toh, of course, was once again unbeatable in the air and he was also a big block against the opponent. Determined Huiming, despite suffering a knock early in the game, soldiered on and even about more than 10 years older than their speedy winger, did not lose out in the duels once. Used-to-be-speedy right-back Boon, lasting all of about 20 minutes at right-back, came up with several critical interceptions. Entrepreneur Guoxiong, adapted well at both right-back and right-midfield, covered the defence well and also made several forays down the right-flank.

Hard-working Tong was industrious and scored a goal after many months. Hard-man Tjioe’s presence was crucial with his strength and aggression and continuously closed down opponents with his hard-tackling. He also won many fouls. Speedy Hee was also impressive with his speed and his winning goal was classic example of his speed. Besides that, he also tracked back on many occasions in the first-half. Unpredictable Blackburn was, well unpredictable. Too often guilty with several “ambulance balls” to his team-mates, he nevertheless was the provider of the winning goal with his Xabi Alonso type of ball in the build-up to the winning goal.

This leaves me with ARFC scoring legend Haron, who was voted Man-of-the-Match by John Dykes and also NOKIA score-board. Besides his natural predatory instincts, he also tracked back in the second-half when ARFC was under heavy pressure. Positioned himself in the midfield, his presence eased the burden of hard-man Tjioe and influential Sebastiano, both of whom were clearly tiring.

ill-effect of global warming

For those who still do not believe the ill-effects of global warming, the best evidence came in ARFC’s match just now at St. Wilfred’s. Clearly affected by the Sahara Desert-like temperature, ARFC went down 1-3 to a not-so-good team.

Prior to kick-off, reliable David Mak (father of Marco Mak) and entrepreneur Guoxiong pulled out due to family and work commitment respectively. However, the losses were off-set by the last-minute appearance of Kiat Gulam and astute-reading sweeper Elvis. Mean machine Hock also made surprise appearance. ARFC was also well-supported by Kiat Gulam’s wife+daughter, WO Neo’s daughter, influential Sebastiano’s wife-to-be and Tjioe’s girlfriend.

Dependable Jinzhong started in goal, with astute-reading sweeper Elvis back marshalling the defence. He was supported by Towering Toh, predictable Blackburn and hard-working Tong. In midfield, left-foot wizard Bernard had big shoes to fill in taking ovr sublime Khim’s left-midfield role, WO Neo was at the opposite flank, and influential Sebastiano and hard-man Tjioe patrolled the centre. Speedy Hee and ARFC scoring legend Haron led the attack. Mean machine Hock and Kiat Gulam were temporarily loaned to the opponent, with talisman Derrick and powerful Alvin on the subs bench.

The heat was obviously affecting both teams which took some time to settle down. Both teams cancelled each other out in the opening minutes. ARFC’s class finally told in the 17th min when ARFC scoring legend Haron latched on to a ball just outside the penalty area. ARFC scoring legend Haron side-stepped their defender who appeared to have tripped him. To his credit, however, he stayed on his feet and managed to expertly place the ball beyond the reach of their keeper for his 109th ARFC goal. 1-0!!

The score remained at 1-0 at half-time.

Tragedy struck within minutes of the re-start. Their speedy and energetic right-winger sent in a cross from the right and amongst the confusion, their striker equalized for them. 1-1 now!!

7 minutes later, ARFC fell behind. Off a counter-attack, their keeper pumped the ball deep into our half. A mix-up in communication between astute-reading sweeper Elvis and dependable Jinzhong allowed the same winger to lob the ball over him into the empty net. 1-2 now!!

ARFC had several golden chances to find an equalizer. Off a goal-mouth melee, unpredictable Blackburn struck the post and talisman Derrick later had a one-on-one chance but he exercised the wrong option in trying to square to powerful Alvin.

7 minutes from the end, the opponent struck the final nail in ARFC’s coffin aftr their impressive right-winger won the ball ahead of left-foot wizard Bernard, eluded dependable Jinzhong and slotted the ball into the empty net. 1-3 and this was ARFC’s 42nd defeat in its illustrious history.

ARFC goal-scoring chart (20 goals and above)

ARFC Scoring Legend Haron - 108 goals;
Retired Robin - 69 goals;
Unpredictable Blackburn - 59 goals;
Influential Sebastiano - 48 goals;
WO Neo - 46 goals;
Speedy Hee - 45 goals;
Hard-man Tjioe - 32 goals;
Powerful Alvin - 29 goals;
Kiat Gulam - 24 goals;
Sublime Khim - 24 goals;
Reliable David Mak (father of Marco Mak) - 22 goals;
Towering Toh - 22 goals;
Missing Jiong jiong - 21 goals

Left-foot wizard Bernard's debut goal in thumping 7-3 ARFC victory

After 2 winless matches, ARFC returned to its winning ways with a comprehensive 7-3 trouncing of a young and enthusiastic Indian team, Goodfellas.

ARFC welcomed back its scoring legend Haron, talisman Derrick (back from 1-week soccer attachment with FC Mindanao) and hard-man Tjioe (back from 1-week trial with Nagoya Grampus 8) to its line-up. Playing in a new venue, thousands of ARFC could not find their way to the stadia, however, ARFC was still supported by Dora Mak, lovely wife of David Mak and mother of Marco Mak, as well as sweet Caren, wife-to-be of influential Sebastiano.

Dependable Jinzhong started in goal, with unpredictable Blackburn taking over the absent Elvis, and assisted by Towering Toh, left-foot wizard Bernard and reliable David Mak (father of Marco Mak). Sublime Khim, talisman Derrick, influential Sebastiano and hard-man Tjioe found the midfield, with Speedy Hee (also back from 4-days attachment with Chennai FC) partnering WO Neo in attack. Powerful Alvin and ARFC scoring legend Haron were surprisingly dropped to the bench.

Just 17 seconds into the match, influential Sebastiano’s “smaller head” was hit by an over-hit pass from reliable David Mak, rendering him out of action for almost 70 seconds. However, ARFC was not affected by the momentary absence and easily dominated proceedings.

17 mins into the match, ARFC won a free-kick after hard-man Tjioe was brought down about 7 metres outside the box. Up stepped Speedy Hee who seemed to “pass” the ball under the wall and the ball rolled past their keeper for the opening goal. This was almost similar to Ronaldinho’s free-kick goal earlier in the La Liga season. This was Speedy Hee’s 45th ARFC goal.

7 mins later, the opponents equalized after the striker broke the off-side trap and slotted the ball past Dependable Jinzhong. 1-1.

ARFC took the lead again 7 mins later. Their defender used his hand to control a high ball into their area. After much prompting, left-foot wizard Bernard stepped up and coolly placed the ball past their keeper for his first-ever ARFC goal!!. This sparked off wild celebrations and a small pocket of Japanese lady fans were heard chanting Bernard’s Japanese name, “Kanineh”, and one fan was even seen taking off her bra and waved it around. 2-1 now. ARFC scoring legend Haron and powerful Alvin then replaced WO Neo and Speedy Hee. However, Haron did not manage to get a touch of the ball before the referee blew the half-time whistle.

For about 7 more mins into the second half, Haron still did not touch the ball. Amazing!!

Tragedy struck mins later. Dependable Jinzhong made a successive “sarong” mistake when he allowed a weak shot to go between his legs. 2-2 now.

7 mins later, ARFC restored its lead. From a brilliantly-taken powerful Alvin’s corner, Towering Toh showed the world why he is being bestowed such a nick-name when he leaped majestically to power home the ball, beating even the out-stretched hand of their keeper. 3-2 and this was Towering Toh’s 22nd ARFC goal.

ARFC extended its lead about 3.7 mins later. This time round, powerful Alvin met talisman Derrick’s corner from the right and thundered in a volley that was so powerful that their could only parry. ARFC scoring legend showed he has not lost his scoring instinct (despite out injured for 2 weeks) when he reacted in a flash and toe-poked the ball home, almost ripping off the net. 4-2 and this was his 108th goal for ARFC. 4-2.

In the 67th min, ARFC won a free-kick after yet another foul on hard-man Tjioe, who added much-needed steel and aggression in ARFC’s midfield. Spotting a small gap on the right-hand side, influential Sebastiano curled in a brilliant ball into the top-left corner of the goal. 5-2 and this was his 48th goal for ARFC.

7 mins later, influential Sebastiano took a quick free-kick to the lurking ARFC scoring legend Haron in the penalty box. Although he lost his footing, he still managed to pass the ball to sublime Khim, who turned and cooled placed the ball past their keeper. Fantastic goal which was his 24th ARFC goal. 6-2.

In the 77th min, ARFC scoring legend Haron flicked the ball over their defender who foolishly handled the ball. Talisman Derrick quickly took the ball, placed it on the penalty spot and shot the ball straight down the middle for his 9th ARFC goal. Before he took the penalty-kick, reliable David Mak (father of Marco Mak), had correctly predicted that talisman Derrick would shoot down the middle. Spot-on!!!

Just mins before the end, a defensive lapse allowed them to pull a goal back. 7-3.

The return of hard-man Tjioe provided much-needed power, strength and ball-winning ability to ARFC. Credit must also be given to Speedy Hee and WO Neo who had to be deployed at right-back and left-mid respectively due to not enough defenders. Talisman Derrick and ARFC scoring legend Haron also made much difference. Of course, sublime Khim and Towering Toh were almost unbeatable at all, and powerful Alvin’s power had their defenders at full-stretch. Unpredictable Blackburn also had a wonderful match marshalling the defence. Reliable David Mak (father of Marco Mak), left-foot wizard Bernard and dependable Jinzhong displayed their usual standard.

Addressing the Japanese media and fans, left-foot wizard Bernard was clearly over the moon with his first-ever ARFC goal. “Credit to all ARFC warriors for giving me the chance to break the duck. I must also thank the fans for keeping faith with me even though I had missed several good chances to open my account. Last but not least, credit must be given to my wife for preparing me in good shape before my weekly Sunday match.”

ARFC Online Lesson No3 - Goal Celebration

Score a goal

Make a sudden twist

Face the supporters

Punch fist into the air and enjoy those few seconds of glory

ARFC Online Lesson No2 - Scissors Kick

Execute kick while in mid-air

Cushion landing with non-kicking leg absorbing most impact. Cross over kicking leg and stretch out both arms to maintain balance.

Lift up kicking leg while anticipating a goal

Maintain posture till the ball hits the net, post or crossbar, or goes out of play, or is saved by keeper.

Persevere...

even after 7attempts!

ARFC Online Lesson No1 - One on One Situation

Make sure opponent is not Terry or Cannavaro

Push ball to one side when opponent's feet are rooted to the ground

Go past opponent with lightning speed







Finally, unleash a thunderbolt

Match 3rd June 2007

ARFC in undeserved 3-1 loss

In a match played under the merciless scorching sun at Parc de Balestier, ARFC was unluckily beaten 3-1 by a very experienced Chinese team comprising of an ex-Singapore player and a couple of Singapore Chinese players.

ARFC received a huge boost prior to the kick-off when sublime Khim announced his availability after his family lunch. Also, ARFC welcomed the return of reliable David Mak (father of Marco Mak) from his 2-week soccer attachment at the Los Angeles Galaxy in the US which is David Beckham’s new team.

Dependable Jinzhong started in goal, with astute-reading sweeper Elvis (in his new shining white boots) and Towering Toh at the heart of defence and assisted by determined Huiming and left-foot wizard Bernard as full-backs. Influential Sebastiano, hard-working Tong, sublime Khim and entrepreneur Guoxiong formed the midfield. Powerful Alvin, restored to the starting line-up, was partnered by WO Neo who brought his lucky-charm pretty daughter along. On the subs bench, unpredictable Blackburn, Kiat Gulam, Speedy Hee and David Mak (father of Marco Mak) warmed the seats. David Mak’s lovely wife, Dora Mak, and Marco Mak were also there to cheer on the ARFC warriors.

ARFC started the match brightly and threatened the opponents with several forays down both flanks, where sublime Khim and entrepreneur Guoxiong were having a field day. However, ARFC was let down by the awful inexperienced referee with many debatable off-side calls. He was to have a lousy game as the match wore on.

Despite several chances, ARFC still could not open the scoring. In the 27th min, the experienced opponents punished ARFC after astute-reading sweeper Elvis completely missed a ball into the box. Their striker gleefully picked up the ball, rounded dependable Jinzhong and put the ball into the empty net. Totally unlucky!!

ARFC was soon made to pay for its wastefulness in front of goal. In the 37th min, their striker let go a shot which had no power at all. To the crowd’s astonishment, the dependable Jinzhong let the ball in between his legs to give the opponents a totally undeserved 2-0 lead in the half.

A stinging half-time pep talk by determined Huiming woke ARFC warriors up. Within minutes of the re-start, ARFC had several goal-scoring opportunities. 7 mins into the half, influential Sebastiano sprung the off-side trap and sprinted down the right flank. Looking up, he squared the ball across to the on-rushing WO Neo. Unfortunately, he failed to connect properly with the ball and they managed to clear the ball.

In the 57th min, ARFC pulled a goal back. Picking up the ball in his own half, influential Sebastiano threaded the ball to the lurking powerful Alvin who managed to reach the ball ahead of their keeper and stroked the ball home. 1-2 now. Sensing a fight-back, the crowd rose to their feet and cheered them on ferociously.

7 minutes later, Speedy Hee also broke their off-side trap and brought the ball right up to the edge of their 6-yard box. However, he shot weakly at their keeper, ignoring the unmarked powerful Alvin in the box.

In the 67th min, a cross by left-foot wizard looked destined to fall on the feet of sublime Khim. Trapping the ball expertly, sublime Khim was inexplicably brought down by WO Neo who had backed into him. Unlucky!!

Dependable Jinzhong, barring his horrendous error, was having a superb game with at least 4 or 5 world-class saves to keep ARFC in the game. However, another dubious off-side call by the woeful referee resulted in their right-winger crossing for their unmarked striker to place home their 3rd goal. 1-3.

By now, ARFC was clearly deflated. Nevertheless, powerful Alvin nearly got his 2nd goal of the game after cleverly evaded their keeper. However, he sliced the ball wide.

When the referee blew his whistle, and thereby ending his own and both teams’ misery, the crowd still applauded the warriors as they acknowledged that this was a game which they totally did not deserve to lose at all.

Speaking to ex-MTV VJs Noni, Nadya Hutagalung, Donita Rose and Sonia Couling after the match, Man-of-the-Match dependable Jinzhong was puzzled at how ARFC can lose the match. “KNN!! The referee totally lost the plot. This kind of referee should be sent to FIFA for remedial lessons.”

ARFC's 2nd goal-less draw in its history

Today's (27 May 07) goal-less draw was only the second goal-less draw in the entire ARFC's illustrious history. The first time it happened was on 28 Jan 2001, but at that time, the match was only about 17 mins into the second half when it was called off due to a "small scuffle".

Today's draw was also ARFC's 31st draw in its history.

ARFC held to goal-less draw

In a match played under very humid weather at Stadia Braddell de Westlake, ARFC was held to a 0-0 draw by a very youthful and hard-running boys from the NUS.

ARFC was hit by the absence of several ARFC stalwarts, namely ARFC scoring legend Haron, Hard-man Tjioe, astute-reading sweeper Elvis, Kiat Gulam, reliable David Mak (father of Marco Mak) mean-machine Hock and unpredictable Blackburn. The first six’s absence was due to personal and work commitments while unpredictable Blackburn’s absence was purely due to influential Sebastiano’s oversight as he totally forgot to SMS him about the match. Hence, there were only 12 ARFC warriors turned up.

Dependable Jinzhong started in goal, with Towering Toh partnering determined Huiming at the heart of the defence to be flanked by entrepreneur Guoxiong and left-foot wizard Bernard. Influential Sebastiano, hard-working Tong, sublime Khim (who returned after his hand injury) and quick-silver Derrick formed the midfield quartet. Speedy Hee and WO Neo led the line, with powerful Alvin surprisingly dropped to the bench.

As expected, the youthful opponents soon utilized their speed to try to wear down the aging ARFC warriors. However, the defence, ably led by Towering Toh, held them at bay. Our strikers and flanks also had a hard-time breaking them down as they were totally out-run and “out-stamina” by their players.

There were nevertheless several good chances by ARFC, mainly through free-kicks and corners where several good balls were sent in but were not capitalized by ARFC warriors.

The second half started just like the first half. By the 67th min, the ARFC warriors were clearly tiring but used their experience to keep the opponents at arms’ length.

In the 77th min, hard-working Tong almost put ARFC ahead but his shot from inside the box was curled wide. Unlucky!!

Though the match ended goal-less, the ever-faithful fans applauded the worn-out warriors as they acknowledged that the opponents were clearly superior in fitness, speed and stamina. Even our sublime Khim, Speedy Hee, quick-silver Derrick, powerful Alvin, WO Neo and entrepreneur Guoxiong had no answer to break them down. It should also be noted that the opponents did not trouble dependable Jinzhong at all, a sound testament to how well our defence played in this match.

Speaking to John Dykes after the match, Man-of-the-Match Towering Toh thanked his fellow defenders for their good play “It’s never easy to play against fast and not-tiring opponents, but I must give full credit to my fellow 3 defenders for coping with this mammoth task, especially in the absence of astute-reading Elvis. I am very tired and really need a good massage now…..”

ARFC came from behind to record its 121th victory

In a match played under cooling weather on a half-soccer/half-water-polo pitch at ITE Balestier, ARFC came from a goal down to defeat a not-so-weak Winning-11 FC. Despite the heavy downpour hours before the game, the usual faithful 77,777 fans turned up to cheer their heroes, including influential Sebastiano’s wife-to-be Caren and Kiat Gulam’s lovely wife, Josephine and daughter.


Missing several important first-team players including determined Huiming, ARFC scoring legend Haron, sublime Khim and Dependable Jinzhong, ARFC started with Kiat Gulam in goal, astute-reading sweeper Elvis, Towering Toh, hardworking Tong and left-foot wizard Bernard as defence; In the midfield, quick-silver Derrick and entrepreneur Guoxiong took up the flanks with influential Sebastiano and hard-man Tjioe at the middle; At the front, Speedy Hee was partnered by unpredictable Blackburn. Powerful Alvin, who was feeling unwell, was the sole substitute.

ARFC took a long time to settle down as it was clear that it could not adapt to the water-logged pitch. What made it worse was unpredictable Blackburn’s unwillingness to close down opponents and chased after balls played to him, leaving Speedy Hee as the only forward chasing after opponents. ARFC’s skilful midfielders also had a hard time as they could not play its usual passing game and could only resort to long balls.

Hence, it was no surprise that the opponents took the lead in the 17th min. Slow to react to their quickly-taken free-kick, Towering Toh was only 0.77 seconds slower to close down and their striker slotted in their opening goal. 0-1!!

However, ARFC did not give up and created several chances but were not taken by our forwards and midfielders.

In the second-half, unpredictable Blackburn replaced Kiat Gulam at goalkeeper and Kiat Gulam took over the left-back role, moving left-foot wizard Bernard up to left flank and quick-silver Derrick partnered powerful Alvin upfront.

This tactical move soon reaped dividends. Just 7 mins into the half, entrepreneur Guoxiong won a loose ball at the middle and relayed the ball to hard-man Tjioe. Looking up, hard-man Tjioe pushed the ball to the lurking powerful Alvin on the left middle side of the pitch. Powerful Alvin, living up to his nick-name, embarked on a powerful accelerating run that took him past 3 defenders before equalizing for ARFC for his 27th ARFC goal. 1-1 and the crowd went wild, chanting his name repeatedly.

17 mins later, ARFC took the lead. Kiat Gulam intercepted a ball on his side and cleared the ball down the channel. The ball, however, unexpectedly found its way to powerful Alvin’s feet. In an almost similar fashion to the first goal, he embarked on yet another powerful run and eluded 3 defenders before coolly placing the ball past their stranded keeper. 2-1 and the crowd went ballistic this time. This was powerful Alvin’s 28th ARFC goal. This was also ARFC’s 707th goal in its illustrious history.


By then, ARFC warriors were tiring and barely hang on to its lead. However, the opponents could not find a way past our experienced defenders and in fact, ARFC missed several glitz-edged chances. 2-1 was the final score.

Speaking to the reporters after the match, Man-of-the-Match entrepreneur Guoxiong enthused: “The stupid water-logged pitch clearly affected us more than them. If it is on a dry pitch, surely we would have walked away with a more emphatic victory. Anyway, please feel free to contact me if you are looking for handphone and /or accessories…….”

On a separate note, astute-reading sweeper Elvis is actively seeking a sponsor to buy him a fresh pair of boots……