04 July 2010 (Sun)
5 pm
Deyi Sec Sch
Opponent is Team KangTao
Bring both colours.
Pls e-mail Toh of your availability.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
ARFC maintains 100% record in new season with emphatic 2-1 victory
Following the victory over FC Simpang last week, ARFC went up against last season D2D Div 2 Champion, Holland Park XI, this week. Buoyed by the superb 2-1 win last week, fans were elated and they continued to turn up to show total support to ARFC, despite a change in match venue and kick-off time.
The morale of ARFC warriors were lifted when they see the return of influential player-manager Sebastian after more than a month out on fatherly duty, with the vuvuzela. The match was also witnessed by Anna and Cerine, partners of Elvis and Jinzhong respectively together with the lovely family combo, wife and daughter, Su and Atiqah of Haron.
ARFC started with this line-up:
GK - Dependable Jinzhong
RB - Hard-running Guoxiong
Sweeper - Astute-reading sweeper Elvis
Stopper - Towering Toh
LB - Unbeatable Darren
RM - Talisman Derrick
CM - Dynamic Soon
CM - Hard-man Tjioe
LM - Nippy Kenny
SC - Unpredictable Blackburn
SC - Powerful Alvin (captain)
Subs:
Influential Sebastian
ARFC Scoring Legend Haron
En Dian (guest player)
Wayne (guest player)
For the first time in God-knows how many games, ARFC was able to field the same starting line up as previous game that had done well to stamp its authority and flow in the game. Particularly, captain of the day Alvin epitomised ARFC’s high morale when he went charging at their defenders right from the kick-off. His “Didier Drogba-like” charge must have scared the hell out of their defenders.
This same line up really clicked well right from the start as within minutes of the first whistle, ARFC had the chance to take the lead in the game. The first clear cut chance fell to Toh who had gone upfield for a corner kick earlier and stayed up. The ball was chipped in from midfield over the defence and Toh did well to make space for a shot at goal. However, from 15 metres out, he could only volley the ball over the keeper and crossbar. Chance wasted.
Less than 15 minutes later, the next clear-cut chance fell to Alvin who had powered past the last defender to latch on to a through ball from the right. Facing the keeper one on one, Alvin placed the ball to the left, but the keeper was equal to it and palmed it out for a corner kick. Unlucky!
Next up in the unlucky list was Tjioe who had done well to get into the penalty box. Guoxiong continued to show his ability to send pin-point cross when he found Tjioe from way out on the right. Tjioe could have cushioned the ball down to take a clear shot at goal but his touch failed him and the ball trickled to the keeper instead.
ARFC showed the similar type of domination as seen in previous game and should have been a couple of goals up by then, if not for the woeful finishing. And as always, when you do not take your chances, you will pay for it. True enough, off a counter attack, and most probably the only significant attack by the opposition, they scored and ARFC had to start chasing after the game.
ARFC continued to dominate the game, despite being a goal down, and believed that the goal will come ultimately. However, even with the introduction of Sebastian, Haron and En Dian (guest player), ARFC can only create chances but not find the elusive goal. HT:0-1.
Even though ARFC was a goal down at half time, the team was satisfied with its dominating play and quietly confident that the all important goal will come in the 2nd half.
The 2nd half started in similar fashion as the first half, domination by ARFC. However, this time round, ARFC did manage to find the break through. Within 15 minutes of the restart, Kenny continued his tormenting of their right-back. With a sharp change of direction, Kenny beat the right back easily with his speed and sent in a cross from the by-line. The ball seemed to be too close to the keeper and he looked to have the ball, but the heavy spin in the ball deceived him and it spun between his legs. Haron showed his predatory instinct and dashed in immediately to nip the ball into the empty net for his 161st ARFC goal. 1-1. Su and Atiqah were both seen jumping up and down 9 times, celebrating with the sounding of the vuvuzela.
Finally breaking the duck, ARFC was quick to add in another goal to show its dominance. Tjioe spotted the run of Derrick on the right and send in a cross field pass into his path. Turning back the years, Derrick showed his speed by rushing down the flank and he crossed in a delicious ball onto the head of En Dian who had the easiest job of nodding it past the keeper from 2 metres out for his 3rd ARFC goal. 2-1! Comeback completed.
After going 2-1 up, ARFC continued to dominate but was unable to add on to the goals despite the many chances created. Toh, the main culprit, had another couple of chances to put the game beyond doubt but was denied by the defender at the far post and also for heading the ball over with just the keeper to beat. En Dian also had a chance to add on to the scoreline but his shot came back off the post. In the end, there was no more goals ended and the scoreline remained for another ARFC victory. FT score: 2-1 to ARFC.
Man of the Match goes to Tjioe for controlling the midfield, thwarting most of the attacks from the opponent and also creating the winning goal by sending a great ball to Derrick down the right flank. Elvis did very well too in commanding the defence.
Special mention must be given to Blackburn as he played in striker, right-mid and left-back without any complaint at all. Truly versatile and team player!!
The victory was ARFC’s 10th in 19 matches in 2010.
This is another match where all ARFC warriors showed great spirit and determination. Despite being a goal down, the warriors all showed beliefs that things can be turned around. The reason why the warriors think so was probably due to the fact that there were ample substitutes who can come in anytime and continue to dominate the game. That was why strength in numbers is important and if ARFC can have a decent attendance for any game, we will be able to give any team a tough fight.
The morale of ARFC warriors were lifted when they see the return of influential player-manager Sebastian after more than a month out on fatherly duty, with the vuvuzela. The match was also witnessed by Anna and Cerine, partners of Elvis and Jinzhong respectively together with the lovely family combo, wife and daughter, Su and Atiqah of Haron.
ARFC started with this line-up:
GK - Dependable Jinzhong
RB - Hard-running Guoxiong
Sweeper - Astute-reading sweeper Elvis
Stopper - Towering Toh
LB - Unbeatable Darren
RM - Talisman Derrick
CM - Dynamic Soon
CM - Hard-man Tjioe
LM - Nippy Kenny
SC - Unpredictable Blackburn
SC - Powerful Alvin (captain)
Subs:
Influential Sebastian
ARFC Scoring Legend Haron
En Dian (guest player)
Wayne (guest player)
For the first time in God-knows how many games, ARFC was able to field the same starting line up as previous game that had done well to stamp its authority and flow in the game. Particularly, captain of the day Alvin epitomised ARFC’s high morale when he went charging at their defenders right from the kick-off. His “Didier Drogba-like” charge must have scared the hell out of their defenders.
This same line up really clicked well right from the start as within minutes of the first whistle, ARFC had the chance to take the lead in the game. The first clear cut chance fell to Toh who had gone upfield for a corner kick earlier and stayed up. The ball was chipped in from midfield over the defence and Toh did well to make space for a shot at goal. However, from 15 metres out, he could only volley the ball over the keeper and crossbar. Chance wasted.
Less than 15 minutes later, the next clear-cut chance fell to Alvin who had powered past the last defender to latch on to a through ball from the right. Facing the keeper one on one, Alvin placed the ball to the left, but the keeper was equal to it and palmed it out for a corner kick. Unlucky!
Next up in the unlucky list was Tjioe who had done well to get into the penalty box. Guoxiong continued to show his ability to send pin-point cross when he found Tjioe from way out on the right. Tjioe could have cushioned the ball down to take a clear shot at goal but his touch failed him and the ball trickled to the keeper instead.
ARFC showed the similar type of domination as seen in previous game and should have been a couple of goals up by then, if not for the woeful finishing. And as always, when you do not take your chances, you will pay for it. True enough, off a counter attack, and most probably the only significant attack by the opposition, they scored and ARFC had to start chasing after the game.
ARFC continued to dominate the game, despite being a goal down, and believed that the goal will come ultimately. However, even with the introduction of Sebastian, Haron and En Dian (guest player), ARFC can only create chances but not find the elusive goal. HT:0-1.
Even though ARFC was a goal down at half time, the team was satisfied with its dominating play and quietly confident that the all important goal will come in the 2nd half.
The 2nd half started in similar fashion as the first half, domination by ARFC. However, this time round, ARFC did manage to find the break through. Within 15 minutes of the restart, Kenny continued his tormenting of their right-back. With a sharp change of direction, Kenny beat the right back easily with his speed and sent in a cross from the by-line. The ball seemed to be too close to the keeper and he looked to have the ball, but the heavy spin in the ball deceived him and it spun between his legs. Haron showed his predatory instinct and dashed in immediately to nip the ball into the empty net for his 161st ARFC goal. 1-1. Su and Atiqah were both seen jumping up and down 9 times, celebrating with the sounding of the vuvuzela.
Finally breaking the duck, ARFC was quick to add in another goal to show its dominance. Tjioe spotted the run of Derrick on the right and send in a cross field pass into his path. Turning back the years, Derrick showed his speed by rushing down the flank and he crossed in a delicious ball onto the head of En Dian who had the easiest job of nodding it past the keeper from 2 metres out for his 3rd ARFC goal. 2-1! Comeback completed.
After going 2-1 up, ARFC continued to dominate but was unable to add on to the goals despite the many chances created. Toh, the main culprit, had another couple of chances to put the game beyond doubt but was denied by the defender at the far post and also for heading the ball over with just the keeper to beat. En Dian also had a chance to add on to the scoreline but his shot came back off the post. In the end, there was no more goals ended and the scoreline remained for another ARFC victory. FT score: 2-1 to ARFC.
Man of the Match goes to Tjioe for controlling the midfield, thwarting most of the attacks from the opponent and also creating the winning goal by sending a great ball to Derrick down the right flank. Elvis did very well too in commanding the defence.
Special mention must be given to Blackburn as he played in striker, right-mid and left-back without any complaint at all. Truly versatile and team player!!
The victory was ARFC’s 10th in 19 matches in 2010.
This is another match where all ARFC warriors showed great spirit and determination. Despite being a goal down, the warriors all showed beliefs that things can be turned around. The reason why the warriors think so was probably due to the fact that there were ample substitutes who can come in anytime and continue to dominate the game. That was why strength in numbers is important and if ARFC can have a decent attendance for any game, we will be able to give any team a tough fight.
Monday, June 28, 2010
2nd tournament match details
27 June 2010 (Sun)
3 pm
Bedok Green Sec Sch
Opponent is Holland Park XI
Pls bring both colours and let Toh know of your availability. Thanks.
3 pm
Bedok Green Sec Sch
Opponent is Holland Park XI
Pls bring both colours and let Toh know of your availability. Thanks.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Hee's last-grasp winner secures ARFC's victory in league opener
ARFC kicked off its D2D league against FC Simpang. As the match promised to be a close game as evident from the 1-1 draw and 2-1 narrow win last season, 151515 packed the venue as they wanted to show total support to ARFC. The match was witness by Tracie and Cerine, partners of Guoxiong and Jinzhong respectively.
ARFC started with this line-up:
GK - Dependable Jinzhong
RB - Hard-running Guoxiong
Sweeper - Astute-reading sweeper Elvis
Stopper - Towering Toh (captain)
LB - Unbeatable Darren
RM - Talisman Derrick
CM - Dynamic Soon
CM - Hard-man Tjioe
LM - Nippy Kenny
SC - Unpredictable Blackburn
SC - Powerful Alvin
Subs:
Speedy Hee
Battling Andrew
Zi En (guest player)
William (guest player)
Previous encounters with FC Simpang have always been close and eventful affairs littered with clashes, hard tackles, cards, penalties, penalty misses, etc... The first game of the season for ARFC against them was no exception as well. With a healthy turnout and playing at a more comfortable 5pm kick off time, ARFC had the luxury of employing “wheel tactic” aka “che lun zhan”, where ARFC was often the victim of it, on FC Simpang.
Right from the start of kick-off, ARFC tried to stamp its dominance by closing down the opponent fast, chasing after every loose ball and going in for every challenge, knowing that standbys were all ready on the bench, able to come in anytime when needed. That proved to have an impact as the opponent were being pinned back in their half for most of the 15 minutes.
It was no surprise that on the 15th minute mark, ARFC took the lead. Off a throw-in, Guoxiong received the ball on the right and spotted Alvin lurking dangerously outside the penalty box. Without looking for further option, he sent in a well-weighted cross into the box that sailed over the heads of the defenders and nicely to the head of Alvin for him to power a header beyond the outstretched hands of the diving keeper and into the back of the net. 1-0! This is Alvin’s 126th ARFC goal.
With the tenacious running, the midfielders full of running were then replaced. Derrick, Tjioe and Soon were replaced by Hee, Zi En and William with Blackburn dropping to midfield. The substitutions allowed ARFC to continue pressuring the opponents, but the absence of both Soon and Tjioe in the middle of the park was definitely felt as the opponent started to get back into the game and was able to mount some attacks.
The match was now evenly contested with end to end actions for both sides. ARFC could have added another goal, if Blackburn had put on his goal-scoring boots as he sent a couple of his shots sky high instead of at the goal.
15 minutes from half time, disaster struck as there was a mixed up in defence. Guoxiong, able to clear the ball with his left foot, left the ball for Elvis to clear, thinking it was easier for him. However, the opponent striker took the opportunity and nip in to tap the ball away towards goal, leaving Elvis no chance but to hack him down for a penalty, which they converted. 1-1.
Just before half-time, the opponent had a chance to take the lead with a pot-shot at goal which was destined for the top corner of the goal. ARFC had dependable Jinzhong to thank as he stayed alert and dived full stretched to tip the ball over for a corner. World class save! HT:1-1.
During the half-time team talk, Elvis pointed out that if the sole of his boots had not come off, which slowed him down, he would have cleared the ball before the opponent get to the ball and the penalty could be prevented. Really unlucky! Thus, Blackburn took over his place as sweeper for the 2nd half as Elvis started mending his boots. Derrick, Andrew and Soon came in for Alvin, Elvis and Zi En.
The 2nd half started with ARFC showing the same tenacity as seen in the first half determined to get back into the lead. However, the opponent was just determined as well and the game was locked in a midfield battle. It was great to see ARFC displaying the fighting spirit and going in for the challenges, especially the midfield and attack. The “wheel tactic” continued with Alvin and Tjioe coming in for Hee and Derrick to continue the pressure.
Less than 15 minutes later, ARFC had the chance to take the lead. Off the corner, the referee judged that the opponent had pushed Alvin and pointed to the spot for a penalty again, this time to the benefit of ARFC. Up stepped Alvin to restore the lead, but to the astonishment of the crowd and ARFC warriors and even the opponent, Alvin put too much power into the side-foot and even though he sent the keeper diving the wrong way, he also sent the ball pass the wrong side of the post. Unlucky for Alvin as he will now be banking on scoring goals from open play like what Fernando Torres does best. The score remained 1-1.
The penalty miss seemed to fire up the opponent as they pressed for a goal as well. Off along ball floated in to the right, the opposition striker run through to face one on one with Jinzhong, who was once again alert and dived in bravely at the foot of the striker to prevent him from scoring. Great save and brave goalkeeping by Jinzhong.
With 15 minutes of the game to go, Blackburn gave the crowd and warriors the scare of the game by sending a goal kick straight to the opposition striker. Luckily, the defence was able to cover in time and a catastrophe was prevented. Before more unpredictable things can happen, Elvis came in for Guoxiong to replace Blackburn as the sweeper, Hee came back on for Tjioe on the right of midfield.
The match continued as a midfield battle and looked set to end up in a draw. However, with 15 seconds of normal time left, Kenny, who has been impressive down the left with his ferocious running, had other ideas. He spotted Hee on the right flank unmarked and sent a cross over which Hee done well to bring it down first time facing the opponent’s keeper. Hee then took a shot, hitting the ball directly at the keeper which the keeper palmed away comfortably. All players in the field and supporters out of the field thought that the chance was lost, but little do they know that Hee recovered from his shooting position and sped to the palmed away ball to coolly tap the ball into the empty net, with the keeper still on the ground. Clearly, the opponents and supporters had forgotten Hee’s world-renowned speed which only Usian Bolt can match!
Hee’s goal also ensured he reached another significant milestone as this was his 80th ARFC goal.
ARFC was in ecstasy while FC Simpang was in disbelief. And that was to be the last significant attack by either side till the referee blew the final whistle. FT: 2-1 to ARFC.
Man of the Match goes to Jinzhong for the two world class saves, one in each half, which prevented the opponent any chance of taking the lead. No one can deny the importance of his presence and contribution to the team.
This is a match where all ARFC warriors showed great spirit and determination from defence to midfield to attack. The way which the win was carved out made it even more satisfying. This is definitely the type of games that ARFC warriors are looking to be part of every week.
ARFC started with this line-up:
GK - Dependable Jinzhong
RB - Hard-running Guoxiong
Sweeper - Astute-reading sweeper Elvis
Stopper - Towering Toh (captain)
LB - Unbeatable Darren
RM - Talisman Derrick
CM - Dynamic Soon
CM - Hard-man Tjioe
LM - Nippy Kenny
SC - Unpredictable Blackburn
SC - Powerful Alvin
Subs:
Speedy Hee
Battling Andrew
Zi En (guest player)
William (guest player)
Previous encounters with FC Simpang have always been close and eventful affairs littered with clashes, hard tackles, cards, penalties, penalty misses, etc... The first game of the season for ARFC against them was no exception as well. With a healthy turnout and playing at a more comfortable 5pm kick off time, ARFC had the luxury of employing “wheel tactic” aka “che lun zhan”, where ARFC was often the victim of it, on FC Simpang.
Right from the start of kick-off, ARFC tried to stamp its dominance by closing down the opponent fast, chasing after every loose ball and going in for every challenge, knowing that standbys were all ready on the bench, able to come in anytime when needed. That proved to have an impact as the opponent were being pinned back in their half for most of the 15 minutes.
It was no surprise that on the 15th minute mark, ARFC took the lead. Off a throw-in, Guoxiong received the ball on the right and spotted Alvin lurking dangerously outside the penalty box. Without looking for further option, he sent in a well-weighted cross into the box that sailed over the heads of the defenders and nicely to the head of Alvin for him to power a header beyond the outstretched hands of the diving keeper and into the back of the net. 1-0! This is Alvin’s 126th ARFC goal.
With the tenacious running, the midfielders full of running were then replaced. Derrick, Tjioe and Soon were replaced by Hee, Zi En and William with Blackburn dropping to midfield. The substitutions allowed ARFC to continue pressuring the opponents, but the absence of both Soon and Tjioe in the middle of the park was definitely felt as the opponent started to get back into the game and was able to mount some attacks.
The match was now evenly contested with end to end actions for both sides. ARFC could have added another goal, if Blackburn had put on his goal-scoring boots as he sent a couple of his shots sky high instead of at the goal.
15 minutes from half time, disaster struck as there was a mixed up in defence. Guoxiong, able to clear the ball with his left foot, left the ball for Elvis to clear, thinking it was easier for him. However, the opponent striker took the opportunity and nip in to tap the ball away towards goal, leaving Elvis no chance but to hack him down for a penalty, which they converted. 1-1.
Just before half-time, the opponent had a chance to take the lead with a pot-shot at goal which was destined for the top corner of the goal. ARFC had dependable Jinzhong to thank as he stayed alert and dived full stretched to tip the ball over for a corner. World class save! HT:1-1.
During the half-time team talk, Elvis pointed out that if the sole of his boots had not come off, which slowed him down, he would have cleared the ball before the opponent get to the ball and the penalty could be prevented. Really unlucky! Thus, Blackburn took over his place as sweeper for the 2nd half as Elvis started mending his boots. Derrick, Andrew and Soon came in for Alvin, Elvis and Zi En.
The 2nd half started with ARFC showing the same tenacity as seen in the first half determined to get back into the lead. However, the opponent was just determined as well and the game was locked in a midfield battle. It was great to see ARFC displaying the fighting spirit and going in for the challenges, especially the midfield and attack. The “wheel tactic” continued with Alvin and Tjioe coming in for Hee and Derrick to continue the pressure.
Less than 15 minutes later, ARFC had the chance to take the lead. Off the corner, the referee judged that the opponent had pushed Alvin and pointed to the spot for a penalty again, this time to the benefit of ARFC. Up stepped Alvin to restore the lead, but to the astonishment of the crowd and ARFC warriors and even the opponent, Alvin put too much power into the side-foot and even though he sent the keeper diving the wrong way, he also sent the ball pass the wrong side of the post. Unlucky for Alvin as he will now be banking on scoring goals from open play like what Fernando Torres does best. The score remained 1-1.
The penalty miss seemed to fire up the opponent as they pressed for a goal as well. Off along ball floated in to the right, the opposition striker run through to face one on one with Jinzhong, who was once again alert and dived in bravely at the foot of the striker to prevent him from scoring. Great save and brave goalkeeping by Jinzhong.
With 15 minutes of the game to go, Blackburn gave the crowd and warriors the scare of the game by sending a goal kick straight to the opposition striker. Luckily, the defence was able to cover in time and a catastrophe was prevented. Before more unpredictable things can happen, Elvis came in for Guoxiong to replace Blackburn as the sweeper, Hee came back on for Tjioe on the right of midfield.
The match continued as a midfield battle and looked set to end up in a draw. However, with 15 seconds of normal time left, Kenny, who has been impressive down the left with his ferocious running, had other ideas. He spotted Hee on the right flank unmarked and sent a cross over which Hee done well to bring it down first time facing the opponent’s keeper. Hee then took a shot, hitting the ball directly at the keeper which the keeper palmed away comfortably. All players in the field and supporters out of the field thought that the chance was lost, but little do they know that Hee recovered from his shooting position and sped to the palmed away ball to coolly tap the ball into the empty net, with the keeper still on the ground. Clearly, the opponents and supporters had forgotten Hee’s world-renowned speed which only Usian Bolt can match!
Hee’s goal also ensured he reached another significant milestone as this was his 80th ARFC goal.
ARFC was in ecstasy while FC Simpang was in disbelief. And that was to be the last significant attack by either side till the referee blew the final whistle. FT: 2-1 to ARFC.
Man of the Match goes to Jinzhong for the two world class saves, one in each half, which prevented the opponent any chance of taking the lead. No one can deny the importance of his presence and contribution to the team.
This is a match where all ARFC warriors showed great spirit and determination from defence to midfield to attack. The way which the win was carved out made it even more satisfying. This is definitely the type of games that ARFC warriors are looking to be part of every week.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
1st tournament match details
ARFC will kick-off its tournament as follows:
20 June 2010
5 pm
Bedok North Sec Sch
Bring both colours
Opponent is FC Simpang
Pls e-mail to Toh on your availability.
20 June 2010
5 pm
Bedok North Sec Sch
Bring both colours
Opponent is FC Simpang
Pls e-mail to Toh on your availability.
Toh reaches land-mark in ARFC's easy win
The D2D League Div 1 started this weekend but with ARFC only starting their league quest next week, the team had a chance to play another warm up game against Elvis’ cousin’s team, ironically they are wearing orange again! The match was witness by the WAGs of both Elvis and Jinzhong.
ARFC started with this line-up:
GK - Dependable Jinzhong
RB - Hard-running Guoxiong
Sweeper - Astute-reading sweeper Elvis
Stopper - Towering Toh
LB - Unbeatable Darren
RM - Norman (guest player)
CM - Dynamic Soon
CM - Hard-man Tjioe
LM - Talisman Derrick
SC - Unpredictable Blackburn
SC - Powerful Alvin (captain)
Subs: Ming Chen (guest player)
Yao Yang (guest player)
Right from the start, ARFC was determined to show the opponent what we are capable of and 15 seconds later, Tjioe had a chance to put ARFC ahead, but his shot was so hard that it went over the keeper, over the crossbar and over the high fence as well. The referee signalled for a new ball instead of a goal.
Within 15 minutes, Tjioe turned creator when he lob the over the defence to put Alvin racing through beating the offside trap. Spotting the keeper off his line, Alvin met the ball first time and sent it up and over the keeper, this time below the crossbar and bulging the net for his first goal of the game and his 124th ARFC goal. 1-0.
Derrick showed that he can be equally effective playing on the left when he raced down the left flank and send in a delicious cross for Soon to dive in. It is a pity that the ball was 15 inches ahead of Soon’s lunging foot and the chance was not converted. Unlucky!
However, Soon was not to be denied his 31st ARFC goal 15 minutes later when he was put through again, this time by Blackburn after he made a good run from midfield. As composed as ever, Soon slot the ball past the advancing keeper for his first goal of the game. 2-0!
Blackburn was number 3 to get on the score sheet, courtesy of a long ball from Tjioe. Both Derrick and Blackburn chased for the same ball, but surprisingly Blackburn reached the ball first. He chested the ball down and without wasting much time, he lobbed the ball over the keeper for ARFC’s third goal and his 89th ARFC goal. 3-0.
With 15 minutes of the half left, Derrick and Tjioe took a well deserved rest and in came the 2 guest players Ming Chen and Yaoyang. The substitution almost paid instant dividend when in the following attack, Norman, another guest player, swung in a cross from the right which Ming Chen dived in with a header. Unfortunately, the ball went over the crossbar for a goal kick.
Off a corner, Toh had a chance to put ARFC four up, after good work from Blackburn, but his shot rebounded off the goalpost. Unlucky.
It was to be an unlucky half for Toh as, with the half time whistle impending, the opponent had a rare shot at goal. The shot hit the Toh on his arm and the referee deemed that it is worthy of a penalty. From the spot, the opponent pulled a goal back. 3-1. From the start till the penalty, Jinzhong need not have a save to make. That shows how solid the defence has played as a unit, under the marshal of Elvis.
Off the restart, the opposition was hyped up for a revival and nearly scored a second goal. Luckily, Guoxiong was alert and fast to cover and cleared the ball off the line. With that, it marks the end of the first half and referee blew the half time whistle with the half time score: 3-1.
For the second half, Soon and Blackburn was rested while ARFC went in search of the 4th goal. Though ARFC continued to dominate, chances were not taken and it took a rare foray into the box by Guoxiong to create the goal. With the opponent defence trying to clear the ball, it fell to the feet of Guoxiong, who took a left foot shot. The ball deflected off the defender and into the path of Alvin. Without giving the opponent defence time to react, Alvin instantly volleyed the ball past the goalkeeper and into the net for his 2nd goal of the game and his 125th ARFC goal. 4-1. Blackburn and Soon came in for Yaoyang and Tjioe.
Soon showed how valuable he is to ARFC when he made his next telling contribution, i.e. scoring his next goal. Off a right wing cross into the box from Norman, Alvin cushioned the ball wanting to shoot, but his touch was too heavy and the ball went loose, thinking the chance was lost. However, Soon has other ideas when he emerged from nowhere and tap the ball past the keeper for his 32nd ARFC goal. Really world-class determination. 5-1.
With less than 15 minutes left, ARFC found time to score one more goal. From a freekick at the edge of the box, Blackburn flighted in a delicious cross for Toh, who had an unlucky first half, to rise above the opposition defence and head it past the keeper and into the back of the net for his land-mark 40th ARFC goal. The goal was also his second in as many matches. 6-1. Reward for scoring: Substitution with Tjioe. Yaoyang also came back in for Norman, who had done well on the right.
With the game sealed and full time whistle looming, ARFC started to relax again and they were nearly punished, if not for Jinzhong who was alert and managed to snuff out the danger in time. Credits to Jinzhong for being able to keep himself on his toes for the whole game and react to lapse in defence when needed. With his alertness, ARFC managed to keep a clean sheet for the second half and notch up yet another comfortable win. Full time score:6-1.
This is another match where ARFC needed to enlist the help of guest players to make up the starting eleven and a game which ARFC could have easily notch up a double digit score line with the presence of more ARFC warriors.
With a display of solid defending by ARFC, it is no surprise that the Man of the Match goes to Guoxiong, nominated over the equally impressive Darren, with his off the line clearance at the end of the first half, killing any chance of a revival from the opposition.
With that, ARFC played out the last friendly before the real deal starts in a week’s time against FC Simpang. Until then...
ARFC started with this line-up:
GK - Dependable Jinzhong
RB - Hard-running Guoxiong
Sweeper - Astute-reading sweeper Elvis
Stopper - Towering Toh
LB - Unbeatable Darren
RM - Norman (guest player)
CM - Dynamic Soon
CM - Hard-man Tjioe
LM - Talisman Derrick
SC - Unpredictable Blackburn
SC - Powerful Alvin (captain)
Subs: Ming Chen (guest player)
Yao Yang (guest player)
Right from the start, ARFC was determined to show the opponent what we are capable of and 15 seconds later, Tjioe had a chance to put ARFC ahead, but his shot was so hard that it went over the keeper, over the crossbar and over the high fence as well. The referee signalled for a new ball instead of a goal.
Within 15 minutes, Tjioe turned creator when he lob the over the defence to put Alvin racing through beating the offside trap. Spotting the keeper off his line, Alvin met the ball first time and sent it up and over the keeper, this time below the crossbar and bulging the net for his first goal of the game and his 124th ARFC goal. 1-0.
Derrick showed that he can be equally effective playing on the left when he raced down the left flank and send in a delicious cross for Soon to dive in. It is a pity that the ball was 15 inches ahead of Soon’s lunging foot and the chance was not converted. Unlucky!
However, Soon was not to be denied his 31st ARFC goal 15 minutes later when he was put through again, this time by Blackburn after he made a good run from midfield. As composed as ever, Soon slot the ball past the advancing keeper for his first goal of the game. 2-0!
Blackburn was number 3 to get on the score sheet, courtesy of a long ball from Tjioe. Both Derrick and Blackburn chased for the same ball, but surprisingly Blackburn reached the ball first. He chested the ball down and without wasting much time, he lobbed the ball over the keeper for ARFC’s third goal and his 89th ARFC goal. 3-0.
With 15 minutes of the half left, Derrick and Tjioe took a well deserved rest and in came the 2 guest players Ming Chen and Yaoyang. The substitution almost paid instant dividend when in the following attack, Norman, another guest player, swung in a cross from the right which Ming Chen dived in with a header. Unfortunately, the ball went over the crossbar for a goal kick.
Off a corner, Toh had a chance to put ARFC four up, after good work from Blackburn, but his shot rebounded off the goalpost. Unlucky.
It was to be an unlucky half for Toh as, with the half time whistle impending, the opponent had a rare shot at goal. The shot hit the Toh on his arm and the referee deemed that it is worthy of a penalty. From the spot, the opponent pulled a goal back. 3-1. From the start till the penalty, Jinzhong need not have a save to make. That shows how solid the defence has played as a unit, under the marshal of Elvis.
Off the restart, the opposition was hyped up for a revival and nearly scored a second goal. Luckily, Guoxiong was alert and fast to cover and cleared the ball off the line. With that, it marks the end of the first half and referee blew the half time whistle with the half time score: 3-1.
For the second half, Soon and Blackburn was rested while ARFC went in search of the 4th goal. Though ARFC continued to dominate, chances were not taken and it took a rare foray into the box by Guoxiong to create the goal. With the opponent defence trying to clear the ball, it fell to the feet of Guoxiong, who took a left foot shot. The ball deflected off the defender and into the path of Alvin. Without giving the opponent defence time to react, Alvin instantly volleyed the ball past the goalkeeper and into the net for his 2nd goal of the game and his 125th ARFC goal. 4-1. Blackburn and Soon came in for Yaoyang and Tjioe.
Soon showed how valuable he is to ARFC when he made his next telling contribution, i.e. scoring his next goal. Off a right wing cross into the box from Norman, Alvin cushioned the ball wanting to shoot, but his touch was too heavy and the ball went loose, thinking the chance was lost. However, Soon has other ideas when he emerged from nowhere and tap the ball past the keeper for his 32nd ARFC goal. Really world-class determination. 5-1.
With less than 15 minutes left, ARFC found time to score one more goal. From a freekick at the edge of the box, Blackburn flighted in a delicious cross for Toh, who had an unlucky first half, to rise above the opposition defence and head it past the keeper and into the back of the net for his land-mark 40th ARFC goal. The goal was also his second in as many matches. 6-1. Reward for scoring: Substitution with Tjioe. Yaoyang also came back in for Norman, who had done well on the right.
With the game sealed and full time whistle looming, ARFC started to relax again and they were nearly punished, if not for Jinzhong who was alert and managed to snuff out the danger in time. Credits to Jinzhong for being able to keep himself on his toes for the whole game and react to lapse in defence when needed. With his alertness, ARFC managed to keep a clean sheet for the second half and notch up yet another comfortable win. Full time score:6-1.
This is another match where ARFC needed to enlist the help of guest players to make up the starting eleven and a game which ARFC could have easily notch up a double digit score line with the presence of more ARFC warriors.
With a display of solid defending by ARFC, it is no surprise that the Man of the Match goes to Guoxiong, nominated over the equally impressive Darren, with his off the line clearance at the end of the first half, killing any chance of a revival from the opposition.
With that, ARFC played out the last friendly before the real deal starts in a week’s time against FC Simpang. Until then...
Wednesday, June 09, 2010
ARFC chalked up 7th win in 2010
(Match report courtesy of Toh)
For the last warm-up game before the season starts in a week’s time, ARFC was rocked by news that Hee, Guoxiong, Andrew, Elvis and Jinzhong were all unable to turn up for the match. As such, ARFC was facing the prospect of playing the game with less than 10 men. Luckily, the 2 guest players (Leon and Wayne) turned up and last minute scramble for players were successful as 2 more guest players (Zi En and En Dian) answered the call. Special mention for both Tjioe and Darren for standing in as keeper for a half each.
ARFC started with this line-up:
ARFC started with this line-up:
GK - Hard-man Tjioe
RB - Unbeatable Darren
Sweeper - Unpredictable Blackburn
Stopper - Towering Toh (captain)
LB - Wayne (guest player)
RM - Talisman Derrick
CM - Dynamic Soon
CM - Zi En (guest player)
LM - Tricky Yoong
SC - Leon (guest player)
SC - Powerful Alvin
Sub: En Dian (guest player)
The match went underway, more than half an hour passed the stipulated 3pm kickoff time, when ARFC finally managed to mix and patch to field a starting eleven for the game. However, for those who think that the team will be doomed with this patched up side, they were to be proven wrong as the opponent, Orange Team (not "The OC" – "The Orange County”), were to be slain and ARFC had the game won well before half time.
Right from the start of the first whistle, under the scorching heat of the 3pm sun, ARFC was determined to put the game beyond doubt as soon as possible. It looked like it was going to be the case as within 15 seconds when Yoong was put through by Zi En and he showed great speed to get to the ball but was unlucky to see his shot hit the side netting.
Within 15 minutes, Yoong made amends and opened the scoring for ARFC. Alvin, spotting Yoong rushing through laid a well hit pass into his path. With the opposition defenders scrambling back to cover, Yoong did well to cut back his run and from the edge of the box, he fired a fierce right foot shot into the bottom of the goal with the keeper diving in vain for his 3rd ARFC goal. 1-0.
Within minutes, ARFC scored again, this time via Alvin. Derrick showed great skills bringing the ball down the by-line before crossing in to Leon who cushioned the ball down for Alvin to thump in his first goal of the game and his 122th ARFC goal. 2-0.
Before ARFC fans could cool down from their celebrations, Alvin gave them even more reasons to celebrate when he scored his second goal of the game. Derrick sent in a cross from the right wing and Alvin did well to bring it down. With a spurt of energy and power, Alvin turned the defender to face the keeper one-on-one. With only the keeper to beat, Alvin showed that he has not lost any of his goal scoring touch after missing the last game due to his ROM by side-footing the ball pass the diving keeper into the bottom left corner of the net for hsi 123th ARFC goal. 3-0.
After scoring the goal, Alvin’s reward was to be rested and substituted by En Dian. The opposition thought that they could have a break from the power and guile of Alvin with his exit but to their disappointment, En Dian was to pile on to their misery instead with an impressive performance, with just a pair of street soccer shoes.
Within minutes of coming on, En Dian showed speed, beyond his age and looks, when he raced onto a through ball down the left flank. He looked up, spotting the run of the on-rushing Leon, and squared the ball for Leon to gleefully tap it past the helpless keeper for his debut ARFC goal. 4-0.
Leon returned the favour minutes later when he chipped the ball over the over the opposition defence for En Dian to chase. The ball seemed to be over hit and looked likely to fall into the hands of the keeper. However, En Dian had other ideas and he again showed speed to get to the ball first before the keeper and toe-poked the ball into the net for his first goal of the game and his debut ARFC goal. 5-0.
By now, the game has been settled and ARFC started to get complacent. Off a rare attack, the opposition was awarded a freekick. The opposition sent in the ball from the kick and with the ARFC defence playing for offside, the ball should be safely collected by Tjioe, the 15th choice keeper. To the defence’s horror, his “ball-grappling” method failed him and the ball bounced over him for the opposition striker to head into the empty net with just 15 secounds left for the half. HT: 5-1.
For the 2nd half, Darren who had not much of a challenge in the first half took over the gloves from Tjioe who assumed his usual role in the centre of midfield. Soon was given a well deserved rest for playing in right back. Alvin also came in for Leon to continue his torment of the opposition.
ARFC resumed the 2nd half with the same dominance as displayed in the 1st half and continued the scoring within 15 minutes. Spotting Derrick lurking dangerously on the right flank, Yoong sent a superb cross field pass from the left into the box which Derrick chested down coolly. Without breaking his stride, he unleashed a thunderous drive, timed at 150km/h, which the keeper could only palm into the roof of the net. Beauty! 6-1! Derrick was so pleased with his execution that he commented, “A bit like Blackburn, hor?” This was his 26th ARFC goal.
ARFC continued its pressure and duly got its 7th goal, this time from the right foot of Toh. For those who thought that Toh can only score with his head, they were proven wrong again. Toh who had earlier moved forward for the corner kick stayed up when the ball was half-cleared. The ball then found its way down the right flank with En Dian chasing it down to prevent the goal kick. En Dian then cut the ball back into the path of Toh who took his chance well with a sweetly-struck volley past the diving keeper who can only grasped thin air. 7-1. This goal was Toh's 39th ARFC goal, an impressive feat considering that he is a defender.
Before the game end, ARFC found time to add in another goal. En Dian, who has been impressive since he came on, hammered the final nail in the opponent’s coffin by scoring the last goal to cap off an impressive debut. 8-1 is the full time score.
The match finally ended, and it was obvious that the opposition had hoped that it had come earlier so that they can end their suffering early. Though playing with just 1 substitute, ARFC showed that we are capable of putting in some good showing, even under the scorching afternoon sun. It will not be too much to say that ARFC could have chalked up a double digit scoreline if we had more warriors turning up.
Man of the match goes Derrick for tormenting the opposition defence down the right flank and scoring a superb goal. Yoong came very close as well with his runs down the left flank and a goal as well. The rest of the warriors and guest players, especially guest player En Dian, did very well too with good passing, movement and covering. Many thanks to both Tjioe and Darren for agreeing to take up the goalkeeping role for the game as well.
This win certainly boosted the morale of the team as we prepare for the D2D League Division 1 which starts again next week, but the presence of more warriors is definitely more required with the higher pace in the games expected in league.
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