For the first time in TeamCuzz's long-standing history, proper briefing on gameplay was meted out to the players before the match. The "first-come-first-eleven" selection policy was also thrown outta window, with Zulkhairi picking what he deems are players best suited for the positions. With a mind on experimenting for the league, he decided on a more attacking 4-3-3 formation.
Left: Our Warm-up routine. Disciplined huh? Right: How we spread out in a 4-3-3.
With Aril's absence, Sarip donned Victor Baia's jersey in goal. Debutant Heri marshalled the defence, with Khairul his accomplice, and Saifudin and Fazlon at left and right back respectively. Imran anchored the midfield, giving Riduan and Khairil license to roam forward. Shukur, Shikin, and Shahrudin formed the front 3 to complete the starting 11. Among the substitues were Faisal, Syukri, Shahril and Zulkhairi himself, all raring and ready to be deployed once called upon.
With the opponents looking enthusiastic from the start, TeamCuzz had to soak the early pressure. Nonetheless, custodian Sarip was never threatened, largely due to the composure and good covering portrayed by the defence and midfield. They soon settled down to start knitting passes of their own, particularly impressive were the left trio of Saifudin, Riduan & Shukur. However, no serious goalbound attempts were good enough for mention.
That changed though, with the introduction of in-form winger Faisal for Shahrudin. He went to the right, while Shikin reverted upfront. The change casued some adjustment problems to the opposing defence. This led to an opportunity for Faisal, but that was thwarted by a superb tackle from Mu-rambutblonde-tu. Then, Shikin had a glorious chance with a well-taken volley from a corner kick which went just over the bar.
Shikin's glorious volley, while Shukur controls a pass.
Seeing that things were still not happening, Zulkhairi made more substitutions, putting Shahrudin, Syukri, Shahril and himself into the mix. Before long, first goal came. Shahrudin managed to cut in superbly from the left to break the deadlock. The striker's inability to stay rooted to the spot was proving to be a pain in the foot for the opposing central defenders. TeamCuzz continued to press forward, and chances after chances were created but squandered, with Faisal and Khairul among the guilty parties.
A quick briefing during half-time saw minimal changes being done. With perhaps a certain form of complacency creeping in amongst TeamCuzz players, Team Pierce seized the initiative to dominate the game. It bore fruit for them soon after, when one of their attacks led to desperate defending by TeamCuzz, only to see their own custodian tap-in from close range. And he's proud to say it's with his left foot too.
It was a good wake-up call for all, best answered by the Captain. In a "captain-and-vice captain only" moment, the 2 leaders on the pitch combined to score TeamCuzz's second. The third was from a penalty, courtesy of unrelenting determination showed by Syukri, closing down their ever so brave right winger Atan all the way into the box before being unfairly floored. Captain Shahrudin slotted home "comfortably" to seal his hat-trick.
Taking aim from set-pieces are Syukri and Heri. A/Manager getting into the action, while Captain takes a break after 3.
"Despite the opponents being significantly slower, it was still a great game today. I reserve special mention for the SSC warden, who doubled up as ball-picker, when the opponents kicked the ball as they were to hit a home run. Well done to the lads for being so adaptable to the changes that were made. Hopefully, we can carry this form to the league, and triumph in it," said trainee GK, Ahmad Nabil in perfect Bahasa Baku Malay.
And so the run continues. For how long? Gotta stay tuned to find out.
A fair-game won, all hanshakes, some smelly hugs and no kisses. Oh oops, the warm-up routine should be in front, literally.
TeamCuzz (vs Team Pierces on 17 Jan) - Sarip, Heri, Khairul, Fazlon, Saifudin, Imran, Khairil, Riduan, Shukur, Shahrudin, Shikin, Faisal, Zulkhairi, Syukri, Shahril (Zaki, Luk, Nabil)
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