Monday, July 27, 2009

TeamCuzz grinds out victory

Orchid Park, Yishun - TeamCuzz continued their winning run after coming from 2 goals down to beat Andrastos 4-2. The feat needed hardwork from all, mainly due to the sweltering heat of the uncompromising sun.

TeamCuzz started the game well with a few chances coming their way. However, the formation used left a gulf in central midfield, and this provided a channel for Andrastos to get back into the game. The opponents, whose team name resembles a Decepticon more than it would a football team, were also spirited in the opening exchanges. They took the lead following a lucky strike from a freekick. The same player then added a second soon after following some neat play on their left wing.

Feeling the pressure, TeamCuzz stepped up a gear and started bossing the midfield. This was aided by the introduction of ex-Andrastos player Aidil, and Khairul. While the former provided options in attack, the latter did a splendid job of spoiling most of the opponents' attacks before they became any form of threat. That provided the platform for TeamCuzz to start their comeback.

Their first came midway through the 1st half. Some nice play in midfield saw Riduwan released on the right. He drove in an inviting cross which eluded everyone except the on-rushing Shahrudin, who coolly slotted home from 4 yards out. The equaliser came at the stroke of halftime. A seemingly harmless cross from Faizul deep down the left flank saw Imran creeping from behind the defender to challenge for the ball. Before being able to do so, the opposing central defender sensed the danger & gave a push. A penalty was awarded and slotted home by Riduwan, twice, after the referee ordered a retake. Believing in dejavu, the versatile player aimed for the same side & height both times. It marked Riduwan's maiden goal after signing from Sembawang Town FC almost a year back.

Although changes were rang at halftime to inject some energy in attack, the backbone of the team remained intact. TeamCuzz continued where they left off, looking like the only team to have any interest in altering the scoreline further. They did not disappoint, largely thanks to their Captain. Having been put through, he shrugged off a couple of defenders before unleashing a shot which went in at the near post. He then capped a good performance with a brilliant assist towards the end - a perfect through ball to young winger Amirul who scored his second of the season. The 2 goals & an assist marked a wonderful outing for the Captain, who will tie the knot next weekend.

Stand-in Manager Shikin was satisfied with the 3 points despite the nervous start. He applauded the players' undying effort and will to recover. MoTM was awarded to Imran for his tireless runs in the game. Rumour has it that he needed 6 hours of sleep, on top of his usual night's sleep, to recover.

The 3 points earned along with other results registered on the day meant that TeamCuzz will go for their one week break all satisfied that they have done it all to put themselves back into the title hunt. They hope that their players will be able to sustain this momentum & will for the next game against Dynamites at Turf City a couple of weeks from now. For now, as adapted from the great Optimus, TeamCuzz, roll out!

TeamCuzz (v Andrastos on 25 Jul) - Azmi, Saifuddin, Khairy, Faizul, Fazlon, Fazley, Khairul, Aidil, Sahul, Haikal, Syafiq, Riduwan, Imran, Shahrudin, Khairil, Amirul

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