As Real as it gets

TeamCuzz were only left to ponder the 'what-ifs' after succumbing to a 1st defeat of the season, going down 3-2 to Fake Madrid (FMFC) at the majestic Meridian pitch. The experience of playing in a big pitch was certainly the difference as FMFC utilised every blade of astro turf to magnificient effect.


Haidhar enroute to scoring the 1st of the game; TeamCuzz's vice-Captain Saifuddin clearing with authority.

TeamCuzz drew 1st blood when Haidhar's 1st half shot was too slippery to handle for the opposing goalkeeper. He, together with the midfield duo of Khairil and Imran, had been shackling the creative force of FMFC's midfield. While the defence stood firm in light of FMFC's consistent waves of attacks, it must be said too that the front 2 had chances of their own, and should probably have taken them to ease the pressure on TeamCuzz.

Syukri with the best 'shot' of the game; Fazlon 'threw' this throw away.

After holding on to the slim lead going into the break, FMFC came out strongly and scored twice to regain the initiative. It must be said though, that those goals were pretty soft goals to be conceeded. Shahrudin then stepped into the picture in his bid to turn the game around. After his freekick attempt was tipped over by FMFC's goalie, he conjured another special as he scored direct from a corner (now we know with a fair amount of certainty that it wasn't just down to luck, well prolly a little). Having thought they could hold on till the very end, TeamCuzz lost focus and conceeded a late winner 7 minutes from time.

TeamCuzz's (non-existent) bench; Faizul & Riduan showing off TeamCuzz's latest choice of drink.

"As much as we are disappointed with the loss, we should hold our heads high considering we pushed FMFC all the way till the very end," said the gaffer during his debrief. He added, "We should take heart in the way we play and learn to overcome any weaknesses that we have as a team, and bounce back to garner victory against the 2 Madrids after the CNY break." He also thanked the players for their effort, including those who did not manage to get any game time, as well as the support rendered by some family members.

Nabil & Luqman had a good time in the rain; Mr. Ismail Jan postponed distributing son's wedding invitation cards to lend his support to TeamCuzz.

While the loss meant TeamCuzz dropped points in an otherwise fruitful month of January, it certainly does not feel that like the future is any less bright. Having played 3 of the likely top sides in the division and showing signs that they can match, if not overcome them, TeamCuzz welcomes the break to get much-needed rest on their knees and ankles. That said, their hearts cant wait to return to the pitch. And back to winning ways.