Mavericks End Unbeaten Streak

Date: 29 December 2007
Location: Fernvale Pitch (Jalan Kayu area)
Kick-off: 9am
Opponents: Premier FC

Starting line-up: Alex, Jiun Wei, Chuan Ji, Mike, Clement, Chao Xing, Amir, Seng Yew, Wei Jie, Chung Wei, Tommy
Substitutes: Fuad, Wei Long, Randy, Zhi Fei

FT score: 1-3 (HT score: 0-1)
Goals: Amir ('88)
Assists: Zhi Fei


Mavericks FC ended their recent unbeaten run with a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Premier FC. Two defensive errors proved costly at the end of the day, as Team Mavericks, who were having their debut in the new all-black strip, failed to mount a serious stranglehold of the match. However, there was one highlight at the end of this low-key affair for the Outsiders, through a stunning acrobatic scissors-kick volleyed goal from the in-form flamboyant winger Amir.

The pitch was predictable by standards, as the monsoon season had taken a toll on the pitch, giving an arid yet muddy playing surface, which proved a disservice for either side, especially in the middle of the pitch. Both teams struggled to find a rhythm early on as they had to adapt to the almost unplayable centre of the pitch which looked like Superman had spilled his seeds of steel and bore holes into the ground. This was further worsened by the late-arriving referee who couldn't understand the word "punctual" as it was a foreign word to him. Literally. Since he couldn't speak English and all.

Anyway, Premier FC had the better possession of the ball as the Mavericks engine room seemed to have run dry for the majority of the match. The absence of midfield general Kee Siang and midfield maestro Boon Leng proved the deciding factor to the Outsider's defeat, as the midfield could not contain the efficient Premier FC midfield line-up. Premier FC took the lead after a cross from a corner took a ridiculous bounce, due to the torrid pitch conditions and bounced away from custodian Alex's grasp and landed into the net. Mavericks had a few half-chances, through shots by Zhi Fei, Wei Long and Tommy. The closest chance they got was a great individual effort from skillful winger Amir, who tore past the left flank of the Premier FC before eventually thwarted with a last-ditch clearing tackle by the centre-back as he was about to place his shot.

The second-half was a drab affair, as both teams could not maintain possession of the ball. However, a wrong tactical change by the Mavericks turned the game around, as their switching from a standard 4-4-2 formation into a more open 4-3-3 backfired, as Premier FC got two quickfire goals in succession. The first was a squared ball into the area which was tucked away into the net by the striker while the second one was due to a defensive mix-up in the Mavericks backline, that lead to the striker having an open goal to tap it home. Mavericks had a few tries at goal as they looked to find a means to get their game back on track, with Fuad and Seng Yew trying their luck at the other end. However, the game seem to drag further and further away from the men in black as the game wore on.

However, they managed to get a consolation goal right at the death through winger Amir. A simply sublime one at that too. Chung Wei and the Premier FC leftback were tussling for the ball before the ball fell loose, and reached the feet of Zhi Fei. He bore down the right side of the attacking half, before having a quick glance, and spotted the late run of Amir into the box. He flighted in an inch-perfect ball into the box and in a stupendous moment of brilliance, Amir got airborne, with both of his legs mid-air, and let rip a stunning acrobatic scissors-volley that went into the roof of the net, giving the keeper no chance (Not even Gianluigi Buffon had much of a chance either). A breathtaking goal indeed, although it didn't have much significance as straightaway after the restart, the referee, from Wu Xi Province in China, blew for full-time. Final Score 1-3.

Next Up: Premier F C

Date: 29 December 2007
Location: Fernvale Pitch (Jalan Kayu area)
Kick-off: 9 am
Opponents: Premier FC
Costs: $100 per team

Players available:

• Chao Xing
• Jiun Wei
• Clement
  
• Randy
• Wei Long
  
• Zhi Fei
• Amir
• Clement
• Mike
• Tommy
• Fuad
• Seng Yew
• Chuan Ji
• Chung Wei
• Wei Jie
• Alex
  

Players out:

• Kee Siang (virus)
• Faizy
  

Players doubtful:

• Boon Leng
  

Mavericks man-to-watch: Mike (no.21)


Despite being a month for festivities, some of the players seemed to have hit top form in December, with winger Amir overtaking Zhi Fei in the goalscoring charts. Anchorman Mike, who was voted the Man-Of-The-Match last week, should be expected to give another stellar performance against Premier F C.

Team Mavericks will be going all out to defend an unbeaten run after the team took a 2 week exam break for its student players. The infamously leaky Mavericks' defence should be encouraged by the clean sheet achieved last week, with a similar lineup assured for tomorrow's clash.

League invitation

Guys..

Aza the referee has invited us to join his league which will consist of up to 20 teams based on home/away system. It will commence in early January.

However, it will cost $90 per game. It is more expensive than self-arranged matches but the plus point is that we do not have to worry about not having any games on weekends as all will be arranged.

They have a site which will include match statistics etc (http://d2dsg.livejournal.com/)

Anyone comments on whether we should join the league?

Latest Team News

Latest updates on Team Mavericks...

• Maverick's classy centre-midfielder 'Bob' Boon Leng has been fined a weeks wages, after failing to turn up on match day against Balooku United. Apparently, sources cited that witnesses saw Boon Leng out partying with fellow youngsters from Man Utd, Johnny Evans and Anderson. They were seen entering a 'famous' sleazy hotel downtown, for a Friday nite romp. The board of directors are contemplating whether to take any further disciplinary action on the tenacious ballwinner, who went up the ranks from the Anderson Youth Academy (nothing to do with THE Anderson he was partying with) before establishing himself as a mainstay in the heart of the Mavericks midfield.
  

• World-class attacking midfielder Kee Siang has finally reached advanced stages in his contractual issues with the FA regarding his playing work permit. Saturday's match against Balooku Utd was the Mavericks number 7's first match for the club in 3 months. He was forced to seek out a loan move to NTU-Hall-Eleven United F C, signing a loan contract which would have lasted till February next year. However, as the dispute was finally in its last stages of being resolved, the star playmaker was allowed to return to his hometown club, after permission was granted by the FA. Kee Siang made an impactful return to first team action, dominating the midfield and dictating play for the Outsiders before evetually being substituted with a minor foot injury.

• Versatile forward man Fuad's ongoing dispute over the 'club vs country' row, which has limited his appearances for the Mavericks was given a lifeline after he scored an audacious snap volley against Balooku United. The goal further underlined his desire and importance towards his club rather than over his country. Due to the current dispute, his national team has banned him for playing for the Mavericks for the past 5 matches or so before Saturday's match. He reiterated his desire and wants to prove that he is just as important to his club as he is to his country. Fuad assured that there would be no more of such disputes in the future which started 2 months ago when his national team refused to release him for the blockbuster clash against Team Uncles.

• Fleet-footed forward Boon Kee has decided that he will add "Jerome" to his name, after constantly being mistaken and called "Boon Leng" instead by visiting away fans who wanted his autograph. Boon Kee was quoted as being profusely "downcast" by this simple case of mistaken identity, as this happened almost everytime the Mavericks had an away game. His rising star status is undoubtedly obvious, but people are still calling him by the wrong name. He hopes that with the addition of the catchy "Jerome" to his name, his market value alone would increase five-fold.

• Flamboyant winger Amir is "over the moon" after a brilliant month for him so far, as he continued his rich vein of form for the Mavericks, getting 5 goals and 3 assists after 3 matches for the club this month. This is coupled by the fact that he got to chat with his favourite actress Jeanette Aw and even managed to cheer her up with a word or two after her recent disappointment at the inaugural Star Awards 2007 that concluded last Sunday. He is said to be absolutely ecstatic with his stroke of good luck, both on and off the pitch. Amir hopes that he can carry this form over for the second-half of the season and help propel his club in the right direction.

• As the festive period looms, one must-have item that seems to be constantly sold out in major departmental stores in the city has got to be the new Mavericks Black kit. Kids nowadays are spotted wearing the colours and numbers of their favourite Mavericks players everywhere they go as well as the season ticket holders who are buying these jerseys in bulk to celebrate for the Christmas season. It seems that this is going to be a good year-end for suppliers Adidas as they are constantly replenishing stocks of the new Mavericks jerseys in stores, as this fresh new look of the Outsiders has even overtaken sales of the Team Uncles Kit which has been a relative mainstay in the club merchandise markets. So go get your Mavericks Black, while stocks last!

• The Mavericks opponents last Saturday, Balooku United, are crying foul over the yellow card given to their winger Desmond by referee Charles. They felt it was an unfair decision, and would seek the FA for consideration to rescind the yellow card given to the player, after he had been adjudged to have dived after tussling for the ball with Mavericks man-of-match Mike. Replays show that there was clearly contact being made, and the winger apparently was felled. However, it was a 50-50 challenge, therefore, the referee could be forgiven for giving the decision in the Mavericks favour. The extent to which Desmond had actually dived is debatable and the crowds obviously felt that a yellow card was rather too harsh for the speedy winger. Referee Charles could not be reached to comment on this issue.

• There was also a report made on the supposed dispute between team Mavericks and two unidentified men at the SCRC pitch after the match on Saturday regarding "water" issues. The field, which was already in such a horrid condition, gave the teams that were playing there even more reason to be angry about due to the lack of facilities such as a proper dressing room and washing area. Several Mavericks players decided to solve this issue by going opposite towards the stadium instead, which offered the facilities they needed, namely, the washing areas. However, they were greeted with a rude,
  

"No, no , no , no, You wanna me kena sack is it? I lose job, i mati, how? No, no, no,
You cannot use it. Very bad. No, no , no ,no."

This was seen as something highly unnecessary, and even attempts at negotiation by vice captain Jiun Wei, Mike and several Mavericks players broke down. The extent of their frustration was described simply in a few words by Mavericks veteran Chung Wei, who said, "Eh Go eat Prata la!" The dispute ended there, as the Mavericks eventually sought after a certain public toilet to wash up instead. So far reports suggests that no complaints has been made whatsoever.

That's that for the latest headlines.
More to come =D

Mavericks Cruise in Away Win

Date: 22 December 2007
Location: Singapore Chinese Recreational Club
Kick-off: 9am
Opponents: Balooku United

Starting line-up: Alex, Jiun Wei, Chuan Ji, Mike, Clement, Chao Xing, Amir, Seng Yew, Kee Siang, Fuad, Zhi Fei
Substitutes: Chung Wei, Boon Kee Jerome, Wei Long, Randy

FT score: 3-0 (HT score: 1-0)
Goals: Amir ('43), Fuad ('70), Zhi Fei ('88)
Assists: Amir
Clean Sheet Assists: Jiun Wei, Chuan Ji, Mike, Clement
Man-Of-Match: Mike


The Outsiders notched a comfortable win today against Balooku United. Continued torrential weather in the past few weeks leading up to matchday has ensured that ground conditions were at their worst. Yet despite the negatives, Team Mavericks celebrate the fact that injured Mavericks player Calvin was seen in the stands cheering for his teammates in unison with the supporters.

The players were seen entering the pitch with tentative strides after seeing the playing conditions. However, being the professionals they were, they took it in their stride and got on with their job. Without much further ado, referee Charles called for the early morning kickoff.

Throughout the first half the Mavericks had the better percentage of possession while the Balookutians sought to catch the Outsiders on the break. Players from both sides were frustrated by the mud, which was a hindrance to the movement of the passing of both teams. Play was kept to scrappy dogfights in the midfield. Nevertheless, the central midfielders Seng Yew and Kee Siang showed tremendous determination and grit, fighting for every ball and giving no quarters. Their tireless running, together with Jiunwei and Chao Xing’s hustling on the right flank, allowed the attack to test the Balooku defence time and again. Chung Wei's fiery determination earned plaudits as well, as he ran the Balooku full-backs ragged.

Amir led the swashbuckling attacking play, which resulted in three shots on target that would have trickled in if not for the muddy pitch’s suction. In the 39th minute Amir once again came close to opening the scoring, glancing in a rare header from Zhi Fei’s excellent cross, only to be denied by the wood work.

There was an air of assurance about the defence today. A quick fan poll attributed it to minimal tinkering of the Mavericks’ backline, resulting in a more settled unit. Despite the improved performance, the opposing team offered brief spurts of pressure that tested the defenders’ concentration. Twice, custodian ‘keeper Alex was forced to come off his line to sweep away loose balls that managed to elude centre backs Chuan Ji and Mike. The Outsiders almost paid for a lack of concentration but Alex was there to make a brave save that almost had him stretchered off. The physio arrived with some magic sponge and after a few moments he was up and running again.

Finally, in the 43th minute the opposing team’s defence buckled and Amir managed to squeeze in a shot at the near post with his left foot after a good run.

The start of the second half saw the Mavericks facing tremendous pressure from team Balooku but they managed to hold on to their one goal lead due to some committed defending, luck and mud. The centre-backs decided to play a high line to keep the pressure in the opposing half, keeping Balooku United's star playmaker Gabriel in check, without giving him much room to exploit. It worked brilliantly with some well executed offside traps that neutralised the now furiously annoyed Balooku strikers.

In what was always going to be the talking point of the match, the left winger Desmond a.k.a Gonzales from team Balooku took a tumble in the penalty box following tight marking from Mike. All eyes were on the referee as he blew the whistle. He walked dramatically to the penalty area slowly and showed the Gonzales the yellow card for diving. The relief the Outsiders felt was there for all to see. In the 63rd minute, another incisive break from team Balooku resulted in a somewhat similar situation. However, the referee waved play on yet again. The turning point in the match came as the Mavericks soon found their passing momentum.

A powerful drive from Zhifei was just whiskers away from the top left hand corner of net. Then, Fuad added to the scoreline in the 70th minute with a cool finish following a goal mouth scramble, as he let fly a thunderous shot which the keeper could only parry into the net. 2-0. The pressure finally paid off as two minutes before time, the Mavericks secured the game after Zhifei scored with a sublime heel-flick following good work on the left flank from Fuad, Boon Kee and Amir, who squared a timely cross-shot into the box into Zhi Fei's path. With sheer technique, the striker directs his shot into the bottom corner of the net to make it 3-0.

Despite the comfortable looking result, the match was far from being comfortably played. Team Mavericks faced stiff competition against the Spartan-like defence of Balooku United, without forgetting the fact that mud was hindering the fluidity of the whole game. The whole team returned with some satisfaction and distaste over a rare 3rd clean sheet of the season that was achieved through a muddy experience and a stingy defensive line-up. The Mavericks were supposed to start the game in their new all black Adidas kits, only to be forced to wear their usual white due to unforeseen circumstances. Nevertheless, they got their jerseys black anyway at the end of the game, after playing in such torrid conditions, which led to the media labelling the field as a "Pig's Heaven".
Certainly, indeed.

Mavericks Take on Balooku (latest update)

Date: 22 December 2007
Location: Singapore Chinese Recreational Club (near Farrer Park MRT)
Estimated Kick-off: 9am
Opponents: Balooku United
Costs: $75/team


Players available:

• Jiunwei
  
• Chao Xing
  
• Alex
• Clement
• Chuan Ji
• Boon Kee
• Chung Wei
• Calvin
• Zhi Fei
• Amir
• Fuad
• Wei Long
• Kee Siang
• Mike
• Seng Yew
• Randy
• Boon Leng
  

Players out:

Players doubtful:

Man-to-watch(Mavericks): Jiun Wei

Midfield general, Kee Siang, who is out on a season-long loan to NTU-Hall-Eleven United F C till February next year, may be recalled early to help ease the injury crisis that had plagued the Mavericks' centre midfielders like Seng Yew and Boon Leng, who had both picked up an injury last week. Should negotiations for a premature termination of the loan deal break down, veteran right-back Jiun Wei, who is equally adept at central defence, and who have performed well by claiming 2 assists and a goal in recent matches, may be given a rare start in the heart of the midfield, as a holding man.

The draw against Team Uncles was one disappointment as Mavericks failed in its third successive attempt to gain an advantage over the stalwarts in a tightly-contested match. Mavericks will definitely be eager to forget last week's disappointment by defeating Balooku away from home.

Although the Outsiders will be playing at a unfamiliar timing at 9am (as requested by opponents), the expected new black Mavericks jersey's showcase will definitely boost squad morale nonetheless. Expect a wave of black warriors sweeping across the field on Saturday!

~Chao Xing

Note

*We were told at the eleventh hour that there are no morning slots for SSC fields. Although SSC has confirmed the booking and even accepted payment, they called to cancel the field booking without making further arrangements or make-up services. Guys, we may not be able to play 9am slots unless we are to pay more. Please also note that this is not a SSC field we are playing on tomorrow. Please find alternate timings for matches with opponents.

The Outsiders Turn Black Warriors

Suggested Mavericks jersey. (Shorts are not included)

The Outsiders will soon be donning a new jersey and possibly a new identity as we make the swtich from from white-blue to black. Jiun Wei has gotten us 20 adidas black tops which will, as mentioned earlier cost each of us $35, which is a actually a markup of the original cost price. The above picture is similar to our Mavericks' design. Its cooling dri-fit material should make up for the black colour that some players have voiced concerns over overheating leading to heatstroke issues.

19 first team players have indicated that they will be donning the black tops. Breakdown of all costs will be given either by myself or Jiun Wei to explain the need to get more from each player on the day of distribution. Basically the extra funds will be used to offset the cost of the extra jersey which we will keep for future new recruits. Some of the funds will also help subsidise the keeper's jersey so that Alex will pay the same price as each of us. The remaining funds will boost the club funds which have been badly depleted after helping to subsidise several $80-$90 matches so that our players only need to pay a flat $5 each time we play a match that had to be re-arranged through a middleman due to SSC's cancellation of field bookings on rainy days.


~Chao Xing

Street soccer tomorrow?

Guys, since today's match is cancelled, some of us are gonna go Braddell Heights CC to play street soccer tomorrow morning at 9am. It is located just beside Serangoon Interchange/MRT.

So far there are around 10 to 12 guys already which includes Boon Kee, Chuan Ji and Jiun Wei. Any more interested? Please reply asap.

Match Preview

Date: 15 December 2007
Location: Riverside Secondary School (near Woodlands MRT)
Kick-off: 3 pm
Opponents: Nas FC (green kit)
Costs: $50 per team

Players available:

• Chao Xing
• Jiun Wei
• Chuan Ji
• Randy
• Wei Jie
• Kee Siang
• Zhi Fei
• Amir
• Clement
  

Players out:

• Mike
• Boon Kee
• Tommy
• Adrian
• Seng Yew
  

Players doubtful:

• Boon Leng
• Faizy
  

The last encounter against Nas FC ended in a defeat, deemed a 'void' match, due to Mavericks being outnumbered 11 to 9. It has been almost forever that Mavericks last touched its home ground of State De Sembawang. However, fans can be sure that the Outsiders will be fighting hard to keep its unbeaten home record intact before the end of the season.

*sorry guys, location has been changed to Riverside Sec.. this is because Sembawang sec is already taken up.. please take note, thanks..

Mavericks man-to-watch: Amir (no.14)

Amir has been putting up spectacular performances after the exam break which saw him oust Zhi Fei in the top scorer chart. Always shouting for the ball, his enthusiasm on the pitch has garnered him many goals and assists. After equalising both times against Team Uncles last week, Amir will be eager to get on the score sheet again. Expect another stellar performance from Mavericks' no. 14.

Mavericks Draw Again

Date: 8 December 2007
Location: Farrer Park Field
Kick-off: 3pm
Opponents: Team Uncles

Starting line-up: Alex, Jiun Wei, Chuan Ji, Mike, Clement, Chao Xing, Amir, Seng Yew, Boon Leng, Chung Wei, Zhi Fei
Substitutes: Chin Yuen, Tommy, Boon Kee, CJ friend 1, CJ friend 2.

FT score: 2-2 (HT score: 0-0)
Goals: Amir ('54, '70)
Assists: Boon Leng, Boon Kee
Man-Of-Match: Amir



Mavericks FC secured a hard-fought 2-2 draw against their bogey team opponents Team Uncles FC (T.U.F.C.) with a brace from flamboyant winger Amir. The Mavericks no. 14 capped off a scintillating performance with two brilliant goals, one of which came off a breathtaking 30 yard free-kick from the edge of the box.

The match could have gone either way, but it was the Mavericks who came closest, after having most of the possession in the second half but they were unable to convert their many half-chances.
It ended 0-0 at half-time, before the floodgates opened in the second half.

Mavericks FC welcomed back their classy centre-midfielder, Boon Leng, from international duty and his return to action eased the midfield problems the outsiders encountered in recent matches as they solely missed Boon Leng's services.

The men in white certainly are a better team with Boon Leng in the middle, and his display at the heart of the Maverick's midfield showcased why the media has likened his playing style to that of spanish midfield maestro Cesc Fabregras.

The Mavericks also welcomed back star striker Zhi Fei and the ever-reliable centre-half Mike from their respective commitments. Also, the effervescent left-back Clement returns from injury but Faizy was unavailable due to international duty. Randy also got on the injury list after having slipped on the staircase and sprained his ankle after doing some breakdance moves before the match.

Once again, the Mavericks are without the services of world-class attacking midfielder Kee Siang (as usual), due to his ongoing contractual issues with the FA regarding his playing work permit.

The game started off brightly, with tireless midfielder-turned-striker Chung Wei nearly getting his name on the scoresheet. Amir played a brilliant through-pass after skipping past 2 defenders before releasing it to Chung Wei. He couldn't get the touch pass the onrushing keeper in time after being put through one-on-one, and the keeper managed to scramble the ball way.

Boon Leng and Seng Yew were playing nice touches in midfield, as team Mavericks got the ball rolling. Chao Xing had a shot from an acute angle brilliantly parried by the keeper after a typical lung-bursting run and Boon Leng nearly got his name on the scoresheet as well after Amir squared the ball from the right side of midfield. Zhi Fei had a shot saved after he managed to squeeze in a low shot from the edge of the box.

However, it wasn't the Mavericks all the way, as T.U.F.C had their fare share of chances, and they easily could have scored a couple of goals if not for the brilliance of Mavericks custodian Alex, who had 2 amazing saves at point-blank range, something Petr Cech would have been proud of.
Once again, Alex proves to be the difference in such high-octane matches, as his saves single-handedly kept his team still in the running in the match.
Half-Time Score: 0-0.

Second-half started with the rain drizzling down on the now mud-soaked pitch.
It was a fast-paced affair in the second half, with both teams having chances or rather, half-chances at either end. It was a more open game, as T.U.F.C. changed their formation to a wide 3-5-2 , and this gamble paid off as they scored against the run of play. Their number 10 managed to squeeze in a cross-shot from the right, which unfortunately crept over Alex at his far-post and landed into the net.

However, the Mavericks got an almost instant reply, after a ball from defence produced from great play between Chuan Ji and Jiun Wei reached the feet of Boon Leng, who dummied past the defensive midfielder before releasing an inch-perfect through-ball to the lurking Amir who stayed onside and controlled the ball with his right-foot before slotting it past the keeper with his left.
Brilliant equalizer from a brilliant set-up from Mavericks FC!!

However, to no avail, once again, a defensive mix-up allowed the T.U.F.C star striker room and space to squeeze in between the Maverick's defence and get on the end of a back-heeled through-pass before slotting it past the onrushing Alex to make it 2-1 to T.U.F.C.

This did not dampen the Mavericks' spirit, and from here on, the Mavericks pushed men forward, aiming to get the elusive equalizer. Boon Kee and Zhi Fei each had half-chances to equalize as well as Tommy who nearly scored after playing a neat one-two with Amir on the left flank. Seng Yew had a free-kick blocked well as well as a shot saved. Long balls from the defence looking for the runs of Boon Kee fell short as well as they were ineffective against a resolute T.U.F.C. defence which comprised several tall players. Mike was having a commanding display in defence, and it was to no surprise that it was the Mavericks who finally got the goal they deserved.

After having an earlier free-kick saved by the keeper, Amir had another chance to put things right again. Boon Kee got on the end of another brilliant ball from Boon Leng, before being felled 30 yards out at the edge of the penalty box. Amir stepped up to take the free-kick and scored a peach of a curler, which bent over the wall and past the keeper's flailing arms.
What a simply sublime goal!!!

By now, things were looking good for the Mavericks, as they pushed forward to kill the game for the winning goal. There were a fair share of chances, and the Mavericks nearly got the winner after Zhi Fei's rising shot from 20 yards was pushed away for a corner.
The resulting corner by Seng Yew....hmm...well....umm... you know what happened.
Pitch problems.

As African referee Charles blew the whistle for full time, Boon Kee said his thanks to him for giving the free-kick to team Mavericks which led to the goal.
Apparently, the referee had been fooled by Boon Kee's diving expertise, which single-handedly saved the game for the Mavericks.
What a naughty boy!

The fans left the Farrer Park field happy, as once again, their team gave them a highly-entertaining match, with plenty of exciting moments to savour.
The men in white would have been disappointed with the result, as they could have snatched a win after having the better share of possession.

However, it was nevertheless a good match, as they showed grit and determination to come from behind not once, but twice, and at least came away with something to take back home.
Great match fellas!!!
Final Score: 2-2.

Planned Trip to JB

Guys, I'm sure for those who just ORD-ed or finished their exams, you must be wondering what you can do for this holidays..

Perhaps more team bonding activities like planned outings?

Good idea?

Haha..

So, Zhi Fei has suggested for us to take a short trip to JB. We can makan and makan and take a short break from the stressful life in Singapore.

Sounds great?

Sign up now!

Match Preview

Date: 8 December 2007
Location: Farrer Park Field (near Farrer Park MRT)
Kick-off: 3pm
Opponents: Team Uncles
Costs: $50/team


Players available:

• Jiunwei
• Chao Xing
• Seng Yew
• Amir
• Zhi Fei
• Boon Kee
• Chung Wei
• Chuan Ji
• Chin Yuen
• Mike
• Tommy
• Boon Leng
  
  

Players out:

• Adrian
• Faizy
• Steven
  

Players doubtful:

• Clement (ankle injury)
• Randy (ankle injury)
• Calvin (flu)

After last week's superb fightback against Klutz FC, morale is high and the outsiders are eagerly anticipating the next match. Team Uncles cannot be underestimated as they boost a squad with experienced players, having played together for decades. Expect another close encounter like the previous one.

Match Arranged?

Guys, to help the match organising committee, Jiun Wei suggested for everyone to put their commitments beforehand. So before any match details are confirmed, please do confirm your availability here first in the comments section. Leaders, please ensure your group players respond, or you may collate all responses and write it here. Thanks.


Chao Xing

Last-gasp Winner Seals it for The Outsiders

1 December 2007
Venue: Tampines Street 83
Opponents: Kluz FC

Starting line-up: Alex, Randy, Chuan Ji, Faizy, Calvin, Chao Xing, , Jiun Wei, Chung Wei, Boon Kee, Steven, Amir
Substitutes: Seng Yew, Clement, Tommy

FT score: 7-6 (HT score: 3-2)
Goals: Boon Kee ('14) , ('26), Chung Wei ('39), Seng Yew ('64), Chao Xing ('74), Amir ('57), ('89).
Assists: Amir (2), Seng Yew, Jiun Wei
Man-Of-Match: Amir
Injuries: Clement (Twisted ankle)


Mavericks FC won a crazy 13-goal thriller at Tampines against a determined Kluz FC on Saturday with the score 7-6. A "clueless" Kluz FC did not know what hit them, after Amir's last minute winner send the Maverick's fans in the rafters to oblivion after a heart-stopping second half which saw both teams scoring at both ends, almost continuously, one after another.

Both sides started well, but the men in blue were stunned when the Kluz captain managed to squeeze past veteran defender Chuan Ji as well as Randy and send his shot flying through the roof of the net. The Mavericks, missing the likes of Boon Leng, Zhi Fei and Wei Jie, as well as Kee Siang (as usual), were running thin in the middle of the park, with only Seng Yew the only natural centre midfielder available. Thus, a makeshift centre-midfield pairing of Chao Xing and Amir was the best the Mavericks could put up before Seng Yew's arrival. However, the introduction of Seng Yew and Tommy changed the team's play, as within minutes, the Mavericks got their equalizer.

A high ball into the Kluz defence was flicked on by Amir with a deft header into the path of Boon Kee who made no mistake with a fine right-footed finish into the bottom corner of the net. Soon after, a brilliant diagonal ball from Seng Yew met Amir, who flicked a neat pass to Boon Kee who ran past the Kluz defence and made it 2-1 for the Mavericks.

Randy and Chung Wei made a couple of great runs down the left, which caused a lot of problems for the relatively slower opponents. Also, Jiun Wei's balls from over the top looking for the runs of Boon Kee added to the Kluz's worries as there were alot of penetration into the opponent's half. This set up an intense first half, which further saw two more goals. Furthermore, Clement was stretchered off after a late, late challenge from the Kluz No. 9 as he went in late for the ball, and caught Clement's ankle in the clash.

Things were going well, until Kluz FC, against the run of play, equalized through a penalty, when Chao Xing was adjudged to have handled the ball in the penalty area. The following penalty was dispatched cleanly, and it was all square once again. However, there was to be more drama at the end of the half, after a seemingly harmless ball was send into the Kluz penalty box. The 2 centrebacks and the keeper simply could not contain Chung Wei's burst into the box, and his sheer determination rewarded him with a fine goal as he bashed through all 3 of them and leaving the keeper injured in the process as it paved an open goal for Chung Wei to tap it home.
Half-time score: Kluz 2 - 3 Mavericks.

The second half started with a bang, as both sides were eager to maintain a grasp of the game. It was a surprisingly open affair as both sides had chances aplenty. It was rather an unusual afternoon, even african referee Charles was amused with the way both sides defended. Or rather, tried to defend. Haha.

Immediately from the restart, Kluz equalized with one of the countless goal-mouth scrambles that the crowds would see in the following half. However, this did not dampen the Maverick's spirits, as Seng Yew curled in a beautiful high diagonal through-pass to Amir, who had timed his run perfectly. Amir was send through one-on-one with the keeper and he took one touch with his right, and placed it into the bottom-corner of the net with his left foot. The crazy goal glut went on and on as 5 minutes later, Kluz FC got another horribly misjudged penalty appeal given to them by the african referee Charles. The accused this time round, Clement, who was re-introduced into the game, was totally speechless when the referee pointed to the spot.

Despite protests of "ball-to-hand", the referee had only this simple reply,
"No no no no....that is not ball to hand. It is handball!!"

And the following penalty was send into the roof of the net, although keeper Alex had a touch of it. 4-4. There were also a couple of great plays as Maverick's centre-back pairing of Faizy and Chuan Ji were even in the thick of the action in the centre of midfield as the team went in search of more goals.

Then, things took for the worst, and despite valiant defending from the Mavericks defence consisting of Faizy, Chuan Ji, Jiun Wei and Clement, coupled by a brilliant couple of saves from Mavericks custodian Alex, Kluz FC got the lead again, this time, with another one of their trademark goal-mouth scrambles. A corner kick was curled in, and a powerful header was sent towards the goal, and it hit Faizy on the head and deflected into the net. It could have been Faizy's first if it weren't on the wrong end of the pitch.

However, the Mavericks midfield never gave up, with the tireless Calvin and Chung Wei bursting down the wings as well as Tommy and Seng Yew running things from the middle, the Mavericks always looked like scoring. And scored they did. A beautiful one at that too.

Guest player Steven was fouled after a good run from midfield, and a freekick was awarded. Up stepped Seng Yew, as he prepared to take the freekick, which was quite a distance away from goal. However, he decided to go for goal, and went for goal he did as he curled in a brilliant 35 yard Beckham-esque freekick from the right side of the field to make things square. What a simply sublime goal!!! 5-5.

The celebration was shortlived. The men in black, spoiled the celebrations as they managed to bundle the ball into the net from another goal-mouth scramble. 5-6. Things were looking rather bleak for the Mavericks until a sublime solo effort from Chao Xing made it 6-6. After a lung-bursting run down the right flank, Chao Xing got past the left-back and sent in tremendous lob that sailed over the keeper and into the net via the top corner. What a brilliant equalizer!!!

Suddenly, it became a one-sided affair for the Outsiders, as they went in search for the winning goal. With the way things are in the match so far, it was not a surprise that either team could have snatched the winner, with the clock fast ticking down. The Mavericks' never-say-die attitude was seen and they got the winner they deserved.

After several chances went begging, Mavericks finally got their winner. With an all-out attack play, which even involved defensive trio Jiun Wei, Faizy and Chuan Ji dribbling into the opponent's half, Boon Kee managed to run down the defender, after being put through by a string of passes from the midfield. The loose ball was picked up by Amir and he got past another defender before flicking the ball over the keeper, and into the roof of the net, sending the Mavericks faithful into jubilation! What a last gasp finish!

The last goal finally broke Kluz FC's spirit. To add on to their misery, the Outsiders resorted to using numbers to hold their precious lead. By adopting an ULTRA-DEFENSIVE formation in the last few minutes of play in stoppage time, and having 11 men behind the ball, soaking up pressure in their own half, Kluz FC could do nothing but send testing shots from outside the box and were mostly harmlessly over and wide.

There were heart-wrenching moments in the dying seconds though, one of which was a corner which was conceded by Randy. The Kluz midfielder curled in the corner which was almost the last-kick of the game, and thankful enough, Amir was there to clear it away with a rare header out of the box.

And soon enough, the referee blew for the final whistle of the game and brought an end to what an amazingly, heart-stopping, thrilling, exhilarating match, with team Mavericks coming out tops 7-6 against a determined Kluz FC. Kudos to the men in blue!
The fans went home happy, cheering on the team and singing an african song.