Friendly Match

Date: 1 Feb 09
Venue: North View Sec
Kick off: 9am
Opponents:
Kit: Black
Referee: Kelvin
Cost: $70

Players available:

• Alex
  
• Chris
• Chao Xing
• Clement
  
• Chuan Ji
• Chung Wei
• Jiun Wei
• Darran
  
• Faizy
• Wei Jie
• Calvin
  
• Seng Yew
• Amir
• Jerome
• Wei Long
• Randy
  

Training match.

Final Score: System Error

Headlines: Mavericks breaks duck!

FT Score: RNS United 0 Mavericks 2

Scorers: Amir ('36), Khai ('67)
Assist: Khai, Kee Siang


Orchid Park - Mavericks FC bags their first win in the league after a hot-blooded match against RNS United, in a 2-0 victory. The Outsiders started in their all new vintage white strip, and with the festive blessings from several well-known media personalities, and the iron-will of their players, the team played a great game, despite enduring horrible tackles, and wresting finisher moves from their less illustrious opponents. The defence was marshalled superbly well, by the "new" centre-back pairing of Chuan Ji and new-but-old signing Mike.

The Referee's leniency didn't work all too well for the team, especially with flying winger Amir, who was utterly destroyed one too many time with a new match record of suffering 10 tackles-from-behind from their nice opponents. That didn't stop him from scoring an opportunistic goal late in the first half with a left-footed finish from new striker signing Khai's flick-on. The striker made sure his debut went off with a bang, with a sweetly struck right-footed drive in the second half, to extend the Outsiders' lead.

However, he was on the receiving end of a Donnie Yen-inspired "wingchun" Ip Man elbow-smash from an opponent player on his ribs, which ended his debut match prematurely. Barry, on the other hand, received an Ong Bak-inspired muay thai knee smash, which totally floored him in the second half, like totally. Wei Jie, who was having an excellent game as well, left the pitch injured as well. Midfield general Kee Siang, who was flawless in midfield, was also incessantly hacked down much to the chagrin of the Mavericks bench, with manager Chin Yuen standing and complaining furiously on the touchlines, obviously frustrated with the lack of protection his players are receiving from the referee.

However, the team battled and hanged on for the hard-fought victory. And may the Outsiders enjoy many more great victories in their all-new vintage white strip! A job well done fellas!

P.S.
Oh, and please keep on bringing girls to our matches.
They bring good luck, i think.

Match Preview

Date: 31 Jan 09
Venue: Orchid Park Sec
Kick-off: 3pm
Opponent: RNS United (Yellow)
Cost: $100
Kit: White, with black bottoms and white socks (Our new jersey!)
Referee: Unknown

Players available:

• Alex
• Chao Xing
• Clement
• Chris
• Mike
  
• Chuan Ji
• Jiun Wei
  
• Seng Yew
• Chin Yuen
• Wei Jie
  
• Barry
• Kee Siang
  
• Chung Wei
  
• Amir
• Wei Long
  

Time to burn off those extra calories gained during CNY visitings!

And not to forget ang baos from our very own Jiun Wei! haha

As a pre-match boost, our favourite local actress Ou Xuan wishes Mavericks FC a happy happy, healthy healthy, and wealthy wealthy New Year! And may luck be with the team and stop the team's slump in form! Let's win it tmr guys!

Latest News

Here, we bring u another edition of The Outsiders Times, YOUR only source of news for Mavericks FC and everything else associated with the club.

• FT Score: Scorchers 3 Mavericks 2

Scorers: Randy ('52), Kee Siang ('71)
Assist: Amir

Mavericks were beaten in a tightly-contested friendly match on Sunday morning in match that could have gone either way. Defensive errors proved costly for the Outsiders once again, as they lost 3-2 to Scorchers FC. Goals from Randy and Kee Siang could not save the Mavericks from yet another defeat, as they extend their losing streak to a calamitous 4 matches in a row.

An unusually-taken free-kick from right-back Chris, as well as Chuan Ji's narrowly missed header could have given the men in black the lead, but luck was not on their side. Randy nipped in a header as he raced past the static Scorchers defence to give his team the lead, only to see Scorchers FC score twice after miscommunication in the Mavericks backline. Kee Siang headed in an equaliser from Amir's corner-kick, but it just was not enough.

Man-of-match: The aggressive army-officer-like Referee. His use of authority was frighteningly super-duper scary. He would shout at you if you step on his toes. No, even stepping on an ant in the grass would be a bookable offence! He rocks big time, by the way.

• 
  

The Mavericks Board is pleased to announce the arrival of their new home strip. It is a vintage, retro-esque design, with a classic v-neck, and a figure hugging white top with black striped sleeves. A new sleek logo accompanies the front number font in front, with the Mavericks label at the back. Pretty neat one might say! No wonder the classic new strip has been sold out in what is only its first week of sales at the Stade de Sembawang merchandise store! Online orders are available for those who missed out on the pre-launch of the kit. Get your new vintage Outsiders replica jerseys right now! While stocks last!

• 
  

Brazilian star Kaka has rejected both Mavericks FC and Premier League club Manchester City and has decided to stay with AC Milan. The 2007 world player of the year was set to earn $750,000 per week with City, who were reported to be willing to pay a staggering $147 million to acquire his services.

While the Outsiders' overwhelming bid for the playmaker of over $200 million was greatly accepted by the Rossoneri, the club were unable to match the Eastlands club's wage offers on the other hand. However, it makes no difference in the end, as Kaka has chosen to stay at his beloved Milan. However, the Brazilian has dropped in hints regarding possible future transfer sagas.


"I believe I have made the right choice.To have gone to Mavericks FC could have been a great project but in the past few days I have prayed a lot to understand what the right team would be and in the end I have decided to remain here.I don't want anything else, I just want to be well and be happy in the place where people love me.

With all due respect to the utter cuteness of the Mavericks Owner and the great welfare the Mavericks Board has shown me the past week, I have made a very difficult, but right decision. It has been a great saga and now I am pleased that it has ended. I hope the club can sign someone else in place of me. Maybe Zidane or something. Or Beckham.

I have had a chat with David, and it has come to my interest that he has shown a great liking for the Outsiders recently. Perhaps, this could be the start of another story."

• 
  

The Mavericks Owner was at the premiere of the highly-anticipated tear-jerker movie starring several Mavericks superstars, He Liu Ru Xue. The premiere was screened at the Ambassador Breeze Center in Taipei to unanimous applause from the star-studded event, with the likes of Jacky Go Go Go host Jacky Wu, S.H.E member Hebe, Jolin Tsai, Wang Lee Hom and many others who had attended.

The Mavericks Owner was approached by a female reporter at the ladies' room right after the event for a short interview.



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Reporter: So what are your thoughts after watching the movie? Did it catch your breath?

Owner: Catch my breath? I think i catch a cold! (sneezes). It was so cold inside the theater. I wish i had brought my sweater! Or should have brought my doggie to hug. The movie was amazing. It was so very touching!

Reporter: Wasn't it nice to see your very own players in this great movie? Definitely one of the most epic movies of the year! How do you think your guys fared?

Owner: Chuan Ji or Jidic as he likes to be called....i love his performance! It was really sad to see him fight with the 2 brothers for the love of the beautiful Liu Xue, the heroine of the show. So touching and heartwarming!!

Reporter: Was it "heartwarming" as well after you saw the wet t-shirt scenes of Clement and Chris?

Owner: Heehee....yes. Heartwarming in another way altogether.

Reporter: Oooh. Cheeky cheeky comments. Okay, unrelated question. How are you going to deal with the recent slump in form of the Outsiders?

Owner: This is a difficult time for the club. And it doesnt help having people like Shebby Shebster still making stoopid comments about the team. I know we will get out of this rut sooner than later, once we get rid of these errors during matches. Plus, i am still searching the transfer market for another natural centre-back. But i guess it will take some time. So far, tactics-wise, we are slowly moving forward, i am convinced.

Reporter: Ok. Last question. About the possible appointment of a manager for the club?

Owner: Hmm...at the moment, nothing has been confirmed as of yet. But from the look of things, we have just recently rejected a possible candidate. And I'm not talking about Ruud Gullit! And currently, i can safely say, we have decided not to appoint an outsider to coach the Outsiders. No pun intended (giggles). I have full confidence in the ability of the management team, and i believe they can carry out their duties with pride, discipline and honour.

We have several player-managers in the team, and i think they are able to carry the team well. And plus, i'll be a lot busier after the festive season, as i'll be filming my new drama, "Superstar Express" and will have less time for the club, but i'm sure things will turn out alrite.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

• 
  

Last but not least, the Mavericks board would like to wish everyone a happy happy and healthy healthy Chinese New Year! Gong Xi Fa Cai! The Mavericks Owner has even left a surprise greeting video for the team and its fans from the comfort of her suite at the Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza Hotel in Taipei as she was taking the weekend off from the filming of her new drama. Here, we bring you the video live! Enjoy!





That's all for this edition of The Outsiders Times.
Comments very much welcomed.

Match Preview

Date: 25 Jan 09 - SUNDAY
Venue: Si Ling Sec (Woodlands area)
Kickoff: 9am
Opponents: Scorchers FC
Kit: Black
Referee: TBC
Costs: $50

Players available:

Alex
Seng Yew
Jiun Wei
Chao Xing
Chris
Chuan Ji
Clement
Kelvin
Wei Jie
Kee Siang
Barry
Chin Yuen
Amir
Wei Long
Randy



Players Unavailable:

Chung Wei (1 week's unpaid leave)
Darran (still serving Owner's errand; this time, as photographer)
Zhi Fei
Faizy
Midzi


Latecoming fine still applies for friendly matches. Report timing for all players is 8.45am. The stipulated time for a few whom I have personally contacted would be at 8.20am at Woodlands MRT. Latecoming rule still applies to this small group.


Team Scorchers is a good team. More established than Team Mavericks in terms of the number of years the team has been playing together. The odds might be slightly tilted to the opposing side. But the Outsiders are not unused to playing as underdogs.

On a lighter note, please wear a pair of black shorts and white socks (wherever possible) for phototaking. Thanks.



~Chao Xing

Secondary Goal Met

Hi guys, I was looking through the older blog entries and reliving the good old days we had. Our complaints, our laughters, our corny match reports. And those funny pictures..

And I'm so glad that we are still going strong and maintaining that team spirit in us at the moment. I'm also pleased to announce that the midterm goal I've set for the team has been met. We are in the midst of turning competitive (although I hardly see much difference, except the improved discipline, improved go-home timings, improved opponents.. etc). Despite the numerous changes, we are still undeterred by the challenges.

And there may be some potential upsets in this transition period. But I assure everyone that entry into league was not a last minute stopgap decision, only that it was brought forward ahead of its schedule. I had taken for granted that our midterm goal was known throughout the squad. And that because it was greeted with approval from the squad back then, it should receive the same reception.

We had new players. So there would be those who may not realise yet, that the league entry was a carefully planned move. 2 years ago, we were still trying to bolster our team strength. 2 years later, even though we had almost all the right players already, we are still lack playing time together. And a proper system to be re-introduced.

Although the plan was brought slightly forward due to unforeseen circumstances, the top personnel in charge of our team are well-prepared for the new change. In other words, I feel that the squad is almost ready, it's only because there wasn't enough time to play as a team yet.

There will be further plans that we will reveal. Chin Yuen has a clear and simple system which will be implemented. Yes, in the meantime, we understand the various burning issues you may have. But until the new system introduced to the team is stabilised, please be patient with the arrangement for the time being. Of course, any feedback can still be directed to the welfare side, Chin Yuen or Darren. I am also currently standing in to help any potential complaints you have. It is certainly not anyone's wish to alienate the loyal stalwarts or the new blood we have in the team at the moment.

We want to improve the squad, not just performance. But everything from welfare to discipline to some form of professionalism, gradually. If we adjust our mindset slowly to marking our playing time with Mavericks as a commitment like what myself and some others have already done, be it a friendly match or league match, we will be a much unified team. I hope that there will not be a big hoo-ha about competitive since we are already playing competitive friendlies for years. Let's understand the team's position and instead of whining in a corner, compete for the places you desire or has been determined to excel in.

And changes take time to implement. I won't enforce any drastic policies. For the new players, please click on the following link, and you will know I'm not bullshitting. Haha.





http://mavericksfc.blogspot.com/2007/08/exclusive-interview-chao-xing.html

Latest News

Here, we bring u another edition of The Outsiders Times, YOUR only source of news for Mavericks FC and everything else associated with the club.

• Match Report: Skopets 3 Mavericks 2
  

Scorers: Chuan Ji ('31 pen), Wei Long ('41)
Assist: Darran


Mavericks FC continues their indifferent start to the league season, with a 2-3 defeat in an otherwise plucky performance against Skopet FC. The Outsiders could have nipped in and got away with at least a point, however, luck was against them (and the wind as well, as what Seng Yew had said).

After conceding 2 goals in the opening 30 minutes, the Outsiders did well to get back into the game, with Chuan Ji's superbly-taken penalty after Darran was felled in the box. Striker Wei Long restored parity just before the stroke of half-time, with a brilliantly guided header into the bottom corner of the net. Amir did no favours to his team as he missed an earlier penalty which he had won himself. Skopet FC nicked in a 3rd, decisive goal in the 2nd half, and despite valiant attempts by the Outsiders, they could not overturn the deficit.


Journalists managed to catch up with flamboyant winger Amir in the dressing room right after the final whistle.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Journalist: You missed a penalty. That would have been a crucial goal. And the team lost. Especially at this point of time when the club is right in the midst of a relegation battle. How does it feel to be one of the causes of the team's defeat?


Amir: Thanks for reminding. Yes, yes. It really doesn't feel good. Not at all. I know i could have done so much better. I wish to apologise to my team-mates. One of my new year's resolutions was to be more decisive. But in this instance, i was caught in two minds. Usually, i would have tried placing it into the right bottom corner. But i saw the keeper was leaning more to his left side, and i made an awful shot towards my left. As you can see, it smacked the dark side of the post. It seems i have a lot more to learn.


Journalist: Oh i agree. Master Jedi Shearer wouldn't be proud of his apprentice after that penalty. It seems that a lot more to learn, you have. Learning from Chuan Ji would have been the wiser choice after all.

So how did the match go, personally for you? At one point, the crowd seemed super pissed, and screaming things in your direction. But as the match wore on, their anger somehow subsided. What do you think is the cause?


Amir: I don't know for sure. Maybe it's cause i actually did some defending in the match? Clement seems pretty happy to me from the looks of his face throughout the 90 minutes. And besides, I have really had enough of the Owner's rants. She's very pissed off with me every match, coz everybody knows i can't defend for nuts. But the extra sessions with her has been doing great. And shows that it's actually working. So i'm pretty pleased. Hope the fans are too.

But what matters most, is getting the 3 points. Which we didn't achieve on Saturday. So all in all, it was kinda disappointing.


Journalist: Any comments regarding centre-back Seng Yew's claims? About the first goal the team conceded due to the wind?


Amir: He said that? Hmm...from what i know, the wind was quite strong that day. So it could have blown the ball off his feet and made an inch-perfect Zidane-like throughball assist for the striker to score. I didn't catch much of the goal, because i was still getting back on my feet after i had dived.


Journalist: So you do admit that you dived? So was the penalty you won solely due to your diving expertise?


Amir: Wat the! How darez you!! I didn't dive for that one. You can clearly see the replays.


Journalist: Some sections of the crowds said you tripped over your own stepovers. What have you to say about this?


Amir: ............


Journalist: Loss for words, i presume? Next question. Any words to say regarding the revolution the new Owner has brought forth upon the club? Do you see the club becoming great in the future?


Amir: I think she has done kinda well. From the looks of things, despite our poor form, she has added some much-needed zest in the club.

But she's pretty strict regarding rules around here. For example, just last week, WeiLong and Randy were forced to wash her personal shower-room just because they commented that her perfume was too strong. I heard they took one whole week to scrub her bathtub!

And Darran became her personal errand boy after he accidentally kicked the ball and hit her bum. And I'm pretty sure he wasn't just merely an errand boy for those 2 weeks though. But she's a good owner with a vision for the club, and hopefully, we can get our results back on track real soon.


Journalist: Looks like you're in for a long night tonight. Especially with that missed penalty of yours. Tell us all about it next time. Good luck! Last question. Are you ever going to go back on your decision to retire from international duty? From the looks of the highlights in your last ever international match, we think that no one will miss your services at all. That was really amazing how you completely miskicked when the goal was at your mercy.

Thank goodness the team won in the end.

Lucky you. Any comments?


Amir: Ok stop the act already! You're a reporter from Team Uncles right!!! Vendetta! Vendetta! (kicks journalist in the groin)



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
(Highlights from that match below; especially 1.04min-1.14min!)

• Mavericks winger Amir has been fined by the FA after allegedly being involved in a post-match bust-up with a journalist. Sources cited that he will serve a 2-match touchline ban just like his favourite Newcastle manager, Joe Kinnear, who's very fond of doing that.

• 
  

• 

The highly-anticipated directorial debut of Director Seng Yew,
He Liu Ru Xue, has met with wide critical acclaim in box-offices worldwide. Since it's release in cinemas, the movie has easily overtaken "Red Cliff 2", "Ong Bak 2, "Ip Man" and even cult hit"Ponyo Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea".

The film sees Mavericks veteran Chuan Ji in a starring role, alongside, Chris and Clement who were also in their respective acting debuts. The film received unanimous favourable responses, after opening at the Cannes Film Festival over the weekend, to overwhelming reviews. Representatives from The International Federation of Film Producers Associations cited the movie as being "highly absorbing" and were "lost for words" when they were asked for reviews. Audiences were captivated by the powerful performance of Chuan Ji as the protagonist of the story, and were also impressed by the sheer magnanimity of emotions in the "love triangle" plot.

Adolf. H from Slate Magazines called the film "the herald of another blessed event: the arrival of a great director by the name of Seng Yew." He hailed the film's extended car chase and love-duel scenes as "two of the most virtuoso single-shot chase sequences I've ever seen." Hong Myong Bo of The Straits Times called the film a "superbly directed love thriller", raining accolades on the wet t-shirt scenes from both Chris and Clement.

As of 20 January 2009, He Liu Ru Xue grossed $69,612,678 worldwide, with $35,552,383 of the revenue generated in Kazakhstan alone.

• Fans haven't been able to make up their mind which goal was the goal of the month in December after the online polls ended last week. It is a draw between Darran's goal against Bedok Blues and Seng Yew's long range lob from the same match, with both goals garnering the same number of votes after a month-long online poll was conducted. Both players will be relieved of match report duties for 1 match. Yay-ness!

• Due to the overwhelming workload she has recently got herself into, the Mavericks Owner has announced that there will be plans to appoint a new manager for the club soon. The Owner will be involved in the upcoming taiwanese drama "Superstar Express", playing the character as Chen Mo Mo and will therefore have less time for the club for the upcoming months. The drama is currently in production, and the Owner has stated that she will be handing over most of her managerial duties to the new manager. Several unreliable sources have cited that ex-LA Galaxy manager Ruud Gullit is favourites to take up the hot seat. Gullit resigned as coach from the Los Angeles Galaxy after a seven-game winless streak. The other possible candidate cited is none other than ex-Sunderland boss Roy Keane. But everybody knows Roy Keane could have been a dark lord of the Sith if he wasn't involved in football in the first place.
  

• Star Wars fans are in for a treat, after Star Wars creator Georgie Lucas has finished penning the storyline, and promised to leak several preview posters of the next Star Wars sequel movie which has been known simply as "Star Wars: Episode 7" at this point of time. What's this got to do with the Outsiders? Watch this space next week!

That's all for this edition of The Outsiders Times.
Comments very much welcomed.

Outsiders Hijacks Man City's Bid for Kaka

Kaka: Should I stay or go to Manchester City? But the Mavericks' Owner....I can't resist!!!


Manchester City’s incredible attempt to lure former World Player of the Year, Ricardo Kaka to the Eastlands is under threat after AC Milan acknowledged they were considering a wild offer of around £200m bid for the Brazilian by Mavericks FC.

A statement read out on Milan’s official TV channel said the bid had neither been accepted or rejected, but was “being considered.”

Given the private soundings they have received over the past few weeks, Manchester City insiders believe Milan will find the then would-be world record fee of £107m down put forward by Manchester City's filthy rich Abu Dhabi Group too hard to resist. However, latest reports revealed that the Mavericks Owner has further underlined her statement of making the Outsiders a force to be reckoned with, by tabling a staggering bid for Kaka, in the £200m region.

AC Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti has admitted for the first time Kaka may not remain at the club and could finally bide farewell to his amazing tenure at the San Siro where he had practically won every honour in football a player could.

The Milan hierarchy have not made an official declaration on Kaka's status with the Rossoneri but Ancelotti said this afternoon at the club's press conference ahead of Saturday's game against Fiorentina: "I believe there is a negotiation ongoing and hence, it's something the club will have to evaluate with the player"

"My hope is that I can coach Kaka for many more years but we have to look at what the club evaluates regarding an offer that has been presented."

Various meetings will then take place involving Kaka and his advisers, AC Milan and Mavericks officials, the outcome of which will determine whether the most amazing transfer in living memory actually goes through.

However, there remains a potential stumbling block for the transfer to go through as the Outsiders are reportedly unable to match up to the eye-bulging £500,000-a-week contract offer the Blues of Manchester have offered to one of the best playmakers of the modern game.

This is due to the already exceedingly expensive wage budget the club has incurred, mainly due to the highly exorbitant wage demands of its players, most notably by Chin Yuen and Darran. The club is also still paying 95% of the XS-FC player Boon Leng's wages as well as the full wages of Mike and Tommy, both who haven't been playing for the club since the last time Newcastle actually won a match. Chung Wei is currently the club's highest earner at £200,000-a-week. Midfield general Kee Siang is the most underpaid player at the club, with wages totalling 60 quids per match in a match-by-match basis contract.

The journey to the top of the game may be long, but Kaka’s arrival, supplemented by a strong shake-up to the team's game, would not leave the Outsiders' owner that far from her target.

However, the transfer isn't a done deal, and still in the pipeworks and fans of the men in black have never felt this great anticipation before, ever since the club signed world-class fullback Chris from Hyenas FC.

Surprise and shock is turning to anger as AC Milan fans contemplate the possibility of Kaka being sold. This, once again, proves that, in the world of football, money talks.


Photo: All smiles! Kaka on the phone with Mavericks' cute Owner

"I want to make this transfer a possibility, as i feel that our fans deserve to be entertained while the team plays. This has and will always be my policy for the club; I will get these "Kawaii-ticos" (a pun on "Galacticos"), as i feel that this is the next step in the right direction for the club. And plus I think Kaka's cute (giggles)."

The Mavericks Owner said in an interview at the San Siro Press Conference room.

"I know, I know this isn't the right way to deal with transfers, but we have every right to make a bid for the player, since nothing has been set in stone with the Manchester City bid. Even Sengkang Marine FC can hijack our bid for Kaka for all i care. In the football transfer market, all's fair, and the one who gives out the best deal, gets the player."

"And not to mention, if Kaka moves to Mavericks FC, i will personally give him all the love he needs, (as well as all 4 personally autographed albums of mine)!".

The Mavericks Owner has personally flown to Milan to hold the talks, as she faces a brutish angry-faced Manchester City boss Mark Hughes, who's not all too happy at having seen his bid for the playmaker hijacked. The transfer saga continues.



Photo: How Kaka would look like in the Outsiders' colours.

In the meantime, Mavericks FC faces Skopet FC tomorrow and everyone will be hoping that the Outsiders get their season back on track. Tickets have been sold out to what promises to be a highly-entertaining clash.

Logo designs

Please comment!

Match Preview

Date: 17th Jan 09 ( Saturday )
Venue: Orchid Park Sec ( Near khatib mrt, Chuan Ji's house) (Synthetic field)
Opponents: Skopets (Black)
Kickoff: 3pm
MEETING TIME : 2pm at the pitch (IMPORTANT!)
Referee: Hendra
Kit: White

Hi guys, we need to meet up early to talk about our play, tactics and line up as well as do some warm ups and set pieces before the match. Even though this coming Sunday we are training (venue: most prob Sembawang Pri), however I feel we really need to talk and discuss before next match. For the upcoming match, we know most of the opponents' strengths and weaknesses, so the more we can plan for the match. As proposed, there will be a team manager every week to choose the starting eleven and the substitutes. We will also try to limit the substitutes so to not disrupt the flow of our play. I hope we can understand that we are changing our friendly mentality to a more competitive mentality. So this is necessary.

This coming match, we will focus on 3 things, DEFENDING, PASSING AS A TEAM (keep possession) and COMMUNICATION. The team manager will be briefing on the tactics and instructions, therefore he will need everyone's cooperation. Lastly, I hope everyone will be early and reach by 2pm. Thank you! Lets be focus for this match and try to play our game.

Please confirm your attendance asap and bring extra 15 dollars for jersey. Thanks.

1. Alex
   
2. Barry
3. Chin Yuen
4. Chao Xing
   
5. Chuan Ji
6. Clarence
7. Kelvin (Clement's friend)
8. Amir
9. Seng Yew
10. Weijie
11. Darran
12. Chris
13. Jiunwei
14. Faizy
15. Wei Long
16. Chung Wei
    

Training Focus

Hi guys,

I hope by the 2nd match everyone has already realised that the factors for poor performance isn't a one-off thingy. I am sad but not shocked at the losses. But with a new influx of players, we will need time to gel together, so we can only improve from here, if everyone shares the same belief as me.

I understand everyone worked hard and felt aggrieved at losing a 2-0 lead taken early into the game. Tactics-wise, we have always depended on one or two players to lead the attack while the defenders defend. Somehow the long balls seemed to have made the midfielders seem obsolete. Our centre-mids are friendly and not that aggressive for the ball. Besides, I agree with Seng Yew that once we concede, the originally progressive agreed passing tactics go haywire.

For myself, I have been "super-sub" for a long time - either due to injury, commitments, poor performance, fitness or because I'm the most convenient substitute. There are those who complain about not having enough playtime, if knowing the fact that my attendance vs playtime ratio is the "best" is one form of consolation, I hope you will feel slightly better hearing this.

There are those who complain they are played out of position and do not know what to do. I can only say for some of you, be prepared to play as backup for another position. We'll play for each other. I will be challenging everywhere (but not anywhere) for the permanent slot that has eluded me since 2 years ago.

Gameplay is simple. We don't need so many words. Only mutual understanding among us and it takes time. Changes can't take effect overnight. I may not have fully grasp everyone's playing style but there are some notable things that I wish to let the others (esp. the new guys) to take note.



Defenders
Chuan Ji is the one to command the defence. Without him, do not play offside traps. But being the skilful defender, he has the tendency to frustrate (and entertain our fans) the opponents with his juggling in defence. Do watch out though, be prepared to cover him when he gets slightly distracted by some girls winking at him and loses possession. haha..

Randy seems accustomed as a striker nowadays as he seems to have lost his aggression as a defender. Jiun Wei also seems distracted, I hope it's not due to the late night cage session prior to the game.

Chris is strong and aggressive. He is good at the right and equally adept as a backup centreback. He is a much better player when he gets serious and jokes less. (yes, frequent clubbing is fine but not on Friday nights)

Centre-mids
Needless to say much. We are losing possession in the midfield. Soft on the tackles but the creative force of Seng Yew, Barry and not forgetting Kee Siang, (if/when he comes back to us with the same fitness as before) are our best strengths. Wei Jie is a good ball winner. And Chin Yuen can command the midfield once he fully recovers from his nosebleed. haha..


Wingers
Amir prefers to take shots from tight angles (and I think he scores more from the sides rather than from the front). You may want to wait to pounce on the rebound rather than go deep into the box for him to cross.

Whereas for Chung Wei and Jerome, would normally stop the ball (then switch to their right foot if they are played on the left) and make the cross. It is advisable if you are confident at it, to make the cross while you are on the move (even if it means using your weaker foot), we may lose the counteroffensive advantage by that one or two seconds delay.

And yes, please let Darran run more. He's eager for ball all the time. And I think he deserves the attention.

Attackers
Ah.. many potential complaints from them. They always complain they don't get the ball or the long ball is too far to chase. I think either we make a short pass to their feet or let them run onto the ball. Our strikers are just as fast (if not faster) than our own number 11 - the legendary Giggs! But yes, I agree with Midzi that our first touches.. have room for improvement, but it all boils down to individual skill, which the training I'm about to propose, may not help much.

The new training programme will be focused on defence and headed by Chuan Ji. Like what Chuan Ji said, even if we can't win, we should at least not lose. Here are some details of the proposed training:

Where?: Sembawang Primary School (Click for the list of all free-to-play fields)*
When?: Sunday morning 9am (timing TBC, don't be late coz need to "chop" field)
Who?: YOU. Compulsory for the first team (optional for second team members)
What?:Defence Training. (What else? Look at our leaky defence.)

*The hours of operation are from 3.00pm to 7.00pm on Saturdays and 9.00am to 7.00pm on Sundays.

Relegation Fears for the Outsiders

Date: 10 Jan 2008

FT Score: Dirty Dozen 8 - 2 Mavericks FC

Scorers: Taufiq ('9, '23)
Assist: System Error
MOM: System Error


Keeping the team in the D2D League after promotion has been one of the toughest jobs in football. The Mavericks owner will be hoping to continue her record of not being relegated ever before with her teams in her 3 months as a football manager. After promotion, the club kept all the players, but in order to compete in the top division, the team requires big strengthening. This was answered, as the owner splashed her cash on several explosive new signings during the pre-season, in the hope of ensuring premier league survival, as well as a possible top 3 finish.

However, they didn't exactly get the start they hoped. The Outsiders had a taste of how difficult life will be in the league after a hair-raising defeat at the hands of Dirty Dozen FC. An abysmal performance ensured that the owner was tailed by rabid paparazzi all the way to her Hilton HK Hotel suite, who had several questions to raise to her, in the wake of yet another disappointing result for her beloved team. The owner managed to dodge the lurking journalists, as once again, Clement came to the rescue in his Mitsubishi Lancer.

That just emphasizes how crucial it will be to pick up more than their fair share of points on away ground and away from the comforts of their Stade de Sembawang pitch over the next 4 months. It will be a stern test, but something no doubt the Outsiders will be even more determined to put right after a stuttering start to the season.

And, away, in a secret corner, away from civilisation, sits Shebby "Shebster" Singh. Chuckling to himself at the thought of the illustrious football club, that is Mavericks FC down in the doldrums of the league.

Match Preview

Date: 10th Jan 09 ( Saturday )
Venue: Serangoon Sec
Opponents: Dirty Dozen (red)
Kickoff: 3pm
Referee: unknown
Kit: White
Cost: $100

Players Available:

• Alex
• Clement
• Faizy
• Chao Xing
• Jiun Wei
• Chris
• Seng Yew
• Wei Jie
• Darran
  
• Chin Yuen
• Barry
• Amir
• Wei Long
• Midzi
• Zhi Fei
• Randy
  
• Explosive Signing II
• Kelvin (on trial from Sydney FC)
• Wen Jin (on trial from Sydney FC)
  

LATEST NEWS/UPDATES

Sydney FC released two players at the very last minute and they both decided to trial for Mavericks FC in its second league match. Kelvin and Wen Jin have been frustrated by the rejection of the demand for higher wages and have decided to trial for Mavericks FC with its new riches from the new owner!

If all goes well, it is rumouored that the new owner is willing to fork out $50 million for the signing of both players.

Please confirm yr attendance, Thanks

Team Buffalo find themselves at the top of the table with a 4 nil drubbing of the Mavericks. (http://www.d2dsports.com/)

Guys, let's not let this happen again. But also, have fun, don't stress. We'll be up against an opponent whose first match will this Saturday, so as usual we won't know their strengths or weaknesses yet.

Also pls note that venue has been changed to Serangoon Sec, previously it was Tanjong Katong Sec.

Jersey Design

Hey guys, we are proposing this design as the home jersey.

This will be our backup. Please comment.


We may get either tops (or both) depending on price and availability.

Outsiders Owner Blasts Media

TTV Building, Taipei City - The Mavericks Owner has blasted the claims made by Shebby "Shebster" Singh in a post-match analysis evening show after the Outsiders' sound thumping by Team Buffalo on Saturday. The Owner, who was attending the premiere of the last episode of her taiwanese idol dramedy "Miss No Good!", was approached by journalists at the lobby, and she was more than happy to speak her mind out regarding the issue with the press.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Journalist: Wow. That was quite a lesson of football your team was taught on Saturday. We are sure you would have heard the claims made by Shebster during the post-match analysis with Suzanne Jung on Saturday. Any comments on this?


Owner: Yes, yes i have heard. Regarding the defeat, i have the utmost respect for Team Buffalo for the way they took control of the game on Saturday. Rest assured, it will not be a thing to worry for us, because we have time and time again, picked ourselves up, and this time, this is no different.

We will take this lesson in mind, and improve on our team game, and mind you, this defeat is nothing but a mere stepping stone. We are already looking forward to the next game. The team is good enough to get back on its feet, and i know it won't be an easy task, but we're up for it.

Journalist: Nicely put, i must say. And about the claims made by Shebster?

Owner: Oh. Don't let me get started on this. His comments were rather unprofessional! He has no right to say these kind of things about my team. My team of cute boys have always done their best, and mistakes aside, we have always given 100%. I remember him mentioning, "it is not unsafe to say it is not a team game, it is still safe to say the game is played by 11 players." This is very insulting! (stomps her small feet in disgust).

How can you say such things!! He was indirectly critisizing the way my team plays and dissing on the teamwork of my players! I am so angry! Even my left winger helped out the defence in the last match! Didn't he see that on Saturday?

Journalist: Yes, yes. We saw that. Very clearly. But didn't help much with the scoreline, in the end, did it? Okay nevermind. Take that last comment off the record.

You must have been irate at the metaphors he used to describe your team. Using phrases such as "a pair of scissors cause sometimes it's better to be a pair of scissors than a rock" and "I'm a human being and we all know that paper is not organic" regarding your team's performance. It must have totally soured your "Girls Only" pyjamas party with Jolin, Cyndi and Makiyo at your place that Saturday evening we bet.

Owner: Eeeeeee!! I hate him!! (tugging at her ponytails). It is really unfair to say these mean things! I've never even said anything bad about him or how legendary his performances were on the pitch for his country!! When was the last time he played?! During WW2?! He should not dismissed us as "organic"! What did he mean by that anyway?!!!

Journalist: Erm, what he meant was that, erm...erm...next question? He made claims regarding Robert De Niro being the better actor than Al Pacino. What is your opinion?

Owner: (sulking). Who are they? "Pacino" sounds like the name of a poodle. So ke ai! (smiles) Wanna see my doggie? (shows journalist her handphone wallpaper)

photo

Journalist: Okay. Didn't see that coming. Last question. Surely the parting comments at the end of the show on Saturday evening made u all PMS-ey like. He gave a double-edged statement, " I would say take pride in your football and in playing good football". Anything to comment on this?

Owner: Hmmph. I do agree with that statement of his, but the way he said it feels fishy. Of course the team takes pride in playing good football. But i didn't like the tone of his words.

By the way, catch the last episode of my drama tonight as well as the last episode of The Little Nonya after that too! Anyway, Clement's waiting for me. (points at a Mitsubishi Lancer outside).
Gotta go! Tata! Bubbyez!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



Details regarding the next league game will be put up soon.
Currently, tickets have been selling like hotcakes in the 1990s!
Why 1990s, you might ask?
Because now hotcakes expensive already, so can't sell as much as before!

Joke!

Mavericks FC: The new Rantau Rovers, still better than the SMU girls' team

Date: 3 Jan 2008

FT Score: Team Buffalo 4 - 0 Mavericks FC

Scorers: System Error
Assist: System Error
MOM: System Error


Line up - Alex (GK), Clement (LB), Jiun Wei (CB), Chris(CB), Darran (RB), Amir (LM), Wei Jie (CM), Seng Yew (CM), Chao Xing (RM), Zhi Fei (CF), Midzi (CF)

Subs: Chin Yuen, Kee Siang, Randy, Chung Wei, Jerome

Suzanne Jung: We are honoured today to have football hero Shebby "Shebster" Singh help us with our post-match analysis today.

SJ: Evening Mr Singh

Shebby Singh: I would prefer it if you addressed me as Captain Singh.

SJ: Alright, so Captain Singh, do you have any comments after watching the game?

SS: If there's anything clear about football, it is that there are no clear things in football.But it is clear that i cannot look past Team Buffalo for the league title, but if they suddenly became see through, which is physically impossible even though they're not really a physical being but theoretically a team conceptually, then i could see past them for the title, but physically it's not possible.

SJ: Are there any certain areas that you feel the Mavericks could have done better in the game?

SS: No. I believe football is a team game and if it's not a team game it would be played by 1 player but it's played by 11 players so I think it's safe to say it is a team game, but although it is not unsafe to say it is not a team game, it is still safe to say the game is played by 11 players. I always believed in total football and though I used to be a rock in defence, I could also be like ya'know a pair of scissors cause sometimes it's better to be a pair of scissors than a rock, but
I could also be, like paper. But it would be silly to say I was made of paper cause I'm a human being and we all know that paper is not organic, but you could say I was made of rock because that is a metaphor and no one really believes I'm made of rock.

SJ: Certain players believe Mavericks should attempt to play the game more along the ground and not just lump it forward. What do you think of that?

SS: The Brazilians said football should be played on the land and not the air. They never said it should not be played on the water, but i think that is taken for granted because if we played it on the water, we would have to walk on water and only Jesus can walk on water, but as we know football was only invented in 1992, so like ya'know, this cannot be true. I once watched a movie called City of God which is about Brazil and Goal 2: Living the Dream which is about football, so I think its fair to say I can be considered an expert on Brazilian football, but it is unfair to say Robert De Niro is a better actor than Al Pacino even though Robert De Niro once took a holiday in Malaysia which is the country where I was the captain, so its fair to say that is unfair.

SJ: Finally, do you have any parting words you would like to share with the Mavericks team?

SS: I would say take pride in your football and in playing good football and that is to say that that's all I would say because if I said anymore it would be like I have said too much, because
like they say, football is a simple game and I'm a football man and if I said too much, then it wouldn't be simple and so I wouldn't be like a football man because as they say, football is a simple game.

Kick-Off: The New Season

Reception Room, Stade de Sembawang - Mavericks Football Club held a special pre-season press conference at the Stade de Sembawang reception room on Friday evening as the Outsiders prepare to kick-off their new league campaign in 2009. The press conference was aired live right after the telecast of the tear-jerking second last episode of the blockbuster drama The Little Nonya.

The owner of the club made a press statement, regarding how preparations have been going as the team look to carry forward their good pre-season form into the league.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



Owner: Hi hi hi everyone. Glad to see all of you. Good evening! (puts two fingers at her cheeks)

Reporter: Hello and good evening ma'am.

Owner: Don't call me that okie. I'm still young and single. Anyway I'll start the ball rolling. Heehee. As owner of this club, i've ensured that all preparations have gone well as i have personally supervised the players before, during and after training sessions. I must say, some of them haven't been behaving lately. But i'll give them some leeway because it is the new year.
Happy New Year everyone!

Reporter: Happy New Year to you too. So you mentioned supervising the players 24/7? How do you manage that? From our knowledge from this upcoming new season, you have 20 registered players and 4-5 reserve players in the "B" team. Surely it is impossible to supervise them all?

Owner: Hmm, actually it's not a problem. I have my 'own' means of doing that. So this information is confidential. Purely club issues. Yes, we have about a 25-man strong squad, more or less, and i know only 15 can make it on the team list on matchday, so it's quite competitive i must say. My ultimate goal is to have 2 world-class players in each position, but obviously from the look of things, that goal hasn't been met yet.

Reporter: The general public agrees. Currently, from the looks of the squad, we can safely conclude you only have about one player who can be deemed world-class at this moment, namely midfield maestro Seng Yew. Any further new signings, probably world-class ones in your mind? before the transfer window closes?

Owner: Well, i have set my sights on a couple of players, but you know with how things are in the transfer market, you don't always get the players you want. I've said this before, and i'll say it again. The current first-choice left winger of mine has got to start defending.

Reporter: Oh let's not mention him anymore; we fully understand how you feel. Speaking of new signings, are you happy with the signings you made in pre-season? Have their performances so far fully justified their expensive price tags? From newspaper reports, you spent about close to 100 million pounds worth of players! That is really something!

Owner: Yes, i admit it was worth a lot of money. But with all the money i had from the sales of my latest studio album, "半熟宣言", i really had no other idea where to splash the cash! I'm really happy with the sales, because it really shows how much my fans and non-fans appreciate me! Very soon, it'll reach platinum! (kawaii-poses).

Reporter: Okay, back to club matters. We appreciate you telling us how successful your singing career has been, and do you think you can emulate this with your managerial career as well? Surely you know it's two different things altogether. We also know that you have invested on a third jersey strip for the team, and this reflects the ambitions you have for the club. We applaud that! By the way, anything to look forward to in the coming season? What are your expectations?

Owner: This club is still on the rise as we are still in the building process, and i am sure i will bring it up to where it belongs =D

My expectations for this new season? We are gonna do our best, and put in our utmost effort, to try and bring that trophy back to Stade de Sembawang. I know it is possible, because i have full faith in my team's abilities. We have many leaders out there on the pitch, notably, skipper Chao Xing, keeper Alex, Jiun Wei and Chris. Ok wait. Cancel the last one (sorry, honey!).

We also have very capable players, who are vocal out there, such as Chin Yuen, and Chung Wei as well as Wei Jie (who likes to say "ai ya!"). And not to forget my favourite player Clement! I think we have strength in depth, and coupled with our recent new signings such as Barry, Darran and Midzi, we have a fine young team who can face the challenge. And we have our star striker Zhi Fei back as well!

And of course, we have an unlockable secret character too!

Reporter: And who might that be? Do you think this is a game? This is serious!

Owner: It's for me to know and you to find out! He's playing tomorrow by the way!

Reporter: Cool. We like surprises. Any last words of encouragement for tomorrow's season-opening clash?

Owner: Guys, we can do it and we'll play it like we mean it. "我的爱吊点滴!" For you all! That's my latest single by the way! Good Luck Guys!

Reporter: Lastly, we've been wanting to ask you this since the start of the press conference.
Were you crying just now?

Owner: Yes, yes. Why can't Chen Xi end up with Yueniang!!!! Why!!!! They look so perfect together! It's obvious they have a longing for each other! But why can't they end up together!!!
So sad!! Fairytales should have "happily ever after" endings! Why can't this one be the same?!

Reporter: Talking about The Little Nonya drama, i presume?

Owner: What else!!!


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mavericks FC opens their season with an away clash at Stadio Bedok Greenie tomorrow at 3pm against seasoned campaigners Team Buffalos. Expect a highly exciting clash! Tickets are sold out!

All the best, Outsiders!