Friday, March 31, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 27
No doubt that we suffered a crushing defeat which left our title hopes hanging by a thread as we lost 0-1 away to Man U Nited. In a way, this game might reflect our season as we once again played well and dominated in terms of possession (61% to 39%) as well as shots at goal (18-10) but we missed our chances while the home side took theirs. I do not point my finger at my players who gave it their best and i should be responsible as maybe a few tactical tweaks might have given us the all important breakthrough. Nevertheless, this is the situation we are facing now as we reaches the final game of our season with the title hopes out of our hands and will need Siberian, a strong but inconsistent team, to take points off Terry FC for us to have a shot. Due to the later timing of our game, we will have known the outcome before kickoff. Despite what happens, this is our final home game this season and we will play our best to thank our home supporters who have been with us through thick and thin this season.
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 26
Today saw us comfortably disposing Anifowose FC 7-0 with Ma scoring a hat trick while usual suspects Ibanez and Schweizer got on the scoresheet. Rashidi scored a rare goal in his rare start while Tajeddine's goal was indication of how well he was settling into the team. It was down to us and Terry FC to fight till the end and we need to give it our all in the final 2 games to secure the league title.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 25
Today's win away to NS XXX was an important 1st step towards the league title as it was right after the thrilling victory against Terry FC which allowed us to claim top spot and it was vital that we did not shoot ourselves in the foot. Schweizer's early goal settled us down and a double from Ma sealed a convincing 3-0 win. We kept our focus and composure and we need to continue in the same vein for the remaining 3 matches for us to win the league.
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 23, 24
It was a topsy turvy 2 days as we saw our title hopes dying before rising from the ashes as we lost against Chickens FC but won league leaders Terry FCand overtook them in the table.
In the away loss to Chickens FC, we were numerically superior but once again failed to find the net which was becoming a frustrating habit for us. Too often we had the ball, created chances, failed to take them and was caught by a sucker punch from the other team. We played well but needed to take the chances which came our way.
And for one game at least, we learnt our lesson when it mattered most as we defeated Terry FC 2-1 to take over at the top. Terry FC found themselves red carded and Ibanez scored from the foul. Terry FC's best player Fischer equalized before Ibanez scored the match winner. Our full backs Leipold and Rybin were excellent down the flanks while Ibanez was once again our life saver just like he did numerous times before. Our 43k strong crowd was rocking all night and deserved this victory as much as us did. Now that we are in the driving seat, we need to keep our cool, focus on winning each match as it comes before we can get our hands on the title.
In the away loss to Chickens FC, we were numerically superior but once again failed to find the net which was becoming a frustrating habit for us. Too often we had the ball, created chances, failed to take them and was caught by a sucker punch from the other team. We played well but needed to take the chances which came our way.
And for one game at least, we learnt our lesson when it mattered most as we defeated Terry FC 2-1 to take over at the top. Terry FC found themselves red carded and Ibanez scored from the foul. Terry FC's best player Fischer equalized before Ibanez scored the match winner. Our full backs Leipold and Rybin were excellent down the flanks while Ibanez was once again our life saver just like he did numerous times before. Our 43k strong crowd was rocking all night and deserved this victory as much as us did. Now that we are in the driving seat, we need to keep our cool, focus on winning each match as it comes before we can get our hands on the title.
Sunday, March 26, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 22
With our attention now 100% focused on the league, we made our title aspirations clear with a 3-1 home win against Siberian. Ibanez who has been our leading star this season, led by example with a match winning hat trick and an all round excellent display. The crowd was right behind us throughout the match and our 12th men on the pitch as we overcame a strong Siberian team with some outstanding players. Our task going forward is simply to win every match till the end of the season which will ensure the league title and that is exactly what we aim to achieve.
Saturday, March 25, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 21
Today was a mixed day as we kept pace in the league but found ourselves knocked out for the 2nd time in 2 days as we were eliminated from the Champions League at the quarter finals.
In the league, we overcame a stubborn home team in Kadae United, winning 4-2. Safiesa was really flourishing in his DMC role as he gave a Man Of the Match performance, scoring 2 goals and dominating the middle of the park while there were positive performances from the likes of Arabatzis who scored once and assisted once as well as debutant Tajeddine who was bought today from Alisya Arissa FC for $14M. This win allowed us to consolidate 2nd place in the league as we remained a point behind Terry FC and 7 points ahead of 3rd placed FC Redondela.
In the Champions League, we lost 0-2 away to Boms Ba FC amd was eliminated 2-3 on aggregate. Despite dominating with 60% possession, we were lacklustre in attack which proved to be our downfall. We simply needed to be more clinical in front of goal and despite all the complexities in today's game, getting that ball into the back of the net remains key to any form of success on the football pitch. This will be an aspect which we look to improve going forward as we gather ourselves for the final stretch of this season and give it our all in pursuit for the league title which is still within our reach.
In the league, we overcame a stubborn home team in Kadae United, winning 4-2. Safiesa was really flourishing in his DMC role as he gave a Man Of the Match performance, scoring 2 goals and dominating the middle of the park while there were positive performances from the likes of Arabatzis who scored once and assisted once as well as debutant Tajeddine who was bought today from Alisya Arissa FC for $14M. This win allowed us to consolidate 2nd place in the league as we remained a point behind Terry FC and 7 points ahead of 3rd placed FC Redondela.
In the Champions League, we lost 0-2 away to Boms Ba FC amd was eliminated 2-3 on aggregate. Despite dominating with 60% possession, we were lacklustre in attack which proved to be our downfall. We simply needed to be more clinical in front of goal and despite all the complexities in today's game, getting that ball into the back of the net remains key to any form of success on the football pitch. This will be an aspect which we look to improve going forward as we gather ourselves for the final stretch of this season and give it our all in pursuit for the league title which is still within our reach.
Friday, March 24, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 20
Today saw us almost punished for our complacency in the league while a valiant effort from the team was not enough the gulf in class as we were knocked out of the Cup at the semi final stage.
In the league, a heavily rotated lineup almost proved costly as we found ourselves 0-1 down at home against Winers FC. Schweizer and Ibanez came on at half time to spark our revival as goals from Arabatzis, Schweizer and Ekinci gave us a 3-1 victory.
In the Cup, we lost 1-2 at home to Pizbon FC and was knocked out 2-3 on aggregate. We gave it our best shot and though we came out short, we could lift our heads up with pride as we came close and made it a really competitive tie despite being the weaker team on paper. Now we have no time to feel sorry for ourselves as we shift our focus to the league and Champions League.
In the league, a heavily rotated lineup almost proved costly as we found ourselves 0-1 down at home against Winers FC. Schweizer and Ibanez came on at half time to spark our revival as goals from Arabatzis, Schweizer and Ekinci gave us a 3-1 victory.
In the Cup, we lost 1-2 at home to Pizbon FC and was knocked out 2-3 on aggregate. We gave it our best shot and though we came out short, we could lift our heads up with pride as we came close and made it a really competitive tie despite being the weaker team on paper. Now we have no time to feel sorry for ourselves as we shift our focus to the league and Champions League.
Thursday, March 23, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 18, 19
The past 2 days saw Taeyeon FC progressing on 3 fronts as we set ourselves well for the important last 9 days of the season which will decide if we end it with silverware.
In Day 18 league action, we took care of business at home against bottom team FC Abdo Mezo, recording a convincing 9-0 victory. Ibanez and Schweizer helped themselves with a hat trick and 4 goals respectively while Sutalo and Safiesa got on the scoresheet as well. The likes of Ridhuan, Ekinci and Glendrange got rare starts and played well. Against sides which were weaker than us, it was key to score as many as we could as goal difference may play a part in the final league standing and I was glad that we kept our foot on the pedal till the end.
In Day 18 Cup action, we fought to a creditable 1-1 draw away to Pizbon FC in the semi final. The home side was a formidable team so it was encouraging for us to come back after conceding the opener as Ma equalized before half time. In the 2nd half, both side had chances but failed to convert which left the tie on a balance heading into the 2nd leg, where we will be fairly confident at home.
In Day 19 league action, we secured a comfortable 4-0 away win against Victory United with Ibanez absolutely outstanding, scoring twice and assisting once while Adeso and Safiesa scored as well. This match was notable for Safiesa as he played well in a more withdrawn role as DMC alongside Reguero which suggests more playing time for the Indonesian as we continue to do well with 2 DMCs.
In Day 19 Champions League, we won 2-1 against Boms Ba FC at home with Schweizer and Ibanez the goal scorers. We did well and dominated which was why it was disappointing to concede the away goal. Nevertheless, we got the win and the lead into the 2nd leg and we needed to show up and focus on doing our best to advance to the last 4.
In Day 18 league action, we took care of business at home against bottom team FC Abdo Mezo, recording a convincing 9-0 victory. Ibanez and Schweizer helped themselves with a hat trick and 4 goals respectively while Sutalo and Safiesa got on the scoresheet as well. The likes of Ridhuan, Ekinci and Glendrange got rare starts and played well. Against sides which were weaker than us, it was key to score as many as we could as goal difference may play a part in the final league standing and I was glad that we kept our foot on the pedal till the end.
In Day 18 Cup action, we fought to a creditable 1-1 draw away to Pizbon FC in the semi final. The home side was a formidable team so it was encouraging for us to come back after conceding the opener as Ma equalized before half time. In the 2nd half, both side had chances but failed to convert which left the tie on a balance heading into the 2nd leg, where we will be fairly confident at home.
In Day 19 league action, we secured a comfortable 4-0 away win against Victory United with Ibanez absolutely outstanding, scoring twice and assisting once while Adeso and Safiesa scored as well. This match was notable for Safiesa as he played well in a more withdrawn role as DMC alongside Reguero which suggests more playing time for the Indonesian as we continue to do well with 2 DMCs.
In Day 19 Champions League, we won 2-1 against Boms Ba FC at home with Schweizer and Ibanez the goal scorers. We did well and dominated which was why it was disappointing to concede the away goal. Nevertheless, we got the win and the lead into the 2nd leg and we needed to show up and focus on doing our best to advance to the last 4.
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 17
It was a day of fixed fortunes as we progressed in the Champions League but lost ground in the league.
In the Champions League, we were able to handle Bao An FC with ease, winning the 2nd leg 2-0 at home courtesy of Ibanez's double and advancing into the quarter finals with a 5-0 aggregate. Ali and Ekinci were given starts while Leipold has made himself indispensable at left back.
In the league, we fell to Rodoguerra FC at home, losing by a solitary goal as we failed to score despite 58% possession and 23 shots at goal. It was a rare match where key players such as Ibanez, Ma and Adeso all failed to fire though Leipold continued to excel and impress with his unrelenting consistency. We understand that we are in an ultra competitive league as i described that "the top 8 teams can all beat each other on their day" so the team which can scrape through with the least losses will be the one which will win this league and deservedly so.
In the Champions League, we were able to handle Bao An FC with ease, winning the 2nd leg 2-0 at home courtesy of Ibanez's double and advancing into the quarter finals with a 5-0 aggregate. Ali and Ekinci were given starts while Leipold has made himself indispensable at left back.
In the league, we fell to Rodoguerra FC at home, losing by a solitary goal as we failed to score despite 58% possession and 23 shots at goal. It was a rare match where key players such as Ibanez, Ma and Adeso all failed to fire though Leipold continued to excel and impress with his unrelenting consistency. We understand that we are in an ultra competitive league as i described that "the top 8 teams can all beat each other on their day" so the team which can scrape through with the least losses will be the one which will win this league and deservedly so.
Monday, March 20, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 16
Today was a rare day that we had only one match but it was an important league match against FC Redondela which was a stronger team on paper. Neverthess, we fought hard and got a crucial 1-0 away win which maintained our top position in the league, level on points with Terry FC but with a superior goal difference (25 to 19).
On the match, Ma proved to be our match winner once again with the winning goal and a lively display on the right flank while Olaiz bossed the central midfield with a Man Of the Match performance. our switch in formation with a 4-2-1-2-1 and 2 DMCs proved instrumental in our upturn in form with 8 straight wins across all competitions. Sutalo, Coulibaly and Reguero have all performed well in the role, providing protection for the back four while setting the tempo and maintaining possession with sharp passing and giving the team a stable platform to launch our attacks. Formations may vary with different oppositions but at the moment, this lineup has certainly been working well for us.
On the match, Ma proved to be our match winner once again with the winning goal and a lively display on the right flank while Olaiz bossed the central midfield with a Man Of the Match performance. our switch in formation with a 4-2-1-2-1 and 2 DMCs proved instrumental in our upturn in form with 8 straight wins across all competitions. Sutalo, Coulibaly and Reguero have all performed well in the role, providing protection for the back four while setting the tempo and maintaining possession with sharp passing and giving the team a stable platform to launch our attacks. Formations may vary with different oppositions but at the moment, this lineup has certainly been working well for us.
Sunday, March 19, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 15
An encouraging day for Taeyeon FC as we clicked as an attacking unit and made major strides in Champions League and League with 2 convincing victories, which was all the more impressive with both wins coming away from home.
In the Champions League, we won 3-0 away at Bao An FC to give us a significant advantage heading into the 2nd leg at home. Ibanez gave us the lead right after the break while 2 brilliant corners from Rybin found Arabatzis and Ma to give us 3 away goals without reply from the hosts. While the ball is round and anything can happen, we progress into the quarter finals as long as we keep our poise and composure.
In an exciting league encounter at FC Mavara, we came back from 1-2 down at the half to win 5-2 with a wild 2nd half performance. Ibanez and Adeso both scored twice with Ma scoring the other. All 3 players have been influential this season and Adeso bossed the midfield from start to finish with a Man Of the Match performance while Ibanez and Ma added goals and penetration from the flanks. Our league form is improving which is reflected in our league position and we will need to continue in similar vein against further tough challenges ahead.
In the Champions League, we won 3-0 away at Bao An FC to give us a significant advantage heading into the 2nd leg at home. Ibanez gave us the lead right after the break while 2 brilliant corners from Rybin found Arabatzis and Ma to give us 3 away goals without reply from the hosts. While the ball is round and anything can happen, we progress into the quarter finals as long as we keep our poise and composure.
In an exciting league encounter at FC Mavara, we came back from 1-2 down at the half to win 5-2 with a wild 2nd half performance. Ibanez and Adeso both scored twice with Ma scoring the other. All 3 players have been influential this season and Adeso bossed the midfield from start to finish with a Man Of the Match performance while Ibanez and Ma added goals and penetration from the flanks. Our league form is improving which is reflected in our league position and we will need to continue in similar vein against further tough challenges ahead.
Saturday, March 18, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 14
It was a great day for Taeyeon FC as we secured 2 important home wins in Cup and league to improve our prospects for silverware.
In the Cup, we overturned the 1st leg deficit with an impressive home win, scoring 2 goals without reply to advance into the last 4 of the competition. Sutalo excelled with a Man Of the Match display in his midfield anchor role amd scored the opener while Olaiz scored the decisive goal to send us through. Leipold is establishing himself at left back while veteran Thelen is a great option at center back with Sutalo moving upfield.
In the league, we won 4-1 against Man U Nited with Ibanez scoring a hat-trick in 18 minutes to follow up on Schweizer's opener in the 4th minute which set us up for victory early on. this was our 3rd straight win in the league which moved us up to 3rd in the table and among one of the Champions League spot though with just 5 points seperating us from 8th spot, we need to keep pushing on in a very tight and competitive league.
On the transfer front, young center back Erwan Ali was attracting bids from other teams which was a testament of his potential but these bids were naturally refuted as we see him as a vital component in our defence in the not so distant future.
In the Cup, we overturned the 1st leg deficit with an impressive home win, scoring 2 goals without reply to advance into the last 4 of the competition. Sutalo excelled with a Man Of the Match display in his midfield anchor role amd scored the opener while Olaiz scored the decisive goal to send us through. Leipold is establishing himself at left back while veteran Thelen is a great option at center back with Sutalo moving upfield.
In the league, we won 4-1 against Man U Nited with Ibanez scoring a hat-trick in 18 minutes to follow up on Schweizer's opener in the 4th minute which set us up for victory early on. this was our 3rd straight win in the league which moved us up to 3rd in the table and among one of the Champions League spot though with just 5 points seperating us from 8th spot, we need to keep pushing on in a very tight and competitive league.
On the transfer front, young center back Erwan Ali was attracting bids from other teams which was a testament of his potential but these bids were naturally refuted as we see him as a vital component in our defence in the not so distant future.
Friday, March 17, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 13
Today was decent for Taeyeon FC as 2 wins reflected progress in League and Champions League.
In the league match against Anifowose FC, we managed to win 5-1 despite a much changed lineup as Academy product Ridhuan started at right back while new signing Safiesa started in central midfield. Safiesa marked his debut with a goal before withdrawing due to a minor injury as Ekinci stepped up with a hat-trick and Glendrange chipped in with a goal as well.
In the Champions League match against Hamza Kaan38 FC, we won convincingly by 4-0 as Ibanez, Olaiz, Schweizer and Ma all scored with Ibanez excelling on the left flank while Reguero impressed in his anchor role, providing protection to the backline and stable passing to the attackers. This win meant that we qualified for the knockout stage as 2nd in the group.
Thursday, March 16, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 12
It was a day of mixed fortunes as we won a hard fought battle against NS XXX FC in the league but lost narrowly to Ibrahim FC in the Cup.
The league game was a close affair which was settled by a piece of individual brilliance from Ma who has been our star player this season alongside Ibanez, who returned from suspension and excelled on the left flank. We were frustrated for long periods but persisted and eventually got our rewards right at the end.
It was a case of hard luck in the Cup match as we lost the 1st leg and conceded in the 86th minute of a game which was on the balance. We had our chances but failed to capitalize due to the performance of their keeper who was also Man of The Match. Credit though should go to our defense for not buckling under intense home pressure and keep the score manageable as we look to overcome the deficit at home in the 2nd leg.
Lastly, I will like to welcome Dedi Safiesa to the club. Dedi is an Indonesia midfielder with great defensive skills but can go forward as well. He is a young player who we hope will contribute for many years ahead as he complement our existing midfield of Adeso and Olaiz.
Wednesday, March 15, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 11
It was the worst day of this season as we lost 2 consecutive 1-3 matches in the Champions league and league itself.
We lost to Kimly083 FC in the Champions league and found ourselves once again in danger of losing top spot in our group. Rashidi scored a rare goal but we lost despite our 60% possession. The topsy turvy form of this team has been a real source of frustration as we know that we are capable of beating the best but we just need to be focused enough to do it every match and bring our best every time we step on the pitch.
Same could be said for our league game against Terry FC as well, where we had numerous chances to score but simply could not convert them. The suspended Ibanez was huge miss and despite Ekinci's good showing on the left flank, that bit of difference in quality was vital in deciding the result.
There is no doubt we are in a slump at the moment but we must not neglect our qualities as only by showing them can we get out of this run of horrendous form.
On a side note, I will like to welcome our latest additions from the academy, Radin Yusoff and Erwan Ridhuan. Both are defenders who will hopefully add depth to our team.
We lost to Kimly083 FC in the Champions league and found ourselves once again in danger of losing top spot in our group. Rashidi scored a rare goal but we lost despite our 60% possession. The topsy turvy form of this team has been a real source of frustration as we know that we are capable of beating the best but we just need to be focused enough to do it every match and bring our best every time we step on the pitch.
Same could be said for our league game against Terry FC as well, where we had numerous chances to score but simply could not convert them. The suspended Ibanez was huge miss and despite Ekinci's good showing on the left flank, that bit of difference in quality was vital in deciding the result.
There is no doubt we are in a slump at the moment but we must not neglect our qualities as only by showing them can we get out of this run of horrendous form.
On a side note, I will like to welcome our latest additions from the academy, Radin Yusoff and Erwan Ridhuan. Both are defenders who will hopefully add depth to our team.
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 10
Today was a day which started badly but ended on a rather positive note.
In the league, we suffered our 1st defeat, losing 2-5 at home to Chickens FC. Our entire defence crumbled in the face of unrelenting pressure from the visitors as we shipped in 5 goals despite the best efforts of Ma and Adeso who scored and performed admirably. Ibanez has to learn to channel his aggression better as he had been conceding costly fouls and yellow cards for the past few games. Overall, we deserved this loss and had to bounce back from this.
Things looked better in the Cup, as we sealed our progress into the quarter finals with a convincing 6-0 home win against YYY FC, going through on a 7-0 aggregate. Ma continued his blistering form with a hat trick while Olaiz scored twice and Schweizer round up the scoring with a nice goal from the bench. The match was almost the exact opposite of our league match earlier today and showed what we are capable of when we get going. Now we seek the consistency to replicate such performances on a regular basis.
In the league, we suffered our 1st defeat, losing 2-5 at home to Chickens FC. Our entire defence crumbled in the face of unrelenting pressure from the visitors as we shipped in 5 goals despite the best efforts of Ma and Adeso who scored and performed admirably. Ibanez has to learn to channel his aggression better as he had been conceding costly fouls and yellow cards for the past few games. Overall, we deserved this loss and had to bounce back from this.
Things looked better in the Cup, as we sealed our progress into the quarter finals with a convincing 6-0 home win against YYY FC, going through on a 7-0 aggregate. Ma continued his blistering form with a hat trick while Olaiz scored twice and Schweizer round up the scoring with a nice goal from the bench. The match was almost the exact opposite of our league match earlier today and showed what we are capable of when we get going. Now we seek the consistency to replicate such performances on a regular basis.
Monday, March 13, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 09
Today we were thoroughly tested by 2 difficult opponents so to get a win and a draw were commendable.
In the Champions league, we seized the initiative as we avenged our previous loss by defeating YYY FC at their home ground. Sapasadee had an outstanding game while Ma's goal proved to be the match winner which now gave us a great chance to top our group.
In our league encounter against Siberian, Ma once again gave us the lead but a silly foul by Ibanez allowed the home side back into the match via a penalty goal. Nevertheless, Sapasadee's excellent display meant that we left the match with a point and preserved our unbeaten league record.
On a side note, I will like to thank the services of Yusoff, Duncan, Marzetti and Ghazali as they left the team to seek more starting opportunities. Yusoff and Ghazali were both Academy players who had grown into the team as dependable squad players. Shane Duncan had provided years of solid leadership as a tenacious defender or a reliable defensive midfielder while Marzetti was a talented striker who simply needed more game time that we could not afford to give. I will like to once again thank them for their work at the club and wish them all the best in future.
In the Champions league, we seized the initiative as we avenged our previous loss by defeating YYY FC at their home ground. Sapasadee had an outstanding game while Ma's goal proved to be the match winner which now gave us a great chance to top our group.
In our league encounter against Siberian, Ma once again gave us the lead but a silly foul by Ibanez allowed the home side back into the match via a penalty goal. Nevertheless, Sapasadee's excellent display meant that we left the match with a point and preserved our unbeaten league record.
On a side note, I will like to thank the services of Yusoff, Duncan, Marzetti and Ghazali as they left the team to seek more starting opportunities. Yusoff and Ghazali were both Academy players who had grown into the team as dependable squad players. Shane Duncan had provided years of solid leadership as a tenacious defender or a reliable defensive midfielder while Marzetti was a talented striker who simply needed more game time that we could not afford to give. I will like to once again thank them for their work at the club and wish them all the best in future.
Sunday, March 12, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 08
A good day for Taeyeon FC as we continued our improving form in the league while securing a critical away goal in the round of 16 of the Cup competition, putting us in a decent position to advance.
In the league match against Kadae United, we were at our fluid, attacking best as we knocked 7 goals past the visitors (Ibanez x 3, Ma x 2, Adeso, Glendrange) with the floodgates opening after a sending off for the away side. We were sharp in front of goal with most of our chances resulting in shots on target which boded well for our improving finishing. The convincing home win, coupled iwth results elsewhere, meant that we currently led the league table by a point though with tougher matches coming up, we will need to work even harder to maintain this lead.
In the Cup match away to YYY FC, we played a savvy, controlled game as we went back home with a vital 1-0 win. Maintaining possession was key and we managed to do that well despite being the visitors and Ma's early strike proved decisive on the day. Our defence deserved praise for keeping a clean sheet with Sapasadee up to the task in front of goal while being ably protected by the likes of the improving Leipold alongside mainstays Osman, Sutalo and Rybin. As long as we keep our composure at home and take our chances, we should find ourselves in the Quarter Finals draw.
In the league match against Kadae United, we were at our fluid, attacking best as we knocked 7 goals past the visitors (Ibanez x 3, Ma x 2, Adeso, Glendrange) with the floodgates opening after a sending off for the away side. We were sharp in front of goal with most of our chances resulting in shots on target which boded well for our improving finishing. The convincing home win, coupled iwth results elsewhere, meant that we currently led the league table by a point though with tougher matches coming up, we will need to work even harder to maintain this lead.
In the Cup match away to YYY FC, we played a savvy, controlled game as we went back home with a vital 1-0 win. Maintaining possession was key and we managed to do that well despite being the visitors and Ma's early strike proved decisive on the day. Our defence deserved praise for keeping a clean sheet with Sapasadee up to the task in front of goal while being ably protected by the likes of the improving Leipold alongside mainstays Osman, Sutalo and Rybin. As long as we keep our composure at home and take our chances, we should find ourselves in the Quarter Finals draw.
Saturday, March 11, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 07
It was a day of mixed results as we continued our good form in the league but suffered our first loss this season in the Champions League.
In our league game against a clearly inferior Winers FC, several players got to start with the likes of Yusoff and Leipold impressive in particular. First teamers Adeso (2), Ma and Olaiz might have gotten the goals but this match was a good display of our squad depth and the 3 points propelled us to 2nd place in the league.
In the Champion's League match against XXX FC, we suffered a rare loss at home despite dominating possession (64%) and shots (17 to 8). Sapasadee's form was a cause for concern though we should resist any over reaction from one game while we were not clinical in front of goal either despite the always dependable Ibanez getting a goal back. Matches like this could and will happen from time to time and what is important will be for us to learn from such defeats to improve ourselves. While top spot in the Champions League group is getting more difficult after the loss, we are still favorites to advance into the knockout round and anything can happen from then on.
Friday, March 10, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 06
Today was a great day for Taeyeon FC as we recorded 2 vital victories in the league and Cup.
In the 1st match of the day, we won against Victory United by a convincing score of 7-1. This was the 1st time this season when our attacking unit was clicking into gear as the likes of Ibanez and Ma both scored twice while Man of the Match Olaiz scored a hat trick. Special mentions went to Reece who didn't score but assisted the opening goal while Yusoff, on as a substitute, assisted on the last goal while Leipold once again impressed at left back. The one goal conceded was the only blemish in what otherwise was a great team effort and a platform for us to build on our league form.
In Cup competition, we defeated BGgD FC 2-1 with a heavily rotated lineup as Ali, Rashidi, Coulibaly and Marzetti all got to start. The Italian forward gave a match winning display, scoring the winning goal while Sutalo also scored his 1st goal of the campaign. The home win gave us an aggregate win of 4-1 as we advanced into the next round.
In the 1st match of the day, we won against Victory United by a convincing score of 7-1. This was the 1st time this season when our attacking unit was clicking into gear as the likes of Ibanez and Ma both scored twice while Man of the Match Olaiz scored a hat trick. Special mentions went to Reece who didn't score but assisted the opening goal while Yusoff, on as a substitute, assisted on the last goal while Leipold once again impressed at left back. The one goal conceded was the only blemish in what otherwise was a great team effort and a platform for us to build on our league form.
In Cup competition, we defeated BGgD FC 2-1 with a heavily rotated lineup as Ali, Rashidi, Coulibaly and Marzetti all got to start. The Italian forward gave a match winning display, scoring the winning goal while Sutalo also scored his 1st goal of the campaign. The home win gave us an aggregate win of 4-1 as we advanced into the next round.
Thursday, March 09, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 05
2 wins out of 2 today but any feeling of satisfaction was minimal, especially for the narrow win against the bottom team FC Abdo Mezo.
in our 2nd Champions League match, we had a convincing victory against Hamza Kaan38. Ma scored twice and was Man Of the Match while Ibanez scored as well. We dominated in terms of possession and shots at goal which in a way made it especially disappointing that we failed to keep a clean sheet, conceding in the 80th minute. That being said, 2 wins out of 2 in the Champions League set us well on the way to top the group and advance into the knockout stage.
The same could not be said for our league form, even though we managed to get our 1st league win against FC Abdo Mezo. We controlled possession but still conceded numerous chances with our newly tested 3 men defence. Eventually, we just managed to edge it thanks to goals from the in form Ekinci as well as Coulibaly who scored his 1st goal for the club. Ekinci has been one of our shining lights this season and his Man Of the Match performance was definitely well deserved. Ali put in a decent shift in central defence while Coulibaly not only scored the winning goal but also protected the back three well in his position. It was a pity that while there were some encouraging individual performances, it was not the dominant display which we were looking for and we need to work hard to improve our league form, myself included.
in our 2nd Champions League match, we had a convincing victory against Hamza Kaan38. Ma scored twice and was Man Of the Match while Ibanez scored as well. We dominated in terms of possession and shots at goal which in a way made it especially disappointing that we failed to keep a clean sheet, conceding in the 80th minute. That being said, 2 wins out of 2 in the Champions League set us well on the way to top the group and advance into the knockout stage.
The same could not be said for our league form, even though we managed to get our 1st league win against FC Abdo Mezo. We controlled possession but still conceded numerous chances with our newly tested 3 men defence. Eventually, we just managed to edge it thanks to goals from the in form Ekinci as well as Coulibaly who scored his 1st goal for the club. Ekinci has been one of our shining lights this season and his Man Of the Match performance was definitely well deserved. Ali put in a decent shift in central defence while Coulibaly not only scored the winning goal but also protected the back three well in his position. It was a pity that while there were some encouraging individual performances, it was not the dominant display which we were looking for and we need to work hard to improve our league form, myself included.
Wednesday, March 08, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 04
Today was a day of 2 halves as we got ourselves a healthy lead in the Cup but hit a speed bump in the league.
In our 2nd Round 1st Leg Cup tie, we beat BGgD FC 2:0 away from home with Ekinci and Olaiz scoring the goals. Leipold once again impressed at left back while Ekinci and Olaiz bossed the midfield. A 2 away goal lead was great and we should advance to the next round as long as we don't take our eyes off the ball.
In our 2nd league game against Rodoguerra FC, Edeso gave us the lead in the 9th minute but we conceded 3 goals in 20 minutes which was uncharacteristic of us. A red card to the home team and a 2nd half fightback got us back on level terms with Ibanez and Edeso scoring the goals but truth be told, this felt more like 2 points lost given that we were the better team on paper. 2 consecutive draws left us in an unfamiliar 11th spot in the league and the next game will be a must win for us to get our league campaign back on track.
In our 2nd Round 1st Leg Cup tie, we beat BGgD FC 2:0 away from home with Ekinci and Olaiz scoring the goals. Leipold once again impressed at left back while Ekinci and Olaiz bossed the midfield. A 2 away goal lead was great and we should advance to the next round as long as we don't take our eyes off the ball.
In our 2nd league game against Rodoguerra FC, Edeso gave us the lead in the 9th minute but we conceded 3 goals in 20 minutes which was uncharacteristic of us. A red card to the home team and a 2nd half fightback got us back on level terms with Ibanez and Edeso scoring the goals but truth be told, this felt more like 2 points lost given that we were the better team on paper. 2 consecutive draws left us in an unfamiliar 11th spot in the league and the next game will be a must win for us to get our league campaign back on track.
Tuesday, March 07, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 3.1
We opened our league campaign for this season with a hard fought home draw against favorites FC Redondela. Ma gave us the lead and even though we could not hang on for the win, we dominated possession and certainly deserved at least a point. Credit to the lads for their hard work and now we must push on to secure our 1st victory.
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 3
Today has been a busy day with 3 matches to compete. Right now we have 2 out of the way and the remaining match will be a formidable challenge against FC Redondela in our 1st league game of this season. While we will be the underdog, we are confident that we can make things difficult for them and fight for a result. Now, let's recap the 2 matches which we completed earlier:
In the 2nd leg of our 1st Round Cup tie, we disposed Cabarrus FC with ease and progressed to the next round. Glendrange notched 2 goals in his 1st start of this season while Ibanez and Schweizer also got into the scoring act. It was a sactisfactory performance while rotational players such as Coulibaly,Glendrange, Ali and Yusoff all gained valuable game time under their belts.
Meanwhile, in our 1st Champions League match, we beat Kenly083 FC which should be our closest competitor for top spot in the group. Leading this sweet, away victory was Edeso who scored a hat-trick while Ekinci also scored in his 1st appearance of this season as the likes of Leipold and Rashidi proved their worth at full back positions and ready to step in whenever required.
In the 2nd leg of our 1st Round Cup tie, we disposed Cabarrus FC with ease and progressed to the next round. Glendrange notched 2 goals in his 1st start of this season while Ibanez and Schweizer also got into the scoring act. It was a sactisfactory performance while rotational players such as Coulibaly,Glendrange, Ali and Yusoff all gained valuable game time under their belts.
Meanwhile, in our 1st Champions League match, we beat Kenly083 FC which should be our closest competitor for top spot in the group. Leading this sweet, away victory was Edeso who scored a hat-trick while Ekinci also scored in his 1st appearance of this season as the likes of Leipold and Rashidi proved their worth at full back positions and ready to step in whenever required.
Sunday, March 05, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 1.1
It was a decent match to kick off the season as we won 5-1 against Cabarrus FC in the Cup. To concede within the opening 5 minutes was complacent on our part and we would need to eradicate that aspect from our game. That being said, I was pleased with our response as Schweizer and Olaiz got us back the lead to head into half time before 2nd half goals from Edeso, Ma and Arabatzis gave us a commanding lead to bring to the 2nd leg. As long as we stay focused, we should advance into the next round without too much trouble.
Saturday, March 04, 2017
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 1
Today marks the start of a new season and after completing a couple of deals to bring in Coulibaly and Leipold towards the end of last season, our squad is ready to face all challenges this season and I don't see new transfers unless an absolute bargain is avaliable of course.
Last season was fairly disappointing as we ended the season without any silverware. We encountered a tough league with 3 teams similar or better than us in terms of quality so 2nd spot wasn't too bad but the early exits in both Cup competitions left sour tastes in all of us and that will be something we aim to correct in the new season.
Defensive stalwart Osman, midfield dynamo Edeso and the ever reliable Ibanez will continue to be the pillars of this team with Ma as our key playmaker. We can look forward to the continuing growth of our young forwards Schweizer, Marzerri and Recce while the likes of Yusoff and Ali will develop further as they look to earn more playing time.
We face a relatively straightforward cup tie to start the season but we shall remain focused and professional as we look to begin with a bang and give our home fans something to cheer about.
Last season was fairly disappointing as we ended the season without any silverware. We encountered a tough league with 3 teams similar or better than us in terms of quality so 2nd spot wasn't too bad but the early exits in both Cup competitions left sour tastes in all of us and that will be something we aim to correct in the new season.
Defensive stalwart Osman, midfield dynamo Edeso and the ever reliable Ibanez will continue to be the pillars of this team with Ma as our key playmaker. We can look forward to the continuing growth of our young forwards Schweizer, Marzerri and Recce while the likes of Yusoff and Ali will develop further as they look to earn more playing time.
We face a relatively straightforward cup tie to start the season but we shall remain focused and professional as we look to begin with a bang and give our home fans something to cheer about.
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