Today saw us continuing our winning form in league and cup.
In the league, we beat Grand Rapds FC 3-0 at home to keep ourselves at the top of the league. It was a close affair in the 1st half but goals from Coulibaly, Olaiz and Topal secured our victory. The Man of the Match went to Haciyev who pulled the strings in midfield and was simply brilliant as he continued to look comfortable in the team.
In the Cup, we won away by 2-1 in the 1st leg of the Semi Finals against PS GelEs FC with goals from Ma and Schweizer. Schweizer in particular had a really good game leading the line up front and causing the opposition defense all sorts of trouble. To concede near the end was a pity but still, we got the win and would bring that lead back home for the 2nd leg, where we will give our very best with the Final in sight.
Wednesday, April 19, 2017
Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 17
Today saw us defeating 2 challenging foes in league and Champions League as we continued to make progress on both fronts.
In the league, we won IngR 1-0 at home in a tense encounter with Ibanez's early goal proving to be the winner. It was a close affair as we could not find that second goal despite our domination and Adeso was the Man of the Match as he bossed the midfield, breaking up opposing attacks while launching dangerous ones himself, either passing to well positioned teammates or getting into shooting positions. With Edgar FC close behind, we need to keep winning to remain top of the league and we fully intend to do just that.
The Champions League Last 16 2nd leg at home against Naftan FC proved to be a pulsating match as we scored the opener through Ma before falling behind by 1-3 at half time before a ferocious fightback in the 2nd half through goals from Rybin, Ma, Olaiz and Tajeddine secured a 5-3 victory on the night and 7-6 on aggregate. We made things difficult for ourselves with some lackluster defending in the 1st half but Ma led the comeback with another fantastic display capped by 2 well taken goals while the decision to bring on Tajeddine proved to be a masterstroke as he assisted once and also scored the final goal. Once again our unwavering self belief was instrumental in achieving this result and our home fans were inspiring as our 12th player. As long as we tighten up defensively and be more clinical with our chances, we can win against anyone.
In the league, we won IngR 1-0 at home in a tense encounter with Ibanez's early goal proving to be the winner. It was a close affair as we could not find that second goal despite our domination and Adeso was the Man of the Match as he bossed the midfield, breaking up opposing attacks while launching dangerous ones himself, either passing to well positioned teammates or getting into shooting positions. With Edgar FC close behind, we need to keep winning to remain top of the league and we fully intend to do just that.
The Champions League Last 16 2nd leg at home against Naftan FC proved to be a pulsating match as we scored the opener through Ma before falling behind by 1-3 at half time before a ferocious fightback in the 2nd half through goals from Rybin, Ma, Olaiz and Tajeddine secured a 5-3 victory on the night and 7-6 on aggregate. We made things difficult for ourselves with some lackluster defending in the 1st half but Ma led the comeback with another fantastic display capped by 2 well taken goals while the decision to bring on Tajeddine proved to be a masterstroke as he assisted once and also scored the final goal. Once again our unwavering self belief was instrumental in achieving this result and our home fans were inspiring as our 12th player. As long as we tighten up defensively and be more clinical with our chances, we can win against anyone.
Monday, April 17, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 16
Today saw us winning our only game of the day as we beat Arsenal Academy 5-0 away from home to consolidate top spot in the league. In a rotated lineup, we saw good performances from the likes of Ridhuan, Rashidi, Topaloglu, Arabatzis and Reece. Ma was the best player on the field and contributed 2 assists while Schweizer and Arabatzis scored twice before Topal got the final goal courtesy of Reece's assist. The win kept us on top and stretching the lead to 5 points before Edgar FC plays their game. We need to keep winning, keep playing our way and focus on the next game against a strong OngR team which beat us last time we met.
Sunday, April 16, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 14, 15
It had been a hectic 2 days which saw us fought tooth and nail to keep our dreams alive and we just about managed to do that.
In the league, we beat Dinamo L' Aquila 3-1 at home to claim top spot followed by a professional 2-0 win away at Guy FC. Ma had took the club on his shoulders, scoring a hat trick in the 1st while getting the crucial 2nd goal in the 2nd game. Haciyev, after a bad start, had settled down nicely in midfield and impressed with his vision and passing while new keeper Topaloglu was also getting much needed game time.
In the Cup, we overcome the 0-2 1st leg deficit as we beat Fussball FC at our home ground by 3-0 after extra time, sealing our passage to the semi finals in the process. Fussball managed to keep us at bay for large periods of the match and it took Coulibaly to break the deadlock in the 78th minute to give us a glimmer of hope. Hope turned to reality as Ma scored the crucial 2nd goal in the 84th minute courtesy of a great pass by Haciyev which tied the aggregate and brought the match to extra time when Ibanez sealed the deal by being assisted by substitute Arabatzis. It was a great result which reflected our resilience and bode well for our chances in tougher matches ahead.
In the Champions League Last 16 1st leg, we lost 2-3 away to Naftan FC though the 2 away goals kept us in the tie. Ibanez and Sutalo scored to give us the lead but sadly we could not hold on till the final whistle. Nevertheless, the tie was still alive as we look to overcome the odds at home in the 2nd leg.
In the league, we beat Dinamo L' Aquila 3-1 at home to claim top spot followed by a professional 2-0 win away at Guy FC. Ma had took the club on his shoulders, scoring a hat trick in the 1st while getting the crucial 2nd goal in the 2nd game. Haciyev, after a bad start, had settled down nicely in midfield and impressed with his vision and passing while new keeper Topaloglu was also getting much needed game time.
In the Cup, we overcome the 0-2 1st leg deficit as we beat Fussball FC at our home ground by 3-0 after extra time, sealing our passage to the semi finals in the process. Fussball managed to keep us at bay for large periods of the match and it took Coulibaly to break the deadlock in the 78th minute to give us a glimmer of hope. Hope turned to reality as Ma scored the crucial 2nd goal in the 84th minute courtesy of a great pass by Haciyev which tied the aggregate and brought the match to extra time when Ibanez sealed the deal by being assisted by substitute Arabatzis. It was a great result which reflected our resilience and bode well for our chances in tougher matches ahead.
In the Champions League Last 16 1st leg, we lost 2-3 away to Naftan FC though the 2 away goals kept us in the tie. Ibanez and Sutalo scored to give us the lead but sadly we could not hold on till the final whistle. Nevertheless, the tie was still alive as we look to overcome the odds at home in the 2nd leg.
Friday, April 14, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 13
Today saw us winning with ease in the league but beaten in the last Champions League group match.
In the league, we beat Arafat FC 9-0 courtesy of goals from Tajeddine (3), Olaiz (2), Topal (2), Reece and Schweizer in a much changed lineup. Haciyev had a real unfortunate debut after getting injured in the 3rd minute and had to be substituted while Topal had a real breakthrough game, scoring goals and creating chances for the team.
In the Champions League, we lost 0-3 to familiar foe Idhzaar FC albeit in an inconsequential match as the group positions were already decided. With nothing to play for, key players such as Ibanez, Ma, Coulibaly and Adeso all got to rest while Haciyev had a really snake bitten start to his career in Taeyeon FC as he was sent off in his 2nd appearance. Now we look ahead to our matchup in the knockout stage and aim to go as far as possible.
It was a busy day on the transfer front as we welcome Academy players striker Basil Singh and defender Firdaus Mohd Hussain as well as goalkeeper Harun Topaloglu who came with huge promise with a starting berth in the near future as he challenges current 1st choice Sapasadee.
In the league, we beat Arafat FC 9-0 courtesy of goals from Tajeddine (3), Olaiz (2), Topal (2), Reece and Schweizer in a much changed lineup. Haciyev had a real unfortunate debut after getting injured in the 3rd minute and had to be substituted while Topal had a real breakthrough game, scoring goals and creating chances for the team.
In the Champions League, we lost 0-3 to familiar foe Idhzaar FC albeit in an inconsequential match as the group positions were already decided. With nothing to play for, key players such as Ibanez, Ma, Coulibaly and Adeso all got to rest while Haciyev had a really snake bitten start to his career in Taeyeon FC as he was sent off in his 2nd appearance. Now we look ahead to our matchup in the knockout stage and aim to go as far as possible.
It was a busy day on the transfer front as we welcome Academy players striker Basil Singh and defender Firdaus Mohd Hussain as well as goalkeeper Harun Topaloglu who came with huge promise with a starting berth in the near future as he challenges current 1st choice Sapasadee.
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 12
Today saw us beaten convincingly in the Cup while making up ground in the league.
In the Cup, we lost 0-2 away at Fussball FC which was also a teammate in our association in the Cup Quarter Final 1st leg. Our defence was put under immense pressure by the home side which eventually told with the 2 conceded goals while Ibanez had a rare off day which implicated our offence given his importance to the team. The only consolation was that it was essentially half time and a 2 goal deficit was not impossible to overturn but we need to be at our best to have a chance to pull this off.
In the league, we won at home 4-0 against Atenas FC with Ma, Schweizer, Olaiz and Ibanez scoring the goals. The clean sheet was welcomed while Ibanez recovered from his poor showing in the Cup with a more familiar, dominating performance. The win was crucial given the tight contest at the top with just 4 points separating 1st to 4th and dropping any point may be fatal in our league title bid.
On the transfer front, we welcome Azerbaijani midfielder Ismayil Haciyez who was a bright prospect and looked more than ready to contribute right away as he makes his debut in the next league game.
In the Cup, we lost 0-2 away at Fussball FC which was also a teammate in our association in the Cup Quarter Final 1st leg. Our defence was put under immense pressure by the home side which eventually told with the 2 conceded goals while Ibanez had a rare off day which implicated our offence given his importance to the team. The only consolation was that it was essentially half time and a 2 goal deficit was not impossible to overturn but we need to be at our best to have a chance to pull this off.
In the league, we won at home 4-0 against Atenas FC with Ma, Schweizer, Olaiz and Ibanez scoring the goals. The clean sheet was welcomed while Ibanez recovered from his poor showing in the Cup with a more familiar, dominating performance. The win was crucial given the tight contest at the top with just 4 points separating 1st to 4th and dropping any point may be fatal in our league title bid.
On the transfer front, we welcome Azerbaijani midfielder Ismayil Haciyez who was a bright prospect and looked more than ready to contribute right away as he makes his debut in the next league game.
Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 11
Today saw us continuing our form in the league and sealing our progress into the knockout stage of the Champions League.
We beat AC Clumsy in the league away by 7-1. Ma and Olaiz scored twice while Ibanez, Coulibaly and Reece got on the scoresheet as well. Coulibaly especially has been a revelation on both ends of the field as he begin to add goals and offensive threat into his reportire. The victory, coupled with Dinamo L'Aquila's draw with Guy FC, saw us trailing by just a point though Edgar FC was level on points with us as well but with an inferior goal difference.
In the Chanpions League, we drew 3-3 with Lenobia FC which coupled with Roccia's 0-2 defeat to Idhzaar FC, meant that we sealed 2nd spot in the group and progress into the knockout stage. The match itself was a haphazard affair with chances aplenty on both ends. eventually, 2 goals from Adeso and a last minute equaliser by Safiesa gave us a share of the spoils though we will need to tighten up defensively for tougher challenges ahead.
I will also like to take the opportunity to bid farewell to club veteran Jonas Thelen who has served with distinction over the past few season as a dependable left back and occasional center back. He has been class personified and we as a club wishes him nothing but the very best and our beloved German will always be welcomed back as a club legend with open arms.
We beat AC Clumsy in the league away by 7-1. Ma and Olaiz scored twice while Ibanez, Coulibaly and Reece got on the scoresheet as well. Coulibaly especially has been a revelation on both ends of the field as he begin to add goals and offensive threat into his reportire. The victory, coupled with Dinamo L'Aquila's draw with Guy FC, saw us trailing by just a point though Edgar FC was level on points with us as well but with an inferior goal difference.
In the Chanpions League, we drew 3-3 with Lenobia FC which coupled with Roccia's 0-2 defeat to Idhzaar FC, meant that we sealed 2nd spot in the group and progress into the knockout stage. The match itself was a haphazard affair with chances aplenty on both ends. eventually, 2 goals from Adeso and a last minute equaliser by Safiesa gave us a share of the spoils though we will need to tighten up defensively for tougher challenges ahead.
I will also like to take the opportunity to bid farewell to club veteran Jonas Thelen who has served with distinction over the past few season as a dependable left back and occasional center back. He has been class personified and we as a club wishes him nothing but the very best and our beloved German will always be welcomed back as a club legend with open arms.
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 08-10
It had been a hectic few days for us as we got into our strides on 3 fronts.
In the league, we propelled ourselves to 2nd spot, 1 point behind Dinamo L'Aquila. The likes of Ibanez and Ma continued to lead the way with their consistently strong performances while strikers Schweizer and Reece are getting amongst the goals as we are currently on a 4 game winning streak, with the outstanding result being a 5-1 home win against fellow contender Edgar FC.
In the Champions' League, we got a decisive breakthrough as we won at home against Roccia FC by 2-1, giving us the advantage in the group to qualify for 2nd spot. Ibanez and Ma scored the goals which won us the match while Coulibaly was impressive in the anchor role.
The last 16 Cup tie was an exciting affair as we drew our home game against Eden Eruptions 3-3 which put us at a disadvantage. However, we managed to overcome the adversity with a convincing 3-0 away win which was arguably our best result so far this season. Ma gave a masterclass display as he combined goals (2) with creativity (1 assist to Coulibaly) and just creating uteer havoc o the rigth flank. Credit must go to our defense as well with the likes of Sapasadee, Leipold, Sutalo, Osman and Rybin all performing well. It was a complete performance which we need to bear in mind and replicate similar effort and focus as often as possible.
On the transfer front, we bid farewell to Ruben Reguero who has been a key anchor midfielder for the past few seasons and was a top professional throughout his time here. We also welcomed young Swedish right winger Fredrik Topal who would be understudy for Ma and provide cover on the right flank when needed.
In the league, we propelled ourselves to 2nd spot, 1 point behind Dinamo L'Aquila. The likes of Ibanez and Ma continued to lead the way with their consistently strong performances while strikers Schweizer and Reece are getting amongst the goals as we are currently on a 4 game winning streak, with the outstanding result being a 5-1 home win against fellow contender Edgar FC.
In the Champions' League, we got a decisive breakthrough as we won at home against Roccia FC by 2-1, giving us the advantage in the group to qualify for 2nd spot. Ibanez and Ma scored the goals which won us the match while Coulibaly was impressive in the anchor role.
The last 16 Cup tie was an exciting affair as we drew our home game against Eden Eruptions 3-3 which put us at a disadvantage. However, we managed to overcome the adversity with a convincing 3-0 away win which was arguably our best result so far this season. Ma gave a masterclass display as he combined goals (2) with creativity (1 assist to Coulibaly) and just creating uteer havoc o the rigth flank. Credit must go to our defense as well with the likes of Sapasadee, Leipold, Sutalo, Osman and Rybin all performing well. It was a complete performance which we need to bear in mind and replicate similar effort and focus as often as possible.
On the transfer front, we bid farewell to Ruben Reguero who has been a key anchor midfielder for the past few seasons and was a top professional throughout his time here. We also welcomed young Swedish right winger Fredrik Topal who would be understudy for Ma and provide cover on the right flank when needed.
Saturday, April 08, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 07
It was rare to get 2 draws on the same day but that was exactly what we got though both could be viewed as positive results.
In the league game away to Taufik Hasibu FC, we got off to the worst possible start as Adeso was sent off and we found ourselves 0-2 down after 33 minutes. Credits must go to the lads for their relentless determination as we fought back in the 2nd half and brought back a point through 2 goals by Ma who has now scored an astonishing 8 goals in the past 3 league games. Our never say die spirit deserved to be recognised and should serve us well down the road as we would inevitably face more adversities.
In the Champions League, we held the fort away to Roccia FC and got away with a 0-0 draw as our defence stood firm. Sapasadee stopped whatever the home side threw at him while Safiesa was impressive in midfield. The result left us tied on points with Roccia FC in the group and the race to qualify for the knockout stage will go down to the wire.
In the league game away to Taufik Hasibu FC, we got off to the worst possible start as Adeso was sent off and we found ourselves 0-2 down after 33 minutes. Credits must go to the lads for their relentless determination as we fought back in the 2nd half and brought back a point through 2 goals by Ma who has now scored an astonishing 8 goals in the past 3 league games. Our never say die spirit deserved to be recognised and should serve us well down the road as we would inevitably face more adversities.
In the Champions League, we held the fort away to Roccia FC and got away with a 0-0 draw as our defence stood firm. Sapasadee stopped whatever the home side threw at him while Safiesa was impressive in midfield. The result left us tied on points with Roccia FC in the group and the race to qualify for the knockout stage will go down to the wire.
Friday, April 07, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 06
Today saw us progressing into the next round in the Cup and getting a morale boosting victory in the league.
In the Cup, we drew 1-1 with Gardu Merah and went through 4-1 on aggregate. Ibanez scored early on before the away side equalised but 2 red cards effectively ended the contest for them. Generally we played with composure and Coulibaly was impressive in his anchor role.
In the league, we went on a rampage as we scored 7 goals past Jorge FC at home without reply. Ma was irresistible as he scored 5 goals while Olaiz and Adeso scored as well. We were dominant throughout and needed this performance to make our presence felt in the league though we must be more consistent to keep ourselves at or near the top.
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 05
Today was a day of fixed fortunes as we lost at home to Idhzaar FC in the Champions League but got ourselves an important league win away to Grand Rapds FC.
In the Champions League, we paid the price for a poor start as we found ourselves 0-2 down inside 22 minutes and despite dominating from then on, we got only score once via Olaiz before losing 1-2. Sutalo had a rare off game while Ma and Schweizer were kept quiet by the opposition.
It was a different story in the league as we got ourselves a 2nd win in the league, beating Grand Rapds FC 2-1. Ma and Ibanez scored the goals and we were comfortable till the home side scored in the 80th minute and we had to overcome some uneasy minutes to see this win through. Nevertheless, it was a good bounce back win after losing in the league last time round and we must look to keep on winning to keep ourselves near the top.
In the Champions League, we paid the price for a poor start as we found ourselves 0-2 down inside 22 minutes and despite dominating from then on, we got only score once via Olaiz before losing 1-2. Sutalo had a rare off game while Ma and Schweizer were kept quiet by the opposition.
It was a different story in the league as we got ourselves a 2nd win in the league, beating Grand Rapds FC 2-1. Ma and Ibanez scored the goals and we were comfortable till the home side scored in the 80th minute and we had to overcome some uneasy minutes to see this win through. Nevertheless, it was a good bounce back win after losing in the league last time round and we must look to keep on winning to keep ourselves near the top.
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 04
Today saw us losing in the league for the first time though we made amends with a good showing in the Cup.
In the league, we lost away at IngR by 1-2 with Ibanez scoring the opener but the home side scored twice in the first half which ultimately doomed us to defeat. Our defence did not cover themselves in glory with Rybin having a rare off game.
It was important not to be affected by our first defeat this season and we showed our resilience with a convincing 3-0 win away at Gardu Merah with Edeso giving us the lead before Schweizer and Ibanez added 2 more goals in the final minutes to give us a healthy lead in the 1st leg. Rybin recovered with a good game in defence while Ma assisted with the 1st 2 goals though Ibanez was undoubtedly the star of the show as he dazzled on the left flank, creating plenty of havoc to the opposition. Now we look to seal our progress to the next round as we return home for the 2nd leg.
In the league, we lost away at IngR by 1-2 with Ibanez scoring the opener but the home side scored twice in the first half which ultimately doomed us to defeat. Our defence did not cover themselves in glory with Rybin having a rare off game.
It was important not to be affected by our first defeat this season and we showed our resilience with a convincing 3-0 win away at Gardu Merah with Edeso giving us the lead before Schweizer and Ibanez added 2 more goals in the final minutes to give us a healthy lead in the 1st leg. Rybin recovered with a good game in defence while Ma assisted with the 1st 2 goals though Ibanez was undoubtedly the star of the show as he dazzled on the left flank, creating plenty of havoc to the opposition. Now we look to seal our progress to the next round as we return home for the 2nd leg.
Tuesday, April 04, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 03
Today saw us beginning our league and Champions League campaigns with convincing victories which set us up for better performances ahead.
In the league, we had a good home start, winning 6-0 against Arsenal Academy. Reece scored a hat trick with a rare start while Ma, Arabatzis and Coulibaly were among the goals too. While the win was expected against a team which was weaker on paper, we still displayed our focus and professionalism. Reece's goals and fine performance were especially encouraging and would not go unnoticed as we will look to give him more playing time to showcase his talent.
In the Champions League, we got ourselves a vital away win at Lenobia FC, giving us 3 points in what was expected to be a very tight group. Ma and Ibanez gave us a 2 goal lead and although the home team halved the deficit, further goals from Olaiz and Ibanez sealed the win in the final minutes and boosted our goal difference as well which may prove important down the road.
In the league, we had a good home start, winning 6-0 against Arsenal Academy. Reece scored a hat trick with a rare start while Ma, Arabatzis and Coulibaly were among the goals too. While the win was expected against a team which was weaker on paper, we still displayed our focus and professionalism. Reece's goals and fine performance were especially encouraging and would not go unnoticed as we will look to give him more playing time to showcase his talent.
In the Champions League, we got ourselves a vital away win at Lenobia FC, giving us 3 points in what was expected to be a very tight group. Ma and Ibanez gave us a 2 goal lead and although the home team halved the deficit, further goals from Olaiz and Ibanez sealed the win in the final minutes and boosted our goal difference as well which may prove important down the road.
Monday, April 03, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 02
Today saw us advancing to the last 32 of the Cup after a 7-2 away win at NoxiousMartia FC as we went through with a 11-2 aggregate. The match itself was a crazy affair and while our defence didn't cover ourselves with glory by conceding twice, our offensive display was something to behold with Schweizer and Ma scoring hat tricks while Ibanez got himself on the scoresheet as well. As things stood, i am happy with our squad in terms of youth, quality and experience as we face the upcoming season though any player who is available and able to add value to our team should definitely be considered.
Today also saw the groupings for our Champions League this season and we found ourselves in a really tough group with familiar foe Idhzaar FC as well as names which we came across in the past such as Marko FC, Eden Eruptions and Edgar FC, Primary goal remains to qualify for the knockout stage and be at the top of the group.
Today also saw the groupings for our Champions League this season and we found ourselves in a really tough group with familiar foe Idhzaar FC as well as names which we came across in the past such as Marko FC, Eden Eruptions and Edgar FC, Primary goal remains to qualify for the knockout stage and be at the top of the group.
Sunday, April 02, 2017
Top Eleven Season 09 Day 01
Today marked the start of a new season as Taeyeon FC won the 1st leg of the Cup 1st round with a straightforword 2-0 victory against NoxiousMartia FC. With players still recovering from a tough pre season, we saw players such as Ali, Reguero and Arabatzis handed starts for this match and it was Arabatzis who made a real impact with a match winning performance, scoring both goals and being a nuisance to opposing defence all game long. Leipold continued his excellent form from last season as he grows into a top left back while Adeso controlled midfield with his usual poise and Sapasadee dealed with any shot which came his way. Overall, we were professional and got ourselves a decent 2 goal lead with a clean sheet as we look to close the deal tomorrow on their home ground in the 2nd leg.
I will also like to take the opportunity to bid farewell to Vegard Glendrange who has left us for Francesco FC to seek more playing time. Glendrange has been a key component of our attack for years, contributing with goals and assists as we move up the ladder. While we were gutte3d to lose him, we do wish him the very best and he will remain as part of the club even after he retired.
I will also like to take the opportunity to bid farewell to Vegard Glendrange who has left us for Francesco FC to seek more playing time. Glendrange has been a key component of our attack for years, contributing with goals and assists as we move up the ladder. While we were gutte3d to lose him, we do wish him the very best and he will remain as part of the club even after he retired.
Top Eleven Season 08 Day 28
It was an anti-climatic end to the season as we lost our final game for Terry FC won their game comfortably as we finished 4 points behind them in 2nd spot. Nevertheless, we did achieve our primary objective of qualifying for next season's Champions League in a very competitive league which got us worried for a moment about finishing in the top 4 as around 8 teams were literally neck in neck after the first few rounds of matches. We witnessed the blossoming of Adeso as a world class central midfielder who could dominate against the very best at both ends of the field, breaking up plays and scoring goals with equal distinction. We also saw continued excellence from club veterans such as Osman, Ma and Ibanez while players such as Sutalo and Olaiz impressed with their performances we well. Young players such as Schweizer, Rybin, Coulibaly and Leipold had staked their claims for starting berths with Leipold in particular making huge strides over the course of the season and replacing Thelen in the process though it must be highlighted that the German veteran has been a real professional and continued to provide great leadership off the field. Sapasadee continues to develop into a top notch goalkeeper with some match winning displays thanks to his dependable gloves while club youngsters such as Ali and Ridhuan would have learned much from the first team as they will look to step up when required. Overall, 2nd place in the league, quarter final in the Champions League and semi final in the Cup were decent though nowhere near where we wanted to be as sliverware once again eluded us. There were positives from the improvements of the team as well as new signings such as Safiesa and Tajeddine who looked settled as the season drew to a close and would be expected to be more involved next season. We played great football and at our best, we could compete against any team and as we learn to be more consistent, i am sure that we will win championships in the near future as we look to build on what we established this season.
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.
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