Mid Game Tankers > Early game intels and late game Agi’s
That pretty much sums it up for Le’Samba’s performance in week #4. Despite the improved gameplay from our side, it was evident that size,power, and brute strength overcame us and steam-rolled us down.
D’Knights were definitely formidable opponents, with Sam, Damo and Venkat’s speed, minute-but-agile goalie Lavin, and a whole lot of strength pouring in from Arasan and Lawrence. After their 1st shock win against former Darkhorses, GM, DKnights have been falling behind and they would definitely want to use us as a pedestal to climb back in form and rise in the RFL table. Of course, we had plans of our own too …
Our starting line up comprised of Magz, Abz, VK and Lingesh. The game was rather slow in the opening minutes with incomplete attempts on both ends of the field. Most our attacks thwarted by stalwart Damo, championing their backline while Lawrence playing his blockade role rather well. His size was a factor in halting most attacks from our side. Lawrence looked dangerous at one point taking a wild shot at Min Jie, but it brushed the side.
After the 3rd minute, VK subbed Harin in to provide some creativity in our front line. This proved to be the turning point of the game when a brief 1-2 between him and Kay saw an opening in Lavin’s goal. Harin took advantage of that and sent the ball into the net. 1-0 to Samba.
Abz was forced out of the 1st half early result of a clash with Lawrence. The Parameds were required to attend to his busted right shin, hopefully allowing him to play in the 2nd half.
Right after the kick-off, the excited Harin charged down the field and claimed the ball from Lawrence in attempt to double the lead. Lavin did a great job stopping him before help arrived. At that point, 4 red shirts surrounding our lone striker, his attempt went wide. Arasan’s appearance in the 5th minute changed was well timed. His attacking prowess opened a few opportunities for himself and his teammates.
On the 7th minute we had another casualty, our midfield dependence, Kay. VK had to immediately come in for him after a clash with bigman Lawrence. With Isaac in too, this provided some pace in Samba’s attack as result in a quick steal, a trio effort led the ball to Harin again for the taking, but Lavin did a fantastic job saving it from point blank.
On the 9th minute, D’Knights were given a corner kick. Poor man-marking left Lawrence open to fire the ball in low corner. 1-1.
The 2nd half was pretty interesting with both sides looking for that 2nd goal and the chance to seal the 3 points. The attacking was superb, our side especially with Harin really pumped for the win. He solo-pushed our attacking stance with a few shots on goal, a superb free-kick and he covered the empty mid-field which Kay left behind.
All in all, it was a fantastic game for us. We could’ve won it if we had taken our chances properly and if we didn’t lose Abz and Kay early on. Our gameplay has definitely improved for last year, and we’re hoping to maintain that for our games to come. GG to Harin, man of the match definitely.
Labels: review
