Rolling to Playoffs: Boys' Football Wins Continue

Pao Athletics— Football

This month, the boys' varsity football team has played two SSSA games. Winning both games, they have a total of 5 wins and 1 tie, ranking them #1 in U19 Division 1 to enter the season's playoffs. The results are as follows:

- 7:3 win against KCIS

- 2:1 win against ULink

Words from Mr. Smith:

After a week's break, YK Pao returned to the pitch finding themselves struggling to recover. The opposing team had taken a high pressure defensive tactic, causing YK Pao to struggle in attacking. Despite that the match began with the players appearing disjointed, the team managed to battle to a 2-2 score line by half-time. They had twice taken the lead, only to concede equalizers each time.

The stern voice of the coach during half time emphasized the needs for drastic improvements in performance level, rekindled the team’s commitment to the game. The coach’s words stirred the spirits of players, as in the second half, the team improved a lot on ball possession, and had more chances for shooting, indicating a slight uptick in their overall play.

As the match approached its final stages, the opposition's goalkeeper had a couple of errors, allowing a late goal flurry. The team was able to execute a couple of excellent counter attacks, which lead to the scoring of 4 impressive goals in quick succession, bringing the final score to a 7-3 victory.

Still, the players and coaching staff are left with much to ponder, and the team is still exploring their true potential through serious self-reflection and future trainings to return to their peak.

HIGHLIGHTS

Player of the Match: Jason Chen #9

In the final group stage match, the boys’ varsity football team faced ULink in an away game. Despite ranked first, this match was crucial for securing their position in the playoffs. Ultimately, the team emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, solidifying their first-place standing in the league and securing a spot in the playoffs. However, the team’s actions game did not always remain unhindered.

Unfamiliar with real grass fields the bumpy, wet fields had an adverse impact on the team’s performance, as passings were slowed down, and the team struggled to maintain ball control. Despite having multiple chances of shootings, no goals were scored before half time, keeping the score at 0-0.

At the beginning of the second half, the opposing team quickly took the lead with a free kick. Determined to regain lost ground, YK Pao was desperate to take back the points, adjusting to a more offensive formation, hoping to formulate more successful attacks. Eventually, the opposing team conducted a foul which lead up to a freekick. The boys seized the chance in the freekick and equalized the score to 1-1. However, a mere tie was not satisfactory for YK Pao, and the game remained at its most intensive state. At the very last minute of the game, Eric Wu #11, was finally able to break through the opponent’s defences, and scored a remarkable buzzer-beater, striking down the opposing team by surprise, and finally gave the team a 2-1 victory.

Throughout the match, both teams showcased their skills, but it was the away team that ultimately emerged triumphant with a convincing 2-1 win. The game was a thrilling display of resilience and determination in a hard-fought contest. It also served as a reminder to the team that there is still much work to be done to prepare for the upcoming playoffs. Maintaining focus, honing their skills, and preparing for tougher competition will be crucial for achieving success in the knockout stage. 

HIGHLIGHTS

Player of the Match: Eric Wu #11

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