Pao Athletics— Football
This month, the girls' football varsity team has played two SSSA games. Winning both of the games, they are ranked #2 in U19 category, officially entering the season's playoffs. The results are as follows:
- 2:0 win against SCLS
- 12:0 win against YWIES
01
April 10th YK Pao vs. SCLS:
Results: 2-0 Win
Words from Mr. Smith:
After a preseason friendly game which sparked controversy over the final score, YK Pao again met SCLS clashing on the expansive pitch. The larger pitch challenges both team’s players in better fitness levels and positioning skills. Eventually, YK Pao’s hard work and unity shone through, culminating in a resounding 2-0 victory.
The match was a testament to the players' efforts, with their determination and commitment evident for all to see. Every member of the team contributed to the success. The victory not only highlighted the team's talent but also underscored the importance of perseverance and teamwork in achieving their goals.
Despite victory, there were some unpleasant moments as the opponents shouted a few unsavory words, testing the team's resolve and sportsmanship. In the face of adversity, it was crucial for the players to maintain their composure. Choosing the moral high ground in such situations was a display of character and integrity that reflected positively on the team as a whole.
As the final whistle blew, it was evident that the win was built on a foundation of hard work, unity, and unwavering determination. As the team celebrated their triumph, thoughts immediately turned to the upcoming matches and the need for increased intensity in training sessions. The players reflected, knowing that they needed to push themselves even further to continue their winning streak and achieve their season objectives.
HIGHLIGHTS
Game Highlights
Player of the Match: Candy Deng #5 and Betty Yu #21
In this game, the two remarkable defenders of the team, Candy Deng and Betty Yu, performed outstandingly in their cooperation of building a strong defensive line, which thwarted every single attempt from the other team, contributing to a 2-0 victory.
Equipped with exceptional timing and positioning skills, Candy was capable of making immediate responses when the ball arrived at her feet, resulting in multiple wise passing decisions that laid the crucial bases for each attack. Spectators at the side couldn’t help but shout out “what a pass!”.
Betty not only executed numerous crucial tackles and interceptions throughout the game, her remarkable observing skills over the field allowed her to constantly switch the ball into spaces. In addition, Betty also made threatening long shots and passes even as a defender, and her amazing ball-throwing skills made everyone doubt that she was a spy from the basketball team.
The two player’s performance not only showcased individual strength but also exemplified the essence of true teamwork, inspiring every player in the team, driving the game towards its climax.
Player Stats:
Goals | Assists | |
Angelina Wei #7 | 2 | |
Amy Geng #10 | 2 |
02
April 15th YK Pao vs. YWIES:
Results: 13-0 Win
Words from Mr. Smith:
In the final match before playoff, the atmosphere was relaxed as our team's place in the knockouts had already been secured. Facing against a bottom-placed team, YWIES, who were notably younger and less experienced, it quickly became apparent just how wide the gap in quality was between the two sides.
Since the opening whistle, the match seemed like a training with our team relentlessly attacking and the opposition struggling to mount any kind of meaningful response. YK Pao managed to keep ball possession for over 90% of the time, while still constantly pushing forward on the opponent’s side of the field. Our team repetitively scored effortlessly, demonstrating our clinical finishing and superior skill level. YK Pao’s overpowering in the match, showcased both individual talents and excellence in teamwork, and eventually dominating the match to a resounding 13-0 toppling victory.
While the emphatic victory served as a confidence booster for the team ahead of the playoffs, the team should also constantly be aware of the challenges that lay ahead. The post seasonal games would come in much stronger forms, and the team remains aware the real challenges yet lay ahead. There is still work to be done to prepare for the tougher battles that await in the playoffs. It is crucial for the team to maintain focus, sharpen their skills, and be prepared to face much stiffer competition in order to achieve success in the knockouts.
HIGHLIGHTS
More
Player of the Match: Chenfei Lv #3
Player Stats:
(Congrats to Amy for another Hat Trick!)
Goals | Assists | |
Chenfei Lv #3 | 1 | 1 |
Cici Ma #4 | 2 | 1 |
Candy Deng #5 | 1 | |
Minnie Zhu #6 | 2 | |
Angelina Wei #7 | 1 | 2 |
Yifei Zhou #9 | 1 | |
Amy Geng #10 | 3 | |
Susan Jiang #16 | 2 | |
Dora Ye #20 | 1 | |
Betty Yu #21 | 2 | 1 |
Jane Yao #27 | 1 |
Upcoming Games
In May, the girls' team will officially enter the season's playoffs. Schedules and arrangements will be released soon. Stay updated by following Pao Athletics for further information!
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Writers | Amy Geng, Minnie Zhu
Designer | Minnie Zhu
Photographers | Barry Shen, Catherine Zhou, Joshua Greenaway, Lance Ding, Leo Deng
Video Editor | Amy Geng
Editor-in-Chief | Catherine Zhou
Pao Athletics: 包玉刚高中部体育文化活动日常发布