Boys' Football Season Openers

Pao Athletics— Football

Over the past month, the boys' football varsity team has officially started the season. So far, they have played four SSSA games, winning three and tying one, ranked #1 in U19 Division 1. The results are as follows:

- 2:1 win against GHCIS

- 3:1 win against SUIS Gubei

- 2:2 tie against SHSID

- 6:2 win against WCIS

Words from Mr. Smith:

In the match, the team faced off against a resilient opponent who seemed content to sit back and defend, looking to hit us on the break. Despite enjoying an overwhelming 80% of possession, the team struggled to break through their stubborn defense. The match was characterized by few moments of brilliance that ultimately decided the outcome in our favor.

As the game wore on, the team's persistence paid off as we managed to find the breakthrough with a display of individual brilliance. However, the victory was hard-fought and served as a reminder of the importance of maintaining focus and composure throughout the game.

The match highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in our passing accuracy and ability to remain composed under pressure. Nervousness impacted on our performances, leading to misplaced passes and missed opportunities in the final third.Moving forward, there is much to work on in training to address our shortcomings and ensure better performances in future matches. Despite the challenges faced, this game serves as a valuable learning experience for the team as we strive to improve and achieve our goals in the season ahead.

HIGHLIGHTS

Player of the Match: Joshua Greenaway #14

Words from Mr. Smith:

In a fiercely competitive and niggly football match, the home team found themselves trailing 1-0 after an early goal from the away team. Despite the setback, they fought back relentlessly, creating numerous chances throughout the match.

The home team hit the crossbar and post on several occasions, but the away team's defense stood firm. The match was characterized by its physicality, with the away team committing numerous fouls as tensions ran high on the pitch. The home goalkeeper put in a stellar performance, making several crucial saves to keep the scoreline close as the game progressed.

As the match neared half time the home team's persistence paid off as they scored an equalizer through some impressive footwork. Buoyed by the goal, they continued to press forward, eventually finding the breakthrough with a well-worked goal to take the lead.

In the end, the home team emerged victorious with a 3-1 win, showcasing their resilience and determination in a hard-fought contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

HIGHLIGHTS

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Player of the Match: Lance Ding #1

On March 20th, the boy's varsity football team competed against SHSID. Initially, the team exhibited remarkable teamwork and exceptional football skills, maintaining a significant advantage in ball possession and had numerous shot attempts. Not long after the game started, Joshua Greenaway #14 was able to make a successful shot, securing a goal briskly. As the first half progressed, both sides settled into their respective patterns of play, leading to a tightly contested match.

However, during the second half of the game, the opposing team regained momentum by controlling the ball more effectively and executing a greater number of passes. They managed to equalize the score, bringing the score to 1-1. During a subsequent offensive maneuver, Eric Wu #11 managed to score another goal, reclaiming the lead with a score of 2-1. Nonetheless, as fatigue set in among the players, the opposing team earned a free kick in the final minute. They skillfully struck the ball low into the box, scoring a goal before our team could clear out. Regrettably, this resulted in a 2-2 tie.

The outcome served as a wake-up call for the team, warning the team from slacking off. Looking ahead, the team has thoroughly reflected and will continue to grow stronger and learn from these experiences.

Player Stats:

Words from Mr. Smith:

On Wednesday, YK Pao faced against a robust team WCIS at our home pitch. The action started with a bang as four goals were scored within the first 10 minutes. The opening goal was an absolute wonder—a long shot scored by Joshua Greenaway #14, leaving spectators in awe of the skill and precision displayed on the field. Although YK Pao temporarily fell behind by two consecutive goals from the opposing team, the team managed to equalize with a quick reply scored by Tiger Hua #13 showing great resilience and determination. As the first half progressed, both sides settled into their respective patterns of play, leading to a tightly contested match. The teams went into halftime with the score tied 2-2.

YK Pao came out strong in the second half, demonstrating dominance on the field and scoring four impressive goals, controlling the second half of the game with a 4-0. Despite their strong performance, the team’s finishing was not always on point, with some missed opportunities to further extend their lead.

Ultimately, YK Pao emerged victorious with a convincing 6-2 win. Special mention goes to Lance Ding #1 for his outstanding saves that kept the score line from being closer.

Player of the Match: Jason Chen #9 and Joshua Greenaway #14