“You need people who score goals. That’s how you win games.” (Former Real Madrid substitute, Michael Owen)

First Half

After defeat in their last fixture, and a week off resting during half term, the ConchAttack players were eager to get back to winning ways. The scouts have been working hard to find some new talent to bolster the attacking options from the bench, and they have not disappointed, with Jerry being brought into the ranks in recent weeks. Jerry is a player that comes with good experience, after previously being nurtured by Italian legend, Mr Salva.

The game started very well, with Leonardo, Masanobu and Mr Erik attacking from the off. The boys had tough opposition in front of them, with many of the Galatassaray players being Grade 11 and Grade 12 students. They had a lot of experience and ability, and were very pleasant to play against. However, the ConchAttach boys have something that not many teams possess. Something that cannot be taught, cannot be coached, something that comes from within, and that is team spirit. Mr Matt defines team spirit as, “the feeling of pride and loyalty that exists among the members of a team and that makes them want their team to do well or to be the best.” The opposition defense was excellent throughout the first half, with the goalkeeper making some very impressive saves. But they could not withstand the barrage of attacks for too long, and a long powerful drive from Masanobu burst into the net before half time, giving the ConchAttach boys the lead.

Half Time – 0-1

The second half saw much of the same, with the energy and endeavor from Maxim, Masanobu, Leonardo and the rest of the team causing the Galatassaray players constant trouble. Anuar was solid in his role as Goalkeeper, making several important saves and distributing the ball well. Maxim and Sina were rock solid in defense, breaking up play and finding intelligent passes into the midfield players. Mr Erik and Masanobu never stopped running in midfield, closing every loose ball and turning defense into attack very quickly. However, it was Leonardo in his new role as a striker who impressed the most and could have scored several goals in the second half, if not for some superb goalkeeping from the opposition. Masanobu was unstoppable in attack, and every time he received the ball on the turn, he looked like scoring. He managed to score two more goals before the end of the game and picked up the sacred Man of the Match award. Zihao, Jerry and Mauricio entered the field before the final whistle and performed very well. An amazing performance, and a great feeling to get back to winning ways.

Final Score – 1-3

Goal Scorers – Masanobu x3

Man of the Match – Masanobu

Squad – Anuar, Maxim ©, Sina, Mr Erik, Masanobu, Leonardo, Jerry, Zihao, Mauricio

Well done boys, very proud of all of you! JG