Asterix Reds 1 - 1 KL Vikings (Expat Cup Preseason Tournament)

I'm much happier writing this week's match report than I was last week. And I think that just about sums it up. Credit to the squad for putting in a much improved performance this week against The Vikings. We did enough to win the game but more importantly we played with a lot more purpose.

We talked before the game about starting with higher intensity levels and playing the game at a higher tempo. We did this from the off and took an early lead with a great strike from Andy Johnston. We should have perhaps got another after going close with a couple of good chances. As the half wore on, our tempo dropped to that of the The Vikings and we let them get back into the game in the second 20 minutes of the first half. Once again, we were duly punished for poor marking from a set piece and allowed them to level. One-one at half time.

We were on top for much of the second half. Most pleasing was the determination and commitment we showed as a team; the first time we've done so this season. We chased down, tackled well and moved well off the ball. I though the back four (or rather seven including subs) was superb throughout; The Vikings hardly created a chance from open play. Our midfielders worked well together, tackled well and helped each other off the ball. It was particularly pleasing to see us play the ball from the back. We got it wide more than we have done so far this season and that resulted in us creating a lot of space to move forward. Our two strikers worked their socks off, both playing the entire game. Full credit to you both for your energy and commitment; on another day with a bit more luck we could have scored more. As it was the game ended one each. It would have been nice to win, but most importantly we improved our performance and played closer to our potential.

Next week we have another friendly; this one against Club Aman at Club Aman. It's a night game on Friday and will be followed by our BIG night out. It's important that we consolidate the improvements we made today and continue to work on our passing and team play. Despite today's imporvements, we're still giving the ball away too easily with low-percentage balls. During the next game, I want us to continue to play with continually high levels of intensity and tempo and also look to continue to improve our decision making on the ball. I'm looking for more of you to take responsibility for ensuring we maintain possession by playing more high percentage balls that result in us stringing more passes together and keeping the ball for longer periods.

As always, get yourself exercised during the early part of the week and attend training at 7PM on Thursday night. As important, make sure you book Friday night off with your significant others. We'll finish the game around 9 before strolling over to J n R in Ampang for a bite and a few loosening ales. From there we'll adjourn to the bright lights of the city for some 'team bonding'. Don't plan anything for Saturday morning. I'll send an evite with details. 

Well done again on a much improved performance.