Agape Cup 2009 - Pandas Match #2 .vs. CMC [24th May]

After a humbling opening league defeat, the Pandas look to put their Agape season back on track starting with a win against CMC, an opponent whom they have met many many times over the past couple of years. It was a bright sunny Sunday when the Pandas arrive, much better than the wet condition of the first game, seems like a good sign to allow the Pandas to play more of their passing game. Tasked to lead worship, Sheldon was up to play the guitar while Maurice lead the songs.

After devotion, the Pandas were told of their line-ups and tactics. With the thrashing still in the back of their heads, the Pandas were determined to keep it tight at the back this time round by deploying 2 holding midfielders to sit infront of the defence at all times which sheldon and Bangshi did to perfect plan. Damien and Jingzhong were also told to drop whenever the opponents had the ball and this resulted in a more compact midfield with everyone behind the ball.

CMC kickoff the first-half but it was the Pandas that were threatening in the opening 10 minutes. CMC were probably taken aback with the pace that the Pandas started with and were totally caught offguard as the Pandas draw first blood. Quick passing from the centre to the wing saw the resulting cross lobbed over the keeper by Darren's head into the bottom left corner. With the goal, CMC looked to get it back but found it difficult with every Pandas defending behind every player, allowing CMC only stray long shots. Afew corners were conceded by the Pandas and CMC definitely look threatening from there due to their big players, most noticeably their giant centreback which Jem had a hard time stopping and their botak CM. As firsthalf comes to and end, CMC earn themself the 1st yellow card when the striker tried to prevent Pandas GK from pumping a goalkick up. Frustrations can be easily seen at this time from CMC side as they failed to convert any chances coming their way. Pandas continued launching long balls behind CMC defence as CMC are prone to misjudge. Half-time came soon after and the score remain 1-0, advantage Pandas.

Coach Ronnie briefed the Pandas during the break that they are playing a very dangerous game by sitting back and allowing CMC to come at them. Instead of all the long balls, Pandas should be playing more to the wings. Getting the 2nd goal early in the 2nd half was the priority as that will effectively kill off CMC and break their spirits, and so the Pandas set off the 2nd half with this game plan.

From kickoff, the Pandas look to launch a quick ball to the wings but unfortunately was not executed properly and was charge down by CMC. So it was back to defending resolutely again. Panda's goal-kick the first 10 minutes of the 2nd half was now passed to the wingbacks in an attempt to gain control of the possesion more but unfortunately the wingbacks failed to control and CMC robbed them off again. Fortunately CMC finishing wasnt there and the Pandas were relieved. After that it was back to how it was being played in the first half, launching long balls all the way as CMC constantly misjudge all the high balls and bounce, giving Damien and Darren afew chance. As time went on and no further goals came, CMC frustration could be easily seen as they start to commit many fouls. All resulting freekicks were launched into CMC half as so long as the ball is in their half, Pandas goal is safe. With around 10-15 minutes remaining, both side start to make changes to the game. CMC brought on speedy strikers and Pandas brought on strength forwards, with Sam Eyo replacing Darren and David replacing Damien. Pandas substitutes look more threatening now as they are able to hold the ball better and keep possession against the big CMC defenders. A quick counter attack by the Pandas saw David chase down a left wing pass and his first touch cross almost found Sam Eyo, who just arrived into the box but failed to make contact with the ball. With 3 points almost in the pocket of the Pandas, RB Daniel argued with the referee when he waste time and prevent CMC from taking a quick throw-in, earning himself a 2nd yellow card and a 1 match suspension. The final whistle finally came and the Pandas were now able to celebrate their season precious first win.

Final score: Pandas 1 CMC 0.