A blessed Good Friday to all of us. Good Friday and Easter are
critically important events in the Christian calendar as we remember the
death of Jesus on the cross on Good Friday, and His resurrection on
Easter Sunday.
These events bear witness to God's love for us, and
proves that Jesus had overcome the sin of the world and is able to offer
us new life on earth and for eternity. John 3:16 reminds us that "For
God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever
believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
Most of
us would have heard excerpts of who Jesus is, from our time in church,
school or Soccer Community. I encourage us to read and reflect on the
account of Jesus' crucifixion in John 19 so that we might today, consider who it is that would choose to die such a brutal death.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Friendly Match vs BENS Report (24th March)
The PMC players geared up for the final friendly of the 2013 pre-season by arriving on time for the match. A team of 18 players turned up to get a last run-out. The weather was cloudy and perfect for a game of football. We welcomed back Mark for this first game of the season. The instructions for the 1st half were simple - tenacity in ball keeping/winning and improve the final ball into to the CF to create more chances. The starting 11 were:
PMC enjoyed the lion's share of possession in the early running against what seemed like a young, fit but inexperienced team with no leader on the pitch. However, despite the possession and one or two chances for the forward pairing of Justin and Isaiah, the PMC team could not find a break through, with the BENS GK having little to do. David Lim in the PMC goal was similarly untroubled, as BENS was left to do counter-attacking that did not bear fruit. PMC's numerous set pieces were also unconverted, especially one free kick that Jacob delivered beautifully into Isaiah's path, but was saved bravely by the BENS GK. It was thus quite a sucker punch when BENS scored the first goal through a corner that was flicked into the path of a player left completely unmarked. He had the simplest of tasks to knock the ball past a stranded David. With the score at 1-0 to BENS, PMC continued to pressure the BENS goal, but even with some nice passing in midfield, there was no real final ball for the forwards to convert. Mark came on for his first outing of the pre-season in place of Steve and Lincoln came on for Daniel Low to add a different dimension to the wing play. Possession was good, but half-time came without any breakthrough for PMC.
As players took a breather during the half-time team talk, Kevin commended the team for winning possession and retaining it well. However, much improvement was needed in the area of finding a route to goal. Daniel Chen came on in place of Damien to start the 2nd half with the rest of the team mostly intact. However, within minutes of the re-start, Lincoln limped off with a foot injury, prompting Justin to move to RM with Steve coming on at CF. This enforced change led to some good chances, and when a free kick was awarded outside the box, Isaiah did not waste the opportunity and curled a beautiful one into the corner of the net. The next change came when Justin came off for Weijie, with Jacob moving to RM and Weijie playing as CB. However, Weijie himself picked up a knock within 5 minutes of coming on, prompting Wei En to come in at LB with Daniel Chen moving in at CB. It took a couple more minutes and more players changes before the shape of the team looked 'right' and for PMC to press for the winning goal. This came mid-way through the 2nd half when a melee in the box left Isaiah open to plant a header past the GK. It was 2-1 to PMC with the wind in their sails. Joel and Kevin then came on for Jingzhong and Steve, with more re-organisation to ensure that the team held the lead till the final whistle. During all this time, the only clear-cut chances BENS had were either shot wide, or brilliantly saved by a flying David. PMC even had a chance to score a 3rd goal when a Daniel Low free kick found its way to Kevin with only the GK to beat. However, being in such an unfamiliar situation, Kevin fluffed his shot wide when placing it in the corner would have sufficed. The miss did not come back to haunt the team as PMC was able to hold on to the lead for the win.
The pre-season ended positively with PMC winning it's last 2 games and not conceding from open play in 2.5 matches. Everyone was encouraged as Jacob closed the team-talk session in pray, specially asking for healing for Lincoln and Weijie.
Justin
Jingzhong - Isaiah - Daniel Low
Kee Min - Jeremy Sin
Damien - Jacob - Samuel
Steve
David Lim
PMC enjoyed the lion's share of possession in the early running against what seemed like a young, fit but inexperienced team with no leader on the pitch. However, despite the possession and one or two chances for the forward pairing of Justin and Isaiah, the PMC team could not find a break through, with the BENS GK having little to do. David Lim in the PMC goal was similarly untroubled, as BENS was left to do counter-attacking that did not bear fruit. PMC's numerous set pieces were also unconverted, especially one free kick that Jacob delivered beautifully into Isaiah's path, but was saved bravely by the BENS GK. It was thus quite a sucker punch when BENS scored the first goal through a corner that was flicked into the path of a player left completely unmarked. He had the simplest of tasks to knock the ball past a stranded David. With the score at 1-0 to BENS, PMC continued to pressure the BENS goal, but even with some nice passing in midfield, there was no real final ball for the forwards to convert. Mark came on for his first outing of the pre-season in place of Steve and Lincoln came on for Daniel Low to add a different dimension to the wing play. Possession was good, but half-time came without any breakthrough for PMC.
One of the many freekicks that went PMC's way in the first half
Justin & Isaiah try to work together
Jeremy Sin- PMC's captain for Season 2013
As players took a breather during the half-time team talk, Kevin commended the team for winning possession and retaining it well. However, much improvement was needed in the area of finding a route to goal. Daniel Chen came on in place of Damien to start the 2nd half with the rest of the team mostly intact. However, within minutes of the re-start, Lincoln limped off with a foot injury, prompting Justin to move to RM with Steve coming on at CF. This enforced change led to some good chances, and when a free kick was awarded outside the box, Isaiah did not waste the opportunity and curled a beautiful one into the corner of the net. The next change came when Justin came off for Weijie, with Jacob moving to RM and Weijie playing as CB. However, Weijie himself picked up a knock within 5 minutes of coming on, prompting Wei En to come in at LB with Daniel Chen moving in at CB. It took a couple more minutes and more players changes before the shape of the team looked 'right' and for PMC to press for the winning goal. This came mid-way through the 2nd half when a melee in the box left Isaiah open to plant a header past the GK. It was 2-1 to PMC with the wind in their sails. Joel and Kevin then came on for Jingzhong and Steve, with more re-organisation to ensure that the team held the lead till the final whistle. During all this time, the only clear-cut chances BENS had were either shot wide, or brilliantly saved by a flying David. PMC even had a chance to score a 3rd goal when a Daniel Low free kick found its way to Kevin with only the GK to beat. However, being in such an unfamiliar situation, Kevin fluffed his shot wide when placing it in the corner would have sufficed. The miss did not come back to haunt the team as PMC was able to hold on to the lead for the win.
The pre-season ended positively with PMC winning it's last 2 games and not conceding from open play in 2.5 matches. Everyone was encouraged as Jacob closed the team-talk session in pray, specially asking for healing for Lincoln and Weijie.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Soccer Fellowship Report (16th March)
It was a hot Saturday afternoon, and a last minute friendly was organized with PMC hosting a new team from Bethesda Frankel Estate Church (BFEC). Only 8 players turned up from PMC, and we had to loan 2 players from BFEC, to start the 10 a-side match. Jacob shared on the parable of the lost son, and also reminded the Christians not to be like the older son who did not welcome the return of his brother as he deemed the lost son to be sinful.
The match started with BEFC in white and PMC in a wide array of different colours! PMC kept the pressure well in the first half, keeping the ball in the opponents half early in the game and scoring 2 goals. But the complacency and a few defensive errors allowed BFEC to even the scoreline each time PMC scored a goal. And first half ended with a draw of 2-2.
Having warmed up and with a few minor adjustments to the team’s positions, PMC started the second half stronger and manage to hold possession of the ball much better. PMC also took attacking opportunities much better, and scored more goals. A nail biting moment came from a PMC corner kick when Jacob headed the ball off the crossbar and onto the ground, only to be cleared to safety. The game ended with a scoreline of 5-3 favoring PMC.
Nicolas from BFEC closed us in prayer.
Reported by Samuel Pang.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Soccer Fellowship (16th March)
Soccer Fellowship is ON this Saturday, 16th March at Pasir Ris Crest Secondary School* (yes, the one in Pasir Ris!). The session will be from 3 - 5 pm.
Please bring BOTH a BRIGHT and DARK jersey so that we can split the teams evenly.
Please pray for good weather! If you suspect the session is cancelled, please check the blog/email for more information before you head for the field. Cancellation of session will be broadcast on the blog and by email immediately when we are informed by Sports Council.
*The address of Pasir Ris Crest Secondary School is 11 Pasir Ris Street 41. The entrance to the field is next to the bus-stop along Pasir Ris Drive 4. If you are driving, the car park nearest to the school field is the Multi-Storey Car Park at Block 458A. The map of the area around the school can be viewed HERE.
Please bring BOTH a BRIGHT and DARK jersey so that we can split the teams evenly.
Please pray for good weather! If you suspect the session is cancelled, please check the blog/email for more information before you head for the field. Cancellation of session will be broadcast on the blog and by email immediately when we are informed by Sports Council.
*The address of Pasir Ris Crest Secondary School is 11 Pasir Ris Street 41. The entrance to the field is next to the bus-stop along Pasir Ris Drive 4. If you are driving, the car park nearest to the school field is the Multi-Storey Car Park at Block 458A. The map of the area around the school can be viewed HERE.
Soccer Fellowship Report (9th March)
Many must have been worried that the sudden downpour at 230pm would signal the end of Soccer Fellowship that afternoon, but within minutes, the sky cleared and the sun came out. A group of 16 players gathered at Pasir Ris Crest Sec to get a very decent run-out.
Kevin began the session with devotions, using Matthew 25's Parable of the Talents to illustrate how each player was blessed with different gifts and all we are called to do would be to be faithful with what we have been given. Similarly on the soccer field, we should contribute in the position that we play.
The players were split into 2 teams with the Whites/Blues up against the Other Colours. Using only half the field, play was fast and furious throughout. It was clear that some players were using Soccer Fellowship to step up their preparations for the coming CrossRoad Cup, with Kee Min's pace relentless and Joel Tan playing very effectively. The 1st half ended at 5-5 and after a short break, play resumed with a change of sides. Scoring continued to be back and forth, with Maurice looking for his hat-trick. The final score went 8-7 to the team in White/Blue and overall, it was another satisfying kickabout for those who turned up.
Kevin began the session with devotions, using Matthew 25's Parable of the Talents to illustrate how each player was blessed with different gifts and all we are called to do would be to be faithful with what we have been given. Similarly on the soccer field, we should contribute in the position that we play.
The players were split into 2 teams with the Whites/Blues up against the Other Colours. Using only half the field, play was fast and furious throughout. It was clear that some players were using Soccer Fellowship to step up their preparations for the coming CrossRoad Cup, with Kee Min's pace relentless and Joel Tan playing very effectively. The 1st half ended at 5-5 and after a short break, play resumed with a change of sides. Scoring continued to be back and forth, with Maurice looking for his hat-trick. The final score went 8-7 to the team in White/Blue and overall, it was another satisfying kickabout for those who turned up.
Players taking a break at half-time
Players catching up at half-time
Tuesday, March 05, 2013
Soccer Fellowship (9th March)
Soccer Fellowship is ON this Saturday, 9th March at Pasir Ris Crest Secondary School* (yes, the one in Pasir Ris!). The session will be from 3 - 5 pm.
Please bring BOTH a BRIGHT and DARK jersey so that we can split the teams evenly.
Please pray for good weather! If you suspect the session is cancelled, please check the blog/email for more information before you head for the field. Cancellation of session will be broadcast on the blog and by email immediately when we are informed by Sports Council.
*The address of Pasir Ris Crest Secondary School is 11 Pasir Ris Street 41. The entrance to the field is next to the bus-stop along Pasir Ris Drive 4. If you are driving, the car park nearest to the school field is the Multi-Storey Car Park at Block 458A. The map of the area around the school can be viewed HERE.
Please bring BOTH a BRIGHT and DARK jersey so that we can split the teams evenly.
Please pray for good weather! If you suspect the session is cancelled, please check the blog/email for more information before you head for the field. Cancellation of session will be broadcast on the blog and by email immediately when we are informed by Sports Council.
*The address of Pasir Ris Crest Secondary School is 11 Pasir Ris Street 41. The entrance to the field is next to the bus-stop along Pasir Ris Drive 4. If you are driving, the car park nearest to the school field is the Multi-Storey Car Park at Block 458A. The map of the area around the school can be viewed HERE.
Friendly Match vs EBC Report (3rd March)
PMC took on EBC in it's 3rd friendly of the 2013 pre-season, still looking for its first win. A full strength team had signed up for the friendly, but family duty, injury and no-shows robbed the PMC team of a number of players. Still, the 15 players who were available were determined to give a good account of themselves and notch PMC's first win. Kevin emphasised the need to be tenacious in possession, and even more tenacious in winning possession back, before sending the following starting line-up onto the field:
The match started positively for both teams, with good possession and attempts to get the ball into opposition territory. However, for most of the 1st half, defenders were the top performers, winning tackles, clearing aerial balls and generally leaving both GKs with no saves to make. EBC had the clearest opening of the early exchanges, when a corner was whipped in and found an EBC player completely un-marked in the box. Unfortunately he misdirected his header instead of planting it on target. It was indeed a let-off for PMC! After the half-way point of the 1st half, PMC started to keep the ball better, with Daniel Low looking to provide crosses from the right wing position although not always successful. Justin had also come on in place of Daniel and Jeremy Sin on for Samuel. These changes paid off as the defensive midfielders worked tirelessly to win back possession. The 3rd change in the first half was what led directly to the goal. Jeremy Tan came on for Daniel Low, with Lincoln moving to his more familiar right wing. Some nice touches and passes amongst the 4 forward players looked very promising and the only goal of the match duly arrived when Justin played Jeremy Tan in with a nice through pass and even though Jeremy Tan's shot was slightly weak off his left foot, the GK misjudged the spin of the ball, allowing it to squirm through his hands, legs and into goal. The goal was certainly fortuitous, but rewarded the effort put in by the PMC players in the 1st half. With a slight calf strain, Steve came off late in the 1st half, with Weijie taking his place.
The focus of the half-time team talk was to keep the team playing tenaciously, move the ball in the right direction and to take more shots on goal, as the EBC GK had hardly been troubled. A couple more changes were made to the team in the 2nd half to keep players fresh. EBC looked like they had brought in a number of new players for the 2nd half and this was proved through when the speed and movement of these players caused quite a number of problems for the PMC defence. Clearly EBC was intent on clawing their way back into the match and had lion's share of possession for at least the 1st 15min. It took a number of brilliant saves from David in one-on-one situations and brave tackles from Jacob to keep EBC at bay. PMC's offensive moves were left to half chances and wild shots. Isaiah was clearly feeling the effects of his illness and the PMC attacking quartet could not find their way through. Changes were made mid-way through the 2nd half, with Kevin replacing Damien, Lincoln replacing Daniel Chen and Steve replacing Kee Min, with Weijie trying out a DM position. Play was slightly more even, though EBC really continued to threaten with their speed and passing. On the occasion that they did break through, David was again there to save, or Weijie managed to clear the ball off the line. It was certainly spirited defending by PMC that saw the team through the end of the match, with Kee Min and Jacob even putting their bodies on the line. PMC was certainly relieved when the referee blew the final whistle, signaling PMC's 1st victory of the pre-season.
Isaiah
Daniel Chen - Lincoln - Daniel Low
Kee Min - Samuel
Damien - Jacob - Kevin
Steve
David Lim
The match started positively for both teams, with good possession and attempts to get the ball into opposition territory. However, for most of the 1st half, defenders were the top performers, winning tackles, clearing aerial balls and generally leaving both GKs with no saves to make. EBC had the clearest opening of the early exchanges, when a corner was whipped in and found an EBC player completely un-marked in the box. Unfortunately he misdirected his header instead of planting it on target. It was indeed a let-off for PMC! After the half-way point of the 1st half, PMC started to keep the ball better, with Daniel Low looking to provide crosses from the right wing position although not always successful. Justin had also come on in place of Daniel and Jeremy Sin on for Samuel. These changes paid off as the defensive midfielders worked tirelessly to win back possession. The 3rd change in the first half was what led directly to the goal. Jeremy Tan came on for Daniel Low, with Lincoln moving to his more familiar right wing. Some nice touches and passes amongst the 4 forward players looked very promising and the only goal of the match duly arrived when Justin played Jeremy Tan in with a nice through pass and even though Jeremy Tan's shot was slightly weak off his left foot, the GK misjudged the spin of the ball, allowing it to squirm through his hands, legs and into goal. The goal was certainly fortuitous, but rewarded the effort put in by the PMC players in the 1st half. With a slight calf strain, Steve came off late in the 1st half, with Weijie taking his place.
First half action between PMC and EBC
The focus of the half-time team talk was to keep the team playing tenaciously, move the ball in the right direction and to take more shots on goal, as the EBC GK had hardly been troubled. A couple more changes were made to the team in the 2nd half to keep players fresh. EBC looked like they had brought in a number of new players for the 2nd half and this was proved through when the speed and movement of these players caused quite a number of problems for the PMC defence. Clearly EBC was intent on clawing their way back into the match and had lion's share of possession for at least the 1st 15min. It took a number of brilliant saves from David in one-on-one situations and brave tackles from Jacob to keep EBC at bay. PMC's offensive moves were left to half chances and wild shots. Isaiah was clearly feeling the effects of his illness and the PMC attacking quartet could not find their way through. Changes were made mid-way through the 2nd half, with Kevin replacing Damien, Lincoln replacing Daniel Chen and Steve replacing Kee Min, with Weijie trying out a DM position. Play was slightly more even, though EBC really continued to threaten with their speed and passing. On the occasion that they did break through, David was again there to save, or Weijie managed to clear the ball off the line. It was certainly spirited defending by PMC that saw the team through the end of the match, with Kee Min and Jacob even putting their bodies on the line. PMC was certainly relieved when the referee blew the final whistle, signaling PMC's 1st victory of the pre-season.
The victorious PMC team after the match
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