Unido returns to the field at Bendemeer Sec where they thrashed SHCFC 11-0 last week. They takes on the in-form Macsters who are hot on Unido's heels to earn promotion. Unido will be digging deep into their squad after losing 3 first teamers; top scorer Jeff, Sze Wee and Ben.
Macsters starts off well with more possession of the ball, but Unido's solid defence kept them at bay. Macsters is trying hard to test Unido's keeper but Unido's players are covering well in their positions. Unido continues to soak up the pressure and launch fast breaks after winning the ball. Chances are few and it looks like the team which takes its chances well will get away with 3 points. In the 35min, Unido's defender Marcus carelessly handled the ball and gave away a free kick just a few yards outside the box. Up steps Macsters' free kick taker and he curls the ball top far corner. The goal jolts up Unido as they start to show more aggression and better distribution of the ball. Attacking midfielder Seng immediately tests Macsters' keeper with a thumping shot from outside the box which went juts wide of the post. Tempers start to flare as Macsters fails to cope with Unido's tough tackling, especially from midfielder KK. Macsters' players are now just lounging into him whenever he gets the ball. Just before halftime, Unido levels the score. Winger JQ returns the favour to Macsters with a brilliant free kick which gives the keeper no chance at all.
The second half begins where it left off before the break. Unido piling on the pressure to push for a 2nd goal. Macsters are clearly slowing down and despite their attackers' trickery, they are often let down by a lack of support. The isolated attackers could find no way past a resolute Unido's defence. 10 min into the second half, Unido takes the lead! JQ's free kick from a tight angle fools everyone including the keeper as the ball floats into the goal while everyone anticipates a cross. Midfielder KK comes back in to give more protection to the defence which has been brilliantly marshaled by KS. Shian, JQ and JLo continue to pressure Macsters in their own half, winning the ball and troubling them with their immense pace and direct runs. Their constant pressuring pays off as Sherman picks up a loose ball in the middle of the park, charges forward without being challenged and finally drills the ball into the far corner beyond the keeper's reach. 3-1 to Unido and the 3 points look like theirs to lose. Macsters is clearly frustrated as a couple of their players end up in skirmishing Unido's players. It is a surprise that there isn't a single card issued by the referee! Nevertheless Unido keeps its cool and secures the important 3 points to keep within distance of Kentridge Rangers.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
