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[ SIFL ] Japan FC 4 – 1 Shanghai Lions FC

Earlier this season, the Japanese team ended up our tittle’s hope with a poor draw performance which trigger a series of unusual defeats. For this last SIFL game of season 2016/2017, the expectation was to crush the “poor” Japanese aiming to finish this difficult season on a positive note. It was also the last game of our young goalie, Riccardo Cuda, whom for the occasion has been given the captainship.

We started the game on our traditional 4-3-3 with Romain & Fabi in the back but our light warm-up paid its tribute as we struggled to get pass the midfield with a good pressing from our opponents. After a few alerts, Japanese striker finished us off after a Gerard’s slipping from Romain. We brought fresh blood after 30 mn with the entry of Rosie and Kevin and game leveled off with few opportunities of both side. 1-0 for Japan at half-time.

In 2nd half, we decided to play a little more direct to avoid Japan’s pressing in the midfield. Unfortunately, Japan scored quickly another goal by the inevitable and talented Hirai… From this moment, we finally started to play a little better and David Hunter in his excellent box to box quality reduced the scored. As we were pushing for the equalizer, we depleted our defensive line and conceded another 2 goals from a header and a long range lucky shot.

Now that season is over, it will be time soon for analysis and we will need to discuss what’s our plan for next year.

In the meantime, we still have training and few important games to play such a Veteran game against Welsh Bellies & SPL Cup game against Century Park next Sunday.

Lions Management Team Hit Counter provided by costa mesa dentist