Written by: Sng En Teng, Christabelle
Edited by: Angelina Grace Pandiman
Photos by: Eusoff Works
The highly anticipated annual inter-hall games made a comeback this year with a full repertoire of sporting events. Even though some event formats were tweaked in accordance to safe distancing measures, it is still a rather exhilarating way to kick start 2022.
In place of the regular 7 or 11-aside game, this year’s matches have been modified to a four aside game. During each game, three lines of four players each will take turns to face off against the opponent in two three minute halves. Similar to the football that we are used to watching, every goal accounts for a point. You may ask, what exactly is the difference between regular football and the format that is adopted for IHG? Instead of having ‘fixed’ positions, the four aside format demands impeccable versatility and foresight in order to work seamlessly together as a four-men set piece.
For the first match of the season, our boys faced one of our toughest opponents to date — one that we have a rather fierce rivalry with. That is none other than Temasek Hall. Needless to say, our boys in yellow were hungry for the opportunity to get back out on the field (and perhaps put up a show for their endearing fans). Afterall, it has been nearly two years since a proper football match was played.
Line 1: Amirul Hakim, Ethan (Goalie), Kai Le, Shawn (0-2, lost)
The first line-up was an exciting one, with our boys beaming with excitement to get back onto the pitch. Our boys marked their men with the utmost focus. There were several marvellous saves by our goal keeper, Ethan. The intensity of that set was riveting, so much so that Shawn’s boot gave way (bless your soul and thank you for your contributions). Excellent effort by Amirul Hakim and Kai Le in the defence and offence front.
Line 2: Amirul Shyakir (Goalie), CJ, Joel, Keefe (1-2, lost)
The second line definitely did a good job in equalising the scores. Our quartet of super stars worked seamlessly together and provided a strong defence against Temasek. The superb team work and chemistry between our boys created an opening for our resident superstar Keefe to land a goal. The number of shots taken at the goal post is unrivalled, although not all of them went in, it was still a terrific effort.
Line 3: Dylan, Luq, Wayne, Said (Goalie) (1-4, lost)
The third line-up was something to watch. Luq made it with an early goal just moments into the game. It was a jaw-clenching last round and dare I say, an “all or nothing” round. Our boys really did push themselves, with their ferocity to gain possession as well as pulling out some gold old hat tricks. A close shave as Said is awarded the first yellow card for Eusoff. TH takes a free kick and lands it. We were down to the wire and it was all hands on deck in gaining momentum, which unfortunately left a rather open goal for TH to score. And with that, the referee blows the final whistle.
Despite a couple of snafus here and there, our boys fought gallantly on the pitch. The final score was EH 2 and TH 8, with Temasek taking all three sets. Nonetheless, it was a brilliant effort, and a job well done by the team!
As Vince Lombardi once said, “it's not whether you get knocked down; it's whether you get back up.” So lace up those boots and hang tight, for we’re in for one heck of a ride. Our boys will return even stronger than ever. Watch this space for more updates! Our boys will face King Edward VII Hall on the 20th of January. Tune in from 9 to 11pm to catch our boys in action @eh_eunited on Instagram or follow our telegram channel for live updates @ihgfootball. You may also catch our football boys in action in Sepak Takraw this Thursday!
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