Written by: Daryl Chin Edited by: Leung Lok Heng & Choa Zhao Xiang Photos by: EusoffWorks
Today marks the second game for our handball girls. This was yet another crucial game for them as they needed a win badly in order to qualify for the semi-finals of their IHG. Yet again, a sea of yellow could be spotted as many came down to support their friends despite it being a Sunday night. With their spirits high, the girls were all set to get their first win of their season.
Our handballers started with a new lineup of Li Ann (in goal), Jess, Shiyi, Naomi, Vera, Angela and Shermaine. With this strong set of players, they were determined to dominate the game. The game started with Sheares on the attack. A mispass by them resulted in Eusoff gaining possession and starting their attack. In the early minutes of the game, the intensity of the game could be seen with constant offensive play from both halls and several saves from each keeper. However, it was Sheares who found the first goal after one of their players barged into our defence, ricocheting the ball from the ground into the net. Captain Jess is then subbed out for Joey. Being 1-0 down, our handballers continuously pressed Sheares’ defence, unleashing shot after shot through Joey and Shiyi, only to be saved by their keeper. Our defence was also on point with Li Ann showing us why she was chosen as keeper for the game, pulling off several good saves.
Following which, a foul by Sheares saw a penalty being given over to us. Joey stepped up but unfortunately her shot hit the bar. Seconds after, Joey redeems herself scoring after intercepting a pass from Sheares to make it 1-1! Jess come backs on, replacing Shermaine and makes an instant impact. She manages to find Angie in a good area, allowing her to put the ball away to give Eusoff the lead at 2-1! Scoring one was not enough for Angie as minutes later, she got the rebounded ball after Jess’ shot was saved and was able to put it in the back of the net, extending Eusoff’s lead. Clinching on to their lead, our handball girls tightened their defence with the players showing good defensive play as well as Li Ann saving Eusoff many times with her excellent goalkeeping. Towards the end of the half, a penalty was awarded to Sheares in which they missed, making it 3-1 to Eusoff at half time.
First half score: EH vs SH: 3-1
Going into the second half leading, our handball girls were determined to extend their lead and secure a win. However, things were shaky when the second half started. In the early stages of the second half, a foul by Shiyi saw her being ruled out for two minutes. Following which, Hasya received a yellow card and was also ruled out for two minutes. Things got even worse, as Sheares managed to equalise at 3-3. Our handballers made several good attempts at goal through the likes of Vera and Jess to no avail. Sheares then managed to take the lead at 4-3. A necessary timeout was then called to wake the players up.
After the timeout, our players were much more invigorated and determined. Jess started off by showing us why she was made captain and equalizes at 4-4! Following which, our handballers showed off several intense attacking displays and their efforts paid off through Shermaine who came in from the wing and scoring, giving Eusoff the lead. Sheares responded immediately, levelling the score at 5-5. This went on with Naomi scoring next to give Eusoff the lead at 6-5. It was now nearing the end of the game and victory was in sight. However, our opponents were persistent and managed to level the score at 6-6. A goal was desperately needed for Eusoff.
Our handballers were constantly on the offensive, but could not manage to find the back of the net. This was made even worse with Sheares managing to find another goal to take the lead at 7-6. Towards the end of the game, Eusoff was down to five men due to a subbing error on our pivot, making the situation even worse. Last ditch efforts from our girls were all saved by their goalkeeper. The final whistle blew, giving Sheares the victory at 7-6.
Final score: EH vs SH: 6-7
It has not been the best season for our handball girls. However, kudos to them as they still gave it their all and fought their hardest throughout their matches. Heads up girls, you all did well! As much as we would like to focus on winning, losing is also part and parcel of the game. There’s no doubt that our handball girls will come back stronger next year! Cheer up girls, we’re all proud of you!
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