Great friendly game: 407 United 3-2 Biggin Hill FC

In form winger Fardil's strike late in the dying minutes of the second half gave 407united their first win in this lacklustre season. The friendly between the 2 affiliated clubs was organised by wilson and ang sp to get the team together as a testimonial match for Mr Alex Juan who plays for both teams.

407 started the game with only 1 substitute, Melvin who returned from exams leave. Although missing key players, the mood was good in the camp as we were looking forward to end the season on a high. Furthermore many of our players were familiar with the style of BHFC and their players, it was gonna be a enjoyable game.

407 started the game brightly, setting the tempo and dominating possession in the half of BHFC. Our passing game seem to take its toil on the opponents as several of them had their second game in 3 days. Our wingers, wilson and fardil managed to make the flanks their own and were linking up well with in form striker Ivan.

Our Spurs-like defense held firm with BHFC's counter attack limiting them to little chances and goal custodian, Robin managed to sniff out dangerous long punts forward early enough to ensure we keep a clean sheet. Cx Chua was also patrolling the middle of the park to ensure there was no quick breakthrough to our weak center to allow BHFC to break fast. Desmond Tang revering in his new role as RB showed great defensive qualities complemented with great link ups with wilson and even had a few chances on goal as well with his timely overlapping runs.

BHFC survived as Ivan and Fardil attempts went close or wide and stand in GK, Ah Bein was also on form denying 407 any easy chances. However 407 were rewarded for a good spell of pressure when they pulled themselves forward with a deflected goal over Ah Bein by Ivan after good work by Fardil and Zip down the left flank. Ah Leong So (pronounce Alonso) continue his good form and fitness of late as he continue to boss around the center mid with good passes around the park.

As 407 pushed for a second goal, Sing Ping rearrange Amos to steady the back with Gabrier and Chang Sing and tried to make a come back. They almost came close through a poor back pass by Alex which allowed sneaky vincent to almost break through to goal. However the quick reflex run from robin denied him the save although it was debatable whether did he bring down the striker in the process.

With 407 holding on to the lion's share of the possession, BHFC found it hard to deny us a 2nd goal. Substitute Melvin and Desmond Vann making an impact in the center as melvin's venture into the box provided a pass to wilson who coolly placed it pass the goal line, 2-0.

After the break, the players got a bit complacent and the reshuffled BHFC pressed strongly forward to seize the chance to get back into the game. Unable to match our flank play, BHFC placed 2 speedy forwards Gerald Cho and Dave to try to crave openings into our soft center.

Lucky for them, in the opening minutes a mishandle by robin from a long punt by Sing Ping gave gerald an easy goal. 2-1. Freaking pitch......

Sensing that their change in tatic work, Choon seng and gang continued to pour in numbers down the center hoping to open up our defense further. The continual tracking back and pressure from long balls eventually add on to the strain as the team could not afford substitutes.

A great cross in by Amos who managed to get passed zip and initially bounced by Gerald and Alex got to the free man dave who put it pass robin for his first goal for BHFC (product of BHFC youth team). Game level 2-2

Despite the turnaround, the game was far from over and 407 re grouped and try to win the game. Knowing that BHFC was gonna play 'England football' with long balls forward. We tighten the center and the team worked our socks off keeping the score level and peppering their defense with great plays down the sides. Desmond Vann was having a hard time zero-ing with makeshift contact lens and continual pressure by BHFC's trio of hardmen: Yue SF, Amos and Porky. Ivan and Fardil's telepathic link up and calls in malay almost got us back ahead with several break through but BHFC's wall managed to stand tall. Wilson almost got through to Ivan with a great cross to the far post but it was just slightly too high as Ah Bein stood frozen.

As fatigue seeped in, both team slowed down the pace and the game looked to be going for a draw. A short goal kick from Ah Leong forward with several short passes between Zip and Alex got Fardil through and as he worked his magic to the edge of the box, he unleashed a great curling ball past Ah Bein. game set 3-2.

All thanks to the team for such an enjoyable game and the babes on duty: Serene as the great photographer under the hot sun, Jennies as the cake babe and 'Ris' Chua for the support!!!

407 United: Robin, Desmond Tang, Kelvin, Alex, Zip, Jinyu, Wilson, Chengxi, Melvin, Desmond Vann, Fardil, Ivan

BHFC: Bein Shu, Michael, Chang Sing, Samuel, Amos, Yue SF, Choon Seng, ASP, Gerald Cho, Dave, Gabrier, Vincent, Porky, Lim Chai, Jem Ang and Lionel

Tough Luck in dominating game (6-3)

After 2 months of absence from the football scene, 407 united was finally back to action at Katong Stadium. Kelvin, the rock in the defence lineup is back from his knee injury; forming a new partnership with Ah Leong-so. The back 4 was reshuffled with a newly added right back, Desmond Tang; the once lone striker up front immediately fits in well with his new position with Zip taking up the left back slot. The opponents' strike force was having a hard time penetrating deep into our hard rock defence; however the opposition went lucky with 2 on 2 shots running into the lead. Robin the custodian in goal wasnt in the best of form and were unlucky to be caught off the line with a lucky try from distance.

Gabrier and Alex then slot into the right and CB position as desmond and Kelvin wasnt fully fit (some say its the Leggy King sydrome). The usual composed Gabrier decided to try some stunt which backfired 3-0. 407 suddenly found themselves falling far behind on the scoreboard as the sun shone uncompromisingly on the tired players. Ben, first appearance in a 407 united jersey was also just back after a long layoff from his injury. The midfield with Fardil and Cx was instrumental in getting forward but the unfamiliarity between Singping and Ivan showed as they lack communication up front wasting tons of chances. Jinsheng, original member of 407 football was also given a first start into the team at right mid. As the game wear on, it seems that 407 wasnt gonna close the gap and only a block from Alex from a rebound shot after robin saved the initial stinger kept the scoreline at 3-0 before halftime.

At the half time whistle, though we were 3-0 down. 407 United did not give up, instead they were told by the makeshift captain (Desmond Vann) to enjoy the game thoroughly. Desmond Vann was being substituted in to form a pivot support for the attack with the trio (Ben, Fahdil and S P); the substitution turns out positive with the in-form Striker Ang SP crawling 2 goals back for us.

The scoreline stood 3-2 at 65 minutes; 25 minutes more for 407s to fight for an equaliser. The attacking flow went well with Ivan almost scoring twice. All went well til the 4th goal went in devastating most of our players; our manager decides to swop our keeper for a stand-in keeper from the line up. Desmond Tang (O Shea of 407) was called upon for this duty. He did well having stopped a couple of one on ones and long shots. A talent discovered! Wilson and Fardil continued their tireless runs at the opposition but just failed to find the mark.

The 101% effort given by every players in the field saw the multiple subsitutions made as the game go on to the final minutes - lack of stamina and extreme weather conditions sees 407s getting jaded as the time goes by. The team after such a long layoff was suffering with fitness and injury doubts. With 5 minutes into the final whistle, 407 United were 6-2 down.

407s refused to accept the scoreline, all were pushing hard and drilling shots at the opponents. The game was finally sealed with an excellent header from Kelvin at the final minute. 407s left the pitch with a happy note, knowing in their heart that this is one of the best game that they have played. COME ON GUYS, MORE GAMES....

Report from the scene by Wilson Tan

Chief Editor, Alex Ng

Photographer, Peh CS


407 Lineup (Robin, Kelvin, Zip, Desmond Vann, Alex, Jinyu, Chengxi, Fadhil, Wilson, Ben, SP Ang, Desmond Tang, Choon Seng, Hafiz, Ivan, Gabrier & Jin Sheng)

Singapore Bay Run 2009/ Army Half Marathon

407 United completed Army Half Marathon Successfully! Kudos to all who participated. Excellent effort and endurance. Specially congratulating our first timers: Daryl, Bang, Chunhua and Shanthen. Lots of appreciation for being with the team.

Great camaraderie spirit!

- not forgetting our 2 transports ics: Leong and Bang for making this run a successful one. Also want to thank leong for sacrificing his sleep time to fetch the 21kmers to the start point.

Scott's International Duty (Update)

Some of the pictures provided by Scott.

So many courts to choose from. Finally one vacant blue court; but no. Thats not the one that he played at; he mentioned that he rather play indoor away from the "Cold Wind Blow". *this reminds me of the song..."When the cold wind blow, when the cold wind blow.."

All the best to Scottie over in Aussie; 407 send their best regards. Keep us updated via emails and msn. Stop sending us pictures of infrastructures; take some of your gorgeous classmates. Cheers to the Aussie Babes. Woot!

Long Overdue Update on the team

3 matches; 3 losses. But not all gone. We are still working hard on our first win this year. A few new signings made; Daniel from Damai FC, Fadhzly from MHA United and Hafiz from Youth Academy. A quick look through on the various new names that some might be unfamiliar with.

1. Daniel - Versatile Midfielder; possess in him the vision for important through balls during counter attacks.
2. Fadhzly - Pacy left winger; an almost replica of Overmars in his younger days
3. Hafiz - Promising young midfielder; skillful but tend to hold the ball too long at times

Injuries

• Alvin - Out for 1 year (Torn Ligament)

International Duties

• Scott - Away for international commitment in Australia

*Next match most probably would be on the 1st week of September. Stay tuned.

Thank You 407 United!!!

Marco and I would like to thank Team 407 United for supporting 'For Diabetes' take another leap towards accomplishing our vision.

- Shanthen

407 United at Mayura!

Thanks guys for taking your time off on Labour day to join me at my new restaurant, Mayura.

Here's some of the pix taken at the restaurant.

The rest of you, must come and enjoy the food here.

Shanthen

Fantasie Premier League Fixture !!

No favours from Lady Luck in 3-2 loss

A late rally with the insertion of player manager Alex and gang failed to overcome adversity resulting in another loss in the wet Sunday morning.

A late slip up by opponents, "barca wannabes" GK by allowing Wilson curler to go under him briefly gave 407 a flicker of hope in staging a comeback as the whistle was blown shortly after the goal. The loss left 407 on a lousy start to 2009 as we searches for our first win this season.

"^$%#$%, freaking referee decisions seem bias the entire morning". was mainly the general consensus among the team as we felt hard done by him when he was blind to the push leading to the first goal and the offside line for the 3rd goal for the opponents. In short, we were not in the favour of ms lady luck.

The starting defensive line up with Zhongde and Kelvin in the center was sturdy and strong, standing up to the towering strikers with good first time clearances. Although the defence could have done better in dealing with the play that lead to the first goal. Zhongde was deliberately pushed down before the opposing team placed the ball into the back of the net. referee blew for goal, what can we say?

Deputising in the center of the field role was Chin Yong, our latest signing with shantan then Jinyi played reasonably well and hopefully the partnership will grow stronger as we seek to mature from our direct football. Similarly Alvin and Scott, the products of our youth team has been up to the challenge so far. Its time to level them up and getting them to push forward whenever they can to support the attack and be able to pass the ball around more effectively.

Makeshift striker Daryl paired up with Desmond Tang in leading the frontline, but their physical shortcomings proved to be a challenge as we attempt to over come the deficit.

407 united played the better football for long periods with jinyi and chinyong pulling the strings and crosses to Fardil and wilson. The slippery ball didnt help as the players lost the first touch and it bouncing out early made our progress in the final third wasteful.

Jiahong, newly drafted full back made his debut as a hard tackling player. Pacey and eager to join up with the attack, his possible addition will make the team stronger.

Although the better team, a lucky shot against the tide from the opponents dipped beyond the reach of robin sums up the day. Top corner, but definitely not skill. haha call me a sore loser.

Lim HF was recalled from his morning slumber as Alex needed a more physical and pacey forward to lead the line in the second half after the team was 3-0 down (It should be an offside by the way). His impact was immediate as he ran his lungs empty chasing half chances and more drama to come later

Late comeback to be continued in Part II

Left 4 Dead

I thought this picture looked cool. Left 4 Dead the movie?

Latest truth on Stevie's kiss....

I so believe this is an unaltered photo.......hi Steven the ASS-Kisser.....

Heartfelt Draw at Siglap Sec 2- 2

Goal Scorers:
Fadhil and Sing Ping

Beautiful Moment:
Robin's top corner save from a direct free-kick final minutes into the game

Euphoric Moments:
Fadhil's and Sing Ping's goals; both are potential winning goals until the opponents narrowly equalised the game in the final half

Heartfelt Pain:
Opponents lucky equaliser

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407 United:
Robin, Alvin, Desmond-V, Kelvin, Scott, Shanthen, Zip, Fadhil, Jinyu, Chengxi, Daryl, Wilson, Sing Ping. Desmond-T and Dennis

2-1 loss with lots of positive

Recent weather crisis observed in the BPL was nowhere to be seen in sunny SG as 407 finally got back on the field at Siglap Sec. BOY, did we took our time especially if you counted the last game to be 2 months back.

All didn't bore well, as several crucial players missed out due injuries. Make shift CB Zip started the game (putting his career on the line) as 407utd seek to continue a run of previous good results. Luckily Alex managed to sign Chin Yong on free transfer who debuts for us as CB, relieving Zip.

Although in a familiar formation, the lack of playing time and field size turned the tables against 407 utd. We started off the brighter team as we string up several good passes to push forward but always losing possession in the final third of the field. With Kheng Wee back in the lineup, we have manged to hold on the ball with wilson and fardil showing off what they are capable with the ball. Desmond had several chances but just lacking the muscle to see through them.

We were justly punished although in a hard to swallow manner, going down in a scrappy goal scramble. Daryl was bought on to add some penetration but he probably had too much kangaroo jerky and was obviously off-form. Furthermore the opponent, MS managed to elude our duo, Leong and Cx with their classic English style of pumping balls. There was only so much, in form CY and Kel can take before we went 2 under. Alex was a bit late but reverted our side to 4-4-2 and went in himself to stem the rot. Things did improve and Desmond managed to sneak in a goal following a scramble from Wil's free kick. However we weren't meant to record a famous comeback as we eventually lost 2-1.

But several Delights to Note:

1) Fengshan field training academy graduates, Alvin and Scott put in another tremendous performance each and shown their maturity in the game.

2) Exciting new signing Chin Yong looks good and Welcome back Melvin Kwok after a 5 years absence from soccer.

3) Robin excellent shot stopping but probably got to stop the hesitation in coming out.

4) Clearly lacking games, most players still put up a good show towards the end.

5) Wilson got his taste of *** *** in the game.