This was a first leg of the cup. We tested sub players at first half then we sent regular at last half. Nothing could prevent Vikings score rush. 0-45: We tried to possess, Vikings simply kicked ball to front. Nippon had several shots to the goal but GK prevented. (0-2) 45-90: Vikings dominated the game. The only delight was Kei’s middle range shot. Nothing to note. (1-6)
Singapore Vikings ruthlessly exploited Nippon’s defensive distress and created a couple of great chances before Jesper energetically could put the Vikings in the lead after 15 minutes play. Soon after, the Vikings doubled the lead to 2-0. FC Nippon showed eminent technique and they should have scored a few minutes before half time but the Vikings were saved by an excellent goalkeeper when Dragsbaek went out in full stretched and angled the ball away from the top right corner. Peter Schmeichel would have been proud, although Mr. Dragsbaek suffered some airflow problems after that save. The Vikings continued their positive approach in the second half and they did not finish before the score was 6-1 to the Vikings after 90 minutes. Leslie, US, and man-of-the-match Jesper all scored in the second half, while Tomas, the eminent Czech midfielder, continuously frustrated Nippon on the midfield throughout the match. Cup is knockout game but Singapore Vikings showed on Saturday that they will be there to compete for the Cup Trophy this year. Singapore Vikings would like to express appreciation to FC Nippon for an enjoyable football match and nice golf event at Urban Fairway (Nippon won the golf) after the match. We would also thank the referees for a solid performance.