Match Review: Olympique Gaulois Singapore vs Singapore Vikings FC

• GK Christophe Aprile
• DF Arnaud Darde
• DF Francois Pannetier
• DF Natnael Getu
• MD Thibaud Lespayandel
• MD Ewan Radde
• MD Unni Kazhakkumara
• MD Jean-Baptiste (JB) Bois
• MD Francois Bazin
• ST Eric Clermont
• ST Anatole Rousseau

• MD Valentin Biyong
• -- Robin Tempe

Drakkars needed

Singapore weather decided to turn into Lightning, pouring rain 5 minutes before kick off. We however managed to start with 15 min delay. Vikings applied high pressure in the pitch put our defensive line held the fort and we proceeded through quick counter attacks which saw us creating some opportunities. Surprisingly Unni who was easily 20cm shorter than the Viking average defender managed to give us the lead through a nicely finished header on JB corner kick. From this moment Vikings’ pressure intensified and we got unlucky with a hand ball offering them the equaliser on a penalty kick. First turning point took place after the Viking winger managed to break in between FP and Nati which led Arnaud sacrifice. Red card given though FB was still behind and could have reached the player. Fortunately the side ref saw this as well and red turned yellow for our great relief. But minute later the same Viking player managed to score. 2-1 halftime Second half pitch was barely playable which made it difficult to develop proper football. However we remained compact throughout and controlled most of Viking occasions. On the other hand we continued our rapid counter attacked which led to Valentin equaliser on a nice cross from Robin. At 2-2 both teams were fighting for a decisive goal and with 8min remaining lightning came back and closed the game. The draw is a fair result. Credit to our defensive line which was great throughout the game, Nati bagging the MOM for this game. Viking MOM goes to their left winger. Thanks to our Viking friends for this great game and farewell to Mark who brought so much to the league. Thanks again to the referee who did not have an easy task to manage the game in such conditions