Up Close & Personal - Lionel Lewis

Lionel Lewis X'mas Exclusive!

See below for more details... =)

While researching on Lionel some time back, I stumbled across a link to Wikipedia. To my pleasant surprise, it was an entry on our own Lionel Lewis!!! Let's read what Lionel has to say about having his very own Wikipedia entry.

Me: Do you know that there's a Wikipedia entry on you? It gives a very positive review on you. How do you feel about being on Wikipedia?

Lionel: Hmm... very surprised that I'm on wikipedia. Checked and seems like they are very updated.

To let our friends know him better, Lionel sportingly shared with us the following aspects of his life, some things which are not yet on Wikipedia! A scoop! =)

Me: What is your favourite healthy food that makes you feel happy to eat it?

Lionel: Home cooked food.

Me: What is your favourite junk food that makes you feel guilty to eat it?

Lionel: Chocolates.

Me: How many pairs of shoes do you have?

Lionel: About 10.

Me: Are you a wine or beer person?

Lionel: None. I don't like to drink.

Me: Day lark or night owl?

Lionel: Day lark...

Me: When was the last time you cried?

Lionel: Can't recall, it happened too long ago.

Me: Your dream car is ...?

Lionel: A Honda CRV.

Me: What are two things that piss you off?

Lionel: Dishonesty and backstabbing.

Me: What are the sources of your strength and motivation in life that you wish to share with all your friends/supporters out there?

Lionel: Enjoy everything that you like to do... =)

Wise words indeed for a young man. =) We hope you enjoy this short piece on Lionel Lewis. The blogging team looks forward to hearing more from the players and bringing new stuff for our blog visitors. In the meantime, stay tuned and roar for HUFC!

Brought to you by,
HUFC Blog's C.C.

Lionel Lewis and Manchester City!

My friend say I should bravely post the article on Lionel. Here it goes!

===================================

The Straits Times, Dec 25, 2007
SOCCER

Tired, but Lewis wouldn't have missed Manchester for the world
By Wang Meng Meng

HE HARDLY slept a wink on the 14-hour flight home. Kept awake by a mischievous kid who tugged constantly at his blanket, Lionel Lewis arrived back in Singapore dead-tired early yesterday.

But ask Singapore's top goalkeeper and he will tell you that the jet-lag was well worth it and Christmas had come early for him.

Not only has he returned with cherished memories of his one-week training stint with Manchester City's first team, but he is also carrying hope that an offer will come from the English Premier League club.

The 25-year-old was picked by the Football Association of Singapore to be the first Singaporean to train with the first team of an English top-flight club with the possibility of getting signed by City or one of their partner clubs.

Those partner clubs are Grasshopper Zurich (Switzerland), FC Moscow (Russia), Perth Glory (Australia), Shanghai Shenhua (China), Thanda Royal Zulu (South Africa) and Chonburi FC (Thailand). City work with them in areas such as player loans and coaching exchanges.

In Manchester, Lewis worked alongside Elano and Rolando Bianchi and helped striker Valeri Bojinov, who is back in training after knee surgery, with shooting practice. He also received specialised goalkeeping training alongside Joe Hart, Andreas Isaksson and Kasper Schmeichel.

'It was a great experience,'' he said. 'To work with these top players has been incredible. It's not just about being there with a Premier League club, I've picked up good goalkeeping tips that I'll use to improve my game.
"City were great in making me feel part of the set-up, allowing me to travel with the first team for the game at Aston Villa and letting me sit next to the bench.

'Apart from the fact that the players arrive in their club suits, the preparations are the same. 'The squad arrive for Sven Goran Eriksson's team talk and after that, loud music will be played in the dressing room.''

City have confirmed that the club will be taking a second look at the Home United custodian before making a decision.

The club's executive director, Taweesuk Jack Srisumrid, had said earlier: 'In January, Lionel will be invited by the club for a training camp in Australia where we will assess his potential further...

'We will also consider the suitability of placing him in one of our partner clubs.'

Lewis added: 'I'm waiting to hear from the club on the date for the training camp.

'It will be great to get another chance to impress.

'Like I've said, it's every footballer's dream to play at the highest level.''

While playing in the Premier League remains a pipe dream, it is by no means impossible for the goalkeeper, who is rated as one of the best in Asia.

Last Thursday, when asked by Sky Sports about talk of Isaksson leaving during next month's transfer window, manager Eriksson had noted: 'We have a goalkeeper from Singapore (Lewis) ... training with us here, so we'll see what's happening there.'

Cuddly chick returns!

Hey Folks,

It’s been some time since this girl blogger last left her mark here. The season has ended and now the year is going to end too! Oh my, but first things first, Merry Christmas to all and Happy New Year! =) 2007 has been a good year for HUFC and I hope that there will be many better years to come.

Do you all know that Lionel's in the News today! =) See Sports section of today's Straits Times! He has just returned from training with Manchester City! According to the news report, he has a chance of joining the club! Wow! Well done, Lionel!

On the same note, I recently had the opportunity to ask Lionel to share with us some itty bitty details of himself! Via email of course! And we can see that Lionel's really one cool good dude. =)

See the next blog post for the details! Have a good holiday, everyone. =)

Signing off,

Cuddly Chick a.k.a RGY

WE'RE SECOND!

we thought we got our hands on the league title with rumours saying that gombak had equalised and everyone was already celebrating and jumping up and down but it was not to be. well, at least we snatched back the second place from tampines with a 90th minute goal from Qiu Li! AND YES!
we retained our 2nd place!!!
we should be proud of ourselves. home united put up a good fight against geylang. everyone had did their part and played their best. the players did an awesome job this year, giving us the closest fight for the title ever. KUDOS TO ALL HOME UNITED PLAYERS!
it was so near, yet so far BUT
WE'LL COME BACK NEXT YEAR AND SNATCH THE TITLE FROM SAF!
now, we should hope that saf does the double so home united can play in the AFC cup. (:
HOME UNITED's THE BEST. ooh yeah! :D
one more thing. TO ALL HOME UNITED SUPPORTERS AND KONE HAMED FANS,
please go to http://www.sleague.com/pro01a.asp?id=0 and vote for NUMBER FIVE KONE HAMED for NTUC income Yeo's People's choice awards. NUMBER FIVE KONE HAMED! you might even get a chance to win $500 so go vote for KONE asap! thanks. :D

Nice pic

For some strange reasons, I find this photo "exhilarating"! It's full of zest and power.

Another last grasp winner

"Now the battle lines are drawn for the showdown and probably the title decider match at Bishan on Fri, 6 Nov 2007."

A 90th minute goal saved the Protectors from bowing out of the championship race. Sharil Ishak scored the winner in a goal mouth dual. Earlier the Tigers have taken a 2 goal lead in the first half of the match. This despite incenssant raids by the Protectors on the Tigers's goal but none could find the back of the net. The Ivorian Dazzler Kone Hamed was a menace in the Balestier defence throughout tearing through the defence at every move. Finally on 43rd minute, he let go a scorching ball which the Tigers' custodian spilled only for Ludovick to pounce. 2-1 was the score when both teams trooped into the changing room.The Protectors' poured themselves in attack at the start of the second half. A missed penalty by Ludovick did not augur well for the Protectors to draw level. In the 69th minute, Qiu Li found space in the crowded box and bulged the ball into the net to draw level 2-2. The visitors found new hope and continued the pressure relentlessly. Just when everything seemed lost for the Protectors' Sharil Ishak saved the day for Home on 90th minute.

We are on our way

We are on our way to hold the Cup - really on our way. I am still panting from the adrenaline rush yesterday night. As Tampines Rovers defence stood firm solid against our onslaught, and slowly got into the game in the first half, I was clutching the edge of my seat and sweating like mad. It was really feeling like our encounter with the Young Lions once again, and I thought its deja vu. And Tampines Peres skilful near miss in the first half made me wonder whether we would have fared better with him in our team --- he was magical when he was wearing the Protector's shirt. He seemed adamant to make his mark against his old club.

But Kone's seems to rejuvenate his mana in the second half, as he single handedly led the Protectors resurgence to whack the Rovers 2-0. The first goal was just past the hour mark, as a break gave Kone space to slot in the ball nicely into the bottom corner with Rover's goalkeeper standing dumbstruck. The crowd went crazy! I went estactic. The second goal was pure magic. Kone took a pass nicely, ran down the middle, went pass the goalkeeper with a flick (reminds me of Ronaldino) and send the ball into goal. 2-0. It doesn't get better than this.

We are all geared and hyped to face the the Warriors two match away.

HUFC's title chances

(off hufc.com.sg)

Special November preview - HUFC's title chances

Home United enter the crucial run of fixtures in November, as they seek to reclaim the S.League title which they last laid their hands on in 2003.

A club of Home’s stature never rests on their laurels and past events had left a galling taste in the mouth, as eternal rivals SAFFC have trumped them all too easily, especially in 2006.Similar things have appeared to happen in the same season. Despite conceding a high number of goals, the Warriors have outscored everybody in the league. Even an array of attacking talent in the Protectors' ranks could not reach the whopping target of 80+ goals.

Despite the Palestine team being unable to travel to Singapore, the national players have been slated to remain until further notice. The likes of Shi Jia Yi and Shahril Ishak were missing an their presence have been sorely missed, as plenty of chances on goal came and went , during the 2-1 home defeat to Young Lions.

The defeat means although Home have to win their four remaining games to stand any mathematical chance of winning the league crown, results elsewhere could ultimately determine their fate.Playing Tuesday November 6th; Record against Tampines Rovers since 2003: W7 D4 L3It has always been a bittersweet encounter between the two sides. Results from important matches involving either one of the two teams usually decide the destination of the title. Home came agonizingly short at the final hurdle in 2004; finish runners-up in both league and cup to the Stags.In 2005, the challenge was over even before it could begin, as Tampines overcame a late onslaught by closest rival SAFFC to retain their title. Home could only finish fourth in the league.

The first two meetings between the Protectors and the Stags have gone largely in favour of the uniformed team. A comprehensive 3-1 win at Bishan was followed by a gritty 1-1 draw in mid-July, with Kone Hamed exposing the age in the Tampines back-line to prod home the equaliser.

Despite the result, Tampines would roll into Bishan in confidence in the hope that their age backline of Nazri Nasir and Zulkarnaen Zainal, aided by ex-Home Shariff Abdul Samat, can hold firm. They need to convince their critics they still have plenty left in their tanks, as dropped points and lackluster displays such as the one against Bangkok University have raised doubts about the players being able to last the distance.

Nevertheless, coach Vorawan Chitavanih has firm belief in his squad to ensure he and his team would not finish the campaign empty-handed.Meanwhile, Peres de Oliveira is still held in high regard by many amongst the Protectors faithful, and it would be interesting to see him do battle against Diakite Fode Bangaly in the heart of midfield. When the chips are down, Peres' repertoire of tricks and long-distance shooting have done a great service to his team, and it is his supply line to the forwards that poses great danger.

With Kengne Ludovick facing off with Sead Muratovic and Mirko Grobavac needing to use his strength to usurp the combined might of S. Subramani and Shahril Alias, expect fireworks and plenty of excitement.

Playing Sunday November 11th; Record against Balestier Khalsa since 2003:W8 D1 L5The Tigers have found circumstances unforgiving after beginning the new season with a changed team. The likes of Akihiro Nakamura, Kengne Ludovick and Osagie Ederaro have moved on and it had been a real problem for coach Abdul Karim Razzak all year, as he had tried to plug the Ludovick-shaped gaping hole with little success.

Losing key players in attack and midfield have not helped, but more worryingly his defence has not helped the teams cause. Ex-Home United players Fajar Sarib, Rizal Rahman (who has since retired) and Mohd Mardani have moved on.Ratna Suffian is the only player credible enough to lead the backline, but the constant chopping and changing of partner hasn’t helped. One week he would have youth graduate Jufri Taha beside him, the next moment it’s either Fathi Yunus or Juraimie Dawood, both flattering to deceive at times. Still, it is important to recognise the threat coming from Balestier, with their African trio looking to do their utmost to hurt and usurp opponents’ momentum at every opportunity.

Ryuji Sueoka has done relatively decent since his close-season switch from Geylang, but since his arrival in July, one-time Sporting Afrique forward Fortune Udo has stolen most of the headlines. Not to be outdone, his colleague Kaze Teffo Giscard has made good use of his strength and pace to terrorise fullbacks down the left hand side. Sueoka tends to drop deep in support for Udo, and it is essential to stop the balls from reaching him in midfield. Skipper S. Subramani and his partner Shahril Alias would need to track the runs of Udo without being pulled out of position, as the lanky forward tends to drift wide.Home would stand a high chance of getting the points if they play to their strengths.

Playing 'live' Friday November 16th; Record against SAFFC since 2003:W6 D1 L7Two of Singapore’s most successful teams lock horns in a bid to determine who would last the distance and land the elusive title. Both teams have got the better of each other once each already, with Home recording a 2-0 win on May 18th and the Warriors got revenge in some measure with a 4-1 scoreline over a tired –looking Protectors side missing several key players.

There is no love lost between the two of Singapore's most successful clubs.Players have seldom moved across, although Ali Imran Lomri (2004) an Aidil Sharin (2006) have moved to the Choa Chu Kang-based outfit, to leave Home all but short of defensive cover.

The last time Home had anything similar to a comprehensive result against the Warriors was in October 2005, where ex-goalkeeper endured a torrid night during the 5-1 thrashing, with club legend Egmar Goncalves netting a hat trick. This time though, the current team would be using that as a backdrop to spur themselves. In fact, with the likes of Mustaqim Manzur, Noor Ali and Jamil Ali wreaking havoc down the wings, the likes of Juma'at Jantan, Rosman Sulaiman need to be at the best to keep up chase.Plus the intriguing battle waiting to unfold between the pairing of John Wilkinson and Therdsak Chaiman and the duo of either Bangaly or Shi Jia Yi/ Shahril Ishak would be the key to victory.

Any possession won or lost in midfield would have a direct outcome on the result.Motivation is never in short supply, as a win would put Home belatedly back into the frame for the title. Hopefully, the boys would not need to get a result at Geylang United to learn their fate.Playing Tuesday November 20th; Record against Geylang United since 2003:W11 D1 L2Geylang United are still undergoing a transitional period, as Slovak Jozef Herel is sworn in as new coach in October, as Lim Tong Hai moves upstairs to become the new team manager.

Recent meetings have seen Home come out on tops as Geylang looked to be short on ideas against the Protectors. However, don’t rule them out as Ballamodou Conde’s return to the S.League fold after three years away has galvanised the side. The most recent meeting between these two sides ended in controversial fashion, as a late winner by Diakite Fode Bangaly clipped their wings. But it was the ‘two-ball’ incident that had even their chairman seething. Apart from that, the two teams generally play out their encounter in good spirit.For the neutrals, it would be good to see Geylang return to their hay days of the past, culminated in their title-winning years of 1996 and 2001. The Eagles academy has over the years produced the likes of Indra Sahdan, Lionel Lewis, Syed Fadhil and Mohd Noh Rahman, and the sight of their successful Prime League team winning is a testament to hard work put in by unsung heroes behind the scenes.Depending on the aftermath of the Warriors game, expect Home to go all out against the Eagles, in a bid to finish on a high.

HUFC vs YL - Thur, 25 Oct 2007 @ 7.45pm - Bishan Stadium

Home United face the Young Lions two weeks from their last fixture, knowing a win would set things up nicely in the run-in for the title.

Home United maintained their winning streak with a smash-and-grab 3-2 win over Woodlands Wellington. The win was made all the more satisfactory as the Protectors came back from two goals down to ensure SAFFC and Tampines Rovers would not have it easy at all. The win put the side level on points with the Warriors, and two more over the Stags, although they have a game in hand.

Since their defeat at Choa Chu Kang on August 20th, the Protectors have chalked up seven win on the trot, and the telling statistic is that including the Woodlands victory the side has won at least seven matches right at the death.

Goals are certainly not in short supply; even if the likes of Indra Sahdan and Shahril Ishak are away in the Middle East, Kone Hamed and Diakite Fode Bangaly in particular could still be counted on to produce the goods in front of goal.

However, the same cannot be said of the Young Lions.

Their latest horror showing ended with a 1-0 reverse to Chinese side Liaoning Guangyuan, who had already lost five matches in succession.

An own goal by Noor Ikhsan compounded the Young Lions’ misery, as they slumped to their second straight defeat, and four in six since returning to Singapore from the Merdeka Cup tournament.

After their earlier match against Gombak (the Young Lions lost 2-1), coach V. Sundramoorthy lamented on the fact that his goalkeepers have not performed up to standard.

Goalkeeping gaffes or not, it is hard to see the Young Lions holding on to their current position in the league table.

As they await the visit of Albirex Niigata (S) before they travel away to Bishan to face the Protectors, confidence is in desperately short supply.

Home United should need no invitation to take advantage and beat their opponents into submission.

WWFC 2: 3 HUFC - Protectors grit & character wins

With 2 goals down, the Protectors came back to score full points. It was true grit and the character of the team that gave them the much deserved victory. Diakite was the real workhorse both at the heart of defence and in the thick of action up front scoring 2 goals to draw the Protectors level. Lead scorer Kengne Ludovick sealed the match with the 3rd goal. At last the Woodlands hoodoo is exorcised.

Home United overcome the setback of going two goals down to dump Woodlands deeper into their misery, as they rode the storm to win 3-2. Minus four key players who went away with the National team, full credit had to be given to the squad who played exceptionally well.

As for Woodlands, although Jerry Bartholomeusz and Ismadi Mukthar played significant parts in the first two Woodlands goals, skipper aka ‘enfant terrible’ Ahmad Latiff Kamaruddin was sent off late in the game.

Woodlands went for the jugular right from the start and gave the Home defence some concern. Home too showed their intent to go on the offensive, as Goh Swee Swee found Kengne Ludovick in the clear. His cross was cleverly sidestepped by Qiu Li, but the onrushing Kone Hamed could only flash his effort wide.

Juma’at Jantan, playing in an advanced midfield role, had some good moments in the game. He nearly made the most of his presence in the penalty area having collected a loose ball, as he tracked back on one occasion to fend off Abdelhadi Laakkad, easily Woodland’s most dangerous player.

Although Home dominated the first half, the players could not capitalise much. Bah Mamadou, playing at right back against his former club, had a busy night, as he had to keep tabs of Kone. In first half stoppage time, the Rams took the lead grossly against the run of play, as Ridzuan spilt Laakkad’s freekick into the goal.

The players however, did not let their heads drop as they came out with the same amount of effort, commitment and desire after the break. Unfortunately, before Home could even restore parity, an uncharacteristic error by defensive stalwart and captain S. Subramani laid the ball onto the plate for former Home’s right midfielder Imran, who finished with aplomb.

Commitment was never in question as Rosman Sulaiman and Ahmad Latiff tussled along the touchline. After Latiff hauled down Rosman, his furious reaction spoke volumes, after the freekick went in favour of Home.

As Woodlands sat back in their own half, it gave the Protectors incentive to attack. Juma’at threaded the ball through for a lurking Diakite outside the box, and he duly obliged with a stunner, to put Home right back into the match at 2-1.

The same player made it all square on 73 minutes. Juma’at once again became the provider, as his high crosses was enough to cause panic in the box, the ball bounced twice, before Diakite lashed the ball into the net, with the entire Woodlands defence standing still.

Ram Shanker, who came on as a late substitute to provide some strength and guile upfront, certainly made his presence felt. A neat interchange of passes set him free down the left. He crossed from the near touchline and found Ludovick in the clear. Home’s top scorer waited for the ball to drop before poking the ball past Fadhil. That goal four minutes from time broke Woodlands’ hearts and knocked them out of their senses.

Although 3-2 in the lead, Home never relaxed as Kone tracked back well to deny Yusri Waris as he shaped to shoot. In stoppage time, referee John Chia sent off Ahmad Latiff, after he had appeared to stamp on Ridzuan’s face.

Other teams might have been respectful to Home, but Woodlands had seemingly did not show it. A minor scuffle broke out after the final whistle, as Jerry Bartholomeusz, presumably still seething at the result, had an argument with Kone thereafter.

Said Home assistant coach Surachai Jaturapatarapong: "One of their players was not happy at losing, and Mani got hurt, but not seriously. Still, Woodlands have to control their players better." ---- Today dated 8 Oct 2007

Controversy or not, Home should be very much motivated to carry on their title charge, as they go into their match against the Young Lions in a positive frame of mind.

5-2 slam

Home U did sink the Dolphins, convincingly. Five goals from 4 different players, that's a fairly good fiasco if I may say. Despite the win, we are still in second place due to goal differences, but no worries, we will be up there soon!

However, some fans are still disappointed about the two goals Sengkang's Farhan slipped past Home U's goalkeeper Lionel within a span of 7 minutes. Indeed, it's frustrating when we continue to let in goals (which explains the goal differences) while our strikers score at the other end. However, soccer is a team's game, and unless it was a clear boo-boo by the goalkeeper, the whole teams responsible for "defence" and not giving the opponents any easy shots that will put the goalkeeper in dire situation. Goalkeepers also have their bad bout similar to a strikers' drought, we should cut them some slack.

As fans, we can only continue to stand behind the team and push them on.

HUFC will not sink at Dolphin's Bay

Yes, I totally agree. It seems that HUFC always got some problems playing with the Dolphins. I wonder why. It's like Man U with Bolton, it's sheer jinx. On paper, HUFC should have a relatively easy time with the Dolphins after picking up their momentum with two tough matches. But let's not forget that the gutsy Dolphins just managed a hard fought draw against the Young Lions. They will definitely be looking at impressing their fans with their new outfit under their new coach, and drawing some blood from the current league leader should be alluring.

(from hufc.com)

"The resurrgent Sengkang Ponggol take on the Protectors in this weekend match at the Hougang Stadium. The home side with a new coach and vigour will go all out to prove that they are a new outfit now. Meanwhile, the luck laden Protectors will be looking on for a win to top the table and fortify their position against the Warriors for the run up to the title. Both have Tampines Rovers in the waiting.

Previous meetings of both the teams has never been an easy ride for the Protectors. The Dolphins care-taker coach has something to prove against a mighty team to stabilise his position. Will he find his way? Come find out this Sunday at the Hougang Stadium."

HUFC 3 : 2 Albirex Niigata - Another late strike winner

"Home United rode their luck once again as they snatched a 3-2 win from the hands of Albirex Niigata (S)."

Kengne Ludovick's 90th minute strike earns the Protectors full points. Home United rode their luck once again as they snatched a 3-2 win from the hands of Albirex Niigata (S). The Japanese side have reasons to feel hard done by, as they saw their plans of gaining at least a point go up in smoke, as Kengne Ludovick got the winner in injury time.

With Jun Ishikawa replacing regular skipper Shin Hosogai, Albirex began with an almost unchanged lineup from the side that beat Sengkang Punngol. It is the away side who carved out the more meaningful chances early on, as Home struggled to find their momentum. Tetsuya Okayama fired the first warning shot, as he missed Eiichiro Ozaki cutback on the 7th minute mark. Six minutes on, a clever pass by midfield man Norikazu Sakata once again set the veteran striker free, but Lionel Lewis was up to the task, as he saved the ball in between his legs.

Undeterred, Home soon found their way and came close to opening the scoring as first Ludovick then Shi Jia Yi saw their attempts on goal go wide. Needless to say, it was that man Ludovic who gave Home the lead in the 25th minute. Having seen Indra’s perfect through ball, all he needed was for his marker to slip. As he needed no second invitation, all he needed to do was to slip the ball past the keeper. One-nil to the Protectors. It was a strike worthy of the game, in which Home’s top scorer was as cool as a cucumber.

Not to be outdone, Okayama raced down the field but missed a sitter, as he lofted the ball over the bar after Yoshitaka Komori’s piece of skill.

The Protectors could have got a second but Indra Sahdan’s heavy first touch let him down, after Diakite Fode Bangaly’s through pass set him up.

Action resumed after the break, as Kone Hamed tested keeper Norio Takahashi with that scorcher of his. As the game opened up, both Okayama and Ludovic exchanged efforts on goal. Unfortunately, Albirex got the equaliser moments after the hour-mark as Okayama headed back Hosogai’s cross across goal. It was left to the unmarked Akira Takase to head past Lionel.

Before the away side could settle down, Home hit back through a magnificent effort from one of their key players, in the 74th minute. Having brought down Ludovick on the edge of the box, Komori could only stand and watch as Jia Yi bent the resulting free kick past a flailing Takahashi to put the home side in the lead. 2-1 and nearly all spectators in the stands thought the game was about to end as a contest. However, Okayama had other ideas. One slick attacking move saw him race down the right, and after he held off the challenge of Harun Juma’at, he slotted the ball past Lionel, to restore parity once again on 75 minutes.

The Protectors now had to come from behind again, having done so for the previous five occasions, against the Young Lions, Albirex themselves, Balestier Khalsa, Geylang United and Super Reds respectively. Which they did so in glorious fashion on the stroke of full time. After Rosman won the ball in midfield and fed Indra, he passed to Ludovick who held the ball beautifully. A neat interchange saw Ludovick latching onto Indra’s return ball, and he wasted little time to cheekily toe-poking the ball into goal. 3-2 to Home United and the referee blew for full time after 2 minutes of stoppages.

With this result, the Protectors go level on points with leaders SAFFC, albeit with a slightly lesser goal difference.

it's a DRAW and then a last minute WIN.

BUT FIRST... the game against gombak.
with an early goal from Kone Hamed at the 19th minute, home was in the lead and secured with 3 points UNTIL gombak came back with a last minute draw. a draw that only resulted in an addition of 1 point. Because of an 87th minute goal from Agu Casmir, Home United is in the danger zone.

with 1 game behind the current leader SAFFC, we are behind by 3 points. this means that even if we do win the next game... both teams would end up with the same number of points. furthermore, if tampines win their next game, they would breeze up to the top of the table with one point ahead of both SAF and home.

WHAT A COSTLY DRAW.

NOW. the game today against Albirex Niigata FC. it was a tight one. with home leading 1-0 for the first half, Albirex came back with an equaliser at the 64th minute. then, Shi Jiayi took a free kick and home was up 2-1. just when we thought home would be able to win the match, albirex came back again with a goal at the 75th minute. but THANKFULLY, home eventually won with a final goal from Kengne Ludovick just at the 90th minute, this making it his 2nd goal in the game. FINAL SCORE. HOME UNITED 3 ALBIREX NIIGATA 2.

KEEP IT UP HOME! (:

Super Reds - Late minute lucky - again

(from hufc.com.sg)

HUFC 2: 1 Super Reds - Late minute lucky - again

"An injury time late goal by Sharil Ishak saved the day for HUFC to regain the top spot. "

Home United returned to the top of the S-League standings as Shahril Ishak’s last-gasp winner once again secured full points for the Protectors.

Just as the team thought they would squander two precious points due to a catalogue of missed chances, up stepped the returning player (after international duty) to pop up at the right end for the winning goal.

In a match full of incidents, Indra Sahdan was dubiously sent off, as promising attacking moves broke down time and again. Chief marksman Kengne Ludovick was probably unlucky on the night, as two of his best chances came off the woodwork.

The match began with Nam Woung Ki back in the heart of defence for Super Reds, as Juma’at Jantan made the bench. He had been prepared in readiness, as Harun Juma’at took his spot in the first XI.

Early pressure from Home led to the first corner, as the Koreans threatened down the flanks, all in the space of the opening five minutes. Indra could have opened the scoring inside six minutes, but a poor first touch let him down.

However, Park Byung Woo caused concern in the heart of the defence, as his nutmeg sent him en route to goal, but Mani was there to clear the danger. Mani though, was to endure a frustrating evening, as slack defending nearly slipped the game away from Home’s grasp.

The major flashpoint of the game arrived on 16 minutes, as Indra chased Rosman long ball and tussled with Super Reds’ skipper Lee Tae Hoon. While the offender deservedly got sent off with his pullback, Indra’s red card was hard to comprehend. To get sent off while trying to get out of the way is baffling.

While the red cards did little to change the course of the game, both teams lacked fluidity and cutting edge with a man short.

After a series of straightforward attempts and long-range efforts, Shi Jia Yi broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, as he expertly found the corner of the goal, after Qiu Li’s cutback down the right found him in the clear.

Unfortunately, the goal was the only thing the Protectors could show for their efforts. Six minutes before the break, Home thought they went two up, but Ludovick’s header was rather unkindly chalked off for offside.

Before Park Byung Woo hit a screamer that Lionel had to tip round the post, Ludovick had to endure the agony of seeing his stunner come off the crossbar, much to his chagrin. Shahril Ishak had made inroads down the left, which opened up space for the striker.
Action resumed after the break, which saw the Super Reds showing what they were made of, as they controlled possession. Bae Jin Soo thought he was on his way to glory, but instead of putting the ball into the net, he blazed the ball over the bar with both Harun Juma’at and Lionel beaten.

Shi Jia Yi made way for Juma’at Jantan on 77 minutes to a standing ovation, as he created countless opportunities and ran himself to the ground with his willingness to track back and defend.

Undeterred, the Super Reds gave a decent account of themselves with this display, and therefore it was no surprise when Nam Woung Ki latched onto a long ball, shook off his marker and fired past Lionel. The equaliser came on 82 minutes and left everyone wondering how Home had managed to find themselves in a quandary with the huge amount of chances they created.

Ludovick led Home’s charge in searching for a winner and nearly got it, however lady luck deserted him as his swift right foot shot struck the right post. With the clock ticking towards full time, Harun made a last ditch attempt to goal as he raced down the left. His persistence paid off when his cross, found the unmarked Sharil Ishak.

The national midfielder sent in a shot that squirmed underneath the body of the keeper in the Super Reds goal. 2-1 and the Protectors finally got out of jail with a late winner once again.

Match highlights

I must be the lousiest video cameraman in the whole wide world. I captured a few good moments but missed all three goals of the game. Hence, you fans will have to wait for a while for the video shots of the goals scored. But in the meantime, enjoy some other highlights from the game.

HUFC vs Super Reds (Live reporting)

Brought my laptop to the Stadium today, so decide to try out a bit of live reporting!

HUFC got off to a jittery start as the Reds launch wave after wave of attack. It didn't help that Indra got sent off just 15mins into the game for lashing out his elbow at the Reds defender who was tugging at his shirt (the latter got sent off too). Nevertheless, the early sent off seemed to inject some life into our boys as they got all fired up. They went all out with a vengeance in a bid to get back at the Reds. They were obviously looking for blood.

And soon enough the first blood was drawn just after 30 mins when No. 7 Shi Jiayi launched his signature run down the right flank, entered the box, went past the defender and struck a low shot into the left hand corner of the post. One up HUFC. Our boys gained confidence thereafter and continued their frequent foray into the Reds' half. Eight minutes after the first goal, a superb cross from Qiu Li was met by a strong header from Kone. The ball went straight past the goalkeeper and into the net --- but the goal was promptly denied by the linesman who deemed it an offside --- the the fury of both players and fans. The game ended at half-time with HUFC leading 1-0.

The second half picked up from where the first half ended, with both sides launching waves after waves of attack at each other's goal. Fouls aplenty, as fatigue kicked in and players resorted to rough play to win balls. As things started to look bright for HUFC, a defence lapse gave Korean Nam Woung Ki an opening to slot in a goal at the 82 min. Fans were shocked and seemed resigned for a draw. But the Protectors played their hearts out and true enough, their grit was rewarded when Sharil Ishak slotted in the winning goal in injury time to give the home side a 2-1 win. Way to go Home U.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1st half
15:55: Indra and Lee Tae Hoon sent off.
16:10: HUFC takes free kick just outside the penalty box. But the powerful shot hit the post - sheez.
25:00: Good save by Lionel after two consecutive strike by the Koreans just outside the penalty box.
30:00: No. 7 Shi Jiayi received a pass from Qiu Li, came in from the right, went past a defender inside the penalty box and strike the ball right into the left hand corner of the goal post ---- GOAL!

HUFC 1 - SUPER REDS 0

38:00: A good pass from Qiu Li met by a strong header by Kone went straight into the net, but was disallowed, much to the fury of the Protecters.
45:00: Both sides continue to launch attacks to and fro. It's definitely a charged up match here.

2nd half
66:00: 1st yellow card awarded to the Super Reds for bringing down Kone as he is heading towards goal.
73:00: A one-two gave Shane an opportunity to shoot, but it went straight to the goalkeeper.
76:40: HUFC No. 7 Shi Jiayi replaced by No. 4 Juma'at Jantan
79:00: HUFC No.9 Qiu Li replaced by No. 19 Goh Swee Swee.
82:00: Reds No. 10 score at goal mouth.

HUFC 1: REDS 1.

90:00: Shahril Ishak scores.

HUFC 2: REDS 1 (FINAL SCORE)

Close Shave

This is the closest to a close shave as it can get. One goal down with only extra time to leverage on... geez, it's like the replay of the 1999 Champion League Finals between Man U and Bayern Munich years ago when Solskjaer put in 2 goals in injury time to bring home the Cup. But all cheers to the tenacity and fighting spirit of our boys to launch its waves after waves of full assault on the Eagles. And the heroes of the day --- Jiayi and Diakite. And yes, WE ARE NOW TOP OF THE TABLE AGAIN! - Sirennights.

it ain't over till it's over.

just to let all you non supporters of hufc out there.
HUFC AIN'T GOING DOWN JUST BECAUSE WE LOST ONE MATCH TODAY.
SO WATCH OUT! cause we're going to strive all the way to the end.
BACK TO THE TOP OF THE TABLE!
besides. as the terminator says... "i'll be back."
in this case... "WE'LL BE BACK!"

HOME UNITED!

HARMONY THROUGH SOCCER - 19 Aug 2007

Sirennights: "Harmony through Soccer" kicked off to a good start and overwhelming success, thanks to the support of all the participants who was intrigued by the rare glimpse of other faiths and religious beliefs to only realize that there are more commonalities amongst the various faiths and religion than differences, and the importance of maintaining religious harmony in Singapore. And what better way to promote social cohesion than the world's favourite game of soccer, where regardless of race, language or religion ---- you will understand the language and share the love for the game no matter where and who you are. Kudos to HUFC.

(extracted from HUFC)

"It is hoped that the programme will promote cohesion within the various youth teams and teach them to respect the freedom of race and religion of their teammates."

Mr Zainudin Nordin, Mayor of Central Singapore CDC, MP for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Deputy President of the Football Association of Singapore, was the Guest-of-Honour to grace the ‘Harmony through Soccer’ learning journey event on Sunday, 19 Aug 07, 8:30am, at the Harmony Centre @ An-Nahdhah Mosque.

The 300 participants, which included players from Home United’s senior, Prime League and age-group teams and their parents were at the event and were split into two groups. The ‘Green Group’ toured the Harmony Centre first and the Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery for the second half of their programme while the ‘Orange Group’ were ferried to the monastery’s compound in Bright Hill before returning to the Harmony Centre later in the morning. The emphasis was on learning and tolerance and community efforts to bring people of different faiths and races together, with football as the common link.

It was important to go beyond what Community Engagement Programme is expected of everyone by involving people directly and one of the best ways to do this, as a group, was through football. Using football as a medium, this programme will help to build inter religious harmony. It is hoped that the programme will promote cohesion within the various youth teams and teach them to respect the freedom of race and religion of their teammates. This will be in sync with the national objectives and ensure that religion will not be abused to create conflict and disharmony in Singapore.Well done Home United FC - you are the number one with the community !! -

SHI JIA YI OUR HERO!

PHEW! another close shave? the match started off with home having an early lead with a goal from kone hamed. but balestier came back at the 24th minute. it was tied at 2-2 when the first half ended. home looked vulnerable at times with a new defence line up with 3 of our defenders suspended. however... there was no stopping our attack even though Qiu Li was sent off at the 80th minute. it was 10 against 11 but THEN CAME THE WINNING GOAL! a fantastic free kick from Jiayi! not as good as the goal from steven gerrard against aston villa(hehe) BUT it's still a goal all the same.
THE GOAL THAT BROUGHT US BACK TO THE TOP OF THE TABLE!
keeping our fingers crossed for the next match against tampines this coming friday. a very important match that we cannot afford to lose.
please do show your support for HUFC! (:

ALMOST another close shave...

it was ALMOST another close shave for home united but in the end... it was a comfortable victory over our nemesis, the rams. thanks to a 37 minute goal from Diakite Fode Bangaly and a hat trick from Kengne Ludovick! *cheers* hopefully we will achieve the same result for the singapore cup next week! hope home united would keep up its strong defence and build on its attack. :D

WE LOVE UNITED, WE DO!
WE LOVE UNITED, WE DO!
WE LOVE UNITED, WE DO!
HOME UNITED WE LOVE YOU!

a close shave for home united!

the match ended with a draw 0-0 after missing an open goal for home united and sengkang punggol's defensive play. but at least we ended with a smile after hearing...
"surprise surprise! Tampines Rovers 1 Balestier Khalsa 2."
thanks to balestier! (:
and we're still top on the table with 39 points and tampines 36 points with a goal difference of 24-19. ALL THE WAY HOME UNITED!

Home on course

Fans would agree that Home generally did not play well. But the bottom-line is we won, and hopefully that will give us the spark to push on for greater success. You can definitely see it in the players, the eagerness to put behind all the unhappiness and misunderstanding that plagued the team before before this match and to prove that the team is still one united entity with one clear and common goal - to play well and WIN every match.Sometimes, you need catalyst like this to mesh the team, but let's not have it too often - it gives us heart attack!

(from hufc.com.sg)

"Both the team manager and the coach felt the main recipe for success was the togetherness of the players, as they took responsibilities on their shoulders. Spirit ultimately proved to be the key for this sweet success. "

Home United remained on course for the title with a hard fought 2-1 win over Albirex Niigata (S). They weathered Japanese storm as they recorded their first win over their opponents in 16 months, courtesy of a brilliant Shi Jia Yi freekick. It was not entirely pretty stuff, though his industry in midfield coupled with Kone’s dazzling wing play enchanted the crowd. The players did well enough to keep Tampines at bay for the time being.

The Protectors had made all the early running, even if a host of players had returned from international duty. Indra made the bench while Shahril Ishak started, as Goh Swee Swee was deployed at emergency right back after Rosman was wrapped in cotton wool in light of his niggling injury; the bench was almost depleted. It proved no fluke as the young lad kept to his task well, who even joined in the attack. Jia Yi had kept veteran Japanese keeper Takahashi on his toes as he put him under pressure.

Home wasted no time in taking the lead, as a sweeping move found Shahril Ishak in the clear, as he cleverly retreated to allow Jia Yi to run across. His square pass found Ludovick, who gleefully tucked home the ball with his left to put Home one up. Kone’s through ball had done the damage, as Takahashi found himself in no-man’s land.

The Ivorian connection could have extended the lead thereafter, as Diakite put his effort over, as Kone shot straight at Takahashi with him beaten, as he could not force in the rebound after the ball bounced off a defender.

Albirex meanwhile, had their moments but unfortunately it proved futile in the end. Motoshimizu, the flame-haired winger, tried as he could all night but found no chance out of Lionel. His cross found the Japanese-Brazilian Genji Nakamura but the poor lad missed an open goal on 30 minutes. Motoshimizu then aimed his shot directly at Lionel, before placing his effort way over the bar. Kone tormented his marker down the left but saw his cross-shot flash across goal, before half time.

Second half began with the Protectors intent on protecting their one-goal advantage, as the Japanese forced their way back. Their fans cheered every time when the players had the ball, but got upstaged by the magnificent HUFC Fan Club. A wonderful passing move inititated by Juma’at found Shahril Ishak then Kone, who found himself in the clear, but could not find the net. Lionel proved his worth as he made two top-drawer saves, when play was disrupted all too often by the referee’s whistle. Juma’at could have blasted Home into the lead, but the ball drifted wide.

Disaster struck on 73 minutes, as a touch of skill by forward Akira Takase, spun 360 degrees and found space, and as Shahril Alias attempted to hook the ball away, it rather unkindly looped into goal instead. Hard luck for the centre half.

Qiu Li might not have been pleased to go off, but his replacement Indra made his presence count, as the ever-obliging referee awarded a foul just outside the box two minutes from time. Up stepped our very own no.7 Jia Yi as he bent the ball past a bewildered Takahashi. 2-1 the score and cue wild celebrations in the stands.

Post-match, both the team manager and the coach felt the main recipe for success was the togetherness of the players, as they took responsibilities on their shoulders. Spirit ultimately proved to be the key for this sweet success. The shadow cast over the club for the past fortnight would have hopefully ebbed away by now, and the team would be geared for future challenges.

Next one up - the Japs

It has already been 3 weeks! So much has happened for the Club that shocked the local soccer scene. Nevertheless, I hope the team continues their winning ways despite the hiccups over the last two weeks. Indra almost scored against the Socceroos which even Kewell noticed. Let's hope that will give our boys a confidence lift, up their tempo and switch to full throttle. Boys - let's stay focused, we have a chance this year to regain the title again after a drought - don't let the fans down.

(extract from sleague.com)
Home might not have it their own way

Albirex Niigata (S) welcome Home United to the Jalan Besar Stadium on Friday, 06 July as the S.League season resumes after a three-week break. The first meeting between these two sides ended in a goalless draw at the Bishan Stadium on 28 March.

This will be Home United’s fifth league appearance at the Jalan Besar Stadium this season. Vincent Subramaniam’s men have yet to lose a match (won three, drawn one) in their four previous Friday Night Football appearances. The team has also scored the game’s first goal in all their four league appearances at Jalan Besar Stadium.

HUFC v.s. Liaoning

Hi folks, sorry for the delay, got a bit of trouble uploading this particular video featuring HUFC and Liaoning that took place on 10 June. Only managed to catch the first goal as well as some highlights of the match. It's also at Youtube. Enjoy.

Home down by one - for now

"This is a cup match and there’s still a lot to play for in the second leg.." - HUFC Coach, Vincent Subramaniam speaking to sleague.

We know the stumble will come one day, but to have it hit us at home at a knock-out Cup match is heartbreaking. Woodlands German coach Jorg reportedly told the sleague reporter "It's our first win against Home United in the Bishan Stadium in seven years, in any cup or league match" - good for them - but I hope it stops here for another seven years. On a day HUFC lads fought hard, controlled the match with only ten men on the field (after Kone was sent off for a second bookable foul), our trouble was getting the ball in the net. It was painful to watch. Hopefully the lads will pick themselves up and fight back in the return leg at the Ram's place. Give it to them Protectors.

All draw

(from hufc.com.sg)

The PROTECTORS lost their first half lead in a lacklustre second half performance.

Home United and Gombak fought out a tense 1-1 draw at the Jalan Besar ground on Friday night. With this result, both teams remained unbeaten at this neutral venue, although the Protectors missed a glorious opportunity to extend their four-point advantage over Tampines, with the Rovers having a game in hand.

Qiu Li went into the starting XI ahead of Kone, where he was to get no chance out of the stern Gombak defence. Meanwhile, the Bulls had Winston Yap out altogether, as the three-pronged attack of Kingsley Njoku, Gabriel Obatola and Agu Casmir started. Agu though had a major say in the outcome of the match very late on.

The first half was typical of the defences of both teams, where possession is carefully kept and space was at premium. Gombak tried to impose themselves on the game with their mean and physical brand of football, with some effect. Nonetheless, Indra had the first chance to open the scoring, as he half-volleyed wide of the goal after a neat interchange of passes fell to him. Shahril Alias had to keep himself alert all night, as he denied Kingsley with a strong tackle. In the meantime, Rosman zipped down the right on the overlap, where he would proceed to do so all night, alas there were no one to be on the receiving end of his crosses.

On 28 minutes, Theerawesin, Gombak’s Thai playmaker fell on his backside as Indra won the ball from him. He had the right idea of playing it through first time to Ludovick, who needed no second invitation to blast the ball past a diving Zaiful Nizam. The no.10 hit his shot unerringly, beneath the legs of Obadin Aikhena, and it bulged straight into the net.

As half time loomed, Diakite had a good chance to extend the lead, however, he placed his shot wide after good work by Qiu Li. Undeterred, Obatola struck from outside the box, which forced an important save out of Lionel. Precious was immense in the heart of the defence for the visitors, as they sought to prevent being overrun like the March 19 fixture where they lost 4-0.

The second half began with a similar pattern of play to that of the first period. Qiu Li was one of the players to had an off-night, as his rising shot went well over. Gombak coach Salim Moin had by then brought on Ruhaizad for the injured Obatola, who posed a threat down the right; meanwhile Agu’s effort forced a brilliant save out of Lionel as he turned and shot. Still the Bulls could make no breakthrough, as the Protectors held firm. Qiu Li was rather unfortunate to go off on 55 minutes, and as Swee Swee replaced him, the disappointment on his face showed.

Then came a series of good moves that could have nudged Home in front; Zaiful the Bulls keeper had to be alert to deny Ludovick from making something meaningful out of the through ball on 74 minutes. More pressure was piled on as the striker hit an effort, but could not get the ball past a resolute Zaiful.

Disaster struck on 79 minutes, as Agu jostled for and won the ball down the right, he went on to put the ball past a hapless Lionel to restore parity. Slack marking did the damage. Cue the wild celebrations from the Gombak fans, with scenes not too unfamiliar to their victory over SAFFC. Lionel’s fumble nearly let in Agu once more, but he recovered well. Perhaps the tiredness of the players told, as no one chased Kone’s cross after good work from him down the left. Indra’s attempt on goal went wide of the post late on.

The match ended with a share of the spoils, as the man-of-match went to our own Shahril Alias. Salim, the Gombak coach was pleased with the result, as he made glowing reviews of Agu’s performance. On the other hand, first and foremost on Vincent’s thoughts would be the encounter against Woodlands on Monday, where thankfully all players manage to come through relatively unscathed.

Protectors foray into Bull's territory

The Protectors look set to take on a stubborn and foraging bull as the latter seeks to further its recent good run at Home. Our boys have maintained a stranglehold on the leadership and is determined to make it 8 wins in a row after tonight's game.

Bring your whole family down and support the Protectors tonight as the entrance fee is waived for this game. The game will also be telecast 'Live' on Channel 5.

Match preview

The Bulls have done remarkably well in their second full season since their readmission into the league, where some stirring performances have been matched by the usual concoction of youth, vigour and strength. Never mind the new stadium, the fact that every Gombak home game is a near full house speaks volumes. Recent form also suggests things are looking very much on the up, where the team has garnered a total of ten points out of a possible fifteen, with SAFFC being put to the sword.

The Protectors meanwhile, have maintained their stranglehold on the leadership, as they did just enough to beat a resilient Liaoning side 2-1. It had been the Protectors’ eighth win in a row in league and cup. On the other hand, Gombak had already signalled their intent, by giving the Koreans a 6-1 walloping. The defence stood well and held firm, as the attack conjured up some magical moments in front of goal. The last encounter between these two sides concluded in a rather one-sided affair. 4-0 the final score and the forwards simply ran riot at Jurong West on the night. However, the likes of Precious would be out to prove they would be no mugs.

Though the Protectors may not come out of second gear in most matches, they have got what it takes to win.

Home stays at top

"Two Indra Sahdan headers and a late consolation from Li Tong lit up an otherwise dull match."

2 goals in the second half earned HUFC full points on Sunday night to dominate the lead at the top of the table.
The thorny issue of fixture congestion reared its ugly head once again as Home United laboured to a 2-1 victory over a resilient Liaoning Guangyuan side looking to build on their recent good form. Two Indra Sahdan headers and a late consolation from Li Tong lit up an otherwise dull match, as Shahril Ishak simply could not put a foot right on the night.
Lionel had arrived back home just in time from Spain to make the starting XI, as Indra was made skipper ahead of Mani, who made the bench having recovered from his hurt stomach muscle. Qiu Li drops to the bench, as Syaqir continued in midfield. Liaoning meanwhile had regular captain Zhang Haifeng benched in light of his groin strain, as Chen Bo took over the armband in an otherwise unchanged line-up. The match began rather sluggishly, as Liaoning had seemingly yet to recover from playing only three days ago, as the Protectors have their own quartet who had only just returned from a two-match stint with the U-23 national selection.
Liaoning players have had most of the possession it seemed for the majority of the first half, but they failed to make anything productive out of that. Either no one attacked the crosses or communication between teammates broke down. Fatigue was the main reason of why they performed below expectations. Which opened up opportunities for Home to exploit, but they did not.
Both Diakite and Shahril Alias had to be alert on different occasions to clear away the danger from lone striker Li Tong, as Kone’s effort could not get past the fingers of Qin Xiao the Chinese keeper. The poor pitch did not help Home’s Jia Yi’s cause as his shot went high and wide. Indra could have opened the scoring on 38 minutes but shot straight at the keeper. The second half had barely begun as a tactical masterstroke brought a goal out of the Protectors.
Juma’at and Kone exchanged passes on the left and the Singapore national player had the right idea of sending in a first time cross with his right foot and Indra gleefully accepted the invitation to nod the ball past Qin in the Liaoning goal. 1-0 and it seemed a long time coming, but it was probably no less than what Home deserved. They upped the ante further when Indra once again popped up in the right place at the right time to prod the ball home, after the static Liaoning defence dealt with Jia Yi’s corner less than convincingly. In between those two moments was the awfully missed penalty by Qiu Li, whose body position did not suggest he would be spot on, and it proved.
Replacement keeper Wang Haoyi had the last laugh after coming on for Qin (who had to be carried after a clash of bodies with Ludovick), and he guessed the right way to palm away his fluffed spot kick. With the lead secured, the Protectors seemed content to hold on to their two-goal advantage. Lionel was kept on his toes occasionally by the likes of Yao Li and Li Zheng, who tested him with a series of attempts. They finally got their reward a minute from time as Li Tong nipped in to plant a header past the despairing reach of Lionel, after good work on the right by Peng Zhiyi.
Both coaches lamented after the game about the fatigue that affected the players. While all Liaoning could do at present is to look for reinforcements to the squad, the Protectors have it all in their hands to prove their doubter wrong, by winning again and again.

Of kids and football

I cannot remember exactly which day this was, or exactly why I drove past that place. To cut a long story short, I was driving past the old Police Academy and saw a lot of kids going in with full soccer gear + lots of giggling and cheer. So being a kay-poh I drove in, parked by the side and just took a 5 minutes break to watch the many matches taking place there. The field (and it's a big field) was peppered with vibrant color jerseys donned by eager little kids (primary school I think) playing or waiting for their turn to play soccer. It was a H20 sponsored event, I think, but I am not sure what the competition was about. But considering their age, I must say kids nowadays play good football man. They are nimble, quick, smart and playing their hearts out --- that's where the future of our football lies. Amongst them maybe our next Fandi or Sundram. It was a joy watching them, and I'm glad I took some time (albeit short) to watch them play --- made my day.

HUFC v.s. Korean Reds match highlights

Hi everyone, finally after some painstaking editing, I managed to put up a video clip showing the second goal by Ludovick and some highlights from the second half of Home's match against the Korean Reds. It was rough play in the second half as the Reds saw red and decide to draw some blood from the Protectors. But we stood firm and showed them our true blue character ha ha. Anyway, enjoy the clips:

We won ler

Ok this post might come a bit late but hey better be late than never.. oppps.

I was just going through all my photos in the dig cam just now when i realize i had some photos taken from the match against SAFFC on 18May'07.

The office staff told me that the attendance turn out for that match was 4,361 one of the highest for a 'live' game.

I so miss the game man! All the fans shouting and cheering together. I bet the feeling will be so different compared to watching it at home 'live'.
Many thanks to the SCDF & HTA trainees who came down to support us. Some of the SCDF trainees were even involve in the pre match segment where they helped carried the banner off the field (if i m not wrong they are on tv).

We need your video and photos

To all HUFC fans ,

As everyone can see i think this blog lacks lots of photos and clip.

We welcome all fans to submit write up, photos & video of the team using your digital camera or hp.

and who knows you might just be the lucky one to walk away with a complimentary pass to watch the team in action for a match of your choice.

all contribution could be send to homeutd@gmail.com

below are some of the clip and photo taken by me from Sunday's match.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qE0ptsmvprw

HUFC first goal at the 34th min by Shahril Ishak

Super Reds 0:3 HUFC - Protectors maintain winning form

"Vincent was pleased with the win, as he felt patience was the best way to tackle past a well-drilled defence."

(from hufc.com.sg)

A double by Kengne Ludovick and another by Sharil Ishak secured a 3-0 victory tonight at the Yishun Stadium.

Home United maintain their four-point gap ahead of nearest challengers Tampines Rovers as they steam-rolled to a 3-0 win over the Koreans. Though the Koreans were somewhat fortunate to keep the score down despite improved showings of late, the Protectors may have that little bit extra which could prove to be the deciding factor in the title race.Home had Syaqir Sulaiman pencilled in for his first S-League start, as Indra made to the bench having recovered slightly from his knee injury. Subramani sat out. Shahril Alias and Swee Swee must have been buoyed by their call-up to the U-23 squad, despite Vincent’s concern about fatigue and the team falling short on numbers in the latter half of the season. Still, Shahril’s contributions have not gone unnoticed and this piece of news is further proof of his recognition.

The match had barely begun before the Koreans decided to dish out their physical treatment, as Jia Yi became the first victim. Kim Hyun Jun was the first to go into the referee’s notebook as he scythed down Jia Yi from behind. Jia Yi manfully endured and carried on until midway through the second half. Meanwhile, all the Koreans could show for their efforts was a series of long-range efforts that went astray. Wayward attempts they have been, and Lionel was untroubled. Though the match was temporarily halted due to lightning, the players returned after five minutes as Ludovick could have opened the scoring having put in the clear, but he fired his shot straight at Kim Ji Soo. On 33 minutes, he atoned for his earlier miss by helping to put the Protectors in the lead. Ludovick received the ball on the left and cut past a defender, dummied him and then sent in a cross, which was perfectly placed for the onrushing Shahril Ishak to head home.

That was probably the only meaningful incident of the first half, as the Koreans came out fired up after the break, roared on by the support by their compatriots in the stands. Juma’at nearly embarassed Kim the keeper with a cross-shot of his own, but as our defender saw it, Kim was no Fabien Barthez as he tipped away his shot at the right moment. After some intermittment play in the centre of the park, the second goal arrived with 57 minutes on the clock. The youthful Syaqir maintained his composure under pressure and subsequently laid the ball on for Jia Yi. His invention saw Rosman running through, as the stand-in skipper (Rosman) played a one-two with Qiu Li. The Chinese player slipped it through to Ludovick, who made no mistake. The Koreans had begun to hang their heads, as disaster struck once more, with the whole backline indulging in ball-watching as Ludovick was left with acres of space, to rack up the score and make it 3-0. Qiu Li had done well to shake off his marker and unselfishly laid on the ball for the stocky Cameroonian player. With slightly more than twenty minutes left on the clock, the result had been all but confirmed.

Rather unsurprisingly, the Korean let their frustrations show and several players got away with blatant challenges, as Kone was on the receiving end of one elbow too many, with the offender getting away with only a caution. Swee Swee made his way into the fans’ good books with his persistence late on, alas his injured arm could only take that much, as he trudged off to be replaced by Indra a few minutes from time. The Protectors had already been home and dry by then.

Post match, Vincent was pleased with the win, as he felt patience was the best way to tackle past a well-drilled defence. With the Koreans pulling up their socks with every passing match, there was no room for slip-ups according to him, with the likes of Gombak and Liaoning making up lost ground on their respective rivals in the league table. With Gombak only managing a draw against Geylang, and with Tampines still having to play their game in hand, Home could do well enough to enjoy their mini-break before the league resumes on June 10th, with Liaoning coming up on the horizon at Bishan.

Home draws Red's blood

“We were better,” said Korean Super Reds Hong In Woong post-match.

(from s.league.com)

Super Reds lose 3-0 to leaders Home, but show improvement

Kay Hishammailto:Hishaminfo@sleague.com

Perhaps for the first time this season, defeat truly did not matter.

Against a rampant Home United side refusing to loosen their grip on top spot, the Korean Super Reds can at least hold their heads up high – knowing that the 3-0 reverse was not a fair reflection of the match.

As the dust settled in the first match of the second trimester of the NTUC Income–YEO’s S.League, the Super Reds are still entrenched at the foot of the table.

But they are getting better.

The Protectors had come into this game brimming with confidence after wins over Geylang and reigning champions SAFFC, but were made to work hard for their three points on the night.

With “The Icon” Indra Sahdan still hampered by injury, Home lined up with Qiu Li and Kengne Ludovick up front – ably supported by Kone Hamed and the roaming Shahril Ishak behind them.

But even with this fearsome foursome, the chances came very few and far between against a Super Reds defence held firm by Lee Sang Jin.

In midfield, skipper Lee Tae Hoon marshalled his side expertly, thwarting the visitors’ forays into their half.
For a side that had plundered 26 goals in their past 11 league games, Home found the resistance put up by the home team stifling.

But patient they were. Patient they had to be.

“This is the third time this season that we’ve played them, and it gets harder each time. They are getting better with each game and it showed tonight,” said Home United coach Vincent Subramaniam after the game.

So much so that the rampaging Protectors had their first attempt on goal only after 28 minutes, when Ludovick beat the offside trap only to have his shot parried away by an onrushing Kim Ji Soo.

Though the Super Reds were doing a brilliant job keeping the league leaders at bay, they lacked bite in attack.
Lanky 19-year-old forward Park Min Gyu proved to be too lightweight a target man for the home side, and was easily kept in check by the imposing figure of Diakite Fode Bangaly.

As well, the avenues on both wings were covered by full backs Jumaat Jantan and Home captain Rosman Sulaiman, leaving virtually no space for the Super Reds to attack.

Little wonder Home has conceded just seven goals so far.

A tight affair throughout the first half, with neither side unable to find the breakthrough, it was somewhat harsh that the Super Reds conceded the first goal in the manner that they did.

Breaking up an attack, skipper Lee played a horrible back pass that allowed Ludovick to collect the ball.
Spotting Shahril at the far post, Ludovick played in a perfect cross and with no one around, the national midfielder made no mistake as he planted his header past an unprotected Kim.

The rest of the first half continued in similar fashion, with the Super Reds keeping it tight but unable to find a way through, while the visitors waited patiently for their chances.

In the second half, a tired-looking home side came back onto the field, and that allowed the Protectors to assert more authority on the proceedings.

Still the Koreans would not falter, holding firm together in the face of seemingly overwhelming sieges.
The tie looked to be heading for an odd-goal victory for Home – unless somebody could come up with a moment of brilliance to change that.

Up stepped the S.League’s reigning Young Player of the Year – Kengne Ludovick.

The Protectors had been stringing together passes comfortably up till the 58th minute, but could not find a way past, until Ludovick collected the ball just outside the area.

With three attendants around him, the 24-year-old turned sharply before rifling in a low shot to bottom corner that gave Kim no chance to double the advantage.

Shi Jia Yi had a glorious chance to make it three on 67 minutes but Kim did well to turn the former’s stinging right-footer behind for a corner.

With legs tiring, it was Ludovick who once again dealt the killer blow two minutes later, again combining with Qiu to double his tally for the game and goal number seven for the campaign.

Though the game was dead and gone by then, admirably, the Super Reds continued to press on and gave their all until the final whistle.

“We were better,” said Korean Super Reds Hong In Woong post-match.

“It was heartbreaking to let in that first goal, but the players did not give up.

“We were a tired in the second half; a little slow and a little late reacting, but that is something we will work on,” he mused.

In the end, as oxymoronic as it may sound, tonight was a positive defeat for the Super Reds – for they showed all and sundry the character and spirit that lesser men would wield.

For coach Hong and assistant R Balasubramaniam, this game could be the start of something special – if the belief is there.

In another match at Tampines Stadium, Tampines Rovers completed a relatively easy 4-1 win over Albirex Niigata (S). Read match report here.