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Sharks welcomed back Jiayong after a long injury layoff and went into the last game of the season having secured 3rd position in the league regardless of the outcome of the game. However, it was no excuse for their dismal performance as they were torn apart by the rampant SCC Tigers who passed the ball well and deservingly thumped 7 goals past the lackluster Sharks.
Sharks almost scored within the first minute of the game when good interplay between Stefan, Naoki and Heng Li set up a glorious opportunity but the latter was left disappointed with his finish. With Michael playing on despite a fever and Charlson suffering from diarrhea, gaps inevitably opened up as Sharks struggled to maintain possession of the ball. SCC Tigers duly punished the Sharks with a goal in the 5th minute and 2 more before halftime.
The halftime team talk saw caretaker manager Jeremy Chua rally the troops for a more competitive second half and Nuriman entered the fray for the Michael who was unwell and Charlson was sent on as right back to contain the tricky left winger that caused Sharks all sorts of problems earlier.
The second half had barely started when the Tigers once again caught Sharks on the back foot and scored within 2 minutes of restart. To make matters worse, the diarrhea-stricken Charlson, who had been running gingerly throughout the game, attempted a ferocious dash towards the ball only to trigger nature’s calling and had to be substituted immediately.
The 5th goal came shortly after and substitute goalkeeper had to be stretchered off after an unfortunate collision and back came Michael between the posts. Sharks continued to pour forward in search for the consolation goal but changes were missed time and again and the Tigers nailed the coffin with 2 more goals in the late stages of the game.
The caretaker manager and players were left bitterly disappointed with the result but thankfully this game was not to have any impact as the Sharks have been promoted by ESPZEN to play in Div 4 season. The wretched experience endured by captain Charlson also ensured a light hearted ending to a memorable season for the Sharks.
The management would like to thank and congratulate all players for the fantastic effort this season and look forward to the challenges that await them in Division 4.
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