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Central Park secured a 2nd successive win against TUS in the return leg of the double header to grab the maximum 6 points. Missing the likes of Stefan, Jensen, Kit and Na'eem, Sharks welcomed back Muru who has been sidelined for 2 months with a shoulder injury and a finger fracture but he was deemed fit enough to start the game as he partnered Aaron upfront to spearhead the Sharks attack.
In the scorching sun, the first half was evenly matched with both teams cancelling out each other in all departments and few chances created. Aaron had a good chance in the closing stages of the half but his shot was well saved by the onrushing custodian. An injury to Mike meant that Aaron stepped up to be in goal to start the second half. With a strong bench, caretaker manager Jeremy Chua introduced Yus, Jason, Jeffrey and Heng Li to freshen the squad hoping to hit the fast tiring TUS players with fresh legs.
This worked to much effect as the Sharks conjured several chances but unfortunately were not converted. The continued pressure finally paid off when a through ball down the right found Naem in space and the latter continued his knack of scoring tight-angled goals when he let rip an unstoppable shot from a narrow angle to give the Sharks a much deserved lead. The goal made TUS push forward in search of an equalizer and they were rewarded with a couple of close range freekicks. Fortunately for the Sharks, they were not converted.
Jeremy Lee, Kelvin and Jason all came close to increasing the lead but were left disappointed by their finishing. In the closing stages of the game, Muru received a lose ball in the centre of the pitch and provided Naoki with a lovely through ball. The latter maintained his composure to sidefoot his shot which trickled into the far corner. A minute later, Naoki had another glorious opportunity but could only see his powerful shot smash against the crossbar. The Sharks held on to their 2 goal lead to complete a double over TUS.
The beaming caretaker manager Jeremy Chua commented “It is always nice to take 3 points but it is certainly an extra bonus to keep a clean sheet!”
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