Saturday 21st of January was GAS VS Sportsman FC in the Bangkok Casuals League Lufthansa Cup. Having being beaten earlier in the season by the stubborn English side, GAS were out for revenge.
GAS started with the 4-3-3 formation that saw us cruise past the defending champions PTT last week. With the temperatures still soaring despite a 4pm KO perhaps having an effect, the game started scrappy and somewhat slowly. Few chances created by either side. And neither team finding too much rhythm. GAS nonetheless starting the stronger of the two teams. Yan showing plenty of energy and returning Fede looking sharp. The best chance perhaps falling to Craig on the edge of the box after a squared pass by Dom and despite having plenty of time to pick his spot, shot straight at the keeper.
Midway through the first half and disaster struck for GAS when a Sportsman player found himself unmarked at the back post and left to tap in easily following a poorly cleared corner.
1-0HT
GAS came out the second half looking better. Words were had and changes were made which seemingly made the difference. Shortly into the second half a free kick was won on the right hand side a Julian wonderfully delivered for Craig to head home from close range. 1-1
GAS’ tails were up, creating chance after chance. Taking control of the game. Despite 1 or 2 penalty claims from the Sportsman though nothing was giving, GAS had the game under control whilst seeking their second goal. 10 minutes later, the goal finally came when captain Carl Turner smartly, first time volleyed home after a drilled cross into the box. The two unlikely English lads turning the game around following going a goal down early on. Another late penalty shout from new boy Tommy Almond who’s recent theatrical behavior and reputation has seemingly caught up with him as the referee dismissed the claim – nevertheless GAS managed to withstand the last ditch pressure to see out the game 2-1 winners.
2-1 FT.
Another super performance from the GAS outfit. The team spirit seems to be higher than ever and we have shown fantastic character two weeks running to win following going a goal down. This year, could be our year!
MOM – Captain Carl Turner