This weekend, the GAS Casuals had the third encounter of the season with their friends of Scandinavian Vikings and it was the most important match so far. After few weeks of stagnation, including injuries, low participation in practice and matches leading to losses in the cup and league, this weekend was meant to be a crucial encounter to fight the current downward slope. The match against Scans was therefore appointed as the signpost for the rest of the season and a challenge against a direct competitor: In the two previous encounters, both teams got one win each and were also leveled on points in the league table. Hence, it was made very clear that the attitude and fighting spirit has to be at least back to normal.
Everybody can agree that the atmosphere during the warm up has already improved and it was soon very clear that the whole team implemented the coach’s instructions to give 120% and fight for these important 3 points. As expected it was a very tough challenge against a team on a very similar level. Although the German All Stars seemed to have slight advantages in ball possession, the Scans were always dangerous especially with headers after free kicks, corners and long thro-ins. After tough 40 minutes including injuries (central defender Tobi had to leave the pitch after only a few minutes), the teams went into half time without any goals on the scoreboard.
After the half time, the German All Stars started to use the better ball possession and translated it into more and more chances. A mostly solid defense and hard work in the midfield (early pressing) helped to take control halfway through the second half. After a couple of good chances, it was Frodo who finally awarded the hard work with a shot into the lower left corner of the goal after 63 minutes played. With much less pressure on the shoulders, the attacking continued and the German All Stars now wanted more and seal the deal as early as possible. Luckily, only three minutes later a simple and beautiful attack already brought the second goal: A free kick from our own half sent Alex over the right wing who placed the ball accurately onto Frodo’s head to nod in nicely. Frodo’s brace within minutes (which by the way was pretty much announced in advance by Damian and Jens) obviously gave the team lots of confidence. During the last minutes though, the Scans threw everything they had at the GAS defense. The danger during high balls was well known, but still the header leading to the 1:2 after a corner kick wasn’t avoided. Luckily it was already the 80th minute, so that a very strong GAS team was able to save the close lead and deservedly won 2:1! A great job by everyone and good start for some tough weeks ahead. The Man of the Match trophy was awarded to Tom who wreaked havoc with the Scandinavian strikers throughout 80 minutes. Kudos to both Tom, Frodo, and the entire team for a great fighting spirit and deserved win! Well done boys!!!