Friendly Match: Penang Women taking on the Inne-credibles!

Penang Women State Team vs. Innebandy! Co.
24th August 2009, Monday
1-5 (0-2, 1-0, 0-3)

1st period
Jason
Joshua

2nd period
Sarah Ng (Sheryn)

3rd period
Ephraim (Joshua)
Nicholas
Joshua

The PFL fever is still on a high it seems.

The Penang women's state team took on PFL third place position Innebandy! Co. for a friendly on Monday night as they continue to strive towards forming a solid Penang women's team, or Malaysian women's team for that matter.

It was a pretty low profile friendly match that drew minimal crowd into the Balik Pulau stadium. Nonetheless, an exciting match awaits us.

An empty stadium as Innebandy goes through pep talk.

The first period saw the women picking up a fast pace, full press strategy. It almost caught the Innebandiens off guard a couple of times. Innebandy on the other hand, played it rather cool and steady. The women's first line was solid in defence and it proved to be so as Innebandy found it hard to penetrate through and what more with Sharron standing in as keeper, it will be a long night for them. The forwards' played well for the first 10 minutes or so with good fore checking, keeping Innebandy's defenders at bay. Unfortunately for the women, they started off really well but somehow could not keep up with that initial burst of fire. The first period gradually stood one sided as Innebandy took numerous shots at goal, in total 17. Jason scored the first goal followed on by Joshua.

The Penang Women State team.

The second half did not show much sign of recovery from the women. Speed has always been one of the major weaknesses for the women's team and it was evident. Innebandy's quick counter attack from defence to forward penetrated their defence more than once. It was also obvious that movement was another major problem for the women's team. Movement isn't something easy to pick up for any team and so it was with the women's team. The forwards were caught standing still many times while the ball is on the go. Nonetheless, it's through matches like these that one learn from mistakes. The second period ended with surprisingly, no goals conceded by the women's team. Instead, they scored one against Innebandy! Thanks to the Ng sisters' combination - Sarah and Sheryn.

The third period saw the women's team coming in with a different spirit. The women stepped on court with a renewed vigour as they press up high with very good fore checking. At the other end, we saw a change in goalkeeper as Sharron stepped out and Suleen stepped in. Suleen displayed numerous spectacular saves that could have put the Innebandy forwards to shame. Small as is, she proved to be a solid goalkeeper with her reflexes. However, again the women repeated their 1st period mistake, which was to drop their spirit. This gave several openings for Innebandy to launch their attack and they made it count. Ephraim, Nicholas and Joshua all scored in the final period, giving Innebandy a comfortable 5-1 win.

The women's team pressing up high in the third period.

Both teams thanking the referees.

Man of the match:
For the women's team, Penny stood out with her outstanding defensive instinct. She was as solid as any men out there with her body check and cool control. She also made several laudable attacks, taking chances with her shots. She proved worthy of wearing the captain's armband as she leads this team to greater heights!

As for Innebandy, it was a simple pick. Joshua stood out. This guy chase for every ball like a bull. Hard runner, persistent and take chances at goal. Scoring two goals and assisting one, he definitely caught our eyes. Another "rising star", maybe?

On behalf of BBF, we would like to further encourage the Penang Women State team to continue their effort in improving themselves, the team and the floorball scene amongst women. You have the whole Penang floorballers behind you! Keep it up! :)

Team Review: Innebandy!Co.

Innebandy!Co.

Final standing: 3rd/6
Goals scored: 31
Goals conceded: 11
League form: WWLLW

Biggest win: 11-0 against Dalat Eagles
Biggest loses: 2-5 against Ztec 8cers
Highest scoring match: 11-0 against Dalat Eagles

Top scorer: Deswyn Wan - 1o goals
Top assist: Deswyn Wan - 5 assists

Point leaders:
1. Deswyn Wan - 15 points (10+5)
2. Sam Teoh - 8 points (4+4)
3. Valarie Tan - 5 points (4+1)


Best player:
Sam Teoh, a wise cracking player who is flexible in playing in almost any position, except for goalkeeping of course. One of the senior players who recovered from a bad knee injury. That did not stop him from picking himself up and coming back into the game with a good form.

With the lack of experienced defenders for Innebandy, it is the best decision to place Sam at the fort of the team. And of course he did his job well in minimizing the goal deficits and contributing the balls to the forwards. He is also one of the few defenders who earns 8 points placing him in the top ten spot of the score chart.

He's a defender, a forward, the brainchild behind the club, the coach, the one who assists and the one who scores. He is a multi-purpose guy who deserves to be called 'best player.'

Borak says:
3rd place does seemed to be too bad, for most. But not for Innebandy, who has always been on the top in the past. What went wrong?

Innebandy has always and still is relying on their old guards. They were unstoppable in those days. They still are, but circumstances have changed. The court is bigger, meaning they would not be able to sustain consistent performance for a full match, and with the playing field being levelled out each year, the gap between teams is closing in inch by inch each year where once upon a time, it seemed like a gap that could not be bridged. Well, not any more.

The team's overall experience certainly surpassed most, but the youngsters' lack of experience in actual game play (positioning and anticipation) proved to be a major weak link, hence, they were unable to compete with faster, aggressive teams. In the end, it was the usual suspects that reluctantly run the show. Deswyn often finds his passing options limited, while Sam desperately holds the defence together and like Deswyn, have no one to pass to but amongst themselves, which explains the high percentage of goals scored and assisted between the two.

On the bright side, the team boast quite a number of potential stars all around, such as Rooban and Win Shern in defence. Although technically adequate, they still needs polishing in terms of aggression and positioning. Young kids like Darien and Jason Chew too, caught the eye with their impressive display of technique and skill considering their age. When all these "Work-in-progress" become complete, do not be surprise if you find them back on top. Definitely a force to be reckon with in the near future.

Match review: Innebandy too hot for Eagles!

Innebandy! Co. vs. Dalat Eagles
30th July 2009, Thursday
11-0 (5-0, 6-0)

0022 1-0 Deswyn Wan
0157 2-0 Deswyn Wan (Valerie Yentl Tan)
0500 3-0 Valerie Yentl Tan (Joshua Yam)
1230 4-0 Sam Teoh (Joshua Yam)
1658 5-0 Sam Teoh (Deswyn Wan)

0404 6-0 Valerie Yentl Tan
0509 7-0 Darien Loh (Ephraim Teh)
0558 8-0 Own Goal by Edwin Ooi
1150 9-0 Jason Chew (Deswyn Wan)
1553 10-0 Deswyn Wan
1942 11-0 Deswyn Wan

What else can we say.
The score line speaks for itself.

BBF talked to Sam Teoh (ST) of Innebandy:

BBF: This is your final match of the league. What was the primary objective that you have set for your team? Did you guys achieve it?

ST: Our primary objective playing against Dalat was to maintain ball possession throughout the game by moving the ball around with good passes and eventually take lots of shots to score as many goals as possible. And of course to have fun. After all, it's our last game for this campaign. Obviously we did! 61 shots on target. How much more can I ask from the Innebandiens? They really surprised me and surpassed all my expectations. If I'm not mistaken this is the most shots on target for this league. I'm proud of my team!


BBF: Frankly speaking, Dalat did manage to hold up a good defence against the likes of Deswyn and yourself several times. What are some of the challenges faced playing against a team like Dalat Eagles?

ST: Honestly, we didn't feel much pressure from our opponents. But it is common for them to pressure us more as we are the most threatening players to them. However, the pressure were felt mostly by both of our younger forwards Darien Loh and Jason Chew as they are playing against "goliath" that is 3 or 4 times their size. But that did not stop them from playing their game. Both of them earned the goal they deserved for playing in such a high level game that is meant for the big boys only. Well done to both Darien and Jason.


BBF: Looking back at the league as a whole, which match do you think was the hardest for the team?

ST: Ztec 8cer for sure. Simply because they have more experience players and played to their best potential.


BBF: How do you think your team fare as a whole and what do you have to say to your players?

ST: The whole team grew tighter and stronger during the span of this league. That is what matters the most to me as a coach. Each innebandiens played their hearts out and also giving their very best to this club and to floorball. I'm really proud of each of them and I'm priviledge to have them in my team. It is my honour. However, there are always rooms for improvement. I will continue to develop the whole team and I look forward to see the younger ones to rise up in their skills and character.


BBF:Lastly, who would you vote as the man of the match for team Dalat Eagles and why?

ST: Norman. He stands out among his team mates and he was quite hardworking on court as compared to the rest.

BBF also spoke to Jason Selva (JS) of team Dalat Eagles:

BBF: Coming in for your final match of the league against a team like Innebandy, what was the primary objective that you set for your team?

JS: Play hard, have fun and watch out for Deswyn (smiles).


BBF: Although a newly assembled team, through this league, BBF have noticed some up and rising players that Dalat have. Who do you think in Dalat Eagles have made a crucial contribution and possess great potential in floorball?

JS: I think everyone on the team had a lot to do with the success. There are a few new players that stuck out but because it was such a brand new team the credit has to go to everyone . It was a team effort, it had to be.


BBF: Looking back at the league as a whole, which match do you think was the hardest for the team?

JS: I think the one against Ztec. The "old men" were just no match for the young guns with speed and skill, deadly combo.


BBF: This was your final match of the league. How do you think your team fared as a whole and what do you have to say to your players?

JS: It was great having them as team mates. I think they did an awesome job for beginners and I think they can go really far if they continue playing. Three cheers for all of them from me!


BBF: Lastly, who would you vote as the man of the match for team Innebandy?

JS: Deswyn Wan, everyone on my team voted for him. Excellent moves!


Borak says:
Spritzer:
A lob-sided match from the beginning to the end.
There really wasn't much the Eagles could do against a team like Innebandy. It was all about courage and spirit for the Eagles.

For Innebandy, their fire power up front came from the usual suspects, Deswyn and occasionally Sam. With Deswyn playing in the centre, that whole area was practically owned by him with his swift moves and speedy runs. Dalat could not keep up with this lad. However, Innebandy's line two looked pretty shaky at times, especially in their defence. Dalat had a couple of chances up front against their line two but they just could not convert them to goals.

For Dalat, it was a match that really tested their mental strength and obviously their goalkeeper. Edwin had a lot of work at goal and BBF must give him credit for his outstanding performance and his ability to keep calm even though the score line was a big one. Keep it up!

MoMs:
Innebandy relied a lot on Deswyn to bank in the goals. And he did.
However, it was Darien Loh, the little young gun who stood out the most in BBF's eyes. This young lad may look young but his floorball sense and movement on court speaks otherwise. Well attuned to the game of floorball at such an age, he is the next kid to look out for!

For Dalat, Norman played the crucial role with his tireless run. This young lad also worked really hard both up front and in defence. He's work rate is exceptional! Then again, aren't all Dalat's players work rate like that? ;)

Match Review: Match of the League!

Innebandy! Co. vs. Ztec 8cers
23rd July 2009, Thursday
2-5 (1-3, 1-2)

0323 0-1 Loh Jo-Wyee (Chiam Ter Min)
0844 1-1 Rooban Chand (Andrew Yeap)
1828 1-2 Wong Ken Wye (Yeoh Jun Wooi)
1847 1-3 Yeoh Jun Wooi (Wong Ken Wye)

0733 1-4 Chiam Ter Min
1003 2-4 Sam Teoh Jin Haur
1427 Innebandy! Co's time out
1519 2-5 Loh Jo-Wyee (Chiam Ter Min)



BBF had a chat with Chiam Termin (TM) of Ztec 8cers who shared his insight of the match:

BBF: BBF reckon this is one of your biggest game. But seems like you had an easy win in the end. What was the strategy and what did you expect out of Inne?

TM: Yeah we knew it was a big game as they have some quality players and an experience goalie. As for the strategy, we wanted to start early and get the goals. We also planned to play a tight game and move the ball around. I think after watching the team video, the passing was good just that the pace was terrible. haha.. The slowest game in the league so far I would say.


BBF: What do you think is the strength of Innebandy and what do you think is their weakness?

TM: Personally and honestly, their strength lies in their goalie.(no offence to anyone). Goalie have a good game, the team have a good game, goalie has a bad game the team has a bad game. We could see that their goalie(Lin Ken) was on top form on that day and the forwards find it hard to score. The more saves he made, the more confident their team got. As for their weaknesses, they do not press high enough. Our defence was barely test that evening.


BBF: You guys have considerably the best defensive line in the league, yet you guys let in a couple of goals. What went wrong?

TM: Hmmm a strong defence line doesn't mean you wont concede goals. The first goal that evening by them was a very good goal. Simple passes, one touch and simple finish. Our forwards failed to fall back to defence causing a big gap in the middle to allow them to pass neatly. The second goal was an error during a change. One of our center make a changed when they had the ball and before his sub could enter to cover the center, their forward(Sam) dribbled th ball in the center and took a shot.


BBF: The league is drawing to a close and you'll be facing the Hawks in your final match. What's your expectation of the game?

TM: We will take that match like any other match. Going in full heartedly and coming out with what ever we can get from it. It should be a nice game to watch as both team has fast players. As for my expectations, a win would be good.


BBF: Lastly, who would you vote as the man of the match for Inne and why?

TM: Without a doubt, Lin Ken their goalie. It would have been double the scoreline without him. However, credit also given to Sam and Des for playing almost 85% of the game.


BBF managed to get hold of Deswyn Wan(DW) of Innebandy!Co. for his views for the match:

BBF: Ztec, presumably the most lethal team in the league. Going up against a team like that, what were your concerns and what were the strategies used?

DW: I think the main concern about playing a team like Ztec is to minimize the scoreline gap at the end of the period. And in order to do that, we have to take their shooters out or at least put some pressure on them. This requires a lot of running, endurance and physical contact, which we may be lacking of. Playing against Ztec is like playing against Japan in the APAC tournament.haha. The strategy for the first period is to not let in any goals, play defensively and to be discipline in our positions. I thought we did pretty well in the first few minutes until some careless mistakes were made. That kinda give them the upper hand to 'climb all over us.' Second period's strategy was just to have fun. Not. Joking joking. Obviously we tried to come back in the second period with more pressure at the top but Ztec's turnover is really fast thus capitalising on the counter attacks. I think our players did their best but they (Ztec) were just better.


BBF: What do you think is the strength of Ztec and what do you think is their weakness?

DW: The strength of the team is pretty obvious, they have individual skills and that contributed a lot to such a performance. What you see is a reflection of our National team. (or at least 60%-70% whether you want to believe it or not) They have good play ups, very creative up front plays and the drive is just there. Wooosshh! Having said that, no team is without a flaw, I guess one of their weakness is sometimes they fumble in their own defensive zone which may cost them some precious goal(s) deficits.


BBF: Relatively speaking, you guys weren't as strong as last year. Is there disappointment or frustration as a team to know that to a certain extent, the standard of the team has dropped? What will be the focus after the league as a team?

Haha!I like this question. I admit we weren't as strong as we were last year. I guess this is much affected by the individual players we have in Innebandy!Co. We have a bunch of skillful and experience players which left the club (with our blessings) and not much exposure were given to the newer players. I guess they do not know what to expect when they stepped onto a 40x20 rink. No teams can escape from feeling frustration and disappointed but I'm really proud that every member in our team played with Insane Courage on court without letting their emotions take over. The focus will never change, it is to keep improving, to be better than who we are today. =)


BBF: Your final match against Dalat. What are your expectations?

DW: To win? haha. I hope to see good plays by our team members and really hope they would have learned from their mistakes from previous games. No more silly goals, to have fun, and hopefully scoring many goals.


BBF: Lastly, who would you vote as the man of the match for team Ztec and why?

DW: In my opinion, the man of the match for this game would be Sjaiful. He was the strong shield in their defensive line. And in addition, he was quick in intercepting and stealing all our balls away and also made a couple of good runs towards our goal.


Borak says:
Bendy:
8cers was on a fly coming into the game hitting 20 a week before while Inne on recovery after a tripped by Spartans. Welcoming back Sjaiful and Hadfiz, it seems that a win and nothing less is expected of them. Inne on the other hand, seems to expected the worst even before the match was played as they started their key men, Des and Sam in defence, and eventually for the whole game.

8cers did dominate the game in terms of possession, shots and passes for both half's, yet they were some what unconvincing. 8cers played literally in Inne's half as they opted to sit back, but the positioning of the forwards were often too high and parallel at times ,which limited the passing options for the defenders with the ball. It was more like a couple passing exercise between defenders, penetrative Floorball that pumped in 20 was no where to be seen!

Considering the difference in strength, Inne played reasonably well, keeping 8cers at bay most of the time. Defence was hugely reinforced the presence of Sam and Des, not to mention they looked threatening on the break as 8cers' libero often caught of guard. In the end, it took a few mistake, a brilliant back pass and two pair of tired legs for Ztec to seal the match.

With the amount of talent at their disposal, much was expected from the Z-lacticos, beautiful Floorball they played but not as clinical and deadly as we would have expected. Yet, a win for 8cers nevertheless and a step closer to the podium. As for Inne, they did put up a good fight but 3 excellent players is not enough to last a league, the team is still unfinished business.

MoMs:
Mind you, we did tried and tried hard we did in trying not to pick Sam but...
Although his team mates efforts were nonetheless significant as well, like his partner, Des forays which lifted some pressure off their half and Lin Ken's tipping off the near goals. But how can we not the defender who ran tireless all around, intercepting and blocking shots, laying passes and lobbing long balls initiating counters, not mentioning lasting the whole 40 mins!! The defensive lynch pin for Innebandy was ever present, minimising 8cers's damage to a mere 5 when 15 was predicted.

Ztec were uninspired for the night but one player in particular caught the eye. Sjaiful.
The defender was top notch playing the libero and was the heart beat of 8cers for the night. With the whole team pushing up high, he was the main man with the ball, dictating Ztec's offensive flow. At the same time, he was the last man against Innebandy's counter attack, using his experience and skills to neutralise most of the threats, other than the odd 2.

Match Review: Spartans too strong!

Frontliners Spartan vs. Innebandy! Co.
7th July 2009, Tuesday
3-2 (3-0, 0-2)

0255 1-0 Kenny Ng
1315 2-0 Kenny Ng
1735 3-0 Kew Pei Li (Nicholas Teoh)

1400 3-1 Deswyn Wan (Sam Teoh)
1938 3-2 Deswyn Wan

The cursed match.
Innebendy has never beaten Frontliners before.
And so the end of a gruesome fight between the both, the curse stood unshaken, unbreakable.

The mighty Spartans continued their victorious endeavour yet again, toppling the Inne-credibles. Surely, they must be on a high by now. Let's see what both managers have to say about the match.

BBF interviewed Sam Teoh (ST) of team Innebendy:

BBF: Frontliners managed to steal a point when they played against Ztec. They have definitely surprise all of us in the league. Were you more cautious in your approach against Frontliners? What was the strategy?

ST: Not really. Because I believe in my team that we are capable to play them. Besides, most of us played floorball longer than most of the Spartans. The strategy was to play like how we played in the previous two matches. But I guess this strategy wasn't good enough as we were down 3 goals in the first period.


BBF: Your defensive line has been a major issue in this league. Besides inexperience, what else do you think contributed to the goals scored by Frontliners against Innebandy?

ST: Our defensive line played the tightest so far compared to all the previous games. However Spartans was able to capitalised on their strength which gave them the lead. We were not playing hard enough against them on the 1st period.


BBF: There's a huge dependency from your team mates on Deswyn and yourself. Is it a good thing or a bad thing? How does this affect the team as whole?

ST: To people the team seems to rely on both of us more, but to me all the Innebandiens played to their best potential. The score board doesn't only show both of our names. Captain E, Valerie, Nic, Andrew, Darien and Rooban made it as well. Just because we are the ones creating the opportunity doesn't mean that they are not playing their role well. All of the teams in Div 1 are also relying on their national capped players. If it affects my team, it will affect every clubs and the whole Div 1 as well.


BBF: Your first loss of the league. How did the team take it? As a coach, what is the one thing you would want your team to improve to play against a team like Frontliners?

ST: The team wasn't shaken by the defeat at all I would say. As long as Innebandy!Co played together and tight as a team, it will not be a defeat to us at all. It was a good game of Floorball after all. In my opinion it wasn't hard to play against Frontliners at all. We made 2 easy goals against them on the 2nd period. However they managed to maintain the lead over us until the end of the game. As a coach, I would like to see my team to improve on their ball possession during a game playing against team like Frontliners.


BBF: Lastly, who would you vote as the man of the match for Frontliners and why?

ST: Kenny Ng. He is just full of energy.

At the other end, we caught up with Jason Chan Ming Hwee (MH) of team Frontliners for the interview:

BBF: Coming out against a team like Innebandy is never easy. Apparently you gambled once again? What was the game plan this time around?

MH: We gambled, because our coach loves to gamble. Innebandy has beaten us before during the pre-league friendlies, 8-3. The gameplan was the same, line one, defensive, line two getting out there for the goals. True enough Line two scored all the goals. Spartans play in a very simple and straight forward play reason being, were not so good technically. :)


BBF: You guys pushed really hard in the first period but then played more conservative in the second half with a tighter defense. However, you guys still let in two goals. What happened? Was that a case of bad strategy?

MH: I think people assume our strategy was to play aggressive first half then lie low in the second half. Hmmm... not true. We "tried" to play hard all the time. BUT the general fitness of the team got PUNCTURED in the second half. So relatively, it looks like defence was tighter because we played more in our half. Innebandy pushed harder the second half, knowing that they've got nothing to lose with 3 goals down. With Deswyn organising the attacks, we hunted him down every step he took. Anybody running against him will always get tired because you know he's fit like a bull. Good call by their coach. They capitalized on our slowdown. If the game was to be played another period, we would have lost to Innebandy. It was all "mental" at the end of the day.

I think that the 2 goals we conceded were not due to wrong strategy, but small petty mistakes which proved to be costly. First one, because Kuan Yang (mental tak kuat) went out of the court at the wrong time. Second goal was due to Steven's assumption (terlebih relax) that there's no one around when suddenly Deswyn appeared to score.


BBF: What do you think was Innebandy's weakness and how did you capitalize on those weakness?

MH: Innebandy needs time to build up in their attacks. In the past, they've always played in a very organized manner - quick passes, well coordinated game play. However, this style is only played within their stronger line.

They use to have Deswyn, being the centre, Sam being the forward and Nick being the marksman. That trinity no longer exist when Nick could no longer play due to injury. Deswyn can supply the ball, but unfortunately, the finishing was lacking.

Lack of defensive strength, made Sam a little more conservative than his usual style. Perhaps, due to that , he made less run ups than during the pre-league friendly match.

Innebandy is generally not a physical team. Side by side, Spartans are more physical. That's also why the game was faster because there were not many fouls.

We were gambling from the start. So I wouldn't say we capitalize on anything. Its a gamble. That's it.


BBF: Frontliners have been cruising in this league and have definitely surprised all of us. What do you expect of the upcoming matches in hand?

MH: Surprised all of us? WE ARE ALSO SHOCKED.

Borak-borak has already written us off since day one. Our pre-league games have sold us off. Team had low morale. Technically we're inferior to the other teams around. Coach had a headache with lack of players.

Because of all these, we didn't have expectations from the start. Our challenge was about getting the team together, work together as one, support one another, and get ourselves super highly motivated. That was the challenge.

When we stop thinking about winning that's when we play better. We just want to play like SPARTANS. Doesn't matter who's the opponent, we will play them hard.

So what's the expectations? Well, we don't really care because we just want to play our game and develop our new and younger ones.

Next few games will be tough because we will lose 2 important players but we will try our best to win every game and take it a step at a time. All opponents in division 1 are strong or else they wouldn't be here.


BBF: Lastly, who would you vote as the man of the match for Innebandy and why?

MH: I would give Deswyn Wan for the man of the match. Do I even need to explain???

****************************************

So at the end of the day, it was really a close fight, it all came down to 'mental'.
Frontliners still at their peak while Innebendy faced their first loss of the league.
Seems to us that Frontliners is messing up the league table.
But they sure won't mind, and will be glad to be doing so until the league ends!
Bravo to team Spartans!

Borak Says:
Carrard:
It was Spartans who raced into a shock 3-0 lead very early on, making it a nightmare opening for Innebandy.

There was good distribution and penetration in attack, but when the ball came into their own half, the players kept backing and backing, giving Spartans seemingly all the time in the world to waltz through their static line. Not enough cover from the center in defence, and no cutting edge nor creativity, if compared to Spartans’ direct approach.

The two goals conceded by Spartans were schoolboy errors by two of their most experienced players. Credit is given where credit is due, and both teams deserve equal credit: Spartans for extending their fairytale run (they do seem to have a lot of those..), Innebandy for never giving up.

However, this 3-2 scoreline is like a pretty cloth covering a whole lot of questions and shortcomings.

For Innebandy, it just takes an off-form Deswyn and Sam for the team to look very ordinary. It will be interesting to see how they can rebound against a flying Ztec. Win, and the title race stays wide open. Lose and all but hand the title to Ztec. All of Penang will be waiting for this match with bated breath, I can tell you.

For Spartans, how long can this crazy streak last? Will they stumble against winless UniHawks, like last year and forsake all chances of getting a medal? If they win, it will most certainly be an entertaining final round in this league!

Jose:

Kudos to the Spartans as they continued their amazing run of form by beating Innebandy by 3 goals to 2. Frontliners has always been the nemesis to the mighty Innebandy and has not lost to Innebandy for almost a year now (NOT including the 8-3 Pre-season Friendly). In this match, Spartans started the match just like how they played Ztec 8cers, defending tightly using their 1st line and going gung ho with their second line. And it was the second line, that got the goals for them all in the first period of the game. The Spartans really defended like Spartans in the first period, getting to every single lose ball and neutralizing Deswyn from the center. Innebandy weren't able to get a single shot at Sharon's goal.

The 2nd period saw Innebandy not giving up as they tried to close the gap of the scoreline. Tired legs and a lost of focus saw Innebandy reducing the 3 goal deficit to 1, but it was all too late as the Spartans were able to survive the onslaught in the dying minutes of the game. Innebandy were really lacking both in defence and attack on that day. They would have done better, if Nicholas was available for this league as they sorely miss his goal poaching instincts in front of goal.

MoMs:
Kenny Ng, who shows you what cutting edge really means. No opening? He makes one. And in this game, he waltzed through Innebandy’s defence, took one look up and coolly lifted the ball past Lin Ken. Twice. He wins this title hands down.

For Inne, a pretty obvious one. They too boast a 2 goal hero, Deswyn Wan. The centre was the rise and the fall of the team. Tightly marked and without sufficient support, the team look ordinary in the first. But give him an inch or two, he'll turn tables and punished you. Spartans were at the receiving at as they huff and puff in the second period, conceding goals via silly mistakes, almost cost them the game if not for the final whislte.

(3 cheers to Sam and Jason for their insights!!)

Match Review: FireAnts bitten (beaten) by the Inne-credibles!

INNEBANDY! CO. v CONTACT FIREANTS
25th June 2009, Thursday
6-3(2-2, 4-1)

0651 1-0 Ephraim Teh
0701 1-1 Edward Lim (Bryan Looi)
1520 2-1 Deswyn Wan (Sam Teoh)
1928 2-2 Edward Lim (Bryan Looi)

0007 2-3 Bryan Looi (Edward Lim)
0219 3-3 Valerie Yentl Tan
0449 Incorrect Distance - Andrew Yeap (INC)
0588 4-3 Deswyn Wan - Penalty for Incorrect Hit - Kenny Khoo (CFA)
0612 Obstruction - Edward Lim (CFA)
0750 Repeated Offences - Henry Cheang (CFA)
0910 Incorrect Hit - Sam Teoh (INC)
1827 5-3 Sam Teoh
1940 6-3 Valerie Yentl Tan

SOT 16-21

Intense.
Controversial.
Anger.
Frustration.
Goals.

That basically sums up Innebandy versus FireAnts match.
BBF decided to have a chat with Innebandy's coach, Sam Teoh, and FireAnts captain, Penny Khoo, for more insights on the game.

Sam Teoh (ST) of Innebandy give his thoughts on the game:

BBF: It was a really tight match, especially in the first half. Did you expect the game to be that tough?

ST: Honestly, I do. Playing Contact is never easy. As described by BBF they are the team with a great mind behind the sticks. But I was quite confident of my team as we are prepared for a tougher match playing against FireAnts with Nic MIA. It was good 1st period for us though, all the innebandiens gave their best and play their hearts out and FireAnts were left catching up with our goals.


BBF: You were awarded a penalty shot in the second hal when the score was tied at 3-3. Frankly, do you think it was a penalty? Do you think it turned the game to your favour or you would have won the game regardless of the penalty?

ST: It was a very hard one to judge as I didn't have a clear view of it. Maybe a slash maybe not. It's all up to the referees discretion to make the call. I think we will still win the game regardless of the penalty. We can't even score when they had 3 players on court. But only score all the goals when they had their full squad back.


BBF: The game got a little messy after the many sending offs. What's your take on them?

ST: I feel the referees are doing their job just fine. They tried to be as professional as possible. Sent-offs are normal for a tight game, cuz both team wants to win. I got one myself (laughs).


BBF: 2 wins in a row, Innebandy are in fine form. All the way for gold?

ST: Yeah that's for sure, who doesn't? But playing against Ztec will be a tougher match. That game will decide whether the gold is ours or theirs.


BBF: Lastly who do you think was the Man of the Match for team Contact FireAnts?

ST: Edward Lim.


The following is the interview between Borak Borak Floorball (BBF) and team Contact Captain, Penny Khoo (PK):

BBF: It was a tie by the end of the first period. What was the strategy going up against a team that hit 10 in their previous match?

PK: We just needed to play our game. They have good individual players but I think that on paper we are tighter as a team. So if we play our game, we should win.


BBF: Much were debated regarding the penalty shot which obviously turned the game around and unfortunately for your team, it proved to be the downhill point. After which, the intensity increased and it was translated through the body language of the players. Players played harder, to a certain extent, rougher, which resulted in more sending offs. As a captain, what is your view on the penalty as well as the rest of the sending offs?

PK: From my view, as well as the view of others in the team and spectator’s stand, the penalty shouldn’t have taken place. It was first of all not a slash; secondly Kenny was at Ephraim’s side when the ball was taken away from the latter. Besides that, I feel that it was not a goal situation to warrant a penalty because he was still a long way off from the goal line. If we are a goal down, we obviously have to play harder. But I think that the intensity increased from both sides. It is just unfortunate that our players got sent off more than their players.


BBF: Correct us if we're wrong, but it seemed to us that team Contact did not just loss focus on the game but also between team mates after the many controversial incidents. Understandably so. As the team captain, was it hard to motivate yourself as well as your team as a whole to stay positive? What were some of the things that went through your mind during those moments?

PK: Without shadow of doubt, the penalty call against us, and subsequent calls after that got us loss focus. Understandably it was hard to regain momentum when that happened. There was really not much time left for us then, except to play harder till the very last whistle. The only thing that floods my mind then is who to fill in when we are down with 3 or 4 players. And I must say this as applause to my own team mates for guarding their post well. No goals were concede during that few minutes when we were playing with one less player.


BBF: 2 losses in a row, surely a big blow to FireAnts' Campaign. What now?

PK: 2nd loss was unexpected but we also knew that the championship is harder to retain this year. So we have other objectives for the team. We just have to play every game the FireAnt style!


BBF: Finally, your take on the Man of the Match for Innebandy!Co. and why?

PK: Sam Teoh. He played a good defensive role, controlled the ball well from their end.

Borak Says:
Jose:
Both teams were neck to neck as they entered into the break with the score at 2 a piece. Nothing could separate both these teams until a penalty shot was awarded to Innebandy! Co. for incorrect hit, which Deswyn Wan cooly finished off. It became the foundation for Innebandy! Co. to build on as their confidence of winning the game increased.

Meanwhile, in the Contact camp, players started to lose focus after a few 2 minutes were being showed to their players for various offences in a short span of time. Innebandy! Co. took hold of the game by capitalizing on the mistakes from the frustrated defenders and extended their lead in the dying minutes of the game. In the end, it was Innebandy! Co. who came out victorious in what was being labelled as one of the top matches in this years Division 1 campaign.

Innebandy! Co. will be beaming with confidence marching forward after this game knowing that they are another step closer to the gold medal they have been vying for. It is always tough for any team to play Ztec and Innebandy! Co. back to back. Contact will be desperate to get back to winning ways, which they are accustomed to against Minden UniHawks. Watch out Hawks, the Ants are coming for you! Be prepared to see a backlash when Contact play Minden.

Bendy:
Both teams were determined to get the better of each other in the first half which Inne drew first blood. Inne led twice but FireAnts answered both with equalisers from Edward, supplied by Bryan.

FireAnts then stung Inne with a surprising lead, 7 seconds from the restart only to fine the game tie once again by some sloppy defending. From there on, the tides changed and the sending off start to fly all around.

Andrew, the first casualty was sent off for incorrect distance, but an Inne counter won them a penalty as Kenny was deemed to foul the forward who was goal bound. Des slotted the ball and temper flares as Edward was then send off for obstruction, followed by Henry for repeated offence. Sam followed soon for incorrect hit as he defended desperately.

Inne took advantage of the situation and increase their lead, and sat back defending. A decision they might have regreted if not for FireAnts missfiring. FireAnts with nothing to lose, was on gung-ho mode, testing the Lin Ken but unsuccessfully, with shots flying high or wide.

In the end, Inne came out victorious but not after withstanding an onslaught by the Fireants with waves of shots. To a certain extend it was a good game of floorball where both teams, almost equal in strength trying to out do each other but it was spiced up by decision deemed dubious and controversial, which FireAnts mostly on the receiving end. But that is the nature of the game, uncontrollable situations and luck play a part. The furious Ants will be looking on the next prey to lashed out their rage. Watch out!


MOMs:
From Inne it was an obvious pick. Sam Teoh. Constanly on the move through out the match. You cannot fail to notice him. Hard and uncompromising in defences as he neutralised FireAnts attacks and threatening their goal instead with his pacey runs and array of passes to his forwards.

Inne's defences certainly looked more stable and calm with his presences; offenses on the other hand, looked more lively and deadly as he would constantly supplied them passes which often end up with disappointing finishings. His goal tally would certainly increase if he would take more shots.

FireAnts' MoM was a way harder task, it was a tussle between Edward and Bryan as both of was the heartbeat of the Ants offense, creating and scoring all three of their goals. Both were a joy to watch as they passes and movement were top class, which opened up Inne's defence on numerous occasions, only to see the shots ending up anywhere else other than behind the net.

After much consideration, Borak decided to go with Bryan. Reason being the youngster was more frequently found in threatening positions and had more shots on goal. Maybe some weight training on the wrist will see more SOTs converted into goals in the future. Keep it up!!

(Cheers to Sam and Penny for sharing their thoughts.^^)

Match Review: INNEcredible!

MINDEN UNIHAWKS v INNEBANDY! CO
18th June 2009, Thursday
0-10 (0-2, 0-8)

0922 0-1 Nicholas Ong (Rooban Chand)
1337 Minden UniHawks time out
1851 0-2 Nicholas Ong (Rooban Chand)

1207 0-3 Andrew Yeap
1404 0-4 Deswyn Wan (Sam Teoh)
1406 2 mins for illegal equipment: Darren Loh (INC)
1631 0-5 Rooban Chand (Deswyn Wan)
1944 0-6 Deswyn Wan
1122 0-7 Ephraim Teh
1204 0-8 Sam Teoh (Deswyn Wan)
1430 0-9 Darren Loh (Sam Teoh)
1524 2 mins for incorrect hit: Daniel Chong (MDU)
1603 0-10 Nicholas Ong (Deswyn Wan)

SOT 3-30

If Frontliners weren't known as 'Spartans', UniHawks would have definitely earned that name after last night's daring display with just 8 players on their side against a full squad of Innebandy! Co..

Once again, BBF took initiative to get hold of both coaches - Minden UniHawks' very new head coach, Christopher Koh, along with the very experienced Innebandy! Co.'s head coach, Sam Teoh. What do they have to say about their game? Let's hear it from them!


The following is the interview between Borak Borak Floorball (BBF) and Christopher Koh (CK):

BBF: This is your first outing as a coach in PFL D1, how do you feel? Especially since you played against last years runner-up, Innebandy! Co..

CK: Yes, it is my first outing as a coach. For sure the pressure is more intense for different reasons – for me, the pressure comes from the fact that I’m still new in this field and this naturally builds up from the responsibility I have as a coach, which is to be able to identify the problem and then present a set of ‘solutions’ for the team – to add all that against a team such as Innebandy, it wasn’t an easy task. I know I’m still on a learning curve in coaching and have loads more to pick up as well. Good experience nonetheless!

BBF: The number of players on the bench was much talked about, what happened?

CK: Our core group of players are basically students from USM. Unfortunately for us, the league started amid their semester break, therefore, most of them are either back in their hometown else where or are undergoing their internship. We managed to pull together those who are in Penang.

BBF: With the amount of players that you had, what strategy did you have in mind?

CK: Innebandy’s strength is from their centre right up to their forwards. With the amount and the types of players that I had, I felt that we were more suited to play half-press for two reasons; to conserve energy and to play tight defensively to counter their strength in the centre and forward. The initial strategy was to contain them and try to cut the losses in score line, with the hope of losing out 1 or 2-0, and we did fend them off well in the first period, letting in only 2 goals. With two goals down and nothing to lose, I decided to switch to 3-quarter press early in the second period against Innebandy’s second line, while staying half-press against their first line. Obviously, the change of game plan affected the focus of my players, which resulted in successive goals on their part.

BBF: How do you think such a huge defeat (10-0) would affect your morale and how do you intend to keep the team going as the league progress?

CK: Even before the league started, I already said to myself that for us, Minden UniHawks, it would be a test of character more than anything else. To go on court with 8 players against a team such as Innebandy, it was a learning opportunity to cease. Character precedes winning – the best team is born out of winning medals, but a great team is born out of a unified spirit and positive characters. The first game is always the hardest. I think as a team, the morale will boost tremendously once we get the rest of the players back after the semester break. Until then, my job is just to keep the players motivated.

BBF: Finally, who was your MoM for team Innebandy and why?

CK: I would have to say Nicholas Ong. He was in tip-top form last night and almost single-handedly destroyed us. Nic is known for his knack of ‘mood swings’ in his form but last night, fortunately for him but unfortunately for us, he was in a ‘good mood’ and we could see why – he broke the deadlock for Innebandy and scored the last goal for them. He played well last night. Great job.


The following is the interview between Borak Borak Floorball (BBF) and Sam Teoh (ST) of Innebandy! Co. (IC):

BBF: Your first game of the league and against what many would consider the underdog – was it a good thing to start off against a weaker side? And as a coach, was it a relieve for you?

ST: Yes! It is definitely an advantage for us since most of us are not accustomed to playing on the full size court. Playing against MDU on our first game has helped boost our confidence on court, not solely for winning, but more so of staying tight and playing together as a team. However, MDU is not new to Floorball in Penang, hence, they were never viewed by IC as the underdog in this league. They are still capable of crushing their opponent's dreams. I still remember the closing game of last year's league.

BBF: Obviously, your team has better players and you guys outnumbered UniHawks, with that comes a certain expectation but it seemed that the Hawks manage to go damage control in the first period, and your players seemed to struggle to hit in the goals, taking only a 2-0 lead. What was the strategy in the first period? Do you think it worked?

ST: Like I said, most of us seldom play on a full size court. That is the reason why we could only score 2 goals in the 1st period. Also, MDU played a very tight defensive game in the 1st period. It wasn't easy to penetrate the ball through but we still got a couple of shots on target. The strategy was quite simple or confusing, based on the level of seniority of the individual in Floorball. I don't really expect the game play to work in the 1st period as most of us are still trying to adapt and to register the game play into our heads. A slow start for IC indeed.

BBF: The second period you guys manage to bank in the goals. What do you think contributed to the successive goals and what were your orders in the second period?

ST: IC managed to bounce back in the 2nd period and gave the scoreboard a double digit score line, something which I didn't expect to see for the 1st game. Our movements and passes improved as the game prolonged. The instruction was pretty simple - I asked the team to do ONE thing which they like to do most, that's to score goals. They did exactly that. However, if MDU were to stick to their tight defence game play then the margin would definitely have been lower.

BBF: Defensively, your team seemed a little shaky at times. Was it a concern you had even against a small team such as UniHawks?

ST: Its has always been a struggle and concern for IC on our part as coaches. But they did improved a lot compared to last year's league. Better control and tougher. Our defence needs to play the game without feeling the pressure from the opponents. It is something which ONLY the individual can work on themselves!

BBF: Who do you think was the man of the match for Minden UniHawks and why?

ST: Christopher Koh. He was practically the backbone of the team. A couple of blocks and counter attacks made by him kept us alert and not to take the game easy.

***************************************

A big score line indeed. And this is what BBF have to say.

Borak Says:
Spritzer:
With just 8 outfield players, everyone thought it would be a breeze for IC but boy oh boy, did the Hawks surprised them and all of us in the first period!

The first period saw the Hawks played a tight and compact defensive play. It was an effective strategy that saw them letting in only 2 goals. IC struggled to find their footing in the first 10 minutes of the game but managed to break the deadlock through Nicholas. With 2 goals down, will the Hawks stick to their conservative half-press strategy?

Well, they didn't. They came on the second period strong, pushing higher than before and at times caught IC off guard. Unfortunately for them, it didn't produce the intended result. The shift of game play broke the focus of Hawks' players and IC took advantage of them. Gaps were opened in the centre, giving ample space for Deswyn, Sam and Nic to tear Hawks defense apart. Of course, fatigue kicked in for UniHawks as well.

But with just 8 outfield players, the Hawks deserved a standing ovation for their courage and spirit. Great job guys!

Bendy:
The relegation battler started of surprisingly with only 8 outfield players and caused even greater shock as they shut out 15 strong Inne for a near 10 minutes before conceding their first. Their tactical discipline would have been an achievement if it weren't for the Nick-Roo combination which struck for the second time in the dying minutes of the first half.

Hawks shocked us all again by restarting the half in a totally different fashion. Instead of the ultra defensive strategy, then opted a high press, aiming for the lottery win. The gaps initiated the deadly duo, Sam and Deswyn as they were involved in 6 out of the 8 goals scored in the second half.

Ultimately, as expected, it was a win for Innebandy, but many wouldn't have expected UniHawks to put up a good fight in the first half with a handful of players, then daring enough to press for goals and still ending the game with rather high spirits. Thumbs up!

MOMs:
Like the previous game, MoM from both camps was decided between the one shinning in defence and the one other in offence.

For the Hawks, it was player/coach Christopher Koh who got the nod.
The defender who was tipped by the National Coach as the most impressive player from Korea's APAC outing certainly didn't disappoint his approval. Solid and strong in protecting the ball, making decisive interceptions and clearance, and fearless in giving Inne's attackers crunching bodychecks. UniHawks' defence looked more assured with his presence. It's such a shame his attacking qualities did not attract the same degree of mention, squandering the only few shooting chances the team managed to create.

As for Innebandy, the moody poacher, Nic Ong.
The forward is known to be inconsistently lethal, relying greatly on his form. Unfortunately for UniHawks, his form on Thursday night was sizzling hot. He opened the scoring and then buried another before the half, both assisted by Rooban, lucky charm of the night. Although he only managed to register in the dying moments of the match, his penetrative runs constantly threatened the stubborn defence of UniHawks and his shots, unlike most days, were rarely of the charts, he either hit the post or were denied by the goalkeeper. A rare "on" day for the forward and deservingly recognised as the MoM.

(NOTE: A heartfelt thanks to both Christopher Koh and Sam Teoh for giving their time for this interview. )

Team Preview: Innebandy!Co

Innebandy!Co (Innebandy!Co Floorball Club)

Last season: 2nd/4

Last season, Innebandy!Co finished the season behind Contact Sports, coming in second. And it was considered a mediocre season for Innebandy!Co based on the club’s previous records.

Relying mostly on their aging trio, Des, Sam and Nick, this year's new format and venue will proved to be a stern test on their fitness. Gone are the days, whereby the spectators get bored seeing the trio in action for the full game.

Hence, the younger players like Ephraim and co. who have been there last season, must now stepped up and contribute more to the team. As for the new faces, hopefully they will suck in and stay tough.

Few friendlies had been held to test out the squad with encouraging results and several pointers had been targeted for improvements, such as the defence. Even with the presences of the Core Trio and National goalie, Lin Ken, their defence had been penetrated rather easily.

If the leaky defences is not sorted by then, even with such a strong core, it would be hard for Innebandy to see off challenges from more experience foes, such as FireAnts and Ztec. The crown might sway pass them once again.

Key Player:
Who else other than Capt Mas Deswyn Wan?
The centre, arguably the best player in Malaysia, is the complete package that you can ever get your hands on for a long time. Skills, fitness, vision, intelligence all in one. What more can you ask for?

Not only can he influence the outcome of a match with a moment of brilliance, his sheer presence emits an aura of confidence into his team mates, which may yield unexpected performance for the team. The only possible downfall foreseeable is the over reliance on him which will make the team too predictable. That is if you can catch up with him for the whole 40 minutes...

Rising Rookie:
Darien – This little 13 year old boy shows some promise as he just started to play Floorball not too long ago. Do not underestimate him just because he is small, this boy can do a spin-off better than many of the senior players.

Of course, that is not his only talent. He also constantly gets himself into good scoring positions, which is something that Innebandy!Co lacks. And with Deswyn mentoring him, he should become a good Floorball player really soon, that is if he puts his heart to the game and continue his progress.

Prediction:
Jose:
Innebandy!Co to finish 3rd out of the 6 teams.

From previous years, Innebandy!Co has relied on their older players to get them to where they are today – one of the top clubs in Penang. This time round, the younger players MUST step up and adapt to the bigger court as quickly as possible. Playing on a bigger court takes more than 5 games to really experienced how to play and move properly. Together with their defensive frailties, they will find it hard to play against teams with good movement off the ball like Ztec and FireAnts.

Bendy:
Innebandy has a proud history backed with medals from tournaments all over.

Last year, it was a surprised to see them struggle a bit before being gifted the sliver by Spartans on the final day. This year, they are back with full strength, welcoming goalie, Lin Ken back to the frame.

However, with their current squad depth, it would be hard to see them go the distances, but they should proved to be adequate party spoilers for the other medal contenders such as FireAnts and Ztec. 3rd should be reasonable, snatching 2nd is also possible but watch your back, cuz your will never know who might stab you from behind...