Tanjong Pagar United FC VS Global FC
Singapore Cup Semi-final first leg
1 October 2013
Queenstown Stadium

By Ong Jiing Yih

A key word by the name of confidence could determine the outcome for the final two months, of what could still be a successful season for Tanjong Pagar United.

On a mixed run of results owing to a draw and three defeats after defeating Woodlands Wellington in early August, the effects of suspensions and crucially injuries are beginning to show.

In addition, no wins and only two goals scored – both by the same player Kamel Ramdani – during that miserable run would have put down many a football team.

However, this is Tanjong Pagar and they emit certain qualities in their bid to bounce back.

Typical of their character, effort, commitment and a desire to put things right is still prevalent despite recent form.

For starters, the two-time Singapore Cup winners face off the 2010 UFL Cup winners Global FC of Philippines.

Since disposing of 2012 winners Warriors FC 2-0 with goals from Jordon Robertson and Yu Hoshide in June, the guest side led by Scotsman Brian Reid have gone from strength to strength.

A topsy-turvy display over two legs to edge out DPMM FC 5-4 have brought them to the last-four stage of the competition, leaving them as the only invited side standing ahead of compatriots and fellow participants Loyola Meralco Sparks,

In the process, key players such as Carlos De Murga, Rufino Sanchez, Ben Starosta and Patrick Delon have all made their contributions throughout their maiden three games, including a hat trick for the former.

However, the hosts harbour their own intentions of clinching their first success in 15 years.

The Queenstown outfit are no mugs and with the likes of Ramdani, Monsef Zerka and Hafiz Nor all capable of hurting any team on their day, it could turn out to be an exciting clash yet.

Now, the tasks that lie in wait for them would be to play well and prolong their stay, i.e. to realise their own dreams of reaching the final.

A significant advantage to bring into the second leg three days from Tuesday shall constitute the main plan of Patrick Vallee and his troops, one may suppose.

Kick off is at 7.30pm, Tuesday 1 October.

Ong Jiing Yih

Club Journalist