In our second match of the season, GSAS faced Nippon FC on the big pitch of Singapore American School. With a reshuffled lineup, the team aimed to secure its first points of the season - and started the game quite well.

Organized defensively and quick in transition, GSAS took the lead, or so it seemed, when a free quick from our new CB Philipp found Julian, who headed the ball back into the danger zone for Augustin, our new Romanian striker, whose header found its way into the net. When both teams were on their way to the kick-off the linesman decided to call the referee who ultimately decided on offside! Until now it remains unclear to which player the linesmen was referring to…

Moments later, Nippon struck first with their first chance of the match when their striker dribbled past two defenders and finished clinically. GSAS responded swiftly: another precise free-kick from Philipp found Augustin again, who converted to make it 1-1 after 18 minutes.
The first half ended evenly, with Nippon enjoying more possession but few real chances aside from a dangerous free-kick from 16m which the GSAS wall could defend nicely.

After the break, Nippon increased the pressure with excellent passing and quick movements. A deflected free-kick restored their lead, before GSAS - pushing forward in search of an equalizer - left some larger gaps in the defence. Nippon capitalized with a header and a counterattack to seal a 4–1 victory.

A tough result for GSAS despite a promising start and good squad. The search for the first points of the season continues…