A Top 2 Finish!

Next up, we put our goalie, Phileo, under the spotlight. On the surface, Phileo bears the attribute of a sound goalkeeper with his composure and quick reflexes. But his command in the penalty box sets him apart from just any other sound goalkeeper. He has never shied away from the fray, putting his body on the line in every one-on-one situation. This could explain the plethora of serious injuries he had suffered in the past; a torn ACL, a fractured ankle, to name a few. But it is without surprise that he has since fought his way back, hungrier than before and relishing every challenge that comes in his way.

Name: Phileo Chua Fong Meng

Age: 22

Height: 170

Weight: 77

Position: goalie

Preferred foot: right

Hi Phileo. How are you today?

In holiday mood=) having a 4 month break from school.

My ankle is also recovering well. Should be back to full fitness pretty soon=)

You must be very excited about the league since you have missed out of the first season due to a fractured ankle.

Yes definitely. I’ve always wanted to play soccer at a competitive level. So here is my chance finally.

How do you usually prepare yourself for a game? Do you have any pre-match rituals?

Not much. I’ll usually psyche myself up mentally and visualize some of the potential saves and catches I’ll have to make during the match. & just before kick off I’ll utter a short simple prayer.

On the paper, Ysosrs Fc has already conceded 4 goals in 2 matches. But it could have been a lot worse if not for your impressive saves!

What do you think of your defenders so far? Do you think you have already developed an understanding among you and the defence?

Our defenders deserve a lot of credit for the win in the first game and containing some very skillful and pacy forwards in the second. I’m sure with more games under our belt, it’s a matter of time before we get clean sheets consistently

What about the team as a whole? What do you think the team can improve on?

The team has a good mix of Chinese and Malays. So we have the benefits of flair and hard work at the same time.

Perhaps our team chemistry at the moment. Though we have no qualms in passing the ball to one another, it would be better if we have a better understanding of each other’s game. (i.e. anticipating the runs of our teammates when launching attacks, covering up for each other in defense)

Lastly, how do you fancy our chances in the league?

I think we have a fairly strong squad as it is. We expect to gel and play even better in weeks to come. So I’m anticipating a top 2 finish!

- Xabi Ws