That Winning Feeling
Subri Double
Grilled lifted themselves into the comparative safety of sixth place with a clear win over TTTNW, in the process stringing together back-to-back league victories for the first time this season. The visitors missed midfielder Erik Lewing, but their major problems were in defence as well as having star forward Yusman bin Salim isolated up front.
The Birds continued to cede ground despite playing at home, with TTTNW unable to make meaningful inroads as Grilled's back four held firm. After weathering a few stray shots, Grilled got off to a bright start as Subri rushed down a defensive clearance and continued by lashing a volley past Kalle Riis. It was a case of making one's own luck, and was greatly appreciated by the home fans.
TTTNW's local right-back Zamri bin Abdul Aziz nearly pulled one back in short order, but he was eventually crowded out by a mass of defenders after making a promising run. Grilled were more than willing to allow their opponents long shots at Valdir's goal, and one such botched attempt resulted in a quick throw out of defence that the quicksilver Quah took all the way. Quah tried with the outside of his boot, but couldn't keep it down.
Maikel Rotteveel then put Grilled two up, and the Grilled supporters were back in full voice after too many draws and defeats for their liking. The assist was provided by Branbilla, who placed his pass right between the fullbacks and invited Rotteveel to burn through them with his speed.
TTTNW failed to raise their game, perhaps because they had their eyes on their upcoming home match with Isle of Flames. Yusman cut a frustrated figure as the final ball rarely came through, as Grilled's midfield did a good job of cutting off passes before they could really threaten.
There would even be a sting in the tail, as
Ciro Penati weaseled his way past Zamri to send in a short cross that Subri converted on the fly. That was the last straw for a few of the travelling supporters, who in leaving were spared the sight of key midfielder Li Chun-fai pulling up in pain with twenty minutes to go. It turned out to be nothing serious, though, and Grilled played out injury time with a spate of keep-the-ball that was good enough for their fans.
