April 11, 2002
Memphis Shock vs Cambodian FC

Our second game against CFC was a big one. We play them 3 times and we needed no worse than a tie this game. A lose would mean that CFC would beat us on head-to-head if it came down to it. A win would split the head-to-head and put even more importance on the third game. With a win we would go to top of the table in goal differential. Game time conditions were muggy 60’s and damp pitch conditions.

We began the game with a full squad for the first time this year. Not too many big plays happened in the first half. Most of the game play was in the midfield area. At times both teams were making fast breaks to the other teams goal but coming up empty each time. We were getting the better chances on the CFC goal, but we just couldn’t capitalize. Our shots would go right at the keeper or just wide. The ref was doing a great job keeping control of the game. About the most exciting time of the first half was when one of the CFC players got a red for yapping too much. Halftime scored tied at nil-nil

At half we were a little impressed at how we had been playing, considering we had been playing not anywhere near our potential in the first couple of games. We were passing well and playing well. Now all we needed were some goals.

The second half was more of the same. We had the upper hand in possession, but were having a hard time breaking the tie. Finally, midway through the half, that all changed. Billy cut out a loose pass at midfield and dribbled a few times and sent the ball up to JJ. JJ faked past his defender and beat the keeper’s right side on the one-on-one. Shock up 1-0. Minutes later a CFC forward got free from his defender and was racing up the field with the ball. Baxter came out to cut off the angle and the CFC player passed the ball forward to an off sides teammate who pushed it just past our keeper. Game tied 1-1. Too bad there were only 2 refs.

Not to be outdone we needed to get another goal to win this game. With all the pressure we were putting on the CFC defense we were bound to get another goal. With about 10 minutes left in the game, the defenders were getting a little careless in the back with the ball. JJ intercepted an errant pass, dribbled toward the goal, and shot low and to the left to beat the keeper. Shock up 2-1. Minutes later the ref called game to give us a much needed win.

As I stated earlier we played much better game tonight. The meeting we had before the game really helped us out. We were fighting for loose balls, and hustling much more. Not to mention our passing was MUCH better. All aspects of our game were much improved this game. Now if we can only continue to play this well.

Dennis Thompson