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[Nic]

When we started this game, we were only 11 players and no subs (Dave came later on). Ratmalana was a very young team with quick and fit players. They were dominating the whole first half and Lions hardly managed to go in their half. They were well organized, able to counter attack very quickly and were covering very well the midfield. Luckily, their finish was not as great as their endurance. They managed to play very efficiently off sides and Lions had difficulties to construct their game. Lions had very few occasions to score but obtained a penalty which has not been successful. After a misunderstanding between Nick & Asanga, one of Ratmalana player stole the ball & managed to pass it under Asanga who could not use his hands due to his position out of the box. In two times he scored the first goal of the match. Marlon was subbed for Dave after receiving a pretty bad tackle on his ankle. The first half ended up on this score.
During the second half, Lions were playing better and we could feel that they were trying to equalize. After a well constructed action on the right wing Dave managed to score his first goal for its first game with the Lions.
Then, Ratmalana was pushing again and Lions were stepping back. Assanga did some great stop but could not stop a great shot from 30 yards. Lions lost 2-1 but the opponent played a very good game and have benefited from their youth & fitness.