Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Etoile FC faces Jaguars in Battle of Queenstown Stadium

The Stars welcome the original incumbant of Queenstown Stadium on Tuesday night as Tanjong Pagar makes a "homecoming" against the new tenants - Etoile FC. While the Jaguars are not expected to have too much of an impact in this game, it would be foolish to write their chances off totally after their battling 2-1 loss over SAFFC, which was again for showing in the 4-1 loss to Tampines. Even in the 6-0 loss to Home United, it was two 90th minute goals that flatter the visitors on that night.

Back to this game, and Etoile FC will welcome in succession, another fast cat in the form of Jaguars, facing a tough fight against the Cheetahs in their last home game before winning 4-2. Arena would be quietly hoping for Belouet's rich vein of form to continue, as well as for the defence to show the kind of tenacity against Albirex Niigata (S) last time out. Arena would also be happy to note that he has the luxury to select Hicham Bouchemlal (pass beep test) and Johnathan Toto (International Transfer Certificate) in his squad tonight, while still having the option of Moulin and Lefranc available to him.

The Jaguars' first game against a foreign opposition saw them lost 5-0 to Albirex Niigata (S) after some individual errors caused the Jaguars dearly. In addition, 12 more goals conceded thereafter meant that the Jaguars have the most porous defence in the league.

As Etoile Ultras expect a goal fest tonight, Arena may be quietly hoping that the first goal come in within 5 minutes of the start of the game, so as to ensure that maximum damage is done. However, the longer Etoile FC takes to score, the more confident their opponent would be and that may hamper their chance to increase their goal difference tally.

Do not be surprise if Arena, therefore, name 3 strikers upfront (Toto, Lefranc, Moulin) with 3 midfielders supporting (Belouet, Kaabi, Hicham) with his usual back 4 (Talhi, Damiani, Aymard, Nlate) in a 4-3-3 formation to contain the Jaguars and attack from the start.

Prediction: Etoile FC 5 Tanjong Pagar 0

*To all paying ticket holders, keep your ticket stub and look out for a contest specially for you. Season Passes are also available at the Stadium before kick-off. Prices are at $99/pass.

Nearest MRT Station: Queenstown MRT

No comments:

Post a Comment