Sterner tests lie ahead
So, the Flames made it after all! If I were to be honest, I did not expect us to go through. The best result I could see was a win that could still leave us short, something like a 2-1 which would have seen the Squirrels through on away goals. I was, therefore, very excited that we managed to get a win that tied the two teams by end of regulation time to set the stage for the lottery of the penalty shootout.
For me, last Saturday’s result shows remarkable progress, especially from a psychological point of view. To score so early in the match and manage to hold on to that lead is something we have not been good at in the past. There have been occasions in the past when we could easily have given away that advantage towards the very end having lost our shape and tactical discipline.
Even more spectacular from my perspective was the team’s performance during the penalty shootout. Penalties are usually associated with luck and fate, but there is nothing lucky about being composed to pick your spot from 12 metres. You know you are carrying the hopes of millions of your compatriots and thousands are in the stands watching expectantly. It can be quite unnerving but the boys held their cool.
The fact remains, though, that this was only a step in a journey that remains long and has become even more arduous. Qualifying for the group stages means a sterner test requiring us to be stronger in every respect. The six matches ahead of us will determine our destiny. The target of winning all home games and avoiding defeat away is easier set than achieved and everyone involved needs to play their part.
Away in England, Wembley Stadium hosts the traditional curtain-raiser to the Barclays Premier League as champions Manchester City host FA Cup winners the Arsenal in the Community Shield. The Gunners are in buoyant mood after ending their trophy drought last season and the arrival of Chilean attacker Alexis Sanchez. They would like to lay a marker against their expensively assembled opponents.
The match may only be a glorified friendly, but it will nonetheless be a great confidence boost for whoever emerges with the shield given that the two sides will go toe to toe again with other contenders in pursuit of the league crown when the seasons starts next Saturday. There will, therefore, be no easing of the gear and the significance of the game will not be lost on players on either side.
Otherwise, for the rest of the teams in the league, it is final preparation week ahead of the new season. New players and new managers will be looking to make their mark before the real business starts. With deposed champions Manchester United seemingly back in form with the coming in of revered manager Louis van Gaal, the fight for the top four, let alone the title, promises to be exciting.
