SAFSA PUTS UP FIGHT IN BOGAARS CUP FINAL

The Singapore Armed Forces Sports Association (SAFSA) football team impressed with its attacking flair even as it went down 1-0 against the Singapore Police Force Sports Association (SPFSA) in the 42nd G.E. Bogaars Cup held on 18 Nov.

This year, SAFSA fielded a strong squad with six former Prime League and National Football Academy (NFA) players, including goalkeeper Private (PTE) Farshah Iskandar who was a Singapore Youth Olympic team player.

The Prime League is the reserve league of the S-League, while the NFA grooms promising Singapore youth players.

SAFSA thrilled the spectators at Bedok Camp 2 stadium, and dominated the first half with their free-flowing attacking football.

Playing on away ground, SPFSA sat back and played a patient, passing game. But its soak and strike tactic worked, as it scored the only goal of the game through a header against the run of play from a set-piece in the 27th minute.

SAFSA's right winger PTE Azmeerudin Bin Jamludain, who last played for Tampines Rovers Football Club (FC), and striker Lance Corporal (LCP) Bharath Ravindren, formerly from Warriors FC, were SAFSA's most dangerous players. The duo were not afraid to take on defenders, and constantly troubled the SPFSA's defence.

In the second-half, PTE Azmeerudin was moved to the centre, playing as a false number 9, as the team pressed forward for an equaliser. But the elusive goal never came.

SAFSA's team captain 2nd Lieutenant (2LT) Andrew Leow said the team played well despite the loss.

"We were clearly fitter... I think overall we played well, we stick to our game plan," said the holding midfielder, who was part of the NFA Under-17 squad in 2011.

"It was a lapse of concentration which resulted in the Police's goal; we let in one corner which could have been prevented."

"Nevertheless, it was a good game for both sides, (and it was good) to come together and play."

Team manager Captain (CPT) Julianah Jamal said this year's team, which comprised mostly Full-time National Servicemen (NSFs) from different formations, was "better prepared and organised". They had been training thrice weekly for more than a month, and undergone a one-week centralised training.

In the 2013 game, SAFSA had lost to SPFSA 4-0. "This year, they played much better. I am proud of the boys, they put up a tough fight, and were very dedicated", said the Deputy Logistic Staff Officer (S4) of 7th Singapore Infantry Brigade.

The G.E. Bogaars Cup was first held in 1971 in honour of the late Mr George Edwin Bogaars, who served as the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Interior and Defence (MID) from 1965 to 1970.

MID is the predecessor of today's Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Home Affairs. The game aims to maintain the historical ties and close working relationship between the Armed Forces and Police.

Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General (LG) Ng Chee Meng and Commissioner of Police Mr Ng Joo Hee were the guests of honour at this year's game.

In the earlier curtain-raiser match for players aged 35 and above, the SPFSA Veterans defeated SAFSA Veterans 4-0.

SAFSA, which will be taking part in the National Football League next year, is looking for new talent. Interested servicemen can contact the SAFSA team manager (Tel: 63052041) for a trial.