We are back on track!
The heavy defeat in our last game taught us a few things that we applied against SVE Bern, helping us secure this crucial 3 points. With a more compact defensive block, elevated tactical discipline, and more goal-oriented, we were able to create more goal opportunities and keep the opponent away from our goal.
With only 13 players available combined high temperatures (~30°C), FC EDA lined up with a 4-1-3-2 formation, clearly aiming to avoid opponent game play on our midfield, boosted with the return of our captain, T. Affolter, to his familiar number 6 role, reinforced this strategy by closing midfield gaps and providing crucial support for Viana to push higher up the pitch. It's worth noting that in our defensive line, some players were playing alongside for the first time - a challenging situation for a sector that relies heavily on coordination and communication.
The game started with FC EDA in a low block, allowing SVE Bern plenty of space to circulate the ball on their own half. This approach appeared to surprise the away team, as they struggled with their build-up play and frequently end up in long and inaccurate passes that were consistently intercepted by our defence. FC EDA capitalized on these opportunities with quick, well-coordinated counter-attacks, creating a few goal-scoring chances for the home team.
As the game progressed, both teams seemed to be waiting for the opponent to make mistakes rather than creating their own luck, but approaching the half-hour mark, a long, direct ball from the defence reached Viana, who placed it behind the SVE Bern defence line, leaving Haris one-on-one with the goalkeeper, and he made no mistake. With a skilful chip, took over the goalie and then calmly score into an empty net, putting FC EDA ahead 1-0 with a classy finish.
SVE Bern responded, mainly from set pieces and it was after a corner that they created their biggest chance, with a second attempt cross leading to a precise header into the lower right corner, but Stauffacher was up to the task, making a tremendous save.
Half-time.
With the advantage in hand and several physical challenges - many players returning from long absences lacking match fitness, and Regez's injury, early in the match, leaving only one substitution available for the rest of the game - Coach Strausak called for focus, smart runs, strong spirit, and maintaining a low defensive block.
The second half began with the away team determined to turn the tide, but the game quality left much to be desired, sadly to those who came to support the teams on such a lovely summer evening. The game was undermined by countless unforced errors and the excessive time the ball spent in the air was just too much. This chaotic play led to the equalizer - a seemingly long lost ball was unexpectedly recovered by the SVE Bern winger right on the baseline, who crossed it directly to our defender. In an unfortunate turn of events, the defender accidentally struck the ball into his own net, leaving Stauffacher with no chance. The score was tied at 1-1, and the three points were there for the taking.
In a very balanced game with just a quarter of an hour remaining, A. Affolter was fouled 25-30 meters from goal. Viana seized the opportunity to attempt a long-distance shot. A curve ball over the wall caught the goalkeeper off guard as he moved in the opposite direction, and the score was set at 2-1.
For the rest of the game, FC EDA found an extra burst of energy and fought hard for every inch of the pitch. While the match wasn't particularly pleasant to watch, for FC EDA, securing the three points was the only priority. Despite this, the home team had the better chances to increase the advantage. First, Haris fought for space between two SVE Bern defenders but couldn't finish his one-on-one with the goalkeeper, the shot went directly into goalie hands. Beni then had two major opportunities: the first, a golden chance set up by Haris, was turn down by a defender with an open goal in sight; the second, Beni went one-on-one with the goalkeeper, who missed the ball entirely as Beni dribbled around him, and crashing into Beni. A clear penalty that was unfortunately not whistled.
Final whistle.
FC EDA earned 3 well-deserved points. Despite all the challenges, the team demonstrated great character and never turned their backs on the game. Excellent teamwork from everyone!
A brief note: Best wishes for a quick and full recovery to the SVE Bern player who left the pitch with a knee injury. We hope for a speedy return to the field.
Tore:
35' 1:0 Haris (Viana)
55' 1:1 Schulte (ET)
75' 2-1 Viana
Startaufstellung:
Stauffacher – Noby, Schulte, Cecchini, Surbek, Till Affolter (C), Regez, Viana, Aron Affolter, Haris und Beni.
Ersatz:
Hamda Bousrih
Cornelius Were Okello
Abwesend/ohne Einsatz:
Alexander Gottstein
Nicholas 'Nick' Jay Ludwig
Emanuel 'Manu' Filipe Alves Lopes
Michael Flühmann
Michael Zierski
Yves Hinder
Jason Blunier
Carlos Bernardo Sanchez Saavedra
Christoph Zwahlen
Affolter Jonas
Lion Alexis
Our next game is scheduled for Tuesday, September 3, 2024.