The Singapore Law Gazette

52nd Bench & Bar Games 2024

A Weekend of Thrilling Competition and Camaraderie and Fun!

The 52^nd edition of the Bench & Bar Games, held from 2 to 4 August 2024, in a spirit of competitive fun and festivities, united over 400 distinguished lawyers and judges from the legal communities of Singapore and Malaysia. This three-day event offered a dynamic blend of fierce rivalry and competition, the rekindling of longstanding connections, and the forging of new relationships, all set against a backdrop of thrilling sports and professional camaraderie. Whilst the Olympians were strutting their stuff in Paris, regional pride and honour were once again at stake in our Active SG sports venues spread across Singapore.

This highly-anticipated annual sporting event saw legal professionals from both nations competing in 16 different sports, including badminton, basketball, bowling, chess, cricket, cross-country, darts, football, golf, hockey, netball, pool, squash, table tennis, tennis, and volleyball.

Needless to say, the participants’ highly competitive spirits, unwavering commitment, and exemplary sportsmanship were on full display throughout the event, making it a resounding success.

A Warm Welcome

This year, Singapore had the distinct privilege of hosting the Right Honourable Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abang Iskandar bin Abang Hashim, the President of the Court of Appeal of Malaysia, who led the distinguished Malaysian delegation. He was received by Lisa Sam, President of the Law Society of Singapore, together with our Sports Committee Co-Chairpersons, Ramesh Selvaraj and Tan Xu Teng. Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abang Iskandar graced the golf competition, elevating the event with his presence.

Three Days of Intense Competition

Day One (Friday, 2 August 2024)

The games kicked off on Friday, 2 August 2024, with participants battling it out on the Singapore Island Country Club golf course, the Active SG Sports Village @ Jurong Town’s hockey pitch and the Singapore Cricket Club’s darts room.

Team Singapore’s golf and darts teams ignited the competition with an exhilarating start, dazzling everyone with their extraordinary performances against the Malaysian teams. In an impressive display of precision and skill, Team Singapore’s golf team soared to a triumphant victory, marking their first win since 1998 with a commanding and decisive 18-7 scoreline. Notably, this victory secured the first points for Team Singapore before the opening reception, setting a high bar for the events to follow.

Meanwhile, Team Singapore’s darts team etched their name into the annals of history by securing a monumental triumph over their Malaysian counterparts, achieving their inaugural victory in this sport since its inception as a competitive event. The match was masterfully dominated with a resounding 5-2 victory, underscoring a day of achievement and setting the stage for a memorable series of contests. This remarkable double triumph rounded up a truly historic day and set the tone for Team Singapore.

The day concluded with a Welcome Reception at the Singapore Cricket Club. Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon, and Malaysia’s distinguished Right Honourable Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abang Iskandar bin Abang Hashim, took to the stage. Their heartfelt welcome speeches set the tone for the festivities, brimming with camaraderie and excitement. Next, they both threw the inaugural darts, a gesture that not only marked the official commencement of the games but also ignited an atmosphere of spirited competition and celebration.

Day Two (Saturday, 3 August 2024)

The following day brimmed with an exciting array of sporting events, including tennis, veteran’s hockey, table tennis, bowling, cricket, netball, volleyball, badminton, football in both the Master and Premier categories, and pool.

Team Singapore’s Tennis team achieved a dramatic redemption after their defeat to Malaysia in 2023. The two nations faced off once again in a series of electrifying matches, with the Honourable Chief Justice Menon himself in attendance.

Team Singapore made an impressive start, with the Mixed Doubles and Men’s #2 pairs securing commanding victories. Despite this strong beginning, the competition remained fiercely contested, with the overall score tied at 3-3 as the final matches approached.

In a climactic finale reminiscent of the intensity of the 2024 Olympic men’s singles gold medal match between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, Team Singapore men’s pair, Marcus Tay and Leong Chee Jun, delivered an astounding performance. The pair secured a heart-stopping 7-6, 7-6 victory, mirroring the tension and drama of a grand slam showdown, and clinched Team Singapore’s 4-3 win overall. Meanwhile, the Malaysians, who had strategically repositioned a key player from the veterans’ match, were left to grapple with the possibility that their tactical gamble might have been the deciding factor in their narrow defeat.

The badminton matches, hosted at the Singapore Swimming Club, were a breathtaking showcase of skill and strategy, featuring a format of five doubles encounters: three men’s doubles, one ladies’ doubles, and one mixed doubles, each contested in a best-of-five sets format.

The first men’s doubles clash was a dramatic spectacle, with Team Singapore seizing the opening set in a display of strength and tenacity. However, the Malaysian team mounted a fierce comeback, leveling the match with the second set and eventually edging out Singapore in a nail-biting decider. The ladies’ doubles team, defying all odds and expectations, delivered a triumphant performance, securing a victory that resonated with their underdog spirit.

In the second men’s doubles match, despite their relentless effort and tactical play, Team Singapore faced a formidable Malaysian pair and succumbed to a hard-fought defeat. The mixed doubles team, however, shone brightly, securing a comfortable win and showcasing their exceptional synergy on the court.

With the overall score deadlocked at 2-2, the tension soared as the third men’s doubles match emerged as the ultimate decider. In a heart-stopping finish, Team Singapore’s newly paired duo narrowly fell to their Malaysian rivals, culminating in a final score of Singapore 2 – Malaysia 3.

Following the matches, Team Singapore hosted a sumptuous dinner at the Singapore Swimming Club. The evening unfolded into a celebration of camaraderie and mutual respect, illustrating the unbreakable bond between the Singapore and Malaysian teams.

Day Three (Sunday, 4 August 2024)

The final day of the 52^nd Bench & Bar Games featured cross-country, women’s football, chess, squash, basketball, and veteran’s football. The day concluded with a non-competitive boat race.

In women’s football, Team Singapore’s remarkable 25-year winning streak against Malaysia was proudly upheld with a commanding 2-0 victory. The goals, masterfully executed by Ho Wan Yi and Andrea Ng, underscored Singapore’s enduring dominance on the field. Reflecting on the match, Wan Yi observed, “The Malaysian team was notably younger than ours, but our advantage in experience, skill, and fitness proved decisive.” Vivienne Lim echoed this sentiment, “We have never lost a match to the Malaysians. While we have had draws, defeat has never been an outcome.” Team Singapore’s women’s football team remains a formidable force both on and off the field, and a true force to be reckoned with in the next Games!

In squash, Team Singapore showed remarkable tenacity by securing five out of seven victories, a testament to months of rigorous training and preparation. Elliot Chong Aruldoss, Jonathan Chan, Kok Tsung-Hao, Ivan Yap, and Dawn Chan each delivered stellar performances, reflecting their superior skill, strategy, and dedication. Although Malaysia claimed two wins through Amitaesh Thevanathan and Kenny Lam Kian Yip, Singapore’s impressive overall success highlighted not only their determination and strength but also the fruits of their extensive preparation, underscoring their readiness and competitive edge.

The Veteran’s football match delivered a sensational highlight when Ruthra Ram scored a stunning hat-trick in just 20 minutes, overturning Malaysia’s initial lead and propelling Singapore to a commanding 3-1 advantage. Team Singapore’s dominance was further underscored by a striking performance in the first half, where they netted all five of their goals. Notably, three of these goals were expertly executed from set pieces — two from corners and one from a free kick. Sudhershen Hariram also delivered a solid and match-winning contribution, with three crucial assists. Despite a determined effort from the Malaysian side, the final score of 5-1 firmly sealed a resounding victory for Team Singapore, marking a remarkable display of footballing brilliance, despite the heavy downpour.

This performance stood in striking contrast to the thrilling Olympic gold medal football match between France and Spain, where Spain clinched a dramatic 4-3 victory. However, just as Spain’s skillful players exhibited remarkable character and tenacity until the final whistle, Team Singapore’s veterans delivered an equally compelling display of expertise and composure. Their seasoned and mature performance not only outclassed their opponents but also provided a resounding victory.

The event concluded with a dinner at the Singapore Cricket Club, marked by heartfelt toasts, reflections on the competition, and a shared sense of accomplishment, providing a fitting conclusion to a remarkable event and setting the stage for future gatherings.

Victory for Singapore

As the weekend came to a close, Team Singapore emerged victorious, winning 10 out of the 17 competitive events and proudly taking home the prestigious Judges’ Cup. Malaysia, demonstrating remarkable sportsmanship and resilience, earned the Lawyers’ Mug for their commendable performance, showcasing the spirit and determination of both legal communities.

Capturing the Spirit: Highlights from the Event

Celebrating Sportsmanship and Friendship

As the 52^nd Bench & Bar Games 2024 concluded, we reflect on the sportsmanship and enduring friendships forged through this intense competition. The unwavering spirit of all participants has been inspiring, and we take immense pride in Team Singapore’s impressive victory, which not only celebrated our success but also underscored the vital role of sports in promoting a healthy lifestyle. For professionals who spend long hours at their desks, participating in such activities is crucial for achieving balance and rejuvenation, enhancing both personal well-being and professional effectiveness.

Our heartfelt appreciation goes first to the Malaysian Bar for their commitment and participation, which greatly enhanced the experience and reinforced the bond between our two nations. The Bench & Bar Games have once again demonstrated the power of sports to bridge connections and build lasting relationships.

We also extend our deepest gratitude to the sponsors whose generous support made this event possible. Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the 53rd edition of the Bench & Bar Games, to be hosted in Malaysia. True to our Singaporean “kiasu” spirit, we will be ready to defend our title with renewed vigour and determination, building on the successes and friendships cultivated through the Games.

Absolom Leo Darshan
Member, Sports Committee

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Badminton

On Saturday afternoon, the Law Society of Singapore and Malaysian Bar badminton teams made their way to our usual Bench & Bar stomping grounds at the Singapore Swimming Club. After the disappointment from last year’s defeat and the recent news of a serious injury to one of our key players, expectations this time round were tempered somewhat.

Preparations began well ahead of the Games, with our weekly practice sessions interspersed with friendly matches against various local and visiting clubs. We knew our line up had to be tweaked to accommodate the injury news and accordingly had some work to do to strategise the new pairings. In scenarios like this, we are thankful for our squad depth and had very capable and experienced deputies ready to step in.

The Games started off with a nail biter in the 1^st men’s doubles (Zhirong and Alvin). Our new pairing fought valiantly and forced the Malaysian pair into a decider 3^rd set. It was neck and neck until 19-19; edge of seat kind of stuff. Painfully, our opponents pulled away in the last two points to win the tie 21-19.

The Malaysian ladies’ doubles pairs have been formidable in recent years and our new ladies pairing (Amanda and Shuzhen) understandably started off as underdogs. However, they performed over and above expectations and stormed to win the second and third sets, despite losing the opener.

Our experienced 2^nd men’s doubles (Daniel and Xi Jing) played admirably but eventually lost to their younger Malaysian opponents in straight sets.

Our mix doubles pair (Dominic and Tricia), whose pairing has been unbeaten since they started competing in Bench & Bar, continued their winning streak to win comfortable in straight sets.

This tied the overall score at 2–2. All eyes were now on the 3^rd men’s doubles match which would decide the overall winner. Alas, despite our new pairing of Boon Tiong and Jen Whee playing well and going all out on attack, the Malaysian pair defended resolutely and countered whatever we could throw at them. The Malaysian pair’s stability eventually prevailed, winning the deciding match in straight sets to a thunderous roar and fist pumping around the hall.

Final score – Singapore 2 : 3 Malaysia.

Due to so many of the matches going the distance in a rubber set and the lack of time, we were unfortunately not able to organise our customary mixed-team friendly matches after the official games, where one Singapore player partnered up with a Malaysian counterpart in a knockout-style competition. A testament to how close the tie was this year.

After the Games, the LSS team hosted the MB team to a combined dinner at Singapore Swimming Club. It is always a pleasure to rekindle the cross-border friendships between both teams during our annual badminton affair. Special mention to all players and supporters from both sides for displaying exemplary sportsmanship during the intense and hard-fought competition, regardless of the wins and losses.

We go again next year!

Brandon Chung
Badminton Convenor

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Bowling

It is safe to say that out of the 17 competitive sports played at Bench & Bar, bowling is the longest and therefore most gruelling sporting event. A minimum of 10 players from each country will play a total of 13 events over the course of 6 hours, with 13 points to be won.

After last year’s narrow defeat of 4 pins with a final tally of 6-7 to Malaysia, the Singapore team vowed to give it their all to take back the Champion’s trophy this year, and the team trained ferociously with sheer determination and grit.

The Singapore team kicked off with a roaring start, winning the Team Event (7 male bowlers and 3 female bowlers) by a margin of more than 200 pins. This was the first time the Singapore team won the Team Event since 2017. That also happened to be the last time Singapore won the champion’s trophy. This was a good omen, and the Singapore team was quietly optimistic.

The next event was the Singles Event, where 3 male bowlers and 1 female bowler from each country sparred with their respective counterparts to win a point. Each bowler had to win two games against the other to take the point. If there is a tie, the bowlers will bowl a tie-breaker (or what we affectionately call “rubber”) to determine the final victor.

The Malaysians, proving that they are not to be underestimated, won 2 out of the 4 events against 2 of the strongest Singapore bowlers through the tie-breaker, bringing the total score to 3-2, with Singapore in the lead. The atmosphere was tense. Singapore and Malaysia were neck and neck.

It was slightly before noon that the Doubles Event kicked off. Two pairs of male bowlers and one pair of female bowlers from each country competed with their respective counterparts to win a point. The Malaysia female doubles team won a quick and decisive victory against the Singapore female doubles team.

All eyes were on the male doubles teams. Each country had won a game respectively, and it was all down to the tie-breaker. Both pairs were neck to neck in the third game. It was impossible to identify a clear winner. As the game got closer to the final frames, it became evident that it would be down to the last shot.

The Malaysia Doubles Team A (Muhafiy and Kok Leong) closed their games with a total score of 369. The Singapore Doubles Team A (Ian and Jeremy) trailed behind by 10 pins, with Jeremy left to make a final throw. He needed a strike to go into another tie-breaker.

The alley was quiet and the silence was deafening as Jeremy stepped up to take the shot. He took the shot, and the pins fell with a resounding crash, but one pin resolutely stood its ground. The Singapore Doubles Team A lost by 1 pin, and Malaysia Doubles Team A took the point.

The Singapore Doubles Team B and Malaysian Doubles Team B were next. At the final frame, the Singapore Doubles Team B trailed by 1 pin. Alvin Ron (SG) finished with a gratifying 215, with Muhaimin (MY) trailing just by 1 pin at 214. Javier (SG) and Louis (MY) were left with one frame to throw. The pressure was palpable. An unfortunate miss from Louis (MY) gave the Singapore Double Team B to finish the game with a 13 pin lead, winning one point for Singapore.

Malaysia was now in pole position with a score of 5-4, with 5 more events to be played.

It was 2pm, and fatigue was setting in.

The Mixed Doubles Event saw 3 pairs of one male and female bowler battling with their respective counterparts to win a point. Malaysian Mixed Doubles Teams B and C (Hazmida & Alvin Neo / Siew Mun & Rodzim) secured a quick victory against the Singapore counterparts, while Singapore Mixed Doubles Team A (Lorraine & Javier) won decisively against Malaysia Mixed Doubles Team A.

Malaysia was one point away from winning the Champion’s trophy, leading by 6-5. For Singapore to win, Singapore must win the final two events. This was the Bakers’ Event. 2 teams of 5 bowlers from each country will bowl 2 frames in a game comprising 10 frames. Each team will win 1 point. This truly required absolute teamwork and chemistry.

10 frames flew by in a matter of minutes. By the middle of the games, both Singapore Bakers’ Teams were blazing ahead and victory was in sight. In the end, Singapore Bakers’ Teams won by a convincing lead, with Team A winning by 59 pins and Team B winning by 43 pins.

Singapore finally took home the Champion’s Trophy after 9 years. Victory was oh so sweet.

The Singapore team thanks the Malaysian team for always bringing an excellent fight and spurring us on. This is a friendship that we appreciate deeply. The Singaporeans and Malaysians ended the day with a wonderful dinner.

Results

Team

1. Singapore wins

Singles

1. Jeyakumar v Bertinus = Bertinus wins (SG)

2. Alvin Neo v Kenneth = Alvin Neo wins (MY)

3. Rodzim v Sean Khua = Rodzim wins (MY)

4. Ghasidah v Lorraine = Lorraine wins (SG)

Doubles

1. Muhafiy/Kok Leong v Ian/Jeremy = Muhafiy/Kok Leong win (MY)

2. Muhamin/Louis v Alvin Ron/Javier = Alvin Ron/Javier win (SG)

3. Siew Mun/Hazmida v Eudrina/Ying Wee = Siew Mun/Hazmida win (MY)

Mixed Doubles

1. Ghasidah/ Jeyakumar v Lorraine/Javier = Lorraine/Javier win (SG)

2. Hazmida/Alvin Neo v Dorothy/Kenneth = Hazmida/Alvin Neo win (MY)

3. Siew Mun/Rodzim v Ying Wee/Sean Khua = Siew Mun/Rodzim win (MY)

Bakers

1. SG(Ron/Jeremy/Ian/Lorraine/Javier v MY(Muhafiy/Siew Mun/Louis/Alvin Neo/Rodzim) = Singapore win

2. SG(Ying Wee/Keng Siang/Bert/Sean/Kenneth) v MY(Jeyakumar/Kok Leong/Muhamin/ Ghasidah/Hazmida) = Singapore win

Final

Singapore 7 points

Malaysia 6 points

Javier Yeo
Bowling Convenor

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Golf

The 2024 games kicked off in style with a thrilling day of golf at the iconic Bukit course of the Singapore Island Country Club. The first event of the games saw an impressive turnout of 96 golfers, all eager to compete in the highly anticipated best ball match-play format. With 25 flights on the course, the tension was palpable as each winning team in a flight would score 1 point for their country, while a draw would result in 0.5 points. The race to 13 points was on, with everyone eyeing the coveted tournament victory.

The action began early, even though the first tee-off was scheduled for the afternoon. The Malaysian contingent, keen to avoid any delays at the Causeway, arrived bright and early, led by distinguished figures such as Tan Sri Abang Iskandar, President of the Court of Appeal (Malaysia), and Dato Seri Mohd Firus Bin Jaffril, Justice of the Court of Appeal (Malaysia), along with Singapore’s own Justice S Mohan. As the golfers gathered for a delightful lunch buffet, the atmosphere was one of camaraderie, with old friends reconnecting after years apart due to the pandemic.

But as the clock struck 11:45 am, the mood shifted. Joseph Liow, the tournament’s rules official, took the stage to explain the rules and the all-important scoring format, setting the stage for a competitive afternoon. The justices were first to tee-off at 12:15 pm, and from that moment, the competition was fierce. The Bukit course was in pristine condition, with perfect weather conditions holding up throughout the day — a golfer’s dream scenario in Singapore, where the threat of lightning often looms large.

As the scores began to roll in, it was clear that the match was going to be a nail-biter. The first two flights, featuring the justices, ended in all-square ties, keeping the competition tight. But as the day progressed, Singapore started to pull ahead. The tide began to turn as Singapore’s golfers delivered winning scores one after another. Could this be the year for Singapore to reclaim golf glory? The last time Singapore had won was in 1998 at the Laguna golf course, so hopes were high.

With each passing score, anticipation grew. Singapore’s golf convenors anxiously watched the scoreboard, counting and recounting the points as the tension mounted. But soon, the celebration erupted — Singapore was the first to reach the crucial 13-point mark, ultimately securing a commanding victory with a final score of 18 to 7!

As the day came to a close, the celebrations began right there at the golf club. The first win of the 2024 games was in the bag, and it belonged to Singapore. While many golfers missed the opening reception at the Singapore Cricket Club, they were too busy basking in their victory, sharing post-game drinks and food, and exchanging promises with their Malaysian counterparts for a rematch next year. For now, the Singapore golf team can revel in their triumph and enjoy the sweet taste of victory.

Chan Lai Foong
Golf Convenor

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Tennis

In 2023, The Watcher was just a Listener. He heard the sounds of battle from far away, and when the din subsided, the Malaysian tennis team recorded a resounding 5-2 victory. The Singaporeans made the dreary journey home to plot, to train, and to fight another day. That day, let history record, was 3 August 2024.

The clarion sounded (according to plan) at 6am — 5am for Joanne Lee (Jo). The team assembled at 7.45am and the members loosened their limbs, warmed their muscles, and girded their loins. The order of combat remained the same as the previous year. The battleground, however, had moved to The Tennis Hub in Singapore.

The first wave of three ties saw the Men’s #1 pair, Chen Chee Yen and Gavin Neo in a face-off with Jason Tay and Muhd Asykal; the Mixed pair, Ray Chiang and Grace Lai with Ryan Vong and Adeline Yew, a gladiatress from the past; and the ladies pair, Jo and Low Zhe Ning facing Ti Jia Min and Katelyn Yeoh.

The second wave saw Paul Wong and Albert Teo (legend has it that there was a famous Albert Teo who played formidable tennis 40 years ago). They were matched by the Malaysian veteran pair of James Chew and Wee Kiat Seng. Low Zhe Han and Choo Wei Pin played Ahmad Sarjie and Muhd Asghar in the Men’s #2. The Malaysians seemed to have this pair entertain us, and Wei Pin and Han reciprocated with a gift of two games before getting to the business at hand. Marcus Tay and Leong Chee Jun faced Malaysia’s redoubtable pair — Souren, ever the gentleman, and Toi Tee Toen, no less a noble man. Finally, but luckily, Singapore was spared from having the Men’s #4 pair, Tan Xu Teng and Keith Yong, play the deciding tie. They played the Honourable Denning Tan Sri Onn and Muhd Issyam.

The battle began sharply at 8.30am. The Malaysians #1 took a surprisingly long time to record a 6-1, 6-1 victory and it seemed as if the Singapore pair were toying with the Malaysians. The mixed doubles pair from Singapore showed how a one-sided match should be played, winning 6-1, 6-3 on the trot. The ladies’ match was a classic holding battle staving off a closely fought 3-6, 5-7 match so that the second wave could start in the other two courts before they relinquished their ground to Marcus and Chee Jun.

Meanwhile, Paul and Albert quietly won (6-4, 3-6, 10-6) almost unnoticed, a match they were not expected to win. Albert, the Rip Van Winkle of Singapore tennis (and Batam too) shook off the dust from his racquet (and elsewhere), Paul creaked his bones as if for the last battle (but who knows, Rips Van Winkles always come back, don’t they?). So, all eyes were on the Men’s #4. The Malaysians were hoping for an upset, the Singaporeans lulled by Xu Teng’s famous war trumpet, expected no less than a massacre. Instead, the Malaysians pulled off an upset. Our #4 valiantly tried to come back, hoping to drag out the match to neutralise the mood in the #3 match.

The score was 3-2 in Singapore’s favour when #3 and #4 were being played. Before long, Singapore had thrown in the towel in the Men’s #4 — not so much to concede defeat but for our pair to wipe their bloodied noses. The Men’s #4 result (2-6, 4-6) proved to be academic because the Men’s #3 ended before them, indebted to the rearguard action of our Men’s #4. In the Men’s #3, Chee Jun was playing his first B & B for Singapore and had to leave by 12.30pm to attend his commencement ceremony. But at 12.30pm they had barely begun the first set. A lesser man would have collapsed from anxiety, but Chee Jun placed team before self. Marcus was on the ball, oblivious to everything else, and to Toi at the other end, he mumbled his mantra, “You’re not beating me a third time”. It was touch and go, and all four players fought the match of the tournament. In the end, Singapore’s victory score of 7-6 (7-3), 7-6 (9-7) says it all. And Chee Jun made it to his commencement ceremony, sneaking in, rumour has it, during a toilet break.

The Malaysians took Souren from the Veterans match to bolster their Men’s #3, weakened by the absence of the Norwegian player, injured in the eleventh hour. That was the fatal error. Had Souren played the Vets, the Malaysians would likely have won that, and romp home as 4-3 winners. This thought must surely plague the Malaysians for the next 12 months.

The matches were played with sportsmanship on both sides, and the teams rejoined in the evening for dinner and spiritual bonding at the New Ubin restaurant, raising a reverie so infectious that the restaurant owner came out to show off his skills at cooking for all.

This has been a good year, a fine result not only in tennis, but overall. There was joy and satisfaction for all the effort put in week after week. The next meeting in Malaysia will be a sterner test. More needs to be done. Aiyoh.

The Watcher

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Women’s Football

The sun had yet to peek over the horizon when we arrived at the pitch. It was 6:30am, the earliest we’d ever gathered for a match. Our annual showdown against Malaysia was set for 7:30am, and we were determined to make every minute count.

This season had been a rollercoaster, to say the least. Key players like Jolena, Steph, Vivienne, Jean, Rachel and Choon Wai were either sidelined with injuries or unavailable to play. However, we received a boost when Wan Yi and Chng Yan were cleared to play after their injuries, and Ziz managed to catch a late night flight the night before to join us for the match.

We had also weathered a mid-season coaching change, with Ellyn taking over from Mel. Ellyn’s steady guidance over the last few weeks helped us find our rhythm again, easing some of our concerns about being without a coach. Her tactical insights and motivational approach had reinvigorated our training sessions and boosted our confidence. Meanwhile, although she was recovering from injury, Steph stepped in as our team manager and her leadership was invaluable in keeping us focused and united.

The road to this moment was not easy. Finding a consistent training ground and players to make up an 11-a-side game had initially been a challenge. But as a team we rallied through these hurdles, and arranged friendlies against guys’ teams, SAJC, HCI, Ohana and Khalsa to hone our skills and build chemistry.

Our warm-up on match day started with sprints, and Karen’s question about intensity brought a moment of levity. “Sprint at what percentage next?” she asked. Hooi Yen quipped, “49%.” Karen’s retort – “You think what, oven ah?” – had us chuckling, easing the pre-match tension.

As the Malaysian team arrived and the stands began to fill and it was heartening to see ex-players, friends and Jo who could not play this year in the crowd supporting us. We huddled one last time for “Singapore, woosh!”. We continued our inexplicable team tradition of refusing to pose for the camera pre-game, lest it stole our spirits (not sure who started this though).

The whistle blew, and the match began. Despite the earlier injury concerns, our lineup looked strong. Andrea’s and Wan Yi’s chemistry up front was evident from the start, while Karen provided width and threat down the right flank as did Sharon’s dribbling down the left.

At the heart of our defense, Susan and Peck Lin stood as twin pillars of strength. Their partnership at centre back had been the bedrock of our team all season, and today was no different. Their calm presence and precise positioning provided a sense of security that allowed our midfielders and forwards to play with freedom and confidence.

The early stages of the match tested our resolve. Despite some promising attacks, we found ourselves caught offside several times. Around 10 minutes in, however, the deadlock was broken. In a tussle for the ball between the right corner and goal, a clinical finish by Wan Yi sent our supporters into raptures. We high-fived each other with delight, but we knew the job was far from done.

As the first half wore on, our midfield’s dominance was palpable. From Karen’s dangerous crosses, to Kai Qing’s effectiveness in winning balls in centre midfield, containing and distributing the ball, we retained the majority of ball possession. Isty as usual bridged defence and attack with her energy sapping runs up and down the field. Her and Kai Qing’s performance in the middle of the park allowed our more attack-minded players to push forward without fear.

Malaysia pushed back, testing our resolve. Some threatening runs down their left flank had our hearts in mouths, but Mel, rock-solid in defense, shut them out time and again.

Just before halftime, a moment of brilliance nearly doubled our lead. Andrea and Wan Yi connected in multiple one-twos beautifully, carving open the Malaysian defence. Andrea’s finish was emphatic, but the goal was disallowed, apparently for a foul.

The second half began and as the clock ticked down, we looked to put the game to bed. Another goal by Wan Yi was chalked off, this time for offside.

But our persistence paid off in or around the 80th minute. Lorraine, in left back, attempted an audacious lob. The ball hung in the air for what seemed like an eternity and Caryn’s persistence allowed Andrea to latch upon it and tuck it into the net. This time, there was no flag. 2-0 to us, and surely no way back. Our steady keeper Lynn had only touched the ball twice.

As the final whistle blew, our joy was tinged with relief. We had improved on last year’s narrow 1-0 victory, showcasing our growth as a team. We had proven to ourselves that even with the multiple changes this year, we could rise to the challenge. Ellyn’s and Steph’s combined guidance proved crucial in our preparation, their strategies clearly paying off on the field. But more than that, we had grown stronger together as a team. The annual match against Malaysia is more than just a game. It is a demonstration of the commitment of 50-hour week lawyers setting aside time for the love of the game and team, continuing old as well as starting new friendships on and off the pitch, with every passing year. It was good to see players who missed last year’s match coming back to the team. It augurs well for the future of this team!

Ho Wan Yi
Convenor