Adecco MOM BEFC vs Dutch FC - Soutaro Kirihara

  • Adecco BEFC Man of the Match Award - Soutaro Kirihara

BEFC needed to show a strong reaction after the previous match and they did -- unfortunately for Dutch FC who found themselves on the end of a 9 - 1 hammering. Dutch's own performance so far this season hasn't been good, but this perception of difference was not to stop BEFC from playing 100%. BEFC have a habit of raising their game against perceived threats and often lowering it when they perceive themselves with an advantage. A huge part of this match was about playing 100% and focusing on improving the football no matter who the opposition --- and that they did. Even the presence of international professional Genki Nakamura did little to help Dutch - perhaps even gave something for BEFC to focus on as they were relentless for the entire 80 minutes.
It was an all round strong team peformance with every member doing their job and looking to improve their game at all opportunities. Man of the match nominations had some strong contenders from Defensive General, Hat Trick Hero and Goal of the Season nominee, but the final nod was tipped to the Rock of Midfield and 'Welcome Back' Soutaro Kirihara. BEFC welcomed back Kirihara who played for BEFC roughly 4 seasons ago before moving overseas and has now returned to Japan and to the club. Playing the defensive midfield role brilliantly Kirihara was always in the right place controlling play or shutting down attacks. His calmness in possession, and poise on the ball under pressure spread to his surrounding team mates allowing BEFC to explore more expansive build up play.
While he personally admitted he didn't deserve to be MOM for blasting over some long shots, the rest of the team didn't see that enough of a demerit to his total performance in a supremely key position. For all round great play, comfort and calmness under pressure, defensive solidity and quality distribution Soutaro Kirihara is the Adecco BEFC Man of the Match vs Dutch FC.