"I am absolutely delighted with the team at the moment! We somehow managed to win the final 3 games of last season to sneak our way into the play-offs at the expense of Chirisan Dragons. Key to our success was our double over Branksome Boot Boys; we were the only team to beat them.

"To reach the play-offs was a feat in itself. We had the youngest and weakest squad in the division. So, to say I wasn't expecting much from the Qualifier would've been an understatement. I was filled with a mixture of dread and resignation when I saw our draw; and I am sure my opposite number felt the opposite, relief and jubilation.

"SLB Iturama are vastly superior to us, so in order to stand any chance, I would have to pick my team and tactics immaculately. The idea was to shore up pressure, and hit them on the break. The plan was also to frustrate them in the first half, and then go at it like a dog eating hot chips in the later period.

"That is precisely what happened; they only created 2 chances all game, one of which was a penalty! I was delighted that Lorand Oneata scored on his swansong; and that Ronald scored the extra-time penalty, he is as solid as a rock on the pitch and was the best player in the division for the last 2 years. Ronald has been like a brick-wall for donkey's years now!"