The Story of No. 17

I was in a dilemma. To go or not to go, that’s the question. In the end, my heart overruled my head. I made my way to the stadium. I wasn’t even sure if he will appear.

He did, just when I was about to make my way home. His love for football surpassed all else. After a short greeting, he swept past me and made his way to the “dugout”. The match has started. He went straight to the captain-manager, and they talked about the players, formation and strategies. He couldn’t wait to get onto the pitch.

Mid-way through the first half, a player requested a substitution. It was his favourite position – right midfield. In record time, he put on his gear and was ready for action. There wasn’t even time for him to warm-up.

Promising to score, he went all out. This could be his day for a goal or two. But play that took place down the right flank was rare. Patiently he waited. The opening finally arrived. He took his chance, but it went over. He has no time to bring the ball down for his stronger right foot. There was a man coming down on him. Not long after, the half-time whistle sounded. They were down by a goal.

Quickly gathering his team-mates for the half-time prep talk, the team reorganised and switched formation. He was to play in centre. Talking animatedly as he paced impatiently for the second-half to start, he reasoned that the opponent keeper wasn’t that great. He would have to try. He has told his captain that he would score. Strict instructions were given – to feed him down the middle.

As they strolled back into the pitch, he commented that he missed by a whisker in the first-half, but his friend felt otherwise. Another told him that he can’t leave until he scored. With confidence riding high, he was determined to level things up.

Soon, he was making his presence felt. Chaotic defending by the opponents nearly led to their equaliser. The goalkeeper just had to thank his lucky stars. But lady luck wasn’t on his side minutes later. He saw his opening and took a chance at goal. Everything turned into slow motion as he let fly his strike. Only one thought was on his mind – don’t let the keeper reach the ball in time. The keeper landed on the ground, but the ball was safely in the back of the net. His scoring touch was back.

He has delivered, and it’s time for some others to make their appearance. He came out of the pitch, grinning from ear to ear. With perspiration dripping all over, he came over and said, “I told you I would score! I could feel it!” It was time for him to gloat. Can he go for trials now? Of course he can! I would personally bring him.

This is the story of No. 17. No words can describe his passion and level of enthusiasm to play football.