Written by: Shawn Lim

Home United vs Balestier Khalsa

(Tuesday, 14 June, 8pm, Bishan Stadium)

After a less-than-convincing draw against the Garena Young Lions the last time out, Home United will be hoping for a better performance when they welcome Balestier Khalsa to Bishan Stadium on Tuesday night.

The Protectors, who prefer a slow and patient build-up from the back, were taken aback by the high pressing game that the Young Lions adopted against them, making a slew of uncharacteristic errors in defence as a result.

While Home managed to recover from two goals down and salvage a draw, that game probably would have taught the rest of the teams in the Great Eastern Yeo’s S.League how to play the Protectors.

While Balestier is unlikely to provide a similar style of opposition, they could still cause problems for the hosts as new signing Niko Tokic has already gotten off the mark, scoring on his debut against Hougang United last week.

Proving that the Tigers’ struggles this season have come from the lack of presence and quality upfront, Tokic was a real thorn in the Cheetahs’ side, holding the ball well and defending from the front.

The Tigers’ strikeforce will also be boosted by the return of Syafiq Zainal from suspension, while Home will most likely restore Faris Ramli to their line-up after the winger was heavily involved in international games for Singapore.

Ho Wai Loon is set for another spell on the sidelines after sustaining an inflamed knee while playing for Balestier against Warriors. As for Home, captain Juma’at Jantan is still doubtful for competitive matches.

Home United – WWWWD

11/06/16  Garena Young Lions 2-2 Home United (S.League)

26/05/16  Home United 2-1 Hougang United (Singapore Cup)

19/05/16  Home United 5-0 Brunei DPMM (S.League)

13/05/16  Tampines Rovers 1-2 Home United (S.League)

29/04/16  Home United 3-2 Hougang United (S.League)

Balestier Khalsa – LLLDD

10/06/16  Balestier Khalsa 2-2 Hougang United (S.League)

20/05/16  Warriors FC 1-1 Balestier Khalsa (S.League)

14/05/16  Balestier Khalsa 1-3 Geylang International (S.League)

10/05/16  Kitchee SC 4-0 Balestier Khalsa (AFC Cup)

06/05/16  Albirex Niigata (S) 6-0 Balestier Khalsa (S.League)

Head to Head (S.League)

03/04/16  Balestier Khalsa 0-1 Home United

26/10/15  Home United 2-0 Balestier Khalsa

03/08/15  Balestier Khalsa 1-1 Home United

08/04/15  Home United 3-1 Balestier Khalsa

31/10/14  Balestier Khalsa 0-1 Home United