The AAU Football Club was defeated in its first competitive match of the season on Nov. 11 against Západočeská univerzita v Plzni (ZČU), by a final score of 8-1.
Both teams looked competitive out of the gate, trading goals in the first five minutes of play. While AAU’s attack consistently showed potential, the team had trouble converting chances and allowed a couple of costly scores before halftime, going into the break trailing 3-1.
Despite the early loss of momentum, AAU came out of the half with fresh energy and determination, but ZČU quickly reasserted control with three goals in quick succession. They added two more insurance scores before full time to seal it.
“On paper our tactic was sound, but we did not execute it fully,” team captain Kurt Schemm said, who believes the team’s potential was not reached in this first game.
Club president Matt Saks echoed that sentiment, citing the disappointment of missing out on so many opportunities. But he also emphasized the importance of getting right back to work.
“It’s important to reflect, move on and fix mistakes,” Saks said. He hopes the team can use what they learned from this match and use it as motivation going forward.
Despite the result, AAU took one major positive from the day: the committed and passionate fan turnout. In frigid weather and despite the tough deficit, AAU’s supporters stayed loud and involved for all 90 minutes, chanting nonstop.
“We lost, but without the fans it would’ve been even more,” Schemm said. “[They] kept the game competitive.”
It’s the biggest crowd AAU Football has ever drawn, with more than 40 fans making the hour-plus trip to Pilsen to show their support with chants and signs, a level of participation that makes Schemm excited for what their next home match may look like. He also appreciated how the fan area was just as international as the team.
“The fans are the ones who won,” Saks said.
AAU Football will play its first home match of the season on Nov. 22 in Prague against LFP International, where they hope for an even bigger crowd to help cheer them toward a win.
