“It’s how you end what matters”- Eric Divine says while the raptors ensure the opening victory despite the first struggles

In the opening week of the Showtime flag soccer season, the Raptors exceeded the initial setbacks to obtain a victory against the Panthers. The team member, Eric Divine, frankly discussed both personal challenges and team performance in an interview after the game with Sports247.

Reflecting on his individual performance, Divine admitted: “I would say that the game was fine. I didn’t have my best moments, I made some mistakes and lost some opportunities, but they still paid me for the work I did. In general, it was a day well for me.”

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When heading to the dynamics of the team, he recognized some bad early communications, but remained optimistic about future games. “Today, there were some misunderstandings in the countryside. Some of us forget the key plays, which cost us in the early stages. But we are learning and we are becoming stronger. I believe in our improvement: the next game, we will communicate better, we will play harder and win by a clear margin. We are determined to return to the track very soon.”

Divine emphasized the importance of mental and physical preparation, highlighting its dependence on faith and rigorous training. “Before the game, I concentrated on prayer because I attended the church and left there to play. I think to pray, combined with hard work and consecutive training, establishes the foundations for our performance. Thank God, everything joined.”

When he faced intense moments during the party, he kept his composure by reminding himself to keep calm and confidence in his skills. “In those critical moments, my mind said constantly: ‘Oh, Lord, help me to do better.’ I reminded myself to keep calm and not let the pressure affect me, just breathe, exhale and trust that things will change.”

Although the Panthers took an early advantage, Divine highlighted the resistance and approach of the Raptors. “The other team managed to score first, and it seemed that we were fighting to catch up. But we did not focus on them. Our goal was always to win. Although we renounce some points from the beginning, we regrouped and move forward. In the end, it is not how you start the game, that’s how you end, and that is what matters.”

With this victory, the Raptors aim to develop their performance, addressing the problems of the early game and improving the cohesion of the team as the season progresses.

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