Missed Panenka a subdued end for electric Lestienne

Maxime Lestienne’s 131st and final appearance for the Lion City Sailors, in the Singapore Cup semifinal, second-leg clash against Balestier Khalsa on Dec 20, was an uncharacteristically subdued one.

- Jeremiah Ong

Lion City Sailors winger Maxime Lestienne being feted as he leaves the pitch on his final appearance for the club on Dec 20 against Balestier Khalsa at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

(ARIFFIN JAMAR)

But the departing winger was not forgotten in the stands, where fans showed their adulation throughout the match and gave him a standing ovation when he came off in the 88th minute.

Lestienne, the club’s top scorer (70 goals) since their privatisation in 2020, had a glorious chance to sign off in style when he stepped up to the spot in the 73rd minute, after Anderson Lopes' effort was handled by defender Mario Subaric at Jalan Besar Stadium.

But in typical Lestienne fashion, he went for the spectacular. His failed Panenka was followed by a cheeky smile and a high-five exchange with Balestier goalkeeper Mario Mustapic, who had read his intentions.