Touchline Rebirth: From Game To Glory-Chapter 210: Ready to Play

ST: #21 Korey Henry

The players slowly came into the locker room, changing out of their tracksuits and putting on their gear.

Nate Sutton carefully strapped on his shin guards, moving with steady focus.

Meanwhile, Dev Patel paced in the small space, rubbing his hands together, clearly restless.

Niels waited until everyone was seated. He looked around at the players—the steady, calm experience of McCulloch and Fletcher, and the bright energy of Dev, Thiago, and Korey.

He placed his hands flat on the tactics board and leaned in.

"Boys," Niels began, his calm voice cutting through the nerves in the room. "You know the plan. You know the pressure. This game is all about control."

He looked straight at Dev. "Dev, this is your moment. You create the chances. Thiago, Korey, you run until they can't keep up."

Then he turned to the midfield. "Jamal, you stay back and protect the defense. Tom, you run up and down the field, helping both attack and defense. Nate, you use your speed and skill to create chances and find openings."

He looked at the defenders and goalkeeper. "Liam, now that Max isn't here, you're the captain. It's your job to lead the defense and keep everyone organized on the field. Stay focused, communicate clearly, and set the example.

Harry, you need to stay sharp and strong, don't give them any chances.

Adam, as our last line, stay calm under pressure and keep a clear head. No mistakes from any of you. Stay disciplined and play smart."

"This game matters more than just the score. People are watching closely, the ones who will decide what comes next for you. Today is about showing our true strength and who we really are."

He looked at each player, his voice steady but full of fire. "Go out there, feel every step on that pitch, and hear the roar of the crowd.

Remember what this moment means, why you fight, why you never give up. When you come back, we leave everything on that field."

The players stood up together. The soft squeak of their boots filled the room as they walked toward the tunnel, nervous but focused.

After the players left, Niels took a deep breath and followed. The room was quiet now. He felt the weight of the moment but also calm because the team was ready.