Defeat to Sabah FC due to absence of key defenders: TFC head coach

KUALA NERUS: Terengganu FC (TFC) head coach Tomislav Steinbruckner attributed the absence of four key defence players as the reason for the team’s 0-4 defeat to Sabah FC in the Super League match at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium (SSMZA) last night.

The Croatian-born coach said the players were Muhammad Azam Azmi Murad, Muhammad Alif Zakaria and mid-fielders Mohammad Shahrul Nizam Ros Hasni and Muhammad Safwan Mazlan who had to be rested due to injury problems.

Steinbruckner said even though some of the players wanted to be fielded for the match, he would not take the risk for fear that their injuries could worsen and, hence, would affect the team’s preparations for the Asian Confederation Cup (AFC) match and the Malaysia Cup final next December 8.

“Congrats to Sabah FC..they destroyed us, especially in the first half, but as you know, today we missed four defenders because of injury.

“I know this cannot be an excuse or alibi for our defeat. I also feel bad, but we must look ahead and on Sunday we will fly to Australia for the AFC match. I hope our players (defenders) recover and can come with us,“ he told a media conference after the match last night.

Meanwhile, Sabah FC coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee said the ability of his men to take advantage of every opportunity enabled The Rhinos to win in style and go home with three points.

He said the three goals, including the first in the first half, scored by the team made it difficult for the Turtles to keep up despite playing on home ground.

“Praise must be given to all my players, especially those who have just returned from playing with the national squad. They show a high level of commitment.

“I hope the players will continue to stay focused to make sure we don’t lose points and are able to overcome Kedah Darul Aman (KDA) FC in the Super League position,“ he added. - Bernama