Kota Kinabalu: It was another impressive display from Sabah FC as they put three goals past Singapore Premier League top side Tampines Rover FC in their third friendly in a week at the Likas Stadium on Saturday night.
It only took them four minutes to take the lead with the opening goal converted by Gabriel Peres from the spot after Darren Lok was earlier fouled in the box.
Saddil Ramdani then extended the lead in the 26th minute with a well taken free kick before Darren added the third in the 63rd minute.
There were many missed chances as well following Darren’s strike and head coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee (pic) said after the match that there are still some weaknesses despite the convincing victory and dominant display from the players.
“In terms of games’ pattern there are still some shortcomings. However, these matches were important for me to rectify the weaknesses and I believe the team will only get better once the season gets underway.”
He also reserved comment on the performances of the newly signed players especially the imports who have contributed eight of the 13 goals scored from the three matches following their 6-0 win over Geylang International FC and 4-0 against Melaka FC earlier.
“It is only fair not to judge them too early and we should be able to find out whether they are comfortable and how they perform once the season starts.”
The match also saw the introduction of Rhinos’ latest signing Ko Kwang-min from South Korea in the second half.
The 34-year-old who played as wingback made a good impression and delighted the home fans with his speed and neat passes.
Ong said there may not be any more new signings for the team before the transfer window closes.
“Another import will only depend on the financial situation that I will discuss with the management, but at the moment there is no immediate plan,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sabah FC launched their latest jersey before the match in the afternoon in conjunction with the club’s open day at the Likas Stadium.
It was officiated by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya and also present were Sabah FC’s chief executive officer Marzuki Nasir, Sabah Football Association deputy president Dato’ Rahman Zakaria, Datuk James Wong and Kim Swee.
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