Victory against TFC II best gift for all — Peter
KOTA KINABALU: Datuk Peter Anthony hoped Sabah’s morale boosting 3-1 win against Terengganu FC II (TFC II) on Saturday would be the start of many more to come from the Tambadaus.
The acting president of the Sabah Football Association (Safa) described the win as ‘the best gift for everyone’ after enduring a difficult few weeks on-and-off the pitch.
“Despite all (the) challenges and speculations, the coaches, team manager and players proved we are able to bounce back.
“Congratulations to the Tambadaus squad and all of Safa fratenity. The 3-1 win was the best gift for all,” he was quoted via WhatsApp yesterday.
The Tambadaus made a slow start to the new season by recording only one point from their opening two matches, which saw them lose 1-2 to JDT II and draw 3-3 against Kelantan.
And off-the-pitch problems too have put Safa under fire especially on the claim of counterfeit tickets sold (which has since been explained) while the decisions on the need for fans to get consent from the State football body before bringing in musical instruments such as drums and banner for displays did not go down well with the supporters.
The distractions has put unnecessary pressure on the team but the Jelius Ating-coach side showed great attitude to edge TFC II, with their superb all-out attacking displays in the second half turning the game in their favour.
“Maintain the form and keep on scoring the goals. I hope the victory will mark the start of the Tambadaus squad to hunt for victories.
“Our second half displays in particular showed what the team is capable of but there are still rooms for improvement.
“We in Safa pledge to better manage the association and I believe by doing so, it will help make the team stronger,” he added.
For the record, second half goals from Park Tae Su, Luka Milunovic and Ricco Nigel Milus helped Sabah beat TFC II who got the consolation goal from Mohammad Ramzi Sufian in the first half.