KUALA LUMPUR, July 17— Malaysia’s Harimau Malaya (national squad) and Chonburi FC of Thailand played to a goalless draw in a friendly match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil here tonight
Datuk K.Rajagobal’s boys clearly failed to capitalise on home ground advantage to tame the Thais.
Midfielder Mohd Nor farhan Muhammad had the best chance to score in the 19th minute but his piledriver was saved by Chonburi keeper Panupong Pijittham.
Malaysia came close again in the 25th and 27th minutes but both attempts by national striker Mohd Amri Yahya failed to find their mark.
In the second half, Rajagobal made changes by bringing in Nazmi Fais Mansor and Mohd Safee Sali but things remained the same.
Amridzwan Taj Tajudin had a final chance to clinch victory for Harimau Malaya bu this 71st minute attempt missed the goal by inches.
At the post-match press conference, Rajagobal said he was satisfied with the performance of his players although the match ended in a goalless draw.
“Even though we were in centralised training just for a few days before the match, they players gelled well.
“In the second half they were more aggresive in hunting for the opening goal. However, we still have to iron out some weaknesses before we meet Chelsea FC in another friendly this Sunday,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chonburi FC team manager, Withaya Laohakul said he was happy with the performance of his side despite the result.
“Before the match, we had lost the service of two forwards due to visa problems but the team managed to show sterling performance against the Malaysian side.
“I think our finishing in front of the Malaysian goal mouth was very poor and I will rectify the problem before our local league games against Army United in an away match, this Saturday,” said the former Thailand international. — Bernama
