PETALING JAYA, Sept 6 — Goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, who was subbed after the first four goals against United Arab Emirates (UAE), called on the national team to bounce back immediately or risk further shame.
Conceeding the players only had themselves to blame, the Kelantan lad urged his teammates to buck up.
“We are used to criticism but... this time there is no hiding from it. We deserve all the brickbats coming our way,” he said.
“Yes, we are haunted by the result but we have another game on Tuesday and must toughen up.
“We must dwell on the result as a way to motivate ourselves to bounce back. We need to pick ourselves up mentally.
“There was no hidden reasons why we lost badly.”
Khairul Fahmi was replaced by Zamir Selamat in the first half but the latter could do little as he conceded another three before being replaced by Pahang’s Khairul Azhan Khalid after suffering an injury.
Malaysia lost 10-0 to stay bottom of Group A of the World/Asian Cup qualifiers after three matches.
Harimau Malaya entertain Saudi Arabia at Shah Alam Stadium on Tuesday.
Interim coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee called up five players, including debutant Adam Nor Azlin of Harimau Muda.
Ramadhan Hamid replaces the injured Zamir while Nurridzuan Abu Hassan, Fakri Saarani and Fadhli Shas make up the five.
Zubir Azmi is also out injured while Nor Farhan Muhammad left the team to sort personal matters.
Ong will drop another three players today.
