Rajagobal: I don't like the scoreline

Even the ever loud and merry Ultras Malaya sported a dumbfounded look as fans started leaving the stadium the minute Singapore obtained their third goal in their opening match of the AFF Cup campaign against Malaysia last night.

Skipper Shahril Ishak scored a brace while the the island nation obtained their final goal of the night courtesy of substitute Aleksander Duric leaving Harimau Malaya in tatters with a final score of 3-0.

The national side struggled to get their act right from the start of the game as miscommunication between all departments was evident.

National coach Datuk K.Rajagobal, however, put up a brave front as he answered questions from members of the Media.

"I don't like the score (line)," Rajagobal said.

"To be honest, a draw would have been a fair result. Yes, Khairul (Fahmi Che Mat) made a mistake..everyone makes mistakes. The team came back in the second half but we didn't score," said Rajagobal.

Khairul Fahmi alone cannot be blamed for the other players too simply failed to shine. Yet, Rajagobal defended his lads and even praised them for their "determined performance" on the field.

"We started positively but our play was marred by sloppy defending. Norshahrul (Idlan Talaha) played well but it didn't happen (the goals)."

At the last edition, Malaysia were whacked 5-1 in the opening match against Indonesia but bounced back to win the tournament.

When asked if the same could happen again, the former international had this to say;

"It was different then (against Indonesia). We are a better team this time around. Singapore didn't score pretty goals but we lost.

"We lost to Indonesia (in the first match) but we met them in the final only to win the cup. I hope to see Singapore in the final," he added.

Singapore coach Radojko Avramovic, meanwhile, didn't expect the huge scoreline.

"I'd be happy with a 1-0 win anyway. The defenders did a good job today and it was a psychological advantage that motivated the other players," said Avramovic.