STALEMATE IN SURABAYA

The deadlock was an obvious disappointment for the Indonesian side led by head coach Benny Dolo, who had expected to win the tie in front of a sell-out crowd.

The homesters were the early aggressors and went ahead in the 25th minute when prolific striker Bambang Pamungkas converted a penalty.

But that lead did not last long as in the 34th minute, a header off skipper Mohd Shukor Adan from a corner, saw the visiting Malaysian stealing an inspiring 1-1 draw.

“We are satisfied with the result. Even though we did not win, it was an evenly balanced tie. At the very least, I can see there is a level of improvement in the team and the cooperation between players is better,” said Malaysian head coach B. Satianathan.

Offered Benny: “The two wingers – Budi Sudarsono and Ellie Aiboy – were not functioning. It affected the flow of the game and we seem to lose possession all too easily.”

“We could also improve on the passes,” quipped Benny.

The Indonesian team next friendly match will be against Vietnam on 11 June, 2008.