Football

'Paddy field' football pitches not ideal for Super League

KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah coach Ong Kim Swee is unhappy with the condition of several football venues, especially their deplorable pitches, in the Super League.

The former national coach said poor pitches are putting players at risk of picking up injuries.

Following persistent downpours over the last few days, several stadium pitches look like "paddy fields" during matches. And it is affecting the quality of football in the Super League.

The Rhinos were made to sweat by Kuching City before prevailing 2-1 in an away win at the State Stadium on Monday. Sabah have maximum points from their opening three matches.

Sabah scored through Saddil Ramdani (24th minute) and Portuguese Telmo Castanheira (58th), while Liberian striker Abu Kamara replied for Kuching City (45th).

"It was not an easy game. It was raining heavily before the match and the pitch was muddy. Both teams were forced to play long passes because it was muddy.

"Football needs quality pitches. We also do not want players to pick up injuries.

"As for the match, my players showed desire and fighting spirit. Although Kuching were thrashed 5-0 by Selangor in their last game, they were aggressive today," said Kim Swee on Monday.

Sabah will travel to Kuantan on Sunday to face Sri Pahang in their next league game.

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