Out of my way: Perak’s Christian Obiozor tussling for the ball with Kuala Lumpur’s Kenny Pallraj during the friendly match. — Perak FC
PETALING JAYA: Perak coach Datuk Lim Teong Kim admitted that it will take time for some of his players to reach their full potential after their 3-0 friendly loss to Kuala Lumpur on Saturday.
The scoreline was a flattering one for the City Boys as the Seladang had most of the possession and also created more chances.
Teong Kim was happy with his charges’ display though the result was hard to accept.
“We played attractive football and that’s the important thing. We attacked, created more chances but the boys just couldn’t score,” he said.
‘’It takes maturity to be able to win matches and finish off chances clinically, and this will take time.
‘’We can’t force players to mature fast as it’s a process. We have to be patient and make them learn from their mistakes.
‘’The fans were happy with the performance and they understand the boys are giving their best.’’
On the three goals conceded, the former National Football Develop-ment Programme director said: “The goals we conceded were due to naivety.
“When there is a lack of maturity, this happens.’’
Teong Kim also gave the thumbs-up to new Nigerian striker Christian Obiozor, who impressed despite failing to get on the scoresheet.
“I like how Christian plays, he works hard and I believe that the goals will come. On and off the ball, he’s always working and trying to do something.’’
Perak will start their Super League campaign against Kedah at home on 25 Feb while KL will host Penang on the same day.
Meanwhile, KL coach Bojan Hodak feels that his team are still a work in progress despite the big win.
“For all parts, they need more matches to gel together; this is like in the office – if you work in one office (for) 10 years you will understand each other very well, if you work for one or two months, you will hardly understand each other – it is the same thing in football.
“We are at 60% (of preparation), so I’m 60% happy,” said the Croatian.
Hodak added that the result looked good for his team because they didn’t concede, however, he admitted that there were many shortcomings which the players need to improve.
“I think in midfield, we were not tight enough and we need to change this, attacking, finishing and final pass can be better,” he said.
