PETALING JAYA: Stadium safety has come under scrutiny after Sabah striker Darren Lok (pic) collided with a drainage wall while attempting to retrieve the ball during their 1-1 Super League draw against Melaka at the Likas Stadium on Saturday.
Footage from the game captured the alarming moment when Dareen clashed with Negri Sembilan’s defender Amirul Adli Azmi before crashing head and body first into the concrete drainage wall.
The incident, which could have had serious consequences, left Darren writhing in pain as medical personnel rushed onto the pitch to attend to him. Fortunately, he did not suffer any serious injuries.
The episode has raised concerns over stadium safety standards, highlighting the need for improved protective measures around the pitch to safeguard players.
The Rhinos held the Deer to a 1-1 stalemate, with goals from Jovan Motika for Negri (34th minute) and S. Kumaahran for Sabah (69th).
Sabah are tenth in the league with 15 points from 16 matches, while Negri are seventh with 18 points from 17 games.
Their coach Juan Torres Garrido admitted he had mixed feelings following the draw.
“I saw the players’ willingness to compete and the strong support from our fans. For a start, we can be satisfied, but now we must look ahead and focus on improving for the next game,” said Garrido.
“My target is for the team to show a clear identity in every match and become a reliable side.
“When you look at the table, many teams are separated by just three points. I don’t like to focus on numbers as I prefer to focus on performance, and the results will follow.”
Looking ahead to Sabah’s away fixture against Kuching City on March 7, Garrido expects a stern test.
“They are doing very well and will be playing at home, so it will be tough.
“We also have a game just three days before (Challenge Cup semi-final first leg against Perak in Manjung on Wednesday), so we must prepare carefully.”
