PETALING JAYA: Sabah were riding high after their Challenge Cup victory but injuries and fatigue in the squad proved costly as they suffered a 1-0 loss to Melaka in the Super League on Thursday.
Sabah, who ended their 31-year wait for a Cup after beating Penang in the Challenge Cup final last week, had to make do without several key players for their away match at the Hang Jebat Stadium.
Head coach Juan Torres Garrido admitted that the team tried their best to adapt to the situation on the pitch, but the match intensity increased after Melaka scored their sole goal.
Bosnia-Herzegovina midfielder Dino Kalesic was the hero for the home side after scoring in the 68th minute.
It was enough to give his side the win and see them leapfrog Sabah to sit in 10th with 17 points, while the Rhinos are in 11th with 16 points.
Garrido said several players had to be fielded despite not being fully fit, including Gary Steven Robbat, who had just recovered from injury, as well as Darren Lok.
“The players performed well and played aggressively in the second half,” said Garrido.
“Even after we conceded, the players tried to get back into the game. But I think it was also mental fatigue from playing the final. I think we were more tired after the first 10 to 15 minutes. They struggled to keep up with the pace.”
Sabah’s final against Penang last week was a test of physical endurance, as the match was forced to head to extra time, before Sabah won 4-3 in the penalty shootout.
It will be a replay for Sabah as they meet Penang tomorrow, while Melaka will host Johor Darul Ta’zim on Tuesday.
