PETALING JAYA: Sabah head coach Juan Torres Garrido (pic) was pleased with his side’s second win of the season but called for improvements to the Likas Stadium pitch.
The Spaniard said a better surface is essential if the team are to consistently produce the attractive football he wants to showcase in Kota Kinabalu.
Sabah beat Penang 2-0 at Likas Stadium on Friday, with Argentine striker Gonzalo Di Renzo opening the scoring in the 41st minute before defender Hanafie Tokyo doubled the lead in the 53rd.
Garrido said the team had to quickly adjust to unexpected weather conditions.
“We expected a different context compared to our last game, but the weather surprised us. Luckily, we had the better side of the pitch in the first half and took full advantage of it before conditions deteriorated,” he said.
He was, however, blunt in his assessment of the playing surface.
“The pitch is in quite a bad condition, and we need to see it improved. For our style of football, and for the fans coming to enjoy the game at Likas, having a quality surface is essential.
‘’In the second half, we simply played a solid game based on what the pitch allowed us to do,” he said.
Despite the challenges, the Spaniard praised his side’s tactical discipline and adaptability across both halves.
“It was a solid overall performance. We had a game plan and adapted well to the weather conditions in both halves, which is a great sign that this team can remain resilient in different situations,” he added.
