| We played well, but it was luck that let us down says Stoikov
21 December 2005
Uploaded: 21.12.2005, 03:05 PM
Stoikov (L) and Hussain during the media conference held at FAM today
Male',
MALDIVES - Maldives national team coach stated that Maldives played well in the recently ended SAFF championship, but it was luck which decided the finalist. During the media conference that held at FAM today the dissapointed coach talked about the team's performance and the tactics he applied.
"Our boys played so well in the game. It was mere luck that they (India) scored the goal. We should praise the players for the performance that they showed during the game" He said.
There were many speculations around the capital of bringing the full team into the field during the match against Pakistan, as both teams were already qualified for the semi finals.
"We wanted to avoid India in the semi finals. We know that they were strong. We tried to win the Pakistan game so that we could be the group leaders. We thought India would beat Bangladesh, but it did not happen. "
He showed frustration on the policy that the game was played one day later
"Actually India- Bangladesh match should be played on the same day. As that match decides the group winner and the opponent was decided before their game. They could do what ever they want in that match."
When asked whether he was satisfied with the performance, he noted that the performance was ok.
"I am very satisfied with everything. Our work was highly recognised by the officials of AFC, the organisers, Local media and international media"
When asked about the negative points he noted that the players with lack of maturity was one of the main problems.
"Our players are too polite. If you look at the English premier league, the players are arrogant. Our players are too polite. They did not show any arrogance in the play. It is a must in today's football"
Stoikov also said that he included New Radiant defenders, because they played 10 international matches in this year and they were the most experienced defenders in the squad. He also noted that Ali Umar and Ali Ashfaag weren't New Radiant players when they were selected to the squad.
FAM's executive secretary, Hussain also replied to some of the questions raised by the media.
Hussain revealed that after each tournament, FAM Officials would question both coach and the manager regarding the performance.
"FAM's officials would question the coach and the manager. If they feel that there is an urgency to ask questions by the technical committee, it would also be done." He said.
Hussain also said that FAM will try to maintain the FIFA Ranking. Maldives who have gone quite high in the ranking, drops mostly becasue of less international matches.
"The main problem is the lack of funding. We do not have much facilities compared to other countries. We have included 6 international friendlies (in 2006 calendar) which would be played in Maldives" Hussain said.
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