MALAYSIAN COACH ASKS INDONESIAN MEDIA TO STOP PROVOCATIONS

Ahmad Fuad Yahya

JAKARTA, Dec 29 (Bernama) -- Malaysian coach K. Rajagobal has asked the
Indonesian media to stop publishing provocative reports on the first leg final
match for the AFF-Suzuki Cup at Bukit Jalil on Sunday.

He said the reports on the match which Indonesia lost 3-0 were extremely
provocative and could affect the spirit of sport and harmony between Malaysia
and Indonesia.

All should accept that in a sport competition, there will be winners and
losers, Rajagobal said, adding: "No one will benefit from these provocations."

When Malaysia lost 1-5 to Indonesia in the group stage, he told reporters
here, "We accepted the defeat calmly although we were heavily criticised by the
media here (in Indonesia)."



"When Indonesia lost 3-0, why are you (the Indonesia media) making such an
issue of it?"

Rajagobal said that he was always professional in guiding the Malaysian
team and hoped that the Indonesian media and supporters would be the same in
their attitude.

He again expressed confidence that Malaysia would win the return match and
the cup.

"Just as the Indonesia coach is confident of the ability of his players, I
am optimistic about the prowess of my charges. They have displayed very good
skill," he said.

-- BERNAMA