Football: Singapore sunk in Hong Kong friendly

SINGAPORE: The Republic’s preparation for the ASEAN Football Championship (AFF Suzuki Cup) in five months’ time got off on a wrong foot on Friday night, when they lost 1—0 to Hong Kong who scored through Lam Ka Wai in the 35th minute.

Singapore were seeking a confidence—booster following six straight losses in round three of the World Cup 2014 Asian qualifiers.

But the hosts were the more menacing side at the Hong Kong Stadium against the 4—5—1 formation favoured by Singapore.

Lam slammed home the winning goal after the Singapore defence failed to clear a cross into their six—yard box. Goalkeeper Hyrulnizam Juma’at made several crucial saves to keep the scoreline down.

"The positive sign I can take from this match is the encouraging performance of the young players ... such as striker Ahmad Fahmie, Hyrulnizam and midfielder Safirul Sulaiman," said Lions coach Radojko Avramovich.

Singapore will host Malaysia on June 8 at the Jalan Besar Stadium before heading to Kuala Lumpur for the return match on June 12.

Tickets for the home match are on sale at the Jalan Besar Stadium, starting 10am on Saturday. —

TODAY