On the evening of May 14, Hanoi Police Club drew 2-2 with Buriram United (Thailand) in the first leg of the Southeast Asian Cup C1 final.
This is a rather unfortunate result for coach Mano Polking and his team as they have a difficult return match in Thailand ahead of them.
In the post-match press conference, coach Polking shared that he was not worried about this draw:
"This was a very good match, showing high professional quality against strong opponents. I was not disappointed. In the first half we played well, pressed and created many opportunities. We regret not being able to take advantage of it."
"The second team rose up and caused more difficulties. But Hanoi Police have demonstrated quality and class. The team has a week to train and recover before flying to Buriram. Everything is still open, not over yet".
Coach Mano Polking assessed Buriram as a very strong team with a great fan base. The Hanoi Police players will have to adapt and calm down under the pressure in the second leg.
"The players in our team have gone through many intense matches, they can keep their courage and win the second leg," said Mr. Polking.
For his part, Buriram United coach, Mr. Osmar Loss admitted the difficulties against Hanoi Police in the first half.
"I don't like the approach of Hanoi Police, they pressed from the start. We don't want the game to go down this way. Luckily, in the second half, we gave timely analysis to neutralize the situation. I am satisfied and happy with this result".
"We have a lot of analysis with Hanoi Police. They are an even team, and the squad has only changed 2-3 players compared to the group stage match. In the second leg, Buriram needs to adjust and steal the ball more. Hopefully, we will win the championship," said the Brazilian coach.
Captain Buriram also said that the 2-2 result was reasonable, and more favorable for his team.
"Such finals will have openends. For me, the score of 2-2 is reasonable. This is a rare time that Hanoi Police have dropped points at home. When we return to Buriram, with the enthusiasm of the audience, we hope to get the best result," added Mr. Osmar Loss.
In the second leg of the final, Hanoi Police will visit Buriram, at 7:30 p.m. on May 21.
