We deserve more, says Noor

Geylang International Head Coach Noor Ali believes his team deserved more from the 3-0 defeat to title contenders Lion City Sailors in the AIA Singapore Premier League on Wednesday.

Despite the Eagles’ tremendous offensive effort at Bishan Stadium that yielded eight shots on target out of a total of 17 attempts, it was the home side who ended the night with maximum rewards thanks to goals from Hafiz Nor (23′), Diego Lopes (45’+1′) and Abdul Rasaq (70′).

The second straight loss, following an earlier 2-0 defeat at Tanjong Pagar last week, saw Geylang drop to fourth place in the standings and three points behind leaders Tampines Rovers.

Noor Ali admitted the manner of the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow and was adamant that his side was the better team of the day, contrary to what the scoreline might have suggested.

Noor also lamented that his side has not been more clinical enough in the final third of the pitch to turn their good play into goals.

“I thought we played better football than them, we were in control of the game,” stressed Noor.

“We took the game to LCS and the boys were fantastic throughout the match.

“The only difference was they took their chances and we did not.

“LCS was playing only counter-attacking football and credit to them that their game plan paid off.

“They had three chances and they scored. That’s something the boys must learn we need to defend better.

“All in all, it was a much, much better performance than that we had against Tanjong Pagar last week.

“I can’t fault them for the effort they have put in.”

Although Geylang’s good start to the season was undone by the latest two defeats, Noor has refused to push the panic button yet.

“We experienced worse last year where we went 11 matches without a win. We’re just five games into the season and it’s still a long way to go,” said Noor.

“We just have to stay positive, keep working hard, move forward and keep believing in the football we want to play.”

Ends.