ACTUALITE |
21.03.2002
South Africa still learning
South Africa 0 - 1 Saudi Arabia
World Cup warm-up, Florence (Italy)
South Africa created more questions than answers in Florence on Wednesday.
Their inexperience against a better organised Saudi Arabia was evident, and few of coach Jomo Sono`s debutants made a real impression.
But he is committed to taking nine players from this game to the next, against Georgia in Tblisi next week.
Few really stood out, although Arthur Zwane and Leslie Manyathela were the exceptions.
Zwane caused problems down the right-hand side and delivered in some useful crosses, leading to South Africa`s best chances in the game.
Train-smash
And up front, Manyathela got into some strong positions and had some good chances, particularly early in the game.
But overall they were poor, and for long periods of time the match was luke-warm.
The goal came quarter of an hour into the second half.
South Africa were pushing forward at a corner, but Saudi Arabia were able to clear the ball quickly.
Bafana Bafana were left short at the back, and Saudi`s striker Mohammed Babkr had a free strike from the edge of the box, giving Emile Baron in goal no chance.
Jomo Sono said before the game that his priority was to see the players in action and to make sure they had some fun.
Losing, he said, "would not be a train-smash."
He has asked South African fans and media for patience, but after a disappointing Nations Cup, and few real plus points to take from this game, the match next week against Georgia is becoming more important.
Sono is promising to pick 11 overseas professionals for the squad, and a result may be more important than another experiment.
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Hits: 1 | Source:BBC | |
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