An “experimental” Stallion Laguna side lost earlier today in a pre-season friendly against Malaysian Premier League side Sabah FA at the Biñan Football Stadium.
Featuring a mix of trialists and first-team players, Coach Ernie Nierras’ wards fell behind by 3 goals at the half-time break. Goals by Sabah captain Rawilson Batuil, forward Maxius Musa and Leuca, despite the visitors spurning several chances of their own, put paid to Stallion’s efforts in front of goal.
The second half saw Sabah continue their positive verve, winning and scoring a penalty via Nordin six minutes after the hour mark after a goal-mouth scramble led to Gino Clariño receiving his marching orders for a handball clearance of the line.
The sending-off sparked life in the Stallion attack and while several chances went begging, they eventually cashed in after Fitch Arboleda tapped in from the spot after a Sabah foul in the 75th minute, and Joshua Kim added some shine on the scoreboard four minutes after with a well-taken effort. Despite their best efforts, the boys in pink were unsuccessful in adding onto their goals for the day, and the final whistle saw the Malaysians victorious.
Stallion play Philippine Champions Ceres-Negros tomorrow at the Emperador while Sabah continue their preseason tour on Thursday as they lock horns with Kaya-Iloilo.
