South China just can't get it right
South China's lack of quality finishing continues to haunt them after they failed to kill off the challenge of 10-man Wofoo Tai Po in an uninspiring goalless draw in the BOCG Life Premier League on Saturday.
Despite being reduced to 10 men for the entire second half after Wu Haopeng received his second bookable offence at the break, bottom side Tai Po managed to hold on to steal a point at Hong Kong Stadium.
We had the best possible squad brimming with strong team morale after our victory over Pegasus, but we just could not take the three points at our home ground
The result meant South China's title hopes were dealt another blow, but more importantly, it showed the Caroliners' lack of consistency after they had defeated rivals Sun Pegasus 4-2 two weeks ago.
South China dominated possession, especially in the second half when they had a numerical advantage. However, the Hong Kong giants were unable to break down a stubborn Tai Po defence - this despite the Caroliners throwing everything at them, including bringing in Daniel McBreen, the Australian League golden boot winner in 2013.
"We had the best possible squad brimming with strong team morale after our victory over Pegasus, but we just could not take the three points at our home ground. It's a disappointing result," said captain Chan Wai-ho.
"We have to improve our finishing with the regional AFC Cup kicking off in two weeks.
"But we also need to pay credit to Tai Po as they worked hard for the result."
Tai Po coach Pau Ka-yiu was delighted with the way his side defended, saying the result would boost the team when they take on fellow strugglers in the fight to avoid relegation.
South China move to second place in the standings, tied with champions Kitchee on 20 points but having played two more matches. Eastern still lead with 22 points, while Tai Po remain bottom with three points.
Elsewhere, YFCMD beat BC Rangers 2-0 at Kowloon Bay Park through second-half goals from Kenji Fukuda and Fernando Pedreira.
