Indonesia suffers another soccer defeat

Indonesia suffers another soccer defeat

JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia continued to leak goals in its
European tour prior to the Asia Nations Cup finals when it
crashed to a 3-0 defeat to Estonia over the weekend.

The goal spree was Indonesia's third defeat in as many
international friendlies played at their Italian base in Genoa.

Coach Danurwindo, who is attempting to strengthen the side's
defense, gave no trace of disappointment despite the loss. "The
drenched pitch prevented us from developing the play. Moreover,
the Estonians managed to make full use of their height
advantage," Danurwindo said.

Danurwindo let Widodo Putro and Ronny Wabia lead Indonesia's
up-front charges, but after a sloppy first half, the coach
withdrew Ronny for Indriyanto Nugroho. The new partnership
however failed to end Indonesia's goal drought.

The Indonesians have scored only once when they fell 1-2 to
Moldova and conceded nine after three matches. Lithuania handed
Indonesia its second defeat with a 4-0 win last week.

Estonia, which brought in its players who are struggling in
the World Cup European Zone qualifying round, outdueled the
Indonesians both on the ground and in the air.

Indonesian goalkeeper Kurnia Sandy, who is the third-choice
man under the bar with Italian Serie A club Sampdoria, made a
series of brilliant stops which saved his side from further
embarrassment.

"At least our defense is stronger and more solid after playing
three warm-ups here," Danurwindo said. He added that he would not
drastically change tactics when his squad meets Sampdoria
tomorrow.

It will be the third meeting within two years between the
sides which are tied at 1-1. (amd)