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)