Singapore coach confident they won't be affected by match-fixing allegations

LionsXII coach V. Sundramoorthy is confident his players will not be affected by the latest allegations of match-fixing in the M-League.

"Why should they be affected? My players are focused on the mission ahead and I am confident it will stay that way," said Sundramoorthy after watching his side blank FAM league side UiTM 3-0 in a FA Cup first round match in Shah Alam yesterday.

The Lions side have been making headlines following claims that their victories over Sabah (1-0) and Negri Sembilan (3-1) were under investigation by the FA of Malaysia (FAM) and Fifa.

The Lions made their debut in the FA Cup impressively by taking an early lead through Shaiful Esah's volley in the 11th minute before Madhu Mohana added their second four minutes later.

An own goal from UiTM's Ahmad Shahril in the 84th minute ensured them a comfortable win.
Lions will face Negri Sembilan's Betaria FC, who thrashed Malacca 4-0, in next month's two-leg  second round tie.

"My players went out there and did their job well. I have no complains as it is always difficult to play against an underdog. Credit to the university boys for trying hard and giving us a tough match.

"I am particularly impressed with UiTM's midfielder Saiful Raduwan and striker Muhd Nursalam.

They gave us a lot of problems with their speed and mobility," said Sundramoorthy.

UiTM coach Azman Eusoff said he was happy with his players' never-say-die attitude.

"I am proud of my team. It could have been better if my players had a little more experience. We conceded two soft goals.  Again it could have been different if my first choice keeper (Muhd Hazriq) was available," said Azman, the former assistant coach of the Young Tigers A squad.