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Park applauds Pohang’s determination; Noh warns Tampines to stay sharp
Pohang: Head coach Park Tae-ha praised his team after their 2-0 win over BG Pathum United in Group H secured their place in the AFC Champions League Two™ Round of 16 on Thursday.
A brace from Lee Ho-Jae secured the three points for Pohang, who dominated the match with their disciplined defending, limiting Pathum United’s chances. 

The victory secured second spot for Pohang, behind Group E winners Tampines Rovers with Park hailing his team’s overall performance.

“It was an important match as we wanted to reach the Round of 16 and I’m proud we were able to get this win and achieve our goal,” said Park. “We have come a long way since the start of the season."
#ACLTwo | Group H: FC Pohang Steelers (KOR) 2-0 BG Pathum United (THA)

#ACLTwo | Group H: FC Pohang Steelers (KOR) 2-0 BG Pathum United (THA)

“I want to praise the players again for that – from the rookies to the mid-season additions and our senior players. I also want to commend the players for their hard work and also extend my gratitude to the fans.”

Tampines Rovers almost made it hard for themselves after taking a 4-0 lead, conceding three goals in the second half before the Singapore side finished things off with their fifth.

Despite taking top spot with 13 points, head coach Noh Rahman admitted that his side dropped the ball in the second half.
#ACLTwo | Group H: Tampines Rovers FC (SGP) 5-3 Kaya FC-Iloilo (PHI)

#ACLTwo | Group H: Tampines Rovers FC (SGP) 5-3 Kaya FC-Iloilo (PHI)

“We didn’t make it easy for ourselves. We had a comfortable lead but we conceded a goal that should have been avoided. That gave them a chance and hope to fight back into the game. It’s a lesson for us to learn, especially in matches like this. We can’t take things for granted.

“However, we’re happy for the club and especially the players, achieving our objective was the goal and reaching the Round of 16 is something we’re very pleased about.”