North Queensland Fury’s first-ever game has fallen flat with the new Hyundai A-League franchise beaten 1-0 by Singaporean club side Tampines Rovers in a trial in the Asian city.
Fathi Yunus’ 76th minute strike proved the difference between the two teams, with the local side overcoming having a player sent off in the second half.
Coach Ian Ferguson said that while the result wasn’t great, there were plenty of good signs.
“It was our first game and I was very pleased with the way the boys played in the first half,” Ferguson said.
“We moved the ball about well and had some half chances and being our first game you could see we were a little bit sluggish.”
“But I’m reasonably happy … we got a good hit out from it.”
Brendon Santalab missed a penalty while Ramone Close forced a save from the Tampines keeper.
Marquee signing Robbie Fowler did not play in the match after battling a minor hamstring injury. Ferguson said he would take no risk with the Liverpool legend’s fitness in the pre-season.
