Thursday, June 15, 2017
Persija Face Sriwijaya Behind Closed Doors
Persija coach Teco deserves massive respect for turning the team's fortunes around in recent weeks. Their 3-0 triumph 'away' to Perseru was their third win on the spin and the third consectutive game Andritany had kept a clean sheet. The turnaround contrasts sharply with their start to the season when they went six games without a win.
Next up is Sriwijaya at home tomorrow night. While Laskar Wong Kito have struggled for consistency this season, they are currently 12th in Liga 1, Teco will know the biggest challenge facing his team could lie elsewhere.
It was announced yesterday the game with Sriwijaya would be played in Cikarang, not Bekasi, and will be played behind closed doors.
Persija fans have been involved in a number of incidents this season, the most recent being in their last home game against Arema when a section of the support trashed the TV equipment which was supposed to have beamed the game around the nation.
It will also be recalled last season when Persija hosted Sriwijaya the game was abandoned in the second half when home supporters went on the rampage and attacked the police in and around the stadium.
Persija are of course used to playing games behind closed doors. I am sure someone out there knows how many times they have managed this little feat. And it is unlikely this will be the last game to be played in such conditions. It is though unfortunate that the actions of the few continue to harm the club they profess to love so much.
# posted by Me @ 7:52 AM 
