Footballer Safuwan suffers defeat on A-League debut
National football team ace Safuwan Baharudin's A-League debut ended in disappointing fashion on Saturday evening, after his Melbourne City side were comprehensively beaten 3-0 by fierce rivals Melbourne Victory in a local derby.
Starting in defensive midfield in place of Erik Paartalu, the 23-year-old defender started strongly, but disaster struck after 10 minutes.
City captain Patrick Kisnorbo misplaced a pass intended for Safuwan, and Victory captain Leigh Broxham stole in to launch a counter attack which ended with Besart Berisha scoring from close range.
Safuwan began the second half in a more advanced midfield position, swopping places with Jacob Melling, but the change made no difference for City as Victory scored their second just seven minutes after the restart.
A clever freekick to the near post was met by Kosta Barbarouses, who sent a looping header into goal.
In an attempt to find a way back into the game, City coach John van't Schip sent on half-fit Australian international striker Josh Kennedy on for Safuwan in the 59th minute.
The sub proved to be futile, however, as Victory scored their third goal just two minutes later, after former Hamburg striker Berisha crossed for Fahid Ben Khalfallah to steer home from close range.
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now