I would say that we had a ‘dream’ draw in
the World Cup Qualifiers. Some would say that we have been given a ‘nightmare’
draw in the Asian Cup Qualifiers. Certainly I don’t think any of the teams we
have drawn (DPR Korea, Lebanon and Malaysia) would have been our first choice
in their respective pots. Travelling to DPR Korea and Lebanon will be difficult
and the opponents will be tough. Malaysia are no pushovers either as we know
from experience. All four teams will fancy their chances of getting to the finals,
especially DPR Korea who clearly start as favourites to win the group. The DPR
Korea Head Coach has the distinct advantage of working with his players on a
full time basis.
We got a flying start in the World Cup
qualifiers and this gave us momentum in the competition. This time we have
Lebanon away first up (March) followed by DPR Korea at home (June), neither of
these will be easy fixtures to say the least. We’re going to have to be at our
best to get results from these games.
Right, that’s enough negativity. The draw
has been made, we know the magnitude of the task and qualifying for the finals (UAE
2019) remains our goal. I know we can do it. So we start the hard work, right
here, right now. I have already communicated with Coach KIM and when he returns
tomorrow we will plan our strategy. All of the qualification matches fall at
the end of each 10 day FIFA match-day period so we can arrange some friendly
fixtures and training camps to enable us to prepare properly.
We have a great team spirit and work ethic
and everyone will fight for Hong Kong. The whole team is determined and
passionate. Furthermore, I know our loyal fans will give their support and this
means a lot to the coaches and players in particular.
If and hopefully, when we qualify, we will
know that we have done it the hard way rather than relying on an easy draw. As
the saying goes….when the going gets tough, the tough gets going! Go Hong Kong
Mark
Sutcliffe CEO, January 2017
