ACL 09: 'ONE POINT IS LIKE A WIN'

Bok: One point is like a win

After the game, Shanghai coach Jia Xiuquan reiterated that he never felt SAFFC were a weak team and that it was no shame for Shanghai to concede first. The draw dents Shanghai's hopes of progressing to the knockout stages.

Warriors coach Richard Bok likened the point earned as three. He told theafc.com: "One point is like a win for us. It is a fantastic result for us and the players put up a determined, brave performance.

“When we were in Shanghai (lost 1-4), we were unlucky. They gave us a harder time tonight.

“Kashima Antlers and Suwon Bluewings are really a few levels above us. The only team whom we have a chance of getting at least a point is Shanghai Shenhua.

“This is our first time in the ACL and there are many lessons for everyone, from players even down to myself, in the club.

“If we get a chance to compete again next year, we will be better prepared.”

Bok added that the draw is a timely morale booster ahead of Saturday's crunch match against unbeaten Tampines Rovers. Goalscorer Latiff agreed.

Said a beaming Latiff after the game: "I'm very happy. It's my first goal in the AFC Champions League, and it was a scorcher. We've been having a dip in form lately and this is a very good result for us. I hope this will be the catalyst of a good run."