Pohang Steelers coach Farias praises standard of ACL

The coach if the winning Asian Champions League team has praised the competition for its high standards.

Pohang Steelers’ Sergio Farias, who guided the Korean outfit to Asian glory, said the standard was exceptional and his side’s achievements were made even better as they were competing in three other competitions.

Speaking to the-afc.com in an exclusive interview, Farias said: “For this competition, the level was very high. The high standards meant we were exhausted and became very tired.

“For us it wasn’t just the AFC Champions League. We were also playing in four different competitions at the same time.

“There were injuries (to the players) and I think the trick was in producing an optimum performance in all the different competitions. I think we did it well.

“Some games were very demanding technically. The group games against Kawasaki Frontale were exceptional and the Final too. These matches were extremely technical.”

Farias said after clinching the Asian Champions League as well as the Peace Cup, the Steelers would now focus their attentions on winning the domestic league.

“We lost the Korean FA Cup but were able to win the other two (Peace Cup and ACL). So I fully expect we can achieve our goal of becoming the K.League champions,” he added.

“If we do it, it would also prove our staff are doing an excellent job as our players are quite tired.”