Sharjah determined to salvage season with ACL2 trophy

After losing the United Arab Emirates President's Cup final and ceding the UAE Pro League to Shabab Al-Ahli in a winless run of five games, Sharjah FC's season looked like it was going pear-shaped after a promising start.

- David Lee

Wounded they may be, but the Emirati club could be dangerous as they attempt to salvage their campaign with their first piece of continental silverware when they face hosts Lion City Sailors in the AFC Champions League Two (ACL2) final at Bishan Stadium on May 18.

At the pre-match press conference on May 17, Sharjah coach Cosmin Olaroiu said: "We always learn from every game, and we knew this would be a very tough season for us and we are going to struggle a lot.

"By the work of these fantastic players, we are in the ACL2 final, which is a big achievement for the club. Now we have the last battle, our last final, and we have to focus.

"We didn't deserve to lose the President's Cup final, but now it's time to take revenge and get the trophy the players deserve. We come here with the idea to take the trophy, and try not to disappoint our fans and families. We should be able to make one more effort, it doesn't matter how much it will cost us, to try to win this game."