Corinthians’ Ralf: Artificial turf not to blame for defeat

Corinthians midfielder Ralf has dismissed claims that the artificial turf at Tijuana’s Estadio Caliente was to blame for their 1-0 defeat. Tijuana caused a shock upset by winning their Copa Libertadores clash after a superb backheeled finish from captain Javier Gandolfi in the first half. Ralf took the time to tell reporters in Mexico that […]
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sambafoot_admin
2013-03-07 14:00:00

Corinthians midfielder Ralf has dismissed claims that the artificial turf at Tijuana’s Estadio Caliente was to blame for their 1-0 defeat.

Tijuana caused a shock upset by winning their Copa Libertadores clash after a superb backheeled finish from captain Javier Gandolfi in the first half.

Ralf took the time to tell reporters in Mexico that playing on artificial grass was hard but not an excuse.

“It is difficult, quite horrible, but it is not a reason (for the loss). We lost because we failed to score goals, not because of the field,” said Ralf.

The result leaves Tijuana at the top of the table, one point ahead of the defending champions who will have to be wary of the threat from Colombia’s Millionarios in third, who are also one point behind.

Source: Fifa.com