Having reached the group stage of the continent’s top competition for only the second time, the Twin Kirins showed they were no pushovers at the highest level with a battling display against their Australian hosts.
Former national midfielder Totchtawan said the share of spoils was no less than his side deserved as they comfortably dealt with everything the Australian A-League side threw at them in front of sparse crowd at the Brisbane Stadium.
“Taking a point back home was exactly what we targeted. It’s a pity, though, since we should have won the game. Given our form, it’s a really good starting point for us. All the lads deserve credit for fighting for each other. We showed other teams what we’re made of,” said the 45-year-old trainer.
J League-bound Chanathip Songkrasin struck a similar tone, saying his side’s solid performance warranted all three points.
“It’s my first AFC Champions League outing. I’m a bit disappointed as we should have claimed a win. But it’s a crucial point for us and gives us confidence for the next games,” said the diminutive midfielder, who will join J-League newcomers Consadole Sapporo on loan in July.