'Bucheon counterattack toppled us,' Pohang Stellers manager Park Tae-ha delivers stern words: "Players became complacent amid unbeaten streak... ultimately, it's my fault" [Bucheon on-site]

*This content was translated by AI.

Park Tae-ha (58), manager of Pohang Stellers, who suffered a defeat to Bucheon FC, pointed out the players' complacency.

On the 17th at 7 p.m., Pohang suffered a 0-2 defeat in an away match against Bucheon at Bucheon Sports Complex in the 15th round of 'Hana Bank K League 1 2026'.

Pohang's unbeaten run of four matches (three wins, one draw) came to an end, leaving them in fifth place with 22 points (six wins, four draws, five losses). Meanwhile, Bucheon secured their first-ever K League 1 home victory. Breaking their three-match winless streak (two draws, one loss), Bucheon climbed from 11th to 9th place with 17 points (four wins, five draws, six losses).

Pohang dominated the match from the early stages based on high possession. However, their numerous decisive shots by the attacking line were repeatedly saved by Bucheon goalkeeper Kim Hyung-geun, resulting in failed goals. Despite controlling the game, Pohang failed to capitalize and exposed gaps in their defense during the second half, conceding consecutive goals to Thiago and Lee Ui-hyung, leading to their collapse.

After the match, manager Park Tae-ha expressed deep regret at the post-match press conference. He cited 'lack of finishing' and 'players' complacency' as the main causes of the defeat.

Manager Park Tae-ha reflected on the match, stating, "We entered the Bucheon game with good momentum. I always believe that when our strength is at its peak, it is a crisis, and I emphasized this to the players. However, on the field, we did not show the good momentum or determination we had displayed before."

He added, "Even though we dominated the first half, failing to capitalize on decisive scoring opportunities was the biggest reason for today's defeat."

He also diagnosed that May's upward momentum had backfired. Manager Park Tae-ha said, "Since we haven't lost since May, it seems some laxity has appeared among the players. While tactics are important, for professional players, mindset and attitude upon entering the field must come first."

He did not forget to take personal responsibility as the coach. Manager Park Tae-ha remarked, "Even when the game was going well, we often suffered from foolish counterattacks like today's. Despite repeatedly instructing the players to be mentally prepared, this result kept repeating. Ultimately, this is my fault. I believe I was negligent in demanding more rigorously. Next time, I will speak much more strongly than I did now."

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*This content was translated by AI.