After leading FC Anyang to its first title and promotion in professional soccer’s K League 2, coach Yoo Byung-hoon revealed the heartbreaking story of his wife’s illness after tears of joy.
Anyang drew 0-0 with Bucheon FC in the 38th round of the Hana Bank K-League 2 away match at Bucheon Sports Complex on Feb. 2.
With 18 wins, eight draws and nine losses (62 points), leader Anyang widened the gap between second-place Chungnam Asan (57 points) and third-place Seoul Eland (55 points), who have played one game less, to five and seven points, respectively, and secured the K League 2 title and direct promotion to the K League 1 파워볼사이트 regardless of the remaining matches.
It is a thrilling achievement for Anyang, which has been in the second division since its inception in 2013, when the K League introduced the one-two division system and the K League Challenge (now the second division).
“It’s an honor to be a part of Anyang’s history,” said Yoo Byung-hoon on the happy occasion, ”and I’m grateful to the players who trusted me, the manager, coaching staff, and support staff who have led Anyang over the years.”
“After a disappointing season last year, we re-motivated ourselves and worked hard to achieve this result (promotion). We started quietly, but we finished in style,” he said, basking in the joy of the victory.
On the same day, Yoo also revealed a heartbreaking story. “My wife was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. I was told that I had to go to a big hospital for a cell test. I think it happened because (she) shared my stress,” he said, shedding tears.
Despite being diagnosed with cancer the day before, Yoo’s wife traveled to the stadium to witness her husband’s promotion. Yoo also confessed to reporters before the game that he “couldn’t sleep,” which was also a personal reason.
Anyang’s team manager Noh Sang-rae was also diagnosed with thyroid cancer two months ago. He has postponed his surgery to finish the season and undergo treatment.
“I want to share the joy of this promotion with the people who have been struggling, including the fans,” sobbed coach Yoo Byung-hoon.
Meanwhile, Bucheon head coach Lee Young-min expressed his disappointment with the draw and vowed to do his best in the final match.
The draw left Bucheon with 12 wins, 13 draws and 10 losses (49 points), meaning that even if they win the final match, they will not be able to surpass fifth-place Suwon (53 points).
“We wanted to comfort our fans with a win in the final home game, but I’m sorry we couldn’t,” said Lee Young-min, before hanging his head and adding, ”There are still games left. Our season is not over. We will do our best to play for our fans until the end.”