SINGAPORE, May 18 -- The Lion City Sailors fell just short of making history yesterday after losing 2-1 to United Arab Emirates side Sharjah in the AFC Champions League Two final at Bishan Stadium.

Marcus Meloni's dramatic goal in the seventh minute of stoppage time clinched the win for Sharjah, denying the Sailors a chance to become the first Singapore club to win a continental title.

"Our guys did a tremendous job, especially after going 1-0 down. It was a shame that we [conceded] a very late 2-1 goal, but I have nothing to say except that I am very, very proud of my boys," Sailors head coach Aleksandar Rankovic was quoted telling CNA.

The Sailors had reached the final after defeating Sydney FC 2-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals and...