The weighing was 99% against 1% for Bali, according to Van der Sande, who had previously played in Scotland and had experience with high-level football. The experience he gained in Scotland played a significant role in his decision to choose Bali over the Eredivisie. "In Schotland heb ik ook op het hoogste niveau gespeeld. Daar had ik ook wedstrijden als Celtic en Rangers, wat natuurlijk gigantisch grote wedstrijden zijn", he explained.

Balk also came into contact with Johnny Jansen, the head coach of Bali United, through his agent. The two players had previously played together at SC Cambuur and had a good relationship. "Mijn zaakwaarnemer had contact met de hoofdtrainer, Johnny Jansen. Die nam gelijk weer contact op met de eigenaar", Balk said.

The two players are now focused on helping Bali United achieve success in the Indonesian league. Van der Sande is confident that they can make the play-offs, while Balk believes that the level of football in Indonesia is not much lower than in the Eredivisie. "Het voetbal is zeker niet veel slechter dan de KKD. Het bovenste kwart is dan wel iets beter", Balk said.

The two players are also positive about the organisation of Bali United, which they believe is on a similar level to Dutch clubs. "De trainers zijn hele leuke mensen, ook buiten het voetbal. Gewoon gezellige gasten. Ik vind het goede trainers", Balk said.

Next step: Bali United will face Borneo in their next match, which is expected to be a challenging encounter due to the hot weather conditions.

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