FROM ZERO TO HERO
‘Unwanted’ Celin bids farewell by keeping Kelantan in the Super League
ALESSANDRO Celin almost did not last the season as Kelantan’s failure to replace the forward in the mid-year transfer window turned into a blessing in disguise.
On Saturday, the Brazilian became Kelantan’s saviour when he came off the bench to score twice in the last 10 minutes for a 3-1 win over Melaka in the Super League at Hang Jebat Stadium to rescue the team from relegation.
The win took Kelantan up to 10th in the table ahead of Sarawak, who went down to the Premier League instead after being held 0-0 by Kuala Terengganu TTeam in Kuching.
Celin, whose season has been blighted by injuries, was happy to have played his part in the rescue act as he doubled his Super League goal tally to four.
“I cannot explain my emotions because it has not been an easy season for me,” said Celin, who only stayed on with Kelantan because they were prevented from making new signings due to financial restrictions imposed by Football Malaysia LLP.
“I worked very hard in the last weeks and days so that I can help Kelantan stay in the Super League. Today God blessed me with these two goals.”
Celin, who is unlikely to stay on, hopes his two goals act as the perfect parting gift for Kelantan fans.
“It is very important because the fans are very passionate for this club,” he said.
“I hope they enjoy their holidays and are very happy to stay in the Super League.”
After Nicholas Swirad headed Melaka ahead in the first half, Kelantan had to wait until the 74th minute when Abou Bakr El Mel chose the perfect moment to score his first league goal of the season.
Three minutes later, Celin replaced Fadhilah Yusof and went on to score the two goals that ensured he will be remembered in Kelantan football folklore.
Kelantan’s caretaker coach Satit Benso said he feared the worst as Melaka led 1-0 at half-time.
“After conceding the first goal, everything became very difficult,” said Satit, who replaced Zahasmi Ismail for the last game of the season.
“But the players never gave up and showed their fighting spirits. They worked very hard to come back and we knew that we could still win the game. This is a very important point.”
I worked very hard in the last weeks and days so that I can help Kelantan stay in the Super League. Today God blessed me with these two goals.
ALESSANDRO CELIN