Rivals sense a chink in JDT’s armour

recent turbulence at Johor Darul Ta’zim has given their rivals hopes of ending the club’s four-year grip on the Super League title.

Although it is too soon in the season to say that JDT’s dominance might end this year, some see a chink in the league leaders’ armour.

Three straight away defeats and the departure of coach Ulisses Morais and top scorer Jorge Pereyra Diaz have combined to create a sense of crisis at JDT.

The team that could benefit immediately are Terengganu, who trail JDT by a point in the standings and will host them in a topof-the-table clash in Kuala Terengganu on March 10.

Terengganu coach Irfan Bakti Abu Salim, whose side are still unbeaten after four matches, believes this year is as good as any to break JDT’s stranglehold on the league title.

“It is not just Terengganu who want to end JDT’s title run but also teams like Pahang and PKNS,” said Irfan, ahead of his team’s FA Cup second round tie against Petaling Jaya Rangers today.

“Somebody should mount a challenge and I think we should be challenging them. It is ridiculuous for one team to win the league title four years in a row.”

The problems plaguing JDT could lead to a closer battle for the title although Irfan said the Johor club remain the team to beat.

“They still have many good players and most of them play for the national team,” said Irfan, who led Terengganu back to the top-flight after one year in the Premier League.

“JDT are still the team to beat but anyhow we will try our best to take the title. The chance is there.”

But in a statement posted on their Facebook page, JDT vowed not to let the recent upheavel derail their season.

“Problems, issues and drama often happen at JDT at the start of every season,” said the club.

“Just like every year, JDT face one obstacle after another despite making early preparation. Problems will continue to arise, but come December, we will still be enjoying the fireworks.”

Meanwhile, Irfan does not intend to take the challenge of FAM Cup side PJ Rangers lightly today when Terengganu will line up with their strongest side at the Petaling Jaya Stadium.

“We had more than a week to get ready and I don’t want my players to take this match lightly,” he said.

“I want them to be focused even though we have a big game against JDT coming up.

“We might be unbeaten but we have only played four matches. The players must keep their feet on the ground and not be complacent.”