DEMOTION DANGER FOR KELANTAN

Premier League beckons after seventh defeat

FORMER champions Kelantan are in danger of being demoted to the Premier League after suffering their seventh Super League defeat on Tuesday. An improved Kuala Lumpur were unstoppable as they thrashed the east coast side 5-1 courtesy of goals from Guilherme de Paula (brace), Paulo Josue, Ashri Chuchu and Junior Aparecido at the KLFA Stadium.

Fajer Ibrahim’s side hardly looked like they were capable of getting something out of the match and were punished for their defensive frailties.

Centre-backs Cassio Jesus and Alaeddine Bouslimi were disappointing as they allowed KL to dominate and score goals.

After the final whistle, Kelantan assistant coach Yusri Che Lah addressed the press as Fajer declined to do so.

“Fajer is upset. It is sometimes hard for a coach to immediately face the press after a huge defeat.

“We didn’t perform well. Honestly, if we continue to play like this, it will be tough to remain in the Super League.

“We hope, however, the team will improve as the aim is to remain in the toptier competition,” said Yusri.

Kelantan are currently 11th in the 12team standings, two points away from the safety zone.

Syrian Fajer may have got things wrong as he had dropped the likes of midfielder Badhri Radzi and goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat from the team for the remainder of the season to make way for youth players.

Yusri, however, believes Fajer made the right decision to axe several seniors.

“What Fajer did is good for Kelantan football. This is what modern football is all about.

“Malaysian players are pampered. Fajer is strict and he needed to make changes but many are upset.

“Frankly, he is one of the best coaches I have ever worked with of late. Changes are necessary in order to progress and hopefully, the team will respond well in the upcoming matches,” he added.

Kelantan will play Negri Sembilan in Kota Baru on Saturday.