Slim win a big boost to Kelantan’s confidence

KUALA LUMPUR: Kelantan can finally heave a huge sigh of relief, having won their first match after three outings in the Premier League.

The slim 1-0 win over UKM FC at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium on Sunday has also boosted the players’ confidence, which took a big hit after losing 0-1 to Selangor United and drawing 33 with Sabah in their opening two matches.

“We are thankful for the win despite playing without five key players, who are with the national team for the AFF Under22 Championship,” said assistant coach Kamaruddin Muhammad.

“We still need to sharpen our attack, though.”

The Red Warriors had to rely on a last-gasp penalty, converted by Brazilian Flavio Beck Junior, for all three points against UKM FC.

Referee Mohd Shahrizan Mohamad Solihim awarded the spot kick after Kelantan’s Raul Andres Lemos was fouled by UKM FC goalkeeper Khatul Anuar Md Jalil in the box.

UKM FC head coach Sulaiman Husin, however, saw it differently and questioned Mohd Shahrizan’s decision.

“I appeal to the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to get referees of higher quality,” he said, adding that the team would move on and focus on their next match.

The win allowed Kelantan to move five spots up to sixth with four points while UKM FC dropped one position to ninth with three points after three matches. - Bernama