Determination led to win – Jelius
Head coach Jelius Ating revealed the players’ steely determination to succeed led them to a 2-0 Premier League win over a stubborn Penang side at the Likas Stadium on Saturday.
KOTA KINABALU: Head coach Jelius Ating revealed the players’ steely determination to succeed led them to a 2-0 Premier League win over a stubborn Penang side at the Likas Stadium on Saturday.
He said the players worked hard throughout the game and it paid off handsomely when goals in each half from Brazilian striker Luiz Carlos Junior sent Sabah to the top of the league.
“I have to give credit to all the players where they worked tirelessly not only in the match but in training (during the threeweek break) just to produce the desired result.
“I’m happy that we achieved what we set out for and it proved their hard work did not go down to waste,” he told reporters after the game.
Commenting further on the match, Jelius admitted it was a hard earned win and cited that Penang were unlucky not to convert from the chances they had.
“It was not an easy win for us because Penang played well and created enough chances too, but, I think we had better luck on the night.
“In fact, we could have won by more than two goals but for me it is adequate...what’s important is we collect all three points.
“I also want to thank the fans for their support...our victory is theirs too,” he said while also hailing the management for arranging the friendly matches during the break which had positive impact on the team.
On Sabri Sahar, the head coach revealed further test was needed to determine the extent of injury suffered by the midfielder.
Sabri, who assisted Junior’s first goal with a perfectly weighted corner kick, was seen in cructches after the game.
“We will wait for the doctor assessment. Hopefully nothing is serious and that he can recover quickly to prepare for our upcoming games.
“If not, I have every confidence in my players to fill in the gap left by Sabri...we have capable replacement,” he said.
Meanwhile, Penang assistant coach Kamal Khalid said the failure to take their chances especially in the first half led to the defeat.
“It was an evenly contested game but Sabah took their chances well and we did not...that’s what separated the teams tonight.
“Another factor is the referee who allow for Sabah’s second goal to stand which demoralised our players,” he said.
The victory ensured Sabah replaced Johor Darul Takzim II (JDT II) as the new leaders on superior goals difference, after both teams have collected 14 points.
Sabah will next turn their attention to the FA Cup second round tie where they are away to Kelantan United FC on April 3 before resuming their league fixtures against hosts Selangor United on April 6.