Win over Jerantut FA did not come easy — Perak coach
MARAN: Perak chief coach Mehmet Durakovic has admitted that his team were under tremendous pressure before scoring a 2-1 win over hosts Jerantut FA in their FA Cup third-round clash Wednesday night.
Mehmet said this was expected as his boys were up against a home team who were fired up in front of their supporters.
“We dominated the 90 minutes of play but credit should be given to our opponents for putting us under great pressure. Jerantut FA also took the lead via a well-taken free kick although we had many chances.
“But I’m satisfied because we finally scored two goals and most importantly qualify for the next round,” he told a press conference after the match.
Jerantut FA’s goal was scored by Muhammad Firdaus Abdul Razak in the second minute of added time in the first half while The Boss Gaurus’ two goals were netted by imported player Wander Luiz Bitencourt Junior in the 75th and 84th minutes.
Mehmet said the two goals scored by Perak showed the difference in standard between his team, who play in the Super League, and Fourth Division League team Jerantut FA.
“Jerantut FA took to the match with nothing to lose and their players are generally young and spirited. But it’s not easy to compete with a Super League team, especially in terms of maintaining your standard throughout the match.
Meanwhile, Jerantut FA’s Ahmad Nazri Md. Noor said his team had given their best and accepted the defeat.
“We are an amateur team playing against a Super League team who are the Malaysia Cup champions… our goalkeeper played well although he conceded two goals.
“However, we are determined to return next year and hope to get sponsorships to strengthen our team,” he added. - Bernama