JDT coach Morais full of praise for former international Gary

JOHOR BARU: Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) head coach Ulisses Morais’ faith in former international Gary Steven Robbat has paid off for the Southern Tigers.

The Portuguese gave Gary a rare start in Saturday’s Malaysia Cup match against Selangor and the midfielder put up a sterling performance to help JDT beat the Red Giants 3-1 at the Larkin Stadium.

Gary scored JDT’s second goal in the 29th minute – sandwiched between Lebanese striker Mohamad Ghaddar’s brace (16th and 74th).

The win ensured the four-time Super League champions a spot in the quarter-finals as Group D winners with 13 points.

Selangor, who got their consolation goal through Rufino Segovia (27th minute), also qualified as group runners up with 10 points.

“I do not normally talk about individual players but this time it’s different. Gary played really well and showed that he is an important player for the club.

“He has not played for seven months, which is a long time for a footballer, but Gary has the right attitude and quality,” said the coach.

Morais was relieved to finally get a win against Selangor this season and earn all three points to top the group.

“We wanted to win this game as it was important for us to become group winners – and the players delivered,” he said.

In the quarter-finals, JDT will meet Group C winners Melaka while Selangor will face defending champions Kedah.

The first leg will be on Sept 15-16 and the return leg is on Sept 23-24.