Harry makes JDT’s day
Novillo strikes in memorable debut against Selangor
PETALING JAYA: Johor Darul Ta’zim’s (JDT) new striker Harry Novillo is oozing with confidence after making his debut in the M-League.
The former Lyon striker salvaged a point for his team against Selangor in their Super League clash and has promised that he will get better with more matches under his belt.
The league leaders went ahead through Gonzalo Cabrera in the third minute but Selangor recovered and took the lead through quick goals from Saiful Ridzwan Selamat (14th) and Rufino Segovia (16th) before Novillo claimed the equaliser (68th) as the match ended 2-2 at the Cheras Football Stadium on Saturday.
With the draw, JDT stayed top of the 12-team Super League with 25 points after 10 matches while Selangor – with 11 points – are eighth, three points off the relegation zone.
The 26-year-old Novillo, who played an attacking role from midfield but was pushed to the flanks as JDT chased the game, said he’s comfortable playing in any position.
“We’re unlucky not to bring home three points. But the team (Selangor) didn’t play against us. They just kicked the ball in front and tried to do something. It looked like they were scared of us,” he said.
“I’m confident I’ll be better in the future, I trust my partners, the team, the staff – everything will be okay. I’ll just play where ever the coach asks me to play, it doesn’t matter if I like this position or not – as long as I help the team, I’ll do it.”
Novillo revealed that he had been approached by other M-League teams but JDT’s stature as the top club won his signature.
“What I know and what I see, no team is better than JDT right now. In the past few years, they won four titles in a row – that means something and I’m here because of ambition.
“I had other offers from Malaysia but if I went anywhere else, it would be crazy,” said Novillo, who was signed from United Arab Emirates Division One side Baniyas Club.
“JDT have everything a player needs in a career – the pressure, the crowd, facilities,
professionalism and atmosphere. If I’m not good, I’m not good but I will give my best for JDT.”
“This is a really good league, the stadiums are crowded. I knew a little bit about the Malaysian League before I came here, the football is different from where I came from and I’m really happy to come here.”