Well played, maestro
Striker turned midfielder Syafiq excels in new role
PETALING JAYA:
Looks like Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) have found themselves an unlikely maestro in Syafiq Ahmad.
The national player, who is a striker, was placed in the middle of the pitch with Hariss Harun and Afiq Fazail against Petaling Jaya City at the Petaling Jaya Stadium on Saturday.
And he proved to be a handful for the hosts and went on to score the winner in the 1-0 win.
JDT manager Luciano Figueroa praised the 23-year-old for putting in a good shift.
“We gave Fiq a chance to play and he did very well. We needed a player who is good with the ball and he fits the bill,” said the former JDT striker.
“As he is a striker, he knows when to get into the box and break the opponent’s defence.”
Syafiq, who has played as a central midfielder for Malaysia, said he didn’t feel awkward in the engine room.
“I’m a striker, but it is not hard for me to get used to that position. For me, whatever position I’m given, I’ll do my best,” said the former Kedah player.
“The team needed to rotate after the game against Shandong Luneng in the AFC Champions League. I’m glad I got the chance to play.
“The goal certainly boosted my confidence and gave me the impetus to work harder. The league is long so there’s lots of time to prove myself.”
Even though JDT got the three points and solidified their lead in the league, the players certainly struggled a little in the second half due to fatigue playing in the Champions League.
“It is difficult when you play in many competitions. Against PJ City, I decided to play almost the same 11 that played against Shandong because these players are suited for this kind of game.
“They do look a little tired, but they fought for the three points. The pitch was also soft so it was a bit tough to play our normal game.”
Meanwhile, PJ City coach K. Devan said JDT were deserved winners but saluted his boys for putting up a good fight.
“First half, we wanted to hold them, but we conceded a goal. I knew we could get better in the second half and we did create problems for them. We created two good chances but we didn’t capitalise on it,” said Devan.
“Our attacking strength needs to be improved. The players are gelling well, but they are not burying their chances.
“We will surely look at bolstering the squad in the next transfer window.”