Panthers roar

Promotion inspires Penang to aim for Premier League title

PETALING JAYA: The Super League will soon get to hear the roar of “Haria Penang Haria”.

The Panthers confirmed their place next season after beating Kuala Lumpur 2-1 at the City Stadium on Saturday.

Their three Brazilians – striker Casagrande, midfielder Endrick Santos and defender Rafael Vitor – have been instrumental in their rise and once again played a huge role in the win over the City Boys.

Endrick scored the opener in the 45th minute before KL skipper Indra Putra Mahayuddin equalised in the 71st minute.

Rafael turned match-winner when he scored in the 92nd minute.

Endrick said the promotion came as no surprise as they worked hard before the season resumed.

“I’m happy to send Penang back to the Super League as this was the objective from the beginning. We just continued our good momentum before the break,” said the 25-year-old, who had a stint with Selangor last season.

Now, he has set his sights on winning the Premier League title.

“Yes, we are focused on the trophy. That means the next three matches will be like a final to us. We are promoted but we will only be satisfied if we get the trophy.”

Meanwhile, Casagrande said Penang are doing well thanks to the tight bond among the players.

“We fight together. That is something that I see in my teammates and that’s what we have been doing all this while.

“I am thrilled that with their help I managed to score seven goals and three assists in eight matches.”

Before the game, both sides have won all their seven matches and garnered 17 points.

Penang are now ahead of second-placed KL and just need two wins and a draw to lift the trophy.