JDT pick up the pieces after Muangthong lesson

PETALING JAYA: Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) have moved on from the 5-2 humiliation by Thailand’s Muangthong United in the AFC Champions League second qualifying playoff match last week.

And they are now looking to start their Super League title defence with a win at home when they take on Kedah at Larkin Stadium this Saturday.

Coach Ulisses Morais insists it will be a different JDT in the Super League-cum-Charity Shield match against Kedah.

“The preparations for the Kedah game are going smoothly and we’re fixing whatever mistakes we made in the match against Muangthong.

“I believe our players understand my tactics better now,” said the Portugal-born Morais, who guided JDT to a 2-0 win over Kedah in the Malaysia Cup final last November.

The 58-year-old added his side must find a way to nullify Kedah’s aggressive play from the flanks and short passing game.

“I believe we have a slight advantage because we’re playing at home. I hope our fans will be the catalyst for our victory but we can’t be complacent against a team like Kedah.

“We still have to be cautious as Kedah are now led by a new coach Ramon Marcote and will have a new approach,” said Morais.

There was also good news for the Southern Tigers as Brazilian centreback Marcos Antonio is expected to make his return against Kedah after a long injury lay-off.

The 34-year-old defender picked up an ankle ligament injury in a Super League match against Perak last August.