The end of winless run is huge relief for Zainal

PETALING JAYA: Melaka heaved a huge sigh of relief after they ended their five-match winless run in the Super League.

The Mousedeers’ Casagrande nodded in the winner in their 1-0 home win over Kedah at the Hang Jebat Stadium on Sunday.

The much needed win moved Melaka two rungs up to fifth in the 12-team standings with 14 points from 10 matches. Kedah remained fourth with 15 points.

Melaka coach Zainal Abidin Hassan hoped that their dark moments are over thanks to the Brazilian’s 49th minute goal.

“The players showed great determination to change their fortunes. I hope they will get back their confidence and keep on producing spirited performances,” said the former international.

“Against Kedah, we were very disciplined in defence. There were no silly mistakes but there’s still room to improve.

“For example, we were giving away too many free-kicks.

“The players were under pressure during the game but they rose to the occasion. I know my boys are capable of playing much better. I hope this win lifts the pressure off them.”

Meanwhile, Kedah coach Aidil Shahrin Sahak was left to rue his side’s fresh injury list.

The Red Eagles lost striker Mohd Zaquan Adha Abdul Razak through a thigh injury and his replacement, Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, suffered a knee injury in the defeat.

“This is the price we pay playing in a tight schedule,” said the Singaporean.

“The boys pushed hard as we tried to come back to at least get a point. But you can see some of them were tired. Credit to Melaka for the win.”