Negri could not convert scoring chances into goals, says Devan

PETALING JAYA: Negri Sembilan failed to capitalise on their newfound confidence to earn three points but Kedah were quietly happy with a 0-0 stalemate considering their poor run of form.

The Deer had numerous chances but they could not find the net at Darulaman Stadium on Tuesday.

Last week, they were heading for a draw against power-packed league leaders Johor Darul Ta’zim but it was undone by a last gasp strike by Fernando Forestiery in the 99th minute.

Negri coach K. Devan said the team played open football and were well organised in defence but could not convert the scoring chances into goal.

“We deserved to get three points as we created many chances but our finishing let us down. Playing away and creating five, six chances is good and in fact, we had more gold-scoring opportunities compared to Kedah,” said Devan.

“Our boys are more matured and played an open game. Defensively, we were organised but attacking, we should have scored (one) at least.

“When we started the season, our target is to stay in the Super League because we have a history of getting promoted and demoted. We are getting positive results and the season will be good for us.”

Meanwhile, Kedah coach Aidil Sharin Sahak said his team only started playing in the second half and managed to contain the in-form Negri despite the absence of key midfielder Dechi Marcel from the Ivory Coast.

“Without Marcel, we didn’t lose and we still played good football, especially in the second half. The young players also stepped up in the absence of Marcel and I am proud to see them fighting until the final whistle,” said Aidil.

“We didn’t play in the first half. The players were very cautious but the second half was much better.

“But tonight, I saw all the players showing a lot of desire compared to the last four games we played.”

Aidil also confirmed that South Korean defender Jang Suk-won has decided to retire due to a series of injuries.

“It was Jang’s last match for Kedah. He wants to retire as he can’t deal with injuries any more. But he wanted to help the team despite not being fully fit.”

Both teams will relook into their strategies during the international break where the next series of Super League matches will only begin on June 18 where Negri play against Melaka while Kedah face league leaders JDT on June 19.