Johor DT got their AFC Cup campaign off to a terrific start after thumping Indian side East Bengal FC 4-1 at the Larkin Stadium.
Bojan Hodak opted to reshuffle his squad for this one, with Hariss Harun being the only foreign player in the starting eleven. Amer Saidin was given a slot alongside Fadhli Shas, while Safee Sali was picked to spearhead their offence. Meanwhile on the flanks, Nazrin Nawi and S. Chanturu were handed the batons.
The match certainly got off to a lively start, with the home side pressing very high up the pitch. East Bengal visibly looked disoriented; something that Safiq and Hariss took advantage of to assert their influence in the middle of the park.
But it was Nazrin who ultimately broke the deadlock on the 9th minute, curling home an excellent free kick that sent the home fans into rapture. The goal was also a much-needed impetus, considering that they’ve not exactly been on song in the last three games.
East Bengal though, to their credit, did not give up and pushed hard to find the equalizer. That eventually arrived on the 34th minute, as Ranti Martins’ deflected free kick attempt found its way past Izham Tarmizi to level the score.
Their joy was short-lived as Johor DT were awarded a penalty just moments later, with Milan Susak adjudged to have handled the ball inside the box. Safiq Rahim stepped up as usual and dispatched the spot-kick effectively to restore Johor DT’s lead. At half time, it was 2-1 to the home side.
After the break, Bojan’s men effectively killed the game on the 46th minute, as quick counter attack allowed S. Chanturu to use his pace and slot home from close range to make it 3-1.
There were no signs of slowing down as well, almost as if Johor DT were keen on making up for their frustrating series of games prior to this. They kept on pushing on the offensive, and continuously pressured the East Bengal defence.
And when the fourth goal arrived, it did so in spectacular fashion as Safee Sali manufactured a majestic bicycle kick to find the back of the net, silencing his critics while also putting the home side in a very comfortable position.
From that moment on, they visibly reduced their tempo, knowing that the job was done. Safiq was also withdrawn to be preserved for their next game, and while East Bengal had several chances here and there, none of them were concrete enough to alter the score line, which effectively stood at 4-1.
Photo Credits: Asiana.my
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