Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) exerted their dominance at the top of the Super League after a recent slump of form by beating Perak 1-0 in a highly emotional charged game at the Perak Stadium, earlier tonight.
Tensions were already running high before kick-off with fans from both sides making their presence heard. There was even a nervy situation early in the match after the floodlights went malfunctioned, threatening the game to be called off. The match went on after the issue was rectified and JDT took the lead soon after via Jorge Diaz. Lucero met Alex’s cross from the right with a header to the post, and the Argentine striker was the quickest to react to head the ball past Hafizul Hakim.
The Seladangs was defensively solid throughout the first half but they can’t do anything meaningful with their limited possession. They also have Hafizul to thank for as the shot-stopper was strong in denying JDT a second goal with a quick double save from Safiq Rahim and Lucero’s effort. Their best chance came at the 37th minute when Fazrul Hazli missed from close range after a rare defensive mix up from Johor’s otherwise solid backline.
The second 45 minutes was more of a cagey affair with an apparent lack of goal mouth action. Notable efforts came from Lucero and Oybak as the Argentine can only head straight to Hafizul and the Perak midfielder’s half volley blazed over the bar.
Mario Gomez’s side held on to their tight advantage till the end of the fixture to send the Boys of Straits down south in a jubilant mood. The Southern Tigers also extended their unbeaten run in the league to 17 matches as they look set to defend their title with only 5 more games to be played.
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