Although Johor Darul Ta’zim emerged victorious in their clash against PKNS FC last night, it wasn’t one the best performance by The Southern Tigers.
JDT played without their key midfielder, Safiq Rahim, who had to sit out the match due to suspension after accumulating three yellow cards. Safiq’s absence was definitely felt, and the responsibility fell on the shoulders of Gabi Guerra, Afiq and Amirulhadi.
Cabrera was upfront, together with JDT’s new signing, Mohamed Ghaddhar, and Azrif on the right.
For the most part, Gabi Guerra was trying to either look for Ghaddar, or take a wild shot by himself from outside the box. When he did pass to Ghaddar, the Lebanese miskicks or misfires, probably nervous from all the pressure on him.
The match ended with JDT winning 1-0, although it could have easily been 4-0.
JDT’s head coach admits that it was not the best night for JDT in terms of finishing. PKNS threatened a lot, and prevented them from scoring in the first half.
“It was not a formation we expected. They played 5-3-2. At the beginning of the match, their winger gave us problems. We used 4-2-3-1 and hoped that our wingers could attack and control the game as a whole. I then switched our strategy to a diamond formation, which helped us strengthen the midfield.” Benjamin Mora explained.
“Safiq is an intelligent player who knows how to find his strikers. Last night, Ghaddar got to play while Safiq didn’t. However, it’s not an excuse because Ghaddar managed to make a few attempts to score goals.” the head coach said.
“It means we created chances to break down PKNS’ defence. Unfortunately it wasn’t the best night for Ghaddar, but it’s okay. He is a good player and will score goals. I’m satisified with Ghaddar’s performance tonight.”
“Ghaddar did well, ran a lot, constantly got involved inside the penalty area, and managed to make several shooting attempts. And for a striker, it is very disappointing not to get on the scoresheet. However, I am still satisfied because he tried his best.”
Although Ghaddar did not score, he did play a part in the sole goal that JDT scored by providing the assist. And he is still MSL’s top scorer with 18 goals.
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