The M-League season kicked off with a bang as Johor DT (JDT) retained the Charity Shield after nicking it on penalties against Selangor.
The match saw great individual performances from the likes of Juan Martin Lucero, Patrick Ronaldinho, Hafiz Kamal and Hariss Harun. It was tricky to choose one specific player who made the biggest difference, but I am sure most of you will agree with my choice. JDT captain Safiq Rahim was my MVP.
He must have been disappointed when JDT lost the AFC second round qualifier to Muangthong United on penalties, but it was obvious that he put that aside to lead his team to a second consecutive Charity Shield over the Red Giants.
The former Selangor player dictated the play across midfield as he linked up well with his teammates throughout the entire 90 minutes. He came close to scoring twice in the first half, before assisting a scorcher of a ball from a corner kick to allow Hariss Harun to score the first goal of the game.
Despite conceding in the second half, Safiq Rahim urged his teammates to continue the attacking display as he managed a couple of beautiful through balls. When the game went to penalties, the national team captain confidently stepped up first to slot in past Norazlan Razali in goal.
Regardless of only earning one point, JDT will be thrilled to start off their season with a title in the bag. Safiq Rahim will be pivotal in the Southern Tigers’ quest of clinching a third consecutive Super League title.
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