SEREMBAN – The Negri Sembilan FC (NSFC) would need a 10-year grace period to match or compete against well-established and high intensity teams like Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), said NSFC head coach K. Devan.
Devan also acknowledged that the quality and competency of players in the JDT squad was at an optimum level compared with NSFC, which was formed just three years ago, and described the 0-7 loss to JDT last night as a clear signal that there is a lot of work to be done before a well-balanced team can be churned out.
“We know that JDT is the best team in the country. If we compare the quality that we have, there is a vast difference and that difference can be seen clearly.
“NSFC was formed just three years ago, and we are in the process of building a formidable team. It may take time to prepare a strong team, and to compete against top teams can take up to 10 years,” he told reporters after the match against JDT last night.
In a Super League match held at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium in Paroi, last night, JDT, who have won the Super League for nine consecutive seasons, whipped NSFC 7-0 to remain unbeaten in the 2023 Super League.
“NSFC had to play three matches in nine days, and we do not have a big squad like JDT or other well-established teams.
“Furthermore, most of the import players arrived late and the import quota too is not sufficient. Last night, we could not field the main team for the match.”
Meanwhile, JDT coach Esteban Solari was simply proud of his boys who registered a big win that lifted the team to the top of the league table.
“Of course, we are very happy with the results. Our team did a great job. The team knows how to play. Believe in our quality…for me, this win was a reward to the players, I’m happy for them,” he said. – Bernama, March 7, 2023
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