KUALA LUMPUR – After winning their first two Super League matches, Selangor FC had to settle for one point today after coming from behind to draw 1-1 with Sri Pahang FC at the Petaling Jaya City Council Stadium today.
The Red Giants held the possession in the first half but had a goal in the 34th minute disallowed after it was ruled offside.
With a heavy downpour hitting the match, both teams had a fair share of opportunities in the first half but the goalkeepers at both ends managed to keep it goalless at halftime.
However, in the second half, Pahang started strong and managed to take the lead in the 70th minute after they were awarded a penalty from a foul by Selangor defender Sharul Nazeem Zulpakar on Muhammad Baqiuddin Shamsudin.
Pahang’s Stefano Brundo’s stepped up to take the spot kick and give The Elephant the lead.
Going into the 90th-minute mark, Selangor’s saviour came in the form of their captain Brendan Gan who netted the ball from a freekick for the equaliser.
Speaking to media after the match, Selangor head coach Tan Cheng Hoe said the soaked conditions of the pitch played a factor in the result today.
“Not to give excuses but the pitch conditions today did not allow us to play our normal football.
“We need to learn to adapt according to the situation,” he said.
Tan added that although new arrival Mohamad Faisal Abdul Halim has yet to score his first goal for the team, the 25-year-old forward played a vital role in the team.
“Yes, he has not scored yet, but he has been assisting and supporting his teammates.
“He is still adapting to the team’s playing style but he is working hard and I will give credit where its due,” Tan said.
Meanwhile, Sri Pahang head coach Fandi Ahmad said the plan was to block Selangor’s attacks on the wing.
“We tried to hold them off in the wings because players like Faisal Halim and Hein Htet Aung are fast and dangerous on the sides.
“Our target was three points, but we have to be thankful for one point because, in the last 10 minutes, Selangor pressured us inside the box,” he said.
Selangor will play Penang FC next on March 12, while Pahang will face Perak on March 8. – The Vibes, March 5, 2023
