PETALING JAYA: Ronnie Fernandez knows improvements are a must if Selangor want to do well in the other group matches of the AFC Champions League (ACL) Two.
The Chilean striker scored a goal on his continental debut but the Red Giants were held 1-1 by Thai side Muangthong United in their opening Group H encounter at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, yesterday.
The 33-year-old Fernandez said they were expecting even more tougher matches.
“It was a hard game. I guess the whole tournament is going to be like this. For a side like Selangor, this is good exposure and we will prepare accordingly for the rest of the tournament,” said Fernandez.
Eyes on the ball: Selangor’s Ronnie Fernandez (centre) vying for the ball with a Muangthong United player during the ACL Two match in Bangkok. — Selangor FC
“We need to make some improvements. We had the chance to get three points against Muangthong but.
“Fortunately we did not lose either, so that is good as well because we got a precious away point.
“I am happy to have opened my account in this tournament but I did miss a few more good chances. I have to be more focused on my targets and get three points for the team.”
The first half proved to be cagey as both sides were cautious with their approach but Selangor goalkeeper Azim Al-Amin was made to work hard as he had to make two saves to deny Muangthong the lead.
Selangor eventually took the lead in the 48th minute when Fernandez finished off a superb pass from Venezuelan playmaker Yohandry Orozco with a strong left-footed finish inside the penalty box.
But the lead lasted just six minutes when the home side equalised through winger Purachet Thodsanit, who finished from a close range in the 54th minute.
The score stood at 1-1 as both stayed cautious until the final whistle.
Selangor captain Safuwan Baharuddin was the standout performer for the Red Giants.
The 32-year-old Singaporean international produced a defensive masterclass, making two clearances, one clearance off the line, and three blocked shots.
Selangor’s next game is against Filipino club Cebu at the Petaling Jaya Stadium on Oct 3.
