Sabah players celebrate after winning 4-0 against Penang at the City Stadium in Georgetown on Friday. Credit - Sabah FC Facebook
PETALING JAYA: Sabah’s 4-0 win over Penang on Friday went without a hitch for the Rhinos’ head coach Ong Kim Swee.
Taking the valuable three points at the City Stadium in Georgetown, Kim Swee said his players showed discipline and commitment on the pitch.
Kim Swee praised his defensive line for keeping a clean sheet, something the club have not experienced for quite some time, with their last one in the Super League coming during their 2-0 win against Negri Sembilan in July.
“What is important is that we got the three points, all the goals were important.
“But to me, the most positive thing is that we did not let our opponents score, which is something that we have not done in a while,” he said.
Sabah found the back of the net early into the game as Saddil Ramdani scored in the second minute.
They later made it 2-0 through a free-kick from Gabriel Peres in the sixth minute, which was followed by Stuart Wilkin making it three for the visitors in the 35th minute.
Sabah captain Dominic Tan then extended their lead by scoring in the 50th minute.
Although they were already up 3-0 before half-time, Kim Swee said the players stay focused to prevent Penang from penetrating their defence.
“We were leading by three goals before half-time but the players were disciplined, especially the defence,” he said.
The win in Penang puts Sabah in third place in the league with 20 points, behind second placed Selangor and leaders Johor Darul Ta’zim at the top.
The Rhinos will return home to prepare for their next fixture on Tuesday when Kedah visit the Likas Stadium.
Penang, who are currently in 11th place, will play their next Super League fixture against Terengganu on Nov 1.
