PETALING JAYA: No one batted an eye when Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) fielded their second-stringers in their first-leg match against Kuala Lumpur Rovers in the Malaysia Cup.
Even their second team are strong and as expected the Southern Tigers underlined the depth by mauling the A1 Semi-Pro League side 3-0 in the round of 16 game at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on Wednesday.
Naturally head coach Hector Bidoglio was proud with the squad consisting of fresh faces, except first team player Heberty Fernandes, who scored the hattrick.
With KL Rovers playing heavy defence, Bidoglio commended his players as they stuck to the gameplan despite their opponents’ efforts to halt their attacks.
Delightful debut: JDT’s G. Pavithran during their Malaysia Cup round of 16 match against KL Rovers at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium. — JDT
“It was a difficult match because our opponents played heavy defence with nine players throughout the match, it was hard for us to find the space and connect with the forwards,” said Bidoglio.
“But the players gave it 100% in the match. They moved the ball from side to side and tried to penetrate their defensive line,” he said.
The Argentine coach also gave three youngsters their first start with JDT, including JDT II player Mohd Alif Abdul Mutalin, JDT III player G. Pavithran, and recent transfer Christian Abad.
“I’m happy with how the three players who were brought in performed because it’s never easy to play in the first team with all the differences in intensity and team dynamics.
“But I always have full belief in all the players even though sometimes some have a little difficulty due to lack of playing minutes, but they show full commitment on the pitch,” he said.
Bidoglio added that the team aren’t getting carried away with their first leg win as they have to keep their focus on other tournaments as well, including the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE) , where they take on Shandong next on Tuesday.
“Right now we need to focus on all competitions. We are playing in the ACLE and now in the Malaysia Cup too.
“Every match is difficult for us and we need to play seriously, improve our game and keep growing,” he said.
But KL Rovers head coach Wan Mustaffa Wan Ismail can’t wait for the rematch to take place next Saturday (Nov 30).
His team had created some chances at goal despite the loss and is hoping they can bounce back in the second leg.
“The team played according to the gameplan. We held the midfield and defended until the last minute.
“I’m confident we have a chance to bounce back with a different style of play in the second leg,” he said.
