PETALING JAYA: Alvin Fortes may be taking the plaudits for his double in Selangor’s 2-1 win against Perak, but he owes it to his teammates for making it possible.
The Cape Verdean international known for his superb close control, dribbling and venomous left-footed shots, scored his goals in the 41st and 71st minute.
The first goal was a simple tap-in when he finished off a superb low-drilled cross from right wingback Quentin Cheng.
The second was another brilliant team goal when striker Ronnie Fernandez’s through pass found midfielder Alex Agyarkwa, who teed Fortes for another simple tap-in.
Perak’s only goal was scored by former Selangor winger Wan Zack Wan Haikal in the 89th minute.
The win sees the Red Giants maintaining their spot in second, collecting 35 points from 16 matches.
As for Fortes, 30, he is proving to be a superb signing for the club, scoring 14 goals in 28 matches in all competitions and being a livewire on the flanks.
Selangor coach Katsuhito Kinoshi praised Fortes for his goals and performance and commended his boys on a job well done.
“Fortes got the goals, no doubts about that, but everyone in the team worked hard to get the goals and the win,” said the Japanese coach.
“He finished off the movements and passes by everyone on the field.”
As for the game against Perak, Kinoshi knew it would not be easy because of Perak’s history on the domestic stage and how their youngsters have made life tough for teams in the league with their energy.
“I knew this match would be difficult and Perak proved my prediction right. My players ran and sacrificed a lot to get the three points.
“As for the goal we conceded, we must learn from it and see what else needs to be done to reinforce our rearguard. We will move forward from this game and continue this momentum.”
