Hodak surprised by his Warriors

KOTA BARU: Title-holders Kelantan’s 6-1 win over Johor Darul Takzim (JDT) in the Malaysia Cup quarter-finals second leg at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium came as a surprise for coach Bojan Hodak.

The Croatian had expected the Red Warriors to emerge victorious but not by such a big scoreline. The east coast giants were trailing 2-4 after the first leg and eventually won 8-5 on aggregate.

The Red Warriors scored through Mohd Norfarhan Mohd (19th and 61st minutes), Mohd Badhri Radzi (31st), Obinna Nwaneri (43rd), Dickson Nwakaeme (46th) and Indra Putra Mahayuddin (89th). Striker Safee Sali scored the consolation goal for JDT in the 42nd minute in the ill-tempered match which saw referee Suhaizi Sukri brandish six yellow cards. 

“It was surprisingly a one-sided game ... I was a bit concerned when we missed a few chances. But my players put up an excellent performance once we settled down,” said Hodak.

“The players were downcast after losing the first leg ... they knew they were too relaxed. This time around they were much more determined and focused,” added Hodak.

Kelantan will take on Armed Forces, who beat Super League champions Lions XII 4-2 on aggregate, for a place in the final. The first leg is on Oct 18.

Hodak, however, may be without midfielder Shakir Saari and rightback Nik Shahrul Azim Abdul Halim. Both suffered injuries on Saturday.

“I hope the injuries are not too serious and they are available for the first leg,” said Hodak, who led Kelantan to the treble – Malaysia Cup, FA Cup and Super League – last season.

For Hodak, he is not taking Forces lightly.

“Both Kelantan and Forces are the best attacking sides in the M-League. It will be a tough match and both sides have an equal chance of making it to the final. It’s going to be a final before the final ... it’s definitely going to be a very open match,” said Hodak, whose side beat Forces 3-2 in the Malaysia Cup final last season.