KUALA TERENGGANU: A strong defence was the key to Terengganu’s win over star-studded Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), said head coach Abdul Rahman Ibrahim.
The experienced 67-year-old was pleased that his charges were tactically disciplined to prevent JDT from scoring.
“I know my team conceded the least in the league, so the key to winning this battle was to not concede.
“We are pleased with the result, even though at times JDT dominated and our play was not too convincing.
“JDT are probably one of the best teams in the country with many quality players. But we stuck with our tactical approach, and that is why we succeeded,” said Abdul Rahman.
A solitary goal from Cameroonian defender Vincent Bikana in the 16th minute was enough to provide Terengganu with three points and propel them to the top of the Super League with 13 points after six matches, and a game in hand.
JDT are only three points behind Terengganu, but are in sixth position.
JDT tried hard to come back but they were denied by the woodwork twice, not to mention some outstanding saves by Terengganu goalkeeper Sharbinee Allawee.
JDT team manager Bojan Hodak said his team deserved to leave the match with at least a point, but praised Terengganu for holding on.
“We had better chances in the game but could not capitalise on them. The Terengganu goalkeeper also made some good saves,” said Hodak, who recently joined the Southern Tigers as team manager.
The match between Terengganu and JDT was expected to draw a large hostile crowd at the Sultan Ismail stadium on Saturday, because of the recent “tunnel fiasco” at Larkin Stadium involving Terengganu-based T-Team and JDT.
Tight security was deployed around the stadium, with a heavy police presence and Federal Reserve Unit trucks, armed with water cannons stationed outside.
However, no untoward incidents occurred that night.
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