Make way: Perak’s Shafizi Iqmal (second from left) trying to get past Pahang players during the Super League match at the Perak Stadium. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: Fandi Ahmad steered Pahang to a comprehensive 3-0 win over Perak but the former Singapore international wasn’t convinced with his team’s below par performance in the second half in Ipoh.
Pahang have started well this season and have stayed unbeaten in the Super League after five matches.
And as far as the score suggests, they have done well against Perak who are guided by Datuk Lim Teong Kim.
Goals from leading striker Kpah Sherman (13th minute), Brundo Stafano (37th) and Zuhair Aizat Nazri (74th) helped Pahang remain at fourth spot with nine points behind leaders Johor Darul Ta’zim, Sabah and Selangor.
Fandi is hopeful Pahang can maintain their first-half performance throughout 90 minutes in the coming matches.
“We played the attacking football that we wanted to play in the first half and scored early. However, I am not happy at all with our performance in the second half where we reduced our tempo and allowed Perak to fight back,” said Fandi.
“We play well in the first half in some games and in some games, we are better in the second half.
“We have not got the consistency yet and we hope to get it in the next few games.”
Fandi did not want to gloat about the team’s unbeaten run. It’s the first time since 2019 that they have not lost in the first five games.
“We haven’t lost but we have more draws (three) and this win was very important before we take a two-week break (international break),” added Fandi.
Pahang will also use the break to recuperate and prepare well before taking on fourth-placed Kedah at home on March 31.
Meanwhile, Teong Kim said the absence of defender Mohd Hafizal Mohd and midfielder Sunday Kolawole Afolabi and the red card to Nazrul Amri Kamarul Azhar (39th minute) had an effect on the team.
“Overall, I’m not satisfied with our performance today (Thursday) but I’ve to admit that we lost to a more skilful team than us. They (Pahang) are a stronger side,” conceded Teong Kim.
“Playing with 10 men makes it tougher but these are not excuses.
“In our next match against Penang (March 31), the two players will be back. The break comes at the right time as it gives players with some injury issues the time to recover.”
Perak will be hoping to return to winning ways with a full team away against Penang.
