PETALING JAYA: Two weeks ago, Perak coach Yusri Che Lah lambasted his players publicly after their 0-2 loss to Penang in the Super League northern derby.
Yesterday, though, he was all smiles. His Seladang had proven that they had what it takes to bounce back with their second win of the season, beating Kelantan 3-1 in the Super League at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru on Friday.
Argentinian midfielder and captain Luciano Guaycochea was the hero, scoring in the 57th and 80th minute after midfielder Firdaus Saiyadi had given Perak the lead in the 44th minute.
Kelantan’s lone goal was scored by Syahir Rashid in the 87th minute.
Yusri said his team was at their prime against Kelantan and took their chances well.
“Another away win for us. We were under pressure because we lost a few matches, especially the northern derby against Penang two weeks ago.
“I am a fighter. We weren’t at our best but we played football for 90 minutes. When they played a back five, we struggled to penetrate with our normal game,” Yusri said.
“But what we planned happened in the second half. We got goals and also relied on pace from our youngsters.
“Our first two goals killed off any hope of a comeback.”
The only blemish in the win was the sending-off of Guaycochea in the final minutes of the game. He was shown a second yellow for time-wasting.
The 32-year-old was bemused and even the Perak bench was left puzzled but Yusri said the official’s decision had to be respected.
“I am sad with such a situation. We are not a violent team. I guess it was fate that we got the red card. It is a lesson. Luciano’s absence will be felt when we play Kuching in three days’ time,” he said.
