Luka shines as Perak secure first home win


PETALING JAYA: Two games, two wins. The scorelines may be modest, but Perak are slowly finding their rhythm in the Super League.

After defeating Negri Sembilan 1-0 at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium in Paroi last week, they continued their momentum with a 1-0 victory over Kuala Lumpur at the Perak Stadium in Ipoh on Saturday.

What makes the win even sweeter is that it marked their first home victory of the Super League season.

A key factor in Perak’s recent success has been the form of Serbian playmaker Luka Milunovic (pic). The 31-year-old, who assisted Clayton Silva’s goal in the win against Negri, turned goalscorer this time, netting against Kuala Lumpur.

The former Red Star Belgrade player received a low-driven cross from winger Nur Azfar Zikri and sent it past Kuala Lumpur goalkeeper Azri Ghani in the 62nd minute.

Milunovic credits the team’s recent form to an improved atmosphere in the dressing room over the past few weeks.

“After the last two games, we’re thrilled with both the results and our performances. With no official games for seven weeks, we had enough time to prepare for these matches,” he said.

“The team environment and the dressing room atmosphere have been fantastic, which has given us confidence and belief on the pitch.

“I’m delighted with the six points we’ve earned. It’s also great that we managed to win the last two games with clean sheets. I’m happy to contribute to the team with assists and, of course, goals.”

Perak’s recent victories have seen them climb steadily in the Super League standings. They now have 12 points from nine matches, placing them seventh in the league.

Perak will next face Pahang at the Temerloh Stadium on Sept 28, as they aim to continue their positive momentum.

Milunovic said: “We’ll approach the next match like any other, with full concentration and a bit of extra motivation to extend our winning streak.

“I’ll do my best to maintain this momentum, putting in the effort and professionalism that’s always required.

“If you work hard and in the right way, the results will come sooner or later. Most importantly, we all believe in this team.”

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