Full of ammunition: Johor Darul Ta’zim’s Jese Rodriguez takes a shot during their Super League match against Perak on Monday. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: A winning mentality is the driving force behind Johor Darul Ta’zim’s (JDT) Super League dominance.
The Southern Tigers continued to make history by capturing their 11th consecutive Super League title after defeating Perak 2-0 at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on Monday.
JDT head coach Hector Bidoglio said the strong mindset instilled in the players comes from club owner Tunku Mahkota Ismail.
“JDT’s success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of Tunku Mahkota Ismail towards all the players and staff.
“I must also thank all the fans for their support and always standing by the club,” he said.
JDT controlled the game against Perak throughout and managed to break the deadlock before half-time when Arif Aiman’s pass was finished off by Spanish striker Jese Rodriguez in the 45th minute.
Perak goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli deserved praise for denying several JDT attempts, but could not stop the hosts from further extending their lead in the second half.
A handball by a Perak defender in the 64th minute gave JDT a penalty which was converted smoothly by Colombian striker Jorge Obregon.
Bidgolio admitted that Perak’s defence had posed a problem at times during the match, but his team had the skill set to get past eventually.
“The first half was challenging as Perak played a tight game and it was tough for us to get through the defence.
“But our players showed patience and controlled the game well before taking advantage of their mistakes to score,” he said.
It was JDT’s 19th win in 20 Super League games this season and they have 58 points, ahead of Selangor in second with 42 points.
Meanwhile, JDT defender Jordi Amat said the club’s success knows no limits.
“You can see that we deserve this. This club have no limits, and we want more.
“The hunger inside us comes from the boss and every player and every staff member, we are all working together for that.
“It has been a long year, but now we have to do work in the AFC Champions League Elite,” he said.
JDT’s next two fixtures will be against Buriram United in the Champions League Elite round of 16 next month on March 4 and 11.
