On target: Johor Darul Ta’zim’s Romel Morales (centre) scoring the second goal for the team against Terengganu during their Super League match. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: Terengganu paid the price for showing Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) too much respect.
That was the blunt admission from coach Badrul Afzan Razali after watching his side crumble 0-5 to the Super League champions at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium on Friday night.
The Turtles barely laid a glove on JDT, whose ruthless efficiency left the home crowd stunned. Jairo Da Silva bagged a second-half hattrick (64th, 72nd, 78th), while Bergson Da Silva (5th) and Romel Morales (31st) piled on the misery early.
“We respected JDT too much, and that’s where everything went wrong,” said a visibly dejected Badrul. “We weren’t organised, we lost focus, and the aggression was missing. As coach, I take full responsibility – I made mistakes too.”
The Terengganu boss admitted that his players’ cautious approach turned admiration into hesitation.
“We gave them too much room. You can’t play with fear against a team like JDT. The goal was at least a point, but we didn’t look close to it.”
Badrul, who took charge of the Turtles earlier this season, admitted that tactical errors and lack of aggression cost them dearly against the Southern Tigers. It was a humbling night that left Badrul questioning his own future.
“My position as coach — I’ll leave it to the management. I’ll accept whatever decision they make.”
The result leaves Terengganu desperate for redemption when they face Negri Sembilan next, a match Badrul called “do or die”.
Meanwhile, JDT coach Xisco Munoz lauded his side’s discipline and consistency, saying their form has reached a new level of balance.
“The team’s style is improving every match,” said Xisco. “Our defence has been stronger in recent games, and keeping a clean sheet tonight was important. We created plenty of clear chances – it was a complete performance.”
