PETALING JAYA: Immigration finally ended their winless run in the Super League with a gritty 1-0 upset over Penang at the State Stadium, a result that brought both relief and emotion for coach Yusri Che Lah.
Colombian striker Wilmar Jordan delivered the decisive moment in the 59th minute, reacting quickest to a loose ball inside the box to score his second goal in five league appearances.
His strike gave Immigration their first victory and first clean sheet of the campaign after eight frustrating matches.
For Yusri, the win meant more than just points on the board. It was a release from weeks of tension.
“First of all, thank God for granting us a victory that we really, really needed,” said Yusri.
“I’m deeply moved by the commitment shown by the players. We were under tremendous pressure.
“Even though yesterday a reporter asked if I was under pressure and I said no – truthfully, inside, I was very stressed.”
Immigration, who had conceded 17 goals before this match, produced their most disciplined defensive display yet.
Yusri admitted that the final minutes were nerve-wracking as his side battled to hold on.
“Those last five minutes felt so long,” he said.
“When the final whistle blew, I could see how emotional the players were.
“It might just be a league win, but for a new team that have often been on the wrong end of results, this was our best reward.”
The coach revealed he had to make several emergency changes, with Iranian centreback Amirali Chegini (knee injury) and wingback Aiman Yusni (groin) sidelined.
Defender Luqman Hakim started for the first time, while Hanafi Tokyo, who had yet to play a minute all season, came on in the second half after Keron Ornchaiyaphum went off injured.
“We had to make do with what we had,” Yusri said.
“But Alhamdulillah, the players showed great character and focus. Their mental strength tonight was exceptional.”
The win lifted Immigration to eighth with six points.
“We can’t stop here. We must use this break wisely and keep moving forward without looking back,” said Yusri.
Immigration next face Police at the Batu Kawan Stadium on Nov 23 after the international break, with Yusri hopeful this win will mark a turning point.
