PETALING JAYA: It was a dream start for Kim Pan-gon in his coaching debut with Selangor, but the South Korean has stressed that the emphatic victory was only the first step in his Red Giants journey.
Selangor thrashed Brunei 5-2 in their Super League clash at the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium in Bandar Seri Begawan on Saturday to remain fourth in the standings with 28 points from 14 matches.
Brunei stayed at seventh after their four-match winning run came to an end.
Former Malaysia head coach Pan-gon applauded the club’s supporters first before reflecting on the performance and his vision for the club.
“Our Selangor Ultras came all the way to Brunei to support us, and I truly appreciate that,” said Pan-gon, who previously coached South Korean club Ulsan Hyundai before joining Selangor last week.
“I am proud of all the players for what they have done. In just three days, they showed their passion and the Selangor way of football.
“We did the right things on the pitch. The tactics and the players’ reactions were good. They were brave, despite the tough pitch and circumstances. The opponents were strong as well, but we were resilient.
“However, this is just the first step. We still have a lot to do to develop our own way.”
Pan-gon also expressed pride in becoming part of Selangor and doing his part to rebuild their might in Malaysian football, especially with their reputation of being 33-time Malaysia Cup champions.
“To be part of Selangor is something I’m proud of, especially being able to contribute to the development of the club’s DNA,” he said.
“Winning is important, and the first win is always meaningful.”
On Saturday, Brazilian striker Chrigor Moraes continued his scintillating form by scoring four goals, finding the net in the fifth, 10th, 58th and 90th minutes.
The 25-year-old now tops the league goalscoring charts with 16 goals from 14 games.
Midfielder Nooa Laine added Selangor’s other goal in the 48th minute.
Brunei’s consolation goals were scored by winger Hakeme Yazid Said in the 41st minute and Portuguese midfielder Miguel Oliveira in the 62nd.
