PETALING JAYA: A striker lives by goals, and Ramadhan Sananta (pic) will be hoping his Malaysia Cup breakthrough is the spark that reignites his season.
The Brunei attacker had gone four Super League matches without scoring, with his previous goal coming on Dec 20 in a 3-1 win over Sabah.
Ramadhan finally broke the drought in the Malaysia Cup last 16, first-leg match against Kelantan on Jan 17, opening the scoring in Brunei’s 2-0 victory at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium.
“I’m pleased to be able to contribute to the team and get back on the scoresheet against Kelantan,” said Ramadhan. “It feels great to find my goal-scoring rhythm again.”
The 23-year-old now hopes to carry that momentum into today’s second leg at the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Stadium, having managed three goals and three assists in 17 appearances since joining Brunei in July.
Despite modest returns, Ramadhan remains central to Brunei’s attack with his pace and hold-up play creating space and opportunities for his teammates.
Ramadhan opened the scoring in the 31st minute against Kelantan, pouncing on a defensive scramble before firing past goalkeeper Shafiq Afifi. The second goal came late in the match through substitute Syafiq Ahmad, who was introduced in the 65th minute in place of Nigerian striker Christian Irobiso.
Ramadhan said the Malaysian League isn’t as easy as one thinks, as players have to work twice as hard to achieve their desired outcomes.
“However, I know how well-prepared our squad is to take on this competition. My hope is that everything remains positive. I want to continue contributing to the team and help us secure a victory in the next match.”
