PETALING JAYA: For strikers, numbers define their trade and a zero beside their name only adds pressure.
Terengganu’s new frontman Gervane Kastaneer has finally erased that unwanted statistic.
The Curacao international opened his account for the Turtles with a stunning strike in their 1-1 draw against Kuala Lumpur in the Malaysia Cup quarter-final first leg at the Sultan Mizan Stadium on Friday.
The 29-year-old struck as early as the sixth minute, latching onto a pass from Brazilian centreback Diego Landis.
Kastaneer held off Kuala Lumpur midfielder Ryan Lambert before unleashing a powerful 20-metre drive that flew past City Boys goalkeeper Quincy Kammerad.
“As a striker, you want to get rid of the zero and be free,” said Kastaneer, who joined Terengganu from Indonesian club Persis Solo just a day before the transfer deadline on Feb 1.
“I’ve done that now and it feels good. I want to achieve more.
“It’s only been a little over a week here, but I already feel very welcomed. I’ll work hard, score goals and give the fans something to enjoy.”
Kastaneer made his Terengganu debut in the Super League on Feb 1 in a 1-1 draw against Selangor, also at the Sultan Mizan Stadium.
In that match, he registered three shots, 22 touches and completed eight passes, while also contributing defensively with an interception, a clearance and two recoveries.
His physical presence stood out as he won 12 of his 17 duels.
As he continues to adapt to Malaysian football, Terengganu will be hoping their new number nine grows in confidence and delivers the goals needed to excite the home supporters and fuel a strong cup run.
The East Coast will take on Kuala Lumpur in the second-leg at the Cheras Football Stadium on Feb 15.
