PETALING JAYA: It was a story of redemption for Immigration’s attacking duo – Colombian Wilmar Jordan and Fayadh Zulkifli – as they bounced back in style to inspire a 2-1 comeback win over Sabah in the Super League on Saturday.
Just a week earlier, Immigration had suffered a heavy 0-4 defeat to Selangor, a match that proved frustrating for both players.
The 34-year-old Jordan was substituted as early as the 35th minute for tactical reasons but although visibly disappointed, the experienced striker remained professional and continued supporting his teammates from the sidelines.
Winger Fayadh, meanwhile, endured an equally difficult outing when his goal was ruled out offside despite his tireless work to spark attacks.
At the Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu, however, the pair turned the tables.
Sabah struck first when striker Darren Lok opened the scoring in the 30th minute.
Immigration struggled to break down the hosts in the first half but returned with renewed determination after the break.
Jordan drew the visitors level in the 75th minute before Fayadh sealed the victory with a late winner in the 89th minute.
Immigration coach Yusri Che Lah praised his players’ fighting spirit after the match.
“This was a much-needed victory. These three points allow us to take the next step and keep competing with the mid-table teams,” said Yusri.
“Congratulations to all the players. The difference in character between the first and second halves was clear.”
He added that both the starting lineup and substitutes played crucial roles in the turnaround.
“I saw players who were tireless and never gave up. That is the character we need for future matches.
“My tactical decision to switch from a back five to a back four paid off. The introductions of Nur Azfar Fikri and Fadzrul Danel Nizam helped change the rhythm of the game and gave us more energy.
“Fayadh’s goal was amazing,” he said.
“Ending this run with a win before the Aidilfitri celebrations is something to be proud of,” he said.
Looking ahead, Yusri has set a clear target for the remaining five matches — three at home and two away.
“We hope to collect at least nine points to secure a mid-table finish. The players must stay focused after the Aidilfitri break.”
Immigration’s next home match will be against Penang at the Tuanku Syed Putra Stadium in Kangar, where Yusri hopes fans from Perlis will come out in support.
“With this win, I hope supporters will turn up and back the team. We want to reward them with our first victory at that stadium this season.”
