PETALING JAYA: Negri Sembilan stretched their unbeaten run to four matches under interim coach K. Rajan, but concerns remain after managing just one win during that period.
More troubling for the Deer is their defensive record, having failed to keep a clean sheet since Jan 25, a run spanning eight matches across all competitions.
Their latest outing saw them held to a 2-2 draw by Brunei in the Super League at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium in Paroi on Sunday.
The result leaves Negri Sembilan sixth in the standings with 23 points from 20 games.
Japanese playmaker Takumi Sasaki put the hosts ahead in the 31st minute, but Brunei responded strongly after the break.
Nigerian striker Christian Irobiso equalised in the 47th minute before young winger Hakeme Yazid Said gave the visitors the lead in the 61st minute.
Ghanaian forward Joseph Esso rescued a point for Negri Sem-bilan with a 74th-minute strike to ensure the spoils were shared.
Despite the dropped points, Rajan remained positive about his team’s performance, crediting the opposition goalkeeper for denying his side a victory.
“It was a fair result. Their goalkeeper made many top saves and we created plenty of chances. We were just unlucky,” said Rajan.
“The players followed the game plan well, but their goalkeeper was outstanding.”
Rajan, however, acknowledged that defensive improvements are needed.
“Our defence has to improve. We will work on it in training to ensure better results in the remaining matches,” he said.
“I have no issues with our midfield and attack.”
While the team’s inability to keep clean sheets continues to raise eyebrows, Rajan downplayed the concern.
“Not having a clean sheet is not a major issue. It is normal in football.
“Yes, we concede, but we also score. Even top teams concede goals,” he added.
“I’m not going to question the character of my players. We were just unlucky, and their goalkeeper, Haimie (Nyaring), made many crucial saves.”
Rajan believes the unbeaten run is a positive sign, but stressed that results must improve.
“We are unbeaten, which is a good sign. We have scored many goals and conceded only five in these matches,” he said.
“But I want wins. Four games unbeaten is encouraging, but we need more victories.”
