PETALING JAYA: A January loan switch from Selangor to Melaka has handed goalkeeper Samuel Somerville a new lease of life.
The 31-year-old is savouring a resurgence with the Mousedeer, after a year of struggling for first-team action with the Red Giants.
Somerville’s difficult period followed last season’s FA Cup final, where Selangor suffered a heavy 1-6 defeat to Johor Darul Ta’zim. The aftermath saw him subjected to intense criticism, eventually losing his place in the team.
“This season with Melaka has helped me to rebuild my confidence,’’ said Somerville.
“Playing consistently has allowed me to find my rhythm and enjoy football again.
“The aftermath of last season was really difficult for my family and me, mentally.
“There were a lot of false accusations and criticisms. As a goalkeeper, when you don’t play well, you naturally carry a lot of the blame.
‘’That was very difficult to deal with, especially because I’ve always given everything for every club I’ve represented.
“But looking back now, I think those experiences have helped to build my character.”
“Despite all the negativity, I never stopped believing in my qualities. The loan move to Melaka came at the right time.’’
Somerville has featured in eight matches for Melaka this season.
His consistently impressive performances have earned him an average rating of 7.67 across all competitions according to statistics aggregator Sofascore, alongside more than 40 saves.
With Somerville finding comfort in his new surroundings and regaining his good form, he can expect to have his hands full in helping Melaka to end the season creditably.
They are 11th in the league with 18 points and are out to win their last two games against Kuching City at Hang Jebat Stadium on Saturday and Immigration in Kangar on May 16.
