PETALING JAYA: Winger V. Ruventhiran’s first goal after a five-year wait felt so good.
Coming off the bench, Ruventhiran scored the decisive goal in the 85th minute as Melaka beat Kuala Lumpur 3-2 in the Super League game at the Hang Jebat Stadium on Saturday.
It was Melaka’s second win of the season and Ruventhiran’s first since 2021 as he last netted one for Petaling Jaya City.
“It’s really a well-deserved win for the team,” said the 25-year-old Ruventhiran, who preferred to focus on the team rather than himself.
“We worked on all our weaknesses and strengths for the past one month.
“It was a tough period for our team after losing four games straight, and the way we bounced back was a salute to everyone in the team.
“Coach Ela (E. Elavarasan) has always reminded us to keep improving each day and demanded more of ourselves.”
The visitors went ahead in the 12th minute through Afghanistan international striker Fareed Sadat but two quick goals from Brazilian striker Christian Souza (41st) and Liberian striker Kpah Sherman (53rd) saw Melaka take a 2-1 lead.
Kuala Lumpur equalised in the 76th minute when Melaka midfielder Syahir Rashid inadvertently deflected a Paulo Josue corner into his own net.
Melaka then struck again in the 85th minute with a quick counter-attack, finished off by Ruventhiran.
“This goal is always for my team. We stuck together and wrapped our arms tightly around each other’s shoulders, so I’m happy for my team,” he said.
This season so far, he has played six games in all competitions in different positions.
“Playing in a different position is actually a big demand in modern football. I’m still getting there physically and mentally so that I’m always ready to do my job.”
Melaka are sixth in the league with six points from five matches. Kuala Lumpur are seventh, also on six points but behind on goal difference.
