Terengganu: Terengganu FC (TFC) interim head coach Tengku Hazman Raja Hassan hopes his men will continue to maintain their momentum and consistent performance in the next match after recording a 2-1 victory over Melaka FC in the Malaysia Super League at Hang Jebat Stadium here last night.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tengku Hazman expressed gratitude towards his players, praising their commitment and discipline, which ensured the team secured three points. Despite fielding many local players, the team managed to fulfill their responsibilities and meet the team's needs, offering various player options for upcoming matches.
He emphasized the importance of capitalizing on scoring opportunities, noting that TFC had eight or nine good chances but failed to convert most of them. Hazman acknowledged moments of chaos during the match but commended the players for absorbing pressure and executing his game plan in the final minutes.
In the match, TFC took the lead in the 35th minute with a goal from Muhammad Akhyar Rashid, assisted by Gervane Kastaneer. Melaka equalized in the 73rd minute through Dino Kalesic's long-range shot. However, Muhamad Baqiuddin Shamsudin secured the win for TFC in the 77th minute by beating Melaka's goalkeeper Samuel Somerville.
Tengku Hazman highlighted the victory's significance in maintaining TFC's position in the league's top five and keeping the points gap with their nearest challengers. He mentioned a game-by-game approach due to a tight schedule, ensuring players' fitness levels are optimal.
Looking ahead, Hazman hopes for the return of injured players for the next match against Kuala Lumpur City FC and aims to improve the team's game pattern and concentration for the remaining season.
Meanwhile, Melaka FC head coach, E. Elavarasan, acknowledged the need for his team to maintain focus throughout the game to avoid costly mistakes. He stressed the importance of quick recovery for upcoming challenges against Johor Darul Ta'zim FC and Selangor FC.
With this victory, Terengganu FC is now fifth in the Super League with 28 points, while Melaka FC remains in 12th position with 10 points.