Penang FC fail to hold on to lead, Wan Rohaimi wants players to show more maturity

GEORGE TOWN - Penang FC’s failure to remain composed after taking the lead and manage the pressure when under attack cost them a 1-2 defeat to Melaka FC in their Super League match at City Stadium here last night.

Penang FC head coach Wan Rohaimi Wan Ismail said his players should have been more confident in controlling the game after taking a one-goal lead in the second half, but a lapse in concentration allowed the visitors to equalise before scoring the winner through a penalty late in the match.

"Once we had taken the lead, we should have been calmer and more confident in controlling the situation, but a momentary lapse allowed Melaka to score the equaliser.

"When things became chaotic inside the penalty box, my players should have shown greater maturity and composure in managing the situation. A penalty was eventually awarded, which was a major setback for the team,” he said after the match.

Wan Rohaimi said the equaliser boosted Melaka FC’s confidence and spurred them to step up their attacks in search of the winning goal.

He also admitted that his team’s poor finishing was disappointing, as several chances created failed to result in goals.

Meanwhile, Melaka FC head coach E Elavarasan described the three points as a valuable bonus, given that his team had previously lost to Penang FC three times.

He said his players’ fighting spirit, which remained undiminished despite trailing 0-1, was key to their comeback victory away from home.

"The most important thing for us is these three points. We know Penang have their own strengths, especially at home, and they had beaten us three times before this.

"Despite trailing 0-1, the players kept fighting until the final minute. I think we deserved the penalty late in the game and the victory,” he said. - BERNAMA