What a scrap for LionsXII Sundram's men finally bag their first win in the MSL, but they need an expert finisher

Source

2012 Malaysian Super League

LionsXII 2 Kuala Lumpur 1



SINGAPORE - It was a victory the fans craved and the team were desperate for, but the LionsXII's 2-1 triumph over Kuala Lumpur in their third outing in the 2012 Malaysian Super League (MSL) last night hardly set Jalan Besar Stadium alight.

A scrappy victory over a KL team propping up the 14-team league table was no cause for any huge celebration, although the three points and the first taste of victory could well boost confidence ahead of some big matches.

In the absence of main striker Agu Casmir, out injured, V Sundramoorthy's side struggled upfront against plucky KL and the search for a goal scorer will surely be the top priority for the LionsXII coaching staff right now.

The Singapore outfit take on Sabah in Kota Kinabalu on Saturday, and a week later they entertain Terengganu before taking on Selangor at the Shah Alam Stadium on Feb 7. A huge home clash against Malaysia Cup champions Negri Sembilan looms on Feb 11.

Last night, left winger Irwan Shah did provide moments of inspiration with his runs but skipper Shahril Ishak, playing as the lone striker, was out of sorts, especially in the opening 45 minutes. It took an own goal by KL defender Alman Syazwan to give the LionsXII the lead four minutes before half-time.

And there was a generous dose of luck when Shahdan Sulaiman tucked home the second in the 56th minute, after KL goalkeeper Rozaimie Rohim failed to hang on to Irwan's cross.

When defender Safuwan Baharudin was dismissed after he conceded the penalty for KL's goal, it signalled the start of some anxious moments for the home side, before they eventually saw out the match.

Speaking after the match, Sundram insisted Shahril was the best choice to play the lead striker's role in the absence of Agu.

"The only way is to go into the market and buy a striker, which I can't do," the LionsXII coach said. "Another solution is to convert somebody to play up front.

"But we will analyse the opponent for the next game and come out with a game plan. It wasn't easy in Alor Star, it will not be easy in Kota Kinabalu (this Saturday), it will not be easy against Terengganu.

"Every team wants to win, obviously, but we will plan accordingly and take each game one at a time."

The LionsXII will be without central defender Safuwan for at least the Sabah match, after his two yellow cards last night.

It means midfielder Hariss Harun will likely partner Baihakki Khaizan once again in the heart of the defence. But Sundram will wait until nearer the game before making a final decision.

Said Baihakki: "If I have a choice I would like Hariss to partner me in defence and I think we have players who can fill his role in midfield."

Sundram knows the action is about to get hotter, with the big guns from across the Causeway lying in wait.

"It's back to the drawing board, especially in the attacking drills for the players," he said.

"They must learn from this game that they need to be more composed, especially in the penalty box. It is about learning the trade, keep practising and working hard."