Kuala lumpur: Melaka FC head coach E. Elavarasan has expressed concerns over his team's habit of conceding late goals, following their 2-1 loss to Kuching City FC in a Super League match at Hang Jebat Stadium, Krubong, last night.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Elavarasan highlighted that this recurring issue also surfaced in their previous match against Selangor. He emphasized the importance of resolving this problem promptly if Melaka FC aims to advance in the league standings. "We are definitely disappointed because we conceded in the final minute. This is the second time it has happened. It was the same against Selangor and now against Kuching City, so this is something we need to fix as soon as possible if we want to go far in the league," Elavarasan remarked during the post-match press conference.
In the match, Kuching City initially took the lead with a goal by Jerome Etame in the 27th minute. Melaka managed to equalize during second-half stoppage time through Do Donghyun's free-kick. However, Kuching City clinched the victory with a late goal by Wanja Ronald Ngah just before the final whistle.
Elavarasan observed that the league has become more competitive this season, with each team showing significant improvement. This intensifies the need for Melaka to secure victories. He noted that even securing a point against a formidable team like Kuching City, who finished as runners-up last season, would have been beneficial. Despite playing with 10 men following Yuki Tanigawa's red card in the 55th minute, Kuching City effectively managed the pressure thanks to their experience and exposure.
Elavarasan suggested that Melaka should have adopted a more defensive strategy after leveling the score, especially with only a few minutes remaining on the clock.
On the other hand, Kuching City head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak commended his players for their resilience and attacking mindset, which earned them the win despite being down to 10 men. He remarked that the team must quickly shift focus as they prepare for their debut in the AFC Champions League (ACL) in Cambodia. With the victory, Kuching City holds the second spot in the league with 12 points, while Melaka remains in 10th place with three points.