Just a Few Things: PKNS Vs. Melaka

Match Failed To Set Alight

Credit: PKNS FC

Both sides were severely lacking the energy to get it going during the large chunk of the match. They barely cause trouble to one another where one has to wonder if the 619 fans, especially the visiting fans, thought it was worth heading to Shah Alam for this match.

Chances were few and far in between. PKNS looked uninspired and Melaka were just as less impressive where they wasted possession alarmingly easily, especially in crucial moments where they were attacking.

(Lord) Fakri Saarani was perhaps the guiltiest by missing a sitter, although he maintained it came off a PKNS defender with some last-ditch defending. The direction the match was heading was going to be a draw with the way both teams play. And then…

Acosta Provided The Energy PKNS Needed

Eyebrows were raised when after consistently starting, Jonathan Acosta dropped down to the bench. After being bought on the 65th minute for K. Gurusamy, he showed why he should’ve retained his place.

Acosta’s ability to dictate the attacks and also controlling the midfield area proved to be the slight difference that tilted the tie in PKNS favor. The home side looked a little more lively since Acosta came on and that became the factor in PKNS victory.

PKNS looked a little more urgent towards the end of the match. In the end, it’s just that little burst of energy that propelled PKNS back to the winning trail after a three-match winless streak. It only may be a little bit, but it helped against a team like Melaka.

Khair Jones Would’ve Made The Difference

Credit: PKNS FC

Shahdan Sulaiman, primarily a centre-midfielder, was chosen ahead of Khair Jones to partner Nicholas Swirad after Faizal Muhammad was suspended for a red card against Perak a few days ago. Shahdan then was subbed off at half-time, possibly because of injury, for Syawal Norsam.

But the decision to bring on Syawal instead of Khair may have haunted Melaka United. Headers played a huge role both of PKNS goals. Ramazotti was shackled outmuscled his marker to head the ball far post from Mahali’s header and he then turned provider by heading over his head from a cross into the path of Safee to shoot it in. Aerial balls proved to be the difference and if Khair had came on, perhaps none of this would’ve happened where his physique would’ve helped the defence a lot more.

Melaka Needs A New Head Coach… And Fast

Credits; Melaka United Soccer Association

Despite resting Eduardo Almeida, nothing seemingly has changed following Melaka’s abject performance. Melaka looked almost spiritless against PKNS and showed why they are heading for a relegation battle. Caretaker head coach, Selvamohan Gopal can only do so much with this team at the moment and has  huge task to steady the ship when the new head coach comes in.

Melaka needs to swiftly appoint a new head coach as fast as possible. They need someone who is commanding, someone that can lift the team morale and someone who can utilize the players that Melaka has at their disposal. If they can find someone who can do all three, it would help them tremendously.