Sarawak’s Demerson Bruno Costa (right) tackles Perak’s Mohd Nazrin Mohd Nawi during the Super League match in Ipoh. — Bernama photo
KUCHING: A fine goalkeeping by Shahril Sa’ari has helped Sarawak to secure a point in a scoreless draw against Perak in the Super League match at Perak Stadium in Ipoh on Wednesday.
The Crocs are making their way out of the relegation zone as the league is taking a month break to observe the holy month of Ramadan and Hari Raya.
Sarawak and Perak failed to capitalise on their chances on a soggy pitch and under heavy rain in Ipoh.
Goalkeeper Shahril and the Crocs defenders delivered commendable performance in stopping Perak’s assaults.
The match also saw Singapore’s Mohamad Sahil Suhaimi and Montenegro’s Milos Raickovic made their Super League debut for Sarawak.
Mohamad Sahil had a clear chance to put Sarawak ahead in the second half but his shot went wide while Milos had a relatively quiet game.
Sarawak head coach David Usop when interviewed after the match was nevertheless satisfied with the draw and admitted the pitch condition had interrupted the team’s game plan.
“I believe the result could go either way. Whatever it is, our job here is done and we managed to secure a point here in Ipoh as it is never easy when playing far away from home,” he added.
Perak coach Mehmet Durakovic on the other hand believed that his team could have won the match as he too agreed that the rain made it difficult for both teams.
The Crocs will travel to Kelantan on July 1 for their next Super League match.
Sarawak and Melaka United
both have 11 points after 13 matches but the Crocs are 10th in the standings due to goal differences.