File photo of JDT II player Fernando Rodriguez Ortega (centre) celebrating after scoring against PDRM FC on Aoril 7, 2021. – Bernama photo
KOTA BHARU (Sept 11): Kelantan FC was clearly no match for Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) II at the Sultan Muhammad IV Stadium, here, losing 0-3 to the team from the south in the Premier League action today.
JDT broke the deadlock in the 11th minute through a powerful header by skipper Mohamad Fadhli Mohd Shas from a corner kick taken by Stuart John Wilkin.
Fernando Rodrigues doubled the lead two minutes later.
The hosts tried to restore the game with an attempt in the 21st minute, but Natanael Rindo’s strike was parried out by JDT II goalkeeper Shaheeswaran Thavakumar.
Kelantan FC’s best chance to close the gap presented itself in the 40th minute, but Muhammad Izaffiq Ruzi’s powerful shot only managed to hit the woodwork.
Natanael Ringgo came close to scoring for the home side in the 51st minute through a header, but the ball went straight into Shaheeswaran’s hands.
However, in their relentless pursuit of getting a goal, Kelantan FC were punished once again as JDT’s third goal came in the 56th minute through Kei Hirose.
The result today sees JDT II leapfrogging Terengganu FC (TFC) II into the third spot, with 33 points from 19 matches.
Meanwhile, the Premier League fixture between Kuching City FC and Kelantan United FC at the Pasir Gudang City Council Stadium this evening was postponed, after two players were found positive Covid-19. – Bernama