By K. RAJAN

PETALING JAYA: It was a huge sigh of relief for under-performing Johor Darul Takzim (DT) and coach Fandi Ahmad after the 3-1 victory over PKNS FC in a Super League match at the Shah Alam Stadium on Tues­day. 

Moneybags Johor DT were under pressure before the game after the multi-million ringgit assembled squad could only manage one win in four matches. 

The southerners started their campaign with a 3-2 defeat to Pahang before edging Perak 1-0 in their next match. They were then held to 1-1 and 2-2 draws by Armed Forces and Kelantan respectively before their win over PKNS. 

Striker Mohd Safee Sali, midfielders Ahmad Ezrie Shafizi Sazali and former Spain international striker Daniel Guiza bagged a goal each in the win.  

Mohd Faiz Isa scored PKNS’ consolation goal in stoppage time. 

Johor DT are now fifth in the standings with eight points while PKNS are eighth with six points after five round of matches. 

Former Singapore international Fandi was pleased with the away win. 

“It’s a good win for us as we have yet to play our best football,” conceded Fandi. 

“This win reduces the pressure on us. We played well compared to our last four games.  

“We are improving and it’s good news for us. I’m happy with the away win after drawing the last two matches. I’m also glad that Safee finally found his scoring touch again.” 

PKNS coach Abdul Rahman Ibrahim said his team were too sluggish and could not raise their game to match Johor DT. 

“We couldn’t make any breakthrough despite trying hard. We didn’t have enough energy to push when it mattered most,” said the former national coach.

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