KOTA KINABALU: The Rhinos have been reminded not to get carried away after registering their fourth consecutive victory on Friday. Instead they have been told to stay focused and to try to maintain their winning streak for as long as they can.“I’m delighted to see the team improving with each game. Now I think we have started to show some kind of consistency and I hope it will not stop here,” said Rahman.
“We are moving forward now and I hope the players will not waste the opportunity of being on the right track towards our goal of topping the table,” the Rhinos’ team manager added.
“The good work must continue and as long as the players are willing to sacrifice and work hard, I’m pretty sure we will slowly move up the standings.
Rahman was also satisfied with the way the team approached the game against the National Under-19 squad dubbed as the Harimau Muda.
“We started the game pretty well and could have scored an early goal, but unfortunately it didn’t come until the 26th minute.
“Nevertheless, the players did well enough to win the game – a well-deserved victory.
“What was important on the night is that we won the game because it’s not only good for the team, but also for the fans since it was our first home game at the Likas Stadium in about five months.
Bobby Gonzales put the Rhinos into the lead with a fine curling shot from inside the box after 26 minutes of play, before second-half substitute Salvester Sindeh sealed their victory with a header two minutes from time.
Jamie Phoenix, Andre Scotti Ossemer, Zuraindey Jumai as well as Mohd Nafuzi Zain were all presented with scoring opportunities, but their attempts were either off target or saved by the keeper.
The 2-0 victory helped the Rhinos to pip Kelantan, who lost 1-2 to League leaders KL Plus FC, from the fourth spot.
KL Plus remain on top on 31 points, followed by Johor Pasir Gudang (27), Kuala Muda Naza (27), Sabah (23) and Kelantan (22).
The Rhinos will kick off their second round campaign against the same team and Rahman was quick to remind the players not to underestimate them.
“They have proven that they are an energetic side. They are young and have lots of energy, but I think our players can match them in terms of stamina. Our plus is we got the experience and for this second meeting, as long as we play our own game, I’m confident of repeating our winning feat,” added Rahman.
