Three-formation Strategy The Key To Sri Pahang's Victory - Fandi

TEMERLOH, Feb 3 (Bernama) -- Sri Pahang FC's strategy of using three formations simultaneously in the second leg semi-final of the Malaysia Cup paid off as they defeated Sabah FC 2-1 at home last night.

Their coach, Fandi Ahmad, said the three formations were devised for his players to check the visitors' advance towards Sri Pahang's defence.

"Our initial plan was to pressure the opposing players in their territory, which is why we used a 4-4-2 formation when attacking, a 4-3-3 formation in midfield and a 4-5-1 formation when defending.

"This made it difficult for them to enter our area in the first half, but the situation changed when we made player substitutions and they began to play long passes," he told a post-match press conference.

Sri Pahang, known as the Elephants, qualified for the final on a 3-2 aggregate win as they drew 1-1 with Sabah in the first leg at Likas Stadium on Jan 18.

The Singapore legend praised his players for demonstrating high discipline and fighting hard to achieve victory, even when faced with extra time.

"I am very happy that all the players gave their best, and before that, I told them we cannot lose in front of our supporters. We also tried to avoid playing in extra time because there could be injuries or cramps,” Fandi said.

Sri Pahang and Johor Darul Ta'zim will clash again in the Malaysia Cup final after 11 years. In the 2014 final, Pahang lifted the trophy after a 5-3 penalty shootout victory following a 2-2 draw.

Meanwhile, Sabah's head coach, Martin Stano, acknowledged the prowess of the East Coast giants but said his team played well throughout the 120 minutes of the match.

"Even though Sri Pahang scored early, we managed to come back and equalise, forcing the match into extra time.

"It was a very tough match away from home with their supporters filling the stands. I certainly cannot complain about the players' performance as they played very well until the final whistle," he said.

-- BERNAMA