Singapore: Home United coach Aidil Sharin believes the 2-1 win over Ceres Negros in the AFC Cup ASEAN Zonal Final first leg on Wednesday has the Singaporeans in the driving seat ahead of next week’s return meeting in the Philippines.
Defender Hariss Harun’s late goal at Jalan Besar Stadium ensured the hosts a slender aggregate lead after Home United striker Stipe Plazibat’s early penalty was cancelled out by Ceres captain Martin Steuble’s speculative effort.
Khairul Nizam could have ensured an even better result for Sharin’s side but the midfielder was denied by Roland Muller to leave the tie delicately poised ahead of the second leg in Bacolod City on August 9.
“Even though they pegged us back to make the score level at half-time, I could see the fight in the boys and I knew they wanted to get back in front again,” said Sharin. “It’s not the first time they’ve done this.
“We have to congratulate them for going out and taking the lead back, they fought hard and Ceres are not an easy team, so this result is good for the boys.”
Home United will now travel to Ceres’ Pana-ad Park and Football Stadium, a ground that has been the scene of several impressive victories in front of packed stands for the Filipino club so far this campaign, not least the stunning 2-1 win over 2015 AFC Cup winners Johor Darul Ta’zim.
And it’s clear the hosts’ attack has fed off the support from their fans, scoring 13 goals in just four home games.
Nevertheless, Sharin insists that it is Ceres who have all the work to do.
“We have the lead and the pressure is now on them to win at home,” he said.
“Ceres are clearly a good team, and it will not be easy to play there, but anything can happen in football.
“Now we will focus on our recovery and preparations so we are ready to go again against Ceres in a week’s time.”
Photos: Lagardère Sports
Source: the-afc.com