Despite a raft of new signings, it was old hands Maxime Lestienne and Shawal Anuar who delivered for the Lion City Sailors on May 4, when they beat Singapore Premier League (SPL) defending champions Albirex Niigata 2-0 in the Community Shield.
At the Jalan Besar Stadium, reigning Player of the Year Lestienne set up Shawal's well-taken opener in the 43rd minute, before earning a penalty which he converted in the 82nd minute.
A satisfied Sailors coach Aleksandar Rankovic is already looking forward to the new SPL season that kicks off with their match against Hougang United on May 10 at Jalan Besar.
The 45-year-old Serb said: "I always call Shawal the MVP (most valuable player). Every time he started or came on from the bench last season, he delivered.
I'm very happy to have this kind of players who know the league well.
"The newcomers just have to adapt and follow. We controlled the game and allowed only one shot on target that was a free kick.
I expected more chances for us, but I'm happy we won the Shield.
Bu hikaye The Straits Times dergisinin May 05, 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye The Straits Times dergisinin May 05, 2024 sayısından alınmıştır.
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