Kedah now have a realistic chance of leapfrogging Terengganu and finishing runners-up in the Super League after a 4-1 win over PJ City FC for their third straight win in the competition on Wednesday.
The Red Eagles have two matches in hand and are third, just two points behind second-placed Terengganu, who have 37 points.
Aidil Sharin Sahak's side resumed their season about a month after the other teams when several players tested positive for Covid-19.
Aidil said the second straight away win has given his team the confidence to continue their momentum.
"I think it's about team spirit, and it is very high right now. The players have been together on the road from Alor Star to Kuala Terengganu and then to Kuala Lumpur to play matches.
"I can see that the players are bonding and have become closer. I think this factor has given them extra motivation to push harder," said Aidil after the match.
However, Aidil does not want to add pressure on his players by targetting at least the runners-up position due to their tight schedule.
"Of course, we want to be up there and qualify for AFC competitions. We are motivated as we were denied the chance to play in the AFC Cup this year due to its cancellation.
"It is not going to be easy, but we will work hard for it."
Kedah will entertain Perak on Saturday, who are on a four-game winless run, in Alor Star.
"It is always unpredictable when your team face an opponent who is in danger of being relegated.
"Perak may not have been winning matches of late, but it does not mean they are incapable of denying us a win on Saturday.
"It was a good outing for us on the road, so now we will focus on recovery in Alor Star," he added.
In Wednesday's match at MBPJ Stadium, Kedah dominated proceedings with goals from Rabih Ataya (fourth minute), Kpah Sherman (45th and 56th) and Fayadh Zulkifli (90th).
PJ City replied through Khyril Muhymeen Zambri in the 61st minute.