ISKANDAR PUTERI: Replacing a fan favourite is never easy for a new player, but Oscar Arribas aced it in his first outing for Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) yesterday.
JDT coach Esteban Solari chose Arribas over national player La'Vere Corbin Ong to start as a left-back in the 2-0 win over Terengganu in the Charity Cup.
And the 24-year-old Spanish star took this opportunity to combine well with his teammates to help JDT retain their title.
Based on Arribas' performance, Corbin Ong will have to do better in training to regain his regular spot in the team.
However, Solari has promised he would rotate his players regularly this season.
Arribas, a new signing, combined well with Juan Muniz and Fernando Forestieri and offered JDT depth on the left flank throughout the match.
"I am thankful for the opportunity to play in the Charity Cup. I will do my best if I get a chance again. Overall, I am happy to make my debut for JDT," said Arribas after the match at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri.
"It was a tough match against Terengganu. It was not an easy first half. However, things became easier after we scored the second goal after the breather. We also kept the ball well in the second half."
The Southern Tigers scored a goal in each half through Juan Muniz in the fifth minute and Bergson da Silva in the 55th minute.