JOHOR BAHRU: Sri Pahang's failure to mark Heberty Fernandes led to their defeat after the Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) striker scored a hat-trick in Saturday's Super League match at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium, Iskandar Puteri.
Sri Pahang coach Fandi Ahmad had reminded his players before the match not to give space to the Brazilian-born striker, who has a lethal left foot.
"Quality players like Heberty can be devastating if left unchecked and allowed to shoot, especially from a distance of 25 meters," said Fandi.
"Our mistake was not closing down Heberty. I had reminded the players that he was dangerous with his left foot, but my players did not follow instructions, and we were punished.
"No one made a tackle. They should have marked him closely. His left-foot is very dangerous."
Heberty opened the scoring in the fourth minute with a left-footed shot and added two more goals in the second half, in the 66th minute and three minutes before the end of the match, to complete his hat-trick.
Despite losing 3-0, Fandi praised his players for their hard work, even though they lacked momentum due to a long break.
"JDT played without forwards Bergson Da Silva and Fernando Forestieri but still performed at their best. We tried to steal a point, but it was not to be," he said.
Asked about the performance of import striker Kpah Sherman, who has yet to score this season, Fandi said he was not concerned.
"Last year, he scored many goals, but this year, his touch is somewhat lacking.
"The combination play with the midfielders and Mykola Ahapov is still not solid. They don't have the understanding yet.
"A good striker needs effective ball deliveries and doesn't necessarily have to create goals on his own. Therefore, we have to be patient and cannot be pressured," Fandi said.
Reigning champions JDT lead the standings with maximum points from four matches, while Sri Pahang are seventh on four.