KUALA LUMPUR: Selangor coach Nidzam Jamil couldn't hide his disappointment after the Red Giants failed to halt Super League leaders Johor Darul Ta'zim's (JDT) dominance on Sunday.
The Red Giants suffered a humbling 3-0 defeat to the Southern Tigers at MBPJ Stadium in Kelana Jaya.
"The result is disappointing, particularly a 3-0 loss at home. We strive to improve each year, and even a 10 per cent increase would be beneficial," said Nidzam.
"In previous seasons, we were around 15 to 20 points behind the leaders, but I'm not sure where we stand this year.
"We try to close the gap each season. We need to bounce back better and stronger."
JDT opened the scoring in the 30th minute through Romel Morales, with Brazilian striker Bergson da Silva adding a brace in the 44th and 54th minutes.
Nidzam added that the defeat highlighted the work still required for Selangor to catch up to JDT.
Following the defeat, second-place Selangor, with 28 points from 13 games, now trail JDT by eight points as the 10-time Super League champions continue their commanding form.
Meanwhile, JDT coach Hector Bidoglio praised his players' discipline over the full 90 minutes, crediting their approach for the victory over Selangor.
"These three points are very important for us and the championship. The team played very well in the first half, moving side to side.
"It was sometimes difficult to find scoring opportunities, but when we did, we made them count," said Bidoglio. – BERNAMA