Rangsan praises Port’s resilience; Hodak hopeful Persib can advance

Rangsan was pleased that his charges came from behind to lead despite ultimately having to share points after conceding a late equaliser.

“The players did a good job and performed well,” said the 45-year-old former Thai international.

“Even when Persib took the lead, the players stayed calm and showed great fight to come back.”

Ciro Alves put Persib in front in the 17th minute from the penalty spot but a brace from Lonsana Doumbouya (18th, 31st) gave Port control before a David da Silva header five minutes into second half added time meant a share of the spoils.

With 10 points, Port are assured of a top two finish while Persib – with five points – remain in the hunt but will not only need to beat Zhejiang FC in their final game next week but will also need Port to do them a favour by defeating Lion City Sailors FC.
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Persib head coach Bojan Hodak was proud of the fighting spirit his players showed, having also netted late goals in the win against Sailors.

“Similar to the game in Singapore, in the first half we were too relaxed,” said Hodak. “We conceded two very cheap goals. They have a physically strong striker and both times we left him alone.

“Second half was much better. We were more aggressive. When David came in, it became a different game. He may be not fully fit but his presence almost always means taking two players away from the opponents. We showed character and I’m hopeful in the last game, we can go through.”