Persipura Jayapura boss Jacksen Tiago praised his players for executing his plans to the letter as they beat South China 4-2 to book their place in the last 16 of the AFC Cup.
Captain Boas Salossa scored twice at Mandala Stadium to add to strikes from Zah Rahan and Gerald Pangkali, while the Hong Kong side replied through efforts from Xu Deshuai and Ng Wai Chiu.
“Our boys played according to plan today,” said Tiago.
“We pressed the opponents and it paid off with four goals. Unlike the previous match, when we lost to Chonburi, we passed the ball to feet this time and kept control in the midfield.
“We know that South China have a couple of great players in Nicky Butt and Mateja Kezman but we were able to contain them as they were kept at the bay.
“Some of our players were outstanding today, most notably Boas Salossa who scored twice.”
Salossa put in a captain’s performance, not only claiming a double but also playing a part in the other two while posing a constant threat to the South China defence.
“Boas had a key role in our victory today,” added Tiago.
“He linked up nicely with other players. He was an inspiration.
“Kudos also goes to Titus Bonai and Zah Rahan, who played very well to lift our performance.”
Tiago also sang the praises of Pangkali for dominating the midfield.
“Gerald is important player,” he continued. “We missed him when we lost to Chonburi.
“His presence in our midfield is crucial, as you saw today, when he totally bossed the area. He also scored a great goal today with that curling shot.”
Though Persipura have secured a place in the last 16, top spot in Group H remains up for grabs going into the final match, with Chonburi also in contention.
“Our job is not over,” said Tiago. “We have to face East Bengal and win there to finish on top and get home advantage in the next round.
“But I’m proud with what we have done so far.”
South China coach Chan Ho Yin admitted his team were beaten by a better side on the day.
“Persipura played very well,” he said.
“They deserved to win. Their players, especially Boas, are hard to cope with as their speed troubled us for most of the game.”