Persija tops Western Conference

First-half of the league's Western Conference finally belongs to Persija Jakarta. They took over the position from Persib Bandung after defeating PSP Padang 2-0 in Jakarta today (3/21). They still have another home game to finish the half season against PSMS Medan next week. PSMS themselves upset hosts Persikab Kab. Bandung 2-0 also today.

Persija's win today was again determined by the combination of their deadly strikers, Budi Sudarsono and Bambang Pamungkas.

Budi, now collects 11 goals, is the current league's top scorer along with Barito Putra's Bako Sadissou.

Budi's goal showed that he is truly a complete striker. Not only is his dribbling or shooting dangerous, but he also has a lethal header. Man-marked by PSP's defender Doni Saferi throughout the whole match, Budi was always able to get rid of his marker using his agile body. Finally, on the 24th minute, he headed home a beautiful crossball from Anang Ma'ruf to the top corner of the goal. PSP's goalie, S. Samosire, got a little touch on the ball but there was nothing that could stop the ball from going in.

His partner up front, 20-year-old Bambang Pamungkas, was also assisted by Budi. On the 44th minute, Budi made a short pass from the left to the penalty box. Bambang then received the ball and kicked the ball in by sliding on the ground. Two-nil for the hosts.

In the second half, Budi and Bambang had at least four more excellent chances among the two of them, but none materialized.

Persija's head coach, although happy with the win, was still not satisfied with his team's performance. He said that his players got lazy in the second half and wasted way too many chances.

Sutiyoso, Persija's chairman who also happens to be the governor of Jakarta, said that the team should not forget that there's still a long way to go.

"We haven't met the strong teams of the league yet, such as (Eastern Conference) Persebaya Surabaya, PKT Bontang, PSM Makassar, Arema Malang, and a few others. So, don't be too satisfied just yet," was Sutiyoso's message to his boys.

From Bandung, West Java, Persikab Kab. Bandung was humiliated in front of their own crowd after a 0-2 loss to PSMS Medan. PSMS's goals were created by their Chad national team striker Mourmada Marco on the 59th minute, and another one by Brazilian Ariel Gutierrez on the 85th minute.

from Jawa Pos Online