Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim (TMJ), Regent of Johor, and Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) owner, has expressed his disappointment over the bottle-throwing incident at Sultan Ibrahim Stadium (SSI), following JDT’s controversial defeat.
This marks the first time such an incident has occurred at SSI since its opening, prompting TMJ to remind fans about the importance of maintaining JDT’s reputation.
“No matter how angry you are, don’t act like that. It will only tarnish JDT’s image.”
TMJ also addressed the controversial refereeing decisions, including a disallowed goal that led to the team’s defeat. While acknowledging the frustration over the Linesman’s potential mistake, he firmly stated that reacting with violence or unsportsmanlike behavior is unacceptable.
“If it’s true that the Linesman made a mistake, don’t do things that bring a bad image to JDT.”
Instead of focusing on officiating errors, TMJ accepted the defeat gracefully and emphasized the need for the team to improve its performance.
“I don’t like to argue about who’s right or wrong. A loss is a loss.”
The disallowed goal became a major talking point, with many believing it cost JDT the match. However, TMJ believes the team should have been in a stronger position regardless of the referee’s decision.
“If we had scored five goals that night, of course, we would have won. The last goal being disallowed isn’t the only reason for our defeat.”
TMJ took full responsibility for the outcome, urging the squad to learn from the setback and bounce back stronger.
“A loss is still a loss. I accept it with an open heart and take full responsibility for the result of the match.”
With JDT’s reputation and discipline at stake, TMJ’s message serves as a stern reminder to fans about maintaining sportsmanship.
Credit Photo : Ridhwan/SNE-Photo