Defence was key to victory - Shea

Shea cited the welcome return of a solid foundation as DeTTol claimed a slender but significant victory in Stadium of Mud.

Song Wei "Tough Tackler", Apa "Multipurpose", Syahir "Shuffling Header" and Eng How "Tembok Besar China" earned much of his praise as they played 90 minutes together for the first time since the Reds level Cyber Heat 2-2 in the previous round of the MMU Champions League.

"I think the stability at the back, the recognition of Syahir and Eng How together is always a great start for your team," said Shea after winning the match.

"There was a lot of good concentration at the back, the team defended very, very well and I think that was key to it really. If we can get back to that foundation of not giving goals away, then we can do well."

United had an aggregate lead to defend from as early as the tenth minute at Stadium of Mud, thanks to a well taken goal by Che Mad "Budak Baik". - arguably one of the most important goal of his career to date.

"It was a lucky goal but a well taken one too," enthused Shea.

"The shot took them all by surprise, after a mistake from their player. The goalkeeper had no chance really."

The boss went on to clarify the content of a recent conversation with Che mad. "The point I made to Che Mad was to keep the referees on his side and not turn them against him.

Another great player who performed well on the night, albeit without grabbing the headlines, was Adli "The Flying Italian". The goalkeeper prevent all shots from the opponent and keep a clean sheet after 4 match. He also made an important save at the end of the 2nd half which protect the team lad and winning the game.

"You can ask some players to do a certain role in a game of football because they have a certain desire and an appetite. Adli's got that."

Turning her attentions to the next challenge in quarter final, and the prospect of facing Mantis at Stadium of Mud , Shea said:

"A rematch quarter-final adds a certain spice to the tie. It’s two good football teams - the friendly at the Stadium of Slope earlier in the season was a fantastic representation of the way football should be played.

"It should be a terrific quarter-final and we’re looking forward to it."