KUALA LUMPUR: Negri Sembilan coach K. Devan has conceded that Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) are 10 years ahead of his team and other Super League rivals.
Devan admitted that the Deer could not match the ruthless Southern Tigers in Monday's 7-0 thrashing in Paroi.
JDT scored through Fernando Forestieri (21st and 49th minutes), Diogo Santo (41st), Arif Aiman Hanapi (53rd), La'Vere Corbin Ong (67th and 88th) and Endrick dos Santos (74th).
"JDT are 10 years ahead of Negri. We will need at least 10 years to match the reigning champions," said Devan after the match, adding that defender Herold Goulon and striker Casagrande are not fully fit.
"We lost to the best club in the country. If you compare the quality in every aspect, we are far behind.
"We are slowly building a formidable team, while JDT have won the Super League nine straight times and are playing in the Asian Champions League.
"Goulon and Casagrande reported to us only three days before the new season. Both are not fully fit yet and not in the best condition.
"It is tough to play three matches in nine days when we are just getting the feel of the new season.
"We also have to work on our attacking options. Today, it was not efficient.
Meanwhile, JDT coach Esteban Solari said the big win was a morale booster for bigger challenges.
"It is great that the squad is firing on all cylinders thanks to teamwork.
"However, it was not easy taking on Negri. They have patience and play a good system. However, we studied their game and gave our best from the first minute.
"The players know what is expected from them in the game. We are enjoying our game and playing good football.
"I am happy with the result. Negri defended well, but we played better to win the game," said Solari.
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