MALACCA: The six-week wait finally ended tonight for Malacca United (MU) when the team was officially crowned the 100PLUS Premier League champions at its home turf in Hang Jebat Stadium, Krubong.
This was despite the fact that the team, nicknamed The Mousedeer, only managed a 1-1 draw in their final match against Sime Darby FC.
The result however did not dampen the euphoric atmosphere among the more than 30,000 Malacca fans, who had lined up as early as 7am today to get the free tickets sponsored by the Malacca government.
Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Mohd Khalil Yaakob and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Idris Haron were also present to witness the match.
Malacca had clinched the title in September after a 1-1 draw against its closest rival at the time, Johor Darul Ta'zim II, at the same stadium.
Sime Darby's goal was scored by Mateo Roskam in the 78th minute before Saiful Mustafa equalised for the home team via a freekick in the 90th minute.
The Premier League trophy was presented by Khalil to Malacca captain Ilija Spasojevic. He earlier presented winning medals to the players and officials.
Spasojevic also emerged as the Premier League top scorer with 24 goals.
Malacca head coach Mat Zan Mat Aris said his players might have been under pressure during the match. He said that in the first half of the game, Malacca's midfield did not perform well, allowing Sime Darby to control the game.
"However, our performance improved in the second half with the players creating lots of chances.
"It is unfortunate that we allowed Sime Darby to take the lead with a goal," he said after the match.
Mat Zan said the more important thing was that Malacca had managed to collect one point from the match and celebrate the title.
Meanwhile, Idris, who is also Malacca United Soccer Association (MUSA) president, said the players would be rewarded with a trip either to Old Trafford, Manchester, or an umrah pilgrimage to Mecca, depending on their choice.
Malacca and second-placed PKNS FC have secured promotion to the Super League next season while Sime Darby was relegated to the FAM League.
On Sunday, the trophy and the players would be brought to the Dataran MBMB in Ayer Keroh for a grand celebration with the public.