PSM Makassar took full advantage of slip-ups from title rivals Persib Bandung and Persija Jakarta to inch themselves closer to a first Liga 1 Indonesia title in 23 years after the Juku Eja had beaten Dewa United 2-0 at the Gelora BJ Habibie Stadium in Wednesday’s action.
Both 2nd placed Persib and 3rd placed Persija dropped points in this week’s Matchweek 27 games – with Persija drawing 0-0 with Madura United and Persib shockingly going down 2-1 away at third-from-bottom PS Barito Putera.
This sets the stage for league leaders PSM to extend their lead over the chasing pack as they host strugglers Dewa United at the Gelora BJ Habibie Stadium in Parepare on Wednesday.
Bernardo Tavares’ men came out with killing intent in their eyes and they deservedly took the lead in the third minute. Captain Wiljan Pluim managed to swing a superb free-kick into Muhammad Natshir’s goal, breaking the deadlock early on and giving PSM the advantage.
Dewa United pressed forward in search of an equalizer, with Karim Rossi firing his free-kick wide, however it was PSM who doubled their lead on the severely waterlogged pitch of the Gelora BJ Habibie.
A 23rd minute corner kick from Yance Sayuri was headed towards Nathsir’s goal by Pluim. Dewa United player Ichsan Kurniawan tried his best in warding off the incoming danger, however he inadvertently placed the ball into his own net, providing PSM with some well-needed cushion in the process.
No further goals were scored throughout the reminder of the match, as PSM managed to stave off pressure from the Tangsel Warriors to reap all three points, extending their gap over 2nd placed Persib to seven points.
With Matchweek 28’s Indonesian El Clasico between Persija and Persib being postponed due to security issues, PSM will have the chance of extend their lead over their rivals even further with a win over Persis Solo on March 5th.