Buriram not safe yet - Jackson

Buriram United has taken a crucial first step towards the ASEAN Club Championship title, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Selangor FC in the first leg of the final held in Malaysia. The Thai champions demonstrated their resilience and quality by overcoming a challenging fixture list and a determined Selangor side to bring a vital away goal advantage back home.

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Yes, of course I am happy with this victory. Successfully winning away from home, especially with the tight schedule we have been going through lately.

Head coach Mark Jackson acknowledged the significance of the win, particularly given the team's packed schedule. He praised his players' efforts, especially in the second half, for their commitment and ability to secure the result despite fatigue. Jackson was under no illusions about the difficulty of the task, recognizing Selangor's strengths and the demanding nature of modern club football.

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We knew this would be a tough match because our opponents are a good team, but as I said, also because of the schedule we have been going through recently and throughout the season.

However, Jackson was quick to temper any celebrations, stressing that the tie is far from over. The narrow margin means that the second leg at the Chang Arena will be a critical encounter. He emphasized the need for continued focus and preparation to ensure Buriram can seal the championship on home soil. The coach's pragmatic approach underscores the competitive nature of the tournament and the respect he holds for his opponents.

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I am very satisfied with the players' performance, especially in the second half. They really worked hard and I am proud of the way they finished the game.

For Buriram United, this victory is not just about winning a match; it's about maintaining their dominance in regional club football and adding another prestigious trophy to their cabinet. The club's consistent performance on both domestic and international fronts reflects a strong organizational structure and a winning mentality, which will be crucial as they aim to finish the job in the second leg.

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However, as I said before, this is just one match, we have another leg to go and we need to focus and be ready for that.