Sabahawks Juniors maintained their pole position after nicking a 1-0 victory over Johor MBJB in a President’s Cup Group A challenge at the Seri Gelam field in Johor Bharu yesterday.
Flanker Jetko Romedius struck the solitary goal in the 68th minute
after being put through by Leopold Alfonso Otong before defeating an
offside trap to eventually slot home from close range, proving to be the
winner.
Head coach Johnny Dominicus when contacted said that it was quite a tough game for his boys, no thanks to their off-form show.
“We did not play so well, but fortunately for us, we managed to nick
all the three points away. In fact, it could have been 2-0, but
unfortunately, Dendy’s goal (Lowa) was ruled off side, which I believe
was a close call.”
The victory came at quite a heavy price for the team, as two of his
key players will miss their next away tie against Tengku Ismail Sports
School, also in Johor.
Johnny said both Super League-based striker Leopold and Zul Mansshah Aling will miss the trip due to suspension. He said Leopold picked up his third yellow card in the game and will be serving a one-match automatic suspension. As for Zul, he was also shown a yellow card, and it was his sixth
this season, which means, he will be penalised for two matches.
Team manager Juil Nuatim said that despite the slim win, he was still happy with the three points.
“As I have said all along, it is important for the team to maintain
their consistency. Even though it was a slim win, but at least it did
not affect our winning momentum. I hope the players will stay focused and try to conclude our group challenge by finishing top.”
For the record, Sabahawks Juniors have already clinched their place in the quarter-finals last week. There are another three games to play – two away (against Tengku
Ismail Sports School and Terengganu T-Team) and one at home (Penang SDM).
They are currently occupying the top spot on 54 points from 17 wins, three draws and one defeat.
News source:
News Sabah Times
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