MSNS development squad lose in Bintulu friendly

MIRI: A combined side of Miri and Mukah development players went down 1- 2 to Bintulu FA Under-25 in a friendly match last Saturday.

However, officials believe it was a positive experience for the team comprising players from the Miri and Mukah development centres of the State Sports Council ( MSNS)

Head coach Mohamad Hakimi Man commended his boys who faced the Bintulu team of mostly seasoned players.

“They have given everything to compete and display the most powerful fighting spirit and strength,” he told The Borneo Post.

Bintulu FA Under 25, which was managed by Mohd Farhan Bin Abdul lah @ Anai Igang, dominated for the most part and went into the lead with a 33rd minute goal from Nadzrul Abdul Samad ( 33rd min). Combined MSNS players took some time to get used to the synthetic pitch and equalised in the 65th min. through Daineleffino Aiho.

Aldridge Dato, however, clinched victory for hosts Bintulu FA with a goal in the dying seconds of the match.

Hakimi was pleased that his boys played without fear and the exciting match had spectators glued to their seats.

“Believe me, we are not lacking in young talents i f they are well- nurtured and taught,” he observed.

He is hoping that the young Miri and Mukah players are now better prepared physically and mentally to compete for a place in the state youth team for the President Cup.