Under-19 beat Felda United FC from a goal down
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah under-19 squad came back from a goal down to beat Felda United FC 2-1 in a Youth Cup Group A fixture at the UPM Mini Stadium in Serdang yesterday.
Playing in their first game of the new season, Sabah were stunned after only six minutes of play when Muhammad Haziq Man gave the home side the lead from a well-executed free kick.
That however did not reflect Sabah’s showing as they dominated for much of the first half and created nine scoring chances but went begging.
Sabah continued to attack in search of the equaliser which they achieved in the 55th minute, and in some style too.
Mohd Sharizan Saidin found the back of the net direct from a corner kick to make it 1-1.
The all important winning goal came in the 73rd minute through Mohd Iqbal Kassim, who dribbled past a defender before unleashing a shot from inside the box.
Head coach Mohd Aiyyman Johnny Abdullah was a relieved man after the victory, especially after enduring a frustrating first half.
“We had nine chances in the first period but still we found ourselves trailing. The boys really showed great fighting spirit to find the equaliser and then the winning goal.
“I’m really impressed with how they fought hard in the game...the players’ desire to win was very high.
“Now the focus is on Wednesday (February 28) where we will take on SSMPAMD Cougars Under-16 at the Penampang Stadium,” he said when contacted yesterday.
Sabah are fifth in the 11-team Group A following yesterday’s three points but along with Kuala Lumpur had played a game less than the other teams who, completed their second matches yesterday.