KUCHING: Hope FC secured three points with a 2-0 victory against Pustaqa FC in the Liga Bandaraya match last night (Oct 12).
Dressed in pink, Hope FC dominated the first half, maintaining possession for the majority of the game.
Their best chance came from right back Aril, who attempted a long-range shot from distance, testing the goalkeeper.
The match was a back-and-forth affair, as Pustaqa sought ways to penetrate Hope FC’s stubborn defence.
Pustaqa employed a high-pressing strategy throughout the night, prompting Hope FC to add a holding midfielder to gain control of the midfield.
Hope FC’s coach, Bryan Cheong, continuously instructed his players to maintain ball control.
The team took the lead after goalkeeper Izzuani launched a long ball forward, which was met by Denilson Dylan Demendraa. He carried the ball past two defenders and delivered a thunderous strike just before the stroke of half-time.
The second half continued in a similar fashion, with Pustaqa FC attempting to launch long balls from the halfway line over the Hope FC defence.
However, Hope FC’s tough and solid backline effectively dealt with these attempts.
Throughout the second half, Hope FC relied heavily on counterattacks.
A comfortable victory for Coach Cheong’s men was secured when Denilson passed to attacking midfielder Ericson Teo, who continued his run.
After evading the defence, Ericson scored, sealing the match with a 2-0 win.
Speaking to Sarawak Tribune last night (Oct 12) at Padang C, Petra Jaya, Cheong praised his team’s performance and commended the defence for their solid play.
“This team is quite strong, so we utilised a single holding midfielder and two centre midfielders.
“In this situation, we adjusted by sitting deeper. We adapt to everything and play to our strengths,” he said.
