Kota Kinabalu: Sabah failed to maintain their winning streak after losing 1-2 to Police in the Group C Malaysia Cup match here at the Likas Stadium on Saturday night.
The Rhinos started off aggressively against the visitors but failed to maintain their momentum leaving the Police to score the opening goal in the 10th minute through striker Bernard Sichangi Mwalala.
Sabah however managed to equalise after hitman Charles Obi scored the Rhinos' only goal in the 18th minute after connecting a pass from Zainizam Marjan from the inside box.
However, Police got the better side of the game, when Bernard Sichangi scored their winning goal in the 38th after Sabah goalkeeper G. Jeevanathan made a blunder. Instead of catching the ball, he kicked and it deflected in front of Bernard.
Jeev Awas then replaced by second keeper, Irwan Jamil right after the breather.
Earlier in the game, Zainizam had a chance to give Sabah the lead but his weak shot was saved by Police goalie Sani Anuar B. Kamsani.
In the 20th minute Obi wasted another opportunity when his powerful shot went inches over the bar.
Four minutes late, Zainizam again had another opportunity but his attempt was saved by Sani.
In the 40th minute, skipper Chow Chee Wing almost levelled the score but Police keeper Sani was on his toes to push the ball away.
After the breather, the Rhinos came out fighting and almost scored another goal through Zainizam but his attempt again was foiled by the keeper.
With only 13 minutes left to play, Sabah went all out to equalise with Obi and Ronny Harun leading the charge but the Police defence stood firm to ensure their trip to the Likas Stadium paid dividend.
Sabah's next return match will be on March 23 against Police in the Premier League tie.
