KOTA KINABALU: The Sabahawks Juniors recorded their ninth consecutive win after nicking a slim 1-0 win over Johor in a President’s Cup challenge at the Kluang Municipal Council field yesterday.
That was their 12th victory of the season, which saw them unshakeable at the top of the Group A standings with 38 points in their bag after 14 matches into the season.
Jetko Romedius turned hero for his side by netting the solitary goal at the half-hour mark by coolly tapping home the winner from close range.
“I’m happy with the result. Even though it was only a slim win, but most importantly, we managed to get the three points. Furthermore, it also helps us keep our unbeaten run intact, which is good,” commented Sabah team manager Juil Nuatim when contacted yesterday.
Juil, who could not make the trip to the Southern State as he had to attend a meeting, said: “As I had expected, it was quite a tough encounter. I was told by the coaching staff that we had a good first half, and could have scored more goals, but unfortunately we only managed to find the net once.
Zackkalani Antanom was presented with two golden opportunities to put his name on the scoresheet, but he wasted both chances.
On the first occasion, he had already defeated the defender, only to see his attempt hit the woodwork while on the second, his close range effort went inches wide even with the Johor keeper already beaten.
“Nevertheless, it was a good three points on the road for the boys, and again, they have shown great fighting spirit throughout.
“I’m so happy to note that our players managed to keep cool heads throughout the game, except for one incident where one of our players was given the marching orders,” said Juil referring to flanker Umareng Bacok, who was shown the red card for retaliation.
Earlier on, it was Johor who were forced to play with a man lesser after one of their players was red carded in the 58th minute before the Umareng incident, which happened about 15 minutes from time.
“He got a hard knock from behind by a Johor player. He retaliated, and the referee had no hesitation in giving him the red card,” commented assistant coach Burhan Ajui.
The Sabahawks Juniors will take on Melaka and Bukit Jalil Sports School in their next two matches both at home on April 5 and April 9 respectively.
