Daily Express
Kota Kinabalu: Jetko Romedius' second half goal earned Sabah a precious three points as they beat host Johor MBJB 1-0 at the Tan Sri Dato Hj Hassan Yunos Stadium on Thursday.
Assistant coach Matasan Ahmad said the MBJB team who were beaten 2-0 by Sabah in the first round tie was a completely different team on the day as they came out in attacking mood and had Sabah in all sorts of trouble in the first 45 minutes.
"I would say they had the upper hand in the first half.
But our defence stood firm and managed to weather all their attempts at goal.
We also had the woodwork to thank for as they hit the post twice."
He said Zackalani Antanom had a goal disallowed when his free kick that was bound for goal was touched by Dendy Lowa who was in the offside position.
However, Sabah was not to be denied in the 68th minute when Leopold Alfonso dribbled past several MBJB defenders before flicking the ball to Jetko for a simple tap in.
The goal re-ignited the team as they began to gain upper hand in the match and the final ten minutes it was all Sabah on the attack.
Matasan admitted that the players had an off day and were visibly tired during the match.
"It could have been the food that they had consumed on the day but despite their sluggishness, they have shown great character and the spirit they showed on the day was first class."
He said it was a very good win and hopes the team will continue their winning ways in the next match against Tunku Mahkota Ismail School (SSTMI) also to be held in Johor.
