KUCHING: Hope FC delivered an impressive 4-1 win over Opc FC, cementing their growing dominance in the Liga Bandaraya.
A fast-paced first half saw the Hopers put on a clinic as Ahmad Syakir and Marcel Owen combined early, with Syakir heading the ball in just five minutes into the match.
The floodgates opened soon after with Aril Rozni’s perfect cross setting up Denilson Dylan Demendraa for a stunning diving header.
Not to be outdone, Mohd Zuhayr Redza Nook Azrul netted a third with a clinical finish following an assist from Denilson, which started from Damian Unting in midfield. The scoreline was a commanding 3-0 at half-time.
After the break, Hope FC’s relentless attack showed no signs of slowing down. Denilson put the game beyond reach with a thunderous shot into the bottom left corner, leaving Opc FC’s goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
Opc FC managed a late consolation goal from a corner but it was clear that Hope FC were in total control.
Bryan Cheong, player-manager of Hope FC, reflected on the team’s progress and was happy with the result.
“I’m really happy with the improvement we’ve shown after our earlier losses. We’ve learned from them and executed everything on the field.
“Everyone knows their role now, and it’s paying off with these wins,” he told Sarawak Tribune at Field C, Petra Jaya.
On the pitch conditions, Cheong added that playing at night is a real strength for his team.
“We’re so used to these conditions, and it gives us confidence.”
As the team slowly regains full strength after the Christmas break, Cheong set his sights on securing a top-four finish.
“It’s tough making selection choices but it’s a good problem to have. We’re right where we should be.”
Daveency Pini, a key member of the squad, praised the team’s collective effort.
“Even with some rotations, we played close to our best. We all worked well together- no individual standouts, but shoutout to Jumbo for his debut performance,” said the defensive midfielder.
Jumbo, whose full name is Ashraf Asmadi, made a solid debut, coming on as a goalkeeper in the second half.
With the win, Hope FC continue to build momentum and their sights are firmly set on finishing strong in the table.
