KUCHING: Jordan Mintah’s 36th-minute goal secured a 1-0 victory for Kuching City FC against Kelantan Darul Naim FC.
The Cats finally broke the deadlock when Jordan headed in a curling cross from Arif Fadzilah.
Coach Aidil Sharin’s team played on a wet and slippery pitch that hindered their free-flowing football, but they still managed to secure the win.
Petrus Shitembi had the freedom to roam and control the midfield alongside Danial Amier, while Jordan and Tchetche Kipre led the attack up front.
Mohamad Alif Hassan was positioned as a deep-lying midfielder in front of Yuki Tanigawa, and Rodney Celvin was in place for the suspended James Okwuosa.
The first half was a back-and-forth encounter, with Kelantan frequently testing Kuching’s goalkeeper, Mohd Shahril.
Muhammad Asraff Aliffuddin had a long-range shot from 30 yards out that Shahril pushed away for a corner.
At both ends, the goalkeepers played crucial roles in keeping their teams in the game.
Jordan had several opportunities to score. In the 20th minute, a perfectly timed run from Jimmy Raymond set up Jordan, but his shot was parried away.
He nearly added another goal in the 69th minute, but his header from Nur Shamie’s cross hit the post.
In the final 20 minutes, II Gattos had several chances to extend their lead, with Jimmy and Nur Shamie causing constant trouble down the right wing.
Nur Shamie’s impressive run nearly resulted in an own goal by a Kelantan defender, but the ball was deflected out for a corner.
Jimmy continued to threaten, delivering a cross into the penalty area. Jordan reached the loose ball, but Kelantan’s Khatul Anuar made a crucial save.
At the other end, Adam Danial’s header in the 73rd minute forced Shahril into a full stretch as he made another important save.
The win brings Kuching City FC to fourth in the Malaysian Super League. They are on a five game unbeaten run and will face Selangor away next.
Photo: Ramidi Subari
Photo: Ramidi Subari
