KUCHING: Following a 2-0 loss to league leaders Johor Darul Ta’zim, Kuching City FC head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak found encouragement in his side’s second-half performance.
He recognised the challenge posed by the long break since their last match and the tough opposition, but he praised his players for showing ‘real character’ after the break.
“I think the boys tried their best, and I believe the second half showed the real character of the Kuching City team,” said Aidil during the post-match press conference at Sarawak State Stadium on Tuesday night (Apr 16).
The Singaporean remained upbeat, highlighting tactical adjustments, growing confidence, and a fighting spirit that he hopes will carry the team into their next fixture against Negeri Sembilan.
“We dominated and played our game. I hope the fans enjoyed that second-half performance. Although we lost, I truly appreciate their presence and support,” he added.
Aidil, who started the match with a back five instead of his usual back four, explained that the tactical shift was part of a plan to contain the defending champions early on.
“Actually, we tried to defend in the first half to frustrate them. In the second half, the plan was to start attacking. But like I said, we gave away the penalty too early.
“The second goal came shortly after from a corner kick. So things had to change quickly. You could see that I made immediate adjustments — switching back to a back four and returning to our attacking approach,” he said.
Kuching City will face Negeri Sembilan in their final Super League match this Sunday (Apr 20) at 9 pm, with the Cats sitting fourth in the table with 36 points and the Deers in 12th with 16 points.
