KUCHING: Kuching FA were lucky to win against Armed Forces 4-2 via penalty shootout following a scoreless draw in a match which was extended into extra time.
In the first round match played at the State Stadium here last Saturday, Kuching FA chief coach Ideris Untong said the midfield gave too much room for their opponents to move.
As a result, the strikers failed to get enough passes from them.
Occasionally, however, Yuta Suzuki who led the midfield did send good crosses to the front.
On Joseph Kallang Tie, Ideris said the player appeared a bit tired and was not fully fit, but believed Joseph will perform better in the next match.
The coach was pleased with the defenders led by former Sarawak captain Hairol Mokhtar and Mazwandi Zekeria together with Rafiezan Razali and Ramesh Lai Bun Huat.
Ideris said Kuching FA could have won 2-0 or 3-0 from the six to eight chances had there been good finishings.
From the first 30 minutes, the players struggled to find the rhythm of play on the 4-3-3 formation while the Armed Forces closed tightly their defence.
Joseph Kallang’s made a good attempt in the 27th minute only for the ball to hit the bar and in the 44th minute his shot was saved by the goalkeeper.
Attempts by Mohammad Shahfitri, Mohd Azri Razali and Mohamad Yazid in the 45th, 46th and 69th minutes all missed the target.
When asked whether the midfield needs new players, the chief coach replied: “It’s up to the management and it depends on the budget. However, we are going to strengthen the midfield in the next round.”
