JOHOR BAHRU: Sarawak United failed to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League after going down to a shock 1-0 defeat by Kuching City FC at the Pasir Gudang City Council Stadium today.
The first half saw Sarawak United, led by strikers Sandro Da Silva and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, laying siege on the Kuching City’s goalmouth but goalkeeper Mohd Iqbal Suhimi was in irrepressible form as he thwarted all their efforts.
Kuching City, under the guidance of coach Irfan Bakti Abu Sali, then made Sarawak United pay for their profligacy when Mohamad Alif Hassan scored the winner in the 84th minute.
Coach E. Elavarasan’s men tried to hit back but could not find a way past the rock-solid Iqbal Suhimi.
The defeat means Sarawak United will have to wait a little longer to confirm the Premier League title and, in fact, face a tricky test next as they will be up against title contenders Negeri Sembilan on Friday (Sept 10) at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras.
With just two matches to go, Sarawak United top the Premier League standings with 37 matches from 18 games, two more than Negeri Sembilan (35 pts).
Meanwhile, Kuching City are eighth with 21 points from 16 matches. – Bernama
