Kuching City FC stands tall despite last-minute heartbreak

KUCHING (April 7): Kuching City FC head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite conceding a late equaliser in their 1-1 draw against Selangor FC in the first leg of the Malaysia Cup semi-final on Sunday night.

Playing at the Petaling Jaya Stadium, the visitors were two minutes away from securing a historic away victory before Selangor struck during stoppage time to level the tie.

Aidil gave credit to his players for their effort and discipline against a more fancied opponent.

“I think the boys worked very hard tonight. Like I said before the game, it’s not easy to play against Selangor when they play at home,” he told the post-match interview.

He said his boys came to the match as clear underdogs with expectations heavily tilted in favour of the hosts.

Despite conceding a last-gasp equaliser, Aidil refused to single out any player for blame, describing the result as part and parcel of football.

“Nobody expected us to win this game because everyone was speaking about Selangor as the better team. But I think the boys proved tonight.

“It’s just that we were a little bit switched off in one moment but this happens in football. Every team and every player makes mistakes. I can’t blame any of them because they gave their best and followed the game plan,” he explained.

Kuching City had taken the lead through a first-half penalty by Ronald Ngah Wanja before Selangor salvaged a draw when Chrigor Moraes struck deep into stoppage time.

Aidil said the result should still give his side confidence heading into the return leg.

“To come back with more confidence because we didn’t lose, I think this is a good sign for us. Of course, a win would boost motivation but we have to accept this and move forward,” he said.

He reiterated that the pressure remains on Selangor given their status as a bigger club with greater expectations.

“Selangor are the bigger team with a bigger budget, bigger players and bigger expectations. So why should we feel the pressure? They need results.

“For us, we just have to do our part. We are still growing as a team and I think where we are now is incredible,” he said.

Meanwhile, the coach called on Kuching fans to turn up in numbers for the second leg at Stadium Negeri on April 18.

“Next game in Kuching, I want all the fans to come and support us. It’s time to cheer for Kuching and that will give us more boost and motivation,” he said.