[MSL] Sarawak 2-1 PKNS: Narrow win for Crocs

Sarawak came close to dropping points yet again today, but a revived second half secured them an all important win at Stadium Negeri tonight.

The first half of the game was a poor affair for the Crocs with pointless passes made throughout the game. The under-performing Rashid Aya was yellow carded for countless fouls, while Hassan Mohammad adapted poorly to his unnatural position as a forward.

Two fantastic opportunities did however present itself for Sarawak in the first half although both were not even on target. Ryan Griffith’s powerful shot skidding pass the upper bar of PKNS’s goal in the first five minute of play, while another chance to score came when Joseph Kalang curled in a beautiful free kick which was just inches of the target.

The rest of the first half was balanced, with PKNS looking to be the more eager side to strike a goal. Sarawak’s defenders tip toed a lot on dangerous lines by allowing Patrick Ronaldinho and company room to strike the ball at Sarawak’s young goalkeeper, Fadley Rahim.

The second half however was a different affair with Hassan substituted for Muamer Salibasic, and Ashri Chuchu coming in for Rashid Aya.

Muamer made instant impact as he bossed the midfield and attacking half of Sarawak by showing fantastic ball holding and shielding ability. The Bosnian was also inspirational with his passes which opened attacking options to the likes of Ashri Chuchu, S Chanturu and Joseph.

In the 57th minute, the Stadium Negeri roared with approval when a stunning curler by Joseph was deflected to beat the helpless Ramezey Che Ros, hence putting Sarawak at the driver’s seat.

Sarawak came close to doubling the score line but Ryan Griffith had his shot on goal neatly saved by Remezey.

PKNS replied with a free kick 30-yards from the Sarawak goal, but Fadzley Rahim was more than ready to deny the effort. Nonetheless, moments later, the 26-year old goalkeeper found himself helpless to stop a chip into the box which Mafry Balang accidentally kicked into his own net to put the score level.

With less than ten minutes to the game, the Crocs bombarded the PKNS defense with all they had, hence putting PKNS under siege for countless times.

The hardworking Muamer finally signaled his return to form by scored a fantastic individual goal after dribbling past three defenders before eventually netting a half volley.

PKNS scrambled to find the equalizer in the dying minutes of the game, but even the added three minutes by the third referee, and a corner kick, came fruitless, with the Crocs and their fans celebrating a significant victory.

The result meant that the Crocs are two games away from securing their target this season, which is to stay in the Malaysia Super League.

FINAL RESULT: SARAWAK 2-1 PKNS
OUR MoM: MUAMER SALIBASIC

Photo by Dunia Sukan.
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