KUCHING: Head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak has called for better game management from Kuching City FC despite a late 2-2 draw against DPMM FC in the Malaysia Super League on Saturday (April 25).
A stoppage-time equaliser from Jordan Mintah salvaged a point for the Cats at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, but the result dented their push for a runners-up finish after surrendering an early lead.
Kuching City made a dream start when Danial Asri fired them ahead in the sixth minute, finishing off a Ronald Ngah Wanja cross.
However, DPMM responded through Jordan Rodrigues in the 23rd minute before Jordan Murray turned the game around seven minutes later following a pass from Syafiq Ahmad.
Aidil admitted his side lost control after taking the lead, allowing the hosts to grow in confidence.
“I think we didn’t lose three points, but we still have one point to bring back. That’s still positive rather than zero points because towards the last minute they were leading,” he said.
“After we scored, we did well, then we started to let DPMM score and they grew their confidence to get a second goal. This is where we have to learn something — we need to manage the game well,” he added.
Seeking a response, Aidil introduced Daniel Amier at halftime to inject more attacking movement as Kuching City pushed for an equaliser.
They were handed a lifeline in the 63rd minute after winning a penalty, but Wanja’s effort was saved by goalkeeper Haimie Nyaring.
Aidil, however, stood by his striker.
“Any good player can miss a penalty. He was trying his best, and I think Haimie is good in penalty saves,” he said.
The visitors continued to press and were eventually rewarded deep into stoppage time when Rodrigues fouled Mintah inside the box.
Mintah stepped up and, despite seeing his initial effort saved, reacted quickest to slot home the rebound and rescue a point.
Aidil praised his players’ fighting spirit but maintained that improvements are needed.
“The boys with the team spirit and effort did massively well, trying to get goals again and again. Still, I’m a little bit unhappy with the result because we can do better than that,” he said.
