KUCHING: Hipmau FC coach Ramles Sari credited collective effort and hard training after his side lifted the 5th Chinese Lunar New Year Kirin Cup, defeating PJLFC 2–1 in the final.
Ramles said the triumph was the result of teamwork involving not just the coaching staff and players, but also management and everyone behind the scenes who contributed to the team’s preparation and campaign.
“This victory is not only about the coach. It is the result of cooperation from everyone — management, players and all those involved. It is truly a collective effort,” he told Sarawak Tribune at the tournament’s closing dinner recently.
Ramles, who is also a Sarawak football legend from the 1990s said Hipmau’s success was built on commitment and discipline during training, which often took place under challenging conditions.
“We trained in the rain, we trained at night and in the evenings. The players showed great commitment, and that hard work paid off,” he added.
Ramles also acknowledged the contribution of several experienced players who provided valuable support throughout the tournament, including Saravanan Muthia, Ching Hong Aik and Ramesh Lai Ban Huat, as well as other out-of-state players who strengthened the squad.
Hipmau FC endured a competitive group stage campaign on January 24, opening with a narrow 0–1 loss to PJLFC before bouncing back with a convincing 3–1 win over Xin Hua FC and a 1–0 victory against Derga FC to secure progression.
The Sarawak side carried their momentum into the semi-finals on January 25, producing a dominant 3–0 win over Islanders FC to book a place in the final.
In the title decider, Hipmau FC completed their redemption against PJLFC, edging the earlier group-stage opponents 2–1 to clinch the Kirin Cup crown.
The 5th Chinese Lunar New Year Kirin Cup, held in conjunction with the festive season, brought together veteran teams from Malaysia and Singapore, providing a platform for competitive football, camaraderie and cultural celebration.
