KUCHING: Kuching City FC wrapped up their Malaysian Super League campaign in style with a commanding 3-1 away win over Negeri Sembilan at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium, Paroi, Seremban last night (Apr 20)
Jordan Mintah opened the scoring in the 16th minute, calmly converting from the penalty spot after a VAR check confirmed no offside in the build-up.
The spot-kick, earned after Mintah was brought down by Negeri Sembilan’s goalkeeper Muhaimin Mohamad — marked his 13th goal of the season in just 21 appearances.
Moments later, Mintah nearly doubled his tally with a powerful header from a Jimmy Raymond cross, but Muhaimin was equal to the effort.
Kuching City dominated much of the first half, with Jimmy posing a constant threat down the right flank with his overlapping runs.
Midfielder Petrus Shitembi extended the visitors’ lead in the 36th minute with a well-taken goal, pouncing on a defensive lapse to round the keeper and slot home.
The second half was a more balanced affair, with Negeri Sembilan pushing to close the gap. They found a breakthrough in the 71st minute through Selvan Anbualagan, who capitalised on a strong run by Sebastian Avanzini.
The Italian bulldozed into the Kuching defence, and a deflection off captain James Okwuosa landed at Selvan’s feet for a composed finish.
Despite mounting pressure from the home side, Aidil Sharin’s men remained resolute at the back. In stoppage time, Kuching were awarded another penalty after Mintah was fouled by Aliyu Abubakar.
The Ghanaian stepped up once again and confidently slotted home his 14th goal of the season in the 96th minute, sending the keeper the wrong way to complete his brace.
With goals from Shitembi and Mintah, Kuching City secured all three points and ended their season in fourth place with 39 points — registering 10 wins, 9 draws, and 5 losses.
