KUCHING: Ramadhan Saifullah fired two stunning free-kicks to inspire Kuching City FC’s 4-1 win over PDRM FC in their Malaysia Super League clash at the Sarawak State Stadium on Sunday night (Apr 13).
The midfielder’s brace, both from set-pieces, turned the tide in favour of the hosts after a closely contested first half.
Kuching City made a dream start, taking the lead inside the opening minute through Ronald Ngah Wanja, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home.
PDRM responded late in the first half, with Amirul Yacoob equalising in the 42nd minute to send both sides into the break level at 1-1.
Kuching City came out stronger after the restart and regained the lead in the 47th minute when Ramadhan curled in a superb free-kick, leaving PDRM goalkeeper Hakeem Hamidun stretching in vain.
Ramadhan struck again in the 62nd minute with another well-taken effort from distance, completing his brace and putting the hosts firmly in control.
Jerome Mpacko Etame then sealed the result in the 67th minute, rising to head in Kuching City’s fourth goal.
PDRM’s Alif Naquiddin was booked in the 61st minute, while Kuching City’s Ahmad Israiwah and Gabriel Nistelrooy also received yellow cards.
The win lifts Kuching City to second in the Malaysia Super League standings, overtaking Selangor FC on goal difference, with both sides level on points after Selangor’s 1-1 draw with Sabah FC a day earlier.
Johor Darul Ta’zim remain top, while Kuala Lumpur City FC sit fourth.
Kuching City will next face Selangor in the second leg of the Malaysia Cup semi-finals on Apr 18 at the Sarawak State Stadium, after holding the Red Giants to a 1-1 draw in the first leg away.
