Kota Kinabalu: Sabah FC snapped a three-match winless run with a 2-0 victory over Terengganu FC in Saturday’s Super League tie at Likas Stadium.
Despite a heavy downpour, the visitors started brightly and missed several early scoring opportunities before Sabah FC began to stamp their authority on the match.
The breakthrough came in the 20th minute via a bizarre opening goal. Spanish left-back Enrique Lopez Fernandez launched a long ball from his own half that bounced completely over Terengganu FC’s goalkeeper Mohd Suhaimi Husin and into the net.
Five minutes later, Argentine winger Gonzalo Ignacio Di Renzo doubled the lead with a low volley from a lay off provided by Darren LokA chaotic scuffle then erupted just before half-time as players from both teams clashed on the pitch.
Amid the pushing and shoving, Terengganu FC’s Romel Morales was handed a straight red card in the 42nd minute for flooring Sabah FC goalkeeper Juan Flere.
Despite having a one-man advantage in the second half, Sabah FC couldn’t extend their lead, as a resilient Terengganu dug deep to keep the final score at 2-0.
Rhino’s assistant coach Alto Linus—stepping in for the suspended head coach Juan Torres Garrido expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance following the win.
He shared his delight after the squad achieved their objective of securing three crucial points at home, while praising the partnership between Darren Lok and Gonzalo.
“Congratulations to the team and all the players who worked tirelessly to ensure a positive result and secure all three points tonight,” he said.
“I believe Darren and Gonzalo are developing an excellent understanding of each other’s movements. They demonstrated a very strong combination on the pitch.”However, he emphasised the need for consistency, noting that there is still significant work ahead to rectify existing weaknesses.
With five matches remaining in the first round, he concluded that the team’s immediate goal is to solidify their place in the top five.
