Sabah make heads turn
by Sabah’s impressive run in the Malaysia Cup, their long wait to taste glory in the country’s most prestigious football tournament could end this year.
For the record, Sabah have never won the Malaysia Cup with their best effort being runners-up on three occasions.
On Saturday, Jelius Ating’s side turned the tables on former champions Kelantan to reach the semi-finals for the first time in 11 years.
Sabah defeated Kelantan on away goals following a 1-0 win at Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu. Serbian striker Rodoljub Paunovic’s 30th-minute goal from the penalty spot proved enough after a 2-1 first leg defeat in Kota Baru.
“This success is dedicated to the people of Sabah,” said Jelius.
Jelius added that the achievement has created a buzz in Sabah as the Premier League side have not tasted success for a long time.
“We assembled this squad in the middle of last season, and I am happy the players are showing progress in all aspects. The team are also lucky as they have loyal fans, who have been supportive throughout the season.
“The fans have been critical this year, but this, in turn, motivated the players. Today (Saturday), our fans packed the stadium and supported us until the final whistle,” Jelius added.
Sabah’s last semi-final run was in 2007. They were edged 3-2 on aggregate by Perak then.
Meanwhile, Kelantan coach Yusri Che Lah said his side lost to a better team.
“We had our chances yesterday and we almost scored in stoppage time. Our young players have good potential and I believe we will be better prepared next season,” said Yusri.
RESULT — Malaysia Cup q-final, 2nd leg: