Challenge Cup Final: Penang FC Confident Of Bouncing Back In Likas

GEORGE TOWN, April 5 (Bernama) -- Penang FC head coach Wan Rohaimi Wan Ismail refused to dwell on his team’s late setback after they were held 1-1 by Sabah FC in the first leg of the Challenge Cup final at the City Stadium here last night. 

Although conceding a last-minute equaliser was disappointing, the tie remains open ahead of the return leg in Likas on April 19, he stressed. 

“From the aspect of energy and commitment, I am satisfied, but we still have the same problem in finishing,” he told reporters after the match. 

Wan Rohaimi admitted that poor finishing cost his side a more comfortable lead despite dominating phases of the match.

He said the defence was generally solid, but a lapse in the closing stages resulted in a penalty that allowed Sabah FC to level the score.

“After taking the lead, we should have added another goal to kill the game, but we failed to use the chances,” he said.

He added that players must now be mentally ready to face strong pressure from home supporters in Likas.

Despite the result, he remained confident that his team could bounce back, especially with the return of key players.

Meanwhile, Sabah FC head coach Juan Torres Garindo praised his team’s resilience and fighting spirit.

“They believed until the end, and we got the equaliser,” he said, adding that the result reflected his players’ determination.

-- BERNAMA