Ending Cup final jinx

PETALING JAYA: Third time’s the charm for Kelantan’s Mohd Norfarhan Mohd (pic) who bagged the winner in his team’s 1-0 win over Johor Darul Takzim (JDT) in the FA Cup final at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Saturday.

The midfielder was a key player in Kelantan’s run to the treble last season but missed playing the FA Cup final due to tactical reason and the Malaysia Cup due to suspension.

The 29-year-old player struck the winner in the 15th minute after receiving a through ball from Man-Of-The-Match Mohd Badhri Radzi.

A jubilant Norfarhan said it was a huge relief to finally end his Cup jinx and retain the FA Cup.

“I’m so happy to have play in the final and finally end my Cup final jinx,” said an ecstatic Norfarhan after the match.

“We had a number of chances to score in the match but one goal was enough for us to win. Too be honest I can’t believe I scored the winner ... I always set my mind on scoring every time I play and I’m glad that my goal handed us the victory.”

Meanwhile, skipper Badhri, said that the win was important as it gave Kelantan a berth in the AFC Cup competition for the third time in a row.

“This win was harder than the one last season. We lost several key players and welcomed several young and new players to the team and they all gelled well together,” said the 32-year-old player.

“I need to thank the players for giving their 100% effort and I also thank the fans for their undying support.”