PETALING JAYA: Kuching City were left empty-handed after a gallant effort against 11-time Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat at the Sarawak Stadium on Sunday (Aug 24).
Aidil Sharin Sahak’s men started brightly in the first half, managing to match the Southern Tigers stride for stride. Goalkeeper Haziq Nadzli also stood tall, pulling off several fine saves to deny the relentless JDT frontline led by Joao Figueiredo.
The turning point came just four minutes into the second half when Yuki Tanigawa was shown a straight red card for a foul on Figueiredo just outside the penalty area.
The numerical disadvantage proved costly as JDT finally broke through in the 60th minute. Jairo da Silva rose highest to nod home a pinpoint cross from Figueiredo for what turned out to be the decisive goal.
Kuching City pushed hard in search of an equaliser but could not find a way back, leaving the score at 1-0 at the final whistle.
The result keeps JDT firmly at the top of the league with nine points from three matches, while Kuching City remain in fifth place with three points.
