PETALING JAYA: Preparation and a touch of fortune proved decisive for goalkeeper Damien Lim as his homework paid off big time in a historic Challenge Cup triumph for Sabah.
The 29-year-old shot-stopper emerged as the hero in a tense final, producing crucial saves in a 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Penang at Likas Stadium on Sunday as his club ended a 31-year wait for silverware.
With the tie locked 1-1 on aggregate after two legs and no breakthrough in regulation or extra time, the match went to penalties, where Damien’s preparation made the difference.
He denied Stefano Brundo and OJ Porteria from the spot, before Adib Abd Raop slipped in sudden death to hand Sabah the advantage. Damien revealed that detailed analysis with goalkeeping coach Irwan Jamil played a key role.
“Together with the goalkeeping coach (Irwan), we did our homework on Penang, but it also took a bit of luck, which is always an element for any shootout,” said Damien.
“What kept me going was the fans. There were definitely jitters, but also excitement and a burning desire to make Sabah proud, especially at Likas. With over 20,000 fans behind us, that gave us the motivation and determination to fight.”
Sabah kept their composure from the spot, with Dino Ljubic, Dane Ingham and Kervens Belfort converting before winger Farhan Roslan sealed victory in sudden death.
For Penang, Ramadhan Abd Hamid saved penalties from Dean Pelekanos and Ernesto Phumipha, while Douglas Coutinho, Faith Obilor and Omid Musawi were on target.
The triumph marked Sabah’s first major cup success since lifting the Malaysia FA Cup in 1995, capping a memorable night for the Rhinos faithful. Damien, who joined Sabah in 2022, described the journey as a bittersweet ride, noting the club’s struggles in the Super League this season where they sit 10th with 16 points.
“It has been challenging with teammates and coaches coming and going as well,” he said.
“But we have also had highs, finishing in the top three for three consecutive years, qualifying for the AFC Cup in 2023, reaching the FA Cup final last year, and now winning the Challenge Cup.”
The goalkeeper also spoke about his personal journey, having initially played second fiddle to Khairul Fahmi Che Mat before establishing himself as Sabah’s first-choice keeper this season.
“It was not easy at first, but it helped me grow and prove myself,” he said.
“Apek is someone I respect a lot. Competing with him pushed me to improve, and I hope to follow in his footsteps.”
