It ain’t over till it’s over, vows Kuching City FC coach

KUCHING (Jan 21): Kuching City FC are drawing confidence from past tournament comebacks as they prepare for a decisive second-leg clash against Penang FC in the Piala Malaysia Round of 16 at the Stadium Negeri this Saturday.

Trailing 0-1 on aggregate following last Sunday’s first-leg defeat in George Town, the Cats believe the tie is still very much alive, with head coach Aidil Sharin Sahak pointing to last season’s Malaysia FA Cup turnaround as proof that his side can rise to the occasion.

In that campaign, Kuching City overturned a first-leg loss to Brunei DPMM FC with a dominant home performance to advance. Aidil feels a similar response is possible this weekend with strong backing from the home crowd.

“This is only one half and we have been in this situation before in a cup game and managed to come back strong. In football, you must believe and trust your players,” said Aidil after the match on Sunday.

The first leg was decided by a 40th-minute header from Penang’s Brazilian signing Douglas Coutinho. Aidil maintained that his team were largely well-organised and created more opportunities, conceding only after a lapse in concentration from a set-piece.

Kuching City are expected to adopt a more aggressive approach at home as they chase the crucial opening goal, with physical forwards Jordan Mintah and Ronald Ngah likely to play key roles in breaking down Penang’s defence.

However, the Cats face a potential setback with midfielder Danial Amier Norhisham nursing an ankle injury sustained in the first leg. The extent of the injury can only be known after further medical assessment.

A near-capacity crowd is anticipated at the Stadium Negeri, with Aidil describing the home support as a vital factor in lifting his players, much like the atmosphere Penang enjoyed in George Town.

Saturday’s match kicks off at 8.15pm. With the away goals rule no longer applied, a one-goal win for Kuching City would be enough to force extra time and keep their Piala Malaysia campaign alive.