ABDB Too Good For Akse Bersatu

Wednesday, 13 June 2012 07:53

Jake Ten

Bandar Seri Begawan - MS ABDB exerted their dominance over newcomers Akse Bersatu after the former trounced the latter 4-1 af the Balapan Track and Field Complex last night.

It was a typical David versus Goliath encounter, with Akse Bersatu, who fielded a squad whose average age did not exceed 21, playing against MS ABDB, who recently qualified for the upcoming 2012/2013 DST Super League, Brunei's elite league which will pitch the top 20 teams from the DST National League against each other.

The visitors deservedly took the lead in the 16th minute through winger Cpl Mohammad Haizul Rani Metussin's strike.

MS ABDB doubled their advantage in the 31st minute, after Pte Mohammad Mazazizi bin Mazlan scored from the spot.

The gulf in experience was clear for all to see when Cpl Mohamad Zairol bin Kamat headed home his side's third of the night, to give MS ABDB a three-goal cushion. However, Akse Bersatu came out fighting in the second half, contesting for every ball, but despite their renewed enthusiasm, MS ABDB remained in control of the game and saw a string of golden chances go begging.

Akse captain Daud bin Haji Nasir capitalised on a mix-up in the heart of the ABDB defence to claim a consolation goal for his side in the 74th minute, but substitute Cpl Mohammad Hardi bin Hj Matassan killed the game off with a simple tap-in in the 84th minute to set up a secdnd round encounter with Rimba Star FC, who beat MBS United 6-2 on Sunday.

Khalid Hj Bujang, the Assistant Manager of MS ABDB, was relieved to see his side qualify for the next round.

"I'm very happy that we've won because we were playing for the win," said the Assistant Manager.

However, despite the impressive 4-1 scoreline, Khalid Hj Bujang insisted that the game was not as enticing as the scoreline suggested.

"It was a dull game. Even though we won 4-1, we did not show our strengths," remarked Khalid Hj Bujang, after seeing a series of gilt-edged chances not taken.

His side will now take on familiar opposition in the form of Rimba Star FC, a match which promises to provide plenty of excitement.

"We beat them 4-0 last time we played, but I think this time round it will be a very hard game."

 --Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin