MS ABDB begin title defence with resounding win over IKLS MB-5 FC

Fadhil Yunus

MS ABDB began their title defence in the Brunei Super League in style after a resounding 6-0 victory over IKLS MB-5 FC at the Tutong Sports Complex last night.

The early period of the first half saw IKLS being comfortable in possession but MS ABDB showed the simplicity of finishing a move to devastating effect led by Baharin Hamidon who initiated the threat with a teasing cross onto the box.

It was a familiar trio who orchestrated the opening goal of the game as Adey Shariduan bin Haji Johari combined with Fadhli Haji Salleh, who easily tapped the ball home from an unmissable range.

With IKLS probing for a half chance, they got a sniff in goal but Amrin Yusrin could not hit his shot cleanly enough to trouble the champions after receiving a pass from the flanks.

MS ABDB veteran Budiman Jumat, one of few regulars that have been a mainstay for the club provided another setback for IKLS after doubling his team’s lead in the 10th minute.

The MS ABDB stalwart also unleashed a fierce drive from range which IKLS goalkeeper Awangku Zulazim bin Pengiran Jamadil tipped away to safety.

The army personnel extended the lead as Adey Shariduan swung an inviting free-kick which appeared to deceive everyone and into the back of the net.

The visitors were not entirely poor by all accounts in the first half and had their moments evident with Nor Hidayatullah bin Haji Zaini blasting his shot wide.

When the referee blew the whistle for a free-kick on the edge of the box just before half-time, IKLS had a chance to get back into the game but an effort flew wide.

The champions took only four minutes after the restart to continue their relentless pursuit for goals as Fadhli doubled his tally. The forward completed his hat-trick just a minute later as MS ABDB rained goals.

Saiful Ammar bin Haji Adis, another player who has been an ever-present in MS ABDB’s title-winning runs, added the gloss to the win with his team’s sixth goal in the 71st minute.

Meanwhile, BSRC announced their arrival in the Brunei top flight with a 3-1 victory over Bakes FC at the Brunei Shell Recreation Club Field in Belait.

Goals from Md Iqmal Wafi, Abd Halim and Herman had done the damage for the Belait outfit before Faisal came up with a consolation goal in the 74th minute for Bakes FC.

MS ABDB player Baharin Hamidon shields the ball from an IKLS MB-5 FC player during the match. PHOTO: FADHIL YUNUS