Sri Pahang FC made first victory in away match after beating Penang FC scoring 1-0 in the Liga Super Malaysia 2024/25 at Stadium Bandaraya, Pulau Pinang.
The match began evenly, with both teams cautiously testing each other’s defenses. However, it quickly became evident that Sri Pahang were the more dominant side, controlling possession and launching a series of attacks, while Penang FC found themselves on the back foot, forced into defensive play.
Under the guidance of head coach Fandi Ahmad, Sri Pahang’s offensive efforts were relentless in the first half, racking up 11 attempts on goal, five of which were on target. Penang, on the other hand, managed only two notable chances that threatened Sri Pahang’s goalkeeper, Muhammad Zarif Irfan Hashimuddin.
The breakthrough came in stoppage time of the first half. A well-placed cross from Sergio Aguero found Ahapov, who expertly directed the ball into the net, giving Sri Pahang the advantage just before the teams headed into the locker rooms.
The second half saw Sri Pahang continue their aggressive play, with Kpah Sherman coming close to doubling the lead in the 54th minute. His powerful header seemed to have found the back of the net, but it was disallowed after a VAR review determined the goal was offside, a decision met with disappointment by the visiting fans.
Penang FC, desperate to salvage a point, ramped up their efforts in the latter stages of the match. Notable attempts from Adib Ra’op in the 51st minute and a dangerous low pass from Nik Akif Syahiran Nik Mat in the 65th minute were both expertly dealt with by Zarif Irfan, who remained a solid figure in goal for Sri Pahang.
Despite Penang’s push for an equalizer, the 1-0 scoreline remained until the final whistle. The victory allowed Sri Pahang FC to maintain their ninth position in the league, while Penang FC dropped to 11th, adding pressure on the Harimau Kumbang squad as the season progresses.
This win marks a crucial moment for Sri Pahang, who will look to build on this momentum as the Liga Super Malaysia season continues.
Credit Photo : HongZheng Lim/SNE-Photo
