MELAKA FC CLINCH A1 SEMI-PRO LEAGUE TITLE IN STUNNING 7-2 WIN

MELAKA, Feb 22 (Bernama) -- Melaka FC secured a triumphant victory, clinching the A1 Semi-Pro League title after thrashing Machan FC 7-2 in the season’s final match here tonight.

In the match at Hang Jebat Stadium, Krubong, Ghanaian import striker Fuseini Issah shone with a hat-trick, helping Melaka FC claim a resounding win over the club based in Sibu, Sarawak.

Playing on home ground, K. Devan’s squad was initially stunned by the visitors' opening goal in the 12th minute, scored by Haziq Shah Putra Zulkafli.

Jolted by the early setback, the hosts intensified their attacks and equalised 1-1 through Mohd Fakrullah Rosli in the 19th minute.

Fuseini put Melaka FC ahead by converting a penalty in the 22nd minute and extended the lead again in the 33rd minute.

Two minutes before half-time, Fuseini further widened the gap for his team, outwitting Machan FC goalkeeper Muhammad Aqiel Danish Mohd Nasir.

Melaka FC maintained their momentum in the second half, with captain Nasir Basharuddin netting in the 53rd minute and Nizaruddin Jazi adding another in the 64th minute.

Haziq Shah Putra pulled one back for Machan FC in the 89th minute, but Nizaruddin responded swiftly with Melaka FC’s seventh goal in the 90th minute before the final whistle was blown.

As A1 Semi-Pro League champions, Melaka FC took home RM100,000 in prize money, with the presentation ceremony officiated by Melaka Governor Tun Mohd Ali Rustam.

Also present were Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president Datuk Joehari Ayub.

The emphatic victory over Machan FC capped off Melaka FC’s campaign, having collected 68 points from 28 matches, with five draws and only one defeat - a 0-1 loss to PT Athletic FC.

-- BERNAMA