| Fadhil Yunus |
DPMM FC are still in search of a win in the second round of the S League after being held to a 1-1 draw by Warriors FC at Choa Chu Kang Stadium in Singapore last night.
The reigning holders have previously lost twice against league leaders Albirex Niigata (S) and Geylang International FC.
The visitors were left off the hook in the ninth minute after Warriors striker Jonathan Behe fired wide with only DPMM FC’s goalkeeper Wardun Yussof to beat.
The Gegar Gegar men had to wait till the 16th minute for a sniff on goal when Portuguese forward Paulo Sergio glancing header flew wide from an Azwan Ali cross.
Sergio unleashed a fierce drive seven minutes later but his effort was parried away by Warriors alternate goalkeeper Zainol Gulam.
Despite head coach Steve Kean lamenting his misfiring side, the holders were clearly not bereft of opportunities nor confidence as Azwan Ali possessed the audacity to test Zainol from distance who had to be in full stretch to deny the DPMM FC winger.
Zainol was called into action again in the 26th minute by pushing away Brazilian striker Rafael Ramazotti’s header.
Azwan Ali laid the ball for Azwan Salleh but his shot was turned away by the despairing foot of Zainol.
Warriors midfielder Hafiz Nor ventured forward with interest before setting up Behe but the striker contrived to fire straight at Wardun.
DPMM FC took the lead on the hour mark as Paulo Sergio produced a clean strike from close range.
The hosts came close to finding an equaliser after Croatian forward Marijan Suto shot rattled against the bar.
But that close shave proved to be an inspiration as Suto, who made the step-up from the Prime League, nodded home from close range to rescue his side a point in the 89th minute.
Meanwhile, in the other game, Geylang International FC beat Garena Young Lions 3-1 at the Bedok Stadium in Singapore.
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