| Fadhil Yunus |
DPMM FC’s chances of making ground to second place took a hit after a 2-2 draw to Geylang International FC in the Singapore Premier League at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas last night.
The Gegar Gegar men’s hopes of catching second-placed Tampines Rovers FC were made difficult after dropping points with their games in hand.
The Brunei-based outfit are now without a win in three games and must win their remaining game in hand to stay in contention for a runners-up finish.
The visitors took an early lead through Yeo Hai Ngee in the fifth minute before Adi Said drew his team level in the 18th minute for his 10th goal of the season.
DPMM FC centre back Brian McLean helped his side into the lead in the 43rd minute, but the hosts could not hold onto the lead until half-time as Geylang forward Fairoz Hasan struck.
The hosts won a corner as Volodymyr Pryimov and McLean took their positions in the box as Abdul Aziz Tamit’s advance was halted by the Geylang defence for another corner.
DPMM FC winger Azwan Ali Rahman, who came on as a substitute was handed set-piece duties on the left hand side but his cross was inadvertently cleared by a watertight Geylang defence.
The home side made a tactical switch by bringing on Azwan Ali and Abdul Azizi Rahman to allow Abdul Mu’iz Sisa a smoother transition.
DPMM FC fullback Helmi Zambin was also a busy figure closing down any Geylang threat.
Shafie Efenddy and Azwan Ali exchanged passes in a neat one-two play but the Geylang defence was quick to end their build-up play.
Geylang brought in fresh legs with Noor Ariff tasked to seize on any signs of tiredness as Fuad Ramli made way.
Hendra Azam had a chance for the hosts but his effort soared wide with Volodymyr and Adi also having a pop with the ball which unfortunately did not trouble Geylang’s goalkeeper Faris Danial.