| Fadhil Yunus |
DPMM FC are set to become the first team since Al Idrus Junior FT to win Brunei’s second tier DST Premier League in their debut season after a 2-1 victory over a stubborn Rainbow FC at the Jerudong Park Mini Stadium last night.
The Jerudong-based side were largely frustrated by the resolute defending of Rainbow FC in the majority of the first half until in-form striker Md Hakeme Yazid bin Said made his mark.
The hosts made a clear sign of attacking intent in the early proceedings as Imam Mahdi bin Suhaimi released the ball wide before his teammate made a cutback into a dangerous area. However, the attacker’s effort did not concern Rainbow goalkeeper Arib bin Haji Umar.
The visitors nearly stunned the home crowd with the lead after DPMM FC goalkeeper Abdul Mutalip bin Haji Mohammad parried away a free-kick from the edge of the box.
With opposing players chasing a long ball, Md Hakeme Yazid won his duel with the defender, enabling a clear path to slot the ball past Arib for the all-important opening goal.
Muhd Hanif Farhan bin Azman doubled the lead three minutes into the second half while Muhd Syafiq Hidayat Al-Azim bin Shahrizam became the first player to score against DPMM FC this season in the 59th minute.
The champions-elect won all of their opening six games and will enter the final day of the season three points clear of second-placed Tabuan Muda.
Al Idrus Junior won the DST Premier League in 2016 after gaining promotion from the Brunei Muara District League during the previous season.
