KUALA LUMPUR: It was a historic day for Sabah hockey in the Razak Cup today.
The Borneo side achieved a remarkable victory, securing the women's crown by edging Selangor 2-1 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
It was Sabah's first-ever appearance in the final, and they displayed resolute defending throughout the match, successfully denying Selangor.
Sabah began the game aggressively but found themselves on the defensive as Selangor regrouped and scored their first goal from a penalty corner, thanks to Ellya Amanina Ellias, in the fourth minute. However, Sabah did not let the early goal deter them.
In the 18th minute, 22-year-old Nor Asfarina Isahyifiqa received a long pass from the midfield and calmly executed a reverse stick shot, leveling the score and giving Sabah some breathing space.
The third quarter proved to be the most captivating, as underdogs Sabah took the lead with a deft touch from 19-year-old Cyrachilld Rojos in the 38th minute. This goal took the Selangor defence by surprise.
Selangor pressed for an equaliser, with a flurry of attacks, but Sabah's 19-year-old goalkeeper, Sazanianie Sabinus, made several crucial saves to keep them at bay.
Sabah coach Hasrul Jideh had pledged to bring the trophy back to Borneo, and his players delivered with a disciplined performance.
"Despite falling behind by a goal in the first five minutes, my players fought back to equalise and ultimately win the match.
"Many of my players are young, and I believe they can only improve with time," he said.
RESULTS — Men's third-fourth: Perak 1 Pahang 1 (Perak win 3-1 on shootout).
Women's final: Selangor 1 Sabah 2;
Third-fourth: Melaka 2 Kuala Lumpur 1.