In the JC Sapling Cup Group A clash at Siu Sai Wan Sports Ground,Tai Po staged a remarkable comeback to secure a 2:1 victory over HKFC, thanks to Chung Wai Keung's second-half heroics.
Both teams started the match rather slow and Tai Po gradually gained control of the game after settling into their rhythm.On the 16th minute,HKFC made a misspass in midfield, allowing Tai Po's Kayron to exploit the opportunity with a precise through ball. Unfortunately, Chung Wai Keung's one-on-one shot narrowly missed the target.HKFC then produced several scoring chances, with Johns Dominic Sy breaking free from his marker and combining with Gustao Henrique.However, his shot from the edge of the penalty area was deflected out of play by the defender.
Tai Po continued to create scoring opportunities, with Estevez Emilio's shot from inside the penalty area narrowly missing the mark.
It wasn't until the 36th minute that HKFC broke the deadlock. Paulo Robspierry's exquisite long pass found Johns Dominic Sy, who skillfully controlled the ball before unleashing a powerful shot from a tight angle, beating the goalkeeper and giving HKFC a 1:0 lead. However, Tai Po responded swiftly, equalizing just two minutes later.Estevez Emilio's well-delivered corner kick from the left was met by Kayron, who rose above the crowd to head the ball into the net, marking his first goal since joining Tai Po. The first half concluded with the teams deadlocked at 1:1.
Tai Po continued to press for goals in the second half and their efforts paid off on the 52nd minute. Luiz Humberto received a pass from Tsai Lap Ching and unleashed a shot that was blocked by a defender. However, Chung Wai Keung reacted quickest to the loose ball, spinning and firing a low shot into the far post from a narrow angle, handing Tai Po a 2:1 advantage. Just a minute later, Tai Po had a golden opportunity to extend their lead, but Luiz Humberto's powerful strike from the right side rattled off the crossbar. Late in the second half, HKFC launched a spirited comeback and had their own chances to score. Unfortunately, Lau Hok Ming's shot from close range during a corner kick sailed over the crossbar. Right before the final whistle, Tai Po's Luiz Humberto showcased his skills on the right flank, but his shot was denied by an outstanding save from the goalkeeper. Finally, Tai Po emerged victorious with a 2:1 comeback win over HKFC,securing all three points.