Crownity North District met up with RCFC at Kowloon Bay Park on Wednesday night for the 2023/24 JC Sapling Cup Group B fixture. Crownity North District beat RCFC by 2:1.
Right from the start, Crownity North District applied relentless pressure on RCFC. Yip Cheuk Man connected with a free-kick delivery from Kendy Renato but his header just missed the target.
In the 9th minute, Matheus showcased his skills as he received a pass on the left side and attempted a shot, only to see it comfortably gathered by the goalkeeper.
The dominance of Cronwity North District continued throughout the first half. Despite being closely marked, Kendy Renato managed to unleash a shot from the crowded penalty area, but unfortunately, it failed to find the back of the net.
RCFC, however, found their footing and started to create scoring opportunities. Ho Sze Chit's relentless pursuit paid off as he successfully intercepted the ball in the front court and swiftly passed it to Lee Yoonkwon, who attempted a shot from inside the box. Yet, his effort was denied by a timely intervention from the goalkeeper. Towards the end of the first half, Wong Ching Tak's powerful strike from the right side sailed just over the crossbar. The first half concluded with a goalless draw.
Both teams intensified their efforts to break the deadlock in the second half. In the 55th minute, Crownity North District finally broke through. Chow Ka Lok Leo received a clever pass from Chan Ho Ka on the left wing and delivered a precise cross to the far post, where Matheus was waiting unmarked to slot the ball home, giving his team a well-deserved 1:0 lead.
Refusing to succumb to defeat, RCFC launched a fierce comeback. In the 65th minute, Wong Ching Tak skillfully evaded his marker on the right side and delivered a pinpoint cross to an unmarked Lee Yoonkwon, who expertly bent the ball into the far corner, leveling the score at 1:1.
Nonetheless, Crownity North District showed their resilience and determination. In the 75th minute, Chan Yiu Yin rose to the occasion, receiving a powerful header from Lo Hong Wai and providing a precise cross from the left side. Matheus, lurking near the far post, effortlessly steered the ball into the back of the net, restoring his team's lead at 2:1.
Despite Chan Yiu Yin receiving two yellow cards and a subsequent red card during injury time, Crownity North District showcased their defensive prowess and managed to hold on to their hard-fought victory until the final whistle.
In the end, Crownity North District emerged triumphant, securing three valuable points and maintaining their position at the top of Group B in the JC Sapling Cup.