DPMM FC sent a statement to their rivals in the Singapore Premier League after overpowering Albirex Niigata (S) 4-1 at the Jurong East Stadium in Singapore last night.
It might be early days as far as talks of a title surfaced but this attacking display proves that they have a shot to trouble the top teams.
The Brunei-based outfit raced to a three-goal lead in a nine-minute spell before a goal back from Albirex reignited hopes of a comeback.
However, a fourth goal for DPMM FC helped restore a comfortable three-goal cushion and sent them on their way for a crucial win.
DPMM FC new signing Julio Cruz opened the scoring in the 12th minute after guiding the ball past Albirex goalkeeper Kai Yamamoto following a cutback from Hakeme Yazid Said.
The Gegar Gegar men doubled their lead as Gabriel Gama executed a perfectly timed scissor kick with Julio Cruz turning provider.
Miguel Oliveira made it 3-0 in the 21st minute with a fine strike after connecting from a perfectly timed pass from Julio Cruz who collected a second assist of the game.
The White Swans pulled a goal back in the 56th minute after midfielder Yohei Otake’s free-kick deflected off the wall and into the net past DPMM FC goalkeeper Kristijan Naumovski.
But, any signs of an Albirex revival slowly faded as Miguel Oliveira showed how hard to defend him before curling a fine low finish past the goalkeeper.
The result put Rui Capela Batista’s charges third on the table with a maximum six points after two matches.
Victory against the reigning holders will set up a mouth-watering clash against current league leaders Lion City Sailors in their next match at home at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on June 15. – Fadhil Yunus
