Yee Chun Leong
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
DPMM FC clinched the Singapore Premier League title with two games to go after their closest challengers Hougang United failed to get maximum points yesterday.
The Cheetahs got off to a rocky start against Geylang International FC to trail by three goals in the opening half an hour after a Fareez Farhan hat-trick but managed to fight back for a thrilling 4-4 draw at Our Tampines Hub.
However, the result meant that the Cheetahs are mathematically unable to catch the Brunei side, who are on 47 points and hold a four-point lead with two games left on their schedule.
On the other hand, Hougang only have a game left to play which is against DPMM on Sept 29 at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.
DPMM FC coach Adrian Pennock is ecstatic to be crowned champions in his first campaign in charge.
“It’s unbelievable! I’m so happy and pleased with everybody connected to DPMM FC,” said Pennock in an interview with BruSports News yesterday.
“We got two home games left and I want to win both of them. But obviously the pressure is off us and I just want the fans to turn up in numbers especially for the last game against Hougang.
“I just can’t wait to lift up the trophy with the players and celebrate with the fans,” added the Englishman, who captained Gillingham in a 3-2 extra time victory over Wigan Athletic in the 2000 Football League Second Division Play-off final at Wembley Stadium.
DPMM FC will resume their campaign on Wednesday against Tampines, who were ruled out of the title race on Saturday after a 3-3 draw against Balestier Khalsa FC.
They will then play their Singapore Cup opener against the Eagles on Sept 25 before their final League game.
