KOTA BHARU: Star City FC recorded a convincing 5-2 victory over Kelantan Red Warriors FC in a Super League match at the Sultan Muhammad IV Stadium here today.
The visitors opened the scoring in the 13th minute through a header by Muhammad Nur Azfar, who converted a cross from a teammate on the left flank.
Star City FC had almost taken the lead as early as the second minute through a shot by import player Douglas Olivera, but the attempt failed to find the net.
The visitors continued to put pressure on Kelantan Red Warriors FC’s defence and doubled their lead in the 44th minute through a header by import player Pedro Santos.
Muhammad Nur Azfar then extended the lead by converting a cross from the right during first-half stoppage time to put Star City FC comfortably ahead at 3-0.
Kelantan Red Warriors FC reduced the deficit to 1-3 in the 51st minute through a header by Muhammad Faudzi, who capitalised on a cross from a teammate on the left.
However, Star City FC strengthened their position when Muhammad Nur Azfar completed his hat-trick in the 59th minute with a shot from inside the penalty area that deflected off a home defender before finding the back of the net.
Kelantan Red Warriors FC narrowed the gap again in the 69th minute through a powerful strike by Arham Khusyairi, making it 2-4.
Star City FC sealed the victory when import player Ramon Macedo converted a penalty during second-half stoppage time to complete the 5-2 win.
The result meant Kelantan Red Warriors FC failed to make the most of their home advantage, surrendering all three points to the visitors.