SHAH ALAM: Kelantan created history when they lifted the 2012 Malaysia Cup after defeating Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) 3-2 in the final at Shah Alam Stadium on Saturday.
Indra Putra Mahayuddin was the toast of the Red Warriors when he scored the winning goal in extra time after both sides were tied at 2-2 on regular time.
The historical win completed a treble of wins for Kelantan after emerging FA Cup champions and Super League champions this season, a feat last achieved by Kedah for two consecutive seasons in 2007 and 2008.
Kelantan captured the coveted cup for the second time after winning for the first time in 2010 when they defeated Negeri Sembilan 2-1 at National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
Despite being without their striker imported from Lebanon, Mohamed Ghaddar, the East Coast team managed to prevent ATM from winning the cup for the first time.
ATM or better known as ‘The Gladiators’ failed again as in their last final 46 years ago losing 0-1 to Selangor. As soon as play started, Kelantan tested ATM’s defence led by national player Aidil Zafuan Abdul Razak.
Lethal striker Norshahrul Idlan Talaha almost put the Red Warriors ahead in the 15th minute but quick action by ATM goalkeeper Mohd Farizal Harun managed to push the ball away.
Norshahrul was often seen testing the ATM’s defence and one minute half time, he scored Kelantan’s first goal with a shot in the penalty box area.
Three minutes after game resumed, a powerful kick by ATM midfielder Rezal Zambery Yahya just outside the penalty box resulted in the equaliser for ATM. — Bernama