Sarawak and Sabah players in action during the friendly match on Sunday night.
KUCHING: Sarawak put up a disappointing performance, losing 0-1 to Sabah in a friendly match at the State Stadium here on Sunday night.
Despite playing in front of more than 5,000 fans, the homesters failed to impress. In particular, several foreign import players on trial gave a poor account of themselves.
The Crocs had their hands full as the visitors dominated from kick off with several attempts at goal.
Rawilson Batuil put Sabah in front by the 25th minute following a goalmouth melee.
Early in the second half Sarawak had a golden opportunity to equalize after Bruno Baiano was brought down in the penalty box.
Mark Hartmann, who had just signed on with the team, however, failed to convert.
The Crocs did initiate several dangerous moves but were let down by simple mistakes.
With about a week to finalize the team, coach David Usop will have his work cut out deliberating on team selection.
Sarawak will face T-Team in their Super League opener at Stadium Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah on Jan 21. Sabah remain in the second-tier Premier League for the 2017 season.