KANBAWZA FC notched their first win in the MNL Cup on May 21 with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over an inexperienced and error-prone Okkthar United side at Aung San Stadium.
Despite the lack of foreign players on display, the fans turned up in droves and the turnout easily matched the crowd that two days earlier saw Magway and Delta United fight out a thrilling 1-1 draw.
The opening goal for Kanbawza came after 13 minutes when striker Sa Htet Naing Win headed past Okkthar keeper Ko Ko Aung. Midfielder Khin Maung Lwin hit a long-range goal in the 54th minute and then put the result beyond doubt eight minutes later.
Despite the three-goal win, the Kanbawza side, which featured Myanmar internationals such as Soe Myat Min, Moe Win, man of the match Khin Maung Lwin and Kyaw Zin Htet, did not play anywhere near their best and Okkthar spent most of the match trying to snuff out any of Kanbawza’s goalscoring opportunities. The result was a disappointing spectactle for the fans but the match improved in the second half when captain Soe Myat Min and Sa Htet Naing Win began to carve out some chances.
Okkthar United’s lack of experience showed across the park; in midfield they failed to hold onto possession and up front they lacked composure.
Head coach U Win Tin said afterwards he was satisfied with the result considering the gulf in class and experience between the sides.
“I am satisfied with my young team’s performance, they didn’t give away too many goals against a side that featured many national team players,” the Okkthar boss said at the post match press conference. “During the match, Kanbawza changed their style of play frequently ... I think they were using this match to refine their play for the upcoming AFC President’s Cup.”
Kanbawza’s head coach U Aye Maung Gyi was less enthusiastic about his players’ efforts. “Although we beat Okkthar United FC by three goals, I am not satisfied with the team’s performance – especially in the midfield. I will review and train the players so they improve in the coming matches,” U Aye Maung Gyi said.
