By reader KZ

Hong Kah celebrate their win in the final of the National B Division Football Championship. (Photo courtesy of KZ)

 

Hougang Stadium, Thursday, July 26, 2012 — Hong Kah Secondary captured the National B Division Football title in heart-stopping fashion after overcoming Seng Kang Secondary 3-2 on penalty kicks.

The match ended 0-0 in regulation time.

Despite the goalless scoreline, there was plenty of action both on and off the field as about 1000 spectators crammed into the Hougang Stadium to cheer both school teams. It was also the first time a National Schools football final kicked-off at 7.45pm to ensure that the Muslim boys who were fasting were refuelled and hydrated to give their best.

Both teams displayed attacking intent and creativity but resolute defending and some excellent goalkeeping from both custodians resulted in the match being decided by the dreaded penalty shootout.

Hong Kah’s goalkeeper Hamzah bin Fazil was the man of the match after he produced a brilliant show during the shootout, saving three of Seng Kang’s spot kicks.

Hong Kah, which last won this title in 2006, became the first school to win this title since Singapore Sports School became been dominant in this competition. Sports School won for five straight years from 2007 to 2011. Sports School failed to qualify for the National Championship after losing out on goal difference in the second round of the North Zone Championship.