Kitchee’s nine-match unbeaten streak in the HKPL U-22 League came to an end on Sunday (January 18) following a 2-0 defeat to title rivals BC Rangers at Hammer Hill Road Sports Ground.
Kitchee named Yuen Chun Him, Marco Pirie, Chan Shing Chun and Tse Hin Tao in the starting lineup, with Yuen shifting to center-back to partner with the returning Dantas. In a high-stakes encounter between the league's top contenders, Kitchee goalkeeper Ainikaer Maihemuti was called into action early, making several crucial saves to keep the scores level. Kitchee thought they had taken the lead when Cheng Chin Lung slotted home from a brilliant long-range pass, but the goal was unfortunately ruled out for offside. Kitchee’s first registered shot on target came in the 42nd minute through Lam Tsun Wing, but his effort was smothered by the BC Rangers defender, leaving the match scoreless at the break.
The momentum shifted immediately after the restart as Kitchee conceded within 30 seconds into the second half. Despite a spirited response and multiple attempts from Leung Tsz Yin and Li Siu Hin, BC Rangers doubled their lead in the 77th minute with a spectacular long-range strike. Kitchee continued to push for a way back into the game, but the Rangers' defense held firm. The 2-0 result marks Kitchee’s first defeat of the season, ending a dominant nine-game unbeaten run and leaving both sides level at the top of the table with 21 points each.
Kitchee U22 Head Coach Johnny Poon highlighted the physical toll of recent weeks. He acknowledged that the congested fixture schedule, which saw several U18 players featuring in three matches across five days, proved to be a significant challenge. "It has been a demanding period, but these are the experiences that help young players grow”, Coach Poon remarked. "I want to thank the squad for their determination and contribution, especially considering the current injury concerns. We must remain united and overcome these hurdles as we look toward the remainder of the season”.
【港超聯U-22聯賽】
𝐇𝐊𝐏𝐋 𝐔-𝟐𝟐 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐞
傑志 Kitchee 0:2 標準流浪 BC Rangers