REGENCY, Java Post Radar Mojokerto – Qualifying for the semifinals in this year’s edition is the best achievement for Mojokerto Regency football during the eight Proprov events.
Even though they did not succeed in presenting a medal, the work of the young players revived the passion and hope for football in Bumi Majapahit, which had been dormant for a long time.
Mojokerto Regency lost 0-2 to Kediri City in the match for third place in East Java Provincial VIII/2023 at the Gelora Delta Stadium, Sidoarjo, Thursday (14/9) evening.
Previously, the team coached by coach Teddy Arif Prianto failed to advance to the final after being defeated by host Sidoarjo with a score of 0-1 in the semifinals, Tuesday (12/9) night.
In the match for third place, the Reno squad, Eka Saputra et al, conceded two goals in the second half. Respectively in the 68th minute via a corner kick scheme and the 92nd minute from the penalty spot.
The advantage for Kediri City lasted until the match was over. This defeat practically forced Mojokerto Regency to go home without a bronze medal.
”We apologize to all the people of Mojokerto Regency who have supported us, we have not been able to give out medals. “Hopefully the future will be better,” said Teddy after the match.
The former PSMP coach stated that his players had worked hard on the field.
They were also able to perform brilliantly by qualifying as winners of the preliminary group and crushing Trenggalek in the top 8 round (quarter finals).
The achievement of reaching the semifinals is a new record for the Bumi Majapahit squad. The reason is, in the previous seven Proprov events, they always failed in the group stage.
Didn’t even qualify for the main round, aka fell in qualifying. ”(Qualifying for the semifinals) is a joint team struggle,” added the coach from Dawarblandong Village/District.
During the group stage match at Gajah Mada Stadium, Mojosari, the support from the home fans was very visible. The passion for football seemed to come back to life with the stands full of spectators.
This enthusiasm has at least disappeared since the PSMP scandal which resulted in a ban on participating in the 2018 competition.
The good performance of young players in this year’s multi-event event should be a turning point in reviving football in Mojokerto Regency. (adi/fen)
