In an electrifying ABPL encounter, Austin Arsenal pulled off a sensational upset, securing a resounding 5-0 win over a formidable Leander FC side. Despite missing their top players, the determined Arsenal squad, led by newly appointed captain Rubayet, showcased a remarkable display of skill and teamwork.
With the inclusion of talented newcomers Hamid and Faiyaz, who made significant contributions with two goals each, Arsenal dominated the game from start to finish. However, it was their captain and goalkeeper Rubayet who truly stole the show, thwarting every attack launched by the trio of Sabbir, Liton, and Anhaf with awe-inspiring saves.
In a highly intense first half, Leander FC applied relentless pressure and came tantalizingly close to scoring. However, the rock-solid defensive lineup of Arsenal, comprising Sudan, Iqbal, Tuhin, and Jewel, stood firm and made it incredibly challenging for their opponents to breach their backline. Arsenal’s midfield trio of Deedar, Sakif, and Moshiur displayed exceptional cohesion and control, but they struggled to break through the formidable defensive trio of Zahedul, Nuruzzaman, and Sanjoy from Leander FC.
The second half witnessed a flurry of counter-attacks from both teams, but it was Arsenal who struck first. Manik capitalized on excellent passes from Deedar, Moshiur, and Manik to unleash a well-placed shot beyond Leander’s goalkeeper, Mahabub. Determined to equalize, Leander launched rapid attacks, only to be denied by Arsenal’s resilient defenders and Rubayet’s outstanding one-on-one save against Liton.
Substitute Ahsan Kabeen Palash made a significant impact on the wing, earning two penalties for Arsenal. While Sudan missed the first spot-kick, Faiyaz converted the second, further increasing Arsenal’s lead. With Leander’s defense weakened in their desperate pursuit of goals, Hamid seized the opportunity, netting two quick-fire goals, while Faiyaz added another to complete the impressive 5-0 victory.
This triumph marks Arsenal's first win of the season, injecting them with newfound confidence as they strive to climb the league table. With one game remaining, they have the opportunity to ascend from the bottom and conclude ABPL on a high note.
