Arema stuns Persebaya

JAKARTA (JP): Supported by some 15,000 home spectators, Arema Malang of East Java upset visitors Persebaya Surabaya 1-0 in the Bank Mandiri soccer league at the Gajayana Stadium in Malang on Sunday.

Both teams were engaged in a rough match with hard tackles. Arema's Kuncoro was given a yellow card in the 17th minute by referee Aris Munandar, Antara reported.

The first half was goal-less although Arema's captain I Putu Gde had several attempts to score. He was also given a yellow card for his rough play.

Arema's only goal was scored in the 74th minute when striker Achmad Junaidi headed the ball taking advantage of a pass from the midfield.

Arema's players attempted to push their luck by applying more pressure but to no avail. Instead, Achmad Junaidi and Lukman Harsono were also given yellow cards.

In Jakarta, Bandung-based Persib defeated host Persijatim of East Jakarta 3-2 at Lebak Bulus Stadium.

Persijatim took the lead in the 12th minute when Abdul Manan took a corner, kicked by Ismed Sofyan and netted it, leaving Persib's goalie Cecep Supriatna stunned.

Persib's Yaris Riyadi equalized in the 47th minute after taking a pass from the midfield and placing it in Alfian Tanjung's unguarded net. Agus Santiko scored five minutes later to lead 2-1.

East Timorese substitute Luis Simoes's goal equaled the score 2-2 before Ade Abdullah who kicked a long shot from a 20-meter distance to ensure Persib's 3-2 victory.

In Jayapura, Irian Jaya, host Persipura slammed its host Persma of Manado, North Sulawesi 2-1 at Mandaal Stadium. (nvn)