PSM and Persija win first matches

MAKASSAR, South Sulawesi (JP): Host PSM and Jakarta-based Persija won their first matches of the Indonesian Soccer League's Eastern division quarterfinals at Mattoangin Stadium here on Wednesday.

PSM only managed a 1-0 victory over Persita of Tangerang regency, Banten during a dull match. The only goal was scored by Kurniawan Dwi Yulianto in the 37th minute.

Meanwhile in the next match, Persija was involved in a livelier match against Malang, East Java-based Arema before sealing a 2-1 win.

Persija's Bambang Pamungkas stunned Arema by securing an early goal in the fourth minute. Arema's Nanang Supriadi then equalized the score in the 47th minute. Persija, however, took the lead with Budiman's goal in the 65th minute.

Four other teams in the Western division are playing their matches in Medan, North Sumatra. (27)