KUALA LUMPUR – Terengganu widely regarded as underdogs at the start of the season, completed a remarkable unbeaten run in the group stage of the 42nd Agong Cup rugby championship to secure a place in the quarter-finals, scheduled to begin on June 13.
In their final group match, Terengganu produced a dramatic late surge to edge defending champions Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) 26-25 at the PULAPOL ground in Kuala Lumpur.
Trailing 15-13 at halftime, head coach Hafiizh Zainal responded with key tactical adjustments and personnel changes that gradually shifted momentum in the second half. The visitors first narrowed the gap through a penalty kick in the 43rd minute to add three crucial points.
However, PDRM regained control shortly after, crossing for a try to move ahead 20-16. Their advantage proved short-lived as a series of costly errors allowed Terengganu to capitalise, turning the tide with a decisive scoring phase to lead 26-20.
Stung by the setback, the defending champions mounted a late push and managed to add a try in the 73rd minute, but it was not enough to overturn the deficit, leaving Terengganu clinging to a narrow 26-25 lead.
The closing stages were played under intense pressure, but Terengganu held firm to preserve their one-point advantage and seal an unbeaten group-stage campaign, notably defeating PDRM on their home turf.
“Realistically, this season has been far more challenging compared to last year. The margin of victory in every group match has been very tight, especially against a team like the defending champions,” said Hafiizh.
“Today’s result is crucial for us as we head into the quarter-finals. It will be a new chapter for Terengganu, and we will need to reassess after all group matches are completed before planning our next move. As underdogs this season, it is difficult for us to set any early targets for the title,” he added.
Elsewhere in the third week of the competition, the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) defeated Kedah 27-24 at Universiti Utara Malaysia in Sintok. Meanwhile, the match between Johor and Negeri Sembilan at Stadium Pasir Gudang is scheduled to take place on Sunday at 3:30pm.