Photo Credits: Goal.com Singapore
The Cheetahs have been drawn in Group C to face Albirex Niigata and last season’s runners up, Geylang International for this season’s Starhub League Cub to be held in the month of June.
The Cheetahs have fond memories of this competition, especially in 2011, when a then unfancied Hougang team led by Aide Iskandar, thrashed Woodlands Wellington, SAFFC and Home United, before a penalty shootout heartbreak in the finals, in the hands of Albirex Niigata.
Last season was the first time the League Cup was played in group stage format. Hougang managed to disposed Courts Young Lions and held Home United to a goal less draw. However, the Cheetahs were controversially beaten in the last minute by a Shimpei Sakurada’s goal to send the Cheetahs out in the quarter finals.
However this season, the Cheetahs will be looking to have a frest start for this competition, especially having to meet their cup nemesis, Albirex Niigata, whom the Cheetahs have fond memories with in all the cup competitions.
In Group A, crosstown rival Home United were drawn alongside Woodlands Wellington, Harimau Muda and NFL side Admiralty FC, who qualified from the qualification round by beating fellow NFL Side, Singapore Recreation Club 3-1 at Jalan Besar on Sunday.
Group B consists of the Tampines Rovers, Tanjong Pagar United and the struggling Courts Young Lions, who will be looking to make amends in this competition.
Group D will be led by defending champions DPMM FC, who will be looking to defend their title, starting with Warriors FC and Balestier Khalsa FC.
