BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

AS THE final whistle was blown, His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the whole stadium burst into applause in acknowledgement of the incredible feat that Myanmar had accomplished to claim the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy.

Attending the final match with His Majesty were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Wakeel; and Her Royal Highness Princess Ameerah Wardatul Bolkiah.

Upon arrival, His Majesty was greeted by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Hj Hazair Hj Abdullah, and Deputy Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Datin Paduka Hjh Adina Othman.

Although the Brunei HBT team did not qualify for the finals, locals still came to make the final a grand occasion including approximately 3,500 students from various secondary schools who were invited to watch the match by MCYS.

All in attendance were treated to a spectacular match, with both teams ahead at different points throughout the game.

As the game appeared to be heading for extra time, Myanmar scored a late goal making it 4-3, sending the crowd into a craze; especially the Myanmar fans that had been vocal throughout the game.

Players from both teams were awarded with medals by the Crown Prince, before the handing over of the trophy by His Majesty.

Fireworks filled the night sky when the Myanmar team finally laid their hands on the trophy. As the royal family was leaving, the Myanmar team rushed to showcase their new trophy to a section of the stands where their loyal supporters were waiting. More fireworks were displayed during the celebrations, capping off a wonderful game.

The Brunei Times