South China registered a convincing 3-1 victory over Citizen in the FA Cup quarter-finals last night, a timely shot in the arm before their crucial league clash against Kitchee on Sunday.
Despite resting key players including former Manchester star Nicky Butt and Hong Kong international Chan Siu-ki, the Caroliners were in commanding form at Siu Sai Wan Sports Ground.
'The result tonight coupled with the League Cup victory over TSW Pegasus last Sunday has bolstered our team moral and it is very important as we are preparing for Sunday's match,' South China coach Chan Ho-yin said. 'Players like Au Yeung Yiu-chung, Michael Cheng Lai-hin and Lau Nim-yat have been impressive even if they are not always the first choice for the starting line-up.'
The coach said Butt's absence was a precautionary measure and the Englishman would start against Kitchee, as will former Serbia international Mateja Kezman who was substituted in the second half last night. Kezman picked up his third goal since his arriving in January, heading home an Au Yeung cross just before the half-time whistle.
Substitute Giovane da Silva added to the tally midway through the second period before Xu Deshuai scored in the 78th minute.
Paulo Carreiro scored a late consolation for Citizen.
