Brunei DPMM FC is set to host Hougang United on Saturday 15 March in Group A of the Singapore Cup clash, looking to maintain a three-match unbeaten run in the tournament.

The Cup tournament has been a bright spark in a season that has proved challenging for DPMM Head Coach Jamie McAllister, whose side sit seventh in the nine-team Singapore Premier League (SPL) standings.  

The former Scottish defender in English and Scottish football had spent years in coaching roles at clubs like Bristol City and Hibernian before taking charge of DPMM FC in July 2024, stepping into the side with the SPL season already in full swing. With limited time to prepare, he had to quickly assess the squad and instill his philosophy. 

"I was just getting to know the players. Obviously, I came in six games into the season, so I didn't sign any of the players, didn't know any of them," McAllister explained.

"The aim was just to get the players a structure, being more organised," he said, adding that he worked on "possession, how we play, and out of possession how we defend."

While McAllister made improvements on the training ground, SPL results remained inconsistent. "We kind of went on a really good run just before the break. I think it was seven or eight games unbeaten," he noted of the promise demonstrated with a strong unbeaten streak before the October-November break but struggled to regain momentum afterward. 

The post-break period saw new signings Damir Muminovic and Davis Ikaunieks integrated into the squad, signings that brought much optimism. 

"The first four or five games were always going to be difficult because we played Lion City Sailors, Albirex Niigata, and some of the top teams," McAllister pointed out. Injuries and suspensions also disrupted the squad's rhythm, making consistency difficult to achieve.

Despite their league struggles, DPMM has been a force in the Singapore Cup, sitting atop their group with seven points from three games. The difference in performances suggests that DPMM could well be properly embracing what McAllister asks of his charges. 

"We've been improving in all areas, trying to help the players in all areas," McAllister said, emphasising the ongoing development of his team.

Against Hougang, DPMM will aim to extend their unbeaten run in the Cup. Hougang has had a mixed season and will be eager to challenge the group leaders. As McAllister continues to refine his squad, a win over Hougang would further solidify their confidence and momentum. "It's just about getting better every game and helping the players improve," he said.

In addition to DPMM's clash with Hougang, the Singapore Cup weekend offers more exciting action. On Saturday, In other Singapore Cup action, Tampines Rovers face Young Lions at the Jalan Besar Stadium on 15 March, while on 16 March Tanjong Pagar United take on Geylang International at the Jurong East Stadium, while Bishan Stadium hosts a a high-stakes encounter between Lion City Sailors and Balestier Khalsa.

All Singapore Cup matches are broadcast live on StarHub TV, Singtel TV, and meWATCH. Fans can also catch the action on the SPL’s official YouTube channel.