Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) showed resilience and character as a late resurgence salvaged a 2-2 draw against DPMM FC in an intense Liga Super encounter at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman.

The Jangs made a bright start, delighting the home crowd with the opening goal in the 30th minute. Japanese import Takumi Sasaki produced a composed finish after a precise assist from A. Selvan, breaking through the opposition defence with clinical efficiency.

However, the momentum shifted after the break as DPMM FC raised their intensity and began to dominate proceedings.

The visitors drew level in the 49th minute through Okechukwu Christian Irobiso, who powered in a header to silence the home supporters and make it 1-1.

NSFC were then punished again for a lapse in concentration. A well-delivered pass from Jordan Murray was calmly converted by Muhammad Hakeme Yazid Said in the 60th minute, putting DPMM FC ahead.

Stung by the setback, the hosts regrouped and pushed forward with renewed urgency. Their persistence paid off in the 73rd minute when Joseph Esso rose highest to head home a pinpoint delivery from Kei Oshiro, restoring parity and reigniting hopes at Paroi.

The result sees NSFC maintain their position in sixth place in the league standings with 23 points, while DPMM FC remain close behind in eighth with 22 points.

A hard-fought contest, the match underlined both the attacking promise and defensive lapses that NSFC will look to refine as the season progresses.