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Kota Kinabalu: The Chief Minister’s wife, Datin Seri Panglima Juliah Salag, urged the Sabah FC’s Under-23 squad to work hard to bring glory to the State.

Juliah told the players that there is no short cut to success and can only be achieved through hard work.

“Those selected to represent Sabah must make the State proud by giving their best,” he said during the signing ceremony of 24 Under-23 players and buka puasa event at the Sabah International Convention Centre, Thursday evening.

Juliah was invited by Team Manager, Datuk Abdul Kassim Razali to give a pep talk to the players during the event.

Juliah advised the players to be disciplined, both on and off the field, to show a good example to others, especially youngsters.

“Give your best shot and I wish all of you luck and success in the new season,” she said, adding that she hoped local fans would show up in full force to support the team, especially when they are playing at home.

She said playing in front of their supporters would spur the players to perform better. 

Kassim said he was happy with the preparations by the coaching team before the start of the new season next month.

Abdul Kassim (standing left) and Mohd Joh Wid (seated centre) witnessing the signing of contracts by two players. 

In preparations for the new season, a number of friendly matches were held with local teams to gauge the Under-23’s strength. 

The coaching staff have to make some adjustments in training during the fasting month but so far the boys have adapted well.  

After Hari Raya, more friendly matches would be held with stronger teams to prepare the boys mentally and physically,” he said.

Kassim said those being signed for the Under-23 team should take the opportunity to show what they are capable of.

Also present were Sabah FC Director, Mohd Joh Wid, Safa Secretary General, Shamsuddin M Sah and Under-23 Deputy Team Manager, George Teo and head coach Johnny Dominicus, among others.

Kassim said the 24 players were selected from the various districts in the State.

Among the players who signed the contracts were  Joffy John ( Telupid), M Alias Alan ( Tawau), Ritchie Svenson (Tamparuli), M Ajwad Akhari  Azme (Kota Belud) and M Faheed Naqqeu  Ishak  (Pitas).

Also signing their contracts were Rozacklye Yanam (Nabawan), Azlizan Mohd Azlan (Keningau), Rozaime Rahman (Bongawan) and Ibnu Sabah Azleh (Ranau).

Kassim said he was happy with the fighting spirit shown by the Under-23 squad during the friendly matches so far.

“Hopefully, they can keep up the momentum when the season starts and bring glory to Sabah as mentioned by the Chief Minister’s wife,” he said.