Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah FC Under-23 squad will be taking a cautious approach in the Malaysia Football League (MFL) season opener against Johor Darul Ta’zim FC II at Pasir Gudang City Council Stadium on Monday (May 20).
Head coach Johnny Dominicus said they are wary of the threat posed by the home side and their target is try to snatch at least a point in the away tie.
“We have to be realistic with the difficult task ahead. They are a very strong team as we all are well aware of from the previous seasons, and we have to be at our very best to get a positive result.
“I am happy to note that our players are physically and mentally ready.
“There are no major injuries to the team and the only setback is that we were unable to arrange more competitive pre-season matches to the team as it is costly.
“Despite that, the management has given us very strong support. I have confidence that the players will give their best to deliver and we can get the desirable result if we play to our strength,” he said.
He also said five senior players – Rozaimi Rahman, Hamran Peter, Sahrizan Maidin, Naaim Firdaus Stibin and Danial Haqim Draman are training with the juniors and may get to feature in the match.
“The presence of these five players who have vast experience playing in the senior league will definitely help us in our effort to achieve the target,” he added.
The squad this season is led by team manager Datuk Abdul Kassim Razali while Johnny is assisted by Vun Kit Ming @ Billyton and Razlan Oto with Rozaimie Rohim as goalkeeper coach.
Their next match is against Perak FC II at Likas Stadium on May 28.
Meanwhile, Sabah FC management had earlier set a top five target for the team this season.
Its general manager Mohd Joh Wid is confident the target will be achieved given the early preparation of the team and the inclusion of some quality players this season.
