Kota Kinabalu: Sabah FC will be without Saddil Ramdani and Darren Lok for the match against Johor Darul Ta’zim FC at the Likas Stadium tonight (Saturday).
Their absence is likely to deal a further blow to the team following the departure of Ramon Machado last week.
Head coach Datuk Ong Kim Swee said on Friday that the duo are still suffering from injuries and are likely to be fit for the match, but confident their replacement will be able to carry out the task.
“Saddil and Darren are still suffering from their injuries and it will be a big challenge for the team without them.
“However, we have players that are ready to take over their positions and it is important that they can grab this opportunity as best as possible.
“Apart from showing commitment, they must be prepared mentally and physically to play against the top team in the country,” he said.
He also hoped the players can bounce back from the disappointing home defeat in the FA Cup to Terengganu FC last Saturday.
“It is not an easy matter to play in the league especially against JDT FC, but we must perform better to give them competition, especially after losing to Terengganu FC in the FA Cup recently.”
He also brushed aside the negative comments on a number of issues involving Sabah FC that went viral on social media recently.
“All the issues have been resolved. I hope all the players will focus fully on the important match tomorrow and we are confident that these external issues will not disturb the players’ concentration and focus.
“The players must know that they need to improve their performance after failing to win the last two matches. They should forget the defeat by focusing on tomorrow’s match so that they can return to their true form,” he said.
He added that the fans can play an important role to boost the players’ confidence and hopes they will come to the stadium to give their support.
“I know many people are disappointed with the recent results, but we have to continue and it is very important for us to get continuous support especially from the supporters who will motivate the players more with their presence in the stadium.”
