Kota Kinabalu: Coach Jelius Ating is expecting a tough opener for his boys in the Malaysian Games (Sukma) football event this afternoon (Wednesday) against Johor at the Stadium Zaidi Adruce in Sibu starting at 4.15pm.
“It will not be an easy game against Johor. They defeated defending champions Terengganu 1-0 in the opening Group B match on Monday.
“We have also lost to them in the President Cup this season, but these are two different competitions… the situation or atmosphere is not the same as Sukma is held as a carnival event.
“We watched the match on Monday and Terengganu were the better side despite losing the game as they just could not get the goal.
“The way I see it, we must grab our chances and work hard as a team as nothing is impossible in football,” he said.
He also said the players are physically and mentally ready after arriving earlier.
“We have held several training sessions since we arrived here in addition to some motivational talks.
“We always give encouragement to the players. Hopefully this will also help them to give their best in this Sukma.”
Sabah will end their group B match on Thursday against Terengganu to be played at the same venue.
