Sarawak’s two key players Mohd Shahrol Saperi and Ashri Chuchu have to impress head coach Robert Alberts to get a slot in the first eleven when they battle Pahang at the first leg Malaysia Cup semi-final match in Kuantan this Oct 19.
Alberts said he was still monitoring the performance of both players during training and would only decide on the line-up before the match.
“I am watching them in training and will make my decision this week,” he said.
Alberts believed the two were capable of filling in for Joseph Kalang Tie, who would be serving one match suspension after he received his second yellow card during the quarter-final against Sime Darby on Oct 5.
“Ashri and Shahrol have shown positive improvements since recovering from their injuries. Still I have to monitor their level of fitness,” the Dutchman said.
Fortunately, Ronny Harun has been confirmed fit for next Saturday’s away.
The Crocs defender was stretched out, also during Sarawak-Sime Darby meet at Stadium Negri.
The Sabahan has been instrumental in helping Sarawak this season and is among the players whose contracts have been extended by Football Association of Sarawak (FAS).
Moreover the Crocs will be joined in training by five potential players from the recent Sarawak Champions League, who are on trail.
They are Mohd Akmal Ibrahim from Limbang’s ABC Club, Mohd Nur Arsyad Tamit (FBSB, Miri), Ahmad Mubin Hamlet (Sanjung Etika, Samarahan), Paul Sambang (SEG FC, Kuching) and Moris Jagan (Ajimura FC, Kuching).
Meanwhile Sarawak’s three goalkeepers will be focusing more on the tactical aspects of the game in preparation for their first-leg clash against Pahang.
According to their coach Mohana Sundram Packirisamy, Sani Anuar Kamsani, Saiful Amar Sudar and Aidil Mohamad are all in top form.
“The tactical training is important as we anticipate a different game at Stadium Darul Makmur,” said Mohana, adding that Sani was most likely to be given the task in the match, while one of the other two would be assigned as back-up.
Source: The Star
