Start-studded JDT would present tough challenges for Sarawak FA over the weekend, and the Sarawak fans are crossing their fingers that their beloved team would come out with at least a draw from this fixture.
Luciano Figeroa would pose a deadly threat to the Crocs back-line marshaled by Gabor Gyepes and Ronny Harun, with Norshahrul Idlan Talaha cutting in the defence line to finish off any chances which may present itself.
The Crocs may also need to be wary of national defender Mahali Jasuli whom has the highest amount of assist in the Southern Tigers side, with the midfield of JDT having the best of the crop in Malaysian football in the likes of Safiq Rahim and Mohd Shakir Saari. To add wonders to the midfield, Argentinian Paolo Aimar may just start for this game, hence adding the already well equip fire-power of the team based in Larkin.
Despite the top players, JDT has struggled this season and the Crocs could bank on this inconsistent form to spring a surprise this Saturday.
Two new players, namely Ryan Griffith and Hassan Mohammad, whom just joined the Crocs last week are relatively unknown in the Malaysian football scene, hence giving the Crocs the upper hand in tactical preparations. The duo has yet to gel well with the team, but one would expect them to perform better this Saturday.
The defenses of the Crocs may also see a slight overhaul after last Saturday’s defeat, as Robert may opt to rest Junior Eldstal whom has not been himself lately.
Up front, it is likely that Rashid Aya may just be called to start, with the rest of Sarawak’s squad likely to be retained.
Both teams have not met since JDT’s re-birth, and Sarawak would need to work hard to curb JDT’s arsenal at Stadium Larkin.
That said, we feel that a draw against JDT would be well celebrated by Sarawak players and fans alike this Saturday.
OUR BIASED PREDICTION: JDT 0-0 SARAWAK
