A ‘sick’ ATM side come to Stadium Negeri tonight with hopes to change their fortunes in the league, but Sarawak as they know it, will not be an easy task.
The Crocs are high in moral after they broke Terengganu’s impressive defeat-less streak at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium , and they look certain to want to show the visiting ATM that Stadium Negeri is still their fortress, despite two defeats in the league this season.
ATM has been reported to be without top striker Marlon Alex James but the absence of the foreign striker does not mean the lack of quality in the ATM side.
In fact the absence of Marlon is expected to force experienced coach B. Santiathan to come up with a very tactical game against the Crocs, which is known to be a very disciplined side.
Statistics however favour ATM with the team also known as The Gladiators winning the last encounter during the start of the season, a feat they would like to emulate yet again when coming to Kuching.
But the Crocs are believed to be ever ready this time for ATM, and they are looking to feature their hitman Muamer Salibasic in the last few minutes of the game to ensure a sound victory. Muamer has been injured since the season opener, and has been rumoured to be able to play off the bench in this game.
Aside from Muamer, Hassan Mohamad and Ryan Griffith is expected to start, with Sharol Saperi anchoring the midfield like he did last Friday.
Ashri Chuchu might also be called to play on the flanks, with S Chanturu balancing up the squad on the right, and Joseph Kalang Tie lurking behind the strikers.
Roberts may recall Mafry Balang into action this week, although Mazwandi Zakeria and Hairol Mokhtar would also be eyeing the same spot on the right of the Sarawak defence.
Fadzley is expected to retain his spot between the post after an impressive debut in the Super League last week, with both Gabor Gyepes, Ronny Harun and Ramesh lai a certain cover for the young goalkeeper.
This game will be fought hard by both teams as each know that the loser stands to drop further into the relegation zone.
Sarawak does have the upper hand as they are playing at home, and they would be looking to take full advantage of a ‘critical’ ATM side.
With that in mind, we favour Sarawak for a good win in this game.
OUR BIASED PREDICTION: SARAWAK 4-0 ATM
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