Coach hails Rhinos’ ‘real’ form in 3-0 win
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s solid performance in the 3-0 Premier League win over high flying Felcra FC on Sunday did not come as a surprise to Jelius Ating.
The Rhinos head coach was so impressed with the victory that retained their slim hope of Super League promotion that he went as far as to reveal the quality that the squad possessed which could see them perform even better.
“I want to thank all the players for producing such displays. Of course, it was not something new to me because this is their actual form.
“In fact they have the ability to play much, much better than this (against Felcra FC).
“I’m really proud of their efforts and performance tonight (Sunday) despite the situation (within Sabah Football Association),” he said when met after the match at the Likas Stadium.
After a disappointing goalless draw against Penang last Wednesday, the Rhinos were unsatisfied. The determination and the will to win returned, as well as the urgency that was lacking in their last match, said Jelius.
Maxsius Musa volleyed home the opener in the 15th minute before winning the penalty kick which Hector Ramos converted in the 44th minute.
Ramos then got his second and Sabah’s third goal in the 46th minute to secure the points for Sabah.
The victory ensured that the one remaining Super League promotion will be decided on the last day of competition with Felcra, Misc-Mifa and Sabah all vying for a chance.
Sabah moved to fourth on 28 points and retained their slim hope of promotion while Felcra, who would have booked their berth among the country’s elite teams had they won on Sunday, were second on 31 points while Misc-Mifa were third on 29 points.
The Rhinos will only gain promotion if they beat PDRM away on July 27 and if both Felcra and Misc-Mifa suffer defeats in their respective matches.
Felda United FC on 42 points have already secured promotion with the Premier League title safely in their hands.
“The good thing about the team this year is that we try to improve after every game and that means apart from field training, the team will also get to see video recording of the matches.
“From there, we will identify the weaknesses and try rectify them. We also encourage and motivate the players so as to get to the ideal confidence level.
“I’m happy that we can see the improvement (against Felcra). For this, I want to thank all the staff and officials in the team for helping me to get the team where they are today.
“Hopefully, the team’s performance will get the attention of the higher authority for them to continue to support the team,” he said.
Meanwhile, Jelius also hailed the Rhinos’ achievement in making the Malaysia Cup after a six-year absence.
He said it was one of the many positives the team had achieved this season.
“This shows that we have a very good team. We are moving forward to returning to our glory days...it needs time, especially to nurture and shape the youngsters to be better players.
“Hopefully, we will get the much needed backing from the relevant people,” he added.