Sabah Eagles remain modest in title quest
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Eagles are just one match away from winning the prestigious Agong's Cup they last won in 2015, but nothing has changed in their approach to the final match against Kelantan at the National Defence University of Malaysia (NDUM) Stadium in Sungei Besi at 3pm today.
While head coach, Bradley Moni Mika, was happy that his team got past a trying test against Kedah in the semifinals where they defeated them narrowly 27-20, but he was far from taking the victory in the final for granted.
“Nothing changes for the team. We have taken a modest path throughout the tournament and it will be the same for the final,” said Mika.
“It was a tough semifinal against Kedah who played well and gave us a tough time. Sabah also had to be up against some tough decisions by the referee, but I am glad that the team showed tremendous character to remain cool and focussed to get the job done.
“The character shown by the team was definitely a positive aspect which came out of the game against Kedah. But the players cannot get carried away. It is going to be even more tougher in the final.”
Mika said like Kelantan, Sabah too wanted to win the Cup.
“We have to battle it out and may the best team win. We had no preference whom we meet in the final because we treat everyone with respect,” said Mika whose team did not stay back to watch second semifinal between Johor and Kelantan after their tie on Wednesday where Kelantan won 32-27.
“But we will not be intimidated by any team because we play to our strength and strategy. We believe in ourselves and work hard for what we deserve.”
Mika said that the team had worked very hard especially in fitness and strength and another plus point for his team was that the team had a good blend of youth and experience.
“Previously we had a good starting line-up, but our bench did not have the equal strength, but now we have several experienced players on the bench and can come on and add strength or give the stability.
“However, at the end of the day the execution is what matters most and being consistent, showing character and sticking to our game plan.
“The players are all definitely geared up and highly motivated and just hope that everything falls in place on game day.”
Sabah will definitely be looking up to former All Black player Charles Luke McAlister to add experience and guide the team.
He has been instrumental in the quarterfinals and semifinals.
The 35-year-old captain of the team, has come out of retirement to play for Sabah.
He announced his retirement last year after a professional career spanning 16 years ended at French club Toulon.
But Mika was quick to add that although the team will be looking up to McAlister to add strength and guidance, it takes the whole team to make the team tick.
“Every team member, whether in the starting team or on the bench, all have a role to play and are all equally important members of the team,” emphasised Mika. Sabah who made their debut Agong's final in 2005 but lost, went on to win in 2007, 2009, 2014 and 2015.
Out of the current team's 28 players, seven players are between 17 and 22 years old including some players from the recent Sukma Games.
Among the senior players who will stabilise the team include Badrul Muktee and former national player Zamorin Mingo who is making a return after a long-layoff.
The Agong's Cup was introduced in 1983 and PDRM won the inaugural title.
Armed Forces have won the Cup the most – winning 11 times. Selangor are next with six wins, followed by Kelantan and Sabah with four victories under their belt.
Kedah and Johor will play in the third placing match at 1pm at the same venue at NDUM Stadium before the final.