Arius’ call-up a big boost to Junior Tambadaus against UiTM
KOTA KINABALU: Head coach Justin Ganai has reinforced the Junior Tambadaus by calling up Ariusdius Jais for the President Cup Group A tie against UiTM FC today.
To be played at the UiTM Shah Alam Stadium, Arius’ addition to the squad will be a huge boost to the state under-21 side as they look to bounce back from Monday’s narrow 0-1 defeat to Pahang here.
Justin confirmed that the State senior side, in which Arius is registered with, had given the greenlight to the Malaysia under-22 international to play in match. Arius, despite regularly deployed in natural position as a flanker, is known for his goalscoring prowess including in Sabah’s run to winning a bronze medal in the Malaysia Games (Sukma) last year.
And Justin hoped that the nippy footballer would provide the sparks in the attacking third of the pitch against UiTM FC.
“I hope the team will perform much better and crucially try to find the back of the net.
“Hopefully Arius will show us the way,” said Justin while confirming that Arius would start instead in attack against UiTM FC.
Arius will replace Faizulnizam Aziz in the starting eleven and along with Muhammad Faqhrurazi Ahmad will lead Sabah’s attack today.
“It is one of the three changes that I will make. The other two are Owen (Piou @ Piyau) taking the place of Suhaizan (Nazmie Etin) on the right flank and Mohd Hizaz (Mohd Lokman) will start ahead of Zulkifly (Harun) on the left of the midfield.
“The rest of the squad will remain unchanged. Our Joslan Aping will keep his place in between the posts for Sabah and will be protected by a back four comprising Kelvin Pengiran, Mohd Izzat Aziz, Mohd Hasrul Nizam Roslan and Gerard Gadit.
Midfielders Mohd Syukri Baharun and Mohd Aidil Safee will be the main source of creativity for the squad.
Also in the match day squad are goalkeeper Muhammad Shazwien Sapawi, Suhaizan, Faizulnizam, Zulkifly, Erick Odo, Hilarion Andrew and Muhammad Syahmil Nizam Igbal Khan.