Hand it to Roslan
Veteran goalie will stand out in Cup final
KUALA LUMPUR: Even before the TNB Cup final hits off at the Tun Razak Stadium tonight, all the players contesting in it have got to hand it to Kuala Lumpur Hockey Club (KLHC) goalkeeper Roslan Jamaluddin.
The 39-year-old captain has featured in the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL) for 21 years – making him the longest serving player in the league.
Roslan is also the most decorated. He has won three overall titles with Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) from 1999-2002 and then five more with KLHC in 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013.
He also boasts nine league titles – one with BSN and eight with KLHC.
But it’s not just the successes that make him a standout performer – Roslan, despite pushing 40, is still as hungry as ever to add to his trophy collection.
So, as KLHC square off with Terengganu in the TNB Cup final tonight, few would bet against him emerging triumphant with his side.
As KLHC have yet to lose to the east coast outfit – who are the TNB Cup holders – this year, Roslan believes they have the edge.
“Our team are confident and united going into the final. If we play to the best of abilities, we will win it,” he said.
“Terengganu, no doubt, are a top side with much attacking flair but they’re vulnerable at the back. That’s what we must exploit.”
Roslan added that his passion for playing has not diminished.
“Well, at least at the club level. First, I want to help KLHC regain the overall title before deciding on whether to continue playing. I believe I can go on for another year.”
Roslan played a pivotal role in KLHC’s second leg semi- final against Tenaga
Nasional on Friday. The teams were tied 2-2 on aggregate before KLHC prevailed 2-1 in the penalty shootout, thanks to some of their captain’s heroics.
While Roslan awaits another moment of glory, Terengganu skipper Fitri Saari is plotting to rain on the KLHC leader’s parade.
“We don’t want to play second fiddle to KLHC. As they’ve wrested back the Premier Division title from us, we’re not going to get beaten for a second time,” said Fitri.
“Though we struggled in the semi-final against UniKL, we should be in good condition for the final.
“Our plan is to get the early goal and put the pressure on KLHC. We’ve a good attack and we can score the goals. That will make up for our weak defence.”
Terengganu boast one of the most formidable strike forces, with quality forwards like Valentin Verga, Tengku Ahmad Tajuddin, Ismail Abu and Mohamed Firhan Ashaari.
Their top scorer, South Korean Jang Junghyun, has a strike rate of 26 goals and is also the top penalty corner specialist.