DON’T GET BIG-HEADED
Coach tells players the job is not done yet
REPORTS BY FARAH AZHARIE farahazharie@nst.com.my
LEE Nyuk Fah doesn’t want last Sunday’s Asian Rugby Championship (Division One) win against United Arab Emirates (UAE) to get to his men’s heads as it is too early to celebrate.
“The team’s spirit is always high but we always have to be wary as our job is not done yet, even after the first match,” said the coach of the national men’s 15s team.
He said the Philippines could pose a serious threat in Malaysia’s next match.
“The rhythm and pattern of play is the same as UAE’s. They use their physical build and forward play because they seem heavier.
“We will need to reduce individual mistakes such as ball handling and play according to the structure and game plan.”
Nyuk Fah said winger Adzmir Zanul Abidin will be replaced with Muhammad Amir Aqil Kamsol after Adzmir suffered a concussion during the first match against UAE.
Fairuz Abd Rahman and Syabil Laila are also sidelined due to injuries, and will be replaced by Wan Mohammad Asraf and Sae Faalupega.
Malaysia are on a mission to defend their Division One title and prepare for the World Cup 2019 qualifiers.
Ranked 55th in the world, Malaysia ended UAE’s three-match unbeaten run last Sunday with a 36-22 win in the opening match.