Thunderbolts teams rule the roost in JHL

THE four Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB)-sponsored Thunderbolts teams are, as expected, dominating the ongoing Junior Hockey League (JHL).

Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sports School (SSTMI) lead the standings, followed by Pahang, Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) and Anderson.

While winning the JHL is a priority, the four teams are also eyeing individual awards from TNB, with the highest placed Thunderbolts team earning more from their sponsor.

“The Thunderbolts teams have a sound sponsorship deal. They receive equipment and attire, and are coached by Olympians and top development coaches,” said Petaling Jaya City Council (PJCC) coach Harfizi Baharom after losing 4-2 to SSTMI on Friday.

“Only Thunderbolts, PJCC and Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) are active while the other teams are formed by schools and states. This is not healthy.

“The four Thunderbolts teams will be hard to chase, not only this season but for the next decade if there are no positive changes.”

Today, reigning double champions SSTMI are expected to extend their lead at the top when they face UniKL-Datuk Bentara in Batu Pahat.

FIXTURES TODAY MEN: Pahang Thunderbolts v Sabah Jnrs (National Stadium Stadium, 8pm), UniKL-Datuk Bentara v SSTMI Thunderbolts (Batu Bahat Stadium), BJSS Thunderbolts v Terengganu HA (National Stadium, Pitch One), Perlis Young Lions v SSTMI Juniors (Kangar Stadium), Penang HA v BJSS Juniors (USM, Stadium), Anderson Thunderbolts v BJSS Juniors (Azlan Shah Stadium).

WOMEN: KL Wipers v PJCC Black Widow (KLHA Stadium, 3pm), Pahang-UniTen v Zaba Girls (Wisma Belia Stadium, 3pm), Terengganu HA v Johor Girls (Batu Buruk Stadium).

* matches at 4.45pm unless stated. Jugjet Singh