Junior Rhinos in top form as President Cup kicks off
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah will be at their strongest possible condition as they kick off the President Cup 2017 campaign against PKNP FC at the Likas Stadium starting 4.15pm today.
Head coach Justin Ganai revealed he will have the full squad to choose from with the return of strikers Hamran Peter and O’Neil Shanahan M. Bungkilan as well as defender Muhd Zaki Sapri from their stint with the senior squad.
“I will have more options with the trio around and it is good news to our hope of aiming for the three points,” he said yesterday.
According to Justin, the Junior Rhinos will have added strength and advantage with the three key players around.
One setback, however, is that the trio have missed training with the squad during their time with the State Premier League.
“It has affected our preparation but still, I may include all three in the starting line-up because their presence seem to have a positive effect on the squad.
“They are able to inject confidence and determination and that will be a great help for the squad,” added the experience coach.
Meanwhile, team manager Datuk Juil Nuatim said the state under-21 side is more than ready to face their first game of the season against the Perak clubside.
He believed the coaching staff led by Justin have the best way to bring out the best from each player to perform as one formidable unit in search of maximum points.
“It is very important to win the first match, more so when we are playing at home.
“Not only are we looking for a good start, a victory would also be a great motivation for the players to face future matches.
“I believe in the strategy planned (against PKNP FC) by the coaches. If the players perform according to instruction, we should be able to achieve the three points,” he said.