Junior Rhinos prepared for Kedah rematch

KOTA KINABALU: The state football junior squad is ready to resume their challenge with another victory when they host Kedah in the President’s Cup Group A match at the Likas Stadium here today.

They begin their round two fixtures as leaders and with a record of six consecutive wins, they are focused on adding another victory today.

Team manager Mohd Yassin Aman said they would try to capitalise on the home ground advantage to continue their run.

“It won’t be an easy task against Kedah, they are our nearest rivals. We must give our best performance in this top of the table clash.

“Aside from the home ground advantage, we also beat the same opponent 1-0 in the first round,” said Yassin when met during the Youth Cup League match between Sabah and Terengganu FC IV at the Penampang Stadium, yesterday.

Yassin said that head coach Johnny Dominicus was likely to retain the same squad from the previous match.

He said only one player will be changed from the previous line-up as Evan Wensley Wenceslaus was undergoing a suspension.

Evan’s place will be taken over by Gerald Gadit, who has been recalled after being on loan to assist the under19 (youth) squad.

“Those listed for the match already know what their duties are. They know what is expected of them and they know what to do. The atmosphere in the camp is very good and all the players are raring to go,” he said.

The first-11 will likely comprise Mohd Sakri Masri, Ranilson Batuil, Muhammad Zaki Sapri, Kelvin Pengiran, Gerald Gadit, Mohd Aidil Safee, Stanley Sulong, Fazile Jamelih, Eddie Ladius, Arius Dius Jais and Hamran Peter.

Sabah currently lead the 11-team Group A standings on 27 points from 10 matches with a record of nine wins and one defeat.

Kedah are six points adrift in second spot with a record of six wins, three draws and one defeat.