Pahang have Russian firepower to gun down Felda

PETALING JAYA: Pahang will have more depth in attack with the introduction of their two new Russian signings for the Facupmatch against Super League side Felda United at the Hang Jebat Stadium today.

Coach Dollah Salleh said Boris Kochkin and Eduard Sakhnevich would provide more fire upfront together with the Elephants’ in-form striker Mohd Azamuddin Akil, who has four goals to his credit.

“There is no pressure on the team but all eyes will be on our new Russian signings. I’m sure they will forge a better understanding with the team after a few matches,” said Dollah yesterday.

Pahang, FA Cup winners in 2006, are looking for a good run in the competition. But Dollah said their priority was in topping the Premier League to win promotion to the top flight. After seven matches, Pahang are in second spot in the 12-team standings with 16 points – two behind leaders Armed Forces.

Sime Darby FC, another Premier League side, will be in action against Sabah at the Selayang Stadium today.

Coach Ismail Zakaria said they have an even chance against the East Malaysian side.

“Sabah are a hard working team but I won’t rule out an upset by my boys. Wehave a game plan to get the desired result,” said Ismail.

The club side, boosted by Liberians Patrick Ronaldinho Wleh and Sengbah Kennedy, have also acquired experienced hands Irme Che Mat, Mohd Zamri Hassan and Hairul Nizam Haniff from PKNS FC and Razali Umar Kandasamy from Perak.