Sarawak head coach Farhan (centre) conducts a training session near Stadium Negeri in Petra Jaya.
KUCHING: Head coach Mohd Farhan Abdullah demands full focus from Sarawak players when entertaining Penang in the Premier League match at Stadium Negeri in Petra Jaya today.
Farhan wanted the Crocs to do everything they can to win their first home match of the season and secure all three points against Ahmad Yusof’s men.
“We should not squander our chances but I hope that we strive to get the three points against Penang. I want the players to focus and most importantly execute what we have planned,” he added when met during training yesterday.
According to Farhan, the victory over Penang would serve as a perfect gift for the fans, who are longing for the success of the Ngap Sayot squad.
When asked about Sarawak’s preparations for the visiting Harimau Kumbang squad, Farhan explained that there would be a slight change in the attack following the absence of winger Abdul Rahim Abdul Razak, who is sidelined by injury.
Farhan said Abdul Rahim’s position would be filled by Indonesian striker Rian Firmansyah, who will make his debut in Sarawak’s colours today.
“I also expect new striker Hudson Dias De Jesus to play tomorrow (today). The Brazilian has signed today (yesterday) and I hope the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) can speed up the player’s approval process,” he added.
Sarawak lost 2-1 to Negeri Sembilan in their season and away opener last week, and today’s home win is vital to boost the morale of the players in the squad.
Penang also made a losing start to the season. They went down 3-2 to T-Team in their first home game.
Meanwhile, the match at Stadium Negeri today will start at 4.15pm