Martin Stano
KOTA KINABALU (Dec 13): The return of Sabah FC national players is a good news for the Rhinos ahead of the Malaysia Cup quarterfinals first leg tie against hosts Kuching City FC at the State Stadium on Sunday.
Newly appointed Sabah FC head coach Martin Stano said the presence of Stuart Wilkin, Dominic Tan and Daniel Ting is expected to enhance the team’s quality, balance and morale thus boosting their chances of achieving a positive result.
The other player Darren Lok however is doubtful due to injury.
He said the arrangement to have the national players was part of an initial agreement between Sabah FC and the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to allow these players to fulfill their national team duties.
“We are thrilled with this decision and it’s even more exciting that captain Park Tae Su will be ready (after injury layoff) to play on Sunday.
“We will give our best to get a positive result. Although we won in our last meeting in the Super League at the same venue, the Malaysia Cup is a different game and battle will be,” Stano said in a statement issued by the Club.
He added that playing a home and away match required a slightly different approach.
“The pride in playing in the Malaysia Cup too plays an important role. We are determined not to let this golden opportunity slip away.
“This match is also especially memorable as it marks my first as the head coach of Sabah FC,” said the Slovakian coach.
Commenting further, Stano said it was important to maintain the same approach, to stay focused and not underestimate the opponents, especially Sabah’s good head-to-gead record against their neighbours.
“Sabah FC must remain consistent, adopt a professional approach, maintain a winning mentality and stay positive if we want to reach out goals in every match,” he said.
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