05 Jan Kedah coach remains confident

DESPITE their 4-1 defeat to Selangor in the Charity Shield match at the Darulaman Stadium in Alor Star, Kedah coach Azraai Khor remains confident for tomorrow’s Malaysia Super League match against Negeri Sembilan at the Paroi Stadium. Even though Azraai, who was surprised with the scoreline of Saturday’s match, believes his boys will pull themselves together and rise to the occasion. “I never expected such a score as the match was evenly contested,” said Azraai. “All three goals were flukes, but Safee Sali’s strike was a classic. But the competition has just started and there is still a long way to go.” Azraai is expected to rest national goalkeeper Mohd Helmi Eliza for tomorrow’s match as his form has been shaken after he was beaten three times on Saturday. Helmi, who also had a poor run in the recent Asean Championship in Phuket, seems to be suffering from a confidence crisis. “I will give him a rest as at the moment his confidence level is at an all time low. There are certain issues he needs to address before being fielded again,” said Azraai.

Reserve keeper Muhammad Al-Hafiz Hamzah, who played in the second half against Selangor, will be in the Kedah line-up. While Kedah will be sorting out their problems, Selangor are walking tall after Saturday’s impressive win. “It was a good start for us, and we hope this will continue. But as usual, we will take one match at a time,”said Selangor coach K. Devan. Perak, now coached by M. Karathu, collected three points when they beat MSL newcomers Kuala Muda Naza 3-0 at the Perak Stadium. Penang, as expected, lost 3-0 to Negri Sembilan at the City Stadium. UPB MyTeam,unimpressive last season, got off to a flying start with a 3-0 win against Police at the Paroi Stadium. Terengganu lost 3-2 to Perlis at the Sultan Mizan Stadium in Kuala Terengganu, while Johor FC edged Pahang 3-2 at the Darulmakmur Stadium in Kuantan.