Kota Kinabalu: The State under-19 squad are on the right track for the start of Youth Cup competition next month under new coach Aiyyman Johny Abdullah.Assistant team manager Lokman Sunggim said the team which comprised mostly new faces have shown vast improvement since the training began almost a month ago."The team this season are under new hands and despite that team manager Azman Mastar and I are very pleased with the progress of the team so far. Aiyyman may be new to the youth squad but he has experienced in coaching Cebagoo FC who did quite well in the FAM Cup competition back in 2014.
ADVERTISEMENT
"We have full confidence in him and we will let him and his coaching staff to do all the necessary work."We also have almost a complete a new team of players and only five old guards retained from last season, and they are also not guaranteed a place in the starting line-up. We are trying to assemble a team that can mount a strong challenge this season," he said.
Lokman, who watched the team thrashed Ranau selection 5-1 in a friendly at the Likas synthetic pitch on Saturday also said the players have done well in the four friendlies played to date."We won all but one which we lost to the President Cup squad 2-3 and that was also conceded a last minute own goal. We definitely need more matches before the start of the season.
ADVERTISEMENT
"The matches today was good for the team as we will be taking part in the Quadrangular Football Tournament to be held at the Beaufort Sports Complex starting January 19."The team will be up against the state President Cup squad, Beaufort Selection and Kuala Penyu selection in the three-day tournament.
ADVERTISEMENT
"It is important to play a few matches before the tournament starts next week.
Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
We may try to arrange for another one before our departure to Beaufort," he added.Meanwhile, Aiyyman is supported by Sueli Apin as his assistant and Mohd Noor Xaverious Sango , as the goalkeeper coach this season. - GL Oh