Courtesy: Daily Express


UMS confident of topping Felda/FAM futsal league group

Friday, September 24, 2010

Kota Kinabalu: Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) women's futsal squad chief coach, Mohd Asyraaf Fong Abdullah is confident his team can finish top of their group in the National Felda/FAM Futsal League 2010, which resumes at the Triways Sports Complex in Shah Alam, Selangor, this weekend.

Despite having to return to the championship only to face tough teams like Johor and Police, Asyraaf is quietly confident that his team's preparation during the long break will pay off with dividends.

"This time around, it is going to be a tough challenge as we will be facing last year's runners up, Police.

"Nevertheless, we are ready for the battle and will try our best to collect maximum points from these two games," he said, adding that winning the two matches will likely put them at the top of the group.

Although they are new to this competition, UMS FC started thier campaign with a bang after defeating Johor Melodi Jaya 3-2 and Sabah women Squad 2-1 before the break.

The victories gave the team six points, which placed them in second place behind current group toppers, Selangor MPSJ FC, but only by goal difference.

"Winning the two matches would edge us closer of claiming a place in the final round," said Asyraaf.

On the team's development, Asyraaf said that their preparation has been going smoothly, although two players fell sick but have since recovered.

Several friendly matches played during the break have kept the team in touch with their competitive edge.

Meanwhile, the State women squad, currently in fourth spot on three points, will square off against Selangor MPSJ FC on September 25 September before taking on Selangor MBPJ FC the following day.

The state men's squad is also competing in the tournament although they are still without a win after two matches. They face a do or die mission against KL Felda United on Saturday (25 September) and KL Figos RSA FC on Sunday (26 September).

Sabah's next fixtures will be on October 16 and 17 (in Melaka) and in Shah Alam on November 13.

The grand final has been slated for November 27 and 28.


Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com