Interesting encounter expected

Sathianathan: Key role for players with Turtles connection

It will be an interesting clash.


 2. On the one hand, Terengganu, playing in front of their own supporters against ATM tonight want to maintain their unbeaten record at home. On the other, winless ATM so far are eager to register their first win this season.

3. One thing is sure. Knowing what is at stake, while both teams have the respect for their opponents, they are out to give their best.

4. ATM head coach, B Sathianathan, says: " Our mission is to get at least a point. However the most important thing is the players' confidence themselves. In the previous games, we had many chances but didn't score. They have to keep trying."

Marzuki: Wary of ATM threat

5. Even so, he admits that it will not be easy as "Terengganu are always a strong team, especially at home." He notes Turtles have many players with "speed and skills". Sathianathan adds, " We have to do something to prevent them from scoring. When they score goals, we will have problems." 

6. ATM, which are said to have raised their budget by 10% this year, could rely on former Terengganu players and Terengganu-born players to do the trick for them. These include captain Hairuddin Omar, Abdul Shukur Jusoh, Mohd Affize Faisal Mamat, Norfazly Alias, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha and Mario Karlovic.

7. The head coach adds, " They are good players. They should make the difference when playing against their former home team." 

8.  Marzuki Sulong, Terengganu manager-cum-vice president 2, says, "We will do our best to defend our unbeaten run at home. But we realize and understand that ATM too, following their results thus far, are looking for their first win."

9. He adds that barring minor injuries to a few players, his first eleven and reserves for tonight's match are ready.       

10.  Indeed, depending on the results of other games tonight, if they win, Terengganu could find themselves temporarily in the pole position.