Headstrong: Terengganu’s Ivan Mamut attempts a header at the Kuala Lumpur goal during their Malaysia Cup first-leg semi-final on Oct 26. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: High-riding Terengganu are banking on their current hot form to tame Stallions Laguna of the Philippines in the AFC Cup competition in Manila today (8pm Malaysian time).
The Turtles marched into the Malaysia Cup final when they overcame Kuala Lumpur 2-1 in the second leg semi-finals for a 4-2 aggregate win at the Sultan Mizan Stadium on Nov 3.
In the final, they will take on defending champions Johor Darul Ta’zim on Dec 9.
Coach Tomislav Steinbruckner, who will be without several key players for today’s match, was unperturbed by the predicament and is confident his players will extend their unbeaten run in the AFC Cup.
In their first meeting, they drew 2-2 at home on Oct 26 and Steinbruckner said they now know what to expect from the Stallions at the Binan Stadium today. “We are in a strong position, still unbeaten and must go for a win to move into the next stage. That’s our target,” said Steinbruckner.
“With a great atmosphere in the stadium in Terengganu a few days ago, we made it to the Malaysia Cup final and I believe we can extend that run with a good match tomorrow (today).
“We have analysed Stallion’s previous games and I must say they are on equal terms with us. It’s not going to be easy but we want three points to take home.
“My only fear is the pitch. I don’t remember the last time we trained or played on artificial grass. My boys are professionals, they know how to adapt.
“Although bugged by injury problems, we have players who are capable of stepping up to the plate.
“In the Super League match against Pahang (Oct 29), I sent out eight new players who proved their worth in the 2-2 draw. That’s the strength and determination of our squad.”
Australia’s Central Coast Mariners currently lead Group G with six points with Terengganu second on five points, and the Stallions in last place.
Meanwhile, skipper Habib Haroon has urged his teammates to lift their performance just as they did against Kuala Lumpur.
“The coach always drummed it into our heads that every game is like a final. We have a fantastic set-up and some excellent players, and we are looking at full points.
“After the first meeting, we have identified the Stallions’ weaknesses and we’ll be out to capitalise on them. We are ready.”
Terengganu’s remaining matches are against the Mariners away on Nov 29 and they host Bali United on Dec 13.
