KOTA KINABALU: Datuk Anifah Aman has called on the Rhinos’ fans in Tawau to turn up in full force when Sabah take on Negeri Sembilan NAZA in the return leg tie of the Malaysia Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday.
The Rhinos, who have been forced out from their favourite hunting ground – the Likas Stadium – due to a damaged switchbox (at the stadium) – will play the do-or-die battle at the Tawau Sports Complex field.
“I’m glad that we are able to play the match in Tawau. In fact I’m very happy, because this is an opportunity for the soccer fraternity in Tawau to see their beloved team in action,” the Sabah FA President said.
“In fact this is a blessing in disguise on our part. As much as we want the match to be played at the Likas Stadium, but since it is quite costly for us to hold the match there (Likas), so we thought this is an opportunity for us to bring the game to Tawau.
“This will be one of the biggest games ever held in Tawau. This is the country’s most prestigious competition and I hope the fans will not miss the opportunity. I really hope the fans will come in full force to support the State team.
“All this while Tawau has never let us down, and this time I’m expecting no difference this time around,” Anifah added.
“I’m really looking forward not only to the match, but also for a good turnout. We got to admit the fact that the good turnout from the fans would surely help the team.
“Their support can help instill greater fighting spirit as well as determination among the players.
The capacity at the Tawau Sports Complex field is estimated at 10,000 and Anifah wants to see a capacity crowd on Wednesday.
“Let all of us become the 12th member of the team on Wednesday. And we can do that; I’m pretty convinced we will get the desired result at the end of the day.
Sabah are currently trailing 1-0 following their first leg defeat last Wednesday, but Anifah believes the team have the capability to turn the table around in Tawau.
“One goal is not a big margin, and I’m quietly confident we will be able overcome the deficit.
To the Rhinos, Anifah said that they have to play with their guts and do it wholeheartedly.
“This is no room for any half-hearted players in the team. They have to go all out and do it as a team.
“All what I ask from them (the players) is to try and play their best game to entertain the fans in Tawau,” said Anifah.
Meanwhile, the Sabah FA Executive Secretary Harry Baking said that they have been given the green light to stage the match in Tawau.
“The FA of Malaysia’s representative has inspected the venue and he has given us the green light to hold the match in Tawau,” said Harry.
