New Sabah Times
KOTA KINABALU: Mohd Joh Hj Wid has called on his fellow fans to come together and give their fullest support to the Sabahawks in their 2013 Premier League challenge.
The Sabahawks Fan Club President insisted that with undivided support from all parties concerned, the fans as well as from the team management, it is not impossible for the new-look State side to do well on all fronts – the FA Cup, Premier League and the Malaysia Cup – this new season.
He said the Sabah Football Association has taken drastic action by revamping the squad, dropping more than half of the squad from last season, in a bid to form a formidable side.
“The Sabah FA has done their part and has made a brave move in releasing some key players from last year’s squad and bringing in new blood into the team.
“It was not an easy decision on the part of the FA, but like anyone out there, the only reason they have taken a drastic step was nothing more than wanting to see the State team do well in the M-League.
“It is my hope to see that the gamble the FA has taken will bear fruit on the last day of the Premier League 2013.
“So now, I’m calling on my fellow fans to do our part and stand together in supporting the team starting from day one of the M-League 2013, which is this coming Monday (Jan 7).
And Joh said that he was not only calling on the Sabahawks Fan Club members, but the friendly memo goes to all football fans statewide.
“In Sabah, we have several fan clubs, and Sabahawks Fan Club is one of them. We also have Sabah Rhinos, Sabahawks Diehard as well as North Borneo Ultras, which I believe are the most notable ones.
“I hope all members from these clubs stand together and sing our beloved team to glory.
Joh also reminded the supporters not to make an early judgment on the team.
“As I have said, we have a new look side, and they certainly deserve to be given a chance to prove themselves.
“It is unfair to base their performance on their recent two friendly matches that were played against Selangor and Police.
“I was there watching the game against Police and despite losing the match 3-2, I think there is more to the squad than meets the eye.
“I firmly believe that in both games, the team did not show their true colours because it was obvious that the coach was trying out his boys.
“So here, I would like to call on all the fans to come in numbers and continue supporting our team in all home matches, so that God willing, we will make a quick return to the Super League next season,” said Joh.
Sabahawks will kick off their new season with a home tie against Premier League newcomers and last year’s FAM Cup champions KL SPA Putrajaya FC on Monday.
