Friday, September 30, 2011

Malaysia Cup Quarter Finals Match Ups - Felda United vs Kelantan

Felda United vs Negeri Sembilan
Many would be expecting Negeri Sembilan to win this game, but never cast Felda aside as E. Elavarasan side has done well in their group stages.

Defeating the likes of Kelantan, Sarawak and Johor FC in the group stages, the club side has a mixture of young and experienced in their squad. E. Elavarasan, known as Malaysia's own Tinkerman has steadied this club side as they peaked during the Malaysia Cup campaign.

During the Malaysia Super League campaign, they were placed at 8th and they did not have a convincing campaign. However, since they brought S.Sivanesan and D. Saarvindran from Harimau Muda B on loan, the team has improved and the likes of Khaironnisam Sahbuddin, Juzaili Samion and Azrul Ahmad have shined in the Malaysia Cup.

As for Negeri Sembilan, they fared poorly in the Super League but they were totally a different side in the Malaysia Cup. Led by Azraai Khor Abdullah, the team is much stronger and the big name signings are beginning to make their presence felt. Norhafiz Zamani Misbah, Hairuddin Omar, Irwan Fadly Idrus and Mohd Shukor Adan have been pivotal towards the team's gallant run.

D. Saarvindran, on loan from Harimau Muda B has been impressive as the 18 year old is earmarked for greater things in the future. Having scored 2 goals in this campaign, the attacking midfielders is hardworking and possesses that element of surprise which caught giant, Kelantan off guard once. If he continues this form, national call up beckons and he might be snapped up by Felda United.

As for Negeri Sembilan, Hairuddin Omar will be relied upon to help the team qualify for the semi finals. Having helped Kelantan to win the Malaysia Cup after 30 years, his experience would be vital towards the team's fortunes. The 32 year forward from Setiu, Terengganu has scored 2 goals so far, and his combination with Shahurain Abu Samah has been effective so far.

Not performing well in the Super League, both teams would surely want to bounce back and prove to the other teams that they are back in the reckoning. E.Elavarasan hasn't won the Malaysia Cup as a coach yet but Azraai Khor Abdullah has carried the trophy twice and he looks to be the favourite to beat Felda United in the quarter finals.

Favourite to win: Negeri Sembilan -  Azraai's experience would be the pivotal factor
Player to watch: D. Saarvindran - This lad is special...

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