JDT II looking to spring Malaysia Cup surprise

Johor Darul Ta

PETALING JAYA: Premier League’s Johor Darul Ta’zim II have no intention of just making up the numbers in the 16-team Malaysia Cup next month.

The Johor side, a back-up team for newly-crowned Super League champions Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT), are the lowest ranked team in the competition and are expected to be a first-round casualty.

JDT II coach Azmi Mohamed, however, begs to differ.

“I think we can give the others a run for their money. We will be no pushovers.

“It is true that we are the weakest team and we managed to get in by the back door – via the playoff. But I think my players are all fired up to give a good account of themselves. For us, it is a bonus to be playing in the Malaysia Cup,” said Azmi.

JDT II qualified for the Cup after they upset Super League side PKNS FC 2-1 in the playoffs last month. T-Team grabbed the other spot by beating Negri Sembilan 1-0.

Besides JDT II and T-Team, the other teams who have qualified are JDT, Selangor, Pahang, Terengganu, Sime Darby FC, Kelantan, Sarawak, Lions XII, Perak, Armed Forces. Police, Felda United, Penang and Kedah.

JDT II have two established players — Singapore international midfielder Shahril Ishak and national striker Mohd Zaquan Abdul Razak – in their side.

Azmi said he would include a number of President’s Cuppers for the Malaysia Cup.

“I will bring in four to five President’s Cup players to give them a chance to prove themselves,” he added.

The Malaysia Cup draw will be held this Sunday.