New coach Kian Ann targets top four finish despite major challenges

PETALING JAYA: The odds may be stacked against the Malaysian cagers in their quest to qualify for the semi-finals of the Cambodia SEA Games next month but they are ready to take on the challenge.

The men’s team have to adapt to a new coach, Yong Kian Ann (pic), who has taken over the reins following the resignation of Jeff Viernes last month.

“Every coach has his own way of coaching, so they’re currently adjusting to my style and everyone on the team is still in the progress of blending in,” said Kian Ann.

“The long list was already there when I took over the team, so I couldn’t choose the players I had in mind.

“I can only make minor changes in the current team.”

The Malaysian team are expected to face formidable challenges from main medal contenders the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia, who have enjoyed a medal haul of 22-9-6, 7-18-11 and 1-8-9 respectively since the sport was introduced at the 1977 Kuala Lumpur edition.

Malaysia have bagged 2-6-5 in the men’s category and 13-1-6 in the women’s competition at the SEA Games so far.

Despite the challenging task ahead, Kian Ann has set a target of finishing in the top four.

“It is undeniable that every coach wants to achieve good results but if we compare our previous results to those of other countries, we are at a disadvantage,” added Kian Ann.

“My personal target for them is to advance to the semi-finals but we will be facing formidable challenges from other countries like Indonesia, Thailand and Philippines.

“In my opinion, they have always been the level 1 South-East Asian teams while we are in level 2.

“Furthermore, most teams have roped in naturalised players but we’re going into the championship with a team made up entirely of local players.

“From what I know, only we and Singapore were not boosted by naturalised players.

“And not to forget that Vietnam have also roped in naturalised players.”

The men’s national squad returned home empty handed while the women’s side delivered one bronze at the Hanoi 2021 Games.