Police defender Okwuosa has what it takes to freeze Selangor attack

Pillar at the back: James Okwuosa (left) has been a standout for Police throughout the year. — Police

PETALING JAYA: Trust James Okwuosa to defend like hell when Police take on Selangor in their final Super League game today.

The 33-year-old Nigerian has been a standout for Police throughout the year as the 1.92m tall defender, known for his physical strength and intelligence on and off the ball, has played superbly to stop most of the top strikers in the league.

He has even scored four goals for the team, showing his ability in attack too.

Okwuosa aims to take his game a notch higher at the Petaling Jaya Stadium today as a win will see Police finishing as high as sixth in the league.

They are guaranteed of at least the eighth spot in the Super League, which is decent for a club that are running on a low budget.

Police, Terengganu and Kuala Lumpur have 37 points but Terengganu and KL are sixth and seventh respectively thanks to a better goal difference.

Okwuosa is happy that he chose Police when no one gave the Coppers a chance to do well.

“My first season here has been great, thanks to all the players. They have made my experience a good one. The league is physical, which I have enjoyed a lot,” he said.

“Many people did not believe that we can do well but we have showed it with our results. We hope to carry this momentum into next season.’’

Okwuosa is bracing for a tough duel as he has to stop Selangor’s Colombian hitman and current league top scorer Ayron Del Valle, who has 23 goals so far. Selangor have already ensured their second spot in the league.

“We have beaten them before in the league but it’s the last game and both are looking at ending the season with a win. It will be different as they are the favourites,” he said.

The side led by Datuk Yunos Alif beat the Red Giants 1-0, also at the Petaling Jaya Stadium on June 3.