On the samba beat:(from left) Terengganu’s Brazilian imports Diego Landis, Raianderson Da Costa and Gabriel Silva at training. — Terengganu FC
PETALING JAYA: Terengganu have steadily progressed into in the FA Cup quarter-finals but something’s up in the air for the Turtles.
Their new winger, Brazilian Gabriel Silva, has yet to take flight in his position.
The 28-year-old, who joined Terengganu from Cambodian side Svay Rieng in July, was guilty of spurning several clear chances in their 3-0 win over Immigration in the round-of-16 second leg match at the Sultan Mizan Stadium in Gong Badak on Sept 13.
Coach Badrul Afzan Razali, however, has admitted that Silva was below par in that match but has kept the faith that he would eventually deliver.
And Silva hopes to repay Badrul by bouncing back strongly in their Super League match against Melaka at the Sultan Mizan Stadium today.
“I was recovering from a slight leg injury but that’s not an excuse. I feel better now and I’ll be ready for the game against Melaka,” he said.
Silva has also received the backing of his compatriot and chief playmaker Raianderson da Costa, better known as Careca.
“Gabriel is a great player and I believe he will help us a lot,” said the 30-year-old Da Costa.
“He was injured before, but now he is getting back into shape. We will help him regain the form that convinced the club to sign him in the transfer window.”
As for the clash against Melaka, Da Costa insists Terengganu are fully prepared.
“Our preparation has been good. We are focused and we know there are no easy games in the league. But we need to get the win as we’re playing at home.”
As for Melaka, coached by the experienced Datuk K. Devan, they are still searching for their first league victory.
The A1 Semi-Pro League champions of last year have drawn all three of their matches so far - against Penang (1-1), Police (0-0) and Sabah (1-1).
Devan’s teams are renowned for their tactical organisation and sharp counter-attacks, something Terengganu are wary of.
“All teams are strong tactically, and it is always difficult for attackers. This is normal in football. We just need to stay focused and make the best decisions during the game,” Da Costa added.
Terengganu currently sit third in the Super League with seven points from four matches, while Melaka are eighth with three points from three games.
