PETALING JAYA: It has been a season of ups and downs but one thing is constant for Sabah football team – the commitment of the players.
Midfielder Stuart Wilkin (pic) lauds the team’s unity ahead of their first Super League match this year against Kuala Lumpur at the Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu today.
The 27-year Wilkin, who has been a key figure in midfield since joining the club in 2022, hopes the team spirit will remain strong.
“So far, it’s been a season full of changes, coaches, staff and players, but one thing that has remained is the spirit within the team,” said Wilkin.
“Even through tough circumstances, we’ve stuck together and fought hard in every match.
“Despite some inconsistent league results, reaching a Cup final is a huge achievement and something we should be very proud of.
“I hope we can be more consistent in our performances and results until the end of the season.
“Personally, I want to continue influencing the team with strong performances, goals and assists.”
Sabah, who reached the FA Cup final last year, are targeting their fourth win in the league.
They endured a difficult run between Aug 13 and Nov 1 without recording a single victory, before ending the drought with a 3-2 win over Penang on Nov 23.
They followed that up with an emphatic 4-1 triumph over Police on Dec 6 but stumbled with a 3-1 defeat to Brunei on Dec 20. Three days later, they pulled off a convincing 3-1 win against Terengganu.
The team, who are currently under interim head coach Alto Linus, sit eighth in the Super League standings with 13 points from 12 matches.
Added Wilkin: “Preparations have been good. We had a solid block of training after the Christmas and New Year break, which has helped us.
“Kuala Lumpur have been in great form this season and have made some excellent additions to an already strong squad but we hope to give a good showing.”
