PETALING JAYA: Brunei are determined to push for a top six finish in their debut Super League season but that could be a hard goal to meet as they face in-form Kuching City in Bandar Seri Begawan on April 25.
The Wasps coach Jamie McAllister admitted that the Cats could be a stumbling block, especially after their emphatic 4-1 win over Police on Monday.
Kuching are now second in the league, and they are also in the Malaysia Cup semi-finals where they will take on Selangor in the second leg on April 18.
As for Brunei, they are eighth with 22 points, just one behind sixth-placed Negri Sembilan.
“With Kuching clearly pushing for a top two or top three finish, we can expect a tough road ahead,’’ admitted McAllister.
“We’ve already played them five times this season, and they’ve beaten us four times.’’
McAllister said that fortunately, the players will get a short break to recharge before the crucial fixture.
“We’ll give the players two days off to rest and recover, then we’ll focus on being ready for the Kuching game on the 25th.”
McAllister highlighted Kuching’s strengths, noting their balance across the pitch.
“They defend very well and have strong options up front, with wingers who are dangerous in one-on-one situations.
“They can switch their strikers depending on whether they want more pace or physical presence.
“In midfield, they are very solid as well, especially with players like (Petrus) Shitembi.”
Reflecting on Brunei’s season, McAllister admitted his squad initially struggled to adapt to the higher level of competition.
“In the first six or seven games, there was a lack of belief.
“Moving from the Singapore Premier League to the Malaysian Super League is a big step up, and it has been a real test for the players.
“But they’ve grown in confidence, fitness and belief as the season has progressed.
“We’ve improved and become stronger, and that’s reflected in our current position.
“We want to end the season as high as we can.
“If we can secure a top-half finish, it will be a successful campaign and something we can build on next year.’’
