PETALING JAYA: In-form winger Ahmad Danial Asri is fired up to help Kuching City secure a second-place finish ahead of his former club Selangor as the Super League season enters its decisive phase.
The 25-year-old Danial acknowledged that the next three matches will be crucial in the Cats’ bid to finish runners-up and claim a berth in the AFC Champions League Two next season.
Kuching, currently third with 44 points from 21 matches, will host Terengganu at the State Stadium in Kuching today, aiming to overtake second-placed Selangor, who have 46 points from 22 games.
While upstaging his former club adds extra motivation, Danial insisted his priority is to ensure his team meet their objectives.
‘’We need to take it one match at a time and not dwell too much on who we’re going to beat to second spot,’’ he said.
‘’Consistency is key — we must maintain our performance and avoid dropping crucial points. Every player has a role, and we must stay united.’’
On Terengganu, Danial is aware of their strengths, particularly in counter-attacks and wing play.
“They are a well-structured side with dangerous fullbacks. But they can be exposed when they overcommit,” he said.
This season, Danial has played 30 games for Kuching in all competitions, scoring eight goals and four assists.
He has been a key player for coach Aidil Sharin this season, thanks to his work rate on the flanks and his willingness to be rotated.
Meanwhile, Terengganu, fifth with 33 points from 21 matches, are also chasing a strong finish. However, interim coach Tengku Hazman Raja Hassan admitted injuries could hamper their challenge.
“It is a major concern with some players injured.
‘‘We are still missing some key players like Azam Azmi Murad and Kyaw Min Oo,” he said.
Hazman, however, welcomed the return of French striker Yan Mabella, who scored in last week’s 2-2 draw against Negri Sembilan after recovering from a knee injury.
