PETALING JAYA: G. Pavithran (pic) may be a new name in the Harimau Malaya set-up for the AFF Hyundai Cup, but Malaysian football fans already know exactly what he is capable of.
The 21-year-old Johor Darul Ta’zim II winger went viral last season after scoring a stunning solo goal on the counterattack against Perak in the A1 Semi-Pro League at the Chemor Stadium in Ipoh on April 30.
Receiving the ball inside his own penalty box off a defended corner, Pavithran raced past two defenders before rounding the goalkeeper to open the scoring in JDT II’s 3-0 win over the Seladang.
Now training with the senior national squad and in line for his first cap against Myanmar in their first Group B match at the Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon tomorrow, Pavithran admits the step up has not been easy but says he is embracing every challenge it brings.
“Being with the senior squad has been a great learning experience, but at the same time it has been quite hard and challenging as one of the younger players in the team,” he said.
“The senior players have a lot of experience and intensity, so it takes time to adapt and match the same level of energy and consistency they bring every day.
“There are many challenges, both physically and mentally but I see it as a valuable opportunity to grow.
“As a younger player, I have to work harder to earn my place, prove myself and keep up with the standards set by the senior players.”
Having progressed through Malaysia’s age-group teams, Pavithran said the jump to senior level demands both humility and self-belief.
“I try to adapt by working hard every day in training and staying confident in my abilities.
“I also listen to the senior players as their advice helps me improve.
“At the same time, I remind myself to trust my own strengths and play with confidence.”
Pavithran said his ambitions are simple – contribute where he can and keep developing under national interim coach Tan Cheng Hoe.
“Working with coach Tan has been really good.
“He has high standards and pushes everyone to improve, and I’ve learned a lot from his guidance so far.”
