BANGI: Footballer D. Moses Raj is determined to deliver a Malaysia Games (Sukma) gold medal for his adopted state of Selangor after failing to do so with his birth state.
The 21-year-old, who hails from Buntong, Ipoh, represented Perak two years ago but could only guide them to the quarter-finals in Kuching.
Since then, Moses has joined Selangor, going on to represent them in the Super League, the A1 Semi-Pro League and the Bardhan Cup.
He is now set to turn out for Selangor at this year’s Sukma, hoping to end the state’s 28-year wait for football gold – their last triumph having come in 1998.
The Malaysia Under-23 centreback, who won bronze with Harimau Muda at last year’s SEA Games in Bangkok, is determined to make his final campaign a memorable one.
“Last time I was with Perak, and we lost in the quarter-finals. This time, I’m playing for Selangor, and our main objective is to reach the final,” said Moses.
“My promise and dream this season is to deliver a gold medal to Selangor. As a national defender, I see this as a major platform.”
But Moses also realises that the path to the final will not be easy as the other states would be hell-bent to take them down, especially with them being the hosts.
Selangor are in Group C with Kedah and Federal Territories.
They face Federal Territories at the Petaling Jaya Stadium first, and will complete the group by taking on Kedah next.
“The competition is tight, and no team will be easy as everyone will come in strong. Just the name Selangor creates a certain fire in our opponents; whoever plays against us comes with an intense drive to beat us.
“But we don’t play out of fear. We play according to our game plan and what our coaches have instructed.
“Using my experience as a national player, I am confident I can help lead this team to the final. Winning this time would be a huge achievement for everyone involved.
“I don’t want to rise alone; everyone playing alongside me should rise together.”
