Terengganu eye another MHL high with Faizal and new signings

PETALING JAYA: Terengganu coach Mohd Harfizi Baharom remains confident of his side’s prospects ahead of the Malaysia Hockey League (MHL), which begins on April 11, despite key changes to the squad.

The reigning league, Charity Shield and TNB Cup champions will once again rely on star striker Faizal Saari, who netted an impressive 23 goals last season.

However, Terengganu will have to cope without their second-highest scorer, Mohd Akhimullah Anuar Esook, who contributed nine goals in the previous campaign. He has joined Tenaga Nasional for the new campaign.

To address this, the club have strengthened their attacking options by signing Tenaga duo Firhan Ashaari and Mohd Harris Iskandar, adding depth and versatility upfront.

Harfizi also confirmed the arrival of five new players as part of the team’s preparations – Firhan, Alfarico Lance (Maybank), Harris, Mohd Aqil Danial (Tenaga) and Darwisy Hamdan.

At the same time, Terengganu have parted ways with Andwalfian Jeffrynus and Syarman Mat Tee, who have both joined Tenaga. Harfizi said the squad are gradually adapting to his tactical approach, with encouraging signs shown in recent weeks.

“The team are currently adapting to our tactical patterns. Day by day, they are showing increasingly positive development,” he said. “We are fine-tuning our attacking formations, and the players gained valuable lessons from our recent 4-0 friendly win against the Indonesian national team.”

He highlighted the experience brought in by Firhan and Alfarico, noting that both players have settled quickly into the squad.

“Firhan has played with us before, so he has no issues connecting with the current group. Both have adapted quickly and brought positive energy,” he added.

Harfizi also emphasised the importance of integrating younger players such as Harris, Aqil and Darwisy into the team’s long-term plans.

“Harris is a fast forward with excellent one-on-one ability. I see him developing into a player like Faizal Saari in the future. He can also take on flicking (penalty corner) duties,” said Harfizi. “Aqil is aggressive and fearless, with a strong fighting spirit, while Darwisy has shown a keen eye for goal, especially during the Razak Cup.”

Harfizi revealed that the club are still in talks to bring in import players, with negotiations ongoing.

“I have requested specific players from Pakistan and South Korea, but nothing is 100% confirmed yet. The management is handling the arrangements,” he said.

Looking ahead, Harfizi expects a more competitive MHL season, with stronger challenges from rivals.

“TNB (Tenaga) hold a significant advantage, and Maybank will also be strong contenders. Other teams have started their preparations early,” he said. “We cannot expect things to be easy. We will take it game by game. Our focus is not just on defending or regaining titles, but on improving our performance in every match.”