BINTULU: The Sarawak sepak takraw squad is raring to go at the Malaysia Games (SUKMA), said its head coach Amir Abu Bakar.
“There are no injuries, they (the players) look energetic and fired up. We hope that they can go out and put on a good performance,” he told Sarawak Tribune yesterday (Aug 11).
Recent exposure in Thailand had significantly boosted the team’s morale, said Amir.
“Previously, game exposure was lacking, however friendly matches against the under-19 Thai champions proved to be a valuable experience. We were able to put up a fight and won in the doubles category,” he said.
The coach believed that the Thailand stint had equipped his players with additional knowledge and strategies.
A top-four finish is the team’s target, a feat that would mark a historic achievement for Sarawak sepak takraw.
“The target is at least a top four, a bronze medal finish. Previously, there has not been a men’s sepak takraw team that contributed to a medal. So, if we could get a bronze, this is a good start already,” he said.
Despite arriving in Bintulu earlier this month, the team faced challenges in utilising the sepak takraw courts, gaining access only on Aug 9.
“We have had two to three days to suit ourselves with the court conditions. So throughout that period that we were here, we were not able to use the courts, however, we did some light training around and outside the stadium,” he added.
The women’s sepak takraw team will face Selangor on Aug 14 afternoon, while the men’s team will play on Aug 15 morning and 7.30pm.
