Penang sweat On In-Form Keeper Ahead Of League Match

2 April, 2015



PETALING JAYA: Premier League high-flyers Penang may have to face Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) II at the City Stadium on Friday without their talismanic goalkeeper Sani Anuar Kamsani.

Sani, who has kept five clean sheets in seven matches, is battling against time to recover from a bruised rib suffered after a collison with team-mate Reinaldo Lobo during the 2-1 FA Cup third round win over Negri Sembilan on March 17.

The loss of the in-form Sani will be a huge blow to the second-placed Penang in the high-stakes clash against the third-placed JDT II.

The former Negri Sembilan and Sarawak keeper Sani, who was only expected to play a back-up role to fellow close season signing Remezey Che Ros, has been a revelation in his first season for the islanders.

When Remezey had to undergo surgery just a few days before the season started, Sani grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

He has played every minute of action since, and his commanding performances played a huge part in ensuring the Panthers remain the only unbeaten team in the Premier League, and qualify for the FA Cup last eight.

“Sani is still feeling a little pain in his ribs, but we are hoping he will recover in time for the match. Sani has been playing exceptionally well and is an inspiration to the team since the opening day of the season,” said Penang coach Jacksen Tiago.

“If Sani cannot make it, I can still fall back on Remezey to make his league debut.”

The match against JDT II is the first of three tough encounters for the Panthers in the space of a week. After tackling the southerners at home, Penang will head to Kuantan to take on defending champions Pahang in the FA Cup quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.

Just three days later, the Panthers will be on the road again to face fourth-placed Negri Sembilan in Paroi in a league encounter.

Besides Sani, midfielder Elias Sulaiman is also doubtful to face JDT II as he has yet to recover from an ankle injury but crowd favourite Lee Gil-hoon of South Korea is set to start the match after shaking off a hamstring strain.

Sumber - LOGANATH VELLOO, Star Online www.thestar.com.my