Yahya: Time for Bandar Penawar to go for the title

Bandar Penawar Sports School (BPSS) are into their sixth year in the Malaysia Junior Hockey League. And this time, they have set very high targets – win the league and make the final for the overall title.

The majority of the players have been with the team since 2003 and coach Yahya Atan (pic) feels that the time has come for them to challenge for one of the two titles at stake this year.

“The target is go all out to finish top in the league and try to make the final for the overall title,” said Yahya yesterday.

“It is not going to be easy but since the team was formed in 2003 we have improved each year. And it is time we get into the title.”

The team will, however, have to achieve their targets without three players from last year’s squad. Mohd Nor Hafiq Abdul Ghaffar, Mohd Andika and Mohd Azzami Adabi have joined Batu Pahat-MSJ, who are Johor’s Sukma team.

The overall strength is still there with 16 players remaining together over the last five years.

BPSS won the Division Two title in 2006 to gain promotion to Division One last year.

Last year, they finished fourth in Division One and made it to the semi-finals for the overall title for the first time. They lost in the last four on penalties to eventual champions Bukit Jalil Sports School. In the play-off for third placing, they were edged to MBPJ.

“It was our best year in the league and the players are starting to show their worth. I expect a better performance this year and we are targeting the final (for the overall title) this year. We would have been stronger had the three players stayed with us but I think we still have enough experience to achieve out targets,” said Yahya.

Apart from his side, Yahya expects three other teams to be involved in the title chase, with Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) the favourites to retain both titles. Tenaga Nasional and Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) are his other picks.

“At the same time I would not discount teams like Anderson and SMK Tunku Jaafar. These two have improved over the last two years and could spring a few surprises,” he said.

Another reason for Yahya’s confidence in his team’s prospect is the fact that seven of his players are in the national training squad.

“This is always a plus point as they will be exposed to a higher level of training. Fitness and tactics will play a crucial part in the title run-up. We have to be ready from day one,” he said.