KUALA LUMPUR: Akhimullah Anuar Esook will be playing in his third consecutive TNB Cup final Sunday, and Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sports School (SSTMI) Thunderbolts can bet on him to score.
For, the 18-year-old lanky lad scored in the final for SSTMI in 2016 as well as in 2017 and this season, he is the top-scorer with 16 goals.
STMI will be in battle with Pahang Sports School (AHP-SSP) Thunderbolts in a repeat final, with the odds heavily favouring Akhimullah and his mates.
In 2017, SSTMI beat AHP-SSP 4-3 on shoot-out after a 2-2 draw during regulation time, while in the 2016 final, Bukit Jalil Sports School beat SSTMI 4-3.
"I will be playing in my third consecutive final with SSTMI and I believe I will not disappoint my school. I scored in both the previous finals, and is experienced enough to handle the final pressure," said Akhimullah.
He is a budding player for the nation as well, as he scored 16 goals in the recent Asian Youth Olympics Qualifier in Bangkok to become tournament top-scorer.
He is no stranger to goals, as three years ago as a 16-year-old, he scored 11 goals in the JHL, and last year was the top-scorer on 17 goals.
"I always give my best in any match, and with help from my team-mates, I have been able to deliver the goals," said Akhimullah.
AHP-SSP coach Sufian Mohamad played down his team's chances.
"We lost to SSTMI 5-0 in the League (Akhimullah scored two goals), and I believe it will be uphill again in the final. We will go in as the underdogs," said Sufian.
SUNDAY: TNB CUP FINAL -- Men: AHP-SSP-Thunderbolts v SSTMI Thunderbolts (National Stadium II, 6.30pm).
Women: MSSPP-PSHA v WIPERS-KLSS (National Stadium II, 4.00pm).
