BUKIT Jalil Sports School (BJSS) lost only once in the Malaysia Hockey
League this season - a 4-1 drubbing by Bandar Penawar Sports School
(BPSS).
But the match was academic as BJSS had already won the League title
with one match in hand, and their last fixture was against BPSS.
And even then, BJSS levelled the score at 1-1, before "giving up
meekly".
Tomorrow, the sports schools will square off again for the Overall
title, with the League match of no consequences.
BJSS have the pedigree - seven League and four Overall titles - while
BPSS have yet to claim any titles since playing in the junior league.
"I admit it will be difficult this year, as all my boys are under-17,
while BPSS have pre-university boys with experience and strength on their
side.
"In the league, we did manage to draw level, but then gave up because
we did not want to pick up injuries or cards going into the knock-out
stage," said BJSS coach S. Prakash.
And their trump card will be Dangerous Lee ak Mathew, who has scored 13
penalty corner goals so far.
"Dangerous has been consistent but I am worried as BPSS have fast
runners and this could spell trouble. However, we have many set-pieces
and will use them as well," said Prakash.
The leading scorer in the MHL is K. Satesh of Nur Insafi with 14 goals,
but he could be toppled when the dust settles on Wednesday.
"We have fitness and skills on our side, while BPSS have matured
players who have proved to be dangerous on the counter.
"It will not be easy to defend our title, but I am sure the boys will
give their best," said Prakash.
TOMORROW - Final: Bukit Jalil Sports School v Bandar Penawar Sports
School (National Stadium Pitch II, 5pm).
Third-Fourth: Petaling Jaya City Council v Tenaga Nasional (National
Stadium Pitch II, 3pm).
