KUALA LUMPUR: Police coach P. Maniam is expecting a fiery clash against Kedah in the season-opening Super League match at Selayang Stadium tomorrow (5.30pm).
The game between Police and Kedah is the first match of the season following the cancellation of the Charity Shield-cum-Super League clash between Johor Darul Ta'zim and Selangor today.
JDT have been awarded a 3-0 victory following Selangor's decision to pull out following the acid attack on their player, Faisal Halim.
"I understand the frustration stemming from recent incidents involving national footballers (Akhyar Rashid, Faisal and Safiq Rahim), but we have to maintain our focus on the game," said Maniam.
He said his players are eager to take on Kedah, who were fourth in the league last season.
"Despite the early kick-off, I believe fans will be treated to an engaging encounter.
"Kedah play possession football and we have to counter their strategy. We hope to execute our game plan and keep a clean sheet," he added.
Police shocked Kedah 1-0 in Alor Star but lost 3-0 in the return encounter last season.
The Cops finished eighth in 2023.