KUALA LUMPUR: Selangor captain Raja Norsharina Raja Shahbuddin has called on her teammates to stay “cohesive” against defending champions Pahang in the final of the TNB-Women's Razak Cup at Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium tomorrow.
“We are the underdogs and there is nothing to worry about,” said Raja Norsharina after Selangor fought back to edge Kuala Lumpur 3-2 in the semi-finals on Friday.
“There’s no doubt Pahang is the most elegant and strongest side in the tournament based on their line-up of seven current and one former national player.
"Their 2018 Malaysia Games squad players are also playing well as a unit,” added the national midfielder.
“We must remain cohesive, positive and play as a unit. Honestly, there is no pressure on us as we have been playing well too. The pressure is certainly on Pahang who are the defending champions.”
Pahang reached the final for the second successive time following a 2-0 victory over 2016 runner-up Armed Forces in the semi-finals to set up a date against Selangor.
Unlike Pahang, who enjoyed an unbeaten run in Group A during the preliminary round, Selangor made a wobbling start with a 1-1 draw against Melaka, beat Armed Forces 2-1 and crushed Johor 5-1 to finish top of Group B on seven points.
Selangor coach Ikmal Abdul Jabar wants his players to produce the same kind of performance that shattered Kuala Lumpur’s hopes when they go up against Pahang.
“We are aware of Pahang’s strength. They are a ‘complete side’ right from the goalkeeper to the forward line. I might make some changes to the side and adopt a new strategy to counter Pahang,” added Ikmal.
Pahang coach Benedict Arrais said he respects all the teams that competed in the tournament and credited Selangor as “being one of the tougher opposition.