Zaquan out to make up for lost time

2010/02/09

By Ajitpal Singh and T.N.Alagesh

NEGRI Sembilan striker Mohd Zaquan Adha Razak is ready to terrorise defenders again in the Super League.
He has ended his goal drought with two superb strikes in a FA Cup match against Johor FC recently.

Negri coach Wan Jamak Wan Hasan said his 23-year-old striker is determined to make up for the earlier dry spell.

Zaquan's return to form is timely as Negri need his expertise to end Pahang's unbeaten run at home when they clash in the Super League today.

Negri, eighth in the table with eight points, have been finding it hard to get goals due to Zaquan's poor form. They have scored only six so far.

"We can expect a better season with Zaquan having regained his touch," said Wan Jamak in Seremban yesterday.

"Negri are in mid-table but not having too bad a season. We have two matches in hand to look forward to. I have told my players that Negri's hopes are still alive but they need to stay focused on every match."

Zaquan is expected to play alongside Mohd Asyrah Al-Jappri upfront as his regular partner Firdaus Azizul is down with a hamstring injury. "Pahang are near invincible at home but we plan to end their proud home record," added Wan Jamak.

But the young Pahang side are determined to beat a big team like Negri to regain their confidence.

"My team have been undefeated at home and I am confident the record will be extended tomorrow (today)," said Pahang coach Dollah Salleh.

Azamuddin Akil, who missed several matches due to injury, will be fit to resume his partnership with Shahrizan Salleh upfront. Both strikers have scored seven goals between them in the league.

"Azamuddin's quick return will boost the team's chances," added Dollah.