KUCHING, 5 June: PFA Odin Sarawak’s youthful squad is turning heads in the Malaysia Premier Futsal League (MPFL) Division 2, rising to second place despite logistical challenges and limited resources.
The team are proving that youth and vision can deliver results, as the team currently sits second in the (MPFL) Division 2 after four matches.
Coach Mohd Faizal Zamri told Sarawak Tribune that the team faced several challenges, including the lack of a proper training venue that meets FIFA-standard pitch specifications.
“The challenges we’re facing now are similar to what we experienced during the last Malaysia Games (SUKMA 2024), where we struggled to secure a proper training venue.
“However, we’ve been able to apply the lessons learned from that experience to our current preparations,” he said.
Mohd Faizal noted that the coaching staff and players have been reminded to stay mentally prepared for any situation that may arise throughout the season.
“With the experience we’ve gained, we are now better equipped to deal with such challenges.
“This is a new journey for us, especially since the current squad is made up mostly of younger players, under 18 and under 20 years old, as part of our long-term preparation for SUKMA 2026 in Selangor,” he added.
He also expressed gratitude for the support and planning provided by the Sarawak State Sports Council and Sarawak Sports Corporation.
According to him, 60 per cent of the current squad comprises players from last year’s SUKMA team, now reinforced with a promising lineup of new talent.
Morale and the mood within the team, Mohd Faizal pointed out, remains high.
“The players and coaching staff are in great spirits and in good condition. We’re highly motivated for the next match.
“These past two weeks have given us valuable time to rest, recover, and address our weaknesses during training.”
However, he also highlighted the need for sponsorship support to help sustain the team’s efforts.
“We’re hoping for support from sponsors to boost the morale of this young squad.
Transportation costs for away matches remain a major challenge, and easing that burden would go a long way in helping us continue our preparations,” he said.
On Jun 1, they won 4-2 versus Kuala Lumpur 2 and will face Negeri Sembilan United on Jun 14, followed by Nilai City SC on Jun 15.
The team are proving that youth and vision can deliver results, as the team currently sits second in the (MPFL) Division 2 after four matches.
Coach Mohd Faizal Zamri told Sarawak Tribune that the team faced several challenges, including the lack of a proper training venue that meets FIFA-standard pitch specifications.
“The challenges we’re facing now are similar to what we experienced during the last Malaysia Games (SUKMA 2024), where we struggled to secure a proper training venue.
“However, we’ve been able to apply the lessons learned from that experience to our current preparations,” he said.
Mohd Faizal noted that the coaching staff and players have been reminded to stay mentally prepared for any situation that may arise throughout the season.
“With the experience we’ve gained, we are now better equipped to deal with such challenges.
“This is a new journey for us, especially since the current squad is made up mostly of younger players, under 18 and under 20 years old, as part of our long-term preparation for SUKMA 2026 in Selangor,” he added.
He also expressed gratitude for the support and planning provided by the Sarawak State Sports Council and Sarawak Sports Corporation.
According to him, 60 per cent of the current squad comprises players from last year’s SUKMA team, now reinforced with a promising lineup of new talent.
Morale and the mood within the team, Mohd Faizal pointed out, remains high.
“The players and coaching staff are in great spirits and in good condition. We’re highly motivated for the next match.
“These past two weeks have given us valuable time to rest, recover, and address our weaknesses during training.”
However, he also highlighted the need for sponsorship support to help sustain the team’s efforts.
“We’re hoping for support from sponsors to boost the morale of this young squad.
Transportation costs for away matches remain a major challenge, and easing that burden would go a long way in helping us continue our preparations,” he said.
On Jun 1, they won 4-2 versus Kuala Lumpur 2 and will face Negeri Sembilan United on Jun 14, followed by Nilai City SC on Jun 15.