KUCHING: Hope FC’s solid defensive setup has been the backbone of their impressive run in the Liga Bandaraya this season, says manager Bryan Cheong.
Cheong credited the team’s stability at the back for freeing up creativity further up the pitch, noting that a more settled backline has boosted confidence throughout the squad.
“I think the major catalyst is the defence this season. It’s a bit more settled and with the back four and keepers we have right now, the midfield and attack have more licence and more confidence to do their thing,” he said.
Despite missing a few key players, including Patrick Dinnesh, Adib Imika, and Ericson Teo, Hope FC have managed to maintain their form, with other players stepping up to fill in the gaps.
Cheong also shared that midfielder, Damian Unting, is on the mend and could return soon.
“Other players have shown what they can do and what it means to wear the Hope jersey. Damian is working back from an injury, and we’ll be excited to have him back as soon as possible,” he told Sarawak Tribune when contacted recently.
Looking ahead, Cheong said the team plans to maintain their current tactical formula while making minor adjustments for each opponent.
“At the moment, we’ll be sticking to the same formula for each game. Of course, we’ll adjust to each team, but the main tactical setup won’t differ much from what’s been working,” he explained.
Hope FC are set to face Golong FC next in a Liga Bandaraya fixture this Sunday at 9:30 pm at Field C, Petra Jaya.
