SAMARAHAN: Serian FA assistant coach, Rockeffller Sullau, has dismissed injury concerns surrounding forward Aaron Jeremiah Renang, explaining that the striker’s early substitution was a tactical decision.
Serian FA booked their place in the last four of the Sarawak Premier League after defeating Kapit FA 6–1 on aggregate in the quarterfinals.
Speaking post-match, Rockeffller said Aaron was taken off in the 37th minute of the second leg of the Serian FA’s 6-1 aggregate win over Kapit FA not because of fitness issues, but due to his performance on the day.
“Aaron was not injured. He usually performs well in training and has good shooting ability, but he was out of form during the match, so we decided to make a change,” he told Sarawak Tribune at Stadium Unimas on Saturday (Jan 17).
Rockeffller expressed confidence that the striker would respond positively, stressing that the coaching staff still believe in Aaron’s ability ahead of the Sarawak Premier League semi-finals against Samarahan FA.
He also pointed to playing conditions as one of the factors affecting performances, noting that Serian FA often train on less ideal pitches, which can impact their rhythm when playing on better surfaces.
“Our training ground conditions are different. When we play on a good pitch, the game changes. It’s something we are adapting to,” he said.
Meanwhile, Rockeffller emphasised the need for continuous improvement as Serian FA prepare for the semi-finals, where they are expected to face a much stronger Samarahan FA.
“We will continue to improve and prepare properly. The semi-finals will be a different test, and we must be ready,” he added.
