KUCHING: Sarawak Under-21 are using the KRFC Rainforest Sevens as a key development platform, with coach Er Embran Mohammad Ali highlighting ball possession and game exposure as the main areas his side must strengthen moving forward.
He said repeated turnovers had been the main issue affecting his team’s rhythm, often forcing them into prolonged defensive phases that drained energy and limited attacking opportunities.
“Mostly it’s about ball possession. When we lose the ball, the opposition gets it and we are forced to defend. When we spend too much time defending, we get tired, and when we regain possession, we are already fatigued,” he told Sarawak Tribune when met at Song Kheng Hai Rugby Field on Saturday (June 27).
He added that maintaining possession for longer phases is crucial if the team wants to control matches and create more scoring opportunities.
“We try not to give away the ball cheaply. We need to hold on to it longer so we can build our attacks properly,” he said.
Er Embran also described the KRFC Rainforest Sevens as valuable preparation but said the Sarawak Under-21 squad still requires more competitive matches ahead of the Malaysia Games (SUKMA).
“We still need more games. Ideally, SUKMA preparation should involve consistent match exposure over five to six months,” he said.
While pleased with the team’s gradual progress, Er Embran stressed that regular tournament experience remains essential as the squad continues its preparations for the biennial Games.
Sarawak Under-21 enjoyed an unbeaten run in Group A, defeating KV Matang 38-0, Sibu Rugby Association 19-7, KRFC Thundercatz 52-0, and Asajaya Rugby Club 14-12 to finish the group stage on a high.
