WITH only two wins in 10 matches, it is getting hot for Johor FC in the Super League but coach Azuan Zain is still confident that the club side will be able to regain lost ground if the hit-men get into the scoring act -- starting with tonight's away match against an equally inconsistent Pahang.
Johor FC's wins were both achieved away and Azuan is hoping that his team will be able to notch a hat-trick of away wins with the return of suspended national trainee striker Shahrizal Saad who sat out the last two matches after being sent off in the 2-2 draw against Perlis two weeks ago.
"We have our backs against the wall but at this stage of the league we are not pushing the panic button yet. If you look at the statistics it is a congested league.
"It became worse when the top teams suffer defeats. Only two points separate the top four teams. Playing two matches each week is taking its toll on the teams," said Azuan.
Eighth placed Pahang, followed by Kuala Lumpur, Negri Sembilan and Johor FC are all bunched on 11 points each -- separated only by goal difference.
"I have not been able to field my first team in any two matches. I have been reshuffling the lineup for each match, either because of injuries or suspensions.
"For the Pahang match, I will not have Eddie Helmi (Manan) because of a knee injury."
Johor FC, third in the Super League in 2009 and fourth last year, have been struggling to get their act right this season although they have been unbeaten at home in their four matches so far.
In last Saturday's home match against Negri, Johor FC muffed a penalty in the 20th minute and paid a heavy price. Khairul Ismail saw his spot kick well saved by Negri keeper Farizal Marlias and help his side secure a precious point. -- RIZAL ABDULLAH
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