Turbulent flight awaits Red Eagles

After being “forced” to flee their nest by the coronavirus, the Red Eagles are now bracing themselves for an exhaustive flight next week.

Unlike their Super League rivals, Kedah will have to play two matches away over six days.

Due to unforeseen circumstances caused by the virus, Kedah coach Aidil Sharin Sahak has found himself having to readjust the team’s training, one which focuses on quick recovery. His team will play Sabah in Kuala Lumpur on Monday and against Pahang in Kuantan five days later.

Aidil said he will have to prepare his players mentally and physically for the two away games

“We have to face the situation with the strategy needed to get three points in both the matches.

“After playing Sabah, we will not have much time to rest for the next match against Pahang. We have to travel and play at Pahang’s home.

“The situation is a bit difficult and sticky but we want to make the best out of the six days. I hope fitness will not be an issue for my players,” said Aidil.

It has been a turbulent week for the Red Eagles. They managed to beat a Covid-19 “curfew” to travel to Jengka last Saturday and extract a 2-1 win over Felda United.

Though an Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO) has been enforced in 28 areas in Kedah from Sept 11-25 due to a Covid-19 outbreak, the Kedah team were given permission by the Police to travel for the Felda match.

However, after their journey to Jengka, the team still could not enjoy home comfort in their next match due to the EMCO.

Their following match — against Sabah last week at Stadium Darulman, had to be kicked to Kuala Lumpur FA Stadium, 362 kilometres away.

The Kedah FA had no choice but to request for a change of venue after the Kota Star district was placed under EMCO.

Despite their troubles, the Red Eagles are still flying high. They are second in the Super League standings after winning their last four matches — against Selangor, Police, PJ City FC and Felda United.

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