Saturday, March 11, 1995

Chow on a chase

HOLDERS Kuala Lumpur can create a record of sorts if they were to win the
FA Cup for a third consecutive season under a third coach.
The ubiquitous Chow Kwai Lam, who steered KL to the unsuccessful 1992
final, is back at the helm of the team this season after two years in the
cold.
KL won their first FA Cup trophy under S. Subramaniam in 1993 and
retained it last year under Englishman Ken Shellito.
Kwai Lam, obviously, intends to prolong KL's monopoly of the trophy.
Moreover, it would make up for the disappointment of seeing KL lose 1-0 to
Sarawak in the 1992 final.
Already, Kwai Lam is no stranger to statistics, having coached KL to
three consecutive Malaysia Cup victories from 1987 to 1989 as well as the
League and Charity Shield.
Only the FA Cup has eluded him and it would be the perfect icing to his
cake if KL go on to take the FA Cup again this year.
But Kwai Lam is a realistic man. He knows the scenario does not always
turn out the way you want it to.
"It would be great for KL to win the FA Cup for a record third
consecutive year. But it's easier said than done," said Kwai Lam.
"One factor against KL is that we are a much younger and inexperienced
side compared to the other teams.
"However, that won't deter us from going all out. If we can reach the
final, it would be a tremendous bonus for the team."
KL are drawn in Group E with hosts Selangor, Johor and Armed Forces.
They face Johor in their opening match at Shah Alam Stadium tonight.
Kwai Lam appears to have more respect for Johor than crosstown rivals
Selangor.
"We intend to give Johor a run for their money. A draw would be a good
start for us," said Kwai Lam.
COACHES OF FA CUP CHAMPIONS
1990
M. Karathu (Pk)
1991
K Worden (Sgor)
1992
A Vest (Swk)
1993
S Subramaniam (KL)
1994
K Shellito (KL)