As the hours to the do or die AFF Suzuki Cup “biggie” get closer the Harimau Malaya chief coach has shut his ears to the criticism hurled at him – which many believe is unwarranted.

Instead, Cheng Hoe and his Tigers are all fired up for the “high-intensity match” knowing that only a positive result can keep Malaysia in the region’s premier football competition.

Malaysia faces Myanmar in a crucial Group A match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Saturday.

Cheng Hoe has enough material to work on his match strategies after watching Monday’s live telecast of the Myanmar-Vietnam match in Yangon which ended in a scoreless draw.

His assistant S. Balachandran, who was the “spy” in Yangon also came back with “enough info” on Myanmar’s strong points and weaknesses which have been noted.

“Myanmar is strong on counter attacks. They showed this in all their three matches very conclusively. So this we will take note of on Saturday. One thing that pleases me is that my team is in high spirits.”

“There is so much ‘fire’ in the players. They are just ready to go and give their best… entirely focused on winning the much needed three points to qualify (for the semi-finals),” said Cheng Hoe after Wednesday’s morning training session.

Cheng Hoe also revealed that Sumareh has resumed full training after recovering from his disturbing hamstring injury which has affected his overall performance. The Gambian-born Sumareh has yet to score in his first international competition for Harimau Malaya.

Myanmar is at the top of the table on goal difference with seven points after three matches – the same as second-placed Vietnam. Malaysia is third on six points.

While Malaysia battle Myanmar at home, Vietnam will also be at home to out of contention Cambodia in another Group B match. Laos has already completed its fixtures without a win after four matches.  – BY RIZAL ABDULLAH 

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