We have proven many wrong, says Sarawak's Junior Eldstal

When Sarawak were relegated last year, plenty of critics jumped on the bandwagon to collectively dismiss the team as being mere pushovers. But one year later, they are now the reigning Premier League champions and are into the semi finals of the Malaysia Cup competition.

Their performances have been amazing and Junior Eldstal believes that they have silenced all those people who doubted the team prior to the season.

"From the start, we've had a lot of doubters. But I always knew how far Sarawak could go in all competitions, and what we could potentially achieve," he told Goal Malaysia.

"So I think that our performances have proven many people wrong."

The Crocs are now preparing to take on Pahang in the semi finals of the Malaysia Cup. The first leg will be played in Kuantan on the 19th of December and Junior asserted the fact that preparation for that clash is well on course.

"We are all focused and ready for that game against Pahang. As usual, we are just preparing for this game like we do for any other game. We train hard physically, and work on our tactical side of the game. Most importantly, we consume good food and have good rest whenever necessary.

"Pahang are a difficult team to play against and we are certainly studying how they play as well. If we can get a good result in the first leg, then we have all to play for at home in the second leg."

Pahang themselves have had a storming Malaysia Cup campaign, and Junior even pin-pointed several names that must be kept at bay, in order to defeat them in the semis.

"They have a very strong team, especially Gopinathan on the flanks. And they put in a lot of balls into the box as well, and Matias Conti is an incredible finisher as well."

Sarawak finished the Premier League season being unbeaten throughout the campaign, and they have also scored 15 goals at home in four Malaysia Cup matches thus far. Their performances in Kuching have been scintillating and Junior was quick to credit the massive home support as being one of the key factors behind their top showings.

"Yes, we do have an incredible record at home and it's because our fans have been thoroughly amazing. Its always difficult for any team to travel and play us at home. But at the same time, we are always hungry to score and not concede; which plays a big part in our form."