Sandy Pramuji

Papuan Powerhouse Persipura Faces Race to Defend Title

The second half of the Indonesian Super League season begins today, and defending champion Persipura Jayapura knows it needs a fast start to stand any chance of retaining its crown.

After strolling to the title last season, Persipura finds itself in fifth place after 17 matches with 26 points, 10 fewer than league leader Arema Malang.

“It will be hard to chase Arema, but we’re not losing hope,” Persipura coach Jacksen Tiago said in phone interview on Monday. “I don’t want to brag about our chances to defend the title, but this is football, so I believe we still have a big chance.

“I think we’ve fixed our problems in the back and up front. The fans will see a different team, a better one.”

Persipura acquired 27-year-old Korean defender Kim Jong-kyung from K-League side Daegu FC to bolster its defense. Tiago said an Asian striker will come for a trial this weekend, but he refused to reveal the name.

The Black Pearls could receive another boost if they are allowed to once again host matches at their home ground, Mandala Stadium in Jayapura. They were forced to move to Andi Mattalatta Stadium in Makassar while Mandala underwent renovation.

Work is not yet complete, but Persipura told league administrator PT Liga Indonesia the stadium meets Super League requirements. The club still plans to use Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta to host AFC Champions League matches.

PTLI secretary Tigorshalom Boboy confirmed he had received Persipura’s notification that work on Mandala Stadium was 90 percent complete and suitable to host games, “but we’ll assess the stadium this week to decide whether Persipura can play there.”

Returning home would be a boon to the Black Pearls. They won 16 of 17 league matches there last season while drawing the other.

In addition to league and Indonesian Cup demands, Persipura also faces a continental test. It opens Champions League play against K-League champion Jeonbuk Motors on Feb. 23, with J-League champion Kashima Antlers and Chinese Super League runner-up Changchun Yatai rounding out Group F.

“Our opponents are at a higher level than us. That’s the reality,” Tiago said.

“I’m not pessimistic, I’m just trying to be realistic. But again, this is football, which is dynamic and full of surprises. I think it will be very good if we could qualify from the group.”

First, though, Persipura opens the second half of league play today at Persela Lamongan. Elsewhere, Persijap Jepara hosts Persiwa Wamena while Persib Bandung travels to Persik Kediri. ISL

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