Tension is already picking up in Kota Baru as Kelantan prepares to welcome back its former striker Norshahrul Idlan Talaha (L) who is now playing for Darul Takzim. Pix: New Straits TimesKOTA BARU: Champions Kelantan host big spenders Johor Darul Takzim in a Super League match at Sultan Mohammad IV tonight. And the tension is already picking up in Kota Baru.

The match is not only about the clash between two top teams as Kelantan are also preparing to welcome back former striker Norshahrul Idlan Talaha or 'Mat Yo', who is now plying his trade with Darul Takzim.

Norshahrul was embroiled in a long running transfer saga with his former employers involving his so called "debts" to Kelantan FA president Tan Sri Annuar Musa and his release to Darul Takzim.

Kelantan, on the pitch, know fully well the danger posed by Norshahrul,
 
"The talent of Norshahrul as a striker is indubitable. He has brilliant individual skills and will almost certainly be a threat to us," said captain Badhri Razhi told Utusan Malaysia.

"Similarly, another hitman Dani Guiza is powerful as well. But if I have to pick one, I would go for Norshahrul as he knows us in an out. That could be a real dangerous situation for us.

"Therefore, I hope we can defend tight at the back and not allow them too much space on the ball. Because if these two players are given even a little space, they will punish us," he said.

Kelantan have not had a bright start to the season - winning one game against PKNS before losing in a tightly contested affair against T-Team last Friday.

However, Badhri believes Kelantan are already over the defeat and that they will be in full force for the mouth-watering calsh tonight.

"We are ready for this match. Home advantage will be crucial for us and hopefully we can make full use of it to gain maximum points," he said.

We can not drop any more points after this as it will hurt our aspirations of continue working up the league table. The competition this season is very tight."

- mD