National Defence Ministry (MND) will attempt to spring up into third spot with victory over Chhlam Samuth in today’s Metfone C-League clash at Olmypic Stadium.

The opening match of the 14th round, which kicks off at 3pm, sees the Army side lurking in fifth place on the same 22 points as Preah Khan Reach and Build Bright United.

The Sea Sharks, meanwhile, will hope to put more distance between themselves and the drop zone, which they remain clear of by two precarious points.  

In the first leg, strikes by MND midfielder Touch Sok Heng and forward Plong Chanthou ensured a 2-0 victory over Chhlam Samuth.

But  Touch Sok Heng and fellow midfielder Op Kamol are unavailable for the Army today after answering the call of the U19 national team.

The Cambodian youngsters are playing two away friendlies yesterday and today against Vietnam club sides in preparat-ion for September’s AFF U19 Championships, which will be held in Myanmar.

MND goalkeeper Oum Vichet has been prohibited from joining the national squad by his club coach Op Sam An, who deems his league presence as more important.

The Sea Sharks  have let go two of their own players, keeper Sam Chamroeun and midfielder Ros Sam Oeun.

Army winger Meak Chhordaravuth and striker Pov Phearith have made impressive starts with their new club, having   both scored goals.

Chhordaravuth’s distribution to his attacking colleagues has been an attractive quality in the new-look MND side.   

Chhlam Samuth captain Kao Viso and Nhim Sovannara face a stern test in defence against the likes of Plong Chanthou and Phoung Soksana.

If the newly promoted Sea Sharks wish to hold any chance of grabbing all three points off the Army, their foreign contingent of Sanny Dauda, Paul Olabode and Ayodele Silva will need to show their sharpness in front of the sticks.

TRANSLATED BY IN SOPHENG