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Post by steamroll on Jan 2, 2013 3:14:58 GMT 8
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Post by steamroll on Jan 5, 2013 8:21:41 GMT 8
Felda hope to get it rightBy VIJHAY VICK TEAM FOCUS: FELDA UNITED FC  Felda United’s new players and jersey launch. Picture by MOHD HELMI DAWI FELDA UNITED FC have made wholesale changes to avoid a repeat of last season’s results which saw them narrowly avoiding relegation from the Super League via the playoff and losing in the first round of the FA Cup. They, however, had a good run in the Malaysia Cup where they reached the quarterfinals. Felda have made wholesale of changes with former Selangor and Negeri Sembilan coach K.Devan hired to lead the team who have signed several notable players. During a Press Conference at the Dewan Perdana Felda last night, Felda Chairman Tan Sri Isa Abdul Samad was clear in setting their targets. The side, who were only formed in 2007, will be aiming “to win at least one trophy with the Super League the preferred choice. “It (Super League) is a competition which demands consistency. There is an opportunity for us in the league but we will have to stay consistent,” he said. Granted, Felda have a much stronger team than last year but the other teams in M-League have also strengthened their squad. Kelantan, despite losing several key players, are still tipped to be among the frontrunners this year while Johor Darul Takzim have spend big to sign several national players in addition to 2008 Euro Championship winner Daniel Guiza and Simone del Nero. As such,, even the signing of former Kelantan hitman Mohamad Ghaddar may not be enough for Felda. The Lebanonese forward, despite being a talented player, was not a team player during his stint in Kelantan as on many occasions he chose to showboat his skills instead of laying off a teammate in a better scoring position. However, Isa believes that is a thing of the past. In fact, he even defended the forward’s constant agitation of opponents last year. “You will see a different Ghaddar. In Kelantan, the fans are such that they ‘demand’ such acts so Ghaddar was only feeding them that. I’m confident, Ghaddar will not be the same here,” said Isa. Among the other notable players Devan has signed are national holding midfielder Amar Rohidan from Kedah and former Darul Takzim forward Shahrizal Saad. The squad Manager: Kamarruddin Mohamad Coach: K. Devan Players: Anis Faron Ahmad Arsidi, Helmi Eliza Elias, Rozaimie Rohin, Muhammad Kaironnisam Sahabudin Hussain, Carlos Roberto Junior Periera Alves, Azrul Azmi, Nizam Abu Bakar, Riduwan Maon, Shafizan Hashim, Arif Zulkifly, Fazli Zulkifli Abdul Rahman Zabul, Azmizi Azmi, Ahmad Fauzi Saari, Amar Rohidan, Fairuz Montana Zainal Abidin, Khairul Annuar Jamil, Akmal Mohd Noor, Azrul Ahmad, Hazsyafiq Hamzah, Syazwan Zainon, Wan Khairul Faiz Kamaruddin, Ihsan Ibrahim Daud, Azi Shahril Azmi, Mohamad Ghaddar, Rizal Ahmad, Rudie Ramli, Sharizal Saad, Razali Umar Kandasamy Rating: ** (2/5) www.sports247.my/2013/01/30276/
The Red Warriors officially unveil 2013 season kit in Kota BharuKelantan FA held a ceremony to officiate the launch of their new kit for the 2013 season of Malaysian football  Kelantan Football Association (KAFA), with the collaboration with The Red Warriors Sdn Bhd and their new main sponsor Hotlink, held their Jersey and Merchandise Launching Ceremony at the Kelatan Trade Centre, Kota Bharu on Thursday. The ceremony, which started at 2.30 pm, mainly introduced Kelantan’s new sponsors and the new kit that the squad will use for the upcoming season. Hotlink will be their main sponsor for 2013, with the value of their sponsorship being the biggest in the history of Kelanan FA. Alongside them, Kelantan are also being sponsored by AzizanOsman.com, Warriors, Sinar harian, Syarikat Muda Osman (SMO), Mamee, Tresenergy, Desa Murni Batik dan Pure’re Spritz. While the amount of all the sponsorship were undisclosed, KAFA president Tan Sri Annuar Musa stated that Kelantan will be financially secured for the year. As for the kit, TSAM also announced that Warriors, which is the company that produces the kit, have made two versions of it; fan's version and the player's version. The former will be sold at a reasonable price, compared to the latter and the main motive of this move was to combat the sale of fake kits. Hotlink, as the main sponsor for the Red Warriors, will be looking to enhance their relationship with fans as they announced plans to give away free tickets to their first 500 Hotlink users that reload their prepaid in every TRW home matches. Mr Mazlan Mokhtar, East Coast regional head of Maxix stated that this partnership is a step to further increase their relationship with customers in this region. He also stated that this partnership reflects Maxis’ continued commitment in developing and supporting local sports growth. www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/04/3647537/the-red-warriors-officially-unveil-2013-season-kit-in-kota
Different players, but still as strong By VIJHAY VICK  Kelantan captain Badri Radzi (left) and Hairuddin Omar “KELANTAN and Armed Forces have not been weakened by the pre-season transfer activities.” Those were the words of Kelantan manager-coach Bojan Hodak and his Armed Forces counterpart B. Satiananthan ahead of their Charity Shield clash at the Shah Alam Stadium tomorrow. The 2012 Malaysia Cup finalists have lost key players after a successful season which saw Kelantan complete the domestic treble – Super League, FA Cup and Malaysia Cup – while Armed Forces ran away as comfortable winners of the Premier League and enjoyed a great run to the Malaysia Cup final – something they had not done in 46 years. Among the key players who have left the East Coast giants are Mohamad Ghaddar, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Azwan Roya and S. Chanturu while the Gladiators lost three keys players – Aidil Zafuan Abdul Radzak and twin Zaquan Adha along Azmi Muslin – to Johor Darul Takzim FC. “They have lost some players but I believe they are stronger than last year. Many of their players have been together for four years now,” said Satiananthan “People have said that Keita Mandjou has past his peak but I know he is a quality player. Even Nor Farhan Muhammad is equally as good as anyone in the M-League. “I don’t think strength has devalued since winning the treble,” added Satiananthan, who oversaw the start of Kelantan’s era of dominance in 2009. The 33-year-old Keita won the M-League Golden Boot award in 2006 and 2007 during his four year stint with Perak which began in 2004. Hodak cited Armed Forces’ 36-year-old Marlon Alex James, who despite his age went on be the Malaysia Cup leading marksman last year, as an example that age will not be an issue for Keita. The Serbian believes Armed Forces’ threat has not diminished despite appearing weaker on paper. New signings Shukor Adnan, R. Surendren, Norfazly Alias are not marquee signing as compared to those who left but they bring valuable experience – something Satiananthan did so well to make the most of it last year. “On paper, maybe Armed Forces are not so good as last year but they cannot be underestimated. They have signed experienced players to boost their team. On the field, they will be the same as they were last year – strong,” said Hodak. www.sports247.my/2013/01/different-players-but-still-as-strong/
Tunku Ismail slams AnnuarBy RIZAL ABDULLAH  Norshahrul Idlan Talaha JOHOR FA president Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim hit back at Kelantan FA (KAFA) advisor Tan Sri Annuar Musa for saying former Kelantan striker Norshahrul Idlan Talaha has not settled the RM400,000 he owes the east coast giants for buying out his contract to join Johor Darul Takzim. “Don’t be childish and don’t politicise football,” said Tunku Ismail. “I am surprised with the figure. It is absurd when the FAM’s (Football Association of Malaysia) Players Status Committee met and fixed the maximum amount at RM250,000 in accordance with Article 39.2. “All I can say now is that the player (Norshahrul) will not pay anything more than the amount fixed by FAM. As professionals, we must adhere to the rules and regulations of the national body. “Johor FA has left the matter to Norshahrul and his lawyer. I am told they are now in the process of finalising things to make payment. “I am also made to understand that the player has not received any letter from KAFA demanding for payment. So it is uncalled for statement from Annuar. It is in bad taste. ” Tunku Ismail added: “It is not an opportunity to make extra bucks. If Annuar is not happy or wants further clarification on the matter he is most welcome to visit me. The doors to my house are always open.” Norshahrul, who is popularly known as Mat Yo, had 13 months left on his contract when he signed for Johor Darul Takzim after he got the green light from KAFA. Annuar was quoted as saying “We (KAFA) have filed an affidavit with the FAM and hope the matter can be resolved soon” after launching Kelantan’s outfit for the new season. Kelantan won the treble last season. Apart from retaining the Super League title, Kelantan also won the FA Cup and the prestigious Malaysia Cup but were beaten 2-1 by Negri Sembilan in the Charity Shield. www.sports247.my/2013/01/tunku-ismail-slams-annuar/Tan Sri Annuar Musa hits out at Crown Prince of Johor over Mat Yo commentsThe Kelantan FA supremo has criticized Tunku Ismail's involvement in the contractual dispute between KAFA and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha  Tan Sri Annuar Musa has publicly criticised the Johor FA president Tunku Ismail for his involvement in the contractual dispute between KAFA and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha. The Kelantan FA supremo recently claimed that Norshahrul has not settled the the amount he agreed to buy out his contract with the treble winners. Tunku Ismail responded harshly by requesting TSAM to stop being dramatic and called him to behave professionally. However, Tan Sri Annuar Musa slammed him back publicly through his official Facebook page, claiming that he should not even be involved in this contractual dispute to begin with. "In the Mat Yo situation, the Johor FA and Tunku Ismail are the ones that should be more professional because this is an issue between Mat Yo and his former employers. It involves a contract signed both only these two parties. "Buying out the contract has got nothing to do with a third party and the fact that the Johor FA has spoke about this means that he is actually breaching the ethical code. Tunku Ismail also claimed that the Johor FA will complete the payment of RM250,000 which was set by FAM themselves. However, TSAM rubbished the claim, citing that the exact amount needed to be paid by Norshahrul has not been finalised yet. "And the fact that he claimed they will pay us off with Rm250,000 is not true. FAM have not made a decision yet. In fact they told both parties to file an affidavit to be examined by their comittee. "As far as we know, they are not done with it yet and we are still waiting. There is no need for the Johor FA to use FAM's name. The 250,000 limit that he pointed towards is the payment limit should both parties fail to come to a conclusion. "Therefore I think its appropriate for the Johor FA president, who is far younger than me, to act more professionally. He has to check his facts before behaving like a pot calling the kettle black." www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/04/3648016/tan-sri-annuar-musa-hits-out-at-crown-prince-of-johor-over
Terengganu state government introduce performance-based system for both Terengganu and T-teamMenteri Besar Datuk Ahmad Said has introduced a performance-based system where players will receive a pay cut if they have discipline problems, or do not perform well in matches Terengganu's Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Said has set a rule that any Terengganu and T-Team players who are not disciplined, or do not perform up to expectations in the Super League, will have their salary deducted. Ahmad Said's decision to introduce a performance-based system and deduct the salary of players who are indisciplined or not performing was because of what happened last season, whereby players were deemed to have purposely received yellow cards or red cards, hence disrupting the rythm and the strategy of the team. Speaking to Bernama, Ahmad said he will not tolerate players who are not disciplined because the state government invests a lot of money to run both teams. For this season alone, the state government would spend about RM7 million for both teams to play in the M-League. "We are worried that indisciplined players may derail our hope of winning at least a trophy this year," said Ahmad after witnessing players from Terengganu and T-Team signing their respective contracts. www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/04/3645797/terengganu-state-government-introduce-performance-based
T-Team to kickstart community outreach program with local school visitThe Terengganu-based club have planned a new initiative named 'Titans Give Back' to foster closer relations with the community.  Despite having a hectic training schedule as they prepare for the upcoming 2013 Malaysian Super League season, Terengganu-based T-Team will be taking time off and giving back to society in a new project to be known as ‘Titans Give Back’. The Titans, as they are fondly known to their loyal supporters, will be launching a community program that will involve all its coaching staff, players and team officials. Part of the plans for this new initiative includes a visit to a local neighborhood school to help create awareness of football, nutritious eating habits and fitness programmes for the students. The team will also be visiting an orphanage, an old folks' home and a special-needs centre for kids in the coming months as part of their ongoing efforts to engage the community and give back to the residents in Terengganu. To kick-start their new initiative, the Titans, including coach Peter Butler and the players, will be visiting Seberang Takir National Secondary School on January 3 at 3pm, as announced via its social media outlet. www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/03/3644498/t-team-to-kickstart-community-outreach-program-with-local-school-
Terengganu will upgrade stadium in order to stage evening matchesDatuk Seri Ahmad Said has allocated RM4 million so that the Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium can be upgraded to meet the FAM's requirement  The Terengganu state government has allocated RM4 million for upgrading the Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium's (SSINS) floodlights. This is because they want both Terengganu teams to be able to play Malaysian League matches in the evening. However, the upgrading process will take about three months, meaning that both Terengganu and T-Team will have to put up with afternoon matches in the near future. Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Ahmad Said, in speaking to Bernama said that the upgrading would involve replacing the four floodlight poles around the pitch to meet the lighting standard set by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM). Speaking to the reporters after the pre-season match between Terengganu and T-Team, it was confirmed that the stadiums floodlights would be upgraded from 1,000 lux to 1,4000 lux. He also said that the existing poles would have to be replaced as they could not hold more bulbs under the floodlight upgrading project. "As such, this stadium can only host Super League matches during the day. We have no other choice, as Sultan Mizan Stadium in Gong Badak is under repair."
Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium  
SSINS was one of the stadiums told by the FAM that they would not be able to stage any evening matches next season. Ahmad hopes that Terengganu supporters will be patient and continue to support both teams, despite matches being played in the afternoon. Stadium Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah   www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/02/3641494/terengganu-will-upgrade-stadium-in-order-to-stage-evening
Petratos already in love with Kelantan and its fansThe former Sydney FC forward spoke to Goal.com Malaysia and revealed that Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero played a part in his decision to sign for the Red Warriors  “I really love the crowd here.” Those were Australian youth international Dimitri Petratos’ first words in an exclusive interview with Goal.com Malaysia recently. Dimitri who is better known as Dimi, has scored four goals in as many matches for Kelantan in their pre-season so far. The 20-year-old’s great dribbling skills and good composure in front of the goal is set to make this kid a new phenomenon in Kota Bharu. During the interview, conducted after Kelantan’s training session, Petratos stated that he did not really know about Kelantan until his manager told him about the Red Warrior’s interest in him. “I made my research about Kelantan and I was thinking of doing something different, so that’s why I’m here.” “I love the fans here. I have already played twice for Kelantan in KB (Kota Bharu), and the fans are actually great. I love the environment here.” When asked whether he could settle down well in Kota Bharu, he commented: “I have great teammates. They are all nice and funny. I’m really enjoying my stay here.” During the training session, Dimitri appeared to have no problems in communicating with the other players, and was seen playing around with Kelantan’s Nigerian defender Obinna Nwaneri. He looked comfortable with the rest of the team as well. The former Sydney FC forward also revealed that Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero urged him to leave Australia and go play in Malaysia. “I actually consulted Sydney FC teammate Del Piero about my move to Malaysia and he just said that I need to follow what my heart says.” “I want to play football, to achieve something better. “So I made up my mind and just moved to Kelantan. “And I think I’ve made a good decision.” www.goal.com/en-my/news/3902/exclusives/2013/01/01/3640328/petratos-already-in-love-with-kelantan-and-its-fans
Landmark sponsorship for soldierssports247.my  Macron and Armed Forces officials exchanging documents at the signing of the MoU. ARMED FORCES and Italian company Macron have signed a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) just days before they kick off their 2013 M-League campaign. As such, the Gladiators will debut in their Macron jerseys in the Charity Shield match against treble winners Kelantan at the Shah Alam Stadium on Saturday. Armed Forces are the first football team to come under the sponsorship of Macron in the Southeast Asian region. Among the leading teams with Macron as apparel sponsors are Real Betis, SSC Napoli, SS Lazio, West Ham, Aston Villa and Bologna FC 1909. “The signing is a significant milestone and demonstrates Gladiators’ commitment towards an improved performance in the 2013 M-League campaign, namely the Super League and FA Cup, said Armed Forces Chief Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was equally delighted with the deal, saying it was an “honour” to be associated with the Italian apparel maker. “This is the beginning of a new horizon for the Gladiators and we thank Macron for choosing us as the brand ambassadors in this region. It is my fervent hope that Armed Forces will put on another resounding performance in their quest for honours,” said Zahid, who began the “rebranding” some three years ago. Armed Forces have come a long way since then and big name signings at the start of the 2012 campaign saw them run away as winners in the Premier League to secure promotion to the Super League and reach the Malaysia Cup final, where they lost in extra time to Kelantan. Azman Mohamad, director of Macron’s sole distributor for Southeast Asia, described the signing of the MoU as a positive step forward, citing the team’s incredible performance in the M-League as a powerful force which got their attention. “We were scouting for a team in this region and were fascinated with the Gladiators’ incredible rise and strong fan following. It didn’t take us long to decide on them as our prospective client,” said Azman. “We are sincerely proud to have them on board.” www.sports247.my/2013/01/landmark-sponsorship-for-soldiers/
TEAM Premier League Perlis continuous injection of receipt jersey sponsored players and officials from a company, which berpangkalandi Manitoba Warriors, according to WAN WAN MOHD HAFIZ NOOR MANSOR. States is in between that still remain sponsor 2012 treble champions Kelantan, other parties such as the Daily Herald and Mamee. Perlis team manager, Shaharuddin Ismail confirmed the matter and said it was the second boost from Kelantan, who was also seconded two import players, namely Emmanuel Okine and Danny Antwi season. said, the company will sponsor the official jersey and apparel for official Perlis one year. "Some fans wondered whether Perlis have a special relationship with Manitoba as seen always cooperate with each other, and I tell it like it is and has already established over the years," he said. said the good relationship that is able Northern Lion help lift back dignity that was implicated in a variety of team scandal last season, including money and corruption crisis. addition, good relations Perlis Football Association President (PFA), Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim and President of the Football Association of Manitoba (Kafa), Tan Sri Annuar Musa also facilitate all matters involving both teams.
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Post by steamroll on Jan 6, 2013 13:00:25 GMT 8
ATM edge Kelantan to win Charity Shield  ATM got their season up to a winning start on Saturday by beating Kelantan 4-3 on penalties to win the Charity Shield after both sides played out a 1-1 draw. By ESPNSTAR.com staff Veteran forward Indra Putra Mahayuddin opened the scoring for Kelantan four minutes before the hour mark, but Irwan Fadzli Idrus equalised six minutes from time to send the game to penalties. After the first three takers from either side successfully found the back of the net, Rizal Fahmi and R. Surendran both failed to hit the target, before Daudsu Jamaluddin missed for the Red Warriors, allowing Bruno Martelotto to step up and win his side the Charity Shield with his conversion. With the 2013 Malaysia Super League campaign set to kick off in three days' time, both sides entered Saturday's game at the Shah Alam Stadium looking to get the year off to the right note. In addition, ATM were looking to avenge last season's 3-2 defeat to the Red Warriors in the final of the Malaysia Cup. However, they were dealt a blow after just ten minutes when Fainizam Nordin picked up an injury and had to be replaced by youngster Syazuan Hazani. Nonetheless, the enforced change did little to hamper B. Sathianathan's charges, who were unlucky not to take the lead shortly after when Syazuan latched onto a pass by Martelotto and sent an effort back off the crossbar. The forward then nearly turned provider when he played a searching ball straight onto the head of Hairuddin Omar, only for ATM's talismanic skipper to head wide. Kelantan then mustered their first real effort on goal straight after when new signing Zairo Anuar found space outside the box and unleashed a ferocious strike that was well saved by Farizal Harun. Still, the Red Warriors duly took the lead in the 56th minute when Indra Putra drilled a low shot towards goal that took a deflection off Shukor Adan, before finding the back of the net. Minutes later, it nearly could have been 2-0 when Guinea international Keita Mandjou fired home, only to be denied by the linesman's flag for offside. By now, Kelantan were firmly in the ascendancy but four minutes from time, they were left to rue their inability to grab a second when Irwan Fadzli curled home a delightful to send the game to penalties, where ATM eventually did enough to win the first piece of silverware on offer in 2013. www.espnstar.com/football/m-league/news/detail/item916340/ATM-edge-Kelantan-to-win-Charity-Shield/
Ashaari’s love and loyalty second to none By RIZAL ABDULLAH  Ashaari Shamsuddin FORMER international Ashaari Shamsuddin’s love and loyalty to his home state Terengganu saw him turn down several lucrative offers over the years. This year was no different. Not willing to reveal from where the offers came from, Ashaari, 28, put aside Terengganu’s disappointing outing last year when the East Coast giants hogged the limelight for wrong reasons. “I don’t want dwell on what happened last year. Less said the better. Let us focus on the new season,” said the Golden Boot Award winner in 2010 with 18 goals. Ashaari started a hattrick of Golden Boot winners from Terengganu. After Ashaari, it was Abdul Hadi Yahya in 2011 with 20 goals before Liberian striker Francis Forkey Doe won it last year with 15 goals. For the new season, Abdul Hadi moved to Perak while Doe is now with 32-time Malaysia Cup champions Selangor. Ashaari last donned national colours against English Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester City during their pre-season summer tour of the Far East last year. “We have a new coach (E. Elavarasan) and a new look team for the new season. It is not going to be any easy when most other teams have beefed up their squads with some good names,” said the Marang-born midfielder. Ashaari, a good dribbler with pace, is more comfortable playing as a left winger but can also operate behind the strikers. In the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup first-leg final, Ashaari scored a goal in Malaysia’s 3-0 win over Indonesia. Apart from the AFF winner’s medal, Ashaari has the FA Cup winner’s medal in 2011 and a Malaysia Cup runners-up medal and League runners-up medal the same year. “I believe the present Terengganu outfit is capable of winning at least one of the Cups,” said Ashaari, who is looking forward to a winning start for the Turtles when they kick-off their Super League campaign with a home match against Felda United on Jan 8. www.sports247.my/2013/01/ashaaris-love-and-loyalty-second-to-none/
Fitness first By FARAH AZHARIE  Marlon Alex James. Picture by MOHD HELMI DAWI MARLON ALEX JAMES, 36, is proof a footballer can sustain a career despite age, but needs to put fitness first. The Saint Vincent and the Grenadines native believes football needs overall fitness such as diet, workout, training, lifestyle choices and does not believe in getting things done half way. “My main goal this season is getting my fitness going and that’s where my main focus will be,” said James. “It’s not just fitness on the field but also off the field that counts.” The 2012 Malaysia Cup top scorer believes local footballer need to take better care of themselves despite the diet and fitness regimes, majority are still caught smoking. James, who scored an outstanding 34 goals last season, takes the holistic approach to health eventually leading to a self-built confidence that drives him to perform his utmost best on the field. “When I get really fit, I have the extra confidence to play and perform my best on the field,” said James. In terms of new faces on the Armed Forces team, James has taken the seniority role in ensuring the juniors find their stride and are able to jive with the way the team performed last season. “The younger players need to be guided by the older one because once they get into the system, they’ll be fine and progress as well as they are now,” said James. The Gladiators lost three main players – Aidil Zafuan Abd Radzak, Zaquan Adha Abd Radzak and Azmi Muslim – to Johor Darul Takzim and despite missing his “brothers in arm” Aidil and Zaquan, James sees this as a cycle of life in football. “This is professional football and it happens all over the world but we got to keep going and focus,” said James. James thinks the team is well on its way to bury the past as he sees great potential in Mohd Affize Faisal Mamat, a former Harimau Muda player. “Everyone is progressing well and we have a lot of good players but I’m keen to see more from Affize because right now he’s injured but when he heals, I believe he can do great things,” said James. James is optimistic the soldiers can overcome the Red Warriors in tonight’s Charity Shield match. “The team will do well because now we have really great players like Shukor (Adan) matched with (Amiridzwan) Taj and Hairuddin (Omar) plus we’ve got our teamwork down as well,” said James. www.sports247.my/2013/01/fitness-first/
Sabahawks in for tough time SABAH CORRESPONDENT A TOUGH season beckons the Sabahawks as they kick off their Premier League campaign at Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu on Monday afternoon. The team under David McCreery lacked high quality pre-season matches but physically and mentally, his charges appear ready for the new season. McCreery had worked his players from November after their season ended early in the Super League and being relegated to the Premier League. The opener will see the team, which will have the services of former Welsh international Rhys David Weston in defence and Koh Traore from Burkina Faso upfront, taking on newcomer KL Spa Putrajaya FC. McCreery had hoped for more friendlies abroad but their plans to play in the Philippines and Hong Kong did not materialise. Sabahawks had instead played two matches in Kuala Lumpur, losing to Selangor and the Police. Locally the team played nine friendlies in a road tour across the state. www.sports247.my/2013/01/sabahawks-in-for-tough-time/
Sathianathan: The win gives a huge morale boost B. Sathianathan is happy with the win, but wants consistent performance from his team if they want to survive the Super League ATM coach B. Sathianathan hailed ATM's win over Kelantan in the Charity Shield match is a good win for the morale of the team, but believes his team needs to improve if they want to achieve success in the Super League. He praised his boys for playing well in the first half, but admitted that they missed Amiridzwan Taj's presence in the second half. "First half I think we played well, but in the second half, when we had to bring out Taj, we had a bit of a problem because Shukor is always playing as a midfielder and the new partnership at the centre of defence was the first time we used tonight. But overall, It was a good win for morale, but we need to improve our performances if we are to be consistent in the Super League." According to Sathia, Taj sustained an ankle injury when he was tackled by Keita Medjou. He also lost Fainizam early in the game after failing to shrug off muscle cramp. Despite that early setback, ATM players never gave up and that pleases Sathia. When asked about whether it was a good kick off for ATM for this season, he said "It was a good start, but we need to be consistent with our performances because it is too early to predict for the rest of the season." He also hopes that his players get enough rest and back to top fitness to play their first game against Lions XII in the Super League. "I hope we could get enough rest before we start our campaign in the Super League against Lions XII and I also hope Marlon can get back to 100% for the game. Right now we already lost one player from total number of players that we registered to FAM through injury. If we lose one more player we will only have 23 players and it will be very difficult to play in the Super League with only 23 players." Speaking at the press conference after the game, he was not happy with the fact that Lions XII coach was at the stadium observing his team. "I think they should not allow him there because it was an advantage for them to see us play. Anyhow, it is very difficult to play because I think their moral is very high because they just won the Suzuki Cup." "I expect a very tough game and my focus is to get my players who are injured to recover for the game, as they have an advantage because they have more time to prepare. Anyway I hope today's win will give a moral boost for my players, as for a new-look team to become a champion, I hope they will take it as a challenge to go even further." When asked about their target this season, B.Sathianathan hopes they can win either the Super League or the FA Cup. "If we win the league or the FA Cup, it will gives us a chance to play at Asia level in AFC league. For me, for ATM, one of the cups will be our realistic target for next season." www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/06/3651165/sathianathan-the-win-gives-a-huge-morale-boost
Hodak: Our first half display wasn't good enough The Kelantan coach was happy with their second half display, but believes his players should finish the game earlier Kelantan head coach Bojan Hodak blamed their poor first half display that led to their defeat at the hands of ATM. Speaking at the press conference, he said that he always expected that ATM would gave a good fight. "I said yesterday that it will be a tough match versus ATM. I am not happy with the first half. I think ATM played better in the first half." The Croatian however are happy with their second half display. He believes Kelantan were the better team in the second half by creating more chances, especially after they scored the first goal through Indra Putra Mahyuddin. However, he was disappointed that his boys did not finish the game earlier by scoring the second goal. He also praised Irwan Fadzly who scored a spectacular free kick. "It was an excellent free kick. We need to shake hands with the guy who took it." When asked about Kelantan's chances for next season, he said that it will be a difficult season for the champions. "I think it will be a difficult season because we lost some players. Because of that, we need to change our style of play." Playing as the defending champions, he expects every team will want to try and beat them and they need to get used to that fact. He went on to add, "It is easier to become champions rather than to win it again." Bojan also said that Kelantan this season has enough depth in the squad, but conceeded that he is worried whether the player on the bench is good enough to play and fight in the Super League. "We have enough depth, but the question is if our players on the bench are good enough. So this one maybe affects us and maybe we have a problem. Defensively I think we are okay especially with our injured players coming back, but we might have a problem in attack." www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/06/3651065/hodak-our-first-half-display-wasnt-good-enough
MSL 2013 In conclusion, all MSL teams quite loudly with some local players and quality import players. This would make the league more competitive M this season and attract supporters to the stadium. Among the high profile focus import player fans: 1) Daniel Guiza (Darul Takzim FC) - Spanish national team player, Euro Cup 2008 Champions, top scorer of La Liga 2008/2009 2) Del Nero (Darul Takzim FC) - Italy U21 squad player co Pirlo (Olympic bronze medalist in 2004), the former Lazio player fc 3) Vincent Bikana (Terengganu) - Player cameroon U20 World Cup, the former Corinthians player. 4) George Boateng (T-Team) - Former Dutch national team, playing with a number of Premier League club .. Legend Hull City .. 5) Caleb Folan (T-Team) - Ireland national team player, playing with other EPL club .. Legend Hull City .. 6) Obinna Nwaneri (Kelantan FA) - Nigeria national team player, winner of the Africa Cup 2 times .. Have played in world cup 2010 with the squad nigeria ... 7) Mohammed Ghaddar (Felda Utd) - Lebanon national team player, scorer former AFC Cup 2007, never played with Al-Ahly (Egypt giants) 8) Forkey Doe (Selangor FA) - Liberia national team player, played in the American League with the squad Red Bulls new york, representing Liberia in World Cup qualifying and the african cup 9) Ramez Dayoub (Selangor FA) - Lebanon national team player, representing Lebanon in World Cup qualifying 2014 .. He has extensive experience in the international arena .. 10) Marlon Alex James (ATM FA) - the national team players Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (CONCACAF Gold Cup Champions 1996), has extensive experience with overseas club .. 11) Karim Rouani (Perak FA) - Former Thai club mainstay, BEC Tero Sasana and play in the UEFA Champions League with the club Hungary, Budapest Honved FC. 12) Rafael Silva (Perak FA) - Former Thai club mainstay, Bangkok Glass FC. He has extensive experience with a number of clubs playing Brazil. 13) Nikolce Kleckaroski (Pahang FA) - Ever play in the UEFA Champions League with the club FK Teteks. Former champions pillars of V-League 2012, SHB Da Nang, Vietnam. 14) William Modibo (N.sembilan) - Ever play with a super league club china, Beijing Guoan. Playing in the AFC Champions League with the club Beijing Guoan. 15) Emanuel De Porras (N.Sembilan) - Former Indonesian Super League club top scorer, Persija Jakarta, and the cornerstone of the club Indonesia, Jakarta FC. Experienced by a number of clubs playing Argentina. 16) Patrick Ronaldinho Wleh (PKNS FC) is a Liberian international footballer who currently plays as a forward for PKNS FC in the Malaysia Super League. Patrick previously played for local club, Gedi & Sons FC, Israeli club, Hapoel Petah Tikva FC and also LISCR Monvoria. 17) Jean-Emmanuel Effa Owona (Terengganu FA) is a Cameroonian footballer who currently plays as a striker for Terengganu FA in the Malaysia Super League. On his debut in Malaysian football, he managed to score two goals, thus giving a 2-1 win over Kelantan FA in the 2012 Malaysia Charity Shield. This was Negeri Sembilan's first Charity Shield title since 1985. Owona previously played for FC Metz in the Ligue 2 of France. 18) Rhys David Weston (Sabah FA) is an English-born Welsh international football defender who plays for Malaysian club Sabah FA. An Arsenal Academy graduate, he made one appearance in the 1999–2000 campaign, before signing with Cardiff City. He spent six years with Cardiff, making 214 appearances in league and cup, helping them to two promotions. Released by the club in 2006, he travelled to Norway to sign with Viking, though he was only to play the one game. In 2007 he transferred to Walsall via Port Vale. He then moved to Scottish club Dundee in 2010, and captained the side to a second place finish in the First Division in 2011–12. He was on his travels again in May 2012, as he joined Icelandic club KR Reykjavík. Five months later he travelled to Malaysia to sign with Sabah FA. 19) Mandjou Keita (Kelantan FA) is a former Guinea International footballer. He currently plays for Kelantan in the Malaysia Super League. Keita won the Golden Boot award for the 2006 season, scoring 17 goals. He was one of the three nominees for the Favourite Import Player award in the inaugural Malaysian football awards but he did not win. In January 2009, Keita signed with Portland Timbers in the USL First Division. 20) Michal Kubala (Selangor FA) is a Slovak Footballer who currently plays as a midfielder for Selangor FA and has been registered for 2013 AFC Cup. Recently he played for Perak FA for the 2012 Malaysia Super League season. He was the Perak top scorer of the season, bagging in 13 goals in the league. He was known in the league as a dead-ball specialist, and was Perak's main free-kick, corner kick and penalty kick taker. His contract was not renewed by Perak at the end of the 2012 season. Kubala was a member of the Slovakia youth teams, appearing for the Slovakia U18 and Slovakia U21 teams. During his time in Malaysia, he also appeared in the Malaysia Selection, a team composed of Malaysia under-21 players and a selection of Malaysia league players, for the 2012 Java Cup invitational tournament in Indonesia. He scored a goal as Malaysia Selection beat Indonesia Selection 6-0. www.wikipedia.org |
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Post by steamroll on Jan 7, 2013 9:25:46 GMT 8
www.warriors.com.my/  
Malaysia go down to Persepolis in semis By G.ARAVIND  Reza Karimipiraghoom’s attempt at goal is blocked by the Malaysian defenders. Picture by MOHD HELMI DAWI THERE will be no representative from Malaysia at the Frenz International Cup final after Malaysia Under-15 lost 1-0 in their replay to Persepolis at the MBPJ Stadium in Kelana Jaya today. The match was replayed today due to bad weather conditions after yesterday’s match was abandoned at halftime. Malaysia displayed a convincing performance against a very well organised Persepolis side, but it Persepolis who opened the scoring in the 14th minute through Reza Karimipiraghoom. Reza’s thunderous long range effort from the left side of the penalty box gave Malaysian keeper, Mohd Asri Mohamad no chance at all. The goal did have a positive approach on the thinking of the Malaysian players who then launched attack after attack only to be let down with the final pass. Malaysia started the second half just like how they ended the first and were almost rewarded within the first few minutes of the restart but captain, Muhd Shahrul Akmal Mohd Adnan shot was blocked by the Persepolis defenders. In the end, one goal was enough to take Persepolis into the final against Slovakia Under-15. The match will be played at 8.45pm at MBPJ Stadium, Kelana Jaya. Meanwhile losing semifinalists, Frenz United Malaysia and Malaysia Under-15 will contest in the third place playoff match at 4.30pm also at the same venue. www.sports247.my/2013/01/malaysia-go-down-to-persepolis-in-semis/
Slovakia win Frenz lottery By G.ARAVIND  SLOVAKIA were crowned champions of the Frenz International Cup after beating Iran’s Persepolis 5-3 on penalties after the final ended 0-0 in regulation time. Persepolis, known for their physical approach, were outplayed in the opening few minutes by Slovakian, who used their speed and excellent ball control skills to dominate the match. That only lasted merely 10 minutes before Persepolis upped the tempo and started to send more players in attack. Slovakia goalkeeper Daniel Kastl was arguably the best player in the first half as it was his superb reflex save off a shot from Vahid Aftari kept the score at 0-0 in the 12th minute. In the 36th minute, Persepolis created another opportunity to score but were denied by the crossbar after Saeed Hossinpour’s chip beat everybody. Just two minutes later, Daniel again made another brilliant one-on-one save against Persepolis’s Nima Mokhtari. As the first half drew to a close, Slovakia’s Marek Teslar hit a wayward shot which could have given his team the lead. The second half saw both teams committing too many fouls and disrupting the rhythm of the game. Slovakia had a good chance in the 69th minute but Denis Baumgartner’s shot was saved by Persepolis goalkeeper, Shahin Mahmoudighdam. In the penalty shootout, Mohammad Amin Kabir Zadeh was the villain as he missed and the Slovaks converted all of their kicks to walk away with the title. The awards for tournament top scorer and Most Valuable Player (MVP) was won by Slovakia’s Lubomir Tupta.
A difficult season ahead By FARAH AZHARIE TEAM FOCUS: PAHANG  READY FOR THE NEW SEASON: Pahang will find it difficult in the Super League  Dollah Salleh DOLLAH SALLEH has a hard task ahead of him as Pahang’s promotion to the Super League means they will lock horns with the likes of star-studded Johor Darul Takzim FC, last season’s treble winner Kelantan and last season’s Premier League champions Armed Forces. Having suffered a seven-year drought – their last title being the 2006 FA Cup – Dollah was roped in to help the team in 2009 and helped them to the Super League this season. Unlike the other team’s glitz and glorious transfers, Pahang’s biggest snatch comes in the form of former Selangor player, Mohd Amirulhadi Zainal. The son of former Selangor footballer Zainal Nordin, was reportedly linked to Persib Bandung (Indonesia Super League) and an unnamed team on the J-League (Japan) back in 2011, however, neither deal materialised. The 26-year-old will add a different flavour to the flanks as he teams up with Azidan Sarudin, another former Selangor midfielder. The duo will also get an extra boost in the defensive sector as Pahang acquired former Perak goalkeeper Nasiril Nourdin. The custodian had attracted interest from Blackburn Rover in 2006, but like, Zainal, nothing came out of the rumour. The extra boost will help charge Mohd Azamuddin Md Akil or fondly known as Alex. Alex is fresh off the 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup campaign and has scored three goals in 11 appearances for Harimau Malaya. Dollah will look to achieve the same magic he once conjured for Selangor in 2005 where they emerged as treble winner (Premier League, FA Cup and Malaysia Cup), but it is going to be an uphill task. The squad Manager: Che Nasir Salleh Coach: Dollah Salleh Players: Khairul Azhan Mohd Khalid, Jalaluddin Jaafar, Mohd Saiful Nizam Miswan, Mohd Amirulhadi Zainal, Mohd Hazri Rozali, R Surendran Azidan Sarudin. Mohamed Borji, Abdul Malik Mat Ariff, Mohd Faizol Hussien, Mohd Azamudin Md Akil, Mohd Razman Roslan, Mohd Faisal Mohd Rosli, Mohd Hazuan Mohd Daud, Nikolce Kleckarovski, Mohd Zaiza Zainal Abidin, Muhammad Syawal Norsham, Mohd Fauzi Roslan, Mohd Shahrizan Salleh, Mohd Hafiz Kamal, Rosfaizul Azuar Ali, Mohd Nasril Nourdin, R Gopinathan, Mohd Shafie Zahari, Mohd Nasril Nourdin www.sports247.my/2013/01/a-difficult-season-ahead/
Lions to roar on By RIZAL ABDULLAH Lions XII (white jersey) playing against Armed Forces last season. TEAM FOCUS: LIONS XII WHO can forget names like skipper and midfield maestro Shahril Ishak, the towering Baihakki Khaizan, Safuwan Baharudin and Irwan Shah in defence, the hardworking midfielders Isa Halim and Hariss Harun and the lesser known Fazrul Nawab in attack. The 28-year-old Shahril was also voted the Most Valuable Player (MPV) in the Asean Championship. These are the names who played a sterling role in Singapore’s historic AFF Suzuki Cup win, clinching the title for an unprecedented time. Last year was historic for Singapore in many ways. It was a year when the senior national team kept the Singapore flag flying in the Asean meet. The Lions XII also did creditably well to finish second in the Malaysian Super League – after an 18-year absence. Singapore last played in the Malaysia Cup in 1994 – the year when the Lions completed a double by winning the M-League title and the Malaysia Cup. For the record, Singapore reached Malaysia Cup quarterfinals last season but fell to Terengganu. In the Malaysia Cup, the Lions XII made the quarterfinals but could not get past the experienced Terengganu. But they also posted the largest victory in the M-League last season with a 9-0 whitewash of Sabah at the Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore. The euphoria of winning the Asean title for a record fourth time is still there. With five players from the senior team playing for the Lions XII, the neighbours from across the Causeway will pose a real threat in the M-League. But Lions XII head coach V. Sundramoorthy is playing diplomat on the chances of his team which is built around youth and experience. “We don’t have foreign players in our team. All are locals with emphasis on preparing for the future. Most of the players in the team are eligible to play in the SEA Games in Myanmar at the end of the year,” said Sundramoorthy, himself a household name and former international. “It will be another tough season for the team. There are several teams who are championship material … treble winners Kelantan, Johor Darul Takzim, and not forgetting Armed Forces. “Johor (Darul Takzim) have signed up some the big names in Malaysian football. Kelantan are still a threat and Armed Forces showed that they mean business in the Super League after the win over Kelantan in the Charity Shield.” Sundramoorthy warned not to write off Selangor, Perak, Negri Sembilan, Terengganu and even Pahang, who in his own words “are the dark horses” in the M-League. And the Lions XII have a mountain to climb when they start their Super League campaign against Armed Forces at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium in Paroi on Wednesday. This will be followed by a “classic” much-awaited clash against Selangor at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Jan 12. “The squad have been working together and we have remained unbeaten in our pre-season preparations. Putting the challenges in the M-League aside, this serves as an excellent opportunity for us to build on the 2013 season with an eye on the SEA Games,” added Sundramoorthy. Head coach: V. Sundramoorthy Assistant coach: K. Balagumaran Goalkeepers: Khairulhin Khalid, Neezam Aziz, Syed Sufiyan, Iawan Mahbud Defenders: Faritz Hameed, Shakir Hamzah, Ali Hudzaifi, Baihakki Khaizan, Irwan Shah, Safuwan Baharudin, Madu Mohana, Faris Azienuddin Midfielders: Shahril Ishak, Hafiz Sujad, Zulfahmi Ariffin, Aqhari Abdullah, Nazrul Nazari, Fariq Ramli, Gabriel Quak, Izzdin Shafiq, Safirul Sulaiman, Isa Halim, Hariis Harun. Raihan Rahman Forwards: Iqbal Hussain, Shafiq Ghani, Syafiq Zainal, Fazrul Nawaz, Kahirul Nizam Rating: ***** (5/5) www.sports247.my/2013/01/lions-to-roar-on/
Shakir determined to make national team By VIJHAY VICK NEGRI SEMBILAN forward Shakir Ali wants to forget the agony of missing out on the 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup and help the Deer defy the odds. Conceding that is not going to be an easy year, the former Kedah and Harimau Muda star wants keep up his 2012 goal scoring form, which saw him in the good books of national coach Datuk K. Rajagobal. In fact, the national coach had even commented during the regional games that Shakir would have been in the squad of 22 had he not picked up an hamstring injury. Shakir scored 10 goals in the Super League last year to finish joint fifth in the top scorers list and had even scored a couple of goals for the Harimau Malaya. Now Shakir, who turns 24 on Wednesday, vows to do it all over again to make his way into the national team. “I was disappointed to get injured just before the AFF Suzuki Cup but that’s part and parcel of a footballer’s life. It is how we pick ourselves up from that,” said Shakir. “We (Negri Sembilan) did not enjoy a good season last year and many have written us off this time. Yes, some key players have left and the coach too but we have to stay strong and play as a team.” The Kedahan believes that team unity and keeping their spirits high will be crucial. The Deer have lost some key players such as Farizal Marlias, Shukor Adnan, S. Kunanlan and Golden Boot winner Jean-Emmanuel Effa-Owona ahead of the 2013 M-League campaign. www.sports247.my/2013/01/shakir-determined-to-make-national-team/
Bala: Setting targets just adds pressure By G. ARAVIND  Muhammad Najmuddin Samat is fouled by FUFA Malaysia goalkeeper Adam Zairi Fitri Zaini in the match for third place. MALAYSIA Under-15 coach S. Balachandran never sets any target for his players before a tournament because he doesn’t want them to put pressure on themselves. His approach has paid dividends with his team finishing fourth at the Frenz International Cup which ended yesterday.  S. Balachandran Balachandran said his players were young and this was the time for them develop, so setting targets would create a must-win mentality which would not allow them to play their regular game. “Even before the Frenz International Cup started, I made it clear that we are not title contenders. My players performed well because they were given freedom to play their normal game,’’ he said. He added that his players would have to improve on their one-on-one situations. “In the match against Persepolis, they clearly didn’t have the physical ability to challenge the Iranians and that is what is lacking in Malaysian football.’’ Balachandran said that improving the physical approach of the players would be the key if they were to do well against stronger opponents. The current team is made up of players who will be turning 15 this year, but Balachandran says that his will maintain the same squad for the next two years. “ I will be coaching them until they turn 17. That is the norm in Malaysia where both the coach and players are maintained for a couple of years. Among the uncut diamonds in his team is Muhammad Najmuddin Samat. The pint-sized player’s pace and trickery are a delight to watch, something which even Harimau Muda coach Ong Kim Swee highlighted. Next up for Balachandran’s boys is the Under-16 AFF Cup competition in Myanmar in August. They will end the year by competing in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) qualifying tournament. Once the players are above 17, they will join the Harimau Muda C team and will have to establish themselves to go up the ranks. www.sports247.my/2013/01/bala-setting-targets-just-adds-pressure/
Frenz International Cup a big success THE Frenz International Cup 2012 which ended yesterday is set to become an annual affair. This was the general consensus among the eight teams that took part in the 10-day tournament won by the Slovakia Under-15 side. The inaugural winners defeated Persepolis of Iran 5-3 after a penalty shootout at MBPJ Stadium. Slovakia walked away with a US$50,000 purse, while Persepolis received US$25,000. Third place went to Frenz United Malaysia who had earlier beaten Malaysia Under-15 2-0 in the third place play-off. Slovakia attacker Lubomir Tupta who netted four goals was named Most Valuable Player, walking away with US$3,000 while Slavia Praha bagged the Fairplay Trophy. Slovakia team manager Ratislav Sojak was full of praise of the smooth organisation of the tournament. “We are very certain the Frenz International Cup will grow bigger. In fact, I am not exaggerating in saying it is already one of the best tournaments we have competed in in terms of organisation and publicity, ” he said. Slovakia head coach Peter Stefanak will remember the tournament with affection as the cup was his first title as a coach. He thanked his players for winning the tournament and also acknowledged the organisers’ role in making it successful. Persepolis coach Saeed Tehraninejad complimented Slovakia on winning the title. “We are disappointed with the defeat, especially after we had dominated the match. My players were tired after having to play the semifinal on Saturday after it was earlier postponed. “However, we are glad to be able to compete in this tournament which will surely be mentioned as one of the best in this region,” he said. From the Malaysian perspective, the tournament served as an eye-opener to the local fraternity that Malaysian football has a bright future. Even if Frenz United Malaysia snatched third place at the expense of Malaysia Under-15, both teams will eventually become a source of supply to the national senior squad. Names to look out for in the national team in the foreseeable future are Kogileswaran Raj, Najmuddin Samat, R. Dinesh and Shahrul Akmal Adnan while Frenz United boast of Haziq Hossain, Akhmar Haiqal Azhar and Hafizuddin Zuki to name a few. Malaysia U-15 head coach S. Balachandran will now head to Gambang where his boys will be based with renewed enthusiasm. “What is certain is that we will try to expose our players to more competitions of this nature. We have to go out and see the world and play with stronger sides in order for the boys to learn,” said the former Kuala Lumpur playmaker. Roll of honour: Champions: Slovakia Under-15 Runners-up: Persepolis (Iran) Third place: Frenz United Malaysia Fourth place: Malaysia Under-15 Most Valuable Player: Lubomir Tupta (Slovakia Under-15) Fairplay Trophy: Slavia Praha Top scorer: Lubomir Tupta (Slovakia Under-15) www.sports247.my/2013/01/frenz-international-cup-a-big-success/
Deer, oh dear, it doesn’t look good By VIJHAY VICK TEAM FOCUS: NEGRI SEMBILAN IF Negri Sembilan’s 2012 M-League campaign was a major disappointment, the Deer better embrace themselves for an even more disastrous season. Things looked good for Negri Sembilan as they won the FA Cup in 2010 before winning the Malaysia Cup the following year. However, after winning the Charity Shield last year, they finished sixth in the Super League (23 points astray of winners Kelantan), exited the FA Cup in the first round and only reached the Malaysia Cup quarterfinals. Last year saw the departure of several key players, including the five who moved to Armed Forces. This year there was another wave of exodus, including decorated coach Azraai Khor. National No. 1 goalkeeper Farizal Marlias, 2012 M-League Golden Boot winner Jean-Emmanuel Effa-Owona, skipper Shukor Adnan and speedy national winger S. Kunanlan have all moved on to Perak, Terengganu, Armed Forces and Selangor respectively. None of their new signings are of marquee status and the jury is still out on their foreign imports Cameroonian William Modibo and Argentinean forward Emanuel De Porras. However, manager-coach Divaldo Alves is said to be happy with the commitment and determination shown by the foreign duo in the pre-season training and matches. Negri Sembilan have been rather consistent over the years. In addition to the trophies (Malaysia Cup, FA Cup and Charity Shield), the Deer also won the Malaysia Cup in 2009 before finishing runners-up the following year and runners-up in the Super League in 2008. They won the Super League in 2006. The Deer kick off the M-League campaign at home against Terengganu at the Paroi Stadium on Jan 11. Manager-coach: Divaldo Alves Goalkeepers: Mohd Hamsani Ahmad; Kaharuddin Abdul Rahman, Badrulzaman Abdul Halim Defenders: Mohd Fauzi Nan, Tengku Qayyum Ubaidillah, Ahmad Azmeer Yusof, Norhafiz Zamani Misbah (captain), Mohd Zulfaizham Kamis, Mohd Alif Shamsudin, Muszaki Abu Bakar, William Paul Modibo, Abdul Ghani Abdul Rahman, Razhuan Abdullah Midfielders: Idris Abdul Karim, Norismaidham Ismail, Eddy Helmi Abdul Manan, Shahurain Abu Samah, Abdul Halim Zainal, Mohd Nazrin Mohd Nawi Forwards: Mohd Alafi Mahmud, Mohd Firdaus Azizul, Ahmad Shakir Mohd Ali, Emanuel De Porras Rating: ** (2/5) www.sports247.my/2013/01/deer-oh-dear-it-doesnt-look-good/
Panthers eye top spot By PENANG CORRESPONDENT  STEPPING OUT IN STYLE: Penang players model their jersey for the coming season. GAINING promotion into the Premier League alone will not be enough for Football Association of Penang (FAP) president Mohd Foaz Hamid. Foaz has demanded that the Penang team leave the third-tier FAM League competition in style by finishing on top this year. “Our main goal has always been to get back into the Premier League and subsequently, make a return to top flight football in the Super League,” said Foaz yesterday during the Penang squad’s new jersey launch at the E&O Hotel. “But I challenge the players and team management to do it in style by winning the FAM League this season. I believe we have a squad capable not only to win promotion, but to challenge for trophies.” The Panthers will be playing their second season in the third-tier FAM Cup competition. And they believe to have found the right mix of homegrown talents and experienced players from the other states in their 28-men squad to challenge for the two promotion berths on offer. Moroccan Merzagua Abderrazak, who as a player led the islanders to the top flight title in 1998, has returned to the state as the head coach. In their four friendlies, Penang lost against Premier League sides Betaria FC (1-4), and Perlis (2-3), and reigning treble champions Kelantan (0-4). But they also pulled off a stunning 1-0 win over Mohd Azraai Khor’s Super League outfit Perak. The Panthers will take on Hong Kong side Sun Pegasus in a friendly at the City Stadium tonight. Besides Penang, the other teams in the FAM League competition for 2013 are Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (Selangor), Kuantan FA (Pahang), Malacca, Penang Water Supply Corporation Berhad (Penang), Shahzan Muda (Pahang), Tentera Darat (K.Lumpur), Kedah United (Kedah), Cebagoo FC (Sabah) and Tumpat FA (Kelantan). www.sports247.my/2013/01/panthers-eye-top-spot/
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Post by steamroll on Jan 7, 2013 22:02:02 GMT 8
"I am not a hero," Irwan Fadzly remains modest after impressing against Kelantan The former Negeri Sembilan left back netted ATM's late equalizer against Kelantan last night but has distanced himself from being labeled as a 'hero' by fans  Just as you thought Kelantan were going to complete a historic quadruple, Irwan Fadzly Idrus stepped and curled into the top corner to restore parity for ATM. It wasn't only a strike to bring ATM back into the game, but also to justify his mettle as a player that is rated highly by national team coach Datuk K. Rajagopal. However, the talented left-back is refusing to be perceived as a 'hero' yet. His man of the match performance against Kelantan allowed ATM to claw back into the game and eventually win it on penalties but Irwan believes that the whole team should be credited for the come back. "I am not a hero," he told Berita Harian. "I will just take this victory as a gift from god. Kudos to my teammates as well for working their socks off. I would really like to thank them for making a big contribution and bringing home the first trophy of the season for us. Irwan also went on to insist that ATM cannot get complacent with this victory and that they must use it as a springboard to fight for bigger achievements throughout the course of the season. "This is a good start for the team and we must not stop. I really hope that we can continue improving our form and hopefully achieve something at the end of the season." www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/06/3651696/i-am-not-a-hero-irwan-fadzly-remains-modest-after-impressing
From Barcelona to Kota Bharu: Jordi Perez embodies the spirit of the beautiful game Goal.com Malaysia unravels the telling journey of Jordi Perez's amazing love story with Malaysian side Kelantan FA  In a country where even the local fans tend to be ignorant towards the local Malaysian team, Jordi Perez epitomizes the true spirit of football. He hails from a city that arguably produces the most exquisite football in our world right now, but Jordi is a person who appreciates the game for more than what it actually means. The Catalonia-born Jordi has been a Barcelona fan over the years, consistently watching them in the Nou Camp. But his immaculate passion for the sport often drove him to explore different borders of the world. He would go to the United Kingdom to watch Manchester City play and he would go to Germany to watch Bayern Munich play. However, none of them captivated him as much as Kelantan did. It was destined to be love at first sight. "I spent most of my life living in Catalunya with my family but I have always loved travelling and discovering new cultures," he enthused in an exclusive interview with Goal.com Malaysia. It might be baffling to many as to how Jordi got to know Kelantan and why specifically fall in love with them. After all, they are just another team in the Malaysian league. But Jordi doesn't see it that way. According to him, there is more to his love for Kelantan than actually meets the eye. "I knew a few friends from Kota Bharu through the internet since 2009. They were telling me a lot about The Red Warriors, especially after their defeat to Negeri Sembilan in the Malaysia Cup final. That was how I got connected.  Having lived in Catalonia almost most of his life, the presence of their own identity and culture was imminent. While they are essentially under Spain now, Jordi and many other Catalonians practice different cultures from the Spaniards and speak a different language as well. Similarly, Kelantan is a state that is incredibly rich in heritage, culture and history. Geographically, the conservative Muslim state is separated from the rest of the peninsular by the Titiwangsa Mountains. But culturally, Kelantan has a distinctive line between itself and the other state. The local people speak a very unique Malay dialect and variety of food itself justifies the culturally vibrant land. "I grew up in Catalunya, which was a free kingdom until the Spaniards invaded us in a war that happened 300 years ago. We the Catalans don't feel Spanish. We have our own traditions, culture and language. "Once I knew more people from Kelantan, I realised that there were lots of similarities with Catalunya. It's a special land and the people are very proud of this place. I could relate to them as I feel exactly the same about mine. Once he had fallen in love with The Red Warriors, turning back was never an option. Jordi was determined to visit his adopted land and when he finally did it in 2011, he was enthralled. Unfortunately, he didn't have much time to catch his team in action, but Jordi made it a point to come back to following year and watch Kelantan play for the first time ever. "I came in 2011 for the first time but I could not watch any Kelantan match. However I was already impressed with the place itself. It was unique. "A year later, I returned to Kelantan. This time around, I made sure that I wasn't going to leave without watching a game. So I finally got to watch the The Red Warriors in action for the first time, as they beat Kuala Lumpur 3-0 in a Super League match. Upon his return to Catalunya, Jordi consistently followed Kelantan's progress via the internet as well as his friends in Kota Bharu itself. The Red Warriors were doing pretty well in the AFC Cup and when they were paired up against Iraqi side Arbil FC in the quarter finals, Jordi decided to make the trip over to the Middle East. However he wasn't just satisfied yet. Jordi wanted to experience more of the Red Warriors and Kelantan, which led to his decision of moving to Kota Bharu for one whole year. He left everything behind in Catalunya for one year, making the move to Malaysia around two months back. Thus far, Jordi has nothing but praises for the country and specifically the Kelantan state. "It's been great, I meet a lot of nice people and everybody is always willing to help me. I'm more than delighted and I'm very grateful to all them. I'm trying to understand and get involved in Kelantan's culture; I hope I will achieve it.  "I arrived less than 2 months ago, but I could see the amount of people lining up to buy match tickets for a friendly match, I saw The Red Warriors Cafe overflowing with people for an hour act, Kelantan Trade Center full of people for the jersey presentation. That shows how involved the people are here with the club."
TRW Cafe www.facebook.com/trwcafe  
The passion Jordi is showing for football and Kelantan is certainly something worth admiring. It shows that international football and local football can mutually co-exist, without sparking debates about the quality and class. He will based in Kelantan for the entire year and is in fact looking for a temporary job to support himself over here. We asked Jordi one ultimate question; ”Do you see any similarities between Barcelona and Kelantan?” His answer is more than a fitting end to this piece on an extraordinary journey. "In a nutshell, Spain would be Malaysia, Catalunya would be Kelantan, Barcelona would be Kota Bharu, and FC Barcelona would be Kelantan FA. "FC Barcelona is not only a sports club; it represents Catalonia around the world, showing a way of life, because there is a whole country behind it. Similarly, I hope that KAFA will be able project Kelantan and its people to the rest of the world via football. www.goal.com/en-my/news/3902/exclusives/2013/01/07/3653192/from-barcelona-to-kota-bharu-jordi-perez-embodies-the-spirit
Hai-O praises the never-give up attitude of his teammates ATM captain Hairuddin Omar has praised his coach and his teammates for showing a never-give up attitude against Kelantan  Influential captain, Hairuddin Omar, has admitted the never-give up attitude that was instilled by the coach is the key to their success in the Charity Shield. This was the first time ATM had lifted the cup since 1990 and Hai-O said that after they trailed by 1-0, ATM played like normal with no panic at all. "In the first half we played with care and did not have many attempts, but after conceding one goal our coach told us that we just had to continue the game and enjoy it. Finally, we got the goal that we were looking for." Speaking to Sinar Harian, he also thanked the fans that came to the stadium. He also believes that the combination of experienced and new players gave them the edge in the decisive penalty shooutout. |
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Post by steamroll on Jan 7, 2013 22:49:17 GMT 8
Selangor determined to end title drought It may seem strange to many that a two-year spell without silverware can be considered as a title drought. By Gabriel Tan  But for Selangor, who have been crowned Malaysia Super League champions twice since its inception in 2004 and have won the Malaysia Cup a record 32 times, that's exactly what the past 24 months have felt like. Following back-to-back league triumphs in 2009 and 2010, the Red Giants have had to settle for third place in the past two years and while they finished just four points behind Kelantan in 2011, they ended up a staggering 17 points from the summit last term as it was the East Coast side's turn to nab consecutive crowns. During the same time, they have also failed to appear in a single cup final and coach Irfan Bakti admits that is something that has to change this season. "The management have told me we must win at least one cup this season," he told ESPNSTAR.com. "We have had nothing to give over the past two seasons. "I've told the players that the past achievements of the team are history. "We must look forward and have to win at least one cup this season." In a bid to change their fortunes, Irfan conducted a major overhaul of his playing roster and brought in 11 new faces for the coming campaign, including Malaysia internationals S. Kunanlan and Mahalli Jasuli, highly-rated striker Afiq Azmi and Liberia international Francis Forkey Doe, who was the league's joint-top scorer last term. Despite the large number of arrivals, the ex-Terengganu boss reveals his players are already starting to gel as a unit, and is looking forward to starting the season with a win at home to Negri Sembilan on Tuesday. "We are very prepared for tomorrow [Tuesday]," he added. "It's very important to win our first game as it will have an impact on our morale. "I'm very happy with our preparations. After last season, we decided to drop ten players from our roster and bring in fresh faces. "So far, I'm very happy with the commitment the new players have shown. They have adapted to what I've asked of them. "Our new striker Forkey Doe has really adapted to our team's style and the rest are doing fine too." And while the Liberian, and some of the other off-season arrivals at the Shah Alam Stadium like Kunanlan and Mahalli, will undoubtedly play a key role in the Red Giants' resurgence, one player who will be as good as a new signing is midfielder K. Gurusamy, who missed almost the whole of last year due to injury. Irfan reveals the Malaysia international is well on the road to recovery and while he will not be tempted to start him against Negri on Tuesday, a substitute appearance could just be in the offing. "Gurusamy is back in full training with the team," the experienced tactician said. "We've put him on for the last 10 to 15 minutes in our recent warm-up games. "He won't be in the starting XI tomorrow [Tuesday] but he will definitely be in our 18-man squad. "We definitely missed his presence last season and he will be very important for us this year." Irfan also confirmed that Forkey Doe and Lebanese centre-back Ramez Dayoub will be his side's two foreign players for the league campaign this year, with Slovak duo Michal Kubala and Peter Chrappan set to bolster the squad for their AFC Cup exploits. www.espnstar.com/football/m-league/news/detail/item917182/Selangor-determined-to-end-title-drought/
Sundram eyes development in 2013 LIONSXII coach V. Sundramoorthy insists the development of his young players will be one of his main targets in the upcoming 2013 Malaysia Super League campaign. By Gabriel Tan The LIONSXII kick off their second year in Malaysian football's top flight on Wednesday with an away game against ATM, and many expect them to once again challenge for top honours. Last season, the Singaporean side exceeded expectations by finishing second in the league behind Kelantan, and also reached the semi-finals of the Malaysia Cup, where they will only failed to make the final after losing to ATM on penalties. Of the names that were unveiled on Sunday as part of the LIONSXII's 29-man squad for this year, only 12 represented the team in 2012, including four of the five players over the age of 23 they are allowed to field - captain Shahril Ishak, anchorman Isa Halim, and defenders Baihakki Khaizan and Irwan Shah. And with one eye on the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games at the end of the year, Sundramoorthy admits he will be looking to give his new players a chance to develop ahead of the Under-23 tournament. "The new campaign has come and it's not so much about the excitement as it is the challenge," he told ESPNSTAR.com. "What we will face throughout the season is important. "For us, we now have the limitation of five players over the age of 23 and we have many more young players. We hope they can lift themselves up to the expectations - that's important. "Exposing the boys to tough matches in the MSL [Malaysia Super League] and giving them playing time will be key to their development. "It's important we are competitive week in week out. Then, when we move on to the SEA Games, the players will be physically and mentally ready for the challenges. "Hopefully we can do well then." The former Singapore star is aware they face a tough start against the Armed Forces, who won the Charity Shield on Saturday after beating Kelantan on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Nonetheless, he is backing his players to rise to the challenge of facing off against some of ATM's illustrious names. "To start the season with against ATM is really tough," Sundramoorthy conceded. "But we'll have to meet them somewhere along the way anyway. "Our boys will go there and let's see how well they can compete against the likes of Marlon [Alex] James, Hairuddin Omar and Shukor Adan. "Let's see how well they can rise to the challenge." Following Wednesday's trip to ATM, the LIONSXII play their first home game of the campaign on Saturday when they take on Selangor at the Jalan Besar Stadium. www.espnstar.com/football/m-league/news/detail/item916908/Sundram-eyes-development-in-2013/
LIONSXII squad for 2013 announced The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) and its principal sponsor, StarHub unveiled the 2013 LionsXII squad at Jalan Besar Stadium on Sunday.  The squad will compete in the Malaysia Super League (MSL), Malaysia Cup and FA Cup. The new 29-man squad, comprising a mix of youth and experience, looks set to better their 2012 MSL campaign. The new Lions in the squad, Fazrul Nawaz, Iqbal Hussain and Hafiz Sujad are expected to provide fresh inputs to tried and tested members of squad like Hariss Harun, Irwan Shah and Safuwan Baharudin. At Sunday's press conference, FAS and its official apparel partner, Nike, unveiled a fresh look for the 2013 season with new kits. Keeping with tradition, the home kit will be red and the away kit, blue. The president of FAS, Mr Zainudin Nordin, in his address said: "Rain or shine, the fans have been unselfish in their support for the Lions and FAS. We will go all out to give our best and we hope for the fans continued support. The MSL also offers our young Lions to show what they have to offer and that would be the best showcase for our ongoing youth development programmes. "As for the corporate support, we are especially grateful to Starhub, Nike and all our sponsors, for their generous support and the FAS appreciate the support and it looks forward to collaborating with them over a long-term period." V. Sundramoorthy who will again be the coach of the LIONSXII, promised that his charges will put up a good display. "The LIONSXII squad has been working together as a team and we have remained unbeaten in our pre-season preparations which serve as an excellent opportunity for us to build on for the 2013 season. "We are ready for the MSL and we will put up a consistent and good display for our fans from the first game," he said. LIONSXII will kick off their 2013 season on January 9 with an away match at the Tuanku Abdul Stadium, Negri Sembilan against newly promoted, ATM. Complete LIONSXII Squad for the 2013 season Head Coach: V Sundramoorthy Assistant Coach: K Balagumaran Goalkeepers: Khairulhin Khalid, Neezam Aziz, Syed Sufiyan, Izwan Mahbud Defenders: Faritz Hameed, Shakir Hamzah, Ali Hudzaifi, Baihakki Khaizan, Irwan Shah, Safuwan Baharudin, Madhu Mohana, Faris Azienuddin Midfielders: Shahril Ishak, Hafiz Sujad, Zulfahmi Arifin, Aqhari Abdullah, Nazrul Nazari, Faris Ramli, Gabriel Quak, Izzdin Shafiq, Safirul Sulaiman, Isa Halim, Hariss Harun, Raihan Rahman Forwards: Iqbal Hussain, Shahfiq Ghani, Syafiq Zainal, Fazrul Nawaz, , Khairul Nizam www.espnstar.com/football/m-league/news/detail/item916711/LIONSXII-squad-for-2013-announced
2013 Malaysia Super League Preview With a number of challengers on the prowl, Kelantan will have it all to do if they are to defend the Malaysia Super League title in 2013. By Gabriel Tan There is no doubting the Red Warriors were the standout team last year en route to completing the league, Malaysia Cup and FA Cup treble. However, those expecting a similar outcome this season should take a second look at the competition Bojan Hodak’s men will be facing over the next six months. Premier League champions ATM were widely expected to be the rising force in Malaysian football after their big-spending ways saw them secure promotion to the top flight, but even their spending has been dwarfed by Darul Takzim (previously known as Johor FC). 2012 runners-up LIONSXII have named a youthful squad to help Singapore’s vie for honours at the year-end Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, but still have the likes of Shahril Ishak and Baihakki Khaizan to call upon, while perennial challengers Selangor can never be ruled out. Here, ESPNSTAR.com takes a look at the 12 teams that will be challenging in the Super League ahead of Tuesday’s big kick-off. ATM (Premier League champions last season)Had the Armed Forces retained the side that won promotion last season, they would easily have been considered as genuine title contenders. The loss of a trio of Malaysia internationals in Aidil Zafuan, Zaquan Adha and Azmi Muslim will definitely be felt, although coach B. Sathianathan has done well to bring in a number of good reinforcements. In Shukor Adan, ATM have one of the most-experienced midfielders in the league and a player who has a positive influence wherever he goes, while the signing of ex-Harimau Muda star Affize Faisal means they have a utility player capable of fulfilling a variety of roles. Plenty is also expected of rising star K. Reuben, but the Gladiators will still be heavily reliant on their old guard of Hairuddin Omar, Rezal Zambery Yahya, Marlon Alex James and Bruno Martelotto. Prediction: 5th Darul Takzim (9th in Super League last season)Darul Takzim captivated football fans across the country late last year when they announced the signing of Dani Guiza, a former Spain international who was part of the side that won Euro 2008, before following that up with the capture of ex-Lazio man Simone Del Nero. Still, foreign signings normally take time to get used to life in a new country, which is why it is Harimau Selantan’s local brigade that looks set to make the biggest impact. The off-season capture of Norshahrul Idlan Talaha and Safee Sali means coach Fandi Ahmad will have Malaysia’s first-choice strike duo at his disposal, and the pair should have no shortage of deliveries to feed on with national team captain Safiq Rahim pulling the strings in midfield. Add to that the likes of Aidil, Zaquan, Azmi and Muslim Ahmad and it is clear to see why Darul Takzim are regarded as the strongest side in the league, and that’s without including Nurul Azwan Roya, who starred on the wing for Kelantan last term. In Zamir Selamat, they also have one of the country’s brightest goalkeeping prospects and should everything fall into place, it’s difficult to see anyone stopping the Johor-based outfit this year. Prediction: Champions FELDA United (10th in Super League last season)Since winning promotion to the Super League in 2010, FELDA have done well to preserve their top-flight status, but unfortunately for them, that looks set to change this year. In previous seasons, there were always teams that were much worse than them but given the improvement most sides have made, the Settlers will need a minor miracle if they are to avoid the drop. They did pull off something of a coup signing Lebanon international Mohammed Ghaddar, but unlike last season when he had plenty of service from his Kelantan team-mates, it looks as though he will have to do a lot more on his own this time around. Ex-Terengganu anchorman Reeshafiq Alwi could also prove to be a useful addition to the squad but as things stand it looks like it’s going to be a long year for FELDA. Prediction: 12th (Relegation) Kelantan (Super League champions last season)If the Red Warriors are to successfully defend their league title, they will have to do it without the talismanic figure of Norshahrul. Importantly for Hodak, he still has arguably the league’s most-compatible central-midfield partnership in Badhri Radzi and Shakir Shaari, while the underrated Norfarhan Muhammad should once again deliver the goals, especially in big games. Depending on how long it takes S. Subramaniam to fully recover from the knee injury that ruled him out of last year’s AFF Suzuki Cup, Kelantan’s defence remains as strong as it was last season, although plenty of eyes will be on Khairul Fahmi and how he recovers from his horror display at the regional tournament. The signings of Zairo Anuar Zailani and Faiz Subri from T-Team, in addition to the presence of Indra Putra Mahayuddin, also means there will be no shortage of creativity in the attacking third, which should leave Guinean striker Keita Mandjou rubbing his hands in glee. Whether or not all this is enough to see off the challenge of Darul Takzim remains the big question. Prediction: 2nd LIONSXII (2nd in Super League last season)Although some are already ruling out the LIONSXII given that 17 of their 29-man squad will be pulling on the jersey for the first time this term, many had the same misgivings last January when the Singaporean outfit were preparing for their debut season in the Super League. From the side that finished as runners-up in 2012, a number of key members remain, including captain Shahril Ishak, centre-backs Baihakki Khaizan and Safuwan Baharudin, midfield duo Hariss Harun and Isa Halim and goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud. The loss of playmaker Shahdan Sulaiman, who has rejoined Tampines Rovers, does leave a gaping hole in the middle of the park – one that the likes of Hafiz Sujad, Zulfahmi Arifin, Faris Ramli and Shahfiq Ghani will all be hoping to fill. Also keep an eye out for winger Gabriel Quak, who was named in the squad last season but failed to play a single game due to national service commitments, and Raihan Rahman, who recently captained a Singapore youth side against their counterparts from Manchester United, Liverpool and Sporting Lisbon in the NexLions Cup. Prediction: 4th Negri Sembilan (6th in Super League last season)2012 promised so much for Negri Sembilan after they kicked off the season with an impressive 2-1 win over Kelantan in the Charity Shield, months after an equally-remarkable triumph over Terengganu to win the Malaysia Cup. Unfortunately for the Deer, they struggled for consistency all campaign long and things do not look like getting any better this year, especially after the departures of Jean-Emmanuel Effa Owona and S. Kunanlan – two of their best players. One positive that took place over the off-season was the departure of Slovak centre-back Marian Farbak, who was arguably the reason behind their quarter-final exit in the Malaysia Cup last term following his insipid displays against ATM. Negri’s new coach Divaldo Alves has replaced him with Cameroonian defender William Modibo, while Effa Owona’s slot has been filled by Argentine Emanuel De Porras, two men with experience in Southeast Asia but who have never played in Malaysia. The presence of Ahmad Shakir Ali and Shahurain Abu Samah means Alves’ side have the potential to be a threat to the best of opponents, but it’s unlikely the duo will be able to carry their side to a top-five finish. Prediction: 8th Pahang (2nd in Premier League last season)Pahang showed they were ready for top-flight football last July when they saw off Sarawak and Kedah to book their spot in the Super League by winning the four-way promotion/relegation playoffs. But Tok Gajah will be aware they have to do a lot more if they are to avoid an immediate return to the Premier League given the quality of opposition they will face in 2013. Coach Dollah Salleh has managed to keep hold of his key players in Azamuddin Akil, Zaiza Zainal Abidin and R. Gopinathan, with the former likely to be their main threat in attack regardless of whether he plays up front or on the wings. Pahang have also bolstered their strike force by using their foreign player quota on two forwards – towering Macedonian Nikolce Kleckaroski and Moroccan Mohamed Borji. However, it is at the back where they look most vulnerable. For all the experience Jalaluddin Jaafar and Saifulnizam Miswan bring, they are easily exposed by pacey and tricky opponents, a breed of player the Super League has in abundance. Still, the Tok Gajah midfield is significantly bolstered by the arrival of ex-Selangor duo Amirulhadi Zainal and Azidan Sarudin, and they could add just enough quality to help their new side avoid the dreaded drop. Prediction: 10th Perak (4th in Super League last season)Despite being inconsistent at times last season, Perak did well enough to finish fourth in the league , just a point behind Selangor, who qualified for this year’s AFC Cup given the LIONSXII are ineligible to represent Malaysia in continental competition. Strangely enough, it was not enough to save Norizan Bakar from the axe, especially after a 6-0 drubbing at the hands of Kelantan, and his replacement Jang Jung suffered the same fate following a group-stage exit in the Malaysia Cup. Leading the Seladang charge this term will be Azraai Khor Abdullah, a man who has no lack of experience and he has already set about creating a side in his image. By bringing Abdul Hadi Yahya, S. Chanturu and Yong Kuong Yong to Stadium Perak, the 60-year-old has ensured his side will be brimming with pace and skill in the attacking third, something French import Karim Rouani will hopefully make the most of. Nonetheless, his best move could be the signing of goalkeeper Farizal Marlias from Negri, after the 26-year-old impressed at the Suzuki Cup despite Harimau Malaya’s eventual semi-final exit. Prediction: 6th PKNS FC (7th in Super League last season)After gaining promotion to the Super League for the first team in their history, PKNS exceeded all expectations by finishing well clear of the drop zone last year – ending the campaign a respectable 7th. A key reason behind their impressive displays last year was the presence of the formidable Tunisian midfielder Helmi Loussaeif. And in an astute move, the Red Ants decided to use their second foreign player spot on Patrick Ronaldinho Wleh, the 22-year-old Liberia international who starred in Sime Darby’s run to the FA Cup final last term, and nearly dragged them to the promotion/relegation playoff spot. But as the likes of Kedah and Sarawak proved in 2012, having a number of outstanding players is not enough to carry an entire team and stave off relegation. Thus, avoiding the drop could prove a bridge too far for PKNS this year. Prediction: 11th (Relegation) Selangor (3rd in Super League last season)Given the rich history Selangor have, it is understandable how going the last two seasons without silverware has been viewed as a failure by their passionate fans. It is therefore imperative that they avoid another unsuccessful campaign and in a bid to avoid that, Red Giants boss Irfan Bakti has rung in the changes for the new year. The 11 new faces he has brought to the Shah Alam Stadium include Malaysia internationals Mahalli Jasuli and S. Kunanlan, ex-Terengganu number one Sharbinee Allawee Ramli and Liberia international Francis Forkey Doe, who was the league’s joint-top scorer in 2012. With Doe leading the line alongside Amri Yahyah and the highly-rated Afiq Azmi, goals certainly won’t be hard to come by for Selangor, especially with new signing Michal Kubala capable of weighing in with a few of his own from midfield. Crucially, Irfan is set to regain the services of tenacious midfielder K. Gurusamy, who missed almost all of last season due to injury, and he – along with newly-appointed captain Asraruddin Putra Omar – will provide the side with the resolve they have been lacking. Still, it will be interesting to see which of their foreign players the Red Giants plump for in the league, given they have to choose two from the quartet of Doe, Kubala, Ramez Dayoub and Peter Chrappan, leaving the others to settle for AFC Cup action. Prediction: 3rd Terengganu (5th in Super League last season)The new season cannot come soon enough for Terengganu after the turbulent 2012 which saw both Mat Zan Mat Aris and Peter Butler removed from the helm. Butler’s ill-fated spell in particular resulted in a mini-exodus that saw Doe, Muslim, Abdul Hadi, Reeshafiq and Abdul Shukor Jusoh leave. The Englishman’s subsequent departure also meant E. Elavarasan was left to pick up the pieces and rebuild the squad, a task he has coped with admirably well by bringing in the likes of goalkeeper Syed Adney from Sabah and ex-FELDA duo Farderin Kadir and Khairan Ezuan Razali. Although Doe joining Selangor means the Turtles have lost last season’s joint-top scorer in the league, they have picked up an equally capable replacement with the capture of Effa Owona, who also netted 15 times in the previous campaign. There is also some form of continuity with Faizal Muhammad, Ismail Faruqi Asha’ri and Abdul Manaf Mamat all staying on from last season, but it remains to be seen how fast they can gel with their new team-mates, especially after last season’s troubles. Prediction: 7th T-Team (8th in Super League last season)Since their birth in 2007, T-Team have spent the entirety of their existence as the state’s second side, to the extent of being nicknamed “Young Turtles” to Terengganu’s “Turtles”. All that looks set to change this season as the Titans, as they are now known as, prepare to step out of the shadow of their more-illustrious derby rivals, and establish themselves as the number one team in Kuala Terengganu. Despite a controversial year that saw him removed from both Kelantan and Terengganu, Butler remains one of the most tactically-astute coaches in Malaysia and could just have the right troops at his disposal given the young and eager squad he’s assembled. The ex-West Ham man has also pulled out all the stops to bring Barclays Premier League duo George Boateng and Caleb Folan to the club, and both will provide plenty of quality not just to T-Team, but the league as a whole. Butler has also brought Marzuki Yusof and Mazlizam Mohamad along with him from the Turtles and both will slot straight into his back four, adding valuable experience to his starting XI. The one worry for T-Team is in attack, especially if Folan takes time to fire on all cylinders, given both their most-prolific marksmen from last season – Zairo and Faiz – have both left for Kelantan, while their next top scorer Fadzli Saari is now plying his trade with Sime Darby. Prediction: 9th www.espnstar.com/editorial/news/detail/item917195/2013-Malaysia-Super-League-Preview/ |
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Post by steamroll on Jan 8, 2013 8:13:05 GMT 8
Hobin Jang Hobin aiming for at least one silverware Negeri Sembilan believe that they have enough quality within their squad to mount a realistic challenge for at least one trophy  Negeri Sembilan might have lost the likes of S. Kunanlan and Farizal Marlias but they are shining with optimism for the new season. The Deers have a new look to the team for 2013, with Portuguese head coach Divaldo Da Silva given the mandate the lead the team. Argentinian player Emanuel Matias De Porras and Camerron defender William Paul Modibo have been drafted in to strengthen the squad and Negeri Sembilan FA President Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan reiterated his faith in seeing them win at least one trophy. "Based on the list of players that we have, as well as the new coaching system that we have employed, we can certainly match any of the teams in the league," he told Kosmo. "This year, we are confident of at least bringing back one trophy, or maybe even sweep the treble. Because in football, you just never know. Negeri Sembilan will be placing their trust on youth talent for 2013 and Datuk Seri Mohamad Hassan insisted that they don't believe in buying players, but rather producing quality young players. ""We did not spend big to buy star players because that is not the way we do business. We have our own principle, which is to produce quality young talents. "Negeri Sembilan this year will be made up of talented young players, but we also have enough experience to lead these guys." Last season's head coach Azraai Khor was a prominent name among the fans, leading the team to a Malaysia Cup triumph in 2011. However, his departure saw the Deers appoint Portuguese coach Divaldo Alves. Thus far, Datuk Seri Mohamad Hassan has nothing but praises for the man, who has previously coached in the Indonesian league. "We have seen how Divaldo trains the team and I'm very attracted to this new system. In the recent friendly matches, I have seen a positive improvement from their style of play. Hopefully, we will be a force to be reckoned with this year." www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/07/3654823/hobin-jang-hobin-aiming-for-at-least-one-silverware
Pahang - Johor Darul Takzim Preview: Big spending Southern Tigers seeking a good start to the season All eyes will be on the star-studded Johor Darul Takzim FC who will be eager to start the season on the right foot against Dollah Salleh's Pahang Last season’s Premier League runners up, Pahang will have the unfortunate task of stopping the "Paris Saint Germain" of Malaysia, Johor Darul Takzim FC. The Tok Gajah will yet again depend on their talisman and skipper, Azamuddin Akil to provide the ammunition to break down a defensive unit led by national defender, Aidil Zafuan. Azamuddin or Alex as he is known will be ably supported by nippy flankers, Amirulhadi Zainal and R.Gopinathan. Former Perak custodian, Nasril Nourdin is expected to be in goal and the defence will be marshalled by veteran defender, Jalaluddin Jaafar and their assistant coach, Zainal Abidin's son, Zaiza Zainal. On the other hand, Darul Takzim FC's coach Fandi Ahmad is expected to field a potent strike duo of Safee Sali and Dani Guiza partnership ably supported by Norhshahrul Idlan Talaha. On the wings, they will have another former Kelantan hero, Nurul Azuan Roya and the ex-Lazio star, Simone Del Nero. A lot has been said in the media about the big spending Southern Tigers and they will surely be eager to live up to the expectations after a surprising 2-1 defeat to Johor in their last pre-season match. This match will surely fascinate not only the fans of the respective teams but also the local football ethusiasts who will be able to watch a plethora of national and international stars making their debuts. The match will be played at the Darul Makmur Stadium and is slated to kick-off at 8.45pm. DID YOU KNOW? * Pahang hold a formidable record at the Darul Makmur Stadium in the Premier League last season, losing only once. * They did not retain their two foreign imports from last season, Boris Kochkin and Maycon. * Their foreign striker, Mohamed Borji played in the CAF Champions League with FAR Rabat. * Johor Darul Takzim's last silverware was in the year 2001; the Malaysian Premier League. * Fandi Ahmad worked as a scout for Italian club, Vicenza in 2011. * Their theme song "Kita tetap menang" was sang by Johor born superstars; rock legend Amy Search and hip hop star Joe Flizzow. www.goal.com/en-my/match/99770/pahang-fa-vs-kelab-bolasepak-darul-takzim/preview
Goal.com's 2013 MSL Team Preview: LionsXII V. Sundramoorthy will lead a new-look squad for a second season in Malaysian competitions with the majority of them being Under-23 players as part of preparations for the SEA Games While most supporters will be looking forward for the LionsXII to build on their superb debut season, where they finished as runners up in the Malaysian Super League [MSL] and reached the semi-final stage of the Malaysia Cup, it is hard to see the 2013 squad emulating their predecessors. Most of the stars from the 2012 team have returned to brighten up the S.League and coach V. Sundramoorthy has been presented with players who are mostly under 23 years of age. Football Association of Singapore President Zainudin Nordin has indicated that ‘the experience and exposure in the MSL will benefit our LionsXII Under-23 players, most of whom are likely to represent Singapore at the SEA Games in December.’ But LionsXII fans need be too worried as there will be five senior, experienced internationals in captain Shahril Ishak, Baihakki Khaizan, Isa Halim, Irwan Shah and new inclusion, striker Fazrul Nawaz to guide the rookies along. Goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud has been retained, although there is no tried-and tested-replacement for the national custodian should anything untoward fall upon him in the season. Despite the LionsXII having a young squad, their opponents will do well to remain wary as the team has a very able assistant coach who is known to bring the best out of young players. While Sundram is at times known for his defensive tactics, his number two K. Balagumaran is synonymous with his tactics of attacking down the flanks and hitting opponents on the break. This is one area that Bala might work on extensively as he looks to bring out the best from his midfielders, such as the young and hardworking Hafiz Sujad and the creative Faris Ramli. One to look out for on is winger Gabriel Quak, who has been recalled to the squad after he was de-registered midway through the 2012 season due to National Service commitments and injury. He packs a punch with his crosses and has a very commanding presence, so that should serve the LionsXII well. Of course, one should also keep in mind that the LionsXII still have the services of Hariss Harun, who despite being 22 years old has had seven years of international experience under his belt and is the current vice-captain of the national team. While they might not be title challengers this year, expect the LionsXII to cause upsets along the way, especially at home, and a top-five finish is certainly within their reach. If there is anything last season's debut season has shown us, it is that the LionsXII are capable of surprising their critics and fans alike, so just sit back and enjoy the 2013 Malaysian Super League, which promises to be as exciting as 2012. www.goal.com/en-my/news/3891/features/2013/01/07/3654984/goalcoms-2013-msl-team-preview-lionsxii
Shahrul rescues Sabah By SABAH CORRESPONDENT SHARUL AZHAR TURE (picture) turned saviour with two goals to help a lacklustre Sabah side to a 2-1 Premier League win over Putrajaya SPA FC at the Likas Stadium today. The pacey winger scored the first from a free kick after five minutes but an own goal from debutant Rhys David Weston saw SPA levelled after 28 minutes. Sabah were awarded the first of two penalties 10 minutes later but Sharuddin Yakup saw his weak attempt saved by Muhamad Nuraizat Abd Aziz. There were little goalmouth actions after that before Sharul showed his prowess in dead ball situation by netting the winner from a penalty kick in the 71st minute. Coach David McCreery was glad with the three points but was far from satisfied from his players. McCreery was clearly annoyed with their failure to send crosses into the box despite having focussed on it in training. “I am disappointed. We led and even missed a penalty early on. “We should have scored more goals. “Overall, I’m disappointed but happy to have won three points,” said the coach. Less than 1,000 fans turned up in the evening match as the 30,000-seater Likas Stadium was not fit to hold www.sports247.my/2013/01/shahrul-rescues-sabah/
Perak - T-Team Preview: Seladangs, Titans looking for a positive start Having signed new players and led by new coaches, the two teams will be eager to get their seasons started on a winning note Perak and T-Team will kick-off their new Malaysian Super League (MSL) season earlier than the other teams, when they take each other on in Lumut this evening. Both teams have not reported any serious injuries in the lead-up to the game and thus, can be expected to be at full strength for this match. Hosts Perak will be in confident mood not only because they play at home, but also because of the pre-season signings that they had made. The arrivals of national players like No.1 goalkeeper Farizal Marlias and Yong Kuong Yong, coupled with the appointment of respected tactician Azraai Khor Abdullah would have boosted the team’s morale ahead of the new season. Visitors T-Team will also be satisfied with their off-season business. The capture of Terengganu’s seasoned captain Marzuki Yusof and quality foreign signings like George Boateng and Caleb Folan would have gotten this Peter Butler-coached team quietly confident of taking something home from this fixture. With the floodlights upgrading works that are going on at the Perak Stadium in Ipoh now, today’s match will played at the Royal Malaysian Navy Stadium in Lumut instead. The kick-off time is 4.45pm. DID YOU KNOW? Perak are expected to play their first five matches in Lumut before the stadium in Ipoh is re-opened. The Seladangs have only retained 10 players from last season’s playing squad. They won this fixture 3-2 in June last year.  * T-Team have invested heavy this season by bringing in foreign expertise. * George Boateng is a former Dutch international and Caleb Folan has 7 caps for the Republic of Ireland. * Croatians Dado Kondic (goalkeeping coach) and Sebastian Knapic (fitness trainer) have also been added on to the coaching staff. Royal Malaysian Navy Stadium  Perak Stadium  www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/08/3655863/perak-t-team-preview-seladangs-titans-looking-for-a-positive
Shine like a diamond  The little-known Naval Base Stadium in Lumut is now one of the brightest M-League venues in Malaysia. The FA of Malaysia (FAM) confirmed yesterday that the 12,000-capacity stadium’s floodlight illumination has been increased to 1,600 lux, making it one of the brightest stadiums after the Shah Alam Stadium (1,500 lux) and the National Stadium (1,700 lux) in Bukit Jalil. FAM competitions committee chairman Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said the Naval Base Stadium was inspected a few days ago. “Our inspectors first thought there was something wrong with the reading but upon re-checking they found it to be accurate. I must congratulate the Perak FA and the concerned parties for making this effort,” said Hamidin on the sidelines after the launch of Selangor’s M-League jersey in Shah Alam yesterday. The Perak Super League team will play at least four home matches at the Naval Base Stadium before moving back to the State Stadium, which is currently under renovation, in Ipoh. Perak were initially supposed to play in the afternoons but FAM has now approved the stadium for night matches. The stadium, which opened in 1980, is only the eighth venue, which has met the minimum floodlight requirement of 1,000 lux. Lux is the SI unit of illuminance and luminous emittance. The other approved stadiums are the Shah Alam Stadium, Darulmarkmur Stadium (Kuantan), Sultan Mohd IV Stadium (Kota Baru), Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium (Paroi), Jalan Besar Stadium (Singapore), Sarawak Stadium (Kuching) and the Darulaman Stadium (Alor Star). “I am confident other major stadiums will meet the minimum requirement very soon. The FAs of Terengganu, Johor and Sabah have started improving the floodlights at the respective venues,” said Hamidin, also the vice president of FAM. On whether the Larkin Stadium and the Pasir Gudang Stadium in Johor have met the requirement for night matches, Hamidin said his committee will make an announcement soon. “We still need to look into some minor issues but I believe the matter will be solved,” Hamidin added. As it stands, only Super League sides Selangor, Pahang, Armed Forces, Negri Sembilan, Kelantan, Singapore’s LionsXII, Perak and Premier League’s KL SPA, Kedah and Sarawak will play their home matches at 8.45pm. This means five Super League teams and nine Premier League sides will host matches in the afternoons. pafanews.com/2013/01/05/shine-like-a-diamond/
Selangor - Negeri Sembilan Preview: Both teams hoping for a better season in 2013 Both teams want to put last year's disappointment behind them and start the season on a high note The record winners of the Malaysian Cup, Selangor, will be looking to kick off their season with a win when they host Negeri Sembilan on Tuesday evening. After two years without any silverware, Irfan Bakti is looking to make this season a success after promising at least one trophy to the Selangor fans. Last season's top scorer, Francis Forkey Doe is expected to lead the line with veteran striker Amri Yahyah. In midfield, S, Kunalan is set to start against his former club and Mahali Jasuli is due to make his debut in defence. For Negeri Sembilan, last season was a season to forget after they only managed to reach the quater-finals of the Malaysian Cup, and finish sixth in the league. For the first fixture of this season, new coach Divaldo Alves is set to start his two new import players, William Paul Modibo and Emanual De Porras. Norhafiz Zamani is set to lead the defence and the team once again with Idris Abdul Karim to boss the midfield. With both teams looking to bounce back from last season's failure, the match is set to be very intriguing and exciting for both sets of fans. The match will be played at the Shah Alam Stadium and will kick off at 8.45pm. DID YOU KNOW? * The last time Selangor won the league title was back in 2009. * They have won the most top division titles, with six titles so far. * Ever since the league has changed to the Super League format, * Selangor has only won the title twice (2009,2010) out of nine seasons. * Negeri Sembilan has won the league just once in their history (2006) They finished 6th last season with only 10 wins out of 26 matches. www.goal.com/en-my/match/99754/selangor-fa-vs-negeri-sembilan-fa/preview
Terengganu captain urges team mates to focus against Felda United New Terengganu captain Faizal Muhammad wants his team to focus ahead of their clash against Felda United Newly-appointed Terengganu captain Mohd Faizal Muhammad has urged his team mates to fully focus ahead of their first game against Felda United. Speaking to Astro Arena, he stated that an early win can give them a huge moral boost to keep playing well in the Super League. "We are going to try our best and give 100% focus to get the precious three points," he declared. The 24-year-old hopes that playing in front of their own fans can give them an edge, as the team does not want to let the Turtle fans go home with disappointment after the first game of the season. www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/07/3655057/terengganu-captain-urges-team-mates-to-focus-against-felda |
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Post by steamroll on Jan 8, 2013 11:12:03 GMT 8
Spirited United Malaysia finish third MOHD Akhmar Haiqal Azhar's unanswered brace embarrassed a 10-man national under-15 team for Frenz United Malaysia to grab third place in the Frenz International Cup at the MBPJ Stadium yesterday. It was a match in which the national squad just did not feature, although they did have several chances in the first half, while a spirited Frenz United's eagerness to win the tie was more visible. It did not help the national side when key player Mohd Najmuddin Samat was hurt when taken down while attempting to beat Frenz United keeper Adam Zairi Fitri Zaini in the 45th minute. Not only was the national side's claims for a penalty rejected, Najmuddin was left with an ankle injury with his team already out of substitutes. He later had to be withdrawn and the national squad continued a player short. Frenz United capitalised with captain Akhmar Haiqal bagging his first in the 58th minute and adding another in the 71st, both via soft headers which Malaysia goalkeeper Mohd Haziq Nazli failed to hold on to. While national coach S. Balachandran was already looking forward to working on his players when they check into school at the National Football Academy in Gambang, Frenz United Malaysia coach Mat Dinos Talib was looking forward to more high level competitions for his players. "I think we played better when we lost to Slovakia in the semi-final, but that's football, sometimes you don't play so well but get a good result," said Mat Dinos. "Finishing third and beating the national under-15 side is a massive boost for our academy, which shows we're on the right track less than a year since the academy was formed. "Our management's plans are the same, with a domestic competition and an annual international tournament like this one. To get our players more exposure, we'll be competing in the Milk Cup in Ireland in June." Meanwhile, Slovakia beat Iran's Persepolis 5-3 on penalties after a full-time score of 0-0 in the final yesterday.  Frenz United Malaysia’s Mohd Akhmar Haiqal Azhar performs a somersault after scoring against the national under-15 at the MBPJ Stadium yesterday. Pic by Hasriyasyah Sabudin Read more: Spirited United Malaysia finish third - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/spirited-united-malaysia-finish-third-1.197309?cache=03%2F7.188446%3Fpage%3D0%3Fpage%3D0%3Fkey%3DKuala+Lumpur#ixzz2HLgpvqhm
latest updates for harimau muda squad 2013 Harimau Muda A = U23 - Ong Kim Swee - Australia and Europe Tour - europe base = slovakia Harimau Muda B = U21/U22 - Razip Ismail - S.League - base : Hang Tuah Stadium Malacca Harimau Muda C = U19/U20 - Richard Scully - Unknown - base : Wisma FAM/Bukit Jalil Harimau Muda D = U15/U17 - S. Balachandran - Unknown - base : National Football Academy Gambang Pahang SSBJ = U17 - Bukit Jalil Kuala Lumpur - FAM President Cup U19 League - base : Bukit Jalil Sports School SSTMI = U17 - Bandar Penawar Johor - FAM President Cup U19 League - base : Crown Prince Ismail Sports School
Govt stadium built specifically for soccer 07/27/2010 Kota Bharu: The study will be made of the feasibility of developing specific stadium for football as practiced in developed countries, said Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek. He said it not only can reduce the cost of maintenance of a stadium but also to familiarize players with the concept of a real football field that is not shared by many other sporting events. "It is the ministry's study accounted for sports development agenda under the provisions of the 10th Malaysia Plan," he said after opening the Carnival Red Wariors here last night. During the ceremony, he also signed the certificate Malaysia Book of Records as the success of Kelantan Football Association (Kafa) introduce their own products related to football. Addition, he said, the government also intends to establish football academies in each district to train young people in sport. "So far we have set up a special committee called the Committee of the National Football Development Fund, a related party such as the Ministry of Education, FAM (Football Association of Malaysia) and the media," he said. said the government needs RM50 million a year to operate the academy program. - Bernama pembangunanbolasepaknegara.blogspot.com/
Postmen stamp mark on KL WHETHER you want to call it bad luck or simple misfortune, Premier League outfit Kuala Lumpur have experienced it all so early in the season. It all started when their Slovak defender Vladislav Palsa and midfielder Juraj Kuhajdik were disqualified by the FA of Malaysia (FAM) for the State FA's failure to register them before the Dec 6 deadline. Slovak-born coach Stanislav Leiskovsky was then suspended for three matches for failure to attend a FAM refresher course. The absence of the three Slovaks led to KL's bad start in the league. Pos Malaysia recorded a come-from-behind 3-2 win over KL for their best ever league start at Selayang Stadium yesterday. Under-21 player Syafwan Syahlan scored his first goal in a senior match for KL in the 14th minute before Munir Amran extended their lead three minutes later. The young team, however, could not handle the pressure in the absence of Leiskovsky from the bench. Pos replied through Nurhakim Burhan (40th) and Mohd Saufi Ibrahim (42nd) before half-time. Saufi scored his second goal with a splendid attempt in the 65th minute. "It is a good start for us considering we struggled to settle down early," said Pos Malaysia coach G. Torairaju yesterday. "But we came back to score three goals and I'm happy with the performance of the players. We've never won our opening match before so this is a welcome change." Elsewhere, two former FAM League sides -- Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) and the Public Service Commission (KL Spa) -- lost their first ever respective Premier League matches yesterday. National player Khyril Muhymeen Zambri scored a brace in the 29th and 31st minutes to earn Kedah a convincing 2-0 win over UiTM at Hang Tuah Stadium in Malacca. Sabah struggled before subduing KL Spa 2-1 at Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu. Midfielder Shahrul Azhar Ture scored a brace in the seventh and 72nd minutes. Former Wales international Rhys Weston scored an own goal in the 28th minute.  Johor’s Juan Muriel Orlando (left) fights for the ball with Sime Darby’s Juzaili Samion at Larkin Stadium yesterday. Pic by Hairul Anuar Abd Rahim Read more: Postmen stamp mark on KL - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/postmen-stamp-mark-on-kl-1.197677#ixzz2HLtKIpxu
Larkin cleared for night matches ONLY three Super League teams will start their campaign in the afternoon. This came after Larkin Stadium in Johor Baru became the latest stadium to be approved by the FA of Malaysia (FAM) for night matches. FAM competitions committee chairman Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said the stadium, the home venue of Darul Takzim, was inspected and approved last week. With the latest development, Darul Takzim will host Perak at the stadium at night on Friday. "The Larkin Stadium has met the minimum illumination reading of 1,000 lux," said Hamidin yesterday. The stadium is the ninth venue, which has met the minimum floodlight requirement. Lux is the SI unit of illuminance and luminous emittance. The other approved stadiums are the Shah Alam Stadium, Darulmarkmur Stadium (Kuantan), Sultan Mohd IV Stadium (Kota Baru), Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium (Paroi), Jalan Besar Stadium (Singapore), Sarawak Stadium (Kuching), Naval Base Stadium and the Darulaman Stadium (Alor Star). Hamidin, however, disclosed that the Sultan Nasiruddin Shah Stadium and MBPJ Stadium failed the inspection on Sunday. Meanwhile, FAM's player status committee, headed by Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan, will decide on Thursday on the contract status of four players in the Super League. The committee has received the affidavits of the Kelantan FA (Kafa) and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha in-regard of the former's claim that the national striker still owed them RM650,000 in compensation and in salaries. Kafa is unhappy as they want Norshahrul, who has joined Darul Takzim, to settle the remaining amount. FAM may also decide on claims by T-Team that their former players, Zairo Anuar Zailani and Faiz Subri had signed for Kelantan despite penning down an extension contract with Terengganu-side and also the fate of former Young Tigers player Affize Faisal Mamat who has not been cleared by FAM to play for Armed Forces. According to league regulations, a Young Tiger or a national youth player must return to his home state after his tenure ends. But in Affize's case, Terengganu, his home state, initially did not offer him a contract despite reporting to the FA and the youngster went on the sign with Forces. By Ajitpal Singh Read more: Larkin cleared for night matches - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/larkin-cleared-for-night-matches-1.197673#ixzz2HLtr9ma5
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Post by steamroll on Jan 8, 2013 12:14:13 GMT 8
T-Team get RM6.28m boost T-TEAM are off to a good start ahead of the new season after securing a RM6.28 million sponsorship. Almost half of the amount or RM3 million came from the state government while Eastern Pacific Industrial Corporation Bhd (EPIC), Hexatrend Sdn Bhd and Ladang Rakyat Terengganu Sdn Bhd gave RM1 million each to the Titans. The rest of the money came from Sabasun Hyper Runcit (RM80,000), Desa Murni Sdn Bhd (RM50,000), CVE-Kappa Commercial Ventures Enterprise-Kappa (RM50,000), Bahrumazi Enterprise (RM50,000) and ANJ Ventures Sdn Bhd (RM50,000). Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahamd Said, prior to presenting the sponsorship cheque on behalf of the state government, said both T-Team and Terengganu are expected to do well in all competitions this year. “The state government will give full support to both Super League teams but they will have to show full commitment in their quest for success. “We expect everybody to work extra hard to bring home at least one trophy this season and they have nothing to worry as we know how to reward success,” Ahmad said. Ahmad said the key to success is fitness and every player should be able to play at optimum level for 120 minutes and not just 90 minutes. “All the football skills in the world will not amount to much if the players are not fit to play for the duration of the game. “Our players will have to be fitter, faster and better than players from the other teams if we are serious about winning silverware this season as other teams are getting better and better too,” he added during the sponsorship and contract signing ceremony for T-Team and Terengganu on Wednesday. Terengganu also received their sponsorship cheques from various sponsors at the same function but their management decided not to reveal the amount. Meanwhile, T-Team head coach Peter Butler said the Titans will be one of fittest teams in the Super League. “We have a very good conditioning and fitness coach in Sebastian (Knapic) and he has been working our players hard to be super fit for the long season ahead,” he said. By Zainuddin Muhammad Read more: T-Team get RM6.28m boost - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/t-team-get-rm6-28m-boost-1.195673#ixzz2HM0nkAXW
Ghaddar powers Felda United's glory hunt MOHAMMED Ghaddar joined Felda United, wanting to prove to critics that he can do better than what he achieved with treble winners Kelantan last season. The Lebanon international is Felda's biggest signing of the season though at one stage it appeared Ghaddar might have slipped through their grasp. But the striker, whose brief disappearance was put to rest when he arrived for training earlier this week, is keen to show that Kelantan's loss would be Felda's gain. "Felda United are a big team and I would like to win many trophies with them," said Ghaddar, 29, at the unveiling of Felda's 2013 Super League squad in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday. "I want to prove to people that I can do at Felda what I did at Kelantan, to show that I can do better." It is just as well that Ghaddar, who scored 21 goals in 2012, retains a hunger for success as newly-appointed coach K. Devan has been tasked with delivering one major trophy by the club's hierarchy. "From the beginning, I felt that we need more time but looking at the performances in pre-season friendly matches and in the quality of the players we have, I have full confidence we can get one trophy. "To be the best team in the country, you have to win the Super League which is played over 22 matches. If you are consistent and good, the opportunity is there," said Devan, who led Negri Sembilan and Selangor (twice) to league titles. As to whether he will be able to get the best out of Ghaddar, who has a habit of provoking opposition players, Devan had this to say: "With Kelantan, they like the things he did because it fired up the crowd. But you will see a different Ghaddar this year." Devan signed a number of players who previously played for him at Selangor and Johor FC (now Darul Takzim) while also luring the likes of midfielder Amar Rohidan and goalkeeper Helmi Eliza Elias from Kedah and adding Brazilian centre-back Junior Pereira from Portugal's Leixoes. Felda United - Goalkeepers: Anis Faron Ahmad Arsidi, Rozaimie Rohim, Helmi Eliza Elias; Defenders: Kaironnisam Shahabudin Hussain, Carlos Roberto Alves Pereira Junior, Azrul Azmi, Nizam Abu Bakar, Riduwan Ma'on, Shafizan Hashim, Arif Zulkifly, Fazli Zulkifli, Abd Rahman Zabul, Azmizi Azmi; Midfielders: Ahmad Fauzi Saari, Amar Rohidan, Fairuz Montana Zainal Abidin, Khairrulanuar Jamil, Akmal Mohd Noor, Azrul Ahmad, Hazsyafiq Hamzah, Syazwan Zainon, Wan Khairul Faiz Kamaruddin, Azi Shahril Azmi; Forwards: Mohammed Ghaddar, Rizal Ahmad, Shahrizal Saad, Rudie Ramli, Razali Umar Kandasamy. By Devinder Singh Read more: Ghaddar powers Felda United's glory hunt - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/ghaddar-powers-felda-united-s-glory-hunt-1.196200#ixzz2HM1ge0PA
Forces targeting new conquests AMBITIOUS: Martelotto believes team have the potential to battle glamour sides for trophies BRUNO Martelotto is so enamoured with Malaysian football that he wants to have his third child born here and maybe have the youngster play for the country of his birth one day.Armed Forces playmaker Martelotto greatly enjoyed his second stint in Malaysia after helping his team win the Premier League title to earn promotion to the Super League and reach the Malaysia Cup final last year. The Argentine previously won the Malaysia Cup with Petaling Jaya Municipal Council in 2003 and also the Premier League title the following year. Martelotto, 30, is now hungry for more this year, when he will not only welcome a new addition to his family in March, but also help Forces win a major trophy for the first time since the military team's debut in the then Malaya Cup in 1958. "I really like it here, my family is happy and life is good. I've extended my contract for one more year and I believe this year can be much better than last year," said Martelotto after the unveiling of the Forces Super League squad for 2013 at a leading hotel in Shah Alam yesterday. "My wife is seven months pregnant and we want to have this baby boy here. We have already decided a name for him, Gonzalo, you know like the (Real Madrid and Argentina) striker Higuain. "By being born here, who knows maybe one day he can also play for Malaysia," joked Martelotto, whose two other children are six-year-old daughter Candela and two-year-old son Emiliano. But on a more serious note, Martelotto said Forces will be working hard to achieve the target of winning a major trophy set by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday. "We have a strong team even though some players have left. But the new ones make us a stronger team and they are of the same quality. "We can do great and I think this is our time to win a final. Last year we played well but missed some chances and Kelantan are a strong team," said Martelotto, referring to the 3-2 extra-time defeat in the Malaysia Cup final. Tomorrow, Forces kick off their season when they will contest the Charity Shield for the first time at the Shah Alam Stadium against treble winners Kelantan before hosting Singapore's LionsXII in Paroi in their maiden Super League match. Coach B. Sathianathan has new signings Shukor Adan, Affize Faisal Mamat, Nor Fazly Alias, G. Jeevananthan, R. Surendren and S. Thinagaran at his disposal after losing the Radzak twins Aidil Zafuan and Zaquan Adha and left-back Azmi Muslim to moneybags Darul Takzim. Ahmad Zahid witnessed the signing of a sponsorship deal between Forces FA president Tan Sri Gen Zulkifeli Mohd Zin and Italian sportswear Macron's director Azman Mohamad yesterday. "We may be the new kids on the block in the Super League but we are aiming to win one major trophy this year. Personally, I want three but I don't want to put too much pressure on the team. "After the performances of last season, I think winning one major trophy this year is a realistic objective," said Ahmad Zahidi.  Defence Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (second row, centre) to his left is Armed Forces FA president Tan Sri Gen Zulkifeli Mohd Zinand and Macron’s director Azman Mohamad (second row, eight from right) with the Armed Forces team at the signing ceremony in Shah Alam yesterday. Pic by Osman Adnan Read more: Forces targeting new conquests - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/forces-targeting-new-conquests-1.195606#ixzz2HM2uNCHP
Do not underestimate Mandjou KEITA Mandjou gets his first taste of competitive action in over six months when Kelantan look to add the Charity Shield today to their haul of three major trophies from last year. The Guinean striker played no part in Kelantan's 2012 treble success after signing too late from Indian team Pune and his protracted transfer also meant he did not feature in Kelantan's AFC Cup campaign. After kicking his heels for half-a-year, doubts were raised as to whether Mandjou, 33, would be as sharp when he became the Super League top scorer for Perak in 2006 and 2007. Kelantan coach Bojan Hodak, however, believes Mandjou only needs a run of games to recover his deadly form of old and there's no better place to start than at the Shah Alam Stadium today in a re-match of last year's Malaysia Cup final against Armed Forces. "It's true that Mandjou has not played for over six months because of problems with his transfer and the different transfer windows of India and Malaysia. "It will of course have an effect on his performance but he will get better and better. He might be 33-years-old but he has the experience of playing in the US and India and he was top scorer here twice before. "People criticised him for not taking his chances (in friendly matches) but with every goal he scores his confidence will rise. Once he starts scoring, he will become dangerous. "It was the same with Marlon (Alex James) when he joined Forces and people said he was too old. But he then became the best striker in the Malaysia Cup," said Hodak at a pre-match press conference at Wisma FAM in Petaling Jaya yesterday. Hodak claimed Kelantan is under no pressure to repeat their treble success after losing as many as six forwards -- Mohammed Ghaddar, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Nurul Azwan Roya, Azlan Ismail, S. Chanturu and Ramzul Zahini Adenan. But Kelantan are in the unique position of becoming the first team to hold the Malaysia Cup, FA Cup, Super League and Charity Shield at the same time, a feat that the Kedah side which won the treble in 2007 and 2008 did not manage. "We will always try to win but we also need new motivation. Tomorrow (today) we can make history because no team has held all four trophies at the same time. "It will be tough to repeat last season's success especially since we lost six attacking players. A lot of teams have a lot of money and Darul Takzim is practically the Malaysian national team B. "So it will be tougher this year but we'll see how far we can go," said Hodak, who is into his second season as Kelantan coach. The absence of Kelantan's two main goalkeepers Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, who just tied the knot recently, and Shahrizan Ismail (injury), leaves the treble champions light between the posts with only Norhadi Ubaidillah and Syazwan Yusoff available. "We have four goalkeepers and they all need to earn money," said Hodak. "We don't have our number one and number two but I already have in my mind who will be on the pitch tomorrow (today)." Centre-back S. Subramaniam is another who will play no part in the first half of the year as he recuperates from an anterior cruciate ligament operation. By Devinder Singh Read more: Do not underestimate Mandjou - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/do-not-underestimate-mandjou-1.196204#ixzz2HM3mmP1b
ATM FA 2012 Review |
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Post by steamroll on Jan 8, 2013 16:03:14 GMT 8
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Post by steamroll on Jan 9, 2013 1:16:26 GMT 8
Pahang 3-2 Johor Darul Takzim FC: Tok Gajah complete amazing comeback win The star studded Southern Tigers were overpowered by a spirited Pahang side who fought back from two goals down The big spending Johor Darul Takzim FC were quick to live up to the expectations as the strongest team in the Malaysia Super League with attractive short passing football that forced the home side into submission early on. Darul Takzim continued to press the ball and finally broke the deadlock in the 11th minute courtesy of a great work down the left hand side by their Spanish superstar, Dani Guiza. His pinpoint cross found the unmarked skipper Safiq Rahim who headed past the hapless Nasril Nourdin. That goal sent the travelling Darul Takzim fans into raptures. Despite trying to pass the ball around, Pahang fashioned little in the way of attacking pressure. The Southern Tigers doubled their lead soon after through a first class pass by Guiza which found his strike partner, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha who calmly picked his spot. Pahang custodian, Nasril was left dumbfounded by the finish. Whatever that was said in the dressing room by Pahang's experienced coach, Dollah Salleh paid dividends as his charges came out with all guns blazing in the second half. Central midfielder, Faizol Hussien threaded a world class through ball to Fauzi Roslan whose volley was too strong for Al-Hafiz Hamzah. Darul Takzim were stunned by Pahang's first goal. The "Tok Gajah" equalised through a mishap in the complacent Darul Takzim defence which Fauzi Roslan was quick to pounce on. The home crowd went wild. Dollah Salleh's charges completed the amazing comeback in the 82nd minute as Johor's kryptonite, Faizol Hussein yet again turned provider for second half substitute, R.Surendren who stabbed home the winning goal. This result will surely be a blow to the Southern Tigers who were expected to dominate Pahang. The game was there for the taking but a casual performance in the second half, in which the they never seriously tried to extend their lead, cost them dearly. www.goal.com/en-my/match/99770/pahang-fa-vs-kelab-bolasepak-darul-takzim/reportPahang VS Johor Darul Takzim ( 3 - 2 ) - 08.01.13
Selangor 1 - 0 Negeri Sembilan: The Red Giants clinch a narrow victory at home S. Kunanlan came back to haunt his former employers as he scored the only goal of the match for Selangor The home team started well with some neat passes with Amry Yahyah and Shukor Jusoh at the heart of their movements whilst Negeri Sembilan looked more nervous on the ball. However, the visitors were the first to create the first shot on goal in the 7th minute when Emanuel De Porras volleyed the ball from outside the box but Selangor goalkeeper Nor Azlan managed to parry it safely. Selangor then had their first chance when Negeri Sembilan defenders failed to clear the ball and Forkey Doe cleverly turned and striked a shot but was safely caught by Hamsani Ahmad. De Porras continued to trouble the Selangor defenders and they were lucky as De Porras managed to get away from his marker on the 15th minute but could not get his shot right. The home team continued to dominate but wasn't able to break down Rashid and his men. Emanuel De Porras then missed a glorious chance to open the scoring in the 23rd minute. Hamsani's long clearance released Eddy Helmi and the midfielder quickly delivered a cross to the centre but De Porras, unmarked, failed to tap the ball into the net. The Red Giants then had a chance to open their accounts on the 33rd minute but defender Ramez Dayoub could not get his header towards the goal from Amri's corner kick. Just before half time, De Porras again tested Nor Azlan. This time he managed to meet Eddy's crossed with Mahali and Ramez were caught ball watching as De Porras headed towards the goal, but Nor Azlan managed to safely catch the ball. Negeri Sembilan started the second half brightly, but Shahrul Ain and De Porras failed to convert their chances into goals inside the first 5 minutes in the second half. Eddy Helmy again created another chance for Negeri Sembilan in the 58th minute with his runs from the midfield and his pass released Shahrul Ain but the midfielder's shot was easly caught by Nor Azlan. Despite looking more dangerous, the visitors fell behind in the 68th minute when former Neger Sembilan player, S.Kunanlan scored after some defensive lapse inside the penalty box. Forkey Doe lobbed the ball over the Negeri Sembilan's defence for Amri who then sent the ball to the middle and S.Kunanlan managed to connect with the ball and beaten the goalkeeper. Negeri Sembilan tried to reply back quickly but De Porras once again screwed his shot over the bar. Modibo then had another chance to equalise but his header was straight to the goalkeeper. Selangor failed to add another goal in the 85th minute when Kunanlan fired a shot from Mahali's crossed but it hit their team mate, Forkey Doe. The Red Giants kept pressing for second goal but Kunanlan's second half strike was enough to give them their first three points of the season. www.goal.com/en-my/match/99754/selangor-fa-vs-negeri-sembilan-fa/report
Perak 1-0 T-Team: Late goal gives Seladangs the victory The Seladangs edged out as 1-0 victors against T-Team after an own goal from Mazlizam allowed them to earn 3 points from a tight affair in Lumut The first half was entirely a scrappy affair. Both sides opted for a cautious game early on and often struggled to make an impact in the final third. However, the Seladangs dominated proceedings in midfield in the first few minutes. M. Sivakumar springing several nice passes around with George Boateng working equally hard in midfield for the Titans. The first opportunity though came in the 10th minute as Rafiuddin Roddin was released down the left flank for Perak. The former Harimau Muda midfielder surged forward and curled in a cross into the box, which however failed to find the lurking Abdul Hadi Yahya. 15 minutes later, some good play for Caleb Folan saw him tee up Fazuan Abdullah and he unleashed a shot from 25 yards out, only to see it fly high off the bar. Then Abdul Hadi Yahya showed great tenacity to go pass several defenders before firing a shot. However, it went well wide off the post. The momentum continued for the rest of the first half, with both chances struggling to maintain possession. The score was 0-0 as they went into the break. After the break, T-Team came out the more determined side as they seized control of possession. Nazri Kamal was brought on for Rafiuddin in the 56th minute and he almost made an instant impact with shot from the edge of the box, but it was saved well by the T-Team man in between the sticks. In the 67th minute, Nazri Kamal placed a perfectly threaded through pass to Hadi Yahya, and the former Terengganu man took a step to his right before firing a powerful drive. However, it was yet again saved by the T-Team goalkeeper. By this point, T-Team were struggling to get the ball to Caleb Folan, who looked an isolated figure upfront. Yong Kuong Yong used his pace to get the ball down the right flank before putting one into the six yard area. Unfortunately for them, it found no one. Mazlizam then tried to find George Boateng inside the Perak penalty box, but to no avail yet again. Minutes later, the former Dutch international fired a shot from just outside the penalty area but it sailed wide as well. Hadi Yahya then yet again forced a shot from inside the box, but just as the goalkeeper Amirul had frustration throughout the match, he produced yet another save to keep T-Team in the game. However the turning point came in injury time as a perfectly executed corner kick from Nazri Kamal saw Rafael Novais' header was deflected Mazlizam to give Perak and emphatic win over Peter Butler's men. www.goal.com/en-my/match/99752/perak-fa-vs-t-team-fc/report
ATM FA - LionsXII Preview: Revenge mission for Sundram's boys The new and youthful LionsXII side will look to exorcise the ghosts of their Malaysia Cup 2012 exit when they take on the newly-promoted side on Wednesday evening. A brand new season of Malaysia Super League [MSL] action beckons for the LionsXII as they venture into their second dose of footballing adventures across the Causeway. Their previous campaign saw them exceeding their targets to finish second in the table behind eventual champions Kelantan FA but this time round, it will be a tougher hill to climb. The Football Association of Singapore [FAS] has adopted an Under-23 policy for the team with only five 'over-age' players included, as part of preparations for the nation's upcoming SEA Games campaign at the end of the year. After several days of negotiations with the FAS, the key duo of Baihakki Khaizan and Shahril Ishak are confirmed to be staying with the side - a definite boost to coach V. Sundramoorthy's hopes of doing well in this season opener. Both players should start this game bar any last-minute injuries, but Bai's fine partnership at the back with Safuwan Baharudin will be disrupted, as the latter will not be available due to National Service [NS] commitments. Shakir Hamzah will likely deputise for him at centreback, with new boy Faritz Hameed coming in at right-back. Apart from Safuwan, defender Madhu Mohana, midfielders Aqhari Abdullah and Faris Ramli, forward Shahfiq Ghani and reserve goalkeeper Syed Sufiyan are all ruled out due to NS as well. In addition, the influential Hariss Harun and forward Khairul Nizam will be absent due to long-term injuries. Meanwhile, skipper Shahril will be the key creative outlet with the departure of Shahdan Sulaiman. He should be flanked by the speedy duo of Safirul Sulaiman and Gabriel Quak, with the latter set to make his MSL debut as well. Without the presence of Agu Casmir and Khairul Amri, the goalscoring responsibility now falls heavily on the shoulders of new forward Fazrul Nawaz, who will have Khairul Nizam as his deputy. After an impressive AFF Suzuki Cup with the national team, Isa Halim will play an important role in this game - protecting the back four with his combativeness while mentoring Hafiz Sujad, another new addition, in the middle of the park. Similarly for their opponents ATM FA, losing Malaysian internationals in the form of the Zaquan brothers and Azmi Muslim to Johor Darul Takzim is no small blow. However, B. Sathianathan's side seem keen to prove their doubters wrong, judging from the way they started their season. Showing superb recovery skills to bounce back from a 0-1 deficit to draw level against Kelantan in the Charity Shield and subsequently winning on penalties, they will be coming into this tie full of confidence, although they could be slightly jaded. Midfielder Fainizam Nordin is picked up an injury in that affair but should be fit to start, although Sathianathan could throw in the speedy Christie Jayaseelan in the starting eleven if the former doesn't make it. Upfront, the charismastic Marlon James is still yet to regain full fitness as he recovers from a knee injury, with indications that R Surendran will start ahead of him. The physical presence of the St Vincent's and Grenadines attacker will be sorely missed, after his last-minute exploits destroyed the LionsXII's hopes of reaching the Malaysia Cup final last season. With captain Hairuddin Omar starting in attack as well and Bruno Martelotto providing the ammunition from midfield, it could prove to be a long 90 minutes ahead for Sundram's youthful boys. www.goal.com/en-my/match/99757/atm-fa-vs-lionsxii/preview |
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Post by steamroll on Jan 9, 2013 5:25:15 GMT 8
Malaysian Club Jerseys and Merchandises Malay Direct www.malayadirect.com.my/ BumiBola bumibola.com  BumiBola Group BumiBola.com is part of the BumiBola Group of companies. Our website allows fans from all over the world to view and purchase football related merchandises at reasonable prices. Our main focus is to help the growth of the local football industry. Our Mission: Let’s Achieve Malaysian Football’s Full Potential, Both On and Off the Field. The BumiBola Group includes the following: BumiBola Sports Sdn Bhd BumiBola.com BumiBola Agency Sdn Bhd (coming soon) BumiBola Sports BumiBola Sports specialises in assisting sports related entities achieve their full commercial and brand potential. In the ever-evolving world of competitive sports, financial stability and effective image/brand development is essential to stay ahead of the competition both on and off the field of play. Our consultants have experiences in both local and international clients. Collectively our team is able to offer you all types and levels of consultancy service. Our consultants have had experience in the following: Organising an International level football match Organising a premier club vs club match Organising an international football tournament Assist club sides to obtain new sponsorship Assist club sides to improve media visibility Organising FIFA endorsed futsal tournaments International player scouting International player contract negotiations and signing To learn more about our services, please get in touch with one of our Consultants at contactus@BumiBola.com BumiBola.com BumiBola.com aims to be part of the Football Revival in Malaysia. After so many years being in the darkness, our local football has started showing signs of improvements. From the continued success of our national team, to the arrival of so many promising young Malaysian players, to the improvements in our Malaysian leagues, this is a very exciting time for Malaysian football. BumiBola.com aims to be a one stop shop for all your Malaysian Football needs. All our products are 100% authentic, therefore all purchases would benefit your favourite local teams. At the moment, BumiBola.com is a fully online based business but we aim to set up our store soon. In the meantime, we will be setting up temporary booths. Stay tuned for locations. Do not forget to Like our Facebook page www.facebook.com/bumibola and follow us on our soon to be launched Twitter page!
"The fans were brilliant," - Farizal Marlias praises Seladangs faithful The shot-stopper thanked the Perak fans, who mostly flocked in numbers to the Lumut Stadium, all the way from Ipoh Perak FA goalkeeper Farizal Marlias has heaped praises on the fans for their unrivalled support as the Seladangs opened their Super League season with a last-gaspt victory over T-Team on Tuesday. Perak have shifted their home base to the Lumut Stadiu, temporarily, with the Ipoh Stadium floodlights not being approved with regards to the FAM criteria. This however, failed to deter many of the Perak fans, who still flocked in numbers into the Lumut stadium all the way from Ipoh. And Farizal Marlias was evidently delighted with the passion shown by the fans. "I would like to thank the fans for their unwavering support towards us. I understand that most of them are from Ipoh and its not near for them to come. But they did and that shows how much passion they have for the team," he told reporters after the game. As for the game itself, both sides lacked tenacity upfront, as it often evolved into a scrappy affair in midfield. Despite the game looked destined to head towards a stalemate, Perak managed to secure a last-gasp victory, courtesy of an own goal. "I thought we didn't play quite well today but I'm happy to just take the victory an all three points. Hopefully we can continue to improve in future matches." Perak's new foreign signing Rafael Novais made his official debut in this match and was impressive at the heart of defence alongside Shahrom Kalam. Additionally, it was his initial header that was deflected onto Mazlizam and subsequently into the goal to give Perak a dramatic injury time victory. "I thought Rafael did well infront of me today. Alongside Shahrom, they performed well and managed to stop the threat of Caleb Folan from the T-Team side." www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/09/3658095/the-fans-were-brilliant-farizal-marlias-praises-seladangs
Azraai Khor delighted with late victory over T-Team The Perak head coach was visibly satisfied with the win, despite admitting that his charges weren't up to the level against the Titans  Perak and T-Team pretty much contested a scrappy affair in Lumut but the home side managed to edge out as 1-0 victors, after a late own goal from Mazlizam Mohamad gave them all three points. The Seladangs struggled to impress throughout the game, as they lacked a focal point upfront but nonetheless, Azraai Khor Abdullah was more than satisfied with the win. "I'm really grateful for the win and I think my boys somehow deserved it. I have to admit, we did not play at a level we should be playing, but to kick start the season with three points is more than enough for me," he told reporters after the game. "We lacked tempo in midfield, I have to admit. But T-Team are a good team as well, so you've got to give them credit as well." While T-Team pretty much started with a strong team, with the exception of inspirational defender Marzuki Yusof, Perak were missing several big name players in their line-up. S. Chanturu, V. Thirumurugan, skipper Shahrulnizam and forward Karim Rouani are all nursing injuries and could not make it for this one. "Again I say, we did not play very well but this was mainly due to the injuries suffered by our key players. Shahrulnizam is out with an ankle injury, Chanturu as well. "We are definitely a better team with all this players. So with three points in the bag, lets hope we can build on from this and perform better in the upcoming matches." Perak will next face star studded side Johor Darul Takzim at the Larkin Stadium this Friday. www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/09/3658053/azraai-khor-delighted-with-late-victory-over-t-team
Kelantan - PKNS FC Preview: Warriors hunt for full points Defending champions Kelantan will be looking to collect all three points when they welcome PKNS FC to Kota Bharu today Following their disappointment of losing to ATM in the Charity Shield match on Saturday, last season’s treble winners Kelantan will be desperate to bounce straight back against PKNS FC in their first match of the new Malaysian Super League (MSL) season tonight. Both coaches will have their full squads to choose from for the game. Kelantan are set to welcome first choice goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat back into the fold after he gave the Charity Shield match a miss, while PKNS coach Abdul Rahman Ibrahim reportedly has no worries on the injury front. The Red Warriors’ coach Bojan Hodak is expected to revert back to his favoured 4-4-2 formation after their less than impressive outing against ATM. The Croatian however, is likely to keep faith with Guinean Keita Mandjou to lead the attack despite his lackluster performance the last time out. Abdul Rahman on the other hand, can rely on former Sime Darby FC’s lead striker Patrick Ronaldinho Wleh to cause Kelantan’s new-look back-line some trouble. Expect Tunisian-French midfielder Helmi Loussaief to provide him with the ammunition upfront. The match is set for an 8.45pm kick-off, at the Sultan Muhammad IV Stadium in Kota Bharu. DID YOU KNOW? * Kelantan never lost a single match in all competitions at home in 2012. * Interestingly, the Red Warriors started their home campaign last year against tonight’s opponents as well. That match ended in a 1-1 draw. * Both the scorers that day, Badri Radzi (Kelantan) and Fauzan Dzulkifli (PKNS) are still with their respective teams. * PKNS FC won the Malaysian Premier League (MPL) in 2011. * The club finished a respectable 7th in their debut season in the MSL last year.
Hodak: Darul Takzim are title favourites Kelantan coach Bojan Hodak believes big-spending Darul Takzim are favourites to win the Malaysia Super League this season. By Gabriel Tan Kelantan get their campaign underway on Wednesday with a home game against PKNS FC, where they will be looking to get their title defence off to a winning start. 2012 was a year to remember for Hodak and his charges and they became only the second team in Malaysian football to claim the domestic treble, winning the league, Malaysia Cup and FA Cup. However, they are expected to face much sterner competition this season with the likes of Darul Takzim and ATM, who both have not been afraid to splash the cash in recent years, joining a list of challengers that already includes Selangor, LIONSXII and Terengganu. But Hodak firmly believes it is Fandi Ahmad's charges - who were known as Johor FC last year - that will pose the biggest threat, although he admitted there were other sides capable of ruining his team's bid to retain the title. "The number one favourites this season are Johor [Darul Takzim]," he told ESPNSTAR.com. "If you look at them on paper, they have the whole Malaysia national team plus two very good foreign imports. "But the names don't play a part once you're on the pitch - they will also need to work hard. It [being favourites] might actually also put pressure on them because everyone will be out to prove something against them." "Apart from Johor [Darul Takzim], ATM are also a good and hardworking side, while Selangor have signed many players and they are historically a strong team. "LIONSXII will also be thereabouts and I believe Terengganu are still a good side. They haven't lost too many players from last season and I think they can still challenge. "It will be tough for us this year. Last year we won three trophies and we're aware everyone will try to beat us this season. "But that's part of football and it's up to us to show we're still a good team." The Red Warriors will have to do without two key players from their treble-winning run after Malaysia international Norshahrul Idlan Talaha and winger Nurul Azwan Roya both left to join Darul Takzim. In their place, former T-Team star duo Zairo Anuar Zalani and Faiz Subri have arrived at the Sultan Mohammad IV Stadium, along with ex-Perak anchorman K. Nanthakumar and Haris Safwan, who was part of the Johor FC squad last term. Although he expects his new additions to play their part, Hodak is also optimistic a number of young players can step up and establish themselves as part of the next generation at Kelantan. "We've lost five to six players since last season - most of whom are attacking players," he revealed. "Maybe this means we have to change our style of play but overall we still have lots of good players. "Zairo is a good player. He and Nantha[kumar] will provide a lot of depth in our midfield. We will have a lot of matches to play, especially with the AFC Cup, and it's important we have enough players to cope with these commitments. "Unfortunately, Faiz came to us injured - He had a problem from last season when he was at T-Team and it wasn't properly treated. We have also brought in Haris Safwan, who has plenty of experience. "But hopefully we'll also see some of the young guys develop and play a role for the first team. Kelantan have a long history of grooming and nurturing young players and it's important to keep that tradition." And while he admitted his side will face plenty of competition for silverware in 2013, he believes they still retain one big advantage - their impressive when playing at home - something he wants to make the most of, starting on Wednesday against the Red Ants. "This season there are only 12 clubs in the league," Hodak explained. "With only 22 games now, every goal and point is very important. "Getting the season off to a good start is always important. Plus, we'll be playing at home [against PKNS], where we are always favourites. "We have a great record at home and we never lose. Like we have done in the past, we must win on Wednesday." Following their game against PKNS, Kelantan will travel to the Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium on Saturday to take on T-Team, who are currently coached by Hodak's predecessor Peter Butler. www.espnstar.com/football/m-league/news/detail/item917442/Hodak:-Darul-Takzim-are-title-favourites/
Quak ready to forget 12 months of misery There was a sense of déjà vu at the Jalan Besar Stadium last Sunday as the LIONSXII squad for the 2013 Malaysia Super League season was unveiled. By Gabriel Tan Just 12 months earlier, there was a similar sense of excitement and expectation when the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) announced the 28-man squad for LIONSXII's maiden campaign in Malaysian football. V. Sundramoorthy's impressed all and sundry en route to a runners-up finish in the league, before reaching the semi-finals of the Malaysia Cup, where they were agonisingly eliminated by ATM on penalties. But as the likes of Shahdan Sulaiman, Sufian Anuar and Irwan Shah basked in the limelight and established themselves as the newest household names in the country, Gabriel Quak, who had been handed the number seven jersey at the inaugural unveiling, could only watch on in envy and frustration as National Service (NS) commitments meant he failed to play even once for the side. Having been named as one of Singapore's rising stars after an impressive showing at the 2011 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, the 22-year-old admits it was difficult not to feel sorry for himself as he watched his counterparts thrill the Jalan Besar Stadium faithful week after week. "I wasn't just disappointed that I didn't play for the team," he told ESPNSTAR.com. "In fact, I think I managed to train only twice throughout the whole year. "Around the same time last year, there was also the unveiling and all the hype accompanying our debut season. When I realised I couldn't play at all, it was really devastating. "I was in camp all the time following the news and all. Every time I would be watching their games and just wishing I was part of it." Since then, Quak has completed his NS stint and was once again revealed as the LIONSXII's number seven for the coming campaign. And no obstacles in his path this time, he has vowed to make the most of his second opportunity and put the disappointment of 2012 behind him. "Obviously I'm looking forward because I was with the team last year as well but couldn't play because of NS issues," he added. "Now that everything is cleared, I'm really looking forward and solely focusing on this. "Now that this year has come I just want to give my best and hope to be playing and winning." Of the 29 men named in this year's LIONSXII squad, only 12 turned out for the side last year and Sundramoorthy has already confirmed his main focus in the coming season will be to nurture his young players ahead of the year-end SEA Games. Understandably, the skillful winger was not keen on comparing the current crop with their predecessors, although he believes the new emphasis on youth development should not stop them from targeting success. "People may compare last year's team with this year's," Quak said. "But I think they're totally different. "You cannot take away the good things the team did last year - they had to come with many factors being a new team. "No one really knew what to expect and they really did well to finish second in the league. Although we have a younger team this year, I really hope we can achieve what they did last year or even do better. "Many say we now have a developmental squad and that can be the aim, but once the season starts you start to aim higher if you achieve good results. Like last year, the aim was to finish in the top five but we ended up challenging for the title." With only Shahril Ishak, Baihakki Khaizan, Isa Halim, Fazrul Nawaz and Irwan Shah over the age of 23, many believe a large portion of the Singapore squad for the 2013 SEA Games will come from the LIONSXII. Quak is no stranger to the biennial meet, having played at the 2009 and 2011 editions, and believes playing in front of hostile crowds in the Super League this season will stand him and his counterparts in good stead for the tournament, just like it did for the senior side in their recent 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup triumph. "For me, this year will be the last I'm eligible [for the Games] as I turn 23," the ex-Courts Young Lions star revealed. "I think the squad for this year's SEA Games is looking very good. "You can see with Singapore's Suzuki Cup victory, most of the players agreed the experience in the Malaysia Cup helped them. "The crowd always plays a part at the SEA Games and playing in Malaysia can help us. Even a few days back in Pahang, we were just playing a friendly but the atmosphere was really good. "It can help us manage ourselves and learn to react to a new environment. Footballers all want to play in front of big crowds." Sundramoorthy's side get their campaign underway on Wednesday when they take on ATM, who beat Kelantan at the weekend to win the Charity Shield. And after patiently biding his time for 12 months, Quak could just finally make his LIONSXII debut at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium. www.espnstar.com/football/m-league/news/detail/item917472/Quak-ready-to-forget-12-months-of-misery/
Merzagua: Penang a work in progress sports247.my  COACH Merzagua Abderazzak described Penang as a work in progress after watching his charges hold Hong Kong Division One side Sun Pegasus FC to a goalless draw at the City Stadium last night. Sun Pegasus, who finished runners-up in the Hong Kong top flight last year, played with 10 men after striker Vladimir Karalic was sent off in the 40th minute for collecting two yellow cards. The third-tier FAM Cup outfit Penang should have taken the lead immediately after Karalic’s sacking but both Zulhadi Zulkefli and Elias Sulaiman muffed golden opportunities. Pegasus, who used seven import players in the match, came out stronger in the second half but were let down by their misfiring forwards, who let the all-local Penang line-up off the hook. The home side only had one scoring chance in the second half, with striker Mohd Baser Napae beating the Pegasus goalkeeper Li Jian with a shot that rolled across the goalline before being cleared. “Although I wish we could have turned the draw into a win, I am happy with the players’ performance. “There was a marked improvement in their confidence and ball possession. The players have only trained together for about a month and there is still much room for improvement,” said Merzagua. It was Penang’s first draw in five friendlies. The islanders won once (against Perak) and lost the other three games (against Perlis, Kelantan and NS Betaria). Penang, who begin their 2013 campaign with an FA Cup match against Police on Jan 25, will next play a friendly against the Penang President’s Cup (Under-20) side. The Moroccan coach added: “All our friendlies thus far had been against higher-ranked and tough opponents. “After this, I would like to see how the Penang players fare against weaker opponents. I want them to maintain their performance level regardless of the opposition.” www.sports247.my/2013/01/merzagua-penang-a-work-in-progress/ |
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Post by steamroll on Jan 9, 2013 9:03:26 GMT 8
Another team join the fray KEDAH football fans now have the chance to cheer another state team in the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) organised national competition this year. This prospect of an alternative choice comes about with the advent of Kedah United who are hoping to become a new force in the state in time to come. The team is an off-shoot of the Kedah Malays FA and they have been formally accepted by the national body to participate in the FAM Cup competition, the lowest tier of league competition this year. The Super League and Premier league are the top two major competitions. A 31-strong squad which includes five contract players have been registered with FAM. The five are former Kedah Super League players Hasmawi Hassan, Shariman Che Omar, Mohd Rozaidi Rahim, Rezuan Mohd Radzy and Phul Sakh Lom. They signed a one-year contract with the team. The team is coached by former national players Mohamad Ramlee, Roshidi Shaari and Zulkifli Mahmud. They conduct their training sessions at the MADA grounds in Ampang Jajar on Monday and Wednesday and at the Istana Anak Bukit ground on other days. Team manager Mohd Shakri Mat said that Kedah United will be officially launched on Jan 12 at a simple ceremony to be held at Mentaloon, the official residence of the Kedah Menteri Besar. He said that most of the players in the squad have experience playing in the Presidents Cup, Sultans Gold Cup or Super League competitions. Some of them have been dropped from the state squad and some are up-and-coming players who need to be given a lifeline to continue their career in the state. Otherwise they will just disappear into oblivion from the soccer scene. The 10-team FAM league competition is expected to start on January 28. The teams are: Tumpat FC (Kel), Ceebago FC (Sabah), Kuantan FC and Shazan Muda FC (Pahang), Beta Ria (Nse), Angkatan Tentera Darat (ATD), Penang Bekalan Air FC, Penang FA, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and Kedah United. The teams would be involved in a home and away format in the league competition. Stadium Darulaman will be Kedah United’s home ground and all the matches will be played at 8.45pm. The Kedah United squad are as follow: Mohd Sheril Anuar Saini, Phul Sakh Lom, Mohd Nizat Salleh, Mohd Hisham Mohd Shofi, Rezuan Mohd Radzy, Mohd Rozaidi Rahim, Ku Nazri Azuan Azizan, Anond Chim, Nur Qusyairi Chik, Ahmad Nadzmil Abdillah Ahmad Nadzri, Mohd Nizam Mansor, Mohd Azhar Arbi Radzuan, Mohd Akmal Faiz Ratim, Rafiz Abu Bakar, Mohd Hazwan Zainun, Mohd Shukri Fdzil, Mohd Aminuddin Azmi, Shariman Che Omar, Muammar Nur Halim Rahim, Mohd Arfan Rashid, Mohd Khidir Ahmad Muzafara, Abdul Shukur Abdul Malek, Hasmawi Hassan, Mohd Ivaan Hakimi Abdullah, Mohd Arif Azizan, Shahnol Ahmad, Mohd Fadzil Mustafa, Shamsuri Azis, Mohd Khairul Syafiq Mohd Khairi, Mohd Shazrul Mohd Ashraf Mathews and Mohd Fahmi Zakaria. Officials: Mohd Shakri Mat (manager), Mohamad Ramlee (chief coach), Roshidi Shaari and Zulkipli Mahmud (assistant coaches), Wan Mohd Ruzaimi Che Rus (keepers coach), Nik Mohd Nor Azam Aziz (physio), Mohd Salleh Ismail (kitman), Badrul Hisham Mohd Redzuan (media officer), Mohd Rizal Nordin (liaison officer) and Abu Hamid (security). thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=%2F2013%2F1%2F5%2Fnorth%2F12532354&sec=north Full name Kedah United Nickname(s) The Paddy Boys, The Paddy, The Red and Blacks Founded 2012 Ground Darul Aman Stadium, Alor Star Kedah, Malaysia (capacity: 32,387) Owner Pan Empresa Sdn Bhd (PESB) Chairman Syamsul Ghozi Dato' Haji Ahmad Manager Muhamad Shakri Mat Coach Mohamad Ramlee League Malaysia FAM League Kedah United are a Malaysian football team based in the city of Alor Setar representing the state of Kedah, Malaysia. Newly founded in 2012, the team was registered under the name of the Kedah Malays Football Association (Malay: Persatuan Bolasepak Melayu Kedah Darul Aman). The team is currently listed to play in the third-tier football league in Malaysia, the Malaysia FAM League. They will play at the Darul Aman Stadium which is also situated in Alor Setar. Kedah United managed by a private company, Pan Empresa Sdn Bhd Pan led by a Chief Executive Officer en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kedah_United
Subahan: Give us a break By VIJHAY VICK  From left: FAM general secretary Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad, Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal and Datuk K Rajagobal. NATIONAL team manager Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal believes the excitement surrounding Malaysian football was the cause the furore after the Harimau Malaya exited the AFF Suzuki Cup semifinals last month. So much to the extent that every Tom, and Harry or even Sally had something to say regarding the national football team – mostly criticism. Subahan, who is also FA of Malaysia (FAM) vice-president, hopes that there will be an end to it to allow the national team to focus on the arduous task of navigating the 2015 Asian Games qualifiers, which begin next month. “For comment, only those who are credible or have standing should matter, not some historian talking about football,” said Subahan. “We (national team set-up) do not have any personal agenda. We want to do the best for Malaysia. People are excited about football once again but certain expectations are too high. What is most important is consistency, that is, constantly making the semifinals in the SEA Games and AFF Suzuki Cup.” Malaysia kick off their Asian Games qualifiers away to Qatar on Feb 6 before playing Yemen at home on March 22 while they will play Bahrain in KL on Oct 15. The return fixtures will be played in November and March next year. Harimau Malaya had previously placed hopes of qualifying for the Asian Games but were realistic today as Subahan and national coach Datuk K. Rajagobal conceded that it would be no easy task. “It is a different level for sure; I think the gap is so big. We have lost to regional teams but have held the much fancied Middle Eastern countries in the past. “Let’s see where we stand against these teams. We do not fear them and you never know; if given the chance, we may even spring a surprise or two,” Subahan added. He added that FAM had written to several countries including Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea and Kuwait requesting to play friendlies but most of them have yet to confirm. The national team will be called up on Jan 26 before leaving for Dubai to play Iraq on Feb 1. The match will serve as a preparation for the qualifier against Qatar five days later. Fixtures 2015 Asian Games qualifiers Feb 6: Qatar (A) March 22: Yemen (H) Oct 15: Bahrain (H) Nov 15: Bahrain (A) Nov 19: Qatar (H) March 5, 2014: Yemen (A) Friendlies (* indicates confirmed matches) Feb 1: Iraq (Dubai)* March 17: Oman (H) June 7: Thailand (H) June 11: Jordan (H) June 18: China (A) Aug 14: Taiwan (A) Sept 6: Uzbekistan (A)* Sept 10: India (A)* Oct 10: South Korea (A) www.sports247.my/2013/01/give-us-a-break-subahan-tells-critics/ |
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Post by steamroll on Jan 9, 2013 22:37:11 GMT 8
Titans Given Back (SM Kompleks Seberang Takir)
Dollah Salleh: Our local players performed better than import playersThe Pahang head coach has praised his local players for turning the game and helping stage a phenomenal comeback against Johor Darul Takzim Pahang's local players got special praise from their coach Dollah Salleh after his boys beat star-studded Johor Darul Takzim. Dollah admits that his local players affected the game more than their import players after they beat this season's favourite Johor Darul Takzim. For example, Fauzi Roslan was one of the stars of the night and Dollah has praised him for a clinical performance in which he scored two goals for Pahang. "I can not deny the fact that our local players had done better than our import players for that match. Yes we did use our two import players, but after half time, they didn't really get going and the PBNP president (Tengku Muda Tengku Abdul Rahman) suggested that we should put our local players on." For that, it has changed the game and they managed to won the game 3-2. However, Dollah still wants improvement with his team's performance, especially in defense. www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/09/3659874/dollah-salleh-our-local-players-performed-better-than-import
Annuar urges Mat Yo to pay his debt to KAFAKAFA President, Tan Sri Annuar Musa wants national striker Norshahrul Idlan Talaha to settle his debts to KAFA, which are reported to be around RM1 million Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, better known as Mat Yo, has to pay his debt, which is believed to be more than RM1 million, in order to solve all the problems between him and the KAFA according to Tan Sri Annuar Musa. The president of KAFA spoke to Kosmo and revealed that the amount considers factors including contract termination, transfer fee and loan fee as well as various incentives given by the association. According to him, Norshahrul terminated his contract with Kelantan on the 1st of November, 13 months before his contract was due to end. He also added that there is no political issues regarding this matter. "Our player transferred to another club, there must be a transfer fee, and when he terminates his contract, there must be a compensation. And before he moved to his new club, he has to get transfer certificates. The whole world knows that. "For Norshahrul's case, there are two issues regarding his transfer and contract termination. We already made our research and the FAM committee has made the decision that he can transfer because we did not go against it, but we have to defend our rights including the transfer fee and everything." Annuar also said that his contract termination is worth more than RM300,000 and his transfer fee, as set by FAM, is RM250,000. "Is it the RM250,000 that Norshahrul wants to pay as transfer fee is enough? Of course it is absolutely not right. "There is no argument that Norshahrul is the only player that won the MVP award for three years in a row, a national striker and someone who still has a contract with his old team, is worth more than RM250,000. Annuar also said that KAFA received a bank draft from Norshahrul's lawyer worth RM250,000, but they are still in doubt what are the payments for. They are still waiting for answer from him. "To my understandings, every player who wants to move to a new club and plays for his new team must have "Sijil Perpindahan Negeri" (SPN), and in this case, no one from Norshahrul's side has come and get the certificates." www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/09/3659892/annuar-urges-mat-yo-to-pay-his-debt-to-kafa
ATM 0-1 LionsXII: Shahril Ishak gets visitors off to winning start The LionsXII managed to hang on to Shahril Ishak's goal and avenged their FA Cup exit to ATM last season with a 1-0 victory in the first match of the MSL 2013 campaign LionsXII managed to nick a 1-0 win over ATM FA at the Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman in their opening match of the 2013 Malaysia Super League [MSL] on Wednesday evening. Fielding a relatively new-look squad, the visitors' young squad was put under pressure from the start. As early as the first minute, Shukor Adan's bullet header towards the top corner was superbly saved by Izwan Mahbud. LionsXII captain Shahril Ishak then went on a bamboozling run down the right to create time and space for himself, but unfortunately his low shot was parried away by Mohammad Farizal. ATM continued to push forward, with Marlon James leading the line. The forward first stung Izwan’s hand with a powerful drive in the 20th minute before the best chance of the first-half fell to him when he timed his run to get behind LionsXII defender Shakir Hamzah. Unfortunately, the 36-year-old thumped his effort into the side-netting. LionsXII were given a scare right after the restart when ATM’s skipper Hairuddin Omar cushioned the ball with his chest before volleying it against the crossbar. In the 54th minute, James continued his profligate performance as he failed to connect with a Bruno Martelotto cross from three yards out. The LionsXII were still unable to muster meaningful attacks and were most dangerous from set-pieces, with a 58th minute corner that lead to Fazrul Nawaz's goal-bound shot being cleared off the line. The visitors then went head against the run of play in the 66th minute through Shahril. A corner fell to Shakir, who fired the ball in that Farizal could only manage to palm into Shahril’s path, leaving him with an easy finish to put the LionsXII 1-0 up. It was a nervy last ten minutes for the LionsXII as Izwan then had to make a few crucial saves, including keeping out a flick from Hairuddin in the 82th minute. LionsXII nearly got a second when ATM poured forward in search of an equaliser deep in injury time, but Irwan Shah could only direct his shot wide after being put through by Shahril. However, his miss did not matter as the LionsXII held on to their lead and a first victory in the 2013 MSL season. www.goal.com/en-my/match/99757/atm-fa-vs-lionsxii/report |
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Post by steamroll on Jan 10, 2013 8:29:31 GMT 8
A tale of two champions sports247.my  PKNS’ Partrich Ronaldinho (left) is challenged by a Kelantan player during their match. DEFENDING CHAMPIONS Kelantan got their Super League campaign off to a dramatic start as the treble winners needed a goal in the dying minutes to defeat PKNS tonight. This was a stark difference to the Premier League champions Armed Forces as they went down battling 1-0 to Lions XII at the Paroi Stadium. The Singaporean development side took three points after skipper Shahril Ishak scored in the 66th minute. The goal came after Armed Forces’ tops corer Marlon Alex James squandered numerous chances and was even substituted late into the game as they sought a goal. Meanwhile, at the Sultan Mahmud Stadium, it was PKNS who drew first blood as Helmi Remeli put them ahead in the 15th minute. However, their lead only lasted four minutes as Kelantan skipper Badhri Radri equalised in the 19th minute. It seemed that it was going to a draw but Zairul Fitri ensured it was all celebration for the Red Warriors with a late goal. www.sports247.my/2013/01/a-tale-of-two-champions/
Earn your place, Dollah tells foreign duo By RIZAL ABDULLAH PAHANG’s foreign duo of Mohamed Borji (Morroco) and Nikolche Klechkaroski (Macedonia) will have to fight for their place in the first team, warned coach Dollah Salleh. “They will have to show me that they are worth playing in the first team. If they are unable to do that, there is a great possibility that I will start with the second half line-up that played against Johor Darul Takzim,” Dollah told sports247.my. The former international replaced Borji and Klechkaroski in the second half which saw Pahang come from behind to snatch a dramatic 3-2 win over the favourites in their opening Super League match at the Darul Makmur Stadium in Kuantan last night. Johor Darul Takzim raced to a 2-0 lead by the 25th minute with goals by national players Safiq Rahim (11th) and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha. Pahang, however, were a transformed side after the break and scored a brace by Fauzi Rozlan (50th and 72nd) before R. Surendran hit the winner in the 83rd minute. “We were certainly the better side after the changes for the second half. And there is every likelihood that I will maintain the line-up to start in our next match. But it all depends. “The season has just started and one match is no yardstick to gauge our capabilities. However, everyone will have to be on his toes. The team will be picked on merit,” added Dollah. www.sports247.my/2013/01/earn-your-place-dollah-tells-foreign-duo/
New Selangor signings a boon, says skipper By VIJHAY VICK Asraruddin Putra Omar SELANGOR’S new signings have the backing of newly installed skipper Asraruddin Putra Omar. Asraruddin, who assumed the captain’s role after Safiq Rahim joined Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim’s Johor Darul Takzim project, believes the new signings have added dimension to the team. The 24-year-old defender, himself a versatile player, was integral in Selangor’s 1-0 win over Negri Sembilan as he kept the much quicker foreign forward Emmanuel Deporas at bay. “Utility is our strength. We have a good combination of players with several players able to be deployed in a couple of positions. “I am comfortable playing in the central defence despite playing most of last year on the left. In 2011, I was playing regularly in the centre so it’s no issue,” said Asraruddin, when asked if he found it easy playing in the centre. It was another versatile player who earned the three points as S. Kunanlan scored in the 68th minute against his former side. Kunanlan, who plays for Malaysia on the left flank, was in that position in the first half before switching to the right in the second half. Kunanlan played regularly as rightback for Negri Sembilan over the years despite impressing on the left flank for Harimau Muda. “I’m proud to score against my old team but I wasn’t thinking about it ahead of the match. It is my luck that I scored,” said Kunanlan, who is not known for his goalscoring ability. “I enjoy playing the attacking role but I’m not quite there yet as to performance. There is a lot more to improve but right now we have to keep our momentum going.” www.sports247.my/2013/01/new-selangor-signings-a-boon-says-skipper/
Dollah not getting carried away By RIZAL ABDULLAH Dollah Salleh PAHANG coach Dollah Salleh is not getting carried away with the stunning come-from-behind 3-2 win over star-studded Johor Darul Takzim but instead revealed that “it was a gamble that paid dividends” when he boldly replaced his two foreign players – Moroccan Mohamed Borji and Macedonian Nikolche Klechkaroski. “I just took orders from (Pahang FA boss) Tengku Muda Pahang (Tengku Abdul Rahman Sultan Ahmad Shah) who told me to field an all-local side in the second half,” Dollah told sports247.my. “Somehow it worked in our favour. We opened up play with more attacks from the flanks. It put pressure on the opponents’ backline. Frankly, I did not expect us to end up winners. “But it is a good start … a fantastic start which is a morale booster to kick-start our Super League campaign. We are not getting carried away with the win over Johor Darul Takzim. “The battle has just started and it is a long season. We have to show consistency throughout the season.” Pahang’s next match is against a new-look Felda United under coach K. Devan at the Petaling Jaya Stadium on Friday. It is an afternoon match. Felda drew 1-1 with Terengganu in their opening match played in the late afternoon at the Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium in Kuala Terengganu yesterday. www.sports247.my/2013/01/dollah-not-getting-carried-away/
Johor Darul Takzim run into bad weather By RIZAL ABDULLAH Fandi Ahmad TROPICAL storm Sonamu that was expected to make a landfall in the East Coast yesterday, but instead petered off to a tropical depression with strong winds. Nevertheless, star-studded Johor Darul Takzim, hailed as the team to watch this season, felt the fury of a different kind of storm at the Darul Makmur Stadium in Kuantan last night – and were left reeling with an embarrassing 2-3 defeat at the hands of newly promoted Pahang. Johor Darul Takzim returned home this afternoon and coach-cum-manager Fandi Ahmad could only say: “Our focus is the next match. We have been instructed not to give any other comments on what happened against Pahang.” Johor Darul Takzim’s next match is against Perak at Larkin Stadium on Friday. Big spending Johor Darul Takzim were expected to get off to a winning start to the new season and looked set for a runaway win after going 2-0 up in the first 25 minutes with goals by skipper Safiq Rahim and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha. They were expected to press on what with the likes of national players with “star” status and two high-profile foreign players. The national players are Safiq, Norshahrul, Zaquan Adha Abdul Radzak, Azmi Muslim, Safee Sali and Aidil Zafuan Abdul Radzak. The imports are striker Daniel Guiza, a former Spain international who helped his country win the 2008 European Championship, and former Lazio midfielder Simone Del Nero. Instead, the visitors stepped off the gas and allowed Pahang to come back into the picture after the break with an attacking display, especially from the flanks. This was after Pahang coach Dollah Salleh replaced both his foreign players – Moroccan Mohamed Borji and Macedonian Nikolche Klechkaroski – and replaced them with R. Gopinathan and R. Surendran. While Guiza gave a star performance on the night although he did not score by providing the clinical pin point crosses for his team’s goals, Simone was not in action because he is nursing a hamstring injury. However, Pahang staged a magnificent fightback with Fauzi Rozlan hitting a brace in the 50th and 72nd minutes before Surendran hammered the third in the 83rd minute for a stunning memorable win. www.sports247.my/2013/01/johor-darul-takzim-run-into-bad-weather/
‘We must Alves go for the kill’ By VIJHAY VICK Selangor’s Francis Forkie Doe (left) and Negri Sembilan’s Rashid Mahmud in action in the match last night. Picture by KAMARUL AKHIR. “IF we don’t kill, we die” Those were the first words of Negri Sembilan coach Divaldo Alves after seeing his side fall to Selangor courtesy of a goal by S. Kunanlan, a former Deer, at the Shah Alam Stadium yesterday. The Deer’s import players Emmanuel Deporas and William Modibo failed to impress but Alves refused to pin the blame on any particular player and instead believes the entire team should take the rap. Negri Sembilan were the better of the two teams for most part of the game as they had far more chances but Deporas in particular squandered the many that came his way. “My thinking is simple, if we don’t kill, we die. And that is what happened today. We had more chances than Selangor but didn’t take it. If you don’t take your chances, you can’t win. We must be more effective. “Yes, the foreign players didn’t stand out today but I’m not singling them out for criticism. It is a team effort and every player is responsible for our results, not just one or two,” said Alves. The Portuguese was also quick to point out that he has nine players on the crock list but declined to elaborate on their return by saying: “You have to ask the team doctor or physiotherapist. I respect their job and it is not my place to speculate when they will return.” Alves, who speaks rather fluent Bahasa Malaysia after spending years coaching in Indonesia, wants the players to forget this loss ahead of their home match against Terengganu on Friday. “We play at home, so we have to win. That is my philosophy. Home matches are a must win if a team wants to succeed,” he concluded. www.sports247.my/2013/01/we-must-alves-go-for-the-kill/
Not impressive, but Irfan’s happy with three points By VIJHAY VICK Irfan Bakti SELANGOR coach Irfan Bakti Abu Salim was more than delighted to have opened their Super League campaign with a win despite clearly not reaching full gear. In fact, the Red Giants failed to impress in the 1-0 win over the less-fancied Negri Sembilan at the Shah Alam Stadium. “What is important is we got the three points and hopefully this boosts our morale ahead of our next game. We play the next two games away – Lions XII and Terengganu – and we need to carry the winning momentum. “One thing we need to change is our aggressiveness and the two away matches will demand that,” said Irfan Bakti. It was a rather dull affair last night with the Deer looking more likely to cause any sort of excitement. It was only the lack of finishing that kept them from scoring. Speedy national winger S. Kunanlan, who rarely gets on the score sheet, sprung out of nowhere with a weak shot in the penalty box that went past Hamsani Ahmad. The former Deer player started on the left flank, a position he plays for in the national team, instead of at rightback like how he used to be played by former Negri Sembilan coach Azraai Khor last season. “It doesn’t matter who scores to be honest. The first game is always hard. We didn’t really get going but I know my players. They are hardworking and determined. “However, they appeared lost at times. The players need to be more composed against stronger opponents,” Irfan added. www.sports247.my/2013/01/not-impressive-but-irfans-happy-with-three-points/ |
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