Malaysia Super League

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Tsung Sheang only eligible join Tigers C?

By ABDUL HAFIZ AHMAD
hafiz.ahmad @ utusan.com.my

Tsung Sheang Tam (right) during training at Wisma FAM field, Kelana Jaya yesterday. - THE STAR / Izham Jaafar
KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysian youth player who has now joined the club Shanghai Shenhua in China, Tam Sheang Tsung need more time to adjust and should start practicing with the Tigers degree C.

A Young Tigers coach, Ong Kim Swee said first evaluation found midfielder 17-year-old boy born Japanese have a big gap compared to the others, who for the better in technique, speed, and age as well as compatible.

"There is a performance gap with our players (Young Tigers A - under 23 years) who had long practice. I believe he can be put in a squad age is lower, but probably not A Young Tigers B (under 21) or C (below 19 ), "he said.

Kim Swee commented debut Sheang present Tsung play a friendly match at Wisma FAM, Kelana Jaya yesterday, accompanied by his uncle, Tam Yun Yang and assistant coach Shanghai Shenhua, Cheng Liang.

A First Team Young Tigers beat both teams that participated Sheang reinforced Tsung other import players AFC Cup Bangkok, Michal Kubala and Peter Charappan 4-1 Syahrul network results Azwari Ibrahim, A. Thamil Arasu, Irfan Faza'il and Izzaq Faris Ramlan.

Said Kim Swee, as Sheang Tsung just arrived in Malaysia since Monday, he would be given a few more chances in the next training session but he needs to exploit them.

"(National team and Young Tigers) is often said to ignore or not anyone cares Malaysian players who play abroad," he once denied the frequently asked local fans.

"(Yesterday) the second day he came. He needs also in terms of time to adapt to the weather conditions. Maybe he will train with us, B or C here before we went to Australia, Wednesday," he said.

Sheang Tsung said that only fluent in Japanese by Yun Yang, his brother: "Here it is warm while in Shanghai, very cool.'s Also just the first time I played football in Malaysia. They (the players Young Tigers A) pure good.

"I want more work to achieve the desired goal coach. I feel sad today (because) my performance was bland," he said, excited for the national team jersey here for admitting that Malaysia remains the country.

Said Cheng Liang, a former defense China: "China Employment law does not allow children under the age of 18 to work even as a football player. So the moment he has not been able to play a real match league anymore."
Artikel Penuh: www.utusan.com.my/utusan/Sukan/20130119/su_03/Sheang-Tsung-hanya-layak-sertai-Harimau-C#ixzz2IYJpigCn
© Utusan Melayu (M) Bhd

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Atletico coach Fakri can praise SC

By MUHAMMAD Dayne Azmin
dayne.ghazali @ utusan.com.my

Ahmad Fakri Saarani
KUALA LUMPUR - Ahmad Fakri Saarani first glimpse at its new ground with the club Portugal, Sport Clube Atletico Reguengos (Atletico SC) earned praise from head coach, Eduardo Almeida.

Be planning to SC Atletico's third goal during a 3-2 victory over CF ESP Lagos last Sunday, has managed to gain the trust Fakri Eduardo to play 90 minutes while there is great potential to see it themselves against the Malayan Tiger players.

Obviously, the 23-year-old player just need some time to adjust to his new team together in Portugal including the question language and weather.

"The player has great potential after what I have seen at this tournament and I'm sure he has a bright future to be a successful player.

"He has some distinctive qualities such as quick and diligent enough to help his teammates in every position even act as offensive players," he said.

According to Eduardo, Fakri must quickly learn to understand the pattern of a soccer game in Europe so he can play more excellent and highlight the real potential is in himself.

"The problem here is that natural Fakri he's still trying to learn the system of European football and it may take some time.

"I am confident that sooner or later he will be successful here and be among the major players to the club," he said.

Fakri newly acquired international transfer certificate (ITC) on January 6 last revealed as a support striker in the match by Eduardo.

Currently based on information obtained from the personal manager Faisal Zechariah, Fakri currently studying Portuguese language in order to facilitate the communication with teammates.

"In the near future, she is able to understand a little bit of the language of Portugal and important so that he can play more comfortably," he said.
Artikel Penuh: www.utusan.com.my/utusan/Sukan/20130118/su_02/Fakri-dapat-pujian-jurulatih-Atletico-SC#ixzz2IYL4kZvg
© Utusan Melayu (M) Bhd

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Sean Gan Giannelli www.facebook.com/SeanGanGiannelli

Made a mark: Sean Gan Giannelli will join Italian Club Atletico Arezzo’s Under-17 team after having impressed the club’s coaches and technical staff. — Bernama

5th goal Arezzo Sean Giannelli

yesterday in the friendly match, I scored my 5th goal for arezzo as we won the game 4-1

Sean Giannelli 6th goal for Arezzo

On sunday i managed to get my 3rd goal in the league after scoring against Castiglionese. we won 2-0 in a very tough and tight match. this is my 6th personal goal for the club and I'm very happy!

Sean Gan Giannelli (born 31 October 1996) is a talented young Malaysian footballer who plays as a striker for U.S.D. Arezzo Under-17 football club based in Italy.

He was the first Malaysian to enter Italy’s youth football club system besides Nazmi Faiz who plays for Portugal clubside, S.C. Beira-Mar.

Contents
Club career
Sean Gan Giannelli was noticed by the coaches of Royal Selangor Club when he participated in their carnival in 2008 in a friendly football match with his school. He joined RSC end of 2008 for about a year before he joined KLYS (Kuala Lumpur Youth Soccer). At the end of 2011, he participated in the search by the Bukit Jalil Sports School for the Malaysian youth football team. He was selected and decided to take up the challenge although he knew it to be tough staying away from home and training twice a day while still attending normal classes in Bukit Jalil Sports School as his aim has always to be a professional football player.

In May 2012, he was informed that there were some try-outs arranged for him via his father's contacts for the Italian youth teams. Sean with his parents left in June for the try-outs and he was offered by the team in Arezzo. Preparation was done for him to be there and he left with his father for Arezzo on the 11th August 2012. The scouts of AC Milan have already indicated that they will be looking out for his progress in the next few months.

On 20 August 2012, the national newspaper reported that Sean Gan Giannelli will join Italian Club Atletico Arezzo’s Under-17 team after having impressed the club’s coaches and technical staff.

International career
He was the member of Malaysia national under-14 football team and Malaysia national under-16 football team. Now, he is the member of Malaysia national under-17 football team.
speedydeletion.wikia.com/wiki/Sean_Gan_Giannelli

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Tampines Rovers, Zainal to renew Selangor affair
Thursday, 17 January 2013 17:50
Kuala Lumpur: Team manager of Singaporean club Tampines Rovers Zulkarnaen Zainal believes the renewal of acquaintance with close neighbours Selangor of Malaysia since the last time they met in the AFC Cup seven years ago will promise to be an interesting affair.

Both outfits were in the group stage in the 2006 edition with both clubs advancing to the quarter-finals after the Singaporeans finished as the group leaders while Selangor were at second position.

It was the Malaysians who gained the upper hand first in the group stage as they beat Rovers 1-0 in the first leg but later succumbed to the neighbours across the southern causeway 3-2 in the return fixture. However, both sides later crashed out of the quarter-finals.

And as fate would have it, the renewal of acquaintance is not going to be for Tampines Rovers alone but for Zainal (pic) as well as he was very much in the middle of both games as a Rovers player.

Fast forward to 2011, the former Singapore international was appointed as team manager by Rovers and since then he has been enjoying his new role which included representing the club at the AFC Club Workshop which closed on Wednesday in Kuala Lumpur.

“I’m sure the so-called re-match will be interesting,” the 39-year-old told the-afc.com. “Seven years is a long time and a lot of things have happened in both teams in that period.

“Although we have played Selangor, we can’t underestimate them. Now, it’s a different story. We need to do our homework and study their current performance.

“Well, we do have (Singapore international) Mustafic Fahrudin in the club, who played along with me against Selangor back in 2006. Together we can contribute to the head coach’s work in preparing the team tackle Selangor again.”

Rovers are in Group H of this year’s season of the AFC Cup where along with Selangor, they have Kingfisher East Bengal of India and Vietnamese side Sai Gon Xuan Thanh as group contenders.

The Singaporeans will kick off their campaign by hosting Sai Gon Xuan Thanh on 6 March 2013 and will renew their Selangor affair a week later at the Malaysian club's home base at the Shah Alam Stadium.
www.the-afc.com/en/member-association-news/east-asia-news/40810-rovers-zainal-to-renew-selangor-affair/

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CHINA U22 VS MALAYSIA U22 (Ariff and Rozaimi)
China U22 vs Malaysia U2 (Ariff and Rozaimi)


1st half China U22 vs Malaysia U22


2nd Half China U22 vs Malaysia U22

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Manchester United soccer schools coming to Malaysia
Sports247
MANCHESTER UNITED SOCCER SCHOOLS (MUSS) is making its way to Malaysia and will be conducting a player development course in Kuala Lumpur from May 31-June 9.
Children aged 7-16 will be offered the opportunity to make the most of their ability through a specially tailored course.

The emphasis will be as much on personal development of the children as it is on football skills.

Creating confidence both on and off the pitch is a key element of all MUSS programs, but most of all it is about having fun through football.

MUSS will use the latest training equipment and coaching techniques to help young players to improve their skills in a fun and friendly environment.

Every player on the three-day course will have the chance to take part in a number of unique skills tests which are designed using the club’s coaches and players and specifically tailored so that all participants, regardless of age and gender, can compete on level terms.

Two lucky winners will be chosen to represent Malaysia at the next MUSS UK Residential course alongside players from over 70 different countries.

A team of highly qualified MUSS coaches will travel from Britain to host the course and will be assisted by carefully selected local coached to help support the development of the game in the region.

MUSS’ operation in Malaysia joins international operations in Dubai, South Africa, Australia and Europe.

For more information on MUSS courses, visit www.muss-sea.com.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/manchester-united-soccer-schools-coming-to-malaysia/

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Waterboys eye promotion
sports247.my

PBA chairman Lim Guan Eng (seated, centre) posing for a photoshoot with the PBAPP players and officials
THEIR debut in the FAM Cup league last year made everyone sit up and take notice of Penang Water Supply Corporation Berhad (PBAPP) Football Club.

The Waterboys finished fourth in the nine-team league competition, seven points behind the second-placed Shahzan Muda, who clinched promotion to the Premier League together with the champions Kuala Lumpur SPA FC.

The club finished one rung above the beleaguered state team in the third-tier competition.

“Despite being the new kids on the block, we pulled off a few unlikely results on the way to finishing fourth,” said manager Jamil Noor.

“We learnt a lot and armed with a stronger squad now, we are capable of challenging for promotion.”

PBAPP FC retained 10 players from last year’s squad and have lured several experienced hands from the Penang, Perak, Kedah, Perlis and Johor state teams.

Leading the team will be a trio of seasoned Penang-born players Mat Saiful Mohamad, Megat Amir Faisal and Zulhissyam Jamaluddin.

Besides PBAPP FC and the Penang state team, the other teams in the FAM Cup are Cebagoo FC (Sabah), Malacca, Kedah Malays, Kuantan Port (Pahang), Tumpat FA (Kelantan), YBU FC (Perak), Harimau Muda C, Kuantan FA (Pahang) and Malaysian Army.

The Waterboys begin their 2013 campaign with an FA Cup first round match against Cambodia’s Preah Khan Reach at the City Stadium in Penang on Friday.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/waterboys-eye-promotion/

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Del Nero will be back
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Simone Del Nero (left)
FEARS of Italian midfielder Simone Del Nero having played his first and last match for Johor Darul Takzim in the 1-1 draw at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium in Kota Baru on Jan 15 have been laid to rest.

The former Lazio player, who has returned to Italy to get treatment for his nagging hamstring injury, has promised to return before the M-League resumes on Feb 15 after a three-week break.

Johor Darul Takzim coach-cum-manager Fandi Ahmad confirmed that Del Nero “will be back in time when the league resumes” after his treatment.

“His family is still in Johor Baru,” said Fandi, adding that the “impatient” Del Nero has himself to blame himself for his present predicament.

“This would not have happened if only he had patience and rested enough while seeking treatment for his hamstring injury. He said he had recovered and was ready to play.

“But he lasted only about 25 or 30 minutes in his first competitive match (against Kelantan). We need his services badly. Because he was impatient we have to make do without him for the next two matches.”

Fandi was referring to Johor Darul Takzim’s away league match against PKNS (on Tuesday) and the FA Cup first round match against Perak at home on Friday.

Del Nero did not play in the pre-season Crown Prince of Johor Cup four-team quadrangular held in Johor Bahru from Dec 26-28. He also did not play in Johor Darul Takzim’s 3-2 defeat to Pahang in Kuantan on Jan 8.

Del Nero also missed the home match against Perak on Jan 11 which Johor Darul Takzim won 1-0. He made his M-League debut in Kota Baru but limped off midway in the first half.

“Frankly, I am quite ready disappointed with Del Nero. It is his undoing to be in this predicament. If only he had been patient, he could be a key player in my team.”
www.sports247.my/2013/01/de-nero-will-be-back/

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Perak - Selangor Preview: Hot rivalry set to be renewed in Lumut

The rivalry between Selangor and Perak will be renewed again this Tuesday as both sides prepare to strut their stuff against each other in Lumut



Perak will host Selangor in what is likely to be a pulsating encounter at the Royal Navy Stadium in Lumut on Tuesday. Both sides have a well known rivalry between them, and considering that they have both had a decent start to the season, it should be a match to savour.

On paper and form, Selangor are certainly the better side. The Red Giants have won three out of their four matches in the Super League so far, and currently sit on second spot in the league table, level on points with leaders Pahang.

The form of S. Kunanlan, Mahali Jasuli and Amri Yahya has been pivotal to their great start so far and you have to credit Irfan Bakti for his brillian tactical decisions. Against Perak though, they will be needing more from their forwards, especially Francis Forkey Doe.

The Seladangs have a rather solid defence, that has only conceded twice this season. Key to this has been the form of Brazilian defende Rafael Novais, who has been nothing short of brilliant at the back. However, there seems to be a bigger problem in the picture for Azraai Khor Abdullah's men.

"Our striker force is still very blunt," Azraai said after their 1-0 win over Negeri Sembilan, in which they actually scored their first goal of the season, courtesy of a wonder strike from Failee.

Their win over T-Team on Matchday One was a result of an own goal from the away side, and Azraai Khor knows that his side has to improve offensively if they are to stand any chance of scoring against a side like Selangor.


DID YOU KNOW?
* Perak temporary home ground in Lumut is capable of holding up to 18,000 people at one time.
* The Seladangs have only retained 10 players from last season’s playing squad.
* Perak's Youth Squad defeated Selangor's Youth Squad 6-1 in the Piala Raja Raja Emas last December

* Selangor have signed ex-Perak talisman Michal Kubala to feature in their AFC Cup squad.
* Irfan Bakti has previously locked horns as Terengganu head coach with Azraai Khor, who was coaching Negeri Sembilan, in the 2011 Malaysia Cup final
* Francis Forkey Doe was the joint top scorer of the Malaysia Super League with Jean Emmanuel Effa Owona last year.

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Peter Butler satisfied with his team's display despite back to back defeats

T-team's head coach Peter Butler was happy with his side's display despite missing key players through injury

The absence of several key players is still haunting T-Team as they suffered another 0-3 defeat, this time against Selangor PKNS.

However, head coach Peter Butler is still satisfied with his team's display, despite consecutive 3-0 losses in the Super League, pointing to the commitment demonstrated by his young players.

He admitted that the absence of key players like captain George Boateng, Nuraliff Zainal Abidin and G Mahathevan has cost them dearly.

However Butler has taken full responsibilty for the current poor results and did not blame any of his players for the disappointing run.

"I am responsible whether we lose or win any matches, although we have problems with injuries and I will try to improve the team with our current squad," said Peter to Sinar Harian.

He also claimed that his defensive line lacks consistency, giving the opposition the opportunity to attack.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/21/3687236/peter-butler-satisfied-with-his-teams-display-despite-back

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Malaysia Super League Team of the Week: Amirulhadi & Fauzi star as Pahang top the table

Selangor trio Mahali, Kunanlan and Amri are also named, while Spanish superstar Dani Guiza is included after some superb performances for Darul Takzim

Deadly Pahang duo, Amirulhadi Zainal and Fauzi Roslan both star in our Team of the Week after spearheading Tok Gajah's assault towards the top of the Malaysia Super League table.

Diminutive striker Fauzi continued his blistering start to the season, with his four goals helping his team to the top of the table, and receiving a first time call up to K. Rajagobal’s Malaysia squad. A visibly rejuvenated Amirulhadi meanwhile has successfully re-invented himself as a deep lying playmaker who is an integral cog of Pahang's midfield engine.

No fewer than three Selangor players feature after two impressive consecutive wins over Terengganu and league leaders, Pahang. Both Mahali and Kunanlan were immense down the flanks against Terengganu to say the least, with the latter notching up a goal and an assist.

Veteran forward, Amri Yahyah had one of his better weeks in his 12 years at Selangor, scoring three goals in two victories. He got the Red Giants' eventual winner in the midweek match at Terengganu, hitting a stunning rising 20 yard effort. In the victory over the previously unbeaten Pahang, he struck two classic poacher's goals.

Badri Radzi's inclusion is not a surprise to many as he consistently bossed Kelantan's midfield with high work rate and dynamic displays, helping out both the defence and the attack. In a battle against Darul Takzim, Piya outclassed the seemingly lethargic Safiq Rahim. Only Rajagobal knows as to why he is persistently left out of the national team squad.

Spanish superstar, Guiza meanwhile has answered all the questions as to whether he could live up to the hype that surrounded his arrival to Malaysia with two tremendous goals within a week. He rescued a point for Darul Takzim at Kelantan, coming off the bench to hit a 30 yard free kick into the top corner, giving national keeper Khairul Fahmi no chance whatsoever. Three days later his goal against ATM may have been even better as he took Fadzli Idrus’s skied clearance and outrageously volleyed first time into the top corner of the net. This quality, mixed with a high work-ethic, has certainly bought prestige to the Super League so far.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3891/features/2013/01/21/3688261/malaysia-super-league-team-of-the-week-amirulhadi-fauzi-star

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Alves takes responsibility for poor results in the league

The Negeri Sembilan coach says that only he is answerable for the team’s plight in the league and is prepared to accept any decision the management makes regarding his future

Coach Divaldo Alves has taken responsibility for Negeri Sembilan’s poor showings in the Malaysian Super League (MSL) season so far.

After their defeat to Perak at the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium in Paroi on Saturday, the Portuguese said that he is ready to face the consequences.

“I am willing to accept any decision or action by the management following our third defeat because I am solely responsible for the performance of this team,” Alves told Harian Metro.

The match had looked set to end in a goalless draw before Failee Ghazali came off the bench and scored an 89th minute winner for the silver state.

While expressing his frustrations about the result against the Seladangs, Alves pointed out that his team dominated most of the match and created numerous scoring chances, but only managed to squander all of them.

“We were supposed to achieve victory because we had the advantage of playing at home, but the players who had chances to score didn’t have the composure to convert them.

“There is a sense of frustration, but I have to be responsible for this result,” he added.

The 44-year-old coach was appointed in the off-season as Azraai Khor Abdullah’s replacement after spending three seasons in Indonesian football.

He has been heavily criticised for his decision to sign Argentinian Emanuel De Porras – who had looked overweight and unfit since arriving, as one of Negeri’s foreign players this season.

The defeat to Perak was Negeri’s third this season and the Deers only have one point to show for after four games in the league.

Negeri’s woes look set to continue as their next match will be away to reigning champions Kelantan on Tuesday.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/21/3688230/alves-takes-responsibility-for-poor-results-in-the-league

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Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek wants Kelantan and Johor Darul Takzim to solve their issues quickly

Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek wants both Kelantan and Johor Darul Takzim to settle their problems quickly

The Youth and Sports Minister, Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, has urged Kelantan Football Association (KAFA) and Johor Football Association to settle any ongoing issues between them.

Ahmad Shabery wants any controversy between Kelantan and Johor Darul Takzim to be end quickly as it can ruin the faith of our supporters towards football.

According to Utusan, he said "Controversies are good. But, these non-stop controversies can make people start losing their faith towards the sports. I am looking at this very seriously. This thing should not happen and the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) must take this thing seriously."

Not picking on any side, Ahmad also added "Procteting players and the crowd is an action that must be done by the host, and the visitors need not bring an army just to protect your team."

Ahmad Shabery wants this matter to be resolved as soon as possible as it can ruin the country's image in the footballing world.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/22/3689909/datuk-ahmad-shabery-cheek-wants-kelantan-and-johor-darul

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Dollah Salleh blames lack of focus for ending of their perfect run

Dollah Salleh believes that a lack of focus amongst his players was the reason why they lost the game against Selangor

Dollah Salleh, Pahang's head coach, has described a lack of focus in the dying seconds as the reason why they lost to Selangor 2-3.

It was an incredible come back from Pahang as they rallied from two goals down to bring the score to 2-2, however Ramzul Zahini scored the winner for the Red Giants in the 79th minute.

"Selangor took their chances and scored their goals. We were able to claw our way back but our lack of focus has led them to score again in the last 10 minutes of the game," said Dollah to Sinar Harian.

However, Dollah is still optimistic and praised his players' overall performance. He still believe Pahang can fight among the elite and will now turn his focus and preparations for his side's game against east-coast rivals Terengganu.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/22/3689876/dollah-salleh-blames-lack-of-focus-for-ending-of-their

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The frustrations and disappointments behind Fandi’s ever ready smile
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Fandi Ahmad
JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM manager-cum-coach Fandi Ahmad has his trademark smile in any situation – but not many know the frustrations and disappointments behind it.

The Southern Tigers should be in the top three bracket after four matches but are struggling in mid-table in the 12-team league – thanks to a shock 3-2 defeat to unheralded Pahang in the opening match.

They bounced back to beat Perak 1-0 but drew 1-1 with treble winners Kelantan away from home and 2-2 with last season’s Premier League champions Armed Forces (ATM) at Larkin Stadium.

Johor Darul Takzim have yet to gel as a team and Fandi is disappointed he has not been able to turn the team into a serious title contenders following some disappointing performance by his big names like Safiq Rahim, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Aidil Zafuan Abdul Radzak and his twin Zaquan Adha and Azmi Muslim.

Then there is former Lazio midfielder Simone Del Nero back in Italy to seek treatment for a nagging hamstring injury – an injury that has bogged him even before the M-League season kicked off on Jan 5.

The Italian has seen only about 30 minutes of action when he took the field against Kelantan for his M-League debut but limped off with a recurrence of the injury.

Fandi could not hide his disappointment with Del Nero for being impatient.

“He should have been frank with his injury, not just say he is ‘okay’ when he was still bogged down with the injury. The M-League is a long season and we need his services on the field,” said Fandi.

Today, Johor Darul Takzim face a daunting task against a revitalized PKNS FC in Petaling Jaya. The Selangor club notched a 1-0 over Lions XII and followed it up with a 3-0 hammering of experienced T-Team to give strong signals that they could spoil things for the big teams.

“PKNS have always played the spoilers role. We have to be wary of PKNS who have a shrewd coach in Abdul Rahman Ibrahim. We have to have our foot on the pedal until the final whistle.

“We need to win to push ourselves up. I am not happy with where we are in the table standings. All the teams want to beat us.

“To a certain extent it has put Johor Darul Takzim under pressure,” added the Singaporean.

Johor Darul Takzim’s other foreign, former Spain international Daniel Guiza is going great guns and has scored two goals so far.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/the-frustrations-and-disappointments-behind-fandis-ever-ready-smile/

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Lacklustre Sabah pay the price
SABAH CORRESPONDENT
KEDAH handed a lacklustre Sabah a first home defeat with a 2-0 win at the Likas Stadium today.
Mohd Khyril Muhymeen Zambri and Muhammad Fiqkry Md Isa scored in each half to add misery to Sabah’s already poor start to the Premier League campaign.

Khyril took advantage of some sloppy defending by the homesters to hammer the ball into the roof of the net from point-blank range after a low cross from Mohd Shazuan Aliff in the 40th minute.

Kedah cemented victory when Muhammad Fiqkry Isa fired low past Sabah goalkeeper Shahril Sa’ari from the edge of the box.

However, the manner of Sabah’s defeat left many fans disappointed.

Sabah lacked creativity and urgency throughout the match and their disjointed and at time dispirited performance made Kedah look like a team of a different class.

Head coach David McCreery was understandably disappointed, leading him to question the desire and commitment of the players.

While refusing to name anyone in particular, the Northern Irishman stressed the players must “stand up and be counted” for their performance.

“We can’t give away silly goals,” he said referring to his players’ inability to stop Kedah’s build-up to both goals.

“There are experienced players in this squad and young players coming up. Everybody has to work together and fight for the team,” added McCreery.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/lacklustre-sabah-pay-the-price/

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Police’s perfect run arrested
By FARAH AZHARIE

Johor (dark jersey) in the match against UiTM
POLICE lost their perfect record when they drew 1-1 with Pos Malaysia at Hang Jebat Stadium in Malacca today.

It was also the first goal they have let in since the start of the season.

The cops, however, remain at the top of the table with 13 points from five matches while Pos Malaysia moved up a spot to sixth to exchange places with Sabah who were downed 0-2 by Kedah in Kota Kinabalu.

The Canaries have moved up two spots to second with 12 points, nudging Sarawak and Sime Darby down to third and fourth respectively after the two teams only managed a goalless draw.

In a surprising twist, the NS Betaria defeated SPA Putrajaya 3-2 following a goal in added time which secured the Young Deer three points for their first win of the season.

Kuala Lumpur continued their revival also with a last-minute goal to beat Perlis 1-0.

Kuala Lumpur had gone 29 matches without a win in the Premier League but have now won two matches in a row. They defeated Sabah 3-2 last Friday.

Johor remained at fifth as they overcame the challenge from UiTM with a 2-0 win.

RESULTS

Sabah vs Kedah 0-2

Johor vs UiTM 2-0

PDRM vs Pos Malaysia 1-1

SPA Putrajaya vs NS Betaria 2-3

Perlis vs Kuala Lumpur 0-1

Sime Darby vs Sarawak 0-0
www.sports247.my/2013/01/polices-perfect-run-arrested/

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Neighbours to clash in Penang final
PENANG CORRESPONDENT

Tanjung Bunga Rangers players celebrate reaching the final
NEIGHBOURS Tanjung Bunga Rangers and Belia Asas Bersatu (BAB) were forced to produce their best football before booking their tickets to the final of the Penang Under-19 Amer Yusoff Challenge Cup at the Polo Ground yesterday.

A goal in each half from Ismer Nizam and Syafiq Yusri allowed Tanjung Bunga to squash the spirited display from Rifle Range during their 2-0 semifinal victory.

The real hero for Tanjung Bunga was their goalkeeper Mohamed Rozaimi, who saved a twice-taken penalty by Rifle Range’s Mohammad Nabil with the score still at 1-0.

“The penalty was the turning point of the match as the pressure grew on Rifle Range to score while we began to believe that this would be our day,” said Tanjung Bunga coach Noorshukri Hashim.

Tanjung Bunga will meet the team from their neighbouring Tanjung Tokong district, the pre-tournament favourites BAB, in the final.

BAB, who did not concede a single goal in their four group matches, fell behind to Mohamad Shahri’s 26th minute strike during their semi-final against Penang Youth Sports Club (PYSC).

But BAB turned the tide after earning a controversial penalty in the 71st minute. Amir Asyraf Basri made no mistake from the spot to equalise, and Al-Hafiz Harun and Said Sayed Ammar got on the scoresheet late on for a 3-1 victory.

“PYSC made life difficult for us, but I always had faith in my players’ ability and superior fitness to pull us through,” said BAB coach Suhaimi Ismail.

“I lost eight first-team players to the Penang President’s Cup (Under-20) squad before the semifinals and it disrupted the rhythm of the squad. I hope we can improve the teamwork and on-pitch communication in time for the final.”
www.sports247.my/2013/01/neighbours-to-clash-in-penang-final/

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Call for introduction of Champions Trophy
JANUARY 14, 2013 DASS_AARON NO COMMENTS
There’s a clarion call for the introduction of a Champions Trophy to determine the overall best team in the Liga 1MCC Hong Leong-Yamaha Under-16 for the 2013 season.

Newly crowned Liga 1MCC Hong Leong-Yamaha Under-16 champions Seberang Prai Tengah Indians FA (SPT) and 2011 winners PKNS hope the organisers will be graceful to expand the Under-16 leagues to the other states and also introduce the Champions Trophy which will see the zone champions vying for the overall title.

“It will certainly bring the best out of every player in every team and a real challenge playing against the best from the other zones,” said SPT FA team manager K. Mogan. “We can also gauge the strength and quality of other teams.”

SPT FA edged defending champions PKNS FC 1-0 in the final at the Petaling Jaya Stadium last December.

PKNS manager Jefri Jamiedin welcomes a Champion of Champion Trophy as he believes it will only add prestige to the 1MCC League.

“There will be high expectations from the winners of each zone and I am sure no teams will want to be left out when competing for the Champions Trophy. They will be well prepared,” said Jefri, who hopes PKNS will bounce back as they still have the depth to do well this season.

Kelab Bola Remaja Bersatu finished top of Group A in the league with 31 points – three points clear over CIMB-YFA Bintang Muda. In Group B, Semenyih Putra United top the table standings with 37 points – four points clear of PKNS.

Both SPT FA and PKNS may also not have the services of several players who may be over aged when the 2013 season kicks off later this year. Midfielder B. Sanjef, who scored the winning goal against PKNS in the final, is one as the Bukit Mertajam High School student is currently in Form Five.

But there is calm as most teams have a wide pool of players to choose from.
1mcc.my/call-for-introduction-of-champions-trophy/

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Anxious wait for 2013 season kick-off
JANUARY 14, 2013 DASS_AARON NO COMMENTS
The champions went home a happy lot and losers searching for answers where they went wrong. Revenge, however, is least on their minds as all look anxiously to the 2013 1MCC Under-12 leagues to begin.

From Kepala Batas in Penang to Batu Pahat in Johor, the 1MCC Under-12 leagues have been deemed as ‘a timely gift’ to the ‘Kampung boys’ (village boys) and urban-base teams who have been craving for such age-group tournaments for long time.

“Honestly, the 1MCC League has opened the doors for many players in the kampung areas to compete and it is a win-win situation for me and these teams. As coach of the Malacca Schools Sports Council (MSSSM) I have a wider base of players to choose,” said Jasni Hassan, who guided ASA-GP Malacca FC to the 1MCC Under-12 title last December following their 5-0 demolition of Melaka Baru Football Academy.

“These players have the raw talent and some of them are skilful with the ball. Apart from the Inter-schools tournament held once a year, there is nothing else to look forward to. That is why I say it is a timely gift.”

He hopes the Liga 1MCC will be expanded to cater for the Under-14 and Under-16 players as well in Malacca. North zone champions Assumptions FC manager Firdaus Chew Abdullah also echoed the call by Jasni as they view the leagues as an essential platform in developing players for the benefit of the states and nation.

“Our preparations will begin once we have identified several new players to fill the gap left behind by players who are over the age for this season,” added Firdaus. “Some players have gone on to enrol into Form One. They may not be eligible to compete in the Under-12 category but there will be continuity if the Under-14 League is introduced.”

“We have a big base of players so it will be interesting as these players will jostle to find a place in the squad. I am sure it is the same with the other teams from Penang and Kedah.”

The 2012 season saw 10 teams competed in the Malacca-Negeri Sembilan Under-12 league, 15 teams in the north zone and 16 in Johor which was won by Stylo Mylo.

However, in Kuala Lumpur, the Hong Leong -Yamaha Under-12 league attracted 16 teams. CIMB-Youth Football Academy Bintang Muda were crowned champions as they edged favourites APS Bintang Biru of Penang 1-0 in the final.
1mcc.my/anxious-wait-for-2013-season-kick-off/

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LIONSXII starlet Faris ready for debut

LIONSXII defender Faris Azienuddin is relishing the prospect of making his professional debut when his side take on T-Team in Tuesday's Malaysia Super League clash.
By Gabriel Tan

A few eyebrows were raised at the start of the season as Faris was named in the LIONSXII's 29-man squad for the 2013 season, given he had spent almost all of last season playing for the National Football Academy (NFA) Under-18 side and is yet to make his professional debut.

However, with LIONSXII star centre-back Baihakki Khaizan suspended and Safuwan Baharudin and Shakir Hamzah unavailable for selection due to national service commitments, the teenager is set to be given the nod by coach V. Sundramoorthy when the Singaporean outfit take on the Titans at the Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium.

Although he admits to being slightly nervous ahead of the game, Faris reveals he has received excellent support from his team-mates.

"Of course I'm excited but nervous at the same time," he told ESPNSTAR.com.

"I've never experienced the [Great Eastern-YEO's] S.League before and now I'm going to the M-League straight away.

"I'm expecting it to be a nerve-wracking experience but hopefully I can learn from it.

"My team-mates have been very good for me. Based on their own experiences, they have told me what to do and how to cope to prevent certain situations from arising on the pitch."

On Tuesday, Faris is likely to found himself up against T-Team striker Caleb Folan, a player with experience in the Barclays Premier League having plied his trade with Wigan and Hull in recent years.

Although he's yet to open his T-Team account, Folan is expected to pose a real problem to the makeshift LIONSXII backline, but Faris is hopeful he and Faritz Hameed, who has started every game so far at right-back, can get the job done.

"Hopefully I can match his [Folan's] standard but I'm prepared for it," the 18-year-old added.

"Faritz and I have trained alongside one another in the past. I know his style of play and hopefully I can communicate well with him in the game."

While it is understandable the youngster is slightly apprehensive ahead of his first game in professional football, Faris can take heart in knowing he has the backing of Baihakki, who is arguably Southeast Asia's best centre-back at the moment.

"I think Faris has all the attributes to become a Singapore international," the 28-year-old said on his young team-mate. "It's important we give players like him this type of exposure at such a young age.

"Obviously he has to work hard and still has a long way to go, but I believe he can achieve a lot in his career if he puts his heart to it."

Likewise, LIONSXII assistant coach K. Balagumaran, who previously coached Faris at youth level, has no doubts he will be up for the challenge.

"I've coached Faris before at Under-15 level," the ex-Gombak United boss revealed. "We went for a tour in China and a few of the boys were slightly undaunted by the occasion.

"But not Faris - he gave it his all and wasn't afraid to get physical with some of the bigger opponents."
Following Tuesday's trip to T-Team, the LIONSXII are next in action on Friday when they take on PKNS FC in the first round of the Malaysia FA Cup.
www.espnstar.com/football/m-league/news/detail/item923111/LIONSXII-starlet-Faris-ready-for-debut/

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Harimau Muda duo edge closer to Japanese dream

FC Ryukyu have confirmed their interest in acquiring the services of Wan Zack Haikal and Wan Zaharulnizam for the new season following their successful trials at the club in 2012

Harimau Muda duo, Wan Zack Haikal Wan Noor and Wan Zaharulnizam Zakaria could soon be heading to Japan to ply their trade there, the New Straits Times has reported.

Last June, both players attended a 19-day trial with Okinawa-based third division outfit FC Ryukyu, and the club is now said to be making efforts to add both players to its playing roster, for the upcoming season that starts in March.

During a recent football conference in Japan, the club’s officials approached Harimau Muda coach Ong Kim Swee to make their intentions known.

“The club is keen on Wan Zack and Wan Zaharulnizam. However, we did not discuss details in Japan,” said Kim Swee.

“If the club wants them, they need to approach FAM (Football Association of Malaysia) for further action.”

The Malacca born coach however was quick to stress that if the deals do go through, the players must not forget their responsibilities towards the national team.

“We encourage our players to play abroad as the experience will turn them into better players. However, those abroad must be available for national team assignments.”

Kim Swee will head a 25-man Harimau Muda squad that will leave for a 15-day tour of Brisbane today.

The team will play a total of four friendlies during their stay in Australia. They will kick the tour off against Gold Coast Sharks this Saturday, before taking on Sunshine Coast Fire (January 29), Brisbane Olympic (February 2) and A-League’s Brisbane Rovers (February 5).

This tour is part of the team’s preparations for December’s SEA Games in Myanmar.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/23/3693444/harimau-muda-duo-edge-closer-to-japanese-dream

Wan Zaharul Nizam




Wan Zack Haikal


Harimau Muda Sea Games 2011


Harimau Muda Olimpic 2012 Qualification

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Possible stint in US for local junior footballers
Posted on January 23, 2013, Wednesday

KUCHING: Sarawak Football Development Programme (SFDP) manager Lucas Kallang recently disclosed that state President’s Cup goalkeeper Florian Rais has been invited to train and play at US-based Ventura County Fusion football club which is currently competing in the American MLS Third Division League.

According to Lucas, once the brief overseas stint gets the green light from Football Association of Sarawak, former SMK Siburan student Florian may be headed for the United States in a few months and may even get a chance to play in the Major League Soccer (MLS).

The US club is managed by a former English club manager Graham Smith who happens to be a close friend of SFDP technical director Alan Vest.

Vest, when contacted by The Borneo Post, confirmed Ventura County Fusion’s interest in Florian.

He added that Florian could be going together with another state youth player Shirin Tambi in April. He felt that it would be better for Florian to be accompanied by another footballer so that both can gain from the overseas exposure.

This latest development in football seems to follow similar developments in the past few years initiated by trendsetter Sarawak Lawn Tennis Association (SLTA).

In recent years, a handful of state tennis players have been receiving scholarships to study and play at US-based universities.

Ten junior and senior champions so far have studied, trained and played in the US college tennis circuit including current national tennis ace Ariez Deen Hisham who is currently studying in Kentucky.
Read more: www.theborneopost.com/2013/01/23/possible-stint-in-us-for-local-junior-footballers/#ixzz2ImRTeLSK

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Malaysian teenage prodigy Kumaahran attracts interest of Brazilian club Cruzeiro

After impressing during his one-month training camp with the South American side, the 15-year-old is now set for an extended trial in 2012

EXCLUSIVE
By Keeshaanan Sundaresan

Cruzeiro are continuing to monitor the progress of Malaysian teenage prodigy Kumaahran, Goal.com can reveal.

The 15-year-old impressed during a one-month training camp in Brazil last August, and the South American club have now offered him an extended trial with them next year.

In an interview with Goal.com, Kumaahran's coach, Jaino Matos, said: "Cruzeiro are very interested in bringing Kumaahran over for another stint, and we all should be proud of that.

"They are a massive club in Brazil, and it's about time Malaysian teenagers attempt to scale these heights."

And as this sort of opportunity is not often offered to Malaysian players, Kumaahran plans to do everything in his power to impress.

"I know that I won't get lots of opportunities like this. But I believe in myself and I feel it's a chance for me to emulate my idol, Santokh Singh, on the international scene," he said.

"Of course my dream is to play for Malaysia one day, but I am also silently praying that I get to sign for Cruzeiro in the future.

"I have already seen what football is like in Brazil. They train differently, they eat differently. They are more efficient in these things. It completely changed my perception of football, and I hope to able to continue the learning process by heading there next year."

Jaino, who is also Cruzeiro's official representative in Malaysia, believes that Kumaahran is a special talent and stressed that the youngster is capable of accomplishing great things.

"I spotted Kumaahran playing futsal with his dad one day, and I knew he had something in him. That is why I decided to further polish his talents by sending him to Brazil for that camp in August," he said.

However, the fact that Cruzeiro are interested in extending the trial has come as a massive bonus.

"It's an elite club, and they definitely saw the same potential in Kumaahran that I did. Frankly, this lad has the potential to shine in the future," he said.

The 15-year-old midfielder is no stranger to the limelight, with praise heaped in from individuals in his hometown in Penang.

But for now, it remains to be seen whether Kumaahran absorbs and makes full use of his potential, because if his coach's comments are to be believed, Malaysia could have a splendid talent on their hands.
www.goal.com/en/news/14/asia/2011/10/25/2726906/malaysian-teenage-prodigy-kumaahran-attracts-interest-of#

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'I will make my country proud' - Kumaahran vows to impress in three months stint with Cruzeiro

The Malaysian teenager has been give the rare opportunity of a second trial and he intends to make full use of it

Kumaahran was granted an initial one-month trial stint alongside four other Malaysian kids last August, in which he impressed the Cruzeiro officials immensely. Upon his return to Malaysia in September, Kumaahran's coach Jaino Matos was contacted by the Brazilian club, welcoming the 16-year-old midfielder for an extended second stint.

Indeed it's an opportunity that is not given to many, considering the wealth of talent over there itself. Nonetheless, Kumaahran accepts the chance as a blessing in disguise and vowed to give his utmost best in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

"I will definitely do my best in Cruzeiro," Kumaahran told Goal.com before departing for Brazil on Wednesday night.

"Not many people get this kind of chances and I'm aware of how tough it will be for me over there. But I'm confident of adapting and doing my best to make my country proud."

Jaino Matos, who has been preparing Kumaahran for almost six months now, claimed that the 16-year-old has the necessary attributes to shine among the talented Brazilians over there.

"I have watched him play for so long now and there's not much difference with the Brazilian kids over there. Actually the Malaysian 'kampung' style of play is almost similar to 'Samba Football'.

"Kumaahran has the potential to shine and I'm confident that he will impress the Cruzeiro coaches in Brazil."

As for Kumaahran himself, the initial trip to Brazil was an eye-opener as he explored the Brazilian way of life; something that he believes has left a great influence towards his perception of the beautiful game.

"The Brazilians, they do things way differently from us. They train differently, they eat differently, they live differently and they play football differently," he said.

"It was like being in a land of magicians because everyone seems to be able to produce something magical with the ball. All these experience has changed my view on football.

"I've been preparing for this trip for the last six month with coach Jaino. I believe he has prepared me well to go through this trial which I believe will prove to be hard as the Cruzeiro U-17 are the current Brazilian Champions but I'm focused and confident.

"I have everything available in Cruzeiro which will be handful for me to become a successful international player."
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/02/24/2924203/i-will-make-my-country-proud-kumaahran-vows-to-impress-in

(WONDERKID MALAYSIA) : KUMAAHRAN STORY

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New academic pathway for local footballers
by Edwin Chandra, [e-mail]. Posted on January 22, 2013, Tuesday

Lucas Kallang
KUCHING: Sarawak junior footballers will now have a special pathway to further their studies at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM).

This was disclosed by Sarawak Football Development Programme (SFDP) manager Lucas Kallang yesterday.

He was commenting on the new provisions for footballers to study at the university and play for UiTM FC.

The new arrangement was brought up by UiTM Sports Centre director Murtaza Ahmad during his courtesy call on Sarawak State Sports Council (MSNS) director Francis Nyurang Ding on January 11.

“This is good news to our local boys because their talents are being well recognised and now they can look forward to furthering studies at UiTM after leaving school,” Lucas added.

According to him, UiTM FC, currently playing in the ongoing Premier League, comprised students who were selected from various campuses nationwide including those from Sarawak.

Lucas said one of the criteria for the footballers to be eligible for UiTM’s offer is that they must pass and have at least five credits in their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations.

He noted further that those who do not have five credits can also take up pre-diploma courses at UiTM.

With such good study options opened to local footballers, Lucas expressed hope that more will take up football seriously and realise their ambitions of a tertiary education after SPM.
Read more: www.theborneopost.com/2013/01/22/new-academic-pathway-for-local-footballers/#ixzz2ImgeVVFl

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Bintulu Football Association will continue focusing on developing young talents
Posted on January 22, 2013, Tuesday

THANK YOU: Teo (centre) presents the civic leadership coaching award to Dahlan as Duke (left) looks on.

BINTULU: Bintulu Football Association (Bifa) will continue focusing on developing young talents especially among local footballers while fostering a healthy lifestyle, according to its president Duke Janteng.
He announced that more activities will be implemented this year to further boost the role of Bina in developing the sport here.

“We are expecting Bintulu to be the host for the Sarawak Club Champions League and other local leagues such as Bintulu-Naim League, Petronas Invitation Cup, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing Cup and Datuk Dr Stephen Rundi Cup,” he said when speaking at the Bifa awards and charity dinner here last Saturday night.

He also noted that since its inception in 1987, Bifa’s registered membership of players and officials has grown from only 120 to 650 from 29 teams in Bintulu now.

Duke added that their members have also demonstrated social responsibility by continuously organising various charitable activities to help the needy.

The BIFA 2012 Figure award was presented to Nyipa Tinggang, the former president of Football Association of Sarawak (FAS) and Bifa from 2005 to 2011.

Dahlan Matusin, former ‘ngap sayot’ player in the 1980s who has been coaching local teams since 2006, was awarded the civic leadership coaching award. He was credited for producing 6 top players who represented Bintulu in the Sarawak Cup.

Under-25 player Nelson Menila and Under-18 player Favean Lauren Linang were also among the award recipients.

The awards and donation to 30 orphans were presented by Bintulu MP personal assistant Teo Ho Ping.

Also present at the event were Bintulu Deputy Resident (Social) Richard Michael Abunawas, vice president of FAS cum Samarahan Football Association president Ir Haidel Heli, Petronas Sarawak regional manager Shamsur Taha, Badan Kebajikan Relawan Malaysia president Datuk Che Aziz Mahmood and other community leaders.
Read more: www.theborneopost.com/2013/01/22/bintulu-football-association-will-continue-focusing-on-developing-young-talents/#ixzz2ImhE85m4

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FAM League www.facebook.com/LigaFAM

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Malaysian Artist Sports Club www.facebook.com/2012MASC

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Negeri Sembilan in the hunt for new striker

President of Negeri Sembilan FA, Datuk Seri Mohammed Hasan, has admitted that taking Emanuel De Porras was a mistake and that they are looking to find a new striker

The Football Associaton of Negeri Sembilan has admitted that their new import striker, Emanuel Matias De Porras, was a huge mistake.

De Porras has not been playing well for Negeri Sembilan this season and their president, Datuk Seri Mohd Hassan, said that replacing Effa Owona with De Porras was a bad decision which they need to fix.

Speaking to Sinar Harian, he said they will be looking for new striker to strengthen up their front line.

"Strikers are really important, adding up with our ineffective import player, it made things worse for our team. However, I still think we need to fix this, so with that, we will be looking for new player to make sure we have a much stronger front line," said Datuk Seri Mohammad Hasan.

He also said that even though they have to spend more than usual, they will do it to improve Negeri Sembilan's performance in the league.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/25/3697925/negeri-sembilan-in-the-hunt-for-new-striker

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Selangor hell bent on securing victory over ATM

The Red Giants are determined to bounce back from their 1-1 draw against Perak in midweek by beating ATM in their FA Cup encounter on Friday

Selangor head coach Irfan Bakti has pledged that his side will put on a strong show and beat ATM at the Shah Alam Stadium on Friday. The Red Giants were disappointing to a certain extent in their 1-1 draw with Perak, as they conceded a late equalizer which prevented them from claiming all three points.

However, they are keen to redeem themselves and Irfan Bakti believes that his boys will shine industriously to beat ATM and progress into the second round of the FA Cup.

"We will work hard to improve on all the weaknesses we portrayed against Perak the other day," he told Kosmo.

"I've told my players to forget whatever happened in Lumut the other day and focus on the tie against ATM and I'm confident that they will do just that.

The former Terengganu head coach also went on to add that his side must stop their habit of giving away penalties easily, just like they have done in their last two matches against Perak and Pahang.

"If we look back at the game against Perak and Pahang, we gave away penalties too easily. I hope our boys will be more careful with challenges that they make as a penalty can always change the outcome of any match."
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/25/3697829/selangor-hell-bent-on-securing-victory-over-atm

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Johor Darul Takzim - Perak Preview: Seladangs out for revenge

A match with end-to-end action is expected when Azraai's 'immovable' defensive wall meets Fandi's 'unstoppable' forwards

Johor Darul Takzim and Perak go head to head in their FA Cup opener this Friday at the Tan Sri Dato Haji Hassan Yunos Stadium in Johor Bahru in what promises to be a game with goals galore. While the Southern Tigers are looking to pick up where they left off after running down top-form PKNS FC in a league tie, the Seladangs need to charge their forces after dropping points against a 10-man Selangor side.

Fandi Ahmad’s multi-million dollar squad is starting to bear fruit especially through Dani Guiza who has two goals and two assists to his name. The ex-Singapore national’s strategic application of a three-pronged attack featuring the Spaniard alongside Safee Sali and Norhsharul Idlan Talaha tore up the Red Ants and it is likely that he will maintain the trio upfront. They go into this round of the FA Cup as favourites to progress to the next.

Perak, on the other hand, have nothing to boast about in attack having only scored three goals in five games but Abdul Hadi Yahya’s experience could be the difference-maker upfront. Brazilian defender Rafael Novais will have the full backing of coach Mohd Azraai Khor Abdullah to marshall the backline in keeping out Johor’s strikers. A similar line-up that featured against Selangor could be rolled out to take on the Southern Tigers.

In previous meetings, boht sides have emerged as winners - a draw was few and far between. In their most recent clash in the Malaysian Super League at the Tan Sri Dato' Hj Hassan Yunos Stadium, Johor Darul Takzim barely scrapped through with a 1-0 win against a side with only nine men. Azraai’s men will be out for revenge and will settle for nothing less than a victory.

The match is scheduled to kick off in the Tan Sri Dato Haji Hassan Yunos Stadium at 4:15p.m.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/24/3696291/johor-darul-takzim-perak-preview-seladangs-out-for-revenge

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Mentally weak Andre irks Azmi
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Azmi Mohamad
BRAZILIAN playmaker Andre Francisco skipped training yet again and will not feature for Johor in tomorrow’s first round FA Cup match at the Pasir Gudang Stadium (4.15pm).

Francisco sustained an ankle injury in Johor’s opening Premier League match against Sime Darby FC at the Larkin Stadium on Jan 7 which ended 0-0.

The playmaker has not featured for Johor since, who are within striking distance of leaders Police who lead the league standings with 13 points. Johor are fifth with 10 points.

Johor coach

is not too happy with the Brazilian and wants the player to be “mentally strong” to make a comeback to a competitive match.

“It is all in the head. There is no fracture or hairline fracture. There is no swelling. But somehow he still complains about his ankle and his attitude is baffling. He is simply manja (pampered).

“As a professional he should have the team’s interest at heart. We need his services badly. His absence has affected the team’s performance. It is not that we cannot make do without him but he can contribute immensely.

“He is a good playmaker. He has vision and is a thinking player who can help the team when the chips are down,” said Azmi, who knows Pahang will not be an easy team to beat.

The former Malaysia Cup champions are leading the Super League with 12 points from five matches.

Johor did beat Pahang 3-0 in a pre-season quadrangular match for the Crown Prince of Johor Cup at the Larkin Stadium on Dec 27. Andre played a big role in the win.

Johor went on to become the champions when they stunned Super League big brothers Johor Darul Takzim with a come-from-behind 2-1 win.

“Pahang are having a good run in the Super League and they are leading the table standings after five matches. It will be a different Pahang in the FA Cup. Johor will need totally commitment and focus if we are to advance to the second round.”

Johor have won the FA Cup only once – in 1998 when they beat Sabah 1-0 in the final under Englishman Steve Darby.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/mentally-weak-andre-irks-azmi/

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Soldiers are the big guns now
By VIJHAY VICK

Irwan Fadly Idrus of Armed Forces celebrating after scoring against Kelantan in the Charity Shield earlier this month.
ARMED FORCES are the most interesting and strongest team in the M-League at present.

Having played the Gladiators and the other title contenders – treble winners Kelantan, LionsXII and last but not least cash-rich star-studded Johor Darul Takzim – PKNS coach Abdul Rahman Ibrahim believes B. Satiananthan’s charges are the most formidable opponents.

This comes off as rather surprising as only Johor Darul Takzim have managed a more than one-goal winning margin over the Selangor-based club side, while PKNS recorded a surprise win over the Singaporean development side.

“Armed Forces are the best team. They are very disciplined … their movement and tempo. They seem to have that extra which other teams lack and they use the width of the pitch to their advantage.

“It will be no surprise to see them among the frontrunners of 2013 M-league campaign,” said Abdul Rahman.

Abdul Rahman, who had two stints as national coach in 1987 and 1998-2000, knows all too well how tough life in the Super League can be for a newly promoted side as PKNS earned promotion to the Super League after winning the Premier League in 2011.

Armed Forces won the Premier League last year and also went on to reach the Malaysia Cup final, where they lost to Kelantan in extra time.

The Gladiators are second in the table level on points with Selangor and two points adrift of fellow newly promoted side and 2013 surprise package Pahang.

Meanwhile, Abdul Rahman wasn’t too upbeat ahead on his side’s FA Cup first round clash against LionsXII at the PJ Stadium tomorrow. This comes despite having beaten them 1-0 in the Super League last week.

He firmly believes that wins over the big teams in the league don’t come often and it may well be a different ball game tomorrow.

“It doesn’t mean we have beaten LionsXII before, we will be winners again. We have to know where we stand and it is difficult as we are not at the same level with them,” said Abdul Rahman.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/soldiers-are-the-big-guns-now/

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Yusof is new Sabah manager
SABAH CORRESPONDENT
A NEW manager has taken over the Sabahawks who kick off their FA Cup opener at Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu tomorrow.
Sabah FA vice-president Datuk Yusof Mohd Kassim took over from interim manager Alijus Sipil who is also the secretary-general two days ago.

The Sabahawks will take on Super League outfit KL Felda United FC and the return leg is set for Feb 26.

“My appointment as interim manager was only temporary because of my work commitments,” said Alijus who is attached with the City Hall.

“The team manager’s position requires full commitment and attention. The FA decided that the post be given to Datuk Yusof,” he said.

Sabah are seventh in the 12-team Premier League after five games.

They beat KL Spa Putrajaya FC 2-1 and NS Betaria FC 2-0 in the first two home games but lost to KL Sime Darby 1-3 and Kuala Lumpur 2-3 away.

Last Monday they suffered their first home defeat to Kedah 0-2.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/yusof-is-new-sabah-manager/

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Dollah: FA Cup different ball game
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Dollah Salleh
PAHANG are going great guns in the Super League – sitting on top of the 12-team league with 12 points, two more than second-placed Armed Forces after five matches.

But Pahang coach Dollah Salleh said the FA Cup, which kicks off tomorrow with the first round knockout matches, is a “different ball game”.

“I only hope we can carry take off from the Super League (3-0 win over Terengganu at home on Tuesday). I would not want to say much more on our (FA Cup) match against Premier League side Johor tomorrow,” Dollah told sports247.my.

The match will be played at the Pasir Gudang Stadium at 4.45pm as the FA of Malaysia (FAM) have not given the green light yet for night matches to be played although the lighting has been upgraded to 1,200 Lux as per FAM’s requirement.

Dollah and his team arrived in Johor Baru late afternoon today without speedy right winger R. Surendran, who was stretchered out in the match against Terengganu due to a bad knee injury.

Also on the crock list is former Selangor striker Mohd Amirul Hadi Zainal (hamstring), who will undergo a fitness test before kickoff.

Dollah, who started his football career in Johor, was quick to remind that the Elephants have not forgotten the 3-0 defeat to Johor in the Crown Prince of Johor Cup four-team pre-season quadrangular on Dec 27.

“It is still fresh in our minds and we don’t want another such defeat in the FA Cup. If we lose we are out of the FA Cup as it is a knockout tournament. Pahang may be doing well in the (Super) League but it is still early.”

The former international has not decided if his two foreigners – Moroccan Mohamed Borji and Macedonian Nikolche Klechkaroski – will be in the starting lineup.

Dollah, however, admitted Borji and Mohd Hafiz Kamal, turned the tide for Pahang against Terengganu after coming on as substitutes in the second half.

Pahang won the FA Cup in 2006 after beating Perlis 4-2 on penalties following a scoreless draw. The East Coast side were runners-up in 1995, beaten by Sabah 3-1 in the final.

Englishman Steve Darby led Johor to their only FA Cup success in 1998 with a 1-0 win over Sabah in the final.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/dollah-fa-cup-different-ball-game/

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Baihakki and Fazrul boost for LionsXII
By RIZAL ABDULLAH
THE ups and down of LionsXII will be put to severe test again when they play “bogey team” PKNS FC in a first round FA Cup match at the Petaling Jaya Stadium tomorrow.
It will be the second meeting with the two teams within 10 days, having crossed paths in a Super League match at the same venue on Jan 15 with PKNS winning 1-0.

The trip to Petaling Jaya for V. Sundramoorthy and company comes in the wake of their 1-0 defeat to T-Team in a league match played in Kuala Terengganu on Tuesday.

While national service has taken away some of his players, Sundramoorthy welcomes back two his most influential players in the team – towering defender Baihakki Khaizan and striker Fazrul Nawaz.

The duo sat out the match against T-Team because of suspension and having them back in the team will not only give the Singaporeans stability in the two departments but also allow Sundramoorthy to work out his match strategies.

“Baihakki’s return is boost to the team. He is an influential figure and gives confidence to the younger players. We missed his command at the back against T-Team.

“PKNS seems to be a ‘bogey team’ to us in the M-League. After two away defeats we hope to be third time lucky,” said Sundramoorthy, who was recently appointed as the caretaker coach of the Singapore national team.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/baihakki-and-fazrul-boost-for-lionsxii/

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Penang team dive into the unknown
PENANG CORRESPONDENT
(PBAPP) FC admit they do not know much about their FA Cup first round opponents Preah Khan Reach.
PBAPP coach Zabidi Hassan said he has zero information on the guest team from Cambodia ahead of their clash at the City Stadium in Penang tomorrow.

“We don’t get much exposure on Cambodian football here, so my team will head into the unknown when we play Preah Khan Reach,” said Zabidi yesterday.

“I only have information about them when they played in the Malaysian FA Cup last year. I don’t know how many players from last year are still there of if they had made wholesale changes to their squad.”

Zabidi has instructed PBAPP players to be cautious against opponents who had progressed to the last 16 last year.

“This will be PBAPP’s first competitive match of the season and I hope the players can hit the ground running.

“Preah Khan Reach will not be pushovers as they had defeated the Penang state team during their debut in Malaysia last season.”

In 2012, the Cambodian outfit knocked out Penang 2-1 in the opening match before falling 5-4 on penalties to Kuala Lumpur SPA after a 2-2 draw in the following round.

PBAPP, who will be playing their second season in the third-tier FAM League, are making their debut in the knockout FA Cup competition.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/penang-team-dive-into-the-unknown/

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Elephants in come-from-behind win
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

PAHANG continued their rich form in the M-League to knock Johor out of the FA Cup competition with a come-from-behind 3-2 win in a first round match at the Pasir Gudang Stadium this afternoon.



Pahang rode on a brace by Fauzi Rozlan (45th minute penalty) and 75th minute after Mohamed Borji (13th) had cancelled out Johor’s 10th minute lead through Juan Muriel Orlando. The Argentine also scored Johor’s second in the 50th minute.

But again it was the man in black who stole the limelight with his many questionable decisions that left Johor fuming.

Johor team manager On Jabar said later that Johor would file an official complaint against referee Samsudin Ibrahim “so that FAM can take a serious stand on poor refereeing” which is robbing teams.

“Losing is one thing but to get knocked out of the competition through bad refereeing is hard to swallow,” said On after the match.

The Elephants who are going great guns in the Super League came from behind to snuff out Johor who had gone ahead in the 10th minute through Orlando who managed to get the ball into the Pahang box despite it being crowded.

But that lead lasted only three minutes as Pahang levelled the score through their Moroccan hitman Borji who made a rare first team start. Borji turned out to be a thorn in the Johor side.

Johor were still in control after conceding the lead but Orlando was once again goal-shy in front of the goal. He even muffed a sitter. Coach Azmi Mohamad had recently said that Orlando’s poor form in front of the goal was a big worry.

Still, Johor were showing more urgency in their game and kept the Pahang defence on their toes but Orlando and company simply could not get the ball into the net.



After Orlando missed his sitter, Perak were awarded a penalty in the 45th minute after Nazri Ahmad brought Borji down inside the box. Fauzi Roslan made no mistake with the spot kick.

Johor came back after the breather with another miss when Alif Mohd Yusof sending his header inches wide off the left post. However, Orlando made it 2-2 in the 50th minute when he finished off a corner kick by Farid Ramli.

Fauzi, who has earned a national call up, fired Pahang’s winner in the 75th minute as the Johor backline was caught napping.



www.sports247.my/2013/01/elephants-in-come-from-behind-win/

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Johor Darul Takzim 1-0 Perak: Deja vu for Seladangs as Aidil wins it for the Southern Tigers

Aidil Zafuan netted the winner, just like he did in their Super League match earlier this month, to give Johor Darul Takzim victory over the Seladangs at Larkin



The game kicked off on a rather predictable note as the big spending home side seized initiative with Guiza sitting in the hole behind Norshahrul Idlan Talaha. The first chance of the game fell to Dani Guiza, who fired a free-kick directly against the Perak wall early on in the game.

Perak were still missing their inspirational skipper Shahrom Kalam at the back, and while Sivakumar was doing a decent job of holding the midfield, they were clearly pinned back early on. However in the 14th minute, Hadi Yahya provided a defence splitting pass to Norhakim Isa, who failed to finish despite being one-on-one with Zamir Selamat in the Johor goal.

The Seladangs were meticulously edging into the game and they were awarded a free kick just outside the box on the 27th minute. Norhakim stepped up to curl it into the box, but it only managed to find two Perak men who were in an offside position.

Two minutes after that, Safiq Rahim floated in a cross into the Perak box, and it was met by Aidil Zafuan, who failed to put his header on target. Guiza continued to pull the strings upfront and he provided an inch perfect ball for Ezraidy from the left flank, but the Johor flanker failed to connect with it.

Knowing that set-pieces could be enough to win this one, Rafael Novais had a customary long range attempt on goal from outside the box. However, his spectacular attempt was stopped well by Zamir Selamat. The score remained as both sides went into the break.

After the break, Fandi Ahmad's men came out firing on all cylinders. They pushed forward relentlessly with Norshahrul and Guiza wasting a flurry of chances.

Then came the defining moment. Johor launched a counter attack courtesy of Zamir Selamat's long ball and Norshahrul evaded the goalkeeper before a firing a shot, which deflected off a Perak player for a corner kick. Safiq Rahim stepped up to deliver and Aidil Zafuan headed home from the cross to give Johor a deserved lead.

Norhakim Isa was at the heart of every Perak attempt, but they were finding it hard to make an impact on the final third. Nurul Azwan Roya then unleashed a shot from outside the box, but it was deflected off Rafael Novais for a corner kick.

Rafael then lined up for another free kick attempt but this time around, he shot straight against the wall. Aidil Zafuan fired a shot way off target late in the game as the home side seized victory and progression into the next stage of the Malaysia FA Cup
www.goal.com/en-my/match/99784/kelab-bolasepak-darul-takzim-vs-perak-fa/report

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Dream debut for Penang team
PENANG CORRESPONDENT



PENANG WATER SUPPLY CORPORATION (PBAPP) FC could not have asked for a better debut in the FA Cup competition after routing the invitation side from Cambodia, Preach Khan Reach, 6-1 in their first round match at the City Stadium.

Even the Penang club’s coach Zabidi Hassan was left astounded by the margin of victory in PBAPP’s first competitive match of the season.

“I could not have asked for a better start to the season. I expected a tough struggle against the Cambodians,” said Zabidi.

“Preach Khan Reach played well but the big difference was my players were able to put away the chances that came our way.”

After a nervy start by both teams, PBAPP shot ahead through Khairool Anas in the 15th minute.

The third-tier FAM Cup side doubled their lead 10 minutes later after Preach’s Nen Sothearoth deflected the ball over his own goalkeeper.

Against the run of play, winger Hasrul Hakim made it 3-0 in the 33rd minute. The visitors pulled a goal back a minute into the second half when Moung Makara capitalised on a weak back pass to score.

But PBAPP snuffed out the fightback with further goals by Mohamed Khalis (61st) and substitute Mohammad Zaihisham (64th, 83rd).

“Our priority this season is to win promotion into the Premier League, but we will go as far as we can in the FA Cup knockout competition,” said Zabidi.

PBAPP will face Sarawak in the next round.

The East Malaysians scored a convincing 3-0 victory over Malacca today with Bobby Gonzales netting twice to take his tally to six from as many games this season. Shahrol Saperi scored the other.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/dream-debut-for-penang-team/

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Malaysia FA Cup 2013 Fixtures

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Red Giants walk tall
sports247.my
SELANGOR staged a second half recovery to march into the second round of the FA Cup at the expense of Premier League champions Armed Forces (ATM).
Down 2-0 at the break, the Red Giants pounded The Gladiators from all sides to draw 2-2 after 90 minutes.

There were no goals in extratime and in the penalty shootout, Selangor won 3-2 to progress into the round of 16.

Marlon Alex James put The Gladiators ahead in the seventh minute with header off a free kick from Bruno Martelotto.

Selangor without key players K. Gurusamy, S. Kunanlan, Mohd Bunyamin Omar (all injured) and Mohd Amri Yahyah (suspended) looked like a depleted side in the first half.

It got worse when Mohd Affize Faizal scored ATM’s second in 26th minute after Martelotto found him with a beautiful pass.

Selangor, who last won the FA Cup in 2005, looked dead and buried but a tongue lashing from Irfan Bakti saw them come out for the second half with all guns blazing.

Substitute Muhammad Afiq Azmi who came on as a replacement for the injured Francis Forkey Doe in the first half, cut the deficit to one with a goal after 53 minutes minutes.

His powerful header gave Armed Forces goalkeeper, Farizal Harun no chance after K. Solihin did all the hard work on the right flank.

Three minutes later Afiq was on target again with another header to bring his team back into the game.

Extratime failed to separate the teams and the match had to be decided on penalties.

Martelotto who scored the decisive penalty in ATM’s win over Kelantan in the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Cup, was the villain this time when he missed their fifth spot kick.

He was one of three Gladiators to miss.

The Red Giants also maintained their proud record of not losing to the Armed Forces in any of the 11 games that they have played including today.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/red-giants-walk-tall/

the brawl of Gladiators vs Red Giants after the penalty shoot out

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Titans Do Their Bit For A Good Cause

THEY may not score many points on the field but away from the pitch, T-Team have been scoring full marks.

Yesterday, after their morning training session, the Titans, led by coach Peter Butler, went to the Bukit Payong Old Folks Home in Kuala Terengganu, bearing food and gifts for the 23 inmates there.

With officials from team sponsor, Sabasun HyperRuncit, joining in, the players, coaches and officials served lunch to the senior citizens and kept them company for more than two hours.

The short but meaningful visit was not lost on the residents who were clearly touched by the kind gesture of the team members.

Home chairman Datuk Mansor Mohamad said everybody was looking forward to the luncheon once they knew the Titans were coming.

"Most residents here do not get to receive too many visitors and it certainly makes their day when the whole team come calling.

"I have no doubt that this will be a major talking point here as it is not often that they get to sit and eat with famous footballers such as Butler, (George) Boateng and Marzuki (Yusof)," he said.

Awang Salleh, 65, who has been an inmate of the home since 2007, said he still remembers the time he used to watch football games at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium.

"Back then there was only Terengganu and no T-Team or the Titans but I am glad that we have a new team now who are kind enough to visit old people like us," he said.

Another resident, Wook Sulong, 70, said it was almost two years ago when a relative last visited her.

"Today, I am happy to see many handsome young men coming to talk to me, eat with me and give me food hampers, sarong and many other gifts," she said.

Butler who is also the team manager, said the visit was an integral part of the the team's community programme.

"We are happy to have a chance to spend quality time with the nice folk here and at the same time, they are also doing us a favour by keeping us humble.

"We enjoy our visits to the schools, we have a great time here and next, between practices and matches, we will find time to do some other community projects," said the 46-year-old coach who is not too worried that his team are languishing third from bottom in the Super League after four matches. By Zainuddin Muhammad
www.t-team.com.my/titans/index.php/berita/berita-inggeris/87-titans-do-their-bit-for-a-good-cause

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Selangor edge ATM; Pahang through

Selangor are through to the second round of the Malaysia FA Cup after beating ATM 3-2 on penalties following a 2-2 draw at the Shah Alam Stadium on Friday.
By ESPNSTAR.com staff

ATM looked like they were heading for a spot in the last 16 after racing to a two-goal lead inside 26 minutes thanks to goals from Marlon Alex James and Affize Faisal.

However, Afiq Azmi, who was making his first start for Selangor after joining them in the off-season, pulled one back in the 54th minute, before grabbing his second four minutes later to level the scores.

And with neither side able to find a third goal, the match went to penalties, where it was the Red Giants who eventually prevailed after Argentine playmaker Bruno Martelotto missed the crucial kick for ATM.

Surprise Super League leaders Pahang are also through to the next round after they toiled to a 3-2 win over Johor at the Pasir Gudang Corporation Stadium.

Although Muriel Orlando opened the scoring for the hosts in the 11th minute, it was Tok Gajah who lead at the break thanks to goals from Mohamed Borji and Fauzi Roslan.

Johor pulled level six minutes into the second half when Orlando grabbed his second of the game, but Fauzi followed suit in the 75th minute to win the tie for Pahang.

Johor's neighbours Darul Takzim did however have better luck as they beat Perak 1-0 thanks to Safiq Rahim's 60th-minute strike, while Abdul Latif Suhaimi netted in the 106th minute to hand T-Team a 3-2 extra-time victory over Perlis.

The Titans had claimed a 2-0 lead after a Fazuan Abdullah effort and an own-goal from Haniff Mohd Noor, but Perlis pulled level through Hadi Syahmi Hamzah and Nurfirdaus Roswanan, before Abdul Latif's extra-time winner.

Struggling Terengganu gave their fans something to smile about as a 16th minute strike from Ismail Faruqi Asha'ri and a Jean-Emmanuel Effa Owona brace saw them record a comfortable 3-1 win over SPA FC, who netted a late consolation from the spot through Islam Raja Ali.

Despite taking a 7th-minute lead through Edrisar Kaye, Premier League pacesetters PDRM were handed their first defeat of the season as they fell to a shock 2-1 loss to Penang, who overturned the deficit thanks to a second-half brace from Syafuan Riduwan.

There was no such upset in Kuching as Sarawak beat Malacca 3-0 thanks to a Shahrol Saperi strike and a brace from Bobby Gonzales, while Khyril Muhymeen Zambri, Chayene Santos and Akmal Rizal all netted in Kedah's 3-0 home win over NS Betaria.

In one of the shocks of the first round, Kuala Lumpur, who were only relegated from the top flight last season, fell to a humiliating 5-0 defeat at home to Pos Malaysia.

Despite being only two spots below the Postmen in the Premier League, Kuala Lumpur had no answer on the day as they found themselves two goals down by the break through goals from Saufi Ibrahim and S. Sumindran.

The hosts were then reduced to ten men when Munir Maran received his marching orders on the stroke of halftime, and Pos made the most of their numerical advantage by adding three more in the second half through Sumindran, Muhamad Hasnan and Razif Abdul Rahim.

Elsewhere, PBAPP FC crushed Cambodian invitees Preah Khan Reach 5-1, Tentera Darat beat Shahzan Muda 2-0, while Jufferey Ommopor bagged the winner 17 minutes from time as Sabah claimed the scalp of FELDA United with a 2-1 win.

Two of Friday's games were abandoned and rescheduled for Saturday due to unplayable conditions stemming from bad weather.

PKNS FC were leading LIONSXII 1-0 at the Petaling Jaya Stadium courtesy of Helmi Remeli's fourth-minute opener when play was called off in the 38th minute, while Negri Sembilan were 2-0 up at UiTM FC thanks to strikes from Abdul Halim Zainal and S. Sivanesan when their game was halted too.

Friday's Malaysia FA Cup First Round Results
Johor 2-3 Pahang
PBAPP FC 5-1 Preah Khan Reach
T-Team 3-2 Perlis (after extra time)
PDRM 1-2 Penang
PKNS FC 1-0 LIONSXII (match abandoned)
Sabah 2-1 FELDA United
Shahzan Muda 0-2 Tentera Derat
SPA FC 1-3 Terengganu
UiTM FC 0-2 Negri Sembilan (match abandoned)
Kuala Lumpur 0-5 Pos Malaysia
Sarawak 3-0 Malacca
Darul Takzim 1-0 Perak
Kedah 3-0 NS Betaria
Selangor 2-2 ATM (after extra time, 3-2 on penaltlies)
www.espnstar.com/football/m-league/news/detail/item925002/Selangor-edge-ATM/

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OKS challenges SEA Games hopefuls

Malaysia Under-23 coach Ong Kim Swee has challenged his younger players to step up to the plate when they kick off their tour of Australia on Saturday.
By Gabriel Tan

The Young Tigers are currently in Queensland as part of their preparation for the year-end Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, where they will be looking to defend the gold medal they won back in 2011.

Ong's charges open their tour on Saturday against Palm Beach Sharks, one of three Australian Premier League (APL) Queensland Conference outfits they will meet before facing reigning A-League premiers Brisbane Roar, but are without six key players in Fadhli Shas, Wan Zack Haikal, Gary Robbat, Nik Shahrul Azim, Zubir Azmi and K. Reuben.

However, their 42-year-old coach believes this will allow some of the newer players in the squad to prove their worth and stake their claim for a place in his SEA Games squad come December.

"[Saturday's] game against Palm Beach Sharks is the start of the test for our new players," he told ESPNSTAR.com. "But, of course, they still need time.

"I hope they will use this chance to gain more experience and prove themselves that they can compete at a higher level.

"It is very important that the new players gel well with the team for us to have good depth, in case of injuries or suspensions in the future."

Given Australian sides are well known for their physical and tenacious approach, Ong believes it will provide a good test for youngsters like Ariff Farhan and Adam Nor Azlin, both of whom are only 17.

"Results are not my main concern for this tour," he added.

"I expect that we will have aggressive games against the local teams. It is more important to see the players' desire and discipline against a tough opponent on this trip."

Following Saturday's game, Malaysia U-23 are next in action next Tuesday when they take on Sunshine Coast Fire.
www.espnstar.com/football/m-league/news/detail/item924757/OKS-challenges-SEA-Games-hopefuls/

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FAM's application to strike out Annuar's summons is dismissed with cost

The FAM's application's to strike Annuar's orginating summons has been dismissed by the High Court and Judge Hadhariah Syed Ismail has set Feb 25th to hear the case

The High Court has dismissed with cost the application by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and its secretary-general Datuk Azzudin Ahmad, to strike out an originating summons filed by Tan Sri Annuar Musa over his suspension from football activities.

Judge Hadhariah Syed Ismail has made the decision in her chambers and set February 25th, to hear the case.

According to Bernama, Annuar's counsel Yusfarizal Yussoff told reporters outside the court that the judge has dismissed the application since there was merit in Annuar's suit.

Annuar is seeking a declaration that the first two charges against him, were flawed, invalid, and void. Annuar also claimed FAM also failed to satisfy the burden of proof on the charges against him, which he acclaimed that it was prejudicial as he was found guilty of violating the FAM Edisi 2011 code before his defence was filed.

He also claimed that he was not given the right to be presented during the hearing.

On June 4th 2012, Annuar was slapped with a 30-month suspension by the FAM Disciplinary Commitee after finding him guilty of making a negative statement of the national football team in the media on February 12th, 2012.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/26/3701293/fams-application-to-strike-out-annuars-summons-is-dismissed-with-

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Injured Fitri made to wait an hour for ambulance
By FARAH AZHARIE


FLASHBACK: Mohd Fitri Omar (right) in action against Kelantan earlier this season

MOHD FITRI OMAR of the Armed Forces suffered an MCL injury to his knee during their FA Cup match against Selangor last night, but was made to wait an agonising hour for the ambulance.

The ambulance left Shah Alam Stadium before the teams made their exit following Selangor’s 3-2 victory on penalties after the match ended 2-2.

Despite the long wait, the good news for Fitri, who was treated at KPJ Selangor Hospital, is that he is expected to recovery in one to two weeks..

“It’s a minor tear to my MCL and I guess I should be thankful that it wasn’t more,” said the former Majlis Perbandaran Muar footballer.

Fitri was supposed to report for national duty today as coach, Datuk K Rajagobal is compiling his squad for the Asia Cup qualifiers.

The Tigers are to meet Qatar in the first match on Feb 6 and play a friendly against Qatar on Jan 31.

“I am so disappointed because I was so excited about this opportunity,” said the 2010 Premier League Golden Boot winner, who was hoping to make his international debut.

“It’s the first time I’m getting a call-up and it’s just a shame that I got injured the night before but I’m hoping to make a quick recovery so I can earn my place in the team next time.”
www.sports247.my/2013/01/injured-fitri-made-to-wait-an-hour-for-ambulance/

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Satia: We were better but couldn’t finish it off
By G. ARAVIND

B. Satianathan
ARMED FORCES coach B. Satianathan is not disappointed after his team were knocked out of the FA Cup competition by Selangor in the first round match yesterday.

Satianathan said his team were stronger and better than their opponents despite playing away from home.

“You can see that once the score was level at 2-2, we looked as though we were the home team as controlled the game in extra time. The only problem was we couldn’t find the third goal to kill the game off and that cost us the match.

Satianathan added that his team should learn how to defend once they had the lead because the two goals which they let in early in the second half gave their opponents confidence.

“In games like this, converting chances and defending a lead
are very crucial. My players will improve on that when the season resumes in three weeks.”

The former national coach also said he didn’t understand
the red card incident involving Selangor player Abd Shukur Jusoh.

“I didn’t know what was going on when the referee suddenly decided to overturn the decision and called the player back onto the field. I will include this matter in my report to the Football Association of Malaysia.

He added that he was not aware of the incident involving his
player Mohd Affize Faizal and Selangor’s Muhammad Afiq Azmi after the match.

“I was approaching Irfan (Bakti) to congratulate him on the win and I didn’t notice the incident. It’s common for incidents like that to occur when two big teams play each other,” Satianathan said.

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PKNS players not hungry enough, says coach
By HO LEE CHING

Abdul Rahman Ibrahim
PKNS players may be happy with their win against Lions Xll but coach Abdul Rahman Ibrahim is not satisfied with their attitude. PKNS defeated Lions Xll in a replay 1-0 at the MBPJ Stadium today.

“Yes, I am happy with the win but the players lack the fighting attitude. Maybe they are inexperienced but they cannot play like this,” said Abdul Rahman.

After scoring the solitary goal, PKNS tried many times to slot in another to secure their lead but their efforts, as Abdul Rahman described, were weak and limp.

“And even though they controlled the game, I feel that the players do not have the skills to finish it off. They were not hungry enough to kill the Lions with a second goal,” he said.

“We are just lucky to defeat the Lions for the second time this year. Playing at home probably motivates them more,” added Abdul Rahman.

PKNS had beaten Lions Xll in the Malaysia Super League on Jan 15.

They will face defending champions Kelantan in the second round of the FA Cup on Feb 26 in Kota Baru.

“We will make some changes that will help us defeat the defending champions,” Abdul Rahman said.
www.sports247.my/2013/01/pkns-players-not-hungry-enough-says-coach/

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Penang favourites in diluted field

TWO-TIME FAM Cup champions Kuantan are among six teams making their FAM League debut this year while the absence of clubs from the Under-21 President’s Cup has left that tournament reduced to 18 sides only.

The third-tier FAM League kicks off on Feb 17 with only the Army, Kuantan Port, Malacca, Penang and Penang Water Supply Corporation left from last season.

Two teams — Public Service Commission and Universiti Teknologi Mara — were promoted to the Premier League while Melodi Jaya, Sinar Dimaja Mai Sarah and Johor Baru City Council have withdrawn.

Kuantan, FAM Cup champions in 1975 and 1977 and runners-up in 1974 and 1976 when the tournament was a knock-out affair restricted to clubs, are one of two district teams along with Tumpat to be involved in the 11-team FAM League.

Joining them are Cebagoo from Sabah, Kedah Malays, Perak’s Yayasan Bina Upaya and national Under-17 side Young Tigers C.

Penang, who have hired their former Moroccan star Merzagua Abderrazak as coach, start as early favourites having assembled a strong team.

Danial Fadzly Abdullah, Khairan Eroza Razali, Norizam Salaman, Baser Napae and Fitri Jamaludin are just some of the players in the squad with M-League experience.

Kedah Malays have roped in former international striker Hasmawi Hassan from Penang and ex-Perlis defender Phul Sakh Lum to spearhead their challenge while Malacca have hired seven players from the disbanded Muar Municipal Council team.

The President’s Cup action kicks off on Jan 31 with the field reduced from a record 27 teams last season to 18 after the FA of Malaysia moved to ban clubs from the youth competition.

Only the 16 main FAM affiliates plus the Bukit Jalil and Tengku Mahkota Ismail sport schools are allowed to enter this season.

FAM LEAGUE: Army, Kuantan Port, Malacca, Penang, Penang Water Supply Corporation, Kuantan, Tumpat, Cebagoo, Kedah Malays, Yayasan Bina Upaya, Young Tigers C. By Devinder Singh
Read more: Penang favourites in diluted field - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/penang-favourites-in-diluted-field-1.208063#ixzz2J7QZSEyx

p/s : harimau muda C is U19 squad, the U17 or harimau muda D will plays in reserve league

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Malaysia FA Cup 2nd round

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Shahzan Muda SC 0 vs 2 Malaysian Army FC - 1st Round Malaysia FA Cup 2013 at www.facebook.com/TemerlohFA Mini Stadium