Malaysia Super League

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Johor FA gets new development officer

RIZAL ABDULLAH

NEW ROLE: File pic of Sukumaran (centre) giving tips to some players
K. SUKUMARAN has been appointed Johor FA’s new development officer and will be in charge of football development in the state as well as being director of coaching.

The appointment takes effect from Dec 1 – four days before the former teacher at Maktab Sultan Abu Bakar, Johor Baru, formerly known as English College, goes on his annual pilgrimage to India. He will be away for two weeks.

Sukumaran coached Johor in the Premier League in the recent M-League. Johor finished fourth in the league and qualified for the Malaysia Cup but failed to advance to the quarterfinals.

Sukumaran holds an “A” licence from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) apart from the England FA International Coaching Certificate.

He has also done attachment stints with English clubs Watford FC and Luton Town FC and famed Dutch club Ajax Amsterdam.

His new job will take him to all the 10 districts in Johor – Johor Bahru, Kota Tinggi, Mersing, Kluang, Pontian, Batu Pahat, Muar, Segamat, Ledang and Kulaijaya – as Johor embark on a massive development programme to make the state a powerhouse in the game.

“Of course I am happy with the new appointment. This is what I wanted to do last season but was instead told to coach Johor,” said Sukumaran, who has also done coaching stints with the FAM’s age group teams.

“As the Johor FA’s development officer I will be deeply involved in development at grassroots. The Johor FA wants all districts to develop football.

“At the same time I will be conducting basic courses and FAM ‘C’ licence courses in Johor.”

Sukumaran was the Johor FA’s director of coaching cum goalkeepers’ coach when Johor won the Razak Cup in 1981 and 1982. He also coached the Johor team that won the President’s Cup in 1987 and the Bardhan Cup (1982).

On the international front, Sukumaran was the coach of Johor that finished third and won the Fairplay Award in the Vietnam Independence Cup in 1998.
www.sports247.my/2012/11/johor-fa-gets-new-development-officer/

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Band of captains

By RIZAL ABDULLAH

DEFENDER Ahmad Tharmimi Saiban is Johor Darul Takzim’s (formerly Johor FC) overall team captain but manager-cum-coach Fandi Ahmad has lined up several other names to wear the skipper’s armband.
Among the names are national captain Safiq Rahim, Safee Sali, Spain’s 2008 European Championships winning striker Daniel Guiza and ex-Lazio midfielder Simone Del Nero.

“Anyone of them can wear the skipper’s armband. All are capable of leading the team in a match. They bring with them a wealth of experience at all levels of competitions,” Fandi told sports247.my.

“The team’s overall captain is Tharmimi. He is a good leader and was with me when I managed Johor (Premier League side) last season. He has the qualities and is well respected by others.

“For a match I will pick my skipper on a rotation basis. I have several names in mind – Safiq, Safee, Guiza and Simone. There are others too who could wear the armband in a match.

We are not short of players with experience. Many of them have led their previous teams and this is a plus point for me. I can count on anyone of them to take the responsibility.”

Johor Darul Takzim have signed several strong names for the new season and have set a high target of winning all three silverwares at stake – the League Cup, the FA Cup and the much sought after Malaysia Cup.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/band-of-captains/

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Kuala Lumpur stunned

sports247.my

POLICE continued their fairy tale run in the KL Cup when they defeated the hosts 2-1 at the Subang Jaya Sports Complex today.
Police had beaten Negri Sembilan Betaria 2-1 in their first match.

The back-to-back wins put Police in pole position to qualify for the final that will be played on Thursday. A draw in their next match will be enough to see them fight for the RM10,000 top prize.

In the second match that was played earlier, Perlis got their campaign back on track after trashing NS Betaria 6-0.

Perlis who lost their first game 2-1 to KL, will next meet Police while KL faceoff with Betaria. Both matches are on Tuesday.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/kuala-lumpur-stunned/

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NTFA back among the elite

sports247.my

The jubilant NTFA team.
NIBONG TEBAL Football Association (NTFA) were crowned the Penang Football League Division Two champions at the Polo Ground today after securing a comfortable 3-0 victory over Kongsi.

Needing just two points from their final two matches to secure their maiden Division Two title, NTFA left nothing to chance by racing into a three-goal lead within the opening 20 minutes.

They then cruised to victory on a wet and slippery pitch to confirm their league crown.

The former Premier League club side have now collected 32 points from 12 matches, four points ahead of nearest challengers Belia Asas Bersatu, who only have one match remaining.

“NTFA’s success in capturing the Division Two title by staying unbeaten in the league can be attributed to the total commitment shown by the players and officials.

“Everyone gave their full support throughout the campaign and it is good that we did not let the title chase prolong into the final match,” said NTFA coach Rozainal Rosli.

Despite having wrapped up the league crown, the former FAM Cup champions have vowed not to let up during their final league fixture against basement side Ramblers on Dec 29.

“The league title and promotion to the top division are already secured, but we will still for a win against Ramblers.

“We want to close out the season by remaining unbeaten. After conceding just five goals in our 10 wins and two draws so far, I want the players to make it a memorable season by finishing the job in a fortnight’s time,” said team manager Ong Eng Hua.

NTFA, the 2004 FAM Cup champions, were banished to the Penang League Division Three competition in 2009 after serving a two-year ban for withdrawing from the national-level Premier League competition due to financial difficulties in 2006.

They promptly lifted the Penang Division Three title three years ago, and will now regain their place among the elite club sides in Penang next season.

NTFA are also on course for a domestic double this year after qualifying for the semifinal of the Penang FA Cup knockout competition.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/ntfa-back-among-the-elite/

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Fandi: Darul Takzim stars are a dream

Johor Darul Takzim boss Fandi Ahmad admits the side he will take charge of in the 2013 Malaysia Super League season is a dream come true for any manager.

By ESPNSTAR.com staff

Darul Takzim, who were previously known as Johor FC, unveiled their new signings for the upcoming season on Monday, which included a plethora of Malaysia internationals in Safee Sali, Safiq Rahim, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Aidil Zafuan, Azmi Muslim and Zaquan Adha.

Harimau Selatan have also captured two impressive foreign signings in Dani Guiza, who was part of the Spain side that won Euro 2008, and ex-Lazio star Simone Del Nero, and many are already tipping to challenge for the title.

While he admits he will have a talented group of players to work with in 2013, Fandi insists is important they play as a team and not as individuals.

"This is a challenge for me and I think it's also a good headache to have," he said. "To have a team like this is a dream for any coach, not only me.

"For me, every player has to follow instructions and most importantly be disciplined and have good teamwork.

"These players [unveiled at Monday's press conference] are not necessarily in the first XI. All the players in this team deserve the chance to fight for their place.

"They are all professionals so they know what needs to be done."

Tunku Ismail, the president of Johor Football Association (Johor FA) echoed his coach's sentiments and revealed his goal of making Darul Takzim one of the biggest teams in Southeast Asia.

"I am very happy with the team we have now," he added. "What Fandi and I see is not who is in the team, but the objective of the team as a whole.

"Our objective is to put Johor at the top and to be recognised in the country and in Southeast Asia. Fandi and I discussed this 12 months ago.

"I think Johor are blessed to have these quality players. However, they must remember that this is not a place for a holiday where they can sit around and receive their salary every month.

"We all have one objective which is to work hard. We should also show good attitude on and off the field so that we can set a good example for the other teams.

"The players should play for the name on the front of their jerseys, and not the one on the back."
Darul Takzim get their league campaign underway with a trip to newly-promoted Pahang.
www.espnstar.com/home/news/detail/item910197/Fandi:-Darul-Takzim-stars-are-a-dream/

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Saarvindran’s chance to impress
By VIJHAY VICK

D. Saarvindran hopes to cement his place in Ong Kim Swee’s team
HARIMAU MUDA versatile midfielder D. Saarvindran wants to repay the faith shown by Ong Kim Swee.

The 20-year-old had his second spell with Kim Swee’s boys this year, but conceded it didn’t go as planned.

Saarvindran was also part of the team who had a stint in Slovakia in 2010, but was then told to skipper the Harimau Muda B team under then coach Ismail Ibrahim in the Premier League last year instead of playing in the Super League.

“I can’t complain about the number of games I’ve played. I played many games, but didn’t grab the chances that came my way.

“I have to repay the faith shown in me. It is not going to come always and it is time I make the most of my chances. I have a personal target of making it to the SEA Games squad,” said the Klang lad.

The versatile midfielder has played in every attacking position, but admitted his favourite position is on the right flank, a position held by starlet Wan Zack Haikal Wan Nor.

Instead, Saarvindran will have to fight for a place in a team that also includes Irfan Fazail and Gary Steven Robbat.

“Competition is great but we will all get our chances. It is how we take it. I hope I can impress in Slovakia.

So what does Saarvindran think of playing in Slovakia again?

“It is a different ball game. It is more aggressive and the games are played at a higher tempo but we are generally faster than teams in Slovakia. But it is still a good test for us as they are physically stronger.

“Although we are playing friendlies only, it is still aggressive. They don’t treat these matches lightly,” he added.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/26455/

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The waiting game
By VIJHAY VICK

Clockwise from top left : Gary Steven, Adam Nor, D. Saarvindran and Fadhli Shas
HARIMAU MUDA are still waiting for the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to sort out their European fixtures.

Ong Kim Swee’s boys will be based in Slovakia from March 16-Aug 6 and will tour Europe to play matches in Prague, Vienna, Budapest, and Warsaw.

However, FAM have yet to confirm who the Young Tigers would be playing. They need to sort things quickly or they could face the possibility of not being able to play quality sides as most national bodies arrange their match well in advance.

“We are trying to arrange International matches against Under-21 and Under-23 sides.

“We need to confirm those matches as early as possible but we are waiting for everything to be sorted out,” said Ong Kim Swee as his boys were put through several tests by National Sports Institute (ISN) earlier today.

Kim Swee added that the decision to be based in Slovakia, as previously done in 2010, was due the familiarity of surroundings. Harimau Muda A had a successful stint back then.

The Young Tigers returned to play in the S-League this year, in what was a joint agreement with FA of Singapore which saw LionsXII play in the M-league. Kim Swee’s charges finished fifth.

“We have been there (Slovakia) in the past and everything went smoothly. We decided against being based elsewhere this time as Slovakia can offer what we need – facilities, matches, etc.

“The exposure in the S-League was good. We got competitive matches. I am proud of the boys despite finishing only fifth as we did not have any foreign players or naturalised players. There were also times some of our key players were not around,” he added.

S-League allows team to have a maximum of four foreign talents but as naturalisation of players is rampant in the Lion City, there were times Harimau Muda A were up against up to six or seven ‘foreign’ players.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/the-waiting-game/

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Perak will need to work harder
By RIZAL ABDULLAH
PERAK’S 3-0 win over Premier League outfit Perlis at the State Stadium in Kangar last night only showed the Super League hopefuls “need to work harder” before the M-League season kicksoff in three weeks.
“Yes we won but it only exposed our weakness. There is still a lot to be done. Still a lot of room for improvement,” said Perak coach Azraai Khor Abdullah.

Azraai, a former international took over the hot-seat for the new season after quitting Negri Sembilan.

“With time against us before the league kicks-off we need to work harder.”

Meanwhile, Perlis coach Yunus Alif, who officially started work with the team today, watched from the sidelines and knows he has a mammoth task on his hands.

“There is lot of work that needs to be done for Perlis. What I saw in the team means I have a mammoth task in shaping the team I have inherited,” said Yunus, who was the T-Team’s coach last season.

The team was picked by caretaker coach Robert Scully, who will be the assistant to Yunus.

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Hosts and Police to contest final
sports247.my
POLICE and Kuala Lumpur will fight for the KL Cup’s top prize of RM10,000 tomorrow after they won their final group matches last night.
Kuala Lumpur will have revenge on their mind after losing 2-1 to Police on Sunday.

The quadrangular tournament saw Police finishing in the first place after winning all their matches, including a 1-0 win over Perlis last night.

KL edged Negri Sembilan Betaria 2-1 to finish runners-up in the group and earn a place in the final.

KL and Betaria were tied with three points prior to the match with the latter having a better goal difference. A draw would have proved enough for Betaria to go through, but they came up short.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/hosts-and-police-to-contest/

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Perak to host final
By FARAH AZHARIE

(Left to right) Zulkifli Alias, Malay Football Association of Malaysia (PBMM) secretary, Colonel Lieutenant (Retired) Datuk Mohd Nor Mohd Darus, Vice President PBMM and Jaslee Ahmad, Treasurer PBMM.
AFTER 22-years, Perak will once again play host to the final of the King’s Gold Cup final at Perak Stadium in Ipoh on Dec 22.

The choices of venue was down to Perak and Kedah as the teams earned their berth to the final and in traditional format, the final is to be hosted by one of the two finalists.

“We decided on Perak because it’s been 22-years since they last hosted the finals and we think it’s about time the tournament heads back that way,” said Colonel Lieutenant (rtd) Datuk Mohd Nor Mohd Darus, vice president of Malay Football Association of Malaysia (PBMM).

The last time Perak made it to the final was 1990 where they emerged champions after thrashing Kelantan 3-0.

However, they have a hard task ahead as they face Kedah who are hungry for victory after losing the 2009 and 2010 finals to Perlis and Kelantan, respectively.

Another reason for choosing Perak as the hosts is to draw the crowd as two Harimau Muda A players will be turning out for Perak.

“We believe the crowd will head to the stadium to catch the match because this year’s team (Perak) has two of Ong Kim Swee’s players,” said Mohd Nor.

The two Harimau Muda A players are Muhd Nuridzuan Abu Hassan Saari and Kenny Pallraj.

The champion will take home RM40,000 while the runner-up will walk away with RM20,000.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/perak-to-host-final/

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Safee grateful to Johor
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Safee Sali
NATIONAL striker Safee Sali expressed his gratefulness to Johor for a place in the Johor Darul Takzim team after plying his football trade the last two years with Indonesian club Pelita Jaya.

The former Selangor striker signed a one year loan deal with Johor Darul Takzim at Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya on Dec 5 – just 24 hours before the deadline for registration of players for the 2013 season.

“The uncertainty in Indonesia between two rival factions who want to the run football in the country has caused anxiety to many. I want to safeguard my international football career apart from earning a living,” said Safee.

“Johor approached me about a year ago. We have been in constant touch. It was not a rushed deal as both parties had agreed to the terms and conditions.

“I am grateful to Johor for giving me the opportunity to play for the team. As a professional, I will give my best and help Johor (Darul Takzim) win titles … I am paid to do a job and my loyalty is with my new team.”

FIFA, the world body governing football, has given Indonesia an extension – which FIFA president Sepp Blatar described “Christmas gift” – to put its house in order following the row between two football bodies in the country.

The Indonesian Soccer Association (PSSI) is recognised by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) as the official Indonesian football body. But the emergence of the rival Indonesia Soccer Rescue Committee (KPSI) has put the game in turmoil. KPSI runs the Indonesian Super League and is not sanctioned by PSSI.

Both parties signed an MoU, on the instructions of FIFA, in Kuala Lumpur in June. However, it was annulled the following month. FIFA has given Indonesia a three-month extension to resolve the impasse.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/safee-grateful-to-johor/

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Sabah to play in the ‘Graveyard’
By SABAH CORRESPONDENT
SABAH’S Likas Stadium, once described by visiting teams as the “Graveyard” because of the state team’s outstanding home record, will remain the Sabahawks’ main venue next season.
A final test will be conducted later tonight to find out whether the brightness of the four floodflights meets requirements.

“Officials from the FA of Malaysia will conduct the test and hopefully it will get the clearance,” said team manager Alijus Sipil.

Alijus added that the Sabah FA has also named Tawau Stadium as the alternative venue for home matches but stressed the Likas Stadium would be the main venue.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/sabah-to-play-in-the-graveyard/

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Sabahawks beef up squad
By SABAH CORRESPONDENT
SABAH Football Association (Safa) president Datuk Seri Musa Aman believes the Sabahawks will return a stronger team in the M-League next year.
Musa went as far as expressing his hope that Sabah could at least land one of the titles up for grabs next season.

“I was very disappointed with how Sabah fared this year. However, I have confidence that Sabah will bounce back in the next campaign.

“I believe nothing is impossible (to achieve) … if we have the determination, it is not difficult (to bounce back from failure),” said Musa, who is also Sabah Chief Minister.

He said 60 per cent of the current state team comprised new faces and it showed the FA was willing to make changes in order to have a formidable side that could compete.

“It is very important that we have a strong team … a team that can win matches and make us proud.

“Winning is very important because it will attract the crowd to the stadium,” added Musa at a luncheon with the state team in Kota Kinabalu today.

Sabah team manager Alijus Sipil, meanwhile, said winning the Premier League title would be Sabah’s main focus next year.

He said achieving the target would pave the way for the Sabahawks to make an immediate return to the Super League.

“We have good preparation and we will try to achieve it. With due respect to the other teams, I think the main challengers for us in the league will be Kedah, Sarawak, Johor and Sime Darby,” he said.

Sabah have retained only 10 players from the disappointing squad last season. Among those axed are captain Mohd Reithuddin Emran and Mafry Balang, who won the last Malaysia Cup while on loan to Kelantan.

The new faces include three returning players and eight local imports including former national No. 1 goalkeeper Md Syamsuri Mustafa.

Sabah have also signed highly rated Malian forward Koh Traore as well as former Arsenal Youth Academy product Rhys David Weston to strengthen the backline.

Sabah will open their Premier League fixtures at home to KL SPA Putrajaya FC on Jan 7.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/sabahawks-beef-up-squad/

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Closing the door on the bookies
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim (fifth from left) with the Johor Darul Takzim players and coach Fandi Ahmad
JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM’S massive recruitment drive to lure some of the big names in Malaysian football for the M-League next season has not gone down well with certain quarters.

Some have criticised and some have voiced their unhappiness but Johor FA president Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim has this to say to them: “My mission is two-fold … one is to close on the door on the bookies and the other is to raise the standard of Malaysian football as a whole.

“When the players are paid well and their welfare taken care of, you will close the door on the bookies. The management must also ensure that salaries are paid on time because they (the players) have families to feed.

“Just like any other household, these players also have bills to settle and school-going kids. They too have house and car loans to be settled. Settling such dues on time will take away their worries.

“Players need to be paid well too because football is their career. If they are poorly paid and their salary is delayed, you open the door for bookies to come in and offer lucrative deals to fix matches.

“I want to put a stop to all this.”

Tunku Ismail, who is also the Crown Prince of Johor, said Johor have set a “benchmark” that has led to some teams already looking for funds for a bigger budget in 2014.

“A bigger budget means the teams would be able to afford better quality players and provide keener competition in the M-League. The end line is that the quality of Malaysian football will improve.

“The M-League itself will be graded to a higher level in this region in time to come,” added Tunku Ismail.

For the new season, Johor Darul Takzim have signed up several big names, with the bulk coming from the national team. In the stable are national skipper Safiq Rahim, Safee Sali, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Abdul Radzak twins Aidil Zafuan and Zaquan Adha and Azmi Muslim.

The two foreign players in the team are Spain striker Daniel Guiza and ex-Lazio midfielder Simone Del Nero.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/closing-the-door-on-the-bookies/

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Friendlies set for Sabahawks
By SABAH CORRESPONDENT
SABAHAWKS coach David McCreery will get to fine tune his charges ahead of the Malaysian League season in three friendlies next week.
The team will take on Super League teams Selangor and T-Team and Premier league outfit Police from Dec 26-Dec 28 in the Klang Valley.

Team manager Alijus Sipil said the pre-season friendlies were set for McCreery to gauge the players who began their training last month.

The first match will be against Selangor at the Shah Alam Stadium on Boxing Day.

Next they will take on T-Team who are under former Sabah coach Peter Butler at the Linatex field in Gombak.

Their last friendly will be against the Police at the Pulapol field in Kuala Lumpur.

For the season opener, Sabah will take on KL SPA Putrajaya FC on Jan 7.

The Sabah squad
Goalkeepers: Irwan Jamil, Md Syamsuri Mustafa, Sharil Saari.
Defenders: Rosdin Wasli, Razid Gapar, Alto Linus, Sumardi Hajalan, Hardy Charles Parsi, Shahril Faizal Sharifuddin, Mohd Hafizzulldin Mohd Noor, Wan Azwari Wan Noor, Rhys David Weston.
Midfielders: Sharul Azhar Ture, Julamri Muhamad, Shahrudin Yakup, Radzi Hussin, Farid Saibun, Ibnu Mohd Kassim, Sabri Sahar, Mohd Fazilidin Khalid.
Strikers: Zainizam Marjan, Juffery Omopor, Leopold Alfonso Otong, Khairul Izwan Khalid, Wan Mohd Aliff Wan Jasmi, Koh Traore.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/25991/

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Divaldo Alves impressed by foreigners’ attitude
Negeri Sembilan’s new Portuguese coach is satisfied with the dedication shown by William Modibo and Emanuel De Porras so far in pre-season

New Negeri Sembilan coach Divaldo Alves is a happy man.

The Portuguese trainer had been left impressed with the high commitment displayed by his two import signings - William Paul Modibo from Cameroon and Argentina's Emanuel Matias De Porras, since they started training about three weeks ago.

Signed in the close season, the duo have shown exemplary attitude both on and off the pitch, leaving Alves feeling confident ahead of the new Malaysian Super League (MSL) season.

“Modibo and De Porras have really been determined in training and the friendly matches held thus far. I am satisfied with their commitment to work hard to achieve the best fitness levels,” said the former Boavista coach to Harian Metro.

“This positive attitude highlights their passion to provide the best for the team.

“I hope they can quickly adapt and be 100 percent ready by the time the league opens next month.”

According to Alves, besides the two foreigners, he has also been monitoring players from every position to ensure that Negeri’s best eleven is identified for next year’s challenge.

“I’m still undecided but we’ll have a better idea once the pre-season is over.

“For now, I want each player to show outstanding performance on the field.”
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/18/3610691/divaldo-alves-impressed-by-foreigners-attitude

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Kelantan believe in their strength to retain all titles

Kelantan are confident that they still have the strength to challenge for all three titles, despite losing key players

Kelantan Football Associaton (KAFA) believes that The Red Warriors are more than capable of retaining their three titles as they are still strong in all aspects ahead of the Malaysian League 2013.

Nasir Hamzah, the assistant treasurer of KAFA, said that despite players having left Kelantan, it does not affect the strength and preparations of the team. He also stressed that Kelantan has signed players to replace those who have left, including imported players.

On the new arrivals he said, "They will balance the team out, and I am confident that it will make Kelantan better than ever, thus strengthen our chance to retain all three titles."

The new faces that join The Red Warriors for next season are Zairo Annuar Zailaini and Mohd Faiz Subri (T-Team), K Nanthakumar (Perak), Mohd Haris Safwan Md Kamal (Johor FC) and two imported players, Dimitrios Pertratos and Lek Kcira (from Australia and Croatia respectively).

These new players are to replace the players that left which are Norshahrul Idlan, Mohd Nurul Azwan Roya, Muhammad Ramzul Zahini Adenan, Azlam Ismail and S Chanturu.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/18/3609617/kelantan-believe-in-their-strength-to-retain-all-titles

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Zairo Anuar confident of success with Kelantan

The Red Warriors’ new signing has promised to settle down fast and do his part to help the team continue winning next year

Kelantan’s new star, Zairo Anuar Zailani is determined to help the Red Warriors defend the three domestic titles they won this year.

The former T-Team skipper is convinced he will not take long to gel with his new team-mates, especially after having played with Indra Putra Mahayuddin and Norfarhan Mohammad when the duo were with T-Team last year.

“I don’t think it’ll be a problem for me to integrate myself into the team in a short space of time because I’ve played with some of the boys here before,” Zairo told Berita Harian.

“I’ll use my experience of playing alongside them to do well for Kelantan.”

The playmaker, who has 2 caps for the Malaysian national team added that the famous Kelantan support will push him to do better for his new club.

“This team is well-known for its fanatical supporters so I’m sure they’ll be an inspiration for me and the other new players - to give our best for the team.”

Zairo joined T-Team in 2010 after spending nine years with home state Terengganu. He went on to make 58 appearances and scored 26 goals for them before deciding to join Bojan Hodak’s outfit, following the expiration of his contract with the Titans last month.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/06/3582253/zairo-anuar-confident-of-success-with-kelantan

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Safiq excited about reunion with Safee Sali

Both men will be lining up for Darul Takzim FC next year, having previously featured alongside each other with Selangor in 2010

Safiq Rahim is bumming with excitement ahead of his reunion with national team hitman Safee Sali. Both players famously combined in Selangor FA, before Safee left to play in the Indonesian league with Pelita Jaya.

Nonetheless, Darul Takzim FC have secured the signature of the duo for next year, something that Safiq is really looking forward to.

"I am really excited to be playing alongside Safee again, after two long years," he told Berita Harian.

"Although we are used to playing with each other in the national team, playing together in a league team will do a great deal in further substantiating the understanding between us."

The former Selangor player was also quick to distance himself from rumours linking him to the captain role with Darul Takzim FC, claiming that the decision lies with the coach.

Nevertheless, Safiq promised to perform to his level best and help bring back the glory days of football in the Southern state.

"The decision lies with the coach [Fandi]. My main aim is to perform well for Darul Takzim FC and help them bring back the glory days of Johor football by winning silverwares. "

The Southern Tigers have been on a spending spree throughout the off-season period, signing the likes of Dani Guiza and Simone Del Nero. Besides Safee and Safiq, they have also snapped up Norshahrul Idlan, Muslim Ahmad, Aidil Zafuan and even Zaquan Adha as far as local players are concerned.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/19/3613577/safiq-excited-about-reunion-with-safee-sali

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European stint to offer different challenges
By VIJHAY VICK
HARIMAU MUDA coach Ong Kim Swee believes there is a lot to learn when the team travel to Europe next year.
Even the lack of competitive matches will not be an issue as Kim Swee feels there are other aspects of the game that will benefit Malaysia’s future stars.

The Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) development side, mostly comprising the national Under-23 squad, will first go to Australia from Jan 23-Feb 6 before leaving to Slovakia for a five-month stint from March 15.

This season, Harimau Muda played in the S-League in a joint agreement between the two national bodies which saw Singapore’s development squad, LionsXII, play in the M-League.

LionsXII finished second in the Super League, while, Kim Swee’s boys finished fifth in the S-League.

While LionsXII will remain in the M-league for 2013, Harimau Muda will play a series of friendlies in Europe. Harimau Muda B, coached by Razip Ismail, will play in Singapore.

“We have an agreement with teams in the Corgon League, Slovakia’s first tier league, that they will play 90 per cent of their first team players when they face us. Their league runs only once a week so we will play during the midweek.

“It was a good exposure in Singapore. The team got competitive matches but we want to work on other aspects too. Europe will offer a different environment and a more physical game too,” said Kim Swee.

Some of his players have already reaped the benefit of playing in Slovakia in 2010 and in the S-League last year. The likes of Wan Zack Haikal, Fahdli Shas and Mahalli Jasuli have al graduated to the senior side with ease.

The trio can be considered mainstays in the national team if the recent AFF Suzuki Cup campaign was anything to go by.

This year, Kim Swee believes more of his players could be in the running to make to earn a call-up by natioanal coach by Datuk K. Rajagobal.

Among the names mentioned by Kim Swee were M-League Young Player of the Year Rozaimi Abdul Abdul Rahman, Izzaq Faris Ramlan, Irfan Fazail, and Wan Zaharulnizam Zakaria.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/european-stint-to-offer-different-challenges/

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Azzuddin: Agents working out Europe stint
By VIJHAY VICK
FA of Malaysia (FAM) has denied that it is taking its sweet time to arrange matches for Harimau Muda to play next year.
Instead, the national body told sports247.my that it has assigned agents to arrange matches in Europe.

Harimau Muda will travel to Australia for several matches from Jan 23- Feb 6 before returning to train within the walls of FAM. They will then leave for a five-month stint in Slovakia in March.

“We should get everything sorted out soon. This is only next year in April or June anyway,” said FAM general secretary Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad.

While arrangements are apparently being made, swift action is needed if Harimau Muda coach Ong Kim Swee’s hopes to have several international friendlies against Under-21 and Under-23 sides while in Europe.

When pressed for a response on how the delay may affect Kim Swee’s plans, Azzuddin brushed aside the question, saying “our agents in Europe are arranging the details of the stint in Europe, including international matches.”

European Under-21 and Under-23 sides usually play matches a day prior to the FIFA international match calendar which involves senior teams.

However, countries in the West usually arrange matches months ahead of the given dates as per the FIFA calendar. This could mean Kim Swee’s boys may have to settle for playing against lesser opponents instead of top quality sides.

This will be the second time Kim Swee and Harimau Muda will be based in Europe. They were also based in Slovakia in 2010 before returning to play in the Super League in 2011. They were part of an “exchange programme” with FA of Singapore which saw them play in the S-League while LionsXII, Singapore’s “development” side played in the M-League this year.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/azzuddin-agents-working-out-europe-stint/

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Adam – from boy to man
By VIJHAY VICK
MEET Adam Nor Azlin – Harimau Muda’s youngest recruit as they tour Europe for several months next year.
If Harimau Muda coach Ong Kim Swee’s words are anything to go by, then this 16-year-old central midfielder will be one to keep our eyes on in the coming years.

The Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) lad was called up by Kim Swee for the Newspaper Cup in Vietnam a couple of months ago and has since done enough to warrant a place in the Harimau Muda squad.

Adam will now rub shoulders with some of the best young talents in the country, which includes Wan Zack Haikal Wan Nor, Fadli Shas and Gary Steven Robbat – all of whom are already playing for Malaysia.

So how has life been treating Adam now that he will no longer play in the President’s Cup – a tournament for Under-21 players?

“The level here is much higher than what I am used to. I have to catch up with the rest. The tactical play is different. Even the way we warm up is different. In a nutshell, it is more intense here.

“It has been a good year for me. I hope 2013 will be equally good if not better,” said Adam, who had a stint at the Manchester United Soccer School in Manchester earlier this year.

According to Adam, football has always been his number one sport since he picked it up at the age of three. “I haven’t been able go a day without kicking a football since,” he said.

Prior to joining BJSS last year, Adam studied at SMK Section 11, Shah Alam – Selangor’s sports school. He has also represented the state at various junior level competitions.

Like every footballer, Adam has his own idols in both the domestic and international front. While he supports Barcelona and seeks to emulate Andres Iniesta when on the field, Adam also adores national skipper Safiq Rahim and Harimau Muda teammate Irfan Fazail.

“Barcelona and Iniesta are all about how they work on the ball play – the way they receive it and move it around. It is just a joy to watch,” he added.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/adam-from-boy-to-man/

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FAM mum on money owed by teams
By VIJHAY VICK
THE FA of Malaysia (FAM) has declined to divulge information on whether 10 M-League sides have settled arrears amounting to RM2.1 million.
Instead, the national body’s competition committee will meet next week before deciding on the next move against the teams who have been given multiple warnings in the past.

According to sources within FAM, the 10 teams – Perlis, Kedah, Johor, Kelantan, Sabah, Perak, Pahang, Felda United, T-Team and Terengganu – were supposed to submit proof of payment to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), Social Security Organisation (Socso) and Inland Revenue Board (IRB), if any, to FAM by Dec 19.

Should teams fail to do so, FAM has the right to make deductions from prize money, deposits, yearly grants or balance still owed by FAM. Teams will have to top up their deposit by Dec 28 if the national body uses it to pay off the arrears owed to EPF, Socso and IRB.

However, FAM refused to comment on the matter until further notice.

“We will have a competitions committee meeting next week. We will finalise everything then – non-payment, stadium lighting and on invited teams,” said FAM general secretary Datuk Azzuddin Ahmad.

“For now, I don’t want to comment until that meeting has commenced. It is better to get everything in order instead of commenting here and there. The will be a press conference after the competitions committee meeting.”

In the list obtained from a source, approximately RM1.5 million is owed to EPF, RM200,000 to Socso and RM365,000 to IRB.

Kedah are the biggest defaulters as they owe RM 686,250 to EPF. Pahang owe IRB RM365,896 while Kelantan’s arrears to EPF were undisclosed with a remark stating the matter has gone court.

FAM has got to come hard on the teams as they were previously given a warning letter to settle all arrears by the M-League registration deadline which was set at Nov 23.

Perhaps the only positive note on the documents received from the source was that none of the Super League and Premier League teams have arrears in players’ salary.

List of defaulters

EPF

Perlis: RM283,539

Kedah: RM686,250

Johor: RM68,231

Kelantan: undisclosed (matter in court)

Sabah: RM151,107 (previously RM453,742; paid RM302,635)

Perak: RM246,094

Pahang: RM7,536

Felda United: RM328

T-Team: RM80,196

Socso

Perlis: RM15,328

Kedah: RM250

Kelantan: RM37,463

Terengganu: RM98,942

Pahang: RM48,485

Income Tax

Pahang: RM365,896

www.sports247.my/2012/12/fam-mum-on-money-owed-by-teams/

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Kuala Lumpur coach wants to win back the fans
By G.ARAVIND

Stanislav Lievkosky has high hopes for Kuala Lumpur. Picture by MOHD HELMI DAWI
KUALA LUMPUR coach, Stanislav Lievkosky, wants to win back the support of the fans as he reckons it will help motivate the players.

Yesterday at the final of the KL Cup at the KLFA stadium in Cheras, almost quarter of the seats were filled with fans who came to cheer the city side against Police.

It worked wonders as KL won 4-1 to take home their first piece of silverware since winning the Charity Shield in 2000.

“It was nice to see the fans coming in and I’m very happy with turnout even though it is small, but this could have huge influence on the team once the season begins next year,” said Lievkosky, who has taken over from Razil Ismail.

Speaking to sports247.my, Lievkosky said a lot of work needs to be done to prepare for next year.

“I have a big task of building the team as 80 per cent are new recruits. All I’m requesting from the fans is stay behind us and be patient because my priority is to get the team to play together,” added the coach, who used the KL Cup to identify few strategies and tactics.

“I’m still new here and I don’t really know the Premier League standard even though is it the second football tier in Malaysia.

“I hope the fans understand the situation and provide me with more time to work with the team.

“The fans who are coming to watch the game at our home should be treated to a good performance – that’s why I’m here.”
www.sports247.my/2012/12/kuala-lumpur-coach-wants-to-win-back-the-fans/

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Making it safe for Safee
By DATUK LOURDES CHARLES

Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim (left) and Safee Sali who has joined Johor Darul Takzim.
The first of a three-part exclusive interview with Johor FA president Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim:

THE controversial signing of national striker Safee Sali by Johor Darul Takzim FC at Wisma FAM just 24 hours before FAM’s deadline was to save the player’s career, Johor FA president Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim revealed.

Tunku Ismail said Safee’s Indonesian club Pelita Jaya FC as well as the entire Indonesian FA were facing possible action, including being banned by FIFA.

“If his club or the FA had been banned, can you imagine what would happen to him? He would not be able to play for any team, including the Malaysian national team.

“What I did probably saved his playing career and his livelihood by giving him a chance to play for us while matters were being sorted out in Indonesia,” he told sports247.my chief executive officer Datuk Lourdes Charles in an exclusive interview at Istana Bukit Pelangi in Johor.

Tunku Ismail stressed that he did not force Safee or any other player to sign contracts with Johor Darul Takzim.

He said negotiations had been going on for some time and Safee was to have met up with him at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur at about 9pm to sign the contract but because he was with the national team preparing for the Suzuki Cup and stayed in the hostel at Wisma FAM, he could not leave the premises after 9pm.

“I respect the rule and since he could not come out, I decided to go there personally to meet him as well as some of my players who had signed up with us and to give them moral support and encouragement.

“Is there anything wrong in what I did? I don’t think so, but if others are upset then it’s their fault for not having the will, resources and the ability to sign quality players,” he added.

Tunku Ismail said he has targeted three more players who are currently attached with Harimau Muda who are all from Johor and wants to bring them back.

He said he would bring them and other big names to Johor as it was a fantastic state to live in and earn a living.

“Johor is a fantastic place to live. There is massive development in the state and there is no shortage of things to do,” he said, adding that Singapore too was just a stone’s throw away.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/making-it-safe-for-safee/

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Night games likely at Likas Stadium
By SABAH CORRESPONDENT
UNLESS the FA of Malaysia sees things in a different light, the Sabahawks may get to play at night in the 2013 Malaysian League season at the Likas Stadium in Kota Kinabalu.
Repairs have been made on faulty floodlights to make the stadium brighter.

Sabah FA secretary-general Alijus Sipil said the maintenance contractor confirmed that it was bright enough to meet the condition set by FAM which will be conducting another check on Christmas Day.

“Three of the four floodlight posts are functioning well. One of it though was faulty and needed some repairs on its wiring. We are confident the problem will be rectified,” he said after an inspection by the Sabah Sports Board that owns the stadium.

Earlier this week, FAM revealed that 15 stadiums were too dark for night matches nationwide, including Likas Stadium.

Only four met the mark – Shah Alam Stadium in Selangor, Darul Makmur Stadium (Pahang), Jalan Besar Stadium (Singapore) and State Stadium (Sarawak).

The Sabahawks will take on KL Spa Putrajaya FC for their first match in the Premier League at the stadium on Jan 7.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/night-games-likely-at-likas-stadium/

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Sime Darby all out for promotion to Super League
By VIJHAY VICK

President and team manager Tengku Ahmad Shah talks with the Sime Darby players. Picture by MOHD HELMI DAWI
SIME DARBY FC are not leaving any stone unturned as they seek to earn to earn promotion to the Super League in 2014.

They have placed winning the Premier League as the utmost priority next season after missing out on promotion in the 2012 season, where they finished behind winners Armed Forces and Pahang.

Only seven players have been retained from the previous season. All their signings, besides their imports, played with various Super League sides last season.

“We have players of more calibre this time around. We set the standard for ourselves last season and now we need to live up to that,” said Sime Darby president and team manager Tengku Ahmad Shah Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz.

“We dropped so many points in winnable games last season. If that stops we’ll be in a position to qualify for the Super League.”

Sime Darby earned the reputation as “giant-killers” after their incredible run in the FA Cup, which saw them finish runners-up to Kelantan.

That was a remarkable achievement for a team that was only formed on Jan 22, 2010.

In their bid to finally fulfil their mission of playing in the Super League, Sime Darby have signed 19 players from various Super League sides in addition to imports from Croatia – Goran Perak and Karlo Primorac.

Among the notable names who have joined their ranks are former national players Fadzli Saari and Juzaili Samion.

“After last year’s exploits, we may not be underdogs anymore. Every team will be out to beat us. We are looking at the experience of some of our signings to give us the lift in securing promotion.

“All our new signings have made a positive impact and we hope our encouraging run of form in friendly matches can be translated into victories in competitive matches,” Tengku Ahmad Shah said.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/sime-darby-all-out-for-promotion-to-super-league/

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European stint to offer different challenges
By VIJHAY VICK
HARIMAU MUDA coach Ong Kim Swee believes there is a lot to learn when the team travel to Europe next year.
Even the lack of competitive matches will not be an issue as Kim Swee feels there are other aspects of the game that will benefit Malaysia’s future stars.

The Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) development side, mostly comprising the national Under-23 squad, will first go to Australia from Jan 23-Feb 6 before leaving to Slovakia for a five-month stint from March 15.

This season, Harimau Muda played in the S-League in a joint agreement between the two national bodies which saw Singapore’s development squad, LionsXII, play in the M-League.

LionsXII finished second in the Super League, while, Kim Swee’s boys finished fifth in the S-League.

While LionsXII will remain in the M-league for 2013, Harimau Muda will play a series of friendlies in Europe. Harimau Muda B, coached by Razip Ismail, will play in Singapore.

“We have an agreement with teams in the Corgon League, Slovakia’s first tier league, that they will play 90 per cent of their first team players when they face us. Their league runs only once a week so we will play during the midweek.

“It was a good exposure in Singapore. The team got competitive matches but we want to work on other aspects too. Europe will offer a different environment and a more physical game too,” said Kim Swee.

Some of his players have already reaped the benefit of playing in Slovakia in 2010 and in the S-League last year. The likes of Wan Zack Haikal, Fahdli Shas and Mahalli Jasuli have al graduated to the senior side with ease.

The trio can be considered mainstays in the national team if the recent AFF Suzuki Cup campaign was anything to go by.

This year, Kim Swee believes more of his players could be in the running to make to earn a call-up by natioanal coach by Datuk K. Rajagobal.

Among the names mentioned by Kim Swee were M-League Young Player of the Year Rozaimi Abdul Abdul Rahman, Izzaq Faris Ramlan, Irfan Fazail, and Wan Zaharulnizam Zakaria.

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City Boys on the lookout for new talents

An open selection session for players aged nineteen and below is set to take place in Malaysia's capital city tomorrow

The Kuala Lumpur Football Association (KLFA) will be holding an open try-out session for players under the age of nineteen in the capital city tomorrow.

The players selected will be part of the Federal Territory’s Under-19 team that will compete in the national U-19 league next season.

Ahmad Ismail Kadir, the Vice-President of the Kuala Lumpur Football Coaches Association, said that the city side is looking for new players to be absorbed into the team.

“The selection is open to everyone under the age of 19.

“I hope many youngsters will attend and take this opportunity to showcase their abilities, because we want to find at least 22 players for next season,” he told Harian Metro.

The selection session will begin at 8am and go on until 5 in the evening, at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium in Cheras.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/22/3620914/city-boys-on-the-lookout-for-new-talents

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ATM gearing up for nostalgic return into Malaysian top flight

B. Sathianathan is preparing to lead the Armed Forces for the 2013 Malaysian Super League, which will be their first Malaysian top flight appearance since 1988

ATM are gearing up nicely for the dawn of a brand new Malaysian Super League (MSL) season, having already established themselves as a powerhouse last year. Under the guidance of B. Sathianathan, the Armed Forces emerged as Premier League champions, before progressing all the way into the final of the Malaysia Cup, in which they were defeated by Kelantan.

Several key players in the form of Aidil Zafuan and Zaquan Adha departed the club during the off-season, but the Forces seem determined enough to make an impact next year. The club recently embarked on a pre-season tour of Thailand, as the new signings were given the opportunity to integrate into the squad.

ATM were defeated 0-3 by the Army United on December 13, before holding Siam Navy to a 2-2 draw last Sunday. Sathianathan's men then took on Bangkok Glass, but were defeated once again, with the Thai side being 1-0 victors.

Regardless, Sathianathan is satisfied of the experience gained during the tour, claiming that it was more important for him to see the squad find their right mix and balance before the new season.

"It was quite a good experience playing against teams who fielded up to five foreign players," he told the New Straits Times.

"They actually exposed our weaknesses for us to work on. The new players all had a chance to play and they did well."

ATM have equipped themselves with the likes of Shukor Adan and R. Surendran, who are likely to play a pivotal part in 2013. The Forces will open their season with a Charity Shield match against Kelantan, before taking on LionsXII in their first top flight match since 1988.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/22/3620378/atm-gearing-up-for-nostalgic-return-into-malaysian-top

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State FA's to increase brightness of floodlights

Johor FA have already begun works to increase the brightness of floodlights at the Larkin Stadium, while Sabah FA are hoping to have it settled as soon as possible

Almost 15 Malaysian State FA's were told to buck up the quality of floodlights in their stadium, or risk playing their 2013 matches in the evening. This was after FAM conducted a test in all these stadiums, identfying 15 locations that failed to meet the 1,000lux requirement.

Nevertheless, several state FA's have already kick started the process of increasing the quality of floodlights in the respective stadiums, including Johor FA and Sabah FA.

The floodlights at the Larkin Stadium, which will be the home ground for Darul Takzim FC next year, is currently rated as 800lux, which is short of FAM's requirements.

Nonetheless, Johor Youth and Sports Community chairman Jais Sardy believes that the upgrading work will be done in time for the Malaysian Super League kick off in January

"Currently, Larkin Stadium is fitted with 800lux floodlights, while FAM requirement is 1,000lux," he told New Straits Times.
"I think some of the lights were blown when the visit was conducted... we have about a month before the season starts and our home ground will be ready by then. In fact, workers are already doing repair works as we speak," he added.

Meanwhile, Sabah FA are keen on solving this issue as soon as possible before the season kick starts in January. It is evident that playing evening matches would result in lower gate collections, something that they are planning to avoid.

"We will take another look at the floodlights and hope to see a minimum illumination reading of 1,000lux," he said.

"If it does not match the requirements, we will have to find a solution as soon as possible. Worse come to worst, we will have to play evening matches, although that is something we would like to avoid," he added.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/21/3618399/state-fas-to-increase-brightness-of-floodlights

[steamroll]

New Premier Skills legacy kicks-off in Malaysia

Premier Skills, a programme jointly organized by the British Council and the Barclays Premier League, have started a new phase in Malaysia

Premier Skills is a partnership between the Premier League and the British Council which uses football as a tool to engage with, and develop the skills of young people. Since 2007, the project has now been delivered in up to 20 countries, including Malaysia.

The hugely succesful Premier Skills programme returned to Malaysia for its third phase from the 17th to 21st December. For this phase, eight Malaysian Premier Skills Coach Educators delivered intensive training for 16 grassrooots football coaches from across Kuala Lumpur. The training was overseen by head coaches: Paul Hughes, Social Inclusion and Project Manager at Reading FC, and Adam Lea, Education Manager from Portsmouth FC.

Premier Skills, which was held at Garden International School, also has support from Football Association Malaysia (FAM). It is divided into three stages of training programmes that aim to ensure the development and sustainability of Premier Skills in Malaysia. Graduates from the programme will be qualified to deliver Premier Skills community coaching in Malaysia, thereby fulfilling the initial role played by the Premier League community coaches.

Since launching in Malaysia in 2009, over 110 community coaches and referees from across the country have benefitted from the expert training of coaches and referees from Premier League clubs and the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd. Drawing upon the Premier Leagues' domestic expertise, it uses football to tackle a variety of social issues in the community.

According to the Premier League Chief Executive Richard Scudamore, "Premier Skills has already taken place in 20 countries, developing over 1,100 coaches all over the world under the current phase. The Coach Educators stage of the project, which launches in Malaysia this week, will build on these achievements, further developing the skills some of the most promising coaches that we have worked with."

British Council Chief Executive Martin Davinson added that their purpose is to connect people in the UK to people in other countries and football is a great way to do that. They are therefore proud of Premier Skills, their partnership with the Premier League, and he is delighted that a new phase of this unique project, which combines English and football, two truly unversal languages, is being launched in Malysia.

Grey Yeoh, British Council Malaysia Arts and Programmes Manager, commented "Premier Skills was specially brought to Malaysia for the development of community cohesion. The programme not only allows local coaches to receive training from Premier League experts, but also uses football as a tool to initiate and support social development. As a result, these unique individuals become a significant figure to empower and nurture those within their community."
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/21/3620284/new-premier-skills-legacy-kicks-off-in-malaysia

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Exclusive: Reading's Paul Hughes believes Premier Skills program can help improve football in Malaysia

Paul Hughes, one of the head coaches of Premier Skills, sees much potential in Malaysia and believes football can reach a much higher level here

Premier Skills is a program organized by Barclays Premier League together with British Council, and also with the support from Football Association Malaysia. The programs objective is to use football to develop a brighter future for young people around the world.

Paul Hughes, Social Inclusion and Projects Manager at English Premiership Club Reading FC, believes Malaysia has a lot of talented people who are keen to develop themselves, especially the individuals who are involved in the Premier Skills program. Paul, who is an UEFA qualified coach spoke exclusively to Goal.com.

"The coaches who we are working with are very passionate and dedicated individuals that are keen to develop themselves. Working with the Premier League and the British Council will give them the opportunity to add more knowledge."

He mentioned that these individuals, who have been actively receiving training in Premier Skills, can help the further development of Malaysia at grassroots levels, and improvements can go right up to the top.

"I've done about 15 courses not only here, but China, Africa, Kenya, Uganda and there are about 22 countries that Premier Skills are involved in, Malaysia are only the second country to have gone through to Phase 3."

As one of the head coaches for this program, he hopes to give support and knowledge to those who support football. "It's not just about Premier League football, I'm also passionate about developing other people in the community. Like myself, I have played the game and now I want to see other people enjoying the game and I want to pass that knowledge to these people. To me, that is what the program is all about, It is about legacy and leaving something behind for future."
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3902/exclusives/2012/12/21/3618321/exclusive-readings-paul-hughes-believes-premier-skills

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Exclusive : EPL coach salutes Malaysian passion towards football

Adam Lea, Education Manager for Portsmouth FC, respects Malaysia for their massive passion towards football

Speaking exclusively to Goal.Com, Adam Lea, Education Manager from Portsmouth FC, believes Malaysia's football at grassroots level is developing all the time.

When asked about the standard of grassroots football in Malaysia he said, "From what I've seen, I think it is definitely where Malaysia wants it to be, Malaysia wants to be competing. Obviously you want to be the best at what you do and I think it is fantastic to see that it is happening from the top straight to the bottom at the moment."

Adam, who has been working with Premier Skills since 2009, believes Malaysian people have a lot of passion which is important as it helps them to develop themselves more.

With Premier League experience under his belt, he believes football is not just about 90 minutes on the pitch, but other things such as community work and nutrition also play a part in the teaching of coaches, these are just two of the elements that he has taught in the Premier Skills programme.

Adam briefly explains the phases in Premier Skills. "The first phase is about the basics of football coaching, where the participants would learn the basics of coaching and get them prepped up so that they will be able to deliver and coach football themselves. Phase two is aiming towards the community where the participants would use football as the tool to aid preventing social issues. In phase three, the head coach will see whether the participants can coach their community, to see if phase one and two have been effective."

He also saluted Malaysians towards their passion to football. "I wanted to watch the game between Reading and Arsenal the other day but I could not stay up until three in the morning. But I know Malaysian people do that. You guys stayed up until three or four in the morning just to watch football and that is really amazing."
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3902/exclusives/2012/12/21/3618337/exclusive-epl-coach-salutes-malaysian-passion-towards

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Irfan Bakti unfazed by Selangor's lack of form

The Red Giants have failed to notch a single win in the ongoing Acheh's Governor Cup in Indonesia, but head coach Irfan Bakti isn't looking too much into it

Selangor head coach Irfan Bakti believes that its only a matter of time before his side finds the right blend and chemistry to win games. The Red Giants are currently participating in the Acheh Governor's Cup in Indonesia,, but have failed to secure a single victory so far.

Selangor drew 1-1 with Makassar FC in the opening game of the tournament, before losing 1-0 to Acheh FC in the second game of Group B. They finished as runners up in the group, but were given a footballing lesson by Semen Padang in the semis, losing 3-1 to the Indonesian side.

The Red Giants are scheduled to take on Brunei DPMM in the third place clasification match on Saturday and Irfan Bakti is still optimistic for his side.

"Well our defeat to Semen Padang was mainly because we had to play with 10 men for most of the game, after Nasriq Baharom was sent off," he told Berita Harian.

"We worked hard but they were visibly the better side on the day, undoubtedly the Indonesian Premier League champions. Anyways, I am quite happy to have participated in this tournament as going up against these very good four teams will aid our preparation for the upcoming season.

Selangor are set to arrive in Malaysia this Sunday, with four more friendly matches being arranged within the country, before kick starting the Malaysian Super League (MSL) campaign against Negeri Sembilan on the 8th of January.

"Over here, I've already tested several combinations and methods. All I'm going to do when we head back home is just pretty much test Asraruddin Putra, Francis Forkey Doe and S. Kunanlan, who are still a little unfit."
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/22/3620338/irfan-bakti-unfazed-by-selangors-lack-of-form

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Pahang confirm signing of six new players

The 'Tok Gajahs' have secured the signature of two foreign players from Macedonia and Morocco, while also bringing in four other local players

Pahang FA have officially announced the signing of six new players, including two foreign names to boost the strength of their squad next year. The 2013 Malaysian Super League kick off is less than three weeks away from kick off, and the Tok Gajahs have unveiled the names that will be donning their kit next year.

29 year-old Macedonian born Nicolche Klechkaroski as well as 32-year-old Moroccan Mohamed Borji have been snapped up to fill in the foreign player quota. Alongside those two names, Pahang have also drafted in four local players in the form of Mohd Nasril Mat Nordin, Mohd Razman Roslan, Mohd Amirulhadi Zainal and Azidan Sarudin.

With the arrival of this six new names, Pahang FA Vice President is already hoping for them to be able to challenge for honours next year.

“We hope to give the teams in the league a run for their money," he told Bernama.

Amirulhadi Zainal is arguably the biggest arrival, having plied his trade with Selangor prior to this. The pacy flanker has also consistently been in the frame for national team selection, despite falling out of favour in recent months.

Nasril Nourdin is another well-entrenched figure in Malaysian football, having played for Perak and Selangor before this. The custodian has previously attracted interest from Blackburn Rovers back in 2006, but nothing concrete surfaced aside from reports and speculations. Nevertheless, his arrival will certainly boost the defensive sector of Pahang.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/21/3618384/pahang-confirm-signing-of-six-new-players

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Amri Yahyah to face stiff battle for captaincy role in Selangor

The veteran midfielder will be setting his sights of regaining the captaincy role for 2013, but could face competition from Lebanese defender Ramez Dayoub

Selangor FA are currently in the midst of serious preparation ahead of the 2013 Malaysian Super League kick off, but they have yet to appoint a permanent captain for the side. Amri Yahya was chosen to lead the team last year, but he lost the armband to Safiq Rahim mid-way through the season.

Safiq has since departed to Johor Darul Takzim FC, leaving an empty void for the captaincy role. Amri is already a fan favourite in Selangor and will certainly be the major candidate. Nevertheless, there could be a rival in the form of Ramez Dayoub.

The Lebanese defender was a household figure in their defence last year, and has been given the armband at the ongoing Acheh Governor Cup in Indonesia. Nevertheless, head coach Irfan Bakti insisted that proper consideration will given to all candidates before announcing the permanent skipper for 2013.

"We will appoint a captain soon. Of course, I have candidates but I need to gauge each of them first before making a decision," Irfan told New Straits Times.

"After this tournament, we will play Perlis and Kedah in our final warm-up matches. I will use them to decide on my line-up for our opening Super League match against Negri Sembilan on Jan 8."

Selangor finished third in the 2012 Super League season, just behind LionsXII and Kelantan FA. The Red Giants though, have essentially refurbished their squad during the off-season and will be aiming to win their first silverware since 2010.

"I have a complete squad of talented players. They are responding well to my strategies but of course, there are weaknesses that I need to work on," Irfan added.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/20/3615802/amri-yahyah-to-face-stiff-battle-for-captaincy-role-in

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2013 will be the moment of truth for big spending Johor Darul Takzim

Goal.com's Keeshaanan Sundaresan believes that the Southern Tigers will have a lot to prove in 2013, after their expensive outlay during the off-season

I can still remember what it was like when ATM snapped up the likes of Aidil Zafuan and Zaquan Adha last year. Just when you thought that the Super League was ready to tempt players from all around the world, local players began the journey into the lower league.

ATM spent big. Alongside the twins, they also brought in Hairuddin Omar from Negeri Sembilan. Former Kedah hitman Marlon Alex James was also drafted into the squad, which struck fear into the hearts of other Premier League teams.

Malaysian football had never quite seen such a revolution before. It's understandable that it's a common sight to see local sides revamping their squad almost every season, which is due in no small part to the short contracts that they usually offer to players. However, when a Premier League side spends such an amount to attract these names, you know that the pressure will be on them.

But ATM silenced their critics. They were crowned Premier League champions, and progressed all the way into the Malaysia Cup final before faltering against eventual winners Kelantan. Promotion into the Super League was secured and coach B. Sathianathan was a happy man. Per contra, things could have been much different had they failed to prove a point.

Similarly, that will be the puzzle for Johor Darul Takzim in 2013. Under the new leadership of The Royal Crown Prince of Johor Tunku Ismail, the Southern Tigers secured the signature of Euro 2008 winner, the Spanish star Dani Guiza, as well as ex Lazio midfielder Simone Del Nero. Not only that, local big names in the form of Safee Sali, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Aidil Zafuan, Muslim Ahmad and Safiq Rahim were also brought in to further substantiate the squad's depth.

When Manchester City were taken over by Sheikh Mansour in 2008, they pumped millions into the club which led to the purchase of Robinho and subsequently Emmanuel Adebayor as well as several other big names the following seasons. However, there was a price to pay for the head coach as well. Mark Hughes wasn't only supplied with the freedom to spend, but also with the task to bring success. He essentially failed to bring the required success, and was immediately replaced with Roberto Mancini.

But before he can think about bringing success, head coach Fandi Ahmad will have one major headache. "I have the team that coaches dream of having," he enthused earlier this week. In a team that is filled with big names and personalities, how do you find the right mix.

Right now, Fandi has four strikers at his disposal. Dani Guiza will certainly be pushing for a starting berth in most games, which leaves Safee Sali, Norshahrul and Zaquan to fight for the remaining one. Of course he can opt for a 4-3-3 formation with three forwards but how often can you do this in our extremely radical Malaysian Super League?

And these players are names that consistently fight for national team spots, meaning that not featuring often could do damage to their national team chances as well. It will definitely not bode well with them.

"Buying success" is certainly not a very popular phrase among sporting fans, but there is no denying the fact that money can certainly contribute greatly towards being successful. We've seen it with Real Madrid in Spain and we've also seen it with Manchester City and Chelsea in England. And we've certainly seen it with ATM last year.

But spending money is not the ONLY factor to be considered in gaining success. The faster JDTFC figure and sort this out, the better it will be for them in 2013. Because nothing short of success will be expected of them next year.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3986/editorial/2012/12/20/3614499/2013-will-be-the-moment-of-truth-for-big-spending-johor

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Sabah players told to perform better than last season

Datuk Seri Musa was not happy with his team's performance last season and expects an improvement this year

Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman had rallied on Sabah football players to protect their dignity as state players in next season's Premier League.

Datuk Seri Musa Aman is also the Sabah Football Association (SAFA) president and he told his players to perform well and take it as a responsibilty to their loyal supporters, better known as Sabahawks.

Sabah, who were relegated to the Premier League last season, received this reminder when their new line-up were being introduced on Tuesday.

Musa told Bernama that he was unhappy with their performance in the Super League last season, but highly believes that they will do well this time.

"There is no excuse for any player to sell the game or commit any wrongdoing that could jeopardise the team's chances of winning" he added.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/19/3612106/sabah-players-told-to-perform-better-than-last-season

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Favourites go crashing out
By PENANG CORRESPONDENT
THE Chinese Recreation Club (CRC) failed to qualify for the semifinals of the Penang Under-19 Amer Yusoff Challenge Cup despite battling to an exciting 5-4 Group A victory over Jelutong at the Polo Ground today.
CRC, tipped to be among the favourites, began the day three points behind second-placed Rifle Range and an eight-goal disadvantage.

But with Rifle Range going down 0-4 to the group champions Belia Asas Bersatu on the adjacent pitch, CRC had needed to beat Jelutong by at least four clear goals to claim one of the two semifinal berths.

Instead, CRC, made up of players from their famed youth academy, made heavy weather of the match despite taking a 10th minute lead through Tan See Qing.

Jelutong, who had lost both their previous matches, hit back through Taslim Ibatullah’s hattrick (15th, 25th and 62nd minutes) and a strike by Nabil Fikri (68th) to move ahead.

But a late surge from CRC produced a hattrick for Chuah Di Ken, with Ng Kee Siang also getting on the scoresheet to secure a win.

CRC were undone by the damaging 3-3 draw against Rifle Range last week, when they threw away a 3-1 lead and conceded the equaliser deep into injury time.

CRC’s loss was Rifle Range’s gain, as the latter moved into the semis despite receiving a 4-0 hiding from the impressive Belia Asas Bersatu, who have chalked up 16 goals and conceded none after four matches in the tournament.

“We did not ease up the pressure against Rifle Range despite booking our semis spot earlier as we wanted to emerge group champions,” said Belia Asas Bersatu coach Suhaimi Ismail.

“It is important for the players to keep the momentum going into the semis, where it will be a different ballgame altogether. We are now just one victory away from the final.”

In Group B, Tanjung Bunga Rangers booked their last four spot after thrashing winless Bukit Gelugor 6-1. However the Rangers, who have finished their group fixtures, are not assured the group’s top spot yet as challengers Penang Youth Sports Club (PYSC) will take on Belia 4B Sungai Gelugor next Sunday.

A slip-up by PYSC will see Suria Kampung Melayu sneak into the semifinals.

Results
Group A: CRC 5 Jelutong 4, Belia Asas Bersatu 4 Rifle Range 0.
Group B: Tanjung Bunga Rangers 6 Bukit Gelugor 1.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/favourites-go-crashing-out/

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Penang rope in USM FC players
By PENANG CORRESPONDENT
UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA (USM) FC’s decision to withdraw from the M-League next year has proven to be a boon for the Football Association of Penang (FAP).
FAP, who are putting together an experienced team to get out of the third-tier FAM Cup competition, have snapped up eight former USM FC players, including their top scorer for the last three years – Mohd Baser Napae.

Besides Baser, the other former USM FC players who will don Penang colours are Mohd Solehin Rodzi, Fitri Jamaludin, Darwira Sazan, Fakhrul Radzi Yaacob, Shafiq Safaruddin, Elias Sulaiman and Khairul Anwar Idris.

One huge factor in the migration of the large number of USM FC players to the Panthers is the role played by Mohd Azizudin Shariff.

Azizuddin, who was USM FC manager, is now the manager of the state team after being elected as an FAP vice president earlier this year.

“With the strong backing from the new FAP management, the Penang fans can expect to see positive changes in the Penang team. Unlike in previous years, we are assembling a strong and experienced team capable of challenging for promotion.

“Our main target this year is to end our stay in the FAM Cup competition,” said Azizuddin.

One former USM FC player whom Penang would have loved to get their hands on is the nippy winger S.Veenod, but he has been snapped up by Super League giants Selangor.

FAP made sweeping changes to this year’s youthful squad, with almost all the players either dropped or pushed to the state President’s Cup squad.

Moroccan Merzagua Abderrazak, a legend in the Penang football circles, has taken charge of the team after receiving a long-awaited clearance from FAM.

Penang have also roped in seasoned hands like Sany Mat Isa from Kedah, Johor Darul Takzim’s Ismail Suboh, Armed Forces’ Suhaidi Akmal, Sime Darby FC’s Khairul Izwan Jamaluddin and the Penang-born Zharif Hasna from T-Team to beef up the squad.

The Panthers will test their new-look line-up in a friendly against Super League team Perak at the City Stadium on Friday.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/penang-rope-in-usm-fc-players/

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Treble target for Johor Darul Takzim
By DATUK LOURDES CHARLES

Johor FA President Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim (fifth from left) with the Johor Darul Takzim players and coach Fandi Ahmad.

The last of a three-part interview with Johor FA president Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim:

JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM, aiming to be the new power house in Malaysian football, have been given a target by their FA president Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim – win the treble for the state.

Tunku Ismail said he wanted the team – made up of some of the biggest names in Malaysian football as well as Europe – to challenge for all three honours .

“That is my target for the team. However, I have to be modest and reasonable as well and am willing to settle for at least one title for a start.

“The next season we will aim for two or three titles. I believe with the signing of former Spanish International striker Daniel Guiza and former Lazio midfielder Simone Del Nero as well as several national players, we will be able to achieve the target,” he told sports247.my chief executive officer Datuk Lourdes Charles in an exclusive interview at Istana Bukit Pelangi in Johor.

Other big names signed by Johor Darul Takzim are Zaquan Adha Abdul Radzak, his twin Aidil Zafuan, national skipper Safiq Rahim, Muslim Ahmad, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Azmi Muslim and Safee Sali.

Tunku Ismail said his passion for football had led him to be hands on and he would personally see to it that the players’ welfare was taken care of.

“You will not hear of any player not being paid their salary for months – not while under my watch as president.

“My father His Majesty (Sultan Ibrahim) taught us to care for the welfare of the people and he personally goes to the ground via his Kembara Mahkota to see to their needs and I too will follow his footsteps in caring for the team and rakyat in general.

“When you don’t pay players their salaries, how will they survive? This is when they meet the bookies waiting to make a quick kill and this destroys the beautiful game of football.

“If any player in team is on the take, he will have to answer to me personally first and I will call in the police and the MACC to investigate the matter and bring to book those involved,” said Tunku Ismail who is also the Crown Prince of Johor.

To a question, Tunku Ismail said he was not bothered what critics including the other FAs or states had to say about his signing of top players.

He said his passion for the game and to see Johor and Malaysian football regain its glory years prompted him to go for only the best.

“What have all the others (state FAs) been doing all this while? As president of the Johor FA, I am only doing what I am required to do – that is to bring glory to the state and for fans to fill the stadiums.

“I am trying to unite the people regardless of race and religion. Seeing them waving the state flag, wearing the state jerseys and singing the team song in unison is what I am looking for – not personal glory,” he added.

“I am a very vocal person and I speak my mind. Changes are definitely needed in the management of football in the country, otherwise we won’t be so lowly ranked.

“I intend to make changes with the state team and show people how the Johor team is being managed professionally with no personal or political interest at all,” he added.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/treble-target-for-johor-darul-takzim/

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NTFA wants a change in venue
By PENANG CORRESPONDENT
THE Penang FA Cup semifinalists Nibong Tebal Football Association (NTFA) want the Football Association of Penang (FAP) to ditch the Polo Ground as the venue for the knockout competition.
Every match in the FA Cup competition – from the first round right up to the quarterfinals – were held at the vast Polo Ground, which can host three matches simultaneously.

But NTFA team manager Ong Eng Hua feels the ground is unsuitable for the semifinals and final matches.

“The bumpy and uneven pitch and the clumps of rough grass make it hard for the players to put on a good show and they can get injured easily,” said Eng Hua.

“I would prefer if the FAP switch to a better venue so the fans can watch better football.”

When it rains, certain parts of the Polo Ground pitches become waterlogged and muddy and is almost unplayable.

Besides the FA Cup, the Divisions Two and Three matches are also held at the Polo Ground.

The Penang League’s top division matches are held at the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) grounds.

The NTFA manager added that he proposed the State Stadium in Batu Kawan for his team’s last four tie against Baharol Alam.

The other semifinal is between Sungai Ara and Bukit Gelugor.

Besides the venues at USM and Batu Kawan, the City Stadium, home of the Penang state football team, has also been used to host important domestic matches in the past.

When contacted, FAP’s competitions committee chairman L. Kathiresan said that the dates and venues for the FA Cup semifinals have not been fixed.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/ntfa-wants-a-change-in-venue/

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Tunku Ismail sets the bar high
By DATUK LOURDES CHARLES

NEW SIGNINGS: (clockwise from top left) David Guiza, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Aidil Zafuan Radzak, Safiq Rahim, Safee Sali and Azmi Muslim
The second of a three-part interview with Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim:

JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM will continue to “buy” big names from time to time to improve the standard of football not only in the state but the country as well.

Johor Crown Prince Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, who is also Johor FA president, said Johor would continue to scout for tried and tested players who still had age on their side.

“We will sign players of calibre who have made a name for themselves internationally and who can impart their knowledge and skills to our players.

“We have signed players like Daniel Guiza, who was a member of Spain’s 2008 European Championship team and former Lazio midfielder Simone Del Nero.

“These are quality players we have hired and I believe these are the biggest foreign signings in the country’s history,” he told sports247.my chief executive officer Datuk Lourdes Charles in an exclusive interview at his palace in Istana Bukit Pelangi in Johor.

Other big names signed by Johor Darul Takzim are Zaquan Adha Abdul Radzak and his twin brother Aidil Zafuan, national skipper Safiq Rahim, Muslim Ahmad. Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Azmi Muslim and Safee Sali.

Tunku Ismail said he wants to make Johor the best team in Malaysia and in the region if possible because he loved football and was very passionate about it.

He said football in Malaysia needed to be improved as it had been in the doldrums for far too long and being ranked 167th in the world was a testament to that fact.

He said Malaysia with all its resources, especially financially, should be among the top footballing countries in Asia.

“We must improve our standards and I believe Johor FA will be able to do that and lead the way in revolutionising football in the country.

“Johor FA has the will. Financially we are on solid ground and we have restructured our organisation. It will be managed professionally with every member told to be hands on in their respective duties,” he said.

Tunku Ismail also revealed that a multi-million ringgit football academy complete with three football fields as training grounds, a hostel for players to stay prior to their matches as well as swimming pool, gymnasium and other facilities would be built soon.

The academy would cater for the younger generation who would be groomed to take over from the seniors.

To a question, Tunku Ismail said there were also plans for the football academy to tie up with some big foreign clubs, probably with teams like Boca Juniors in Argentina where talented payers would be sent for attachment and training.

“Let me say that Johor FA under my leadership is not going to be a one off. We are going to be here for a long time and will challenge for honours not only for domestic titles but the region as well,” he added.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/tunku-ismail-sets-the-bar-high-2/

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Woodlands Wellington to face Johor Darul Takzim in pre-season tournament

Pahang FA and Johor United will also join the two teams for the pre-season quadruple as they prepare for their respective domestic seasons.

The Football Association of Johor [PBNJ] is organizing a tournament involving the two teams under its administration, Johor Darul Takzim and Johor United, from December 26 to 28.

The other two invitees to this pre-season tourney are Pahang FA and Singapore club Woodlands Wellington FC.

PBNJ had previously intended for it to be a six-team tournament but they were forced to make changes after Singapore clubs Home United and Singapore Armed Forced declined their invitations, according to Johor’s social media.

The first game will see Woodlands going up against the star-studded Darul Takzim side, which has promised to field a strong side as they look to make use of this competition to prepare for the upcoming Malaysian Super League campaign.

Darul Takzim has arguably the most expensive squad in Malaysia’s football history after they recently secured the signings of former Spanish international Dani Guiza and Italian midfielder Simone Del Nero,

Also joining the Southern Tigers revolution are Malaysian internationals Safee Sali, Safiq Rahim, Norshahrul Idlan, Azmi Muslim, Aidil Zafuan and Zaquan Adha, who were officially unveiled to the public on a press conference a week ago.

Although Woodlands ended their 2012 campaign at the wrong end of the table, they have beefed up their squad with the inclusion of former national goalkeeper Yazid Yasin and Albirex Niigata (S) midfield dynamo Atsushi Shimono.

The match between Johor Darul Takzim and Woodlands will be played at the Larkin Stadium in Johor Bahru at 8.45pm on December 26.

Tickets to the pre-season tournament are priced at RM5 and will be available on matchday.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/24/3625791/woodlands-wellington-to-face-johor-darul-takzim-in-pre

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Dollah happy with pre-season form of import strikers

The Pahang head coach is optimistic that Morocco’s Mohamed Borji and Nikolche Klechkarosk of Macedonia can form a lethal partnership for the Elephants in the new MSL season

Pahang coach Dollah Salleh is confident the partnership between his two foreign strikers, Mohamed Borji and Nikolche Klechkarosk will get better with time.

So far, Moroccan Borji has impressed while playing in three friendly matches against clubs from Hong Kong.

Klechkarosk, who is from Macedonia, also showed enough commitment to give Dollah cause for optimism ahead of the new season.

“I believe Mohamed and Klechkarosk will be the mainstays of the team.

“Hopefully they can form the best understanding before the MSL (Malaysian Super League) begins,” Dollah told Berita Harian yesterday.

During their tour of Hong Kong recently, The Elephants recorded a 1-0 win over Citizen FC, and lost 3-1 and 2-1 to Rangers FC and Kitchee FC respectively.

Despite winning only one game, Dollah insisted that he was still satisfied with the team’s overall performance against Hong Kong’s best football clubs.

“This experience of playing against the three clubs is a new experience for the players, and it will prepare them for a positive start in the MSL in January.”

Pahang open their 2013 campaign against moneybags Johor Darul Takzim at their home Stadium Darul Makmur, on January 8.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/24/3625449/dollah-happy-with-pre-season-form-of-import-strikers

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Goal.com's 13 for '13 Asian Football Countdown: Malaysia

Although their team fell short in the AFF Suzuki Cup, the group stage co-hosts can still hold their heads up high after a productive year both domestically and internationally



INTRODUCTION

2012 proved to be eventful and historic for Malaysian football as it provided plenty of firsts in the country's grassroots game.

Domestically, Kelantan dominated the scene and won three trophies in one calendar year for the first time in their history. 2012 also saw Singapore re-join the Malaysian Super League under the name of LionsXII following a 17-year lapse. But for the national team, their inability to defend the AFF Suzuki Cup stands out like a sore thumb, with the inquest into their failure still on-going at the time of writing.

NATIONAL TEAMS


The year started with huge expectations, with everything geared towards preparing the senior national squad for the AFF Suzuki Cup in November. The team - under the care of Datuk K.Rajagopal, had to rely on friendly games for practice. A total of 18 friendlies were played against local outfits, touring English clubs, and other national teams. However, it all ended with a whimper as Malaysia crashed out of the regional tournament in the semi-final stage following a 3-1 aggregate loss to runners-up Thailand.

The juniors meanwhile, entered the year on the back of two major successes - winning the 2011 Jakarta SEA Games gold medal in November and becoming the only team from Southeast Asia that qualified to the third round of the 2012 Olympic Asian Qualifiers. Unfortunately, Ong Kim Swee’s boys could not win any of their matches and finished bottom of Group C in the qualifiers. They also missed out on a spot in the 2013 AFC U-22 Championship as the qualification round ended in controversy; with hosts Myanmar getting away with the usage of over-aged players in their team. The Young Tigers however, took home two invitational trophies in the shape of the SCTV Cup and the VFF Cup.

DOMESTIC LEAGUES AND CUPS


East coast outfit Kelantan had a year to remember as they accomplished their first-ever domestic treble. They also became only the third team in the brief history of the Malaysian Super League (MSL) to win it in consecutive seasons. The Red Warriors had a decent continental campaign as well, reaching the quarter-finals of the AFC Cup before bowing out at the hands of eventual champions Arbil SC from Iraq.

Kelantan’s clean sweep of three trophies aside, unfancied Sime Darby FC wrote their name into FA Cup folklore as the first club side (as opposed to other Malaysian teams, who are backed by local football associations) to qualify for the tournament's final. In the Malaysia Cup, big-spending Premier League winners ATM ran Kelantan close for the title.

PLAYERS ABROAD


In August, teenage midfielder Nazmi Faiz Mansor made a piece of history for himself and Malaysian football by signing a professional contract with Portuguese Primeira Liga side SC Beira-Mar. In doing so, the 18-year-old became the first Malaysian to join a top-flight European club. He made his debut for the Aveiro-based club’s senior side in a friendly and scored his first goal for the youth team a few days after his 18th birthday.

2012 also witnessed Sean Gan Giannelli become the first Malaysian to sign for an Italian club, Serie D side Atletico Arezzo. In Indonesia, Safee Sali’s four goals against Gresik United in March made him the first Malaysian footballer to score a hat-trick in a professional league outside Malaysia.

In July, Tokyo-born Tam Sheang Tsung made his official senior debut for Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua against English giants Manchester United.

PLAYER OF THE YEAR | Badri Radzi, Kelantan


Badri Radzi. Period. The Kelantan skipper was influential and inspirational in helping the side win everything on show this season. In fact, the midfielder created all of Kelantan’s goals in their Malaysia Cup final win (3-2) over ATM.

Amazingly, he was snubbed by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) at their annual awards and to add insult to injury, Rajagopal did not even consider him for the AFF Suzuki Cup preliminary squad. It was reported that Singapore captain Shahril Ishak expressed his relief at Badri’s exclusion from the Malaysian squad when he learnt about the news. The 30-year-old continues to wait for his first international cap.

MOMENT OF THE YEAR | Mahalli Jasuli's goal sends Harimau Malaya to semis


Malaysia’s second goal against Indonesia in the final Group B match of the AFF Suzuki Cup sticks out as the moment that will be remembered for all the right reasons.

With Malaysia needing a win to get through the group, former Harimau Muda captain Mahalli Jasuli made a lung-bursting run to a Wan Zack Haikal Wan Nor pass and scored from an acute angle to send the fans wild. The goal gave Malaysia full points and confirmed their place in the semi-finals.

WISHES FOR MALAYSIAN FOOTBALL IN 2013


The obvious ones have to be the two biggest assignments awaiting the national sides. For the senior team, the goal must be to do well in the 2015 Asian Cup qualifying rounds. Meanwhile, the Under-23 team needs to successfully defend their gold medal at the 27th Sea Games in Myanmar at the end of the year.

On the local front, the MSL is set to excite fans with the presence of big name foreign signings like Dani Guiza, Simone Del Nero and George Boateng. Expect attendance to rise by leaps and bounds for league matches.

One thing is certain, 2013 promises to be a year full of joy for football fans in Malaysia.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/5072/goalcom-asias-countdown-to-2013/2012/12/24/3625821/goalcoms-13-for-13-asian-football-countdown-malaysia

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Sarawak FA to hold season launch next month

The Crocs will be announcing their new squad as well as unveiling the new kit design for their 2013 Malaysian Premier League season

Sarawak FA have announced that they will be holding a season launch in Kuching next month, as they prepare to kick start their Premier League campaign on a positive note. Scheduled to be held on the 3rd of January, the event will see them announce their squad list for 2013, while also revealing the new design for their kit next season.

The Crocs were relegated from the Malaysian Super League last season, but the FAS President Datu Sudarsono Osman believes that this ceremony will be able to inspire their players for next year.

He made this official statement right after a meeting between the FAS and fan clubs around the state, which was held to further strenghten the ties between both parties.

“The fans now are different compared to the previous era and we need to adapt to changes," he told The Borneo Post.

"What might seem to work before may not be applicable now and this is why we are gathering representatives from various fan clubs to express their voice and suggestions to FAS."

Sudarsono also went on to urge fans to flock into the Sarawak Stadium in numbers when they kick start their Premier League campaign next month, adding that it would inspire the team for a Super League return in 2014.

"This is why we need to fans support to come to the stadium which is a useful tonic to the players. We need the fan club as well as they can be an opinion leader especially to issues pertaining to our beloved team,” he added.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/23/3623827/sarawak-fa-to-hold-season-launch-next-month

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"You need to buck up," - Azraai Khor rebukes new signing Karim Rouani

The former BEC Tero Sasana forward has not impressed with his pre-season performances and Azraai has warned him to improve before the season kicks off

Perak FA head coach Azraai Khor Abdullah has rebuked their new foreign player Karim Rouani, who has apparently not impressed in their pre-season fixtures. Since embarking on a Northern Malaysia tour, Perak have featured in three friendly matches, in which Karim has struggled to have an impact.

The Frenchman has only netted twice, converting a penalty against Perlis last week, before netting against amateur side ODA FC in midweek. He however, failed to score in their 4-0 win against Songkla United last Friday.

Fans have already voiced their concerns over this particular signing, who barely played any football this year after a contract dispute with his former side in Thailand. Now, Azraai Khor has told him to improve and step up to a true foreign hitman level.

“Rouani needs to step up his game and understand what we expect from a foreign striker," Azraai told The Star.

“He’s not outstanding with his contribution to the team and seems to be rough around the edges. I’ve spoken to him and he understands our concerns.
“I think he needs more play time to improve. Since we’re still in pre-season, I believe there’s enough time for him to improve.”

However, the former Kedah head coach has been impressed with their other foreign player in the form of Rafael Novais. The tall Brazillian previously played for Bangkok Glass FC in the Thai league, and has adapted with the Seladangs seamlessly.

“Rafael is a team player and I’m happy with his performance. He has adapted well to the team,” said Azraai.

Perak are scheduled to kick off their Malaysian Super League campaign against T-Team on the 8th of January but Azraai is already keeping an eye on the FA Cup tie against moneybags Darul Takzim FC on the 25th of January.

“It’s vital for us to collect maximum points in the early stages of the season as most teams would have not gelled by then and we need to capitalise on it.

“We also need to get ready for the FA Cup tie against Johor Darul Takzim," he added.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/23/3623683/you-need-to-buck-up-azraai-khor-rebukes-new-signing-karim

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Abdul Rahman believes his boys can do well in FA Cup

PKNS FC, drawn to face LionsXII in the FA Cup, believe they can surprise everyone and go through to the next round of the knock-out competition

PKNS FC coach Abdul Rahman Ibrahim is convinced he has the players to be a surprise package in this season’s FA Cup, which starts next month.

Despite having to face Malaysian Super League (MSL) runners-up LionsXII in the first round of the competition, he is confident that his boys would be up to the challenge of eliminating one of the tournament favourites.

The former Selangor tactician acknowledged that LionsXII is a strong team, but concluded that it is not an excuse for the Red Ants to give up early and stop from trying to go for a win.

“To make sure we go through to the next round, I will think of the best strategy and tactics to stop them,” said Abdul Rahman to Sinar Harian.

Although PKNS have last season’s Malaysian Premier League (MPL) top scorer Patrick Ronaldinho Wleh in their ranks, the 66-year-old believes both teams are good enough of winning the tie.

He added that it is a matter of staying focused and is hopeful that the fans will be the 12th player - to spur the team on to the next round.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/23/3622290/abdul-rahman-believes-his-boys-can-do-well-in-fa-cup

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Sime Darby want to return to the Super League

The KL based club believe they can fight in the top league once again after spending three seasons in the Premier League

After spending three seasons in the Malaysia Premier League (MPL), Sime Darby FC want to be back in the Malaysian Super League (MSL) by 2014.

With the addition of two import players, Karlo Primorac and Goran Perak from Croatia, club president Datuk Seri Tengku Ahmad Shah Sultan Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah is confident that it can be done soon.

He mentioned that most of the new players have the experience of playing in the MSL; with the likes of Juzaili Samion from Felda United FC, Fadzli Saari from T-Team and Yosri Derma Raju from Sarawak can be counted upon to use their experience to help the team.

Speaking to Astro Arena, Tengku Ahmad said: “Our two import players are also adapting well based on their performances in pre-season friendlies in Vietnam recently.

“I believe we can give a good fight in both the FA Cup and Malaysia Cup, especially after we became the first club side to qualify to the FA Cup final last season,” he added.

For the new season, Sime Darby have retained seven players and promoted three from the President Cup squad. They also strengthened the team by signing five new players from Perak.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/23/3622086/sime-darby-want-to-return-to-the-super-league

[steamroll]

Teenager Adam wants to play in the 2013 Sea Games

PETALING JAYA: Adam Nor Azlin is a youngster in a hurry.

The 16-year-old Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) footballer wants to make a big impression in the National Under-23 squad next year. He was promoted to the squad from the President’s Cup Under-21 squad this year.

Adam was included by National Under-23 squad coach Ong Kim Swee in the Newspaper Cup in Vietnam in October following an injury to central midfielder Irfan Fazail. The Klang-born lad grabbed the opportunity and repaid Kim Swee’s faith in him by helping the team emerged champions. He played in all the four matches, including the 1-0 win over Vietnam in the final.

Adam said that he never expected to get a starting role in the team because of his age and lack of experience.

“For me, it’s a learning curve. I hope to learn as much as possible playing with the senior players. My initial target was to make gradual progress in the team – from the substitutes’ bench and then to the first 11. Getting the chance so soon is a pleasant surprise,” said Adam, whose favourite player is Spain and Barcelona midfielder Andres Iniesta.

“I need to thank coach Kim Swee for having faith in me. I will continue to work harder,” added Adam, who was BJSS’ top scorer in the President’s Cup with 13 goals last season.

The National Under-23 team will be competing in the SEA Games in Myanmar next year where Malaysia are the defending champions. In a build-up to the Games, Kim Swee is arranging numerous friendlies for the players to gain experience and exposure.

Adam was involved in the two friendlies thus far, a 2-1 win over Premier League side Sime Darby FC on Sunday and a 1-1 draw against Sarawak, another Premier League team, last week.

“I hope to get as much play time as possible in the team.
“That’s the way to become a better player,” said Adam, who can also double up as a striker and centreback.

Adam’s target naturally is to make the final SEA Games squad.
“We have an important task of defending the SEA Games gold medal. I hope I can make the final 18-man team,” said Adam.
football.thestar.com.my/2012/12/25/teenager-adam-wants-to-play-in-the-2013-sea-games/

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Harimau Muda coach Ong Kim Swee

The Malacca-born trainer believes friendlies and training sessions can only help them prepare for major tournaments next year

National Under-23 squad coach Ong Kim Swee, is hoping that all the friendlies his boys are going to play in will help them get into good shape for the new season.

Harimau Muda A had their first friendly last week against Sarawak where they were held 1-1. Next up for them are Sime Darby FC.

They play Sarawak again on December 28.

Kim Swee told The Star that the team needs to play every week to build understanding.

“It's too early to expect results from these friendlies. These matches can help me build up the players' fitness level, strength and endurance.”

The team will also be going for a training stint in Australia and Europe, before they take part in the Merdeka Tournament in August.

Their biggest assignment of the year is to defend their SEA Games gold medal in Naypyidaw, Myanmar in December.

Kim Swee also confirmed that regulars A. Thamil Arasu, Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, Fandi Othman, Amer Saidin and Rozaimi Abdul Rahman are injured, and need to recover properly to be considered for the foreign trips.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/23/3624451/friendlies-can-improve-my-team-harimau-muda-coach-ong-kim

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Perak win 2012 King's Gold Cup

Perak beat Kedah 2-0 in extra time to win the competition for the first time in 22 years

Perak have won the 2012 King's Gold Cup after beating Kedah 2-0 at the Perak Stadium.

Hamizul Izaidi and substitute Khairul Asraff clinched it for Perak when they both scored in the extra time of the game. The victory was the first one for Perak since they last won the trophy 22 years ago.

The game started with both teams defending well. Perak almost scored in the 28th minute when Haizal Faquan Sadaruddin's free kick just went inches wide from the goal. They had another chance in the 33th minute but Hamizul Izaidi's shot was off target.

Kedah too had their fair share of chances and almost went ahead when they struck the bar before the first half ended.

Both sides continued to attack in the second half, and Kedah once again hit the bar in the 59th minute.

The match eventually had to be decided in extra-time after it finished without a goal at the end of 90 minutes.

In extra time, Perak finally managed to break the deadlock just before the second half of the extra time ended.

Minutes before the final whistle they scored again to seal their victory.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/23/3624394/perak-win-2012-kings-gold-cup

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Youngsters hunger for more

AT 16, midfielders Ariff Farhan Isa and Adam Nor Azlin are living a dream with Young Tigers.

Ariff Farhan, born on July 4, 1996, is seven months older than Adam and is well-liked by his teammates.
The utility midfielder was the youngest player in the Newspaper Cup, which the national Under-21 side won, and also the youngest ever to play in the S-League.

Ariff Farhan, a former Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) President's Cup player, now hopes to make his presence felt with the Tigers next season.

As for Adam, also a former BJSS President's Cupper, who recently signed with Tigers, he is determined to stamp his mark and earn a place in next year's Sea Games squad.

In the absence of several core players, both youngsters made a lasting impression in Tigers' 2-1 win over Premier League side Sime Darby FC in a friendly at Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya yesterday.

Ariff Farhan came on as a second half substitute for Wan Zack Haikal Wan Noor while Adam marshalled the midfield with national player Gary Steven Robbat.

Croatian Karlo Primorac gave Sime Darby a ninth minute lead from the penalty spot before Wan Zack Haikal headed home a Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria's cross to level proceedings in the 45th minute. D. Saarvindran scored the winner from a free kick five minutes from time.

"I am happy with my overall performance today (yesterday) but of course I will need to work harder if I hope to improve my game and also represent Malaysia in priority youth tournaments next year," said Ariff Farhan.

Adam said his inclusion in the team will make him a better player.
"It is an honour to be part of this great team. At 16, I did not expect to earn a contract with Tigers so soon," said Adam.

Tigers will continue their preparation with a friendly against Sarawak in Kuching on Friday.


Read more: Youngsters hunger for more - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/youngsters-hunger-for-more-1.190849#ixzz2G4CwdsLB

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Izzaq back on track after a year in the cold

AFTER a career-threatening knee injury which kept him out for 12 months, Izzaq Faris Ramlan aims to return with a bang.

He has set his sights on a good run with the national Under-23 team, and hopefully the senior team.
The 22-year-old, who has earned five international caps, had surgery to his left knee after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) at the 2011 Sea Games in Indonesia.

Seven months later, he had another surgery for a torn meniscus.

Izzaq, a towering striker who plays for Young Tigers A, was also a member of the Guangzhou Asian Games and AFF Cup squads in 2010.

"I can run and play like normal. I feared I couldn't play anymore after tearing my ACL.

"It took me so long to recover but thankfully I am playing football again," Izzaq said yesterday.
"I played my first game after a year in a recent friendly against Sarawak and it felt so good but I can't rush things as my injury could recur."

Izzaq is among the 27 players in the Tigers squad (comprising the national Under-23 side), preparing for next year's Sea Games in Myanmar.

National Under-23 coach Ong Kim Swee said Izzaq has responded well to training since he began on Nov 3.

"We will not hurry him as I do not want him to get injured again. We will give him time to adjust and adapt before evaluating his performance.

"He passed the first test with flying colours by playing well as a substitute against Sarawak recently," said Kim Swee.

Izzaq, however, did not play Premier League side Sime Darby in friendly at Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya yesterday as he complained of knee pain during a speed test.

Strikers Rozaimi Abdul Rahman (groin), Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim (knee) and A. Thamil Arasu (muscle tear) along with Fandi Othman (knee) and Amer Saidin (ankle) are on the crock list.

"Syahrul has started training while Thamil, Rozaimi and Amer will take about three weeks. Fandi will only be back in two months from a minor surgery," said Kim Swee.

Kim Swee had initially wanted a 28-member squad but defender Aminuddin Mohd Noor decided not to accept the offer.

The 21-year-old, a former PKNS President's Cup player, has been registered with the club for the Super League.

Kim Swee's squad will head for Brisbane, Australia, for five matches against A-League and Central Division sides on Jan 23-Feb 6.

"We have written to the Australia FA for a match against its national Under-21 side. They are keen but we are still waiting for an official reply," Kim Swee added.


Izzaq Faris Ramlan had surgery to his left knee after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament at the 2011 Sea Games in Indonesia.



Read more: Izzaq back on track after a year in the cold - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/izzaq-back-on-track-after-a-year-in-the-cold-1.190845#ixzz2G4FOAaan

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Headache for Irfan

PLUGGING THE GAP: Selangor coach still looking for a replacement for former captain Safiq
SELANGOR coach Irfan Bakti admitted he has yet to find an able candidate to replace midfielder Safiq Rahim who has left for Johor's Darul Takzim for the 2013 M-League.

New signings S. Veenod and Abdul Shukor Jusoh have not made their mark in preseason matches.
"Veenod and Abdul Shukor are still adapting but I hope one of them will fit into the vacant playmaker position left by Safiq," said Irfan yesterday.

"I will continue to drill and push them harder in training and in preseason matches. Options are limited but of course things will get better once K. Gurusamy returns to full fitness from injury.

"Football is a team sport and if we can play as a formidable unit in the Super League, we should be fine."
The team, comprising 11 new signings, returned from the Aceh Governor Cup in Indonesia yesterday, still searching for their first preseason win.

In the competition, Selangor drew 1-1 with Makassar in their first Group A match followed by a 1-0 defeat to Aceh but despite earning only a point, they progressed into the semi-finals, before losing 3-1 to Semen Padang.

Selangor then defeated Brunei's DPMM FC 3-1 on penalties after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time for third place.

The coach, however, used his regular players mostly as substitutes due to the poor pitch condition.
Irfan's side, who began training on Nov 15, drew 2-2 with Singapore's Young Lions in their first preseason friendly on Nov 24 before losing to newly promoted Premier League side KL SPA (2-1), Armed Forces (1-0) and Johor United (1-0).

"We did not have a full squad at the beginning as some of our players were in the national team while the imports only arrived a few days before we left for Indonesia,' Irfan added.

Irfan hopes his team will finally secure a preseason win when they face Premier League side Sabah on Wednesday.

Read more: Headache for Irfan - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/headache-for-irfan-1.190847#ixzz2G4GSp1Im

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Pahang opener for Darul Takzim

PAHANG will become the first M-League team to face the mighty Darul Takzim side in the 2013 Super League season.

Pahang, the runners-up in the 2012 Premier League, who earned promotion by overcoming Kedah on penalties in a play-off match, will host Darul Takzim, led by former Spanish international Daniel Guiza, at Darulmakmur Stadium in Kuantan on Jan 8.

Coach Dollah Salleh has strengthen his squad by signing former Perak goalkeeper Mohd Nasril Mat Nordin and three Selangor players -- Amirulhadi Zainal, Razman Roslan and Azidan Sarudin.

Pahang's attack will be led by Moroccan Mohamed Borji and Macedonian Nikolce Klechkarosk.
"I have quality players and all of them are working very hard for the new season. We want to win at least one title," said Dollah recently.

As for Darul Takzim, the club, formerly known as Johor FC, have signed -- Guiza, a former Primera Liga top scorer with Real Mallorca and Italian Simone Del Nero along with last season's Most Valuable Player, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Safee Sali, Safiq Rahim, Azmi Muslim and the Radzak twins, Aidil Zafuan and Zaquan Adha -- for the new season.

Johor FA president Tunku Mahkota Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim recently said he wants his team to play like champions and win as many titles.

But having a star-studded cast does not guarantee immediate success and Darul Takzim could face a similar problem next season.

Pahang, who began training last month, defeated KL SPA 3-0 in the first preseason friendly followed by a 1-0 win over Hong Kong's Citizen FC.

They, however, hit a bad patch, going down to Rangers (3-1) and Kitchee (2-1) recently.
"It will be the feature match as everyone is excited about Darul Takzim as they have signed so many good players.

"I will definitely name my best available players for this match. We are hosting them and I hope our fans will turn-up and support us," said Dollah.

On whether the new signings are doing well in training and in preseason matches, Dollah said they are doing fine.

"Although, the newcomers have improved, they still need to work on smaller aspects of the game," he added.

Read more: Pahang opener for Darul Takzim - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/pahang-opener-for-darul-takzim-1.191292#ixzz2G4HI2JNx

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Portugal-based Nazmi Faiz is also part of coach Ong Kim Swee's plans for the Sea Games and the 18-year-old, who plays for Sport Clube Beira-Mar Under-19 side, will join the team in Slovakia after the end of the European season.

"If any team in Europe want our players for trials, I will be open to it. I will definitely give them a chance," said Kim Swee yesterday.

It will be Malaysia's third stint in Slovakia since heading there for the first time in 2010. Tigers did not play in Europe this year due to their S-League commitments.

Muslim Ahmad and Gary Steven Robbat had a trial with Slovak side FC Vion Zlate Moravce in 2010 but the club did not sign them.

In the following year, Fadhli Shas and Wan Zack Haikal Wan Noor were signed on a three-month loan deal with the same club.

Fadhli Shas, a centre-back, made only one league appearance, as a substitute for eight minutes, but featured in several friendly matches along with Wan Zack Haikal.

Read more: Young Tigers to prowl Europe for five months - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/young-tigers-to-prowl-europe-for-five-months-1.191295#ixzz2G4I6PuEZ

[steamroll]

Malaysia Football Nostalgia

National Geographic - Mokhtar Dahari Part 1 of 4











Malaysia 2-1 South Korea (1980)



1986 Johor vs Selangor msia cup final



1988 Kedah vs Kuala Lumpur



1990 Kedah vs Selangor msia cup group match



1991 (June 12) Malaysia 2-England 4


1991 Kedah vs Singapore



1993 Kedah vs Singapore



Abbas Saad - Singapore Lions 1990-1994





1994 Singapore vs Pahang final msia cup



1995 Pahang vs Selangor msia cup final



1997 Selangor vs Pahang msia cup final



2006/07 Kedah vs Perak msia cup final



2008 Kedah vs Selangor msia cup final



2009 N. Sembilan vs Kelantan msia cup final



2010 Kelantan vs Selangor msia fa cup final



2010 Selangor vs N. Sembilan charity shield



2010 Kelantan vs N. Sembilan msia cup final



2011 Selangor vs Kelantan Charity Shield



2011 Terengganu vs N. Sembilan msia cup final



2012 N. Sembilan vs Kelantan Charity Shield



2012 Kelantan vs ATM 1st half final malaysia cup

[steamroll]

Pre-Season Match

Darul Takzim vs Woodlands Wellington



Sabah vs Selangor

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Selangor's Francis Forkey Doe wants to fire on all cylinders

The Liberian forward emerged as the top scorer last season after netting 15 goals with Terengganu, but believes that he can do better with Selangor in 2013



Francis Forkey Doe is determined to continue making an impact in the Malaysian Super League, as the new season edged closer towards its kick off. Forkey Doe plied his trade with Terengganu FA last year, but has since moved to Selangor FA for the 2013 season.

He netted 15 goals to grab the Golden Boot award for being the Malaysian League Top Scorer but Forkey Doe is keen on doing it all again.

I want to score in every match. It could be more than one goal in every game...I don't really care as long I score," he told the New Straits Times.

"I am not setting a specific target as I do not want to add unnecessary pressure to myself. It is going to be an exciting season."

The 27 year-old striker has impressed during the pre-season friendlies, scoring 11 goals in five matches thus far. However, there are concerns over his fitness levels, something that Forkey Doe is looking to improve before the new season.

"On the scale of one to 10, my fitness is about six or seven. I am working hard to regain my fitness. I need to work harder to form a good chemistry especially with my new partner in attack."

The battle for the 2013 M-League Golden Boot will certainly be an interesting one, with former La Liga Top Scorer Dani Guiza, Safee Sali and even Jean Emmanuel Effa Owona all looking to aid their respective teams by going on a goalscoring streak.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/27/3631215/selangors-francis-forkey-doe-wants-to-fire-on-all-cylinders

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Fakri Saarani set to sign for Portuguese side Atletico S.C

The national team forward left Malaysia earlier today, as he edges closer towards becoming the second Malaysian to play in the Portuguese leagu

Former Felda United forward Fakri Saarani is getting closer towards a dream move to Portuguese Third Dvision side Atletico Sport Clube Reguengos (Atletico S.C), with him departing for Portugal earlier today. Fakri initially received the offer last August, but was forced to postpone it due to his AFF Suzuki Cup commitments with the national team.

Nevertheless, Fakri's personal manager Faisal Zakariah confirmed that he will be heading to England for a few days, before travelling to Portugal to finalise the deal.

"He will be departing tomorrow (today) and will be dropping by in England for a few days first. Then he will fly over to Portugal to conclude the deal," he told Utusan Malaysia

"From what I've gathered, Athletico S.C's first match of 2013 will be on the 6th of January and Fakri has a bright chance of featuring in that one if his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) is processed quickly.

If confirmed, Fakri will become the second Malaysian to ply his trade in Portugal, after Nazmi Faiz signed for SC Beira Mar earlier this year.

Capable of playing in any positions upfront, Fakri has often been selected into the national squad by Datuk K. Rajagopal, despite concerns over his consistency. However, there is no denying the fact that Fakri remains a terrific forward when on-song.

Rumours claim that Fakri also received an offer from a unnamed Portuguese First Division side, but he opted for Athletico S.C with hopes of featuring more often.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/27/3631076/fakri-saarani-set-to-sign-for-portuguese-side-atletico-sc

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Exclusive: K. Nanthakumar confident of success with Kelantan in 2013

The former Perak midfielder is determined to win silverware with his new team, adding that Kelantan have got what it takes to complete another treble



K. Nanthakumar is already a well-known figure in Malaysian football, having featured for the national team at one point, while also featuring for Perak FA at the highest levels. Nevertheless, his hunger for success still remains intact, with Nantha aiming to win trophies with Kelantan FA next season.

The former national team midfielder joined the Red Warriors on a free transfer, after his contract with Perak FA ended in November. Nanthakumar has already integrated well into Bojan Hodak's training methods and he is now fully focused on helping Kelantan FA continue their dominance in 2013.

"I am delighted to be here with Kelantan FA, who are the reigning Malaysian Super League champions," he told Goal.com Malaysia in an exclusive interview.

"Now that I'm here, I want to do my best to help this club continue it's dominance and win trophies next year. I certainly believe that we can win the treble again in 2013."

The off-season period has been largely dominated by Darul Takzim FC, who have invested quite an amount in building a formidable side. The Southern Tigers signed the likes of Dani Guiza, Safee Sali, Norshahrul Idlan as well as Simone Del Nero, and have looked dangerous in their pre-season performances so far. Predictably, Nantha tipped them to be up there challenging for honours next year.

"Darul Takzim FC will be a title challenger. They will be a threat to all teams because of their expensive line-up and will be aiming to win the league next season. But I'm will be doing my level best to help Kelantan retain the title."

The Red Warriors will be opening their Super League campaign against PKNS FC at the Sultan Mohammad IV Stadium on the 8th of Janury.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3902/exclusives/2012/12/27/3629707/exclusive-k-nanthakumar-confident-of-success-with-kelantan

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Goal.com's 2013 MSL Team Preview: Selangor

Goal.com Malaysia takes an exclusive look at the big teams that will be competing for the upcoming season's Malaysian Super League title

SPECIAL
By Keeshaanan Sundaresan

The arrival of a new head coach in the form of Irfan Bakti was deemed to be fitting enough to lead Selangor into a glorious season of football in 2012. However, they were knocked out of the FA Cup in the second round, finished third in the Malaysian Super League, knocked out in the semi finals of the Malaysia Cup, as they capped yet another year without silverware.

For a team of Selangor's calibre, going without silverware for two years is certainly a long period of time. The Red Giants are usually always at the top, battling for top honours.

Inspired by that, the Selangor FA promised to ring the changes for 2013 and has worked hard to draft in new faces within a short span of time as they seek to go gung ho on all fronts next year.

Sharbinee Allawee heads the list of 11 players that were brought in by the Selangor management and the list also includes the likes of Francis Forkey Doe from Terengganu as well as Mahali Jasuli from Harimau Muda A.

Besides that, Negeri Sembilan’s pacy flanker S. Kunanlan has also joined the Red Giants while towering striker Afiq Azmi has opted to join Selangor despite impressing during his Malaysia Cup loan stint with Kelantan this year.

The biggest arrival is none other than Mahali Jasuli, who has consistenly been in the national team frame for quite some time now. Better still, the right back was arguably Malaysia's best performer during the recent AFF Suzuki Cup.

Despite Bosko Balaban's prolificacy in front of goal, he was not retained for 2013 due to his inconsistency. But the signing of Forkey Doe should be a remedy to this problem, as the Liberia forward finished last season as the top scorer of the Super League with 15 goals, while also creating many other chances.

Having promised to fire on all cylinders, the Selangor FA will once again be under pressure to deliver. Irfan Bakti might have been a crowd favourite with Terengganu FA but a repeat of their inconsisten showings could see the tide turn against him as far as the Selangor fans are concerned. But on an overall note, the Red Giants have a pretty solid squad to challenge for top honours, including the AFC Cup.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3891/features/2012/12/26/3627889/goalcoms-2013-msl-team-preview-selangor

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Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman to be ATM's home ground

The Gladiators have to play their home games in Paroi next season, after two stadiums in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya became unavailable for different reasons



Angkatan Tentera Malaysia (ATM) will use the Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium in Paroi as their home ground for the 2013 Malaysian Super League (MSL).

The club’s coach, B. Sathianathan was forced to accept the decision as he had no other choice.

Speaking to their official website atmfa.my, Sathia said he was surprised that the stadium they used last season, the MBPJ Stadium in Petaling Jaya City did not fulfill the floodlights specifications set by the FA of Malaysia.

“We cannot play at the Selayang Stadium as it will be used for Premier League matches.

Despite the distance, I hope the fans will still come and support ATM in Paroi.”

Last season, the Gladiators used the MBPJ Stadium and the Selayang Stadium to play their homes matches in the domestic league.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/26/3627830/stadium-tuanku-abdul-rahman-to-be-atms-home-ground

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Majority of the stadiums will stage afternoon matches – FAM

Only four stadiums would be allowed by the FA of Malaysia to stage night matches next season as the rest did not meet the requirements

The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) have given green light to only four stadiums to stage night matches in the Malaysian Super League (MSL) next season.

Its’ Local Competition Comittee chairman, Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin said the four stadiums that made the cut were Shah Alam Stadium in Selangor; Darul Makmur Stadium in Kuantan, Pahang; Stadium Negeri Sarawak in Kuching and Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore.

All the other stadiums will have to stage afternoon matches.

According to Hamidin, he was informed that Tuanku Abdul Rahman Stadium in Paroi, Seremban and Perak Stadium in Ipoh are currently upgrading their facilities, but as it stands now they are very likely to stage afternoon matches.

Speaking to Bernama, he added: “However, we will continue our inspection over stadiums involved in staging M-League matches, so that those who wish to stage night matches follow the requirements set by the FAM.”

Hamidin, who is also the Vice President of the FAM, said that the committee would hold a meeting over the weekend to discuss the issue in detail.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/26/3627792/majority-of-the-stadiums-will-stage-afternoon-matches-fam

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"Wrath of the Titans" - T-Team ready to turn on the style in 2013

The Kuala Terengganu based club side have beefed up their squad with the likes of George Boateng and Caleb Folan, and are looking to win their first trophy next year

T-Team might have been underdogs all these while but they are preparing to turn on the style when the upcoming season of the Malaysian Super League season kicks off next month.

The Titans revamped their squad during the off-season, signing plenty of youth talents while also drafting experienced names to balance the team.

Former Hull City duo, George Boateng and Caleb Folan have also been signed up to fill the foreign player quota while Peter Butler has been given the task of coaching them. Now, T-Team's chief executive officer Abdul Rashid Jusoh believes that they are equipped enough to make an impact next year.

"Since winning promotion to the Super League three years ago, we have been on the radar of bigger teams but that is about to change," he told the New Straits Times.
"We are no longer an obscure club who were expected to just get by in the league as we are now the Titans, under new management, new coach and mostly new players.

"Most of our new signings such as Syamim (Yahya) from Johor and Fauzan (Abdullah) from Kuala Lumpur are young, eager but able players who are willing to go all out to help the team achieve success.

"But we do have experienced players too as former Terengganu defenders Marzuki Yusof and Mazlizam Mohamad are now with us together with new foreign signings (George) Boateng and (Caleb) Folan," he added.

T-Team are currently our a pre-season tour of Myanmar, and have played two friendly matches over there so far, winning one while losing the other. Peter Butler's men were initially edged 0-1 by Magwe FC last Thursday, before bouncing back to beat Yangoon FC 3-1 two days later, with Fauzan Abdullah scoring a hat-rick.

"Folan had three assists in all the three goals and coach Butler seemed happy enough with the progress shown the boys after losing to another Yangon side, Magwe FC, by a solitary goal two days earlier.

"We played two friendlies in Kuala Lumpur prior to leaving for Myanmar, winning 1-0 over Armed Forces before losing 2-1 to SPA (Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Awam) but what is good is that our players seem to be getting better by the day," he said.

T-Team are scheduled to kick start their Super League campaign against Perak on the 8th of January and Rashid went on to promise that the Titans will do everything to be ready in time for the cruncher.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/26/3627750/this-is-the-strongest-squad-ive-played-in-safee-sali-on

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Ong Kim Swee wants Harimau Muda to continue improving ahead of 2013 SEA Games

The 42 year-old head coach is already setting his sights on retaining the South East Asian Games Gold medal for football and wants his players to continue improving next year

Harimau Muda A might have impressed many over the last 14 months or so, but Ong Kim Swee sees no reason for why they should be satisfied with their status.

The squad, made up of U-23 players from all around the nation, were victorious in the SEA Games back in 2011, before winning the SCTV Cup in Indonesia as well as the VFF Newspaper Cup in Vietnam. They also finished fourth in their maiden season in the S.League

However, Ong is keen to see his men continue their progression and is already planning for the mission of retaining their SEA Games crown at the end of next year in Myanmar.

"We have to essentially make sure that this growth continues," he told Berita Harian.

"The new players that have been integrated into the squad, have to be given more exposure throughout next year.

"Anyways, our preparation will be more structured next year, as there are only two major tasks early in the year. After that, we will be taking the players to train in Europe.

"3 months before the SEA Games, I should be able to have a solid group of players to pick from, as there will be no more time for experiments."

He also went on to add that after the Asian Cup qualifiers in February and March, his players will be able to shift their focus solely on the SEA Games mission. Nevertheless, Ong Kim Swee has already started preparing for next year, in which the Harimau Muda will also be competing in the S.League.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/25/3627663/ong-kim-swee-wants-harimau-muda-to-continue-improving-ahead

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Monsoon season disrupt Kelantan's preparation ahead of season opener against ATM

Kelantan head coach Bojan Hodak’s preparation for next season has been affected by the constant raining in the east coast of Malaysia



Monsoon season in the east coast of the country has clearly disrupted treble winners Kelantan’s preparation for next season's challenge.

Head coach, Bojan Hodak admitted that non-stop raining in Kota Bharu for the past one week has ruined his plans to build a strong team before facing ATM in the Charity Shield on the 5th of January.

Hodak said to Sinar Harian that he cannot implement any tactical strategy if the players keep playing on wet surface.

“We have to accept this fact. We are considering having our pre-season training outside of Kota Bharu as we do not have much time before our first match in January."

Hodak also added that he needs more friendly matches to find the best combination.

Kelantan will go to Penang for training session, before playing friendly matches against Penang, Kedah and Sime Darby FC.

www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/24/3626481/monsoon-season-disrupt-kelantans-preparation-ahead-of-season

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Kelantan’s Aziz out for 6 to 7 months through injury

The Red Warriors' left-back, Mohammad Abdul Aziz Ismail will go through knee surgery in January and is set to miss half a year of action

Abdul Aziz Ismail, Kelantan's left back is disappointed that he cannot help the Red Warriors next season, due to the injury he picked up during a friendly match against Kedah recently.

This is another setback for the player, who had to miss the whole season last year, after his left knee gave way early in the season.

This time, it is his right knee and he has to undergo surgery on the 2nd of January to get it fixed.

Speaking to Kelate.net, he said that the only time he can probably play next season is during the Malaysia Cup, as the doctor expects him to be out for six or seven months.

“Obviously I am sad and disappointed for having to miss the season again. I want to help the team but luck is against me once again.”

Aziz however, is hopeful that his home state can retain all the three titles they won this year. The 24-year-old is quietly confident of it happening with the addition of new players such as the import player from Australia, Dimitri Petratos.

“I believe the combination of new and old players can create a great team for next season. I will support the team all the way while I’m out.”

www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/24/3626420/kelantans-aziz-out-for-6-to-7-months-through-injury

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Kim Swee hopes to get green light for training plans


KUALA LUMPUR (By K. Rajan): Harimau Muda A coach Ong Kim Swee hopes to have his team’s overseas training and playing trips confirmed by this week.

The national Under-23 squad are scheduled to have a stint in Australia in January and another in Europe some time in March.

Kim Swee explained that the overseas stints were a vital part of the team’s preparations to defend the SEA Games gold medal in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, next December.

“We have finalised the teams for the Australian stint and are awaiting the green light from the FA of Malaysia (FAM), which we should get by the end of this week,” said Kim Swee.

“We are also waiting for the Australian FA to confirm a friendly match against their Under-23 side during the stint. An official announcement will be made when everything is finalised.

“We have 27 players in the squad and I plan to use all of them in these overseas stints. I want to gauge their ability at a higher level.”

The Harimau Muda A squad are also scheduled to play in the Merdeka Tournament in August and defend their VFF Newspaper Cup crown in October before starting their SEA Games campaign in Myanmar.

Commenting on rumours linking him to the senior national team’s coaching job, the 42-year-old said “I’m focused on the task at hand”.

The national team’s failure to defend the AFF Suzuki Cup last week has seen critics calling for coach Datuk K. Rajagopal to be sacked.

“As you can see, I have a tight schedule and a target to meet next year,” said Kim Swee. “I can’t be drawn into commenting on speculations … just let met focus on my job. I can’t talk about replacing Rajagopal, it’s up to FAM to decide.”
football.thestar.com.my/2012/12/18/kim-swee-hopes-to-get-green-light-for-training-plans/

[steamroll]

Rivals to slug it out at Frenz

By G. ARAVIND


The managers and coaches of the participating giving the thumbs up at the end of the press conference to announce the tournament details today.

THE Frenz International Cup 2012 which starts tomorrow will see eight teams, including two from Malaysia, taking part.

The teams in the Under-15 tournament will be divided into two groups with the top two in each group contesting in the semifinals.

The teams are the Malaysian Under-15 team, Incheon Selection (South Korea), Frenz United (Malaysia), Frenz United (Indonesia), Slavia Praha (Czech Republic), Chonburi (Thailand), Persepolis (Iran) and the Slovakian Under-15 team.

All the group matches will be held at the Petaling Jaya Stadium and Inspen Stadium Bangi.

The champions will receive US$50,000 with the runners-up getting US$25,000. The third-placed team will take home US$15,000 while the fourth-placed team will get US$10,000. An incentive of US$3,000 will also be handed out to the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament.

Frenz International Cup 2012 organising committee chairman Datuk Noor Ihsan A. Hamid said the tournament was held to expose our local players to the methodology of the foreign teams.

Malaysia Under-15 coach, S. Balachandran said he had not set any target for his team.

“It’s the school holidays and everybody is in holiday mood, but training has been held to keep the players fit, so it will be a good tournament to test out the team.”

Frenz United Malaysia manager Ahmad Fairuz Yunus said his team had prepared well by playing six friendlies.

“These included games against the Singapore National Under-15 team and Chonburi Sports School. We also played against local teams such as Bukit Jalil Sports School and Bandar Penawar Sports School.

“We want to be serious contenders for the tournament and now it’s all about getting our campaign started tomorrow.

The Malaysia Under-15 will play their first match against Slavia Praha of Czech Republic at 5.30pm. Frenz United Malaysia will be up against Incheon Selection on the second of the day at 8.30pm.

Both matches will be played at the Petaling Jaya Stadium in Kelana Jaya.

Malaysia Under-15 Squad

Goalkeepers: Mohd Asri Mohamad, Mohad Haziq Nazli.

Defenders: Ali Imran Alimi, Muhd Amirul Ashraf Ariffin, Muhammad Gaffar Abdul Rahman, Mohd Firdaus Abdullah, Mohd Hafiy Haikal Ismail, Nik Muhamad Aufa Mazlan.

Midfielders: Muhammad Najmuddin Samat, Ahmad Firdaus Ismail, Amirul Syazwan Nor Azmi, Mohammad Syazwan Salihin, Suwarnaraj Chinniah, Dinesh Rajasingam, Mohd Zulkhairi Mohd, Muhammad Sharul Akmal Md Adnan.

Forwards: Muhammad Shahir Syazwan Rusdi, Kogileswaran Raj, Mohd Aliff Izman Sahdan.

Coach: S. Balachandran

Manager: Zulkifli Samsuddin

Frenz United Malaysia Squad
Goalkeepers: Adam Zaini Fitri Zaini, Shaiful Azizi Mohd Zaini.

Defenders: Abd Rahman Ismawi, Izzul Danish Fadzil, Mohd Alif Hafizal Mohd Noor, Muhammad Syazwi Suhaimi, Muhammad Amirul Aiman Yasman, Muhammad Hidayat Ruzi, Muhammad Hafizi Mohd Salleh.

Midfielders: Mohammad Shafiq Helmi, Muhammad Hafizuddin Zuki, Mohammad Haziq Hossain, Muhamad Naaim Abd Razak, Ruzaini Rusli, Muhammad Amirul Haziq Rasmizal, Mohammad Ad Deen Zahalan.

Forwards: Aidiel Nur Iman Nekmat, Mohd Akhmar Haiqal Azhar, Muhammad Akmal Ahmad Nasir, Nik Shakir Zufayri Nik Min.

Coach: Mat Dinos Talib

Manager: Ahmad Fairuz Yunus

Groupings:

Group A: Malaysia Under 15, Frenz United Malaysia, Incheon Selection, Slavia Praha.
Group B: Chonburi FC, Slovakia Under 15, Frenz United Indonesia, Persepolis.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/rivals-to-slug-it-out-at-frenz/

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Keep your feet on the ground, warns Fandi
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Fandi Ahmad
ON a night when international ‘stars’ Safee Sali, Safiq Rahim and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha scored on their debut for Johor Darul Takzim, manager-cum-coach Fandi Ahmad, despite the smile on his face, had a message for his charges to keep their feet on the ground.

“Winning matches is not all about the ‘stars’ scoring. Teamwork is of utmost importance in winning matches. How they (the players) click will make a winning team,” said Fandi.

When asked if the big win (5-1) over Singapore club side Woodlands Wellington in the opening match of the Crown Prince of Johor Cup invitational quadrangular is an indication of his team’s strength to challenge for honours, Fandi chose to be diplomatic and said: “Let others worry about Johor Darul Takzim. We need not worry about them. Everybody seems to be watching us.

“This is just a pre-season build-up. Don’t get carried away with the big win. Keep your feet firmly on the ground.

“With all the big names in the team Johor Darul Takzim have become the focus in the M-League. They want to see how far we can go.

“It is up to you all (the players) to go out and deliver the goods. The big names scored and it gives you satisfaction because the team have invested in them. Hopefully, Johor Darul Takzim will reap the dividends.”

Safee hit a brace, while Safiq and Norshahrul and Spaniard Daniel Guiza scored one each. The win put Johor Darul Takzim in the final tomorrow and will play the winner of the tonight’s Johor-Pahang encounter.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/keep-your-feet-on-the-ground-warns-fandi/

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Long way to go, says Safee after brace
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

FLASH BACK: Safee Sali and Johor FA secretary Suhairi Hashim with his contract
SAFEE SALI sported a ‘killer smile’ after scoring twice to give Johor Darul Takzim a well-deserved 5-1 victory over Singapore club Woodlands Wellington in a quadrangular match last night.

Safee’s goals were a signal to the 25,000 fans who flocked to the Larkin Stadium that he is worth every sen the southerners are paying him.

Rumoured to be getting in the region of RM100,000 to RM110,000 per-month, the Harimau Malaya forward showed he could be the man to lead Johor Darul Takzim to a domestic treble in the coming season – Super League, FA Cup and Malaysia Cup.

The win put Johor Darul Takzim in tomorrow’s final and will play the winners of the Pahang-Johor encounter tonight for the Johor Crown Prince Cup in the invitational tournament.

“Of course the two goals in my debut mean a lot to me…and topping the list is confidence. It gives me confidence to face the new season with my new team,” Safee told sports247.my after the match.

“I am surprised with the huge number of fans who came to see us play. I believe the two goals against Wellington will be just the tonic to face the tough league.

“But we need to improve on our understanding as we are new to the team and only trained together for three days. It will be okay as time goes on. Once we click it should go well for the team.

“The fans will play a big part in a team’s success and we need to produce the sort of performance to win matches. Johor Darul Takzim have big ambitions and I am happy to be part of the team.

“Hopefully, it will inspire us to win trophies for the team. It is not going to be easy as there are several other teams with big plans…and we have to get into stride and teamwork is vital for a successful team.”

Safee was signed up by Johor Darul Takzim on Dec 5 – 24 hours before the dateline for the registration of players for the new M-League season.

His previous club was Pelita Jaya but the Indonesian club has released him on loan to save his career as the Indonesian Super League is in turmoil because it is run by a rival faction Indonesian Soccer Rescue Committee (KPSI) that is not recognised by the Indonesian FA (PSSI).

FIFA has given the two factions to resolve their differences by March 2013. If they fail to do so, FIFA could can Indonesia and the players who play in their leagues.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/long-way-to-go-says-safee-after-brace/

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Dollah: Big names don’t scare me
By RIZAL ABDULLAH


Johor Darul Takzim’s David Guiza (dark jersey) tussles for the ball with a Woodlands player.

PAHANG coach Dollah Salleh had his first look today at big spending Johor Darul Takzim’s big names at and if there was any sign of concern, he certainly didn’t show it.

Speaking to sports247.my at the Larkin Stadium on the opening day of the pre-season quadrangular in Johor Baru, the former international said: “Football is a team game … the big names are just part of the team. We do not fear playing any team and Johor (Darul Takzim) is no exception. Big names alone cannot win matches.”

The quadrangular features Super League sides Johor Darul Takzim and Pahang, Premier League hopefuls Johor and Singapore’s S-League club Woodlands Wellington.

Incidentally, Pahang, who played in the Premier League last season and won promotion to the elite Super League via playoff, will open their campaign with a home match against Johor Darul Takzim at Kuantan’s Darul Makmur Stadium on Jan 8.

The 2013 M-League season kicks off on Jan 5 with last season’s treble winners Kelantan facing Armed Forces in the curtain raiser – the Charity Shield.

“Much has been said about Johor Darul Takzim. Much has been written about the big names who have joined them for the new season. But for Pahang it stops at that.

“There are no big names in the Pahang team … but all my players have a big heart. They made the team on merit and are ready to throw in their challenge for honours in the new season.

“Just like any other team, Pahang too have their own target … but we do not boast of any stars in the team. You can still win titles without the stars. Discipline, commitment and dedication are the hallmark of a team,” added Dollah, whose illustrious football career took off at Larkin Stadium.

Dollah is hoping that the quadrangular will go as planned with the winners meeting in the final tomorrow.

Yesterday Johor Darul Takzim, coached by former Singapore legend Fandi Ahmad, trounced Woodlands 5-1 while Pahang play Johor today.

If Pahang win, it will be the perfect prelude to the Super League opener in Kuantan.

Johor Darul Takzim’s growing reputation as the team to watch after signing up national skipper Safiq Rahim, Safee Sali, Aidul Zafuan Abdul Radzak, his twin Zaquan Adha, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha and Azmi Muslim – all national players – will come under close scrutiny for Fandi and company.

Spain’s 2008 Euro Championship hero Daniel Guiza (striker) and former Lazio midfielder Simone Del Nero are the best known foreign players to ply their football trade on Malaysian shores.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/dollah-big-names-dont-scare-me/

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Seven ‘Stadiums of Light’
By FARAH AZHARIE
ONLY seven stadiums have been given the go-ahead for an 8.45pm kick-off when the new M-League season takes off. The rest will see matches starting at 4.45pm.
“I would like to stress here that there’s nothing wrong with kicking off earlier in the day,” said FAM vice-president Datuk Hamidin Amin.

“It’s not a downgrade of some sort; there’s no insignificance to playing in the day because most leagues internationally do it.”

The seven stadiums approved for night games include Kota Baru, Shah Alam, Abdul Rahman Paroi, Darul Makmur, Negeri Kuching, Darul Aman and Singapore’s Jalan Besar.

An earlier report by sports247.my stated that the Sabahawks would kick off under the sun as Likas Stadium was not bright enough for night games.

Nevertheless, Likas Stadium in undergoing upgrades and may go back to night kick-offs once the FA of Malaysia criteria is met.

Another request for venue change while light upgrades are being done is Stadium Perak in Ipoh.

“They’ve made an enquiry regarding floodlights and the upgrades will be done in about one or two months,” said Hamidin.

“In the meantime, FAM has granted permission for the team to play in Lumut, Perak.”

An earlier kick-off would inevitably raise the question of gate collection as night games tend to get bigger crowds.

Hamidin advised those concerned to do the necessary to upgrade to their stadiums.

“We have no issues. Once they upgrade their lights, they can play at night but upon inspection and approval.”
www.sports247.my/2012/12/seven-stadiums-of-light/

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Shukur’s a fine ‘replacement’
By FARAH AZHARIE
ABDUL SHUKUR JUSOH has no problem being referred to as a “replacement” for former Selangor skipper Safiq Rahim.
Afer all, Shukur had a fruitful debut by scoring a brace in Selangor’s 3-0 win over Premier League team Sabah at Stadium Melawati Shah Alam yesterday.

“I have no problems if they (the media) want to call me a replacement for the No. 8 (Safiq),” Shukur said.

Still upset over the Terengganu Football Association’s decision to drop him (along with seven other local players) for 2013, Shukur said he would take the opportunity to prove to them that they had erred in doing so.

“I’m going to perform my best for every match,” he said.

Along with adjusting to new teammates, Shukur is also adjusting to playing striker from the usual midfield role.

“I’m quite surprised the coach (Irfan Bakti) put me in as a striker in the match,” said Shukur.

Irfan has yet to select his captain for 2013 but it would be no surprise if Shukur is the chosen one.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/shukurs-a-fine-replacement/

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Daytime kick-off at Likas
bY SABAH CORRESPONDENT
CONTRARY to what was planned earlier, the Sabahawks may have to kick off their Malaysian League campaign under the sun on Jan 7.
Likas Stadium – the venue of home matches – is still not bright enough to play matches at night, according to the FA of Malaysia (FAM).

Sabah, who will play in the Premier League this year, will open their campaign against KL Spa Putrajaya FC.

Sabah FA secretary Alijus Sipil said the latest report from FAM stated that the stadium lights did not meet the requirements.

“It could be some wiring problem because one of the four floodlights was not functional and we were told the bulbs have been replaced.

“We are still hoping the lights can be repaired before the opener or else we just have to play in the afternoon at the same venue,” he said.

Alijus also said they could still play at night at the stadium once the lights were repaired after the opening match.

The FAM recently revealed that 15 stadiums were too dark for night matches nationwide, including Likas Stadium.

Only four met the mark – Shah Alam Stadium in Selangor, Darul Makmur Stadium (Pahang), Jalan Besar Stadium (Singapore) and State Stadium (Sarawak).
www.sports247.my/2012/12/daytime-kick-off-at-likas/

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Sabah unfazed by big loss in friendly
By G. ARAVIND

David McCreery
SABAH were handed a footballing lesson by the Red Giants their friendly at Shah Alam stadium yesterday but the Borneo side’s coach David McCreery feels the results won’t dampen their spirit in a bid to win the Premier League title next season.

Sabah were outplayed in almost every department and were handed a morale-sapping 3-0 defeat by the 32-time Malaysia Cup champions.

McCreery said despite the loss, Sabah still had all the ingredients to fight for the Premier League title.

“We cannot compare ourselves to Selangor who are of Super League standard. And that doesn’t mean that we can be among the contenders for the Premier League.

“Playing against a very experienced side like Selangor needs good preparation and we didn’t have that today.”

McCreery pointed out that one of the reasond behind his team’s
lacklustre performance was the journey which his players had to make from Kota Kinabalu.

“We only took our flight in the morning and travelled, trained and played a competitive match within a short period – something which is not easy,” he said.

The Englishman pointed out that player fitness was his main priority as it would determine how they performed once the season begins.

“I have a lot of young players but they lack fitness, which is why I want them to focus more on stamina training,” McCreery said.

Sabah was scheduled to play a number of friendly matches in the Philippines but due to some bad weather, the matches had to be called off.

They will play their next friendly against Police on Friday at
Balakong before returning back home to prepare from the Premier League which starts on Jan 8.

The SabaHawks have bolstered their current squad with some new names in the likes of goalkeeper Mohd Syamsuri Mustapha who was acquired from PBDKT T-Team FC, Rhys Weston from Iceland club, KR Reykjavik and Koh Traore from Algerian club WA Tlemcen.

McCreery said that in total Sabah have so far brought in 14 new faces to the team for next season in their bid to make a comeback to the Super League.

55-year-old McCreery also had the chance to celebrate Christmas in a happy mood after his two month pending salary was finally settled by the Sabah FA. Payment to the players have also been settled according to McCreery.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/sabah-unfazed-by-big-loss-in-friendly/

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Mahalli proud to don Selangor jersey
By FARAH AZHARIE


Mahalli Jasuli in the Selangor friendly against Sabah at Shah Alam Stadium yesterday. Picture by MOHD HELMI DAWI

MAHALLI JASULI is proud to don the Selangor jersey for 2013 and has always wanted to do so.

“I’ve always wanted to wear the jersey and now I am, so I hope I can contribute this season,” said the 23-year old.

Mahalli is coming off the recent AFF Suzuki Cup where Malaysia were shown the exit in the semifinal after failing to overcome Thailand to lose 3-1 on aggregate.

However, he was recognised for his contribution through a goal in the group stage match against Indonesia for a 2-0 win to push Malaysia into the semis.

Mahalli was part of the gold medal winning 2009 and 2011 SEA Games football team and also helped the national squad achieve victory in their 2010 AFF Cup.

With an already impressive resume, Mahalli first stepped out with his new squad at Stadium Shah Alam yesterday in a friendly against Premier League outfit Sabah.

Despite failing to find his moment with the ball, it’s just the beginning.

“We’re still trying to find our stride and trying to find the right combination but so far the boys are working well together,” said the former Harimau Muda A captain.

There is more to come from the defender in the Super League when Selangor kick off their campaign against Negri Sembilan at Shah Alam Stadium on Jan 8.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/mahalli-proud-to-don-selangor-jersey/

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Stars score in debut for Johor Darul Takzim
By RIZAL ABDULLAH
THE national stars scored as Johor Darul Takzim (romped home to a thumping 5-1 win over Woodlands Wellington for a place in the final in the Johor Crown Prince Cup invitational quadrangular tournament at the Larkin Stadium in Johor Baru last night.
A brace from national striker Safee Sali, and one each from Safiq Rahim and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha and Spaniard Daniel Guiza completed the scoring for Johor Darul Takzim.

Their performance in their debut for Johor Darul Takzim left coach-cum-manager Fandi Ahmad grinning from ear to ear but he was quick to warn that there is a long winding road ahead when the M-League gets under way.

“This is their (the internationals’) first match since joining the team last week. They need to gel with their new teammates and get ‘acclimatised’ to the new environment and new team,” Fandi said after the match.

“The understanding needs polishing but I am happy with the way they followed instructions and the way they responded to the fans. It is a good start for them in their first competitive match.

“I expect them to get into rhythm in the next few matches and we should be ready for the league kick-off. It was good to see all three – Safee, Safiq and Norshahrul score in their debut match.”

Fandi started the match with Safiq, Safee, Zaquan Adha and Azmi Muslim with Aidil Zafuan and Norshahrul on the bench. Missing from the line-up was former Lazio midfielder who was rested because of a hamstring injury he picked up during training a day earlier.

Guiza opened the floodgates in the 9th minute with a well executed freekick. Safee took over the scoring after this with first coming in the 35th minute when he drilled home a grounder off a pass from Guiza for his first goal for his new team.

His third in the 45th minute was a beauty when he connected a long ball from K. Thanaraj and whipped in an unstoppable shot on the turn that left Woodlands goalkeeper Ahmadulhaq Che Omar rooted.

Woodlands, who had five foreign players in their team, pulled one back in the 51st minute through Khalid Hamdaoui but dead ball specialist Safiq delighted the more than 25,000 home fans with his debut goal when he fired his trademark freekick into the back of the net.

Norshahrul who replaced Safee in the 57th minute got his name into the scoresheet in the 86th minute.

Johor Darul Takzim will meet the winners of the Johor vs Pahang match in the final tomorrow.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/stars-score-in-debut-for-johor-darul-takzim/

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Shukur proves a point in Selangor win
By FARAH AZHARIE


Selangor players celebrating after Shukur scored the first goal in the friendly against Sabah

SELANGOR’S Abdul Shukur Jusoh showed former team Terengganu how much they will miss him next season as he scored two goals in the 3-0 win over Sabah in a friendly last night.

Shukur scored his first goal in the 24th minute following numerous failed attempts by teammate and former Kelantan player Muhammad Ramzul Zahini Adenan.

Four minutes later he headed in his second after getting a cross from midfielder K. Soley on the left.

“I had a point to prove and hopefully I did it today,” said Shukur.

Selangor dominated the Premier League outfit Sabah whose first attempt at goal only came after 30 minutes of play.

Shahrul Azhar Ture was put one-on-one against Selangor keeper Mohd Fairul Azwan Shahrullail but bad decision-making saw his chance go to waste.

The second half was no different for Sabah as they failed to penetrate the Selangor midfield.

Selangor’s Mohd Bunyamin Omar stepped up to the plate in the 68th minute from the halfway mark and crossed to Afiq Azmi who was brought down by Sabah’s Ahmad Fazilidin Khalid to earn a penalty.

Bunyamin made no mistake from the spot to net Selangor’s third.

Selangor will meet Perlis tomorrow at Stadium Kangar for a friendly in preparation for their first Super League match against Negri Sembilan on Jan 8.

Sabah will open their season against Felda United on Jan 25.

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T-Team back from ‘productive’ trip
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Peter Butler
PETER BUTLER, coach of Terengganu outfit T-Team Titans, described the three-match playing tour of Myanmar as a “great productive trip” for their M-League campaign in 2013.

Exposing the players, especially the newcomers, was the top priority for the Englishman who coached Kelantan and Terengganu in the M-League before moving on to T-Team.

T-Team lost their opening match to Magwe 1-0. Butler fielded a mixture of youth and experience in this match.

In the second match, Butler fielded his first team against Myanmar national champions Yangon United and came off 3-1 winners. In the third and final match of the tour which began on Dec 18, T-Team lost 1-2 to KBZ.

“It was an excellent tour in every aspect. With a brand new team, it was a great productive trip for the players. All the players got the type of exposure they need to play a competitive match in the M-League,” said Butler on his return from Yangon yesterday afternoon.

T-Team, who have signed up former Dutch international George Boateng from Nottingham Forest and Caleb Folan from Birmingham City, were coached by Yunus Alif last season.

Also in the stable are former Terengganu skipper Marzuki Yusof and defender Mazlizam Mohamad. T-Team also have experienced goalkeepers in Suhardy Alby and Iqbal Suhaimi.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/t-team-back-from-productive-trip/

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Exclusive: Scott Ollerenshaw tips Darul Takzim to boost stadium attendance

The former Sabah FA forward also believes that Sabah's bid to secure promotion back into the Super League could get a tad too delicate

Sabah FA legend Scott Ollenrenshaw has tipped Darul Takzim's expensive line-up to attract bigger crowds into the local stadiums and believes that the entrance of quality foreign players like Dani Guiza is fantastic for Malaysian football.

Darul Takzim have been dominating headlines in recent months for assembling a majestic squad that includes the likes of Safee Sali, Norshahrul Idlan, Dani Guiza and Simone Del Nero. The Southern Tigers have looked pretty strong in recent friendly matches, and Scott hopes for them to be a fundamental factor in attracting bigger overall stadium attendance.

"It's fantastic for Malaysian football," he said exclusively to Goal.com Malaysia

"Hopefully these type of quality players will be able to get the fans back into the stadiums rather than just staying home and watching the English Premier League."

Scott was widely known as the 'Ginger Maradona' back during his days with Sabah FA, where he astonishingly scored more than a goal a game for four years. Malaysian football has been through plenty of ups and downs since then, but Scott believes that there are several fundamental problems that still remain until today.

"It's always hard to compare eras. I do think that we have some good quality teams in the Super League now. However there is not enough quality players to sustain so many teams in both the Super League and Premier League.

"I still feel that youth development is being neglected in this nation. For example, why aren't junior leagues set-up in every state and region throughout the country?"

Nevertheless, the former Australian international insisted that there are still plenty of talents within the country, citing Nazmi Faiz and Rozaimi Rahman as examples.

"The young lad [Nazmi Faiz] who went to Portugal looks like a very good prospect and Rozaimi from Sabah will only improve under Ong Kim Swee in Harimau Muda."

Scott Ollenrenshaw remains the most decorated player in Sabah FA history until today, winning two Golden Boots during his time with them. However, the Borneo side aren't quite the formidable side they used to be once upon a time.

They were relegated from the Super League last season, and have pretty much revamped their squad for 2013, with reports of financial issues burderning them as well. Former Manchester United player David McCreery is currently in charge of them, but Scott hinted that securing promotion back into the Super League could be tricky for them.

"It is not easy to get promoted from the Super League. To be honest, I expect Sarawak, Johor, Kedah and Sime Darby to fight it out for promotion.

"However, I do hope that Sabah prove me wrong."
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3902/exclusives/2012/12/29/3633910/exclusive-scott-ollerenshaw-tips-darul-takzim-to-boost

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‘Brothers’ to fight it out tonight
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

The quadrangular has been drawing in the crowd
THERE will be no love lost when Super League’s Johor Darul Takzim and Premier League’s Johor clash in the “Battle of the Brothers” in the Johor Crown Prince Cup invitational quadrangular final at Larkin Stadium tonight.

It will be a fitting finale to the quadrangular that has drawn big crowds. Johor Darul Takzim earned their place in the final after a 5-1 whitewash of Singapore club Woodlands Wellington on Wednesday while Johor upset Pahang 3-0 last night.

Johor Darul Takzim with national stars like Safee Sali, Safiq Rahim, Aidil Zafuan Abdul Radzak and his twin Zaquan Adha Abdul Radzak, Azmi Muslim and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha in their side will start as favourites.

However, Johor proved that they will be more than a handful for their big brothers with team manager On Jabbar firing the first salvo with a firm “we will not pull any punches” to win the silverware.

“We might be playing the lower Premier League but it stops at that. This is a matter of pride and dignity for the team to show that we are ready for the new M-League season and it will be perfect venue to kick-start our campaign,” said On, who is also the Yang di-Pertua of Pasir Gudang Municipality.

“The win over Pahang is a big boost to the team. The morale of the players is sky high and we are in the right mood to play in the final.”

The only thing that is against Johor is that they will be taking the field just 24 hours after the match against Pahang whereas Johor Darul Takzim will be well rested after the match against Woodlands.

“There is lot at stake in the final. Both teams have theirn own band of supporters and this will make the final even more thrilling. It is good to see that the fans are making their way to the stadium and I am sure we will have a packed stadium.”

Johor’s dangermen are Brazilian Andre Francisco Da Silva and Argentine hitman Muriel Orlando while Khairul Ismail is the livewire in the engine room. In goalkeeper Fadzli Paat has a steady pair of hands in goal.

Johor Darul Takzim coach-cum-manager Fandi Ahmad is banking on his national stars plus his foreign hit-man Daniel Guiza. Guiza, Spain’s hero during the 2008 European Championships has been a revelation with his scoring skills.

The bearded Guiza has scored 13 goals in five matches so far and his high workrate is an asset to the team. Fandi, however, will have to make do without Italian Simone Del Nero. The former Lazio midfielder is nursing a hamstring injury and has been ruled out for 10 days. He also missed the match against Woodlands.

“It’s a final and that makes a lot of difference. I know Johor’s strength and weaknesses and I have warned my players not to ‘underrate’ Johor who have the capabilities to ruin our hopes,” said Fandi.

Safee scored two, while Saiq, Norshahrul and Guiza scored one each in the win over Wellington.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/brothers-to-fight-it-out/

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Johor stun favourites to lift trophy
sports247.my

Safee Sali (in black) is challenged by Nazri Ahmad
PREMIER LEAGUE outfit Johor pulled off a stunning 2-1 win over Super League’s Johor Darul Takzim to lift the Crown Prince of Johor Cup.

In a thrilling ‘Battle of the Brothers’ at Larkin Stadium watched by more than 30,000 fans, the underdogs staged a fantastic comeback against the star-studded side. The champions took home RM20,000 while the runners up got RM10,000.

It was a tale of missed chances for Johor Darul Takzim against a tight Johor defence marshalled by the impressive centreback Nazri Ahmad.

Johor Darul Takzim’s 2008 Euro Championship winner, Spanish striker Daniel Guiza, who had scored 13 times in five friendlies, was a frustrated man as he was denied time and again either by the Johor backline or goalkeeper Syamim Othman.

A cat that ran across the Johor half in the 15th minute change things for the Premier League outfit, as they finally created their first chance.

However, just when the teams looked set to enter the break 0-0, Nurul Azuan Roya netted the opener with a clinical finish from the top of the box to beat Syamim.

Harimau Malaya striker Safee Sali, who scored two in the 5-1 win over Woodlands two days ago, was a pale shadow and was replaced at the start of second half.

But Johor never gave up and got their rewards when Brazilian Andre Francisco Da Silva headed the equaliser in the 56th minute.

And in the 77th miniute Johor went ahead with a beautiful low shot from Argentine striker Muriel Juan Orlando that took a bounce and hit the back of the net past a rooted Al-Hafiz Hamzah.

Meanwhile, Pahang beat Woodlands Wellington 5-0 to finish third.
www.sports247.my/category/news/football/

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Malaysia start with a high five
By HO LEE CHING


Malaysia’s Mohd Syazwan Salihin dribbles past a Slavia Praha player during the match.

MALAYSIA started the Frenz International Cup Under-15 tournament with a comfortable 5-0 win over Czech Republic’s Slavia Praha in the Group A match at the MBPJ, Kelana Jaya, today.

Both sides seemed a little lost in the first 10 minutes before the Malaysians took charge and attacked relentlessly led by Muhammad Najmuddin Samat, Ahmad Firdaus Ismail and forward Kogileswaran Raj.

Najmuddin netted Malaysia’s first goal with a left-footer after he dribbled past two defenders at the 26th minute.

Two minutes later, Slavia Praha almost equalised from a freekick by Kral Alex but it was well saved by Malaysian keeper Mohd Asri Mohamad.

Kogileswaran scored the second goal through a penalty in the 39th minute after Slavia Praha conceded a penalty from Pek Ondrej’s rough play in the penalty box at the 39th minute.

Malaysia’s third goal came just a minute later when Najmuddin stole a pass and once again, singlehandedly dribbled past the defence to score.

Malaysia ended the first half ended with 60% of the possession.

Even with three goals ahead, Malaysia continued to attack in the second half and rarely gave Slavia Praha a chance to break free.

Ahmad Firdaus scored Malaysia’s fourth in the 74th minute while skipper Muhammad Sharul Akmal Md Adnan hit in the fifth in the 80th minute with a solid shot into the top left corner.

On Sunday, Malaysia will play against South Korea’s Incheon Selection while Slavia Praha will face Malaysia’s Frenz United in their second Group A matches.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/malaysia-start-with-a-high-five/

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Azraai cool despite defeat
By PENANG CORRESPONDENT
PERAK coach Mohd Azraai Khor feels his Super League side’s embarrassing 1-0 defeat to third-tier Penang in a friendly at the City Stadium last night is not a cause for concern.
Azraai, who joined the Seladang after his contract with Negri Sembilan ended at the end of the 2012 season, believes it is still too early to push the panic button.

“I did not have my full team in Penang with the likes of V.Thirumurugan, Abdul Hadi Yahya and S.Chanturu still recovering from injury.

“The young players that featured against Penang are just getting to learn each other’s style of play. They still lack understanding but I am confident we can iron out this problem before the season starts,” said Azraai at the City Stadium yesterday.

The former Kedah coach also said that he is not putting unreasonable expectations on his squad.

“This is a transition year for Perak as we are rebuilding the squad by bringing on plenty of new faces.

“It would be a good achievement if we are able to finish among the top five teams in the Super League.”

After falling behind to Penang striker Mohd Baser Napae’s 11th minute strike, Perak had much of the possession but failed to find the equaliser.

Azraai even threw on his new imports – Brazilian defender Rafael Souza Silva and French forward Karim Rouani, in the second half in an attempt to salvage something from the tie.

Rouani had a glorious chance to equalise in the closing minutes but sent his thumping header over the crossbar.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/azraai-cool-despite-defeat/

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The Great Merz turns back the clock
By PENANG CORRESPONDENT
MERZAGUA ABDERAZZAK turned back the clock to strut his skills in a Penang jersey during the 1-0 friendly win over Perak at the City Stadium last night.
The Moroccan, who enjoys legendary status in the state for his exploits in the late 1990s, is the current Panthers coach.

And he sent the more than 1,500 Penang supporters who turned up to watch the friendly into a frenzy by entering the field in his famous No. 10 jersey as a 79th minute substitute.

Although he did not get to touch the ball much during his brief spell on the pitch, Merzagua was ecstatic with the chance to don Penang colours again.

“I cannot find the words to explain how I feel now. A few months ago, the thought of running down the line on the City Stadium pitch, or even to be back in Penang again was just a dream for me,” the Moroccan told sports247.my.

“Although I am keeping myself fit, I wish I was a few years younger and able to recreate the magic,” said the 45-year-old.

Merzagua, however, will not be featuring for Penang in the third-tier FAM league as foreign players are barred from the competition.

FAM Cup side Penang stunned the Super League outfit Perak in the 11th minute when former USM FC hitman Mohd Baser Napae scored with a dipping shot from 20 metres out.

Perak had the lion’s share of possession for the remainder of the match, but were unable to break down the hosts’ defence.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/the-great-merz-turns-back-the-clock/

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FAM confident teams will settle dues
sports247.my
FA of Malaysia vice-president Datuk Hamidin Amin believes in a lenient approach to the problem of non-payment of dues such as EPF, taxes and Socso.
He was optimistic that the amount which had been reduced significantly would be cleared with FAM making deductions from the subsidy given to the teams.

Hamidin said the teams had made efforts to settle their debts and it had shown results with the outstanding amount now totalling about RM1.2 million – RM833,793 for EPF, RM101,526 (Socso) and RM365,895 (income tax).

“We have to monitor them every two to three months to ensure they get it sorted because if we don’t, it’ll get worse,” said Hamidin.

“We can’t get the figure to zero but we can get close.”
www.sports247.my/2012/12/fam-confident-teams-will-settle-debts/

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Revamp FAM, demands group
By HO LEE CHING
A GROUP called President FAM Sila Letak Jawatan (PFSLJ) wants Football Association Malaysia (FAM) to be revamped with a clearer leadership and direction.
PFSLJ pinpoints the lack of vision in the FAM system and urges Malaysians to realise the coaches and the players should not be blamed.

“The national coach and the players have done their best. They have played at their best. It is FAM who should be responsible. It is time for a breath of fresh air. The system has become dull and directionless under the same president for 28 years,” said PFSJL president, Alfadli Awaludin at a Press Conference at the National Sports Complex, Bukit Jalil.

He said the domestic league is poorly managed and does not aid the progress of football. He added the Malaysian Super League is still rated a “D” league and Malaysian teams are not eligible for the Asian Champions League.

Ultras Malaya’s member, Norazman Mohamad, who was also at the Press Conference to support PFSLJ, questioned the efficiency and accountability of FAM’s administration.

According to him, Malaysia is the only country to have more number of registered officials (11, 810) than the number of registered players (9, 930) in the FIFA website.

Malaysians who support PFSLJ view to revamp FAM can download a petition from their Facebook page, “Presiden FAM Sila Letak Jawatan”.

The petition forms are to be posted to PFSLJ to be collected and sent to FAM.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/revamp-fam-demands-group/

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Pahang in for hard time in Super League
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Pahang goalkeeper Rosfaizul Azuar Ali blocks an attempt by Johor’s Rashid Aya.
LIFE is not going to be easy for Pahang in the elite Super League after Premier League’s Johor jolted the East Coast side with a 3-0 win in a Crown Prince of Johor Cup quadrangular match at Larkin Stadium last night.

“We were a complete flop tonight (last night),” said Pahang coach Dollah Salleh, perplexed with his team’s insipid performance against Johor.

“I have no answers for what happened. There is no single player who stood out. The entire team flopped. This is not our game.

“It drove home the stark reality that we will not have an easy life in the Super League, added Dollah, who had just 24 hours earlier said he does not fear the big names in Johor Darul Takzim, who Pahang play in their opening Super League match in Kuantan on Jan 8.

Pahang played in the second-tier Premier League last season and won promotion to the Super League via playoff, knocking out Kedah in the process.

If there is any consolation for the Elephants, Dollah said he still has about 10 days before they facing Johor Darul Takzim.

“The players simply failed to move. Their performance has stunned me … frankly I am baffled with what I saw. Even our foreign players dished out a listless performance.”

Pahang’s two foreign hit-men are Mohamed Borji from Morocca and Macedonian Nikolche Klechkaroski – both of whom failed to make an impact in the match.

Pahang will return to Kuantan on Sunday after playing a friendly match against Singapore club Woodlands Wellington at the Seri Gelam Sports Complex in Johor Baru today (kick-off 4pm).

The Elephants have played a series of friendly matches as preparations for the new season, including Hong Kong sides Citizen FC (won 1-0), Rangers (lost 3-1) and Kitchee (lost 2-1).

Among the new names in the Pahang team for the 2013 season are former Selangor players Mohd Amirulhadi Zainal, Mohd Razman Roslan and Azidan Sarudin.

Former Perak custodian Mohd Nasril Mat Nordin has also joined Pahang but he did not play against Johor as he is injured.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/pahang-in-for-hard-time-in-super-league/

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Johor upset Pahang
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Johor’s Rashid Aya (left) and Pahang’s Shahrizan Mohd Salleh fight for the ball
IT will be an all-Johor final in the Crown Prince of Johor Cup invitational quadrangular after Premier League outfit Johor stunned 10-man Pahang 3-0 at Larkin Stadium in Johor Baru last night.

Johor will take on Super League’s Johor Darul Takzim today in front of an expected bumper crowd as football fever has swept Johor Baru over the last two days.

Johor have several players with Super League experience – Khairul Ismail, Fazli Paat, Jasazrin Jamaludin and Izuan Jarudin (who all played for Johor Darul Takzim when it was known as Johor FC) as well as Sarawak’s Rashid Aya.

Jasazrin opened the scoring for the hosts in the 29th minute with a rising shot that beat Pahang’s reserve goalkeeper Rosfaizul Azuar Ali.

Nine minutes into the second half, Johor increased their lead to a well-executed goal by Rashid before Argentine striker Muriel Juan Orlando hammered the final nail into the Pahang coffin with the third goal in the 66th minute.

Pahang’s best on the night came in the 37th minute when Moroccan striker Mohamed Borji’s attempt came off the left post.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/johor-upset-pahang/

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MALAYSIAN UNDER-15 OUTFIT PREPARE FOR MAIDEN TEST AS FOREIGN TEAMS BEGIN TO ARRIVE


KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 26, 2012) – The recently assembled Malaysian Under-15 outfit will be given a stiff test on their maiden outing as the eight-team Frenz International Cup 2012 kicks off on Friday.

As foreign teams begin to arrive for the 10-day tournament, Malaysia will be eager to scrutinise the players in what will be the squad’s debut as a team after chief coach S. Balanchandran assembled the squad in November.

The 20 players named for the tournament will be among the first batch to be based at the state-of-the-art academy in Gambang, Kuantan, and they are likely to form the nucleus of the side for the Asian Youth Under-16 qualifiers in 2013.

“This tournament is timely as it gives us a preview of the team’s potential. However I have not set any target as I would have wanted a longer period of time to prepare,” said Balachandran.

Former Malaysian international midfielder Balachandran will be assisted by Maamal Hajiri Abdul Wahab and Zainuddin Yusof. Zulkifli Samsuddin is the team manager.

The players are Ahmad Firdaus Ismail (Kedah), Mohd Asri Mohamad (Kedah), Mohd Firdaus Abdullah (Kedah), Muhamad Shahrul Akmal Mohd Adnan (Kedah), Nik Mohd Aufa Mazlan (Kelantan), Mohd Haziq Nazli (Kuala Lumpur), Dinesh Rajasingam (Kuala Lumpur), Kogilaswaran Mohana Raj (Kuala Lumpur), Muhammad Nazmuddin Samat (Melaka), Mohd Zulkhairi Mohd (Terengganu), Amirul Syazwan Nor Azmi (Terengganu), Suwarnaraj Chinniah (Perak), Muhamad Syahir Syazwan Rusdi (Selangor), Muhamad Syazwan Salihin (Selangor), Ali Imran Alimi (Selangor), Muhamad Hafiq Haikal Ismail (Kuala Lumpur), Muhammad Ghaffar Abdul Rahman (Kelantan), Mohamad Ramadhan Jalil (Terengganu), Mohd Aliff Izman Sahdan (Melaka), Muhammad Amirul Ashraf Ariffin (Selangor).

Malaysia have been drawn in Group A with Frenz United Malaysia, Incheon Selection and Czech outfit, Slavia Praha. Group B comprises Frenz United Indonesia, Chonburi FC, Slovakia Under-15 and Persepolis.

Meanwhile Incheon Selection arrived at KLIA on Tuesday night, followed by Persepolis today.

Matches will be held at Petaling Jaya Stadium, Shah Alam Stadium and Inspen Stadium Bangi. Official broadcaster is Astro Arena 801 who will carry 10 live matches, 6 delayed telecast and four highlight shows. All matches will be shown live through internet streaming at tournament website www.frenzinternationalcup.com and official online media partner www.radiotvsports.com

The top three winners will receive prize money of US$50,000 (1st place), US$25,000 (2nd place), US$15,000 (3rd place) and US$10,000 (4th place). Not only that, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) will walk away with US$3,000.

For more information visit www.frenztinternationalcup.com or www.frenzunited.com.my
frenzinternationalcup.com/?p=85

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PRESS RELEASE – KOGI’S BRACE HELPS MALAYSIA TO A WIN


KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 30, 2012) – Malaysia virtually confirmed their spot in the semi final with a 2-0 win over Incheon Selection, thanks to a brace from stiker Kogileswaran Raj in the Group A clash of the Frenz International Cup 2012 at Stadium MBPJ today.

Kogileswaran or Kogi to his friends struck the first goal in the 17th minute with a low drive from inside the penalty box after poor marking by the opponents before the lanky striker headed home in the 28th minute a perfectly-weighted cross from Najmuddin Samat.

The win ensured Malaysia’s berth in the last four having won their opening tie with an emphatic 5-0 win over Czech side Slavia Praha on Friday, while Incheon suffered their second successive defeat after the 3-2 loss to Frenz United Malaysia.

Despite losing the game twice in a row, Incheon Selection assistant manager, Kim Kyu Sok remained upbeat about playing the last match.

“Besides the weather, it is obvious that our players lack stamina and we found it hard to adapt. Even though we are disappointed, we will make sure that we win the next game against SlaviaPraha,” he said.

Malaysia coach, S. Balachandran, chose not to be complacent, despite the win.

“I have two players who are suffering from injuries. In the last match, we will have a mixture of players so that we could still give our best shot in the last game. As for now, I am happy with the performance of my boys.”

INCHEON SELECTION: Noh Seung Yoon, Park Sung Min (C), Yun Jin Seok( Kim Yeon Bin 47’), Kim Hee Mang, Wong Min Jae, Myung Seong Jun( Kim Jeong Heon 56’), Choo Min Yeol, Kim Jin Ya, Jang Ho Seung (Park Hyun Gyu 25’), Bae Hyeon Su, Lee Hyung Sub.

MALAYSIA: Mohd Asri Mohamad, Muhammad Amirul Ashraf, Mohammad Ramadhan Jalil, Mohd Hafiy Haikal Ismail, Ali Imran Alimi, Muhd Shahrul Akmal Md Adnan (C), Mohd Syazwan Salihin, Mohd Alif Izman Sahdan, Kogileswaran Raj (Mohd Zulkhairi Mohd 64’), Ahmad Firdaus Ismail (C. Suwarnaraj 29’), Muhammad Najmuddin Samat.
frenzinternationalcup.com/?p=151

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Glittering launch of Johor teams
By RIZAL ABDULLAH

Part of the 30,000-strong crowd that turned up for the match between Johor Darul Takzim and Johor last night. Football fever is back in the southern state
JOHOR’S hopes and aspirations to become the new powerhouse in Malaysian football were unveiled in a glittering launch this evening when the two Johor teams for the M-League next season – Johor Darul Takzim (Super League) and Johor (Premier League) – were officially introduced together with their jerseys for the coming season.

Well known Johor singers – rocker Amy (from Search) and rapper Joe Frizo (ex-Too Phat group) entertained the more than 5,000 fans who turned up at the function and belted out Johor’s new song for the new M-League season – Luaskan Kuasa Mu Johor (literally meaning Extend Your Dominance Johor).

The Crown Prince of Johor Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, who is also the Johor FA president, led an array of VIPs at the function where he also received mock cheques from sponsors.

Among the other VIPs were Deputy Sports Minister Datuk Razali Ibrahim, Pulai Member of Parliament, Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed, who is also the chairman of UDA Holdings, Johor Corporation (JCorp) Chief Executive Officer Kamaruzzaman Abu Kassim, Johor Police Chief Deputy Commissioner Datuk Mohd Mokhtar Mohd Sharif, Mutiara Motors managing director Datuk Ahmad Kemin and a host of other dignitaries.

Heading the list of sponsorship list was JCorp and its subsidiaries with a whopping RM8 million. Other sponsors were Mutiara Motors, Benalec Holdings, Berjaya Group, Grand Paragon Hotel, Iskandar Waterfront and Dijaya Corporation Berhad.

Tunku Ismail was later presented a personalised Johor jersey from Kappa, sponsors of the jerseys for the two Johor teams, with his name and Number 84 printed at the back, by Kappa chief Mohamed Afiq Tam.

The jerseys were later paraded by the players of the two Johor teams.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/glittering-launch-of-johor-teams/

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Football madness grips Johor
By RIZAL ABDULLAH
IT is sheer football madness in Johor even before the 2013 M-League season kicks off next month.
Football is not only a hot topic discussed in mamak shops, coffeeshops, kopitiams, banks, shopping malls, taxi stands or bus stops but even in offices, both government and private but also in high-profile corporate bodies and government-linked companies.

It is nothing but football. The young and the old have become so passionate about football that stalls selling football paraphernalia are having a roaring time doing business.

Stalls are mushrooming at corner of the Larkin Stadium. It is boom time even for stalls selling drinks or burgers.

For the first time in nearly two decades the Larkin Stadium has been packed to capacity (30,000) and this was seen in the Crown Prince of Johor Cup invitational quadrangular which ended yesterday.

Some unscrupulous traders are already selling fake jerseys at high prices, drawing complaints from the fans. For the love of the game and their team many tend to buy.

Football fever has gripped Johor – thanks to the “stars” from the national team team like Safiq Rahim, Safee Sali, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Azmi Muslim and the Abdul Radzak twins – Aidil Zafuan and Zaquan Adha.

Foreign big names like Daniel Guiza and Simone Del Nero (Johor Darul Takzim) and Johor’s Andre Francisco Da Silva and Muriel Juan Orlando are also crowd pullers.

“This is football fiesta. Every match played at the Larkin Stadium is now a full house. I have to leave my house at around 5pm to get parking space nearer to the stadium,” said Azharuddin Atan.

Getting out of the stadium area is another headache and it takes up to two hours to clear the massive jams that have become a norm after a match.

“Hopefully, some systematic arrangements can be made for people to park their cars instead of allowing them to park at their whims and fancies,” said Ahmad Hassan, adding that indiscriminate parking has added to the woes.

This is only the begging and things could get worse when the league begins.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/football-madness-grips-johor/

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Kogi strikes give Malaysia victory
By HO LEE CHING

R. Kogileswaran celebrates scoring a goal
MALAYSIA claimed their second win in the Frenz International Cup when a R. Kogileswaran brace gave them a 2-0 victory over South Korea’s Incheon Selection in a Group A match at MBPJ Stadium, Kelana Jaya today.

The victory assured Malaysia of a place in the semifinals with six points and a game to spare after Frenz United Malaysia (FUFA) drew 0-0 with Slavia Praha.

FUFA are second in the standings with four points while Slavia are third on one with Incheon last with none.

Kogileswaran slotted in Malaysia’s first goal in the 18th minute when the South Koreans failed to clear the ball.

Eleven minutes later, Najmuddin Samar skipped past a defender and sent in an inviting cross for Kogileswaran, whose header bounced off the ground and into goal.

It was Kogileswaran’s third goal in the tournament. He scored once in Malaysia’s 5-0 thrashing of Slavia Praha two days ago.

A minute after going two up, Najmuddin nearly made it 3-0 but his shot just went over the crossbar.

The second half started with Najmuddin bursting through from midfield but his weak shot was easily saved by the goalkeeper.

Incheon’s best chance came in the 73rd minute when Park Hun Gyu’s long-range strike towards the top left corner was saved by Asri Mohammad.

Malaysia, who had 65 per cent of possession, thought they have scored a third in the 78th minute when Muhd Amirul Ashraf scored, but he was ruled offside.

Malaysia’s last match is against Frenz United Malaysia on Tuesday.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/kogi-strikes-give-malaysia-victory/

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Top ten Asian players of 2012
9. Rozaimi Rahman (Malaysia and Harimau Muda)

The 20-year-old's first appearance in the national team shirt came against Chelsea and the confidence in his play caught the eye of the coaching staff of the European champions. He then scored ten goals in five games in an ultimately unsuccessful qualification campaign for the Asia's Under-22 championships and the hype machine started to roll. Sometimes, though, that can be a good thing and Rahman is one of a new generation of Malaysian players who not only look good, they know they are good and want to show their talents on the biggest of stages.
soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story/_/id/1277602/top-ten-asian-football-players-of-2012?cc=4716

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Harimau Muda B set for 2013 S.League
Malaysia's Harimau Muda B side are set to take part in the 2013 S.League.
By ESPNSTAR.com staff

S.League fans are no strangers to Harimau Muda A, after the team impressed observers in their debut season and finished fourth in the competition. However, the squad will not be returning for next year's campaign, as Ong Kim Swee's men begin preparations to defend their SEA Games crown by going on training stints across Australia and Europe.

Instead, their place in Singapore's top flight will be taken by Harimau Muda B, comprising primarily of Malaysia's finest Under-21 players.
Harimau Muda B, coached by former Kuala Lumpur manager Razip Ismail, will be boosted with the addition of 10 new faces from various Malaysian state sides for their S.League adventure.

Razip revealed to the New Paper that the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) has requested they match the finish obtained by Harimau Muda A last season.

"The target set for the team by the FAM is to try and do better than Ong's team, or at least maintain the same position," he shared.
"It's a tough ask, because we know the S.League is not an easy competition to play, but we will definitely do our best."

Harimau Muda B previously finished eight in the second-tier Malaysian Premier League and the squad were also knocked out of the Singapore Cup Round of 16 after losing 3-0 to Gombak United. Nonetheless, Ong gave the squad a vote of confidence for their maiden foray into the S.League.

"I believe they will be much better prepared this time round," he said.
"It will be difficult for them, especially in the first few matches but, after some time, they'll get used to the tempo and level of competition. And, although they won't be challenging for the title, I think they can achieve a mid-table placing."
www.espnstar.com/football/sleague/news/detail/item912796/Harimau-Muda-B-set-for-2013-S-League/

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LIONSXII set for youthful look in 2013
Singapore outfit LIONSXII look set to name a youthful 29-man list for their second season in the Malaysia Super League.
By ESPNSTAR.com staff

The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) confirmed a couple of months ago that the LIONSXII would be releasing a majority of the side that helped them finish second in the league and reach the semi-finals of the Malaysia Cup in 2012, with a view to blooding more promising talent in Malaysian football's top flight.

Although the playing roster for the upcoming season has yet to be confirmed, it is understood that 12 players that represented the side last year have been retained.

They consist of a plethora of Singapore internationals who recently won the AFF Suzuki Cup, including captain Shahril Ishak, defenders Baihakki Khaizan and Safuwan Baharudin and midfielders Hariss Harun and Isa Halim.

However, it remains to be seen if Shahril and Baihakki will indeed play for the LIONSXII in 2013, with recent reports suggesting the duo have caught the eye of several Thai Premier League clubs after their impressive displays in Southeast Asia's premier international competition.

The most notable inclusion looks set to be Lions forward Fazrul Nawaz, who helped SAFFC to the RHB Singapore Cup last season.

A large number of the new side will come from Courts Young Lions, the Under-23 side that finished 10th in the Great Eastern-YEO's S.League in 2012, including skipper Hafiz Abu Sujad, right-back Faritz Hameed, midfielder Zulfahmi Arifin and promising attackers Faris Ramli and Shahfiq Ghani.

The LIONSXII open their Super League campaign on January 9 with a tricky trip to newly-promoted ATM, who reached the final of the Malaysia Cup last year before falling to treble-winning Kelantan.

LIONSXII squad for 2013

Goalkeepers: Izwan Mahbud, Neezam Aziz, Khairulhin Khalid, Syed Sufiyan
Defenders: Baihakki Khaizan, Safuwan Baharudin, Irwan Shah, Madhu Mohana, Shakir Hamzah, Faritz Hameed, Ali Hudzaifi, Faris Azienuddin.
Midfielders: Hariss Harun, Isa Halim, Raihan Rahman, Safirul Sulaiman, Hafiz Abu Sujad, Zulfahmi Arifin, Aqhari Abdullah, Nazrul Nazari, Faris Ramli, Gabriel Quak, Izzdin Shafiq.
Forwards: Shahril Ishak, Khairul Nizam, Fazrul Nawaz, Iqbal Hussain, Shahfiq Ghani, Syafiq Zainal.
www.espnstar.com/football/asian-football/news/detail/item913868/LIONSXII-set-for-youthful-look-in-2013/

[steamroll]

Courts and FAM empower Liverpool Academy
HO LEE CHING

IT’S GOOD TO TALK: O’ Connor speaking to the Malaysia U-14 players who will be part of the Liverpool Academy programme

TWO hundred children, recruited from Courts stores and Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) national training program will be privileged to be part the Liverpool FC International Academy programme from Dec 3-14 at Prasa Plus Mini Stadium, Petaling Jaya.

Empowered by the Courts partnership with the FAM, there is no participation fee required for the once in lifetime chance to access the coaching programme that have birthed prominent footballers like Steven Gerrard, Michael Owen and Robbie Fowler.

The Liverpool Academy is opened to all Malaysians aged five to 16.

Courts Asia Chief Executive Officer, Terry O’ Connor said: “We are proud of being able to provide a platform to grow the already passionate youth about football with an international coaching programme that provides them a chance to develop a greater love for sport and hone their skills to be able to compete on a global arena.”

“We see this training opportunity as a fantastic giveback to the community. The programme will be led by an expert team of coaches and by a Liverpool legend himself, Ian Rush,” he added.

Rush will make an in-store appearance on Dec 2 for fans and be on hand to mentor selected participants of the Academy.

“We are happy to endorse the efforts of Courts in bringing such a prestigious international training workshop to benefit young football talents in the country,” said FAM Assistant General Secretary Kelly Santhiraj.

“It is our hope to be able to synergise the guidance provided by the international coaching team from Liverpoool with follow through from our local coaches to create and build a generation of young sportsmen and women who will excel and contribute at a national level for our country.”

Parents interested to enroll their football loving sons or daughters can do so at one of eight nationwide recruitment road shows currently underway in Courts stores nationwide.

Upon qualification, the children will be split into two categories – Under-12 and Under-16 and divided into three groups with pre-set training days.

The recruitment roadshows have taken place since late October and will culminate in a final roll call for enrolment at Courts, Klang on Nov 24-25.
www.sports247.my/2012/11/courts-and-fam-empower-liverpool-academy/

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Small boy with big dreams
HO LEE CHING

YOU’LL NEVER WALK ALONE: Some of the national Under-14 players who are participating the Liverpool Academy programme (from left) Mohd Asri Muhamad, Muhd Hafiy Haikal, Kogileswaran Raj, Ali Imran Alimi and Ariusdius Jais. Picture by Ho Lee Ching

THOUGH only 14, Kogileswaran Raj dreams big and already has his future football career planned out.

He hopes the Liverpool Academy coaching programme will help him get closer in following his brother, Titus James’ footsteps as a professional footballer.

“My brother plays for Nantieuf FC in France(www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/07/11/3234260/titus-james-palani-set-for-trials-with-english-club) and I want to be like him. Of course, I want to first play for Malaysia’s Harimau Malaya when I grow older,” said Kogileswaran who is already part of the national Under-14 team.

Kogileswaran is one of the two hundred children who have been selected by Football Association Malaysia (FAM) to participate in the Liverpool Academy coaching programme. The programme will take place at Prasa Plus Mini Stadium, Petaling Jaya from Dec 3-14.

“I think there is a difference in how the Europeans and us, Malaysians play football. I look forward to learn and explore the different styles and techniques of playing football during the programme so that I can improve my skills and be more versatile,” said the Bangsar lad.

While Kogileswaran is excited to learn and experience the different styles, he is highly determined to show the academy he has got what it takes to play internationally.

“I am hoping to get an attachment with Liverpool through the programme. If I am lucky and good enough, I hope to be able to play for Liverpool,” said the midfielder, who idolises Harimau Malaya’s Safiq Rahim.
www.sports247.my/2012/11/small-boy-with-big-dreams/

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Coaching clinic for 200 youngsters kicks off
G. ARAVIND

EAGER BEAVER: 200 youngsters are taking part in the football training clinic
A 10-DAY intensive international coaching clinic kicked off today with ouver 200 young football enthusiasts taking part.

The youngsters will be coached by Liverpool legend Ian Rush and his team of coaching staff.

The clinic is jointly organised by Liverpool Academy, Courts Asia and FA of Malaysia (FAM).

During the opening ceremony at the Persada PLUS mini stadium today, Courts Asia CEO Terry O’Connor said it was a top priority of Courts Asia that the Liverpool Academy materialised in Malaysia.

Rush, meanwhile, was pleased with the turnout.

“While this is not my first time in Malaysia, it is always such a great pleasure to be given the opportunity to meet and work with children and young football talents this nation has to offer,” he said.

Rush and his team will during the course of the clinic guide participants from as young as five up to 16 in “in the Liverpool Way,” imparting key techniques, skills and training tips.

Alo present at the ceremony today was FAM youth technical director Lim Kim Chon.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/coaching-clinic-for-200-youngsters-kicks-off/

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Goals unmet but still scoring with fans
By VIJHAY VICK
FOOTBALL may not be the highest achieving sport in the country and the indications are that it will be so for a very long time. Despite the grim outlook, it will still be the country’s No. 1 sport.
Football will continue to be the talk of the town and despite the perennial disappointment, the loudest cheers from fans will remain reserved for the Harimau Malaya.

The M-League may have dropped quite a few notches from its glory days some decades ago, but in recent times, it has shown signs of improved quality, arguably the best in years.

The administration of football in Malaysia can surely change for the better but the players, some at least, have shown more interest than in the past couple of years.

Kelantan sealed their name in the folklore of Malaysian football as the East Coast Giants swept all that came their way in domestic football and became the first Malaysian side to play in the AFC Cup quarterfinal stage, where they lost to eventual runners-up Arbil of Iraq.

This year saw the return of big money sponsorship, foreign players, and Singapore in the likes of the supposedly development Lions XII. However, with this also saw the return of bookies and alleged match-fixing – an accusation even laid by Johor FA president Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim and former Terengganu coach Peter Butler.

There was also no shortage of controversies. FA of Malaysia (FAM) deputy president Tan Sri Annuar Musa was suspended for two years after publicly criticising the national team and defying a gag order.

Butler had his fair share of the spotlight after first being at odds with Kelantan FA over the registration of players before getting involved in a player-manager-management row at Terengganu during the Malaysia Cup.

His relationship with the Turtles turned sour after he publicly accused his players of wrong-doings and criticised the management for interfering with team tactics.

Then there was the fairytale run of cash-rich Armed Forces to the Malaysia Cup final. The star-studded team, though plying their trade in the second tier of M-League, won the hearts of many with their never-say-die spirit. The soldiers will play in the Super League next year.

Armed Forces’ rise to glory saw another side dreaming big. Tunku Ismail had big plans for the southern state as a change of circumstances saw Johor FC being renamed Johor Darul Takzim FC with a host of big name signings to spearhead their Super League campaign in 2013.

However, the talking point of the year still remains Harimau Malaya and the AFF Suzuki Cup. The semifinal exit at the hands of Thailand got many talking – from big guns to fellow writers.

Most of them debated Datuk K. Rajagobal’s tenure as national head coach. Some hold him responsible for the failure to defend the AFF Suzuki Cup. They say it should be the last straw after the 56-year-old’s countless experiments and “favouritism” in selecting players.

However, the recently concluded AFF Suzuki Cup told one story. That is, Malaysia, despite winning in 2010, cannot regard themselves as “Kings of Southeast Asia” for they never were the strongest the region has to offer.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/goals-unmet-but-still-scoring-with-fans/

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2013 season set for blast-off
By FABIAN PETER



From left: Kelantan FA assistant secretary Arif Hassan-, FAM vice-president Datuk Hamidin Amin and ATM secretary Lt Kol Abdul Rani Abdul Rahim with the Charity Shield trophy

AN explosive opener is expected to the 2013 M-League season, with the Charity Shield match between 2012 Malaysia Cup champions Kelantan and runners-up Armed Forces (ATM) on Saturday at the Shah Alam Stadium.

FA of Malaysia (FAM) vice-president Datuk Hamidin Amin announced at a press conference today that tickets for the match will be on sale on Friday from 9am to 7pm and on matchday from 9am to kick-off.

The tickets priced at RM 20 each can be bought at the Shah Alam Stadium.

“We will be treating this match the same way we treat a final, so you can expect full security to ensure everything goes well,” Hamidin said.

He said the tickets would be equally divided between the teams, and about 40,000 fans were expected.

A team managers’ meeting will be held at Wisma FAM in Kelana Jaya on Friday.

On another note, Hamidin said team registration had been smooth so far, but warned teams that failed to meet FAM’s requirements would be fined RM1,000.

In the Malaysia Cup Final last season, treble winners Kelantan edged Premier League champions ATM 3-2 in the final, but come 2013, it will be a whole new start as Kelantan have lost some of their top players including Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Lebanese Mohamed Ghaddar, S. Chanturu and Nurul Awan Roya, while ATM will also be missing the Abdul Razak twins, Aidil Zafuan and Zaquan Adha.

The 2013 Premier League will kick off on Jan 7, while the Super League gets under way the following day. The FA Cup first round matches will kick off on Jan 25.

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Futsal: MIC to provide opportunity for top player to train in Brazil
sports247.my
KLANG (July 1): The best futsal player in the country stands a chance to train in Brazil under renowned futsal icon Silvio Machado, courtesy of the MIC and its President Datuk Seri G. Palanivel.
Palanivel who launched the Brasil Futsal Academy's (BFA) 1Malaysia-Road to Brasil Futsal competition, an event conceptualised by Palanivel himself, was tailored to give young men from marginalised background an opportunity to reap success through futsal.

The event is being held with the cooperation of MIC Youth.

Palanivel, who is Minister in the Prime Minister's Department said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak had allocated RM300,000 for the championship, which kicked off today.

He said 90 young futsal players would participate in the championship which will be subsequently held in Sungai Siput, Perak on July 7 and Lukut, Negri Sembilan on July 14 and the top players identified to undergo a comprehensive training programme under the academy.

Palanivel said the best player in the competition will be sent to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to undergo professional training under Silvio Machado. – Bernama
www.sports247.my/2012/07/futsal-mic-to-provide-opportunity-for-top-player-to-train-in-brazil-2/

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Risman’s late goal seals victory
By HO LEE CHING

Indonesia’s midfielder, Hamza Risfian (red) falls after tackling Chonburi’s striker, Krittanapong Paidaen. Picture by HO LEE CHING
RIGHT WINGER Risman Tahir gave Frenz United Indonesia a 2-1 victory over Thailand’s Chonburi FC 2-1 in Group B of the Frenz International Cup at Shah Alam Stadium today.

Indonesia had to win the game today as they had lost 2-0 to Slovakia National Team in their first game on Saturday.

Chonburi FC who were dominating and attacking more at the start of the first half, looked as if they were going to win the game easily.

Fifteen minutes into the game, Chonburi forward Samart Authairatsamee dribbled his way past several defenders and passed to Krittanapong Paidaen to score their opener.

Indonesia’s equaliser came in the 37th minute when striker Amdul Ali Nahumarury pounced on a loose ball.

Amdul’s goal boosted his team’s confidence and they started the second half aggressively.

The teams had chances to score but failed to capitalise on their chances until Risman chipped the ball past the onrushing goalkeeper in the 80th minute for the winner.

“I am happy my players were able to gain victory even though they were playing under pressure. Chonburi played very well but we were luckier today,” said Indonesian coach John Arwandi.

In another Group B game, Persopolis Iran defeated Slovakia 3-1.

Vahid Aftari scored a first half penalty for Persopolis in the 28th minute and increased their lead early in the second half via Reza S.

Slovakia pulled one back in the 60th minute through Lubomir Tupta but Saeed Hossinpour killed off the game with an 80th minute strike.
www.sports247.my/2012/12/rismans-late-goal-seals-victory/

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NATIONAL youth coach Ong Kim Swee will search for new talent when the 2013 M-League kicks off on Saturday to supplement the Under-23 squad he is preparing to defend the football gold medal at the Myanmar Sea Games next year.

Kim Swee said while he was happy with the 27 players presently training with Young Tigers A, young players who stand out in the local league could still be roped in.

"The 27 I have at the moment are good enough but I will keep my options open once the M-League starts.
"If one or two players stand out I will call them up," said Kim Swee yesterday in Kuching where Young Tigers A defeated Sarawak 4-2 in a friendly match at the State Stadium on Friday.

M-League teams have shown a reluctance to release players to the Young Tigers with Terengganu left-back Zubir Azmi and Kelantan's Nik Shahrul Azim Abd Halim opting not to join Kim Swee's squad.

However, Kim Swee plans on calling up the two defenders for the Jan 23-Feb 6 trip to Gold Coast, Australia, if they are not selected by national coach K. Rajagobal for the Asian Cup qualifier against Qatar in Doha on Feb 6.

"I can understand why clubs and state teams are reluctant to release players but I think they don't realise they have the option of replacing these players outside the transfer window.
"Anyway, if Zubir and Nik Shahrul are not called up to the national team, I plan to take them to Australia along with K. Reuben (Armed Forces)," added Kim Swee.

Kim Swee is happy with the progress of the new players in his team with ex-Perak Under-21 captain Nurridzuan Abu Hassan scoring the fourth goal against Sarawak.

Former Universiti Teknologi Mara player Saiful Ridzuwan Selamat also impressed Kim Swee in midfield where he combined well with Bukit Jalil schoolboy Adam Nor Azlin.

Boby Gonzales opened the scoring for Sarawak after four minutes to the delight of the 12,000 spectators but Young Tigers were level by half-time, thanks to Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria.

Wan Zack Haikal Wan Nor put the visitors ahead 11 minutes after the break from the spot before late goals by Wan Zaharul and substitute Nurridzuan extended their lead to 4-1. An Ivan Babic penalty reduced the arrears.

Meanwhile, Friday threw up some surprising results in friendly matches with FAM League side Penang producing a stunning 1-0 win over Super League team Perak at the City Stadium.

Basher Napae scored the winner but it was the surprise appearance of former Penang star Merzagua Abderazak, now the team's coach, in the last 10 minutes which delighted the home supporters.

Second-tier Johor won a quadrangular at Larkin after a 2-1 upset of star-studded Darul Takzim in the final, having a day earlier defeated Pahang 3-0.

Perlis recovered from going two goals behind to hold Super League contenders Selangor 2-2 in Kangar, PKNS beat Armed Forces 3-1 in Kelana Jaya while Police overcame Sabah 3-2 at the Police Training Centre ground. By Devinder Singh
Read more: Kim Swee on talent hunt - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/kim-swee-on-talent-hunt-1.193389#ixzz2GehHxPMJ

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Stars can now shine brighter

THE star players in the Johor Darul Takzim team will get to literally shine brighter after all.

The floodlights in their home venue, the Larkin Stadium, have become much more powerful after they were upgraded yesterday to meet with the Football Association of Malaysia's lighting requirement for night games.
Larkin Stadium previously failed to get the green light from FAM because its 800 lux floodlights were below the 1,000 lux ruling. Lux is the SI unit of measurement for luminous emittance.

If nothing is done to make their stadium brighter, Darul Takzim would have to play their Super League matches under the scorching afternoon sun (kickoff 4,45pm).

Big spenders Darul Takzim have acquired the likes of former Spanish international Daniel Guiza and Italian Simone Del Nero, as well as several national players, including Safee Sali and Safiq Rahim.

Now Guiza and company will be able to flash their skills better to Darul Takzim fans with all that powerful floodlights on them.

Yesterday, Johor FA secretary Suhairi Hashim confirmed that the floodlights at Larkin Stadium were upgraded to 1,200lux, which is above FAM's minimum requirement of 1,000 lux.
On top of it, the Johor FA changed all the spectators' seats at Larkin Stadium while other facilities, including the toilets were upgraded or repaired.

"This will ensure Johor Darul Takzim and Johor FA will play their home matches at 8.45pm," he said.
The floodlights at Pasir Gudang Stadium were also upgraded to 1,200 lux yesterday.
Pasir Gudang is the home venue of the Johor FA team, also known as the Southern Tigers, that play in the Premier League.

FAM has earlier announced that only the Shah Alam Stadium, Darulmarkmur Stadium in Kuantan, Sarawak Stadium in Kuching and Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore were the venues which had a minimum illumination reading of 1,000 lux.
Read more: Stars can now shine brighter - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/stars-can-now-shine-brighter-1.193760#ixzz2Geho6xPc

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Selangor snap up ex-Perak midfielder Michal Kubala

The Red Giants have registered Kubala in their 2013 AFC Cup squad, alongside Czech defender Peter Charappan



Selangor have opted to sign Michal Kubala for their AFC Cup squad, lining him up alongside Czech Republic defender Peter Charappan.

The Red Giants have already registered Francis Forkey Doe and Ramez Dayoub for their Malaysian Super League foreign player quote, but they are granted an additional two slots for the AFC Cup competition.

Having impressed by being the top scorer for Perak last season, Michal Kubala's name was suggested to Irfan Bakti and the Selangor head coach did not hesitate to beef up their squad by securing his signature. Meanwhile, Peter Charappan will fill in the other slot, adding more depth to their defence.

"I have agreed. Kubala is an excellent midfielder with an eye for goals while the defender should also fit into my plans," Irfan told the New Straits Times.
"Kubala and the defender are only registered for the AFC Cup while Forkey and Ramez will play in the M-League. At this point of time, we will not inter-change our foreign signings."

Kubala netted a total of 13 goals for Perak throughout last season, often impressing with his dominating displays in the middle of the park. Selangor have until the 26th of January to finalise their AFC Cup foreign players. Nonetheless, Irfan Bakti is having high hopes for this tournament.

"We hope to make an impression in the tournament. Our target is the quarter-finals," Irfan added.

Irfan Bakti's men have been drawn in Group H, alongside the likes of Tampines Rovers, Vietnam's Saigon Xuan Tanh and India's Kingfisher East Bengals.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2013/01/01/3640028/selangor-snap-up-ex-perak-midfielder-michal-kubala

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Keita Mandjou given the mandate for upcoming Malaysia Super League season

Bojan Hodak has picked Keita Mandjou to lead Kelantan's offensive charge in the MSL, leaving Dimitri Petratos for the AFC Cup challenge

Kelantan FA have opted for Keita Mandjou and Obinna Nwaneri as their Malaysia Super League foreign players, leaving Dimitri Petratos and Lek Kcira for their AFC Cup challenge.

FAM only allows two foreigners per team in the Malaysia Super League, but Kelantan were given an additional two slots for their AFC Cup participation.

Prior to this, Obinna Nwaneri was already registered as one of their MSL foreign players, while Bojan Hodak was still undecided on picking between Keita and Dimitri.

The Red Warriors then went on a plethora of friendly matches throughout the Northern Malaysia region, and the Croation head coach has now finally made up his mind.

"Keita Mandjou has the complete package to lead our charge upfront. I am certainly confident of him replacing Ghaddar as our MSL striker," he told Sinar Harian.

"But he has to work hard as well. There must never be complacency in my squad, as I can easily replace him with Dimitri when the transfer window re-opens in April."

Bojan also went on to offer words of comfort for the young Australian forward, claiming that he will still have plenty of first team action in the AFC Cup.

"Petratos is a terrific young forward, and certainly has a very bright future. He might be a little disappointed with this decision, but it wasn't an easy one for me as well.

"Anyhow, he will be playing in six AFC Cup group stage matches. Besides that, he will also be playing in at least four friendly matches that we are planning to arrange during the league breaks in January and February."

Keita Mandjou is already a popular name in Malaysian football, having previously plied his trade with Perak FA between 2004 and 2006.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/31/3638205/keita-mandjou-given-the-mandate-for-upcoming-malaysia-super

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FAM release 2013 Malaysia Super League fixtures

FAM have officially released the amended fixture list for the upcoming Malaysian Super League season, drawing up several delicious round one ties

The opening week of the Malaysian Super League will see several interesting battles, after the FAM officially released the amended fixtures list yesterday.

Several stadiums will be unable to hold nigh matches due to their floodlights not matching FAM's standards. Besides that, fixtures were also altered to accomodate Datuk K. Rajagopal's national team training camp for the Asian Cup qualifiers in February.

Nonetheless, the latest list has thrown in several interesting match-ups for the Round One of the Malaysian Super League. Last season's runners up LionsXII will be taking on recently promoted Premier League champions ATM FA, while moneybags Johor Darul Takzim will travel to Kuantan to take on Pahang FA in a crunching clash.

Defending champions Kelantan FA will be hosting PKNS FC, as Peter Butler's newly assembled T-Team squad face Perak FA in Lumut. Besides that, Terengganu FA will be locking horns with Felda United while Selangor face Negeri Sembilan.

However, some of the matches will be taking place in the evening, with kick off scheduled at 4.45. Perak for instance, will be facing T-Team in the Lumut Navy Stadium, while the floodlights upgrading work progresses in the Ipoh Stadium. Terengganu will also be hosting Felda in the evening.

The pick of the round is certainly none other than ATM vs LionsXII. The Gladiators spent heavily last season, before emerging as victors in the Malaysian Premier League. They also went on to face Kelantan in the final of the Malaysia Cup, in which they faltered at the last hurdle. Meanwhile, LionsXII left an amazing impact in their maiden Super League season, finishing second in the league behind Kelantan FA.

Both sides have lost a host of key players during the off-season but expect this one to be one mouthwatering clash. By far, the pick of the round.


Below are the Round One fixtures in full:

Date: 8th January 2013
Selangor vs Negeri Sembilan (8.45 p.m.)
Terengganu vs Felda United (4.45 p.m.)
Pahang vs Johor Darul Takzim (8.45 p.m.)
Perak vs T-Team (4.45 p.m.)

Date: 9th January 2013
Kelantan vs PKNS (8.45 p.m.)
ATM vs LionsXII (8.45 p.m.)
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3896/malaysia/2012/12/31/3638093/fam-release-2013-malaysia-super-league-fixtures

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Fans told to be patient

STATING that Rome was not built in one day, Johor FA president, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, does not expect star-studded Darul Takzim to be the kings of the M-League overnight.

Tunku Ismail made the observation after Darul Takzim lost 2-1 to Johor FA, also known as the Southern Tigers, in the final of a four-team friendly tournament at Larkin Stadium on Friday.

"Rome was not built in a day. All great things take time to create... even the great city of Rome.
"So we shouldn't expect to accomplish something or achieve success immediately," he said.

Big spenders Darul Takzim, managed by former Singapore international Fandi Ahmad, have acquired the likes of former Spanish international Daniel Guiza and Italian Simone Del Nero, as well as several national players, including Safee Sali and Safiq Rahim.

Tunku Ismail, who is also the Tunku Mahkota Johor, said having big names in a team does not mean the team will have to win with a big score-line all the time.

"It was a friendly tournament, where both teams are likened to brothers playing against one another. The objective was to display good football and entertain our spectators.

"I think the players did that. It was a beautiful game and I enjoyed watching it tremendously," he said.
The four-corner friendly tournament also saw Pahang and Woodland Wellington FC from Singapore competing for the trophy and RM20,000.

Tunku Ismail dismissed the possibility of Darul Takzim playing in the afternoons at Stadium Larkin because its floodlights do not meet FAM's 1,000 lux requirements.

"The stadium will be ready by the time the season starts (Jan 8)," he said.

Meanwhile, Darul Takzim players and Southern Tigers were unveiled at a ceremony held at Angsana Shopping complex in Johor Baru yesterday. By Jassmine Shadiqe

Darul Takzim’s Norshahrul Idlan Talaha (centre) controls the ball in the final of a friendly tournament against Johor FA on Friday. Johor FA won 2-1. Pic by Mohamad Shahril Badri Saali
Read more: Fans told to be patient - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/fans-told-to-be-patient-1.193387#ixzz2Gejv847p

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Terengganu stadium set for night matches

CHANCES are that their players won't have to huff and puff under the hot sun.

Terengganu and T-Team are expected to be spared the discomfort of playing their home matches at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium in the afternoon when the Super League starts on Jan 8.

While the stadium is still not bright enough for night matches at the moment, T-Team chief executive officer, Abdul Rashid Jusoh, is confident its illumination level will surpass the minimum requirement of 1,000 lux by the time Terengganu take on Felda United FC in the opening round.

"Works on the lighting system is in progress even as we speak.

"I have no doubt that we will be able to play our first home match against Kelantan on Jan 12 at night.
"This is nothing new really as every year just before the start of the new season, most stadiums in the country fail to meet the FAM's minimum lighting requirement early on but often manage to rectify the problem soon after," he said.

Abdul Rashid said the same is true with the home venue for T-Team and Terengganu whose floodlights need a little tinkering every now and again.

"The main problem here is the uneven lux readings as some places on the field register readings of more than 1,000 lux while at some other points on the pitch, the readings are below 1,000 lux.

"The state government had spent quite a lot of money in the past few seasons to fix the lighting system at the stadium and surely, the problem is not that serious now," he said.

Abdul Rashid said FAM officials were supposed to come down for the lighting inspection at the stadium last week.

"But they had to cancel the trip as the weather here was bad and up until now, we have yet to be told of the new inspection date although we were told by the Terengganu FA people that the inspection party from FAM will be here soon.

"Anyway, we can all judge the brightness level of the floodlights for ourselves tonight (yesterday) as The Titans (T-Team) are scheduled to take on the Turtles (Terengganu) in a friendly match at the stadium," he said.

Terengganu FA president Datuk Che Mat Jusoh is not worried about the prospect of Terengganu playing their home matches under the hot afternoon sun.
He told the state association's congress on Saturday that the Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium should be ready for night matches before the new season begins. By Zainuddin Muhammad
Read more: Terengganu stadium set for night matches - Soccer - New Straits Times www.nst.com.my/sports/soccer/terengganu-stadium-set-for-night-matches-1.193766#ixzz2GekGDzMx

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Kelantan boss confident of getting pass AFC Cup group

The Red Warriors’ Croatian head coach Bojan Hodak believes his team has got a bright chance of making the knock-out stage of the AFC Cup next year


Kelantan coach Bojan Hodak is confident his team will qualify for the last 16 stage in next season’s AFC Cup, which will kick-off in March 2013.

The Croatian believes the Red Warriors will start as favourites in Group G alongside SHB Da Nang of Vietnam.

Even so, he exclusively told Goal.com Malaysia that Ayeyawadi United, who beat them in Myanmar last season, would be quite a good challenger for a berth in the knock-out stages as well.

“I think that Da Nang and Kelantan are the favourites but we need to be careful of Ayeyawady, they beat us in Myanmar last season,” he said.

When asked if the departure of their two prolific strikers from last season, Norshahrul Idlan Talaha (Johor Darul Takzim) and Mohammad Ghaddar (Felda United) will affect the team’s momentum after a great year, he calmly responded, “Players do come and go. It is understandable for great players to go when they get better offers. I would do the same.”

“In modern football, we can’t just rely on one or two players. We still got talented players in our squad; maybe we can develop them to be better than the two who left.”

“I am confident that we will continue getting good results this season,” he added.

The AFC Cup draw took place on December 6 and saw two of the biggest names in Malaysian football; Kelantan and Selangor being drawn in Group G and H respectively. Both of them will kick-off their campaign on March 6.

Kelantan will welcome Maldives’ Maziah SRC to Kota Bharu, whereas Selangor will travel to Kolkata to play Kingfisher East Bengal of India.
www.goal.com/en-my/news/3902/exclusives/2012/12/30/3637164/kelantan-boss-confident-of-getting-pass-afc-cup-group

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