From Malaysia to the Arabian Peninsular

This post covers: Malaysia national team and Opening game opponents Qatar.

The Task

The Malaysian National Team's upcoming fixtures which are two away matches at the arabian peninsular. One of them is a warm-up friendly against 2007 Asian Cup champions Iraq in Dubai. And our opening group 2015 Asian cup qualifying match again 2022 World Cup host Qatar.

The Team News:

Injuries has hit the national team hard. A total of 9 confirmed out of the upcoming matches. While 4 reported to be carrying knocks or minor injuries according to a source.

Confirmed out are: Safee Sali, Kunalan, Fitri Omar, Bunyamin, Wan Zack, Gurusamy, Gary Steven, Norshahrul and Zubir.

Who can still participate: Amar, Farizal, Norfarhan and Amiridzwan.

So here are the list of players who reported for training and could be featured for the two games:

Goalkeepers:
1. Khairul Fahmi
2. Norazlan Razali
3. Farizal Marilas *

Defenders:
1. Fadhli Shas
2. Aidil Zafuan
3. Asaruddin Putra
4. Amiridzwan Taj*
5. K. Reuben
6. Mahali
7. Faizal Muhammad
8. Nik Shahrul

Midfielders:
1. Shakir Shaari
2. Azamuddin Akil
3. Ashaari Shamsudin
4. Amar Rohidan
5. Afizie Faisal
6. Yong Kuong Yong
7. Shukor Jusoh
8. Norfarhan

Forwards:
1.  Fauzi Roslan
2. Khyril Muhymeen
3. Sharizal Saad
4. Amri Yahya

Total of 23 players.

(*Carrying a minor Injury)

Looking at the squad the boss could be saying there is a lack of firepower with the noticeable absences of Safee, Mat Yo and Wan Zack. Fauzi Roslan and Khyril could step up for Malaysia and grab this opportunity to shine. Amri Yahya could provide that bit of experience and spirit up front for Malaysia. There's a rumor going on that Amirul Hadi Yahya could be called up in the last second to fill up the striking department.

Shakir looks to stamp his slot in the defensive midfield role after showing a good performance for Kelantan lately. Noticeably for Malaysia during the AFF Suzuki Cup. Ashaari Shamsudin will be looking to break back into the national side after he had a bad season with Terengganu last year, currently he is in a above decent form. Shukor Jusoh eying to replace the number 8 who he replaced for Selangor this term. Norfarhan after having an impressive season last term and currently on form for Kelantan wants to have a crack of a starting position. There were worries of he might not make it due to injury, but photos emerge that he did train lightly with the team today. Pahang's talisman Azamuddin Akil will be looking to inspire Malaysia to get the results they need at the Arabian Peninsular.

In the defensive side, it looks business as usual. Amiridzwan and Nik Shahrul will be working extra hard this time around after being dismissed last time. The left-back position is an open slot as Zubir is out with an injury apparently. Versatile defender Nik Shahrul seems to be an obvious choice currently. Asaruddin Putra, Amiridzwan, Faizal Muhammad and K. Reuben will push Fadhli Shahs, Aidil and Mahli in training as the quartet will provide competition for a starting spot.

The battle between the two Selangor goalkeepers resulted in Norazlan Razali wining this round in a result of a call up. He will definitely be keeping Farizal Marilas and Khairul Fahmi on their toes. With the minor injury to Farizal Marilas, Khairul Fahmi is expected to take the gloves until Malaysia's number one during the AFF Suzuki Cup 2012 recovers.

Tactically Coach K. Rajagobal will be restricted again due to the lack of firepower. The general opinion around the Malaysian supporters is that K. Rajagopal will go for a 4-5-1 formation. With the aim to at least to earn a point away and as well a good performance against The Maroons (Qatar's nickname.)

The Opponents

Qatar have only won 2 out of 7 outings, scoring 9, conceding 11 and keeping 3 clean sheets in 2012. Malaysia should be worry about native Hussein Yassen and naturalized citizen Sebastian Soria. Who can score goals for The Maroons. Defensively teams from the middle east will be very physically stubborn, which will frustrated the Malaysian fans and neutral football fans of wanting to see a game of football. So expected some frustrating moments, time wasting and 'injury-acting.'.

Preparations:

Malaysia pencilled in with a friendly with Iraq will be praying for an injury free game. As well as a positive performance and result against the Lions of Mesopotamia. If Malaysia can achieve that, fans can hope and pray Harimau Malaysia can get the result needed in Doha, Qatar on February 6th.

Training Camps

Both the National Squad and the Under-23 team are both at their respective locations preparing themselves for upcoming tasks. National team will be looking to achieve their target 2015. While Harimau Muda A begin their preparations for the upcoming SEA game where they'll be looking to make it a hat trick of gold medals.

Harimau Muda A, the team now is down at Australia for four friendly matches in Brisbane. Today (26th Jan 2013) they face their first opponents Gold Coast Sharks. After that there will be a remaining 3 matchs left in their Australian adventure. The young tigers will depart to face Myanmar later next month. In March 15th, they'll be off for five months at Slovakia playing 15 friendly matches. 

All of this to build up experience and preparation for the 2013 edition of the SEA Games. Fans are confident in the head coach Ong Kim Swee in his methods to lead his young team to the goal for the second time during his stint. Via his official twitter account, we here deduct that head coach Ong Kim Swee usual stress to his team about the mental aspect of the beautiful game. Which is very welcoming. The head coach learnt that the hard way during the olympics qualifiers.

On to the National squad, the players called up are expected to link up at Wisma FAM later today. Over the week many injuries occurred to several players, such as Safee Sali, Norfarhan, Mahali and a few to name. It is confirm that Safee will miss the upcoming friendly and away qualifier game against Iraq and Qatar respectively. Many are keeping an eye on Mahali as he is a key figure of the Malaysian back four. 

To add on the injury news, this is the second player claimed by the Shah Alam Stadium pitch. And one of a handful of player due to fatigue and overworked due to the Malaysian League and domestic club competition congested fixtures. Many fans call on the FAM to kindly review this, for next season. 

Back to the national set up, many are skeptical about getting all three points away to Qatar. But there are calls for optimism, as last year our under 22 team beat their under 22 team in a 2-nil victory. Malaysians expect at least a point away would be enough to satisfy. A win would give Malaysians something to hope for. Either a win or a draw will be a good result to build on when the team continues another two matches at home in the middle of March against Oman and Yemen.

Malaysian fans remember fondly of facing teams from the middle-east. Due to the football-ing culture of time wasting, a few dirty tactics and ball in the box Don Revie tactics. It will be sweet to claim a few scalps during the qualifiers. To think about it Dirty Don did manage several side in the middle east maybe his philosophy influence the region with his dirtiness. Will do more research on that.

It is unofficial where our home qualifying game will be held. Majority of fans do want our home qualifiers to be held at the National Stadium Bukit Jalil. Here @ Padang Bola Sepak Malaysia we want Bukit Jalil!

Head Coach K. Rajagopal will be looking to answer his critiques wrong in the upcoming year. Hopefully King Raja learn his lessons from the AFF Suzuki Cup 2012 edition, so that we won't repeat our mistakes and last the game for 90 minutes.

Waiting for the whole image.

Currently waiting for all the videos and highlights from all Malaysia F.A. Cup games. Only games got to watch was Johor Darul Takzim vs Perak FA. And the suspended PKNS vs Lions XII.

Via twitter suggested the game between Selangor FA vs ATM was eventful. Waiting for confirmation of the tussled which happen between the two set of players. Did heard that the football aspect of the game was scintillating.

Just waiting for videos and reviews to come up so we @ Padang Bola Sepak Malaysia can come up on our opinions.

Frequent readers and first time readers do give us a comment or criticism (We want to learn and improve on our writing and increase knowledge). Hey if you are interested in writing in this space let us know.

Hey just a hit out to potential Malaysian english commentators for Astro Arena. Do get your fact checking right, please cause if you don't you sound like a smartass. Don't try and think that you are Stewart Robson or Andy Gray or any other British commentators. Be yourselves while commentating.  Be a Malaysian who have a good command of the english language and common knowledge of the local football scene. Don't be afraid to throw lah here and there. And Malay-English as well.

Will update more.

MSL Review Matchday 5

The matchday 5 of the MSL began with an early kick-off in Kuala Terengganu where T-Team hosted the Lions. It was a drab game with scrappy play throughout 90 minutes. A late penalty by Badrul Hisyam Morris gave Peter Butler's team a 1-0 win over the Singaporeans, who slumped to their second loss of the season.

The match of the day was the clash between Perak and Selangor at the TLDM Stadium in Lumut where the referee garnered more attention for his controversial and poor decision-making earning the wrath of the fans and Irfan Bakti alike. Selangor lost Amri Yahyah to a dubious red card late in the first half but took the lead on 66 minutes via a Francis Forkey Doe stunner. Perak equalised nine minutes from time when they were awarded a penalty which was converted by another ex-Terengganu player, Abdul Hadi Yahya. Selangor could have won the game but Doe and substitute Wan Hoesne failed to convert their chances.

In the East Coast derby, Pahang crushed Terengganu 3-0 in Kuantan with to take them to the top of the table with 12 points, two ahead of ATM and Selangor. Top scorer Fauzi Roslan opened the scoring before Hafiz Kamal got a brace to send Terengganu to the bottom of the table.

Champions Kelantan were held to a goalless draw at home by Negeri Sembilan. The scoreline reflects the toothless attack of the Red Warriors after the departure of their attacking players, notably Mat Yo and Mohammed Ghaddar. Marlon Alex James and Shukor Adan scored to help ATM secure a 2-0 win over Felda United while big-spenders Johor Darul Takzim etched out a 3-1 win on the road over PKNS FC.

After 5 games, Pahang lead the pack with 12 points with ATM and Selangor on hot pursuit with 10 points each, with ATM ahead of the Red Giants on goal difference. Negeri Sembilan and Terengganu remain at the bottom edge of the table, still winless.

The MSL will take a break to make way for the FA Cup and the international week, where Malaysia face Iraq in an international friendly in Dubai before taking on Qatar in an Asian Cup qualifier in Doha.

MAJULAH BOLASEPAK UNTUK NEGARA

Written by,
Vinod Nair

MSL Review Week 4

The week 4 of the MSL kicked off on Friday afternoon with Felda United holding champions Kelantan to a scoreless draw at home while T-Team suffered a stunning 0-3 defeat to PKNS in Kuala Terengganu. Undoubtedly, the match of the day pitted Johor Darul Takzim with promoted ATM. It turned out to be a thrilling game with both teams ending 90 minutes with two goals apiece. All the goals were scored in the first half with Amirizwan Taj giving ATM the lead before Daniel Guiza levelled the scores. Irwan Fadli Idrus curled in ATM's second, reminiscent of his goal against Kelantan in the Charity Shield. Again, Johor equalised with Mat Yo getting on the scoresheet.

On Saturday, Pahang finally lost their unbeaten record when they were beaten 2-3 by Selangor in Shah Alam. Selangor stormed into a 2-0 lead with Amri Yahyah getting the goals. Pahang pulled a goal back through their own hotshot, Fauzi Roslan. Former Selangor rightback, Razman Roslan equalised from the spot to tie the scores 2-2 at half-time. Azamuddin Akil had a goal disallowed before super sub Ramzul Zahini Adenan getting the winning goal 10 minutes from time via a brilliant header. Meanwhile, Lions edged win less Terengganu 2-1 at home with Safuwan Baharuddin and Shafiq Zainal getting the goals after Jean Emmanuel Effa Owona had given the Turtles the lead. Along with Terengganu, Negeri Sembilan remain winless in the league after Azraai Khor's Perak edged them 1-0 on his return to Paroi. The goal was scored by Mohd Failee Ghazali in the dying embers of the game.

After 4 games played, three teams are tied at the top of the table with 9 points. Pahang lead on goals scored followed by Selangor and Lions. Negeri Sembilan remain bottom with one point and still without a win. Marlon Alex James of ATM and Pahang's Fauzi lead the goalscoring chart with 4 goals apiece.

I came across a few statements making rounds in the Selangor's Fan Group in Facebook with the fans criticizing the Astro Arena commentator, Azlan Johar. Apparently, Azlan has been giving opinions and comments about Selangor's weaknesses and criticizing them rather than the game as a whole. Personally, I feel that only Zainal Abidin Rawop and Shaukei Kahar are the best commentators in Malaysia. Azlan Johar may be a former player but his comments and opinions are not relevant and seemed off-track.

MAJULAH BOLASEPAK UNTUK NEGARA

Written by Vinod Nair.

An Evening Chat.

Credit to the photographer.

I had an interesting conversation with a close friend of mine earlier this evening. He is a fan of Selangor FA and Malaysia Football in general since the 1970's. We both talked the past, present and future of this sport. The ups and down of the beautiful game. There were many interesting points came up here and there as well.

He told me back in the day late 1980's early 1990's period it was a bad time for Malaysian football in general. Bribery cases appeared left and right, players selling games and so on. Back in the day there was this goalkeeper who played for Selangor FA who was under no pressure, punched the ball into the opponents path and scored. Resulted Selangor losing a final and that goalkeeper being banned. Another story he told was a top player didn't play up to his level was caught red handed with the money to sell the game was inside his football boots.

Today there are still stories of players selling games but not as much as those days he said. Today it's much more tamed and controlled better according to my friend. So there is something right going on.

I realized that back in the day gambling companies used to sponsor the sport. Now, no more due to many new regulations. He said bookies were the major players. They are willing to go some extreme lengths to fix matches. There might be some among us. Current Lions XII coach V. Sundramoorthy can tell you that personally, my friend said. I personally never knew this. Forgive me for not knowing this til today.

Back in the day V. Sundramoorthy was for one of our Malaysian teams. During an away game at the team hotel, he was attacked by several men keen to take him out of an important game. He was hit on the leg but manage to evade his attackers thanks to his teammate. I'm clearly shocked listening to this. The only thing good came out of this is the humanity of his teammate to help him out and his safety. Some people in this world do go to extreme length to do bad things in the name of money.

I tried to google all of the stories only a few came up, I need to dig deeper to know how bad it was back then. Just to know if we have progressed since those days. I'll post them up if I find them.

During the 70's, 80's and early 90's there were a handful of foreign coaches coached our national team. But due to the improper conduct of upper management. Our name was or stilled trashed by those above across the world. Then how to maju lah? When upper management disturbs the current work of the head coach or team manager and players.

Melaka FA a long time ago according to my friend was a team down on their luck. Until a head coach steps in and somehow guide the club into a respectable upper mid table side. Until 'those people' came down to the field and disturbs the rhythm of the dance. These people are 'associated' with the club, when they are winning it seems. The head coach well he quitted the club due to those people who disrupt his work.

Lee Chong Wei, Nicol David and Azizul Awang. What makes these three athletes similar to each other? Other than their success in their respective sports. No one gets other than they themselves gets involve in how they play their sport. In football, there are people from the above management who gets their hands into the cookie jar and mess it all up for everyone.

Let the coaching staff, players do their jobs and let football club management do their jobs, respectively.

The day Football Association of Malaysia moves forward is when they cut ties which those who are currently up there in the hierarchy.

Ownership in Malaysia Football Clubs are an interesting issue here in Malaysia. I believe that we should follow the German way. i.e.

"The basis of the German model is the 50+1 rule whereby a minimum of 51% of the club must be owned by club members. This still allows for considerable investment opportunities for private business to invest while preventing them from having overall control of the direction of the club. A Bundesliga club board is made up of delegates selected by the shareholders. That way the supporter membership associations or Mutterveiren have a direct say on the management of the club." via http://pitchinvasion.net/blog/2010/03/11/fan-ownership-the-bundesliga-model/ do take a look at it.

In that article the writer explains the pros and cons of this system. As a whole it's benefits does outweighs the loss.


My friend told be back in the late 1980's Kuala Lumpur FA was one of the top clubs, the third team to have won the Malaysia Cup back to back three times and other domestic tittles. The club was owned by the Mayor of Kuala Lumpur who had a lot of money to spend back then. And was quite influential in raising the profile of KLFA. But over the decade the money dried up and eventually fans weren't interested any more due to results and now they are facing trouble times. Recently after 32 games they just won their 1st game, after 32 matches. He told me back than it was harder to get into the KL team than the national team, imagined that.

The debate of ownership of clubs is debatable. All in all management of the club should always evaluate the club's long term sustainability.

Well that's it for now.

Will want to write about on how to get the young generation hooked on our football. WE NEED FANS!

Romanticizing Malaysian Football

Credit to the Photographer for this.

Hope you enjoy some instrumental music to suit the mood of this article.

Ever since we won the AFF Suzuki Cup back 2010. It was a wake up call to me, an angry voice telling me: "Hey go watch Malaysian football for a change!" It started me to start watching and paying attention to the local football scene. I should have listen to that voice a long time ago.

Ever since I couldn't bear missing one televised game or not following updates via social media. May it be the under-23 games or the first team. When the opportunity came to watch them live defending the illustrious tittle of champions of ASEAN. I couldn't give up the opportunity. Win, lose or draw I will stay until the official blew the final whistle.

Looking back at the pictures, youtube videos, repeated matches on television or even in a conversation with a friend, family member or a stranger. I can't help but feeling a little nostalgic of the whole experience during the AFF Suzuki Cup. Malaysians together supporting those eleven on the pitch.

There were some sour notes for me, which I have to bring up. I believe that Bukit Jalil needs to be re-developed for the better of the fans. The traffic flow in and around the stadium is horrible. There should be proper coordinations of people moving in and out of the stadium, before, during or after a game.

Proper facilities need to be re-new like the toilets, prayer room, trashcans and others. Phone coverage in and around the stadium telco companies please take note.

I do appreciate the effort of having good number of policemen around the stadium to keep supporters safe from any troublemakers.

The thing I am quite displease about a handful of supporters is politics, as much as I hate it, please don't bring political parties flag during a football game and waving it regardless of what political side they are from. The only flag I enjoy see waving around a football stadium is the Jalur Gemilang.

I hope in the upcoming Asian Cup Qualifiers, FAM will allow Bukit Jalil to host our home games. Only way I could see this happening if fans make some initiative to max out over at least half of the maximum capacity of the stadium.

There is an interesting statistic going on. Ever since 2010, anytime Malaysia max out the capacity of any stadium they host games. Harimau Malaya will never lose in front of a sold out crowd. Why don't we spare some time for them and help them along the way to achieve mission 2015

Credit to Arsenal Football Club photographers for this. Got this from their site
arsenal.com during 2011's tour.
To Mr. Stuart Macfarlane if you are reading this, if you took this,
great shot of the my National Stadium.
I love it.

All in all, as a Malaysian Football Fan, regardless of what you think about the stadium. Gotta love it when it's packed full of passionate Malaysians cheering for the home team.

Thanks for reading this. Do comment on any post if you have any. Thanks for reading this amateur Malaysian football blog do follow us on a weekly-daily-monthly-basis.

Finally credit to the photographer to took the awesome picture of Malaysian players, coaching staff and fans celebrating the final third round group game. I've used it for our blog background, hope you the person who took it is okay with us at Padang Bola Sepak Malaysia using it. If not let us know any we'll revert back to our boring light blue background.

Malaysia National team call-up Squad.

Full list of the call-up to the National side for the upcoming training on the 26th of January.
Credit to the person who did this

First of all congratulations to the players who received the call up to the National set-up. Many fans will be happy with the list. Haven't gotten ahold on the stand-by list just. What is understood is that Baddrol Bakhtiar, Sharbinee, Zubir Azmi, Hairuddin Omar, Affize Mamat, Shahrizal Saad and Izham Tarmizi are on standby list according to sources.

After the training camp the head coach will surely cut the size of the squad to 22 or 23 out of the 26 selected. Who will they be? Only time will tell.

After three games across the Malaysian leagues, the players league form for their respective clubs does help to get a call up. Players like: Fauzi Rozlan, Norazlan Razali, Khyril, Ashari, Faizal Muhamad, Nik Shahrul, Nor Farhan and others.

Fauzi Rozlan after a good performance in the league he does deserve a call up. Long term if he wants to stay there. He's got a lot of work to do to maintain his level performance for Pahang. After watching him play twice, he is indeed capable of doing the job for Harimau Malaysia.

Norfarhan is a common house hold name all over Kelantan and the Kelantanese will be delighted with this call up. He is one of several key-players for The Red Warrior after his tireless effort against Johor Darul Takzim FC he does deserve to receive this call up, might have earned himself a 12th cap of Malaysia.

National Captain Safiq Rahim is not in the list. After a poor AFF Suzuki Cup added with a poor showing against Kelantan and Perak. King Raja decided not to call his captain for this upcoming period. Now begs the question who will captain the national side. Many names have been thrown into the hat like Aidil Zafuan, Mahali Jasuli and even Safee Sali.

Fans will be wondering if Head Coach K. Rajagopal will field an experimental side against Iraq early next month or he will field the best XI? Hopefully he does the second option. Now Let's wait and see what will the boss do.


Just for fun.

If this is a perfect world and I get to select the starting eleven for the National side here's my list and formation. 4-2-3-1

Goalkeeper: Khairul Fahmi, why? He did have a better 3 games than goalkeeper Farizal Marilas. These two goalkeeper provide the best of two world. For now Apex has a slight advantage.

Defender: Mahali, Fadhli Shas, Amiridzuan Tajudin, Nik Shahrul. Where is Aidil Zafuan you ask? He hasn't improve his game since AFF Suzuki Cup. I know it's still early days. But it was indeed his fault for the goal against Kelantan for his poor communication skill. I believe the back four I selected have a better defensive understand of each other.

Two in midfield: Gary Steven Robbat and Gurusamy. Gurusamy will provide protection to the offensive fullbacks and center backs. He has shown that last year in two Malaysia friendlies where he was slotted in the center of midfield. Gary Steven will hold the ball and distribute the ball the advancing players ahead of him.

The three supporting the striker: Norfarhan on the left. Wan Zack on the right and Norshahrul behind the striker. Wan Zack will provide many crosses on the right and he can rotate with Norfarhan on the left. He is tough, skillful and determined. Norfarhan will provide that added experience to the side he does have that added flair. I believe Norhsharul's best position is behind the striker with Gary and Guru providing him midfield dominance and protection, Mat Yo will have the freedom to roam around with the ball. Without having the fear of losing the ball. Cause if he loses the ball those two in midfield will just give the ball back to him.

Striker: Safee Sali, sorry Fauzi. Safee has a point to prove. He seems to be more determined more than ever. See the game against Kelantan for prove. With supplies from Norfarhan, Wan Zack and Mat Yo he will score for Malaysia and get us on track to qualify for the Asian Cup.

Subs bench 7players:
GK: Farizal Marilas, if there's one player who can displace Apex is Farizal Marilas. I can see why K. Rajagopal kept the faith in him

Defenders: Bunyamin Omar, he will be Malaysia's utility defensive player. He is playing as a defensive midfield for Selangor now apparently. Can play across the back four.

Midfield: Amirul Hadi his move to Pahang could re-ignite his national team career. A source who's been watching him said his new role in midfield has been consistent and he himself is relishing the role.

- S. Kunalan, who will always give a 100 percent every time he plays.

- How can I forget Azamuddin Akil, when Malaysia needs a goal he will be there to help to boost morale.

- Thamil Arasu, Malaysia haven't had that big-tall-target man. After seeing him play first hand he deserves this

- Fauzi Rozlan, he can be that fox in the box type of player the natural number 9.

So that's it for now.

The Red Warriors vs Southern Tigers.

Credit to the photographer of Kelantan FA

-Many compared this game like Barcelona vs Manchester City. Why? Most of the Kelantan FA players are indeed home grown like: Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Mohd Badri Radzi, Norfarhan, Shakir and others. Culturally they different than the rest of Peninsular Malaysia. Kinda like the Catalan in Spain. While Johor Darul Takzim FC with their new ownership under the Tuanku Mahkota Johor they went and spent brought in many good players across Malaysia and brought in two top imports from Europe. Thus they are considered to be Manchester City of Malaysia.

-There are some don't see it that way. They see it as Kelantan FA vs Johor Darul Takzim FC. Two Malaysian teams with two different philosophy both on and off the pitch. Clashed in the round three match of the Malaysian Super League. The match build up to this game was immense. Did it fit the bill of being a five star game? Close but not cigar. It was a good game to both sets of fans and to the neutrals. Keep in mind this is just the first of many encounters between the two. The 2013 season is a long one.

The Starting eleven. Credit to Astro Arena for this.

- Safee Sali gets his first start for the Southern Tigers. In that many were surprise that former La Liga top scorer Dani Guiza was dropped to the bench. Head Coach Fandi Ahmad starts with former Harimau Muda A goalkeeper Zamir Selamat.

- For Kelantan it was expected Rizal Fahmi to be the obvious choice start at center back with Obinna but Head Coach Bojan Hoddak decided to give youngster Nik Shahrul Azmi who opted to stay with Kelantan after being approach by Harimau Muda A, to start at Center-back for The Red Warriors.



-Opening half of the game started out all Johor, seemly wanting to announce they arrival to the league by beating the current, reigning and defending champion. After a Spectacular effort by Safee Sali at a chance on goal met an even fantastic save by his national team mate Khairul Fahmi Che Mat. Even the commentator said: Tangan Apek walaupun berinai tapi masih kuat.

-After 20 minutes of the game, Kelantan seems to have a grip on the game with Shakir mopping up the midfield and Badri Radzi starting to influence the game. After an opportunity for Johor to take the lead the Kelantan skipper picked out his mate Nofarhan who made a 25 yard dash with Keita Mandjou and Indra Putra coming in to support. He took the opportunity to open the score with a beauty of a long range strike on goal 1-0 Kelantan.

- After the goal fireworks were exploded from a few Kelantan fans which disappointed most fans watching meaning the game has to be hold for the moment. Game resume and it's back to business. (About fan discipline will be written soon.)

- The first half ended with Kelantan controlling the midfield. As Johor's only way to get the goal was via the wings.

- Final 45 minutes begin with Kelantan finding that killer second goal that could put this contest to bed. Johor brought on record signing Dani Guiza on to get the goal. And he did just that. Over the game, Johor have been getting free kicks around many dangerous position but haven't converted any. Up steps Dani Guiza with a curler passed by Goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat

- The Final 20 minutes was a contant back and fourth with both teams pressing to get the winner. On the 85th Minute Fandi Ahmad decided a point is sufficient.


So It ends.

• - 1-1 draw. The away team are happier with the point. The home team will reflect on the performance as a way to build up their season retaining the league tittle. 

• - The partnership of Nik Shahrul and Obinna was indeed interesting in a good way. Both players complemented each other. Something to build on over the season. Johor's Muslim Ahmad was kinda of the unsung hero of the Johor defense he did kept Keita Mandjou under control and did marshall the line well. Aidil Zafuan needs to work on his communication skill much better. There's haven't been any improvement to his game since the AFF Suzuki Cup and that is worrying.

• - The trio of Badri Radzi, Norfarhan and Shakir continues to impress Malaysian football fans. It is a conundrum why National Head Coach K. Rajagopal haven't called Badri Radzi and Norfarhan up to the national set up. Especially Badri Radzi stamping his authority better than current National and Johor DT FC Captain Safiq Rahim.

• - The Quartet of Zaquan, Safee, Norshahrul and Guiza did showed determination to get the win last night. The three Malaysians do have a point to prove in this 2013 season. After watching them play last night they will have a good season.

In the final moments of the game the referee did pre-maturely ended the game. The players from both sides when together and pled their case to the referee to finish off the remaining 20 seconds or so. This made some happy to see players from both sets wanting to finish off the remaining seconds of the contest properly.

Another note during the game Norshahrul did got the heated reception by his former fans. An unnamed source stated that before and after the game the fans did give a warm reception back and hoping that he can end his career back in Kelantan sometime in the future.

Malaysian football fans can't wait for the return game at Stadium Larkin. The stakes will be much higher in the upcoming clash.

Eventful Round 3

Here is the full results from Round 3.

-Terengganu FA 1-2 Selangor FA

-ATM 3-0 T-Team

-Perak FA 0-1 Felda United

-Kelantan FA 1-1 Johor Darul Takzim FC

-PKNS 1-0 Lion XII

-Pahang 2-1 Negeri Sembilan

- Selangor FA and ATM are building up their season after wins from the teams from Terengganu. A source said that National team winger S.Kunalan is playing more of an inside winger for his team and it's seems to be working as both goals for Selangor FA came thru him. ATM are showing that experience is one of the key factors for success this season.

- The shock results are indeed Felda United and PKNS picking up wins. PKNS after two games were indicating that they could be the whipping boys of the division. Not in this case, their win against former 100 percent-ers Lions XII they are no push-over. A Win and the clean sheet will boost morale and confidence for the team. The game between Perak and Felda United wasn't shown on any television channels nor there were any highlights of the match. Looking at the result the new looked Perak will be disappointed with the defeat at home, will be looking to bounce back after this. 

- Pahang kept their 100 percent record at a full house against Negeri Sembilan. Pahang are indeed showing true class by playing the Pahang way, no fear of the opposition.

-The big game Kelantan FA vs Johor Darul Takzim. The build-up to the game was heavily publicized by the media due to many reasons. Kelantan's recent defeat to their former coach Peter Butler's T-Team has added up some pressure to the treble winners of 2012. While Johor Darul Takzim are having a rough start to the campaign after loads of money have been splashed into building this team of superstars. 

 There was a lot of back and fourth between the two sides both looking to earn all three points. In the first half as Kelantan regain possession after what could have been Safee Sali's first goal back to the league. The ball was given to Captain Badri Radzi picked out Norfarhan who ran 25 yard to score a beautiful goal out of the reach of opposing goalkeeper Zamir Selamat. In the second half came on Dani Guiza off the bench who scored a wonderful curling free-kick passing Khairul Fahmi Che Mat in goal. A point deemed to be a fair result for the two teams. Both team will be looking to build upon the performance to the next game onwards to climb up the summit of the Malaysian Super League.

Round Three's top performer is Kelantan's Captain Badri Radzi or Piya or even known as Toke Nasi Lemak to Kelantan fans. He really made many key passes for his team. Showed leadership on the pitch, pressed his team to find the winning goal. He might not have the physical stature but he is skillful, tactically superior and determined than some Malaysian midfielders. 

A short one, Safee Sali seems to be determined to have a good season with Johor Darul Takzim after he created chances for himself and his teammates to get a goal against Kelantan

I will goes more in depth of this game in the next post. 

Finally a big shout out to their fans who came down and support their respective teams at the stadium, kedai makan or even at home. Fans and neutrals of Malaysian football-a-like

9 Men Down, 1 Up Front

The Singapore Lions is one of the two teams in the MSL with a 100% record, with Pahang being the other one. The Lions have scored 2 goals and conceded none. The reason behind their zero-goals-conceded? Getting your 9 outfield players into your half (with the exception of your striker) every time the opposition builds up an attack. The opponents may have a huge chunk of the possession, but they end up losing the game.

If you guys have been following the last two matches of the Lions, you would have realised that they did the same thing to ATM and Selangor. ATM did manage to breach the Singaporean defence, but their finishing let them down while Selangor only managed to launch attacks via long-range free-kicks. The playing style employed by the Lions may be effective in neutralising attacking threats but it leads to a very boring game of football. Apart from that, they are pure opportunists. Both their goals this season is a result of some slack defending. Once they've scored, they will hold the ball even though there is more than an hour to play. I feel really frustrated when our local teams struggle against Lions (last season as well).

From what I have seen in the 2 games which featured the Lions, I have deduced a few points.

• Get a dedicated man-marker for Shahril Ishak. He is the Lions' main man. Subdue him and their attack is impotent.
• Stop launching excessive crosses into the Lions' penalty area. Both their central defenders (Baihakki Khaizan & Safuwan Baharuddin) are very good in the air. Penetrate through the flanks as their full-backs are not quick and prone to commit reckless challenges. 
• Their keeper, Izwan Mahbud is good shot-stopper. The opposing forwards must be alert to nick the rebounds.
• Mark Baihakki tightly while defending corners. ( Please..Tolonglah.. place two men on either posts)

The Lions' is not an invincible team. They can be given a rough ride throughout the season and with the possiblity of them falling apart. Tapi, pasukan tempatan kena bermain dengan penuh semangat. Selangor seemed to be deflated and demotivated last Saturday. Take Harimau Muda as an example. Look how they play although the pitches are on par with paddy fields. Our local teams can do it. They just need to get their act right.

MAJULAH BOLASEPAK UNTUK NEGARA

Written by: Vinod Nair

Round 2 done. Huge round 3 game approaches.

  The second round of matches of the Malaysian Super League ended with results which are shaping the standings of this 2013 edition of the top tier. Yesterday's game feature Pahang continuing their good run with another win against their host Felda United. Head coach Dollah Salleh must be satisfied with his teams current run. They'll no doubt be eyeing a long stay in the top division.

  Another result showed Johor Darul Takzim secured their first win in under the new looked outfit against nine-men Perak. Perak had two players sent off in the first half and had a mountain to climb to come out at least a point. Thus Captain Safiq Rahim's corner met defender Aidil Zafuan's head which resulted in a 1-0 win.

  Cameroonian striker Effa Owona return to his own stomping ground for Terengganu FA. He had many chances to put his team in front. But it was the experience-nomadic 37 year old goalkeeper Hamsani Ahmad who kept Terengganu obtaining the three points at Paroi. The home did had a few chances to get the win. Both teams will look back at a point gained.

  Today, shock at Terengganu as champions Kelantan fell under their old head coach Peter Butler's T-team. Reports on twitter indicate that it was a heated game, especially between the head coaches. Kelantan will no doubt return home with their heads down.

  Lions XII early goal in the first half gave them a 1-0 home win against bitter rivals Selangor. Finally Marlon James open his account this season with a hat trick for ATM at the Shah Alam Stadium against PKNS.

  Two games are already settled another 20 rounds to go, it is still early days. We will see the true shape of the standings after eight to ten games.

 The top teams: Selangor, Johor Darul Takzim and Kelantan are seem to be struggling to stamp their authority in the league. Again it is still early days. The trio had a lot of changes in the off season with players coming in and out. Each team are still working on their cohesion and discipline in their new attacking line-up respectively.

  Malaysian football fans are eyeing up on the big game on Tuesday night. As the Tigers from the South goes up north to face The Red Warriors. The home fans will be hostile to the visiting team especially for their former player Norshahrul Idlan Talha, who will be looking to get one against his old employers. Striker Keita Mandjou will be looking to open his account against the big spenders. Kelantan do have a good home record in the Malaysian Super League since their promotion back in 2009. Their home fans will provide massive home support to eleven players who Bojan Hoddak selects, this could be key. The away fans have every right to be confident to get a favorable result with the quality of players that they have to get a result and bragging rights against their brothers from the north. All in all everyone is expecting a spicy encounter.

Let the banter between the Kelantanese Fans and the Johorian Fans begin!

 Written by Khalilul.

Evening Football

So Harimau Muda A beat their up and coming younger brother Harimau Muda B. They will be taking over Harimau Muda A's spot in the S-League this up coming season. By looking at the score line 6-1, they will have a lot of work to do. Do remember Harimau Muda B are Malaysia's under-19 team. This upcoming experience in the S-League will be a learning curve for them to become better players and a better team.

I attended the game just to check out our national youth set-up first hand. I'm quite impress with Head Coach Ong Kim Swee's men, a very talented side with clear potential of going up. The criticism of the Harimau Muda A is the fact they need to trust in their own ability, need to be more calm and relax especially in the second half of the match. Yes they did have a lot of changes going in to the second half. Some players get pressured to easily. They are still young lot there's much time to improve the mental side of the game.

Gary Steven Robbat is a joy to watch playing football. He is definitely going places in the big world of football. His possession game, reading, thru balls, concentration of the game and physical presences are indeed impressive to watch first hand.

Wan Zack is another player who player really well. Tough right winger he is. A traditional winger who can put the ball in the box for strikers like Thamil Arasu and Ferris Daniel to score. Another player to look out is Adam Nor Azlin who played along Gary in the midfield center. One of the younger player age of 16 in the set up called up by Head Coach. Fadhli Shas did OK in my book, was kinda expecting more. His long balls distribution were very sensible. He did get a lot of stick from the fans during the AFF Cup for his long ball. I can see what he is doing but the execution was readable then during AFF. During the friendly not so much. I'd say every 5 balls the long passed, 4 reached his intended target. He is an overall good defender package the experienced he get the better he'll be.

Harimau Muda B players do have their basics sorted out. Tactically they are not there yet. They lacked control in the final third on the wide areas of the pitch. Didn't see much crosses from Harimau Muda B. Most of the goals they conceded are usually from the left side in the first half. An area where Wan Zack played right wing at. He did terrorize the player played left back there in a way. Mid way point of the first half the coach brought on a ball playing midfielder to counter the possession Harimau Muda A had. Which worked til the half time whistle. That's a kind of player I personally like who holds the ball in the middle and distributing good passes around. Their outlet of attack was on the right wing. Which got them a goal. An area to build upon? The player who played center back who was wearing the number 5 jersey has some shades of Fadhli Shas. I wish all the best to Harimau Muda B in their upcoming challenge in the S-League. When they return, they will have learn a lot, return stronger and possibly getting a call up by the National set up.

Before the game I was impress with the goalkeeper training and routines. But during the game I was less impress. There were many jittery performance by all four goalkeepers who played. Hopefully they can improve on that area. Some goalies did showed command of the area and communication aka getting angry for not marking players with the defenders gave me a smirk.

Overall it was a fun experience to watch our future play each other. Hopefully they will work together making this nation a powerhouse once again in the near future.

Written by Khalilul

MSL Round up Game 1

The first round of matches of the 2013 MSL season kicked off this week with four matches being played on Tuesday and another two on Wednesday. The surprise of the day was from Pahang where they stunned big-spenders Darul Takzim FC, 3-2 at home. It was an entertaining game with play being dictated at a high tempo. Former Getafe and Mallorca forward Dani Guiza failed to score but created two goals for fellow new boys, Safiq Rahim and Norshahrul Idlan Talaha for a 2-0 halftime lead. Pahang stormed back in the second half with a brace from Mohd Fauzi Roslan and the winning goal was scored by R.Surendran.

Selangor started their season with a 1-0 win over Negeri Sembilan. The solitary goal was scored by the ex-N9 player, S.Kunalan. It was an unimpressive display by the Red Giants though, with N9’s occasional threats coming from their new import, Emmanuel De Porras. Selangor’s Francis Forkey Doe had a relatively low-key debut but his tricky movement with the ball led to the winning goal.

Perak beat T-Team 1-0 while Felda United played out a 1-1 draw with Terengganu in Kuala Terengganu in an evening game. Felda’s new signing, Mohammad Ghaddar scored the first goal of the MSL season before Ismail Faruqi equalised for the Turtles.

Defending champions, Kelantan started their campaign with a 2-1 win over Selangor PKNS at home with captain Piya and Zairul Fitree as the scorers. Newly-promoted and Charity Shield winners ATM lost 0-1 to Lions XII in Paroi, with Shahril Ishak getting the winning goal via a simple tap-in.

It has been a good start to the season, with a reasonable number of goals scored. Apart from that, Darul Takzim’s shock defeat to Pahang made the headlines all over the country plus it was being repeated on Astro Arena over and over again.

Players To Watch Out

1) Mohd Fauzi Roslan (PHG) - Scored two goals in his Super League debut. Possesses very good off-the- ball movements. An extremely good finisher. A candidate for a national call-up?

2) Emmanuel De Porras (NS) - Had a good debut. Has a very good movement with and without the ball. Well-built stature. A very good striker of the ball from distance.

3) Venice Elpi (ATM) - His assets are his darting runs on the left flank and a left-foot that is capable of delivering mouth-watering crosses. He was noticed during ATM’s Malaysia Cup campaign last season. Other than Bruno Martelotto and Marlon Alex James, Venice is also another player who can make a difference. King Raja, your solution for the left-flank?

MAJULAH BOLASEPAK UNTUK NEGARA

Written by Vinod Nair

Red Warriors vs Gladiators

The Harimau Malaya fever has receded and the Suzuki Cup has ended (Eww..Singapore won it). It's the time for our very own Super League. The 2013 MSL season kicks off today with the Charity Shield game between last season’s treble winners, Kelantan and the newly-promoted side, ATM. It is touted to be a rematch of last year’s Malaysia Cup final where Kelantan prevailed 3-2 in a thrilling contest. This year, it is hoped that the fans will be served with another entertaining encounter between these two sides.

Kelantan will parade a slightly different line-up this time out. Their top-scorer last season, Lebanese striker Mohammad Ghaddar has joined Felda United while national forward Norshahrul Idlan Talaha has joined moneybags Darul Takzim FC along with speedy winger Nurul Azwan Roya. The Red Warriors have brought in former Perak and Selangor striker Keita Mandjou as a replacement for Ghaddar. Apart from Mandjou, they have also brought in Zairo Anuar Zailani from T-Team to add to their creativity quotient. Despite the departure of their two main strikers, Kelantan are still very much dangerous in attack. Players such as Mandjou, Norfarhan Muhammad and Indra Putra are capable of getting the goals. First-choice defender S.Subramaniam is out due to injury and experienced K.Nanthakumar is set to partner Obinna Nwaneri in the heart of the defence.

Like Kelantan, ATM also lost their key players to Darul Takzim FC. Aidil Zafuan and his twin brother, Zaquan Adha has gone down south with ATM getting a few experienced players to beef up their squad. Notable names include Shukor Adan and R.Surendran, signed from Negeri Sembilan and Selangor respectively. The soldiers will surely again depend on the creative Argentine, Bruno Martelotto and the dangerous Marlon Alex James.

The game will be played at the Shah Alam Stadium where the pitch quality is way better than the one at our National Stadium and we hope we get to watch a high-quality game today (hope the rain do not affect the state of the pitch) sans unruly fans and bad refereeing. Both the teams look well-matched but Kelantan remain as the favourites to nick it. This is football, anything can happen in a 120-minute block and we hope the 2013 Charity Shield will be an entertaining game for both sets of fans and neutrals alike.

MAJULAH BOLASEPAK UNTUK NEGARA

Written by Vinod Nair.