Terengganu police have recorded statements from 17 officials and players from T-Team over the incident at the Larkin Stadium on Feb 1.
Terengganu police chief Datuk Jamshah Mustapa said the statements awould be submitted to Bukit Aman for further investigations.
“We recorded statements from those in Terengganu as soon as we received a report from the players and the management of the team,” he told reporters after launching a motorcycle patrol unit (URB) here on Sunday.
Last Sunday, T-Team striker Evaldo Goncalves, defender Fabio Flor de Azevado, fitness coach Stefano Impagliazzo and chief operating officer Mohd Syahrizan Mohd Zain lodged reports at the Kuala Terengganu district police headquarters.
Goncalves alleged that he was punched in the nose by a top Johor FA official while Impagliazzo claimed he was
kicked in the groin by the official’s escort in the Larkin Stadium tunnel during the FA Cup second-round match, As a result T-Team abandoned the match, refusing to come out after half-time, citing “security reasons”.
On Monday, the Johor Football Association (JFA) also lodged a police report alleging JDT coach Cesar Jimenez was assaulted by a fitness coach and a striker from T-Team.
On Thursday, JDT were awarded a 3-0 win by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), qualifying them for the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Showing posts with label FA Cup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FA Cup. Show all posts
Sunday, 9 February 2014
Sunday, 2 February 2014
Pahang upsets Singapore while T-Team abandons match in FA Cup
The FA Cup second round match between Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) and T-Team ended abruptly at the Larkin Stadium.
It is learnt that the visiting team decided not to take to the field in the second-half, with JDT leading 2-1, as they feared for their safety.
It is also learnt that a scuffle had broken out during the break as the players and officials headed for the tunnel. Television footage also showed JDT striker Pablo Aimar involved in a heated argument with a T-Team coaching staff.
Match commissioner Zainal Mukri said he would refer the incident to the FAM competitions committee.
He also confirmed that a shouting match took place between JDT coach Cesar Jimenez and a T-Team fitness coach.
“I have yet to receive the reasons for T-Team’s decision in not coming out for the second half,” he said.
“The match will be postponed and I will also be sending the report to the FAM for further action."
JDT had taken a 2-0 lead through Argentine forward Luciano Figueroa in the 15th and 20th minutes before T-Team pulled a goal back through skipper Mohd Marzuki Yusof in the 26th minute off a freekick.
Meanwhile, Pahang created an upset of sorts when they ended Lions XII’s unbeaten home record at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Saturday.
The Singaporeans, who have been unbeaten at home since July 2012, lost 2-1 to the Elephants in the second round of the FA Cup.
Midfielder Hafiz Kamal scored from a freekick in the 50th minute before his midfield partner Azidan Sarudin struck five minutes later to end the Lions’ 22-match unbeaten home run.
Defender Safuwan Baharudin reduced the deficit off a freekick in the 85th minute but it wasn’t enough for Fandi Ahmad’s men to mount a comeback.
The Lions’ last home defeat was a 1-0 setback to Johor FC in a Super League match in July 14, 2012.
Last season, the team, under the guidance of V. Sundramoorthy, lifted the Super League crown in style by remaining undefeated at home – recording 10 wins and a draw at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
It is learnt that the visiting team decided not to take to the field in the second-half, with JDT leading 2-1, as they feared for their safety.
It is also learnt that a scuffle had broken out during the break as the players and officials headed for the tunnel. Television footage also showed JDT striker Pablo Aimar involved in a heated argument with a T-Team coaching staff.
Match commissioner Zainal Mukri said he would refer the incident to the FAM competitions committee.
He also confirmed that a shouting match took place between JDT coach Cesar Jimenez and a T-Team fitness coach.
“I have yet to receive the reasons for T-Team’s decision in not coming out for the second half,” he said.
“The match will be postponed and I will also be sending the report to the FAM for further action."
JDT had taken a 2-0 lead through Argentine forward Luciano Figueroa in the 15th and 20th minutes before T-Team pulled a goal back through skipper Mohd Marzuki Yusof in the 26th minute off a freekick.
Meanwhile, Pahang created an upset of sorts when they ended Lions XII’s unbeaten home record at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Saturday.
The Singaporeans, who have been unbeaten at home since July 2012, lost 2-1 to the Elephants in the second round of the FA Cup.
Midfielder Hafiz Kamal scored from a freekick in the 50th minute before his midfield partner Azidan Sarudin struck five minutes later to end the Lions’ 22-match unbeaten home run.
Defender Safuwan Baharudin reduced the deficit off a freekick in the 85th minute but it wasn’t enough for Fandi Ahmad’s men to mount a comeback.
The Lions’ last home defeat was a 1-0 setback to Johor FC in a Super League match in July 14, 2012.
Last season, the team, under the guidance of V. Sundramoorthy, lifted the Super League crown in style by remaining undefeated at home – recording 10 wins and a draw at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
Friday, 31 January 2014
Coaches of Sime Darby and Armed Forces unhappy over referees
It’s only been 15 days – and four matches – since the M-League kicked off, but already there are rumblings about the poor quality of refereeing.
Already two coaches – Sime Darby FC’s Ismail Zakaria and Armed Forces’ B. Sathianathan – are in danger of being hauled up by the Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) disciplinary committee for criticising the referees during their teams’ recent Super League matches.
Ismail had voiced his displeasure after referee Mohd Nazmi Nasarudin awarded a questionable penalty in their 2-1 defeat to Kelantan in the opening match on Jan 18.
Sathia, meanwhile, criticised referee Suhaimi Mat Hassan’s error-filled performance after his side were knocked out 2-1 by Sime Darby in the first round of the FA Cup competition on Jan 21.
Last week, FAM disciplinary committee chairman Datuk Taufek Abdul Razak had instructed the rules and regulations committee to conduct a probe on the two coaches to see if they had breached Article 18 of the FAM disciplinary code.
Article 18 states that players and coaches cannot speak to the media without prior consent from FAM.
If found guilty, Ismail and Sathia face a minimum four-match suspension and a maximum two-year ban.
Surely something must be wrong with the standard of refereeing when you consider this: four red cards and 69 yellow cards have been brandished by the referees in just three rounds of Super League matches. That’s a total of 73 cards in 18 matches!
That works out to about four cards per game.
One match – a Super League clash between Sime Darby and Pahang played at the Selayang Stadium on Saturday – saw eight yellow cards being flashed, believe it or not!
Perhaps, Sathia and Ismail could have gone through the proper channels to voice their displeasure but one can’t just ignore the statistics either.
Ismail, who has yet to be officially charged with criticising the referee, said that he would lodge a formal complaint, together with video evidence, to FAM on the poor standard of refereeing in Kuching.
“It’s not a case of sour grapes ... we are not complaining because we lost to Sarawak,” said Ismail on Thursday.
“I accept my team’s defeat ... but the quality of refereeing is so alarming. We had two of our least aggressive players in the team getting sent off for dissent ... I find that very strange.
“I hope FAM will be more open to criticism. We are criticising because we want the standard of refereeing to improve ... it’s not a personal attack.”
Already two coaches – Sime Darby FC’s Ismail Zakaria and Armed Forces’ B. Sathianathan – are in danger of being hauled up by the Football Association of Malaysia’s (FAM) disciplinary committee for criticising the referees during their teams’ recent Super League matches.
Ismail had voiced his displeasure after referee Mohd Nazmi Nasarudin awarded a questionable penalty in their 2-1 defeat to Kelantan in the opening match on Jan 18.
Sathia, meanwhile, criticised referee Suhaimi Mat Hassan’s error-filled performance after his side were knocked out 2-1 by Sime Darby in the first round of the FA Cup competition on Jan 21.
Last week, FAM disciplinary committee chairman Datuk Taufek Abdul Razak had instructed the rules and regulations committee to conduct a probe on the two coaches to see if they had breached Article 18 of the FAM disciplinary code.
Article 18 states that players and coaches cannot speak to the media without prior consent from FAM.
If found guilty, Ismail and Sathia face a minimum four-match suspension and a maximum two-year ban.
Surely something must be wrong with the standard of refereeing when you consider this: four red cards and 69 yellow cards have been brandished by the referees in just three rounds of Super League matches. That’s a total of 73 cards in 18 matches!
That works out to about four cards per game.
One match – a Super League clash between Sime Darby and Pahang played at the Selayang Stadium on Saturday – saw eight yellow cards being flashed, believe it or not!
Perhaps, Sathia and Ismail could have gone through the proper channels to voice their displeasure but one can’t just ignore the statistics either.
Ismail, who has yet to be officially charged with criticising the referee, said that he would lodge a formal complaint, together with video evidence, to FAM on the poor standard of refereeing in Kuching.
“It’s not a case of sour grapes ... we are not complaining because we lost to Sarawak,” said Ismail on Thursday.
“I accept my team’s defeat ... but the quality of refereeing is so alarming. We had two of our least aggressive players in the team getting sent off for dissent ... I find that very strange.
“I hope FAM will be more open to criticism. We are criticising because we want the standard of refereeing to improve ... it’s not a personal attack.”
Friday, 30 March 2012
Sports Minister wants players educated on the dangers of match fixing
Low wages should not be a factor for football players to be involved in match-fixing or bribery which has continued to tarnish the image of football in the country.
Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Razali Ibrahim said no reason should be accepted for players involvement in match fixing or bribery and efforts must be taken by those involved, especially the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to educate the players on the dangers of their involvement in such activities.
"If there are claims that low wages was a reason for players to be involved in bribery, I beg to differ because even highly paid players in teams like Juventus in Italy were said to be involved in match-fixing.
Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Razali Ibrahim said no reason should be accepted for players involvement in match fixing or bribery and efforts must be taken by those involved, especially the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) to educate the players on the dangers of their involvement in such activities.
"If there are claims that low wages was a reason for players to be involved in bribery, I beg to differ because even highly paid players in teams like Juventus in Italy were said to be involved in match-fixing.
Kedah aiming to bring back glory days
Kedah's ability to beat T- Team from Terengganu and book a semifinal berth in the FA Cup is a sign that Kedah football is back to its glory days said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Azizan Abdul Razak.
Azizan said the Kedah team had shown a polished display in the 2-1 win although he was slightly disappointed with import player Hamidin Mohammed since the player had taken a slightly longer time to get his act together.
"There is no reason to look back because I do not want a repeat of the inconsistency that had plagued the team in the past," Azizan who is also the Kedah FA President told reporters when summarizing Kedah's 2-1 win over T-Team in Kuala Terengganu Tuesday night.
Azizan said the Kedah team had shown a polished display in the 2-1 win although he was slightly disappointed with import player Hamidin Mohammed since the player had taken a slightly longer time to get his act together.
"There is no reason to look back because I do not want a repeat of the inconsistency that had plagued the team in the past," Azizan who is also the Kedah FA President told reporters when summarizing Kedah's 2-1 win over T-Team in Kuala Terengganu Tuesday night.
Wednesday, 28 March 2012
Sime Darby continues giant–killing feats while Terengganu progress in FA Cup
Sime Darby FC continued their giant–killing ways in the FA Cup competition to enter the semi-finals last night.
The club side defeated Johor FC 2-1 in the quarter-final second leg at the Pasir Gudang Stadium to progress 5-3 on aggregate.
Liberian international Patrick Wleh was the toast of the Premier League side after scoring a brace in their return-leg. Ismail Zakaria’s team had won the first-leg 3-2 at the Selayang Stadium on Friday.
Sime Darby FC proved that their are no pushovers in the competition after having earlier knocked out Super League side Sabah and USM FC by similar 2-0 margins in the first and second rounds respectively.
Last night, Wleh was was a constant menace to the Johor FC defenders. The Liberian gave goalkeeper Mohd Anis Faron no chance with two long range attempts in the third and 20th minutes.
Johor FC reduced the deficit through an Ahmad Fauzi Shaari penalty 13 minutes from the end.
Johor FC coach K. Devan clearly missed the service of top scorer Arthuro Bernhardt, who has found the net nine times in seven matches.
The Brazilian had to sit out a one-match suspension.
Sime Darby will play defending champions Terengganu in the two-legged semi-finals on Apr 21 and May 1.
The Turtles held Singapore outfit Lions XII to a goalless draw at the Jalan Besar Stadium in the return leg yesterday, but progressed courtesy of their 1-0 first-leg victory in Kuala Terengganu last week.
In Kuala Terengganu, Kedah booked their semi-final ticket after beating T-Team 2-1 at the Sultan Ismail Stadium.
Ghana striker Hamidan Mohammed’s brace in the 64th and 81st minutes were enough to end T-Team’s hopes of going through to the semis for the first time.
Azrul Hazran Amiludin Baki’s goal in the 68th minute proved to be little more than a consolation for the home side. The first-leg had ended in a goalless draw.
In Kota Baru, goals from Mohd Norfarhan Mohamad (18th) and Nwoha Onyekachi (72nd) allowed Kelantan to beat KL SPA 2-0 and progress to the last four with a 5-0 aggregate. The Red Warriors will take on Kedah in the semi-finals.
The club side defeated Johor FC 2-1 in the quarter-final second leg at the Pasir Gudang Stadium to progress 5-3 on aggregate.
Liberian international Patrick Wleh was the toast of the Premier League side after scoring a brace in their return-leg. Ismail Zakaria’s team had won the first-leg 3-2 at the Selayang Stadium on Friday.
Sime Darby FC proved that their are no pushovers in the competition after having earlier knocked out Super League side Sabah and USM FC by similar 2-0 margins in the first and second rounds respectively.
Last night, Wleh was was a constant menace to the Johor FC defenders. The Liberian gave goalkeeper Mohd Anis Faron no chance with two long range attempts in the third and 20th minutes.
Johor FC reduced the deficit through an Ahmad Fauzi Shaari penalty 13 minutes from the end.
Johor FC coach K. Devan clearly missed the service of top scorer Arthuro Bernhardt, who has found the net nine times in seven matches.
The Brazilian had to sit out a one-match suspension.
Sime Darby will play defending champions Terengganu in the two-legged semi-finals on Apr 21 and May 1.
The Turtles held Singapore outfit Lions XII to a goalless draw at the Jalan Besar Stadium in the return leg yesterday, but progressed courtesy of their 1-0 first-leg victory in Kuala Terengganu last week.
In Kuala Terengganu, Kedah booked their semi-final ticket after beating T-Team 2-1 at the Sultan Ismail Stadium.
Ghana striker Hamidan Mohammed’s brace in the 64th and 81st minutes were enough to end T-Team’s hopes of going through to the semis for the first time.
Azrul Hazran Amiludin Baki’s goal in the 68th minute proved to be little more than a consolation for the home side. The first-leg had ended in a goalless draw.
In Kota Baru, goals from Mohd Norfarhan Mohamad (18th) and Nwoha Onyekachi (72nd) allowed Kelantan to beat KL SPA 2-0 and progress to the last four with a 5-0 aggregate. The Red Warriors will take on Kedah in the semi-finals.
Terengganu, Kelantan, Kedah and Sime Darby progress to semi finals of FA Cup
Defending champions Terengganu are among four teams that booked tickets to the FA Cup semi-finals after the second leg quarter-final matches Tuesday night.
Terengganu are through with 1-0 aggregate at the expense of Lions XII from Singapore even though they drew goalless in the first leg quarter-final match at Jalan Besar Stadium, Singapore.
In the first leg quarter-final match on Saturday, the squad of coach Mat Zan Mat Aris won 1-0 at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium, Kuala Terengganu. Terengganu's only goal was scored by Joseph Kalang Tie.
Neighbours Kelantan also made it after winning 2-0 over SPA FC at Sultan Muhammad IV Stadium, Kota Bharu.
Kedah also qualified for the FA Cup semi-final after edging T-Team 2-1 at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium, Kuala Terengganu.
Premier League side Sime Darby scored an upset to reach the last four for the first time after beating Super League side Johor FC 5-3 on aggregate.
The match at Pasir Gudang Stadium saw Sime Darby winning 2-1.
Sime Darby under coach Zakaria Ismail won 3-2 over Johor FC in the first leg quarter-final match at Selayang Municipal Council Stadium on Saturday.
The semi-finals matches on home and away basis will be played on April 21 and May 1.
Terengganu are through with 1-0 aggregate at the expense of Lions XII from Singapore even though they drew goalless in the first leg quarter-final match at Jalan Besar Stadium, Singapore.
In the first leg quarter-final match on Saturday, the squad of coach Mat Zan Mat Aris won 1-0 at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium, Kuala Terengganu. Terengganu's only goal was scored by Joseph Kalang Tie.
Neighbours Kelantan also made it after winning 2-0 over SPA FC at Sultan Muhammad IV Stadium, Kota Bharu.
Kedah also qualified for the FA Cup semi-final after edging T-Team 2-1 at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium, Kuala Terengganu.
Premier League side Sime Darby scored an upset to reach the last four for the first time after beating Super League side Johor FC 5-3 on aggregate.
The match at Pasir Gudang Stadium saw Sime Darby winning 2-1.
Sime Darby under coach Zakaria Ismail won 3-2 over Johor FC in the first leg quarter-final match at Selayang Municipal Council Stadium on Saturday.
The semi-finals matches on home and away basis will be played on April 21 and May 1.
Saturday, 24 March 2012
Brazilian striker Arthur Henrique in red hot form for Johor FC
Seven goals in five matches have made Brazilian Arthur Henrique the envy of many as Super League outfit Johor FC battle Premier League side Sime Darby in a late afternoon first-leg FA Cup quarter-final match at the Selayang Stadium tomorrow.
The lanky Henrique, 28, scored four of the seven goals in the FA Cup matches -- against Negri Sembilan in the first round and five-time champions Selangor in the second round - winning 2-1 and 5-4 in sudden death penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in extra-time respectively.
Henrique has scored in every match for Johor FC since he made his debut against Sarawak in a Super League match in Pasir Gudang on Feb 14, although he was on the losing side with the East Malaysians scoring a come-from-behind 2-1 win in Pasir Gudang.
The Brazilian, who stands at 1.90m, however, has found his niche in the FA Cup -- scoring a brace against Negri in the first round. Against Selangor, he set up one and scored one as Johor FC fought back from 2-0 down despite playing with 10 men after 17 minutes. He also netted in the shootout.
Henrique scored the fastest goal in the Super League this season when he found the net after only 35 seconds against T-Team in Johor FC's 3-1 defeat at home last Saturday.
Sime Darby knocked out Sabah 2-0 in the first round. In the second round, they beat another Premier League outfit USM FC (2-0) for a place in the quarter-finals.
The lanky Henrique, 28, scored four of the seven goals in the FA Cup matches -- against Negri Sembilan in the first round and five-time champions Selangor in the second round - winning 2-1 and 5-4 in sudden death penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in extra-time respectively.
Henrique has scored in every match for Johor FC since he made his debut against Sarawak in a Super League match in Pasir Gudang on Feb 14, although he was on the losing side with the East Malaysians scoring a come-from-behind 2-1 win in Pasir Gudang.
The Brazilian, who stands at 1.90m, however, has found his niche in the FA Cup -- scoring a brace against Negri in the first round. Against Selangor, he set up one and scored one as Johor FC fought back from 2-0 down despite playing with 10 men after 17 minutes. He also netted in the shootout.
Henrique scored the fastest goal in the Super League this season when he found the net after only 35 seconds against T-Team in Johor FC's 3-1 defeat at home last Saturday.
Sime Darby knocked out Sabah 2-0 in the first round. In the second round, they beat another Premier League outfit USM FC (2-0) for a place in the quarter-finals.
Terengganu and T-Team looking for confidence boost in FA Cup
The Turtles are looking to bounce back from the midweek AFC Cup loss to Hong Kong’s Kitchee by chalking up a convincing win over Singapore Lions XII in the FA Cup quarter-final first leg at Sultan Ismail Stadium tonight.
Coach Mat Zan Mat Aris wants Terengganu to score a hatful of goals so that they can take a comfortable lead to Singapore for the return leg.
“This is, by far, our sternest test as we are the defending champions. The Lions are on song but we will not be deterred,” he said.
Terengganu’s task has been made more difficult because of several injuries.
Captain Marzuki Yusof, Reshafiq Alwi and Ahmad Nordin Alias are long-term casualties while striker Abdul Manaf Mamat is still recovering from an ankle injury suffered in the match against Kitchee.
“Striker Francis Forkey Doe, midfielders Erison Da Silva and Shukor Jusoh are also doubtful. If these three are ruled out, we may have to rely on our reserves for the match against the Lions XII,” said Mat Zan.
Another Terengganu side, T-Team, are hoping to continue their fine record against Kedah when they meet in the FA Cup quarter-finals in Alor Setar tonight.
Yunus Alif’s club side have yet to lose to Kedah since last season’s Super League, with the latest win being the 3-0 drubbing at the Sultan Ismail Stadium earlier this season.
A confident Yunus wants his men to beat Kedah by two goals in today’s first-leg.
“This is the first time we are in the Cup quarter-finals so we naturally want to do well. But it won’t be easy as Kedah are an experienced side,” he said.
Yunus said T-Team have done well this season and he aims to win at least one Cup this season.
Coach Mat Zan Mat Aris wants Terengganu to score a hatful of goals so that they can take a comfortable lead to Singapore for the return leg.
“This is, by far, our sternest test as we are the defending champions. The Lions are on song but we will not be deterred,” he said.
Terengganu’s task has been made more difficult because of several injuries.
Captain Marzuki Yusof, Reshafiq Alwi and Ahmad Nordin Alias are long-term casualties while striker Abdul Manaf Mamat is still recovering from an ankle injury suffered in the match against Kitchee.
“Striker Francis Forkey Doe, midfielders Erison Da Silva and Shukor Jusoh are also doubtful. If these three are ruled out, we may have to rely on our reserves for the match against the Lions XII,” said Mat Zan.
Another Terengganu side, T-Team, are hoping to continue their fine record against Kedah when they meet in the FA Cup quarter-finals in Alor Setar tonight.
Yunus Alif’s club side have yet to lose to Kedah since last season’s Super League, with the latest win being the 3-0 drubbing at the Sultan Ismail Stadium earlier this season.
A confident Yunus wants his men to beat Kedah by two goals in today’s first-leg.
“This is the first time we are in the Cup quarter-finals so we naturally want to do well. But it won’t be easy as Kedah are an experienced side,” he said.
Yunus said T-Team have done well this season and he aims to win at least one Cup this season.
Sime Darby beats Johor FC in first leg of quarterfinal in FA Cup
Club side Sime Darby scored a narrow 3-2 victory against Johor FC in their first leg quarterfinal match at the Selayang Municipal Stadium, here Friday.
Azmirul Azmi scored the opener for Sime Darby in the fifth minute before teammate Razali Umar Kandasamy made it 2-0 in the 38th minute.
Johor FC, however, regained their composure and managed to reduce the deficit in the 44th minute through Brazilian import Arthur Henrique Bernhardt but Sime Darby's Liberian import gave his team a comfortable cushion again with a goal in the 70th minute.
Johor FC's second goal came from Henrique Bernhardt in the 85th minute.
Their second leg match is on March 27 at the Pasir Gudang Municipal Council stadium.
Azmirul Azmi scored the opener for Sime Darby in the fifth minute before teammate Razali Umar Kandasamy made it 2-0 in the 38th minute.
Johor FC, however, regained their composure and managed to reduce the deficit in the 44th minute through Brazilian import Arthur Henrique Bernhardt but Sime Darby's Liberian import gave his team a comfortable cushion again with a goal in the 70th minute.
Johor FC's second goal came from Henrique Bernhardt in the 85th minute.
Their second leg match is on March 27 at the Pasir Gudang Municipal Council stadium.
Thursday, 22 March 2012
KL Spa FC aiming to upset Kelantan in FA Cup
Giant killers KL SPA FC have set their sights on the scalp of Super League champions Kelantan in their FA Cup quarter-final at the National Stadium on Saturday.
The amateur team, who evolved from the Public Service Commission’s (PSC) recreational club, made history by becoming the first FAM League side to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals after edging out Cambodian club Preah Khan Reach 1-0 on March 10.
No third-tier team have ever made the quarter-finals since the tournament was opened to FAM League sides in 1994.
KL SPA coach Mohd Nizam Jamil said his players were eager to prove themselves against their much heralded opponents Kelantan.
“Football is not mathematics. There’s no guarantee that a top division side will always beat the lower teams,” Nizam said yesterday.
“In fact, Kelantan will be under pressure as they have played three games in 10 days and lost some of their players to injury. However, they have a squad of 25 quality players and can’t be taken lightly.
“We are looking forward to the experience of playing one of the best teams in the country. We have nothing to lose at this stage and will try to savour the moment.”
KL SPA, who beat Premier League side Johor MBJB 3-0 in the first round on Feb 18, are also going great guns in the FAM League. They have collected nine points from three matches to lead the nine-team league.
“We are basically amateurs, but some of our players have played with the state teams while others are from the Bukit Jalil Sports School,” said Nizam.
“Our main target is to secure promotion to the Premier League and our outing in the FA Cup will be a great exposure to the players.”
The amateur team, who evolved from the Public Service Commission’s (PSC) recreational club, made history by becoming the first FAM League side to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals after edging out Cambodian club Preah Khan Reach 1-0 on March 10.
No third-tier team have ever made the quarter-finals since the tournament was opened to FAM League sides in 1994.
KL SPA coach Mohd Nizam Jamil said his players were eager to prove themselves against their much heralded opponents Kelantan.
“Football is not mathematics. There’s no guarantee that a top division side will always beat the lower teams,” Nizam said yesterday.
“In fact, Kelantan will be under pressure as they have played three games in 10 days and lost some of their players to injury. However, they have a squad of 25 quality players and can’t be taken lightly.
“We are looking forward to the experience of playing one of the best teams in the country. We have nothing to lose at this stage and will try to savour the moment.”
KL SPA, who beat Premier League side Johor MBJB 3-0 in the first round on Feb 18, are also going great guns in the FAM League. They have collected nine points from three matches to lead the nine-team league.
“We are basically amateurs, but some of our players have played with the state teams while others are from the Bukit Jalil Sports School,” said Nizam.
“Our main target is to secure promotion to the Premier League and our outing in the FA Cup will be a great exposure to the players.”
Monday, 12 March 2012
SPA stuns Cambodian club Preah Khan Reach to progress in FA Cup
Public Service Commission’s (SPA) dream FA Cup run continued when they edged Cambodia’s Preah Khan Reach (PKR) 1-0 on Saturday to become the first FAM League side to advance to the quarter-finals of the competition.
SPA, an amateur team, turned the tables on PKR, who fielded six Cambodian internationals, with their never-say-die attitude and their persistence paid off in the 52nd minute.
Zulkifli Affendi Zakri picked up a weak clearance in the penalty box before placing the ball past PKR goalkeeper Sar Saphea to record their biggest win and earn a two-leg quarter-final tie (March 24 and 27) against reigning Super League champions Kelantan.
SPA’s victory over PKR is their second over a professional side this season. In the first round, SPA thrashed Premier League side Johor Baru City Council 3-0.
It’s a feat that as far as coach Mohd Nidzam Jamil is concerned almost amounted to being “a miracle”.
“We’re all incredibly delighted especially to continue in the competition and at the same time create history,” said Nidzam after the match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
“We want to enjoy this (win) before thinking about Kelantan. What makes this so special is that we hold daily jobs and only train after work.
“Our priority, however, is to earn Premier League promotion and not the FA Cup but doing well in it is a bonus and added motivation.”
Nidzam said the hard work and hours of training is the secret behind the club’s Cup run so far.
“PKR are professionals and of course physically and technically they’re much better than us. What made the difference for us was simple motivation.
“My players showed character and their willingness to fight for 90 minutes paid dividends.
“Some of my players even suffered cramps in the final minutes of the match but I expected that to happen as we are an amateur side,” said Nidzam.
Former M-League players Nuraizat Abdul Aziz, Zulkifli Affendi, Sazali Suwandi and Noor Azizi Azman form the core of the SPA side comprising mostly former state President’s Cup players.
They have been competing in the FAM League since 2010.
On the match against Kelantan, Nidzam said: “It will be my team’s biggest match of the season.
They are like ‘Chelsea’ of Malaysian football and we need to be prepared to face them.
“We just want to enjoy our football and, hopefully, my regulars will be fit for this tie,” he added.
SPA, an amateur team, turned the tables on PKR, who fielded six Cambodian internationals, with their never-say-die attitude and their persistence paid off in the 52nd minute.
Zulkifli Affendi Zakri picked up a weak clearance in the penalty box before placing the ball past PKR goalkeeper Sar Saphea to record their biggest win and earn a two-leg quarter-final tie (March 24 and 27) against reigning Super League champions Kelantan.
SPA’s victory over PKR is their second over a professional side this season. In the first round, SPA thrashed Premier League side Johor Baru City Council 3-0.
It’s a feat that as far as coach Mohd Nidzam Jamil is concerned almost amounted to being “a miracle”.
“We’re all incredibly delighted especially to continue in the competition and at the same time create history,” said Nidzam after the match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
“We want to enjoy this (win) before thinking about Kelantan. What makes this so special is that we hold daily jobs and only train after work.
“Our priority, however, is to earn Premier League promotion and not the FA Cup but doing well in it is a bonus and added motivation.”
Nidzam said the hard work and hours of training is the secret behind the club’s Cup run so far.
“PKR are professionals and of course physically and technically they’re much better than us. What made the difference for us was simple motivation.
“My players showed character and their willingness to fight for 90 minutes paid dividends.
“Some of my players even suffered cramps in the final minutes of the match but I expected that to happen as we are an amateur side,” said Nidzam.
Former M-League players Nuraizat Abdul Aziz, Zulkifli Affendi, Sazali Suwandi and Noor Azizi Azman form the core of the SPA side comprising mostly former state President’s Cup players.
They have been competing in the FAM League since 2010.
On the match against Kelantan, Nidzam said: “It will be my team’s biggest match of the season.
They are like ‘Chelsea’ of Malaysian football and we need to be prepared to face them.
“We just want to enjoy our football and, hopefully, my regulars will be fit for this tie,” he added.
Terengganu coach happy gamble to play one striker paid off in FA Cup
Turtles coach Mat Zan Mat Aris is glad that his gamble to play with just one striker paid off as his team beat Perak 1-0 at home in the FA Cup second round on Saturday.
The defending champions, playing with just Liberian Francis Forkey Doe upfront, booked their place in the quarter-finals thanks to Mohd Ashaari Shamsuddin’s volleyed goal from the top of the box at the stroke of half-time at the Sultan Ismail Stadium.
Ashaari could have doubled their lead in the 54th minute but his powerful shot from the edge of the box was well saved by Mohd Nasril Nourdin.
Mat Zan was quick to attribute the win to his chosen 4-1-4-1 formation.
“It allowed us to attack fluidly while the defence remained strong, especially in the wake of Perak’s second-half onslaught,” he said.
“We had a lot of chances to add to our tally but were let down by poor finishing.”
The Turtles were without striker Abdul Hadi Yahya, goalkeeper Mohd Sharbinee Alawee Rahim and captain Marzuki Yusof but still looked solid at the back, with defender Muslim Ahmad wearing the captain’s armband.
“Despite the injuries, we managed to nick a win against a formidable opponent,” Mat Zan said.
“As the FA Cup champions, we must produce a better performance in the quarter-finals.”
Mat Zan also revealed that Marzuki will be out of action for quite a while as he will undergo surgery on his knee.
Terengganu face Singapore Lions XII in the last eight and Mat Zan has cautioned his team to treat their rivals with respect despite having beaten them in the Super League. The Turtles will host the first leg on March 24 before heading to Singapore on March 27 for the return.
“Hopefully, Hadi and Sharbinee will be back for the clash,” he said.
Perak coach Norizan Bakar said he was proud of his team’s performance.
“What more can I say … we gave it our best,” he said.
The defending champions, playing with just Liberian Francis Forkey Doe upfront, booked their place in the quarter-finals thanks to Mohd Ashaari Shamsuddin’s volleyed goal from the top of the box at the stroke of half-time at the Sultan Ismail Stadium.
Ashaari could have doubled their lead in the 54th minute but his powerful shot from the edge of the box was well saved by Mohd Nasril Nourdin.
Mat Zan was quick to attribute the win to his chosen 4-1-4-1 formation.
“It allowed us to attack fluidly while the defence remained strong, especially in the wake of Perak’s second-half onslaught,” he said.
“We had a lot of chances to add to our tally but were let down by poor finishing.”
The Turtles were without striker Abdul Hadi Yahya, goalkeeper Mohd Sharbinee Alawee Rahim and captain Marzuki Yusof but still looked solid at the back, with defender Muslim Ahmad wearing the captain’s armband.
“Despite the injuries, we managed to nick a win against a formidable opponent,” Mat Zan said.
“As the FA Cup champions, we must produce a better performance in the quarter-finals.”
Mat Zan also revealed that Marzuki will be out of action for quite a while as he will undergo surgery on his knee.
Terengganu face Singapore Lions XII in the last eight and Mat Zan has cautioned his team to treat their rivals with respect despite having beaten them in the Super League. The Turtles will host the first leg on March 24 before heading to Singapore on March 27 for the return.
“Hopefully, Hadi and Sharbinee will be back for the clash,” he said.
Perak coach Norizan Bakar said he was proud of his team’s performance.
“What more can I say … we gave it our best,” he said.
Sunday, 11 March 2012
Selangor wastes two goal lead to crash out to Johor FC in FA Cup
Johor FC staged an amazing recovery from two goals down and playing with 10 men for over 100 minutes to knock Selangor out of the FA Cup through a penalty shootout in a dramatic second round tie in Pasir Gudang yesterday.
After Azi Shahril Azmi was dismissed when booked a second time with barely 17 minutes gone, Azidan Sarudin scored on the half-hour mark as he finished off a cross from Fitri Shazwan Raduan to put Selangor ahead.
Selangor were 2-0 up in the 56th minute when Solilhin Kanasian's corner came back off the post for Asraruddin Putra Omar to knock in before Johor FC stunned the visitors when first Arthuro Bernhardt set up Fauzi Shaari to score a minute later before the Brazilian grabbed the equaliser in the 68th minute to force extra-time.
Johor FC won the shootout 5-4 in sudden-death after Solihin Kanesian put Selangor's sixth penalty attempt wide after Zambri Chin had converted his.
Kelantan stayed on track to win the FA Cup for the first time when they beat Kuala Lumpur 3-2 at the Sultan Mohammed IV Stadium and they will next meet FAM League side Public Service Commission who defeated Cambodians Preah Khan Reach 1-0 thanks to striker Zulkifli Affendi Zakri's 52nd minute winner in Bukit Jalil.
Norfarhan Mohammad opened the scoring in the 30th minute for Kelantan after finishing off a quick break before KL drew level in the 39th minute when Afiq Azmi headed home in Hishamuddin Othman's cross.
But Kelantan needed just four minutes to regain the lead through Indra Putra Mahayuddin before Badhri Radzi scored in the 70th minute to make it 3-1. Fazuan Abdullah pulled one back for KL in stoppage time.
Defending champions Terengganu edged Perak 1-0 in Kuala Terengganu after Ashaari Samsudin swiveled to score after Francis Doe's free-kick had come off the Perak wall four minutes into first-half stoppage time while Singapore's LionsXII also advanced to the last eight after Shahril Ishak broke Premier League side Betaria's resistance in the 55th minute before Sufian Annuar made it 2-0 six minutes from time at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
After Azi Shahril Azmi was dismissed when booked a second time with barely 17 minutes gone, Azidan Sarudin scored on the half-hour mark as he finished off a cross from Fitri Shazwan Raduan to put Selangor ahead.
Selangor were 2-0 up in the 56th minute when Solilhin Kanasian's corner came back off the post for Asraruddin Putra Omar to knock in before Johor FC stunned the visitors when first Arthuro Bernhardt set up Fauzi Shaari to score a minute later before the Brazilian grabbed the equaliser in the 68th minute to force extra-time.
Johor FC won the shootout 5-4 in sudden-death after Solihin Kanesian put Selangor's sixth penalty attempt wide after Zambri Chin had converted his.
Kelantan stayed on track to win the FA Cup for the first time when they beat Kuala Lumpur 3-2 at the Sultan Mohammed IV Stadium and they will next meet FAM League side Public Service Commission who defeated Cambodians Preah Khan Reach 1-0 thanks to striker Zulkifli Affendi Zakri's 52nd minute winner in Bukit Jalil.
Norfarhan Mohammad opened the scoring in the 30th minute for Kelantan after finishing off a quick break before KL drew level in the 39th minute when Afiq Azmi headed home in Hishamuddin Othman's cross.
But Kelantan needed just four minutes to regain the lead through Indra Putra Mahayuddin before Badhri Radzi scored in the 70th minute to make it 3-1. Fazuan Abdullah pulled one back for KL in stoppage time.
Defending champions Terengganu edged Perak 1-0 in Kuala Terengganu after Ashaari Samsudin swiveled to score after Francis Doe's free-kick had come off the Perak wall four minutes into first-half stoppage time while Singapore's LionsXII also advanced to the last eight after Shahril Ishak broke Premier League side Betaria's resistance in the 55th minute before Sufian Annuar made it 2-0 six minutes from time at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
Johor FC knocks out Selangor while Singapore and Kelantan progress in FA Cup
Johor FC knocked out five-time champions Selangor in the second round of the FA Cup after winning a dramatic sudden-death penalty shootout 5-4 at the Pasir Gudang Stadium last night.
The Red Giants only have themselves to blame after they squandered a 2-0 lead to allow the club side, who were reduced to 10-man, to bounce back. Former international Azi Shahril Azmi was sent off after only 17 minutes for a reckless tackle on Selangor’s Azidan Saruddin.
The match ended 2-2 in regulation time and both sides failed to break the deadlock in extra-time.
Goalkeeper Mohd Anis Faron Ahmad was the toast of Johor FC when he blocked K. Solihin’s spot-kick during the sudden-death shoot-out.
Mohd Zamri Chin converted the winning penalty for Johor FC, who face Premier League side Sime Darby FC in the quarter-finals.
Selangor went ahead through goals from Azidan Saruddin (30th) and Mohd Asraruddin Putra (56th).
Fauzi Shaari (59th) and Arthuro Bernhardt (66th) replied for Johor FC.
In the shoot-out Mohd Reduan M’aon and Mohd Amirulhadi Zainal missed for Johor FC and Selangor respectively.
Mohd Ashaari Shamsuddin was on target as Terengganu’s edged Perak 1-0 at the Sultan Ismail Stadium.
The national midfielder scored with a well-executed volley from the top of the box on the stroke of half-time.
Ashaari could have doubled the lead in the 54th minute but his powerful shot from the edge of the box was well saved by Mohd Nasril Nourdin.
Young Terengganu custodian Mohd Sharmiza, standing in for the injured Sharbinee Alawee Ramli, impressed with some oustanding saves from Perak striker Akmal Rizal Rakli.
The win was sweet revenge for Turtles as they lost to Perak in the Super League earlier this season.
Terengganu face Lions XII in the last eight.
In an earlier match, Singapore Lions XII eliminated NS Betaria FC 2-0 at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
Skipper Shahril Ishak drew first blood in the 55th minute before young striker Sufian Anuar added the second in the 84th to set up a quarter-final date with Terengganu.
In Kota Baru, Kelantan laboured to a 3-2 win over Kuala Lumpur at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium.
Mohd Norfarhan Mohd (30th), Indra Putra Mahayuddin (42nd) and Mohd Badri Radzi (65) scored for the Red Warriors while KL replied through Mohd Afiq Azmi (37th) and Fazuan Abdullah (90th).
Kelantan face KL SPA in the quarter-finals. The FAM Cup side defeated Preah Khan Reach of Cambodia 1-0 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. Mohd Zulkifli Affendi nailed the winner in the 52nd minute.
In other matches, Sime Darby FC’s beat USM FC 2-0 at the USM Stadium while Kedah edged Perlis 3-2 in Alor Setar.
The Red Giants only have themselves to blame after they squandered a 2-0 lead to allow the club side, who were reduced to 10-man, to bounce back. Former international Azi Shahril Azmi was sent off after only 17 minutes for a reckless tackle on Selangor’s Azidan Saruddin.
The match ended 2-2 in regulation time and both sides failed to break the deadlock in extra-time.
Goalkeeper Mohd Anis Faron Ahmad was the toast of Johor FC when he blocked K. Solihin’s spot-kick during the sudden-death shoot-out.
Mohd Zamri Chin converted the winning penalty for Johor FC, who face Premier League side Sime Darby FC in the quarter-finals.
Selangor went ahead through goals from Azidan Saruddin (30th) and Mohd Asraruddin Putra (56th).
Fauzi Shaari (59th) and Arthuro Bernhardt (66th) replied for Johor FC.
In the shoot-out Mohd Reduan M’aon and Mohd Amirulhadi Zainal missed for Johor FC and Selangor respectively.
Mohd Ashaari Shamsuddin was on target as Terengganu’s edged Perak 1-0 at the Sultan Ismail Stadium.
The national midfielder scored with a well-executed volley from the top of the box on the stroke of half-time.
Ashaari could have doubled the lead in the 54th minute but his powerful shot from the edge of the box was well saved by Mohd Nasril Nourdin.
Young Terengganu custodian Mohd Sharmiza, standing in for the injured Sharbinee Alawee Ramli, impressed with some oustanding saves from Perak striker Akmal Rizal Rakli.
The win was sweet revenge for Turtles as they lost to Perak in the Super League earlier this season.
Terengganu face Lions XII in the last eight.
In an earlier match, Singapore Lions XII eliminated NS Betaria FC 2-0 at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
Skipper Shahril Ishak drew first blood in the 55th minute before young striker Sufian Anuar added the second in the 84th to set up a quarter-final date with Terengganu.
In Kota Baru, Kelantan laboured to a 3-2 win over Kuala Lumpur at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium.
Mohd Norfarhan Mohd (30th), Indra Putra Mahayuddin (42nd) and Mohd Badri Radzi (65) scored for the Red Warriors while KL replied through Mohd Afiq Azmi (37th) and Fazuan Abdullah (90th).
Kelantan face KL SPA in the quarter-finals. The FAM Cup side defeated Preah Khan Reach of Cambodia 1-0 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. Mohd Zulkifli Affendi nailed the winner in the 52nd minute.
In other matches, Sime Darby FC’s beat USM FC 2-0 at the USM Stadium while Kedah edged Perlis 3-2 in Alor Setar.
T-Team coach happy with team's hard-fought win over Pahang in FA Cup
T-Team coach Yunus Alif is glad that his club side never know when they are beaten after fighting back twice for a 3-2 win over Pahang at the Sultan Ismail Stadium to earn a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
“I am very proud of my players … they showed strength of character although we were hardly in the game,” Yunus said yesterday.
“I have always reminded the players to dig in deep and never give up … tonight (Friday) they showed me their will to win and courage to do the impossible.”
Mohd Faiz Subri was the hero for the home side when he grabbed the stoppage-time winner in the 94th minute.
All the goals came in the second-half of a hotly contested match, which saw five players being booked and Pahang having a goal ruled out for offside midway through the second half.
Pahang’s Hazuan Daud opened the scoring in the 49th minute before T-Team drew level through Azrul Hazran six minutes later. Pahang went ahead again in the 58th minute when Mohd Azamuddin Akil scored a wonder goal from a corner kick.
However, T-Team’s Mohd Fadzli Saari more than matched it when he scored with a spectacular bicycle kick to tie the game in the 62nd minute.
“What a goal it was by Fadzli … the bicycle kick was simple magnificent,” enthused Yunus.
With the game poised to go into extra-time, Faiz became Pahang’s public enemy number one when he scored with a glancing header in the 94th minute.
“I reserve special praise for Fadzli and Faiz … they were both wonderful. Their performance spurred their team-mates on,” said Yunus, who was far from impressed with the displays of skipper Zairo Anuar Zailani and goalkeeper Mohd Syamsuri Mustafa.
“Zairo was ineffective but I am sure it will not be long before he finds his form.
“As for Syamsuri … I told him to watch out for the high balls since it was windy.
“His mistake led to Pahang’s second goal.”
Meanwhile, Pahang coach and former national player Dollah Salleh conceded that they lost to a better team.
However, he questioned the standard of refereeing.
Dollah said that the disallowed goal denied his team from taking what would have been a comfortable 3-1 lead.
“The linesman was at fault as our player was not offside. It would have been a different game if that goal had been allowed,” he said.
Yunus, however, is proud of his men’s performance, saying they nearly prodouced an upset.
He feels that their display was a good stepping stone towards better performances in the Premier League.
“I am very proud of my players … they showed strength of character although we were hardly in the game,” Yunus said yesterday.
“I have always reminded the players to dig in deep and never give up … tonight (Friday) they showed me their will to win and courage to do the impossible.”
Mohd Faiz Subri was the hero for the home side when he grabbed the stoppage-time winner in the 94th minute.
All the goals came in the second-half of a hotly contested match, which saw five players being booked and Pahang having a goal ruled out for offside midway through the second half.
Pahang’s Hazuan Daud opened the scoring in the 49th minute before T-Team drew level through Azrul Hazran six minutes later. Pahang went ahead again in the 58th minute when Mohd Azamuddin Akil scored a wonder goal from a corner kick.
However, T-Team’s Mohd Fadzli Saari more than matched it when he scored with a spectacular bicycle kick to tie the game in the 62nd minute.
“What a goal it was by Fadzli … the bicycle kick was simple magnificent,” enthused Yunus.
With the game poised to go into extra-time, Faiz became Pahang’s public enemy number one when he scored with a glancing header in the 94th minute.
“I reserve special praise for Fadzli and Faiz … they were both wonderful. Their performance spurred their team-mates on,” said Yunus, who was far from impressed with the displays of skipper Zairo Anuar Zailani and goalkeeper Mohd Syamsuri Mustafa.
“Zairo was ineffective but I am sure it will not be long before he finds his form.
“As for Syamsuri … I told him to watch out for the high balls since it was windy.
“His mistake led to Pahang’s second goal.”
Meanwhile, Pahang coach and former national player Dollah Salleh conceded that they lost to a better team.
However, he questioned the standard of refereeing.
Dollah said that the disallowed goal denied his team from taking what would have been a comfortable 3-1 lead.
“The linesman was at fault as our player was not offside. It would have been a different game if that goal had been allowed,” he said.
Yunus, however, is proud of his men’s performance, saying they nearly prodouced an upset.
He feels that their display was a good stepping stone towards better performances in the Premier League.
Terengganu, Johor FC and Kedah progress to quarter finals of FA Cup
Defending champion Terengganu moved into the quarterfinals of the FA Cup after beating high riding Perak 1-0 at the Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium in a pulsating match while Selangor were shown the exit by Johor FC at the Pasir Gudang Stadium in Johor.
Selangor and Johor FC which is coached by former Selangor coach K. Devan were tied 2-2 in regulation and extra time, forcing the outcome to be decided by a penalty shootout which was eventually won by Johor FC 5-4.
Terengganu joins another side from the state, T-Team who beat Pahang 3-2 yesterday to become the first team to make the quarterfinals.
In Alor Setar, Kedah put their poor Super League form aside to book their quarterfinal berth after a 3-2 victory over Perlis in an exciting match at the Darul Aman Stadium.
Selangor and Johor FC which is coached by former Selangor coach K. Devan were tied 2-2 in regulation and extra time, forcing the outcome to be decided by a penalty shootout which was eventually won by Johor FC 5-4.
Terengganu joins another side from the state, T-Team who beat Pahang 3-2 yesterday to become the first team to make the quarterfinals.
In Alor Setar, Kedah put their poor Super League form aside to book their quarterfinal berth after a 3-2 victory over Perlis in an exciting match at the Darul Aman Stadium.
Saturday, 10 March 2012
Terengganu striker Manaf Mamat postpones honeymoon to play against Perak in FA Cup
The honeymoon can wait for Manaf Mamat, who married his childhood sweetheart Sabihah Johan, in Kuala Terengganu yesterday.
The 25-year-old said all honeymoon plans will have to wait until after Terengganu take on Perak in the FA Cup second round at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium today.
The striker, who scored Terengganu's winning goal in the 1-0 AFC Cup win over Song Lam Nghe An in Vinh, Vietnam on Tuesday, said the cup tie is too important for him to miss.
"We are the defending champions and our fans will never forgive us if we fail to progress to the quarter-finals.
"I am not sure if coach Mat Zan (Mat Aris) will let me play but I will be with the team at the stadium," he said when met at the bride's residence in Taman Permint Jaya.
Manaf said his wife has long been an ardent Terengganu fan and she will be at the stadium rooting for her team.
"Everyone knows Perak will not be easy to tame, even in our own backyard and all of us will be doing our part to help our team.
"As for me, I can hardly wait to play and score again as it took me a while to score my first goal this season."
The 25-year-old said all honeymoon plans will have to wait until after Terengganu take on Perak in the FA Cup second round at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium today.
The striker, who scored Terengganu's winning goal in the 1-0 AFC Cup win over Song Lam Nghe An in Vinh, Vietnam on Tuesday, said the cup tie is too important for him to miss.
"We are the defending champions and our fans will never forgive us if we fail to progress to the quarter-finals.
"I am not sure if coach Mat Zan (Mat Aris) will let me play but I will be with the team at the stadium," he said when met at the bride's residence in Taman Permint Jaya.
Manaf said his wife has long been an ardent Terengganu fan and she will be at the stadium rooting for her team.
"Everyone knows Perak will not be easy to tame, even in our own backyard and all of us will be doing our part to help our team.
"As for me, I can hardly wait to play and score again as it took me a while to score my first goal this season."
T-Team beat Pahang to progress to quarter-final of FA Cup
Club side T-Team became the first team to book their FA Cup quarter-final ticket after coming from behind twice to edge Pahang 3-2 in a dramatic match at the Sultan Ismail Stadium last night.
Mohd Faiz Subri turned hero for the home side when he grabbed the stoppage-time winner in the 94th minute.
All goals were scored in the second-half of the evenly contested and fiery tie, which saw five players booked.
Pahang drew first blood in the 49th minute when Hazuan Daud’s screamer from the edge of the box stunned T-Team goalkeeper Mohd Syamsuri Mustafa.
T-Team took just six minutes to draw level when Azrul Hazran found the net with a powerful shot from inside the box.
The home crowd’s cheers were silenced in spectacular fashion in the 58th minute when Pahang’s top scorer Mohd Azamuddin Akil curled a corner kick directly into the T-Team goal, leaving goalkeeper Mohd Syamsuri Mustafa shell-shocked.
Azamuddin’s audacious effort, however, was matched by T-Team’s former international striker Mohd Fadzli Saari in the 62nd minute.
Fadzli had the crowd up on their feet again when his breathtaking bicycle kick from the top of the box landed on the right corner of the Pahang goal.
Just when the game seemed headed for extra-time, Faiz broke the Elephants’ hearts when his glancing header caught goalkeeper Wan Azrain Wan Teh off-guard.
Mohd Faiz Subri turned hero for the home side when he grabbed the stoppage-time winner in the 94th minute.
All goals were scored in the second-half of the evenly contested and fiery tie, which saw five players booked.
Pahang drew first blood in the 49th minute when Hazuan Daud’s screamer from the edge of the box stunned T-Team goalkeeper Mohd Syamsuri Mustafa.
T-Team took just six minutes to draw level when Azrul Hazran found the net with a powerful shot from inside the box.
The home crowd’s cheers were silenced in spectacular fashion in the 58th minute when Pahang’s top scorer Mohd Azamuddin Akil curled a corner kick directly into the T-Team goal, leaving goalkeeper Mohd Syamsuri Mustafa shell-shocked.
Azamuddin’s audacious effort, however, was matched by T-Team’s former international striker Mohd Fadzli Saari in the 62nd minute.
Fadzli had the crowd up on their feet again when his breathtaking bicycle kick from the top of the box landed on the right corner of the Pahang goal.
Just when the game seemed headed for extra-time, Faiz broke the Elephants’ hearts when his glancing header caught goalkeeper Wan Azrain Wan Teh off-guard.
Friday, 9 March 2012
Pahang looking to upset T-Team in FA Cup
Pahang have warned their rivals that they aim to continue with their giant-killing ways in the FA Cup competition when they face Super League outfit T-Team in the second round at the Sultan Ismail Stadium in Kuala Terengganu tonight.
The Premier League side upset top flight team Felda United FC 1-0 last month and coach Dollah Salleh is confident his men can pull off another surprise.
“We have a good chance to clinch a quarter-final ticket. We are not bragging but, based on the team’s strong performances and our current form, I won’t be surprised if we pull off another upset against T-Team,” said Dollah from Kuala Terengganu yesterday.
The Pahang coach expects his two new Russian signings – Boris Kochkin and Eduard Sakhnevich – to provide more fire up front and to work in tandem with in-form forward Mohd Azamuddin Akil, who already has six goals to his credit.
“The two Russians are getting better and this is a good sign for us. Azamuddin is on fire and has been outstanding in creating chances and scoring,” said Dollah.
T-Team, who beat Premier League side Johor 2-0 in the first round, will find Pahang a tough nut to crack this time and the Terengganu outfit’s coach Yunus Alif will have to be wary of the threat posed by a resurgent Pahang, who won the FA Cup in 2006.
Pahang, FA Cup winners in 2006, are looking for a good run in the competition.
Although the Elephants are looking for a good run in the Cup competition, Dollah said their priority would be to top the Premier League and win promotion to the top flight.
After eight matches, Pahang are in second spot in the 12-team standings with 19 points – two behind leaders Armed Forces.
The Premier League side upset top flight team Felda United FC 1-0 last month and coach Dollah Salleh is confident his men can pull off another surprise.
“We have a good chance to clinch a quarter-final ticket. We are not bragging but, based on the team’s strong performances and our current form, I won’t be surprised if we pull off another upset against T-Team,” said Dollah from Kuala Terengganu yesterday.
The Pahang coach expects his two new Russian signings – Boris Kochkin and Eduard Sakhnevich – to provide more fire up front and to work in tandem with in-form forward Mohd Azamuddin Akil, who already has six goals to his credit.
“The two Russians are getting better and this is a good sign for us. Azamuddin is on fire and has been outstanding in creating chances and scoring,” said Dollah.
T-Team, who beat Premier League side Johor 2-0 in the first round, will find Pahang a tough nut to crack this time and the Terengganu outfit’s coach Yunus Alif will have to be wary of the threat posed by a resurgent Pahang, who won the FA Cup in 2006.
Pahang, FA Cup winners in 2006, are looking for a good run in the competition.
Although the Elephants are looking for a good run in the Cup competition, Dollah said their priority would be to top the Premier League and win promotion to the top flight.
After eight matches, Pahang are in second spot in the 12-team standings with 19 points – two behind leaders Armed Forces.
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