The Malaysian SEA Games football line-up will be announced in two days' time as the squad will leave earlier than expected for Jakarta, said Olympic coach Ong Kim Swee.
He said the squad would leave for Jakarta either on Friday or Saturday as the SEA Games football tournament would start two days earlier than scheduled with Malaysia pitted against Singapore in the opening encounter.
Speaking to reporters after the Malaysian under-23 Olympic squad friendly against Laos at the Shah Alam Stadium here Sunday, he said the line-up would likely include injured players as he was optimistic that they would recover before the tournament kick-off.
The probable players, who are still nursing their injuries, are Muhammad Zamir Selamat, Gary Steven Robbat, Wan Zack Haikal Wan Noor and Wan Zaharulnizam Zakaria.
On the friendly with Laos, Kim Swee said he was satisfied with the performance of his charges who came back from behind to beat Laos 4-1.
"Despite missing key players, we managed to beat the Laos national squad. However, we were a pale shadow of ourselves, in the first half.
"Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim, who replaced the injured Wan Zack Haikal, lived up to expectations by netting two goals," added Kim Swee.
Laos stunned Malaysia when they opened scoring through Sangvong Phimmasen in the 21st minute.
However, Malaysia clawed their was back into the game in the second half by scoring through Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim (72nd, 77th minutes), Mohd Fandi Othman (62nd min) and A. Thamil Arasu (82nd min).
Monday, 31 October 2011
Shah Alam Stadium to be closed for repairs
The Shah Alam Stadium which hosted the Malaysia Cup final between Negeri Sembilan and Terengganu on Saturday will be closed for three months to facilitate upgrading works at a cost of RM4 million.
Shah Alam Mayor Datuk Mohd Jaafar Mohd Atan said among work to be carried out involves the roof of the stadium, floodlights, electricity cables, toilets, field and meetings rooms.
"Basically the stadium is in good condition but we do not want to wait until the condition of the facilities deteriorate further. It is a proactive measure to ensure the stadium remains in good condition, especially the field," he told reporters after Shah Alam Municipal Council (MBSA) monthly meeting here today.
The Shah Alam which was officially opened in July 1994 had hosted numerous prestigious events, including events during the 1998 Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games.
However, the condition of the field and some facilities in the stadium which hosted the Malaysia Cup final on Saturday, drew criticism from fans, media and officials.
Shah Alam Mayor Datuk Mohd Jaafar Mohd Atan said among work to be carried out involves the roof of the stadium, floodlights, electricity cables, toilets, field and meetings rooms.
"Basically the stadium is in good condition but we do not want to wait until the condition of the facilities deteriorate further. It is a proactive measure to ensure the stadium remains in good condition, especially the field," he told reporters after Shah Alam Municipal Council (MBSA) monthly meeting here today.
The Shah Alam which was officially opened in July 1994 had hosted numerous prestigious events, including events during the 1998 Kuala Lumpur Commonwealth Games.
However, the condition of the field and some facilities in the stadium which hosted the Malaysia Cup final on Saturday, drew criticism from fans, media and officials.
Negeri Sembilan wants to keep Malaysia Cup winning squad together
Negeri Sembilan Football Association (NSFA) president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has reminded his players to repel offers from other teams that may try to lure them with lucrative offers.
He issued the reminder following rumours that a number of Negeri Sembilan players whose contracts expire in November, have become the target of other teams who are prepared to offer better perks.
"I hope the players will not be attracted by unrealistic offers. I am not trying to stop them from leaving but I do not want them to be trapped by a similar situation that happened in the early 90s whereby players were offered high salaries and perks by some 'rich' teams.
"However, the teams later winded up their operation and some players were not paid their salaries for three to four months," he said here today.
Mohamad who is also the Menteri Besar said NSFA had never delayed the salary or incentives of players.
"Those who take up such offers must weigh such offers carefully because it is their career and future. It will be pointless to accept lucrative offers from teams that later cannot fulfill their obligation. We have heard many such cases in the past," he said.
However, when asked whether NSFA would increase the salary of players after their Malaysia Cup success, Mohamad said the FA has not made any decision yet.
"We are not going to rush into making a decision because we want players to play for the passion of the game and produce quality performances. If we continue to debate on salary increase there will be no end to the issue and football will be the loser in the end," he said.
As for coach Azraai Khor Abdullah, he said the former Kedah and national coach who took over from Wan Jamak Wan Hassan in March, still has a contract with NSFA and would be tasked to continue building a strong team.
He added that in line with the Football Association of Malaysia's decision to allow teams to sign import players, Negeri Sembilan would practice caution when signing these 'import players' next season.
Meanwhile, Azraai said his players would resume training on Wednesday after being given three days rest since beating Terengganu 2-1 to win the Malaysia Cup for the third time.
He issued the reminder following rumours that a number of Negeri Sembilan players whose contracts expire in November, have become the target of other teams who are prepared to offer better perks.
"I hope the players will not be attracted by unrealistic offers. I am not trying to stop them from leaving but I do not want them to be trapped by a similar situation that happened in the early 90s whereby players were offered high salaries and perks by some 'rich' teams.
"However, the teams later winded up their operation and some players were not paid their salaries for three to four months," he said here today.
Mohamad who is also the Menteri Besar said NSFA had never delayed the salary or incentives of players.
"Those who take up such offers must weigh such offers carefully because it is their career and future. It will be pointless to accept lucrative offers from teams that later cannot fulfill their obligation. We have heard many such cases in the past," he said.
However, when asked whether NSFA would increase the salary of players after their Malaysia Cup success, Mohamad said the FA has not made any decision yet.
"We are not going to rush into making a decision because we want players to play for the passion of the game and produce quality performances. If we continue to debate on salary increase there will be no end to the issue and football will be the loser in the end," he said.
As for coach Azraai Khor Abdullah, he said the former Kedah and national coach who took over from Wan Jamak Wan Hassan in March, still has a contract with NSFA and would be tasked to continue building a strong team.
He added that in line with the Football Association of Malaysia's decision to allow teams to sign import players, Negeri Sembilan would practice caution when signing these 'import players' next season.
Meanwhile, Azraai said his players would resume training on Wednesday after being given three days rest since beating Terengganu 2-1 to win the Malaysia Cup for the third time.
SEA Games squad may include injured players
Coach Ong Kim Swee may take his injured players to Jakarta for the men’s Under-23 SEA Games football competition, provided they have a good chance of fully recovering there.
Kim Swee was referring to the quartet of defender Mohd Amer Saidin and midfielders Wan Zack Haikal Wan Nor, Gary Steven Robbat and Wan Zaharulnizam Zakaria.
“I have a few more days to decide on the team list for the Indonesia SEA Games,” said Kim Swee after his side beat their Laos counterpart 4-1 in a friendly at the Shah Alam Stadium yesterday.
“I hope Gary, Wan Zack, Amer and Wan Zaharulnizam will recover in time … but if they don’t, I might take along those who have a good chance of recovering in Jakarta.”
Meanwhile, Kim Swee slammed his players’ complacency in the friendly against Laos, which was the team’s final preparation for the SEA Games.
Malaysia had to stage a comeback in the second half after going a goal down to Laos’ Sangvonie Pnomsoovan in the 20th minute.
Rightback Fandi Othman equalised for Malaysia in the 62nd minute before going 3-1 up, thanks to a brace by winger Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim (72nd, 77th).
Striker A. Thamil Arasu then added the fourth goal in the 82nd minute before the match was ended three minutes early due to the water-logged pitch.
“The players took it easy … we must not have this kind of attitute,” said Kim Swee.
“We bounced back in the second half to win the match but the players must remember that it won’t be easy to make a comeback against tougher opponents.”
Kim Swee is expected to name his squad to Jakarta on Wednesday.
Defending champions Malaysia have been drawn in the “Group of Death” with hosts Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore and Cambodia in Group A.
They will leave for Jakarta on Saturday and open their Group A campaign against Singapore on Nov 7, followed by Thailand (Nov 9), Cam-bodia (Nov 13) and Indonesia (Nov 17). All the matches will be played at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.
Vietnam, the losing finalists in the Laos Games two years ago, are in Group B with Myanmar, the Philippines, Timor Leste, Laos and Brunei.
Kim Swee was referring to the quartet of defender Mohd Amer Saidin and midfielders Wan Zack Haikal Wan Nor, Gary Steven Robbat and Wan Zaharulnizam Zakaria.
“I have a few more days to decide on the team list for the Indonesia SEA Games,” said Kim Swee after his side beat their Laos counterpart 4-1 in a friendly at the Shah Alam Stadium yesterday.
“I hope Gary, Wan Zack, Amer and Wan Zaharulnizam will recover in time … but if they don’t, I might take along those who have a good chance of recovering in Jakarta.”
Meanwhile, Kim Swee slammed his players’ complacency in the friendly against Laos, which was the team’s final preparation for the SEA Games.
Malaysia had to stage a comeback in the second half after going a goal down to Laos’ Sangvonie Pnomsoovan in the 20th minute.
Rightback Fandi Othman equalised for Malaysia in the 62nd minute before going 3-1 up, thanks to a brace by winger Syahrul Azwari Ibrahim (72nd, 77th).
Striker A. Thamil Arasu then added the fourth goal in the 82nd minute before the match was ended three minutes early due to the water-logged pitch.
“The players took it easy … we must not have this kind of attitute,” said Kim Swee.
“We bounced back in the second half to win the match but the players must remember that it won’t be easy to make a comeback against tougher opponents.”
Kim Swee is expected to name his squad to Jakarta on Wednesday.
Defending champions Malaysia have been drawn in the “Group of Death” with hosts Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore and Cambodia in Group A.
They will leave for Jakarta on Saturday and open their Group A campaign against Singapore on Nov 7, followed by Thailand (Nov 9), Cam-bodia (Nov 13) and Indonesia (Nov 17). All the matches will be played at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.
Vietnam, the losing finalists in the Laos Games two years ago, are in Group B with Myanmar, the Philippines, Timor Leste, Laos and Brunei.
Sunday, 30 October 2011
Negeri Sembilan win second Malaysia Cup in 3 years
Negeri Sembilan's two-year wait for the Malaysia Cup ended with a 2-1 victory against Terengganu at the Stadium Shah Alam, here Saturday night.
Hairuddin Omar emerged the hero for the Hoben Jang Hoben team after scoring the winning goal, breaking the 1-1 deadlock earlier in the game.
The last time Negeri Sembilan won the Cup was in 2009, beating Kelantan 3-1.
Playing in front of 70,000 supporters, both teams went on the offensive right from the starting whistle but no goals were forthcoming.
Negeri Sembilan could have scored first in the early minutes of the game but Hairuddin's attempt only managed to rock the goal post.
In the 23rd minute, Terengganu's sensational striker Abdul Manaf Mamat shook off his markers and made a shot pass Negeri Sembilan's goalkeeper Mohd Farizal Marlias but the shot hit the bar.
A minute later, Negeri Sembilan launched a counter-attack which found S. Kunanlan inside the box but his shot went wide.
Terengganu finally found the much-awaited goal after the breather.
Abdul Manaf made an overlapping run in the flank before executing a well-calculated through pass which found Ashaari Samsudin inside the box.
Ashaari made no mistake with his grounder and put his team ahead 1-0 in the 59th minute.
Negeri Sembilan was unperturbed by the deficit and managed to level the score in the 81st minute through Kunanlan after miscalculation by the Terengganu goalkeeper, who failed to catch the ball which bounced from the ground off a lob from the striker.
Five minutes later, Hairuddin received a cross from the right and executed a scissor kick that brought home the winning goal.
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin presented the Cup to the winning team. Hairuddin was named Man of the Match.
Hairuddin Omar emerged the hero for the Hoben Jang Hoben team after scoring the winning goal, breaking the 1-1 deadlock earlier in the game.
The last time Negeri Sembilan won the Cup was in 2009, beating Kelantan 3-1.
Playing in front of 70,000 supporters, both teams went on the offensive right from the starting whistle but no goals were forthcoming.
Negeri Sembilan could have scored first in the early minutes of the game but Hairuddin's attempt only managed to rock the goal post.
In the 23rd minute, Terengganu's sensational striker Abdul Manaf Mamat shook off his markers and made a shot pass Negeri Sembilan's goalkeeper Mohd Farizal Marlias but the shot hit the bar.
A minute later, Negeri Sembilan launched a counter-attack which found S. Kunanlan inside the box but his shot went wide.
Terengganu finally found the much-awaited goal after the breather.
Abdul Manaf made an overlapping run in the flank before executing a well-calculated through pass which found Ashaari Samsudin inside the box.
Ashaari made no mistake with his grounder and put his team ahead 1-0 in the 59th minute.
Negeri Sembilan was unperturbed by the deficit and managed to level the score in the 81st minute through Kunanlan after miscalculation by the Terengganu goalkeeper, who failed to catch the ball which bounced from the ground off a lob from the striker.
Five minutes later, Hairuddin received a cross from the right and executed a scissor kick that brought home the winning goal.
Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin presented the Cup to the winning team. Hairuddin was named Man of the Match.
Match winner Hairuddin Omar describes goal as best ever
Negri Sembilan striker Hairuddin Omar described his spectacular scissor-kick goal as the best ever.
The 32-year-old football nomad said it happened so fast and he had react instinctively to go acrobatic to connect the low cross from skipper Mohd Shukor Adan for Negri’s winning goal against Terengganu (2-1) in the Malaysia Cup final at the Shah Alam Stadium last night.
“It is the best goal ever and I have scored in the previous two finals, too. But nothing beats this fantastic strike in front of the 80,000 fans,” said Hairuddin.
Hairuddin holds the distinction of having won three Malaysia Cup winners medal since 2009.
He won it with Negri in their 3-1 win over Kelantan (2009). The following year he featured for Kelantan and scored in their 2-1 win against Negri.
“I can still score goals and as along as my legs don’t give way, I will continue to do what I do best,” said Hairuddin, who has nine goals in the Malaysia Cup competition.
Hairuddin said his persistence paid off.
“I was frustarted after Terengganu clamped down on me throughout the match. They were breathing down my neck and I could not get my act right. But I knew it will just take a moment of brilliance to score. And it came four minutes from time,” said Hairuddin.
Negri coach Mohd Azraai Khor Abdullah was full of praise for his seasoned hands – Idris Karim, 35, Hairuddin, 32 while Norhafiz Zamani Misbah, Mohd Shukor Adan, Irwan Fadli Idrus are all in the 30’s.
“They are my wise men and they have proved that with proper training and a little bit of sports science assistance they are still worth the money,” said Azraai, who celebrated his 59th birthday on Tuesday.
“It is wonderful birthday gift and I am happy for the whole Negri team. We had our ups and downs due to injury problems but in the end we proved that we are still champion material,”.
Azraai said he knew they would wrap up the game in 90 minutes.
“We kept on pressing even thouugh we went behind 0-1 at the hour mark. And this is where experience comes in and all my seniors players did well in their positions. I must salute our inspirational skipper Mohd Shukor. He was everywhere on the field.
“It gives me great satisfaction working with this mixed team of young and senior players. Many said that I won the double treble with Kedah because of the foreign players. Now I have proven them all wrong.
“My credit goes to Terengganu, too. They did well to win the FA Cup. In fact, many had predicted Terengganu to win but I knew that Negri can win it because of our experience,” said Azraai.
The 32-year-old football nomad said it happened so fast and he had react instinctively to go acrobatic to connect the low cross from skipper Mohd Shukor Adan for Negri’s winning goal against Terengganu (2-1) in the Malaysia Cup final at the Shah Alam Stadium last night.
“It is the best goal ever and I have scored in the previous two finals, too. But nothing beats this fantastic strike in front of the 80,000 fans,” said Hairuddin.
Hairuddin holds the distinction of having won three Malaysia Cup winners medal since 2009.
He won it with Negri in their 3-1 win over Kelantan (2009). The following year he featured for Kelantan and scored in their 2-1 win against Negri.
“I can still score goals and as along as my legs don’t give way, I will continue to do what I do best,” said Hairuddin, who has nine goals in the Malaysia Cup competition.
Hairuddin said his persistence paid off.
“I was frustarted after Terengganu clamped down on me throughout the match. They were breathing down my neck and I could not get my act right. But I knew it will just take a moment of brilliance to score. And it came four minutes from time,” said Hairuddin.
Negri coach Mohd Azraai Khor Abdullah was full of praise for his seasoned hands – Idris Karim, 35, Hairuddin, 32 while Norhafiz Zamani Misbah, Mohd Shukor Adan, Irwan Fadli Idrus are all in the 30’s.
“They are my wise men and they have proved that with proper training and a little bit of sports science assistance they are still worth the money,” said Azraai, who celebrated his 59th birthday on Tuesday.
“It is wonderful birthday gift and I am happy for the whole Negri team. We had our ups and downs due to injury problems but in the end we proved that we are still champion material,”.
Azraai said he knew they would wrap up the game in 90 minutes.
“We kept on pressing even thouugh we went behind 0-1 at the hour mark. And this is where experience comes in and all my seniors players did well in their positions. I must salute our inspirational skipper Mohd Shukor. He was everywhere on the field.
“It gives me great satisfaction working with this mixed team of young and senior players. Many said that I won the double treble with Kedah because of the foreign players. Now I have proven them all wrong.
“My credit goes to Terengganu, too. They did well to win the FA Cup. In fact, many had predicted Terengganu to win but I knew that Negri can win it because of our experience,” said Azraai.
Negeri Sembilan come back from behind to win Malaysia Cup
Hairuddin Omar scored a spectacular scissor-kick goal four minutes from time to give Negri Sembilan a dramatic come-from-behind 2-1 win over Terengganu in a pulsating Malaysia Cup final at the Shah Alam Stadium last night.
Mohd Ashaari Shamsuddin had given the east coast side the lead in the 59th minute but Negri’s nippy winger S. Kunalan equalised with a curling shot in the 81st minute.
Then, with four minutes on the clock Hairuddin, who is noted for his headers in front of goal, stunned the 80,000 capacity crowd with a scissor-kick strike.
Negri skipper Mohd Shukor Adan orchestrated the move with his precise passing and Hairuddin made no mistake as he tucked the ball away from the outstretched hands of Terengganu custodian Mohd Sharbinee Allawee.
It was unfortunate for Terengganu not to cap their season with the most prestigious silverware after having won the FA Cup and finishing runners-up to neighbours Kelantan in the Super League.
Terengganu coach Irfan Bakti even said they would win last night’s final when he said that “this is the season for Terengganu” after their Herculean efforts to beat Kelantan (5-3 on aggregate) and 32-time winners Selangor (4-1 on aggregate) in the quarter and semi-finals respectively.
But it was not their night.
Negri coach Mohd Azraai Khor Abdullah will be proud of his senior citizens especially skipper Mohd Shukor, centre-back Norhafiz Zamani Misbah and the hero of the night Hairuddin – all in their prime of their playing careers.
The only thing missing from the pulsating opening half was the goals.
Negri dominated the procedings and won most of the possession in midfield with the fleet-footed Terengganu boys surprisingly reduced to just counter attacks.
The spotlight was on Negri’s targetman Hairuddin Omar, whose best chance of the half came in the opening 47 seconds of the match when he missed a sitter in front of goal with only Terengganu goalkeeper Mohd Sharbinee Allawee to beat.
Hairuddin with eight goals in the Malaysia Cup, six from headers, was heavily marked last night.
Still they could not prevent him from scoring the winner which was his third consecutive goal in three Malaysia Cup finals. He scored for Negri in 2009 when they beat Kelantan and then for Kelantan in 2010 when they beat Negri.
Terengganu were unable to dish out their smooth flowing attacking game with playmaker Joseph Kallang Tie and Reeshafiq Alwi unable to get their act right.
Hotshot Abdul Manaf Mamat had the best chance when he broke loose into the box but his shot was denied by the woodwork in the 23rd minute.
Lanky Mohd Ashaari Shamsuddin provided some anxious moments for the Terengganu fans with his strong runs and even came close with a shot at goal which Negri goalkeeper Mohd Farizal Marlias saved in the 21st minute.
Negri’s speedy flankers S. Kunalan and Shahurain Abu Samah were a menace in the Terengganu half creating the openings through their darting runs.
It was Terengganu’s baby face asssassin Mohd Ashaari who drew first blood when he latched onto Abdul Manaf’s pass to whip the ball past Negri goalkeeper Mohd Farizal in the 59th minute.
All of a sudden Terengganu had fresh legs and they kept Negri pinned in their own half but Negr’s persistence paid off as Kunalan stunned the crowd with a left-footed cross which sailed into the net beating an off-guard Terengganu goalkeeper Mohd Sharbinee in the 80th minute.
Then, it was Hairuddin’s, also fondly called “Hai O”, turn to make it a memorable night for Negri in the 86th minute. The goal also delivered the third consecutive Malaysia Cup winners’ medal for Hairuddin.
Terengganu: Mohd Sharbinee Allawee, Reeshafiq Alwi, Joseph Kallang Tie, Abdul Hadi Yahya (Ismail Faruqi), Mazlizam Mohd (Helmi Remeli), Mohd Zubir Azmi, Mohd Marzuki Yusof, Ahmad Nordin Alias, Abdul Manaf Mamat, Mohd Ashaari Shamsuddin, Mohd Faizal Mohd.
N. Sembilan: Mohd Farizal Marlias, Norhafiz Zamani Misbah, S. Kunalan, Mohd Aidil Zafuan, Shahurain Abu Samah (Mohd Firdaus Azizul), Abdul Halim Zainal, Mohd Shukor Adan, Qhairul Anwar Roslani, Idris Karim, Hairuddin Omar, Irwan Fadli Idrus
Saturday, 29 October 2011
Terengganu favourites to win Malaysia Cup final
The east coast teams are fast emerging as a new force in Malaysian football.
Kelantan proved it last year when the Red Warriors made history by winning the Malaysia Cup for the first time since 1921 (Malaya Cup).
This year, it’s Kelantan’s bitter rivals and neighbours Terengganu who are hogging the limelight.
The Turtles are on a roll – they won the FA Cup, finished runners-up in the Super League (behind Kelantan) and now will battle it out with Negri Sembilan in the Malaysia Cup final at the Shah Alam Stadium today.
Terengganu, who last won the Cup in 2001, will start as the favourites after their Herculean efforts in the knockout stages.
Coach Irfan Bakti’s men eliminated defending champions Kelantan 5-3 on aggregate in the quarter-final before humbling 32-time winners Selangor 4-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals.
“I guess this is going to be our year,” said Irfan.
On paper, everything seems to point to Irfan’s men lifting the Cup.
They’ve got class acts all over the pitch – from playmakers Joseph Kallang Tie and Ismail Faruqi to hotshots Abdul Manaf Mamat and Abdul Hadi Yahya; the speedy Mohd Ashaari Shamsuddin, Reeshafiq Alwi; and influential skipper and defender Mohd Marzuki Yusof, the sole member from the 2001 Cup-winning squad who beat Perak 2-1.
Coach Mohd Azraai Khor Abdullah’s Negri, meanwhile, are a unique side. The Deer seem to thrive in the Malaysia Cup – this is their third straight final.
This is in contrast to their poor showing in the Super League (8th position) and FA Cup (knocked out 4-2 on penalty kicks by Kuala Lumpur in the second round).
“I don’t have to say much about this Negri team … our record speaks for itself. After all, we are in our third straight final,” said Mohd Azraai, who had guided Kedah to win the treble (Malaysia Cup, FA Cup, Super League) back-to-back in 2007 and 2008.
Negri will also have all their best men available, including the injured Abdul Razak twins of Mohd Aidil Zafuan (centreback) and Mohd Zaquan Adha (striker).
But it is their hired hand from Terengganu – Hairuddin Omar – who is causing all the buzz.
The 32-year-old former international, fondly known as “Hai O”, holds the key in Negri’s strikeforce.
Terengganu would be well advised to keep a tight leash on this deadly finisher, who has a knack of scoring with headers in Cup finals.
The Setiu-born striker has done twice – in the 2009 and 2010 finals.
In 2009, he was with Negri and scored with a header in their 3-1 win over Kelantan.
The following year, he hopped over to Kelantan and guided the Red Warriors to the Cup when he again scored with a header in their 2-1 win over Negri in the final.
“I am just a hired hand who plays for any team who want my services. I will be playing against my home team but that is not important to me. I am a professional and I will do what I do best,” said Hairuddin.
So, can Negri’s hired-hand from Setiu dash his home team’s dream or will Terengganu show that they are the new footballing powerhouse?
Either way, get set for a cracking showdown.
Kelantan proved it last year when the Red Warriors made history by winning the Malaysia Cup for the first time since 1921 (Malaya Cup).
This year, it’s Kelantan’s bitter rivals and neighbours Terengganu who are hogging the limelight.
The Turtles are on a roll – they won the FA Cup, finished runners-up in the Super League (behind Kelantan) and now will battle it out with Negri Sembilan in the Malaysia Cup final at the Shah Alam Stadium today.
Terengganu, who last won the Cup in 2001, will start as the favourites after their Herculean efforts in the knockout stages.
Coach Irfan Bakti’s men eliminated defending champions Kelantan 5-3 on aggregate in the quarter-final before humbling 32-time winners Selangor 4-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals.
“I guess this is going to be our year,” said Irfan.
On paper, everything seems to point to Irfan’s men lifting the Cup.
They’ve got class acts all over the pitch – from playmakers Joseph Kallang Tie and Ismail Faruqi to hotshots Abdul Manaf Mamat and Abdul Hadi Yahya; the speedy Mohd Ashaari Shamsuddin, Reeshafiq Alwi; and influential skipper and defender Mohd Marzuki Yusof, the sole member from the 2001 Cup-winning squad who beat Perak 2-1.
Coach Mohd Azraai Khor Abdullah’s Negri, meanwhile, are a unique side. The Deer seem to thrive in the Malaysia Cup – this is their third straight final.
This is in contrast to their poor showing in the Super League (8th position) and FA Cup (knocked out 4-2 on penalty kicks by Kuala Lumpur in the second round).
“I don’t have to say much about this Negri team … our record speaks for itself. After all, we are in our third straight final,” said Mohd Azraai, who had guided Kedah to win the treble (Malaysia Cup, FA Cup, Super League) back-to-back in 2007 and 2008.
Negri will also have all their best men available, including the injured Abdul Razak twins of Mohd Aidil Zafuan (centreback) and Mohd Zaquan Adha (striker).
But it is their hired hand from Terengganu – Hairuddin Omar – who is causing all the buzz.
The 32-year-old former international, fondly known as “Hai O”, holds the key in Negri’s strikeforce.
Terengganu would be well advised to keep a tight leash on this deadly finisher, who has a knack of scoring with headers in Cup finals.
The Setiu-born striker has done twice – in the 2009 and 2010 finals.
In 2009, he was with Negri and scored with a header in their 3-1 win over Kelantan.
The following year, he hopped over to Kelantan and guided the Red Warriors to the Cup when he again scored with a header in their 2-1 win over Negri in the final.
“I am just a hired hand who plays for any team who want my services. I will be playing against my home team but that is not important to me. I am a professional and I will do what I do best,” said Hairuddin.
So, can Negri’s hired-hand from Setiu dash his home team’s dream or will Terengganu show that they are the new footballing powerhouse?
Either way, get set for a cracking showdown.
Terengganu fans ready to support their team in final
The Shah Alam Stadium will be a sea of white tonight as more than 10,000 Terengganu fans are expected to make the trip to witness the Malaysia Cup final between the Turtles and Negri Sembilan.
More than 20 buses have been chartered by the various fan clubs here to ferry the fans some 450km from Kuala Terengganu to Shah Alam in Selangor.
Terengganu Football Fan Club (Peteh) secretary Wan Mohd Azmi Wan Ngah said the fans began leaving for Shah Alam yesterday.
More than 20 buses have been chartered by the various fan clubs here to ferry the fans some 450km from Kuala Terengganu to Shah Alam in Selangor.
Terengganu Football Fan Club (Peteh) secretary Wan Mohd Azmi Wan Ngah said the fans began leaving for Shah Alam yesterday.
Terengganu relying on attack to destroy Negeri Sembilan
Similar to the Triple-A guns used in battles, the Turtles will be counting on their own Triple-A weapon to gun down Negri Sembilan in today’s Malaysia Cup final.
(The Triple-A is an abbreviation of anti-aircraft artillery.)
Although not as deadly as the real gun, Terengganu’s attacking trio of Abdul Manaf Mamat, Abdul Hadi Yahya and Ashaari Sham-suddin are no less lethal as they get set set to terrorise Negri’s defence at the Shah Alam Stadium.
Abdul Hadi, the top scorer in the Super League this season, is hoping to end his Malaysia Cup jinx, having not found the net thus far.
“What better way to break my goal drought than scoring in the final,” he said.
Abdul Manaf is confident that he and his two sidekicks will make life miserable for Negri’s defenders.
“We understand each other’s style and are in sync with one another. I hope that we can make an impact,” he said.
“If we stay focused and stick to the game plan – and with a little luck – we can win the match.”
Ashaari, known as Saha among team-mates and fans, was just as upbeat.
“This our chance and we must not let our fans down. This the home stretch, so let’s bring the Cup back home,” he said.
(The Triple-A is an abbreviation of anti-aircraft artillery.)
Although not as deadly as the real gun, Terengganu’s attacking trio of Abdul Manaf Mamat, Abdul Hadi Yahya and Ashaari Sham-suddin are no less lethal as they get set set to terrorise Negri’s defence at the Shah Alam Stadium.
Abdul Hadi, the top scorer in the Super League this season, is hoping to end his Malaysia Cup jinx, having not found the net thus far.
“What better way to break my goal drought than scoring in the final,” he said.
Abdul Manaf is confident that he and his two sidekicks will make life miserable for Negri’s defenders.
“We understand each other’s style and are in sync with one another. I hope that we can make an impact,” he said.
“If we stay focused and stick to the game plan – and with a little luck – we can win the match.”
Ashaari, known as Saha among team-mates and fans, was just as upbeat.
“This our chance and we must not let our fans down. This the home stretch, so let’s bring the Cup back home,” he said.
Friends Marzuki and Hairuddin set to battle in final
Terengganu skipper and defender Marzuki Yusof has only one message for Negri Sembilan hotshot Hairuddin Omar: “No Entry Hai-O”.
The two good friends, who were in Terengganu’s Malaysia Cup winning team in 2001, will be on opposite sides when their teams meet in the Malaysia Cup final at the Shah Alam Stadium today.
Marzuki, regarded as Terengganu’s ‘kereta kebal’ (tank) in defence, said he would set aside their friendship for one night.
“He is my comrade but, come game night, all gloves are off. There is nothing personal and I will do my best to ensure our defence remains solid against Hairuddin and company,” he said.
Marzuki, who has been solid in defence for the Turtles all season, said his height would come in handy against Hairuddin, who is a good header of the ball.
“Hairuddin is very dangerous, especially with his headers, so I will pay close attention to that. I respect him but our defenders will close him down,” he said.
The veteran Marzuki, who is an inspiration to his younger team-mates, said it was make-or-break time for Terengganu as they seek to win the Cup again after 10 years.
“We have trained hard and prepared mentally as well for the final. I told my team-mates not to freeze or feel intimidated on the big stage and that they must stay focused on the job at hand – beat Negri and lift the Cup,” said Marzuki.
The two good friends, who were in Terengganu’s Malaysia Cup winning team in 2001, will be on opposite sides when their teams meet in the Malaysia Cup final at the Shah Alam Stadium today.
Marzuki, regarded as Terengganu’s ‘kereta kebal’ (tank) in defence, said he would set aside their friendship for one night.
“He is my comrade but, come game night, all gloves are off. There is nothing personal and I will do my best to ensure our defence remains solid against Hairuddin and company,” he said.
Marzuki, who has been solid in defence for the Turtles all season, said his height would come in handy against Hairuddin, who is a good header of the ball.
“Hairuddin is very dangerous, especially with his headers, so I will pay close attention to that. I respect him but our defenders will close him down,” he said.
The veteran Marzuki, who is an inspiration to his younger team-mates, said it was make-or-break time for Terengganu as they seek to win the Cup again after 10 years.
“We have trained hard and prepared mentally as well for the final. I told my team-mates not to freeze or feel intimidated on the big stage and that they must stay focused on the job at hand – beat Negri and lift the Cup,” said Marzuki.
Friday, 28 October 2011
Terengganu striker Abdul Hadi wants to score in final
Terengganu striker Abdul Hadi Yahaya hopes for a miracle in the Malaysia Cup final at Shah Alam Stadium on Saturday.
According to Hadi, the miracle was much needed to bring back the faith of the Terengganu supporters who yearned for goals from him.
This Klang-born player failed to score any goal during the Malaysia Cup competition which is now reaching its climax.
He said he did not want to disappoint the Terengganu supporters who had high hopes in him and promised his best performance in the final.
Hadi, who was top striker in the Super League and FA Cup, admitted of being under pressure that he could not contribute any goal for the team, and his inconsistent performance against Selangor last Saturday.
"I will make up for all my shortcomings as this is my last chance to do so this season. I will go all out on Saturday to bring back the prestigious trophy to Terengganu after 10 years of waiting by the fans," he said.
The 26-year-old player scored 26 goals this season and is carving personal history by making his debut in the final of the Malaysia Cup.
On Terengganu's chances in the final, Hadi said Terengganu had equal chances with Negeri Sembilan to win, and would exercise care because the opposing team is lined with experienced players like Hairuddin Omar and Sukor Adan.
According to Hadi, the miracle was much needed to bring back the faith of the Terengganu supporters who yearned for goals from him.
This Klang-born player failed to score any goal during the Malaysia Cup competition which is now reaching its climax.
He said he did not want to disappoint the Terengganu supporters who had high hopes in him and promised his best performance in the final.
Hadi, who was top striker in the Super League and FA Cup, admitted of being under pressure that he could not contribute any goal for the team, and his inconsistent performance against Selangor last Saturday.
"I will make up for all my shortcomings as this is my last chance to do so this season. I will go all out on Saturday to bring back the prestigious trophy to Terengganu after 10 years of waiting by the fans," he said.
The 26-year-old player scored 26 goals this season and is carving personal history by making his debut in the final of the Malaysia Cup.
On Terengganu's chances in the final, Hadi said Terengganu had equal chances with Negeri Sembilan to win, and would exercise care because the opposing team is lined with experienced players like Hairuddin Omar and Sukor Adan.
Negeri Sembilan strikers wants to score again in final
Negeri Sembilan's Shahurain Abu Samah and Hairuddin Omar have one thing in common -- both had scored in the two previous Malaysia Cup finals.
And they want to extend their record in Saturday's big match against FA Cup champions Terengganu.
"It will be a dream if both of us can score in our third consecutive final. We will probably create a record if we do so as I don't think anyone has scored in three straight finals," said Shahurain yesterday.
"But the truth is I don't care who scores in the final as my focus is to help Negeri lift the title."
Hairuddin's brace and Shahurain's solo effort helped Negeri beat Kelantan 3-1 in the final two years ago.
The veteran striker moved to Kelantan the following season and scored the winner for them in the final to cancel out Shahurain's goal for Negeri.
Hairuddin, however, returned to Negeri this year to renew is partnership with Shahurain.
Both players hardly featured in the Super League due to injury but returned to full fitness in time for the Malaysia Cup where they have so far scored 13 goals between them.
"It's been a tough season. Our injuries restricted us in the Super League but lucky for us, we were declared fit for this competition." said Shahurain.
On the final, the attacking midfielder said his team need to take a cautious approach against Terengganu.
"We cannot play open style football with them as they have good attacking players. We must be patient in our build-up in the final," he added.
And they want to extend their record in Saturday's big match against FA Cup champions Terengganu.
"It will be a dream if both of us can score in our third consecutive final. We will probably create a record if we do so as I don't think anyone has scored in three straight finals," said Shahurain yesterday.
"But the truth is I don't care who scores in the final as my focus is to help Negeri lift the title."
Hairuddin's brace and Shahurain's solo effort helped Negeri beat Kelantan 3-1 in the final two years ago.
The veteran striker moved to Kelantan the following season and scored the winner for them in the final to cancel out Shahurain's goal for Negeri.
Hairuddin, however, returned to Negeri this year to renew is partnership with Shahurain.
Both players hardly featured in the Super League due to injury but returned to full fitness in time for the Malaysia Cup where they have so far scored 13 goals between them.
"It's been a tough season. Our injuries restricted us in the Super League but lucky for us, we were declared fit for this competition." said Shahurain.
On the final, the attacking midfielder said his team need to take a cautious approach against Terengganu.
"We cannot play open style football with them as they have good attacking players. We must be patient in our build-up in the final," he added.
Speedy midfielder Kunanlan prepared to trouble Terengganu
Negeri Sembilan's S. Kunanlan cut short his Deepavali celebrations to report for training in Paroi on Wednesday.
The left winger was one of the first ones at the training ground and his readiness to train even surprised coach Azraai Khor Abdullah, who was not expecting him to arrive early.
Kunanlan has sacrificed Deepavali celebrations with his family for training, and this shows he is determined to help Negeri win the Malaysia Cup title tomorrow.
"I have promised my family and friends a party if I return with the winner's medal on Saturday (tomorrow). I want a happy Deepavali and to have that, I need to give my 100 per cent in the match," said Kunanlan yesterday.
"Everyone in the team has little time for matters outside the training ground. We just want to go through the training drills before we travel to Shah Alam Stadium for the final."
The 25-year-old may not have scored many goals this season but his eye-catching runs along the left flank and inch-perfect crosses have helped Negeri make an impact on the tournament.
Kunanlan is expected to be closely shadowed by Terengganu players but the national player is prepared for the challenge.
"I am prepared for anything. I will be unstoppable and my markers had better be prepared for it.
"I want to repay Negeri for making me a better player. I was signed as an unknown by Negeri five years ago and today, because of them, I have achieved so much in the game," said the Semenyih-born midfielder.
Kunanlan was rejected by other M-League teams before signing with Negeri and with them, he has won two titles.
He helped Negeri win the 2009 Malaysia Cup and 2010 FA Cup titles, then under coach Wan Jamak Wan Hassan.
On tomorrow's final, Kunanlan said Negeri must dictate the pace and score early goals to rattle Terengganu.
"We cannot allow them to score first. If they do, then it would be tough for us. I believe we need to build our game patiently from the back throughout the match," he added.
The left winger was one of the first ones at the training ground and his readiness to train even surprised coach Azraai Khor Abdullah, who was not expecting him to arrive early.
Kunanlan has sacrificed Deepavali celebrations with his family for training, and this shows he is determined to help Negeri win the Malaysia Cup title tomorrow.
"I have promised my family and friends a party if I return with the winner's medal on Saturday (tomorrow). I want a happy Deepavali and to have that, I need to give my 100 per cent in the match," said Kunanlan yesterday.
"Everyone in the team has little time for matters outside the training ground. We just want to go through the training drills before we travel to Shah Alam Stadium for the final."
The 25-year-old may not have scored many goals this season but his eye-catching runs along the left flank and inch-perfect crosses have helped Negeri make an impact on the tournament.
Kunanlan is expected to be closely shadowed by Terengganu players but the national player is prepared for the challenge.
"I am prepared for anything. I will be unstoppable and my markers had better be prepared for it.
"I want to repay Negeri for making me a better player. I was signed as an unknown by Negeri five years ago and today, because of them, I have achieved so much in the game," said the Semenyih-born midfielder.
Kunanlan was rejected by other M-League teams before signing with Negeri and with them, he has won two titles.
He helped Negeri win the 2009 Malaysia Cup and 2010 FA Cup titles, then under coach Wan Jamak Wan Hassan.
On tomorrow's final, Kunanlan said Negeri must dictate the pace and score early goals to rattle Terengganu.
"We cannot allow them to score first. If they do, then it would be tough for us. I believe we need to build our game patiently from the back throughout the match," he added.
Young Negeri Sembilan midfielder Mahathevan in dream final
Rookie midfielder G. Mahathevan (pic) can thank his lucky stars for his successful debut with Negri Sembilan this season.
The lanky 23-year-old, who stands 1.9m (6’3”), said it was a dream come true to have qualified for the Malaysia Cup final.
He now hopes to be a part of the team that will troop onto the pitch against Terengganu at the Shah Alam Stadium on Saturday.
“It’s been a good year for me and the team, which has qualified for three consecutive Malaysia Cup finals,” said Mahathevan, who is not too keen to be on the bench on Cup final day.
“I am not a regular yet. I do get chances here and there but I will continue to fight for my place and I hope to establish a first-team role in the star-studded Negri side.”
Mahathevan will have to compete with attacking midfielders Idris Karim, Shahurain Abu Samah, S. Kunalan and Abdul Halim Zainal for a place in the starting 11.
Mahathevan is also a rare breed of footballer who wants the best of both worlds – a successful career in football and studies. He holds a diploma in mechanical engineering.
He also believes that his stints with three other Premier League clubs have done wonders for him.
“I am playing with more confidence now. I have improved a lot since playing with my previous clubs – Shahzan Muda (2007), Sabah (2009) and PKNS FC (2010),” he said.
Things are certainly starting to look up for Mahathevan, especially since being signed up by Super League outfit Negri Sembilan this season.
Mahathevan, a big fan of French football legend Zinedine Zidane, also earned his first call-up to the national team under coach K. Rajagopal for the friendly against the visiting English Premier League giants Manchester United in July 2009.
It was not a memorable outing for Mahathevan, who only ended up warming the bench.
“I guess it was due to my inexperience. I am glad to have got the call-up though. I still have a lot to learn in football,” said the defensive midfielder.
The lanky 23-year-old, who stands 1.9m (6’3”), said it was a dream come true to have qualified for the Malaysia Cup final.
He now hopes to be a part of the team that will troop onto the pitch against Terengganu at the Shah Alam Stadium on Saturday.
“It’s been a good year for me and the team, which has qualified for three consecutive Malaysia Cup finals,” said Mahathevan, who is not too keen to be on the bench on Cup final day.
“I am not a regular yet. I do get chances here and there but I will continue to fight for my place and I hope to establish a first-team role in the star-studded Negri side.”
Mahathevan will have to compete with attacking midfielders Idris Karim, Shahurain Abu Samah, S. Kunalan and Abdul Halim Zainal for a place in the starting 11.
Mahathevan is also a rare breed of footballer who wants the best of both worlds – a successful career in football and studies. He holds a diploma in mechanical engineering.
He also believes that his stints with three other Premier League clubs have done wonders for him.
“I am playing with more confidence now. I have improved a lot since playing with my previous clubs – Shahzan Muda (2007), Sabah (2009) and PKNS FC (2010),” he said.
Things are certainly starting to look up for Mahathevan, especially since being signed up by Super League outfit Negri Sembilan this season.
Mahathevan, a big fan of French football legend Zinedine Zidane, also earned his first call-up to the national team under coach K. Rajagopal for the friendly against the visiting English Premier League giants Manchester United in July 2009.
It was not a memorable outing for Mahathevan, who only ended up warming the bench.
“I guess it was due to my inexperience. I am glad to have got the call-up though. I still have a lot to learn in football,” said the defensive midfielder.