Friendly : North Queensland Fury vs Tampines Rovers on 31st May 2009

[P.S: This blog post is submitted as part of Sony Ericsson’s Extra Time campaign. You can read the other local football stories here. :)]

PREVIEW
Did some googling around and from one source I read that other than the "GOD" - Robbie Fowler, the new A-League franchise also have the likes of former Geylang United star Brendon Santalab and Ian Ferguson, former Rangers star as its coach.

Any Eagles fans who will always remember Santalab for his prolific score-rate in his 22-game stint in 2003 and was nominated for that year's "Young Player of the Year" award.

It was also mentioned that the Queensland club are keen to establish a working relationship with any interested party in this region.

"It just another game for me and it's good have a good game under my belt as the season is half way through but most important thing are the League and Singapore Cup." said Tampines ace striker Noh Alam Shah (on left with the blogger in a picture took many donkey years back) on his prospect of facing the Fury this coming Sunday.

"For me game vs North Queensland (Fury) or Liverpool is just a matter of me against another player in terms of popularity and well-know (reputation) but it's still a 90-minute game and doesn't matter much whether I (get to) play or not" added "Ah Long" as he's known in the local football fraternity.

"We'll play our normal game as Robbie Fowler is one player from opposite team" said Tampines Rovers' coach Vorawan Chitavanich (right, file picture) after his team's one-nil victory over Balestier Khalsa in mid-week.

"Everybody is the same maybe because of his (Fowler's) reputation but it's good for the Tampines players to play against players who played in top international experience.

"It's also a way to find out how our team can play against team of a higher-level but I hope my team would not have any injury problem after this Sunday game."coach Chitavanich concluded.

But barely a day later, it was revealed that the star attraction - Robbie Fowler might not be able to be on the starting lineup as he's still nursing a groin strain that coach Ian Ferguson was quoted, "“We definitely won't take any chances (with Fowler),” “The priority for the Fury is to make sure he's ready for the start of the season."

But the matter was put to a rest when I got an email on Friday (29th May 2009), regarding Fowler's status which I post it up as a separate blog entry to avoid "lost-in-the jungle" situation.

I had a chat with former national skipper Fandi Ahmad after the "Red Card Football Clinic" at Hougang Stadium.

"It's a nice reunion for the curtain raiser match for those played in 93 and 94's squads and Sasi (R Sasikumar - the organizer) done a good job for the gathering.

"I hope the fans will turn out for this match not just to catch the game but also doing charity by attending this game." added the current Pelita Jaya coach.

SHORT TAKE OF THE EVENT
The "Curtain Raiser" - The "Dream Team" vs The "Celebrities"

After 15 years, the "Dream Team" were together for good cause

It was a moment every fan had been waiting for as the "Dream Team" of the 1993-4 graced the field of the Jalan Besar Stadium.

The group photo before the start of the curtain-raiser

Doesn't matter the stadium don't look the same like it used to be but certainly these yesterdays' heroes cherished the chance to get together at the same location of that old arena where they trained and slogged in harmony in the past.

Rafi Ali launched his rocket against the "celeb" wall in a dead-ball situation.

Abbas Saad (no.21) takes on a defender.

The "Dream Team" in defensive mood.

The "Dazzler"- V Sundramoorthy (no.18) performed his tricks

The curtain-raiser ended in an one-nil victory to the "Dream Team" with V Sundramoorthy scored the only goal in the second-half, when he tapped home from close-range off a R Suriamoorthy's cross from the left.

CHAT WITH ABBAS SAAD
“I'm always open and free anytime to come back here, especially for charity in anything we can help.” said former idol Abbas Saad after his first match in Singapore in 15 years.

Abbas Saad (2nd from left) talked to the media after the curtain-raiser.

“I'll do that and I always do that in Australia and always from my own heart, which I'm sure everybody will do that and it's great we give something back to the game and to the people who really love the game who can't play the game as full professional.” said the Lebanese-born Australian who was idolized by many girls back in the early 90s.

“Fantastic, as the (AFC “A” license coaching) course has been enjoyable and obviously (because) the instructor is Vincent (Subramaniam) who is a former coach, and the participants are all former players and it's home sweet home for me, that's for sure.” as Abbas shared with the media his thoughts on the on-going coaching course.

“You never say never ( to any offer), if there's any good opportunity comes up and why not because I have the experience in this part of the world as I been here for 20 years and so (once) I got my qualification that should be enough.” when asked if he is keen to coach in Singapore one day.

PICTURE GALORE with THE STARS

Fandi Ahmad with fans

Abbas Saad with a female fan

1998 Tiger Cup winning skipper Nazri Nasir posed with a young fan

Good to note that these guys are not forgotten after all, as many fans took this golden opportunity to snap pictures with those heroes during the half-time break of the main event.

The "Main Event" - Tampines Rovers vs North Queensland Fury

"Where's Robbie?" that was the question in everybody's mind when the "GOD" was nowhere to be seen at the tunnel area.

Much to the disappointment of the crowds who turned out hoping to see the "GOD" in action were pretty much disappointed when Robbie Fowler wasn't in the starting line-up!

"There's Robbie!" right in front of me when all were crowded around the tunnel

I guess it must be that 'unforseen circumstances" that coach Ian Ferguson said before-hand and so the ex-Liverpool star was benched.

Anyway, the hosts almost credited themselves with the opening goal as early as in the first minute when Qiu Li burst through the yet-to-be-tested Queenslanders' backline but 'keeper Justin Pasfield passed his first test of the night when he got down well to deny the would-be opener.

I guess the man's focus would have been on the field if the "GOD" played, just as he contended reading the papers instead.

"Disappointed as I came all the way to see him (Fowler) play, just hope I can see him play at least five or ten minutes before the end of the game." said CJ, a Liverpool fan stayed in Bishan.

"Ridiculous! At least they should informed the fans before-handed but anyway too bad for the (Fowler's) fans, I'm here to support Tampines not Fowler." said Leon, a Stags fan.

"He should at least come out and show his appreciation to the fans (who came to see him, which he did after the game)" said another fan, Frankie

It was a rather physical game.

And it was found out that five minutes before the game, the Queenslanders decided that it was not in the best of their interest that Fowler in action, so end of the story.

However, another fan named Mohamad was more understanding as he said if Fowler is really injured, it's best not to field him, rather than risk him for further injuries.

Some action photos from the terraces.

In a match that was rather highly-physical and intense saw defender Shariff Samat sent off in the 51st minute when he held back a Fury player in his attempt to win the ball.

Robbie Fowler addressed the crowds and explained a "slight niggling" forced him to sit out of the game.

Despite having that extra man advantage, the visiting side failed to make a full use of it and succumbed to a one goal defeat in the end when substitute Fathi Yunus scored in the 77th minute having nicely latched onto another replacement, Edward Tan's through ball that broke down the Fury's defence.

THE POST-MATCH PRESS CONFERENCE

“Tampines gave us a good test” said Fury's Scottish coach Ian Ferguson (pictured above, center with match organizer R Sasikumar on his left).

“It was decided last night that not to field Fowler after reviewing by the coaching and medical staff following the recurrence of the injury.” said the former Rangers player when quizzed why the star attraction – Robbie Fowler was missing in the starting and bench line-up.

“Everywhere, definitely, need to be improved as I said this is our first game and we got a lot of things to do but I'm happy that we played reasonably well”added coach Ferguson when asked what are the areas need to be addressed following the game.

The media in action

“I think we are disappointed obviously” said R Sasikumar, the match organizer.

“But in the end of the day we didn't invite him (Fowler) all the way to seat on the bench, I'm sure in some stages like (coach) Ian Ferguson had said that obviously it's the injury and that's the coaching personnel's job (to decide) whether he gets to play or not and as promoters we can only hope we can bring in more big names like him to Singapore.

“But in the end of the day, he's (Fowler) a human being and we have to take his health into consideration and like I said I left it to the coach to decide whether to play him or not” said the former national defender whose famous “shoulder blade goal” claimed the country's first ever regional title in 1998 – Tiger Cup.

Syed Faruk - the Tampines' team manager addressed the media.

"Disappointed and not just me but the boys as well for not able to play against Fowler." said Syed Faruk, the Stags team manager in his team's media gathering on his team's sentiment for not able to play against the former Liverpool legendary striker.

"We told the boys before the game that this is just a friendly game and we don't want to have any injury from this game but I think as a player they just went in hard." commented Faruk on his take of the physical nature of the game.

"At least with this win, it shows that we are not overawed by team who have players who played in higher levels than us" he added.

Many thanks and appreciations to Mr Jonathan Leow and Ms Fadilah Amir Hamzah of SPRG Pte Ltd for making this blog entry possible.

"Red Card Football Clinic with Robbie Fowler and Fandi Ahmad"

Registration counter of the clinic

I was told of this clinic, being one of fringe activities of the visiting North Queensland Fury, by the media liaison officers.

It is certainly a nice thing to see two footballing legends - Robbie Fowler and Fandi Ahmad came together and imparted some of their knowledges to these kids who were obviously having a good time despite the scorching heat at Hougang Stadium.

Like earlier mentioned by the newest A-League franchise, hopefully event like this open up the doors to more footballing exchanges between these two countries in the near future.

MORE PICTURES FROM THE CLINIC
Fandi Ahmad shared his tips with the kids

Fury's coach Ian Ferguson passed out his instructions before a drill.

The main men (L-R): Robbie Fowler, coach Ferguson, match organizer R Sasikumar and Fandi

"You have anything to ask Robbie?" as coach Ferguson asked the kids

These kids are showing some great potential.

"Well Done, lad.." said Robbie

Some tussling going on...

Both coach Ferguson and Robbie talent-spotting.

This one for the album.

Almost every kid had an opportunity for this "up close and personal" moment like this

Robbie signed on jerseys, scarves and whatever associated with him and Liverpool FC

Robbie being interviewed by the media

I would kicked myself if I didn't have this taken (Thanks Vik..)

Many thanks and appreciations to Mr Jonathan Leow and Ms Fadilah Amir Hamzah of SPRG Pte Ltd for making this blog entry possible.

Mission Continues.....(edited)

The "Super-sub" of the late 80s - Abdullah Noor signed on the 1990's poster (25th May 2009)

"Don't take my picture!!" said Abdullah Noor when I bumped onto him just now outside the Jalan Besar Stadium.

But when he saw the priceless poster, he was surprised and asked how and where I got it.

Having told him the story, he duly signed the 1990's poster with admiration from his students.

"Can make ONE copy for me or not" said the former Balestier Khalsa, ex-Sengkang Marine coach before parting off.


A tip-off just now from my friend, Mr Ong Jiing Yih saw me at the Jalan Besar Stadium not for the game but to grab hold of former national coach, Vincent Subramaniam's signature on the 1990's poster (Vincent was the assistant to Robin Chan then). (29th May 2009)

But the coup of the night - yes, right in front of your eyes - the "twin-terrors" that struck fear in any defence and rocked the whole Kallang and Singapore whenever one of them scored - Fandi Ahmad and Abbas Saad. (29th May 2009)

Robbie IS playing after all....

After the news broke out that Robbie Fowler might not be playing this coming Sunday against Tampines Rovers due to his groin strain, I got an email from the media liaison officer which carried a statement from Mr Ian Ferguson, coach of North Queensland Fury.

Here's it goes....


Hey Po Hui,

We know that there’ve been reports that Robbie might not be playing, but the coach would like to verify that the comments have been made out of context and that he IS playing on Sunday.


Please see the below for Ian Ferguson, coach of North Queensland Fury, comment:

“Dear Singapore fans, I would like to clarify my statement on this report which categorically states that Robbie Fowler will not be playing in our match against Tampines Rovers this Sunday. This report is not accurate and my quote has been taken entirely out of context. The journalist had asked me if I would play Robbie in this match if there were any concerns as to niggling injuries, and I had answered based on that hypothetical question. Allow me to state clearly that barring unforeseen circumstances, Robbie would be taking the pitch against Tampines Rovers on Sunday. I hope this puts the matter at rest.”

Hopefully you’ll be able to make the clarification online. We don’t want those Fowler fans disappointed!

Thanks!

Appreciate the effort and thanks for the clarification, guys :)

After 2 years..New Template...here's the verdict (edited)

Just changed my blog template from 2 columns to 3 columns... now left a bit of fine-tuning here and there.

The idea to switch from 2 to 3 columns is to make the blog less-cluttered, as you can see for yourself that the main column is now flanked by the two side columns with the content of the side menu evenly distributed out.

Unfortunately, the template has no room for the iconic title bar (below) that it had no other choice but call it a day, thanks for the past almost one-half-year of service.

And did a survey to gather feedback on the new template and here is the outcome -

The result shows that you can't please everybody and this template is here to stay till the next change is deemed necessary, thanks for taking part in the poll...

Finally! Can't take it anymore...

Something referee can't be wrong with - deciding who kick off as it's the coin that determine

It's something never happened before but now it's being brought to the limelight after the chairman of Tampines Rovers, Mr Teo Hock Seng, had decided to voice out as he can't take it anymore.

"The standard of football is improving but not the referee's!" as he lamented to the media.

Certainly, one has to put themselves in Teo's shoes to feel that sense of bitterness after some refereeing decisions marred the outcome of the Stags' encounters against the uniformed duo that severely did unnecessary damages to their title challenge.

Match officials may not necessary have the best view like some fans do

Ironically, it was some dubious decisions took place centerstage as well in their victory over Woodlands Wellington (judging from the strong reactions from the benches and the terraces) on Monday.

Suddenly, it just triggered an open discussion that would normally kept "off-record" in the past and everyone is more than willing to voice their opinions (like one former match official complained the lack of communication between relevant parties made him quit the game officiating).

Clearly, one thing for sure that not just the "three wise men" on the field being scrutinized but also those referee's assessor as well.

When verbal abuses were hurled at, the referees and linesmen could only "buat bodoh" (feign ignorance)

Questions been asked how and what effectiveness does these assessors served when there's been hordes of feedback (sounded nicer in this instance than the "c" word) about the refereeing standard.

Perhaps it is because since the formalization of the rules of the game, the referee's decision is final and undisputed that it's almost an "unwritten rule" that nobody should questioned his authority during the match.

However, one must bear in mind that nobody is perfect and same goes in the referee's case, unfortunately, with the "unwritten rule" in place that's no way one can squeeze details out from the referee's mouth when questioned (except behind close-doors?)

And welfare and well being of that of match officials should be taken care of as I still can't believe what I witnessed at Clementi Stadium when two match officials went to the public toilet during the half-time interval! (Good thing, nothing hotly-disputed took place then if not can't imaging how those errant punters might react if saw them sharing the same sanitary facilities with them.)

FAS's Head of Referees' Dept K Visva Nathan has a tough task ahead (imaginary dialogue)

Kudos to the league authority for being swift to make its stand clear that it will not tolerate poor refereeing standard.

Now with the assurance that this age-old issue will be looked into, let's hope concrete action can be taken to stop the rot.

If not, it's not just the low standard of play that keep the fans away but the undesirable refereeing of the game that would throw the game into dispute unintentionally.

At the end of the day, a firm established channel for interaction must be installed to let everybody highlight any problem or issue, rather than having like an one-way street, as perceived at this moment - only INPUT NOT OUTPUT.

[Event] : North Queensland Fury vs Tampines Rovers at JBS on 31st May 2009 (edited)

(P.S: Below is a press release by Strategic Public Relations Group Singapore, a renowned public relations consultancy who are coordinating the above-mentioned event )

Australian team brings Robbie Fowler back to Singapore!

New A-League Franchise North Queensland Fury to play Singapore at Jalan Besar Stadium on 31 May 2009

Singapore, 14 May 2009 - Australia’s newest team in their domestic A-League, The North Queensland Fury, is set to play the Tampines Rovers at Jalan Besar Stadium come the end of May. The Townsville based club are making their debut in the A-League this year and are embarking on a tour of Sabah and Singapore in preparation for their debut season. The club coached by former Glasgow Rangers and Scotland player, Ian Ferguson counts among its players former Liverpool goal scorer Robbie Fowler.

Robbie Fowler was part of the Liverpool team that last visited Singapore in 2001. He is also the only overseas Marquee player in the Australian A-League for the upcoming season, which has seen the likes of Romario, Dwight Yorke and Juninho show their skills in previous years.

The match, organized by local sports marketing company The Red Card Pte Ltd is headed by former Singapore football international R. Sasikumar. Sasikumar sees this as a great opportunity for all football fans to experience high quality football outside of the English Premier League and commented, “To have a quality player such as Robbie Fowler with a competitive team such as the North Queensland Fury on home turf is good for both Singapore Football, and all football fans. We at Red Card have organized fringe events that will add to the excitement of the game, and contribute the overall passion for the game of football.”

It would be a definite treat for Singaporean Liverpool Fans and Football fans in general to see the North Queensland Fury in action in their first ever overseas tour to South East Asia.

Coach Ian Ferguson added, “The upcoming game against the Rovers will definitely warm the boys up for our 09-10 league back home. The boys are ready and we are looking forward to an exciting match against Singapore. Fans will surely not be disappointed.”

Click for better view of the details (courtesy of "RedCard")

The North Queensland Fury will be conducting a clinic for school children (poster above) upon their arrival in Singapore. Conducted by the coaching staff and the players, it will commence on 30th May and held at the Hougang Stadium. A special appearance would be made by legendary ex-Singapore international Fandi Ahmad at the clinic.

In addition, a gala dinner will be hosted on the same night for members of the Australian and British expatriate community together with local businesses. Limited spaces are still available to the public wishing to be part of this exclusive event.

Another key highlight is a charity curtain raiser that will be played before the main event which will see the legendary Singapore ‘Dream Team’ of the 90s make a return on the pitch after 14 years. The team will also feature prolific goal scorer Abbas Saad who will make his appearance after a decade away from the football scene, who will once again team up with former captain Fandi Ahmad and midfield dynamo Malek Awab. They will go up against a local Celebrity team including singer-rapper Sheikh Haikel and radio Deejays Glenn Ong and Rod Monterio. The adopted charity for the “Dream Team” is the CARE United program which is S-League’s unique charity and community programme, designed to enrich the lives of the less fortunate through football. The programme is seeks to benefit three key areas, namely less fortunate children with a love for football, the elderly who are active at heart and the Development of Women’s Football in Singapore.

Ticketing Details
Tickets for the match are priced at SGD25 for Grandstand seats, SGD15 for Gallery and SGD5 for children below 12yrs and will be available for sale at Jalan Besar Stadium from 18th May onwards, as well as on match day itself. Online ticketing also available at www.redcard.tv from 15th May onwards. For enquiries on VIP hospitality, gala dinner and ticketing, please email info@redcard.tv or call (+65) 6304 3167.

[VideoCast] - Brazilian players in S.League

Got this video from my Brazilian friend, Mr Renato Andreão.

It's about the Brazilian players earning their living in the S.League, namely Peres De Oliveira of Home United, Ednardo Moura and Ithamar Rangel of Balestier Khalsa.


In Portuguese though, wish I can understand what they were talking about but thanks to the graphics more or less can guess what was all about.

665 on that day and thank you so much :)

Thank you very much - that's all I want to say, "Thank you very much".

20th May 2009 shall be remembered as another milestone day for this OMO blog as it registered its biggest number of visits to this site since its launch in December 1996.

665 may be insignificant as compared to top sites like "soccernet" or any established brand but to me it's unimaginable when normally I would be glad if the daily figure is around or close to 100.

I promise that I'll try my very best to further improve this blog, please feel free to email me or left a comment on the entries posted to share your views with me.

Thank you for your support all along :)