I know it wasn't your fault....

With the ongoing campaigning to the running up to the General Elections, it's inevitable to see various S.League stadiums being selected as venues for the contesting parties to hold their mass rallies.

According to sleague.com, the selected stadiums are Bedok, Bishan, Choa Chu Kang, Clementi, Jurong East (pictured below, courtesy of Albirex Niigata[S]), Jurong West, Tampines, Toa Payoh and Woodlands Stadiums, while two stadiums (Hougang and Queenstown) were also named as the "reserve" venues by the police.

As the results, a number of clubs found themselves in a limbo for without a pitch to play and train for their upcoming matches with the league authority having to reschedule and relocation a few of the matches to the Jalan Besar Stadium.

But the grave concern of many would be the backlogging of the fixtures, which is something not unusual to the league, as in the past had many left in dismay when some of the matches were rescheduled by bringing forward or pushing backward causing unnecessary fatigue or lagging to some teams' performance.

However, as the nation goes to poll on the 7th of May to decide the fate of the country, we shouldn't pin the blame on the league authority, although the tricky part would be the rearranging those matches that were being postponed due to the lack of grounds to avoid those scheduling nightmare in the past.

Remember, the national team is due to assemble soon for the World Cup Qualifiers, the upcoming Lions City Cup would see Jalan Besar not available during June, the League Cup, the Singapore Cup and the SEA Games in Palembang in November.... OMG!!

Here are the matches being postponed and relocated due to the elections:

Day	Date	Home Team	Away Team	Venue	Re-locate / Postpone
Mon	2-May	Singapore Armed Forces FC	Courts Young Lions	Choa Chu Kang	Postpone
		Etoile FC	Geylang United FC	Queenstown	Postpone
Wed	4-May	Home United FC	Balestier Khalsa FC	Bishan	Jalan Besar
Thu	5-May	Woodlands Wellington FC	Hougang United FC	Woodlands	Jalan Besar
		Tanjong Pagar United FC	Albirex Niigata FC (S)	Clementi	Postpone
Fri	6-May	Tampines Rovers FC	Gombak United FC	Jalan Besar	No Changes

(P.S: Casting my first vote in my life...)

[Media Information] Stags holding COE's trials

(Media Information by Tampines Rovers Football Club)

Tampines Rovers Football Club will be conducting selection trials for its Centre of Excellence programme for its U14, U12, U10 and U8 squad.

To be held on the open field in front of Tampines Stadium over the coming weekend from 8.30 to 10.30am with details as follow.

For the U10 and U8 are meant for players born in 2001/2002 and in 2003/2004 respectively with their trial to be held on 30th April 2011.

For the U12 and U14 are meant for players born in 1999/2000 and in 1997/1998 respectively with their trial to be held on 1st May 2011.

The trials will be conducted by the coaching panel led by Stags' head coach Steven Tan and Technical Direction Vorawan Chitavanich.

All interested players are requested to their own footballing gears, such as training attire, boots, goalkeeper gloves , shinpad, etc.

For more details, please contact the club office at these numbers 67846670 or 67850236.

Greasy Pitch crippled Hanoi....

Prelude...
I'm not being unprofessional for placing this uncompleted team shot of the visiting Hanoi T & T (pictured above) before the start of their AFC Cup match against Tampines Rovers, as their star striker Le Cong Vinh abruptly left the field to have his boots changed before the shot was taken (much to our "disappointment").

THE OUTCOME
A sweet victory for the hosting Stags, as I'm please again to have the regular guest columnist of this blog, Mr Neo Chee Seong to have his take of the match. Many Thanks to his effort.

"Knowing that a win will put them firmly in the drivers' seat for a ticket into the next round, Tampines Rovers came out to Jalan Besar Stadium, with the mentality to kill the game early.

Ahmad Latiff Khamarudin (pictured below, leaped to celebrate his second goal), the “bad boy” of Singapore Football, puts the stags 2-0 up within 22 minutes with two brilliant efforts from outside the penalty box. The second, which was a thumping shot way out from 30 yards, could be a contender for the AFC goal of the month/week/season award.

Hanoi came back very strongly, having a lion share of the possession. Their ability to keep the ball around Le Cong Vinh, N N Duy, Vo Duy Nam and Cao Sy Cuong proved fruitful.

Cao Sy Cuong precise floated ball found Gonzalo completely unmarked in the box and the latter beat Hassan Sunny from close range.

In the second half, the Stags came out the stronger side as Shukor Zailan, Ismadi Mukhtar (pictured above right numbered 12), Akihiro Nakamura, Aleksandar Duric, Imran Sahib and Aliff Shafaein all missed with efforts.

Hanoi piled the pressure on out Stags defence, and got into a lot of good scoring position at times. Unfortunately Le Cong Vinh, Cristiano and Gonzlo all missed their attempts.

Duric, the current S.League top scorer, put the contest beyond Hanoi's reach in the 70th minute with a clever flick off Imran's square ball.

The Stags' defence marshalled by Benoit Croissant (pictured above numbered 15) did exceptionally well with the Hanoi 's bombardment. And the score remained 3-1 in favour of the Stags

A very entertaining game with both sides playing attacking football.

With Muang Thong United thumping Victory SC 4-0, Tampines should seal qualification in Match Day 5 so long as Hanoi doesn't win their game against Muang Thong.

Will there be drama? We'll find out on Matchday 5."
(Views expressed may not be that of the blog owner.)

POST MATCH PRESS CONFERENCE
Both coaches shared their thoughts of the match at the end of the day.

"Basically, there are two reasons for our loss today, first is because of the two early goals we conceded and secondly is because we were playing on an artificial surface, which we are not used to it." said Hanoi T&T coach Phan Thanh Hung (pictured above) on their poor showing.

As coach Phan went on to reveal that due to the lack of artificial pitches in Vietnam, they faced difficulties on having training session during their one-week break prior to this crucial continental tie.

"We have our last match meeting Muanthong Unite of Thailand and if we beat them, maybe we have a chance to make it to the next round." optimised coach Phan when asked about his side's chance of making to the next stage of the competition.

"All I can say is the boys played an almost perfect match that we could have scored more goals, but the win is what we wanted and hopefully we can beat Victory SC (of Maldives) next week to qualify (for the next round). " said Tampines Rovers coach Steven Tan following their gallant performance against the Vietnamese.

Despite scoring the two screamers that laid the foundation of the win, coach Tan felt his star winger Ahmad Latiff could do before that, as it was divulged that the ace striker was playing with stomach upset before having to be replaced by Shukor Zailan in the first half after that feat.

Concurring with his counterpart, coach Tan also agree that Hanoi having difficulties in playing on an artificial surface of that of the JBS's.

"We felt that they are having problem with the field that they are not used to it, and they told me that they only train twice in Hanoi and furthermore the rain tonight had made the surface more greasier for them and many of their (intended) passes gone to other players" added the former national striker nicknamed the "Super Sub" in his heydays.

FOR MORE PICTURES FROM THE MATCH, PLEASE CLICK THE LINK HERE, THANKS

I decided the fate of the U-15 Cubs....

(This entry is formulated with additional details provided by the media release issued by The Red Card, the co-organizers of the 23rd Canon Lion City Cup)

(Pictured above) I drawn "Juventus" to join Group A (picture credit: The Red Card)

... that the National U-15 team due to play in the upcoming 23rd Canon Lion City Cup had found themselves grouped together with Italian powerhouses Juventus U-15 and Newcastle United's U-15 squad in the Group A.

While in the Group B, the other Singapore representative side – the National U-16 (comprised on the last year's YOG team ) will be facing the challenge from U-15 squads of renowned Brazilian side Flamengo and another English Premier League side, Everton.

(Pictured above L-R) Terence Ong represented Newcastle's Fan Club, myself, Mr De Felip, Arief of LATW, Ismail Kay of Everton's supporters club, Francisco Zoroastro Campos of Flamengo's supporters club (picture credit: Mt Yip Siu Ming)

I was given the honour to decide the fate of the U-15 team when I got an invitation to be part of the draw panelists alongside with representatives represented the local fans' club of Newscastle United, Everton and Flamengo, while the “Grand Old Lady” of the Italian football was represented by Mr Andrea De Felip (pictured above third from left), the First Secretary and Deputy Head of Mission from the Italian Embassy.

One surprise was the omission of the Portuguese club Benfica, whose place was taken up by Newcastle instead.

“It was understood that the Portuguese government had rescheduled the schools' examination period that prevented the participation of Benfica, however, we see Newcastle United as a good addition to the tournament.”said R Sasikumar, the Managing Director for The Red Card, the co-organizers of the tournament.

TOURNAMENT FORMAT
At the start of the tournament, these six teams will play in a single round robin format on the 18th, 20th and 22nd of June. The top two teams from each group will progress to the knock out stages on 24th June where these four teams will vie for a places in the finals on the 26th June.

Fans can expect to see Newcastle United play against the U-15 team in the first match of the tournament on 18 June 2011. YOG Bronze medallists, the U-16 team will have their work cut out for them as they face Brazilian samba boys CR Flamengo on the 20 June 2011.

In addition to playing in front of Singapore fans, the Cubs will have an added incentive to do well in the tournament all thanks to title sponsor Canon Singapore with the imaging giants promised to pledge $1,000 for every goal scored by the Cubs during the tournament.

The donated funds will go towards the development of the two featured Singapore teams.

TICKETING INFORMATION
The tickets to the matches will go on sale starting from 1st May from all AXS machines island-wide as well as at all Ticketbooth outlets.

Interested fans can choose from a selection of ticket packages which includes

• Family Packages
  
• Season Passes
• Concessionary rates for students and senior citizens
• Bundle packages that allows reduced admission prices to the Group Stages, the Knockout Rounds or both

The ticket prices range from $20-25 for the Open category, and $7 for students and senior citizens.

Explaining the ticketing policy of the tournament, Sasikumar (pictured middle above, as he prepared for a TV interview) said:"We have chosen to keep our ticket prices affordable for the whole family. With the purchase of any ticket, supporters are entitled to enjoy two matches that will be played at 6pm and 8.45pm respectively at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

"We are also taking steps to ensure that the event will be an unforgettable and exciting event for everyone." added the former national team defender.

Local cable provider StarHub will air the tournament ‘live’ exclusively on its complimentary SuperSports Arena (StarHub TV Channel 201) channel.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OF THE 23RD CANON LION CITY CUP, LOG ON TO THE OFFICIAL FACEBOOK PAGE or FOLLOW THEM ON TWITTER (@CanonLCC)

"Leeching off" a free game

Before the game between SAFFC and Etoile at Jalan Besar Stadium, I met someone I know just outside the ground, along King George Avenue and had this brief conversation (as below).

Acquaintance: "Do you have free ticket?" as he's aware of my involvement in the scene.

Me: "Nope, I don't have it"

Acquaintance: "Cannot be, last time my who work as a photographer, always have free tickets to matches"

Me: "Time changes as different people are 'calling the shots' now."

Scene like this is not uncommon, but it is already becoming an annoying problem which I long attribute to the liberal policy of giving out complimentary passes that led to this kind of "leeching" problem.

Perhaps, in the first place such a goodwill was to gather more awareness by offering free admission to fans to certain games.

But the danger part as what mentioned had it developed into a burden that resulted loss in revenue to accommodate these group of spectators.

I am not sure if the league authority should come up with a more stringent policy to govern issuing of complimentary passes.

As someone pointed out to me, by liberally giving out complimentary passes would be degrading to the league and doesn't accord the kind of stature rightfully for it.

Furthermore, would it be fair to those genuine fans who are actually paying to see the matches because they want to, rather having those "leech" who are here for a gate-crash?

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Drumming up support for the 'Eastern Derby' - The Eagles' way

The residents in Bedok Central were in a pleasant surprise on last Saturday morning when they were greeted by players and officials of Geylang United Football Club.

As part of their community outreach program to the vicinity they based, the Eagles initiated the awareness drive to promote the upcoming "Eastern Derby" match against the neighbouring Tampines Rovers, who are due for a visit this coming Thursday (21st April) at the Bedok Stadium.

"One reason we are doing this is because we want to generate an awareness that 'Geylang United is here' among the Bedok residents." explained Gale Gan, the club's Senior Officer (marketing and media) on the motive behind this awareness drive.

"Getting players to come out and interact with the residents had shown that we are sincere of having them come down to Bedok Stadium to support us on the match days." added Gan.

According to him, the response from the residents during the morning walkabout have been "positive" with some residents took the opportunity to gain more insights of the club's involvement in their community from players and officials alike.

"Some residents whom we come across asked questions like, where the game (against Tampines) is going to be held, and what it is about (this 'Eastern Derby').

"This shows that some residents in the area are not aware that Geylang United is there in Bedok (all this while)." observed Gan as he shares his thoughts with this blog about the morning walkabout at one of busiest heartland areas in Singapore.

Such outreach initiative is seen as a good start to integrate itself into the township of Bedok by those involved, with Geylang's head coach Mike Wong commented:"It's definitely good for the club to have such a program to create constant awareness among the Bedok residents of our club."

Which is precisely why the club has not ruled out the possibility of collaborate with the local Resident Committees (RCs) to reach out to the wider pool of residents in the next phrase of their engagement program.

"Getting the RCs in the vicinity to involve in our outreach program is definitely something on our minds, because through them we can reach out to a wider pool of residents but everything has to be done a step at a time." opined Gan.

FOR MORE DETAILS OF THE UPCOMING 'EASTERN DERBY', PLEASE CLICK HERE.

(P.S: Copyright of all images depicted in this entry belong to Geylang United Football Club)

[Event] Bud Cup Singapore 2011

(This entry is formulated based on the transcript of the press release issued by the tournament organizer with copyright of images depicted here belong them as well.)

"To continue fostering international relations between the various nations, other than diplomatic visits and International summits, we have decided to put 2 of man’s biggest obsession together; Beer and Football, a combination which can never fail."

With that declaration in the statement issued to the media, the organizers of the "Bud Cup Singapore 2011" had sent out a clear message on the objective behind organizing such tournament - in fostering good relationship between nations with the game of football and ice-cold beer.

Come this May, Budweiser will be organizing the mentioned 6-a-side football tournament to determine the representing team from Singapore to take part in the "2011 Global Beer Champions 6vs6 Soccer tournament" also known as the "Budweiser Cup" in the capital of Argentina, Buenos Aires.

The registration to take part in this tournament is now open with participating to be segregated into two different categories - the "On Premise” and the “Off Premise”.

• "On Premise" - All F&B establishments in Singapore will be invited to form a team that consists of both staff and customers. The team must also meet the condition that Budweiser is endorsed in that establishment and also promote Budweiser with the BudCup 6v6 theme to their consumers.
  
  
• "Off Premise" - Is meant for consumers from the general public. They will have to fill in an entry form which can be found in any Budweiser 6-pack and they will need to have a proof of purchase from any retail establishment that carry Budweiser with the promotional tag.
  

The main difference between the two categories is difference is that teams in the “On Premise” will have to pay a registration fee of $200 and show a proof of purchase of a case of Budweiser Beer whereas teams from the “Off Premise” do not have to pay, provided they have proof of purchase for a Budweiser 6-Pack.

According to the organizers, the registration is on a first come, first served basis therefore, it is important to register as soon as possible to be able to secure one of 32 places available in the tournament.

In the event that there are more than 32 teams registered, a draw will determine the final 32.

And all registration fees will be donated to the Kampong Glam CCC Poor & Needy.

The tournament will be played on 21/05/11, 22/05/11, 28/05/11, 29/05/11 and 04/06/11 at "Premier Pitches @ Khalsa" (pictured below).

The Semis and Grand final will be held on the 4th of June which will also feature a Ladies fun match and a Charity match featuring ex-National players from Singapore’s 1994 Malaysia Cup winning team and the victory party will be held on the 7th to celebrate the winning team as well as to reveal the winner of the supporter Lucky Draw.

TO REGISTER TO TAKE PART OF FOR MORE INFORMATION OF THIS TOURNAMENT, PLEASE CLICK HERE TO ACCESS TO THE OFFICIAL SITE.

‘ON THE RUN’ away as the Champions of the TIGER STREET FOOTBALL Tournament Singapore Leg

(Part of the entry is formulated with the transcript of the press release obtained via Ogilvy Public Relations, the coordinating agency of this event)

(P.S: The copyrights of the images depicted in this blog entry belong to Ko Po Hui, unless credited to copyright owners accordingly)

It's not very often to see me in this busy stretch in Singapore at this early hour, but here I was at the Ngee Ann City (commonly known as "Taka" after its anchor tenant - Takashimaya SC) for the Tiger Street Football 2011 tournament.

The "Local Competition" already started upon my arrival at the venue when the 32 teams slogged against one and other on a knock-out format with matches played inside the specially constructed oval-shaped enclosed playing field.

The action from those matches I seen had been defined as "Singapore-styled" futsal at its best like those I seen in the past few events I had blogged.

At the end of the first day, 'On The Run' (pictured above -photo credit: APBS) emerged as the champions of the Singapore leg after defeated 'La Plata Jr B' following a hard day at work to represent the Republic in the Grand Final to be held in Kuala Lumpur in September.

Said Mahmod Bin Hashim, captain of On The Run on his team’s success, “We are delighted to have won the first event Tiger Street Football tournament here. We are passionate about football and the tournament has allowed us to develop our love for the sport. It also showcases to everyone that there is a strong talent pool of football players in Singapore not just on the fields but on the streets.”

“Playing in the oval cage (pictured above) was a unique experience and it made the matches intense and brought the best out of everyone who competed today. We look forward to representing Singapore in the Tiger Street Football Grand Finals and hopefully we will achieve even more success!” added the 28-year old.

These two Singaporean finalists also got themselves a chance to pit their skills against four top foreign futsal teams in the "International Competition" of this two-day event on the following day.

(Pictured above) 'La Plata Jr B' (in stripes) is another Singapore representative in the "International Competition"

And what a courageous performance by the newly-crowned Singapore champions, as they were at one stage on level term with leading Brazilian futsal team, ADC Florianopolis before losing out 4-3 in the end.

The team from the South Brazil eventually went on to beat another invited team, Thai Son Bac Futsal Club from Vietnam 5-4 to win the Sunday tournament that saw participation of teams from England (Manchester Futsal Club), Thailand (GH Bank RBAC Futsal Club) and the two mentioned two Singapore sides.

(Pictured above) ADC Florianopolis of Brazil won the "International Competition" of the two-day event at Ngee Ann City (photo credit: APBS)

It had been quite an experience for the Brazilians to play in an enclosed pitch, said the team captain Denison Cabral (pictured above lifting the trophy) after the match:"We faced strong opposition today and the oval, caged pitch created a new competitive experience for us. Tactically, we had to adapt to the conditions whilst maintaining our usual playing style and we are delighted to have finished as champions!

The 37-year old also lauded the performance of their Singapore opponents for putting up a credible performance.

"We knew 'On The Run' are a great side from the way they won the local competition yesterday (Saturday's "Local Competition") and we expected a tough match that they brought the best out of us and hopefully more football players here recognise the potential they have through tournaments such as Tiger Street Football in the future." added the midfielder.

(Pictured above) 'Deaf United' (in yellowed outfit) overcome their disability to complete with the rest of the 31 teams on level term.

But it was not all about futsal, as promised by the organizers as various booths were set up to keep the players or any passer-by along the stretch to have fun in games ala carnival style such as "Dart Live" and "Sony PS3" (both pictured below).

The unique collaboration of having street football infused in the fun carnival atmosphere had certainly achieved its motive of having the both elements work hand in hand together, much to the delights of the organizers.

“We are delighted with the success of the first ever Tiger Street Football tournament here in Singapore and for being able to shape wonderful experiences for many football enthusiasts this weekend." said Ms Wong Mei Wai, Head of Marketing, Asia Pacific Breweries Singapore, the brewers of event sponsor - Tiger Beer.

"We are glad to see football fans enjoying themselves at the event through the excellent mix of fast-paced football action, fun and interactive activities as well as the chance for to enjoy beer and have fun with friends at the Tiger Football Stadium." she added.

Following the Tiger Street Football event in Singapore, it will move regionally to Bangkok, Thailand (May); Guangzhou, China (July) and Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam (August) before the Grand Finals in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. At the Grand Finals, the top team from each local leg will have the chance to fight it out to be the Tiger Street Football Champion and win the coveted top prize of USD30,000.

For full tournament results and information, log on to www.TigerStreetFootball.com.sg and http://www.facebook.com/TigerFootballSG.

FOR MORE PICTURES OF THIS EVENT, PLEASE CLICK HERE.

(P.S: Many thanks to Mr Shane Neubronner of Ogilvy Public Relations for all the help provided to make this entry possible.)

[Feature] Nike5 Gato

(The content of this entry is formulated based on the transcript provided by Integrated Marketing Solutions Group [IMSG] - the PR agency for Nike Singapore)

(P.S: The copyrights of the images depicted in this blog entry belong to Nike.)

For the launch of the its collection of Nike5 range of futsal collection in last October. Nike had further improvised the features of these shoes, after having identified regional nuances of small-sided football throughout the world and rolled out what it is claimed to be its most versatile small-sided shoe - Nike5 Gato Street.

In a release issued to the media, Nike explains that “Football in any form is about space. It was because of space – or rather a lack of it – that players had to take the full-size game and shrink it down to smaller teams and smaller versions of the game.”

“Smaller-sided football is all about the player; the player who leaves work, heads for the pitch and who, for the duration of their game is free to express skills, express flair and to express a passion for a sport they love.”

Furthermore, one of the distinctive features these shoes offers is the vibrancy in its design that allows one to wear them from the courts to the streets, hence giving players the fullest satisfaction during a kickabout and also fit in well when on the go.

“Its bold colours and premium material give those who wear a fresh look that one can rock all day, while the innovative technologies make it possible to play any time.” added Nike on the concept of having Gato Street as a feasible choice for not just players, but also streetwalking fashionista.

>14/31 = 1:2 NOT 4 OR 5 OR WHAT?

I was trying to dig out from the archive of the past regarding the shocking announcement of the disband of the national football team announced by the FAS president, Mayor Zainudin Nordin that mentioned only "4 or 5" players from the disband list will be retained.

But having sourced around the cyberspace and filtered, redefined the searching keywords I can only retrieved a blog entry by elusive "happy" (as I still don't know the identity of this blogger) that mentioned what I was looking for.

And Saturday's TODAY (pictured above) had reported that "least 14 players from the old guard will feature in his (Coach Raddy) interim squad" of 31.

Selection of players remains the prerogative of the coach all the while (undoubtedly), but the Mayor did mentioned in public months ago that only "4 or 5" players will be retained, so what kind of message are we, the fans, getting at our end?

Such "flip-floppiness" between both messages that the FAS president and the national coach had conveyed months apart had left the masses in a state of confusion of what's really going on.

(Pictured above) A call-up to the Geylang Field training base should be seen as sacred ordeal for the Lions

First and foremost, I must state it very clear that I have nothing against those "retained players", but with such "flip-floppiness" shown by naming at least 14 of them into the interim squad of 31 had raised some doubts on how sincere is the local game authority's willingness to revamp the Lions' setup by the fans.

• "At least 14 players" meaning it could be more than the half of the 31 selected would be from the old regime?
  
  
• Having such a big ratio of almost 1:2, does that means we are not likely to see those "deemed worthy" into the Lions setup in the near future?
  
  
• What was be the reaction of the Mayor when he first to know coach Raddy's interim list (which still unknown at this stage)?
  
  
• And most importantly, why made such a bold statement that now seems unconvincing?
  

Hopefully, in coach Raddy's words "the door is still open to others who prove themselves." and we really hope those had proven themselves so far will be called up (and we know WHO they are), while at the meantime for those "going to be retained" - please prove your worth and the faith on you guys shown by the coach (please don't let him down).

It's still up for all to grab...

In less than 24 hours the pole position of the league standings changes three times in the Round 6 of the 2010 S.League campaign.

Prior to the "Uniform Derby" at CCK, Home United were holding that position on top of their unbeaten 25-game unbeaten run, only to see that record shattered by their arch-rivals, SAFFC with their former protege, Indra Sahdan Daud playing a pivotal role in created and scoring a goal along the way to place the Warriors at the top for the first time this year.

“A record (the 25-game unbeaten run) like this is always meant to break.” said coach Lee Lim Saeng of Home United after the defeat to SAFFC, while his oounterpart Richard Bok added:"It’s good to be at the top of the table again, and I hope we can maintain that momentum".

Although, that status maintained for just less than 24 hours after the result at the Jalan Besar Stadium when Tampines Rovers came from behind to beat defending champions Etoile FC.

It could a game that went either way for all title contenders as the equation goes like this that if Tampines and Etoile drew with each other, SAFFC will remain at the top of the summit.

But it was looked as if the French would to be usurped the pole from 4th spot to the top, but only to see the Stags came back rather late into the game to snatch all three points from the game.

"Maybe could be the fatigue factor, but it's something I'm not going to reproach my players, as the plan was to play a pressing game." Etoile's coach Guglielmo Arena after the game.

The win, however, is far from over for the Stags as they will head straight back onto to their continental campaign, when it was revealed that the contingent will be flying off to Vietnam on Sunday to play Hanoi T & T on the 12th April.

Commenting on the packed schedule, Tampines Rovers coach Steven said:"We just have to take one game at a time, and so long we are winning we'll not feel the tiredness (of the packed scheduled)."

Seed $$ shall never see as something for granted...

Distributing of these subsides or commonly known as the "seed monies" first started in the league's inauguration in 1996 when funds were allocated to the eight founding clubs to help them to make up of the shortfall that might incurred during the operation in the infancy of the fledging years.

It was to say that the clubs were hoped to stop receiving these "seed monies" after three years after consolidate themselves during the said period.

Unfortunately, the economic downturn that hit the country during that critical stage of the S.League had failed to see that plan from being materialized and made it more essential for clubs to survive on the subsidies.

Although, I, for one, has never been favourable for such generosity, even though I know how difficult it is to source for the much-needed fund by the clubs themselves.

While the fact that some clubs are running some fruit machines (jackpot) to balance their books, unfortunately, given the higher taxation on these gambling machines means that whatever intake from them would eventually ended up on the government's coffers.

And therefore, very limited amount of monies from these machines had actually gone towards to uplift the game's standard in this country and things can't be help when the subsidies were decreasing in recent years due to poor economy.

As the result, many notable players flocked out of the country in search of bigger pay cheque overseas and the meagre wages offered only meant we can only attract quality players that fit the budget.

So much so that the clubs been banging the doors at Jalan Besar Stadium to plead for more financial assistance from the game's governing body and finally got their prayers answered on Monday.

I'm not sure what had gone through my mind that following morning, but somehow or rather the recent announcement of the increase in subsidy to be given out to the S.League clubs and had I decided to raise my concern of this matter.

"I'm still not convinced the top-up in seed $ is a gd thing for #sleague clubs, period" I tweeted that morning.

I added:"& if claims that some of these #sleague clubs would go bust, so be it! As clubs shan't see this seed $ as something for granted"

I think sometimes we really have take a tough stand on this matter here and clubs eventually found themselves not able to sustain on their own, should pack up and leave the scene and not dragging others down for the "old time sake" until they did like what Tanjong Pagar United did - by clearing their debts and return to the scene.

And with the recent windfalls though coupled with some conditions to fulfil what really worry me is how much prudence is going to be exercised by the clubs in using the money wisely?

I really don't know and really hope the clubs would learn that this is something not sustainable and since we heard talks about community outreach that shall be something we need to tackle on it, just like what I tweeted below...

"Community outreach IS NOT merely just run a few clinics, getting kids to kick abt! It's more than that #sleague clubs!"

[Media Information] SINGAPORE RUGBY CLUBS JOIN THE JAPAN AID EFFORT

A friend of my who is actively involved in the local rugby scene dropped me an email to inform me that local rugby community is staging their own charity game in aid for the Japanese quake victims after what the football community had done last weekend.

And since it's all for good cause, here is the information of the upcoming rugby charity match to be played at Padang this coming Saturday...

SINGAPORE RUGBY CLUBS JOIN THE JAPAN AID EFFORT
Singapore Cricket Club and Singapore Japanese Rugby Club to play charity game on Padang, over S$35 000 raised to date

SINGAPORE, 4TH APRIL 2011 – On Friday 11th March, Japan’s cataclysmic earthquake set off a chain reaction felt around the world. Immediately after this tragedy struck, leaders between the Singapore Cricket Club (SCC) Rugby Section and Singapore Japanese Rugby Football Club (SJRFC) met to formulate a fund-raising campaign.

This Saturday 9th April, these two clubs will take the field in a Charity Rugby Match held at the SCC Padang (K.O. 5:00 pm) in front of an estimated crowd of 1,000. Opening remarks will be delivered by Japanese Ambassador to Singapore, Mr. Yoichi Suzuki. Food and Refreshments will be available all afternoon, and access is free to the general public.

The SCC and SJRFC are recreational clubs with a globally diverse player membership of working professionals and students. Both clubs have a rich tradition of playing year round rugby in Singapore and in tournaments held throughout Southeast Asia. SCC Organising Lead Jake Stein offered his thoughts, “This match is a testament to the resilience and fortitude of the Japanese people. Rugby is one of the strongest communities on the planet and hopefully this will be proven again and we can raise a tremendous amount of support for the Japanese Relief Efforts.”

Members from both clubs utilised two fund-raising methods: Individual and Corporate donations. To date, more than S$35,000 has been donated directly to the Singapore Red Cross Society in support of the Japan Disaster 2011 fund.

These donations have been collected from the wider private sector organizations and individuals from all spectrums of the community, and were performed over a three week period, spearheaded by volunteers from both rugby clubs.

To contribute to this cause further, please contact SCC Red Cross Liaison: Nick Francis, N.Francis@kennedys-law.com.sg

[Media Information] S.League clubs to receive additional funding for next five years

(Media Information from the Football Association of Singapore)

Singapore, 4 April 2011: The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) is pleased to announce that the 12 S.League clubs participating in the 2011 Great Eastern-YEO’s S.League will be receiving additional funding support over the next five seasons.

Each local S.League club received cash and KPI-based subsidies of up to $549,000 last year. As a result of the increase in funding, clubs could potentially receive 40 per cent more in cash subsidies and up to 100 per cent increment in KPIs-based subsidies.

FAS President Zainudin Nordin said: “The increase in funding is to assist clubs to strengthen their financial position, raise the clubs' management capabilities, attract more quality players, intensify their community engagement and enhance clubs' youth development programmes.

“Ultimately, the additional funding should lead to more competitive teams in the league and better match day experience and entertainment value for our fans. This will in turn increase the number of supporters turning up at the stadiums. Fans are the heartbeat of Singapore football. Their support is critical and remains a vital component in the development, progress and success of Singapore football.”

The additional funding comprises of cash subsidies and the following KPIs-based subsidies.

• Young Foreign Player subsidies
The objective is to help clubs secure better quality footballers, aged between 18 and 21, who could also be identified and shortlisted under our Foreign Talent Scheme. This will benefit the club's performance on the pitch and also help to widen the pool of available talent for the national team. Clubs can receive up to $55,000 each for two young foreign players who must fufill the requirements set by FAS. These players must display good technical and tactical abilities and must be approved by our Technical Committee.

• Management Staff subsidies
This will strengthen the clubs' management capacities and assist the club to attract and retain more quality personnel in administrative, finance, marketing and media-related fields. There will also be more upgrading management and technical courses for club staff.

• Marketing and community subsidies
These subsidies will help intensify their marketing and outreach efforts to bring in more sponsors and reach out to new supporters.

• Revenue subsidies
The revenue subsidies seek to incentivise clubs to expand their revenue streams and in turn reinvest it back into the clubs.

• Insurance and facilities-related subsidies
These subsidies will assist clubs in partially offsetting their operational costs.

Mr Zainudin said: “We believe that this holistic and integrated approach in funding will help them enhance every key area that is crucial to their progress and development.”

The club chairmen were informed of the details pertaining to the additional funding by Mr Zainudin at a briefing session which was held on 4 April at Jalan Besar Stadium.

Mr S. Thavaneson, vice-chairman of Balestier Khalsa FC, welcomed the announcement.

“We appreciate the relentless efforts of the FAS President and his management team in securing the additional funding for the clubs, which is crucial in strengthening our financial position and assisting us to reach the next phase of our growth and development. The onus is now on us to utilise this additional financial support to bring our club to the next level and deliver the KPIs, including an enhanced football experience for our fans,” he said.

S.League Centre of Excellence programmes
At the briefing session, Mr Zainudin also informed the club chairmen that in line with the FAS Strategic Plan 2010-2015, all local S.League clubs must operate their club Centre of Excellence (COE) U-14, U-16 and U-18 programmes from 2011 onwards.

Once the clubs are ready, they will be expected to run the Under-8, Under-10 & Under-12 age-groups in the clubs COE programme. As part of the FAS Strategic Plan 2010-2015, FAS now operates three Junior COEs for Under-8, Under-10 and Under-12.

The funding for each local S.League club to operate the COE programme will be increased to $110,000 annually. The funding for these COE programmes is separate from the cash and KPI-based subsidies mentioned earlier.

As part of the enhancement initiative, all COE coaches will be required to attain the AFC ‘A’ Certificate in the future.

Mr Zainudin said: “FAS has expanded the breadth and depth aspects of our clubs’ COE programmes in order to enhance the tactical, technical, physical and mental capabilities of our emerging young talents.”

He added: “Besides quality coaching, these players will receive essential support in the areas of football science and medicine programmes such as nutrition and injury prevention amongst others.”

Mr Thavaneson said: “Youth development is of paramount importance for both the clubs and Singapore football and we are happy that FAS has devoted more financial resources and technical support for the clubs’ COE programmes. We are ready to kick-start our COE programmes and we believe that with the additional funding as well as key initiatives introduced by the FAS, we will see more quality young players coming through our NFA and COE programs.”

-End-

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE
4 April 2011

S.League's "Pray for Japan" with Nakata

With her group of five of them being first in the queue (pictured above), Japanese expatriate who gave her name as "A I" told this blogger they were here since 5.30am outside the ticketing booth of the Jalan Besar Stadium.

"Because we want to show our support to our fellow countrymen devastated by the recent earthquake back home in Japan." said the bespectacled lady who and her friends decided to make the trip at early hours after they failed to secure tickets at the another sale outlet located at Albirex Niigata (Singapore) office the previous day.

According to an Albirex official, their ticket allocation was sold out in one and half hour time after the sale commenced.

With the pulling power of Japanese football legends such as Hidetoshi Nakata, Masaaki Sawanobori and Masakiyo Maezono is no doubt that charity match like this would be a hot seller.

SELL OUT CROWDS WITNESSED THE BRILLIANCE OF THE LEGEND
And it proved to be the case that all available tickets were snapped up on the day before the match something that had not happened since the YOG matches last year.

Featuring a S.League All-Stars selection of players from various S.League clubs, the hastily-assembled team coached by SAFFC coach Richard Bok with the assistance from Home United's assistant coach S Subramani found themselves down with a goal in the 10th minute by TAKE ACTION With Albirex Niigata Selection's Tatsuro Inui.

While Gombak's defender Obadin Aikhena's header (pictured above) levelled the scores in the 20th minutes, it was not enough to deny the Japanese from snatching the lead before adjourned for the interval through Bruno Castanheira in the 36th minute.

It was the second half which the sell-out crowds were waiting for as the crowd-puller Hidetoshi Nakata made his appearance after the interval and didn't lost any of his brilliance despite retired from the scene five years ago and scored on the hour mark to make it 5-1 (pictured below) .

“It was kind of hard for me today since the last time I played was five years ago,” said Nakata after the match.

NOT ABOUT THE RESULT BUT THE ACT OF CONCERN TO THOSE IN NEED
The match eventually ended 7-2 in favour to the Japanese selection side, but what matters is not the scorelines but the appreciation and willingness of coming forward to help.

Together with his team mates, Nakata (pictured above, in stripes) shows his appreciation to the crowds after the end of the match.

FOR MORE PICTURES FROM THE MATCH, PLEASE CLICK THE LINKS BELOW:

• THE "NON-MATCH" ALBUM
• THE "MATCH" ALBUM
  

"Are we MUTE?" (in the first place)

Over the last weekend, I posted two youtube clips (below) of those visiting Malaysians who travelled across to the Causeway to catch the "Harimau" in action against defending S.League champions Etoile FC in a friendly match with proceed being channelled to the Japan quake relief effort.


Visiting Malaysian fans singing (part 1)



Visiting Malaysian fans singing (part 2)
These visiting fans announced their unexpected arrival at the stadium amid the match between Courts Young Lions and Albirex Niigata (S) with their chanting, singing and drumming that took everyone inside the ground by surprise.

"I thought it was some stadiums in Malaysia. I tell you, they never stopped singing. Really hard core. Only stopped when the teams heads for a break." said Neo Chee Seong, who was one of those surprised at the stadium for the double-header, feedback on the thread where I posted the footage .

One of the members of the blog Facebook Group, Ahmad Ridhuan, detailed some background info of these fans: "This is a new breed of fans who call themselves 'Ultras'. It started with the Ultras Malaya who support the national team irrespective of what happen on the pitch.

"To join their ranks you have to prove yourself worthy such as chanting and singing for the whole ninety minutes. Soon almost every state in the M-League began to have their own 'ultras' intimated by the fans though with varying degree of success. They certainly add colours to the football." added Abang Ahmad, who is a native from the northern Malaysian state of Terengganu.

Generally the feedback on the antics by the Malaysian fans (pictured above, while outside the stadium) have been lauded and positive with one fan, however, bring up a point which everyone should take a moment to ponder.

"These Malaysian fans who were cheering when their team played Etolie FC are not any of those young cheer girls we are seeing in S.League matches in recent years.

"I do admit that the need of some noises during the games. But I think as a neutral fan, you will scream and shout with a bunch of hardcore fans than some young girls and wonder why aren't we seeing such stuff in S.League?"asked a fan by the name Wu Ke Ying.

Pertaining that comment, Johnathan A. Francis, the Chairman of Hougang United FC Supporters' Club shares his thoughts with this blog.

"(It) doesn't matter if there are hardcore fans or girls cheering. If it's not my club playing I prefer not to waste my voice. When it's against a team from across the Causeway, I'd lend the local team my silent support." said Francis.

Together with his U4U comrades as the backbone of the Cheetahs' fans club, Francis admits that the group's English terraces-styled of cheering has been attracting both positive and negative responses.

(Pictured above) U4U's members showing their appreciation to Hougang Utd's players after a S.League game.

He said: "We've received our fair share of praises from our own fellow supporters and rival fans, but we are frowned upon by others as well.

"As long as our own players are affected in a positive way by it, I see no reason for us to bother too much about what is being said by others. This is our style, we like it, we are used to it. We've had local elements added in as well, but those are all done spontaneously."

Which is why at the same time, Francis has his own theory on the lack of spontaneous and passion shown by local football fans at games.

"The local culture is something we are up against because Singaporeans are generally shy and do not find it comfortable to be jumping up and down and acting psychotic like us" he explains

"But as more people are used to us, the number of people singing will surely rise. The atmosphere grows better and better at every home game. we will surely look into more ways to teach our fellow fans more songs." he concluded.