[Feature] The Braveheart Siva (PART THREE)

(CONTINUED FROM PART TWO)

"I realized that he (Withaya) understands me the most and he could guide me to be a good player.

"I’m not just saying this but because he did turn me to a player everyone looked up to when I was 16 during which everyone had given up hope on me but "coach" was the only one who saw something in me.

"Withaya Laohakul is not only the best coach I have known and trained with but he is also GOD. He also taught me how to be a better person in life. He is a perfect example for anyone." showing his appreciation to the man who had nurtured him since 15 year-old.

Being a fluent Thai speaker, Siva is having no difficulties in adapting into the new environment, since he already knows some of the Sharks players like former SAFFC star Therdsak Chaiman and Thailand national team goalkeeper Sinthaweechai Hathairattanakool for a while

Siva is currently on loan to Amnat FC by Chonburi FC

At the present moment, the player, who doubled up as a defensive midfielder, is on-loan to a second division club called Amnat FC (pictured above in the welcome ceremony) by Chonburi to gain the much-needed match exposure, which he doesn't mind at all.

"I believe that playing more games will improve you as a player. Minutes on the field is very important.

"It motivates me to do even better than last game. If you don’t play, you don’t know where you stand and you don’t know what to aim for. Improve with every game." he opined.

Siva with his team mates in this Amnat FC team shot

The importance of having a strong family support to pursue his dream is another crucial factor for Siva in his overseas venture.

"They are all very happy that I’m going overseas to play. They even said they will support whatever decision I make.

"My dad have always been supportive of me playing football especially if it’s with coach Withaya. He knew him as my great coach since I was young.

"But my mom is a little protective of me going overseas to play football. She afraid I might get hurt or something might happen to me." he said.

As for now the priority for Siva himself is clear - to repay the faith shown on him by his dear coach "Heng" (Withaya's nickname) as "the best defender or best defensive midfielder playing for him”.

Siva in action for Amnat FC

Nonetheless, despite the less-than-desired stint he had with Sengkang in the past, the ambitious defender has not ruled out the possibility of returning to the S.League, although, he feels that timing now is not right until he improves his game.

"My home is in Singapore. I've got to come back some day but I don’t want to come back and sit on the bench again. I never liked watching my team play. I prefer to be in the field fighting." he declared.

Coming towards the end of the interview, Siva shares his thoughts of eking out a livelihood as a footballer overseas.

"It’s going to be hard for anyone to leave their country and go to a place where food, language, culture or maybe even weather is so different from Singapore. But what’s the point of sitting comfortably?" he asked.

Those are the kind of "calculative risks" anyone goes to take when venture overseas, as he went on to firm his point of view on this issue.

Siva sharing pointers with his team mate

He concluded:"You will learn better when you are not taking things for granted. There will be many obstacles but getting over it one by one will be like an achievement.

"It will keep you going as long as you don’t give up."

A sound piece of advice from a man who go against the adversity to pursue his dream and with that let us all wish him well in his endeavours.

Go Siva!

(pictures provided Sivaneswaran Ramalingam)

A Fitting end to the 23rd Canon Lion City Cup

JUVENTUS FC 0-4 NFA U15
The juniors from the Italian "Grand Ol' Lady" - Juventus were simply outclassed by the NFA U15 in the 3rd/4th placing match of the 23rd Canon Lion City Cup.

NFA U15's skipper Adam Swandi's somersault celebration wowed the JBS crowd.

Back the partisan crowds at the Jalan Besar Stadium, the Baby Cubs (as I nicknamed them as) wowed their fans with a much calm and composed display as compared to their opener against Newcastle United.

In short, it was an almost flawless display by the Baby Cubs who slammed four goals past their peers just days after they were outwitted by CR Flamengo.

Juventus' players disputing the decision by referee Muhd Yazeen

Although, the Italians were unlucky to have a penalty go against them following the sending off of one of their players that allowed the NFA U15 to have full control of the game.

CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCH PHOTOS

NFA U16 0-0 CR FLAMENGO (Flamengo won on penalties)
Various online feedback suggested that the custodian of the NFA U16, Fashah Rosedin was instrumental in keeping the Little Cubs on par with those impressive Brazilians from CR Flamengo.

NFA U16's keeper Fashah Rosedin was the toast of the night for his heroics between posts

Again Hazim Hassan was guilty for squandering a glorious chance at the early start of the first half that would have jab the visitors' heart.

Since that afterwards, it was all the Brazilians led by the impressive Caio Rangel who was responsible to set the pace of their attacks that effectively contained the Little Cubs in their own half.

CR Flamengo's Caio Rangel (in white jersey) is named the "Player of the Tournament" - he will be earning big bucks!!

For second game in a roll, the Little Cubs had to endure the dreadful penalties, but unfortunately, lady luck wasn't on their side as the gallant Flamengo took all the honours.

CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCH PHOTOS

THE WINNERS - CR FLAMENGO of BRAZIL

The juniors from the land of Samba truly deserved the accolade for winning the Cup for their flashy display of football that was backed by carnival-inspired local Flamengo supporters and helped the team to the victory although not without having to overcome a stubborn NFA U16 team that also won the heart of the nation again.

POST-MATCH PRESS CONFERENCE

(Pictured above left to right) NFA U16 's skipper Dhukhilan and coach Takuma Koga

"It was disappointing to lost, as it's heartbreaking to lose on penalties, but Flamengo is a good team and I am proud of the team and with each other.

After the game, I told Illyas (Lee, who missed the penalty) that this is part and parcel of the game." NFA U16 captain Dhukhilan on his thoughts of the game.

"It was a difficult game for us as Flamengo is a top team, but we worked hard and keep ourselves in the game and it's a good experience for the team. However, our journey don't end here as it's still a long way to go for us." NFA U16 coach Takuma Koga on his thoughts of the game

(Pictured above) CR Flamengo's coach Celso Martins (third from right) flanked by his players and translator

"It was a good game of football and we were trying to finish the game within the 90 minutes, but couldn't do so and it shown that Singapore U16 team is developing in a good way and both team were well organized and disciplined in the match, which I think we had at least three to four chances to score.

I would like to thank Singapore for the invitation to this tournament and hope to come back again next year." CR Flamengo coach Celso Martins

MY THOUGHTS...

It was a good showing by the Cubs, no doubt.

Barring some hiccups along the way, the two NFA squads in the tournament have more or less rekindle those fading faith in local football with their football on the ground.

But after all these boys are still boys, let them enjoy the game as much as they love too.

While at the meantime, it's time to sort out those bugging issues when the Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports, MG Chan Chun Sing was quizzed by the media about the issue of NS that would affect the development of these players.

Please don't give us any more false hope...

(P.S: Many thanks to the Red Card Group for the invitation to cover this event and hope to be involved in future tournaments as well.)

Nothing much has done...

Coincidently, my fellow blogger Andy Brouwer blogged on the dismay pitch surface that staged a Cambodian league clash featuring Phnom Penh Crown, one of the guest teams invited for the Singapore Cup.

To expect professional players to play on this surface and to perform at a sufficiently high level is simply not on. It's impossible to play a passing game along the ground unless you spend all your time on the flanks.


The federation should not allow any more C-League matches on this pitch unless it is fully grassed. It's a basic requirement that if you are playing your country's main league competition, then it should be on a suitable playing surface. said Andy in his latest blog post.

Take note of the portion of the field at the top of the box and flank area at Bishan! 

I'm not sure what was Andy's overall impression of Singapore football after his short stay in Singapore, but he was to be at Bishan Stadium last night for the Home United-Tampines "table-top" clash, he would be at the shock of the state of the playing surface too.

Granted for the fact that this stadium was one of the designated venues of last year's Youth Olympic Games, and for that accolade the facilities should be two notch or one level up among other SSC owned venue.

See the heap of sand tossed in this tussle?

Horror fact is it is not at all and while the playing surface is not as bad as what Andy blogged about in Phnom Penh, but the state of condition is just unacceptable consider that when I first saw that carpet-feel grass surface is being reduced to surface more like a dirt-trekking ground!

Anyway this wasn't first time I blogged about the dismay pitch condition in local football, and last May I blogged another horrify scene at Choa Chu Kang as well.

Looks like nothing much has change since last year and really serious doubt can't help but cast on those we entrust in running the facilities, I mean it can be something kind of depressing to see such an important element not well-taken care of amid the state of the game in this country.

PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCH PICTURES BETWEEN HOME UNITED AND TAMPINES ROVERS

[Media Information] Statement from CEO S.League pertaining to Hougang United FC’s letter to FAS

(Media Information from the Football Association of Singapore)

The home ground of Hougang United - Hougang Stadium

SINGAPORE, 24 June 2011: Mr Winston Lee, Chief Executive Officer of S.League said: “FAS has noted the contents of the complaint letter which we received earlier this morning and we believe that it is identical to the version sent out to the press yesterday.

“FAS takes a serious view of the contents of the letter and will conduct a thorough investigation into the remarks and allegations that have been brought up by Mr. Bill Ng Chairman of Hougang United FC.

“As of today, FAS has not received an official appeal against the decision and punishment that was imposed by the Disciplinary Committee on Tuesday, 21 June 2011.

“The media will be kept abreast of any further development.”


CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE
24 JUN 2011

[Media Information] FAS President, Mr Zainudin Nordin acknowledges Mr Johan Gouttefangeas’ contribution

(Media Information from the Football Association of Singapore)

Johan Gouttefangeas - the founding chairman of Etoile steps down (file picture)

SINGAPORE, 24 June 2011: Mr Zainudin Nordin, President of Football Association of Singapore said: “We would like to express our appreciation to Mr Johan Gouttefangeas for his contributions to Singapore football. Johan brought an exciting team to Singapore which thrilled fans with their style and flair last year. I am glad to note that Johan will continue to be active in the local football scene.

“At the same time, we would like to extend a warm welcome to Mr Hicham Moudden. We look forward to working with him and other club chairmen in bringing S.League to the next level. In this regard, we believe the additional funding for S.League clubs, as announced earlier, will help Etoile FC and other clubs improve their management capabilities and capacities, and attract better quality players.”


CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE
24 JUN 2011

[Feature] The Braveheart Siva (PART TWO)

(CONTINUED FROM PART ONE)

It is a form of gratitude that he want to repay those who believe in him in the first place that center-back felt Thailand is the place to be.

“It was while training with Chonburi FC that I told them I wanted to play there and with their help I was able to play for Ban Bueng FC, whose owner is also the brother of the Chonburi FC's owner.

"I'm grateful for the fact that they always have high hopes and never lost faith in me that they believe I can be a valuable asset to the organisation.” he explains the reasons behind the second move up north.

Siva with his mentor - Coach Withaya (right, picture provided by Siva)

Just as Siva thought his career as a footballer was taking off with Ban Bueng, things back home saw he returned to Singapore to be at the side of his ailing grandmother in 2009 during recess period of the Thai season.

"I wanted to go back to Thailand (after the end of close season), but my grandma was falling very sick and I knew very sure that she was not going to live for long. It would be very sad if I was in Thailand.

"After consulted my dad and my mom and my grandma, I decided to stay here."he reminisced.

With that come along the opportunity to play for Sengkang Punggol in the S.League.

"During that period, I didn't want to lose touch in football so Ashley Ow, my close friend asked me to join him together in training with Sengkang Punggol.

"I had trained for a while before Aide (Iskandar, Sengkang's coach) asked if I wanted to play for Sengkang Punggol."

Siva (middle) in action for Sengkang Punggol tussled for possession with then SAFFC's Ahmad Latiff (left) in season 2010 (file picture by Ko Po Hui)

Eventually, Siva agreed and signed for the Dolphins for the 2010 campaign.

Unfortunately, despite efforts shown that drawing praises from coaching staff and fellow team mates, the former Stallions player found himself warming the bench most of the time while at Hougang Stadium.

"I believe I deserved to have played more. When I was given the chance to play I did stand up to the games.

"But maybe I wasn’t good enough in my coaches' point of view." as he looked back at the time he spent with Sengkang.

And that explains why the decision to head back to Thailand for the third time in a space of nine years to reunite with coach Withaya at Chonburi FC at the end of 2010 season.

(TO BE CONTINUED IN PART THREE)

Little Cubs didn't win to progress, but they did

Everton (in blue) took the lead first in the game through Calum Dyson's header.

The fact remain is playing this kind of three-team group round-robin sort of group fixture is NEVER TO LOSE and you are guarantee to be SAFE to the next stage.

With that in mind, the NFA U16 did just that by ensuring two draw results against Flamengo and Everton to progress to the next phrase of 23rd Canon Lion City Cup in the expense of the Merseysiders.

NFA U16 was equalized by Hazim Hassan (pictured above) in 22" but also guilty of missed two in the second half

But frankly speaking the team that formed by the core of last year's YOG team was up against a team younger than them with one of them aged only 13 year-old!

Which is precisely why a member of this blog's FB page suggested that at this age is more about gaining exposure and honing their skills, rather than being too result-oriented that might be a hindrance to their development.

(Pictured above) 15 year-old Everton 'keeper Russell Griffiths in agony after the game

CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCH PHOTOS

Meet up with another fellow blogger (Mr Andy Brouwer)

With Andy Brouwer of "Kingdom of Football" (many thanks to "LigaSingapura" for the shot taken)

It's always nice to meet up with regional football bloggers and especially if they are happen to be here in Singapore like Mr Andy Brouwer, the man behind the blog "Kingdom of Football".

I have follow Andy's blog on Cambodian football for a while and glad to gather some insights on the Khmer football scene via his blog postings.

He was here in Singapore in the capacity as the media officer of Cambodian club Phnom Penh Crown, one of the foreign clubs invited to play in the RHB Singapore Cup tournament.

Here are some of the Crown's Singapore Cup related postings by Andy

• PPCFC in Singapore

  Light exercises 

  Hands up 

  On reflection

Epic Opening to the 23rd Lion City Cup till the half of it...

NFA U15 4-3 NEWCASTLE UNITED
Epic finish till the end of the 23rd Canon Lion City Cup opener that saw the match drawn by yours truly had the NFA U15 came from the jaws of defeat to see them beat the replacement side Newcastle United 4-3.

The epic finishing by Faridzuan Faud rocked the JBS

But the Baby Cubs got to watch their backline that was caught flat to allow baby Magpies to score in the first place, while the pressing game by the local boys eventually caused the collapse of the Geordies.

Much quieter affairs off the field after the first match, as the ambience resembled of that of a normal S.League match after the LATW crew made their exit.

CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCH PHOTOS

CR FLAMENGO 1-0 EVERTON FC
Was expecting some samba-inspired chanting from the local Flamengo supporters, but it wasn't the case at all so were the local Toffees supporters.

While the Merseysiders did a decent job in suppressing the Brazilians with their tightly knitted defence that much credit must given to their 'keeper's constant vocal marshaling at the back.

The Flamengo 'keeper celebrates as the boys from Rio scored the only goal in the second match.

Unfortunately, a lapse in the back allowed the boys from Rio to score the only goal of the second game of the evening, which also highlighted the severe hydrating problems faced by both teams.

CLICK HERE FOR THE MATCH PHOTOS

[Feature] The Braveheart Siva (PART ONE)

(This is part one of the three-parter series that featured a story of Singaporean footballer who overcome the odds in bid improve his game in a foreign land.)

A lot of people would think that to be able to play professional football overseas, one would have to be a national player in order to "qualify for that feat".

After all, since goalkeeper Edmund Wee who begun the trend in early 1980s when he signed for Hong Kong powerhouse South China AA in 1981, those who followed his footsteps were all capped players like David Lee, Fandi Ahmad (both joined Indonesian club Niac Mitra in 1982), V Sundramoorthy (FC Basel in 1987)

In the more recent cases of Singaporean players plying the their trade overseas, such as Noh Alam Shah, Muhammad Ridhuan (of ISL club Arema Malang), Persija Jakarta's Precious Emuejeraye, Agu Casmir had more less amassed more than a hundred caps among themselves.

Amid most of these headlines grabbing transfers that saw these capped players earning a bigger wages and adulation awaiting them beyond our shores, one player, however, ventured north to Thailand at a tender age with a pure aim to become a better footballer.

“I always believe that playing with older and much better professional players will improve myself as a better player.” said 24 year-old Sivaneswaran Ramalingam (pictured above), on his pursue to become a better player by heading north to Thailand at the age of 15.

“We were the champions of the U-16 in Singapore but we lost 4-0 to this Thai team (Princess Chulabhorn's Football Academy) coached by Withaya Laohakul.

“Immediately after the game, I told coach Withaya my intention to play under him and he made the necessary arrangements for me to be there.” recalled Siva, as he is normally called, on that faithful day that changed his footballing path after his team, Sembawang Rangers U16 were soundly defeated by the team coached by the former Hertha Berlin player.

Since then, the defender, who first watched the game at Farrer Park where his father played in a social game, stayed on for the next one and half year to train under coach Withaya, until he returned home in 2005 to play for the National Football Academy's (NFA) Under-18 squad.

Instead of turning out for another S.League club following the completion of his mandatory National Service in 2008, Siva decided to head back north to resume his fledging professional career with Thai Airways Ban Bueng FC, a Division One side with the help of his mentor Withaya, who is now the technical director of top Thai Club Chonburi FC.


(TO BE CONTINUED TO PART TWO...)

(Picture provided by Sivaneswaran Ramalingam)

Thank You, Coach Vorawan

Tweet courtesy of "@LigaSingapura"

Undoubtedly, the most successful coach in Tampines Rovers Football Club since the inception of the S.League in 1996 - Vorawan Chitavanich had stepped down as the club's Technical Director and decided to head home to Thailand.

The timing of his departure could not have come to a rather bumpy timing when the Stags are facing sticky patches of late after ACL injuries to star players such as 'keeper Hassan Sunny and defender Park Yo Seb that effectively rule them out of the rest of the campaign.

Former Thai international Vorawan Chitavich joined Tampines from Sembawang Rangers in 2004

Despite making progress to the next round of the RHB Singapore Cup and returning of Fahrudin Mustafić to the club lately, the exit of the man who guided the perennial underachievers to two S.League titles (2004, 2005), two Singapore Cup (2004, 2006) and the Asean Club Championship honours in 2005 will be sorely missed.

This "single-file" debriefing session was brought to club by coach Vorawan and remains as a trademark to the Stags

While the imminent plan of coach Vorawan is unclear, although there has been speculation of late that he may be taking over Muangthong Uniited in TPL after current "Twin Qillins" coach Henrique Castillo could have been approached to take over the vacant post of Thai national coach - just mere speculation there.

But thank you, Coach Vorawan for all these years....

Albirex's patient play shredded South apart

I guess South Melbourne (in white) must be absolutely frustrated by the passing-holding game deployed by Albirex Niigata (Singapore) in their RHB Singapore Cup encounter at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

For a moment, the way the White Swans played was almost identical the way Super Reds made SAFFC looked jaded years ago on the same ground.

It was remarked by Warriors coach Richard Bok then that it was tough game despite the how slow the pace of the game was!

And not surprisingly with the ball almost exclusively belong to the Japanese, it was only a matter of time before they took the lead in the first half through Shotaro Ihata in the 23rd minute.

And it was the way of this strategy that seems to have pushed the Victorians to a dead end with no answer to reply.

Which Albirex's coach Koichi Sugiyama said: "It was because we control the midfield of the game that eventually forced South Melbourne to play long ball."

"But I must say they (South) are physical tough and difficult opponents which I expected them to be." added the Japanese coach.

The Jurong East based club notched two more goals in the dying moments of second half from Atsushi Shimono (pictured above with white band on his right wrist) in the 85th minute and skipper Shimpei Sakurada capped his fine performance with the third in 89th minute to seal the game.

"That's probably the difference between being a part-timer side and professional side." said the VPL club coach Eddie Krncevic as he gives his assessment to the team performance.

(Pictured above) Albirex's players thank their supporters after the game.

"I think the weather also plays a part in tonight's game having came from a cooler climate and compared to last time when we played Bangkok Glass which I thought we had a much longer time to acclimatise ourselves then." added the former Anderlecht striker back in the late 1980s.

While the Australian coaching panel also concluded their preparation for this year tournament was disrupted by the absence of their three key players and the congested fixtures back home in Victoria.

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SEE THE REST OF THE MATCH PICTURES...

[Feature] South Melbourne in Singapore Cup 2011

Last season, blogger Paul Mavroudis sent me his preview on his beloved South Melbourne FC's maiden Singapore Cup campaign and this time round he took the initiative to pen his thoughts before the Hellas are due to meet Albirex Niigata (Singapore) this coming Sunday at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

Many thanks to Paul for his contribution.

South Melbourne in Singapore Cup 2011
Paul Mavroudis

(Pictured above) South Melbourne (in blue) made their Singapore Cup debut last year against Gombak United

After surprising several people last season after defeating Gombak United in the first round and pushing eventual winner Bangkok Glass in the quarter finals, South Melbourne heads into its second Singapore Cup campaign on the back of an atrocious run of form and injury concerns over several of its best players. While the squad is apparently raring to go, there are concerns amongst the South faithful about how competitive the side will be this time around.

The season started well for South. After winning a pre-season cup tournament, and despite defensive frailties, the side managed to top the standings a third of the way into the 2011 season, the first time the club had been on top of the table since early 2007.


But following a disastrous 5-0 loss to Hume City – which included two red cards and a spate of injuries – South's good early form has disappeared. The side has only managed three wins since mid April, two of those against bottom three sides, and the other a comfortable cup win over a team from several division below.


There has been a high turnover of players in just half a season. Three goalkeepers have been used, players from the junior system have departed for more opportunities elsewhere, the midfield has been wracked by injury and several players have been brought in during a recent transfer window to bolster the side's depth.


The defense has been at the heart of the upheaval. VPL era stalwart and captain Ramazan Tavsancioglu left in acrimonious circumstances before the season started after the captaincy was handed to Steven O'Dor. One time Socceroo, the talented but controversial Ljubo Milicevic, was brought in part way through the season and started brightly, before the seemingly inevitable internal divisions he's commonly linked to saw him leave as well.

Coach Eddie Krncevic (pictured above left) is aiming for better showing this time

The midfield has been wracked by injuries. Defensive midfielder and perhaps the best performed player this season Carl Recchia has been out injured for several weeks, and only made his return last Wednesday in South's shock 2-1 cup loss to Port Melbourne, a team from a division lower. Fellow midfielders Joe Keenan and Yianni Galanos both received serious injuries before the season and have not made any appearances this season.


Last year's Victorian Premier League player of the year Fernando De Moraes has struggled for fitness, and will not be making the trip to Singapore, as he is still recovering from a hamstring injury. His creativity in the attacking midfield role has been sorely missed. Similarly, another attacking midfielder, Marinos Gasparis, has also been the victim of several injuries, and his match fitness must also be under question.


Striker Jesse Krncevic, who played for South in the Singapore Cup in the quarter finals last year, has also had a mixed season. Despite scoring several goals and appearing to have solved at least some of South's scoring issues, he has had long layoffs for suspension – the only benefit being that he will be fit ands fresh for the game against Albirex Niigata.


Still, it might not all be doom and gloom for South. Winger/forward Kyle Joryeff is probably the most improved player, improving his workrate significantly. Goalkeepe Zaim Zeneli, while not being flawless, has at least managed to add some sort of stability to his position. Some of boys from the youth system have done OK, but have struggled to attain consistent Some of the new boys have slotted in reasonably well considering the short space of time.


And the squad is still littered with players with NSL, A-League and overseas experience. As with last year, how they handle another unfamiliar opponent, as well the hot and humid conditions remains to be seen. Melbourne is in the grip of a unusually (even by local standards) early and cold winter, and the rapid adjustment required and the toll on the players fitness may well prove pivotal to the result. South flies up on Friday and returns on Tuesday morning.

Al-Fateha... Nasir Jalil

"Here's the 'Crazy Horse'!!" said former Singapore captain Fandi Ahmad  prior to the kick-off of the veteran match of the 2009 Sultan of Selangor Cup at the Jalan Besar Stadium, as stood beside him (pictured below) was none other than Nasir Jalil (pictured below left in dark-coloured attire) popularly known by that nickname.

That was the first and last time I saw this great player, who was also known as the "Supersub" in that legendary 1977 team that won the Malaysia Cup under the late "Uncle" Choo Seng Quee.

Known for his boundless energy on the field, it was his equalizer in that epic final that eventually led to Quah Kim Song (pictured below on the left) to score the extra-time winner to beat Penang at the Merdeka Stadium and saw the Republic won the Cup for the first time in 12 years.

"He was a great individual and a wonderful footballer who earned the nickname ‘Crazy Horse’ for his great passion shown on the football pitch.

"Who can forget the emotional scene in 1977 at the Merdeka Stadium when Robert Sim and Nasir huddled up together at the final whistle of the Malaysia Cup Final where they beat Penang 3-2 to lift the cup." said FAS president Mr Zainudin Nordin in a statement released shortly after his demise on the 8th June afternoon in the northern Malaysian state of Terengganu, where he resided for years.

As for now we bid farewell to another member of that great team that brought glory and joy to the nation to those "swinging" years of the seventies.

(Picture credit to Gale Gan.)

[Media Information] Singapore beat Maldives 4-0 in an International friendly held at Jalan Besar Stadium‏

(Media Information from the Football Association of Singapore)

SINGAPORE, 07 JUNE 2011: The new-look Singapore team cruised to a 4-0 victory over the visiting Maldives team in the international friendly held on June 7 2011 at Jalan Besar Stadium. The match started off with a new captain for our national team and it was none other than 20-year-old Hariss Harun, who was also playing in his new role as a centre back.

A penalty in the 13th minute allowed the Lions to draw first blood and it was brilliantly converted by Qiu Li (pictured above on extreme left). He got himself on the score sheet again six minutes later before Shi Jiayi thrilled the 2,166 strong crowd in the 30th minute with the third goal of the match. Aleksander Duric proved everyone why he is the S.League’s top scorer with the final goal of the match in the 49th minute.

The Maldives team tried their best but were unable to break through the Singapore defensive wall and the match was played out before the home team were cheered off the pitch by their new-found fans.

Singapore captain Hariss Harun was delighted with not only the result but also the new batch of Lions fans who left Jalan Besar roaring to the beat of their cheers.

The 20-year-old said during the post-match press conference, "I feel that we did well to get a good 4-0 victory over Maldives and we can only continue to do well as a team. The fans were fantastic and although the stadium was not a full-house, it is up to us the team to win the fans back. But these fans, their cheering and new chants were great."

Maldives' coach, Diego Cruciani was equally full of praise for the new-look Lions at the post-match press conference when he said: "This Singapore team we played today is very good. They are compact and organised. I also saw a very good player in No.25 (Qiu Li). He has a great shot, can be the playmaker and can also control the game. It is hard to find a player like this."

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE
07 JUN 2011

(P.S: Depicted picture from the blog owner's own archive)

Compilation of "Media Information" pertaining the incident involving Hougang United and Etoile FC on 23rd may 2011

(Media Information from the Football Association of Singapore)

• FAS Disciplinary Committee to convene on Thursday, 16 June 2011

SINGAPORE, 06 JUNE 2011: The FAS Disciplinary Committee will adjourn to Thursday, 16 June 2011 at 7.00pm (Jalan Besar Stadium conference room) with regards to the incident at the Great Eastern – YEO’S S.League match between Hougang United and Etoile FC at the Hougang Stadium on 23 May 2011.

Further information will be given out tomorrow, Tuesday 7th June 2011.

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE
06 JUN 2011

• DC Hearing to convene on 16 June 2011, RHB matches to go ahead

SINGAPORE, 07 JUNE 2011: The FAS Disciplinary Committee will adjourn to Thursday, 16 June 2011 at 7.00pm (Jalan Besar Stadium conference room) with regards to the incident at the Great Eastern – YEO’S S.League match between Hougang United and Etoile FC at the Hougang Stadium on 23 May 2011.

Please also be informed that following the Disciplinary Committee's recommendation and the FAS Executive Committee's approval and sanction, the following players and officials have been suspended from all FAS-sanctioned matches and tournaments until after the conclusion of the hearing and a verdict has been reached:

Hougang United FC
1. Hasrin Jailani (Assistant Coach)
2. Shariff Samat (Player jersey no.5)
3. Fathi Yunus (Player jersey no.7)

Etoile FC

1. Serge Souchon (Player jersey no.20)
2. Hadama Bathily (Player jersey no.24)

Please note that the suspended parties can play no part whatsoever in the proceedings of a match, and are not allowed to be in or around the technical areas including the team benches and dressing rooms.

The RHB Singapore Cup preliminary round matches involving Hougang United and Etoile FC will go ahead as planned.

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE
07 JUN 2011

Stop being a NATO...

I must admit something here that it just make me flare up whenever there is always such suggestions from some quarters of the fans pleading the league authority to bring back the likes of Tanjong Pagar United (which happened this year), Sembawang Rangers and Jurong FC back to the S.League.

Not because I don't support the idea of having these "sit-out" clubs back to the foray, nor I'm whole-heartedly for the idea of having foreigner-based sides in our league (unless they have really something positive to contribute).

But what really riled me is the fact that these pleadings were merely pleading with no concrete or tangible effort from whosoever to follow up on these appeals all over the years whenever it's almost due for that"customary musical chair" sequence that took place almost annually in recent years to name "that 12th club" of the league.

Let's not discuss about what went wrong in the perceived "stringent" selection system that interested club must fulfil those criteria before admission to the league, rather one should reflect that if anyone is keen to see their "beloved" club back to the foray?

In my recent #sleague ranting on twitter, I posted a tweet that reads (in screen-grab below from bottom to top order).

I'm not sure how many of you guys agree with me? although I received a comment from a club official who related to me what difficult it is to source for donations and sponsorship in times like these that his boss was "choked with emotions" when told his staff of the difficulties.

Unfortunately, it is largely maligned that there clubs with perceived "financial backing" are sounded and secured; the sad truth of late (from the grapevine) is how I recalled some "fans" are making unreasonable demands in return for their "support" for the club.

Let us just hope those "fans" are not the FANS we want for the league, who truly want to see the S.League out of doldrums and not later after those rants, I was 'mentioned' alongside with LigaSingapore in two tweets as depicted below.

As the person has 'privated' his tweet and I thought it's best not to reveal his identity.

Apparently, one can tell this person is a Sembawang Rangers supporter and really wants to see the Stallions back to the league that he took the initiative to drop an email to the league authority to "seek some advise".

Although he is uncertain when the recipient would reply or would ever reply, let's feel appreciate that there are some really truly hard-core supporters out there of those "sit-out" clubs.

If whosoever of the "sit-out" club mentioned would like to get it touch with this long-suffering supporters of yours, please kindly drop me an email, thanks ....

The Official Anthem for the 23rd Canon Lion City Cup - "Still Steady"

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


The much anticipated official music video of the 23rd Canon Lion City Cup was officially launched.

In a joint collaboration between Canon and Soul Theory Studios with local renowned hip hop artiste Sheikh Haikel, this one minute clip also featured local football luminaries such as Fandi Ahmad, Malek Awab, Aide Iskandar, S Subramani and Lionel Lewis.

Beside listening to the catch tune of the "Still Steady" performed by Haikel from his most recent album "10.10.10", fans are able to witness the mentioned former and present national players showcasing their skills not in the usual football gears, but in those fashionable streetwear outfit (Cool!).

According to the funnyman himself, the inspiration for the song came upon his realization that the phrase ‘steady bom pi pi’ was a uniquely Singaporean phrase that was universally understood by all Singaporeans, no matter where in the world.

“Still Steady is all about being sure, balanced, and resilient. These are our Lions’ qualities. It also sends an important message to all Singaporeans: to keep it steady, always, no matter what,” said Haikel.

By showcasing prominent local footballers like Fandi Ahmad and Malek Awab in the music video, Canon hopes to inspire and remind Singapore’s Young Lions taking part in the Canon Lion City Cup to be confident and remember that they are always and ‘still steady’ in the eyes of their supportive and passionate Singapore fans.

Football fans can view the video on all supporting Canon Lion City Cup portals including its Canon Lion City Cup facebook page, website as well as on Canon’s Be-Empowered facebook page.

In addition, the music video will also be screened during all matches throughout the Canon Lion City Cup.

RELATED LINKS
Canon Lion City Cup Website: www.lioncitycup.com
Canon Lion City Cup Official Facebook Page:
http://www.facebook.com/lioncitycup2011
Canon’s Be-Empowered Facebook page: www.facebook.com/BeEmpoweredByCanonSG

[Feature] If there’s a will, there’s a way.

(The content and images of this entry are obtained via former Balestier Khalsa's Head of youth development, Mr Mohamed Zainudeen with the objective of spreading the words about the development of disability football in Singapore)

Khairul has scored 9 goals in one tournament

If there’s a will, there’s a way.

Perhaps that is the philosophy held by both Khairul Anwar Kasmani, 25, and his friend Harun Rahamad, 22 years old.

Even though they belong among the disabled, but that did not break their spirits directly to participate in vigorous activities, such as other young people.

Khairul Anwar and Harun have a problem with cerebral palsy.

Unlike Harun, who experienced such problem since birth, Khairul Anwar also began to experience at the age of one year due to falls from ladders flat corridor.

Despite being disabled, they still participate in sports such as soccer, badminton, bowling and long distance running.

In fact, both of them represent futsal team for the Singapore Disability Sports Council (SDSC).

The team was represented by 10 men who suffer from disabilities of cerebral palsy.

Khairul Anwar, who faced the problem of cerebral palsy in which the right side of his body a little less effort, now works at Changi Airport as a customer service agent.

According to him, his involvement in sports began when he was seven-year-old.

"Back then, I could see many others around my age play soccer on the field. As for my brothers, they are also sport fans.”

"From there my interest in football began,” said the bachelor who is the youngest of three siblings.

As the captain and striker for the team futsal players SDSC, he also added that the team has been playing against local teams and even opponents from other countries.

This includes teams that were also represented by the normal players.

But the most memorable moment for him was when he was crowned as the most valuable player (MVP) in a six-team tournament in Kuala Lumpur last year.

The six teams comprised of players with disabilities.

'It was a memorable achievement in the competition because I scored a total of nine goals.

"And it was in the final stage in which , which I lead the SDSC team' B ' and beat SDSC team' A’ with conceding any goal.

"I was in the scoring sheet with one goal," he added.

PLAYING ON WEEKENDS
Besides representing the SDSC futsal team, he was also involved in the weekend football games with his other friends who also held a friendly match.

Therefore, he has no problem playing the game for 90 minutes.

But was he concerned and worried with the aggression of opposing players?

"Actually, before the game started, some opponents have asked if I was comfortable playing together with them.

"Maybe they're worried of my condition. But I assure them that I was able to play like them, too.

"But I can feel that their aggression was not so harsh in every game of friendship which I have participated in." he said.

Apart from football, Khairul Anwar also plays badminton, bowling and active in the field and track.

Recently, he and two other colleagues, Harun Ahmad and Mubarak, 18 years, has participated in Energizer Singapore Night 2011 at the Lane Trail Hostel, Mandai.

The competition, which attracted 2.600 participants is a long-distance running race held at night.

The three of them finally managed to finish 12-kilometer adventure together in a period of about two hours plus.

During the interview, Harun said that he wasn’t intimidated in participation in vigorous sports and competing with teams that consist of normal athletes.

Harun, who is SDSC futsal team’s goal keeper said that even those who likes to play football, they also suffer from injuries.

"For example, I myself have suffered injuries to both of my ankles at the same time.

"In any event, like the English saying goes, no pain no gain." he said, who is suffering from cerebral palsy which affected the left leg.

(This is the English translation of the original article first appeared on 24th May's Berita Harian)