Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Antara pingat emas Sukan SEA dan Piala Dunia Remaja

Tahniah buat anak-anak buah Datuk Ong Kim Swee kerana berjaya menewaskan Vietnam dan seterusnya layak ke separuh akhir acara bolasepak Sukan SEA di Myanmar.

Tahniah juga buat Minarwan Nawawi dan Dharma Raj atas kejayaan pasukan kendalian mereka berjaya menduduki tangga ke empat di Piala Dunia Remaja Hoki di India.

Kedua-dua pasukan remaja yang saya sebut di atas mempunyai potensi yang sangat besar. Mereka lebih berketerampilan, memiliki teknik yang lebih baik, terlatih dari sudut taktikal malah sudah ada tanda memiliki semangat melawan yang jitu.

Bezanya cuma, sebagai peminat bolasepak, saya masih tertanya-tanya mengapa pasukan bolasepak kita masih belum mampu layak ke Piala Dunia Remaja seperti rakan Hoki mereka?

Memang bagus jika kita berjaya kekalkan ibu segala pingat sukan SEA, iaitu acara Bolasepak. Namun, setelah berpuluh tahun bolasepak menjadi sukan yang paling diminati oleh majoriti rakyat, adakah sasaran utama pasukan kebangsaan hanya setakat Asia Tenggara?

Apa matlamat sebenar pentadbir Bolasepak negara kita? Adakah sekadar meriah ketika Piala Malaysia sudah mampu melalaikan peminat bolasepak tentang situasi sebenar prestasi kita di pentas antarabangsa?

Adakah jika kita berjaya pertahankan pingat Emas Sukan SEA sekalipun, mampu membuatkan peminat bolasepak tempatan terlupa sejenak hakikat kedudukan pasukan Nasional di pentas Asia apatah lagi dunia?

Impian saya tetap sama.

Jadikan Asia Tenggara sebagai medan mengasah budaya kemenangan di peringkat remaja. Manakala misi layak ke Piala Dunia Remaja bawah 17 dan 20 tahun sebagai matlamat utama.

Kemenangan di peringkat Asia Tenggara penting untuk memelihara maruah. Manakala kemaraan ke Piala Dunia Remaja sebagai matlamat utama.

Adakah mustahil untuk layak ke Piala Dunia bawah 17 tahun? sudah tentu tidak.

Untuk berjaya di peringkat bawah umur, kita perlukan kelompok pemain yang besar. Maksudnya kelompok pemain berbakat yang besar. Bermula dari sekolah rendah hingga ke sekolah menengah.

1. Satu Coach satu sekolah - Setiap Sekolah memiliki seorang guru/coach bolasepak bertauliah bagi mendidik teknik bolasepak yang betul seawal usia 7 tahun lagi.

2. Satu negeri satu sekolah bolasepak - Bina Sekolah khusus untuk pelajar yang cemerlang dalam sukan bolasepak. Bina Sekolah Bolasepak ini di setiap negeri.

3. Wujudkan Liga Bawah 14 tahun - Setiap sekolah Bolasepak tadi akan bertanding untuk mencari bakat terbaik di kalangan mereka. kelompok pemain akan dikenalpasti di liga ini.
Jika secara purata satu sekolah punya 100 pelajar berumur 13 hingga 14 tahun, maka kita boleh lahirkan 100 X 14 = 1400 pemain berbakat di sekitar umur bawah 14 tahun.

4. Kelompok pemain seramai 1400 orang yang berumur 14 tahun dan ke bawah ini boleh dipantau dan dibangunkan dengan lebih sistematik. Latih, pantau, bangunkan kelompok 1400 pemain ini tadi selama dua tahun, nescaya jurulatih pasukan akan mempunyai begitu banyak pilihan dalam membina pasukan mantap.

5. Pembinaan pasukan bawah 17 tahun - Setelah berlatih bersama selama dua tahun, kelompok pemain tadi yang akan berumur 16 tahun, akan mula dibahagikan kepada beberapa pasukan. Sebagai contoh, 100 pemain terbaik daripada kelompok tadi akan dikumpulkan di Kuala lumpur untuk latihan pusat. Kemudian akan dibahagikan kepada 4 pasukan A,B,C dan D.

Manakala baki 1300 pemain yang lain, akan terus menjalani latihan di sekolah bolasepak negeri masing-masing.

Kesemua pasukan ini tadi akan menjalani latihan serta perlawanan persahabatan yang berkualiti baik di dalam mahupun di luar negara. Jika prestasi pemain merosot ataupun diketepikan kerana tercedera, maka jurulatih boleh memanggil semula mana-mana pemain di kalangan baki 1300 pemain itu tadi. Kelompok pemain yang besar memainkan peranan yang penting di sini.

Cukup sekadar di sini dahulu cetusan cadangan daripada saya. Lain-lain cadangan akan saya lontarkan lagi jika perkara-perkara di atas sudah dijalankan. Pembangunan pemain seawal usia 7 tahun amat penting. Begitu juga visi serta matlamat pentadbir bolasepak. Kesemua di atas memerlukan kerjasama erat FAM/FA negeri - KBS - Kementerian Pendidikan - Kementerian Kesihatan - Badan penaja Korporat.

Layak ke Piala Dunia adalah matlamat utama, bermula dengan Piala Dunia bawah 17 tahun. Kemudian Piala Dunia bawah 20 tahun, dan ia akan turut memberi kesan kepada pasukan senior suatu hari nanti.



Sunday, November 17, 2013

Datuk K Rajagobal's final countdown

Bahrain deserved the three points in Manama. The better team won it, just face the fact. I am never a fans of DKRG (Datuk K Rajagobal), especialy in his tactical side. But there are few areas i think he has done good things for Malaysian football.

The gold medal recaptured in 2009 was the highlight. Followed by the reagional AFF triumph in 2010. He gave local football fans something to cheer about. Despite his boring tactics, you can see the improvement in terms of team discipline. In this year's Asia Cup qualifying, Malaysia managed to compete with some of the middle eastern sides. We were no longer the whipping boys as compared to some results back in the 90s.

I would say, the best term to define DKRG is, whether you like it or not, he is the one who responsible in the transition process. Our national team is actually still in the transition phase. And he (DKRG) is doing the best he can, to get the best possible result.

What he has achieved in the past 4 years, is actually he laid a good foundation for his successor to lead Malaysia to a greater height. Whoever replace DKRG next year, he will have a better pool of players to choose from.

Malaysia Vs Qatar

The first 'Cup Final' for Malaysia starts this tuesday. This is a must win game for Malaysia, otherwise we will have to say goodbye to the Australian dream.

 Forget the Bahrain games, Qatar will give a greater test for us. The best way for us to approach this game is by not giving too much respect to the visiting team. We don't have to think so much on their reputation, but we needs to play on our strength.

We have nothing to loose, by right the presure is now getting lesser for the players. I am hoping DKRG to instruct his team to play an attacking flow of football. Get the early goal as soon as they can. My suggestions on tactical side:

4-4-2

1. Khairul Fahmi Che Mat: He is the best GK available at the moment, despite some critism from certain sections of fans, i still believe KFCM has the quality for this big game.

2. Mahali Jasuli: Showed some glimpse of supporting role on the right flank when venturing forward. This game is suitable for him, as we needs to search for an early goal.

3. Aidil Zafuan: His costly mistake cost us the valuable point. But he is a defender rich with experience. His pace and determination always impressed me. On home soil, i believe Aidil will be hard to beat.

4. Amiridzwan taj: Tall, elegant, composed and a ball playing defender. Probably the man of the match in Manama, Taj is reliable for competing aerial battle. He is the answer for Qatars big centre forward.

5. Fitri Omar: The ATM player is a natural left footed player. Despite lacking international experience, i believe Fitri's crossing ability from the left flank will provide better goal scoring opportunity for the strikers.

6. Shakir Shaari: The Kelantan pass master should be recalled in the starting lineup as the deep playmaker. His range of passing could unlock qatar's defence. We need to distribute the ball as quick as possible.

7. Safiq rahim: I know he is not the fans favorite, including me, but knowing DKRG will almost pick him regardless of his current form. With the presence of Shakir, i hope DKRG will ask Safiq to play a bit higher up. Play to his strength, which is eye for goal from shooting distance.

8. Nazrin Nawi: Could work well with Fitri Omar on the left. Like i said earlier, we have nothing to loose, so please unleash the unknown. Give him the license to run at defenders with his trickery and dribbling abilities, before deliver the cross to the strikers.

9. S Kunanlan: Another loyal players for DKRG. But this time, i hope he will be deployed at the right flank. His great energy could help both attack and defensive works. I never doubt Kuna's commitment with the national team.

10. Nurshahrul Idlan talaha: I would love to see Nurshahrul to get another goal at Shah Alam Stadium. I want to see him to be played out wide, closer to the wingers so that he can use the ball with more support from wingers and full backs. Penetrations from the wide areas.

11. Amri Yahyah: His movement and constant high pressing role impressed me. An intelligent type of forward, Amri is well known for his ability to shine in a high profile game. I hope he and Nurshahrul can create openings as well as converting the chances into goals.

lets support the team, eventhough it is a tough game and almost impossible to qualify. Keep the faith, and keep believing.

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

isu-isu Liga Malaysia 2013 dan langkah kehadapan


Segala jenis saingan di atas padang, hiruk pikuk di luar padang, kontroversi telah selesai sebaik sahaja pengadil meniupkan wisel penamat di stadium Shah Alam pada 3 November yang lalu.

Tahniah kepada pahang di atas kejayaan memenangi Piala Malaysia, kemenangan manis buat pengurusan PBNP yang gigih menghimpunkan pemain muda beberapa tahun sebelum menggilap mereka beraksi sebagai satu pasukan mantap yang dahagakan kejayaan.

Menyingkap kembali kalendar bolasepak Malaysia buat tahun 2013, ada banyak yang ingin saya perkatakan. Malah, wajar untuk komuniti bolasepak tanahair perbincangkan dengan lebih terperinci. Apa yang telah kita sama-sama lalui sepanjang 2013, hendaklah dijadikan pengajaran berguna supaya perjalanan bolasepak kita di masa akan datang lebih lancar, dinamik, progresif dan profesional.

Berikut beberapa perkara yang ingin saya utarakan untuk sama-sama kita bahaskan:

1. Peraturan, prosedur dan proses perpindahan pemain

Musim 2013 bermula dengan kehangatan isu perpindahan pemain, umpama kes tarik tali, banyak 'Grey area' dikenalpasti sebagai punca berlakunya kontroversi setiap kali pemain berharga ingin berhijrah.

Cukup lah untuk kita supaya tidak menuding jari ke mana-mana pihak, saranan saya pula, apa kata kita perbaiki kepincangan yang ada di dalam sistem yang diguna pakai ketika ini.
Cadangan saya untuk memantapkan lagi urusan jual beli pemain:

(a) Setiap pemain profesional yang berdaftar di negara ini, WAJIB memasang ajen yang mewakili mereka untuk urusan perbincangan kontrak, menasihati pemain dari segi undang-undang, melindungi hak pemain dan sebagainya.

Jadi setiap kali Kelab ingin memperbaharui kontrak, atau ada kelab lain ingin mendapatkan khidmat seseorang pemain itu, mereka perlu berunding dengan ajen yang bertanggungjawab melindungi kepentingan pemain itu tadi.

Sebagaimana seorang ajen hartanah ataupun peguam, ajen pemain ini akan memberi nasihat undang-undang berdasarkan kontrak yang telah dimeterai sebelum ini. Ajen juga boleh memberi pandangan kepada pemain yang di wakilinya berkenaan prospek dan hak pemain untuk berhijrah. Nasihat perundangan yang teratur boleh membantu melicinkan lagi proses perpindahan pemain dan mengelakkan tuduhan melanggar terma kontrak.

Untuk meringankan beban pemain, disarankan caj utk bayaran ajen adalah 2% daripada nilai keseluruhan kontrak. Sekali bayaran untuk sepanjang tempoh kontrak.

(b) Sistem 'Transfer List'. Jika Liga M mengguna sistem ini, ia akan lebih telus kerana status seseorang pemain itu boleh diketahui umum. Jika sesebuah kelab ingin menjual pemainnya, mereka boleh mendaftarkan pemain itu tadi dalam senarai perpindahan.

Nama pemain yang hendak dijual atau dilepaskan, bolehlah di daftarkan di dalam senarai perpindahan ini. Sebaik saja didaftarkan, mana-mana kelab yang berminat boleh lah menghubungi ajen pemain berkenaan tentang butir-butir kontrak. Sebaik saja setuju dengan terma-terma kontrak, maka perpindahan boleh dilengkapkan ketika 'transfer window' dibuka.

2. Jadual Liga tempatan dan jadual pasukan kebangsaan.

Jadual Liga Super terpaksa dipadatkan bagi mengejar beberapa perkara. Antaranya, latihan skuad kebangsaan yang terlalu lama dan juga mahu liga berakhir sebelum ramadhan. Berikut adalah cadangan saya untuk memperbaiki jadual Liga agar ia beri keselesaan kepada semua.

(a) Jadual Liga Super hanya pada hari Jumaat atau Sabtu setiap minggu. Bermula pada Januari, dan akan berehat pada ramadhan dan minggu pertama Syawal. (Ramadhan break). dan tamat pada oktober.

(b) Piala FA akan diadakan pada setiap rabu (Kalah mati). Dan final piala FA sebelum Ramadhan break.

(c) Beri kelonggaran kepada pasukan yang beraksi di Piala AFC. Jika sesebuah kelab itu bermain di Piala AFC pada hari rabu, maka beri mereka sedikit ruang untuk bermain di liga Super pada hari ahad berikutnya. Ini bagi memberi mereka rehat yang cukup kerana  baru pulang dari perlawanan di luar negara. Kelab-kelab yang mewakili negara di Piala AFC wajar diberi sokongan dari segi susunan jadual Liga domestik.

(d) Jadual perlawanan persahabatan membabitkan pasukan kebangsaan haruslah selari dengan jadual yang telah disusun oleh FIFA. Kita tidak mahu lagi melihat pasukan kebangsaan membuang masa selama tiga minggu di Australia seperti yang berlaku pada sekitar bulan Mei-Jun yang lalu. Liga Super menjadi mangsa kerana terpaksa terpaksa mengejar masa yang suntuk akibat rehat yang terlalu lama  itu.

(e) Piala Malaysia akan diadakan pada hari rabu selepas Ramadhan. (Kalah mati) dan tamat pada pertengahan November. Jadi Liga M akan berehat selama dua bulan.

3. Sistem penjualan tiket.

Setelah berpuluh tahun menganjurkan pelbagai kejohanan bolasepak domestik, FAM masih belum ada kaedah yang terbaik bagi memperkemaskan sistem penjualan tiket. Sudah banyak kali insiden peminat pengsan akibat bersesak dan dirempuh lautan manusia ketika membeli tiket perlawanan bolasepak, namun belum ada langkah penyelesaian terbaik yang digunakan oleh FAM.

Untuk menuju ke arah penswastaan liga 2015, salah satu perkara utama yang perlu dititikberatkan adalah pendapatan kelab melalui penjualan tiket. Saya senaraikan beberapa perkara penting dalam usaha menuju penambah baikan sistem penjualan tiket.

(a) Kelab dan pemilik stadium perlu jalin usaha sama. Stadium yang terpilih sebagai gelanggang di Liga M perlu bekerjasama dengan penyewa mereka, iaitu kelab bolasepak dalam pelaburan teknologi. Setiap gate stadium dipasang dengan 'scanner' bagi tujuan 'ticket validation'. Ini adalah usaha bagi membenteras tiket palsu yang dicetak ulat-ulat tiket.

(b) Kelab bolasepak harus keluar belanja, melabur dalam teknologi. Kali ini, untuk melantik Vendor yang berkelayakan dan mempunyai kepakaran dalam 'ónline ticketing' atau penjualan tiket online.

(c) Kelab bolasepak mesti mengumpul 'data' tentang penyokong mereka. Melalui penjualan tiket online, Kelab mempunyai data penyokong mereka, seperti nombor Mykad, Nama penyokong, dan lebih penting lagi, kekerapan seorang penyokong itu membeli tiket.

(d) Ahli kelab penyokong dan penyokong yang kerap ke stadium akan diberi keutamaan setiap kali perlawanan besar akan dilangsungkan. Melalui data yang telah dikumpulkan, kelab bolasepak boleh menghubungi peminat berkenaan dan memberi tawaran penjualan  tiket. Umpama mengutamakan pelanggan setia.

(e) Tiket yang akan dicetak mengandungi nama pembeli, no Mykad, no ahli kelab penyokong, dan no siri tertentu sebagai pengenalan kepada pengurusan Kelab. Scanner yang akan dipasang di setiap gate, hanya akan mengenalpasti tiket menerusi nombor siri yang tertera.

4. Perang ke atas 'Match fixing'

Ini merupakan masalah global. Bukan lagi masalah kepada Malaysia ataupun Singapura. Untuk musim depan, saya sarankan beberapa langkah untuk atasi masalah ini:

(a) Setiap pasukan yang akan bertanding, perlu dikuarantin sekurang-kurangnya 24 jam sebelum perlawanan. Tidak dibenarkan untuk menerima dan membuat panggilan telefon. Jika ada panggilan kecemasan membabitkan keluarga terdekat, hanya boleh dibuat melalui pegawai pasukan. Panggilan itu juga perlu dirakam.

(b) Kelab atau Persatuan negeri yang menghadapi masalah kewangan sehingga gaji pemain tidak berbayar, hendaklah digantung serta merta dari menyertai pertandingan. Ini bagi mengelakan penjenayah Bookie mengambil kesempatan dengan menawarkan ganjaran tertentu kepada pemain. Oleh itu, Kelab harus pastikan kedudukan kewangan yang kukuh sebelum ingin menyertai sebarang kejohanan Liga.

(c) Pemain atau pegawai perlu menjalani sesi Audit setiap bulan dengan external Auditor yang dilantik, bagi memastikan pemain dan pegawai mematuhi 'Standard Operating Procedure' yang telah digariskan oleh LIGA M dan kelab berkenaan.

(d) Pemain atau pegawai yang berada dalam siasatan perlu digantung tugas sementara, sehingga siasatan selesai.

5. Jumlah pemain import

Musim depan, Liga M akan berwajah baru dengan kembalinya 3 orang pemain import bagi setiap pasukan. Pendapat saya, dalam jangka pendek, kita perlukan lebih pemain import bagi setiap pasukan. Ini bagi meningkatkan tahap kompetitif liga itu sendiri.

(a) Setiap pasukan yang berkemampuan, dibenarkan untuk membeli maksimum 6 orang pemain import, tetapi hanya 4 orang pemain import dibenarkan untuk beraksi pada hari perlawanan.

(b) Setiap pasukan diwajibkan untuk menurunkan minimum 2 orang pemain berumur bawah 23 tahun pada kesebelasan utama mereka.

Pada musim ini, banyak kali terjadi rungutan kelab terhadap prestasi pemain import, yang dibeli hasil daripada cadangan pihak-pihak tertentu. Oleh itu, sekali lagi, saya sarankan agar kelab memasang 'network' yang lebih baik supaya pemain import yang dibawa masuk kelak berkualiti dan membawa pulangan ke atas pelaburan.

6. Isu mutu pengadilan

Adakah mutu pengadilan kita masih lemah? Bagi saya, ada kala pengadil jalankan tugas dengan baik, adakala sebaliknya. Oleh itu, boleh saya simpulkan bahawa prestasi pegawai perlawanan masih belum cukup konsisten.

Bagaimana untuk menghasilkan lebih ramai pengadil berkualiti? Saya sarankan agar Jabatan Pengadil meletakkan KPI yang lebih tinggi kepada semua pengadil dan pembantu pengadil yang bertugas. Setiap kali tamat perlawanan, salinan video akan dihantar ke Jabatan pengadil bagi tujuan semakan. Markah atau Rating perlu diberi ke atas semua pengadil yang terlibat.

Elaun pengadil juga perlu dinaikan. Ini kerana kos pengangkutan dan kos penginapan turut naik. Saya juga sarankan agar pengadil turut diberi perlindungan agar tidak diganggu bookie.

7. Penswastaan liga M menjelang 2015

Ini merupakan proses yang paling susah untuk dijelmakan oleh semua pihak, terutamanya Persatuan Bolasepak Negeri. Liga M yang akan diswastakan merupakan anjakan paling besar di dalam sejarah bolasepak Malaysia jika ia benar berlaku.

Persatuan Bolasepak Negeri yang sudah sekian lama selesa dengan peruntukan kerajaan negeri masing-masing, masih beroperasi dengan cara yang sama sejak era semi pro. Sebahagian besar peruntukan digunakan untuk pasukan Liga, manakala peruntukan untuk pembangunan amat kecil dan dan tidak menyeluruh.

Pihak korporat yang ingin melabur mahu melihat struktur organisasi yang kondusif dan bersifat 'profit oriented'. Oleh itu, saya gesa agar Persatuan Bolasepak Negeri segera menubuhkan syarikat lain yang dikhususkan untuk mengurus pasukan Liga.

Persatuan Bolasepak Negeri sepatutnya menumpukan perhatian kepada soal pembangunan pemain muda dan menganjurkan liga peringkat negeri. Soal pasukan yang bertanding di Liga Super, wajar di beri kepada entiti lain untuk menguruskannya.

Berjaya atau tidak projek penswastaan ini, bergantung kepada kesedaran peminat bolasepak itu sendiri. Jika kita mahukan pembaharuan, jika kita mahu lihat kelab-kelab Malaysia beraksi di AFC Champions League, maka projek penswastaan ini wajib dijayakan bagi menepati syarat-syarat yang telah ditetapkan oleh AFC.

Akan tetapi, jika peminat tempatan terus hanyut dibuai kejayaan tempatan seperti Piala Malaysia, maka mereka tidak akan nampak mengapa perlunya penswastaan ini. Kesedaran peminat amat perlu bagi mendesak persatuan negeri untuk lakukan perubahan dan menjayakan projek penswastaan ini.

Kesimpulan

Apa yang saya tulis diatas, merupakan isu-isu penting yang perlu diberi perhatian oleh FAM dan FA negeri. Selari dengan kepesatan pembangunan negara kita, industri bolasepak tidak boleh lagi ketinggalan di pentas Asia dan global. Industri bolasepak tidak boleh lagi beroperasi seperti di zaman 80 an. Peminat tempatan harus bersikap positif dan aktif dalam memberi tekanan kepada 'stakeholder' agar perubahan ini disegerakan.


Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Harimau Malaya missed the big chance

Malaysia 1 : Bahrain 1

Perhaps we gave them too much respect. This Bahrain side was not as aggresive as any middle east side that we know of. For most of the first 45 minutes, our backline sat very deep, allowing the opponents to have more rooms going forward.

The limitation of our fullbacks in Asrarudin Putra and K Rueben, were exposed everytime Malaysia play the ball into the path of Azamudin Akil and S Kunanlan. Both wingers were left isolated without proper support from the respective fullbacks.

We can't deny the hard work shown by K Gurusamy alongside skipper Safiq Rahim, They won the ball quite reasonably well. But in few seconds later, our team lost the ball easily too. This is the area where we need a new coach with new ideas, on how to use the ball with precision. To win the ball, to keep it, and in the same time to organize the players movement in order to retain possesion.

In so many occasions, we gave away the ball easily. You can afford to loose the ball at South East Asia level, but at another level such as this one, loosing the ball at a long period would cost you a severe damage mentaly and physically.

Due to this, Amri Yahyah and Nurshahrul Idlan were forced to make an individual effort to penetrate the visitors defence. Strikers and midfielders were stretched apart, distance between them were so far, leaving Aidil and co to play aimless long ball forward.

We registered our first meaningfull shot on goal in the 20th minutes, while we earned our first corner in the 30th minutes. That shows how negative we were for the first half. A home team with a need to win, we should have shown more urgency to bring the game to them.

The goal conceded was as a result of split second lack of concentration. Just a minute before the break, they were 2 or 3 Bahrain players were left unmarked at the edge of the box. The guy have so much space and sweet time to received the ball, make a yard for himself before unleashed an unstopable strike at the top corner. New coach for concentration development perhaps?

Man of the match for me was Nurshahrul Idlan talaha. The only player in our side with courage and hungry for goals. His equaliser reminds me of his Kelantan treble winning season. Nurshahrul with great confidence, he can beat anybody. Would love to see him to bounce back next season.

With this result, Malaysia let the best chance sliped away. A victory would have give us a morale booster and greater confidence for the next away game. I just hope we can keep the right momentum going, and i still hoping we could qualify for Australia 2015. Believe.

Sunday, September 15, 2013

Pestabola Merdeka dan cadangan peranan barunya.

Kepada pencinta bolasepak tanahair veteran, mereka pasti menyimpan pelbagai jenis kenangan manis bila disebut saja Pestabola Merdeka. Samada kejohanan tersebut diadakan di Stadium Merdeka, mahupun pada era moden di Stadium Shah Alam, pasti peminat-peminat veteran ini tadi mampu berkongsi kisah-kisah menarik yang pernah mereka lalui.

Biarkanlah kenangan yang indah itu tersemat di dalam hati kita. Untuk generasi hari ini dan seterusnya, sudah tiba masanya supaya kita rencanakan sesuatu yang lebih bermakna. Saya cadangkan, apa kata Pestabola Merdeka ini diberi peranan yang lebih luas di masa hadapan? bukan setakat kejohanan untuk menyambut hari kemerdekaan, malah saya mahu lihat kejohanan ini berperanan lebih penting dari itu, terutamanya dari aspek pembangunan bolasepak tempatan.

Cadangan saya:

(1) Pestabola Merdeka akan menjadi kejohanan jemputan khusus untuk pasukan bawah 23 tahun atau bawah 21 tahun. 'Friendly tournament' for Under 23 and under 21 sides.

(2) Pestabola Merdeka akan diadakan setiap dua tahun, terutamanya pada tahun yang sama dengan Sukan SEA. Ini sebagai persiapan terakhir buat skuad bawah 23 tahun sebelum bersaing di sukan SEA.

(3) Penganjur Pestabola Merdeka dicadangkan untuk menjemput pasukan bawah 23 atau 21 tahun dari negara yang terletak di luar dari Asia Tenggara. Lagi tinggi kualitinya, lagi bagus. Sebagai contoh: Skuad U21 Korea Selatan, U21 Australia, U21 Brazil dan lain-lain.

Dengan cadangan-cadangan di atas, diharapkan proses pembangunan pemain bawah 23 tahun dan 21 tahun negara akan lebih tersusun. Malah, Pestabola Merdeka akan dilihat sebagai kejohanan peringkat umur yang bermutu tinggi, lebih berprestij dan dinantikan oleh negara luar.

Untuk skuad senior negara, biarlah rancangan perlawanan persahabatan di atur di saluran yang berbeza. Seperti merancang perlawanan persahabatan dua tahun lebih awal, agar kalendar bolasepak dapat diurus dengan lebih teliti.

Sunday, August 4, 2013

Watsons Malaysia Cup 2013: Group D

Personaly, i am against the idea of having an invitational club in our domestic football league or cup competition. I hope they (FAM) will not extend the contract with their counterpart in singapore (FAS) for the 'team exchange' program. 

To improve league competitiveness, FAM should look from other perspective, such as the much awaited clubs and league privatisation. But today i won't say much on that issue. I will elaborate more on the privatisation issue next time. 

Lets take a look on the teams competing in group D.

1. LionsXII: I don't blame them for winning the Malaysian Super League. We take the risk when we invited an invitational club into our league. Enough with the JBS pitch issue, Malaysian clubs should take extra blame for not able to compete at JBS for two seasons!
Sundramoorthy choose to play with effective football. Less beauty, but good enough to secure the three points at home and at least a point on away game.

Absorb the presure, and launch an effective counter attack is their main game plan. Shahril Ishak surely will be involved in that process, cleverly hold the ball while waiting for the supportive runs from the rest. He is the main man behind every Lions move. Clamp him down and 60% of your problem will be solved. Another threat always come from set pieces. Baihakki Khaizan and Safuwan are the main targets. Coaches needs to figure out on how to prevent their aerial threat. I predict they will march for the next stage.

Key players: Izwan Mahbud, Baihakki Khaizan, Harris Harun, Isa Halim, Shahril Ishak, Saiful Esah, Fariz Nawaz.

2. Perak: Predictably inconsistent throughout the season. It may due to injury to some of the important player such as S Chanturu. They also have problem with the foreign striker before the arrival of Paolo Rangel. Azraai Khor men usualy played with 4-4-2 direct formation, and they are quite aggresive with pressings.

If they could have an injury free squad, i believe Perak on their good day, will be a hard side to beat. I would like to see Hadi Yahya to be back on his predatory form in front of goal. It is important for any local players to improve and sometimes could outshine the foreign pros. I think Perak have slim chance to qualify. 

Key players: Farizal Marlias, Rafael, Shahrulnizam Mustafa, S Chanturu, Paolo Rangel, Hadi Yahya, Yong Kong Yong

3. Sarawak: A rising team under brilliant tactician Robert Alberts. Can't wait to see them on this year's edition. Unbeaten in the premier league, i am sure Sarawak will carry on their fine form into Malaysia cup. 

I am big fans of Joseph Kalang Tie, a left footed wizard who can operate on either flank, or as an attacking midfielder behind the striker. Sarawak are blessed to have this kind of intelligent player, and i believe he will be the main man to spark the attacks. With passionate supporters, i think Sarawak will acompany LionsXII to the quarter final.

Key players: Saiful Amar, Ronny Harun, Guy Bwele, Joseph Kalang Tie, Bobby Gonzales, Muamer Salibasic, Junior Eldstal, Ashri Chuchu.

4. Kedah: A sleeping giant from the north. Traditionaly one of the big sides in Malaysian football. The declining trend of Kedah may be due to management's lack of ambition or lack of funds available for quality signings. 

The appointment of new Kedah FA president, Dato Seri Mukhriz Mahathir could offer some hope of revival in the near future. I also hope Kedah could make immediate return to the country's top flight.

Tacticaly, Kedah still have a decent line up. The biggest concern should be how to stop conceeding a goal. A more compact formation could be the best solution, or play with the back three can be considered as well. With current form taken into considerations, i don't think Kedah could make it.

Key players: Sabree Abu, Khyril Muhymeen, Baddrol Bakhtiar, Akmal Rizal, Alen Guc, Nelson Martin, Faizal Abu Bakar.


Saturday, August 3, 2013

Watsons Malaysia Cup 2013: Group C

Some called it as the group of east coast. For the past 3 to 4 years, east coast sides proved significant progress in all aspects. They produced so many talented players at all level. Take a look at the Harimau Muda set up, you can find so many young players either from Kelantan, Terengganu or Pahang.

It is very unfortunate for the three east coast giants drawn in the same group. And it is also very unfortunate for the relegated Negeri Sembilan found themself sit in this tough group.

Group C:

1. Kelantan: Finaly found their best form towards the end of the Super League campaign. The FA cup triumph delivered mammoth relief and increase their confidence level, in the dressing room at least. Goalscoring form has been encouraging lately, with Dickson enjoying his lone striker role upfront. The elimination from the AFC Cup also contributing to The Red Warriors recovery. Because of lesser amount of tough fixtures, Bojan Hodak now can focus on this Malaysia cup campaign. Thats mean, lesser tinkering to the squad and the starting eleven.

We all know the quality possesed by the midfield pair of Badhri Radzi and Shakir Shaari. Physically, the pair looked better after that AFC cup exit, and they are back to normal business. With the likes of Faiz Subri, Nur Farhan Mohd and experienced Indra Putra Mahyuddin, The Red Warriors still have the ability to go far in this competition.

Key players: Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Nik Shahrul Azim, Badhri Radzi, Nur Farhan Mohd, Obinna, Dickson.

2. Pahang: The biggest comeback in M League this year. Gained promotion last year, Dollah Salleh's young squad continue with their impressive attacking philosophy. Build around young and pacey players, Pahang always dangerous when the ball at Gopi's feet. I would like to congratulate Dollah for his work in moulding a new midfield combination in the likes of Amirulhadi Zainal and Hafiz Kamal.

I regard Hafiz Kamal as the next star midfield in the making, if he is to be coached in the right direction continously, and consistently. Elegant left foot, comfortable with the ball, great vision and ability to execute the defence-splitting-pass, his natural playmaking display impressed me this year.

Key players: Nasril Nordin, Razman Roslan, Damian Steward, Amirulhadi Zainal, Hafiz Kamal, Gopi, Matias Conti, Azamuddin Akil.

3. Terengganu: Another dissapointing league campaign by a talented side as Terengganu. Most of the game played in the afternoon, with some players and coaches thought that it was the biggest factor why Ellavarasan side struggled to earn maximum points at home.
however, do not rule out the the potentialy explosive trio in the likes of Effa owana, Manaf mamat and Ashaari Samsuddin.

Manaf Mamat always remind me of Udinese's Antone De Natale. Hard working, hungry eye for goal and his passionate in wearing the shirt he loved most as a local lads. Slightly behind him, and sometimes played alongside manaf, is the main man in Terengganu set up.  Beware of Ashaari Samsuddin, for his tricky runs and matchwinning performance.

Key players: Faizal Muhamad, Ashaari Samsuddin, Effa owana, Manaf Mamat, Ismail Faruqi, Zubir Azmi.

4. Negeri Sembilan: Malaysia cup finalist for few occasions for the past five years, experiencing disasterous Super league campaign for certain reasons. Appearance in this year Malaysia cup should be considered as consolations, something to cheer about for the  Jangs faithful.

Nazrin Nawi is the biggest discovery in this year Malaysian Super League. An attacking midfielder normally play at left flank, and he is always allowed to roam inside to create oppenings, Nazrin is seen as many as next big thing in Malaysian football. Great pace, deadly left foot's strike, great to watch in one to one duel and not forget his quality in delivering an early cross from the left flank.

Key players: Norhafiz zamani Misbah, Idris Karim, Nazrin Nawi, Shahurain Abu Samah, Shakir Ali.

Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Watsons Malaysia Cup 2013: Group B

Many perceived group B as the easiest among the four, consisting of club sides competing with each other for the quarter final spots. But i dont buy that theory easily. Well known for their inconsistency in the Super League, these teams needs to improve tacticaly to reach the next stage.

Group B:

1. JDT FC: Fallen at the last hurdle in the Super League campaign and the FA cup, the southern Tigers realized that they have no choice but to go all out trying to win the cup for the first time. Fandi Ahmad or, Azmi Mohamad have mammoth task to deal with, need to re-organize his men and to put a solid performance as a team. With so many passengers in the team, Azmi need to identify the best lineup that willing to work hard for the team.

To get the best out of Nurshahrul Idlan talaha, he needs to be played at a more central role, rather than on the flank. Key players: Aidil Zafuan, Andrezinho, Nurul Azwan, Nurshahrul Idlan, Leo Nunez.

2. Selangor PKNS FC: Ranked as second favorite to qualify to the next stage, the Kelana Jaya outfit can be considered of having an average season in the league campaign. Coached by experienced Abdul rahman Ibrahim, the red ants have the quality needed to compete with the rest.

The mid-season signing of talented midfielder Nazmi Faiz has bolstered the squad's morale. I wish to see the game plan to be build around Roman Chmelo, Nazmi and Nizad Ayub. The trio could provide an effective support for the towering Patrick Ronaldinho. On any good day, they have the ability to hurt any sides, including the big ones.

Key Players: Helmi Remeli, Roman Chmelo, Nizad Ayub, Nazmi Faiz, Patrick Ronaldinho.

3. T-Team FC: Dragged by a season long off the pitch issues with former coach Peter Butler, the Kuala Terengganu based club has finaly found their steady feat. Survived from the relegation threat, they are now looked as a much compact side. Forget the beautiful way, this club must work hard to create more chances upfront, as most of the strikers are quite youthful and inexperienced.

Only miracle can turn things around for them, i don't see T team can make it to the quarter final. This is a learning season for them and i believe they can do well better next season. Key players:  Marzuki Yusof, George Boateng, Damir Ibric, Iqbal Suhaimi, Mazlizam Mohamad.

4. Felda United FC: A side with so much experienced footballers in the country, but suprisingly struggled to make good impact. If they able to pull together as a team, i think they can suprise other teams with a giant killing performance. I do hope the likes of Amar Rohidan, Razali Umar, Azmi Muslim to re discover their form. They are players with international experience (Except razali) but the coaching staffs need to encourage them with positive thinking so that they can play with less presure.

Don't be suprised with Felda United's sudden come back and reach the next stage. They have the experience, and they have the quality, nothing impossible for the sleeping tigers.
Key players: Helmi Eliza, Khaironnisam Sahabudin, Amar rohidan, Leo Saint-Preux, Rudie Ramli.


Sunday, July 28, 2013

Watsons Malaysia Cup 2013: Group A

The most prestigious cup competition in the country is back, with the kick off will be on the 20th of August 2013. It is the oldest football tourney in fact. But i am not interested to talk about history.

As a football fans, i am more looking forward to the future. I want something new in our football. History alone doesn't help to improvise our football. So, this year's edition of Malaysia cup, for me means nothing. Its good for any team to lift the cup by the end of October, but the winner won't qualify for the AFC cup spot next season.

So, i don't see the importance of winning it, at the first place.

However, it may be the best way to end the season in such colourful style. To end the season with the Malaysia Cup in your club's trophy cabinet would mean a lot to the fans. Furthermore, it would help the national players to remain at the best possible conditions in term of match fitness.

Lest look at the teams competing in this year's Watsons Malaysia cup.

Group A:

1. Selangor: One of the biggest favorites to win the cup. A team with great traditions especialy in Malaysia Cup. They finished the league campaign as the second best behind LionsXII. For me, they have a squad with balance in all department. I predict they will top this group and qualify for quarterfinal. Key players: Norazlan Razali, Mahali Jasuli, K Gurusamy, Amri Yahyah, Forkey Doe, S Kunanlan.

2. ATM: A season ago they were labbeled as Malaysia's Manchester city. But this year, they have experiencing some difficulties when some of the key players were out with injury. Always look dangerous when Bruno Martelotto have the ball at his feet. However, the squad were lacking strength in depth. A good team, but need to do better especialy away from home. Key Players: Amiridzwan Taj, Bruno Martelotto, Shukor Adan, Hairudin Omar, Marlon Alex James.

3. KL Sime Darby: A club with strong financial backings, but unfortunately struggling to have a solid fan base. Maybe the Selayang folks not aware with the existance of this football club. I am a fans of coach ismail Zakaria. he was my instructor during my coaching course way back in 2004. The good thing is, playing as underdogs will help Sime darby do perform with less presure. Don't be suprise if they snatch the second spot and qualify for the quarterfinal. Key Players:Karlo Primorac, Juzaili Samion, Shafiq Jamal, Yosri Derma Raju.

4. Johor: Many pundits write off their chances to make it to the quarter. To make it worse, Top goalscorer Orlando is out for a long term injury. Coach Azmi Mohamad probably have to work on local players such as Farid Ideris to spearhead the attacks. The strength of this team build around their midfield where See Kok Luen and Gallegos normally combining well with their neat passes. Key Players: Farid Ideris, Shoufiq Kusaini, See Kok luen, Khairul Ismail, Eze Gallegos.

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Dua 'Perkara Purba' yang masih tak berubah...

Sebagai peminat bolasepak, sudah tentu kita mahukan yang terbaik daripada pasukan kita. Kita mahukan yang terbaik dari segi kualiti bolasepak di atas padang. Kita mahukan pengurusan liga yang telus, progresif dan profesional. Kita mahukan sokongan berterusan daripada penyokong agar terus membanjiri stadium.

Begitu hebatnya keghairahan penyokong setia mendampingi pasukan kesayangan masing-masing, hingga sanggup berkorban dari segi wang ringgit, tenaga dan masa. Belum lagi kisah-kisah tragik penyokong yang terkorban dalam perjalanan ke stadium akibat kemalangan jalan raya dan sebagainya.

Zaman beredar, generasi penyokong bertukar ke generasi yang lain. Arus pemodenan seiring perubahan masa telah memaksa bolasepak tempatan bertukar wajah sedikit demi sedikit. Format liga mula diperkenalkan, disusuli pula oleh Era Semi Pro, dan seterusnya hinggalah format Liga M yang dipertontonkan kepada umum dewasa ini.

Bagaimanapun, setelah berpuluh tahun disajikan dengan kerancakan bolasepak domestik,  yang sering menjadi mangsa adalah penyokong setia ini tadi. Seumpama pelanggan yang tidak dihargai, peminat bolasepak tempatan yang sering dahagakan kejayaan kelab masing-masing di peringkat nasional, dan juga mengidam langkah skuad Harimau Malaya ke Piala Dunia, masih bergelut dengan realiti DUA perkara yang tak berubah sejak dulu.

PERTAMA: Peminat bolasepak ataupun dalam bahasa komersialnya adalah dirujuk kepada  'Pelanggan', menghadapi seribu jenis masalah setiap kali ingin membeli tiket perlawanan. Masalah ini lebih terasa apabila membabitkan perlawanan berprofil tinggi seperti perlawanan separuh akhir dan akhir. Begitu juga perlawanan di peringkat liga yang melibatkan penyokong yang ramai.

Sistem beratur panjang untuk membeli tiket sebenarnya sudah tidak relevan dengan keadaan negara kita yang sudah maju dalam pelbagai bidang yang berteraskan teknologi.

Adakah kita beratur panjang ketika membeli tiket kapal terbang? adakah hari ini, kita masih beratur panjang untuk membayar bil-bil bulanan kita di kaunter bank?

Oleh kerana tidak ada keprihatinan daripada pihak penganjur, maka tiada inisiatif diambil bagi menambahbaik kaedah penjualan dan pengagihan tiket yang lebih sistematik. Akhirnya pada tahun 2013, kita masih berhadapan dengan cara purba. Beratur panjang, berebut, berhimpit antara satu sama lain.




Semakin hampir ke kaunter tiket, semakin bahaya keadaannya. Tiada lagi barisan, peminat datang dari kiri dan kanan merempuh demi menuju ke kaunter tiket yang lapan. Keadaannya sama seperti pelarian perang yang kelaparan datang beramai-ramai untuk merebut makanan.

Adakah layak peminat bolasepak tempatan dilayan sebegini?

Dalam masa yang sama, daripada era 80an, 90an hingga 2013, masih kedengaran wujudnya 'Ulat Tiket' yang mengaut keuntungan dengan menjual tiket berkali ganda mahalnya. Mengapa masih tiada jalan penyelesaian untuk hapuskan ulat tiket ini? Siapakah dalang di belakang ulat tiket ini?

Cadangan untuk penambah baik sistem jualan tiket:

a). Lantik operator yang berkelayakan untuk kendali penjualan tiket secara online. (Online ticket purchase) FAM dan FA negeri mesti bekerjasama dalam memastikan sistem yang akan digunakan mampu mempermudahkan proses penjualan tiket. Boleh kaji sistem jualan tiket yang diaplikasi oleh syarikat penerbangan murah, atau sistem jualan tiket wayang, atau sistem jualan tiket Formula 1 di Sepang.

b). Setelah beli secara online, peminat boleh bawa resit tersebut untuk ditukar kepada tiket perlawanan yang sebenar di kaunter khas di stadium.

c). Tiket perlawanan dilengkapi dengan 'bar code'

d). Setiap pintu masuk akan dilengkapi dengan 'Scanner' bagi mengesahkan tiket perlawanan itu tadi.

e). Pembelian secara online mampu sekat ulat tiket, kerana seorang pembeli hanya boleh beli sekeping tiket sahaja. Pembeli diwajibkan untuk mengisi nombor kad pengenalan ketika membuat pembelian. Jika pembeli tersebut ingin membeli tiket lagi dengan menggunakan nombor kad pengenalan yang sama, maka transaksi tersebut akan dihalang serta merta.

f). Lain-lain aplikasi bagi menambah ciri-ciri keselamatan ataupun aplikasi yang bersesuaian dengan stadium pasukan di negeri masing-masing bolehlah dirunding dengan lebih mendalam bersama operator sistem.

Letak ketepi kepentingan politik, suku sakat dan kepentingan peribadi. Pihak yang bertanggungjawab dalam pengurusan jualan tiket ini harus telus memastikan tiket sampai ke pihak yang sepatutnya. FAM dan FA negeri serta kelab harus laburkan sejumlah peruntukan bagi berhijrah ke arah penjualan tiket secara online ini. Tiada pilihan, masa untuk berubah dengan menggunakan kepintaran teknologi sudah tiba.


KEDUA: Seperti yang sedang di bincangkan oleh majoriti peminat bolasepak tempatan pada ketika ini, tentang perlawanan persahabatan yang bakal dilalui oleh skuad kebangsaan kita Harimau Malaya.

Pendapat saya tidak salah jika kelab-kelab asing ini mahu datang ke sini dan memperagakan kehebatan mereka. Cuma, di pihak kita, tak perlulah skuad nasional yang ditugaskan untuk melayan tetamu bertaraf kelab itu nanti.

Sepatutnya FAM tubuhkan pasukan 'MSL all star' yang dianggotai pemain tempatan dan import terbaik dari liga Super. Pasukan ini yang sepatutnya melayan Cheasea dan Barcelona nanti, dan bukan pasukan kebangsaan Malaysia.

Pasukan kebangsaan harus tumpu kepada perlawanan kelas A dan program mereka mestilah disusun dengan lebih baik agar dapat menguji pasukan negara yang hebat seperti pada tahun 2002, di mana Malaysia menentang pasukan piala dunia Brazil. Tidak mustahil hari ini, kita boleh adakan perlawanan persahabatan kelas A sedemikian rupa.

Alasan tiada pasukan yang berminat untuk menguji Malaysia tidak boleh diterima sama sekali. Lihat sahaja bagaimana Indonesia (ranking 170 dunia) mampu mengadakan perlawanan persahabatan dengan Belanda (Ranking 5 dunia).

Pengurusan skuad kebangsaan harus menyediakan jadual perlawanan persahabatan seawal mungkin bagi mengundang pasukan negara yang berkualiti untuk datang ke sini. Persoalannya, adakah rancangan seumpama itu wujud dalam FAM?

Atau mereka sekadar berpuashati dengan pencapaian di peringkat asia tenggara?

Saya bersetuju dengan kenyataan Setiausaha Agung FAM yang baru, Dato Hamidin yang menegaskan betapa pentingnya Ranking buat skuad kebangsaan. Syabas Dato', teruskan usaha bawa perubahan.

Rumusan:

Kedua-dua perkara ini adalah bukti betapa bolasepak kita masih berada di takuk yang sama sejak dulu. Adalah wajar tuntutan peminat bolasepak yang mahukan kepimpinan FAM ditukar dan segala polisi di dalamnya juga ditukar.

Peminat bolasepak Malaysia berhak dapatkan yang lebih baik daripada ini, mereka adalah tunjang kebangkitan industri bolasepak tempatan. Mereka wajar di hormati dan diberi keutamaan dari segi kemudahan prasarana stadium, dan juga keutamaan dalam bentuk kejayaan pasukan kebangsaan di peringkat dunia.










Wednesday, June 19, 2013

The Road to 2015

We have to sit and talk. Are we happy with the current state of our football so far? the answer is a big NO. We won something at ASEAN level on 2009, 2010 and 2011 but then we failed to achieve it on 2012. Struggled at ASEAN level is a fact.

For a record, since 1984 untill today, we only managed to win three times a medal called 'SEA games gold medal' and a cup of friendly ASEAN community by the name of 'ÁFF Cup'.

The SEA games now only serve as youth tournament consisting under 23 years old squad. While the AFF cup has never been recognized by AFC as a competitive tournament. It is only a friendly tournament. 

After these dreadful 29 years of pain, it is a clear fact that our football policy has failed. Are we trying to pretend there is nothing wrong with it? Denying the fact that our football policy has failed, is a big insult to the Malaysian football fans.

Today, i would like to highlight how important it is going to be for the next eighteen months. 2015 would be considered as important year for Malaysian football. If we seriously thinking of moving forward in this industry, there are two issues need to be addressed by the FAM. One, to qualify for the Asian Cup in Australia. Two, the privatisation of Malaysian League.

Firstly, mathematicaly we still have the chance to qualify for Australia 2015. Maybe we are not as good as Qatar, but i believe our team are a better side as compared to Bahrain and Yemen. If Datuk K Rajagobal's men qualify for the continent's biggest tourney, it will improve our profile globaly. 

Secondly, the long awaited privatisation of M League. This is one of the important conditions required by the AFC for any national league to obtain A Grade League status. If M League comply to this rule, plus private owbership of the participating clubs, then we will have better chance to improve our League's grade. 

What is the benefit for being an 'A Grade League'? 

Our clubs could qualify for AFC Champions League tournament, which is equivalent to that famous UEFA Champions League. The lucrative club tournament, which will enable Malaysian clubs to play against the bigger Japanese, korean and Australian clubs week in week out. If this come true, i can imagine it will be a much bigger stage than our traditional Malaysia Cup.

The future of Asia football will be only in these two competitions. Asia Cup for AFC members national teams, and AFC Champions Cup for elite club football. 

We can no longer living in our own league. We can no longer living in our sweet memories. We can no longer living in the old ways. Malaysian football must look forward. The FAM must admit its failure in the past, and have to open for changes to meet the future. I hope by 2015, at least one of these targets can be achieved.

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Kesabaran pencinta bolasepak tempatan terus dicabar

Minggu penuh tragedi buat peminat bolasepak Malaysia. Pengurusan Stadium Darul Makmur gagal mengawal kebanjiran penonton ketika separuh akhir kedua piala FA antara Pahang menentang JDT. 

Ramai penonton yang telah membeli tiket di SDM terpaksa diusir keluar atas sebab keselamatan dan prosedur. Penganjur untung, penonton rugi.

Kemudian perlawanan dibawa ke Bukit Jalil bagi menentukan pemenang, walaupun ramai pemerhati beranggapan perlawanan di Bukit Jalil adalah lebih merupakan hadiah berbanding hukuman kepada PBNP. 

Apa yang FAM sudah buat?

Pasukan Nasional kita, Harimau Malaya membatalkan perlawanan persahabatan kelas A dengan Singapura dan menggantikannya dengan latihan di Australia. Di sana, Malaysia dijadualkan akan menguji beberapa kelab tempatan. 

Ini bermaksud, ranking Malaysia di carta FIFA tidak akan berubah, malah mungkin terhumban lebih jauh disebabkan kekurangan mata.

Dalam masa yang sama, jiran kita Indonesia sedang memanaskan badan untuk berentap dengan Robie Van Persie dan pasukan Holland nya. 

Apa yang FAM sudah buat?

Khabar dari negara matahari terbit, Jepun telah mengesahkan kedudukan mereka untuk layak ke Piala Dunia 2014 di Brazil setelah seri 1-1 dengan Australia. Manakala kita, masih terkial-kial dengan prestasi di peringkat asia tenggara. 

Ada juga peminat bolasepak di twitter telah menyiarkan petikan akhbar bertarikh 30 Julai 1999, bahawa FAM mensasarkan untuk layak ke piala Dunia pada tahun 2014. Tapi lihatlah dimana kita sekarang? Adakah cukup kualiti untuk ke Piala Dunia?

Apa yang FAM sudah buat?

Berita terbaru KLFA kemungkinan akan kehilangan penaja, hanya beberapa minggu setelah terbongkarnya dakwaan unsur-unsur penglibatan pemain mereka dengan sindiket mengatur keputusan perlawanan. 

Juga tersiar berita beberapa pasukan tempatan lewat menjelaskan gaji pemain. gejala bookie dan lambat bayar gaji adalah dua perkara yang sangat sinonim. Malah bersifat saling memerlukan antara satu sama lain. Ada sumber mengatakan kegiatan ini sudah lama beroperasi, walaupun pembersihan secara besar-besaran dibuat pada 1994.

Apa yang FAM sudah buat?

Berdasarkan ranking semasa FIFA, gred liga yang masih di takuk D, mutu permainan yang tak berubah sejak 1980 an, malah mungkin lebih teruk, isu-isu lain yang masih menghantui arena bolasepak tempatan, maka fakta-fakta ini jelas membuktikan pentadbiran FAM yang ada telah gagal.

Walaupun peminat sering mendesak pembaharuan, namun FAM mengangap suara peminat di jalanan atau di stadium tidak penting. Soalnya sampai bilakah peminat akan terus teraniaya? cukuplah tiga dekad yang gagal, peminat bolasepak tempatan kini sudah mula mendesak perubahan secara total pentadbiran FAM, agar pasukan kita boleh bersaing dengan pasukan negara lain di peringkat Asia dan dunia.

Agak menghairankan apabila masih ada yang mempertahankan pentadbiran FAM walaupun terhidang fakta jelas di hadapan mereka betapa gagalnya bolasepak kita di peringkat antarabangsa.

Peminat bolasepak tidak boleh ditipu lagi. Peminat kini merupakan generasi yang dahagakan kejayaan. Setiap wang yang dikeluarkan oleh peminat baik untuk ke stadium, ataupun membayar bil Astro (Penaja utama Liga M) haruslah dihargai. Mereka yang bersubahat dengan bookie adalah penjenayah terbesar dan harus dihukum. 

Harus diingat, doa orang yang teraniaya akan dimakbulkan oleh tuhan..In Sha Allah.


Thursday, May 16, 2013

Sokongan buat Menteri Belia & Sukan

Assalamualaikum wbt kehadapan YB Khairy Jamaludin, Menteri Belia dan Sukan Malaysia.

Sekalung tahniah di atas perlantikan tersebut, juga mencerminkan harapan kepada kaum belia di seluruh negara yang dahagakan kejayaan lebih bermakna sukan kita di pentas antarabangsa.

Terutamanya sukan bolasepak, yang merupakan sukan nombor satu di negara ini, diminati, di mainkan malah diikuti segala perkembangannya oleh majoriti rakyat. Hampir tiga dekad peminat bolasepak tempatan merana kerana rentetan kekecewaan demi kekecewaan kegagalan pasukan kebangsaan di pentas antarabangsa.

Selari dengan peraturan FIFA, setahu saya, kerajaan sesebuah negara tidak dibenarkan mencampuri urusan pentadbiran bolasepak yang selalunya ditadbir Persatuan Bolasepak di peringkat kebangsaan (Football Association). Di dalam kes kita, FIFA mengiktiraf Persatuan Bolasepak Malaysia sebagai badan induk tertinggi yang mentadbir bolasepak di negara ini.

Walaupun begitu, saya fikir masih ada jalan yang sesuai buat kementerian YB menyalurkan segala bentuk bantuan demi pembangunan berterusan sukan bolasepak di negara ini.

Saya mencadangkan beberapa perkara yang diharapkan dapat diperhalusi dan dipertimbangkan oleh kementerian YB.

Yang Pertama: Sekolah Bolasepak di seluruh negara. Berkonsepkan sekolah berasrama penuh, mempunyai kemudahan latihan selengkap SSBJ dan SSTMI, cuma bezanya sekolah ini fokusnya hanya kepada kecemerlangan sukan bolasepak dan penyediaan pemain yang bermentaliti juara.

Pemain bolasepak hari ini bukan sahaja dilatih agar mahir di atas padang dengan segala jenis teknik terkini, malah mereka juga perlu dilatih agar menjadi seorang pemain profesional yang fasih bercakap, celik terhadap undang-undang dan kontrak, mampu mengawal gaya hidup yang sihat agar sentiasa bersedia dari segi fizikal dan mental.

Sekolah-sekolah khusus seperti ini adalah sesuatu yang lazim di negara yang maju seperti Perancis. Di Malaysia, Sekolah seperti ini diharapkan dapat dibina di setiap negeri. Dari segi penempatan jurulatih, boleh lah KBS bekerjasama dengan FAM dan mendapat nasihat teknikal yang sewajarnya.

Pemain-pemain terbaik dari setiap negeri kelak, akan dipilih untuk ke sekolah bolasepak ataupun ke SSBJ bagi menjalani proses latihan pusat. Maka dari segi kualiti pemain, dijangka akan meningkat jika proses ini benar-benar diguna pakai.

Manakala pemain yang masih tinggal di sekolah bolasepak negeri, akan diberi keutamaan menyertai skuad pelapis negeri ataupun skuad piala Presiden negeri. Cadangan pembinaan sekolah bolasepak ini amat perlu, memandangkan kaedah sekolah projek yang diguna pakai selama ini kurang berkesan.

Kedua: Peruntukan, pemantauan KBS terhadap pengurusan stadium seluruh negara. Masalah kualiti rumput yang tidak pernah selesai, isu lampu limpah stadium, kaedah kawalan keselematan sebelum, semasa dan selepas sesuatu perlawanan bolasepak dan sebagainya.

kebanyakan Persatuan Bolasepak Negeri dan Kelab hanyalah penyewa kepada stadium. Akan tetapi, kebanyakan stadium di Malaysia gagal diselenggara dengan baik. Akibatnya, pasukan yang bertanding tidak dapat menikmati suasana pertandingan yang berkualiti di sebabkan isu-isu yang telah dinyatakan tadi.

Sepatutnya para pemilik stadium melihat Liga Malaysia ini sebagai peluang kepada mereka untuk menambah pendapatan, baik dari hasil sewa, hasil runcit mahupun hasil aktiviti komersial.

Saya cadangkan kepada YB, agar KBS menjadi orang tengah dan memberi nasihat kepada semua pemilik stadium agar bekerjasama dengan Liga M, FAM, FA negeri dan menawarkan kontrak menang-menang agar kesemua pihak yang terlibat dapat membuka mata dan bersetuju bahawa ini adalah peluang perniagaan yang menguntungkan.

Buat masa ini, saya fikir cukuplah dahulu dua cadangan ini yang mana saya fikir amat penting dalam membantu pembangunan bolasepak di peringkat akar umbi dan juga peringkat liga nasional. Selagi bolasepak hanya dianggap sebagai riadah petang hari dan bukan sesuatu yang serius, selagi itu tiada jaminan kejayaan buat skuad kebangsaan kita di masa akan datang.

Sekian.

Ikhlas dari peminat bolasepak tempatan dan skuad Harimau Malaya

Saturday, April 20, 2013

FC Barcelona visit to Malaysia: Get more from them

I don't care if Leo Messi couldn't make it this coming August. I don't care if the Catalan side will only sent their second team for this exhibition game.

But my greatest concern is, why FAM didn't take this opportunity to establish a warm relationship with them for the sake of football development? I heard that only our Futsal team will engage with the spanish giant in term of long term development in that sport.

How about our football? Do FAM aware that currently FCB probably have one of the best football academy in the world? I am talking about La Masia, yes indeed.

Can FAM take some pro active initiative, by establish a pre MOU for instance? I suggest our best student in SSBJ to be send to La Masia, to pursue his study and skill enhancement in football.

Provide our boys with Spanish classes, physical training, motivational aspects and etc.
This time, we need to change our vision a bit. Sent out our boys to one of the best 'Úniversity' in the world, for learning and exposure purposes only. Don't have to give an unnecessary preasure to them by pushing for a profesional contract.

If one of our best player in SSBJ could complete a one year training stint with the La Masia, i believe he will be returning home to Malaysia as a much improved player, technically at least.

Its ok to have FCB playing on our turf this coming august. We always welcome them, as far as football is concern. But i wish our Football authority to work beyond that. Think something that can give long term benefit to our local football. A win win relationship between FAM and FCB. This time from educational aspects.

Opportunity must be created, it won't happen if we just sit and wait for others to make it for you. They will come to our door, greet them with open arm, establish a new warm relationship and learn from them. If FAM couldn't see this as an opportunity, then i would say they are becoming more irrelevant for our football.

If there is a will, there will be always a way to make it happen.

Monday, April 8, 2013

Expensive lesson for JDT

A successfull side normally build from the back. Starting from the man between the stick, a consistent defence, a cohesive unit of midfielders and a formidable pair of forwards.

It is always a matter of balance in the starting lineup. Some says you can't win a game if there are too many generals in the team. For me, a winning team is about fielding the right set of players with the right set of system.

Identifying the best talents for a specific position, players with characters, and players with added value quality such as ability to perform when the team need him most.

These are the main areas i would like to talk about. And it is currently haunting JDT's expensive project in the league and also in the cup games.

Are the young goalkeepers good enough to meet the high expectations? At the moment, i would say they are talented and full with potential, but not consistent enough for the time being. They need to prove me wrong for the remainder of the season.

The JDT's back four never impressed me since day one of this season. Fandi Ahmad keep on changing personel on almost every game. In any one to one situation, Tuah Iskandar always end up being second best, or he received a card for late tackles. Is he the right player for that right back position? Going forward, i suggest Muslim Ahmad to play as a makeshift rightback. Defending is a priority, joining the attacks is a secondary.

Aidil Zafuan, Ahmad Tharmini, Kamarul Afiq should fight for the place in the heart of JDT's pair of centre backs. Most of their problems came after letting a high ball bounce in front of them. They are always struggle to win the second ball, and this give the opponent plenty of time to regain the possesion of the ball.

Not to forget the left back position. Irfan Ghani once show some promises with his talent, but his form declining recently. Another question, is the young lads good enough? or he needs more time to show his true quality?

In midfield, JDT's failure to win a game with a dominant's display always drew criticsm from sections of fans. Safiq Rahim, Reduan Nawi, Mohd Ezrie are not up to the mark so far.

While PBNJ very busy in trying to bring in the world finest players to their squad, i am strongly believe they need to pay an equal important attention to their fragile defence. They need to start looking for the right players with the right ability to meet the demand and high expectations of the games.

Friday, April 5, 2013

FAM is no longer relevant for Malaysia's football development

We are ranked 164 in the world, The Malaysian Super League still doomed within C grade league and the president has been staying in the office for 28 years without any significant  success to be proud of.

The recent article 88 issue worsen the situation, as more important football figure being charged under the said rule. And so far, nobody escaped the charges freely. I wonder if nobody could give a constructive comment on our football, then how are we going to progress?

A national team coach is the best person in this country to talk about players technical level. But if a technical people like him being barred from making any public statement in regard of any footballing issue, then this make me worry so much.

Why are they (FAM) spend so much time punishing the officials and players, but yet there is no sign that they work extra hard to improvise the quality of our domestic football?

After 28 years, we are still stucked in the South East Asia's level and continue struggling to compete at Asian level. Our clubs not eligible to play in the Afc Champions League due to the C grade of our domestic league. This is the biggest fact that for the past 28 years, our football was not moving to the right direction.

I think the time for the current leadership is up. We need a total revamp for our football administration, from the top to down. Youth development, Domestic league structure, an independent body to run the Super League, National team's vision, technical development and etc need to be revised urgently.

The Malaysian football fans deserve better than this.

Monday, March 25, 2013

Growing Italian influence in Malaysian football

It was one of the happiest day in my life. Finaly i had the chance to meet face to face with a group of people who have same believe as me. A unique sporting culture from Italy is making its presence here in Malaysia. The number is growing positively, and i am very proud to be part of it.

I believe for Malaysia to be successfull in football, we must keep our option wide open. learning is a continous process, we must not heavily relying too much on traditionaly British based football, be it at management level, commercialy, coaching method and also youth development.

A successfull business model for a new looked Juventus Football Club by the Agnelli family impressed me soo much. The new Stadium, Club Museum, Club megastore and how the club attached with the Turin community has transformed the old Lady from a traditionaly run Italian club into a global brand.

Not to forget the winning mentality of the Italians. This is what Malaysian Lacking so much. And this is the area where we as a supporters, have a role to play. To promote discipline and great ressilience mentality among supporters and players in general. To achieve this, we need to learn something from the Italian way.

And finaly the Agnelli's transformation impact reached Malaysia few years ago. Yesterday, me and the Juventus Fan Club Malaysia were invited to a local football talkshow 'Kaki Bola'. It was also my debut on TV.



A quick snap shot with host Kieran after the show. He and co host Aidid were very friendly toward us during the entire one hour show.

Learn the langguage, learn the sporting mentality, learn the Italian Football.

''Siamo noi Siamo noi!! I Campioni D Italia Siamo Noi!!''

''Salutate La Capolista'' (3 X)

''Oooo Fino Alla Fine Forza JUVENTUS''

Friday, March 22, 2013

A nervy come back

A big relief for the whole nation as Harimau Malaya staged a rare come back in a raining Asian Cup qualifying clash against Yemen in Shah Alam.

We used to conceeding soft goals, trailing and struggled to get a firm performance, but tonight the team managed to overcame the deficit and killed the game off.

A narrow 2-1 victory put Malaysia back into the race for that assuming second spot after Qatar in this group.

Malaysia looked physicaly better towards the final 20 minutes as datuk K Rajagobal's men pilling constant preasure from either flanks. Wan Zack Haikal and Azamuddin Akil seems enjoying the wet pitch, tormenting the Yemeni's full backs with their trickery twist and turning.

Mahali Jasuli sloppy defending earlier gave away the opening goal of the game for the visitor. But he amended his mistake by venturing forward everytime Wan Zack was in possesion. And he was part of the build up that led to the equaliser before half time.

Second Half:

I thought that we were improved technically after the break, Safiq Rahim sprayed the ball around quicker this time. The team involved with series of one touch football, and it worked well against the tiring visitors.

There were couple of glorious opportunity squandered by Nurshahrul in particular. A well taken header by substitutes Khyril Muhymeen killed the game off. And the Kedah forward proved me wrong this time by scoring the match winner. A lower division striker done the job at international level? I am sure there will be more debate on this afterwards.

Not a complicated job for the back four today, they were magnificently protected by the midfielders. Khairul Fahmi rarely tested in goal. A determined Badhri Radzi saw him earned his first yellow card at international level. Ashari Shamsudin's left footed cross was the only impact he made this evening.

I can't choose any obvious man of the match toninght. It could be Safiq, or Wan Zack, or Azamuddin. This is due to their overall team effort, every player look after one and another. It was not a classy performance by Malaysia, but we managed to get away with great courage. A first win after four straight defeats came on the right time and at the right place. Three points secured, thats all matters.

congrates Harimau Malaya!

Sunday, March 17, 2013

There is still time for reconciliation

Malaysia humbled by Saudi Arabia 1-4 in an 'exhibition show' in Shah Alam tonight.

It was a first half to forget. We just managed to have one shot on target via the ever green striker Amri Yahyah. And he was the only player who did not show any fear towards the visiting team.

Defence:

khairul Fahmi having an average performance, not so brilliant, but i thought he could do better against the second goal. The first goal was a soft one. The Malaysian defenders should have done better with the incoming crosses from the left. Faizal Muhamad misjudged header allowed the Saudi striker to head home past the helpless Khairul Fahmi.

Faizal - Fadhly partnership looked shacky and lack of commanding qualities. It suprised me, considering they used to play together during Harimau Muda days. Understanding between them should not be an issue.

Not sure with Asra's fitness level, as he was substituted before the break. Mahali was assigned to venture further up to support Azamudin Akil, but i just felt that he always outnumbered, isolated on that right flank and finaly lost the ball possesion.

Midfield:

I summarized Badhri Radzi's debut as an average display. It was not a total failure. So as to Shakir Shaari, he was working hard to protect the back four and tried to emulate his Kelantan form. There was short spell where the pair managed to hold the ball well, link up together for short passess. I thought their main weakness were during off the ball defending. Lack of mobility and aggresion allowing the Saudi's to move the ball with great pace.

Khyril Muhymeen just as i expected. Not to criticise him as a person, but his premier league football has turn him into a lesser player. Looked struggling at the left flank, easily clamped down by the opponent, and always forced to turn back and pass the ball backward. My suggestion is to drop him as long as he is playing in the lower division.

Azamuddin Akil lack of invention on the right flank means the supply for the forward line also being totaly limited. There was no penetrative run from the right side, lack of accurate crosses from the right and failed to link up well with Mahali Jasuli. I dont see him as an ideal starter for the Yemen clash.

Forward:

Amri - Nurshahrul partnership should be retained, but depending on Nurshahrul's injury level. The later had one glorious opportunity in the second half, but his weak shot comfortably dealt by the Saudi GK.

Second half:

Norazlan Razali brilliant display should be rewarded for this Friday's game against Yemen. Clean catch against crosses and high balls, and his agility enhance the defenders confidence level.

Aidil Zafuan had a normal game, nothing special for me. Helmi Rameli looked nervous after being left out from the national team for quite some times now. Zubir Azmi was magnificent at left back. Full of energy, constantly supporting his left winger and did backtracking job with discipline.  K rueben looked solid, more physical presence on right back.

Safiq Rahim goal suprised me, and he managed to proved me wrong with his display. His introduction alongside K Gurusamy worked well, pressing the Saudis further deep. But strangely, the pressing won't last long, as the Saudi responded with other two goals late towards the end of the game.

Gopi impressed me with his energetic run on the left flank. Young and strong, the Pahang winger should start instead of Khyril for this friday. Ashari had a quiet night, and had one effort sailed above the cross bar.

Manaf mamat intelligent play fed safiq for our only goal. His movement and creating rooms for others to support made him a strong candidate to push for a place this friday.
Hadi Yahya, meanwhile failed to make an impact. I am not convince by his display tonight.

suggestions Line up

I suggest the following first eleven for our head coach to consider. I pick this eleven based on stability and work as a unit to face Yemen:

4-4-2 formation

1. Norazlan 2. K Rueben 3. Aidil  4. Fadhly 5. Zubir Azmi 6. K Gurusamy 7. Shakir Shaari 8. Mahali Jasuli (Right wingback) 9. Gopi (Left wing) 10. Amri 11. Nurshahrul

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

The rise of the 'Twin Destroyer'

Probably the most improved player this season. Playing together with an established Malaysian international Midfielder, S Veenod impressed me with his determination in the middle of the park.

Fit in well with Irfan Bakti's style of play, the former USM Fc player proved that the team can rely on him in for giving that extra protection to the back four.  In fact, he made the differences since Safiq Rahim left Selangor this year.

Role and responsibility:

This year Selangor prefered for a disciplined lineup, rather than a more adventurous side. A pair of hardworking midfielder enhance the chance of gaining better ball possesion by winning every second ball. Aggresive in nature, S Veenod and K Gurusamy constant running from box to box, allowing flair players like Amri Yahyah and S Kunanlan more freedom in attack.

Superb performance by both of them during the massive victory over big spenders JDT last weekend, followed by tonight encouraging display against Tampines Rovers in the AFC Cup, I thought these two great stallions were the unsung heros.

For so many occasions, they were succesfully closing down the opponents movement by shutting the potential route path. They were quick to get behind the ball to do the defending job. When the opponent managed to get past one of the back four, either one of them will do the back tracking and performed that timely tackles to clear the danger.

Great future ahead:

The dynamic duo will have a bright future in the game, at club level and also at international level. If they stay fit, i see both of them will follow the footsteps of other Selangor greats such as K Sambagamaran, P Maniam, K Gunalan and not forgetting the current legend in Amri yahyah.

They play with no fear, stick to the task and always give maximum effort for the team. Dictating, enforcing the midfield  is not an easy job. But the 'Twin Destroyer' are ready to stamp their authority in Malaysian football.

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Ultras live within our soul

We live in a very demanding world. Full of obstacles, unsolved issues, difficult human behaviour, cultured society and the great sense of urgency to move forward in whatever we do in our routine daily task.

Sometimes, in whatever we do in our life, some of us opted for a more radical approach. The fishermen have always a choice to be made. They would go for simple catch near the shore, or planning for a deep ocean trip and searching for a bigger catch. For a more ambitious group of fishermen, they would dare to go far in order to gain heavier and bigger fish. It is a matter of strong will, drive and passion in whatever you do in your life.

Another example, Malaysia in the past have so many charismatic leaders fought for our liberation from the imperial powers. Each of them have different character, different approach in leading the people. Some of them have strong persuasive skills, great negotiator to close a deal. And some of them went for an extreme solutions by using weapons and engaged in an open battle.

However, both set of characters having the same objective and same goal, that is to obtain independence. And both of them driven by great passion. Leaders normaly born within a group of people with the same set of passion, the feel of belonging for what they believe and what they are fighting for.

These are the example of ultra mentality. It is live within us everyday. Everybody have their extreme side. But the ultra mentality does not turn you to become an evil person. Being 'Últra minded' have nothing to do with negative character. The extreme part in you will drive you forward, bringing the best out of you.

The same goes to some section of football fans in Malaysia with this 'Ultra mentality'. It is the extreme part in their supportive behaviour towards what they believe as their idolised football team. Being expresive in nature, the Ultras will speak out for the betterment of their team and football league in general. And being expresive sometimes, to display their great pleasure or otherwise.

The urge from deep. An instinctive behaviour. Inner self awareness with great sense of belonging. These are the common characters of the Ultras. They are passionate football fans and majority of other spectator still find it hard to understand them. This 'supporters conflict' happening now in Malaysian league.

My advice to the general spectators who went to the stadium for a peace 'eat-burger-while-watch-football' kind of thing, please change your attitude and give some respect for the Ultras. They are the one who generate true football atmosphere, drive the players running for the entire 90 minutes.

The Ultras is massively part of our football community. The other spectators, football authority must put an effort to understand them and their supportive nature.

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Why we need Badhri Radzi for Yemen party

The news broke out today's afternoon as i read it carefully, again and again. Finaly the national team coach agreed to hand the Kelantan captain a taste of international football in Harimau Malaya's colour.

Fans nationwide welcome the move, suggesting that the coach is now desperate to rebuild his squad after disasterous AFF Cup campaign and series of below par performance by his trusted 'core players'.

Based on our first Asian Cup qualifying match in Doha, i could say our team have a decent chance to compete, at least in this group. We may have well beaten by Qatar technicaly, but in term of tactical approach, work ethics and play as a team, Malaysia would have a slim chance against a supposedly lesser gulf team in Bahrain and Yemen.

At international games, football were played in a very fast pace with limited time to think longer with the ball on your feet. Players need to think ahead of time, what to do if you receive the ball. When to release the ball to your teammate and what to do when you loose the ball.

With limited pool of talented players, Datuk K Rajagobal somehow were force to pick Badhri Radzi after his previous experiment has failed to deliver positive result. And i sense  a wind of change in Malaysian camp in term of style of play.

When you have a quality midfielder in Badhri's calibre, the game plan will certainly build around the midfield area and i expect better ball distribution by Harimau Malaya. If he will be paired with fellow kelantanese midfielder, Shakir Shaari, then a settled pair in the engine room will help to generate genuine and solid understanding during the match.

A Shakir - Badhri combination in midfield will give the coach an extra aid in term of tactical flexibility. The coach wont have to spend so much time just to gel the midfield together, as they were playing for each other for years now. Shakir know how Badhri's style of play, And Badhri understand Shakir's role from deep.

The pair, and most likely to be joined by another Red Warrior's NurFarhan Muhd in the wing, would guarantee a fluid flowing attacking football. Positioning, timely measured range of pass and accuracy are vital at international stage. The time is limitted, the coach have so little time to pick a team and no room for any suicidal experiment. A familliar face in midfield will ensure understanding and strengthen the team's togetherness. Hope Badhri Radzi will do well for Malaysia.

Friday, February 22, 2013

The root-caused of match fixing crime

 I am doing my best to create the public awareness on the most sophisticated, borderless, multi Billion's worth of criminal activities which is running smoothly under our nose for years.

Before we discuss further, please set your mind that we are going to reveal a criminal activities. It is illegal, moraly corrupted and to some extend, there is a need for some of us to adjust our lifestyle and to be moraly a better person.

Behind every crime activities, there must be a demand for it. People killed wild sharks for its fin, people sell drugs because the drug dealers asked for it. Some people smuggled weaponry accross the border because the warlords demands for it. When we have demand, the supply chain will respond as long as it can generate good money.

As we all know, football have become very commercialized globaly. It is no longer a simple game with great common people's passion. It is a massive industry, we have to acknowledge that. Football matches attracts public attention. And most of the viewer normaly expects their team to win games. To be precise, football fans demand for a good result from their team in any competition.

The final result is what matters most. Final result of a particular football match will decide which team to lead a league table, which team to book a place in a knock out stage of a particular Cup competition. These results normaly attracts public attention. And now, it also attracts criminal attention to make money.

The syndicate will organize or create a pool of funds for betting. This organized underworld pool of funds will invite gamblers who interested to bet for any particular football match. The gamblers will deposited their money for betting activities. Later, the syndicate, who is also the owner of the organized underworld betting scheme, will try their best to get the desired football match result. To do so, they will appoint 'on the field runner'to negotiate with the team's official or players.

For example, if majority of the gamblers bet for a 2-0 win for the home team, then the syndicate will try to minimize their loss by overturn the result like a 1-1 draw or even 0-2 win for the away team. To achieve the 1-1 draw or 0-2 win for the away team, the syndicate will appoint 'ón the field runner'or widely known as 'bookie' in Malaysia. These bookie will approach team officials like the head coach and offer some amount of money to field the players favoured by the syndicate. In the same time, the bookies also have established secret relationship with certain players, in order to get the result.

The head coach will field a starting eleven favoured to the syndicate, while the 'targeted' players will play their role to achieve the desired result. Goalkeepers will concede soft goals, a defender might purposely committed a foul inside penalty box and give away a penalty kick to the opponent, a striker purposely miss a glorious chance in front of goal and etc.

With technology advancement available nowadays, these syndicate operating worldwide with maximum profitable returns. Back to my concern, the demand for this criminal activities originated from a single betting or gambling activity. When the demand is there, they supply chain responded by the syndicate.

Gambling leads to bribery, bribery leads to 'fixed match result', corrupted officials or team players then deposited the money into the bank which is completing the money laundering cycle. So, three forms of sins generated from this whole syndicate. I want to highlight the bad effects of gambling activities to our society. It is not a question of whether gambling is legaly allowed or not, but moraly, gambling activities bring more harm to the society.

Some gamblers choose to gamble or bet to earn quick wealth. But my advice is, gambling is not the right way to build wealth. You need to put a fair and reasonable amount of effort to earn a well deserved wealth. Lets change Malaysia, say no to gambling.

Sunday, February 17, 2013

The 'Guiza' Factor

Malaysian fans demand highest football quality week in week out. The majority of them are new generations of supporters with better football awareness, updated with team's selection news, keep in touch with their team transfer activities, well understood with modern days tactical strategy, and very critical in term of players technical level. 

I could say, generaly the fans has now a bit advance and very knowledgable. The pattern has changed, the consumerism change the fans to who they are becoming now. The consumer in a real market demands a good return for every of their investment/purchase. In football, Malaysian league for instant, the consumer or rather as the supporters, they expecting the best value from their money spend on match tickets, season pass, merchandising, as well as monthly Astro bill. (Astro is the main sponsor for the Super League & Premier league)

For our Football authority, whether at national level, state level or the club owner, they have to take a look at this demand and supply rules with an open heart. We are living in a world of service industry, slightly entertainment, and a healthy sporting culture. Football now emerge as the greatest sports in the world. For me, football is more than a sports. To move forward, the authority and the operator should not stick with the same approach of 10-20 years ago. They need to change as well, change and move forward to the right direction.  

To enchance, upgrade the quality of our top league, i suggest every MSL teams to invest more in high profile international players. Don't jump into the conclusion too easily. We may think the cost is so expensive to bring in a big name players to our league. But, for me, there is always a way for our MSL teams to sign at least one high profile player in each team. Look at the 'pulling' effects happening now at Larkin Stadium. Full house attendance is almost guaranteed every time JDT playing at home. The customers (The supporters) were offered a high quality product in Daniel Guiza. They came in full force to see a quality product. 

Customer loyalty (supporters loyalty) is now a secondary thing. The kids, their parents, the nearby community, and general spectators will only be loyal for something considered rewarding in nature. 

If every team in MSL investing in high profile player, so there could be 12 well known players in our league. European or top african player at their 30s still could offer a quality performance on the pitch. The likes of Fredy Kanoute (Mali), Luis Fabiano (Brazil), Nakamura (Japan), Raul (Spain), Riquelme (argentina), Ballack (Germany) and etc. MSL clubs must look for out of contract players, and make contact to the free players. 

The football authority and the operator should put more effort in term of funding and marketing strategy in order to match the salary demand by the high profile players. If they realy serious with moving forward, they should consider this as important aspect. A high quality players with big reputation and able to inspire our younger players. Massive 'pulling' factor, not just for local fans, but may upgrade our league's quality. 

Monday, February 11, 2013

The Malaysian dilema

A football mad nation such as Malaysia deserve a better professional league, better football development structure and a better national team. And we keep saying this for the past thirty years.

0-2 defeat by Qatar summed up the whole thing. It is indeed not the end of our qualifying campaign, but the performance in Doha proved that FAM need to open up for new ideas, a quick measure for an instant impact. We desperately need a quick fix, fans being frustrated for decades and we demand for massive improvement.

All south east asian teams lost their opening game. A big indicator that football in this side of the world is still in a developing phase. A situation we need to observe carefully, and a more serious comprehensive strategic plan is now becoming a must for most of the Asean FAs.

The fundamental for a strong national team is all about the quality of the domestic league, a systematic youth program and also players who ply their trade in foreign leagues. In our case, currently we relied too much on Harimau Muda program while the Super League quality is still doomed in 'c' grade. I personaly think FAM didn't put enough effort to upgrade the level of competitiveness of our league. After 20 years of profesionalism, i expect our League should be in 'B' grade level and qualify for AFC Champions League tournament.

We certainly able to produce talents, identify those talents, groom with care, expose the raw talents to so many international matches and challenge for honours at Asean region. But, the question is, are we too comfortable with Asean glory and refused to venture further up in the Asia level?

For me, the series of failure down the years was due to the limited physical conditions and technical ability of our local players. No disrespect to our local talents, but we have seen so many failed national teams were due to the same reason. The fact that current development method can't bring our football to the next level. Asian level i mean.

After all these dissapointing years, after all of these same old method, should we try something extreme? A solution may not be a popular one, but i suggest FAM should heavily consider on bringing in naturalised players.

Short term driven, considerably a quick fix, a suplimentary for the well developed Harimau Muda product. Can you imagine if a small sized Irfan Fazail play alongside Effa Owona? Or can you imagine if tricky Nurshahrul Idlan Talaha play alongside Johor's Orlando?

Please consider this as a short term, mega project for our football. As a one off project, we need to give a try. Evaluate, identify the right players with the right attitude, and with high interest to play for 'Negaraku'. At initial stage, bring in six to seven naturalised players. Play them together on regular basis, aim for higher FIFA rank and qualify for Olympic games and Asia Cup.

For me personaly, this is the best option available in short term basis, to bring Malaysia to the next level. A dilema could be, but the Malaysian fans could not wait for another thirty years.

Monday, February 4, 2013

Forget about Nazmi's issue, we need a real tiger heart in Doha

I can't hide my dissapointment with the return of Malaysia's favourite son, Nazmi Faiz Mansur to our local Super League. Playing football profesionaly in europe is a dream for every footballer in this world and Nazmi managed to do that for a short period of 6 months, at least.

I wont be commenting further on this as i dont know the real reason behind his shock departure from Beira Marr. However, it is considered a massive blow to our younger generations of footballer, who has started idolised Nazmi as their new hero. Every generations need their own hero for source of inspiration. Hidetoshi Nakata was Japan's biggest export in the late 90's. He was among the first generations of successfull Japanese players who ply their trade in europe.

But his return was judged with unfair perception by the public. Malaysian footballers were rich with history of failed mission in foreign land. And Nazmi is now considered as the latest casualty from the long list of 'ínability to live and compete in a different environment'. It may sound very cruel, but we may have no other choice than learn to accept it.

As a fan, i need to remind myself and others, that the real issue right now is not all about Nazmi Faiz. We have a bigger duty need to be addressed, and need to be supported. Our senior team, Aka Harimau Malaya will open its Asian Cup qualifier campaign this wednesday against the group favourite Qatar. Are we prepare for it?

I may not a fan of Datuk K Rajagobal tactics, but in this situation, i have to support the team to do well and get at least a point from this game. However, there are feel good factor in this team. The team consisting of MSL top scorer in Fauzi Roslan and Amri Yahyah, a new playmaker in Shakir Shaari, the return of on form Kelantan Forward Nurfarhan Muhamad as well as Left full back in Asrarudin Putra Omar. The stability of the team considered in great shape.

We may have lost to Iraq with three goals margin and some says the team were unable to give a decent fight, even not trying hard enough to get a consolation goal. But i believe they will bounce back and give the home side 'á battle worth to be remembered'.

This is the time for our boys to give their all, this should be played as a cup final approach, this is the chance to redeem our failure in AFF cup, and this is the true indicator for our Super League quality.

I demand a total commitment from the players, to raise for the occasion and give the home side a fight they will never forget. We have nothing to loose as we are not in line for hosting the world cup, we are not under presure because we are clearly the underdog. I demand a true Tiger heart from every each of you, my fellow Malaysian! Play for your flag and bring home that point.

Come on Malaysia!

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

All eye on 'Lethal Koji'

...As the entire nation hoping to see a new talented target man would give a new different dimension in Harimau's attack.

I was stunned by his first time shot/volley against Johor DT during Pahang's Super League opener in Darul Makmur stadium. He capitalised from the fragiled JDT defence by cleverly escaped from his marker, created his own space, timing his run with perfection, received the ball the way he wanted, and struck it with anger. No chance for the JDT keeper to stop the ball.

 At that point, he gave the home fans some glimpse of hope. The deficit was reduced, the away team couldn't cope with the newly founded preasure, and for me that was the turning point. A goal that gave Pahang a believe to come back into the game.

Fauzi Roslan or known as KOJI among the fans, registered his first goal in the Malaysian Super League with style. His second goal against JDT, his goal against Selangor and Terengganu proved that he is a striker on form. A deserved call up to the national team.

But not just with his goalscoring touch, he also capable to play deeper in order to collect the ball and keep it for longer spell of possesion. A team player. In today international game, we often see star striker from the bigger traditional football country, play with that extra sense of intelligent. Its hard to see nowadays team playing with a big centre forward who only know how to win aerial battle and lay it down for his fellow striker to win the second ball. No more.

In today's game, a striker is required to have the ability to keep the ball closely, neatly. And Koji have these attributes and qualities on top of his goal instinct. He may looked ordinary for some, but his off the ball running into promising advance position could be the different. His supportive run offered better options for the midfielders to penetrate opponents defence.

Standing at average Malaysian height about 172-173 cm tall, Koji composure on the ball, clever positioning, and venomous finishing qualities forced me to compare him with Argentina and Inter Milan's Diego Milito. Harimau Malaya will unleash a fresher, hunger striker for the Iraq's showdown in Dubai.

All the best to you, Koji!


Saturday, January 19, 2013

Majestic AmirulHadi Zainal

Once tagged as a bad boy, but this season he is back with style. For so long in this country  we have not seen a midfielder with a considerable attractive and complete package to offer for the fans. He has made a good decision by leaving Selangor and start a new life in Kuantan, working under the great Dolah Salleh.

AmirulHadi Zainal impressed me a lot this season with the newly promoted Pahang. At first, i was unsure with his new anchor role in Pahang Midfield. From a winger now transformed into a defensive but all rounder midfielder. I got to admit there are not so many players in the modern football world managed to do that. The least i can remember is Juventus's Andrea Pirlo who played as a forward in his early days, and then found a new life as a defensive playmaker with Inter and Ac Milan.

Reasonably tall, very mobile type of player, improved with his tackling, great sight on goal, technicaly improved with his range of passing, AmirulHadi is quick becoming a fans favourite in Darul Makmur stadium and fit in well with Dolah's philosophy.

The latest finding in his quality is, his composure with the ball and the way he orchestrated Pahang's midfield from deep. He is told to keep the ball longer to allow the rest creating some spaces. The most interesting part is that he was regularly pass the ball on the floor, short and precise. Received, shielded, turned, looked up and decide where to pass.

AmirulHadi's new role remind me of former Argentina and Real Madrid star, Fernando Redondo. Well done coach Dolah, for bringing the best out of his player. I wish Amirul could maintain his consistency, stay out of any unnecessary off the pitch trouble and stay fit. In him, now we may have additional options in midfield for Harimau Malaya. Hope Datuk Rajagobal will recognize his rennaisance in football.