2011年12月24日星期六
2011年9月14日星期三
Subramani leaving Home Utd
Subramani leaving Home Utd
Home United's S-League title aspirations took a knock when they fell 4-0 to Albirex Niigata last Saturday.
The Protectors must now brace for an even bigger hit come the end of the month, when assistant coach S. Subramani parts ways with the Bishan-based club.
"I have to do this now because an opportunity in the education sector has come along and if I don't take this career-development chance now, it may not come again," he told TODAY.
Mani, as he is affectionately known in the fraternity, moved to Home after winning the S-League Player of the Year title in 1998 with Tanjong Pagar United, and has stayed loyal to the club for the rest of his playing career that he called to a close in 2009.
He has won two S-League titles and four Singapore Cups with the club he has served as assistant coach since his retirement.
"This was not an easy decision to make, football has been my life all this while, but I could not pass up on this opportunity, and I won't rule out coming back to football in the future," added the 39-year-old Mani who has 115 caps for Singapore and a degree in Sport Management.
Said Home goalkeeper Lionel Lewis: "He's an extraordinary example of a footballer, a great captain and coach who's willing to help any one of us. That's something we'll definitely miss.
"But we know what we must do (in the league), there are nine games to go, and we have to focus."
Home general manager S. Mahalingam revealed that the club will not bring in a replacement until next season, with former Korean international Kim Dae Eui taking over Mani's duties.
~News courtesy of Today~
Home United's S-League title aspirations took a knock when they fell 4-0 to Albirex Niigata last Saturday.
The Protectors must now brace for an even bigger hit come the end of the month, when assistant coach S. Subramani parts ways with the Bishan-based club.
"I have to do this now because an opportunity in the education sector has come along and if I don't take this career-development chance now, it may not come again," he told TODAY.
Mani, as he is affectionately known in the fraternity, moved to Home after winning the S-League Player of the Year title in 1998 with Tanjong Pagar United, and has stayed loyal to the club for the rest of his playing career that he called to a close in 2009.
He has won two S-League titles and four Singapore Cups with the club he has served as assistant coach since his retirement.
"This was not an easy decision to make, football has been my life all this while, but I could not pass up on this opportunity, and I won't rule out coming back to football in the future," added the 39-year-old Mani who has 115 caps for Singapore and a degree in Sport Management.
Said Home goalkeeper Lionel Lewis: "He's an extraordinary example of a footballer, a great captain and coach who's willing to help any one of us. That's something we'll definitely miss.
"But we know what we must do (in the league), there are nine games to go, and we have to focus."
Home general manager S. Mahalingam revealed that the club will not bring in a replacement until next season, with former Korean international Kim Dae Eui taking over Mani's duties.
~News courtesy of Today~
2011年8月30日星期二
2011年8月1日星期一
Lions up against it in China
Lions up against it in China
The Lions' first match of the group stage of the Asian Zone World Cup qualifiers will be in China on September 2, and Radojko Avramovic's men have already been put on the back foot.
Singapore will open their Group A campaign against the Chinese in the south-western city of Kunming, which is located 1,900m above sea level.
Not only will they have to struggle in the thin air, they could go into the game without midfield inspiration Hariss Harun and central defender Safuwan Baharudin, who were both outstanding in the 1-1 draw with Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur last Thursday.
Hariss, 20, is set to begin his National Service (NS) on August 10 with the Singapore Police Force, while 19-year-old Safuwan is midway through his stint with the men in blue and has yet to be given the green light to play.
TODAY understands that three players who were on the bench in KL - defender Afiq Yunos and midfielders Zulfahmi Arifin and Nazrul Nazari - are also expected to be called up for NS within the month.
To compound matters, the Lions will go into the game three days after the fasting month of Ramadan ends.
Besides China, the other teams in Group A are Iraq and Jordan.
China have arranged for all their home fixtures to be played in the high altitude of Kunming and Football Association of Singapore (FAS) president Zainudin Nordin said on Monday there are no grounds to appeal to FIFA.
Said Zainudin: "Any country can host a match in any city within their territory. They may want to take such an important match to people in cities that have never had the opportunity to see their national team play in a stadium.
"We are doing all we can to make sure our boys are well prepared to face the conditions in Kunming.
"How much time we can get to help them acclimatise will depend on everyone's schedules, time off from S-League clubs and other employers."
The Lions' second game in the group will be against Iraq at the Jalan Besar Stadium on September 6 and the FAS are trying to see if at least Hariss and Safuwan can be included in the squad.
Said team manager Eugene Loo: "We are talking to both players and their parents, and are making enquiries with the Police if this is possible. We hope to be able to get an answer from the authorities very soon."
"Oxygen levels are lower at that altitude and you need two to three weeks to get acclimatised to the environment," said Dr Kelvin Chew, consultant physician at the Changi General Hospital's sports medicine centre.
"In that period they will gain more red blood cells to carry more oxygen for the body."
Former Singapore striker Fandi Ahmad has not played in any matches at high altitude. Yet he feels professional footballers have to be ready to play in any conditions.
"We can't be good in one condition and then say we don't want to play in another kind of environment. This is football and the game is supposed to be played anywhere," said the former star striker.
Group A third round fixtures:
Sept 2: China vs Singapore (away)
Sept 6: Singapore vs Iraq (home)
Oct 11: Singapore vs Jordan (home)
Nov 11: Jordan vs Singapore (away)
Nov 15: Singapore vs China (home)
Feb 29: Iraq vs Singapore (away)
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
The Lions' first match of the group stage of the Asian Zone World Cup qualifiers will be in China on September 2, and Radojko Avramovic's men have already been put on the back foot.
Singapore will open their Group A campaign against the Chinese in the south-western city of Kunming, which is located 1,900m above sea level.
Not only will they have to struggle in the thin air, they could go into the game without midfield inspiration Hariss Harun and central defender Safuwan Baharudin, who were both outstanding in the 1-1 draw with Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur last Thursday.
Hariss, 20, is set to begin his National Service (NS) on August 10 with the Singapore Police Force, while 19-year-old Safuwan is midway through his stint with the men in blue and has yet to be given the green light to play.
TODAY understands that three players who were on the bench in KL - defender Afiq Yunos and midfielders Zulfahmi Arifin and Nazrul Nazari - are also expected to be called up for NS within the month.
To compound matters, the Lions will go into the game three days after the fasting month of Ramadan ends.
Besides China, the other teams in Group A are Iraq and Jordan.
China have arranged for all their home fixtures to be played in the high altitude of Kunming and Football Association of Singapore (FAS) president Zainudin Nordin said on Monday there are no grounds to appeal to FIFA.
Said Zainudin: "Any country can host a match in any city within their territory. They may want to take such an important match to people in cities that have never had the opportunity to see their national team play in a stadium.
"We are doing all we can to make sure our boys are well prepared to face the conditions in Kunming.
"How much time we can get to help them acclimatise will depend on everyone's schedules, time off from S-League clubs and other employers."
The Lions' second game in the group will be against Iraq at the Jalan Besar Stadium on September 6 and the FAS are trying to see if at least Hariss and Safuwan can be included in the squad.
Said team manager Eugene Loo: "We are talking to both players and their parents, and are making enquiries with the Police if this is possible. We hope to be able to get an answer from the authorities very soon."
"Oxygen levels are lower at that altitude and you need two to three weeks to get acclimatised to the environment," said Dr Kelvin Chew, consultant physician at the Changi General Hospital's sports medicine centre.
"In that period they will gain more red blood cells to carry more oxygen for the body."
Former Singapore striker Fandi Ahmad has not played in any matches at high altitude. Yet he feels professional footballers have to be ready to play in any conditions.
"We can't be good in one condition and then say we don't want to play in another kind of environment. This is football and the game is supposed to be played anywhere," said the former star striker.
Group A third round fixtures:
Sept 2: China vs Singapore (away)
Sept 6: Singapore vs Iraq (home)
Oct 11: Singapore vs Jordan (home)
Nov 11: Jordan vs Singapore (away)
Nov 15: Singapore vs China (home)
Feb 29: Iraq vs Singapore (away)
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
2011年7月18日星期一
S'pore-Malaysia World Cup qualifier live on Ch5
Football: S'pore-Malaysia World Cup qualifier live on Ch5
The tickets are sold out but not to worry.
MediaCorp TV's Channel 5 will telecast 'live' the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier between Singapore and Malaysia.
It has acquired the 'live' rights for both the home and away matches.
The home match, to be played at Jalan Besar Stadium, will be shown 'live' on Channel 5 on Saturday, July 23 at 7:25pm.
The return leg, to be played at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, will be shown 'live' on Thursday, July 28 at 8:40pm.
News 5 Tonight on Thursday July 28 will broadcast after the match.
The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) said all 4,000 tickets to the July 23 match were snapped up on the first day of sales on Saturday.
Having been a supporter since young, a 64-year-old elderly fan said: "Everybody is disappointed. I couldn't get tickets. What can I do. But no matter how, I'll find my way."
But another is "happy they are showing on TV. I can watch it 'live'. It's clear on TV."
Also looking forward to watching the match on Channel 5 is another fan, who said: "Jalan Besar is not a big stadium. More viewers can watch from the TV. It's a consolation, but the atmosphere will definitely be different."
A boy added: "Singapore, Malaysia will always be the most special game because of the rivalry (on the football field) that we have between the two countries."
The channel's vice-president for network acquisitions, Joy Olby-Tan, said: "Football matches between Singapore and our neighbour Malaysia have always evoked intense emotion amongst the fans.
"Let's all come together and support our Singapore Lions with all our hearts."
Fans can also catch the matches 'live' online at xinmsn.com/wcqlive and on Catch-Up TV on xinmsn.com/catchup the next working day.
The match between Singapore and Malaysia on July 23 is a second-round 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier for Asia.
Singapore was given a 'bye' in the first round while Malaysia overcame Taiwan on away goals to make it to the second round.
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
The tickets are sold out but not to worry.
MediaCorp TV's Channel 5 will telecast 'live' the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier between Singapore and Malaysia.
It has acquired the 'live' rights for both the home and away matches.
The home match, to be played at Jalan Besar Stadium, will be shown 'live' on Channel 5 on Saturday, July 23 at 7:25pm.
The return leg, to be played at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, will be shown 'live' on Thursday, July 28 at 8:40pm.
News 5 Tonight on Thursday July 28 will broadcast after the match.
The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) said all 4,000 tickets to the July 23 match were snapped up on the first day of sales on Saturday.
Having been a supporter since young, a 64-year-old elderly fan said: "Everybody is disappointed. I couldn't get tickets. What can I do. But no matter how, I'll find my way."
But another is "happy they are showing on TV. I can watch it 'live'. It's clear on TV."
Also looking forward to watching the match on Channel 5 is another fan, who said: "Jalan Besar is not a big stadium. More viewers can watch from the TV. It's a consolation, but the atmosphere will definitely be different."
A boy added: "Singapore, Malaysia will always be the most special game because of the rivalry (on the football field) that we have between the two countries."
The channel's vice-president for network acquisitions, Joy Olby-Tan, said: "Football matches between Singapore and our neighbour Malaysia have always evoked intense emotion amongst the fans.
"Let's all come together and support our Singapore Lions with all our hearts."
Fans can also catch the matches 'live' online at xinmsn.com/wcqlive and on Catch-Up TV on xinmsn.com/catchup the next working day.
The match between Singapore and Malaysia on July 23 is a second-round 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier for Asia.
Singapore was given a 'bye' in the first round while Malaysia overcame Taiwan on away goals to make it to the second round.
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
周六新马世界杯外围赛 黄牛票1500元引球迷不满
周六新马世界杯外围赛 黄牛票1500元引球迷不满
新马对垒的2014年巴西世界杯亚洲区外围赛，一对原价30元的门票，在网上竟被人炒高到1500大元。
这场将在本周六（7月23日）举行的比赛，门票在上星期六开始在惹兰勿刹体育场公开发售。
据知，早在上星期五晚上10时30分，就有人开始摸黑去排队。
到了星期六下午2时20分，全部4000张门票，在短短六个小时被抢购一空。
几个小时后，网上便开始有人叫卖黄牛票，原价15元一张的门票，竟被人炒卖到上百倍。
据《新报》报道，一些人几乎是一买到门票就立刻准备脱手，最高的叫价是一对门票要卖400多元。
高价炒黄牛票，引起球迷不满；声称漏夜排队，因此标价$400。
《新明日报》
新马对垒的2014年巴西世界杯亚洲区外围赛，一对原价30元的门票，在网上竟被人炒高到1500大元。
这场将在本周六（7月23日）举行的比赛，门票在上星期六开始在惹兰勿刹体育场公开发售。
据知，早在上星期五晚上10时30分，就有人开始摸黑去排队。
到了星期六下午2时20分，全部4000张门票，在短短六个小时被抢购一空。
几个小时后，网上便开始有人叫卖黄牛票，原价15元一张的门票，竟被人炒卖到上百倍。
据《新报》报道，一些人几乎是一买到门票就立刻准备脱手，最高的叫价是一对门票要卖400多元。
高价炒黄牛票，引起球迷不满；声称漏夜排队，因此标价$400。
《新明日报》
2011年7月15日星期五
Singapore to return to Malaysia Cup from 2012
Football: Singapore to return to Malaysia Cup from 2012
Singapore and Malaysia marked another historical milestone in relations on Tuesday.
After nearly two decades, a Singapore football team will make its return in the Malaysia Cup from next year.
This came after the football associations of the two countries inked a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop the sport and forge closer ties.
Under the MOU, a Singapore Lions under-23 team will play in the Malaysian Super League, FA Cup and Malaysia Cup from 2012 to 2015.
And for the first time, a Malaysian Tigers under-23 team will also play in the S-League, League Cup and Singapore Cup.
Both teams will be made up of Under-23 players, five senior players, and the option of utilising foreign players, based on the rules of the respective leagues.
A new competition - the annual FAS-FAM series - will also take place.
It will see the S-League champions face Malaysian Super League champions, while the Singapore Cup winners will face the Malaysia Cup winners. Both games will be played on a home-and-away basis.
The collaboration will also see an increase in the number of international friendlies between the two countries from the youth levels, through to the senior national teams.
The move is expected to raise the quality of the game in both countries.
"Football is a wonderful platform to bring people together and I think it has always been a tradition for Singapore and Malaysia, for some friendly rivalry and at the same time, the fervour of supporters from Singapore and Malaysia now can be translated into real competition that both associations and countries can be proud of," said Zainudin Nordin, President of the Football Association of Singapore (FAS).
Both associations also hope the agreement will open up more collaboration in future.
Welcoming the partnership, Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) Deputy President Tengku Abdullah said: "We welcome this move. It certainly gives a positive impact to Malaysia, especially amongst our youth players. It is a big opportunity for our players to gain exposure in the S-League and at the same time, the Singapore Lions will have the same opportunities in our Malaysian Super League. With this agreement, we hope that this will open the door for many more collaborations in future."
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
Singapore and Malaysia marked another historical milestone in relations on Tuesday.
After nearly two decades, a Singapore football team will make its return in the Malaysia Cup from next year.
This came after the football associations of the two countries inked a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop the sport and forge closer ties.
Under the MOU, a Singapore Lions under-23 team will play in the Malaysian Super League, FA Cup and Malaysia Cup from 2012 to 2015.
And for the first time, a Malaysian Tigers under-23 team will also play in the S-League, League Cup and Singapore Cup.
Both teams will be made up of Under-23 players, five senior players, and the option of utilising foreign players, based on the rules of the respective leagues.
A new competition - the annual FAS-FAM series - will also take place.
It will see the S-League champions face Malaysian Super League champions, while the Singapore Cup winners will face the Malaysia Cup winners. Both games will be played on a home-and-away basis.
The collaboration will also see an increase in the number of international friendlies between the two countries from the youth levels, through to the senior national teams.
The move is expected to raise the quality of the game in both countries.
"Football is a wonderful platform to bring people together and I think it has always been a tradition for Singapore and Malaysia, for some friendly rivalry and at the same time, the fervour of supporters from Singapore and Malaysia now can be translated into real competition that both associations and countries can be proud of," said Zainudin Nordin, President of the Football Association of Singapore (FAS).
Both associations also hope the agreement will open up more collaboration in future.
Welcoming the partnership, Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) Deputy President Tengku Abdullah said: "We welcome this move. It certainly gives a positive impact to Malaysia, especially amongst our youth players. It is a big opportunity for our players to gain exposure in the S-League and at the same time, the Singapore Lions will have the same opportunities in our Malaysian Super League. With this agreement, we hope that this will open the door for many more collaborations in future."
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
Malaysia, Singapore super league?
Football: Malaysia, Singapore super league?
A day after the announcement of Singapore's return to the Malaysia Cup next year, Today newspaper has learnt that the sport's authorities on both sides of the Causeway are working towards a far more ambitious project: Forming a super league by merging their respective domestic leagues.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a source familiar with the negotiations told Today: "The FAS and FAM are convinced that, with a total population of almost 40 million and the traditional rivalry between our teams and fans, the interest levels can be tapped to drive football even higher."
On Tuesday, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) and Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) inked a four-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) that, among other things, will see each country field a team in its counterpart's domestic league and cup competitions.
The source added that both sides are "exploring the possibility" of launching the super league before the MOU expires in 2015.
Issues such as the number of teams from each country, the possibility of relegation and finances will have to be addressed.
Tampines Rovers, one of the more successful clubs in the S-League, will join the super league if it comes into fruition, said its club chairman Teo Hock Seng.
Mr Teo wondered if a regional league was possible: "An ASEAN League has been suggested for the later part of this decade, and a multilateral agreement that will include countries like Laos and Cambodia, instead of a bilateral one, will serve football a lot more."
Gombak United chairman John Yap said a super league could even challenge the popularity of the English Premier League, which draws many fans in the region away from their domestic leagues.
Said Mr Yap: "If managed well and with proper governance, the combined league has a fairly good chance of becoming the best in Asia. Football fans in Singapore and Malaysia are one of the craziest in the world, and their support of such a league will lure sponsors, which is one of our major problems now."
Courts chief executive Terry O'Connor, whose company sponsors the Courts Young Lions in the S-League, hailed the possibility of a super league.
"This is a great idea that will galvanise fans to support football in both countries. The potential to attract more commercial interest in football is tremendous," he said.
The S-League, which currently features 12 teams, has created nearly 1,000 jobs and boasts an average annual turnover of around S$200 million. The spin-off from television rights for a super league will add to teams' coffers, Mr Yap noted.
Apart from stadiums with bigger capacity, some logistical adjustments have to be made, said Geylang chairman Patrick Ang.
Mr Ang pointed out that some S-League clubs will have to consolidate their resources to compete in a super league.
"Malaysian clubs are accustomed to travelling cross-country for their matches ... Big clubs like SAFFC and Home United (in the S-League) may have the means but those like mine will have to consider merger with other teams," Mr Ang said.
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
A day after the announcement of Singapore's return to the Malaysia Cup next year, Today newspaper has learnt that the sport's authorities on both sides of the Causeway are working towards a far more ambitious project: Forming a super league by merging their respective domestic leagues.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a source familiar with the negotiations told Today: "The FAS and FAM are convinced that, with a total population of almost 40 million and the traditional rivalry between our teams and fans, the interest levels can be tapped to drive football even higher."
On Tuesday, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) and Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) inked a four-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) that, among other things, will see each country field a team in its counterpart's domestic league and cup competitions.
The source added that both sides are "exploring the possibility" of launching the super league before the MOU expires in 2015.
Issues such as the number of teams from each country, the possibility of relegation and finances will have to be addressed.
Tampines Rovers, one of the more successful clubs in the S-League, will join the super league if it comes into fruition, said its club chairman Teo Hock Seng.
Mr Teo wondered if a regional league was possible: "An ASEAN League has been suggested for the later part of this decade, and a multilateral agreement that will include countries like Laos and Cambodia, instead of a bilateral one, will serve football a lot more."
Gombak United chairman John Yap said a super league could even challenge the popularity of the English Premier League, which draws many fans in the region away from their domestic leagues.
Said Mr Yap: "If managed well and with proper governance, the combined league has a fairly good chance of becoming the best in Asia. Football fans in Singapore and Malaysia are one of the craziest in the world, and their support of such a league will lure sponsors, which is one of our major problems now."
Courts chief executive Terry O'Connor, whose company sponsors the Courts Young Lions in the S-League, hailed the possibility of a super league.
"This is a great idea that will galvanise fans to support football in both countries. The potential to attract more commercial interest in football is tremendous," he said.
The S-League, which currently features 12 teams, has created nearly 1,000 jobs and boasts an average annual turnover of around S$200 million. The spin-off from television rights for a super league will add to teams' coffers, Mr Yap noted.
Apart from stadiums with bigger capacity, some logistical adjustments have to be made, said Geylang chairman Patrick Ang.
Mr Ang pointed out that some S-League clubs will have to consolidate their resources to compete in a super league.
"Malaysian clubs are accustomed to travelling cross-country for their matches ... Big clubs like SAFFC and Home United (in the S-League) may have the means but those like mine will have to consider merger with other teams," Mr Ang said.
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
2011年6月15日星期三
Soh Chin Aun can't wait for 'glamour' clash
Football: Malaysia's Soh Chin Aun can't wait for 'glamour' clash
Soh Chin Aun, one of Malaysia's greatest footballers, refused to give a prediction.
Current national coach K. Rajagobal would not let himself be drawn into talking too much about the fixture.
Ismail Ibrahim, coach of Malaysia's Young Tigers, felt it was too close to call.
Perhaps they all didn't want to talk about a Malaysia-Singapore clash because the ASEAN champions still have to overcome Chinese Taipei in the first round of the Asian Zone World Cup qualifiers.
The Lions, handed a bye by FIFA because of their higher ranking at the time of the draw in March, lie in wait in the second round.
Malaysia's pedigree suggests they should handle their first-round opponents easily, to set up a mouth-watering Causeway derby with their arch-rivals, and Soh knows very well the atmosphere that envelopes such matches.
Speaking to MediaCorp over the weekend, Soh, famously nicknamed the "Towkay" during his playing days, said: "Whenever the two teams meet, tension is always high and no one wants to lose, neither the players or the fans.
"And it's not only when the national teams meet, even when Malaysian states played Singapore in the Malaysia Cup, the stadiums were packed and the atmosphere would be very different.
"It has always been a very glamorous moment in a player's career either in Singapore or Malaysia, and I expect it will be the same this time."
Malaysia will play their first round double-header on June 29 (home) and July 3 (away). The second round tussle with Singapore will be on July 23 (Jalan Besar Stadium) and 28 (in Kuala Lumpur).
The stakes are high for Singapore. After a shock first-round exit at last December's AFF Suzuki Cup, coach Radojko Avramovic named seven uncapped players along with 11 others that used to be on the fringe of previous national squads in his provisional 33-man roster.
But Rajagobal, who steered Malaysia to victory in the tournament - their first ASEAN crown - does not expect a different Singapore side.
"They say Singapore is rebuilding, but the core players are still there, including Daniel Bennett and Shi Jiayi, and they come with a wealth of experience," he said.
"Anyway, I want my players to stay focused on our first game against Chinese Taipei, and to respect our opponents.
"The important thing is to get that job done, and then we'll have enough time to think about Singapore."
Singapore and Thailand share the record of three ASEAN titles each, but Malaysian football is on a high.
Twenty years after their last triumph, Malaysia's men won SEA Games gold again, at the 2009 tournament in Laos.
Then came their Suzuki Cup triumph 12 months later.
But Young Tigers' coach Ismail, a former Malaysian international, felt the form book will not matter, if the two arch-rivals do meet.
He said: "Past titles are in the past. The games will be decided on the day by the players on the pitch. We are traditional rivals and there's pride at stake."
The clash at Bukit Jalil Stadium on July 28 will be Soh's 61st birthday, which may well be a good omen for Malaysia.
Rajagobal hopes so, as he admitted his men will be under pressure to deliver the goods.
He said: "There is a lot of history in Singapore-Malaysia games, and there is definitely pressure on my team. Once you win (any title), you're expected to perform at a higher level."
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
Soh Chin Aun, one of Malaysia's greatest footballers, refused to give a prediction.
Current national coach K. Rajagobal would not let himself be drawn into talking too much about the fixture.
Ismail Ibrahim, coach of Malaysia's Young Tigers, felt it was too close to call.
Perhaps they all didn't want to talk about a Malaysia-Singapore clash because the ASEAN champions still have to overcome Chinese Taipei in the first round of the Asian Zone World Cup qualifiers.
The Lions, handed a bye by FIFA because of their higher ranking at the time of the draw in March, lie in wait in the second round.
Malaysia's pedigree suggests they should handle their first-round opponents easily, to set up a mouth-watering Causeway derby with their arch-rivals, and Soh knows very well the atmosphere that envelopes such matches.
Speaking to MediaCorp over the weekend, Soh, famously nicknamed the "Towkay" during his playing days, said: "Whenever the two teams meet, tension is always high and no one wants to lose, neither the players or the fans.
"And it's not only when the national teams meet, even when Malaysian states played Singapore in the Malaysia Cup, the stadiums were packed and the atmosphere would be very different.
"It has always been a very glamorous moment in a player's career either in Singapore or Malaysia, and I expect it will be the same this time."
Malaysia will play their first round double-header on June 29 (home) and July 3 (away). The second round tussle with Singapore will be on July 23 (Jalan Besar Stadium) and 28 (in Kuala Lumpur).
The stakes are high for Singapore. After a shock first-round exit at last December's AFF Suzuki Cup, coach Radojko Avramovic named seven uncapped players along with 11 others that used to be on the fringe of previous national squads in his provisional 33-man roster.
But Rajagobal, who steered Malaysia to victory in the tournament - their first ASEAN crown - does not expect a different Singapore side.
"They say Singapore is rebuilding, but the core players are still there, including Daniel Bennett and Shi Jiayi, and they come with a wealth of experience," he said.
"Anyway, I want my players to stay focused on our first game against Chinese Taipei, and to respect our opponents.
"The important thing is to get that job done, and then we'll have enough time to think about Singapore."
Singapore and Thailand share the record of three ASEAN titles each, but Malaysian football is on a high.
Twenty years after their last triumph, Malaysia's men won SEA Games gold again, at the 2009 tournament in Laos.
Then came their Suzuki Cup triumph 12 months later.
But Young Tigers' coach Ismail, a former Malaysian international, felt the form book will not matter, if the two arch-rivals do meet.
He said: "Past titles are in the past. The games will be decided on the day by the players on the pitch. We are traditional rivals and there's pride at stake."
The clash at Bukit Jalil Stadium on July 28 will be Soh's 61st birthday, which may well be a good omen for Malaysia.
Rajagobal hopes so, as he admitted his men will be under pressure to deliver the goods.
He said: "There is a lot of history in Singapore-Malaysia games, and there is definitely pressure on my team. Once you win (any title), you're expected to perform at a higher level."
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
Under-23s go down in Sydney
Football: Avramovic angry as under-23s go down in Sydney
The Republic's under-23 football team were blitzed 6-0 by the Australian Olympic side in a friendly match in Sydney on Tuesday.
The match took place 48 hours later than initially scheduled due to a waterlogged pitch.
Singapore national coach Radojko Avramovic was angry after the game, and not because of the scoreline.
The young Lions were outplayed in every department by their bigger and more skilful opponents, who led 2-0 at half-time.
Speaking to MediaCorp via telephone, Avramovic gave his men a rating of five out of 10, and said: "Yes, they were physically stronger and they just came from a training camp in Europe preparing for their Olympic qualifier against Yemen, but our players have to ignore that and just go out and play.
"It's no problem to lose a game if you give 100 per cent and you try to play, but it upsets me to see them not trying."
Singapore's under-23 team have been set the target of reaching the final at November's SEA Games in Indonesia, and skipper Hariss Harun felt the game would be a good lesson.
"We could have done better but we made mistakes by not being calm and lacking experience," said Hariss. "Our team is still a work in progress. I'd love to play more teams of this calibre as we need the exposure and opportunities to gain more experience."
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
The Republic's under-23 football team were blitzed 6-0 by the Australian Olympic side in a friendly match in Sydney on Tuesday.
The match took place 48 hours later than initially scheduled due to a waterlogged pitch.
Singapore national coach Radojko Avramovic was angry after the game, and not because of the scoreline.
The young Lions were outplayed in every department by their bigger and more skilful opponents, who led 2-0 at half-time.
Speaking to MediaCorp via telephone, Avramovic gave his men a rating of five out of 10, and said: "Yes, they were physically stronger and they just came from a training camp in Europe preparing for their Olympic qualifier against Yemen, but our players have to ignore that and just go out and play.
"It's no problem to lose a game if you give 100 per cent and you try to play, but it upsets me to see them not trying."
Singapore's under-23 team have been set the target of reaching the final at November's SEA Games in Indonesia, and skipper Hariss Harun felt the game would be a good lesson.
"We could have done better but we made mistakes by not being calm and lacking experience," said Hariss. "Our team is still a work in progress. I'd love to play more teams of this calibre as we need the exposure and opportunities to gain more experience."
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
2011年6月8日星期三
Qiu sparks rout as Singapore beat Maldives
Football: Qiu sparks rout as Singapore beat Maldives
There were no long balls punted hopefully into the box, no defensive lapses, no toothlessness in front of a goal.
Indeed, there was no need for the Lions to even get out of second gear at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Tuesday night, where they beat the Maldives 4-0.
This was the first international fixture for Singapore since December's ill-fated AFF Suzuki Cup campaign that prompted a revamp of Radojko Avramovic's squad. And despite the gulf in standards between the sides last night, the signs were promising.
Led by Qiu Li, Shahdan Sulaiman and Shi Jiayi, the Lions got their pass-and-move groove on, at least in the first half, which saw three goals before Avramovic rung the changes.
Qiu (13th minute penalty, 19th), Shi (30th) and the evergreen Aleksandar Duric (48th) found the net for Singapore, but there were good showings all over the park.
Skipper Hariss Harun, who normally plays in midfield, was sturdy in central defence, Isa Halim and Ismail Yunos turned in assured performances, while the nine substitutes sent on gave decent accounts of themselves.
Said a pleased Avramovic after the game: "We have tried to play like this for a long time... but sometimes players forget what we want to do when we go on the field. This is the first game after six months and you can't expect everything, but I was happy with the first half performance. We saw many of the good football elements that we are trying to build in this team, there was good passing, good movement and a lot of chances created that way."
Avramovic singled out Shi and Shahdan for their inventive attacking play, along with the 30-year-old Qiu, whom the coach said can turn a game with a moment of brilliance.
Maldives coach Diego Andres Cruciani shared the Serb's sentiments, saying: "(Qiu) is a fantastic player… he can be a playmaker, striker and even played very well without the ball. It's not easy to find a player like him."
It could be easy to get carried away with such a victory, but Avramovic is aware that the Lions are still a work in progress, especially with the likes of Khairul Amri and Shahril Ishak still missing from the lineup, and about a month away from July's second round World Cup qualifiers.
"At the moment we need to build our team, our way of playing, if you have a tougher opponent, they won't give you the opportunity to try to do what you are preparing to do. Gradually when players are more familiar with their duties, you will look for quality opponents to improve your way of playing," said Avramovic.
The Lions' second half performance, which allowed the Maldives to attack significantly more than in the first period, illustrated the fact that they are indeed a work in progress.
But on Tuesday, the revamp was not only seen on the Jalan Besar green. The stands saw only 2,166 fans, with a group of about 20 diehards attempting to change the way they supported their team.
Jumping up and down, they started singing 20 minutes before kickoff and did not stop.
Equipped with chants, taunts and songs for their team, the fans won the hearts of the Lions.
Said 20-year-old Hariss: "It's very nice, gives a full feeling for a player. Even though (the stadium) was not full, I think it's the beginning of something new."
Avramovic was also full of praise for the fans, saying: "It's the first time I'm seeing people trying to cheer and help the team - it's a good sign."
The players and the football they played was also a good sign for the Serb.
"This group of players can play for a long period of time for the national team. I just hope we have enough time to sort out a few things before the World Cup qualifiers," he said.
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
There were no long balls punted hopefully into the box, no defensive lapses, no toothlessness in front of a goal.
Indeed, there was no need for the Lions to even get out of second gear at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Tuesday night, where they beat the Maldives 4-0.
This was the first international fixture for Singapore since December's ill-fated AFF Suzuki Cup campaign that prompted a revamp of Radojko Avramovic's squad. And despite the gulf in standards between the sides last night, the signs were promising.
Led by Qiu Li, Shahdan Sulaiman and Shi Jiayi, the Lions got their pass-and-move groove on, at least in the first half, which saw three goals before Avramovic rung the changes.
Qiu (13th minute penalty, 19th), Shi (30th) and the evergreen Aleksandar Duric (48th) found the net for Singapore, but there were good showings all over the park.
Skipper Hariss Harun, who normally plays in midfield, was sturdy in central defence, Isa Halim and Ismail Yunos turned in assured performances, while the nine substitutes sent on gave decent accounts of themselves.
Said a pleased Avramovic after the game: "We have tried to play like this for a long time... but sometimes players forget what we want to do when we go on the field. This is the first game after six months and you can't expect everything, but I was happy with the first half performance. We saw many of the good football elements that we are trying to build in this team, there was good passing, good movement and a lot of chances created that way."
Avramovic singled out Shi and Shahdan for their inventive attacking play, along with the 30-year-old Qiu, whom the coach said can turn a game with a moment of brilliance.
Maldives coach Diego Andres Cruciani shared the Serb's sentiments, saying: "(Qiu) is a fantastic player… he can be a playmaker, striker and even played very well without the ball. It's not easy to find a player like him."
It could be easy to get carried away with such a victory, but Avramovic is aware that the Lions are still a work in progress, especially with the likes of Khairul Amri and Shahril Ishak still missing from the lineup, and about a month away from July's second round World Cup qualifiers.
"At the moment we need to build our team, our way of playing, if you have a tougher opponent, they won't give you the opportunity to try to do what you are preparing to do. Gradually when players are more familiar with their duties, you will look for quality opponents to improve your way of playing," said Avramovic.
The Lions' second half performance, which allowed the Maldives to attack significantly more than in the first period, illustrated the fact that they are indeed a work in progress.
But on Tuesday, the revamp was not only seen on the Jalan Besar green. The stands saw only 2,166 fans, with a group of about 20 diehards attempting to change the way they supported their team.
Jumping up and down, they started singing 20 minutes before kickoff and did not stop.
Equipped with chants, taunts and songs for their team, the fans won the hearts of the Lions.
Said 20-year-old Hariss: "It's very nice, gives a full feeling for a player. Even though (the stadium) was not full, I think it's the beginning of something new."
Avramovic was also full of praise for the fans, saying: "It's the first time I'm seeing people trying to cheer and help the team - it's a good sign."
The players and the football they played was also a good sign for the Serb.
"This group of players can play for a long period of time for the national team. I just hope we have enough time to sort out a few things before the World Cup qualifiers," he said.
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
2011年6月7日星期二
Hougang, Etoile cleared to play in Sg Cup
Hougang, Etoile cleared to play in Singapore Cup
SINGAPORE: The investigations are still ongoing, the verdict has not yet been reached, but the two teams involved in the pre-match fracas at the Hougang Stadium on May 23, Hougang United and Etoile FC, will be back in action soon.
The Football Association of Singapore's (FAS) disciplinary committee will reconvene for the third time on June 16 to hear the case but both clubs have had their indefinite suspensions lifted so they can play in their respective RHB Singapore Cup fixtures.
Hougang will face Malaysia's Young Tigers this Friday, while defending S-League champions Etoile take on Tanjong Pagar United next Wednesday.
But the individual players facing charges - Hougang's Fathi Yunos, Shariff Samat and assistant coach Hasrin Jailani; and Etoile's Serge Souchon and Hadama Bathily - will not be allowed to play.
"That's a wise decision, you can't punish the fans, the club and the other players for the mistakes of just a few individuals," said Etoile chairman Johan Gouttefangeas.
Hougang officials could not be contacted on Tuesday.
The pre-match brawl - a first in the 16-year history of the S-League - prompted officials to call off the teams' league fixtures pending the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings.
~News courtesy of Today~
SINGAPORE: The investigations are still ongoing, the verdict has not yet been reached, but the two teams involved in the pre-match fracas at the Hougang Stadium on May 23, Hougang United and Etoile FC, will be back in action soon.
The Football Association of Singapore's (FAS) disciplinary committee will reconvene for the third time on June 16 to hear the case but both clubs have had their indefinite suspensions lifted so they can play in their respective RHB Singapore Cup fixtures.
Hougang will face Malaysia's Young Tigers this Friday, while defending S-League champions Etoile take on Tanjong Pagar United next Wednesday.
But the individual players facing charges - Hougang's Fathi Yunos, Shariff Samat and assistant coach Hasrin Jailani; and Etoile's Serge Souchon and Hadama Bathily - will not be allowed to play.
"That's a wise decision, you can't punish the fans, the club and the other players for the mistakes of just a few individuals," said Etoile chairman Johan Gouttefangeas.
Hougang officials could not be contacted on Tuesday.
The pre-match brawl - a first in the 16-year history of the S-League - prompted officials to call off the teams' league fixtures pending the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings.
~News courtesy of Today~
2011年5月28日星期六
Hougang and Etoile matches suspended
Hougang and Etoile matches suspended
Following the events that had forced the abandonment of the Great Eastern-YEO’S S.League 2011 match between Hougang United and Etoile FC, the FAS Competitions Division, the organisers of the tournament, have announced that all matches involving these two clubs will be suspended pending the conclusion of a Disciplinary Committee hearing on the matter.
The match on 23 May 2011 was abandoned after players from both sides were involved in a heated exchange while warming up for the match on the Hougang Stadium pitch, where the match was to be played.
Both clubs have been asked to submit their reports on the incident.
The FAS Disciplinary Committee will convene for a hearing on 3 June 2011.
As a consequence, the following matches will be affected and are to be moved to a later date:
* Match No.91: Etoile FC vs Albirex Niigata FC (Singapore) at Queenstown Stadium (originally scheduled for 26 May 2011)
* Match No.93: Courts Young Lions vs Hougang United at Jalan Besar Stadium (originally scheduled for 28 May 2011)
* Match No.115: SAFFC vs Hougang United at Choa Chu Kang Stadium (originally scheduled for 1 June 2011)
FAS President Zainudin Nordin stated the serious view that has been taken on the incident.
“We have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to violent conduct both on and off the pitch,” he said. “FAS has started investigations and will pursue the matter thoroughly. Any players and officials found guilty of misconduct will be severely dealt with.”
Hougang United chairman Bill Ng also stated the club’s position on the matter in a separate statement to the media.
“It is with great regret that such an unpleasant incident would happen during our home game,” he commented in the statement, released one day after the incident.
“We are sorry that the incident happened in our turf and we want to reiterate that we will not condone such unruly behaviour. We will cooperate fully with FAS in their investigations as we do not tolerate such acts of violence. Any Hougang United Football Club players found guilty would be severely penalised for their wrongdoings.”
~News courtesy of Sleague~
Following the events that had forced the abandonment of the Great Eastern-YEO’S S.League 2011 match between Hougang United and Etoile FC, the FAS Competitions Division, the organisers of the tournament, have announced that all matches involving these two clubs will be suspended pending the conclusion of a Disciplinary Committee hearing on the matter.
The match on 23 May 2011 was abandoned after players from both sides were involved in a heated exchange while warming up for the match on the Hougang Stadium pitch, where the match was to be played.
Both clubs have been asked to submit their reports on the incident.
The FAS Disciplinary Committee will convene for a hearing on 3 June 2011.
As a consequence, the following matches will be affected and are to be moved to a later date:
* Match No.91: Etoile FC vs Albirex Niigata FC (Singapore) at Queenstown Stadium (originally scheduled for 26 May 2011)
* Match No.93: Courts Young Lions vs Hougang United at Jalan Besar Stadium (originally scheduled for 28 May 2011)
* Match No.115: SAFFC vs Hougang United at Choa Chu Kang Stadium (originally scheduled for 1 June 2011)
FAS President Zainudin Nordin stated the serious view that has been taken on the incident.
“We have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to violent conduct both on and off the pitch,” he said. “FAS has started investigations and will pursue the matter thoroughly. Any players and officials found guilty of misconduct will be severely dealt with.”
Hougang United chairman Bill Ng also stated the club’s position on the matter in a separate statement to the media.
“It is with great regret that such an unpleasant incident would happen during our home game,” he commented in the statement, released one day after the incident.
“We are sorry that the incident happened in our turf and we want to reiterate that we will not condone such unruly behaviour. We will cooperate fully with FAS in their investigations as we do not tolerate such acts of violence. Any Hougang United Football Club players found guilty would be severely penalised for their wrongdoings.”
~News courtesy of Sleague~
Kelong League Standings 05/11
Home 16 35
Tampines 14 33
SAFFC 14 29
Etoile 12 26
Albirex 14 25
Hougang 14 22
Gombak 15 21
Balestier 15 16
Courts Young Lions 13 12
Geylang 14 11
Tanjong Pagar 14 6
Woodlands 15 5
Tampines 14 33
SAFFC 14 29
Etoile 12 26
Albirex 14 25
Hougang 14 22
Gombak 15 21
Balestier 15 16
Courts Young Lions 13 12
Geylang 14 11
Tanjong Pagar 14 6
Woodlands 15 5
2011年5月18日星期三
Singapore Cup gears up for new champions this year
Football: Singapore Cup gears up for new champions this year
The RHB Singapore Cup draw threw up some tough encounters on Sunday, as the tournament gears up for new champions this year in the country's most prestigious domestic cup competition.
Thai side Bangkok Glass, the 2010 champions, will not return to defend their title and S-League side Young Lions will also sit out due to international commitments as the Republic's under-23 team. That means 11 S-League teams and five invited sides will fight for this year's crown.
One side of the draw could see S-League title contenders Tampines Rovers, Home United and Etoile FC do battle in the latter stages of the competition, while the other sees the five invited foreign sides competing for a spot in the final, along with a possible SAFFC-Albirex Niigata face-off in the quarter-finals.
While the exact fixture list has not been released, the preliminary round will kick off on June 6 and the final will be held on November 5.
"It's a tough draw. If we beat Geylang in the preliminary round, we might have to face Home and Etoile later but if you want to win a cup tournament, you have to beat all the big teams," said Tampines coach Steven Tan.
SAFFC coach Richard Bok echoed Tan's sentiments.
He said: "The last two years we were knocked out in the first round, by Geylang in 2009, then by Bangkok Glass last year. Right now we just want to make it past the preliminary round fixture against Phnom Penh ... who are a much improved team."
Commemorating their 50th anniversary, RHB Bank renewed their S$1.5 million title sponsorship of the Singapore Cup for another three-year term till 2013.
The bank also donated S$10,000 to the Boys' Town and the Jamiyah Children's Home after a 10-team five-a-side charity challenge on Sunday morning at the Sports Planet East Coast.
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
The RHB Singapore Cup draw threw up some tough encounters on Sunday, as the tournament gears up for new champions this year in the country's most prestigious domestic cup competition.
Thai side Bangkok Glass, the 2010 champions, will not return to defend their title and S-League side Young Lions will also sit out due to international commitments as the Republic's under-23 team. That means 11 S-League teams and five invited sides will fight for this year's crown.
One side of the draw could see S-League title contenders Tampines Rovers, Home United and Etoile FC do battle in the latter stages of the competition, while the other sees the five invited foreign sides competing for a spot in the final, along with a possible SAFFC-Albirex Niigata face-off in the quarter-finals.
While the exact fixture list has not been released, the preliminary round will kick off on June 6 and the final will be held on November 5.
"It's a tough draw. If we beat Geylang in the preliminary round, we might have to face Home and Etoile later but if you want to win a cup tournament, you have to beat all the big teams," said Tampines coach Steven Tan.
SAFFC coach Richard Bok echoed Tan's sentiments.
He said: "The last two years we were knocked out in the first round, by Geylang in 2009, then by Bangkok Glass last year. Right now we just want to make it past the preliminary round fixture against Phnom Penh ... who are a much improved team."
Commemorating their 50th anniversary, RHB Bank renewed their S$1.5 million title sponsorship of the Singapore Cup for another three-year term till 2013.
The bank also donated S$10,000 to the Boys' Town and the Jamiyah Children's Home after a 10-team five-a-side charity challenge on Sunday morning at the Sports Planet East Coast.
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
2011年5月1日星期日
Kelong League Standings 05/11
Kelong League Table
Team Pld Pts
Tampines 11 29
Home 11 23
SAFFC 11 22
Etoile 10 20
Gombak 11 20
Albirex 11 19
Hougang 11 16
Balestier 11 13
Geylang 11 10
Courts Young Lions 9 5
Woodlands 10 2
Tanjong Pagar 11 2
Team Pld Pts
Tampines 11 29
Home 11 23
SAFFC 11 22
Etoile 10 20
Gombak 11 20
Albirex 11 19
Hougang 11 16
Balestier 11 13
Geylang 11 10
Courts Young Lions 9 5
Woodlands 10 2
Tanjong Pagar 11 2
BPL May Day 2011
FT Birmingham C. 1 - 1 Wolverhampton W.
FT Liverpool 3 - 0 Newcastle U.
FT Arsenal 1 - 0 Manchester U.
FT Manchester C. 2 - 1 West Ham U.
FT Liverpool 3 - 0 Newcastle U.
FT Arsenal 1 - 0 Manchester U.
FT Manchester C. 2 - 1 West Ham U.
2011年4月23日星期六
2011年4月16日星期六
National team reforged for World Cup qualifier
S'pore national football team reforged for World Cup qualifier
Singapore's national football coach has shortlisted 31 players to represent Singapore, four months after the national team was disbanded in early January after a poor performance at the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup.
Some observers said national coach Mr Raddy Avramovic should include familiar names who have delivered on previous occasions.
These include the oldest Lion, 40-year-old Aleksandar Duric.
Former assistant coach of the Tampines Rovers, Mr Syed Faruk said players such as Daniel Bennett, Mohd Noh Rahman and Shi Jia Yi should be considered, among others.
Some said Young Lions Captain, Hariss Harun is also a likely pick.
With the focus on youth, many of his team-mates like Fazli Ayob, Nazrul Ahmad Nazari, Afiq Yunos, and keeper Izwan Mahbud could also be included.
The rest of the S.League clubs too have young players with potential for national duty.
However, some feel age and reputation should not be the only criteria.
"As a coach at any level, national team or club, or whatever level, I think you got to pick the players based on current form, it's as simple as that, so let's not talk about ex-players and current players and things like that. On current form you pick the best players," said Mr Shasi Kumar, former S.League coach and player.
Selecting the best is crucial, as the Lions prepare for their first big test this year - a World Cup qualifier against Malaysia or Taiwan in July.
The Football Association of Singapore will be organising four friendly matches in May and June.
This will allow the national coach to make his final selection ahead of the World Cup qualifier in July.
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
Singapore's national football coach has shortlisted 31 players to represent Singapore, four months after the national team was disbanded in early January after a poor performance at the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup.
Some observers said national coach Mr Raddy Avramovic should include familiar names who have delivered on previous occasions.
These include the oldest Lion, 40-year-old Aleksandar Duric.
Former assistant coach of the Tampines Rovers, Mr Syed Faruk said players such as Daniel Bennett, Mohd Noh Rahman and Shi Jia Yi should be considered, among others.
Some said Young Lions Captain, Hariss Harun is also a likely pick.
With the focus on youth, many of his team-mates like Fazli Ayob, Nazrul Ahmad Nazari, Afiq Yunos, and keeper Izwan Mahbud could also be included.
The rest of the S.League clubs too have young players with potential for national duty.
However, some feel age and reputation should not be the only criteria.
"As a coach at any level, national team or club, or whatever level, I think you got to pick the players based on current form, it's as simple as that, so let's not talk about ex-players and current players and things like that. On current form you pick the best players," said Mr Shasi Kumar, former S.League coach and player.
Selecting the best is crucial, as the Lions prepare for their first big test this year - a World Cup qualifier against Malaysia or Taiwan in July.
The Football Association of Singapore will be organising four friendly matches in May and June.
This will allow the national coach to make his final selection ahead of the World Cup qualifier in July.
~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~
2011年4月10日星期日
2011年4月9日星期六
BPL 409 Results
FT Wolverhampton W. 0 - 3 Everton
FT Blackburn R. 1 - 1 Birmingham C.
FT Bolton W. 3 - 0 West Ham U.
FT Chelsea 1 - 0 Wigan Athletic
FT Manchester U. 2 - 0 Fulham
FT Sunderland 2 - 3 West Bromwich A.
FT Tottenham H. 3 - 2 Stoke C.
FT Blackburn R. 1 - 1 Birmingham C.
FT Bolton W. 3 - 0 West Ham U.
FT Chelsea 1 - 0 Wigan Athletic
FT Manchester U. 2 - 0 Fulham
FT Sunderland 2 - 3 West Bromwich A.
FT Tottenham H. 3 - 2 Stoke C.
2011年4月6日星期三
Sports Hub wins 9 international awards
Sports Hub wins 9 international awards
It may be another three years before the Sports Hub is ready, but it has already won nine international financial awards.
They recognise the ground-breaking financial structure for the S$1.33 billion project, involving Private-Public Partnership (PPP) - a world first for a sports infrastructure.
One of the awards was the prestigious Global Deal of the Year - a rousing start for the project.
The other awards included Asia Pacific PPP Deal of the Year, Best Project Financing and Asian PPP Transaction of the Year. These were awarded by international financial industry organisations and publications.
The large number of accolades was a surprise and is set to raise the bar for those behind the mega project.
Philippe Delavaud, CEO, SportsHub Pte Ltd, said: "Now we have to get awards for the quality of the architecture, we have to get awards for the quality of dealing with the customers, customer care and customer welcome, also to get awards for the sports."
Such recognition will also help in attracting business partners and sponsors.
Goh Fang Min, CFO, Singapore Sports Council, said: "The way it's being designed and where you locate all the various activities - in this case, whether you are a spectator, or you are a shopper or an event organiser, or whether you are athletes or going there just for recreational purpose - we want to make sure that the various spectrum of people will have a delightful experience."
The project is also being closely watched by regional players, who may want to emulate the model if it proves successful.
Mark Rathbone, a partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers Services, said: "Within the sporting market, Singapore is being seen as a market leader. So you have a number of territories around the world that are contacting Singapore to go and help them develop their stadiums and their procurement programmes for sports."
Besides a 55,000 seat retractable roof stadium, the Sports Hub also features a multi-purpose indoor arena, state-of-the-art Aquatics Centre and retail space.
Over the past two months, piling works have been carried out for the Sports Hub and before the end of the year, work will start on the main structure. The project is still expected to be completed by April 2014.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
It may be another three years before the Sports Hub is ready, but it has already won nine international financial awards.
They recognise the ground-breaking financial structure for the S$1.33 billion project, involving Private-Public Partnership (PPP) - a world first for a sports infrastructure.
One of the awards was the prestigious Global Deal of the Year - a rousing start for the project.
The other awards included Asia Pacific PPP Deal of the Year, Best Project Financing and Asian PPP Transaction of the Year. These were awarded by international financial industry organisations and publications.
The large number of accolades was a surprise and is set to raise the bar for those behind the mega project.
Philippe Delavaud, CEO, SportsHub Pte Ltd, said: "Now we have to get awards for the quality of the architecture, we have to get awards for the quality of dealing with the customers, customer care and customer welcome, also to get awards for the sports."
Such recognition will also help in attracting business partners and sponsors.
Goh Fang Min, CFO, Singapore Sports Council, said: "The way it's being designed and where you locate all the various activities - in this case, whether you are a spectator, or you are a shopper or an event organiser, or whether you are athletes or going there just for recreational purpose - we want to make sure that the various spectrum of people will have a delightful experience."
The project is also being closely watched by regional players, who may want to emulate the model if it proves successful.
Mark Rathbone, a partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers Services, said: "Within the sporting market, Singapore is being seen as a market leader. So you have a number of territories around the world that are contacting Singapore to go and help them develop their stadiums and their procurement programmes for sports."
Besides a 55,000 seat retractable roof stadium, the Sports Hub also features a multi-purpose indoor arena, state-of-the-art Aquatics Centre and retail space.
Over the past two months, piling works have been carried out for the Sports Hub and before the end of the year, work will start on the main structure. The project is still expected to be completed by April 2014.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
2011年4月5日星期二
Funding boost for S-League clubs
Football: Funding boost for S-League clubs
After an anxious wait, the nine local football clubs in the Great-Eastern-Yeo's S-League received a boost on Monday.
The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) revealed that each team could receive up to S$864,000 in total funding each year for the next five years, starting this season.
While the FAS still need to sign off the new figures with their stakeholders, each club could potentially receive S$434,000 in cash -- up from S$310,000 in 2010.
The clubs also stand to receive up to S$430,000 each in outcome-based funding - up to a 100 per cent increase from last year.
The two foreign clubs, French side Etoile FC and Japan's Albirex Niigata will receive up to 60 per cent of the total figure -- cash and funding through the outcome-based initiative -- which could mean a maximum of S$518,400 each.
The S-League features 12 teams, including the Courts Young Lions, which is wholly funded by the FAS.
Last September, the nine local club chairmen made a plea to the FAS for more funding help, with some fearing they would have to quit the competition otherwise.
Besides the increase in funding for the S-League side, each of the nine local clubs will also receive S$110,000 to fund their centres of excellence.
The centres - which will groom the under-14, under-16 and under-18 teams - have to be launched this May.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
After an anxious wait, the nine local football clubs in the Great-Eastern-Yeo's S-League received a boost on Monday.
The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) revealed that each team could receive up to S$864,000 in total funding each year for the next five years, starting this season.
While the FAS still need to sign off the new figures with their stakeholders, each club could potentially receive S$434,000 in cash -- up from S$310,000 in 2010.
The clubs also stand to receive up to S$430,000 each in outcome-based funding - up to a 100 per cent increase from last year.
The two foreign clubs, French side Etoile FC and Japan's Albirex Niigata will receive up to 60 per cent of the total figure -- cash and funding through the outcome-based initiative -- which could mean a maximum of S$518,400 each.
The S-League features 12 teams, including the Courts Young Lions, which is wholly funded by the FAS.
Last September, the nine local club chairmen made a plea to the FAS for more funding help, with some fearing they would have to quit the competition otherwise.
Besides the increase in funding for the S-League side, each of the nine local clubs will also receive S$110,000 to fund their centres of excellence.
The centres - which will groom the under-14, under-16 and under-18 teams - have to be launched this May.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
2011年4月2日星期六
S.League 2:7 Albirex
Ticket sold out on Friday!
Probably first time Jln Besar stadium filled up to the max!
First time ever in history....
ALL-STAR CHARITY
2 Apr 2011 Saturday
Jalan Besar 1700hrs
S.League 2:7 Albirex (TG=9!)
Probably first time Jln Besar stadium filled up to the max!
First time ever in history....
ALL-STAR CHARITY
2 Apr 2011 Saturday
Jalan Besar 1700hrs
S.League 2:7 Albirex (TG=9!)
2011年3月29日星期二
S.League now ‘Live’ on StarHub
S.League now ‘Live’ on StarHub
The Football Association of Singapore is pleased to announce that this season’s Great Eastern-YEO’s S.League matches will be broadcast by StarHub and MediaCorp, the league’s broadcast partners.
StarHub will air one ‘live’ S.League match weekly on its cable TV platform starting with Balestier Khalsa vs defending champions Etoile FC on 25 February 2011, this Friday at 7.25pm.
StarHub TV customers will be able to watch the ‘live’ matches on SuperSports Arena (StarHub TV Channel 201) while non-StarHub TV customers can also catch the ‘live’ broadcast even without a StarHub TV set-top box. SuperSports Arena is a complimentary sports channel made available to all StarHub TV customers.
In addition, a weekly magazine show with highlights of S.League action from the previous week’s matches will also be featured on StarHub TV’s SuperSports Arena. With the commitment and support from StarHub, World Sport Group and MediaCorp, fans of local football can certainly look forward to a high quality viewing experience.”
Telecast schedules for S.League matches on StarHub TV are available at www.starhub.com/beentertained.
How non-StarHub TV subscribers can tune their TV sets in to receive ‘live’ S.League broadcasts
* Select an unused channel on the TV unit.
* Press the TUNING button on the TV remote control or at the front panel of the TV unit, commonly labelled as [PRESET], [INSTALL], [SET], [P/C] or [MENU>TUNE>MANUAL]. If the TV unit does not have any of these buttons, please refer to the TV manual.
* Start tuning by pressing or selecting the VOLUME +/- button or the CHANNEL UP/DOWN button on the TV remote control until a StarHub slide appears on the screen.
* Next, press the STORE or MEM button on the TV remote control to store the tuning.
* Press the MENU or PRESET button to end or exit the tuning procedure.
-Info courtesy of sleague.com-
The Football Association of Singapore is pleased to announce that this season’s Great Eastern-YEO’s S.League matches will be broadcast by StarHub and MediaCorp, the league’s broadcast partners.
StarHub will air one ‘live’ S.League match weekly on its cable TV platform starting with Balestier Khalsa vs defending champions Etoile FC on 25 February 2011, this Friday at 7.25pm.
StarHub TV customers will be able to watch the ‘live’ matches on SuperSports Arena (StarHub TV Channel 201) while non-StarHub TV customers can also catch the ‘live’ broadcast even without a StarHub TV set-top box. SuperSports Arena is a complimentary sports channel made available to all StarHub TV customers.
In addition, a weekly magazine show with highlights of S.League action from the previous week’s matches will also be featured on StarHub TV’s SuperSports Arena. With the commitment and support from StarHub, World Sport Group and MediaCorp, fans of local football can certainly look forward to a high quality viewing experience.”
Telecast schedules for S.League matches on StarHub TV are available at www.starhub.com/beentertained.
How non-StarHub TV subscribers can tune their TV sets in to receive ‘live’ S.League broadcasts
* Select an unused channel on the TV unit.
* Press the TUNING button on the TV remote control or at the front panel of the TV unit, commonly labelled as [PRESET], [INSTALL], [SET], [P/C] or [MENU>TUNE>MANUAL]. If the TV unit does not have any of these buttons, please refer to the TV manual.
* Start tuning by pressing or selecting the VOLUME +/- button or the CHANNEL UP/DOWN button on the TV remote control until a StarHub slide appears on the screen.
* Next, press the STORE or MEM button on the TV remote control to store the tuning.
* Press the MENU or PRESET button to end or exit the tuning procedure.
-Info courtesy of sleague.com-
2011年3月28日星期一
SLeague All-Stars vs Albirex Niigata
Match Details
S.League Cares, TAKE ACTION With Albirex Niigata (Singapore) Charity Match
Date: Saturday, 2 April 2011
Time: 5.00pm
Venue: Jalan Besar Stadium
Ticketing Information
Tickets will go on sale From Friday 1 April
Grandstand: S$12
Gallery: S$6
VIP Tickets (limited): S$200
Where:
Albirex Niigata (Singapore) office
21 Jurong East St 31
#04-04 Jurong East Sports Complex S(609517)
Tel : +65 6334 0511
Fax : +65 6334 0510
When:
Friday 1 April, 8.30am to 6.30pm
Where:
Football Association of Singapore office
100 Tyrwhitt Road
Jalan Besar Stadium S(207542)
Tel: +65 6293 1477
Fax: +65 6293 3728
When:
Friday 1 April, 12.00pm to 8.00pm
Saturday 2 April, from 2.30pm
S.League Cares, TAKE ACTION With Albirex Niigata (Singapore) Charity Match
Date: Saturday, 2 April 2011
Time: 5.00pm
Venue: Jalan Besar Stadium
Ticketing Information
Tickets will go on sale From Friday 1 April
Grandstand: S$12
Gallery: S$6
VIP Tickets (limited): S$200
Where:
Albirex Niigata (Singapore) office
21 Jurong East St 31
#04-04 Jurong East Sports Complex S(609517)
Tel : +65 6334 0511
Fax : +65 6334 0510
When:
Friday 1 April, 8.30am to 6.30pm
Where:
Football Association of Singapore office
100 Tyrwhitt Road
Jalan Besar Stadium S(207542)
Tel: +65 6293 1477
Fax: +65 6293 3728
When:
Friday 1 April, 12.00pm to 8.00pm
Saturday 2 April, from 2.30pm
Show you care, say Nakata and FAS
Show you care, say Nakata and FAS
As Japan struggle with their rescue and rebuilding efforts following the 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami on March 11, one of the country's biggest sports stars, Hidetoshi Nakata, and the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) are teaming up to raise funds for the victims.
Two events under the "S-League Cares, Take Action with Albirex Niigata project" have been scheduled - a gala dinner with Nakata, who played for Japan in the 1998, 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups, at Resorts World Sentosa on Thursday, and a charity match on Saturday at Jalan Besar Stadium.
The ex-Japanese striker will turn out for Albirex Niigata against an S-League All Stars side.
"Everybody knows the disaster in Japan is very big," the 34-year-old said at a press conference at Resorts World on Sunday. "We are trying to manage things by ourselves, but this time we need help from other countries.
"The victims need to feel that other people care for them."
Nakata spent most of his career playing in the Italian Serie A, and a season with Premiership club Bolton before retiring in 2006.
Nakata was in Hong Kong attending a charity gala when the disaster struck his homeland, and as the tragedy unfolded, he appealed for support for his fellow countrymen.
Singapore is the first to organise a charity match and it will be the first time he will be using his footballing talent for such a cause.
"I came here immediately because Singapore organised these two events at such short notice. It is incredible and very meaningful for the relationship between Japan and Singapore."
S-League clubs Albirex, Home United, Courts Young Lions and Etoile FC were among the first here to donate proceeds from their matches.
This is the first time the FAS are involved raising funds for a cause outside the Republic.
Said FAS president Zainudin Nordin: "We told Albirex it was painful to watch what was happening in Japan and we needed to do something to help the victims there. We have had a short period to get things together, but we want to help our friends and got things going as fast as we could."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
As Japan struggle with their rescue and rebuilding efforts following the 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami on March 11, one of the country's biggest sports stars, Hidetoshi Nakata, and the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) are teaming up to raise funds for the victims.
Two events under the "S-League Cares, Take Action with Albirex Niigata project" have been scheduled - a gala dinner with Nakata, who played for Japan in the 1998, 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups, at Resorts World Sentosa on Thursday, and a charity match on Saturday at Jalan Besar Stadium.
The ex-Japanese striker will turn out for Albirex Niigata against an S-League All Stars side.
"Everybody knows the disaster in Japan is very big," the 34-year-old said at a press conference at Resorts World on Sunday. "We are trying to manage things by ourselves, but this time we need help from other countries.
"The victims need to feel that other people care for them."
Nakata spent most of his career playing in the Italian Serie A, and a season with Premiership club Bolton before retiring in 2006.
Nakata was in Hong Kong attending a charity gala when the disaster struck his homeland, and as the tragedy unfolded, he appealed for support for his fellow countrymen.
Singapore is the first to organise a charity match and it will be the first time he will be using his footballing talent for such a cause.
"I came here immediately because Singapore organised these two events at such short notice. It is incredible and very meaningful for the relationship between Japan and Singapore."
S-League clubs Albirex, Home United, Courts Young Lions and Etoile FC were among the first here to donate proceeds from their matches.
This is the first time the FAS are involved raising funds for a cause outside the Republic.
Said FAS president Zainudin Nordin: "We told Albirex it was painful to watch what was happening in Japan and we needed to do something to help the victims there. We have had a short period to get things together, but we want to help our friends and got things going as fast as we could."
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
2011年3月26日星期六
2011年3月25日星期五
Etoile FC vs Malaysia
Etoile FC (Sleague Club) vs Malaysia (National Team)
Jalan Besar Stadium, Singapore
26 March 2011
8pm
Jalan Besar Stadium, Singapore
26 March 2011
8pm
2011年3月3日星期四
Hougang thrashing
On yesterday's (2 March 2011) kelong league Hougang United thrashed 0-5 by Home United. I guess it is just the change in name, playing style is still the same. Is it because of the players or is it because of the referee? "Change soup but didn't change medicine".
Come on lah Hougang, you need some medicine!
Formula for understanding:
Paya Lebar Punggol + Sengkang Marine = Sengkang-Punggol -> Hougang United
Come on lah Hougang, you need some medicine!
Formula for understanding:
Paya Lebar Punggol + Sengkang Marine = Sengkang-Punggol -> Hougang United
Pele waves hello to Singapore
Football: Pele waves hello to Singapore
Record three-time World Cup winner Pele arrived in Singapore on Wednesday to kick off The New York Cosmos Asia Promotional Tour 2011. This is the third time the Brazilian icon has visited Singapore.
Hailed by many as the greatest player in the history of football, the 70-year-old flew into Changi Airport before New York Cosmos' director of soccer, Eric Cantona, arrived.
Pele, the club's honorary president, and the Manchester United legend are in town courtesy of Courts and will be here until Sunday promoting the team and meeting fans at various activities.
The duo will watch the Courts Young Lions take on Geylang United at Jalan Besar Stadium in an S.League clash on Thursday night.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
Record three-time World Cup winner Pele arrived in Singapore on Wednesday to kick off The New York Cosmos Asia Promotional Tour 2011. This is the third time the Brazilian icon has visited Singapore.
Hailed by many as the greatest player in the history of football, the 70-year-old flew into Changi Airport before New York Cosmos' director of soccer, Eric Cantona, arrived.
Pele, the club's honorary president, and the Manchester United legend are in town courtesy of Courts and will be here until Sunday promoting the team and meeting fans at various activities.
The duo will watch the Courts Young Lions take on Geylang United at Jalan Besar Stadium in an S.League clash on Thursday night.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
2011年3月2日星期三
FAS turns down Medan Chiefs
Football: FAS turns down Medan Chiefs' application to play in Singapore Cup
The Football Association of Singapore has turned down an application by Indonesian side Medan Chiefs to play in the Singapore Cup.
The Chiefs, who participate in the Indonesian Premier League (LPI), had hoped that the presence of several former S.League players in their set-up would boost their application.
But in response to MediaCorp's queries, the FAS on Tuesday night said: "FAS would only extend an invitation to foreign teams to participate in any of our competitions if these teams are affiliated to the member associations of the country the foreign team is based in, in compliance with FIFA regulations."
The LPI is a breakaway league that was set up to rival the Indonesian Super League.
Teams in the LPI are not sanctioned by the Indonesian Football Association, while world governing body FIFA have yet to rule on their status.
The Singapore Cup is scheduled to kick off on June 8, with the final on November 5.
Featuring all 12 S.League sides and four invited teams from around the region, the 2010 edition saw Australia's South Melbourne, Cambodian side Phnom Penh Crown, Kitchee FC of Hong Kong and Thai side Bangkok Glass competing in the Cup, with Bangkok Glass making history as the first foreign side to lift the trophy.
Chiefs head coach Jorg Steinebrunner, who has played and coached in the S.League, told MediaCorp earlier that club chairman Sihar Sitorus had submitted an application to the FAS and was hopeful of a favourable response.
"If they are interested in football and bringing excitement to the stadiums, they'd consider our application. The fans would be interested in the familiar faces we have in our team too," said the former Woodlands Wellington coach.
The Chiefs boast seven former S.League players and coaches. Apart from national skipper Shahril Ishak, defender Baihakki Khaizan and coach Steinebrunner, they also have Moroccan Laakkad Abdelhadi and Chilean Luis Hicks (both formerly of Woodlands), ex-Etoile midfielder Kevin Yann and former Woodlands fitness coach Joseph D'Angelus.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
The Football Association of Singapore has turned down an application by Indonesian side Medan Chiefs to play in the Singapore Cup.
The Chiefs, who participate in the Indonesian Premier League (LPI), had hoped that the presence of several former S.League players in their set-up would boost their application.
But in response to MediaCorp's queries, the FAS on Tuesday night said: "FAS would only extend an invitation to foreign teams to participate in any of our competitions if these teams are affiliated to the member associations of the country the foreign team is based in, in compliance with FIFA regulations."
The LPI is a breakaway league that was set up to rival the Indonesian Super League.
Teams in the LPI are not sanctioned by the Indonesian Football Association, while world governing body FIFA have yet to rule on their status.
The Singapore Cup is scheduled to kick off on June 8, with the final on November 5.
Featuring all 12 S.League sides and four invited teams from around the region, the 2010 edition saw Australia's South Melbourne, Cambodian side Phnom Penh Crown, Kitchee FC of Hong Kong and Thai side Bangkok Glass competing in the Cup, with Bangkok Glass making history as the first foreign side to lift the trophy.
Chiefs head coach Jorg Steinebrunner, who has played and coached in the S.League, told MediaCorp earlier that club chairman Sihar Sitorus had submitted an application to the FAS and was hopeful of a favourable response.
"If they are interested in football and bringing excitement to the stadiums, they'd consider our application. The fans would be interested in the familiar faces we have in our team too," said the former Woodlands Wellington coach.
The Chiefs boast seven former S.League players and coaches. Apart from national skipper Shahril Ishak, defender Baihakki Khaizan and coach Steinebrunner, they also have Moroccan Laakkad Abdelhadi and Chilean Luis Hicks (both formerly of Woodlands), ex-Etoile midfielder Kevin Yann and former Woodlands fitness coach Joseph D'Angelus.
-News courtesy of Channel Newsasia-
2011年2月24日星期四
Football scores more funding
Football scores more funding
FOOTBALL will be getting a boost in funding this year, receiving more than $1.5 million to not only encourage talent but also rally Singaporean fans as a whole.
The sum is 50 per cent more than it was allocated during the last financial year which starts in April by the Singapore Sports Council (SSC) in the Annual National Sports Association Grant Exercise.
The total figure for grants given to national sports associations (NSAs) has also been upped by about 24 per cent to $67.24 million this year, as compared to $54.17 million last year.
This was announced by Mr Teo Ser Luck, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development, Youth and Sports, at a press conference held at the SSC headquarters in Kallang yesterday.
Also present was SSC chairman Richard Seow and Mr Bob Gambardella, chief of the SSC's sports-development group.
Mr Teo said: "We think team sports are important...Invest in team sports that can possibly bring us glory, as well as team sports that can bond our nation...Some sports have a special place in our hearts, like football."
Mr Seow said that "nothing galvanises a nation" like team sports such as football. He added: "Everyone harks back to the old days of the Malaysia Cup. We are trying to recreate that (and) capture those dreams again."
Team sports will receive $8.32 million this year, up from $8.11 million last year. Mr Zainudin Nordin, president of the Football Association of Singapore, said he was glad to hear that the sport will get more funds as it will come in handy to groom new talents.
-News courtesy of Omy-
FOOTBALL will be getting a boost in funding this year, receiving more than $1.5 million to not only encourage talent but also rally Singaporean fans as a whole.
The sum is 50 per cent more than it was allocated during the last financial year which starts in April by the Singapore Sports Council (SSC) in the Annual National Sports Association Grant Exercise.
The total figure for grants given to national sports associations (NSAs) has also been upped by about 24 per cent to $67.24 million this year, as compared to $54.17 million last year.
This was announced by Mr Teo Ser Luck, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development, Youth and Sports, at a press conference held at the SSC headquarters in Kallang yesterday.
Also present was SSC chairman Richard Seow and Mr Bob Gambardella, chief of the SSC's sports-development group.
Mr Teo said: "We think team sports are important...Invest in team sports that can possibly bring us glory, as well as team sports that can bond our nation...Some sports have a special place in our hearts, like football."
Mr Seow said that "nothing galvanises a nation" like team sports such as football. He added: "Everyone harks back to the old days of the Malaysia Cup. We are trying to recreate that (and) capture those dreams again."
Team sports will receive $8.32 million this year, up from $8.11 million last year. Mr Zainudin Nordin, president of the Football Association of Singapore, said he was glad to hear that the sport will get more funds as it will come in handy to groom new talents.
-News courtesy of Omy-
订阅：
博文 (Atom)