Foul!

As published in Malay Mail today Reports by Vijhay Vick vijhayvick@mmail.com.my SINGAPORE — The once famous Kallang Roar was reduced to a whisper as Harimau Malaya stunned defending champions Singapore 3-1 to reach the AFF Cup semifinals last night. Skipper Shukor Adan said his teammates were not intimidated by the challenge of playing in the Lions’ den and admitted he was surprised the Malaysian fans, though outnumbered, were noisier. “The crowd did not intimidate us at all. We were well prepared for it,” said the 35-year- old. “We (players) shed blood for the team and it paid off. Our prayers were answered. “I don’t think it’s enough to go on to win the tournament. We have to build on this and work on the team so we become better.” Shukor and Amri Yahyah will miss the semifinals first leg next Sunday after picking up yellow cards. Meanwhile, Safee Sali was relieved to find his touch after scoring the opener. “I am delighted to score. It’s a hu...

As published in Mailsport today By Vijhay Vick vijhay@mmail.com.my PETALING JAYA - Malaysia head into the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Cup as underdogs but forward Amri Yahyah is not a single bit perturbed by it. In fact, he insists he likes it that way. “I prefer being the underdogs,” Amri said. “Remember, in 2010 we were not the favourites but we went on to win the competition for the first time in our history. “We are in the same situation now, who knows if we end up winning the tournament again. The key is getting everything right during the competition.” Amri would likely feature in the starting eleven alongside clubmate Norshahrul Idlan Talaha when Malaysia play Myanmar in the Group B opener on Sunday. Harimau Malaya face a difficult prospect of reaching the knockout stages as the odds favour Thailand and hosts Singapore to progress based on recent form. Malaysia only have one win to parade since Dollah Salleh took charge in July. The team suffered defe...

Ultras Tonjol FC, as published in Mailsport today.   SOCIAL media has played an integral part in the Brazil World Cup, so vital that many instantly update their Twitter and Facebook right after a goal is scored or a match ends. There are also comments made by these fans, from intelligent analysis to silly criticisms about a particular player or team. This was also evident in the previous edition in South Africa. It would be interesting (or scary) to see the comments that would be posted online had Malaysia qualifi ed for the on-going World Cup. After all, we tend to be overly critical when it comes to fellow Malaysians. Here are several scenarios: 1. Dutchman Tim Krul was hailed for saving two attempts by Costa Rica to see Holland edge the South American team 4-3 in penalties (after a goalless draw in) in the quarterfi nals.    Had Khairul Fahmi Che Mat done the same? Sure use jampi (spell) lah. 2. Belgium’s forward Marouane F...