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 today's Mailsport Reports by Vijhay Vick vijhay@mmail.com.my SINGAPORE - Mahali Jasuli hopes to end Malaysia's jinx when they play Myanmar today.  “We need a positive start. If we drop points it could cause us problem when we face Thailand and Singapore, who are the favourites to reach the semis,” said Mahali, who is aware  Malaysia lost their last two opening matches in the AFF Cup in 2010 and 2012.  “A win over be the perfect booster after poor results in our recent matches. It will ease some pressure as well." Mahali would likely start at rightback as Dollah Salleh's preferred choice Aidil Zafuan Abdul Radzak was left out due to injuries. Mahali also stressed they must not let the poor preparations affect them. Harimau Malaya only have one win - 4-1 over lowly Cambodia - from five preparation matches since August. They lost to Tajikistan (4-1), Indonesia (2-0), Syria (3-0) and Vietnam (3-1). “Our results i...