Saturday, 27 October 2018
Enjoy M-Cup Final 2018: Special message for TFC supporters
Shah Alam, 27 Oct 2018: Grateful for their relentless support and loyalty, TFC Head Coach Irfan Bakti has this special message to all Terengganu fans. " They have been an integral part of our success. I do hope our supporters will behave well and be sporting tonight," he tells BolaPantaiTimur when contacted on Cup Final Day.
Noting that chances for both Terengganu and Perak will be 50:50, obviously he wants to see a smooth game for his players to focus and give their best without undue distraction off the field.
As encouraged by Terengganu Menteri Besar, Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, may they play with dignity and pride, putting up a great game to bring back the Cup to Terengganu.
Alhamdulillah, Terengganu has just scored through skipper Kipre Tchetche in the first minute.
Noting that chances for both Terengganu and Perak will be 50:50, obviously he wants to see a smooth game for his players to focus and give their best without undue distraction off the field.
As encouraged by Terengganu Menteri Besar, Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, may they play with dignity and pride, putting up a great game to bring back the Cup to Terengganu.
Alhamdulillah, Terengganu has just scored through skipper Kipre Tchetche in the first minute.
Sunday, 12 March 2017
Turtles Edge Titans, Focus on Mission
Kuala Terengganu: More than the usual number of fans turned up for the local Terengganu derby at the Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium on Saturday night. After failing to see both teams' encounter during the pre-season friendlies, they were anxious to find out how the two brotherly teams would actually fare against each other.
In the end, it was Terengganu which advance to the FA Cup quarter-finals. Lutfulla Turaev scored the solitary goal with a brilliant header just one minute before the end of extra-time.
For Terengganu head coach, Irfan Bakti though, his team's focus remains on promotion to the first-tier or Super League after it was demoted to the Premier League this season.
He says, " Our main target is promotion. It is still a long way to go." In the Premier League standings, Terengganu is second after table-topper Negeri Sembilan.
On the match against T-Team which ended with a scoreless draw during regulation time, Irfan adds," It was a balanced game. However Terengganu players can last the pace. We are fitter than them."
Two players - one from each team - were sent off for red cards. The referee was also busy flashing yellow cards as he attempted to keep tempers to a manageable level.
Irfan's counterpart from T-Team, Rahmad Darmawan, agrees that the game was balanced. Even so, he says that Terengganu was luckier as they were able to score with just one attack whilst T-Team were in control during extra time. Rahmad adds: "Usually in a derby, mental strength plays an important role to win the game. It this respect, emotional control on both sides is essential."
Terengganu will meet another Super League outfit, Sarawak, in the FA Cup Quarter Finals.
The fans from both teams went back feeling relieved that a team from the state is still in contention for the FA Cup. However they also know it is already mid-March.
Terengganu has 18 points from six wins, and two losses ; 14 goals for versus 10 goals against. T-Team, eighth in Super League standings, has nine points from two wins, three losses and three draws; 8 goals for versus 16 goals against.
Going forward, fans expect nothing less than 100% commitment from the players and officials from both teams.
In the end, it was Terengganu which advance to the FA Cup quarter-finals. Lutfulla Turaev scored the solitary goal with a brilliant header just one minute before the end of extra-time.
For Terengganu head coach, Irfan Bakti though, his team's focus remains on promotion to the first-tier or Super League after it was demoted to the Premier League this season.
 |
| Irfan Bakti: Promotion mission |
He says, " Our main target is promotion. It is still a long way to go." In the Premier League standings, Terengganu is second after table-topper Negeri Sembilan.
On the match against T-Team which ended with a scoreless draw during regulation time, Irfan adds," It was a balanced game. However Terengganu players can last the pace. We are fitter than them."
Two players - one from each team - were sent off for red cards. The referee was also busy flashing yellow cards as he attempted to keep tempers to a manageable level.
Irfan's counterpart from T-Team, Rahmad Darmawan, agrees that the game was balanced. Even so, he says that Terengganu was luckier as they were able to score with just one attack whilst T-Team were in control during extra time. Rahmad adds: "Usually in a derby, mental strength plays an important role to win the game. It this respect, emotional control on both sides is essential."
 |
| Rahmad Darmawan: Mental strength |
Terengganu will meet another Super League outfit, Sarawak, in the FA Cup Quarter Finals.
The fans from both teams went back feeling relieved that a team from the state is still in contention for the FA Cup. However they also know it is already mid-March.
Terengganu has 18 points from six wins, and two losses ; 14 goals for versus 10 goals against. T-Team, eighth in Super League standings, has nine points from two wins, three losses and three draws; 8 goals for versus 16 goals against.
Sunday, 29 January 2017
Formidable Pahang import formula
Kuala Terengganu: The way table-toppers Pahang were running amok, winning in style by thrashing T-Team 5-0 recently, signals that they must be given due attention in 2017.
Indeed it was already reported that they were a team to watch by virtue of being a big spender this season. The return of Dollah Salleh as head coach has also raised expectations among their fans and management.
On the night they demolished T-Team, Dollah returned Bola Pantai Timur's Whatsapp message. He wrote, " Thank you. There was no secret at all (for the win)." In fact, Dollah, in response to the rising expectations for his team to be champions again, reportedly said he was no magician.
Still, team manager Dato' Che Nasir Salleh, put it thus: " It boiled down to team spirit and the players' compatibility." However he added that it is still early days and there are many more games to go.
Even so, the massive victory over T-Team is also an eye-opener.
For one, Pahang have six foreign-sounding names in their squad. Here is their line-up against T-Team.
The foreign sounding names comprise Matthew Davies, Francisco Insa Bohigues, Chinedu Bright Ezendu, Jaewon Heo, Sumareh Mohammadou and Matheus Alves Leandro. For the record, all the goals against T-Team were scored by their foreign players.
A closer look on these players reveal some interesting findings. The players' list from Pahang FA's wiki page goes...
In the Nationality column, Matthew Davies, Kiko Insa, Bright Dike and Mohamadou Sumareh are shown to have two flags - each with a Malaysian flag and flags baearing their "previous" nationalities. However, the other foreign players, Heo Jae-won is shown to have the South Korean flag and Matheus Alves has a Brazilian flag in their Nationality columns.
The page was last modified on 29 January 2017, at 21:50.
For Kiko Insa, who is new to Malaysian football, the transfermarket website, www.transfermarkt.co.uk has also listed him as having two nationalities - Malaysian and Spain.
The same website has listed Matthew Davies as a Malaysian national. Unlike Pahang's own wiki page, www.transfermarkt.co.uk has listed Bright Dike and Mohamadou Sumareh as having Nigerian and Gambian nationalities respectively. As for Heo Jae-won, The same website confirms that he is of South Korean origin.
Matheus Alves has both Italian and Brazilian nationalities, according to the transfer market website.
T-Team must have learned the humiliating defeat the hardest way.
It is understood that Insa, the Spaniard, spent a month with them during pre-season trials. They must have their own reasons why they let him go. He subsequently went to Pahang for trials and was selected by the team.
Indeed it was already reported that they were a team to watch by virtue of being a big spender this season. The return of Dollah Salleh as head coach has also raised expectations among their fans and management.
On the night they demolished T-Team, Dollah returned Bola Pantai Timur's Whatsapp message. He wrote, " Thank you. There was no secret at all (for the win)." In fact, Dollah, in response to the rising expectations for his team to be champions again, reportedly said he was no magician.
Still, team manager Dato' Che Nasir Salleh, put it thus: " It boiled down to team spirit and the players' compatibility." However he added that it is still early days and there are many more games to go.
Even so, the massive victory over T-Team is also an eye-opener.
For one, Pahang have six foreign-sounding names in their squad. Here is their line-up against T-Team.
The foreign sounding names comprise Matthew Davies, Francisco Insa Bohigues, Chinedu Bright Ezendu, Jaewon Heo, Sumareh Mohammadou and Matheus Alves Leandro. For the record, all the goals against T-Team were scored by their foreign players.
A closer look on these players reveal some interesting findings. The players' list from Pahang FA's wiki page goes...
In the Nationality column, Matthew Davies, Kiko Insa, Bright Dike and Mohamadou Sumareh are shown to have two flags - each with a Malaysian flag and flags baearing their "previous" nationalities. However, the other foreign players, Heo Jae-won is shown to have the South Korean flag and Matheus Alves has a Brazilian flag in their Nationality columns.
The page was last modified on 29 January 2017, at 21:50.
For Kiko Insa, who is new to Malaysian football, the transfermarket website, www.transfermarkt.co.uk has also listed him as having two nationalities - Malaysian and Spain.
The same website has listed Matthew Davies as a Malaysian national. Unlike Pahang's own wiki page, www.transfermarkt.co.uk has listed Bright Dike and Mohamadou Sumareh as having Nigerian and Gambian nationalities respectively. As for Heo Jae-won, The same website confirms that he is of South Korean origin.
Matheus Alves has both Italian and Brazilian nationalities, according to the transfer market website.
T-Team must have learned the humiliating defeat the hardest way.
It is understood that Insa, the Spaniard, spent a month with them during pre-season trials. They must have their own reasons why they let him go. He subsequently went to Pahang for trials and was selected by the team.
Saturday, 28 January 2017
A chat with FMLLP chief
Former MD of Bumibola Sports and CEO, The Red Warriors FC, Kevin Ramalingam, is now helming Football Malaysia LLP (FMLLP). Undoubtedly Kevin, whose mission is for the league to
be managed in a
professional, advanced and efficient manner from the technical and commercial
aspects, is a major actor in shaping the future of football in Malaysia. In this exclusive interview, he responded to questions on a wide variety of issues from Shukri Rahman. Excerpts...
1. Looking back, what would you consider as FMLLP's top 3 achievements last year?
I think among the top achievements of FMLLP in its inaugural year was the realignment of the calendar and transfer windows to coincide with international windows instead of us having our own window that doesn't match anyone else. This in the long run should lead to a bigger and better pool for the teams to choose from which will help them technically and also indirectly in an economic sense.
There
is still a lot that we can and must do and the journey towards making
FMLLP a success still remains long.
 |
| Pix courtesy: utusan.com.my |
1. Looking back, what would you consider as FMLLP's top 3 achievements last year?
I think among the top achievements of FMLLP in its inaugural year was the realignment of the calendar and transfer windows to coincide with international windows instead of us having our own window that doesn't match anyone else. This in the long run should lead to a bigger and better pool for the teams to choose from which will help them technically and also indirectly in an economic sense.
The
calendar also allowed for all teams to play till the end of the season
instead of 33% of the teams only being able to play for half a season.
In the long run, this will lead to greater sustainability technically
and commercially.
However I think the greatest
indicator of what is to come from the formation of FMLLP was the fact
that the teams themselves voted to keep the calendar as it is for 2017.
This is significant because it proves that the concept of FMLLP where
the power to determine the teams' future lies with the teams themselves
is taking shape. This is a great sign for the future.
2. To what extent has the privatisation of M-League been a success?
I think the success of privatisation will only be able to be seen for real in 5-10 years, when the effects of things like club licensing are evident. But now I guess we can see small wins along the way. Greater commercial interest is definitely evident already.
I think the success of privatisation will only be able to be seen for real in 5-10 years, when the effects of things like club licensing are evident. But now I guess we can see small wins along the way. Greater commercial interest is definitely evident already.
3. What lessons have been learnt from last season?
The lessons that we have learnt from last season is that no matter what you plan for there are instances where regulation, policies or processes are tested and must be refined. We must always be willing to review and refine.
The lessons that we have learnt from last season is that no matter what you plan for there are instances where regulation, policies or processes are tested and must be refined. We must always be willing to review and refine.
4. A number of teams have been facing various problems. Comments?
Teams or even the league seen to be having problems are part and parcel of change. If we are afraid of problems and are not willing to face them then there can be no change. Even the problems faced by the teams now is leading to change. We can't be afraid of this.
Teams or even the league seen to be having problems are part and parcel of change. If we are afraid of problems and are not willing to face them then there can be no change. Even the problems faced by the teams now is leading to change. We can't be afraid of this.
5. How much money is paid to teams whose games are shown live?
Money for live games was proposed as part of the point system distribution originally. But, this was changed at the FAM exco in late 2015 to a higher cash payment at the start of the season for each team. It is my hope that as income increases, then this point system can be implemented.
Money for live games was proposed as part of the point system distribution originally. But, this was changed at the FAM exco in late 2015 to a higher cash payment at the start of the season for each team. It is my hope that as income increases, then this point system can be implemented.
6. Could you update us on the status of MP & Silva as the special partner as well as the current and future implications on M-League?
I've been asked about the issue of the special partner and how it affects FMLLP. I think what everyone needs to understand is that FMLLP was set up before any special partner came on board. Thus should anything happen to an agreement between the general partner and any special partner, it does not effect the core of what FMLLP is, which is a partnership between the 24 teams and FAM. In the long term context of FMLLP, partners will change, but the core of what FMLLP is should remain as this partnership between the teams and FAM lends stability and long term sustainability to our local game.
I've been asked about the issue of the special partner and how it affects FMLLP. I think what everyone needs to understand is that FMLLP was set up before any special partner came on board. Thus should anything happen to an agreement between the general partner and any special partner, it does not effect the core of what FMLLP is, which is a partnership between the 24 teams and FAM. In the long term context of FMLLP, partners will change, but the core of what FMLLP is should remain as this partnership between the teams and FAM lends stability and long term sustainability to our local game.
7. According to certain critics, FMLLP is just duplicating FAM's functions. Comments?
Duplicating FAM's functions? Well, we do have to run the league while FAM also runs the FAM Cup etc so there is certainly some duplication there. You can't avoid that I feel. In the long run, the separation between the two will become more and more evident. But, because FAM governs football in Malaysia and it is the general partner of FMLLP, there will always be areas where the two cross. Critics will always try to nit pick even at the obvious. In this instance, I think the obvious thing is that both FAM and FMLLP run football competitions. So there is bound to be some duplication, but whether we both do things exactly the same way or not will be the definition of how far they grow apart in the coming years.
Duplicating FAM's functions? Well, we do have to run the league while FAM also runs the FAM Cup etc so there is certainly some duplication there. You can't avoid that I feel. In the long run, the separation between the two will become more and more evident. But, because FAM governs football in Malaysia and it is the general partner of FMLLP, there will always be areas where the two cross. Critics will always try to nit pick even at the obvious. In this instance, I think the obvious thing is that both FAM and FMLLP run football competitions. So there is bound to be some duplication, but whether we both do things exactly the same way or not will be the definition of how far they grow apart in the coming years.
8. Why does FMLLP still allow teams(s) with rather huge debts and arrears due to players to participate in our League?
The debt issues are issues that we must handle step by step. Most people assume that the barring of teams participating is the answer, and it probably will be, but in order for us to get there we have to be responsible also for the rest of the stakeholders as well. Remember, FMLLP must adopt a point of view that is friendly to fans, teams, players, sponsors, broadcasters, media, etc etc. Being responsible towards all parties sometimes ends up being seen as being irresponsible to some. Action is being taken to correct the debt issues and yes it may ultimately result in the barring of a team from participating. But the right process must be put in place to get there, it can't be just a shoot from the hip or off the cuff reaction. It is much deeper and more sensitive than most care to understand.
The debt issues are issues that we must handle step by step. Most people assume that the barring of teams participating is the answer, and it probably will be, but in order for us to get there we have to be responsible also for the rest of the stakeholders as well. Remember, FMLLP must adopt a point of view that is friendly to fans, teams, players, sponsors, broadcasters, media, etc etc. Being responsible towards all parties sometimes ends up being seen as being irresponsible to some. Action is being taken to correct the debt issues and yes it may ultimately result in the barring of a team from participating. But the right process must be put in place to get there, it can't be just a shoot from the hip or off the cuff reaction. It is much deeper and more sensitive than most care to understand.
9. The practise of fining teams for fans' misbehaviour. Some quarters have seen it in a cynical way. Is it appropriate and fair to the clubs?
Punishing teams for fan behaviour is not unique to Malaysia. Globally this is the practice. Whilst my opinion on some decisions may differ, I don't see an alternative thats workable at the moment.
Punishing teams for fan behaviour is not unique to Malaysia. Globally this is the practice. Whilst my opinion on some decisions may differ, I don't see an alternative thats workable at the moment.
10. What do you see as the likely effects of FAM's top leadership's tussle on FMLLP and the league?
Any change in FAM will certainly have some effects on FMLLP as FAM is the general partner in FMLLP. Any change in policies will also affect FMLLP as FMLLP is aligned to the national agenda, thus we must cooperate. So it's impossible to say that changes in FAM will not affect FMLLP.
Any change in FAM will certainly have some effects on FMLLP as FAM is the general partner in FMLLP. Any change in policies will also affect FMLLP as FMLLP is aligned to the national agenda, thus we must cooperate. So it's impossible to say that changes in FAM will not affect FMLLP.
11. What can fans and football enthusiasts look forward to this season
I think the fans will be able to look forward to some progress on Media Prima's end with the broadcast. The online management platform will also help teams keep better records and manage player suspensions etc better. And I guess one key aspect is that we are able to deliver more statistics this year than any previous year prior. These are all things we are hoping to perfect this season.
I think the fans will be able to look forward to some progress on Media Prima's end with the broadcast. The online management platform will also help teams keep better records and manage player suspensions etc better. And I guess one key aspect is that we are able to deliver more statistics this year than any previous year prior. These are all things we are hoping to perfect this season.
 |
Friday, 27 January 2017
T-Team unperturbed by away thrashing
Kuantan: Despite being humiliated 0-5 by East Coast neighbour, Pahang, at Stadium Darul Makmur last night, T-Team remains unperturbed.
Head coach Rahmad Darmawan admits reflectively, " We lost everything, be it quality and experience. But it is a learning process for our young players to continue improving their performance." He is confident with time and more games, the players will learn and mature.
Rahmad adds, " Pahang played well. Their import players have good qualities. By contrast last night we fielded 4 new players in the starting line-up, including import Mamadou Samassa (first game of the season) and three young players. They needed time for adaptation. I believe all can be fixed.
Winger Mohd. Nor Hakim Hassan and centreback Wan Ahmad Amirzafran Wan Nadris did not play due to wedding leave and injury respectively.
In their first game last week, T-Team drew 1-1 with Sarawak at home.
For last night's episode, T-Team's coaching staff accept full responsibility and pledge their commitment to find ways and means to bring T-Team to a higher level this season.
Meanwhile, in a Premier League encounter, Terengganu defeated PDRM 1-0 at home last night.
 |
| Thrashed by Pahang 0-5 in Kuantan |
Rahmad adds, " Pahang played well. Their import players have good qualities. By contrast last night we fielded 4 new players in the starting line-up, including import Mamadou Samassa (first game of the season) and three young players. They needed time for adaptation. I believe all can be fixed.
Winger Mohd. Nor Hakim Hassan and centreback Wan Ahmad Amirzafran Wan Nadris did not play due to wedding leave and injury respectively.
In their first game last week, T-Team drew 1-1 with Sarawak at home.
For last night's episode, T-Team's coaching staff accept full responsibility and pledge their commitment to find ways and means to bring T-Team to a higher level this season.
Meanwhile, in a Premier League encounter, Terengganu defeated PDRM 1-0 at home last night.
Tuesday, 17 January 2017
On track but T-Team is wary
Kuala Terengganu: On Monday night T-Team defeated Singapore's Tampines Rovers in the club's final pre-season friendly.
But to the coaches, results in friendly matches don't really matter.
Coach Rahmad Darmawan says, " So far everything is on track. However we cannot be complacent with pre-season's results. Real matches will be different."
His assistant, Azhari Salim, concurs, adding " The result is no that important. However, players' compatibility and teamwork were demonstrated in the game." Indeed Rahmad also hopes that his players will be able to play just like in their friendlies - motivated and enjoyment side by side - in their first match on Saturday.
T-Team scored first from a Maiga's header. But it conceded a soft goal for Tampines to draw level during the first half's injury time. Takhiyuddin made it 2-1 for T-Team in the second after virtually all the first eleven players were substituted. half It is understood that in their recent friendlies, Tampines won over Terengganu 2-1 but lost to Pahang 1-4.
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| Fans didn't get to see Samassa as he was slightly injured |
But to the coaches, results in friendly matches don't really matter.
Coach Rahmad Darmawan says, " So far everything is on track. However we cannot be complacent with pre-season's results. Real matches will be different."
His assistant, Azhari Salim, concurs, adding " The result is no that important. However, players' compatibility and teamwork were demonstrated in the game." Indeed Rahmad also hopes that his players will be able to play just like in their friendlies - motivated and enjoyment side by side - in their first match on Saturday.
T-Team scored first from a Maiga's header. But it conceded a soft goal for Tampines to draw level during the first half's injury time. Takhiyuddin made it 2-1 for T-Team in the second after virtually all the first eleven players were substituted. half It is understood that in their recent friendlies, Tampines won over Terengganu 2-1 but lost to Pahang 1-4.
Wednesday, 11 January 2017
Samassa is T-Team's choice - Rahmad Dharmawan
Kuala Terengganu: Head coach Rahmad Dharmawan has confirmed that Mamadou Samassa is the club's fourth import player.
He says although Samassa and the other player from Uzbek, Shavkat Salamov, have the same quality, the team has opted for Samassa because he can play in two positions - as an attaking midfielder and a striker.
It is understood that he could form an effective understanding with Dilshod (defensive midfielder), and Farhod Tadjiyev (striker).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEW6JutOsJE
He says although Samassa and the other player from Uzbek, Shavkat Salamov, have the same quality, the team has opted for Samassa because he can play in two positions - as an attaking midfielder and a striker.
It is understood that he could form an effective understanding with Dilshod (defensive midfielder), and Farhod Tadjiyev (striker).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEW6JutOsJE
Wednesday, 4 January 2017
Tricky decision for T-Team
Kuala Lumpur: After chalking up a decent pre-season performance in Kuantan and Klang Valley which ended today, it is now five days of crunch time for T-Team. Exactly seventeen days before the start of the 2017 Malaysian Super League season, they have to defer making a crucial decision on their fourth import player.
Undoubtedly it is not an easy call.
T-Team's Indonesian Head Coach, Rahmad Darmawan, explains: "Both Shavkat (Salamov) and Mamadou (Samassa) have good points with different playing styles. As such we cannot decide now. We have thus asked them to continue following us until 9 January."
He adds, "Our criteria include the player's versatility to play as attacking midfileder, second striker or striker. Ultimately it will be a question of who the team needs more."
Initially they were almost certain of signing up Shavkat to replace influential but injured Malian midfielder, Makan Konate. However soon they were also presented with the opportunity of assessing Mamadou, Malian former French Under-21 player, as a potential second import striker. Therefore their ten-day pre-season friendly games had become the perfect opportunity for the Kuala Terengganu based club to assess who would likely be the best option for the team.
The recent friendly games' results:
1. 27 Dec: Kuantan FA (1) vs T-Team (1)
2. 29 Dec: PDRM (1) vs T-Team (2)
3. 2 Jan: ATM (1) vs T-Team (3)
4. 3 Jan: Sime Darby (0) vs T-Team (2)
5. 4 Jan: Felda United (2) vs T-Team (3)
For one thing, Uzbek striker Farhod Tadjiyev seems to be as deadly as before he was being forced out by injury, in his first season with the club midway in 2015 - scoring a few goals in the recent friendlies.
On the friendly games, Rahmad Darmawan, who decided to stay with T-Team for the second season, says: "I am very pleased to see the back-up team playing well with commendable scheme of play." While teamwork is progressing well with good individual performance, he says there are still areas for improvement .
He cites two reasons for staying with T-Team.
First, the head coach loves Terengganu. Second, he has been given a target which is to better last season's performance commensurate with budget and quality players.
Undoubtedly it is not an easy call.
 |
| Rahmad: Both have good points |
He adds, "Our criteria include the player's versatility to play as attacking midfileder, second striker or striker. Ultimately it will be a question of who the team needs more."
Initially they were almost certain of signing up Shavkat to replace influential but injured Malian midfielder, Makan Konate. However soon they were also presented with the opportunity of assessing Mamadou, Malian former French Under-21 player, as a potential second import striker. Therefore their ten-day pre-season friendly games had become the perfect opportunity for the Kuala Terengganu based club to assess who would likely be the best option for the team.
The recent friendly games' results:
1. 27 Dec: Kuantan FA (1) vs T-Team (1)
2. 29 Dec: PDRM (1) vs T-Team (2)
3. 2 Jan: ATM (1) vs T-Team (3)
4. 3 Jan: Sime Darby (0) vs T-Team (2)
5. 4 Jan: Felda United (2) vs T-Team (3)
For one thing, Uzbek striker Farhod Tadjiyev seems to be as deadly as before he was being forced out by injury, in his first season with the club midway in 2015 - scoring a few goals in the recent friendlies.
On the friendly games, Rahmad Darmawan, who decided to stay with T-Team for the second season, says: "I am very pleased to see the back-up team playing well with commendable scheme of play." While teamwork is progressing well with good individual performance, he says there are still areas for improvement .
He cites two reasons for staying with T-Team.
First, the head coach loves Terengganu. Second, he has been given a target which is to better last season's performance commensurate with budget and quality players.
Sunday, 25 December 2016
T-Team to sign Farhod Tadjiyev , Shavkat Salomov?
Kuala Terengganu: Informed sources reveal to BolaPantaiTimur that T-Team will most likely sign former Uzbek forward Farhod Tadjiyev for the second time and attacking midfielder Shavkat Salomov to beef up their challenge for honours next season.
Farhod: Making a comeback?
Photo credit: 90minit.com
Shavkat: Likely replacement for Makan Konate
Photo credit: http://www.footballtop.ru
Farhod was the club's star striker in 2015 before injury forced him out. Indeed at one point, just before his injury, he was among a few Malaysia-based foreign players who were named to join the Malaysian Invitation team in a high-profile international friendly in Kuala Lumpur.
Says one of the sources: " Farhod is injury-free. His fitness is also sound as he had played in Uzbekistan after leaving T-Team." He adds that Shavkat who is already in Kuala Terengganu, will replace injured Makan Konate. Countryman Maiga from Mali, a central defender and Uzbek's defensive midfielder, Dilshod Sharofetdinov, will make up the rest of the import players as they will feature for the team in their second season.
For the record, Farhod and Dilshod used to play together in Uzbek Div. 1 Club, Pakhtakor.
Having quality import players is crucial for T-Team as many of its local players, including last season's most promising young player, Safawi Rasid, have joined other clubs for the new season. The club's 2016 President Cuppers have been roped in as replacements.
T-Team were in Indonesia recently where they won twice and drew once against lesser local teams in their friendly games. Still under Indonesian head coach, Rahmad Darmawan and his coaching staff for the second consecutive season, they will be in KL for ten days for their next series of pre-season friendly games.
Photo credit: 90minit.com
Photo credit: http://www.footballtop.ru
Farhod was the club's star striker in 2015 before injury forced him out. Indeed at one point, just before his injury, he was among a few Malaysia-based foreign players who were named to join the Malaysian Invitation team in a high-profile international friendly in Kuala Lumpur.
Says one of the sources: " Farhod is injury-free. His fitness is also sound as he had played in Uzbekistan after leaving T-Team." He adds that Shavkat who is already in Kuala Terengganu, will replace injured Makan Konate. Countryman Maiga from Mali, a central defender and Uzbek's defensive midfielder, Dilshod Sharofetdinov, will make up the rest of the import players as they will feature for the team in their second season.
For the record, Farhod and Dilshod used to play together in Uzbek Div. 1 Club, Pakhtakor.
Having quality import players is crucial for T-Team as many of its local players, including last season's most promising young player, Safawi Rasid, have joined other clubs for the new season. The club's 2016 President Cuppers have been roped in as replacements.
T-Team were in Indonesia recently where they won twice and drew once against lesser local teams in their friendly games. Still under Indonesian head coach, Rahmad Darmawan and his coaching staff for the second consecutive season, they will be in KL for ten days for their next series of pre-season friendly games.
Tuesday, 18 August 2015
T-Team run amok
With their own position hotly challenged by Penang at the tail end of Premier League 2015, last night T-Team routed basement team, Putrajaya SPA, 7-0 at Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah Stadium.
Man of the match, Tomislav Busic, made it a great night for his team with five goals to his credit, while the remaining two goals came from Sadriddin Abdullaev and Muhamad Zulhanizam.
T-Team are now second behind Kedah in the Premier League standings, sharing the same 42 points with Penang, but with superior goal difference (24 goals versus Penang's 19 goals).
Having warned his players they could lose by 5 to 8 goals, Ken Worden, Putrajaya SPA head coach says they came to Kuala Terengganu with a depleted side.
The Kuala Terengganu-based club will end the Premier League campaign with an away game against Kuantan FA. Head coach Tomislav Steinbruckner notes, "We will take our bigger goal difference and give our best shot in Kuantan this Friday."
T-Team had been leading the Premier League standings for a long time until the recent demise of former captain, David Oniya, and injury to hot-shot striker Farhod Tadjiyev, have somewhat rattled the team lately. It will be a cruel anti-climax if they do not finish the league at least in the second position this season.
Man of the match, Tomislav Busic, made it a great night for his team with five goals to his credit, while the remaining two goals came from Sadriddin Abdullaev and Muhamad Zulhanizam.
T-Team are now second behind Kedah in the Premier League standings, sharing the same 42 points with Penang, but with superior goal difference (24 goals versus Penang's 19 goals).
Having warned his players they could lose by 5 to 8 goals, Ken Worden, Putrajaya SPA head coach says they came to Kuala Terengganu with a depleted side.
The Kuala Terengganu-based club will end the Premier League campaign with an away game against Kuantan FA. Head coach Tomislav Steinbruckner notes, "We will take our bigger goal difference and give our best shot in Kuantan this Friday."
T-Team had been leading the Premier League standings for a long time until the recent demise of former captain, David Oniya, and injury to hot-shot striker Farhod Tadjiyev, have somewhat rattled the team lately. It will be a cruel anti-climax if they do not finish the league at least in the second position this season.
Monday, 6 July 2015
T-Team gets FAM's nod
The FAM competitions committee which met today has given T-Team the green light to get a new import player following the sudden demise of former captain David Oniya.
However according to a club's official, the player has to be a fresh one - somebody who has not played in the M-League before or if he has played, he must have completed at least one year after his registration.
T-Team head coach Tomislav Steinbruckner reveals to BolaPantaiTimur the club is currently considering two candidates - either Croatian Tomislav Mazalovic or an Uzbek player which he declines to name.
However according to a club's official, the player has to be a fresh one - somebody who has not played in the M-League before or if he has played, he must have completed at least one year after his registration.
T-Team head coach Tomislav Steinbruckner reveals to BolaPantaiTimur the club is currently considering two candidates - either Croatian Tomislav Mazalovic or an Uzbek player which he declines to name.
Wednesday, 1 July 2015
6 July D-Day for T-Team
Sources tell BolaPantaiTimur that FAM competition's committee will meet on Monday, 6 July, to decide on the Kuala Terengganu-based club's request to have a replacement for their former captain, the late David Oniya.
David's sudden demise after he collapsed during a recent friendly match with neighbouring Kelantan in Kota Bharu has left T-Team with only three import players, as opposed to four allowable foreign quota.
T-Team, current Premier League table-topper, acted fast by putting in its request to FAM, soon after David's death.
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| David Oniya: Laid to rest in Seremban |
T-Team, current Premier League table-topper, acted fast by putting in its request to FAM, soon after David's death.
Monday, 22 June 2015
T-Team leading KL 4-1 at home
The absence of head coach Tomislav Steinbruckner and one of his assistants at Stadium Sultan Ismail Nasiruddin Shah, in Kuala Terengganu tonight does not deter the team from scoring 4 goals against KL.
Both Steinbruckner and his assistant are either down with suspected food poisoning or dengue, according to a team official.
T-Team's goals came from Takiyuddin, Farhod, Hakim and Josip. Last Friday T-Team won 2-1 away.
The scoreline in the 78th minute is 4-1.
Both Steinbruckner and his assistant are either down with suspected food poisoning or dengue, according to a team official.
T-Team's goals came from Takiyuddin, Farhod, Hakim and Josip. Last Friday T-Team won 2-1 away.
The scoreline in the 78th minute is 4-1.
Friday, 19 June 2015
Hasbullah to lead T-Team against KL
In the absence of former captain, the late David Oniya, veteran T-Team player, Mohd Hasbullah Awang, will lead the Kuala Terengganu-based club against Kuala Lumpur tonight.
Hasbullah, who used to feature as a defensive midfielder for the team, has been a regular as a centreback this season, thanks partly to David's inspiration and guidance.
Forced to make a slight reshuffle following the sudden demise of David Oniya last week, Josip Milardovic will play in defence for T-Team. They are expected to use a 4-2-3-1 formation tonight.
Tonight's reserve players for T-Team are Marzuki, Syuhiran, Safawi, Rosdi, Kamal and Zulhanizam.
T-Team will obviously want another win to remain in Premier League's pole position.
However there are talks that the field for the match is bad. To what extent will this plus the absence of Oniya and the long break for competing teams affect T-Team's game tonight?
Soon we will find out.
Hasbullah, who used to feature as a defensive midfielder for the team, has been a regular as a centreback this season, thanks partly to David's inspiration and guidance.
Forced to make a slight reshuffle following the sudden demise of David Oniya last week, Josip Milardovic will play in defence for T-Team. They are expected to use a 4-2-3-1 formation tonight.
Tonight's reserve players for T-Team are Marzuki, Syuhiran, Safawi, Rosdi, Kamal and Zulhanizam.
T-Team will obviously want another win to remain in Premier League's pole position.
However there are talks that the field for the match is bad. To what extent will this plus the absence of Oniya and the long break for competing teams affect T-Team's game tonight?
Soon we will find out.
Saturday, 13 June 2015
Friendly game between T-Team Vs Kelantan abandoned after 60th minute
Influential Nigerian T-Team captain and centreback, David Oniya, passed away at Raja Zainab 2 Hospital in Kota Bharu at 2205 Hours last night. It was believed to be due to heart complication.
He was rushed to the hospital from the Sultan Muhammad IV stadium where a friendly game between T-Team versus Kelantan was taking place. " He collapsed in the third minute," says a T-Team spokesperson. Following news of his sudden demise, the match was stopped by the referee after 60th minute. Kelantan were leading by 3-2. Farhod Tadjiyev and Sadriddin Abdullaev scored for T-Team.
Oniya, who had a cheek operation recently, was cleared to play in the game by the team doctor. He was wearing a protective gear for the game. " We will wait for the autopsy result," says the T-Team spokesperson, without giving other details.
T-Team which lead the Premier League at present will miss Oniya dearly.
An excellent role model, he provided great leadership to the team which were relegated from the Super League this season.
Rest in peace, David Faramola Oniya.
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| Oniya: Collapsed on the pitch in the third minute |
He was rushed to the hospital from the Sultan Muhammad IV stadium where a friendly game between T-Team versus Kelantan was taking place. " He collapsed in the third minute," says a T-Team spokesperson. Following news of his sudden demise, the match was stopped by the referee after 60th minute. Kelantan were leading by 3-2. Farhod Tadjiyev and Sadriddin Abdullaev scored for T-Team.
Oniya, who had a cheek operation recently, was cleared to play in the game by the team doctor. He was wearing a protective gear for the game. " We will wait for the autopsy result," says the T-Team spokesperson, without giving other details.
T-Team which lead the Premier League at present will miss Oniya dearly.
An excellent role model, he provided great leadership to the team which were relegated from the Super League this season.
Rest in peace, David Faramola Oniya.
Tuesday, 19 May 2015
Terengganu Victims in 2013 FA Cup Semi-Finals
Lest people forget, Terengganu were the victims of a very bad call by the then referee in the 2013 FA Cup semi-finals (second leg). They were thus robbed of a place in the finals.
A former FIFA assistant referee, while explaining the offside Terengganu's fourth goal against Lions XII last week, agreed that Kelantan's last breadth goal in the 2013 semi-finals was however a clear offside, not in Terengganu's favour. Obinna's disputed goal which was unfortunately allowed by referee Suhaizi Shukri, forced the Terengganu Vs Kelantan semi final match into extra time as they were leading 4-0 before the goal.
Terengganu which also lost two players after being flashed the red cards by him subsequently won only 4-2 in the return leg, losing to Kelantan 5-6 on aggregate.
There was no riot then. Neither was there a threat of withdrawal even though the then Terengganu MB, Datuk Seri Ahmad Said did make a remark on refereeing standard. The referee and his assistant were "quietly" suspended subsequently. However the deliberation was not as fast as Monday's decision by FAM, which upheld the referee's decision on Terengganu's fourth goal against Lions XII.
On the "rare" Terengganu's fourth goal against Lions XII, a foreign coach earlier said, " The referee's decision is final. The (score) can't be changed. If video recording shows it was an offside, then the referee was correct. If it shows otherwise, FAM can suspend the referee but it can't change the final score."
Incidentally, Suhaizi was also the referee in the Kelantan versus Pahang semi-final last Saturday.
 |
| Flashbak: Suhaizi flashing the red card to Effa Owana |
A former FIFA assistant referee, while explaining the offside Terengganu's fourth goal against Lions XII last week, agreed that Kelantan's last breadth goal in the 2013 semi-finals was however a clear offside, not in Terengganu's favour. Obinna's disputed goal which was unfortunately allowed by referee Suhaizi Shukri, forced the Terengganu Vs Kelantan semi final match into extra time as they were leading 4-0 before the goal.
Terengganu which also lost two players after being flashed the red cards by him subsequently won only 4-2 in the return leg, losing to Kelantan 5-6 on aggregate.
There was no riot then. Neither was there a threat of withdrawal even though the then Terengganu MB, Datuk Seri Ahmad Said did make a remark on refereeing standard. The referee and his assistant were "quietly" suspended subsequently. However the deliberation was not as fast as Monday's decision by FAM, which upheld the referee's decision on Terengganu's fourth goal against Lions XII.
On the "rare" Terengganu's fourth goal against Lions XII, a foreign coach earlier said, " The referee's decision is final. The (score) can't be changed. If video recording shows it was an offside, then the referee was correct. If it shows otherwise, FAM can suspend the referee but it can't change the final score."
Incidentally, Suhaizi was also the referee in the Kelantan versus Pahang semi-final last Saturday.
Pengadil kontroversi
Suhaizi Shukri yang dilaporkan Terengganu Today dalam mengadili
perlawanan berat sebelah separuh akhir kedua antara Terengganu dan
Kelantan pada 29 mei lalu sah digantung selama setahun oleh Jawatankuasa
Pengadil FAM.
Jelaslah tindakan beliau melayangkan kad merah kepada 2 pemain
Terengganu iaitu Effa Owana dan Manaf Mamat adalah satu keputusan silap
serta membenarkan gol Kelantan yang dijaringkan Obinna Nwaneri yang
betul-betul berada dalam kedudukan offside.
Copy and WIN : http://ow.ly/KNICZ
Copy and WIN : http://ow.ly/KNICZ
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