Sabah Football Fan blog with news, schedule, result, statistic , records and more.

Friday, January 30, 2009

Goalie saves the day


KOTA KINABALU: Ovinnis Ozawa Joachim saved the day for the junior Rhinos as they were held to a one-all draw by Kelantan in a President’s Cup match at the Likas Stadium yesterday.

The young custodian made numerous brilliant saves to help his side collect a point in a match that could have gone either way with better finishing.

The junior Rhinos were trailing 1-0 after 58 minutes of play, but were presented with a gifted equaliser in the 68th minute after a Kelantan player scored an own goal.

Team manager Alijus Haji Sipil was satisfied with the result, saying that his charges did their best despite not being able to parade their best squad.

“We are happy with our overall performance considering that Kelantan is one of the favourites. They were the champions (Youth Cup – U-19) last year, and basically they are having the same team.

“Furthermore, we could not parade our strongest squad due to injuries, while both Leopold (Alphonso Otong) and Selyvister (Saini) were called into the senior side.

“But we have no complaints because their absence has given the opportunity to the other players to show their worth. It is a good thing that we can utilise all the players that we have.

“When you look at the game, it was an equally contested tie with both sides having equal chances at each other’s goalmouths.

“At the end of the day, I would say that it was a fair result for both sides,” Alijus said.

Sabah had the better of the first quarter in the game as they dominated but could not create any chances.

Knowing that he was outplayed, Kelantan coach Kamarudin Mohd Nor made a tactical change by bringing in midfielder Mohd Ailim Fahmi Kamaruddin for Muhd Firdaus Mat in the 20th minute.

It worked wonders as from then on it was a well balanced affair.

In fact, it was Mohd Ailim who had the first chance of the half when in the 27th minute he unleashed a long range effort that was palmed away for a fruitless corner by the steady Ovinnis.

Towards the end of the first half, Sabah squandered their only chance of the half as Zenelter Dangku shot wide from close range.

There was more action in the second half as both sides exchanged attacks at each other’s half.

However, it was Kelantan who broke the deadlock when Mohd Alim curled the ball past Ovinnis from the edge of the box to give his side the lead.

However, it took Sabah 10 minutes to put things on level terms when striker Tarajan Amil’s cross from the left side deflected off Ally Imran Samarkhan’s head and went into his own net.

Later on, Ovinnis denied Kelantan from scoring at least twice including efforts from Wan Zaharulnizam Wan Zakaria and Muhammad Afham Zulkifli.


Friday, January 23, 2009

Juniors hammer Kepala Batas



KOTA KINABALU: The junior Rhinos went on the rampage as they annihilated SDM Kepala Batas by registering a 7-0 victory in a President’s Cup match played at the Kepala Batas Sports Complex field yesterday.

Selyvister Saini(pictured) grabbed a hat-trick while Tarajan Amil netted a brace with the remaining two goals scored by Leopold Alphonso Otong and Fandi Linik respectively.

But despite the big scoreline, the junior Rhinos’ head coach Rozlee Idris is still not satisfied, citing that it could have been more.

“We missed four or five more goal-scoring chances, and I’m not really happy with the misses because, without disrespect to our opponents, this team (SDM) is not really organised or well prepared.

“So we shouldn’t have wasted the opportunity because you never know at the end of the day this goal average could decide our position in the League.

“Next time around when we meet them again, we must not waste the opportunities,” said Rozlee.

But having said that, Rozlee was happy to see the team register their first away win of the season after failing in their first attempt – losing 1-0 to Johor FC in the opener.

Rozlee also congratulated hat-trick hero Selyvister for having a good game.

“He played much better than in our last game. But I’m a bit disappointed to see that Leopold was not up to his game. That’s why after the break, I brought in Tarajan to replace him.”

Rozlee was forced to make a last-minute change to his first team after both skipper Calaste Aping and Mc Barry Jaz Matin did not make the trip.

Calaste was down with a groin injury aggravated during training, while Mc Barry had something personal to sort out.

Mohd Siraj Munir and Zenelter Dangku started in place of Calaste and Mc Barry.

Rozlee’s decision to start two Premier League-based players – Leopold and Selyvister – in the attack seemed to work its wonders as the duo helped them to take a comfortable 3-0 lead at half time.

Leopold, who inspired the squad to a 2-0 home victory over UPB-MyTEAM in their last game, drew first blood for his side by netting the opener just after six minutes of play.

Then Selyvister extended the lead two minutes later before adding his second and third for his team, at the half hour mark.

After the break, second-half substitute Tarajan added more salt into the wounds of SDM by striking the fourth goal in the 63rd minute before Selyvister completed his hat-trick in the 78th minute.

But the junior Rhinos were not finished just yet as Fandi also put his name on the scoresheet with his 67th minute effort before Tarajan netted his second in injury time.


Thursday, January 22, 2009

No changes to squad


KOTA KINABALU: The junior Rhinos’ head coach Rozlee Idris will be sticking to his winning side in search for their first away victory, taking on President’s Cup newcomers SDM Kepala Batas of Penang today.

He said that if there are any changes it would be on the tactical or technical aspect of the game as the squad that chalked up their first win last Sunday deserves to be retained!

“They have done considerably well, and there is no reason to change a winning side,” Rozlee said, referring to their 2-0 victory over UPB-MyTEAM of Perak.

Last time around on the road, they went down 1-0 to Johor FC in their opening game of the season.

But this time, Rozlee hopes his charges will be able to return home with at least one point.

“Unlike in home matches where we play more offensively, but in an away game, we have to be more defensive minded.

“However, it doesn’t mean that we will go into the battle to just settle for a draw because the main priority is to go for a win.

“But if we cannot achieve that then we must try to avoid defeat,” he said.

With Rozlee sticking to his winning side, that means, both Leopold Alphonso Otong and Selyvister Saini will be around to give the team the much needed boost.

The duo who featured for the senior side, played a crucial role in their victory over UPM-MyTEAM, especially Leopold, who set up the first goal and scored the second.

The 18-member squad left for the clash yesterday.


Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Wathiq’s way



KOTA KINABALU: Wathiq Naji Jasim sees suspension and injury to key players as the main factors that could wreck the Rhinos’ season in the 2009 Premier League challenge.

But the Rhinos’ Head Coach is aware that it is beyond his control and that it could happen to any other team in the league.

He said these factors will haunt any coach or team in the world, who does not have enough experienced players in the team.

Although Wathiq is happy to see the development of the team since he took over the hot seat succeeding Croatian coach Drago Mamic about two months ago or so, he is fully aware of what lies ahead for his rather new-look squad.

The Iraqi was forced to start from scratch following the mass exodus of first-team players at the end of last season.

The FA of Malaysia’s decision to do away with the foreign players does not help him at all as he was left with less than five first-team players from last season’s squad.

Until today, Wathiq, 69, still refused to really talk about the strengths and weaknesses of his new-look side as he prefers to look ahead and prepare the team to the best of his capabilities.

And despite being handed with the mammoth task with so many shortcomings surrounding the team, Wathiq has no complaints, and has opted to work with the existing players that he has.

With over 40 years of experience, Wathiq knows exactly what he is doing and planning for the team.

“This is not the toughest or the most difficult job I have ever had,” Wathiq said.

“This is a new team with a lot of inexperienced players. But we are slowly building the team from scratch.

“It is not an easy job, but I believe we will slowly achieve our objective. Now, I’m building the team … starting from the defence to the strike-force because having a new team is different compared to having a team that has been together for a long time.

“Now I build the team’s foundation from the defence. At the same time I also want to make sure that the team’s morale is always high. In order to do that, I must try to make sure that we are picking up points in all our matches, because when the team’s morale is down, is not easy to motivate them.

“That is what I’m doing now … trying to make sure that if we cannot win a match, we must not lose too.

“Up to now, we have succeeded in our plans, but I’m afraid after five or six games, cards and injuries could affect the performances of the team and players are bound to get injured or suspended. Insya Allah it will not happen to our team,” said Wathiq.

“We also need more time to correct some aspects of our game such as set pieces, throw-in corners and so on.

He said that the FAM’s decision to play two games a week also affects their training as players need time to recover.

“That is why in my training, I want to create a balance as we need an acceptable fitness level among the players.

But Wathiq is happy to note that his charges have started to slowly understand how he wants them to play the game.

“We haven’t got any super stars in the squad. So we have to teach them how they should play in certain departments. We also explain to them what it means … ball possession so that they will be more confident when they have the ball.”

Among the seniors left in the squad are Rosdin Wasli, Zainizam Marjan, Wong Sai Kong and Julamri Muhammad.

The signing of Mohd Fariss Azlan Mat Isa and the return of several ex-State players such as Rezuan Khan Aman, Billyton Vun Ket Ming, Gasili Pangalot and Mafry Balang to name a few has helped prevent Wathiq from having more headaches in building the squad.

For the record, the Rhinos kicked off their challenge with a 2-0 win over Premier League newcomers SDM Kepala Batas of Penang before being held to a stalemate by Proton FC in the second game.

Now the league is currently taking a break and would resume on February 9.

However, the team will be involved in the FA Cup first round campaign where they will be travelling to Kuala Lumpur for the first leg tie on January 31 before playing the return leg at the Likas Stadium on February 3.


Monday, January 19, 2009

Leopold inspires junior Rhinos to first victory


KOTA KINABALU: Leopold Alphonso Otong inspired the junior Rhinos to their first victory in the President’s Cup challenge by defeating Perak UPB-MyTEAM 2-0 at the Likas Stadium yesterday.

The teenager, who is featuring for the senior side, set up the first goal before scoring the second late in the game.

Leopold, 18, was only recalled to strengthen the State Under-20 side as the Premier League is currently taking a break.

And he did not disappoint the team as it was him who made the difference with his bursting run from the right of midfield that resulted in both goals.

And it was only about 10 days ago, Leopold, who hails from Tamparuli but now residing in Inanam, made his Premier League debut with a goal by scoring the opener in the 2-0 win over SDM Kepala Batas.

And yesterday, he repeated his scoring act in his maiden match for the junior Rhinos.

Head coach Rozlee Idris was delighted with the victory and praised the players for a job well done.

He, however, said that there is plenty of room for improvement especially in the tactical aspects of the game.

“They tried really hard and I’m happy to see they managed to win this game. It was an equally contested tie and much tougher than our first game,” Rozlee said, referring to their first match against Johor FC where they went down 1-0 in an away battle last Thursday.

“Overall, I’m happy with the way we approached the game. As you can see, physically they were much bigger than us, but we managed to overcome them.

“However, there is still plenty of room for improvement and we will look into the things that need to be improved ahead of our next game.

On Leopold’s contribution, Rozlee said: “Leopold played well, but he could have done better if he trains with us. Maybe next time, we will call him to train with us for two or three days ahead of our next match.”

He also hoped that Leopold and Selyvister Saini will also be part of the team that would travel to Penang next Wednesday.

Yesterday, the junior Rhinos drew first blood on the stroke of half time through Ibrahim Abu Nawas who had the simplest of tasks by tapping in a low drive from Leopold.

Earlier on, Selyvister, who is one of the three Under-20 players playing for the senior side, had the best of chances to put the junior Rhinos ahead in the 13th minute when he had the keeper to beat.

Unfortunately, the nippy player failed to convert his chance after his attempt was blocked by the keeper.

After the break, it was still a 50-50 game until Leopold scored the second with a cool finish two minutes from time.

The visitors had the chance to score the consolation, but Muhd Fakrul Aiman shot straight to Sabah custodian Ovinnis Ozawa Joachim from close range.


Sunday, January 18, 2009

Nothing less than victory will do today!


KOTA KINABALU: The junior Rhinos will settle for nothing less than victory when they take on UPB-MyTEAM of Perak in a President’s Cup challenge at the Likas Stadium today.

They are determined to make a quick rebound following their 1-0 defeat at the hands of Johor FC in the opener at the Jcorp Stadium in Pasir Gudang three days ago.

And the inclusion of two Premier League-based players – Leopold Alphonso Otong and Selyvister Saini would surely give the team a lift or rather a boost for this home tie that is scheduled to kick off at 4.15pm.

Both Leopold and Selyvister featured for the senior team, but the Premier League is currently taking a break and would only resume on January 31 with the first round of the FA Cup where Sabah will be playing away to Kuala Lumpur in the first leg. The return leg is on February 3.

Teenager Leopold, who turns 18 on June 9, made his maiden debut for the senior squad with a goal in the 2-0 victory over SDM Kepala Batas of Penang at the Likas Stadium about 10 days ago.

He also had a good game after coming in for Selyvister in the second half against Proton FC on Monday.

Junior Rhinos’ head coach Rozlee Idris believes the presence of the duo would surely strengthen the team.

When met at their light training at the Kota Kinabalu Sports Complex Field B in Likas yesterday, he went on to say that they are going all out for victory.

“We have no reason not to do well playing at our home venue,” said Rozlee.

Furthermore, he added, they could not afford to slip any points away from any home game if they are to realise their target of lifting the crown.

“Even though it is still early days, but we must try to win all our home matches starting from tomorrow (today).

“Unless we are having injury or suspension to our key players, I don’t see any reason for us not to play well at home and win the game.

“If it is an away game, I can understand because away games have always been pretty unpredictable. “There are several circumstances such as jetlag and tiredness due to long travelling hours that could affect our performances,” he added.

Rozlee also hinted that he is likely to stick to the same line-up against Johor FC with the exception that Mohd Siraj Munir will make way for Selyvister in the attack while Leopold will replace Mohamad RD Osman on the right of midfield.

Selyvister will be pairing McBarry Jaz Matin in the attack while skipper Calaste Aping and Delson John would orchestrate the midfield department with Ibrahim Abu Nawas on the left of midfield.

Rozlee’s four-man defence comprises, Fandi Linik, Shafie Jaim, Mohd Hanafie Unus and Nelbandly @ Mohd Nor. Ovinnis Ozawa Joachim is his first choice keeper.

Mohamad RD Osman, Mohd Siraj Munir, Zenelter Dangu, Faddley Lunsing, Mohd Ahzuan Khan, Tarajan Amil and goalkeeper Jaidi Umbong will be on the bench.


Friday, January 16, 2009

Sabah squad in high spirits


KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah men’s Futsal squad will have an awesome task in the National Felda Futsal League 2008/2009 to be held at Felda Trolak in Perak which starts today.

The squad left for the championship early yesterday morning with only one thing in mind, that is to be crowned as champs this Sunday.

But before they can do that, they will have the likes of the Police, Selangor, Pahang, KL Figos and Kuala Lumpur as red hot contenders!

The six teams, including Sabah, emerged as champions of their respective groups before qualifying for the tournament proper.

They will be pitted against each other in a round robin format. The top two teams will play in the final to decide the winner.

The triumphant team will walk away with a handsome RM40,000 in prize money, in addition to the RM10,000 for being champions of their respective group.

The runners up will pocket RM20,000, the third and fourth placed teams will receive RM10,000 and RM5000 respectively.

Police marched into the final round after topping Group A while Selangor, Pahang, KL Figos, Kuala Lumpur and Sabah won Group B, C, D, E and F respectively.

The Sabah squad did brilliantly in the group stage and they go into the final round with an unbeaten record. The mood and spirit in the team naturally are sky-high following their success in qualifying into the final round.

Team manager Alijus Hj Sipil, who is a cautious man, reminded the players to put a brake on their celebrations, stating that the battle is not over yet.

“I can understand the players’ feeling after qualifying for the final round, but now we have to focus on the final round.

“Our target is not just to qualify for the final round, but in winning the Cup for the people of Sabah,” said Alijus at a dinner he hosted for the players on Wednesday night.

Meanwhile, head coach Mohd Asyraaf Fong Abdullah said the squad is ready and in tip top condition for the tricky road ahead.

“Our preparations have been better despite two days of training only. Nevertheless, we have managed to use this short period to zero in on certain aspects of the game,” said Asyraaf.

Sabah face Police in the opener scheduled for 10am today before playing their second game against favourites KL Figos at 8pm.

On the second day (Saturday) they have three games; Selangor at 2pm and Penangat at 8pm.

They round up their fixtures on Sunday by taking on Pahang at 11am. The final is scheduled for 4pm the same day.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Rozlee: One objective, one challenge


KOTA KINABALU: The State Reserve League squad finally kick start their President’s Cup 2009 challenge with an away game against Johor FC.

They will take on the Southern club side at the Jcorp Stadium in Pasir Gudang tonight.

The squad, under the watchful eyes of coach Rozlee Bin Idris assisted by Janus Bin Tioon were initially supposed to kick start their season last week against Shahzan Muda of Pahang.

But the game was put off after Shahzan Muda appealed for a postponement, that was eventually granted by the FA of Malaysia. Shahzan Muda cited their failure to get air tickets as grounds of their appeal.

For this new season, Rozlee, who was promoted from the Under-19 squad, has set his sights on winning the championship, as he attempts to repeat Awang Sabtu Jamil’s feat of guiding his squad to lift the crown for the first time since they won it about ten years ago.

However the tournament was an Under-21 showcase, and then was reverted to Under-23 and for this season an Under-20 tournament.

“We believe that with quality in the team, it is possible for us to realise our target. I will be pressing the players to focus on our objective,” Rozlee said in an interview with the New Sabah Times Sports recently.

“The majority of our players are from our youth squad 2008 (Under-19) and basically they have been together for quite a while. So I think are they are now well prepared to mount the challenges ahead,” he added.

At the same time, Rozlee also said that he will be focusing on team work rather than individuals in realising their dream.

“What I want to create for the team is to be like a one big and strong family without self interest. I don’t want to have stars in the team, everyone will have equal status and every one will work towards the same objective.

“We have several new faces, and a back up squad and they have adapted nicely into the squad.

“Basically the rest of the teams are also using their Under-19 players from last season, so we more or less know their strengths,” he said.

Sabah have been drawn in Group B alongside PKNS FC, Proton FC, Kuala Lumpur, Felda United, Shahzan Muda, Johor FC, UPB-MyTEAM, Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu, MBJB FC Johor, Melaka and SDM Kepala Batas Penang.

The team left for Johor yesterday with a strong-18 member squad comprising Jaidi Umbong, Shafie Jaim, Faddley Lunsing, Fandi Linik, Nelbandly @ Mohd Nor, Ibrahim Abu Nawas, Calaste Aping, Delson John, Mc Barry Jaz Matin, Gergesle Jumat, Zenelter Dangku, Tarajan Amil, Mohammad Hanafie Unus, Mohd Ahzuan Khan, Mohd Siraj Munir Juri, Mohammad RD Osman, Ovinnis Ozawa Joachim and Muis Mursalam.


Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Video: Proton vs Sabah :0-0



credit to: http://www.bolatoday.com/

Rhinos bag valuable away point


Kota Kinabalu: A goalless draw against Proton FC, in their away game at the MBPJ Stadium in Selangor, Monday, gave the Rhinos a valuable point to add to their tally in their bid for glory in this season's Premier League battle.

Rhinos Manager Rahman Zakaria, said that though he was less than impressed with the performance from his team, he was glad that they at least got a point from the match.

"We didn't play very well in this fixture. We lacked creativity and momentum from the first game to actually play convincing enough to win.

But I was happy with a few good performances from some of the players.

"Our keeper did well to keep the ball out from several close range efforts.

In the end we managed to walk away with a point and I'm quite happy with that. A point is better than none," said Rahman.

Rahman spoke proudly when commenting about his squad, saying that he has a good pool of talented players, though admitting that many are still very young and raw in terms of experience.

However, he feels that they would be able to develop better understanding and would improve in their game as they continue to progress through their match schedule.

"I think we have a good team. We have several experienced players and we also have some exciting talents in our younger players. I think playing one or two more games would give them the opportunity to click and develop better understanding on the pitch. This will improve their performance as a team," said Rahman.

A point meant the Rhinos, on four points, stayed near the top of the standings in third spot behind Harimau Muda and T-Team, who both had comfortable wins in their away fixtures against SDM FC and ATM respectively.

With a good home performance against SDM Kepala Batas last Friday and a satisfactory end in Monday's fixture, Rahman will expect nothing less from his boys when they take on Kuala Lumpur in an away opening fixture of the FA Cup on Jan 31.

For Rahman, the FA Cup is just as important as the league and doing well in both competitions is important to his team.

As former champions and three-time runners up, the Rhinos are expected to seize their chance this year to win back the Cup.

"I hope the players would take this opportunity to do their best to win the fixture so we can have a good advantage during the return leg on Feb 3.

"Sabah was the champion in 1995 and was runner up three times in 93, 94 and 98. I hope the players would take this opportunity to move forward and try their best to progress in this competition," said Rahman.


Rhinos must go the extra mile!


KOTA KINABALU: Rahman Zakaria said the Rhinos must go the “extra mile” if they harbour any hope of doing well in the Premier League.

He believes that only by doing so they can be a step ahead of their rivals.

“With no foreign players in the M-League scene, I think all teams are almost equal in strength. So in order for us to be ahead of the rest, we need to work extra hard. And with a relatively new-look outfit, we certainly need to work and work extra hard,” the Rhinos’ team manager said.

“Furthermore, success is all down to hard work,” he added.

“As long as the players are willing to do it, which I believe they will, I’m very sure we will be there up for the challenge.

Another thing, Rahman pointed out was that the team must also try to be consistent.

The Rhinos played their first away tie of the season on Monday, and Rahman had mixed feelings after seeing the Rhinos settle for a 0-0 stalemate against Proton FC at the KLFA Stadium in Cheras.

While relieved to see the Rhinos manage to return home with a point, he was a little disappointed that his side failed to play up to expectations.

“I don’t think we played our best football in the game.

“When you are not playing your best game and collect a point, you have no complaints (of getting a point).

“But then again, you cannot be satisfied with what the team has achieved because we could have done better if we played to our best ability.

“I’m not happy with our overall performance because we can certainly play better than this.

“Inconsistency has been our problem in the past, so now I want the players to realise that they will not go any further if they cannot be consistent!

“It is still early in the season and I don’t want this yo-yo performance to continue.

“We need to wake up and start or at least try to be consistent,” Rahman said.

But Rahman does not want to take away the credit from players who played well on the night.

Among them are goalkeeper Irwan Jamil, teenager Leopold Alphonso, Hardy Charles Paris, Mohd Fariss Azlan Mat Isa and Zainizam Marjan to name a few.

“Irwan was excellent. He saved numerous sure-goal chances, including two one-on-one attempts from the Proton FC players. He was surely our man of the match on the night,” said Rahman.

He was also impressed with Leopold, stating that the teenager is a gifted player.

“I think he was born to be a footballer. Despite his inexperience, he adapted pretty well to life in the Premier League,” said Rahman.

Rahman said there are also players who performed below par.

“I think they know who they are and I hope they will improve. This is football and we understand we cannot expect players to play their best all the time, but what I want to see is for them not to stop trying even though it was not their night because the team needs people to stand up and fight for each other and be counted as men.”

The Premier League is taking about a month’s break before it resumes on February 9 where Sabah is scheduled to take on newcomers MBJB FC of Johor at the Likas Stadium.

And the Rhinos’ Head Coach Wathiq Naji Jasim has about three weeks or so to fine tune his side as Sabah will be involved in the first round of the FA Cup challenge taking on Kuala Lumpur on January 31 in an away battle while the return leg has been set for February 3.

Monday, January 12, 2009

Proton FC vs Sabah :0-0 Draw

Liga Premier 2nd Match 12 Jan 09









































































































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ATM0-4T-Team











Felda United1-2Johor FA











MBJB0-1Kuala Lumpur FA











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Sinar Dimaja0-2Harimau Muda











Melaka FAPostponed


PKNS FC




Sabah Lines-up+used sub

Irwan Jamil, Mohd Fariss, Wong Sai Kong, Mafry Balang, Hardy Charles Parsi, Redzuan Aman Khan, Zulamri Muhammad, Leopold Alphonso, Gasilin Pangalot, Alto Jinus, Zainizam Marjan, Salvester Saini, Mohd Radzi Hussin, Hamidin Amat

Yellow Card:Mafry Balang ,Fariss Azlan Mat Isa

Sabah march into final


KOTA KINABALU: The State futsal squad marched into the final round of the National Felda Futsal Championship 2008/09 to be held in Perak from January 16-18.

They claimed their ticket after emerging as winners of Group F comprising Kedah, Terengganu and MBJB of Johor.

Sabah topped the group with 12 points, one ahead of second-placed Kedah, while Terengganu finished on eight points. MBJB languished at the bottom of the four-team standings on two points.

The feat saw them claim the RM10,000 prize money, but a bigger reward awaits them in the final round, as the champions will collect a handsome RM40,000!

Sabah will surely go into the final round full of confidence after concluding the group stage in style.

They remained unbeaten throughout the two-leg group stage, registering three wins and three draws.

Yesterday, they toppled Kedah from the top spot, after ending their second round campaign with two wins and a draw. In the first round, they recorded one win and two draws.

It was Kedah, who went into the second round as firm favourites to make it into the final having ended their first round campaign two points ahead of Sabah after registering two wins and one draw to lead Sabah by two points.

But Sabah managed to turn the tables on Kedah with a little help from Terengganu, who inflicted Kedah with their first defeat in the tournament.

Following the defeat, Kedah went into the clash against Sabah needing nothing less than a win, while on the other hand, Sabah just need a draw to enable them to emerge as the group winners.

And Sabah did their homework as they managed to hold Kedah to a four-all draw in their final fixture (against Kedah) yesterday.

In fact Sabah were very much in command as Faisal Ismail helped them to take the lead before Mohd Marwansitah Ahmad made it 2-0. But Kedah managed to level the scoreline to two-all before the half time break.

Then Sabah were made to work extra hard after Kedah took the lead (3-2) early in the second half.

But Sabah were back in the game when Mohd Marwansitah scored his second to level the scoreline before Safar Mohammad put Sabah into the lead again.

In injury time, Kedah scored their fourth, but found out that it was a little too late for them to win the battle.

Earlier on, Sabah defeated Terengganu 5-3 before scoring a convincing 5-2 victory over MBJB.

A delighted team manager Alijus Sipil congratulated his charges for a job well done, but was quick to remind them to stay focused as a bigger task awaits them in Perak.

“The boys did well throughout the second round and I’m proud of them. Discipline wise … on and off the field, they were good, and I have no complaints.

“They showed great team spirit and won their battles through team effort, which is very good for the team.

“But they must realise that the mission is not accomplished yet. We have another one big assignment ahead of us and that is to try to win the championship.

“So I want the players to stay focused, and not to be carried away with our achievement thus far,” Alijus added.

Meanwhile, the State women’s squad failed to make it through after failing to emerge as group winners.


Changes for Rhinos’ first away mission


KOTA KINABALU: Head coach Wathiq Naji Jasim is likely to make minor changes to his winning squad in their first away mission of the season taking on another club side Proton FC at the MBPJ Stadium in Kelana Jaya tonight.

The Iraqi is forced to leave out Azrul Ejati Damsah due to injury.

The speedy flanker limped out with a hamstring injury in the Rhinos’ 2-0 win over Premier League newcomers SDM in the opener at the Likas Stadium last Friday.

Billyton Vun Ket Ming, who came in for the injured Azrul, also did not make the trip as Wathiq decided to include the inexperienced duo of Mohd Farid Saibun and Awang Norhidzan Ensim in his 18-member squad for the clash.

The rest of the players including Harold John, Selyvister Saini, Mohd June Azral Lalah and Gasili Pangalot, have been retained.

Hamiddin Amat and Radzi Md Hussin also made the trip along with those who started the game against SDM Kepala Batas namely Irwan Jamil, Wong Sai Kong, Hardy Charles Parsi, Mohd Fariss Azlan Mat Isa, Mafry Balang, Rezuan Khan Aman, Julamri Muhammad, Alto Linus, Leopold Alphonso Otong and skipper Zainizam Marjan.

Wathiq is likely to name either Radzi or Mohd Farid to replace Azrul.

“I hope the players will play their hearts out like they did on Friday. They also have the winning mentality, and not to worry too much of playing the game away from home.

“If we want to be a formidable side, we have to have the ability to win matches whether it is home or away,” said team manager Rahman Zakaria yesterday.

“Furthermore, this is our first away game, and it will surely give the team a big boost in confidence should we bring home maximum points from the game.

“We don’t really know their strength, but that doesn’t really matter. As long as we can play to our true strength and the players play their hearts out, I’m sure our chances of winning are always there,” he added.

Rahman also reminded Sabah’s young and inexperienced players such as Alto, Leopold, Selyvister and Awang not to be too concerned about facing their opponents away from home.

“We have enough experience in the team to help them. As long as they have the will and spirit, I’m sure they will overcome their nervousness of playing away from home,” said Rahman.

Last season, Sabah defeated Proton FC 4-1 at home, but were held to a one-all draw in the second round.


Sunday, January 11, 2009

Rahman: Don’t get carried away!


KOTA KINABALU: Rahman Zakaria reminded the Rhinos not to get carried away too easily with their achievement.

The Rhinos’ team manager said they have learnt from the past that the negative attitude cost them dearly if they start to take things for granted after achieving a bit of success.

“We must learn how to be consistent no matter how difficult it could be,” said Rahman, after witnessing his side defeat Premier League newcomers SDM Kepala Batas of Penang in the opener at the Likas Stadium on Friday.

Sabah defeated the amateur SDM Kepala Batas – comprising mostly navy personnel – 2-0.

“This is just the beginning of our battle and we must not sit back and start to relax. Instead we should strive harder to improve ourselves. Things will only get tougher and not the other way round. So we must prepare for whatever circumstances we are facing,” he added.

Rahman was happy for the team after winning the battle despite not playing their best game.

“It was not our best game but I’m happy to start the season with a win because it is always important to win the first game as it could help lift the spirit and confidence in the team.

“There is certainly room for improvement such as the players’ combination which was lacking especially in the first half but they played better for the following half.

“Nevertheless, I’m still happy with what I’ve seen because I believe that this team will move forward.

At the same time, Rahman also pleaded to the fans to give the team, especially the youngsters, more time to show their true colours.

“It was encouraging to see them trying hard to adapt (to top flight football). I hope the fans will give them time to show their true qualities.

“It was their first game but I hope they will be able to lift their game in the next match,” said Rahman.

Among the new faces making their debut were 17 years and six months old Leopold Alphonso Otong, Alto Linus, Mohd Fariss Azlan Mat Isa and Hamidin Amat.

And Leopold had a memorable start as he was the one who drew first blood for his side with an easy goal in the 48th minute.

With the exception of Leopold, Alto and Fariss, who started the game, Hamiddin made his debut coming in for Julamri Muhammad with only five minutes remaining.

Rezuan Khan Aman and Mafry Balang also had an encouraging return to the State team while the rest of the first team comprised last season’s players such as Irwan Jamil, Hardy Charles Parsi, Wong Sai Kong, Julamri, Azrul Ejati Damsah and skipper Zainizam Marjan.

Zainizam led by example as he sealed Sabah’s victory with an 81st minute effort after unleashing a powerful low drive from inside the penalty box.

Come Monday, Sabah will have a much tougher mission as they will be pitted against the more experienced Proton FC in an away fixture.


Video: Sabah vs SDM 2-0


credit to:http://www.bolatoday.com/

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Rhinos make perfect start


Kota Kinabalu: The Rhinos made a perfect start to the new campaign when they defeated newcomers SDM Kepala Batas, Penang, 2-0 in their opening fixture at the Likas Stadium, here, Friday night.

Two second-half goals from midfielders Leopold Alfonso Otong and Redzuan Khan Aman delivered Sabah the three points in the season's Premier League battle.

The first goal was netted three minutes after the first whistle when Otong picked up a poor goal-line clearance from one of the SDM Kepala Batas' player, to put the Rhinos into the lead.

A wet and slippery pitch contributed to the opportunity that fell to him when Penang keeper Khairul Nizam Hassan failed to hold the ball from an earlier attempt by him, resulting in a fumble in front of goal.

The other goal, which came 40 minutes later, sealed the win for the Rhinos. A blistering shot off the boot of 29-year-old Redzuan from outside the box had the Penang keeper stretched but the perfectly aimed shot eluded the save and ends up in the bottom left hand corner of the net.

Sabah team's new 'player to watch', donning the number six, striker Alto Jinus, from Keningau, would have been the first to score had his shot not bounce off the near side of the left post earlier in the first half.

Later he missed another opportunity in the 57th minute with a shot from outside the box.

Several missed opportunities by Rhino captain Zainizam Marjan, including one in the dying minutes of the first half, also would have made the score-line more interesting.

The game was plagued with fitness problems from several players from both teams who seemed to suffer from cramps.

Sabah's number seven, Azrul Ejati, who played upfront alongside Alto and Zainizam, was the first to be stretched off the field. He was replaced by Vun Kit Ming, after 28 minutes of play.

Several players throughout the match were also substituted for similar reasons.

Although the Rhinos dominated the match, SDM Kepala Batas didn't seem all hopeless, as they too had several missed opportunities.

A strike by their number 23 player, Mohd Hasni Hakim Hamid, in the 32nd minute was destined to hit the top right corner had it not been for the quick reaction from keeper Irwan Jamil who safely tipped the ball over.

An earlier chance, which landed the ball at the feet of Wan Mohd Enzro Wan Nor, through poor defending, almost gifted Penang with a goal, but Wan failed to control the ball as it floated above the cross bar.

Overall, the game was played well from both sides, with little use for referee Azizi Adnan to take out his cards.

Only one yellow card was shown, which was to Redzuan, who knocked down a player in the 53rd minute.

Although the performances of both teams were far from entertaining, a win for the Rhinos in their opening game nonetheless gives somewhat of an early hope to the Sabah faithful that better football will arrive this season to rescue them from being stuck in the second tier of Malaysian football.

The new-look Sabah team, which features many new faces following the departure of nearly half of last season's squad, looked certain to win the game right from the beginning as they controlled the game with more possession of the ball.

The Rhinos have a tougher task of taking on a more experienced rival when they go against Proton FC, Selangor in their away fixture on Monday.




Winning start for Rhinos


KOTA KINABALU: Sabah opened their Premier League challenge with a 2-0 victory over newcomers SDM Kepala Batas of Penang at the Likas Stadium last night.

Two second-half goals from teenager Leopold Alphonso Otong and Zainizam Marjan ensured Sabah of victory in front of about 1,000 home fans.

Chances were limited in the first half.

The homesters only managed to create twice with the first coming in the 14th minute through debut boy – Alto Linus.

However, he saw his shot hit the goalpost while on the second occasion his header went wide after receiving a cross from Julamri Muhammad.

The visitors only managed to make a long range effort as they failed to penetrate Sabah’s solid defence marshaled by Mohd Fariss Azlan Mat Isa and Hardy Charles Parsi.

But three minutes after the break, Leopold, a former Bukit Jalil Sports School trainee, showed his mettle.

Sabah had the chance to extend their lead, but unfortunately Rezuan Khan Aman’s grounder went wide after a fine one-two with Zainizam inside the box.

Then it was Alto’s turn to squander the Rhinos’ half chance by sending a weak shot that also went wide.

Sabah then sealed their victory with a cool finish by the stand-in captain Zainizam.

The former international blasted the second seven minutes from time by sending a powerful low drive from inside the box.

It could have been more goals from the Rhinos if they were a little sharper upfront.

In the dying minutes, they had numerous chances of extending their lead, but none of it found the net with Alto missing twice while Mohd Fariss failed to connect with Radzi Mohd Hussin’s corner.


Friday, January 09, 2009

Full Time: Sabah won 2-0

Liga Premier 1st Match 09 Jan 2009



















































































































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Johor FAPostponedShahzan Muda


Sabah Lines-up

Irwan Jamil, Mohd Fariss, Wong Sai Kong, Mafry Balang, Hardy Charles Parsi, Redzuan Aman Khan, Zulamri Muhammad, Leopold Alphonso, Azrul Ejati Damsah, Alto Jinus, Zainizam Marjan

Used Sub:Billyton Vun Ket Ming, Mohd Radzi Hussin, Hamidin Amat
Yellow Card:Redzuan Aman Khan, Hamidin Amat

Rhinos kick-off new season against Premier League newcomers


Kota Kinabalu: Rhinos Team Manager Rahman Zakaria is hoping for a good turn out from fans and supporters as his charges kick-off this year's Premier League season in a match against newcomers Penang SDM Kepala Batas, at the Likas Stadium here, Friday.

He said a good turn out from the Sabah supporters is vital to give his team the spirit to win their opening game against their newly promoted opponents.

Rahman feels upbeat about tonight's match, as his squad is a more experienced and more powerful team compared to the Penang SDM Kepala Batas.

However, Rahman said he prefers not to exert too much confidence over his opponents as this would be a meeting against a side they have never played.

"Penang SDM Kepala Batas is a new team in this league and we have never played them. I feel good about going against them, but I would not be taking any chances against them.

"I've told my boys to play cautiously and not to underestimate the opponents. We have never played against them and do not know any of their strengths or weaknesses," said Rahman.

He said his team is prepared and they would do their best to win the game.

"It's a very important game as it is the first game of the season. It's the curtain raiser for the season and naturally we want to win it. A win at home would give a huge boost to the team when we go against Selangor in the away fixture next week," said Rahman.

Rahman is expected to feature his first eleven, comprising Irwan Jamil, Juneral Lalah, Alto Limus, Gasili Pengalot, Sylvester Sainih, Julamri Mohd, Wong Sai Kong, Hardy Parsi, Zainizam Marjan, Mohammad Radzi Hussin and Mohd Faris Jazlan.

He tips that there will be an exciting player to watch this season in the form of Alto Limus.

Rahman hopes that this season will provide Sabah the breakthrough to move up to join the teams in the Super League, as this will be the third straight season that the Rhinos will be playing in the second tier of Malaysian football.

Plagued with a run of mediocre performances since the late 1990s, Rahman knows that the Sabah team has a lot to prove before it can move back up among the ranks of Malaysia's best teams.

However, his determination to succeed this season is well felt among the Sabah players, as they too are hungry for better success.

Last season Sabah finished fourth in a league of 13 teams.


Thursday, January 08, 2009

Battle is far from over: Alijus


KOTA KINABALU: Team manager Alijus Sipil has told his charges that their battle is far from over.

He said nothing is won yet and therefore there is no reason for any celebration just yet.

While expressing his satisfaction following Sabah’s convincing show in the first round of the group stage, Alijus warned the players from being complacent.

He said: “I am happy with our showing in the first round, but we have to remember this is just the beginning of our battle.”

“Furthermore, we will have a tough second round because we will have to win all our matches in order to qualify for the final.

“That is why we will bring a positive mind and I believe the players will be able to rise to the occasion.

“This will not be an easy task but it’s not impossible either,” said Alijus at a dinner together with the players on Tuesday.

“It is in tournaments like this that the players must translate what they have learnt in training onto the court. I think the team management, officials and coaches have done their responsibility and now it is up to the players to deliver when on the court.

“Players must also bear in mind that they are representing the State and over two million people including your families and friends. Fight to lift the State image … the team will be the focus as you are playing in a major tournament early in the year.”

Alijus also thanked the Suria Indoor Soccer Centre who assisted and supported the team, including being the team’s main training venue.

Meanwhile, chief coach Mohd Asyraaf Fong Abdullah hoped the squad will perform better than in the first round.

“Weaknesses from the first round have been identified and rectified. One task which remains to be completed is from the players when on the court.

“The players must give their best. The strong support from the team manager is to realise the target to the final rounds,” said Asyraaf.

Sabah will go into the second round trailing two points behind leaders Kedah in the Group F challenge that also comprise Terengganu and MBJB Johor.

Kedah lead the group on seven points from two wins and a draw while Sabah are on five points from a win and two draws.

The second round will be played in Johor from Jan 9-11 with the group winners making it into the final round scheduled to be held in Perak a week later.

The State squad comprises assistant coach-cum-player Austin Orou, Mohd Khairul Jipdi, Khairul Azuan, Safar Mohammad, Sunarai Raffi Shariman, Datu Bersih Bagu, Azman Soibah, Eddie Mansur, Mohd Marwanshah, Rosmadi Wasli, Faizal Ismail and Ardi Sida.

Wednesday, January 07, 2009

FAM unprofessional!


KOTA KINABALU: The M-League 2009 is less than one week old, but the FA of Malaysia has started to show their weaknesses or rather unprofessionalism.

In this latest case, they have decided to postpone Sabah’s President’s Cup home tie against Shahzan Muda of Pahang, which was scheduled for Thursday.

To make matters worse, it was learnt that the Sabah FA was only told about the postponement late Monday night – what a nice time to let its affiliate members know from the hardworking FAM officials!

The reason for the postponement was because Shahzan Muda’s failure to get air tickets for the clash at the Likas Stadium.

The Sabah FA Executive Secretary Harry Baking confirmed that they were told by the FAM about the postponement on Monday night.

“FAM informed me that the match originally scheduled for Thursday has been postponed. I was made to understand that the decision was made after the opponents failed to get air tickets for the match here,” said Harry yesterday.

Meanwhile, a Sabah team official was disappointed at the eleventh hour postponement.

He said it was not supposed to happen as all the participating teams in the President’s Cup league have been given the fixtures much earlier for preparations, including travelling for away matches and booking of air tickets.

The date for the postponed match has yet to be fixed but the rest of the fixtures will continue as it is.

That means that the Junior Rhinos’ first match will be against Johor FC at the JCorp Pasir Gudang Stadium on Jan 15.

The other teams in Group B with Sabah are Selangor PKNS, Proton Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Felda United KL, Johor FC, Perak UPB MyTeam, Kedah, Kelantan, Terengganu, MBJB Johor, Melaka and Pulau Pinang SDM Kepala Batas.

The Junior Rhinos will have last season’s Under-19 coach Rozlee Idris guiding them and assisted by Janus Tioon while Alijus Sipil is the team manager.

Tuesday, January 06, 2009

Sabah’s futsal men’s team brimming with confidence


KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah men’s team will go into the second round of the group stage full of confidence following their convincing show in the first round of the National Felda Futsal Championship 2008-09 recently.

They concluded their first round campaign finishing behind Kedah in the Group F challenge.

Kedah top the group on seven points from two wins and a draw, while Sabah on the other hand trail two points behind after registering one win and two draws.

But despite their current position, head coach Mohd Asyraaf Fong Abdullah is convinced they will be able to turn the tables on Kedah in the second round.

“It is still an open game and I believe that our chances are pretty good. Our target is to win all our matches and top the group,” a confident Asyraaf said.

“At the moment, our players are in tip-top form and I’m very optimistic they will be able to give their best show,” he added.

In the first round played in Terengganu, Sabah defeated Johor MBJB 7-2 and were held to a four-all draw by Terengganu and drew one-all with Kedah.

Sabah must top the group if they harbour hopes to make it into the final round where a handsome RM40,000 prize money awaits the champions.

The winners of the group stage would also be rewarded where they would receive RM10,000, while the runners-up would pocket RM5,000.

And Asyraaf said that in order to give the extra motivation to his players, they have decided that they would reward the players with the winning prize money should they make it into the final round.

“We have told them that the money is theirs if they make it into the final round. With this I see no reason why they should not give their best,” said Asyraaf.

The second round of the championship will be played in Johor from January 9 to 11 while the final round in Perak from January 16-18.

Sabah will be parading Mohd Khairul Jipoi, Khairul Azuan, Safar Mohamad, Sunarai Raffi Sariman, Datu Bersih Bagu, Azman Soaibah, Eddie Mansur, Mohd Marwansitah Ahmad, Rosmadih Wasli, Faisal Ismail, Austin Orou and Ardi Sida in the championship.

But unlike their men’s counterparts, the women’s squad is facing a tough assignment in making it into the final round.

Not only have they to win all their matches, but they must also hope group leaders Terengganu fumble at least twice.

Terengganu will go into the second round as hot favourites having collected the maximum nine points in the first round, while Sabah are in second on four points after registering one win, one draw and a defeat in the first round.

Johor MBJB are also on four points, while Kedah are languishing at the bottom of the four-team standings.

The Sabah squads would leave for the championship on January 10.


Monday, January 05, 2009

Rahman: Too early to set specific target


KOTA KINABALU: The Premier League has not even started, but the Rhinos have won their first battle albeit off the field.

Yesterday, Rahman Zakaria said they are not setting any specific target for the Rhinos for the new season that kicks off on Friday.

The words from the Rhinos’ team manager will certainly give the team less playing pressure and freedom, without having to worry too much about what lies ahead.

The Rhinos, who will be making their fourth consecutive season in the Premier League, will take on unknown SDM Kepala Batas of Penang in the opener at the Likas Stadium.

Nevertheless Rahman stressed that their main priority will still be to try to win every game … home or away.

“We have a new-look side where almost half of the squad are new faces. Furthermore, most of them are still young and so it is too early for us to give them any specific target.

“Having said that we must try to win as many matches as possible, and see where we stand at the end of the season,” said Rahman.

Due to the economic recession and with sponsors hard to come by, the Sabah FA is tightening its purse and has opted to go for an almost all-local side with only two local imports in the squad of 24 players.

Negeri Sembilan-born Wong Sai Kong, who is into his second season with the Rhinos, is one of the two local imports that will don the Rhinos’ colours for the new season with the other being Mohd Fariss Azlan from Kedah.

Fariss played for Kuala Muda Naza last season.

“We have a new-look squad, which I would say is rather young … we only have two players who are above 30 years old and I believe we have a good blend of experienced and young players in the team,” said Rahman, referring to Billyton Vun Ket Ming and Wong Sai Kong.

Billy turns 31 on February 18, while Wong will be 31 on September 19.

Rezuan Khan Aman, who turns 30 on September 1, will also be a veteran in the squad. The rest of the players are below 30 years old with most of them between 18-25 years old.

“We have brought in several youngsters such as Leopold Alphonso, Selyvister Saini as well as Alto Linus into the squad.

“We believe that only by grooming our very own home talents, can we build a strong foundation for the near future.

“Besides these three players, we also have players such as Radzi Md Hussin, Hardy Charles Parsi, Julamri Muhammad, Azrul Ejati Damsah and our three goalkeepers Irwan Jamil, Harold John and Mohd Salawi Ahmad Jasad. These players are all under 25 years old and can play for several more years to come.

“We have enough experienced players … Wong, Fariss, Zainizam Marjan and Rosdin Wasli to guide the team.

“Players such as Gasili Pangalot, Mafry Balang as well as Rezuan could also help the team.

“Even though Radzi, Julamri Muhammad and Azrul Ejati Damsah are still young, but they have been in the team for a few years. So I hope this time around they could help the team.

At the same time, Rahman is also seeking full support from the fans.

“About 99 per cent of the squad are Sabahans, and so let us give them 100 per cent support. I just hope the fans can be part of this team in their quest to seek glory,” Rahman said.

“Whether they are up or down we must rally behind the team because we cannot argue that fans are the important ingredient in the success of any team in this world,” said Rahman.


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