Juniors target third victory

New Sabah Times

LEADING THE ATTACK … Eyo Matthew (No 24) is expected to spearhead the Sabahawks Juniors attack.

KOTA KINABALU: Sabahawks Juniors will have to do without at least four regulars when they take on youthful Bukit Jalil Sports School in a President’s Cup challenge at the Likas Stadium today. Skipper Dendy Lowa, Didie Arizal Ibrahim, Benerlys Raim and Gerald S. Mojikon, who struck the winning goal against Police in their last encounter, will all be missing the 4.15pm clash.

 Dendy and Gerald will be serving their automatic one-match suspension after picking up their yellow cards in the 1-0 win over Police, while Benerlys, who was given a straight red against Police, will miss the team’s next two matches, starting with today’s tie. As for Didie, he has been included in the Senior side, that plays home to Johor in a Premier League challenge on Friday.

 But it is not all bad news for the Sabahawks Juniors, as they welcome back influential midfielder Sabri Sahar from a strained muscle. Striker Zul Mansshah Aling, who scored a brace against Kuala Lumpur in their last home match, is also back from suspension. However, unlike Sabri, who will go straight into the first team, Zul Mansshah is likely to start from the bench.

10-man Kuantan FA stun Cebagoo FC

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: Below-par Sabah Cebagoo FC was inflicted with their first home defeat after being stunned 1-0 by 10-man Pahang Kuantan FA in a FAM Cup tie at the Likas Stadium yesterday. Hopes were high that the Sepanggar-based outfit would nick their second home win in a row, but instead they disappointed the more than 1,000 fans who turned up for the clash.

 They put up a below par performance, and too often looked lost, thus allowing their rivals to dictate play. Cebagoo FC was trailing after only 23 minutes of action when Hazwan Fakhrullah’s well executed freekick went straight into the back of the net. The goal was enough for Kuantan FA to nick their first win after kick starting their campaign with a 0-3 away defeat to Penang before being held to a three-all draw by Kelantan Tumpat FA prior to the trip to the Land Below the Wind. But it was a dull opening hour from both sides, as the match only became lively in the last half hour.

 And Cebagoo FC was lucky not to concede a second goal, when Pahang Kuantan FA’s Md Kamal Rodiarjt Md Ali seemed to have been brought down inside the penalty box, but fortunately for the host, the match official, Ahmad Tajuddin, waved play on. With 10 minutes remaining on the clock, Cebagoo FC was saved by the goalpost from a Moohamad Khairul effort.

Pahang Kuantan FA edge Sabah Cebagoo FC 1-0

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: Pahang Kuantan FA edged Sabah Cebagoo FC 1-0 in their FAM Cup match at the Likas Stadium on Wednesday. A well taken free kick by Hazwan Falhrullah in the 22nd minute just outside the edge of the box beat Sabah custodian Sharul Boidi and hit the crossbar before crossing the line. The match which was played under scorching heat saw both teams struggling to find their footing at the start.

 However, it was the visitors who seemed more adapted to the hot sun as the match wore on while the home team was unable to mount any serious attack with the midfield department totally malfunctioning forcing the backline into all sorts of problems throughout the 90 minutes. It was only towards the end of the second period that Sabah Cebagoo FC began to show some bite and finally managed to get the ball upfield.

 They were given many chances to draw level in the final 15 minutes or so but wasted each opportunity with wayward shooting in a dead ball situation including one that resulted from a Kuantan FA player receiving a red card after bringing down Rainol Masaat in the 82nd minute. They were also unlucky on a couple of occasions when the Kuantan FA defenders managed to be at the right place to thwart away Sabah Cebagoo FC's goal-bound shots.

Maxsius scores in Harimau Muda B win

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: Maxsius Musa's goal helped Harimau Muda B to get their first win in the 2013 Singapore S-league on Tuesday. The 20-year-old Sabahan who was one of the stars in the victorious Sukma squad last season netted the opening goal in the 9th minute to lead the national second tier junior team to a 2-1 win against Woodland Welling FC.

 The goal was also the first for Harimau Muda B who are making their debut in the league. In their first match played on Feb 22, they lost 0-1 to Albirex Niigata. Their next match is against Tanjong Pagar on March 5. Meanwhile, his former teammates here are chasing their third win in a row in the current President Cup competition as they take on Bukit Jalil Sports School (SSBJ) today (Thursday) at the Likas Stadium.

 It will be a big test for the new look defence against the well prepared SSBJ who have been together as a team for years. Suspensions to key players has left coach Justin Ganai with no choice other than to change his consistent backline since the start of the season. He is forced to reshuffle the defence with captain Dendy Lowa having to sit out a one match suspension with his third yellow card received while playing for the seniors against PDRM last week while his replacement against the PDRM team on Sunday Benerlys Raim is also out with a two-match suspension after a straight red in the match.

Sabah Cebagoo taste defeat in FAM League

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DEBUTANTS Sabah Cebagoo FC tasted their first defeat in the FAM League today after going down 0-1 to Pahang Kuantan FA at the Likas Stadium today. Hopes were high that the home ground advantage would bring a second league win for Cebagoo but for a first half strike from Hazwan Fakhrullah separating the team.

 Hazwan scored from a 25-metre freekick that went in off the post, leaving left goalkeeper Shahrul Boidi beaten after 22 minutes. The homesters never recovered and they were partly responsible after failing to create any meaningful chances throughout the game. Cebagoo had a penalty claim denied by the referee in the 82nd minute when striker Rainold Masaat went down inside the box after a challenge from defender Amirullah Abd Razab.

 Referee Ahmad Tajuddin, however, signalled for a free kick much to the disappointment of the homesters, although he sent off Amirullah for a second yellow following the incident. Cebagoo have collected three points from two matches following the season opener 2-0 win over Malacca last Sunday.

Cebagoo FC brimming with confidence

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Cebagoo FC is all set to register their second consecutive home win when they entertain Pahang Kuantan FA in their FAM Cup match at the Likas Stadium today. The Sepanggar-based outfit will go into the battlefield brimming with confidence following their comfortable home win over Melaka in the opener on February 17.

 Head coach cum manager Razali Zinin is likely to stick to his winning guns, with former State skipper Md Reithudin Awg Emran spearheading their charge. “It was good to be able to win our first match and I hope the players will be hungry for another win tomorrow (today),” said club president Mohd Joh Wid yesterday. The match kicks off at 4.15pm, and those Cebagoo supporters have to fork out RM10 for grandstand seats and RM5 for open terrace.

 “We got what we aimed for against Melaka which was a winning start and we sure would like to keep the momentum going,” Joh added. Cebagoo beat Melaka 2-0 at the Universiti Malaysia Sabah Stadium on February 17. With their postponed match last Sunday, Joh said all his players have rested well and are in high spirit in search of another three points to maintain their place in the top two of the 11-team standings. Cebagoo FC was supposed to play on Sunday but their match against Penang PBAPP FC was rescheduled.

Maxsius Musa scored Harimau B 1st ever S-League's Goal!

Tahniah Maxsius Musa (Ex- Sabahawks Junior)!!!
Scored 1st goal for Harimau Muda B in S-League!

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A star in the making- Azzriel Azani

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: 16-year-old Muhd Nor Azzriel Azani looks set to become a future football star according Sabah Academy FC head coach Stanley Chew. He said the striker who originated from Kudat has been recommended by Harimau Muda A's coach Ong Kim Swee to join the Bukit Jalil Sports School after he was briefed by Stanley on the player.

 According Stanley, Azzriel has trained under him for the past four years and he had played in the Borneo Cup Under-14 and Under-16 tournaments as well as the national schools competition. He added that his parents had sacrificed a lot as they decided to move from Kudat to the State capital in order for the children to study in SMK Likas so that they can follow the training sessions under Sabah Academy FC.

 Apart from Azzriel, his two younger brothers, Afiq Hamidi and Azeem Hakim also did very well in the sport and both had represented the State in national schools competition.

Sabah juniors edge PDRM

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah juniors continued their good away form as they grabbed the valuable three points by edging PDRM 1-0 in their President Cup match on Monday. Substitute Gerald Sean Mojikon was the hero as he tapped in the winning goal from a cross by another substitute Ag Ku Mohf Hamizan Ag Ku Hamzah deep into injury time.

 Sabah were in control of the match and they had several chances to seal the win early but were unlucky with several shots hitting the post. The win was the team's second away win and third overall and they have now accumulated a total of 11 points with three wins, two draws and a loss.

 Their next match is against SSBJ here at the Likas Stadium on Thursday Feb 27.

10-man Juniors prevail

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: Ten-man Sabahawks Juniors maintained their unbeaten run on the road after edging Police 1-0 in a President’s Cup challenge at the Pulapol main field at Jalan Semarak in the national capital yesterday. This was their second win from three away encounters this season. They also nicked victory with an identical scoreline against Kelantan in their first trip before holding Kedah to a two-all draw.

 “It was a tough game. The condition of the field, which was muddy and slippery due to rain, just made it difficult for both sides, but I’m happy for the boys, especially with their never-say-die attitude. They kept on pushing until the very last minute in search of goals. “I thought it was a draw because it was only seconds remaining when we scored the winner,” said team manager Datuk Juil Nuatim when contacted yesterday. 

Flanker Gerald S. Mojikon scored the last-gasp winner for the visitors after being put through by Awangku Mohd Hamizan. He easily slotted home a grounder with his first touch that left the Police custodian hapless. According to Juil, they were forced to play with one man lesser after Benerlys Raim was given the marching orders in the 28th minute of the first half.

Gerald is Sabah’s hero

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SABAH edged Police 1-0 in the President’s Cup which saw both teams end the match with 10-men at the Pulapol field in Kuala Lumpur today. Gerald Mojikon turned match winner for the Junior Sabahawks by scoring in the last minute of the regulation time.

 The midfielder was the quickest to react after the referee waived play on as striker Rexjeson Pitirus was in an offside position but not interfering with play when Awangku Hamizan made the initial pass. “It was a relief to win today. We played almost three quarters of the match with one player less after Benerlys Raim received a straight red in the 28th minute,” said Justin Ganai after the match.

 Police too had a player sent off with 10 minutes remaining. The victory ensured Sabah remain unbeaten in three maches in their travels having beaten Kelantan 1-0 and drawing 2-2 with Kedah. At home, Sabah drew 1-1 against Kedah, lost 2-0 to Perak and beat Kuala Lumpur 2-0. Sabah, on 11 points, will play Bukit Jalil Sports School on Feb 28.

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‘Get those points’

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabahawks Junior has been urged to stay focus and get their winning momentum going in the President’s Cup challenge 2013. They take on Police on the road at the Malaysian Police Training Centre (PULAPOL) main field at Jalan Semarak in the national capital today, which will be their third away fixture this season.

 Their previous two away outings ended in one victory (1-0 over Kelantan) and a draw (two-all against Kedah). Today, Datuk Juil Nuatim is expecting a point the very least. He said they must try to pick up as many points, whether it is a home battle or away. “We have had quite a slow start to our season. We drew with Melaka in the opener at home, and won against Kelantan before we lost to Perak (0-2).

Then held Kedah, followed by our first home against Kuala Lumpur (2-1) in our last game,” the Sabah team manager said. “So now I hope the players can start to show some consistency in producing the results. So today, we will try to go and get the three points, which would help improve our position in the standings,” he added. Juil also confirmed that his side will be bolstered by the returned of skipper Dendy Lowa and midfielder Didie Arizal Ibrahim.

Draw gives Sabahawks brief respite

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: The draw against Police on Friday has given David McCreery’s side a brief respite after finally ending their four-match losing run. The remarkable fightback will also be the right tonic for McCreery and his men to put their challenge back on the right track. Every point will now count for the State squad after a poor start to their season, and despite the result, they now see themselves sitting just above the relegation zone, and a mere two and three points ahead of NS Betaria and UiTM FC respectively, who occupy the two relegation slots.

 But that aside, this was surely one hell of an effort from the players to come back from three goals down in the opening 45 minutes before drawing level with only seconds remaining on the clock. McCreery has every right to hail his charges for their superb second-half effort. He described their fightback as the best 45 minutes he had seen from his charges this season.

 “It was a poor, poor first half. They got one of the goals after a mistake by the goalie, and then there was the own goal. “At 3-0, it could have gone on to become four, five or six for them (Police) but credit to the boys … they fought hard in the second half to get a draw,” he said.

Koh helps Sabah halt 4-game slide

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: The Sabah Premier League squad managed to stop the rot with a spirited fight back from 0-3 down in the first half to draw with PDRM on Friday. Koh Traore was the hero scoring a hat-trick with his third goal coming right at the final whistle. Assistant team manager Yahya Kassim when contacted was elated with the one point earned.

'The team was lucky to escape with the draw. They made too many mistakes in the first half and with the introduction of Koh to replace Jufrey Omopor after the third goal, it completely changed the scenario of the game." "The team showed more urgency after that and Koh also displayed great attitude and character and seemed eager to silence the critics and it is good for the team if he can continue his scoring form."

 Striker Leopold Alfonso and Zainizam Marjan also came on in the second half with the former replacing Khairul Izwan Khalid and the latter Dendy Lowa . Sumardi Hajaln was back to take over from Dendy in his left back position while the arrival of Zainizam strengthened the midfield department. The draw ended a miserable run of four consecutive defeats for Sabah.

Traore rescues Sabah

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SABAH SAVIOUR: Koh Traore’s hattrick helped Sabah draw 3-3 with Police.

SABAH fought back from three goals down to draw 3-3 with Premier League rivals Police at the Hang Jebat Stadium in Malacca today. Striker Koh Traore was the hero for Sabah as he came off the bench to claim a hattrick, including a penalty in the dying minutes of the match.

 The Cops thought they had the points in the bag when they went three-up in the first half, with Mohd Fauzi Majid giving them the lead in the 16th minute. It was 2-0 after 31 minute when Mohd Khairul Akhyar beat goalkeeper Shahril Sa’ari, who was one of the five changes made to the side by head coach David McCreery for the tie.

 Traore was sent on for fellow striker Jufrey Omopor in the 35th minute. Sabah defender Shahril Faizal scored an own goal just two minutes later when his attempted clearance sailed past his own goalkeeper to give the hosts a healthy 3-0 lead going into the breather. However, Sabah returned a different side after the halftime break with veteran striker Zainizam Marjan coming in for President Cupper Dendy Iowa.

Juniors deliver

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: Sabahawks Juniors nicked their first home win after edging Kuala Lumpur 2-1 in a President’s Cup tie at the Likas Stadium yesterday. Striker Zul Mansshah Aling scored a brace for the host team in the opening 45 minutes before limping out with an injury later in the second half. Zul Mansshah slotted home the opener after 12 minutes of play from a freekick from just outside the box.

 The striker’s powerful grounder went straight into the back of the Kuala Lumpur net with its keeper Muhd Zul Haikal Sohaimie left hapless. Then in the 34th minute, Zul Mansshah added his second, and this time he had the simplest of jobs with a tap-in goal after being fed by Hafizan Jahar, also from a set piece. Kuala Lumpur could have reduced the deficit minutes later, but fortunately for Sabahawks Juniors, Mohd Shamrin Azifi’s attempt hit the crossbar and went out of play.

 After the break, Sabahawks Juniors were denied a spot kick when Eyo Matthew was clearly brought down by the Kuala Lumpur custodian. From the ensuing incident, Sabahawks Juniors still had the opportunity to go three goals up as the loose ball fell to the feet of Zul Mansshah, who squandered the opportunity of completing a hat-trick as his attempt went over the crossbar. Kuala Lumpur finally managed to reduce the deficit when Mohd Amin Khamis scored the consolation by connecting a cross from Mohd Hairi Azhar.

Sabahawks must stop the rot now

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: The ailing Sabahawks are left with no choice, but to beat the odds when they take on Police in a Premier League tie at the Hang Jebat Stadium in Melaka today. They have lost their last four ties, and the rot must stop now, otherwise, they may find it a little too late to put things right. Based on their current form, this is as good as an impossible mission for the State side.

 They even lost to an amateur side KL Pos Malaysia FC 1-2 in their last home game, and are still without a win on the road after three tries. They lost to KL Sime Darby (1-3), Kuala Lumpur (2-3) and bottom of the table UiTM FC (0-2) in their previous outing away from home. Their home record is also far from convincing, winning twice to lowly KL SPA Putrajaya FC (2-1) and NS Betaria (2-1), and losing twice to Kedah (0-2) and KL Pos Malaysia FC (1-2).

 Failing to get points from this tie will confirm their stay in the Premier League next season. Police, on the other hand, is a wounded side. They have slipped to fifth in the standings after losing their last two fixtures – to Sarawak (0-1) and Johor (1-2). They had a flying start to their season, registering four straight wins against NS Betaria (5-0), Kuala Lumpur (4-0), Kedah (2-0) and UiTM FC (2-0) before being held to a one-all draw by KL Pos Malaysia FC followed by the two defeats.

Depleted Sabah face KL

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: Sabah will be severely depleted for today's President Cup match against Kuala Lumpur at the Likas Stadium at 4.15pm. Captain Dendy Lowa and defensive midfielder Didie Arizal Ibrahim are both unavailable after being called up by the seniors and will travel with the team for the Premier League match against PDRM on Friday.

 The duo's absence is a major blow for the team but stand-in coach Burhan Ajui who will be taking charge of the team in the absence of head coach Justin Ganai who is currently in Kuala Lumpur for refreshment course was not bothered with the setback. "It is business as usual and we will aim for a positive result," said Burhan. "We already have a game plan set up by Justin so there was not so much concern for us with the unavailability of the two senior players.

 "Obviously we will miss them with their leadership and experience but we believe we also have two more than capable players to fill in their shoes." He said in midfield, Hafizal Junik will take over the place of Didie and he will be partnering Sabri Sahar in the engine room supported by Anwari Tajuddin and Hafizan Jahar at the flanks.

Fourth straight league defeat

New Sabah Times

NO WAY THROUGH … Sabahawks’ Leopold Alfonso Otong (No 14) being surrounded by KL Pos Malaysia FC players during their match yesterday.

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabahawks misery continues after succumbing to yet another embarrassing defeat, and this time to KL Pos Malaysia FC in a Premier League challenge at the Likas Stadium yesterday. This was their fourth consecutive league defeats. Prior to this clash, they lost to Kuala Lumpur (away – 2-3), Kedah (home 0-2) and UiTM FC (away 0-2). In fact, this was their fifth defeat in six games, with their only victory coming in the FA Cup first round against KL Felda United FC before they were trounced 3-0 by Selangor in the second round.

Yesterday, the team showed nothing more than a half-hearted performance. They were trailing only after five minutes of play when Mohd Saufi Mohd Ibrahim slotted home the opener from close range defeating Sabah custodian Mohd Syamsuri Mustafa with a grounder for the visitors. But Alto Linus put the Sabahawks on level terms four minutes later by unleashing a powerful shot from just outside the penalty box after being fed by Leopold Alfonso Otong.

 Two minutes after the half-time break, Shahrudin Yakup squandered the opportunity to put Sabahawks ahead when he lobbed the ball wide despite the KL Pos Malaysia’s goalmouth being left open. Then in the 65th minute, Mohd Saufi struck the second goal, turning out to be the match winner by unleashing a low drive from six yards out.

Sabahawks can't stop the rot

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: Sabah succumbed to a 1-2 defeat to Pos Malaysia in their Premier League match at the Likas Stadium on Monday. It was a different line-up fielded by coach David McCreery with Shahrudin Yakup Sabri, Sahar and Leopold Alfonso making a comeback while Rosdin Wasli played in central defence with Hardy Charles Parsi.

 The match was barely into the fifth minute when the Sabah defence suddenly switched into sleep mode and allowed Pos Malaysia'a Saufi Ibrahim a free ride into the box before shooting past the hapless Sabah custodian Syamsuri Mustafa. Sabah came back quickly as they replied four minutes later when Alto unleashed an angled shot from 12 yards after good work from Leopold Alfonso that gave Pos Malaysia's goalkeeper no chance.

 From then on it was Sabah in control but again as in the previous games, poor finishing and hesitancy in front of goal cost them dearly. Shahrudin and Leopold both had excellent chances to take the lead but they either shots were off target or ballooned from close range especially towards the end of the half. Instead of maintaining their momentum at the restart, it was a poor show by Sabah with the players all over the place and failing to close down on their opponents.

Sabah slump to another defeat

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 AN insipid Sabah suffered yet another deserved defeat in the Premier League – this time to Pos Malaysia 1-2 at the Likas Stadium today. Mohd Saufi Mohd Ibrahim was the hero for the visitors by scoring in each half to add more misery to the Sabahawks’ campaign. Saufi put his side in front after only five minutes when he overpowered central defenders Hardy Parsi and Rosdin Wasli before sending a low shot past goalkeeper Syamsuri Mustapha.

 Sabah equalised four minutes later through Alto Linus who let fly a thunderous shot from just outside the box that had Pos Malaysia keeper Mohd Azlen Ahmad Jabri beaten. The contest was all but over when Saufi netted the winner in the 65th minute with a simple tap-in after Mohd Hafizi Amiruddin’s low cross evaded at least four Sabah players, including the goalkeeper.

 The defeat left Sabah without a win in their last four league outings and they have now lost five of their seven matches. “I’m dissapointed,” head coach David McCreery said. “The team commitment was only 75 per cent at best and they needed more than that. “I honestly don’t know what the problem is,” he added while dismissing it has anything to do with salary payment which was done in time. With such a poor performance, Sabah can expect tough times against leaders Police in their next assignment on Feb 22.

Zainizam: We need a win badly

New Sabah Times

ZAINIZAM … file picture of the former international striker during his younger days. He is now one of the longest serving players in the new-look side, which is yet to make any good impression after six games into the season.

KOTA KINABALU: Former international Zainizam Marjan has called on his team-mates to stand up and fight for victory and nothing else. Sabah take on KL Pos Malaysia FC in a Premier League challenge at the Likas Stadium today and the veteran striker said that three points is the only answer to a dismal start to their campaign this season.

 Anything less is unacceptable! The team is at its lowest ebb following their 2-0 defeat to bottom of the table UiTM FC in their last game away. Prior to the clash, UiTM FC finally broke their duck after failing to score a single goal in their first five matches. That was also their first points of the season. “We need the win badly. Even a draw will not be good enough for us …we need to collect more points and we must start from this game against KL Pos Malaysia,” Zainizam said.

 “Every one of us must fight for the team, and put in extra hard work on the pitch to ensure that we get the maximum points. “We can’t afford to take things for granted from now on, and must fight tooth and nail to get the points,” the squad longest serving player said. Sabah is currently eighth in the 12-team table on six points, just two points above the relegation zone.

Perfect start

New Sabah Times

ACTION- PACKED … Cebagoo FC’s Rainol Masaat (centre) shadows Melaka’s Ahmad Khuzaimi.

KOTA KINABALU: FAM Cup new boys Sabah Cebagoo FC kicked off their challenge on a winning note after blanking Melaka 2-0 at the UMS Stadium yesterday. Two first half strikes was all they needed to down their more fancied opponent. Former State skipper Md Reithuddin Ag Emran drew first blood for the host from the spot after 24 minutes of play before Md Nizam Jifferi scored the second from a set piece late in the first half.

 And it was certainly a deserved victory for the Sepanggar-based outfit as they got the better of their opponent with a spirited display. They dominated the opening half and could have taken the lead inside the first quarter of the game but unfortunately, Gerd Smith Chin Chu’s effort was disallowed. Md Arifyanshah Jafar supplied him with a brilliant pass before slotting home a grounder that defeated the Melaka custodian Nor Iman, but to the dismay of the more than 1000 fans, he was ruled offside.

 Then lanky defender Md Reithuddin had the home fans in frenzy by converting the spot kick with ease after Md Arif Awang was brought down inside the penalty box and the hosts were gifted with the second goal in the 38th minute after Nor Iman’s blunder. The Melaka keeper failed to make a clean catch off a freekick taken by Md Nizam.

Sabah Cebagoo down Malacca in FAM Cup

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SABAH CEBAGOO made a winning start to their FAM Cup campaign with a 2-0 home win over Malacca today. Sabah discard Mohd Reithuddin Emran scored the opening goal by converting a penalty kick after 24 minutes. The Sabah club side then added a second through Mohd Nizam Jefferi after Malacca goalkeeper Nor Iman’s howler in letting a seemingly harmless shot fly past him in the 38th minute.

 “I was confident prior to the match that we would emerge victorious,” said Cebagoo head coach Razali Zinin. After the first half goals, however, Cebagoo were made to work extra hard in the second half as Malacca returned a different team. The visitors dominated possession as they looked to get back into the game but Reithuddin was in fine form, winning headers as well as intercepting passes to keep the scoreline intact.

 “Reithuddin has a good game today,” Razali said of his new captain. “He brings experience to the squad and he did a good job in organising the backline.” “There are a few weaknesses and we will rectify it to be better in the next game. There is certainly room for improvement,” he added. Around 1,000 fans watched the match played at the Universiti Malaysia Sabah stadium.

Ex Rhinos to lead charge

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: Former State skipper Md Reithuddin Ag Emran will lead Cebagoo FC’s charge when they make their maiden appearance in the FAM Cup against Melaka at the UMS Stadium which kicks off at 4:15pm today. The lanky defender has also been given the honour to skipper the State’s sole representatives in the competition.

 Club president Mohd Joh Wid said: “For me, his appointment will give additional inspiration to the team. He has captained the State side for several years, and also been the captain of the Melaka State side a few years back.” “His experience will surely give us a huge advantage,” Joh said yesterday. He also called on the fans to come in full force and support the team.

 “All I could say for now is that we will surely go all out in search for a favourable result. Reithuddin will not be alone in spearheading Cebagoo’s charge as another former State player Billyton Vun Ket Ming is also part of the Sepanggar-based squad. Both the duo has been named in the 18-member squad for today’s clash. Reithuddin when contacted believes that they have what it takes to kick start the season on a winning note.

Cebagoo FC looking for a win against Melaka

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: Cebagoo FC will be looking for a win in their opening FAM Cup league match against the Melaka state team at the UMS Stadium today at 4.15pm. Club president Mohd Joh Wid when met at the team's final training session on Saturday said he believed his boys can match the favourites despite the underdog tag.

 "It doesn't bother us with their reputation as a state team and their experience in the scene. We respect them for what they are but I have strong faith in my boys after the intense preparation done by the two coaches, Razali Zinin and Jelius Ating over the past few months." "We are here for a reason and with former state captain Reithudin Ag Imran in the team, I am sure he will help to boost our defense and the team will be able to cope with the attacks with his undoubted leadership."

 He further stated the team is not a one-man team and has other team members who can spring surprises on their opponents as well. "The club's name may not ring a bell to most people but we sure have a number of other players who have the experience in the likes of former Betaria player Aifyansah Jafar who will orchestra the team attacks from the engine room, nippy Nizam Jifferi and striker Rainol Masaat."

Things get worse for Sabahawks

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SABAH’S bad start to the season just got worse after an embarrassing 0-2 defeat to UiTM in a Premier League match in Shah Alam today. The Sabahawks, who were dumped out of the FA Cup on Wednesday, had hoped to breathe life into their faltering league campaign with a win against UiTM.

 Without a win and goals in their last five games and having conceded 12 in the process, UiTM looked to be an easy prey for the Sabahawks, but the homesters had other ideas. After forcing a scoreless first half, UiTM scored their first goal of the league through Mohamad Adam Syahir Rosli in the 58th minute and never looked back.

 Muhamad Hafizuddin Harun then made sure of the points when he added the second in the dying minutes. The defeat could prove costly for Sabah as it was the fourth of the season, having also lost to Sime Darby (1-3), Kuala Lumpur (2-3) and Kedah (0-2). The Sabahawks’ wins were against KL SPA Putrajaya FC (2-1) and NS Betaria (2-0). Sabah will next face Pos Malaysia at the Likas Stadium on Feb 18.

Time to break jinx

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: David McCreery is seeking total commitment from his charges when they resume their Premier League challenge by taking on UiTM FC on the road today. The Sabah head coach knows only too well that returning home empty handed from the tie at the UiTM Stadium in Shah Alam will court more trouble to his struggling side that is yet pick up points away from home thus far.

 And there is no better opportunity than this for them to break their away jinx, by playing against a side that is rooted at the bottom of the 12-team standings with no points to show and is yet to score a single goal after five matches into the season. Failing to get anything from the tie will make it difficult for us to expect anything more from our State side.

 They are currently seventh on six points from a possible 15 from two home wins over KL SPA Putrajaya FC and NS Betaria, losing three times to KL Sime Darby, Kuala Lumpur (both away) and Kedah respectively. “We travelled here a day earlier so that the players would have enough rest. It will be up to them to get back after the Selangor match (FA Cup),” said McCreery, referring to their 0-3 loss at home on Tuesday. 

Juniors snatch a point

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: Sabahawks Juniors fought their way back from two goals down before settling for a point after holding Kedah to a two-all draw in a President’s Cup challenge at the Darul Aman Stadium in Alor Setar yesterday. They were trailing 0-2 in the opening 45 minutes to the host before pulling one back early in the second half through Sabri Sahar’s spot kick.

 Then Hafizan Jahar scored the equaliser for the Sabahawks by connecting a low cross from Jenius Karib. “We got to be satisfied to settle for a draw considering the fact that we were 2-0 down in the first half. “It was an equally contested tie. We conceded two silly goals, but the players made amends in the second half by putting up a much better performance.

We also created more chances, and managed to score two,” said head coach Justin Ganai when contacted yesterday. “I’m also happy to see the fighting spirit shown by the players. Despite trailing 0-2, they kept on fighting until the final whistle,” he added. This was the Sabahawks Juniors second away tie of the season, after kick starting their challenge on the road with a 1-0 victory against Kelantan.

Another away test

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: Another tough away match awaits the Sabah President Cup squad as they take on Kedah today (Thursday) at the Darul Aman Stadium in Alor Star at 4.45pm. After the heartbreaking loss to Perak in their last match played here at the Likas Stadium, the players know that they have to stand up and be counted to produce the same form that saw them beat Kelantan in their previous away match which was also their only win so far.

 It hasn't been an easy start as most would have expected for the State junior team with one win, one draw and a loss to date. Based on their two performances displayed here at the Likas Stadium, there was nothing to complain about in terms of the players' individual skills and commitment on the pitch. They were up there on par or even better against the Melaka and Perak players and the only difference was their failure to covert chances into goals.

 If they can rectify their scoring problems there is a great chance that they will get the three points today. The players must have the belief that they can do it again after the win against Kelantan in their own den. Coach Justin Ganai can also take confidence from knowing that his side can improve significantly with the combination of Didie Arizal and Sabri Sahar in the engine room starting to gel.

Sabahawks crash out

New Sabah Times

ON THE RUN … Zainizam Marjan (blue/red) outruns two Selangor players during their FA Cup second round tie at the Likas Stadium yesterday.

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah were deservedly shown the exit door in the FA Cup competition after succumbing to a 3-0 defeat to Selangor in the second round at the Likas Stadium yesterday. It was a shameful show from the hosts, and they were made to look like schoolboys by the visitors, who were clearly the better side throughout.

 The scoreline could have been more, if not for some missed chances by the visitors. The opening half an hour was a dull affair with not many chances, as both sides seemed to play cautiously. Sabah head coach David McCreery when met after the match said he wants his charges to re-group and take the defeat as a lesson. “The silly goal we conceded (first) turned the game against us,” McCreery said.

 “But I hope the players will learn from this, and that we cannot make mistakes against a Super League side like Selangor. “It is my job to put up the players together, and I hope they will work harder from now,” he added. Selangor were the first to test Sabah’s goalmouth through Muhd Ramzul Zahini Adenan, whose header from inside the box off a cross from Veenod a/L Subramaniam was palmed away for a corner by custodian Shahril Sa’ari, before Sabah’s Mohd Farid Saibun unleashed a shot from the edge of the box that went wide followed by an attempt from Juffrey Omopor whose grounder was cleared by the keeper Norazlan Razali.

Selangor ease past Sabah

sports247.my

RAIN OR SHINE: Selangor eased past Sabah 3-0 in their FA Cup clash but not after braving the rain and hot weather alternating throughout the 90 minutes.

SABAH’S Jekyll and Hyde performance cropped up again as a youthful Selangor won 3-0 in the FA Cup second round tie at the Likas Stadium today. The hosts matched Selangor for most of first half, but soon after Francis Forkey Doe opened the scoring late in the first half, it was all downhill for the Sabahawks. Doe was in his element as a cheeky backheel found the back of the net after the Sabah defence were caught napping defending a cross in first half injury time.

 It proved to be the downfall of Sabah as Doe then turned provider as he found Muhd Raimi Nor with a neat pass for the latter to tuck home from close range in the 51st minute. From there on, it seemed like a training session for Selangor, who comfortably knocked the ball around the pitch to frustrate the hosts. It was 3-0 up on 87th minute when Doe, who failed to score in his last four outings, bagged his second with a simple tap in from Raimi.

 Selangor coach Irfan Bakti was happy for his striker to end his drought but more importantly hailed his players for adapting well to the unpredictable weather on the evening. “I wanted them to focus as I don’t want them to be distracted by the weather. “I’m glad they played well in the second half. The opening 45 minutes was evenly contested. Sabah had chances but failed to convert any.

2013 FA Cup

Round	VS	Leg	Date	Result	Scorers	MVP
1st Round	Felda United	Home	25 Jan	W 2-1	Koh Traore, Juffry	Shahril Saari
2nd Round	Selangor	Home	12 Feb	L 0-3	-

* Subject to changes

Bring them on, say Sabah

NST

FA CUP: Selangor can expect a torrid tie in Kota Kinabalu THE FA Cup, not the Malaysia Cup is Selangor's main target this season but their second round opponents Sabah are confident of ending the former champions' dream on Tuesday in Kota Kinabalu. Selangor may have not won the Malaysia Cup since 2005 but the importance of achieving it this season has taken a back-seat as the FA Cup has become the priority.

Sabah, who are seventh in the Premier League, are however, confident of an upset following their 2-1 win over Super League side Felda United in the first round on Jan 25. Newly appointed manager Datuk Yusof Kassim said his team's quest is to end Selangor's Cup aspirations. "We are competing not to make up the numbers ...we are here to make progress and win the trophy for the first time since 1995," Yusof told Timesport yesterday.

"Nobody can guarantee you a spot, but our objective is clear, to qualify for the next round of the FA Cup, and we seek to win every match. "We must make home advantage count. It's important to get back-to-back wins at home as we need the confidence to keep going." Yusof was appointed team manager, replacing Sabah FA secretary Alijus Sipil, who stepped down citing work commitments on Jan 16.

Cebagoo FC begin FAM Cup challenge against Melaka

New Sabah Times

Joh (3rd right) thanking Ben, owner of Ararat Sports and Souvenirs, for his generousity in contributing to the team as the players.

KOTA KINABALU: Cebagoo FC has vowed not to become a one-season wonder in the national football scene. The Sepanggar-based club is set to make its maiden debut in this year’s edition of the FAM Cup League. They will be the State’s sole representative in the competition, which is dubbed as the country’s Third Division League after the main one – the Super League and the second tier Premier League.

 They have named UMS Stadium as their home venue where they will take on Melaka in the opener scheduled for February 17. “We have seen clubs (from Sabah) come and go in the competition, and we don’t want to be like them. We want to be in the scene for as long as we could,” said club president Mohd Joh Wid. “We know this is not going to be easy for a tiny club like us that originated from a fishermen’s village, but we are prepared and ready for the challenges ahead of us.

 “On behalf of the club, I would like to express our sincere thanks to the Sabah FA President Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Hj Aman for giving us the inspiration and supports towards our imminent historical appearance in the competition. Joh said this when unveiling the team’s official kit – Carino – house brand of one of their sponsors Ararat Sports and Souvenirs Sdn Bhd on Wednesday night. On the team’s target, Joh said: “Like any other competing teams, we will also set our sight on gaining promotion to the Premier League.”

First defeat for Juniors

New Sabah Times

HAMMER BLOW … Sabahawks Junior Umareng Bacok (No 19) was given the marching orders in the 55th minute for two yellow card offences.

KOTA KINABALU: Ten man Sabahawks Juniors were inflicted with their first defeat of the season after going down 2-0 to defending champions Perak in a President’s Cup challenge at the Likas Stadium yesterday. Silly errors coupled with misfiring strikers cost them at least a point as Perak scored twice after capitalising on blunders by the host.

 Sabahawks Juniors could have taken the lead at the half-hour mark after striker Rexjeson Pitirus was put through by midfielder Didie Arizal Ibrahim, but only to find his shot going straight into the keeper’s arms in a one-on-one situation. It was not long after that, that Perak drew first blood. They were awarded a penalty kick after Shazree Ruhif Ismail, who earlier had already received a booking, was fortunate to stay on the field, after he brought down Mugenthirran A/L Ganesan inside the penalty box.

 Perak skipper Muhd Rafiq Faaez Md Paut coolly slotted home the opener defeating the hapless Sabahawks Juniors custodian Endre S Tipay. In the 45th minute, Sabahawks Juniors should have scored their first when Rexjeson centred for Zul Mansshah Aling, who was left unmarked in front of Perak’s goalmouth.

10-man Sabah fall to Perak

http://www.sports247.my

TEN-MAN Sabah succumbed to a 2-0 loss at the hands of defending champions Perak in their President’s Cup tie today. Sabah were held 1-1 by Malacca in their opening game before an improved performance saw them edge Kelantan 1-0 away earlier this week. Sabah had started brightly against Perak and could have gone ahead had striker Rexjeson Pitirus converted from close range after 28 minutes.

 Instead, the homesters found themselves trailing seven minutes later through Muhd Rafiq Daeef Md Paut’s coolly taken penalty kick. Another chance went begging for Sabah just before halftime with Zulmansyah Aling firing wide after being set up nicely inside the box by Rexjeson.

 It proved costly as Sabah, who had Umareng Bachok sent off in the 55th minute for a second bookable offence, conceded a second in the 70th minute through G. Mugenthirran. Perak could have increased their lead two minutes later but Khairul Asyraf and Muhd Zahiruddin saw their efforts rattle the crossbar in quick succession. Sabah will next face Kedah on Feb 14.

Clash of champions

New Sabah Times

READY … from left, Rexjeson, Justin and Eyo seen at the team’s training at the Likas Stadium yesterday.

KOTA KINABALU: It will be a clash of the champions when Sabah take on Perak in a President’s Cup challenge at the Likas Stadium today. The State Under-21 side is the Sukma gold medal winners and will face the League’s defending champions in a tie that is scheduled to kick off at 4.15pm.

 To make the date more interesting, it will be a repeat final of the Sukma 2012 between the two sides that ended in favour of Sabah where the Borneo outfit emerged victors in extra time. Sabah team manager Datuk Juil Nuatim knows it is going to be a tough home tie for his boys, but insists, victory is all they aim for. “We only managed to take one point in our first home game against Melaka last week, and this time, we must get all the three points,” he said when met at the team’s light training at the Likas Stadium yesterday.

 “I believe the players are in high spirit following our 1-0 win over Kelantan on Monday, and I hope they will continue with such spirit to win matches,” he added. Head coach Justin Ganai also echoed his manager’s view, pointing out that they must try to capitalise on homeground advantage to get the better of their opponents. “This will not be an easy game. They are the defending champions.

Sabah aim to keep momentum going

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: Sabah will look to follow on from their impressive 1-0 away win in Kelantan by naming a near unchanged side for the match with Perak in their President Cup clash today (Thursday) at the Likas Stadium at 4.15pm. The only change coach Justin Ganai may consider is bringing in Gerald Sean Mojikon for Anwari Mohd Tajuddin on the right flank to try to get their first home win after the disappointing draw with Melaka in the opening match.

 The coach when met at the stadium on Wednesday said he would not alter too much as he does not want to affect the momentum of the team and furthermore he is also in the dark over the depth of the Perak team. "The team is getting better with each match and Sabri Sahar and Dedie Arizal in the engine room are also beginning to click with the other players as shown in the match against Kelantan."

 "So I hope they can just build on the momentum and show more effort and try to win the game for the fans." Sabah will again be relying on Rexjeston Pitrus to deliver the goals. The new found hitman this season has scored two goals to date and he again showed his capability against Kelantan when he outpaced three defenders from outside the box before blasting home the goal.

Rozaimi pamer penyudah tajam

myMetro

Brisbane: Sedar kelibatnya diperhatikan, penyerang Harimau Muda A, Rozaimi Abdul Rahman terus mencuri tumpuan apabila mempamerkan sentuhan tajamnya. Kali ini pemain kelahiran Sabah itu meledak dua gol ketika membantu skuad Harimau Muda A menewaskan Akademi Bola Sepak Queensland, 7-0 semalam.

 Rozaimi dan kapten pasukan, Irfan Fazail menjadi tumpuan apabila aksi mereka diperhatikan pencari bakat, Brad Maloney. Penyerang berusia 22 tahun itu kini mengumpul empat gol sepanjang empat aksi persahabatan di Gold Coast, Australia yang berakhir semalam.

 “Saya masih meningkatkan prestasi kerana mahu lebih konsisten. Sepanjang jelajah ini masih banyak peluang yang gagal saya sempurnakan,” katanya. Menurut Rozaimi, dia mahu terus belajar dengan mendapat pendedahan secukupnya bagi menjadi penyerang lebih baik. Sebelum ini pemain terbabit meledak satu gol ketika menentang Palm Beach Sharks dan sekali lagi ketika menewaskan Brisbane Lions.

Some advice from Ollerenshaw

NST

FORMER Australia international Scott Ollerenshaw, who played for Sabah in the 1990s, believes football associations in Malaysia should invest more in junior development to produce quality players. “We need to reach out to the villages and also get more youths to participate in the sport by organising clinics and tournaments,” said Ollerenshaw in the Gold Coast yesterday.

 “When I was a kid living in Australia, there were opportunities for me to develop my skills but it is not the same in Malaysia.” Ollerenshaw, who played 18 times for Australia, noticed the shortcoming in Sabah — which has become his home since retiring from football in 1999 — and decided on organising a junior tournament five years ago.

 “My dream then was to reach out to those in villages and I initiated the Kota Kinabalu Junior League to encourage them to form teams. The tournament has encouraged participation and the Sabah FA will be funding it this season,” he added. “Many players with talent have been identified from the league and I believe Sabah will have a strong senior side in four to five years.

Irfan, Rozaimi dalam radar Liga-A

Berita Harian

Perlawanan terakhir skuad Harimau Muda A dalam siri latihan dan aksi persahabatan selama dua minggu di Australia bertemu juara bertahan liga utama Australia (Liga-A), Brisbane Roar petang ini turut disaksikan bekas pemain kebangsaan Australia, Brad Maloney. Tujuan utama Maloney, 41, yang kini menjadi pencari bakat untuk kelab-kelab Liga-A ialah menilai persembahan dan prestasi kapten Harimau Muda A, Irfan Fazail serta penyerang sensasi dari Sabah, Rozaimi Abd Rahman.

 Kedua-dua pemain itu dicadangkan kepada Maloney oleh bekas penyerang import Sabah, Scott Ollerenshaw yang turut berada di Gold Coast untuk menguruskan siri latihan dan aksi persahabatan skuad Harimau Muda A selama dua minggu itu. Saya hadir sesi latihan ini (semalam) untuk melihat persiapan skuad Harimau Muda A untuk bertemu Brisbane Roar.

Ternyata Irfan dan Rozaimi menarik perhatian saya. Saya fikir mereka mampu lebih menyerlah jika diberi peluang beraksi di Liga-A. Apapun saya mahu lihat aksi mereka pada perlawanan sebenar, esok (hari ini) dan pesan saya, main seperti biasa saja. Lakukan seperti mana mereka buat dalam latihan dan segala-galanya akan berjalan lancar, kata Maloney ketika ditemui di Padang Latihan Carrara, Gold Coast, petang semalam.

Duo on Aussie radar

NST

KEEN: Talent scout to watch skipper Irfan and striker Rozaimi IT will be more than just a friendly match for Rozaimi Abdul Rahman and Irfan Fazail when the national Under-23 side play A-League champions Brisbane Roar FC in the Gold Coast today. Rozaimi, a striker who scored 10 goals for Malaysia in last year’s AFC Under-22 Qualifiers, and midfielder-cum-captain Irfan are on the radar of a talent scout and former Australia international Brad Maloney.

 Former Sabah striker Scott Ollerenshaw, who arranged for the team’s training stint in the Gold Coast, had a first look at the duo in earlier friendly matches and in turn has invited Maloney to watch them play today. National Under-23 coach Ong Kim Swee and FA of Malaysia (FAM) vice-president Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin were receptive of Ollerenshaw’s proposal and met Maloney on Sunday.

 Hamidin said any player who signs with an A-League team will gain from the experience. “It is a high quality league. Rozaimi and Irfan must not waste this opportunity. If Maloney is really interested, he should officially contact FAM. We only want them in the A-League,” said Hamidin yesterday. Kim Swee will also hand over video recordings of Rozaimi and Irfan during play to Maloney for distribution to A-League teams.

Kelibat Rozaimi, Irfan menjadi tumpuan

Kosmo!

IRFAN (tengah) dan Rozaimi (empat dari kiri) menjadi perhatian pegawai pencari bakat kelab Brisbane Roar.

GOLD COAST, Australia - Aksi menentang Brisbane Roar hari ini bakal menjadi medan terbaik buat kapten Harimau Muda, Irfan Fazail dan Rozaiman Abdul Rahman untuk membuktikan keupayaan masing- masing. Ini kerana Irfan dan Rozaimi yang meledak 10 gol pada kempen kelayakan Piala AFC Bawah 22 Tahun (B-22) sebelum ini dikatakan mendapat perhatian pegawai pencari bakat kelab terbabit, Brad Maloney.

 Perlawanan menentang Brisbane Roar merupakan aksi terakhir Harimau Muda pada siri Jelajah Australia yang bermula penghujung Januari lalu. Bekas penyerang import Sabah, Scott Ollerenshaw yang mengaturkan jelajah tersebut adalah antara individu yang bertanggungjawab mengenal pasti bakat kedua-dua pemain muda itu sebelum menjemput Maloney menyaksikan persembahan mereka dengan lebih dekat pada aksi menentang juara Liga Australia (Liga A), Brisbane Roar hari ini.

 "Saya telah dibawa oleh Ollerenshaw yang telah mengaturkan perlawanan persahabatan Harimau Muda di Australia dan sudah tentu saya mahu mencari bakat-bakat baharu, dan beliau telah memberikan cadangan untuk menilai prestasi dua pemain terbabit. "Sejujurnya saya sangat kagum dengan persembahan pemain-pemain Harimau Muda khususnya dari segi teknik, kepantasan, skil serta persefahaman, selain memiliki barisan jurulatih yang sangat profesional biarpun usia mereka masih muda," kata Maloney ketika menyaksikan sesi latihan Harimau Muda di Kompleks Sukan Carrara di sini semalam.

Sinar terbaik Irfan, Rozaim

myMetro

Brisbane: Peluang kini terbuka buat kapten Harimau Muda A, Irfan Fazail dan penyerang berbakat, Rozaimi Abdul Rahman mengetuk pintu kelab di Australia. Aksi kedua-dua pemain terbabit mendapat tumpuan pencari bakat di Australia, Brad Maloney yang juga bekas pemain kebangsaan negara itu.

 “Saya akan melihat aksi mereka dalam perlawanan menentang Brisbane Roar, hari ini. Namun ia bukan saja terhad kepada mereka berdua saja tapi pemain lain juga sekiranya mampu menarik perhatian,” katanya. Beliau yang turut hadir menyaksikan sesi latihan skuad kendalian Ong Kim Swee petang semalam turut kagum dengan persefahaman, teknik, kemahiran dan kepantasan pemain muda negara.

 Kedua-dua pemain terbabit terlebih dulu menarik perhatian bekas pemain Sabah, Scott Ollerenshaw yang kemudian memaklumkan kemampuan mereka kepada Maloney. “Kedua-dua pemain itu memiliki teknik yang bagus. Permainan mereka lebih matang berbanding usia. Saya harap mereka mampu mempamerkan persembahan yang biasa dilakukan ketika latihan tanpa sebarang tekanan dan semuanya berjalan lancar.” 

Sabah-Selangor FA Cup tie Feb 12

New Sabah Times

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s FA Cup second round date with Super League side Selangor has been rescheduled yet again! The date of the match has been reverted to the initial date – Feb 12, 2013. However, after a check at the FA of Malaysia official website, the date of the clash remained unchanged – March 2, which was last updated on January 31, 2012.

 Yesterday, Sabah FA Secretary General Alijus Hj Sipil confirmed that the tie will be played on the initial date (Feb 12), which falls on the third day of the Chinese New Year. “We were notified about the latest change to the FA Cup fixture against Selangor yesterday citing that Selangor will be involved in the AFC Cup early March,” said Alijus.

 There is no change to the venue and the kick off time, which is the Likas Stadium while the kick-off time is at 3.45pm. Sabahawks cruised into the second round after a hard fought 2-1 victory over KL Felda United FC while Selangor ousted Armed Forces in a penalty shootout. It is certainly a bumpy road to glory for the 1995 winners Sabah in the competition.

Full points for Juniors

New Sabah Times

REXJESON … the Sabahawks Junior No 9 scores the solitary goal of the match.

KOTA KINABALU: Sabahawks Juniors did what their Seniors could not do by chalking up all three points on the road after nicking a 1-0 win over Kelantan at the Sultan Mohamad IV Stadium in Kota Bharu yesterday. This was also their first win of the season after being held to a one-all draw by Melaka in the opener last week.

 Yesterday, a 21st minute effort by striker Rexjeson Pitirus was enough to see the Justin Ganai boys returning home with a big smile. For the record, the State Senior squad has yet to pick a single point on the road from their first two away matches thus far this season after going down to KL Sime Darby FC (3-1) and Kuala Lumpur (3-2).

 But their Junior counterparts did it in their first attempt. Rexjeson scored the opener after being put through by striking partner Eyo Matthew. He coolly defeated the Kelantan custodian in a one-on-one situation. Despite the win, head coach Justin said there is still plenty of work to be done on the team.

Sabah down Kelantan

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: Sabah claimed its first President Cup victory of the new season with a 1-0 win over Kelantan at the Sultan Mohammad IV Stadiumin Kota Bharu on Monday. Rexjeson Pitrus was the hero for the team as his strike in the 21st minute settled the squad's nerves. The Keningau lad who made his senior debut against Felda United in the FA Cup opened his account in the President Cup campaign after receiving a pass from fellow striking partner Eyo Mathew who started the game ahead of Zil Manshah Aling.

 It was a better performance by the Sabah team after the disappointing draw in their opening game. The combination is beginning to click with Sabri Sahar and Didie Arizal in the engine room and the speedy duo of Umareng Bacok and Anwari Tajuddin at the flanks. They were in control of the first 45 minutes and the back four of Dendy Lowa, Rawilson Batul, Shazree Ruhif Ismail and Jenius Karib were also able to withstand the pressure from the home team in the second half to grind out a well deserved victory in the end.

 Sabah's next opponents are Perak and the match will be held here at the Likas Stadium on Thursday (Feb 7).

Sabah pip Kelantan in President’s Cup match

http://www.sports247.my

SABAH recorded their first win of the President’s Cup campaign by beating Kelantan 1-0 at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium today. Striker Rexjeson Pitirus’ goal after 21 minutes settled the match to bring Sabah’s total to four points. They had drawn their opening game against Malacca at home.

 The highly rated youngster reacted the quickest to slot the ball home, meeting a low cross into the box following good build-up play from Didie Arizal and Eyo Matthew. Sabah could have added a second just before the break but Anwari Tajuddin’s effort rattled the crossbar.

 Head coach Justin Ganai attributed the victory to an improved performance in the middle of the park, which he said was lacking in the first game. “It was one of the keys leading to our win today,” he said. Sabah will have the chance to improve on the standings when they host Perak at the Likas Stadium on Thursday.

‘Never easy against Kelantan’

New Sabah Times

DIDIE … scored the equaliser against Melaka.

KOTA KINABALU: The Sabahawks Junior are on the road for the first time this season and are hoping to return home with a ‘smile’ from the Sultan Mohamad IV Stadium in Kota Bharu. “This is not going to be an easy outing for us. It has never been easy taking on Kelantan, especially at their home turf, but I’m optimistic we can get something out from this game,” said Justin Ganai.

 The Sabahawks Junior Head Coach has every reason for being a little ambitious in this tie after seeing his side dropping points at home in the opener against Melaka last week. They were held to a one-all draw. But Justin will keep his faith on the same first 11 that featured against Melaka.

 “We are bringing the same first 18 players for this trip. It is mostly that I will be using the same first team as well. We will be counting on their experience to get the three points,” said Justin when revealing their plan of going for the three points, or the very least a point. “However, I still need to see how thing goes during our training later in the evening (yesterday) before I finalized my first team,” he added.

Rozaimi needs a defensive touch-up

http://www.nst.com.my

Rozaimi Abdul Rahman throws the ball to his teammates during a training session in Gold Coast, Australia yesterday.

ROZAIMI Abdul Rahman is a talented striker who must work on his defensive qualities. National youth coach Ong Kim Swee wants only players with all-round abilities in his squad for the Sea Games in December and Rozaimi needs to put in extra hours in training to be considered. In modern day football, strikers are required to not only have a keen eye for goals but also to fall back and defend.

In Rozaimi's case, the 21-year-old is very dangerous in the penalty box but dislikes getting involved in other things. "Scoring comes naturally for me but not other things. It is something that I need to address before important assignments. I am not quite an all-round player just yet," said Rozaimi in Gold Coast, Australia yesterday.

 "I am working on it in training and hopefully, my game will improve. The competition is stiff and if I do not get better, I could be left out from the Sea Games squad." Kim Swee said Rozaimi is skilful and an excellent striker but slightly lacks defensive qualities. "He can do almost anything inside the box. He is a powerful player but does not defend well. He is, however, working very hard in training," said Kim Swee.

Tricky tie against Kelantan for Junior Sabahawks

http://www.sports247.my

 MALAYSIA Games champions Sabah will face Kelantan in a tricky President’s Cup tie at the Sultan Mohd IV Stadium tomorrow. The Junior Sabahawks did not have the best of starts to the junior league on Thursday when they needed a late Didie Arizal equaliser to force a 1-1 draw at home to Malacca.

 Despite the less than convincing start, head coach Justin Ganai revealed he would keep faith with the same set of players to take on Kelantan. “They are the strongest (starting) line-up that we have at the moment … I may not change the team. “We will go there to try and win the game … that is the target.

Even if we do not win, (at least) we need to avoid defeat,” he said yesterday. That said, Justin hoped the experience of some of the “seniors” in the squad, especially those who played starring roles leading to the Malaysia Games gold last year, would give the team the edge over their hosts.

Cebagoo FC preparing hard for upcoming FAM League

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: Cebagoo FC are hard at work in preparation for the upcoming FAM League which would take place on Feb 17 against Melaka FA at the UMS Stadium. Head coach Razali Zinin told Express Sports at their training ground on Friday that he and assistant coach Jelius Ating are concentrating more to improve on their player's fitness level apart from the usual training sessions.

 He said based on his assessment the players are still far from ready in terms of fitness for the competition. "We are putting extra effort to work on the area at the moment and at the same time trying to further improve the strikers' finishing touches as well and hopefully by the first game, all the players will all be up to the task." 

Meanwhile, the team travelled to Tawau on Saturday for their next friendly match which will be played today (Sunday). Cebagoo FC President Mohd Joh Wid said they respect the Tawau FA team and reckoned it will be a very tough encounter as the East Coast team had earlier upset the State senior team during a friendly match played a couple of months ago.

Rozaimi tak gentar galas tugas sukar

my Metro

 Brisbane, Australia: Penyerang berbakat negara, Rozaimi Abd Rahman tidak tertekan walaupun harapan tinggi bakal disandarkan kepadanya dalam mempertahankan pingat emas Sukan SEA Myanmar, Disember nanti. Pemain berusia 21 tahun itu dilihat antara pemain yang bakal menjadi tonggak utama skuad kendalian Ong Kim Swee dalam mempertahankan pingat emas di temasya dwi tahunan itu buat kali ketiga berturut-turut.

 Dia tidak menunggu masa yang lama untuk memikat hati Kim Swee selepas bersama Harimau Muda A tahun ini apabila meledak dua gol dalam dua aksi awal perlawanan persahabatan yang berlangsung di Australia. “Untuk mendapat tempat dalam kesebelasan utama masih belum pasti namun saya gembira seandainya jurulatih terus memberikan kepercayaan.

 “Ini mencetuskan semangat saya untuk mempamerkan aksi lebih baik. Malah saya tidak berasa sebarang tekanan kerana ini adalah permainan berpasukan,”kata pemain kelahiran Sabah. Jelasnya masih terdapat beberapa kelemahan individu yang perlu diperbaikinya dan berharap perlawanan kompetitif selepas ini mampu memantapkan lagi persembahan menjelang misi penting di Myanmar nanti.

Sabah, Melaka share points

New Sabah Times

PRESIDENT’S CUP CURTAIN-RAISER … Sabahawks Junior Zul Mansshah Aling (blue jersey No 21) being challenged by an unidentified Melaka player while Didie Arizal (blue jersey No 4) lurks from behind waiting for an opportunity.

KOTA KINABALU: Sabahawks Juniors kicked off their President’s Cup challenge 2013 on a modest note after being held to a one-all draw by Melaka at the Likas Stadium yesterday. The hosts must be cursing their luck after squandering the golden opportunity of taking all the three points in the dying seconds and no thanks to a blatant miss by substitute Fread Filemon Saih.

 The midfielder ballooned the ball above the crossbar despite only having the Melaka keeper Abdul Aziz to beat from six yards out after which the match official blew for the final whistle. The visiting Melaka drew first blood in the 69th minute through Nazmee Ari’s dipping shot from about 30 metres before Didie Arizal Ibrahim equalised for Sabahawks Juniors 10 minutes from regulation time.

 A disappointed head coach Justin Ganai when met shortly after the match said: “There is a lot of room for improvement. Our combination was still not there yet, and obviously, we need to put a lot more effort into it.” “Our midfielders also failed to create enough chances for the strikers and these are some of the areas that we will look into.

Sabah held to 1-1 draw

Daily Express

Kota Kinabalu: Sabah had to come from behind to snatch a 1-1 draw in their President Cup opener against Melaka at the Likas Stadium on Thursday. Despite featuring most of the players from last season's campaign, the home team failed to shine and allowed the opposition to have several dangerous attempts on their goal especially in the first half.

 There were many close calls and one point-blank shot was brilliantly punched away by Endre S. Tipay while Sabah resorted to long range shots that failed to trouble the Melaka custodian. Sabah started the second period with more venom but again the players failed to find the target with their shots.

 And against the run of play, Sabah found themselves a goal behind when Melaka player Nazmee Ari burst through the midfield before beating Endre for the opener in the 69th minute. Didie Arizal, who was one of the those who failed to take their chances earlier, redeemed himself when he lobbed the ball past the stranded goalkeeper before blasting it home from close range to even the score in the 80th minute.