Rise Of Malayan Tiger

AFF Suzuki Cup is considered to be one of the elite competition in south-east asia. Very long ago, 14 years ago, Malaysia emerged as champs of the tournament only to be seen degraded performance in the coming years. However, history was made yesterday when the squad of young players rose up to the level to become champions. The Tiger squad thumped Indonesia in a 2 legged match which they won 4-2 aggregate.

Earlier on 26th of December, the national squad thrashed the Indonesians by the score of 3-0. A very good play by Safee Sali, who scored the brace in the match. Playing in the home soil definitely gives the edge for the Malaysia to have a comfortable cushion lead during the second final.

In the group stage, Malaysia had lost to Indonesia 1-5 after leading the first half. The lacksture of experience with the huge support from the crowd made the players morale to get low. Yesterday, playing at the very same stadium, Malaysia had the nervousness on the start of the first 10 minutes. Despite that, Khairul Fahmi Che Mat can be awarded as the best malaysia player as he did his level best to keep away his goal box from penetration. Khairul Fahmi had losts of save including a penalty on the 1st half of the game.

Malaysia kick-off goalscoring with Safee Sali, who gets an through pass and netted the goal for Malaysia. Indonesia in the other side keep on pressuring with Bambang Pamungkas and Indonesia managed to score 2 goals for them. However, they failed to will the final as Malaysia had to be beaten by more than 4 goals.

A great ending for the year 2010 for Malaysians to lift back the tournament trophy under the guidance of K.Rajagopal and the young Harimau Muda squad. Bravo to all the players and coach to give the triumph to the country. Hopefully, the journey of the football doesnt end here. We do hope for more success in future for a greater event.

~ merpati KL ~