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width: 250px; height: 197px;\" \/>THE current national team set-up has been called many things.<\/p><p>Some say it is a new era; and others see it as a revolution of sorts, a turning point for Harimau Malaya, now ranked No. 132 in the world.<\/p><p>Whatever you call it, this is undeniably another moment of hope, with the goal of qualifying for the 2027 Asian Cup looking achievable.<\/p><p>Malaysia took a promising first step in the qualifiers, defeating Nepal 2-0 at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri on Tuesday.<\/p><p>It was an expected win – Nepal are ranked a lowly 175 and are not known for their football – but it was the team’s performance that raised expectations.<\/p><p>The players showed intent, eager to get Peter Cklamovski’s tenure off to a strong start. There was dynamism, pace and composure, against the Gorkhalis who opted for a defensive approach.<\/p><p>Amid it all, Hector Hevel, the latest mixed-heritage addition to the squad, stole the show.<\/p><p>The 28-year-old, whose lineage includes Spanish, Dutch and Malaysian, was a model of calm and efficiency in midfield.<\/p><p>His passing was precise, his control impeccable. His urgency was his greatest asset – he never allowed the game to slow down.<\/p><p>The midfielder from Portuguese club Portimonense kept the team ticking, a trait that will be crucial in the all-important qualifier against Vietnam in Kuala Lumpur in June.<\/p><p>Off the pitch, Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, who oversees the national team, was a satisfied man and even hinted at further reinforcements.<\/p><p>The Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) owner revealed that seven more Malaysian players from abroad could join the squad, adding quality and depth.<\/p><p>Now, fans are scouring social media to track these potential recruits, looking at sites like Transfermarkt for clues.<\/p><p>Speculation is also growing over naturalised players.<\/p><p>It is understood that passport applications are in progress for Kuala Lumpur centreback Giancarlo Gallifuoco, JDT striker Bergson Da Silva, and Pahang winger Manuel Hidalgo.<\/p><p>Under current FIFA regulations, these players will only be eligible to play in March next year, ahead of the final qualifier – also against Vietnam, in Hanoi.<\/p><p>However, if FIFA approve a new ruling allowing players to represent a country after residing there for four years, they could be available for the home game in June.<\/p><p>Naturalisation has become a tool for smaller footballing nations to bridge the gap with elite teams, while also giving professional players a platform to compete at international level.<\/p><p>Indonesia and Vietnam have already embraced this strategy, seeking to raise their competitive standing.<\/p><p>But is this the long-term solution for Malaysia?<\/p><p>No really. It may be good in the short term as it strengthens the squad. But the bigger picture demands a sustainable approach.<\/p><p>The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), along with Super League clubs and other stakeholders, must commit to developing grassroots talent.<\/p><p>Datuk Dollah Salleh and Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan, both members of the FAM executive committee, have pledged to prioritise youth development.<\/p><p>With their experience, they have insights to share. Zainal, for instance, was transformed from a fullback into a lethal striker in 1983 by English coach Frank Lord.<\/p><p>For true progress, though, Malaysia’s domestic league must improve. Uncertainties persist — we still do not know how many teams will compete in the Super League next season or whether a second division will be introduced.<\/p><p>We are constantly changing the rules and format and there is little clarity in the system.<\/p><p>Naturalisation should only be a short-term fix. We must avoid a future where clubs sign young foreign talents, and after four to five years, turn them into Malaysians.<\/p><p>Instead, the focus should be on local-born players.<\/p><p>Imagine a little boy wearing an Arif Aiman Hanapi’s jersey in the local park, dreaming to be like his idol one day - only for some foreigner to snatch away that dream of wearing the national shirt.<\/p><p>There are thousands of young Malaysians like that. Their dreams must not be dashed.<\/p><p>Short-term success is exciting, but long-term progress requires hard work — and it must begin immediately.<\/p>","author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","article_byline":"T. Avineshwaran","article_tags":"","author_id":464,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=464_1663890104","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/464.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":2005646,"np_author_id":464,"author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/464.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"avinesh@thestar.com.my","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"The Gaffer\",\"column_status\":\"hide\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1564141134\"},\"2\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1663890104\"},\"3\":{\"column_name\":\"Comment\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1703288117\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3808872,"np_article_id":1584181,"article_title":"Two legends from Perak remembered with great affection","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"1584011\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/on-the-line\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/23\\\/two-legends-from-perak-remembered-with-great-affection\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"FOR decades, Shaharudin Jaffar and Chung Kum Weng had faded into virtual oblivion, detached from the vagaries of life in Malaysian sports.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"canonical_link\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"41\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-03-23 07:21:28\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-03-23 07:23:32\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"41\"}","publish_time":"2025-03-23 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/23\\\/3227622.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2025\/03\/23\/two-legends-from-perak-remembered-with-great-affection","show_image_in_thumb":3227622,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>FOR decades, Shaharudin Jaffar and Chung Kum Weng had faded into virtual oblivion, detached from the vagaries of life in Malaysian sports.<\/p><p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/03\/23\/3227623.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 209px; float: left;\" \/>But in death, the two Perak-born former Malaysian athletes from the same era were honoured and remembered with great affection.<\/p><p>Kum Heng who passed away at the age of 90 on Feb 11, was given a poignant farewell by the community in Cardiff, the place he called home for more than six decades.<\/p><p>The Ipoh-born weightlifter quit his job as a temporary clerk at the Supreme Court in 1960 to settle down in Cardiff by first working at a restaurant before becoming a bus driver.<\/p><p>He fell in love with Cardiff after winning the silver medal in the featherweight category at the 1958 British Empire Games, now known as the Commonwealth Games.<\/p><p>Just a month earlier, he was selected for the Tokyo Asian Games but had to withdraw due to an injured wrist.<\/p><p>Despite being based in Wales, Kum Weng continued to compete internationally for Malaya, competing at the Rome Olympics in 1960 and the Tokyo Olympics in 1964 where he finished in 11th and 10th place respectively. Tokyo was special for Kum Weng because he bettered the Commonwealth Games record by lifting a combined total of 335kg.<\/p><p>By the time he was eligible to represent Wales in a major multisports Games, he made up for lost time by winning the gold at the Commonwealth Games in Kingston in 1966, lifting 337kg.<\/p><p>Kum Weng therefore enjoyed a rare distinction of having represented two different nations in the weightlifting World Championship – for Malaya in Vienna 1959 and for Britain in Teheran, Iran, in 1965 and Ohio, the United States in 1970.<\/p><p>Kum Weng’s demise was only picked up by the Malaysian media after a heartwarming video footage of his death went viral, with his friends reportedly describing him as a humble and friendly person who would ride his bike all the time through the area with his little black dog.<\/p><p>For Shaharudin, who passed away at the age of 84 on March 18, a bike that was given to him as a gift by his sister changed the course of his life.<\/p><p>Already a district football player for Manjung who was equally active in athletics, Shaharudin wanted to pursue a sporting career in either field. But an ankle injury put paid to his dreams.<\/p><p>“The present from Aminah changed my life. I used it to cycle to school (Anglo Chinese School Sitiawan),” Shaharudin told this writer in an interview in 1993.<\/p><p>Shaharudin went on to become the first cyclist to win the gold at the SEAP Games by delivering the 800m title before the home crowd at Merdeka Stadium in 1965.<\/p><p>A government servant who served at the Statistics Department, the Welfare Department and finally the Youth and Sports Ministry, Shaharudin devoted his life to cycling.<\/p><p>At every district he was attached to, Shaharudin would voluntarily work to keep the sport alive.<\/p><p>He founded the Kedah Cycling Association in 1966, eventually producing the likes of Fazin Saad or known in the circle as A.S Fadzil, Zainon Osman, Jamil Ishak and Omar Saad, who went on to represent the country in various international competitions.<\/p><p>He revived the Melaka association and helped to establish the Johor association so that talented cyclists from the state, such as Daud Ibrahim, Kamarden Ali, Fazil Ibrahim, Sulaiman Anang and Jasmi Baba, were taken care of.<\/p><p>Shaharudin also engineered a revival of the sport at Negri Sembilan and Pahang, by paving the way for journalist M. T. Lingam and politician Lim Ah Lek (later Tan Sri) to head the respective associations.<\/p><p>Without any financial assistance from the government as the National Sports Council (NSC) were only activated in the early 1980s, Shaharudin resorted to pawning his wife Hasmah Ibrahim’s jewellery to finance training and logistics.<\/p><p>“On a few occasions I accompanied Shaharudin to the pawn shop at Jalan Pudu,” recalled former journalist and a close family friend, M. Selvanaban.<\/p><p>“He was a gem of a guy.”<\/p><p>Hasmah disclosed to this writer at the Shah Alam cemetery that Shaharudin had already prepared his green baju Melayu to celebrate their 58th wedding anniversary, the same day his remains were laid to rest.<\/p><p>We bid farewell to the departed souls in their journey to eternity.<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3806806,"np_article_id":1580399,"article_title":"Newcastle\u2019s triumph: Can one trophy spark a Champions League push?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"locefcol170325\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Efny Johan, A winning factor\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"CONGRATULATIONS to Newcastle for winning the first trophy of the season!\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"canonical_link\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"32\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-03-18 07:34:45\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-03-18 07:34:44\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Martin Ignatius\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"32\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-03-18 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/18\\\/3218682.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2025\/03\/18\/newcastles-triumph-can-one-trophy-spark-a-champions-league-push","show_image_in_thumb":3218682,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>CONGRATULATIONS to Newcastle for winning the first trophy of the season!<\/p><p>Some may belittle the League Cup by calling it the “Mickey Mouse Cup,” but fans often forget that winning a trophy builds a winning mentality - and winning is addictive.<\/p><p>A single victory can transform a team and motivate them to achieve even more in the following season.<\/p><p>Both Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola take this competition seriously because winning silverware earns a manager the trust of their players.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/03\/18\/3218682.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 240px; height: 162px;\" \/><\/p><p>By securing the League Cup, Newcastle have instilled a sense of belief within the squad, which could help them fend off interests in their best players from circling vultures.<\/p><p>A trophy is a trophy – congratulations again to Newcastle for ending their long-awaited drought.<\/p><p>Title race twist? Arsenal fans dare to dream<\/p><p>Liverpool’s defeat will give Arsenal fans renewed hope, as Juergen Klopp’s side appears to be hitting poor form at the worst possible time.<\/p><p>By the time Liverpool play their next game, Arsenal could close the gap to nine points.<\/p><p>Gunners’ supporters just need to keep the faith – miracles have happened before.<\/p><p>Mikel Arteta’s men comfortably dismantled Chelsea, even though the scoreline ended just 1-0 via a set-piece (Set Piece FC is back!). The Gunners won’t mind, though, as Chelsea looked utterly toothless.<\/p><p>For a squad assembled at a cost of £1.5 billion, Chelsea lacked a clear style of play and direction, especially in the absence of Cole Palmer.<\/p><p>Since reaching the high of second place in early December, Chelsea have been in steady decline.<\/p><p>The recent wins against relegation-bound Southampton and Leicester merely papered over the cracks – this Chelsea side are dreadful.<\/p><p>If the club do not address their problems soon, they could miss out on a Champions League spot. Would that be the end of Enzo Maresca?<\/p><p>Overall, both clubs showed poor play quality, and a 1-0 scoreline felt like a fitting reflection of the game.<\/p><p>Champions League race heats up<\/p><p>The best game of the weekend belonged to Manchester City versus Brighton – an entertaining, end-to-end clash where Brighton showed resilience to come from behind twice and snatch a point.<\/p><p>The growing pains continue for Pep Guardiola and his evolving squad, with familiar issues resurfacing.<\/p><p>His wingers continue to struggle in the final third, and Erling Haaland remains starved of service.<\/p><p>Despite this, Haaland made history as the first player in Premier League history to be directly involved in 100 goals (goals + assists) in fewer than 100 games.<\/p><p>While the title race appears to be a foregone conclusion for now, the battle for the remaining Champions League spots is still wide open.<\/p><p>Manchester United’s glimmer of hope<\/p><p>Manchester United carried their winning mentality from Europe into the Premier League as Ruben Amorim’s side secured three points against a woeful Leicester.<\/p><p>Bruno Fernandes was once again the star of the show, providing two assists and scoring a goal.<\/p><p>Amorim will hope this victory sparks a strong finish to the season. There’s improvement to players’ positioning, and recognisable style of play finally – a promising sign for United fans that the club may be on the right track under their new manager.<\/p><p>The win eased some of the pressure on Amorim, shifting media attention toward another struggling London manager – Ange Postecoglou.<\/p><p>Tottenham suffered yet another defeat, bringing their tally to 15 losses this season.<\/p><p>Spurs’ inconsistency continues, and with their league campaign faltering, all their hopes now rest on the Europa League.<\/p><p>If Postecoglou wants to keep his job, winning that competition may be his only option. For a manager who claimed he would win silverware in his second season, finishing trophyless and at the bottom half of the table would be disastrous.<\/p><p>Daniel Levy will surely not tolerate such a decline at Tottenham.<\/p><p>Newcastle’s next step: push for the Champions League?<\/p><p>With the League Cup secured, Newcastle must now turn their attention to the Premier League, FA Cup, and European competitions.<\/p><p>Winning breeds confidence, and this triumph could propel them on a winning run to secure a Champions League spot.<\/p><p>Currently, they sit just two points behind fourth place.<\/p><p>Winning instils belief – and belief can lead to miracles. Will Newcastle ride their momentum into the top four, or is one trophy enough for Eddie Howe’s men this season?<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3806116,"np_article_id":1579029,"article_title":"Can OCM expect a royalty payment from the 2027 SEA Games?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"1578870\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE next 24 months will be crucial for the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) as the umbrella body bid to complete Phase 1 of their new headquarters in time for the country to host the SEA Games in 2027.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"canonical_link\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"37\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-03-16 07:23:35\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-03-16 07:23:35\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"37\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-03-16 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/16\\\/3215534.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2025\/03\/16\/can-ocm-expect-a-royalty-payment-from-the-2027-sea-games","show_image_in_thumb":3215534,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/03\/16\/3215535.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/>THE next 24 months will be crucial for the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) as the umbrella body bid to complete Phase 1 of their new headquarters in time for the country to host the SEA Games in 2027.<\/p><p>Two weeks ago, it was revealed that OCM had entered a land swap deal with leading property developer Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad (MRCB) to build what will be called the Olympic House.<\/p><p>The proposed headquarters will be nestled within the mature landscape of Kuala Lumpur Sports City following a landmark agreement between the OCM and the Malaysian Stadium Corporation (PSM), held shortly after the council’s executive council meeting on March 1.<\/p><p>The new headquarters will bring together sports associations and the sports community under the spirit of togetherness, located beside the National Hockey Stadium, and surrounded by the National Stadium, the National Aquatics Centre, the National Sports Council (NSC), the National Sports Institute (NSI) and the Bukit Jalil Sports School.<\/p><p>Inspired by the IOC House in Lausanne, the Olympic House will be perfectly located at the most appropriate location for OCM to operate from, at the entrance of the KL Sports City, serving as a perfect command centre to all facilities, and easily accessible and in proximity to the public transportation network.<\/p><p>Being in the middle of the national sports hub is key to symbolising the role of the 70-year-old umbrella body as the facilitator for the stakeholders in managing sports and elite athletes for all multi-sports Games, including the Olympics Games.<\/p><p>“The new headquarters explores the sustainability and green building practices including energy-efficient systems, adaptive vegetation method, and water conservation measures to meet the sustainability standards,” said OCM president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria to the media following the landmark signing ceremony.<\/p><p>Norza signed the agreement on behalf of the OCM, while PSM was represented by its CEO, Ilyas Jamil. The Youth and Sports Ministry’s secretary general, Datuk K. Nagulendran and OCM deputy president Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin were witnesses to the historic ceremony.<\/p><p>The signing ceremony was conducted following the Cabinet’s decision to approve the sublease of 5.38 acres of land in Bukit Jalil to OCM for the development of the new Olympic House. In return, OCM will be required to pay RM10mil for the 30-year sub-lease agreement with PSM.<\/p><p>Under a separate arrangement between OCM and MRCB, the latter, known for building environmentally efficient buildings that adhere to international standards, will build the new headquarters in Bukit Jalil and in return transform the present Wisma OCM into a financial hub.<\/p><p>When Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh paid a visit to Wisma OCM two years ago, she was briefed on the history behind the plot of land which was originally awarded to the Council by the Federal Government in September 1978.<\/p><p>The 99-year leasehold expires in August 2077.<\/p><p>The land houses two buildings – the Wisma OCM, completed in 1991 with RM5mil grant from the Government, and the OCM Indoor Sports Complex, declared open by the then Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on Dec 4, 2004, with an additional grant of RM3mil from the Government.<\/p><p>Situated on a 0.73 hectare plot, Wisma OCM is surrounded by the Merdeka Stadium, Chin Woo Stadium and the Basketball Stadium in what used to be the nation’s sports hub.<\/p><p>It comprises a hotel with 150 rooms, three-storey car park, offices, meeting rooms and a multi-purpose indoor hall that provide a revenue stream for OCM. It also houses a sports museum and a restaurant operated by the hotel as the anchor tenant.<\/p><p>But with the construction of PNB Merdeka 118 and the presence of six schools around the present location, OCM are looking at erecting a new home to call their jewel in the crown.<\/p><p>Traditionally, OCM have benefited greatly from the successful staging of the SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur. A portion of the profits from the 1989 edition was bankrolled to build Wisma OCM, while the indoor sports complex was constructed shortly after the triumphant 2001 Games.<\/p><p>As the custodian of multi-sports Games in the country, it does make sense for OCM to be compensated for bringing the SEA Games back to Kuala Lumpur after 10 years.<\/p><p>Organising the Games is expected to derive economic benefits for the country and based on previous practices, OCM may be right in asking for a royalty payment.<\/p><p>Perhaps a waive of the sub-lease payment?<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3805844,"np_article_id":1578525,"article_title":"Pearly-Thinaah show sports is about competing \u2013 and leaning on one another","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"locpdcol140325\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"I LOVE this song \\\"Lean on Me\\\" by Bill Withers. In fact, I like it so much that it has been the ringtone on my handphone for some time now.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"canonical_link\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-03-15 07:38:31\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-03-15 07:38:31\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-03-15 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/15\\\/3214537.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2025\/03\/15\/pearly-thinaah-show-sports-is-about-competing---and-leaning-on-one-another","show_image_in_thumb":3214537,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/03\/15\/3214537.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 169px;\" \/>I LOVE this song “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers. In fact, I like it so much that it has been the ringtone on my handphone for some time now.<\/p><p>It does not just have a catchy beat, but also a lovely chorus that goes: “Lean on me when you’re not strong and I’ll be your friend, I’ll help you to carry on.”<\/p><p>And it was that song that played in my head when Malaysian women’s doubles shuttlers Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah put up a heroic fight in the second-round match in the All-England.<\/p><p>Thinaah became that friend in the song. She almost carried her partner Pearly on her back into the dressing room after their rollercoaster match.<\/p><p>Pearly had injured her ankle while leading 14-7 against Indonesians Apriyani Rahayu-Siti Fadia in Birmingham but she gritted her teeth through the pain as the pair went on to win the match.<\/p><p>Instead of letting her partner walk after the match, Thinaah decided to let Pearly lean on her. She carried her buddy on her back to limit the strain on Pearly’s left foot.<\/p><p>It was almost amusing, but it was also heartwarming and poignant. The scene, in fact, went viral and took some of the pressure off the struggling Malaysian team in Birmingham.<\/p><p>Malaysia had gone to Birmingham with one of the biggest squads but after the first round, only Pearly-Thinaah, Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani (men’s doubles) and Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai Jemie were left standing until the quarter-finals.<\/p><p>Thinaah and Pearly showed that in sport, athletes can weather the storm together with a strong relationship.<\/p><p>Obviously, they have built a special bond - and that can take them far in the sport.<\/p><p>The same, though, can’t be said about those in our local football.<\/p><p>There seem to be more estranged relationships than bonds of friendships.<\/p><p>Different leaders are singing different tunes, although all say they want to raise the standard of Malaysian football.<\/p><p>If only all the heads – from the top to the club level can work together – it could be different.<\/p><p>Right now, we can’t get our clubs sorted out and the local football league is in disarray with unpaid wages, poor pitch etc.<\/p><p>That’s not only it. Several associations have strained relationships, with leaders and athletes at loggerheads and crying foul over biased selections with parents being dragged into it too.<\/p><p>When elections are due, associations are split as more time is spent on politicking instead of spending on the growth of the athletes and sport.<\/p><p>There was a lot of commotion before the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) elections last month, and the noise is picking up ahead of the upcoming Malaysia Athletics Federation (MAF) election too.<\/p><p>Thankfully, it has been quiet ahead of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM)’s elections in April - and that probably could be why the players are finding success.<\/p><p>When the association works well, the sport will too. But you never know, there may be crocodile lurking in the still waters of BAM.<\/p><p>What we need is the right sporting spirit. Many of our athletes, like Pearly-Thinaah, have that spirit.<\/p><p>Remember the 2023 World University Games singles badminton match between the players from China and Uganda in Chengdu, China?<\/p><p>During the match, the Ugandan player’s racquet string snapped and it was his only racquet. His opponent took his own spare racquet and passed it over.<\/p><p>The match resumed and after it was over, the Chinese player told his opponent to keep the racquet.<\/p><p>It was true act of kindness and sportsmanship.<\/p><p>It showed that sportsmen can lean on one another.<\/p><p>We can carry one another’s burden. We can compete but we do not need to have acrimony. That would make the world of sports so much better.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3803969,"np_article_id":1575210,"article_title":"A game of two halves: the race for Europe heats up","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"locefny1103\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/11\\\/a-game-of-two-halves-the-race-for-europe-heats-up\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"ONE cliche of modern football is \\\"a game of two halves,\\\" a phrase you hear almost every week.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"canonical_link\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"28\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-03-11 08:27:11\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-03-11 08:27:10\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"28\"}","publish_time":"2025-03-11 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/11\\\/3207192.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/2025\/03\/11\/a-game-of-two-halves-the-race-for-europe-heats-up","show_image_in_thumb":3207192,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/03\/11\/3207191.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/>ONE cliche of modern football is “a game of two halves,” a phrase you hear almost every week.<\/p><p>But does this highlight the brilliance of a manager’s tactical tweaks or the power of a motivational half-time speech?<\/p><p>Whatever the case, a great half-time team talk can be the difference between winning and losing, especially for a team chasing the Premier League title.<\/p><p>After their ‘smash and grab’ win in Paris, no one expected Liverpool to put in a second poor performance in a row, especially against bottom–of–the–table Southampton at Anfield.<\/p><p>But Arne Slot’s men had a dreadful first half, seemingly taking their eyes off the prize and allowing the team from the South Coast to take a deserved lead into half-time.<\/p><p>With Slot serving his second league match from the stands, it was difficult for him to pass down instructions or make tactical tweaks on the fly. Instead, he had to rely on his half-time team talk to ensure Liverpool extended their lead at the top to 16 points.<\/p><p>A bold triple substitution changed the game and reignited the Reds, who began playing the kind of football expected from a league leader.<\/p><p>Mohamed Salah continued to break records, scoring twice to equal Sergio Aguero’s 184 Premier League goals, with Andy Cole now in sight.<\/p><p>He also set a new Fantasy Premier League record for most points scored in a season. Salah is a machine – both in real life and virtually. With just nine more “Cup finals” remaining, few would bet against Slot’s men securing the title.<\/p><p>It was a game of two halves at Old Trafford as well, where Manchester United took on Arsenal.<\/p><p>The first half was a dismal watch for neutrals, with United sitting deep in a low block – Arsenal’s kryptonite.<\/p><p>Once again, the lack of a natural striker cost the Gunners their title challenge.<\/p><p>Fortunately for the neutral fan, the second half was much livelier, and United could have snatched victory were it not for the heroics of David Raya.<\/p><p>A draw was a fair result, leaving Arsenal 15 points behind the league leaders.<\/p><p>Ruben Amorim may have realised that he cannot yet implement his preferred progressive, attacking football with the current United squad. For now, the counterattack appears to be his best bet.<\/p><p>Bruno Fernandes once again played the role of talisman, rescuing United when they needed him most.<\/p><p>The question now is whether Amorim will build his team around Fernandes next season or stick rigidly to his system – an interesting dilemma for the United boss.<\/p><p>Cole Palmer remains ice-cold, even from the penalty spot, as Chelsea recorded their second win in a row–albeit against a relegation–bound side.<\/p><p>Rumours suggested Palmer was unwell and should not have started, but against Leicester, he had the perfect opportunity to break his goal drought.<\/p><p>Chelsea are now fourth, holding a two–point lead over Manchester City. The question is: Can Enzo Maresca sustain this momentum until the end of the season?<\/p><p>Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth let a two–goal lead slip, missing an opportunity to solidify their push for European qualification.<\/p><p>While the Cherries left the match with two points dropped, Tottenham Hotspur got a glimpse of their potential future manager.<\/p><p>Once again, Bournemouth were set up brilliantly and played scintillating football. Had it not been for VAR, they might have run away with the game.<\/p><p>Nottingham Forest triumphed over Manchester City at the City Ground in a crucial battle for Champions League qualification.<\/p><p>Callum Hudson-Odoi scored the late winner, extending Pep Guardiola’s miserable season. City threatened from the flanks through Jeremy Doku and Savinho, but once again, there was no end product–a recurring theme for Guardiola this season.<\/p><p>The win gave Forest some breathing room in third place, as their closest challengers also secured victories.<\/p><p>Aston Villa are now just two points behind City after Ollie Watkins – yet again – scored against his former club.<\/p><p>Meanwhile, Brighton extended their winning streak to four games following their 7-0 thrashing by Forest.<\/p><p>This is shaping up to be the craziest Champions League race in Premier League history.<\/p><p>Luckily for us fans, the drama is keeping the league entertaining.<\/p><p>With so much at stake, including financial rewards, the first team to blink could end up missing out entirely.<\/p><p>Buckle up – this is going to be a wild ride!<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3802956,"np_article_id":1573400,"article_title":"Women in sports give us reason to celebrate","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"locpdcol070325\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/08\\\/women-in-sports-give-us-reason-to-celebrate\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IT was 15 years ago when I made my first trip to the All-England in 2010.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"canonical_link\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-03-08 13:06:47\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-03-15 07:38:16\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"35\"}","publish_time":"2025-03-08 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/08\\\/3203034.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2025\/03\/08\/women-in-sports-give-us-reason-to-celebrate","show_image_in_thumb":3203034,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IT was 15 years ago when I made my first trip to the All-England in 2010.<\/p><p>I still remember vividly the occasion – it was after all the 100th edition of the oldest badminton tournament in Birmingham.<\/p><p>More memorably, our own Lee Chong Wei went on to win his first All-England title, after so many attempts.<\/p><p>He was focused, determined and took 45 minutes to beat a stubborn Kenichi Tago of Japan in the final. Chong Wei then went on to win three more in the series.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/03\/08\/3203034.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 220px; height: 149px;\" \/><\/p><p>The All-England will again take centrestage next week, with Lee Zii Jia going for his second crown after the first in 2021 while former world champions Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik will be bidding for their first win. They have been on the losing end in two finals so far.<\/p><p>While we have had several winners in the men’s singles, doubles and even the mixed doubles through David Choong, who teamed up with homester June White in 1953, we have never had a Malaysian woman win the All-England.<\/p><p>With today being the International Women’s Day, I guess, one of my hopes is to see a Malaysian woman making it big in the All-England.<\/p><p>Disappointly, though, we don’t even have one representative in the women’s singles in this year’s edition.<\/p><p>Gone are the days when we had stars like Rosalind Singha Ang, Sylvia Ng; the Wong sisters - Mew Choo and Miew Kheng; the Cheah sisters - Lydia and Sonia; Ho Yen Mei, Ng Mee Fen, Tee Jing Yi - fighting for honours.<\/p><p>In fact, even coaches are not staying around to groom the women’s singles players. I wonder why. Jeffer Rosobin of Indonesia has become the latest to leave in a huff, passing on the headache to singles head coach Kenneth Jonassen of Denmark to revive the now dormant department.<\/p><p>But we can still bank on our women’s doubles darlings Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah to blaze their way to glory in Birmingham. The duo have gone through so much, dealing with injuries and high expectations, but they have always strived to achieve greatness.<\/p><p>Hopefully, this coming week, they will bring joy with a gung-ho performance that we have missed for so long. A victory would add to the many accolades our women have won so far, and make this year’s International Women’s Day celebration extra special.<\/p><p>Izzah Izzati Mohd Asri, Nur Alyssa Mohd Farid and Sawda Abdullah turned heads in the cycling scene at the recent Asian Championships.<\/p><p>Izzah swept a double gold in the elite category while Sawda was equally impressive in the junior ranks by winning medals and breaking records.<\/p><p>The girls did well to hog the limelight in the absence of Olympic medal winner Azizulhasni Awang and it augurs well for the future.<\/p><p>Petite Izzah in fact, deserves a special mention for her bravery on the track and her determination to be a medal getter at the next Olympic Games in Los Angeles.<\/p><p>In bowling, Natasha Roslan became the first woman bowler to win the World Cup while Sin Li Jane has raised the image of Malaysia bowling by ruling the professional world in recent times.<\/p><p>Squash star S. Sivasangari too has not lost her fire, starting the year by winning her first title of 2025 by lifting the Cincinnati Gaynor Cup.<\/p><p>Kudos also to water skier Aaliyah Yoong for winning gold for the first time at a world-level tournament - she splashed to three at the World University Games recently.<\/p><p>Much of the credit goes to her father-cum-manager Hanifah Yoong for believing in his daughter’s ability and to continue to throw his full support for her.<\/p><p>But not all men are like Hanifah, who care for their charges.<\/p><p>One former national basketball coach was arrested recently for alleged sexual harassment. Apparently, he has had taken advantage of the girls while teaching the sport in schools. Thank God some had the courage to report him.<\/p><p>I’m glad that Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh is paving the way for safe sport to ensure that every girl has a chance to take part without having to worry about her safety.<\/p><p>Hannah herself has been a good role model for many women sports leaders in the country.<\/p><p>While women’s power and influence used to be very minimal, Hannah and several others have shown that they can make a difference.<\/p><p>Indeed, it has been brilliant so far for females in Malaysian sport. Medal or not, they are all winners, and it’s a good time to celebrate.<\/p><p>> The writer has met many amazing women – and men – in her 28 years in sports journalism who have made a difference in the lives of female athletes. Many women were also behind the success of male athletes. Thank you and a blessed Women’s International Day to these people – you know who you are.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3801165,"np_article_id":1569975,"article_title":"EPL title race is over \u2014 the real battle now is for Europe","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"1569514\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE gap between first and second place is now 13 points. While Arsenal have a game in hand over Liverpool, most experts agree that the title race is heading to Merseyside.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"28\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-03-04 07:22:21\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-03-04 07:22:21\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mohd Shazrin B Mat Shom\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"28\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-03-04 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/04\\\/3195346.jpeg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":1000,\\\"image_original_height\\\":675,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2025\/03\/04\/epl-title-race-is-over---the-real-battle-now-is-for-europe","show_image_in_thumb":3195346,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THE gap between first and second place is now 13 points. While Arsenal have a game in hand over Liverpool, most experts agree that the title race is heading to Merseyside.<\/p><p>With six of Liverpool’s remaining fixtures set to be played at Anfield, fans can expect a victory procession rather than a tense title battle.<\/p><p>With this in mind, and with the FA Cup taking centrestage over the weekend, the drama now lies in the race for European qualification—especially for the Champions League.<\/p><p>The financial rewards from Champions League qualification are crucial for many clubs.<\/p><p>In fact, securing a spot in Europe’s elite competition could be the deciding factor in sustaining long-term competitiveness or being forced to sell players to balance the books.<\/p><p>Next season is the continuation of the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) era, where every penny counts.<\/p><p>The revenue from European qualification might determine whether clubs can keep their star players or will need to offload academy products to stay within financial regulations.<\/p><p>With five Champions League spots available for Premier League teams next season, let’s assess the contenders and why they need qualification more than others.<\/p><p><strong>ARSENAL: A CRUCIAL STEP IN THEIR PROJECT<\/strong><\/p><p>Arsenal hold a six-point lead over Nottingham Forest, and given their remaining fixtures, Mikel Arteta’s side look almost certain to secure a Champions League spot – even without a recognised striker.<\/p><p>With Bukayo Saka set to return in March and the emergence of Ethan<\/p><p>Nwaneri, Arsenal shouldn’t have trouble getting over the line.<\/p><p>Champions League revenue will be vital in strengthening the squad over the summer, especially with Alexander Isak rumoured to be a target.<\/p><p>If Thomas Partey departs in the summer, Arteta will also need to allocate his transfer budget carefully to fill key gaps.<\/p><p><strong>NOTTINGHAM FOREST: A RETURN TO GLORY?<\/strong><\/p><p>For Nottingham Forest, Champions League qualification would be a return to their European royalty status.<\/p><p>With two European Cups to their name, playing in the competition again would be a symbolic triumph.<\/p><p>More importantly, the financial boost from European football could help offset their heavy spending over the past few seasons and allow them to build sustainably.<\/p><p><strong>MANCHESTER CITY: A REBUILD ON THE HORIZON<\/strong><\/p><p>Manchester City need to qualify for the Champions League because a squad rebuild is imminent. While Pep Guardiola made some signings in January, he faces a major challenge in replacing aging players this summer.<\/p><p>The introduction of PSR has restricted City’s ability to spend freely, making Champions League revenue even more essential for their future squad<\/p><p>investments.<\/p><p><strong>CHELSEA: WHO NEEDS IT MORE—BOEHLY OR MARESCA?<\/strong><\/p><p>Does Todd Boehly need Champions League football more, or does Enzo Maresca? At this stage, both do.<\/p><p>Boehly is facing mounting criticism from Chelsea fans, many of whom long<\/p><p>for the stability and success under Roman Abramovich. With speculation that the Ukraine-Russia war could soon end, some fans are even dreaming of Abramovich’s return.<\/p><p>For Maresca, European qualification could be the difference between keeping or losing his job. He knows he’s working under a trigger-happy owner and must outperform his predecessors to secure his position for another season.<\/p><p><strong>NEWCASTLE: HOLDING ON TO THEIR STARS<\/strong><\/p><p>Newcastle must qualify for the Champions League if they hope to keep their top players. Without it, they risk losing key names like Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon, and Bruno Guimaraes, as Champions League clubs come calling.<\/p><p>The fans want silverware, but for the club’s management, financial stability under PSR is the bigger priority.<\/p><p><strong>BOURNEMOUTH: THE HIPSTER CHOICE<\/strong><\/p><p>A neutral favourite, the Cherries qualifying for Europe would be a fitting end to the incredible season they are having. It would also shine a brighter spotlight on Andoni Iraola while showcasing to the footballing world that smart scouting and strategic acquisitions are the way to run a club successfully.<\/p><p>The money from European qualification could add depth to the current squad. Also, securing a European spot would serve as validation for the club’s data science and analytics team, who have worked tirelessly to identify the players thriving in the league.<\/p><p><strong>ASTON VILLA: AVOIDING FINANCIAL PENALTIES<\/strong><\/p><p>Aston Villa may sit in 10th place, but they are just four points behind Chelsea, meaning they are still in the hunt for European football.<\/p><p>Villa need Champions League qualification more than most because of their heavy spending in recent seasons, particularly on wages.<\/p><p>Their wage-to-revenue ratio currently sits at 95%, dangerously close to violating European financial regulations. Champions League revenue could be their lifeline to avoiding potential penalties.<\/p><p>Fortunately for fans, while the title race seems all but over, the battle for European qualification is heating up.<\/p><p>With just a handful of points separating 10th place from the final European spot, expect plenty of drama in the remaining 11 games of the season.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3801143,"np_article_id":1569968,"article_title":"Newly-appointed NSI head Vellapandian knows the drill","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"1569037\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"LIFE has often been likened to a marathon - a long journey that requires resilience, will-power and endurance.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-03-04 07:02:41\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-03-04 07:02:40\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mohd Shazrin B Mat Shom\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-03-04 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/03\\\/04\\\/3195334.jpeg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":1000,\\\"image_original_height\\\":658,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2025\/03\/04\/newly-appointed-nsi-head-vellapandian-knows-the-drill","show_image_in_thumb":3195334,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>LIFE has often been likened to a marathon - a long journey that requires resilience, will-power and endurance.<\/p><p>The marathon runner ultimately decides his or her own destiny – whether to conserve energy for a strong finish, jog through the pain or beat the odds and other obstacles to cross over the line.<\/p><p>For newly-appointed chief executive officer of the National Sports Institute (NSI), P. Vellapandian who is an avid marathon runner, he is expected to pace himself in his new capacity.<\/p><p>His appointment was announced by the NSI board chairman Datuk Marina Chin, herself a former poster girl in athletics in the 70s.<\/p><p>“Vellapandian brings over two decades of experience in the fields of sports science, sports psychology, research, and the development of athlete performance,” she said, according to Bernama.<\/p><p>“His expertise in high-performance athlete development, sports psychology, and elite sports programme management will contribute to driving NSI to a higher level in support of national sports excellence.”<\/p><p>Vellapandian, who turns 56 in August, previously served as the CEO of the Malaysian Youth Development Research Institute (IYRES) under the Youth and Sports Ministry.<\/p><p>His previous roles at NSI included key posts such as director of the Sports Performance Division and head of the Podium Programme.<\/p><p>Vellapandian, who hails from Sungai Petani, Kedah, holds a PhD in Sports Psychology from the University of Western Australia, along with a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in sports science from local universities.<\/p><p>He succeeds Ahmad Faedzal Md Ramli, an avid athlete himself and member of the administrative and diplomatic corp, who sadly lost his father Md Ramli Ahmad on the same day he clocked out of NSI.<\/p><p>Faedzal brought various transformations in sports science, sports medicine, and the development of national athletes throughout his tenure of which he served under four Sports Ministers – Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu and Hannah Yeoh.<\/p><p>He reports for duty as the Undersecretary of the International Division at the Sports Ministry yesterday.<\/p><p>Vellapandian is expected to bring a fresh perspective on NSI, having served in several Malaysian contingents, including as deputy chef de mission for 2018 Asian Games and head of sports science and medicine 2017 for SEA Games and 2016 Rio Paralympics.<\/p><p>Having also served under four CEOs before, Vellapandian understands the expectations heaped upon NSI as a service provider expected to produce the marginal gains for our elite athletes.<\/p><p>Interestingly, Vellapandian is only the third sports scientist to be heading the NSI, after Jabar Johari who was on secondment in 1993-94 and Mohd Khairi Zawi, a sports biomechanics and human control expert who served from 2015 to 2018.<\/p><p>The NSI have evolved from a sports medical department based in Kampung Baru headed by medical doctors such as Dr Ronnie Yeo, Datuk Dr Noordin Darus, Dr Ahmad Fauzi Zakaria and Datuk Dr Ramlan Abdul Aziz, into a sports science and medical giant with a building to call their own.<\/p><p>Vellapandian’s appointment came at the appropriate time, for the NSI bore the brunt of criticism from the stakeholders in the 2024 Paris Olympics post-mortem.<\/p><p>They raised their concerns on the lack of sports psychologists, a dedicated team for certain sports and detailed performance analyses on elite athletes.<\/p><p>But for Dr Ramlan, he believes Vellapandian knows the drill.<\/p><p>“He went to pursue his PhD in Perth under my watch then. Having been part of the NSI family for many years, he knows the drill. I wish him the best in his endeavours,” said Dr Ramlan.<\/p><p>Vellapandian still runs half-marathons under two hours and is able to complete a 10km run under 50 minutes.<\/p><p>But his immediate attention now is naturally to find ways to best serve the national sports associations and facilitate the process in optimising the performance of athletes and coaches.<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3799722,"np_article_id":1567369,"article_title":"Inaugural TGL season hits high marks as golf broadens its horizon","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"1566942\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, At full swing, Chuah Choo Chiang\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"TGL (team golf league), backed by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, are making some impressive reading.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":746,\"columns\":\"746_1691708057\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"33\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-28 08:13:32\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-28 08:13:31\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"33\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-28 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/28\\\/3189696.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":421,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/at-full-swing\/2025\/02\/28\/inaugural-tgl-season-hits-high-marks-as-golf-broadens-its-horizon","show_image_in_thumb":3189696,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>TGL (team golf league), backed by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, are making some impressive reading.<\/p><p>The inaugural league, the indoor simulator league with the rotating green, presented by SoFi, is approaching its climax this season with a week to go, and there have been many positives.<\/p><p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/28\/3189695.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 197px;\" \/><\/p><p>Let me highlight a few.<\/p><p>Star power, entertainment value, great golf, eye-catching virtual holes – check.<\/p><p> Impressive TV ratings, smooth delivery of sophisticated tech, fun and buzz for in-person fans – check.<\/p><p>Strong buy-in from a wide range of investors, nimble management and full backing from PGA Tour – check.<\/p><p>Six weeks on from its highly-anticipated launch – TGL has proven to be additive to golf’s landscape and a massive success story.<\/p><p>“It’s just a different form of golf,” said two-time Major winner Justin Thomas, whose Atlanta Drive team have secured a spot in the playoffs.<\/p><p>McIlroy, whose Boston Common team includes Japanese star Hideki Matsuyama, added: “I think people have enjoyed watching it on TV. There’s nowhere I can go that people aren’t talking to me about it.”<\/p><p>For sports fans in Asia, TGL is broadcast live primarily on Tuesday and or Wednesday mornings, which makes for easy viewing on TV or a device for those who skip work!<\/p><p>The transformative league comprises six teams (four players each) which are owned by some of the USA’s biggest sports franchise owners and A-list celebrities.<\/p><p>They include Stephen Curry and Serena Williams plus Steve Cohen (owner of New York Mets), Arthur Blank (owner of Atlanta Falcons) and Fenway Sports Group (owners of Boston Red Sox and Liverpool).<\/p><p>With Mike McCarley, a long-time media executive, serving as chief executive officer of TMRW Sports and with Woods and McIlroy co-founders of the venture, TGL is taking small but confident steps – in showcasing a unique, engaging and exciting product that is so refreshing and different from the traditional 72-hole individual competitions.<\/p><p>Each TGL match is played over 15 holes – chosen from 30 original and frankly, mind-blowing creations by three companies including Nicklaus Design – with an emphasis on risk-reward and stunning visuals.<\/p><p>The Spear, The Lava, On the Rocks and Boomerang are amongst the virtual holes created to test the players in the purpose-built, and tech-laden SoFi Center on the campus of Palm Beach State College in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.<\/p><p>Golfers hit their tee shots and approach shots in the ScreenZone, off real grass or sand, from 35 yards out into a giant, five-story simulator screen with state-of-the-art technology that is more than 24x larger than the standard golf simulator.<\/p><p>Within approximately 50 yards, players move into the GreenZone, a specially-built short game area which has a 41 yard wide rotating putting surface with the technology under the green to change the undulation of the greens.<\/p><p>The first nine holes are played in triples format – each team member hits a shot in sequence – before going into the Singles format (1 vs 1) over the last six holes.<\/p><p>The one fun twist is “The Hammer” which, when an orange towel is thrown by any team or player, can make a hole worth two points.<\/p><p>There’s no messing about as players are on a Shot Clock to ensure they rip shots into the giant screen or hit a shot within the short game area inside of 40 seconds, and each match lasts approximately two hours.<\/p><p>Inside SoFi Centre there are 73 camera sources capturing the action including 20 robotic ones and 10 in the virtual world.<\/p><p>Included are six full swing monitors at both the front and back tee boxes, and six additional ones below a slope closer to the giant screen.<\/p><p>TV ratings have been above expectations – averaging 765,000 viewers across the six prime time matches on ESPN with three of the matches reaching a peak audience of 1.2 million viewers. <\/p><p>Additionally, the TGL audience is one of the youngest in sports with 42%  of its audience in the advertiser-coveted adult 18-49  demographic.<\/p><p> There are no gimmicks in TGL, and the format makes the matches compelling, and golfers being golfers, they have taken the competition seriously and the mic-ed up feature for every player provides for interesting insights and thrash-talking.<\/p><p>\u2028Nearly every golfer in TGL has also commented on how much fun they had been having playing TGL.<\/p><p>The regular season concludes on March 4, followed by the semi-final playoff series on March 17 and 18 and a best-of-three Finals series for the SoFi Cup on March 24 and 25.<\/p><p>If you’ve not seen TGL yet, don’t get left behind. It’s fun.<\/p>","author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_byline":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_tags":"","author_id":746,"kicker_name":"At Full Swing","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/at-full-swing?bycat=746_1691708057","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/746.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002695,"np_author_id":746,"author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/746.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"At Full Swing\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"true\",\"forweb_status\":\"true\",\"column_key\":\"746_1691708057\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3797644,"np_article_id":1563453,"article_title":"Why the govt owes football a bail-out package of RM150mil","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"locrzcol230225\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"A few years ago, Tan Sri Dr Mohd Daud Bakar and Rosle Md Derus were not likely to cross paths.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"36\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-23 07:33:02\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-23 07:33:02\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mohd Shazrin B Mat Shom\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"36\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-23 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/23\\\/3180672.jpeg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":1000,\\\"image_original_height\\\":658,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2025\/02\/23\/why-the-govt-owes-football-a-bail-out-package-of-rm150mil","show_image_in_thumb":3180672,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>A few years ago, Tan Sri Dr Mohd Daud Bakar and Rosle Md Derus were not likely to cross paths.<\/p><p>With Dr Mohd Daud making a name for himself as a financial adviser for various institutions, including the National Bank of Oman (Oman), Amundi Asset Management (France), Bank of London and Middle East (London), BNP Paribas Najma (Bahrain), Natixis Bank (Dubai), Morgan Stanley (Dubai), Sedco Capital (Saudi and Luxembourg) and Dow Jones Islamic Market Index (New York) amongst many others, the chances of him interacting with Rosle, a former footballer earning a living as a coach, were slim at best.<\/p><p>That was until Dr Mohd Daud decided to diversify his interest into football. Hence their fates were intertwined.<\/p><p>For all his expertise in the world of financing, which Dr Mohd Daud has been generous in sharing his vast knowledge on various platforms including television, radio and books or publications, investing in football as the major shareholder of Kedah Darulaman FC is perhaps his Waterloo.<\/p><p>Was he not told that football has little returns on investment?<\/p><p>Last month, Dr Mohd Daud made an emotional plea on the club’s social media account, asking those in the state to ease his burden. It includes owing the likes of Rosle, formerly KDA FC’s Under-23 head coach, to a tune of slightly over RM100,000.<\/p><p>On Friday, Dr Mohd Daud announced the appointment of three local ambassadors Iqbal Mohd Noor (CEO Batu), Mohd Irshad Shafiq (CEO Bieziy) and Hanifah Md Hanafiah (Black Hanifah), who have nearly 2.3 million followers combined on TikTok.<\/p><p>The three of them will be tasked to whip up the interest, attend matches and attract more fans to the stadium.<\/p><p>Strategic partnerships or ambassadors are not the answer to KDA FC’s woes. KDA FC are not alone in coping with the crippling effect that started two decades ago, when the Government flashed the red card to tobacco money.<\/p><p>Football, including FA of Malaysia as the custodians of the game, paid dearly for Malaysia’s obligations under the World Health Organisation’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) that enforces the ban on tobacco’s advertising and sponsorship.<\/p><p>For more than three decades, football in Malaysia was fuelled by the tobacco money, with FAM getting almost RM40 million per annum to run the league and the national teams.<\/p><p>Not a single government linked company or multi-national giant could match the amount until broadcaster Astro came into the picture to finance a major portion of FAM’s budget from 2010 to 2014.<\/p><p>In 2005, for example, FAM only managed to bring in RM19,494,425, with Telekom<\/p><p>Malaysia contributing a mere RM8.5 million as opposed to almost RM40 million from tobacco money alone.<\/p><p>FAM’s source of income declined drastically from 2005 to 2010, with an average of a mere RM13 million per year from various sources.<\/p><p>For five years, FAM suffered a conservative estimated loss of up to RM150 million through no fault of theirs but to which the Malaysia Government had never directly compensated for.<\/p><p>With the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s affinity with football, FAM may consider convincing the Government to utilise the so-called “sin taxes” – levies on tobacco, alcohol, and gaming that run into billions as well as the excise duty imposed on sugar-sweetened beverages.<\/p><p>In a written parliamentary reply by the then Finance Minister, Lim Guan Eng in 2019, the sin tax collected from tobacco products was worth RM4.4 billion and RM3.6 billion from alcohol sales.<\/p><p>Simple arithmetic suggests the domestic football industry require a special financial package from the Government to rescue a league that is considered as seriously ill by the new FAM president, Datuk Mohd Joehari Mohd Ayub.<\/p><p>Exclude the Government’s previous and present investments on development, such as the Harimau Muda projects or the National Football Development Plan ( DP), but focus on offering a bail-out package to rescue the likes of KDA FC and Perlis FA, so that the likes of Rosle and many others can earn a living or at least be given what is due to them.<\/p><p>The challenge is to convert them into palatable solution so that the financial quagmire is settled once and for all.<\/p><p>The league can then can start afresh using “clean” money.<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3797434,"np_article_id":1562990,"article_title":"It\u2019s time to awaken men pros quiet golfing scene by \u2018putting\u2019 more money into it","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"locthsay21225\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"sport, box, say what\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/22\\\/its-time-to-awaken-men-pros-quiet-golfing-scene-by-putting-more-money-into-it\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"MALAYSIA have plenty of good golf courses but sadly, when it comes to professional men competitions, the scenes are not thriving.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":615,\"columns\":\"615_1605851998\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-22 12:18:57\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-22 12:18:57\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Martin Ignatius\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"35\"}","publish_time":"2025-02-22 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/22\\\/3179804.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/2025\/02\/22\/its-time-to-awaken-men-pros-quiet-golfing-scene-by-putting-more-money-into-it","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>MALAYSIA have plenty of good golf courses but sadly, when it comes to professional men competitions, the scenes are not thriving.<\/p><p>Now, why is that?<\/p><p>The Asian Tour have an open slot for takers to host tournaments from the April to May window but there is still no news as to whether we will host the prestigious Malaysian Open.<\/p><p>It does not appear to be so unless the organisers, Malaysian Golf Association, can get a big corporate sponsor to step in.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/22\/3179804.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 200px; height: 132px;\" \/><\/p><p>MGA thought it had hit the jackpot when IRS Prima signed up for a three-year deal with the national body to host the Malaysian Open last year but the tournament had hit a snag.<\/p><p>The funds did not come in and the Asian Tour had to help bail out the organisers since it was the co-sanction party.<\/p><p>A year has passed and MGA are still awaiting payment as promised.<\/p><p>It is certainly a sad reflection of the tournament, which was one of the oldest Opens in Asia, but its prestige has plummeted since the mid-2000s, and it failed to attract sponsors between 2016 and 2019.<\/p><p>It returned in 2020 as the Bandar Malaysian Open at the Kota Permai Golf & Country Club from March 5-7. There were no tournaments from 2021-2023 due to Covid-19 and difficulties in finding a sponsor.<\/p><p>The Malaysian Open aside, even the domestic professional golf Tour also suffered a setback when Toyota pulled out this year.<\/p><p>Toyota had been the title sponsor for the last two years, rebranding the event as Toyota Tour, giving a platform for the local pros to strut their stuff.<\/p><p>But the livelihood of the local pros took a beating with the recent scrapping. Unless the Professional Golf Malaysia (PGM) can find a replacement, the golfing scenes for men golfers here could well be buried in the bunkers.<\/p><p>It looks like PGM may have to run their own but they may reduce the number of stops on the calendar depending on the money in their coffers.<\/p><p>They should make an announcement before end of this month and that at least will give the local pros something to look forward to.<\/p><p>As it stands, Vietnam SEA Games gold medallist Ervin Chang is the only Malaysian golfer who managed to earn a full season playing card on the Asian Tour this year.<\/p><p>The other Malaysian pros will either have to wait for vacant exemption spots on the Asian Tour or Asian Development Tour.<\/p><p>The nation’s No. 1 golfer Gavin Kyle Green at least retained his European Tour playing rights but he is still seeking to end his title drought.<\/p><p>It is a more healthy scene for the women as the Maybank Championship will remain as the nation’s biggest golf championship.<\/p><p>And not only that, it offers slots for Malaysians and also Asean golfers - pros or amateurs - to play in the big stage.<\/p><p>The experience gained from playing a tournament alongside the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) stars is certainly invaluable.<\/p><p>Mirabel Ting is a case in point. The Sarawak-born teenager made the nation proud when she finished tied for 12th in her first LPGA-sanctioned tournament here in Kuala Lumpur last year.<\/p><p>Mirabel is part of the new batch of Malaysian women golfers who is showing great promise of blazing the greens.<\/p><p>She is only 19 but has already made a big impact on the US women’s collegiate golf scene having won five individual titles so far.<\/p><p>Mirabel, who bagged her fifth title at the Collegiate Invitational at Guadalajara Country Club earlier this month, is currently ranked third in the world - the highest ranking by a Malaysian golfer in either pro or amateur ranks. There is also Ashley Lau, Ng Jing Xuen and Liyana Durisic looking to uplift the nation’s reputation on the international stage.<\/p><p>The one thing they certainly welcome more than anything is sponsorship to take care of their travelling and competition needs.<\/p><p>To awaken the dead golfing scene for the men, we need more sponsors to step in.<\/p><p>Are you game for it Malaysian companies?<\/p><p>Let’s bring life and create a buzz at the golf courses. That will surely motivate more local golfers to shine.<\/p><p> <\/p>","author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","article_byline":"Lim Teik Huat","article_tags":"","author_id":615,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=615_1605851998","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/615.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002621,"np_author_id":615,"author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/615.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"615_1605851998\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"section_id\":0,\"author_title\":\"\",\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3795802,"np_article_id":1559331,"article_title":"Arsenal\u2019s tactical gamble, Liverpool\u2019s struggles and City\u2019s new star","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"RTR2025_KCN3F10DC\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/a-winning-factor\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/18\\\/arsenals-tactical-gamble-liverpools-struggles-and-citys-new-star\"],\"origin\":[\"RTR2025_KCN3F10DC\"],\"agency\":[\"Reuters\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"EVERY footballer dreams of playing as a striker or forward growing up.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"off\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"off\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0,\\\"LANGUAGE\\\":0,\\\"PUBLISH_STATUS\\\":0,\\\"BODY_SUMMARY\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"ENTITYQUEUES\\\":\\\"\\\"},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"28\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-18 08:22:57\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-18 10:58:58\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mahandran Sonmugam\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"28\"}","publish_time":"2025-02-18 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/18\\\/3173243.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":1413,\\\"image_original_height\\\":823,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2025\/02\/18\/arsenals-tactical-gamble-liverpools-struggles-and-citys-new-star","show_image_in_thumb":3173243,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/18\/3173246.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/>EVERY footballer dreams of playing as a striker or forward growing up.<\/p><p>You’d be lying if you said you wanted to grow up playing as a defender – because no one does.<\/p><p>As Jamie Carragher famously put it, “No one grows up wanting to be a right-back!” The striker’s role is the glamour position, receiving all the praise and accolades for scoring goals. Consider the Ballon d’Or: strikers consistently dominate this prestigious football award.<\/p><p>So, when the opportunity arose, Mikel Merino seized it with both hands.<\/p><p>Mikel Arteta, seeking a game-changer to break the deadlock in Arsenal’s match against Leicester, thrust Merino, a midfielder, into the centre-forward position.<\/p><p>The attacking trio of Raheem Sterling, Leandro Trossard, and Ethan Nwaneri had failed to make an impact, leaving Arsenal fans fearing their title challenge was in jeopardy.<\/p><p>With Kai Havertz ruled out for the season, the Gunners lacked a true centreforward.<\/p><p>Cometh the hour, cometh Merino. The Spaniard stepped up in the 81st minute, giving Arsenal the lead before sealing the victory with a second goal just three minutes before full time.<\/p><p>His brace cut Liverpool’s lead at the top to four points by the end of Saturday.<\/p><p>Could this tactical masterstroke from Arteta be the solution Arsenal desperately needs? Can Merino be the striker Arsenal fans have been craving, or was this just a one-off against Leicester?<\/p><p>Time will tell, but for now, Arsenal supporters will savour the three points that could have easily been just one.<\/p><p>Liverpool, however, restored their seven-point lead at the top with a win over relegation-threatened Wolves at Anfield on Sunday.<\/p><p>For Arne Slot, the result mattered more than the performance, especially with his squad still recovering from a midweek 2-2 draw with Everton.<\/p><p>Some might argue that Liverpool are showing signs of struggle, grinding out results rather than dominating matches.<\/p><p>David Moyes seems to have cracked the code to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm – stop Ryan Gravenberch from receiving the ball, and you’re halfway there.<\/p><p>The Reds were so ineffective in the second half that they failed to register a single shot on target.<\/p><p>If this form continues, Aston Villa and Manchester City will be licking their lips ahead of their upcoming clashes with Liverpool.<\/p><p>Has the pressure of the title race started to affect Slot?<\/p><p>Meanwhile, all eyes were on Manchester City’s clash with Newcastle, as Erling Haaland (second in the Golden Boot race) faced off against Alexander Isak (fourth in the standings).<\/p><p>But to everyone’s surprise, it was Omar Marmoush who stole the show. The Egyptian forward netted a first half hattrick, becoming only the second Egyptian – after Mohamed Salah – to achieve such a feat in the Premier League.<\/p><p>City were relentless from the first whistle, executing Pep Guardiola’s tactical plan to perfection.<\/p><p>Eddie Howe, meanwhile, will be bitterly disappointed, as his team failed to show any fight at the Etihad.<\/p><p>Newcastle missed a golden opportunity to climb into fourth place, especially with Chelsea and Nottingham Forest dropping points.<\/p><p>The race for the Champions League spots remains wide open and could provide one of the season’s most thrilling subplots.<\/p><p>Chelsea’s freefall continued as Enzo Maresca’s men suffered their second defeat to Brighton in just 10 days.<\/p><p>Once a title contender in December, Chelsea have now dropped out of the automatic Champions League places, putting Maresca under intense scrutiny.<\/p><p>Has the league figured out how to neutralise Cole Palmer, or is there a deeper issue that needs addressing?<\/p><p>Goal of the week? That honour belongs to Kaoru Mitoma! His stunning strike was a masterclass in skill over physicality – a reminder that technique, rather than brute strength, can still shine at the highest level of the Premier League.<\/p><p>As the season enters its crucial phase, the fixture list is becoming relentless. Some teams will play four matches in the next 12 days.<\/p><p>At this stage, squad rotation is paramount for clubs chasing the title or a Champions League spot.<\/p><p>Managing player fatigue could be the difference between securing three points or settling for just one.<\/p><p>In a season as tightly contested as this, fine margins will determine who comes out on top.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3795034,"np_article_id":1557912,"article_title":"Opportunity for deadly combo to make transition into the boardroom","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/on-the-line\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/16\\\/opportunity-for-deadly-combo-to-make-transition-into-the-boardroom\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IN other parts of the world, former athletes are celebrated as cerebral figures with the clout to effect changes, long after they have retired.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"37\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-16 07:30:49\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-16 09:23:37\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mahandran Sonmugam\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"37\"}","publish_time":"2025-02-16 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/16\\\/3169627.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2025\/02\/16\/opportunity-for-deadly-combo-to-make-transition-into-the-boardroom","show_image_in_thumb":3169627,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/16\/3169627.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 165px;\" \/>IN other parts of the world, former athletes are celebrated as cerebral figures with the clout to effect changes, long after they have retired.<\/p>\r\r<p>A few made the transition from the dressing room to the boardroom with ease and panache.<\/p>\r\r<p>Some may not be so lucky.<\/p>\r\r<p>In Malaysia, it is rare for footballers of legendary stature to be elected into office at the national governing body, let alone be installed among the upper echelons of the FA of Malaysia (FAM).If Datuk Soh Chin Ann was an appointed executive committee member in 2007, the likes of Datuk Seri Azzuddin Ahmad and Datuk Dell Akbar Hyder Khan served as the general secretary in the 2000s, while former international Rosli Hussain was the deputy general secretary.<\/p>\r\r<p>Datuk Dollah Salleh and Datuk Zainal Abidin Hassan have again blazed the trail.<\/p>\r\r<p>At one time a deadly duo on the pitch, they are now officially among the decision-makers in the perennially beleaguered association.<\/p>\r\r<p>Dollah has earned a rare distinction of being the first player and former national coach to be elected as vice-president of FAM in the FAM congress yesterday.<\/p>\r\r<p>Along with two new faces \u2013 Perak\u2019s Datuk Mohd Azhar Jamaluddin and Negri Sembilan\u2019s N. Saaran \u2013 Dollah is expected to be given a key role for the 2025-2029 term.<\/p>\r\r<p>Kelantan\u2019s Datuk Seri Rosmadi Ismail has retained his seat from the previous term.<\/p>\r\r<p>Rosmadi and Azhar secured the highest number of votes with 17 each, followed by Dollah with 16 and Saaran with 13.<\/p>\r\r<p>Traditionally, the vice-presidents of FAM are tasked to head key committees in the committee-based structure.<\/p>\r\r<p>Rosmadi, in the previous term, was the chairman of the futsal and beach football committee.<\/p>\r\r<p>The competitions committee were previously headed by Mohd Firdaus Mohamed, who this time could not garner enough nominations to go for the deputy presidency, comfortably paving the way for incumbents, Datuk Mohd Yusoff Mahadi and Datuk S. Sivasundaram, to return unopposed.<\/p>\r\r<p>Newly-installed FAM president, Datuk Mohd Joehari Mohd Ayub, served as the status committee chairman in his previous post as the vice-president from 2021-2025, taking punitive measures against teams saddled with unpaid wages.<\/p>\r\r<p>Interestingly, both Dollah and Zainal share a similar career trajectory.<\/p>\r\r<p>From becoming the scourge of defenders on the domestic and international front to being respected and victorious tacticians, Dollah and Zainal made the successful transition into coaching.<\/p>\r\r<p>For many years, Dollah was Johor\u2019s shortest route to goals. At the age of 25 in 1988, he made the decision to join Selangor, which led to the three-year ban by Johor, later reduced to six month and declared valid only in the State by the High Court.<\/p>\r\r<p>Flanked by Zainal and Fandi Ahmad, Dollah was a member of the much-vaunted triumvirate of the Pahang dream team that lifted four Cups in 1992 under former Manchester United assistant coach, Mike Brown.<\/p>\r\r<p>As key members of the national set-up, Dollah and Zainal served under a number of coaches, including Mohamad Bakar, Josef Venglos, Trevor Hartley, Rahim Abdullah, Ken Worden, Claude Le Roy and Wan Jamak Wan Hassan, counting winning the SEA Games gold medal in Kuala Lumpur in 1989, Merdeka Tournament and Jakarta Anniversary Cup in 1993 as the highlights of their career.<\/p>\r\r<p>For those who grew up in the 1980s, Dollah\u2019s long range left-footed shot that earned a famous win over South Korea in a pre-World Cup tie at the Merdeka Stadium in March, 1985 remains one of Malaysia\u2019s greatest ever international goals.<\/p>\r\r<p>Dollah\u2019s Midas touch was evident even before he hung up his boots for good. As a player-cum-coach, he brought Selangor MPPJ to the Malaysia Cup title in 2003 and two years later, charted a successful season for Selangor as Bambang Pamungkas and Co wreaked havoc en route to another Malaysia Cup victory for Dollah.In 2014, Dollah was called upon to deliver the goods as the national team supremo, taking Harimau Malaya to the AFF Cup runners-up title.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, his stint ended in disastrous fashion following the 10-0 humiliation by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a World Cup qualifying match in Abu Dhabi in 2015.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now the deadly duo \u2013 with Dollah as a vice-president flanked by Zainal as an executive committee member \u2013 will be directly involved in the decision-making process that could make or break Malaysian football.<\/p>\r\r<p>An unenviable task indeed.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3794698,"np_article_id":1557357,"article_title":"Poser over scoring format and shocker as no women in high earners\u2019 list","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/15\\\/poser-over-scoring-format-and-shocker-as-no-women-in-high-earners-list\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"ALL eyes will be on two badminton tournaments at home - the Under-18 National Championships in Penang from April 23-27 and the Malaysian International Challenge in Ipoh from Aug 12-17.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-15 07:11:33\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-15 07:48:55\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mohd Shazrin B Mat Shom\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"35\"}","publish_time":"2025-02-15 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/15\\\/3168528.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2025\/02\/15\/poser-over-scoring-format-and-shocker-as-no-women-in-high-earners-list","show_image_in_thumb":3168528,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>ALL eyes will be on two badminton tournaments at home - the Under-18 National Championships in Penang from April 23-27 and the Malaysian International Challenge in Ipoh from Aug 12-17.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/15\/3168561.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 207px;\" \/>Why? Because our juniors will be experimenting with a new badminton scoring format.<\/p>\r\r<p>Early last week we were startled by a surprise announcement by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) that they would be yet again testing out another scoring format.<\/p>\r\r<p>They want to make the game more engaging and interesting. Well, haven\u2019t we heard that before!<\/p>\r\r<p>The players will be put through a 3 x 15 rally scoring format with a 21-point cap.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s a best-of-three game, each played to 15 points with a mid-game interval at the eighth point. If the score reaches 14-14, a player must win by two points and it can run up to a maximum 21 points.<\/p>\r\r<p>This test will run for six months from April to October and will also be experimented during selected Continental Championships and all the lower-grade tournaments like International Challenge, International Series and Future Series.<\/p>\r\r<p>Surprisingly, the Asian Championships in April, which is a continental event, will not use the new format, and are planning to stick to the old. Are the Asian badminton community saying that they are not keen on this newer format?<\/p>\r\r<p>Is this a format preferred by the Europeans?<\/p>\r\r<p>The big question though is, do we need another change?<\/p>\r\r<p>All change is uncomfortable but are all changes good?<\/p>\r\r<p>Didn\u2019t the world body beat their chest and declare that badminton was one of the sports that had high views during the last two Olympic Games \u2013 Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 ?<\/p>\r\r<p>Have we not engaged more fans? And is not badminton interesting and keeping fans at the edge of their seats? Or are the world body threatened with the rise of other sports like pickleball and paddle?<\/p>\r\r<p>BWF, however, justified it by saying that this change would be a perfect balance between the 5x11 tested before and 3x21 currently being used. The sport started with the traditional 3x15 several decades ago that uses service over, where our former legends like Eddy Choong, Tan Aik Huang, Datuk Punch Gunalan, Misbun Sidek, and Jalani-Razif Sidek used to thrive.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cBWF Council believe the 3 x 15 (rally scoring) system best balances the key criteria and principles as follows: more exciting points, including more \u2018close\u2019 matches; getting to more exciting points sooner; and shorter matches, better scheduling, keeping fan interest, player\u2019s health and longevity,\u201d read the world body\u2019s statement released on Feb 3 on their website.<\/p>\r\r<p>How can there be better scheduling and better health and longevity for players when the format is changed but the number of tournaments remain the same, with top players subjected to playing in compulsory tournaments?<\/p>\r\r<p>Didn\u2019t the players complain about the hectic schedule, mental health and injury worry? It\u2019s a different story if the world body are paying millions to their players like tennis does.<\/p>\r\r<p>Then, the players can afford to hire professionals and fitness experts to take care of their well being.<\/p>\r\r<p>A decision on this scoring format will be made by the world body during the BWF Annual General Meeting in April 2026.<\/p>\r\r<p>And if they do change to a newer version \u2013 two years of the four-year Olympic cycle will be wasted. Top players will have to scramble to adopt and adapt to the 3x15 format in just one year to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>While I\u2019m quite hesitant with a change in the scoring format, I\u2019m all for a change in the prize money, salary and endorsements paid to women athletes.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was appalling to discover that there was not even one sportswoman in the top 100 based on the income earned by all athletes last season, according to sports industry news site Sportico.<\/p>\r\r<p>The top five earners were footballer Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal (US$260mil), Golden State Warriors basketball guard Stephen Curry (US$153.8 mil), British boxer Tyson Fury (US$147mil), Inter Miami\u2019s Argentina captain Lionel Messi (US$135 mil) and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (US$133.2 million).<\/p>\r\r<p>Tennis player Coco Gauff was the top-earning female with a total of US$30.4 mil at the 101st position.<\/p>\r\r<p>In Malaysia, though, both men and women athletes are not high-earners with probably only badminton and footballers getting more compared to the others.<\/p>\r\r<p>Hopefully, a wider pool of athletes can earn big bucks through salaries, prize money and endorsements.<\/p>\r\r<p>And let\u2019s hope that the BWF will also look at ways to increase the prize money for the shuttlers on the world circuit than wasting their time or money in testing scoring formats.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3792229,"np_article_id":1552782,"article_title":"When athletes are being threatened by persons of authorities","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"UP until November 2024, out of the 121 cases reported to the Malaysian Athlete, Career and Education (MACE) Unit at the National Sports Council (NSC) since the Safe Sports Code was launched almost two years ago, the bulk of it did not centre on allegations of sexual misconduct.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"36\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-09 07:21:15\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-09 07:21:14\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mohd Shazrin B Mat Shom\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"36\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-09 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/09\\\/3158459.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2025\/02\/09\/when-athletes-are-being-threatened-by-persons-of-authorities","show_image_in_thumb":3158459,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>UP until November 2024, out of the 121 cases reported to the Malaysian Athlete, Career and Education (MACE) Unit at the National Sports Council (NSC) since the Safe Sports Code was launched almost two years ago, the bulk of it did not centre on allegations of sexual misconduct.<\/p>\r\r<p>Speaking in the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) Podcast recently, Melissa Mohd Akhir, Safe Sports Consultant at MACE, made a surprise revelation.<\/p>\r\r<p>The lawyer disclosed that a majority of the cases centred on abuse of power by persons of authority in matters relating to selection of athletes.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe athletes were told that they would be dropped if they were to report any form of favouritism, misconduct or wrongdoings to the authorities.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cIn short, they are often being threatened that if they do it, their career is finished,\u201d said Melissa in the podcast which also featured OCM vice-president, Datuk Mumtaz Jaffar.<\/p>\r\r<p>Parents, inevitably, would be put under pressure as well and most of the time they are forced to make a choice.<\/p>\r\r<p>Safe Sport is more than a mere catchphrase. It is a pledge to uphold the principle of Safe Sport for any individual to perform, enjoy and play in a fun and safe environment.<\/p>\r\r<p>With the introduction of the Safe Sports Code, the idea is for everyone to embrace sports as a joyful expression of life.<\/p>\r\r<p>Melissa is keen to collaborate with OCM on the education front, suggesting a series of workshops to enlighten the athletes, coaches and officials on ways to contribute to a conducive environment for safe sport.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cWe need to equip our athletes with the mental strength not only to compete but also to provide the technique for them to confront the external pressures in the form of bullying or any form of abuse,\u201d she said.<\/p>\r\r<p>Although there is always the threat of conflicts of interest due to the lack of independence and power imbalances, the Code is designed to protect the whistleblowers.<\/p>\r\r<p>But of course the advocates of Safe Sports must also be given the necessary support.<\/p>\r\r<p>Unlike Singapore that has the Singapore Safe Sports Commission that maintain a 100-over secretariat staff responsible for the administration of the Safe Sport Unified Code and the Safe Sport Programme through their policy and research, training and education and case management functions, MACE has only Melissa and another safeguarding officer to handle cases.<\/p>\r\r<p>Although there have been calls for the governance structure to be fully detached from sport bodies to ensure no actual or perceived conflict of interest, Melissa\u2019s effort under MACE is a start.<\/p>\r\r<p>According to the Safe Sports Code guidelines, the fraternity needs to recognise misconduct in the form of:<\/p>\r\r<p># Sexual harassment: Unwanted comments, gestures, or actions that make you uncomfortable.<\/p>\r\r<p>#Psychological misconduct: Bullying, threats, or neglect that target your mental well-being.<\/p>\r\r<p># Physical misconduct: Harmful actions like hitting or using objects to intimidate or injure you.<\/p>\r\r<p># Bullying and harassment: Repeated actions that make you feel threatened or humiliated.<\/p>\r\r<p>#Sexual grooming: Manipulative behaviour designed to build inappropriate trust and relationships.<\/p>\r\r<p>Under the guideline is the mechanism for reporting, which is key to the Code, those who come forward to report abuse must not be confronted with fear of retribution.<\/p>\r\r<p>Melissa believes the Code allows recording and investigating cases and taking necessary actions, including punitive measures if required, with the names of the whistleblowers being withheld.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThey are protected under the privacy guidelines.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>In the fight against abuse, the existing laws are in place. Justice must prevail, and the law must be a stronghold for those in need.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cSince the Code was launched in 2023, we noticed a pattern. Initially we received reports on allegations of sexual abuse on schoolgirls. Then, the reports centred on allegations against coaches on abuse and molestation.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe third pattern we saw was abuse across genders, bullying, neglect and spurning, where athletes were boycotted for various reasons and abused verbally in public,\u201d said Melissa.<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3791885,"np_article_id":1552289,"article_title":"Keeping the romance alive in sports despite unpredictable times","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Sportsbox, Commentary, Basketball, Luka Doncic, Badminton, Football\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"VALENTINE\\u2019S Day is approaching soon and so is my first year wedding anniversary.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":464,\"columns\":\"464_1663890104\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-08 02:34:50\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-08 02:34:49\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Martin Ignatius\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-08 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/08\\\/3157563.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":609,\\\"image_original_height\\\":491,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2025\/02\/08\/keeping-the-romance-alive-in-sports-despite-unpredictable-times","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>VALENTINE\u2019S Day is approaching soon and so is my first year wedding anniversary.<\/p>\r\r<p>While I\u2019m all excited with plans afoot, love is far from in the air across the continent at the NBA basketball court, more specifically with the Dallas Mavericks.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/08\/3157563.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 200px; height: 161px; float: left;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>My heart skipped a beat when Shams Charania, an American sports reporter, renowned for his NBA breaking news, tweeted \u201cThe Dallas Mavericks are trading Luka Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris to the Los Angeles Lakers for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick, sources tell ESPN.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThis is a three-team deal that includes Utah.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>My heart sank. Doncic was the face of the team. Why him?<\/p>\r\r<p>I mean no disrespect to his replacement Davis, the Slovenian superstar who is widely regarded as the next Dirk Nowitzki, who spent 21 illustrious years with the Mavericks, culminating in a championship victory in 2011. Davis is indeed a good buy but why kick out Doncic, a five-time NBA All-Star and the player who led them to the NBA Finals just last year. Is there no one else to trade in for?<\/p>\r\r<p>The 25-year-old Doncic was adored in Dallas and naturally, he was shocked by this stunning trade and is heartbroken. He, however, put on a brave face and said he was ready to rock with the Lakers, alongside LeBron James.<\/p>\r\r<p>His story sums up one thing - the life of a professional athlete is far from predictable, no matter how good you are.<\/p>\r\r<p>One day you are celebrated as a hero and another day, you are not wanted.<\/p>\r\r<p>But it is how you come out of the dejection and build yourself up again that matters. And I believe Mavericks\u2019 loss will be Lakers\u2019 gain.<\/p>\r\r<p>Just look at what happened close to home. Shuttlers Lee Zii Jia (men\u2019s singles) and Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani (men\u2019s doubles), went through ups and downs under the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).<\/p>\r\r<p>No one would have imagined that they would leave the comfort and security provided by the national body, but they did, and once they left the national set-up, these players stood tall despite many challenges as professionals.<\/p>\r\r<p>In fact, they are doing well. Zii Jia, with a dedicated support team, achieved an Olympic bronze medal last year to save Malaysia the blushes while reigning Indian Open champions Sze Fei-Izzuddin have been on fire, winning consistently.<\/p>\r\r<p>Transitioning from a structured environment to going solo is daunting, but these athletes have proven their resilience in navigating the uncertainties of professional sports.<\/p>\r\r<p>Team events are not spared too. In local football, uncertainty looms for professional players and their future with their clubs in both the Super League and the Premier League.<\/p>\r\r<p>With the current season set to conclude in April, players seemed to be preoccupied with their futures rather than solely focusing on team goals. But that\u2019s only understandable as the life of an athlete is rarely stable.<\/p>\r\r<p>They work hard and for long years, but the window of opportunity is rather short.<\/p>\r\r<p>And that\u2019s why I\u2019ve learnt to appreciate these professionals - may it be our footballers, shuttlers or athletes like Doncic.<\/p>\r\r<p>They are trying hard to make a name for themselves and fighting hard to bring honour either for their teams or countries and despite the unpredictability, they keep giving their best.<\/p>\r\r<p>Life after a change is tough but I admire those who quickly adapt and keep chasing after their ambitions. These athletes deserve our respect and I sincerely hope our fans will show unconditional love.<\/p>\r\r<p>As my wife always says, love without respect is blind, and respect without love is cold.<\/p>\r\r<p>All the best to all the Doncics out there, we respect and love you.<\/p>","author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","article_byline":"T. Avineshwaran","article_tags":"","author_id":464,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=464_1663890104","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/464.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":2005646,"np_author_id":464,"author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/464.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"avinesh@thestar.com.my","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"The Gaffer\",\"column_status\":\"hide\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1564141134\"},\"2\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1663890104\"},\"3\":{\"column_name\":\"Comment\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1703288117\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3790530,"np_article_id":1549540,"article_title":"Bridging the gap through innovation ahead of LA Olympics","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/on-the-line\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/05\\\/bridging-the-gap-through-innovation-ahead-of-la-olympics\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IT was an open secret that the National Sports Institute (NSI) were the punching bag in the recent post-mortem analysis on the Paris Olympic Games last year, with the government agency being blamed for the lack of full-time scientific experts in psychology to put the nation\\u2019s elite athletes in the right frame of mind during competition.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"29\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-05 07:16:54\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-05 07:18:02\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mohd Shazrin B Mat Shom\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"29\"}","publish_time":"2025-02-05 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/05\\\/3151795.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2025\/02\/05\/bridging-the-gap-through-innovation-ahead-of-la-olympics","show_image_in_thumb":3151795,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IT was an open secret that the National Sports Institute (NSI) were the punching bag in the recent post-mortem analysis on the Paris Olympic Games last year, with the government agency being blamed for the lack of full-time scientific experts in psychology to put the nation\u2019s elite athletes in the right frame of mind during competition.<\/p>\r\r<p>With only two bronze medals from the familiar sports of badminton, little credit was given to the research and development done over the decades behind the scenes.<\/p>\r\r<p>Consequently, slightly a month ago, the NSI expressed their readiness to strengthen their R&D, focusing specifically on high-potential sports for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.<\/p>\r\r<p>Close on the heels of the successful staging of the 2024 National Sports Technology Innovation Awards (AITS) ceremony in December, NSI have the luxury of the RM15 million in funding allocated by the government.<\/p>\r\r<p>NSI CEO, Ahmad Faedzal Md Ramli, had spoken about understanding the nation\u2019s position in the competitive landscape by conducting a gap analysis, aimed at identifying where we stand currently and where we aspire to be in the immediate and foreseeable future.<\/p>\r\r<p>Organised by NSI in collaboration with Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology & Innovation (MRANTI), AITS is certainly a way of appreciating the innovators behind the scenes.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sifting through the list of winners is an eye-opener.<\/p>\r\r<p>Winner of the Perdana Special Award, OPI Sports Drink, is a newly introduced product line designed to cater to the growing demand for healthier sports beverage options.<\/p>\r\r<p>Infused with 5% to 10% natural coconut water, the product stands out as a functional low-calorie drink offering hydration and energy benefits.<\/p>\r\r<p>Key ingredients include electrolytes, caffeine, taurine, and essential vitamins (B2, B6, B12), while being non-carbonated and low or free from added sugars.<\/p>\r\r<p>Partnerships with prominent Malaysian football clubs and visibility at major events such as the Sepang 1000km Endurance Race further enhance the brand\u2019s market presence.<\/p>\r\r<p>The FZ8, Malaysia\u2019s first high-performance road bike, is also set to revolutionise the cycling industry.<\/p>\r\r<p>Inspired by the WX-R Vorteq Olympic track bike, famously used by Datuk Azizulhasni Awang to secure Malaysia\u2019s first silver medal in men\u2019s keirin at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the FZ8 represents a strategic leap in sports technology and engineering.<\/p>\r\r<p>This groundbreaking project is a result of a technology transfer agreement, leveraging the intellectual property of the WX-R Vorteq in collaboration with BOZETTA LAB Sdn Bhd, a renowned local company specialising in high-end product design and development.<\/p>\r\r<p>Designed for both performance and innovation, the FZ8 incorporates advanced carbon fibre materials to ensure strength, lightness, and durability. Additionally, the bike will feature state-of-the-art near field communication (NFC) technology for unique bicycle identification, stored on the blockchain to prevent counterfeiting and track the service record. These digitalisation features will add value to bike ownership.<\/p>\r\r<p>Archery will be able to utilise Ai3D Computer-Aided Monitoring System (CAMS), an artificial intelligence evaluation tool in analysing the shooting posture of the archers, courtesy of Ai3D PLT, a Malaysian technological start-up established in 2022.Led by Prof Dr Lim King Hann, Dr Jonathan Phang Then Sien and Dr Basil Andy Lease as a spin-off from Curtin University Malaysia, the company\u2019s mission is to integrate AI and 3D technology into sports science, offering customised software and hardware solutions across three core industries \u2013 sports and rehabilitation, oil and gas, and civil and construction.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Ai3D CAMS is a markerless solution designed to transform archery precision sports through a system that automates the collection of joint kinematic data, allowing athletes to visualise their posture profiles for improved performance and reduced injury risks.<\/p>\r\r<p>The primary objective of Ai3D-CAMS is to enhance athletic performance by providing precise, comfortable posture and joint data capture. It translates this data into kinematic metrics for evaluating archers\u2019 postures and supports efficient communication between athletes and coaches through automated report generation.<\/p>\r\r<p>These types of innovation provide small but significant advantages for the athletes, enhancing their chances of making a mark on the prestigious stage.<\/p>\r\r<p>If more R&D successes \u2014 like the development of software, analytics and new equipment \u2013 can be commercialised for use by both local and international athletes, they could provide a return on investment for the government. Above all it may contribute to ending the nation\u2019s wait for the elusive gold medal at the Olympics.<\/p>\r\r<p>Of course, with the help of the software \u2013 the human capital.<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3789982,"np_article_id":1548769,"article_title":"Do you really need a number nine to win the Premier League?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IS the traditional number nine making a comeback in the Premier League?\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"29\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-02-04 07:17:04\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-02-04 07:17:04\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"29\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-02-04 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/02\\\/04\\\/3150120.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2025\/02\/04\/do-you-really-need-a-number-nine-to-win-the-premier-league","show_image_in_thumb":3150120,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IS the traditional number nine making a comeback in the Premier League?<\/p>\r\r<p>For far too long, inverted wingers and false nines have dominated the league. As players\u2019 skills and fitness levels continue to evolve with each generation, a proper striker\u2019s presence has declined.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/02\/04\/3150121.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 253px; float: left;\" \/>It was no surprise when Manchester City splashed the cash on Erling Haaland a couple of years ago \u2013 Pep Guardiola knew Haaland was the missing piece.<\/p>\r\r<p>True enough, the Norwegian delivered, guiding City to a historic treble in his first season.<\/p>\r\r<p>For Arsenal, a club that once had the privilege of Ian Wright and Thierry Henry leading the line, finding a genuine number nine has been a struggle.<\/p>\r\r<p>Desperate for a striker, the Gunners even made a late bid for Ollie Watkins before the transfer window closed. Naturally, Aston Villa rejected the offer, especially after offloading Jhon Duran to the Saudi Pro League, leaving them short of options up front.<\/p>\r\r<p>But Arsenal didn\u2019t need a number nine to dismantle City on Sunday, as Mikel Arteta\u2019s men recorded a statement 5-1 victory.<\/p>\r\r<p>Could this be the turning point of the season?<\/p>\r\r<p>Arteta might have regretted not having a clinical striker early in the game when Kai Havertz missed a sitter to make it 2-0. That miss stung even more when Haaland equalised, but in the end, it didn\u2019t matter \u2013 the Gunners woke up from their slumber and dominated.<\/p>\r\r<p>The best goal of the night came courtesy of Arsenal\u2019s young stars, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri. Lewis-Skelly even added some spice to the occasion with an epic troll of Haaland\u2019s celebration.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Emirates crowd joined in on the fun, blasting Kendrick Lamar\u2019s \u2018Humble\u2019 at the final whistle. The question now is: will this win ignite belief that Arsenal can catch Liverpool?<\/p>\r\r<p>As for City, Guardiola\u2019s midfield is showing signs of aging and needs reinforcements. Watching them play, it\u2019s evident that teams can glide past their midfield too easily.<\/p>\r\r<p>In a league defined by relentless running, City\u2019s players simply don\u2019t have the legs to keep up. While they boast a world-class number nine in Haaland, the real issue lies in the middle of the park.<\/p>\r\r<p>Another striker making waves is Chris Wood. The Nottingham Forest forward fired himself into the Golden Boot race with a hattrick in a stunning 7-0 demolition of Brighton. That takes his tally to 17 goals this season.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was the perfect bounce-back performance after Forest\u2019s heavy defeat to Bournemouth the previous week.<\/p>\r\r<p>Everything they touched turned to gold, securing their biggest league win in over three decades \u2013 since thrashing Chelsea 7-0 in 1991. What an achievement for a team now vying for a European spot!<\/p>\r\r<p>The Bournemouth train, however, finally came to a halt. Liverpool arrived at the Vitality Stadium and showed why they\u2019re top of the league, delivering a disciplined performance in a 2-0 victory.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mohamed Salah scored both goals, embracing the chaos and pressure that Bournemouth tried to apply.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Egyptian King is now the sixth all-time leading goalscorer in Premier League history. With Sergio Aguero\u2019s 184 goals in sight, could Salah surpass him before the season ends?<\/p>\r\r<p>It would be a fitting swansong if this is indeed his last season in England, as contract talks remain unresolved.<\/p>\r\r<p>Aston Villa\u2019s inconsistency continued with a 2-0 defeat in the West Midlands derby against Wolves. Unai Emery must find a way to balance between domestic and European commitments because his current approach isn\u2019t working.<\/p>\r\r<p>Perhaps the loan signing of Marcus Rashford will provide the consistency Villa desperately needs.<\/p>\r\r<p>Meanwhile, at Old Trafford, Ruben Amorim made the puzzling decision to start Kobbie Mainoo as a false nine against Crystal Palace \u2013 despite having two expensive strikers, Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, sitting on the bench.<\/p>\r\r<p>The move backfired, as Palace put on a clinical in finishing, with Jean-Philippe Mateta scoring two classic number nine goals.<\/p>\r\r<p>Another loss for Amorim, and things are looking bleak. Reinforcements are on the way, but will they be enough to salvage United\u2019s season?<\/p>\r\r<p>Winning the Europa League might be their only route back to European football.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Premier League title race is heating up, with the top two contenders doing it without a proper number nine. Liverpool have Salah as an inverted winger, while Arsenal rely on the collective strength of their front line.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the end, which approach will prevail? This season just keeps getting better!<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3788689,"np_article_id":1546216,"article_title":"Thomas\u2019 call may well be what golf fans yearn for","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, At full swing, Chuah Choo Chiang\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IF timing is everything in golf, a recent clarion call by two-time Major winner, Justin Thomas, to his fellow professionals to give more \\u201caccess and insight\\u201d to TV viewers and fans may well be the perfect boost to complement the newly-launched PGA Tour Studios.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":746,\"columns\":\"746_1691708057\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-31 07:32:47\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-31 07:32:47\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-01-31 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/31\\\/3144438.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":416,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/at-full-swing\/2025\/01\/31\/thomas-call-may-well-be-what-golf-fans-yearn-for","show_image_in_thumb":3144438,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/01\/31\/3144438.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 168px;\" \/>IF timing is everything in golf, a recent clarion call by two-time Major winner, Justin Thomas, to his fellow professionals to give more \u201caccess and insight\u201d to TV viewers and fans may well be the perfect boost to complement the newly-launched PGA Tour Studios.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is a state-of-the-art production facility built to redefine and energise how fans around the world will consume golf.<\/p>\r\r<p>Thomas sent a memo to his fellow players last week, encouraging them to be more open to working with broadcast partners to improve the television product in a cluttered sports entertainment space.<\/p>\r\r<p>A 15-time winner, the 31-year-old American, who is popular among fans and media for his candour and personality, offered some thoughts as to how he and others can \u201cbetter connect with fans and keep building on the momentum we\u2019ve created in recent years.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>He added the recent Tour-led Fan Forward research showed that on-course personality was the leading driver of interest for fans aged 18-34.<\/p>\r\r<p>With that in mind, he suggested for players to embrace pre- and mid-round interviews to allow fans and viewers an insight into the cauldron of competition.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI know stepping out of our comfort zones isn\u2019t always easy,\u201d wrote Thomas, who is a member of the Tour\u2019s Player Advisory Council\u2019s subcommittee for tournament, fans and sponsors.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cBelieve me, in the past I\u2019ve been the first to say no before things are even done being asked.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI\u2019ve had no interest when someone asks for an interview mid-round or suggest trying something new.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cBut I also know how much the fans love those moments \u2013 hearing our thought processes, conversations with our caddies, our reactions to shots, and understanding the ups and downs of competing at the highest level.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>Citing other sporting leagues such as the NFL, Thomas said pre-game interviews with the respective teams\u2019 head coaches gave fans a chance to truly feel the tension and drama of the moment.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThey focus on the coach, and he is asked one question (that he knows is coming), gives a 5-to-10 second answer, and I\u2019m always so tuned in to how they explain their gameplan,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cImagine that happens on the first tee before the final few groups, or even after the first tee shot walking off the tee.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cAt the end of the day, we\u2019re all owners in this tour. So, the bigger and better we make it not only benefits us financially, it benefits our fans and creates the ability for us to do bigger things down the road.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>Thomas\u2019s call for players to bring fans more into their competitive world falls nicely with new innovations that the Tour has embarked, which culminated with the launch of Studios in early January.<\/p>\r\r<p>It houses all media operations, including live production of more than 5,000 hours of live games as well as an expansive roster of more than 50 original, social and digital media platforms.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is also home to the largest library of golf content in the world, featuring more than 170,000 videos totalling 223,000 hours of content, with the earliest being a film transfer from 1920.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cIt is a landmark step in golf media, signalling a tangible investment to more deeply connect with our fans through energetic, compelling content that brings them further inside the ropes and closer to their favourite stars,\u201d said Tour commissioner Jay Monahan.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cEvery new technology and forward-thinking innovation we introduce is about serving our fans and meeting them where they are, and the creative capabilities of Studios will help us further that mission while showcasing the beauty of our sport.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>First conceptualised in 2017 leading into media rights negotiations, the 165,000-square-foot building broke ground in 2022 and tested its capabilities throughout the fall of 2024.<\/p>\r\r<p>The opening of it was a vital next step of golf content production in an constantly-changing media landscape.<\/p>\r\r<p>At The Players Championship in March, the Tour will launch a new world feed that will transform and enhance how international fans experience the tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>The new feed will, for the first time, have its own dedicated graphics package, announce team, director and producer, and a half dozen dedicated cameras to focus on international players.<\/p>\r\r<p>If Thomas\u2019 call is heeded, watching and consuming golf in Asia Pacific and around the globe will be far more entertaining than before.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_byline":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_tags":"","author_id":746,"kicker_name":"At Full Swing","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/at-full-swing?bycat=746_1691708057","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/746.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002695,"np_author_id":746,"author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/746.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"At Full Swing\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"true\",\"forweb_status\":\"true\",\"column_key\":\"746_1691708057\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3787653,"np_article_id":1544398,"article_title":"Khusanov\u2019s rough start, Liverpool\u2019s grip, and Bournemouth\u2019s dream season","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"YOUNGSTER Abdukodir Khusanov made history this January transfer window as the first player from Uzbekistan to join a Premier League club, completing a \\u00a333.5m transfer from Lens.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-28 07:57:53\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-28 07:57:53\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mahandran Sonmugam\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-01-28 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/28\\\/3140644.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2025\/01\/28\/khusanovs-rough-start-liverpools-grip-and-bournemouths-dream-season","show_image_in_thumb":3140644,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/01\/28\/3140644.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 169px;\" \/>YOUNGSTER Abdukodir Khusanov made history this January transfer window as the first player from Uzbekistan to join a Premier League club, completing a \u00a333.5m transfer from Lens.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, the 20-year-old had a disastrous debut, being subbed off after just 54 minutes. It highlights how the Premier League remains the toughest league in the world \u2013 a baptism of fire for Khusanov, whose error led to Chelsea\u2019s opening goal.<\/p>\r\r<p>For a young player who speaks minimal English and only had a few training sessions to adjust to his new teammates, it was a challenging start.<\/p>\r\r<p>The added pressure of being the first-ever Premier League player from Central Asia only compounds the weight of expectations on him.<\/p>\r\r<p>Fortunately for Khusanov, Manchester City recovered to secure a 3-1 victory with goals from Erling Haaland and the in-form Phil Foden.<\/p>\r\r<p>This win strengthens City\u2019s push for a Champions League spot next season, though they remain 12 points behind league leaders Liverpool.<\/p>\r\r<p>Omar Marmoush also made his debut for City and looked more composed, perhaps because of playing in a position where risks are more acceptable.<\/p>\r\r<p>City appear to find their rhythm in the league and could play a significant role in shaping the title race.<\/p>\r\r<p>If they go unbeaten for the rest of the season, a miraculous title win might not be out of reach.<\/p>\r\r<p>Such a feat would undoubtedly rank as Pep Guardiola\u2019s greatest achievement \u2013 winning the league four times in a row, overturning a massive deficit. For now, Guardiola is likely focused on taking it one game at a time.<\/p>\r\r<p>Chelsea, meanwhile, dropped to sixth and looked disjointed since the Christmas period. Once considered title challengers, Enzo Maresca now has significant work to do.<\/p>\r\r<p>Opponents seem to have figured out how to play against Chelsea, and their biggest flaw lies in the goalkeeping position.<\/p>\r\r<p>Is it time to drop Roberto Sanchez and give another goalkeeper on the roster a chance? With Newcastle and Bournemouth emerging as legitimate contenders for Champions League spots, Maresca has a tough task ahead to turn things around.<\/p>\r\r<p>Liverpool maintained their six-point lead at the top of the table with a routine victory over Ipswich.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, the proper test for Arne Slot\u2019s team comes in their next fixture against the league\u2019s in-form side, Bournemouth.<\/p>\r\r<p>Bournemouth have thrust themselves into the Champions League conversation after demolishing Nottingham Forest in a scintillating performance.<\/p>\r\r<p>It wasn\u2019t the happiest of birthdays for Nuno Espirito Santo, who saw his team fall apart at the Vitality Stadium.<\/p>\r\r<p>What makes Bournemouth\u2019s rise remarkable is their aesthetically pleasing style of play, with players performing above expectations under Andoni Iraola. Even with an injury-hit squad, the next player off the bench seamlessly fits into Iraola\u2019s system.<\/p>\r\r<p>If Bournemouth can hand Liverpool their second defeat of the season, they will command serious attention from the football world. At that point, I won\u2019t be the only one on Bournemouth Island.<\/p>\r\r<p>In fact, I\u2019m sure Arsenal fans will join me on Bournemouth Island, rooting for the Cherries to cut Liverpool\u2019s lead.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arsenal escaped Molineux with a hard-fought three points against Wolves.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mikel Arteta hopes Iraola can do him a favour next week \u2013 from one Basque manager to another. Arsenal\u2019s victory came courtesy of Riccardo Calafiori\u2019s winner, but they had to rely on David Raya\u2019s heroics to stay in the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>A studs-up tackle by Myles Lewis-Skelly resulted in his sending off and Arsenal played with 10 men until the 70th minute when the referee also dismissed Joao Gomes.<\/p>\r\r<p>Despite the adversity, the Gunners showed grit and resilience to bring the points back to North London. Can Arteta\u2019s men build on this and get a result against City next week?<\/p>\r\r<p>By the time you read this, Ange Postecoglou could be out of a job at Tottenham Hotspur.<\/p>\r\r<p>Spurs currently sit 15th in the league and have suffered four consecutive losses. The defeat against Leicester might be the final nail in the coffin for Postecoglou.<\/p>\r\r<p>Losing to a relegation-threatened team that had lost seven games in a row does not look good.<\/p>\r\r<p>Postecoglou can point to the injury crisis plaguing his squad, but every team in the league face injury challenges during the season. It\u2019s about adjusting and trusting your academy players to step up.<\/p>\r\r<p>Take Iraola and Bournemouth as an example. Despite having only 12 fit players in the squad, Bournemouth currently sit seventh in the league and are unbeaten since November.<\/p>\r\r<p>Iraola has implemented a system that works, showcasing resilience and adaptability. Perhaps Postecoglou could take a page out of Iraola\u2019s book.<\/p>\r\r<p>The race for the Golden Boot is heating up, with all three top contenders scoring this weekend.<\/p>\r\r<p>Alexander Isak is closing in on Mohamed Salah and Haaland after his brace took his tally to 17. Can Salah maintain his scoring form to secure both the Premier League title and the Golden Boot, or will Haaland find his rhythm and defend his crown?<\/p>\r\r<p>Either way, fans will relish the entertainment \u2013 because while defence may win championships, goals make the game thrilling.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3786873,"np_article_id":1543059,"article_title":"The day Malaysian icon Robert missed out on training at Real","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IT was almost at the tail-end of a whirlwind tour of Europe that Robert Choe, at one time one of Malaya\\u2019s most iconic inside-forwards, missed the opportunity to train at Real Madrid\\u2019s hallowed ground, the Bernabeu.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"40\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-26 07:26:22\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-26 07:26:22\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"40\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-01-26 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/26\\\/3137582.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2025\/01\/26\/the-day-malaysian-icon-robert-missed-out-on-training-at-real","show_image_in_thumb":3137582,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IT was almost at the tail-end of a whirlwind tour of Europe that Robert Choe, at one time one of Malaya\u2019s most iconic inside-forwards, missed the opportunity to train at Real Madrid\u2019s hallowed ground, the Bernabeu.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Real\u2019s training complex on Madrid\u2019s outskirts, Ciudad Deportiva still under construction, Robert and fellow forward Abdul Ghani Minhat (later Tan Sri), were given the opportunity to visit the Bernabeu in February 1963.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/01\/26\/3137581.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 209px; float: left;\" \/>But a knee injury sustained during the duo\u2019s first transit stop in Germany weeks earlier put paid to Robert\u2019s dreams of training alongside Alfredo di Stefano, Ferenc Puskas and Francisco Gento under the watchful eye of Miguel Munoz.<\/p>\r\r<p>Robert did witness a league match, though, won comfortably by Real, beating Malaga 5-0.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sadly with the passage of time and as the young makes up the majority, the names of Malaya\u2019s greatest footballers tend to be ignored and forgotten.<\/p>\r\r<p>No matter how historic or inspired an achievement may be, eventually the hours have a way of catching up.<\/p>\r\r<p>Slowly but surely, the memory of a landmark occasion carved out by athletes of elite stature will be wiped away.<\/p>\r\r<p>No achievement too big can withstand this merciless function.<\/p>\r\r<p>And when they depart to the hereafter, sometimes it does not occur to the authorities to deliver a funeral wreath to the family as a mark of remembrance to honour the deceased.<\/p>\r\r<p>For Robert who passed away on Tuesday, eight days after turning 85, his name had gone under the national radar long time ago, except for the occasional visit by the National Athletes Welfare Foundation (YAKEB).<\/p>\r\r<p>Tengkera-born Robert was not only a member of the victorious Malayan team in the second edition of the Merdeka Tournament in 1958, but he was a mainstay of the first national squad to bag the Asian Games bronze in Jakarta in 1962.<\/p>\r\r<p>Robert\u2019s demise means there are only two surviving members of the 1962 team \u2013 his younger brother and fellow attacker, Richard and Australia-based Stanley Gabrielle.<\/p>\r\r<p>With coach Choo Seng Quee in charge, Robert\u2019s other teammates in Jakarta were goalkeepers Ungku Ismail Abdullah and Sexton Lourdes, Yee Seng Choy, Abdullah Nordin, Boey Cheong Liam, Ahmad Nazari Zohri Min, Kamaruddin Ahmad, Foo Fook Chuan, Edwin Dutton, Inderjit Singh, Ibrahim Mydin, Abdul Ghani, Arthur Koh, Mahat Ambu and M. Govindarajoo.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Europe tour which began in October 1962 and lasted five months, opened Robert\u2019s eyes on the football culture and the infrastructure in the continent.<\/p>\r\r<p>In an interview with a newspaper in early 2000, Robert highlighted the fact that the Germans were even trained in gymnastics to improve their athleticism and agility.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was in a friendly match played on heavy snow against a team from a sports school in Germany that Robert suffered the knee injury, while wearing a special pair of boots.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cFew realised my late father was suffering for almost half a decade due to the knee injury. Each time he played, the knee ran out of alignment. It hastened his retirement from football at the age of 26,\u201d said his eldest son, Fahrian, named after West Germany\u2019s FIFA World Cup 1962 goalkeeper Wolfgang Fahrian, who made Robert feel welcomed during the trip.<\/p>\r\r<p>Born into a sporting family, Robert was the eldest son of Choe Soon Lee, a prominent figure in Melaka football and badminton circles during the 1930s.<\/p>\r\r<p>While he and his two younger brothers, Richard and Johnny, were presented with the option of pursuing badminton or football, the trio opted for football \u2013 a decision that would shape Robert\u2019s illustrious career.<\/p>\r\r<p>As the information officer based in Johor, Soon Lee wrote a letter of felicitation to Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-haj, who was also the president of FA of Malaya (FAM), following the 1958 Merdeka tournament victory.<\/p>\r\r<p>Tunku wrote back saying he did not realise Robert was Soon Lee\u2019s son.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe exchanges between the two gentlemen typified the era of cultured conversation,\u201d said Fahrian.<\/p>\r\r<p>Robert\u2019s achievements are etched in Malaysian sporting history. He was instrumental in securing three consecutive Merdeka tournament titles from 1958 to 1960 and captained Malaysia to back-to-back Asian Youth Championship finals in 1959 and 1960.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cBut I do not think he was given due recognition as a former national footballer. He received his BKT (Bintang Khidmat Terpuji) through his contribution as the vice-president of the National Union of Bank Employees (NUBE).<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThankfully, the Sultan of Pahang helped finance the knee replacement for my late dad almost two decades ago,\u201d said Fahrian.<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3786562,"np_article_id":1542488,"article_title":"The girls come riding in numbers","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say what, commentary, sport box\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"FATEHAH Mustapa used to lament the lack of strong opposition in her home national championships.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":615,\"columns\":\"615_1605851998\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-25 05:44:31\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-25 05:44:31\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Martin Ignatius\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-01-25 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/25\\\/3136536.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2025\/01\/25\/the-girls-come-riding-in-numbers","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>FATEHAH Mustapa used to lament the lack of strong opposition in her home national championships.<\/p>\r\r<p>The former national cycling champion had to be sent to Melbourne to train with the boys, or rather the seniors Azizulhasni Awang, Josiah Ng and Rizal Tisin.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/01\/25\/3136536.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 165px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Melbourne, after all, is where all the cycling action takes place with a local competition every other week.<\/p>\r\r<p>But that was more than 12 years ago, or as the Chinese say, a complete cycle of the zodiac calendar.<\/p>\r\r<p>Things could not be more different in 2025. Malaysia is suddenly seeing the emergence of many top women track cyclists.<\/p>\r\r<p>Paris Olympian Nurul Izzah Izzati has suddenly found herself having to fend off strong competition from back-up cyclist Nurul Alyssa Mohd Farid.<\/p>\r\r<p>Alyssa, who is only 19, impressed in the just concluded Asean Track Series at the National Velodrome in Nilai with three medals - individual sprint bronze in Series 1, keirin bronze in Series 2 and one silver behind Izzah in the sprint in Series 3.<\/p>\r\r<p>She also set a new flying 200m personal best, dipping for the first time under 11 seconds, clocking 10.953s.<\/p>\r\r<p>She is now just over two tenths of a second slower than Izzah and looks set to earn her place in the squad for the Asian Track Cycling Championships in Nilai from Feb 21-27.<\/p>\r\r<p>Right behind Izzah is Sawda Hasbullah, the younger sister of national sprint cyclist Umar Hasbullah. And she is only 17.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sawda pulled off a clean sweep of the sprint and keirin titles in the Asean Track Series (1, 2 and 3 combined).<\/p>\r\r<p>Sawda, who is physically large for her age, has all the attributes to become a top woman sprinter for Malaysia if she continues to focus on polishing up her racing craft.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is interesting to note that Izzah and Alyssa share similar traits in that they were first moulded by passionate figures in Malaysian cycling. These figures did not hesitate to release them to the national set-up.<\/p>\r\r<p>Izzah is from Kedah and was first identified by woman coach Noor Alfizar Othman while Alyssa was groomed by Fatehah.<\/p>\r\r<p>Malaysian National Cycling Federation\u2019s push to bring Frenchman Herman Terryn last year to take charge of developing the back-up juniors looks to be paying off as there is now a whole group of younger cyclists like Alyssa, sisters Yong Ann Tung and Ann Li; and Sawda.<\/p>\r\r<p>If all goes to plan, Malaysia could even qualify for the women\u2019s team sprint at the Olympics for the first time in Los Angeles in 2028.<\/p>\r\r<p>But that\u2019s a goal that needs everyone to come together and work without any distractions.<\/p>\r\r<p>The national cycling body deserve the credit for pushing for the three back-to-back events under the Asean Track Series. For a cyclist to qualify for the world championships, his or her nation needs to host at least one UCI-sanctioned meet a year.<\/p>\r\r<p>Technical director John Beasley is hoping the Asean Track Series events can grow into something that everyone locks in their planner.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cIt\u2019s very important for the development of our riders. We cannot pay for all Malaysian riders to race overseas but we can bring a few races here every year.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cEuropeans don\u2019t have the same challenges as Asians. In Europe, travel between countries is cheap.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cEuropean riders can jump on a cheap flight while their mechanics drive their equipment over in vans.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cFor Asians, excess baggage on the planes have always been our biggest expense,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\r\r<p>For Malaysia right now, we don\u2019t have to worry about excess baggage, we can rejoice over the excess in number of young cyclists.<\/p>","author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","article_byline":"Lim Teik Huat","article_tags":"","author_id":615,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=615_1605851998","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/615.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002621,"np_author_id":615,"author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/615.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"615_1605851998\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"section_id\":0,\"author_title\":\"\",\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3784686,"np_article_id":1538865,"article_title":"It\u2019s the pivotal game week in the Premier League season!","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"GAMES week 22 could very well be the defining moment of this Premier League season.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-21 07:27:59\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-21 07:27:59\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-01-21 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/21\\\/3128326.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2025\/01\/21\/its-the-pivotal-game-week-in-the-premier-league-season","show_image_in_thumb":3128326,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/01\/21\/3128325.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/>GAMES week 22 could very well be the defining moment of this Premier League season.<\/p>\r\r<p>When Sky Sports produces its season review at the end of the campaign, this gameweek might just stand out as the one that changed everything.<\/p>\r\r<p>For 90 minutes, Liverpool struggled to break down Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium. The match had a sense of deja vu \u2013 once again, a result against Manchester United appeared to derail Liverpool\u2019s momentum.<\/p>\r\r<p>Last season, Liverpool\u2019s FA Cup defeat to United ended their quadruple hopes, leaving Juergen Klopp\u2019s farewell season with only a Carabao Cup to show for. This time, after a 2-2 draw at Anfield, Liverpool dropped points against Nottingham Forest and suffered a Carabao Cup exit against Tottenham under Arne Slot.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arsenal, hot on their heels, could have cut the deficit to a single point if Liverpool failed to win against Brentford. But up stepped the much-maligned Darwin Nunez!<\/p>\r\r<p>While critics often highlight his wasted chances, no one can fault Nunez\u2019s effort and determination because, as always, he gives his 110%. He was the game-changer in this dramatic 2-0 victory for Slot\u2019s side.<\/p>\r\r<p>The silence at the Emirates was deafening as Nunez\u2019s first goal hit the back of the net, just as Arsenal were preparing for their showdown with Aston Villa.<\/p>\r\r<p>Instead of being inspired to close the gap, Arsenal\u2019s players seemed deflated after seeing Liverpool return to winning ways.<\/p>\r\r<p>Despite taking a comfortable 2-0 lead against Aston Villa, a lapse in concentration allowed Unai Emery\u2019s side to fight back and secure a draw. Once again, Emery played spoiler to Mikel Arteta\u2019s title aspirations.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arteta\u2019s tactical decisions didn\u2019t help matters. The absence of William Saliba forced Thomas Partey into an unfamiliar rightback role, despite the club\u2019s recent defensive reinforcements.<\/p>\r\r<p>Aston Villa\u2019s first goal, stemming from Lucas Digne\u2019s cross, was a direct consequence of this positional compromise.<\/p>\r\r<p>Desperate for a winner after Villa\u2019s equaliser, Arsenal found themselves limited by a lack of impactful substitutes or game changer.<\/p>\r\r<p>While Villa could call upon the likes of Jhon Duran and Leon Bailey from the bench, Arsenal turned to Raheem Sterling \u2013 an odd choice given the squad\u2019s reported \u00a3700mil spend under Arteta.<\/p>\r\r<p>In contrast, Liverpool had Darwin Nunez and Harvey Elliott to change their game.<\/p>\r\r<p>Depth remains a glaring issue for Arsenal, one that could cost them dearly if not addressed before the January transfer window closes.<\/p>\r\r<p>Elsewhere, St James\u2019 Park witnessed an upset as Bournemouth stunned Newcastle. Andoni Iraola\u2019s injury-hit squad outplayed Eddie Howe\u2019s side, who were seeking their tenth consecutive win.<\/p>\r\r<p>Bournemouth executed their game plan perfectly, with Justin Kluivert bagging his second hattrick of the season to secure all three points.<\/p>\r\r<p>Iraola\u2019s stock as a manager is soaring, and it\u2019s only a matter of time before bigger clubs come calling. Or should Iraola stay and take the Cherries to the promised land?<\/p>\r\r<p>Meanwhile, Brighton secured their third consecutive victory at Old Trafford, leaving Manchester United fans in dismay.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cPlay Manchester United every week\u201d might just become a chant among Brighton fans at this rate.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ruben Amorim\u2019s side has shown up against the big teams but continues to struggle against mid-table opposition \u2013 a troubling trend for a squadstuck in limbo.<\/p>\r\r<p>Not good enough to challenge for trophies or European qualification, yet safe from relegation, this United side face an identity crisis under Amorim.<\/p>\r\r<p>Manchester City secured a comprehensive victory away from home against Ipswich Town.<\/p>\r\r<p>Phil Foden looks happy and back to his footballing best. Perhaps the key to Foden\u2019s success is simply keeping him happy. The emphatic 6-0 victory lifted City back to fourth place, though they remain twelve points behind the league leaders.<\/p>\r\r<p>With City reinforcing during this transfer window, could Pep Guardiola pull off a miracle and win the league? This has been a crazy Premier League season, so anything is possible.<\/p>\r\r<p>So, is the title race over? Is it now Liverpool to lose? Will Game week 22 mark the season\u2019s turning point?<\/p>\r\r<p>There\u2019s still plenty of football left to play, and the ability to call upon game-changers from the bench could prove decisive in the title race.<\/p>\r\r<p>Liverpool currently holds the edge, but Arsenal has time to act in the transfer market.<\/p>\r\r<p>If Arteta doesn\u2019t seize the opportunity, Arsenal\u2019s title hopes may end up like a Netflix series \u2013 \u201cNext season?\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3783979,"np_article_id":1537434,"article_title":"A pair of big boots to fill for Joehari in FAM","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"BARRING unforeseen circumstances, businessman Datuk Mohd Joehari Mohd Ayub will be installed as the president of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) by acclamation on Feb 15.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"41\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-19 07:20:13\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-19 07:20:13\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"41\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-01-19 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/19\\\/3125171.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2025\/01\/19\/a-pair-of-big-boots-to-fill-for-joehari-in-fam","show_image_in_thumb":3125171,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>BARRING unforeseen circumstances, businessman Datuk Mohd Joehari Mohd Ayub will be installed as the president of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) by acclamation on Feb 15.<\/p>\r\r<p>By virtue of being the sole candidate to earn the minimum six nominations to contest for the presidency, Joehari is set to succeed Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin as the eighth president of the national body since 1951 for the term 2025-2029.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/01\/19\/3125170.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>The likes of Datuk Seri Afandi Hamzah, Syed Yazid Syed Omar and Sayf Ismail who had declared their intention to contest the hotseat, did not make the cut as the deadline for nominations ended on Thursday.<\/p>\r\r<p>Afandi, who was once acting president of FAM, will instead contest a seat in the executive committee, which required only two nominations from the 18 affiliates eligible to vote.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yazid, president of Kuala Lumpur FA and FAM exco member since 2021, will be vying for one of the four vice-presidency slots.<\/p>\r\r<p>The preliminary list of nominees suggests an almost total wipeout of the group labelled as Team B, with individuals aligned to the camp such as Datuk Seri Dr. Shahril Mokhtar, Mohd Firdaus Mohamed, Datuk Wira Kamarul Ariffin Mohd Shahar and Abang Zulkarnain Abang Abdurahman, conspicuously missing for the lack of nomination.<\/p>\r\r<p>The only nominees aligned to Team B, Afandi and Zamri Ibrahim, president of the suspended Perlis FA, are jostling for a seat in the exco.<\/p>\r\r<p>Firdaus, president of the Malaysian Malays FA (MMFA), reportedly said he did not submit any nomination form due to his lack of faith in the FAM election committee.<\/p>\r\r<p>Amidst the brouhaha, Joehari, who comes from an illustrious family in Sabah, will be inheriting a national body riddled with issues.<\/p>\r\r<p>Son of former Sabah minister Datuk Mohd Ayub Aman, Joehari served as team manager to the Sabah Super League outfit from 2003 to 2005 and later was made a vice-president of SAFA.<\/p>\r\r<p>His uncle, Datuk Anifah Aman, was a vice-president of FAM and a former Sabah FA president. His other uncle is Tun Musa Aman, the newly-appointed Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah.<\/p>\r\r<p>As the vice-president of FAM since 2017, Joehari who turns 59 in May, has served in various capacities, including chairman of the Status Committee tasked to punish errant clubs for failing to clear salary arrears.<\/p>\r\r<p>He was also team manager of the FAM-NSC Project Squad, established as one of the pathways for NFDP graduates to pursue tertiary education and a career in football.<\/p>\r\r<p>But Joehari has big shoes to fill. His low-key approach contrasts with that of the outgoing president Hamidin, a flamboyant and popular figure in the local scene whose influence goes beyond the region.<\/p>\r\r<p>While Joehari\u2019s tasks were ceremonial in nature before this, Hamidin became president of FAM in 2018 armed with decades of experience in football politics and governance.<\/p>\r\r<p>Hamidin is celebrating his 30th anniversary in football administration this year, having begun his career as the executive secretary of the FA of Selangor (FAS) in August 1995, four months and 23 days shy of his 30th birthday.<\/p>\r\r<p>By the time Hamidin was installed as the FAM president in July 2018, it was the culmination of his years of service in various capacities, including as vice-president, general secretary, team manager, chairman of the competitions and futsal committees.<\/p>\r\r<p>He knew the system inside out.<\/p>\r\r<p>Within a year into his presidency, Hamidin had launched the FAM Roadmap called F:30, the Affiliates Capacity Enhancement (ACE) project aimed at empowering the affiliates and the Malaysian DNA or a uniformed playing style from top to bottom, aided by the general secretariat headed by Stuart Ramalingam (now Datuk).<\/p>\r\r<p>The cherry on top of the cake was of course the appointment of Kim Pan-gon, who injected vigour into the Harimau Malaya team that qualified on merit for the AFC Asian Cup after 42 years.<\/p>\r\r<p>At a glance, Joehari has big shoes to fill.<\/p>\r\r<p>With FAM celebrating their centenary year next year, Joehari will be in unchartered territory, with the management of the national body\u2019s main assets \u2013 the Harimau Malaya \u2013 having been outsourced to a group of foreigners, with Rob Friend, footballer-turned-corporate figure, as the chief executive officer and possibly reporting direct to Malaysian footballing supremo, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim.<\/p>\r\r<p>The general secretariat too have come under great scrutiny since the poison pen letter brought the federation into disrepute.<\/p>\r\r<p>Will Joehari be an executive president or a ceremonial one expected to rubber stamp someone else\u2019s decision?<\/p>\r\r<p>At the end of the day, Joehari might want to turn to Anifah for a little bit of advice.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3783678,"np_article_id":1536907,"article_title":"A message of hope and grit even in adversity","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"YOU know those good morning greetings that clog up your phone\\u2019s memory? I get plenty of them from friends, relatives or contacts \\u2013 some every day.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-18 07:09:42\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-18 07:09:42\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-01-18 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/18\\\/3124077.jpeg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":1000,\\\"image_original_height\\\":654,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2025\/01\/18\/a-message-of-hope-and-grit-even-in-adversity","show_image_in_thumb":3124077,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/01\/18\/3124078.jpeg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 207px;\" \/>YOU know those good morning greetings that clog up your phone\u2019s memory? I get plenty of them from friends, relatives or contacts \u2013 some every day.<\/p>\r\r<p>They may be a nuisance to some people but I have learnt to appreciate the kind wishes.<\/p>\r\r<p>I don\u2019t really answer every one of them but once in a while, I try to respond to the positive messages.<\/p>\r\r<p>One such person is our former cycling great Shaharuddin Jaafar. He was the country\u2019s first cycling gold medallist at the 1965 SEAP Games in Kuala Lumpur and he pedalled to victory without a coach or full-time training.<\/p>\r\r<p>We have kept in touch after several interviews over the years and I\u2019ve visited him at home too, but what makes him stand out is his positivity despite adversity.<\/p>\r\r<p>This Jan 26 will mark his fourth year of undergoing dialysis. There had been times when his health had gone south but he would always come out of the painful episode without grumbling or complaining.<\/p>\r\r<p>Instead, the hardy Shaharuddin uses his difficulties to encourage and motivate others.<\/p>\r\r<p>In fact, in his recent text to me from the dialysis centre, the 84-year-old said he wants to give a talk on what dialysis is to the public. Isn\u2019t that just amazing?<\/p>\r\r<p>His bright outlook on life and the ability to stand tall despite his own pain is indeed commendable.<\/p>\r\r<p>We can see the same positive attitude in our national bowlers Rafiq Ismail and Natasha Roslan.<\/p>\r\r<p>Rafiq\u2019s dad was wheeled into the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) while Asia\u2019s No. 1 male bowler was battling at the World Cup in Hong Kong.<\/p>\r\r<p>He was deeply troubled \u2013 who would not be \u2013 and even contemplated taking the first flight back home but he knew his father would not want that.<\/p>\r\r<p>He turned his worry into motivation and went on to roll down a silver in the singles and led the team to a gold \u2013 to the delight of his dad, who is a pillar behind his bowling career.<\/p>\r\r<p>Rafiq\u2019s father is out of the ICU and is slowly recovering. I am sure his son\u2019s success helped.<\/p>\r\r<p>Natasha too had to cope with her mother being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2022. She had wanted to put bowling on hold to care for her mum.<\/p>\r\r<p>Her mother, who had encouraged her to take up the sport when she was eight, however, was not having any of it. She continued to encourage her, and this week, Natasha became the country\u2019s first woman World Cup winner.<\/p>\r\r<p>The 28-year-old Natasha showed that one can overcome inner struggles with the right support and guidance.<\/p>\r\r<p>And just look at mixed doubles shuttler Toh Ee Wei.<\/p>\r\r<p>Last year in September, she injured her hand after a freak accident at the gymnasium, and now, months later, she is ranked third in the world with Chen Tang Jie and just keeps going strong.<\/p>\r\r<p>There are many others in the sports fraternity like Shaharuddin, Rafiq or Natasha or Ee Wei. Each has had their fair share of troubles but never allowed it to get them down.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many times, challenges like illness, accidents, injuries, misfortunes, loss of a person or even racial and religious persecutions are beyond one\u2019s control.<\/p>\r\r<p>No one is spared from it \u2013 from the Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh to the top officials, or senior or junior athletes, everyone goes through it.It\u2019s how we stand amidst these hardships and calamities that makes us different and sets us apart. Not by blaming others or undermining others, not by ridiculing others, and for sure not by giving up without a fight.<\/p>\r\r<p>Staying positive like Shaharuddin is the way to go; turning grief and pain into positive outcomes like Rafiq, Natasha and Ee Wei is courageous.<\/p>\r\r<p>Let\u2019s encourage one another even when the challenges of the world weigh us down \u2013 may it be through a positive message in the morning, or a phone call in the evening or even an inspiring show on the sporting battle ground.<\/p>\r\r<p>After all, kind words and good deeds cost nothing yet their values are beyond silver or gold.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3781831,"np_article_id":1533426,"article_title":"All eyes on Moyes and Potter as Premier League\u2019s new subplots unfold","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/a-winning-factor\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/14\\\/all-eyes-on-moyes-and-potter-as-premier-leagues-new-subplots-unfold\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE Premier League is taking a back seat this weekend as it makes way for the oldest cup competition in the world \\u2013 the FA Cup.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"27\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-14 07:20:37\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-21 07:26:43\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"27\"}","publish_time":"2025-01-14 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/14\\\/3116399.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2025\/01\/14\/all-eyes-on-moyes-and-potter-as-premier-leagues-new-subplots-unfold","show_image_in_thumb":3116399,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THE Premier League is taking a back seat this weekend as it makes way for the oldest cup competition in the world \u2013 the FA Cup.<\/p>\r\r<p>While there were some lopsided victories for the big clubs, the game for this round undoubtedly belonged to Arsenal versus Manchester United at the Emirates.<\/p>\r\r<p>For the second week in a row, United achieved the result Ruben Amorim wanted away from home, marking back-to-back positive results.<\/p>\r\r<p>This United squad showed grit and determination to win against Arsenal on penalties.<\/p>\r\r<p>Suddenly, with one positive result and a productive week of training, Amorim showed the potential of this team.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, part of the blame lies with Arsenal for failing to take their chances. Despite some questionable refereeing decisions, Mikel Arteta\u2019s squad failed to capitalise, with Martin Odegaard missing a crucial penalty.<\/p>\r\r<p>Is this the beginning of the end for Arteta? His recent contract extension suggests otherwise, but discontent is brewing among the fanbase.<\/p>\r\r<p>Even after 14 days of the January transfer window, Arteta and Arsenal\u2019s management have yet to make a move for a number nine.<\/p>\r\r<p>Kai Havertz appears to be struggling with an identity crisis in front of the goal, missing multiple chances against United. Fans are slowly turning against him as his struggles continue.<\/p>\r\r<p>The problem is glaringly obvious, yet Arteta and the management have shown little urgency to address it.<\/p>\r\r<p>Rumours suggest Arsenal are eyeing Nico Williams in this transfer window, but Williams is another wide forward \u2013 not the number nine the team desperately needs.<\/p>\r\r<p>Will this indecisiveness come back to haunt the Gunners?<\/p>\r\r<p>Another key talking point this weekend is the return of two Premier League managers. David Moyes has returned to Everton, while Graham Potter has taken charge at West Ham.<\/p>\r\r<p>Moyes\u2019 return carries sentimental value, while Potter\u2019s comeback is the story of a manager seeking to rebuild his reputation after a disastrous stint at a big club.<\/p>\r\r<p>Both Everton and West Ham are struggling in the bottom half of the league table and could fall into a relegation battle if results don\u2019t improve, making these managerial changes crucial.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Friedkin Group are taking a significant risk by rehiring Moyes. While he has a strong history with Everton and left on good terms with the previous management, questions remain about whether he still has what it takes to guide Everton to safety.<\/p>\r\r<p>Football has evolved, and it remains uncertain if Moyes has the players to implement his style effectively. He left West Ham because fans disagreed with his pragmatic approach to the game, so will Evertonians embrace his methods for Premier League survival?<\/p>\r\r<p>With Everton progressing to the next round of the FA Cup, Moyes might pull off a miracle by taking them deep into the competition.<\/p>\r\r<p>After all, he has experience, having brought silverware to West Ham by winning the Europa Conference League.<\/p>\r\r<p>Best of luck to Moyes \u2013 he\u2019ll need it, especially under the Friedkin Group\u2019s trigger-happy management style.<\/p>\r\r<p>Just this year, AS Roma, another club owned by the group, have already gone through three managerial changes.<\/p>\r\r<p>If Moyes faces an uphill battle, Potter\u2019s challenge at West Ham is arguably even harder.<\/p>\r\r<p>The expectation is that he will deliver results and implement the \u201cWest Ham way\u201d \u2013 a style of play that is both entertaining and effective. This dual expectation reportedly led to Julen Lopetegui\u2019s departure.<\/p>\r\r<p>Looking at West Ham\u2019s current squad, Potter has an excellent opportunity to rebuild his reputation.<\/p>\r\r<p>Once considered a future England manager, his ill-fated tenure at Chelsea damaged his brand, making him far more selective in choosing his next role. Potter likely sees significant potential in the West Ham squad and believes he can mould them into a winning, entertaining team, much like his Brighton side.<\/p>\r\r<p>West Ham could be an ideal club for Potter \u2013 they boast quality players, a rich history, and a passionate fanbase, without the relentless pressure of managing a club like Chelsea.<\/p>\r\r<p>While Chelsea\u2019s star players may not have responded to Potter\u2019s methods, the West Ham squad just might.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Potter\u2019s ability to improve players, this could be a defining moment for talents like Jarrod Bowen, Mohammed Kudus, and Lucas Paqueta to elevate their games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Teams in the bottom half of the table should take note that the relegation battle just got more competitive with the arrivals of Moyes and Potter. Both Moyes and Potter, seasoned Premier League managers, have the experience of succeeding with their respective squads.<\/p>\r\r<p>But the genuine test is whether they can prove they still have what it takes, or will the new generation of managers overshadow them.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3780795,"np_article_id":1531511,"article_title":"Can\u2019t have foreign players raining on our home parade","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/11\\\/cant-have-foreign-players-raining-on-our-home-parade\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"HOME fans were expecting top players to blow the roof off at Axiata Arena with some explosive performances on the opening day of the Malaysian Open.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-11 07:08:26\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-18 07:09:07\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"35\"}","publish_time":"2025-01-11 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/11\\\/3112203.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2025\/01\/11\/cant-have-foreign-players-raining-on-our-home-parade","show_image_in_thumb":3112203,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/01\/11\/3112203.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 163px;\" \/>HOME fans were expecting top players to blow the roof off at Axiata Arena with some explosive performances on the opening day of the Malaysian Open.<\/p>\r\r<p>The players didn\u2019t perform as expected, but the roof did steal the show.<\/p>\r\r<p>It started leaking, turning out to be a wet blanket on the first day. Matches on two courts were suspended as a heavy downpour outside brought water cascading to the floor.<\/p>\r\r<p>It also brought cold sweat to the organisers. The Stadium Board and even the Badminton World Federation had to work round the clock to solve the wet problem.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Stadium Board apologised and said repair work had started in April, and it was unfortunate that mother nature decided to act up at the wrong time to expose the holes, right above the playing area.<\/p>\r\r<p>All the re-scheduling was done fast and quickly, and the second day went on without any hiccups. It was like nothing had happened, except that some people were still poking fun, and calling it a national embarrassment.<\/p>\r\r<p>But the bigger embarrassment was how many top players fell like kingpins in the US$4.3mil tournament, and I don\u2019t mean only the Malaysians.<\/p>\r\r<p>Denmark, Indonesia, China and South Korea also felt the pinch, but they at least had their second stringers in their team to step up.<\/p>\r\r<p>Unfortunately for Malaysia, with Leong Jun Hao\u2019s exit in the first round, there was no one left to carry on the torch in the men\u2019s singles.<\/p>\r\r<p>It showed a sad reality of where we really are in the men\u2019s singles department.<\/p>\r\r<p>Professional Lee Zii Jia was not even there as he was recovering from an ankle injury. Even if he had played, it\u2019s unsure if he could have coped with the pressure of playing at home.<\/p>\r\r<p>Men\u2019s singles players will always be compared to Lee Chong Wei. How did Chong Wei win 12 home titles in a 15-year period between 2004 to 2018? In fact, he won it for seven years in a row from 2008-2014.<\/p>\r\r<p>Chong Wei was consistent. He had the charisma and courage to face all kinds of obstacles to entertain home fans. He was someone who could bring the house down with his grit.<\/p>\r\r<p>Jun Hao has potential and can go far. There are few others below him who are in good condition like Justin Hoh and Eogene Ewe who are eager for a chance to shine.<\/p>\r\r<p>I\u2019m glad that our new singles head coach Kenneth Jonassen is not only looking at producing one superstar, but raising a few as Malaysian ambassadors in singles.<\/p>\r\r<p>Unlike in the singles, it\u2019s nice to see the competitive edge in the men\u2019s doubles and mixed doubles. When one pair falls, another rises.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s unfortunate that former world champions Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik crashed out in the second round. Aaron had been carrying a nagging shoulder injury for some time and Wooi Yik to some extent too, but they have never used their condition as an excuse for their fall.<\/p>\r\r<p>While that is honourable, they have to be wise in choosing tournaments so as not to overstretch their bodies. Hopefully, under an incoming new coach, they will regain their form.<\/p>\r\r<p>I learnt from a little bird that Teo Kok Siang may be the local identified to replace Tan Bin Shen as the doubles coach, and if that\u2019s true, I wish him the best.<\/p>\r\r<p>While Aaron-Wooi Yik rest and regroup, we hope the other pairs from the doubles department will start the year on a positive note and deliver a shower of blessings.<\/p>\r\r<p>We can\u2019t have foreign players raining on our parade at home.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3778068,"np_article_id":1526320,"article_title":"In tough times, Malaysia can do with a hand from a Friend","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Commentary, Sportsbox, Football, FAM, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"You\\u2019ve got troubles, I\\u2019ve got \\u2018em too\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":464,\"columns\":\"464_1663890104\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-04 07:13:14\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-04 07:13:14\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2025-01-04 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/04\\\/3100646.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":418,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2025\/01\/04\/in-tough-times-malaysia-can-do-with-a-hand-from-a-friend","show_image_in_thumb":3100646,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><strong><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/01\/04\/3100646.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 169px;\" \/>You\u2019ve got troubles, I\u2019ve got \u2018em too<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p><strong>There isn\u2019t anything I wouldn\u2019t do for you<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p><strong>We stick together, we can see it through<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p><strong>\u2018Cause you\u2019ve got a friend in me<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>THOSE lyrics, from Randy Newman\u2019s iconic \u201cYou\u2019ve Got a Friend in Me\u201d, comes to mind as a revolution begins in Kelana Jaya, home of the Harimau Malaya.<\/p>\r\r<p>The old guard has been dismantled with Australian Peter Cklamovski coming in as the new national team head coach and Nafuzi Zain as the leader of the Under-23 side.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now, former Canadian international Rob Friend has been made the first-ever chief executive officer (CEO) of the national team, signalling a bold new chapter for Malaysian football.<\/p>\r\r<p>This appointment is historic. The national team were traditionally run by the national team committee, chaired by the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president.<\/p>\r\r<p>But now, Johor Regent and Johor Darul Ta\u2019zim (JDT) supremo Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim has taken the reins, sharing regular updates on social media and injecting fresh energy into the set-up.<\/p>\r\r<p>The buzz is palpable. Many believe Tunku Ismail\u2019s leadership could bring a transformation although detractors point to his earlier stint as FAM president in 2017-2018.<\/p>\r\r<p>Back then, he made structural improvements and boosted the organisation\u2019s finances but came under fire for hiring Portuguese coach Nelo Vingada, whose achievements were far from stellar.<\/p>\r\r<p>This time, Tunku Ismail appears better equipped, especially after a decade of success with JDT. Under his stewardship since 2013, the club have claimed 10 consecutive Super League titles, firmly establishing themselves as Malaysia\u2019s football powerhouse.<\/p>\r\r<p>But there are lingering questions. Where are the FAM on all this? Why are they so quiet? The national team have always been under their jurisdiction, so, is this a temporary arrangement or a permanent realignment of the structure?<\/p>\r\r<p>Will Tunku Ismail hold an official position in FAM, or will he simply remain the power behind the curtain?<\/p>\r\r<p>And what of Friend? Who does he report to? His responsibilities are immense \u2014 both immediate and long-term.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the short term, he must work with Cklamovski to prepare for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers, ensuring Harimau Malaya continue their journey and qualify for the Asian Cup. This involves planning friendlies, organising training camps, managing travel logistics, and overseeing government allocations, while staying accountable to taxpayers.<\/p>\r\r<p>For the long haul, Friend must build a sustainable high-performance environment, work with sports scientist Dr Craig Duncan, scout heritage players overseas, and forge partnerships with the Malaysian Football League (MFL) while tapping into his global network for the good of the team.<\/p>\r\r<p>Transparency and accountability remain paramount.<\/p>\r\r<p>Every ringgit spent must be justified, especially when questions are being asked about the RM15mil allocated to football, a sport still struggling to match the international successes of sports like badminton, cycling, and bowling.<\/p>\r\r<p>We need a national team that put the country above all else. The embarrassing AFF Cup episode, where players withdrew to play for their clubs, cannot be repeated.<\/p>\r\r<p>Additionally, a robust football pyramid, grassroots development programmes, and a thriving league system are essential to ensure long-term stability and progress.<\/p>\r\r<p>Tunku Ismail and his team probably have ambitious plans but the road ahead is far from straight and narrow.<\/p>\r\r<p>We are a small nation with outsized dreams, and while this revolution is exciting, sustaining the momentum will require unwavering dedication. Malaysian fans are a demanding lot.<\/p>\r\r<p>To those tasked with leading this charge: good luck.<\/p>\r\r<p>If this revolution succeeds, the fans will be singing \u201cYou\u2019ve Got a Friend in Me\u201d at the National Stadium.<\/p>\r\r<p>If not, the team will have lots of trouble.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","article_byline":"T. Avineshwaran","article_tags":"","author_id":464,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=464_1663890104","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/464.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":2005646,"np_author_id":464,"author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/464.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"avinesh@thestar.com.my","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"The Gaffer\",\"column_status\":\"hide\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1564141134\"},\"2\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1663890104\"},\"3\":{\"column_name\":\"Comment\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1703288117\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3777011,"np_article_id":1524281,"article_title":"Sayf\u2019s audacious presidency bid and first foreign CEO \u2014 football drama continues","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/01\\\/sayfs-audacious-presidency-bid-and-first-foreign-ceo---football-drama-continues\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"WE shall leave it to the sport of football to hog the limelight as we step into 2025.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"32\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2025-01-01 07:27:42\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-01 07:46:47\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"32\"}","publish_time":"2025-01-01 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2025\\\/01\\\/01\\\/3095707.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/2025\/01\/01\/sayfs-audacious-presidency-bid-and-first-foreign-ceo---football-drama-continues","show_image_in_thumb":3095707,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2025\/01\/01\/3095706.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/>WE shall leave it to the sport of football to hog the limelight as we step into 2025.<\/p>\r\r<p>The appointment of former Canadian international Rob Friend as the chief executive of Harimau Malaya begs this question: \u201cAre we prepared to accept the recruitment of foreign sports managers or co-ordinators at salaries many times higher than Malaysians doing the same jobs?<\/p>\r\r<p>There seems to be not a single Malaysian who can be appointed and trusted to be the co-ordinator or manage to plan and execute programmes for the national team, which had hitherto been managed by Malaysians.<\/p>\r\r<p>Is this not incompatible with our Malaysia Boleh spirit?<\/p>\r\r<p>Friend will be the first ever foreigner to occupy the seat traditionally assumed by Malaysians.<\/p>\r\r<p>If the role is for him to manage all matters related to the national team\u2019s preparation \u2013 whether to arrange a top-tier international friendly match, coordinate training camps and accommodation and travelling, then the likes of Kelly Sathiraj, Darren Stewart, Azfendy Azzuddin and Steven Paul could perform the duty. All did deliver for Tan Cheng Hoe and Kim Pan-gon.<\/p>\r\r<p>All four reported to the general secretary, who on paper, is the strategic thinker and chief executive of the FAM secretariat.<\/p>\r\r<p>Friend comes with great credentials, though, having been CEO and co-founder of Pacific FC from 2019 to 2022 and as president and co-founder of Vancouver FC from 2022 to the present. As a player, the former striker represented Borussia Monchengladbach, Hertha Berlin, Eintracht Frankfurt, and 1860 Munich as well as LA Galaxy.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Malaysian national set-up, however, will be Friend\u2019s maiden attempt at managing a national team\u2019s activities.<\/p>\r\r<p>Nonetheless, Friend\u2019s network across Europe and the Americas will add value to facilitate Peter Cklamovski from Australia as the national head coach and Mohd Nafuzi Zain as the head coach of the national U-23 squad.<\/p>\r\r<p>While Cklamovski and Nafuzi will be tasked to deliver the results on the pitch, Friend is expected to head a team that will strategically find a way for Malaysia to earn higher ranking points, establish a high-performance environment for the coaching team and identify a pool of foreign-based talent who are connected to Malaysia by heritage.<\/p>\r\r<p>Friend\u2019s appointment, however, has not robbed Sayf Ismail from his moment in the sun. His audacious bid for the FAM presidency was announced via the social media platform X upon promptings from fellow activists and later reported by Bernama.<\/p>\r\r<p>The former FAM head of marketing served from 2014 until 2017 under the outgoing FAM president Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin when the latter was the general secretary.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sayf, now a corporate trainer in the field of sustainability and environmental, social and governance, is also an Adjunct Professor at Universiti Malaya.<\/p>\r\r<p>In his manifesto shared on X, Sayf has promised FAM\u2019s affiliates an annual grant of RM200,000 to develop grassroots football through a five-pillar framework to reform FAM and tackle key issues in Malaysian football, including balancing the naturalisation of foreign players with the development of local talent.<\/p>\r\r<p>For him to earn the right to contest in the elections, Sayf has to obtain a minimum six nominations. He has to convince at least six of the 18 FAM affiliates eligible to vote, to submit his nomination.<\/p>\r\r<p>Speaking of which, the Perlis FA are dragging FAM to court after filing a lawsuit in Kangar last week but the national body said it was carried out in accordance with the national body\u2019s constitution and established procedures.<\/p>\r\r<p>FAM suspended PFA following the latter\u2019s failure to comply with world body FIFA\u2019s directive to pay outstanding wages, totalling RM998,000, to former PFA football director Matt Holland in 2019.<\/p>\r\r<p>But the timing is questionable. Kelantan FA too have been suspended, with FAM citing irregularities in KAFA\u2019s congress-cum-elections for the 2024-2028 term.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the past, FAM had taken action against individuals and players for disciplinary reasons and being critical of the national body as stipulated in its statutes.<\/p>\r\r<p>But two key affiliates of the body being suspended ahead of an election is unprecedented. Not during the days of Sultan Ahmad Shah and when the secretariat was headed by men of stature.<\/p>\r\r<p>The principle of natural justice may have been trampled upon. With KAFA and PFA being led by individuals with legal background, a legal battle looms large.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3776655,"np_article_id":1523533,"article_title":"A league turned upside down: Why the EPL is the best in Europe","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/a-winning-factor\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/31\\\/a-league-turned-upside-down-why-the-epl-is-the-best-in-europe\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"LOOKING at the league table after the Boxing Day and weekend fixtures, there are familiar and surprising names in intriguing positions.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-31 08:02:35\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-12-31 08:38:37\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mahandran Sonmugam\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"31\"}","publish_time":"2024-12-31 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/31\\\/3094022.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/12\/31\/a-league-turned-upside-down-why-the-epl-is-the-best-in-europe","show_image_in_thumb":3094022,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/12\/31\/3094022.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 169px; float: left;\" \/>LOOKING at the league table after the Boxing Day and weekend fixtures, there are familiar and surprising names in intriguing positions.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the top four, three teams that have previously won the European Cup sit comfortably, and one of them are not Arsenal. Languishing in the bottom half of the table are Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.<\/p>\r\r<p>While their fans might not love it, as a neutral football fan, this situation is exhilarating.<\/p>\r\r<p>It highlights the incredible competitive balance within the Premier League. Where else in European football would you find the reigning champions, Manchester City, sitting fifth in the table.<\/p>\r\r<p>There has long been a fear that the Premier League might turn into a \u201cfarmer\u2019s league,\u201d dominated by the same few teams winning titles and vying for European spots.<\/p>\r\r<p>This season has flipped that script, and most can\u2019t pinpoint exactly why.<\/p>\r\r<p>Could it be Mercury retrograde, or have other teams finally cracked the formula to close the gap on the so-called \u2018big six\u2019?<\/p>\r\r<p>Take Nottingham Forest, for example. Forest barely avoided relegation last season, finishing 17th, but under Nuno Espirito Santo\u2019s guidance, they are now punching above their weight.<\/p>\r\r<p>Santo, who took over midway through last season, had a full summer to shape his team.<\/p>\r\r<p>Instead of making wholesale changes, he focused on smart, purposeful signings. This is a lesson the big clubs should note: you don\u2019t always need superstar names.<\/p>\r\r<p>Forest\u2019s centreback pairing of Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic, for instance, might not have been on the radar of Europe\u2019s elite, but they are proving to be two of the best defenders in the Premier League this season.<\/p>\r\r<p>Either of them could walk into most teams right now.<\/p>\r\r<p>Another inspired signing is Elliott Anderson from Newcastle. Offloaded because of Newcastle\u2019s need to comply with the Profit and Sustainability Rule (PSR), Anderson has been a revelation in midfield for Forest.<\/p>\r\r<p>Santo is building a team with the belief that European qualification is possible \u2013 and many neutrals are rooting for them to achieve it.<\/p>\r\r<p>Forest strengthened their position in the race for a European spot with a win against Everton at Goodison Park this weekend.<\/p>\r\r<p>Another team lighting up the league are Bournemouth. The Cherries are arguably playing some of the most entertaining football in England. Smart scouting and bold recruitment across Europe built their success.<\/p>\r\r<p>One standout player is Milos Kerkez, who has caught the attention of Liverpool and Manchester United.<\/p>\r\r<p>Both clubs desperately need reinforcements at leftback, and Kerkez fits the bill. Ironically, a few years ago, players like Kerkez wouldn\u2019t even be on the radar of these top clubs because their names weren\u2019t \u201cbig enough\u201d to appease fans.<\/p>\r\r<p>This highlights the challenge big clubs face in recruitment \u2013 they\u2019re often forced to sign players based on reputation rather than actual potential.<\/p>\r\r<p>But smaller clubs like Bournemouth, Forest, Brighton, and Fulham prove that trust in scouting and shrewd management can yield incredible results.<\/p>\r\r<p>These clubs are providing a platform for players to shine before they make big-money moves to Europe\u2019s elite.<\/p>\r\r<p>Fulham are another team defying expectations. Level on points with Manchester City and Aston Villa after Boxing Day, Marco Silva\u2019s side have emerged as a serious challenger.<\/p>\r\r<p>Built with players cast off by United, Liverpool, and Arsenal, Silva has created a tactically disciplined team capable of going toe-to-toe with anyone.<\/p>\r\r<p>Fulham recently held Liverpool to a draw and secured a historic win against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.<\/p>\r\r<p>Silva\u2019s ability to exploit Chelsea\u2019s weaknesses, particularly in the full-back positions, showcases how much he has matured as a manager since his turbulent spell at Everton.<\/p>\r\r<p>Both Bournemouth and Fulham played out an entertaining 2-2 draw this weekend, with both teams showcasing their quality.<\/p>\r\r<p>The biggest winner of the weekend was Liverpool, as Arne Slot\u2019s men ran up the score and won comfortably, 0-5, against West Ham at the London Stadium.<\/p>\r\r<p>In less than 10 days, Liverpool have scored 11 goals in the capital. Can anyone stop this Liverpool team? Time will tell, and there\u2019s still plenty of football to play.<\/p>\r\r<p>Overall, this season has reaffirmed the Premier League\u2019s reputation as the most competitive league in Europe. Nothing is given \u2013 every team must fight for their results.<\/p>\r\r<p>Where else would you see Manchester United losing to Wolves via a goal straight from a corner? Or a small team from the south coast defeating the financial juggernauts of the Middle East?<\/p>\r\r<p>This is what makes the Premier League so special. Here\u2019s to more surprises and excitement in 2025. Happy New Year, everyone!<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3775843,"np_article_id":1521848,"article_title":"Japan\u2019s Matsuyama shines brightest for Asian golf in \u201924","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, At full swing, Chuah Choo Chiang\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/at-full-swing\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/28\\\/japans-matsuyama-shines-brightest-for-asian-golf-in-24\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"As another year draws to a close, one thing remains certain \\u2013 the sun always rises in the Far East with Japan truly basking in the glory of its most famous golfing son \\u2013 Hideki Matsuyama.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":746,\"columns\":\"746_1691708057\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"28\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-28 08:51:43\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-31 07:32:01\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"28\"}","publish_time":"2024-12-28 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/28\\\/3090111.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/at-full-swing\/2024\/12\/28\/japans-matsuyama-shines-brightest-for-asian-golf-in-24","show_image_in_thumb":3090111,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>As another year draws to a close, one thing remains certain \u2013 the sun always rises in the Far East with Japan truly basking in the glory of its most famous golfing son \u2013 Hideki Matsuyama.<\/p>\r\r<p>The 32-year-old Matsuyama was the star of the show in 2024 for Asian golf when he won twice on the PGA Tour to cement his stature as the winningest player from the region with 10 career victories.<\/p>\r\r<p>The 2021 Masters champion was triumphant at the Genesis Invitational in February and FedEx St. Jude Championship in August as he finished tied ninth in the FedExCup and will conclude the year as the World No. 6 ranked player. Matsuyama also clinched the bronze medal in the Paris Olympics.<\/p>\r\r<p>In Japan, the word senpai, simply translated, means \u2018senior\u2019 which is both a natural and respectful way of referring to someone who is your elder. Matsuyama has certainly played the big brother role to aspiring Japanese golfers like Rikuya Hoshino, Kaito Onishi and Takumi Kanaya who have risen with successful campaigns in 2024. They will join Matsuyama and another Japanese youngster Ryo Hisatsune on the PGA Tour in 2025.<\/p>\r\r<p>Hoshino, Onishi and Kanaya all took different routes to golf\u2019s promised land, with Hoshino earning his way through the DP World Tour Top-10, Onishi via the Korn Ferry Tour Top-30 and Kanaya finishing top-5 in the PGA Tour Qualifying School Finals.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI\u2019m really not the pioneer. There\u2019s been so many others that have come before me and have laid the foundation for me to achieve this goal. So it\u2019s not just me, but it\u2019s all of those that have gone before me that have tried and struggled and put in the work and were great examples to me,\u201d said Matsuyama, referring to the likes of Isao Aoki, Shigeki Maruyama, Ryuji Imada and Satoshi Kodaira who have all won on the Tour previously.<\/p>\r\r<p>Asia also welcomed the newest Tour winner when Kevin Yu broke through at the Sanderson Farms Championship in October, becoming only the third Taiwan golfer after T.C. Chen (1987 LA Open, now the Genesis Invitational) and C.T. Pan (2019 RBC Heritage) to win on the elite circuit.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cIt\u2019s literally a dream come true,\u201d said Yu. \u201cI\u2019ve been dreaming of this moment since I was five.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI think this is the dream for all the golfers, to win on the Tour. And then I did it.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>Yu has wasted no time in playing his role to spur the development of golf back home by hosting his first elite golf camp earlier this month where 13 juniors were in attendance.<\/p>\r\r<p>When Yu was a kid, he was inspired after attending a clinic by former women\u2019s World No. 1 Tseng Yani of Taiwan.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI\u2019ve always wanted to give back to golf in general. What I\u2019ve been through in my journey, it\u2019s the same for these kids. If I can offer my time and help them achieve their goals, that would be good.\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\r<p>There were no Korean winners this season but Im Sung-jae and An Byeong-hun stood out by qualifying for the FedExCup Playoffs Finale and the Tour Championship.<\/p>\r\r<p>Kim Si-woo and Tom Kim ended the season in 32nd and 59th positions respectively and also played a big part of the International Team in the Presidents Cup which saw them deliver several memorable moments against the United States Team at Royal Montreal.<\/p>","author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_byline":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_tags":"","author_id":746,"kicker_name":"At Full Swing","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/at-full-swing?bycat=746_1691708057","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/746.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002695,"np_author_id":746,"author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/746.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"At Full Swing\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"true\",\"forweb_status\":\"true\",\"column_key\":\"746_1691708057\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3775833,"np_article_id":1521857,"article_title":"A bumpy year ends, let\u2019s hope a bumper year lies ahead","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/28\\\/a-bumpy-year-ends-lets-hope-a-bumper-year-lies-ahead\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IT has not been a year to cherish.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-28 08:38:27\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-11 07:07:24\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"35\"}","publish_time":"2024-12-28 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/28\\\/3090100.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/12\/28\/a-bumpy-year-ends-lets-hope-a-bumper-year-lies-ahead","show_image_in_thumb":3090100,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IT has not been a year to cherish.<\/p>\r\r<p>For me personally, it has been quite painful. From being knocked by a vehicle in my hometown in Ipoh to getting stuck in the flood in Thailand \u2013 it has actually been a year to forget.<\/p>\r\r<p>I\u2019m wiser now when it comes to cars and aim to navigate the streets with a lot of caution in the coming years.<\/p>\r\r<p>As for Malaysian sports, there have been many bumps and roadblocks too, and a flood of unhappy stories.<\/p>\r\r<p>Still, there have been some good news.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Malaysian Athletics Federation (MAF), for one, must be lauded for launching the successful Super Series this year. The six-leg series gave local athletes more competitions to test their abilities and push their limits.<\/p>\r\r<p>And Zaidatul Husniah did the country proud at one of the series \u2013 Perlis Open \u2013 when she smashed the 31-year women\u2019s 100m record held by G. Shanti when she posted 11.49s.<\/p>\r\r<p>On Oct 12, she wiped out the old mark of 11.50s set in Kuala Lumpur in 1993.<\/p>\r\r<p>MAF are now planning to bring in the foreigners in next year\u2019s Super Series. That should raise the bar and make our athletes reach higher. Kudos MAF.<\/p>\r\r<p>There have been better results from badminton, squash, wushu, and several other sports. In fact, even football and hockey did fine for brief periods.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, the hockey team failed to qualify for the Paris Olympic Games under A. Arulselvaraj while the Harimau Malaya missed the cut for the World Cup third round qualifiers under South Korean Kim Pan-gon. Both head coaches had to go.<\/p>\r\r<p>Of course, the disappointment was still the Paris Olympics where Malaysia\u2019s hunt for gold remained elusive as they only managed two bronze medals through Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik (men\u2019s doubles) and Lee Zii Jia (men\u2019s singles).<\/p>\r\r<p>The forlorn face of cycling icon Datuk Azizulhasni Awang sitting alone \u2013 dejected after he was disqualified for an infringement \u2013 told the sad story of our Olympics outing.<\/p>\r\r<p>He has decided to retire and focus on studies but there are those who are hoping to lure him back to ride on for Malaysia.<\/p>\r\r<p>It will be the best news for the New Year if he does get back up on the saddle to give LA28 a shot.<\/p>\r\r<p>And who can forget the pain that footballer Faisal Halim had to endure after being attacked with acid that saw him out of the game for three months.<\/p>\r\r<p>Who did this heinous thing? We have seen bickering, infighting, scam, biased selections and even bribery and daylight robbery in sports, but to hurt another human being so badly \u2013 that is a new low for Malaysian sport.<\/p>\r\r<p>And the police still haven\u2019t found the perpetrator or the motive behind the attack. Maybe, they are still busy looking for the stray dogs at Universiti Malaya.<\/p>\r\r<p>Faisal, however, was heroic in his reaction. He stayed focused despite his grave situation and showed he was the bigger man by getting back on the field with gusto.<\/p>\r\r<p>Hopefully, we will continue to see a stronger Faizal roaring loud for Selangor and Harimau Malaya in 2025.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Tigers are indeed set for big changes next year, with new leadership too.<\/p>\r\r<p>FAM president Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin is not standing for re-election next year, opening up the presidency to new faces. A new structure is also on the cards under Johor Regent and Johor Darul Ta\u2019zim (JDT) owner Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim.<\/p>\r\r<p>Will Malaysian football return to its glory days under this royal rule? Only time will tell.<\/p>\r\r<p>Time is something that Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh wished that she had more of.<\/p>\r\r<p>She has been hitting the ground running since assuming office in December 2022.<\/p>\r\r<p>This year has been a test of Hannah\u2019s leadership with the Olympic Games being the centre of it, but she did well to rise above all challenges.<\/p>\r\r<p>Under Hannah, Malaysian sport has enjoyed big budgets and more sports have benefited instead of the usual core sports. She has also made many changes at ground level.<\/p>\r\r<p>Like her predecessors, Hannah has faced criticism and compliments in the same breath \u2013 but it has not stopped her from going the extra mile.<\/p>\r\r<p>She has learnt to choose her battles and knows that some are not worth fighting for but goes all out to douse the fire in some cases.<\/p>\r\r<p>She has won the admiration of many including Datuk Lee Chong Wei, Datuk Nicol David, Datuk Shalin Zulkifli and Azizul for putting the needs of the athletes first.<\/p>\r\r<p>In fact, Chong Wei and Nicol would not have been part of the Road to Gold programme if not for the minister.<\/p>\r\r<p>The path will be even more challenging for Hannah this year as the expectations will be higher.<\/p>\r\r<p>Let\u2019s get the show on the road \u2013 hopefully without any bumps or rainy days!<\/p>\r\r<p>*The writer wishes all readers a blessed New Year and hoping that it will be a year that we will grow stronger from hard knocks.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3774507,"np_article_id":1519422,"article_title":"Christmas at the top \u2013 can Liverpool win their second title in six years?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"LIVERPOOL are now top of the league at Christmas. Is that a good omen for the Reds? Time will tell.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"28\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-24 07:10:02\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-12-24 07:10:02\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"28\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-12-24 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/24\\\/3084431.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/12\/24\/christmas-at-the-top---can-liverpool-win-their-second-title-in-six-years","show_image_in_thumb":3084431,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/12\/24\/3084432.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/>LIVERPOOL are now top of the league at Christmas. Is that a good omen for the Reds? Time will tell.<\/p>\r\r<p>Historically, the team leading at Christmas have won the league 16 times out of 32 Premier League seasons.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arne Slot\u2019s side sit four points clear at the top after dismantling Tottenham Hotspur 3-6 in a stunning display, spearheaded by Mohamed Salah, who now leads both the goal-scoring and assist charts.<\/p>\r\r<p>Slot got his tactics spot on, starting Luis Diaz up front with Dominik Szoboszlai supporting him. Ange Postecoglou\u2019s Spurs had no answers to Liverpool\u2019s strategy.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, questions are now raised about Postecoglou\u2019s stubborn refusal to adapt his style of play to different opponents. Is it a case of \u201chis way or the highway\u201d? If so, could this cost him his job?<\/p>\r\r<p>Chelsea\u2019s goalless draw at Goodison Park widened Liverpool\u2019s lead at the top. Sean Dyche\u2019s Everton are proving to be title spoilers, frustrating top sides two weeks in a row.<\/p>\r\r<p>While Everton\u2019s fans won\u2019t appreciate helping their city rivals, their resilience has inadvertently assisted Liverpool in building a gap over their nearest challengers.<\/p>\r\r<p>At Old Trafford, Ruben Amorim\u2019s inconsistent start at Manchester United continued. After the high of defeating Manchester City, United suffered a humbling 3-0 loss to Bournemouth.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Cherries dominated from start to finish and now sit an impressive fifth in the league. A European spot might not be out of reach for Andoni Iraola\u2019s men if they maintain this form.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the holiday spirit, Arsenal fans have a player to thank whose name is synonymous with the season: Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian forward has been a saviour for the Gunners in Bukayo Saka\u2019s absence, delivering crucial performances in back-to-back games.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Saka sidelined due to a potential hamstring injury, Arsenal will need others - especially Jesus - to step up as they continue their pursuit of Liverpool. Given City\u2019s struggles, this season could finally see a new Premier League champion. Will the title return to London with Arsenal or<\/p>\r\r<p>Chelsea, or will it stay in the Northwest?<\/p>\r\r<p>Unai Emery\u2019s Aston Villa added to Pep Guardiola\u2019s woes, defeating City in a deserved win at Villa Park.<\/p>\r\r<p>City have now lost nine of their last 12 games in all competitions, a shocking statistic for a side of their calibre. Guardiola may regret letting players like Morgan Rogers leave, as City\u2019s midfield continues to lack the energy needed to compete with younger, fitter opposition.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Cole Palmer thriving at Chelsea, questions over Guardiola\u2019s squad-building decisions are mounting.<\/p>\r\r<p>Looking back at Guardiola\u2019s career, has he ever truly developed youth talent apart from Phil Foden?<\/p>\r\r<p>Many often credited Lionel Messi as a Guardiola protege, but it was Frank Rijkaard who introduced him. At Bayern Munich, Guardiola failed to bring through any academy players.<\/p>\r\r<p>Instead, he has often relied on acquiring ready-made stars, many of whom developed by Juergen Klopp during his time at Borussia Dortmund. Is it time to reassess Guardiola\u2019s legacy?<\/p>\r\r<p>Twelve games into the season, Guardiola still seems reluctant to trust his youth players.<\/p>\r\r<p>With state-of-the-art facilities and a world-class academy, City have no shortage of talent waiting for opportunities.<\/p>\r\r<p>Based on the performances of former City academy players now thriving elsewhere in the league, it might be time for Guardiola to turn to youth. If not, the January transfer window may be his only lifeline.<\/p>\r\r<p>Meanwhile, Newcastle are making waves, thanks to Alexander Isak\u2019s red-hot form. For the second league game in a row, Newcastle secured a four-goal victory while keeping a clean sheet. Isak\u2019s hattrick against Ipswich showcased his immense talent.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, Newcastle will need to win a trophy this season if they want to keep hold of their star forward.<\/p>\r\r<p>If not, clubs like Arsenal or Liverpool could come calling, as Isak\u2019s ability to score, create, and press from the front would make him an invaluable asset for any title-challenging side - provided he stays injury-free.<\/p>\r\r<p>The league is heating up! With Boxing Day and New Year\u2019s fixtures fast approaching, the games are coming thick and fast.<\/p>\r\r<p>Can Liverpool extend their lead at the top among the title challengers? Can Arsenal survive without Saka? And can Chelsea maintain their impressive form?<\/p>\r\r<p>There\u2019s still plenty of football to play for \u2013 it\u2019s going to be an exciting ride!<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3773578,"np_article_id":1517582,"article_title":"Olympians aren\u2019t the only world champs who need support","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"sports box, say what, Lim Teik Huat\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"ZMARUL Al Adam became Malaysia\\u2019s latest world champion, winning gold in the World Bodybuilding Championships in Maldives last month.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":615,\"columns\":\"615_1605851998\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-21 07:27:01\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-12-21 07:27:01\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-12-21 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/21\\\/3080160.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/12\/21\/olympians-arent-the-only-world-champs-who-need-support","show_image_in_thumb":3080160,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>ZMARUL Al Adam (<em><strong>pic, below<\/strong><\/em>) became Malaysia\u2019s latest world champion, winning gold in the World Bodybuilding Championships in Maldives last month.<\/p>\r\r<p>His win made him the heir to six-time world champion Datuk Syarul Azman Mahen Abdullah \u2013 or Mike Mahen \u2013 who retired earlier this year.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/12\/21\/3080162.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 400px; height: 456px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Syarul left the scene after finally nailing the Best Sportsman of the Year award for 2023.<\/p>\r\r<p>But that is probably the best he can hope for. After all, he is a world champion in a non-Olympic sport.<\/p>\r\r<p>Malaysia has no shortage of world champion athletes when it comes to non-Olympic sports. There have been numerous from wushu and pencak silat in the last decade but there is no bigger name than Datuk Nicol David.<\/p>\r\r<p>She was world No. 1 for years and won eight world titles but, unluckily for her, squash will only be an Olympic sport at the Los Angeles Games in 2028.<\/p>\r\r<p>The thing is: there is a big gap in the kind of support world champions receive, depending on whether or not their sport falls under the Olympic banner.<\/p>\r\r<p>The country has a pension scheme for Olympic medallists but such appreciation and support is not given to athletes who achieve world champion status outside the Olympic framework.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/12\/21\/3080159.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 214px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>The lack of a specific pension scheme for athletes raises a question. Why are world class athletes in non-Olympic sports, who equally contribute to the nation\u2019s sporting legacy, not given the recognition they deserve?<\/p>\r\r<p>It is not a good message to send to the younger generation \u2013 that success in sports outside of the Olympic family is not of much worth.<\/p>\r\r<p>Perhaps we can learn from other countries like Canada, Australia and the United States who have long recognised the need for a strong retirement system to ensure financial stability for their athletes.<\/p>\r\r<p>In Canada, the Athlete Assistance Programme (AAP) provides regular income to athletes during and after their careers regardless of whether the sport is under the Olympic banner or not, along with support for career transitions.<\/p>\r\r<p>In Australia, meanwhile, the government works with corporations to fund pensions and career training programmes for retired athletes.<\/p>\r\r<p>Malaysia could also consider adopting a national pension scheme which receives support from the public and private sector, tailored to the needs of athletes who become world champions in recognised sports.<\/p>\r\r<p>The authorities can also consider implementing a comprehensive career transition programme for retired athletes who often have difficulty transitioning to a new career.<\/p>\r\r<p>The National Athletes Welfare Foundation (Yakeb) can look at establishing collaborations with educational institutions and businesses to offer scholarships, career counselling, and training programmes.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s over to you, Hannah Yeoh. Your Youth and Sports Ministry might want to look into this matter in 2025.<\/p>","author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","article_byline":"Lim Teik Huat","article_tags":"","author_id":615,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=615_1605851998","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/615.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002621,"np_author_id":615,"author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/615.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"615_1605851998\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"section_id\":0,\"author_title\":\"\",\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3773146,"np_article_id":1516820,"article_title":"Reviving the idea of professional referees","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"A TRUE legend who seldom loses his cool, Fandi Ahmad did not mince his words in a post-match press conference recently.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"0\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-20 07:10:59\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-12-20 07:10:59\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-12-20 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/20\\\/3078249.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/2024\/12\/20\/reviving-the-idea-of-professional-referees","show_image_in_thumb":3078249,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/12\/20\/3078250.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/>A TRUE legend who seldom loses his cool, Fandi Ahmad did not mince his words in a post-match press conference recently.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Pahang coach was left fuming with the standard of refereeing which he described as biased after his team\u2019s 3-1 defeat to Johor Darul Ta\u2019zim (JDT) at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium on Tuesday.<\/p>\r\r<p>Fandi, who was the legendary figure Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim turned to in 2012 to kickstart his football project, was particularly miffed with the three yellow cards shown to his players while none of the JDT players were booked despite the tackles made by both teams.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI am being frank. I am most displeased with the referee. These days football is becoming like rugby,\u201d he was quoted as saying.<\/p>\r\r<p>But Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) Referees\u2019 Committee chairman, Datuk S. Sivasundaram, was quick to defend his men.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cReports from the Referee Assessor confirm that both the referee and VAR officials excelled in their roles during the match. Their decision to award a penalty in the 90+4 minute and issue three yellow cards were both accurate and aligned with FIFA\u2019s laws of of the game and VAR protocols,\u201d said Sivasundaram in a statement.<\/p>\r\r<p>The performance of Malaysian referees has been thrown into question yet again, which reminds me of the proposed structure for match officials that has yet to see the light of day.<\/p>\r\r<p>In early 2019, the FAM and Malaysian Football League (MFL) as the league operators completed a series of discussions with England\u2019s Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) with the idea of establishing a new structure for match officials.<\/p>\r\r<p>The intention was to pave the way for a higher qualify and standard of refereeing in domestic competitions by identifying a pool of professional referees.<\/p>\r\r<p>In a video press conference streamed directly from London, the panel of representatives included FAM deputy president Datuk Wira Mohd Yusoff Mahadi, the then FAM general secretary Stuart Ramalingam, MFL CEO Kevin Ramalingam, Md Dali Wahid as the FAM referees\u2019 chairman and FAM head of referees\u2019 unit Kassim Kadir Bacha. They fielded questions from the attending media at FAM headquarters.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was revealed that a new company known as Professional Match Officials Malaysia (PMOM) had been created and registered that would form the basis of the new structure.<\/p>\r\r<p>The delegation came to a conclusion that England offers a pathway from the age of 16 to the Premier League while PGMOL adopts an evaluation system of referees using new forms and criteria.<\/p>\r\r<p>The PMOM was supposed to be a joint venture between the FAM and MFL to be managed by a general manager and later on to identify suitable candidates to be offered professional contracts as the first batch of referees under PMOM.<\/p>\r\r<p>Elevating the standard of refereeing was seen as a logical move given how much scrutiny the local referees were put under in recent seasons.<\/p>\r\r<p>With the FAM elections just around the corner, perhaps the affiliates might consider getting a former referee back into the executive committee.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the 2017 elections, respected former FIFA referee, Subkhiddin Mohd Salleh, was installed as the chairman of the referees committee following his election as an executive member.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, Subkhiddin resigned after he was criticised for the poor refereeing quality of the 2018 Malaysia Cup final between eventual winners Perak and Terengganu.<\/p>\r\r<p>If football\u2019s stakeholders are serious in elevating the standards of refereeing, they might want to consider getting the likes of Nik Ahmad Yaakub and Amir Shariffuddin Wong into the decision-making process.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"Say What","kicker_url":"\/Sport\/Say-What\/","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3771850,"np_article_id":1514270,"article_title":"Amad\u2019s brilliance and Amorim\u2019s belief \u2013 a perfect formula for success","article_custom_fields":"{\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/a-winning-factor\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/17\\\/amads-brilliance-and-amorims-belief---a-perfect-formula-for-success\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"summary\":[\"IN football, having the right players is not enough \\u2013 you need to ensure that each one possesses the mental toughness and football IQ to win games over a long season.\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-17 07:29:03\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-07 07:09:55\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"31\"}","publish_time":"2024-12-17 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/17\\\/3073007.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/12\/17\/amads-brilliance-and-amorims-belief---a-perfect-formula-for-success","show_image_in_thumb":3073007,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IN football, having the right players is not enough \u2013 you need to ensure that each one possesses the mental toughness and football IQ to win games over a long season.<\/p>\r\r<p>At the Etihad, Ruben Amorim\u2019s men showed exactly that as Manchester United triumphed over Manchester City in the Manchester Derby, thanks to the belief and resilience instilled by their new manager.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s almost ironic to praise United for their mental toughness, considering how they\u2019ve folded under pressure in recent years. Normally, this team would crumble after conceding first, but not this time.<\/p>\r\r<p>In a low-quality affair between the two sides, United went behind in the first half after Josko Gvardiol scored from a corner \u2013 another set-piece goal conceded by United.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yet, instead of capitulating, Amorim\u2019s men remained tactically disciplined, followed their manager\u2019s instructions, and secured a hard-fought victory after another mental collapse by Pep Guardiola\u2019s side.<\/p>\r\r<p>City are now winless in 11 matches \u2013 an astonishing statistic for the reigning Premier League champions.<\/p>\r\r<p>Kudos to Amad Diallo, who displayed exceptional football IQ in turning the game around.<\/p>\r\r<p>After intercepting an under-hit back pass from Matheus Nunes, Diallo cleverly baited Nunes into a desperate tackle, earning United a penalty for the equaliser.<\/p>\r\r<p>For the winner, Diallo perfectly anticipated Lisandro Martinez\u2019s pass, rounded the goalkeeper, and finished sharply from a tight angle to paint Manchester red.<\/p>\r\r<p>The winner justified Amorim\u2019s bold decision to drop Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho. Since Amorim\u2019s arrival, Diallo has arguably been United\u2019s standout player.<\/p>\r\r<p>His positional versatility and, most importantly, his attitude have been crucial to his success under the new manager. Long may it continue \u2013 a lesson other United players should take to heart.<\/p>\r\r<p>Over at Anfield, it was a tale of two leftbacks. Andy Robertson endured a nightmare, while Antonee Robinson reminded the football world that Americans can shine in this game.<\/p>\r\r<p>Robertson, or \u201cRobbo\u201d had a start to forget. After requiring early treatment following a tough tackle, he deflected Andreas Pereira\u2019s shot into his own net.<\/p>\r\r<p>If that wasn\u2019t enough, a poor touch allowed Harry Wilson to beat him, forcing Robbo into a desperate foul to deny a clear scoring opportunity.<\/p>\r\r<p>The result? A deserved red card in the 17th minute, leaving Liverpool to play with 10 men for the rest of the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>In contrast, Fulham\u2019s marauding leftback Robinson had a match to remember. He kept the left flank locked down defensively and contributed two assists going forward. Surprisingly, Robinson is still at Fulham given his consistency over the past few seasons.<\/p>\r\r<p>Unfortunately for Fulham, they failed to protect their lead twice, allowing Liverpool to fight back and earn a share of the points.<\/p>\r\r<p>Impressively, Liverpool dominated the game despite being a man down. Much credit must go to Arne Slot, whose tactical adjustments and well-drilled squad proved key.<\/p>\r\r<p>A shift to a 3- 3-3 formation helped Liverpool maintain control. While they dropped two points, Chelsea capitalised on the situation to close the gap at the top.<\/p>\r\r<p>Chelsea are now firmly in the title race. Enzo Maresca\u2019s side are just two points behind Liverpool after securing a hard-fought win. While it wasn\u2019t a commanding performance, three points are three points in a title race.<\/p>\r\r<p>This victory was especially significant, given Brentford\u2019s tendency to trouble Chelsea in recent seasons.<\/p>\r\r<p>Meanwhile, Arsenal once again failed to capitalise on the weekend\u2019s results. For the second consecutive week, they dropped points, remaining six points behind Liverpool.<\/p>\r\r<p>Their forwards couldn\u2019t find a way past Jordan Pickford, who proved why he remains England\u2019s No. 1. When on form, Pickford is a near-impossible wall to beat, and his heroics at the Emirates were a reminder of his quality.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mikel Arteta\u2019s squad looked fatigued, with the relentless schedule of playing every three days taking its toll. Substituting Arsenal\u2019s most creative player for youthful energy didn\u2019t provide the spark the game required, as Pickford stood tall to deny the Gunners. Another two points dropped. Will this match haunt Arsenal later in the season?<\/p>\r\r<p>This season promises a title race for the ages, but we must not forget the league\u2019s other teams. Fulham and Nottingham Forest, for example, are punching above their weight and showing that nothing in this league is given.<\/p>\r\r<p>Every team must earn their place, and every player competing in this league must remember that every game is a battle.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3771838,"np_article_id":1514263,"article_title":"National team duty should take precedence over club assignments","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Football, Commentary, Malaysia, AFF Cup, Pau Marti Vicente, Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/comment\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/17\\\/national-team-duty-should-take-precedence-over-club-assignments\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"MAJOR honours can be won with clubs, but there is nothing like winning for the nation. I believe it\\u2019s a must to play for the country, above all else. The greatest honour is to play for the Jalur Gemilang.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":464,\"columns\":\"464_1703288117\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"33\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-17 07:21:39\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-04 07:12:24\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"33\"}","publish_time":"2024-12-17 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/17\\\/3072997.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/comment\/2024\/12\/17\/national-team-duty-should-take-precedence-over-club-assignments","show_image_in_thumb":3072997,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>MAJOR honours can be won with clubs, but there is nothing like winning for the nation. I believe it\u2019s a must to play for the country, above all else. The greatest honour is to play for the Jalur Gemilang.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ask any professional footballer anywhere \u2013 representing the nation is the pinnacle of their careers. Even if your name is Lionel Messi.<\/p>\r\r<p>Let the players showcase their talents, skills and commitment to their homeland, this must be the message to all clubs.<\/p>\r\r<p>A lot of people would say that international calendars are boring because the world is more enamoured by the star-studded Premier League, La Liga, and Saudi League, but donning the national jersey is more than about wearing just a uniform.<\/p>\r\r<p>You are expressing identity, unity, and carrying the dreams of millions who support their national team with unwavering passion.<\/p>\r\r<p>So, it baffles me to see some quarters undermining the value of national duty, and seeing it happen during the AFF Cup was enough to make the blood boil, especially for the one penning this.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the ongoing regional tournament, we have seen some Super League clubs recalling their players for domestic competitions, even for the Challenge Cup, which is a tournament for those defeated in the Malaysia Cup round of 16.<\/p>\r\r<p>Anyone would be baffled to see such a situation. Elsewhere, it is the norm that once a player reports for national duty, he will be there until the end of the team\u2019s duties, unless he or she is injured or has personal matters to attend to.<\/p>\r\r<p>Calling back players like Penang\u2019s Syamer Kutty Abba and Adib Abd Raop for the Challenge Cup was confusing for many who had hoped they could play against Timor Leste.<\/p>\r\r<p>One would think there would at least have been an outcry when Sabah\u2019s players, all key men for Malaysia \u2014 centreback Dominic Tan, wingback Daniel Ting, midfielder Stuart Wilkin and striker Darren Lok \u2014 returned for their Malaysia Cup game against Kuching City on Sunday and skipped the important game against Thailand, which the national team narrowly lost.<\/p>\r\r<p>Months ago, Malaysian league giants Johor Darul Ta\u2019zim (JDT) requested their key players \u2014 star winger Arif Aiman Hanapi, fullback Matthew Davies and centreback Feroz Baharuddin \u2014 to return from their international campaign to prepare for their games in the Malaysia Cup and AFC Champions League Elite. The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) had no choice but to oblige.<\/p>\r\r<p>Even the national body seem helpless in situations like this, as they can only lean on what the FIFA circulars say when it comes to the release of players for international tournaments.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sadly, there seems to be little pride among players and teams for the national football framework. For me, when you are called up, you must give full commitment for the nation. If there is any hesitation or even a hint that a player could be recalled, another truly committed player should be called up. The one who pulled out should not get back into the national team, not easily anyway.<\/p>\r\r<p>Football, in this day and age, is evolving, it is growing and yes, the business side of it is important. Clubs are the paymasters, so they want to be the priority but in tournament football, you want the best, or in this case, the committed ones. At the end of the day, national pride must take precedence.<\/p>\r\r<p>In recent years, the Malaysian football team have faced both challenges and opportunities in the AFF Cup, a tournament that stirs national pride and passion among fans.<\/p>\r\r<p>Right from the date when the tournament was first announced, it was already noted that the tournament is not part of the FIFA calendar, although it is endorsed by the world football body.<\/p>\r\r<p>Still, it is no reason to leave out our best players. interim coach Pau Marti Vicente knew he couldn\u2019t have all his best players but he should have had at least a set of players who can deliver the goods. Instead, he is lamenting in every press conference that he had never encountered such situations in his coaching career.<\/p>\r\r<p>To wear the national colours is an honour \u2013 that can never be emphasised enough. Players have to embrace a sense of belonging and responsibility, playing for something far greater than oneself \u2014 but it seems like a mockery to some.<\/p>\r\r<p>That said, now go back and read all the first letter of every paragraph. And those below too, as we sum up what we really need.<\/p>\r\r<p>l Love the current set of players and coaches in the AFF Cup. They are doing their best<\/p>\r\r<p>l Enough of the lamenting. It\u2019s time to ask hard questions and get answers.<\/p>\r\r<p>l As FAM president Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin prepares to leave, he must leave a legacy to be proud of.l Rejuvenation is needed and all stakeholders \u2014 clubs, the FAs and players \u2014 must collaborate for the greater good of Malaysian football.<\/p>\r\r<p>l National duty comes first. Always! No one can dispute that.<\/p>","author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","article_byline":"T. Avineshwaran","article_tags":"","author_id":464,"kicker_name":"Comment","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/comment?bycat=464_1703288117","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/464.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":2005646,"np_author_id":464,"author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/464.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"avinesh@thestar.com.my","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"The Gaffer\",\"column_status\":\"hide\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1564141134\"},\"2\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1663890104\"},\"3\":{\"column_name\":\"Comment\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1703288117\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3770795,"np_article_id":1512395,"article_title":"No place for corruption in our sports","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column, Rajes Paul, corruption\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"CHINESE footballer Li Tie is a well known figure, a celebrity in fact.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-14 06:32:02\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-12-14 06:32:02\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-12-14 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/14\\\/3068998.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":405,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/12\/14\/no-place-for-corruption-in-our-sports","show_image_in_thumb":3068998,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>CHINESE footballer Li Tie is a well known figure, a celebrity in fact.<\/p>\r\r<p>He played for English Premier League clubs Everton and Sheffield United in 2002s. He became successful when he was heading Chinese clubs like Hebei China Fortune, and was China\u2019s national coach in 2020 and 2021.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/12\/14\/3068997.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 207px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Yesterday, the 47-year-old was sentenced to 20 years in prison. He was found guilty of giving and accepting bribes when he was heading the clubs.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was an expose through a documentary broadcast by China\u2019s state television in January that led to his sentence.<\/p>\r\r<p>We have to say: \u201cWell done, China.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>The government\u2019s anti corruption campaign has borne fruit. And Li Tie was not the first to be nabbed.<\/p>\r\r<p>In March, a former chairman of the Chinese Football Association was sentenced to life in prison.<\/p>\r\r<p>Seeing big names being brought to justice for malpractice gives hope.<\/p>\r\r<p>It shows that fame, money and influence will not help someone if they commit a crime unlike in certain countries, where matters are swept under the carpet, if a person has clout or social status.<\/p>\r\r<p>In Malaysia, the badminton fraternity was shocked last Tuesday when the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) released a statement that they were being investigated by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).<\/p>\r\r<p>MACC officers had visited their headquarters \u201cto request certain information\u201d and they had fully cooperated.<\/p>\r\r<p>MACC chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki also confirmed in a recent The Star report that a BAM committee member was one of six individuals called to assist in investigations into alleged corruption. MACC made it clear that they will also call the person linked to the allegations.<\/p>\r\r<p>But one is innocent until proven guilty, and as Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said, we should allow the due process to take place first.<\/p>\r\r<p>OFFICIAL corruption cases are rare in Malaysian sports \u2013 it\u2019s not really a grave problem that surfaces every year unlike in other countries where many FIFA officials were arrested and athletics officials questioned.<\/p>\r\r<p>I emphasise the word \u201cofficial\u201d because unofficially, we do hear a lot of talk on the ground \u2013 quiet whispers here and there.<\/p>\r\r<p>As long as there is no proof, we should not be talking too much about it. No one wants to be called an ultracrepidarian \u2013 someone who speaks a lot on things he has little knowledge about.<\/p>\r\r<p>But there are many who are the opposite. They know of the ills but would rather not \u2013 or are afraid to \u2013 talk about them.<\/p>\r\r<p>The thing is, corruption exists in sports, and those who really know about it should expose the culprits.<\/p>\r\r<p>There was evidence in 2018 when professional shuttlers Zulfadli Zulkifli and Tan Chun Seang were banned for 20 and 15 years respectively by the World Badminton Federation (BWF) for match-fixing.<\/p>\r\r<p>In 2021, eight young Indonesian players were banned for match-fixing.<\/p>\r\r<p>The world body have been diligent in this matter and their fight for zero corruption is commendable.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) have also done the same. In 2014, they fined 17 Kuala Lumpur players RM5,000 each for their involvement in match-fixing.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was minor punishment as the FAM believed they had been pressured by \u201cbigger fish\u201d into corruption. Of course, the big clean-up was way back in 1994 when more than 200 players and coaches were banned from football.<\/p>\r\r<p>Corruption in sports is not only about fixing matches and abuse of power in the decision-making process but is also related to abuse of association funds and using positions to get bribes.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the MACC website, the definition of corruption is clearly spelt out.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cIt\u2019s the act of giving or receiving of any gratification or reward in the form of cash or in-kind of high value for performing a task in relation to his or her job description.<\/p>\r\r<p>They however, also stated that they will take action against those who know but fail to report. These people will be protected under the Whistleblower Protection Act.<\/p>\r\r<p>Those who know about the ills in our sports should come forward. Corruption takes the fun away from sport and destroys the meaning of fair play.<\/p>\r\r<p>Stamping out corruption is important and not for just the image of the sport. Only corruption-free practices will develop good athletes, coaches, officials, sponsors and fans with hearts and character.<\/p>\r\r<p>So, once again, well done China, thank you for leading the way.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3770421,"np_article_id":1511596,"article_title":"Why TMJ is the rightful heir to the FAM throne","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/on-the-line\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/13\\\/why-tmj-is-the-rightful-heir-to-the-fam-throne\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"WITH the FA of Malaysia (FAM) scheduled to hold their Congress-cum-elections in February 2025, there is no other individual more qualified than the Regent of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, to run the national body.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"36\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-13 07:33:57\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-12-20 07:36:05\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"36\"}","publish_time":"2024-12-13 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/13\\\/3066708.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/12\/13\/why-tmj-is-the-rightful-heir-to-the-fam-throne","show_image_in_thumb":3066708,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>WITH the FA of Malaysia (FAM) scheduled to hold their Congress-cum-elections in February 2025, there is no other individual more qualified than the Regent of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, to run the national body.<\/p>\r\r<p>Although Datuk Mohd Joehari Mohd Ayub\u2019s name has emerged as the sole candidate reportedly endorsed by Tunku Ismail to succeed the outgoing president Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin, there is no doubt the man everyone calls TMJ is the perfect heir to the FAM throne.<\/p>\r\r<p>Behind the politics and powerplays in Malaysian football, neutral observers suggest Tunku Ismail should be given a second bite at the cherry to re-define the domestic game.<\/p>\r\r<p>TMJ becoming the FAM president is not wishful thinking.<\/p>\r\r<p>After all he took up the cudgels in 2017, albeit with little impact in terms of results on the pitch.<\/p>\r\r<p>Tunku Ismail appointed Nelo Vingada whose stint was memorable for the wrong reasons as Malaysia\u2019s FIFA ranking plummeted from 155 to 174 after a winless streak of six defeats and one draw.<\/p>\r\r<p>Under the Portuguese, Harimau Malaya were not able to bare their fangs but Vingada\u2019s replacement, former assistant Tan Cheng Hoe, whose appointment was announced by FAM days later, managed to rebuilt a new squad according to his philosophy.<\/p>\r\r<p>Unfortunately, Tunku Ismail decided to quit FAM before Cheng Hoe had managed to fully impose his authority on the team.<\/p>\r\r<p>Earlier, Tunku Ismail\u2019s maiden attempt for the presidency ended in defeat as Al Sultan Abdullah Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah won the presidential election in 2014.<\/p>\r\r<p>The then Tengku Abdullah garnered 27 votes against Tunku Ismail\u2019s 12 in a straight fight after Sultan Ahmad Shah decided to withdraw after helming the association for 30 years.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ten years on, TMJ\u2019s midas touch at club level is desperately required to transform the national team.<\/p>\r\r<p>After all, the so-called privatisation project of the national team is driven by Tunku Ismail.<\/p>\r\r<p>The template for success at JDT should also be applied to the national project, hence the new structure of the national team management set to be announced on Sunday.<\/p>\r\r<p>Whether John Hutchinson, Jurgen Klinsmann, Carlos Queiroz, Esteban Solar or Benjamin Mora to be signing on the dotted lines to assume the hottest seat in Malaysian sports, he will be joining a long list of individuals who tried to provide immediate solutions to the country\u2019s perpetual woes with little, or limited, success.<\/p>\r\r<p>Pau Marti Vicente\u2019s days are numbered as the ongoing AFF Cup is his final mission, as one of three Australians \u2014 Peter Cklamovski, Arthur Papas and Hutchinson \u2014 are set to assume the hotseat.<\/p>\r\r<p>Cklamovski last coached J-League side FC Tokyo but has the experience of working under Tottenham Hotspur coach Ange Postecoglou from 2018 to 2020 in Yokohama F-Marinos.<\/p>\r\r<p>Papas, 44, last coached Thai club Buriram United and also worked with Postecoglou from 2019 to 2020 in Yokohama.<\/p>\r\r<p>Hutchinson, 44, is currently the interim coach of Yokohama but has no prior experience as a head coach.<\/p>\r\r<p>With their fellow Australians Tim Cahill and Alistair Edwards providing invaluable input to Tunku Ismail outside the pitch, Malaysian football may go fully Down Under.<\/p>\r\r<p>In an ideal world, Tunku Ismail returning to FAM should be accompanied by Kevin Ramalingam, who some say has been the power behind the throne, as the general secretary.<\/p>\r\r<p>And Tunku Ismail and Kevin might just be the best men to take over FAM and be accountable to all stakeholders for the national team\u2019s performance.<\/p>\r\r<p>The key word here is of course, being accountable.<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3767974,"np_article_id":1507085,"article_title":"New year brings new tidings for pro Zii Jia, PCM, FAM and BAM","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/07\\\/new-year-brings-new-tidings-for-pro-zii-jia-pcm-fam-and-bam\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"SO, professional men\\u2019s singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia is set to be without a coach again. \"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"34\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-07 05:26:11\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-12-07 06:16:11\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Martin Ignatius\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"34\"}","publish_time":"2024-12-07 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/07\\\/3056673.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/12\/07\/new-year-brings-new-tidings-for-pro-zii-jia-pcm-fam-and-bam","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>SO, professional men\u2019s singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia is set to be without a coach again. In November 2022, he parted ways with coach Indra Wijaya and trained on his own for more than half a year before Wong Tat Meng joined him in July last year.<\/p>\r\r<p>A year and half late, Tat Meng has decided to leave. The big question now is: Who will be the Zii Jia\u2019s new coach?<\/p>\r\r<p>For sure, it has to be someone who understands him well.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/12\/07\/3056673.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 200px; height: 135px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>The 57-year-old Tat Meng, who helped the shuttler win a bronze medal at the Paris Olympic Games this year, has been like a father figure to Zii Jia.<\/p>\r\r<p>But it has not been easy to handle a young blood who is eager to prove himself to the whole world. One can see that Tat Meng has been tactful in order to bring the best out of the 26-year-old.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now that he is going, there are a few candidates who can guide Zii Jia to bigger success at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Former world champion Hendrawan is one who comes to mind. Hendrawan knows Zii Jia well. The soft-spoken Indonesian was the player\u2019s coach when he was with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).<\/p>\r\r<p>Following the departure of former great Lee Chong Wei in 2019, Hendrawan gave Zii Jia his full attention before the player left the national stable to turn professional in controversial fashion in 2022.<\/p>\r\r<p>Zii Jia broke into the top 10 in the world for the first time and won the All-England title under Hendrawan. Mulyo Handoyo of Indonesia can also be a good option. Mulyo guided former Olympics champion Taufik Hidayat during his heydays.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mulyo is good at one-on-one coaching, and this partnership may work.<\/p>\r\r<p>But more than anyone, I think Datuk Misbun Sidek or Datuk Rashid Sidek will be an apt choice for Zii Jia.<\/p>\r\r<p>Misbun has coached him during his time in the back-up squad and the Sidek brothers do have the knack of inspiring players.<\/p>\r\r<p>But we will have to wait and see who Zii Jia\u2019s new coach will be and how much things will change for him.<\/p>\r\r<p>Meanwhile, there are exciting changes set to take place in several popular sports organisations too.<\/p>\r\r<p>Former National Sports Council (NSC) supremo Datuk Ahmad Shapawi Ismail\u2019s decision to contest for the Paralympics Council of Malaysia (PCM) top job sounds sweet to the ear.<\/p>\r\r<p>Shapawi has wealth of experience after serving under the government for more than three decades and has strong network and relationships with different organisations.<\/p>\r\r<p>His good rapport with people, his compassionate heart, his good leadership skills and ability to solve issues can be an asset.<\/p>\r\r<p>I just hope that he will get the vote of confidence next week.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) will also welcome a new leader after current president Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin decided that he would not contest for the post at their election in February next year.<\/p>\r\r<p>Who will replace Hamidin?<\/p>\r\r<p>We need someone who is tough enough to make changes and gets the support of the whole team.<\/p>\r\r<p>Word on the ground is that there is going to be a massive management overhaul to bring back our glory days of football.<\/p>\r\r<p>Maybe a former player can do a good job as the president.<\/p>\r\r<p>Former players too can also make a difference in the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).<\/p>\r\r<p>There could be changes too at the top when the election takes place next year.<\/p>\r\r<p>Maybe Datuk Razif Sidek or Datuk Seri Jalani Sidek could be considered. Or even Datuk Lee Chong Wei as BAM president.<\/p>\r\r<p>New leaders bring changes and hopefully, better results.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s time that we do something different and drastic to raise the profile of Malaysian sport to greater heights.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3766009,"np_article_id":1503503,"article_title":"Chaos, consistency and contenders: The Premier League heats up","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE contest between Liverpool and Manchester City is typically a chaotic affair, brimming with goals and the occasional cards.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"32\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-12-03 07:14:27\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-12-03 07:14:27\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"32\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-12-03 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/12\\\/03\\\/3048640.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/12\/03\/chaos-consistency-and-contenders-the-premier-league-heats-up","show_image_in_thumb":3048640,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THE contest between Liverpool and Manchester City is typically a chaotic affair, brimming with goals and the occasional cards.<\/p>\r\r<p>These two teams have dominated the Premier League over the last five years, sharing the title between them.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/12\/03\/3048642.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 253px; float: left;\" \/>At the recent Super Sunday at Anfield, however, Liverpool seized control from the outset. While City missed several key players due to injuries, so did Liverpool. Normally, City dictate the tempo, but this time, roles were reversed.<\/p>\r\r<p>With an 11-point gap now separating the league leaders and the reigning champions, the question looms: Does Pep Guardiola still have the magic to orchestrate one of his trademark title-winning runs? Based on current form, it seems unlikely, but with 25 games left, anything is possible.<\/p>\r\r<p>As for Arne Slot, what a job he\u2019s doing at Anfield. Slot has implemented his philosophy with minimal disruption to the existing setup. Did he benefit from the infrastructure left by Juergen Klopp? Certainly.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, Slot has made tweaks to ensure he stamped his own identity on this team. Liverpool is no longer the chaotic, relentless force of Klopp\u2019s peak years.<\/p>\r\r<p>They are more measured and tactically adaptable now. Defensively solid and versatile in attack, this Liverpool squad have the tools to sustain their momentum and claim a second Premier League title. For the Anfield faithful, it would be a travesty if these players finish their careers with only one league triumph.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arsenal, however, won\u2019t make it easy for anyone this season. After narrowly missing out in the past two campaigns, Mikel Arteta seems determined to go all the way. The league\u2019s deadliest duo: Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard spearhead his charge.<\/p>\r\r<p>Their telepathic connection evokes memories of Andrew Cole and Dwight Yorke in their prime. At the London Stadium, both were instrumental as Arsenal dismantled West Ham, scoring five goals in the first half alone. With 10 assists already, Saka is on track to break the single season assist record.<\/p>\r\r<p>Meanwhile, at Old Trafford, Jarrad Branthwaite made headlines for the wrong reasons.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Everton defender was linked with Manchester United over the summer, but his performance against them only strengthened those rumours \u2013 by assisting United\u2019s first two goals. Sean Dyche will need to remind Branthwaite which badge he\u2019s wearing.<\/p>\r\r<p>For Ruben Amorim, his first home game as United manager ended on a high note with a 4-0 victory. While the scoreline is impressive, issues persist, particularly the huge gap between midfield and defence. A better opponent would exploit this vulnerability.<\/p>\r\r<p>Amorim is smart and United fans hope he uses the training ground to address these flaws. For now, this confidence-boosting win sets the stage for their clash with Arsenal.<\/p>\r\r<p>The weekend\u2019s most entertaining game came at Molineux, where Wolves and Bournemouth played out a 3-3 thriller. Justin Kluivert scored a hattrick of penalties, all assisted by Evanilson, who set a unique record with three penalty assists.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was a day to forget for Jose Sa, whose errors gifted Bournemouth two spot-kicks.<\/p>\r\r<p>Aston Villa\u2019s poor form continued at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea asserted themselves as dark horses in the title race.<\/p>\r\r<p>Villa are now winless in six games, while Chelsea looks resurgent. Enzo Fernandez\u2019s revival coincides with his single life in London, but the real star is Cole Palmer, who delivered yet another goal and assist. Chelsea may quietly be building a case as title contenders.<\/p>\r\r<p>And then there\u2019s Tottenham. Fresh off their stunning victory over Manchester City, Spurs followed it up with a predictably inconsistent 1-1 draw against Fulham at home. Everyone saw it coming. Until Spurs find consistency, they remain outsiders for the title or even a Champions League spot.<\/p>\r\r<p>With 25 games to go, there\u2019s everything to play for. The top four is unpredictable, with some teams punching above their weight. Is European competition draining Aston Villa? Can Manchester United sustain momentum under Amorim? And can Guardiola rejuvenate his City squad to mount a comeback?<\/p>\r\r<p>By the end of the Boxing Day fixtures, we\u2019ll have a clearer picture of the contenders and pretenders.<\/p>\r\r<p>This season is shaping up to be one for the ages, and a new champion would only add to the Premier League\u2019s legacy as the world\u2019s most competitive league.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3764959,"np_article_id":1501463,"article_title":"A tall order for a Dane, but can Jonassen do it?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"SO many foreign and local badminton coaches have come and gone \\u2013 but that Olympics gold medal still remains elusive.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"38\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-30 07:22:08\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-30 07:22:08\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"38\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-11-30 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/30\\\/3044090.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/11\/30\/a-tall-order-for-a-dane-but-can-jonassen-do-it","show_image_in_thumb":3044090,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>SO many foreign and local badminton coaches have come and gone \u2013 but that Olympics gold medal still remains elusive.<\/p>\r\r<p>Next up is the LA Olympics in 2028, and can Dane Kenneth Jonassen break the duck? He has achieved the feat before, but can he repeat it with Malaysia?<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/30\/3044089.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 204px; float: left;\" \/>Jonassen is the latest coach hired by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) to strengthen their coaching and training squad.<\/p>\r\r<p>He has been put in charge of the men and women\u2019s singles squad. He was in town this week with a huge smile on his face and took questions from the media like a champ.<\/p>\r\r<p>He looks all pumped up to officially begin his job in January.<\/p>\r\r<p>He comes with impressive credentials. Under him, Viktor Axelsen of Denmark won an Olympic gold medal in 2020 and ended their nation\u2019s long wait for a Thomas Cup title in 2006.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was a fantastic feat, considering that Denmark, with a population of six million, is a small badminton nation compared to all the Asian giants.<\/p>\r\r<p>The lanky Dane, who was quite an accomplished player himself, has achieved many other things as well, and is always seen as a team player.<\/p>\r\r<p>A friend from Denmark sent me a message when the news broke that Jonassen has agreed to take up the offer from the BAM.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cCongrats to Malaysia for getting a fantastic coach and an even better person,\u201d the text said.<\/p>\r\r<p>I have known coach Jonassen for some time, and I couldn\u2019t agree more. No one can dispute his coaching calibre. On top of that, he is a nice person too.<\/p>\r\r<p>He is straightforward in his ways, truthful, always puts the interest of the players first and is passionate about the sport.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Dane seems determined to meet the target that has been set for him \u2013 to end Malaysia\u2019s wait for a gold medal at the 2028 Olympic Games. He has also been tasked with empowering the coaches under him like K. Yogendran, Alvin Chiew, and Misbun Ramdan.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is, of course, easier said than done. Many other good coaches have been here.<\/p>\r\r<p>Under the late Indonesian Indra Gunawan, we had seven singles players in the top 20 at one stage. And who can forget China\u2019s coach Li Mao.<\/p>\r\r<p>He looks stern like a military man and smokes like a chimney, but his coaching skills are top notch.<\/p>\r\r<p>Our own Misbun Sidek is one of a kind. His knowledge of the game is vast, and his experience is priceless. He has inspired many junior players to believe in themselves.<\/p>\r\r<p>Malaysia\u2019s three-time Olympic silver medal winner Lee Chong Wei has reaped the benefit of training under all of them above. He also enjoyed a stint under Hendrawan.<\/p>\r\r<p>There were others too, like China\u2019s Han Jian, Fang Kaixiang; Korean Park Joo-bong, Misbun\u2019s brother Rashid and many other BAM coaches who may have not taken the lead role, but had worked behind the scene tirelessly.<\/p>\r\r<p>Indonesian Rexy Mainaky is probably one of the more successful ones.<\/p>\r\r<p>In his first stint in Malaysia, Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong ended the country\u2019s 36-year wait for a gold medal at the Asian Games in Doha. When he returned for the second time, top men\u2019s doubles pair Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik went on to end the country\u2019s elusive wait for a world title.<\/p>\r\r<p>Despite having so many different coaches, why have we fallen short in the Olympic Games despite having tried at every Games since the sport was included at Barcelona 1992.<\/p>\r\r<p>Despite the short history, badminton has been the most successful sport for Malaysia in the Olympic Games by winning most medals \u2013 but all silvers and bronzes. The gold has always eluded us.<\/p>\r\r<p>Are we just plain unlucky? Or is it about doing more?<\/p>\r\r<p>Have we done what we should have \u2013 bring the best coaches, provide the best training facilities, give all kinds of perks?<\/p>\r\r<p>Have our players pushed beyond barriers, made the necessary sacrifices and trained with eyes set on the big prize?<\/p>\r\r<p>Some countries who do not have a great badminton tradition have won Olympic titles, yet Malaysia \u2013 who last won the Thomas Cup in 1992 \u2013 cannot do so.<\/p>\r\r<p>We are either doing something wrong, or there is a root problem that we have not addressed.<\/p>\r\r<p>Bringing in Jonassen is another bid to try and identify that root problem, and overcome it.<\/p>\r\r<p>I do wish Jonassen all the best. He will need all the luck he can get.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many coaches have not lasted in the country because of many different factors. Can Jonassen survive them all?<\/p>\r\r<p>There\u2019s about three and half years to July 14, 2028 when the next Olympics starts. But it will be here in the blink of an eye.<\/p>\r\r<p>Will this Dane stand tall or will he sink like those before him?<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3763055,"np_article_id":1497878,"article_title":"Man City stumble, Arsenal and Liverpool eye the throne","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IT was supposed to be a celebration. Pep Guardiola had signed a two-year contract extension, Rodri paraded his Ballon d\\u2019Or at the Etihad, and Manchester City started strongly in their match.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-26 07:58:54\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-26 07:58:54\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mahandran Sonmugam\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-11-26 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/26\\\/3035808.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/11\/26\/man-city-stumble-arsenal-and-liverpool-eye-the-throne","show_image_in_thumb":3035808,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/26\/3035808.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 169px;\" \/>IT was supposed to be a celebration. Pep Guardiola had signed a two-year contract extension, Rodri paraded his Ballon d\u2019Or at the Etihad, and Manchester City started strongly in their match.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yet, the night ended in disappointment as City suffered their fifth consecutive defeat across all competitions \u2013 a first under Guardiola\u2019s reign. This marked their worst loss in seven years, a memory reminiscent of the Maine Road days but alien to the current generation of fans.<\/p>\r\r<p>Little wonder many supporters exited the stadium after the third goal.<\/p>\r\r<p>If this were any other manager, questions about his future will dominate discussions. But Guardiola\u2019s unparalleled success at City should afford him the credit needed to weather this storm.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, the defeat exposed significant cracks. City have conceded the most chances in the league this season, a worrying statistic. The midfield lacks energy, as seen from llkay Gundogan failing to track James Maddison for Spurs\u2019 first goal.<\/p>\r\r<p>Whenever Tottenham broke forward, City\u2019s midfield struggled to keep up, and even Kyle Walker\u2019s pace seemed diminished.<\/p>\r\r<p>Has father time caught up with Guardiola\u2019s squad? Nine of City\u2019s starting eleven are over 30 years old, raising concerns about squad longevity.<\/p>\r\r<p>The challenges don\u2019t ease up, with a daunting trip to Anfield next.<\/p>\r\r<p>Should Liverpool claim victory, City might have to concede the title race early, leaving Guardiola to experiment with new systems for the rest of the season to prepare for a stronger campaign next year.<\/p>\r\r<p>Spurs shine amid inconsistency<\/p>\r\r<p>For Tottenham, this victory was a testament to Ange Postecoglou\u2019s tactical adaptability. Despite a dismal loss to Ipswich before the international break and several key absentees, Spurs played brilliantly against City.<\/p>\r\r<p>The makeshift backline, initially suspect, grew into the game and effectively nullified Erling Haaland after the first 10 minutes.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, inconsistency remains Postecoglou\u2019s Achilles heel. To restore faith in his squad, he must ensure a convincing performance against Fulham next week.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arsenal rediscover their grooveWhile Spurs basked in the spotlight, Mikel Arteta and Arsenal quietly enjoyed a resurgent performance. Their dismantling of Nottingham Forest at the Emirates rekindled memories of the dominant DNA Arsenal showcased over the past two seasons.<\/p>\r\r<p>The defence was resolute, the midfield fluid, and the attack electric. Martin Odegaard was once again pivotal, dictating play with class, while Bukayo Saka shone brightest in a dazzling display.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arteta will hope to build on this momentum, especially with Manchester City faltering. This season could be Arsenal\u2019s best chance to reclaim the Premier League title.<\/p>\r\r<p>Aston Villa\u2019s defensive woesAt Villa Park, Aston Villa scraped a draw against Crystal Palace, but troubling trends persist.<\/p>\r\r<p>Unai Emery\u2019s team are typically defensively solid, yet Villa have just one clean sheet in their last 17 games \u2013 a glaring issue. Conceding goals so easily won\u2019t suffice in a season where competition for European spots is fiercer than ever.<\/p>\r\r<p>Emery must find solutions quickly to keep Villa in contention for Champions League football next season.<\/p>\r\r<p>Liverpool must guard against complacencyLiverpool sit eight points clear of Manchester City, but their narrow win over Southampton exposed a worrying tendency. Against lesser opposition, Arne Slot\u2019s men often display a laissez-faire attitude, a potential Achilles heel in the title race.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mohamed Salah continues to deliver heroics, but Liverpool cannot rely on him indefinitely. February has historically seen a dip in Salah\u2019s form, and fans hope his performances won\u2019t falter after any potential contract renewal.<\/p>\r\r<p>For Liverpool to secure the league title, the entire squad must step up consistently.<\/p>\r\r<p>A familiar struggle for Manchester UnitedNew manager, same old United. Ruben Amorim\u2019s side started brightly against Ipswich but ultimately settled for a disappointing 1-1 draw against a relegation-threatened team.<\/p>\r\r<p>The enormity of Amorim\u2019s task is evident, as he seeks to overhaul a squad lacking cohesion. With fixtures coming thick and fast, Amorim will be desperate for more time on the training ground to embed his philosophy.<\/p>\r\r<p>Without significant improvement, the risk of this becoming Erik Ten Hag 2.0 looms large.<\/p>\r\r<p>A season of changeThe best period of the football calendar is upon us, with games every three days leading into the festive season.<\/p>\r\r<p>By the end of the Boxing Day fixtures, we\u2019ll have a clearer picture of who the genuine title contenders are and who merely pretends.<\/p>\r\r<p>Should City\u2019s reign finally end, the emergence of a new champion would undoubtedly bring renewed competitive balance to the world\u2019s greatest league.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3763564,"np_article_id":1496987,"article_title":"Respecting OCM as the custodian of multi-sports Games in Malaysia","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/25\\\/respecting-ocm-as-the-custodian-of-multi-sports-games-in-malaysia\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IN Malaysia, few understand the nuances of sports governance and the role of the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) and the National Sports Council (NSC).\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"0\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"37\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-25 07:49:07\",\"date_modified\":\"2025-01-01 07:27:46\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"37\"}","publish_time":"2024-11-25 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/27\\\/3033853.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/2024\/11\/25\/respecting-ocm-as-the-custodian-of-multi-sports-games-in-malaysia","show_image_in_thumb":3033853,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/27\/3033852.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/>IN Malaysia, few understand the nuances of sports governance and the role of the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) and the National Sports Council (NSC).<\/p>\r\r<p>OCM, for the uninitiated among Gen X and Millennials let alone the Tik Tok generation, holds the rights of the Olympic Games, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and the SEA Games in Malaysia.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is a multi-sports games organisation formed by the members of OCM and recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as the sole National Olympic Committee (NOC) in Malaysia.<\/p>\r\r<p>OCM, currently helmed by Tan Sri Norza Zakaria, is a member organisation of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and Southeast Asia Games Federation (SEAGF).<\/p>\r\r<p>Formed as Federation of Malaya Olympic Council (FMOC) on August 15, 1953, the first meeting on April 24 1954 decided that the office-bearers elected during the pro-tem committee would hold office for a period of six months.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the early days, OCM operated from founding secretary N.M. Vasagam\u2019s car boot and later on shuttled between Thong Poh Nyen\u2019s home and his office until it found a home at Stadium Negara in 1964. On December 10, 1991, the OCM moved to their present headquarters on the 1.5-acre plot almost in front of Stadium Negara in Jalan Hang Jebat.<\/p>\r\r<p>As a multi-sports organisation, OCM\u2019s core business is to encourage, facilitate and support their members to participate in the various international multi-sports games under its ambit.<\/p>\r\r<p>OCM bear the responsibility of supporting and adding value to all Games by respecting their rules, dispatching participants to compete in them, host the Games when provided the opportunity and doing whatever possible to enhance the image, value and viability of the \u2018Games\u2019.<\/p>\r\r<p>The NSC, in contrast, are a statutory body formed under the NSC Act in 1971. The two key personnels behind the formulation of the Act were the top two leaders from OCM, mind you.<\/p>\r\r<p>At that point of time, the late Tun Abdul Razak Hussein was not only the president of OCM, but he was the No. 1 in the country in his capacity as the Prime Minister.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Minister who tabled the NSC bill was the late Tan Sri Hamzah Abu Samah, serving then as Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports who was Chairman of OCM from 1970 to 1976.<\/p>\r\r<p>It must therefore be recognised and acknowledged that it was in good faith and with honest intentions that the resident and Chairman of OCM, who at that point of time, were also the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport respectively, who proposed, approved and established the NSC Act in 1971.<\/p>\r\r<p>Basically, the main objective of establishing the NSC was to create an official channel for Government to provide funds to OCM and the National Sport Associations (NSAs), for sports development and not for the purpose of controlling them.<\/p>\r\r<p>By the time NSC were fully operational in 1982, OCM had successfully staged two editions of the SEAP Games in 1965 and 1971 before organising the rebranded SEA Games in 1977 with the inclusion of the Philippines and Indonesia.<\/p>\r\r<p>Since it was announced that the 2027 SEA Games will be hosted using a decentralised model \u2013 together with Sarawak and Penang after Sabah had pulled out, OCM had not been included in the conversation.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many among the top echelons of the decision-making process appear to have forgotten that without OCM, there will be no SEA Games for Malaysia to host.<\/p>\r\r<p>In all matters relating to the organisation of the Games, OCM must be represented, from the days of the SEAP Games to the 1989 edition, often described as the most commercially successful edition.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was customary for key office-bearers from OCM to be chairing committees under the main organising committee headed by the Youth and Sports Minister.<\/p>\r\r<p>The organising model evolved into an entity separate from the Youth and Sports Ministry in 2001 when former NSC director of development, Zaki Abdul Rahman, was made the chief operating officer in a set up similar to that of the Sukom 1998 structure, followed by the Malaysian SEA Games organising committee (MASOC) helmed by Datuk Seri Zolkples Embong in 2017.<\/p>\r\r<p>While the NSC serve as paymasters to the training programme by using taxpayers\u2019 money, OCM, an autonomous umbrella body of 58 associations, are the rightful custodian of the Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Putrajaya and Kuching must bear this in mind and respect OCM as the institutional body.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"Say What","kicker_url":"\/Sport\/Say-What\/","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3761955,"np_article_id":1495843,"article_title":"Welfare and well-being of athletes settled \u2013 now to work on their discipline","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"sports, box, commentary\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IT pays to be an athlete in Malaysia.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":615,\"columns\":\"615_1605851998\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-23 07:28:14\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-23 07:28:14\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-11-23 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/23\\\/3031692.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/11\/23\/welfare-and-well-being-of-athletes-settled---now-to-work-on-their-discipline","show_image_in_thumb":3031692,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IT pays to be an athlete in Malaysia.<\/p>\r\r<p>Their needs are met with a huge raise in their monthly allowance and on top of that, they get to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) and the Social Security Organisation (Socso) for the first time this year.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/23\/3031693.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 214px; float: left;\" \/>Even their well-being and safety are not neglected under the Safe Sports Code.<\/p>\r\r<p>So it is refreshing to hear that Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh is now touching on the need to elevate the level of discipline of national athletes, which appears to be lacking.<\/p>\r\r<p>It may seem trivial to some but the lack of discipline in many ways often signals the start of the rot.<\/p>\r\r<p>Hannah raised the need to draw up a Code of Conduct to be signed by all national athletes after last week\u2019s post mortem on the results and performances of athletes at the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris was carried out in Bukit Jalil.<\/p>\r\r<p>Foreign sports experts from local and Japan sports universities were also invited to give their suggestions.<\/p>\r\r<p>Hannah, who disclosed a few incidents, gave an example of how athletes should stop acting as if they were entitled and focus more on their training sessions instead of being active on social media.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) have advised their players to stay off social media and stay focused,\u201d said Hannah.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cBut we are not able to enforce this with independent players. Other athletes are also active on social media, posting about where they were spending time when they should have been practising.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThis is the world of social media, but you cannot post every time you\u2019re out walking or socialising with friends.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI\u2019m seriously considering establishing a Code of Conduct for athletes next year,\u201d she was quoted as saying.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was also interesting to note that Hannah remarked on the feedback given by some of the Chinese coaches working in Malaysia. They said our athletes do not work as hard as their Chinese counterparts.<\/p>\r\r<p>Some of the athletes have also mentioned that they preferred to work with certain mental trainers or certain coaches instead of the ones chosen by their national sports bodies.<\/p>\r\r<p>The thing is athletes need to recognise the difference between basic needs and a sense of entitlement.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mastering self discipline is fundamental to athletes. To be a world class athlete, one needs to work hard and have the mindset to continue improving on the aspect of performance.<\/p>\r\r<p>Talent alone is not enough. Just ask Datuk Lee Chong Wei, Datuk Nicol David and Datuk Azizulhasni Awang. They would not have reached where they are now based on their natural talent.<\/p>\r\r<p>One needs to have the right work attitude, winning mentality and not forgetting a sense of self discipline.<\/p>\r\r<p>But at the same time, the Code of Conduct must also be fair to athletes. The voices of athletes should not be muffled.<\/p>\r\r<p>Is it going to be introduced because certain parties do not want athletes to express critical views?<\/p>\r\r<p>The implementation of the code should not curb the athletes from speaking up but it should give them a guide line to be more disciplined.<\/p>\r\r<p>And I believe, it\u2019s important that the Youth and Sports Ministry engage former top athletes like Chong Wei, Nicol and Josiah Ng to help with the drafting of the Code of Conduct.<\/p>","author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","article_byline":"Lim Teik Huat","article_tags":"","author_id":615,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=615_1605851998","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/615.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002621,"np_author_id":615,"author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/615.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"615_1605851998\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"section_id\":0,\"author_title\":\"\",\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3759935,"np_article_id":1492216,"article_title":"Final pause before the grind: A look at Premier League teams\u2019 must-haves","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE Premier League heads into the international break with 11 games completed and 27 left to play.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"32\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-19 06:47:09\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-19 06:47:09\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Martin Ignatius\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"32\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-11-19 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/19\\\/3024321.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/11\/19\/final-pause-before-the-grind-a-look-at-premier-league-teams-must-haves","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THE Premier League heads into the international break with 11 games completed and 27 left to play.<\/p>\r\r<p>With plenty of the season remaining, we find the usual suspects in the top six, while Nottingham Forest, Brighton, and Fulham are impressively punching above their weight.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/19\/3024321.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 220px; height: 149px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>As the break arrives, it\u2019s time to assess what certain teams need to do when the season resumes.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>LIVERPOOL<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Liverpool have been fortunate with injuries so far. No major setbacks have disrupted the team\u2019s balance, but Arne Slot must rotate his players across all competitions to avoid potential issues, especially for standout performers Ryan Gravenberch and Mohamed Salah. Salah, who isn\u2019t playing for Egypt during this international break, should get the rest he needs.<\/p>\r\r<p>Slot may consider Tyler Morton from the youth team as a back-up for Gravenberch. The Anfield faithful hopes that Liverpool\u2019s training ground remains injury-free.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>MANCHESTER CITY<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Pep Guardiola needs another consistent scorer to support Erling Haaland. In previous seasons, City had players like Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, and Ilkay Gundogan contributing crucial goals. Now, with Phil Foden gradually finding form, Pep must find solutions soon to avoid falling behind in the title race. Defensively, City have conceded 13 goals in 11 games \u2013 a concerning stat that suggests deeper issues within the squad. A rarity under Guardiola. Perhaps the quality of the current players isn\u2019t matching that of their predecessors, and a look into the transfer market in January might help fill this gap for them.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>ARSENAL<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Keeping Martin Odegaard fit will be key for Mikel Arteta, but Arsenal also need an explosive player to support Bukayo Saka. While Kai Havertz shows promise as a centreforward, his consistency is questionable. Viktor Gyokeres, a rumoured target for Manchester United, could fit brilliantly into this Arsenal squad, providing a much-needed goal threat alongside Saka.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Ange Postecoglou\u2019s goal for the break: consistency. Spurs often excel against strong opponents but struggle against bottom-half teams. While Son Heung-min has been solid on the left, Postecoglou might consider deploying Timo Werner on that side, moving Heung-min to a central role. Werner\u2019s ability to stretch the field could open more scoring chances for both Heung-min and Dominic Solanke. Defensively, Spurs could use another centreback to support Micky van de Ven.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>MANCHESTER UNITED<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Manchester United\u2019s primary hope is that Ruben Amorim is the right long-term managerial choice. Amorim will probably aim to deploy his favoured 3-4-3 system, relying on key players to support his style. He\u2019ll want Rasmus Hojlund or Joshua Zirkzee to find their scoring touch, with Viktor Gyokeres as a potential summer target if neither delivers. His first challenge will be Ipswich Town, a game United fans will hope sets a strong tone. Amorim, meanwhile, probably hopes that the Premier League and the media are kind to him.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>ASTON VILLA<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Unai Emery needs his squad re-energised after the break, particularly for the Premier League, where they\u2019ve shown less energy than in European matches. Emery may benefit from rotating Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran and resting Watkins could restore his form. Defensively, Villa need tightening, with 17 goals scored but 17 conceded. The return of Tyrone Mings should help solidify the backline.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>NEWCASTLE<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Eddie Howe probably hopes Alexander Isak can stay injury-free during the busy upcoming period, as deploying Anthony Gordon as a number nine isn\u2019t proving effective.<\/p>\r\r<p>Howe\u2019s recent tactical tweak against Arsenal has brought some stability to the squad, and he\u2019ll need to be courageous in making similar adjustments against different opponents to maximise his players\u2019 strengths.<\/p>\r\r<p>Adding another centreback to the rotation is crucial, as Dan Burn may struggle against certain teams.<\/p>\r\r<p>Following recent success with youth talent, Howe might also consider promoting a young centreback to strengthen his defensive options.<\/p>\r\r<p>This international break is pivotal, offering managers a chance to refine strategies and strengthen their squads before the relentless schedule resumes through December.<\/p>\r\r<p>With no further pauses until February, teams must use this time to prepare thoroughly for the challenging weeks ahead.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3758926,"np_article_id":1490240,"article_title":"Black mark for the men in black \u2013 do they deserve it?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/16\\\/black-mark-for-the-men-in-black---do-they-deserve-it\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THEY are called the men in black. They call the shots. But sometimes, they shoot themselves in the foot.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-16 06:48:19\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-16 06:51:04\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"35\"}","publish_time":"2024-11-16 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/16\\\/3020085.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/11\/16\/black-mark-for-the-men-in-black---do-they-deserve-it","show_image_in_thumb":3020085,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/16\/3020086.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 204px;\" \/>THEY are called the men in black. They call the shots. But sometimes, they shoot themselves in the foot.<\/p>\r\r<p>The life of football referees is tough indeed. They never get noticed for making the right calls.<\/p>\r\r<p>But make one wrong one, and that can infuriate legions of fans, players and officials.<\/p>\r\r<p>They have to endure abuse from players, coaches and spectators. They will not make the headlines for being good at the job.<\/p>\r\r<p>Although their split-second decisions can decide the outcome of matches, their role is to stay in the shadows and control the match without angering either team.<\/p>\r\r<p>In England, Premier League referee David Coote takes the cake for being the bad boy of the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>He was suspended recently after a video appeared that showed him insulting former Liverpool coach Juergen Klopp. He used expletives to undermine the former Reds boss.<\/p>\r\r<p>And if that was not enough, new allegations have emerged, that Coote tried to arrange a \u201cdrugs party\u201d during Manchester City\u2019s Carabao Cup defeat to Tottenham in October.<\/p>\r\r<p>And another clip has come to light of a man \u2013 alleged to be him \u2013 snorting white powder during Euro 2024, where he was an official.<\/p>\r\r<p>Coote was also the ref who awarded the spotkick through Video-Assisted Review (VAR) which saw West Ham beat Manchester United. That resulted in the United manager Erik ten Hag getting fired.<\/p>\r\r<p>Howard Webb, the chief refereeing officer of the Premier League, admitted that West Ham were wrongly awarded a penalty through VAR, according to a report in ESPN.<\/p>\r\r<p>But it is not just in the English Premier League.<\/p>\r\r<p>Right here in our own Super League, two referees \u2013 Razlan Joffri Ali and Ahmad Zuhardi Dzulkifli \u2013 have been suspended for two games after they were found to be inaccurate in their decisions over two incidents.<\/p>\r\r<p>Razlan did well to stop the escalating scuffle between Johor Darul Ta\u2019zim winger Arif Aiman Hanapi and Perak wingback Tommy Mawat Bada in the 84th minute of their match but what he did after that came as a big surprise and a letdown though. Instead of red-carding Arif, who threw a punch at Tommy who then retaliated, the ref just flashed a yellow card.<\/p>\r\r<p>Earlier, he did not award a penalty for Perak in the 38th minute despite using the VAR.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) stepped in and their deputy president, Datuk S. Sivasundaram, who chairs the Referees Committee, decided to take further action, which led to the suspension of both the refs.<\/p>\r\r<p>Not only that, they will have to attend counselling and education sessions. It shows that FAM do take the quality of refereeing seriously.<\/p>\r\r<p>Referees however, have been on the receiving end from players, coaches and fans for no fault of theirs too.<\/p>\r\r<p>Although some have done their job well to keep order on the pitch, they still have been threatened, attacked and ridiculed through the social media platforms.<\/p>\r\r<p>There have been instances when junior players attacked referees. It shows that the lack of respect for referees is widespread. This must change too.<\/p>\r\r<p>Players, coaches and fans have to respect the role of the referees, Of course, these officials have to maintain a high standard of refereeing.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s hard to be right every time when you have to make quick decisions, especially when the situation is intense and players or coaches are losing their cool.<\/p>\r\r<p>Education, integrity and respect are the keys but it has to cut both ways.<\/p>\r\r<p>There is a need for more education for players, fans and club officials. They have to be reminded that, far from being a hindrance, referees are people who give their best to enable everyone to enjoy the game.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3757065,"np_article_id":1486803,"article_title":"Sitting on an unfamiliar turf \u2013 is Guardiola losing his grip?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"FOR the first time in Pep Guardiola\\u2019s career, Manchester City have suffered four consecutive defeats, spanning the League Cup and UEFA Champions League.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"32\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-12 07:19:56\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-12 07:19:56\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"32\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-11-12 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/12\\\/3012131.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/11\/12\/sitting-on-an-unfamiliar-turf---is-guardiola-losing-his-grip","show_image_in_thumb":3012131,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>FOR the first time in Pep Guardiola\u2019s career, Manchester City have suffered four consecutive defeats, spanning the League Cup and UEFA Champions League.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/12\/3012132.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 253px; float: left;\" \/>Is this simply a poor run of form, or are the squad declining after being together for so long?<\/p>\r\r<p>Has Guardiola\u2019s tenure reached a point where he can no longer fully motivate his players? Or did limited activity in the transfer window lead to player complacency?<\/p>\r\r<p>Guardiola is known for his problem-solving prowess, but after this latest defeat, some might wonder if he can address the issues at hand. Fortunately for City, the international break is on the horizon, giving players a chance to regroup.<\/p>\r\r<p>Rodri\u2019s absence could be a contributing factor; in 25 games without him, City have suffered nine defeats, compared to just one in the 81 games with him. However, Guardiola needs to look beyond this. Goals have dried up, and in the second half against Brighton, City registered zero shots on goal after managing five in the first half.<\/p>\r\r<p>Erling Haaland is starved of service, and even with Kevin De Bruyne\u2019s return, his teammates created no clear chances for him.<\/p>\r\r<p>Guardiola has two weeks to work out a solution, with tough games against Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool looming.<\/p>\r\r<p>City\u2019s defeat allowed Liverpool to open up a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League, as Arne Slot\u2019s good run of form continued with a 2\u20130 victory over Aston Villa.<\/p>\r\r<p>Villa, too, are on a losing streak, something unprecedented since Unai Emery took over. Emery has typically been able to motivate his team to bounce back after every defeat, but, like City, something is missing from this current squad.<\/p>\r\r<p>For Liverpool, it was another controlled game, with an early goal allowing them to sit back and counter when needed.<\/p>\r\r<p>Slot\u2019s men don\u2019t need to be on the front foot all the time; they can absorb pressure from their opponents and exploit the speed of their wingers on the counterattack.<\/p>\r\r<p>Salah remains the star of this Liverpool side with his offensive output, but Slot\u2019s biggest success has been tightening Liverpool\u2019s defence.<\/p>\r\r<p>That\u2019s six clean sheets in 11 games this season, achieved even without Alisson Becker, as Caoimhin Kelleher has proven to be an able deputy. The Anfield faithful hope Liverpool can maintain this form after the international break.<\/p>\r\r<p>If they\u2019re still top of the league in January, they may dare to dream!<\/p>\r\r<p>The INEOS management seems to have made the right decision by parting ways with Erik Ten Hag.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Ruud van Nistelrooy as caretaker manager, until Ruben Amorim takes over, the Manchester United players recorded their third victory in four games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Are the players trying to impress the incoming manager before regressing to the norm, or was the previous manager the real issue?<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019ll be interesting to see how Amorim assesses this squad, as Bruno Fernandes played his best game of the season, showing glimpses of systemized passing and interplay within the squad.<\/p>\r\r<p>Were they the real United, or were they just playing against Leicester? We\u2019ll find out in two weeks.<\/p>\r\r<p>Super Sunday did not disappoint as Chelsea hosted Arsenal in the final game of the week, delivering an entertaining contest as both teams cancelled each other out.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mikel Arteta was back to his tactical best, deploying Thomas Partey to man-mark Cole Palmer and nullify some of Chelsea\u2019s threats.<\/p>\r\r<p>This game also highlighted Martin Odegaard\u2019s importance to the team; Arsenal looked more dangerous, with Odegaard trying to unlock Chelsea\u2019s defence with his footballing IQ.<\/p>\r\r<p>Perhaps opposing managers will take a page from Arteta\u2019s playbook and man-mark Odegaard in future matchups. Could that stifle Arsenal\u2019s offensive output?<\/p>\r\r<p>At Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Ipswich became the latest team to pull off a Premier League victory.<\/p>\r\r<p>Once again, Tottenham displayed inconsistency, appearing brilliant one week against Aston Villa only to revert to \u201cSpursy\u201d form against Ipswich.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ange Postecoglou has two weeks to address this recurring issue, as fans are growing weary of this broken record.<\/p>\r\r<p>With the Premier League on a two-week break for international fixtures, there\u2019s much for managers to reflect on.<\/p>\r\r<p>When play resumes, all eyes will be on Manchester United\u2019s new manager and his approach to the league.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3756379,"np_article_id":1485403,"article_title":"After 14 years, an in-depth audit on NFDP must be conducted","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE National Football Development Plan (NFDP) run and managed by the National Sports Council (NSC) must undergo all types of audit after more than a decade in the business.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"44\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-10 07:30:58\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-10 07:30:58\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"44\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-11-10 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/10\\\/3009247.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/11\/10\/after-14-years-an-in-depth-audit-on-nfdp-must-be-conducted","show_image_in_thumb":3009247,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/10\/3009248.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/>THE National Football Development Plan (NFDP) run and managed by the National Sports Council (NSC) must undergo all types of audit after more than a decade in the business.<\/p>\r\r<p>Bear with me as I walk you down memory lane.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was in December 2008 that the idea of conducting an in-depth study into the domestic structure led to the creation of a master plan that we today call the NFDP.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the Cabinet Committee for Sports chaired by the then Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, a special committee comprising all stakeholders and ex-players were tasked to compile and propose an action plan to raise the standard of Malaysian football.<\/p>\r\r<p>Eventually, a seed fund of RM10mil was set aside and a committee chaired by the then Youth and Sports Deputy Minister Datuk Razali Ibrahim was given the blessings by the Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, to manage it under the NFDP in 2009.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Lim Kim Chon put in charge of the NFDP, the early days of the plan were chronicled by the management team through the blog Program Pembangunan Bola Sepak Negara, managed by the football unit under the national back-up team at the NSC.<\/p>\r\r<p>Since then, the NFDP has undergone a few remodelling exercises, with Khairy Jamaluddin adding elements of re-education and enhancement of coaching education while appointing Kim Chon\u2019s brother, Teong Kim, to succeed the former as director. The NFDP 2.0 was successfully launched.<\/p>\r\r<p>Also hired were Saad Ichalalene, Franck Plaine and Abdifitaah Hassan, to develop the methodology which Khairy calls the Malaysian DNA.<\/p>\r\r<p>A townhall to discuss the way forward when the ministry was helmed by Syed Saddiq Abdul Rahman in October 2018, led to a more inclusive approach friendlier to the FA of Malaysia (FAM).<\/p>\r\r<p>The creation of two committees namely the NFDP Working Committee chaired by the director-general of the NSC and the Technical Committee chaired by the FAM deputy president proposed the programme to be divided into the NFDP project headed by technical director, Ichalalene while the Talent Search and coaching Unit led by the Head of the Unit, Abdifitaah from Holland.<\/p>\r\r<p>Two Talent Search Technical Trainers, P. Ganasamoorthy and Datuk Richard Scully, ran the Grassroots Course and D Licence.<\/p>\r\r<p>After Teong Kim\u2019s contract expired on Oct 31 2019, NFDP was restructured, with Ichalalene made NFDP Technical Director, while Dennis Bekking from Holland succeeded Teong Kim as director of the AMD.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ichalalene, a former French footballer of Algerian descent, was a crucial factor in cultivating the modern playing methods and the required DNA.<\/p>\r\r<p>When Teong Kim was redesignated as chief coach of the elite few at the Mokhtar Dahari Academy (AMD) in 2016, Ichalalene was roped in as the head of coaching methodology and talent scouting, along with Plaine and Abdifitaah to nurture talents at the Akademi Tunas (AT), Pusat Latihan Daerah or District Training Centre and the State Sports Schools level.<\/p>\r\r<p>In 2019, Ichalalene who was the Under-14 coach and the Under-19 assistant coach at Paris St Germain, was presented with the opportunity to take the national Under-12 team to the Soong Ching Ling Cup in Hangzhou, China, his first test as a head coach at the international level.<\/p>\r\r<p>Some of the boys who went to China with Ichalalene formed the core of the Under-17 side that qualified for the AFC Asian Cup Under-17 in Thailand in 2023.<\/p>\r\r<p>A younger generation of players recently failed to qualify for the Saudi Arabia edition next year after finishing second in Group H, leading to team manager Christopher Raj\u2019s resignation.<\/p>\r\r<p>Since 2010, NFDP had been NSC\u2019s baby, with possibly more than RM300mil had been spent to bankroll the project.<\/p>\r\r<p>With an annual budget of more than RM20mil to run AMD and the NFDP, the public has the right to know how taxpayers\u2019 money is being used, whether or not the players are given the right training, education and diet as they bid to become the nation\u2019s footballing saviours.<\/p>\r\r<p>While National Sports Associations (NSA) are required to open bank accounts for their spendings to be monitored by the NSC, who monitors NSC\u2019s spendings?<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3756039,"np_article_id":1484868,"article_title":"Ensuring that money is well spent in sports","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column, Rajes Paul\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/09\\\/ensuring-that-money-is-well-spent-in-sports\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IN a conversation with a top sports administrator recently, we somehow ended up talking about investment losses.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"39\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-09 06:14:21\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-16 06:46:51\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"#08F304\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"39\"}","publish_time":"2024-11-09 07:00:00","sub_section_id":42,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/09\\\/3008229.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":3,"section_name":"Sport","sub_section_name":"Say What","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/11\/09\/ensuring-that-money-is-well-spent-in-sports","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IN a conversation with a top sports administrator recently, we somehow ended up talking about investment losses amounting to RM43.9mil suffered by Khazanah and PNB in FashionValet.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/09\/3008229.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 220px; height: 144px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s a huge number. Yet, some had the gall to call it \u201cminor\u201d, and casually too.<\/p>\r\r<p>Imagine that amount invested in sports \u2013 so much more could have been achieved.<\/p>\r\r<p>Let\u2019s take cycling for instance.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) president Datuk Amarjit Singh Gill said they require at least RM2mil annually to enhance the performance of the national road cycling squad.<\/p>\r\r<p>If we don\u2019t invest, we can\u2019t expect cyclists like Azizulhasni Awang to drop from the sky.<\/p>\r\r<p>Azizulhasni made the country proud for decades by winning a bronze and silver at the Olympic Games. He has retired but who will rise to take up the mantle?<\/p>\r\r<p>We have a few cyclists doing well but they are not on par with Azizul yet. Even technical expert John Beasley is already looking at grooming future riders.<\/p>\r\r<p>Producing these stars takes time, and it needs lots of money and good facilities too. We currently have one world-class indoor cycling track in Nilai but the one in Ipoh needs revival.<\/p>\r\r<p>In a report by StarSport in May, we called for the Youth and Sports Ministry to restore the Ipoh Velodrome that has been lying idle for six years.<\/p>\r\r<p>The ministry did allocate RM11mil for the refurbishment of the 250m timber track in 2016 after it was shut down in 2013. But it was unfortunately closed again in 2018 as the timber track sustained damage due to exposure to the elements.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cWe were given a guarantee that the wood would be in good condition for 20 years. But now it has already deteriorated to the point that even the Perak riders are unable to train,\u201d Amarjit said then.<\/p>\r\r<p>He pleaded again to the ministry to refurbish the velodrome, and it looks like they may get the aid this time.<\/p>\r\r<p>It will be good to have another velodrome where young athletes, especially those from the northern region, can use as their training base.<\/p>\r\r<p>Cycling is not the only sport that has been calling out for financial support.<\/p>\r\r<p>Badminton runs on a RM50mil budget a year; football is even bigger. Then, there is hockey, squash, diving, gymnastics, athletics and many more.<\/p>\r\r<p>The hosting of the SEA Games in 2027 will cost RM700mil.<\/p>\r\r<p>Investment in sports can reap dividends as it has huge potential for growth, improves economy, cultivates a healthy lifestyle and brings honours for the country through the athletes\u2019 success in the local and international stages.<\/p>\r\r<p>But the money has to be invested wisely.<\/p>\r\r<p>Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh is answerable for the millions spent on the National Sports Associations and athletes under the Road to Gold through its arm, the National Sports Council (NSC).<\/p>\r\r<p>She knows that with the budget she has, not all can benefit from it. She has to make wise decisions on who to spend the money on, rather than trying to accommodate all.<\/p>\r\r<p>Some have to stand on their own feet or gain support from corporate bodies. She has been encouraging corporate bodies to play their part while promising tax exemptions.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is only fair that when money is invested on the athletes and NSAs, the recipients should be accountable for it. Hannah has also called for accountability from the stakeholders.<\/p>\r\r<p>In professional football, for instance, one has to take responsibility.<\/p>\r\r<p>Take Manchester United for instance \u2013 their manager Erik ten Hag was sacked for poor results and Ruben Amorim has been named as the replacement.<\/p>\r\r<p>In Malaysia, those who usually get sacked or axed are coaches and players. The council members should also own up for their poor decision-making process and leave if they continue to deliver poor results.<\/p>\r\r<p>That\u2019s why I like what the Negri Sembilan Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said recently after handing over more than RM500,000 to the state\u2019s athletes who won medals at the Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Sarawak and 2024 Paris Olympics.<\/p>\r\r<p>He said the heads of sports associations in the state who fail to perform or produce results should move aside to make way for new leadership so that more talented athletes can be discovered. They should not go to waste due to the inefficiency of the association or their leadership.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sports is about fair play, teamwork, unity \u2013 and it teaches many more good values. It will be a good partnership if corporate companies can invest in sports.<\/p>\r\r<p>If everyone can keep their part of the bargain, and perform their duties with integrity, there will not be any losses \u2013 whether it\u2019s the investor\u2019s money or in terms of the players\u2019 performances.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3754702,"np_article_id":1482372,"article_title":"Shaharudin\u2019s journey from the track into the boardroom","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/on-the-line\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/06\\\/shaharudins-journey-from-the-track-into-the-boardroom\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"WHILE in Paris for the 33rd Olympic Games, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh spoke about empowering Malaysia\\u2019s former athletes by putting them in key positions that may shape the future.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"34\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-06 07:13:15\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-10 07:29:58\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"34\"}","publish_time":"2024-11-06 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/06\\\/3002623.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/11\/06\/shaharudins-journey-from-the-track-into-the-boardroom","show_image_in_thumb":3002623,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/06\/3002623.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 165px;\" \/>WHILE in Paris for the 33rd Olympic Games, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh spoke about empowering Malaysia\u2019s former athletes by putting them in key positions that may shape the future.<\/p>\r\r<p>One way is to encourage former athletes to equip themselves with the necessary diplomatic, managerial and technical skills so that they can govern and empower their respective national associations.<\/p>\r\r<p>They have to learn to give back to the sport that gave them so much, in the way Shaharudin Jaffar devoted his lifetime to cycling decades ago.<\/p>\r\r<p>Shaharudin, who turned 84 on Oct 20, was the first cyclist to bag the gold medal in the 800m track event at Merdeka Stadium in the 1965 SEAP Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Within five years, he had made a successful transition from track to the boardroom, holding various positions to effect changes at national level.<\/p>\r\r<p>Frustrated with the way the national body was being run which culminated with a disastrous outing in the 1969 SEAP Games, Shaharudin took up the challenge of changing its course by becoming the secretary of the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) after an election held at the Merdeka Stadium Boardroom in March 1970.<\/p>\r\r<p>The incumbent president, the late Tan Sri V Manickavasagam, who was the Labour Minister then, did not seek re-election.<\/p>\r\r<p>Enter Amric Singh as deputy president, Shaharudin as the secretary, with Shariff Hamzah as treasurer, while Oh Eng Swee assistant secretary and Gurbachan Singh as assistant treasurer. The president\u2019s post was left vacant.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI was 30 and still an active cyclist then,\u201d recalled Shaharudin when met at his residence.<\/p>\r\r<p>The writer tagged along with former sportswriter Rosmanizam Abdullah and legendary photographer, Khalid Redza to visit Shaharudin on his birthday.The practice then was for Cabinet Ministers to preside over national associations, with Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra, Tun Razak Hussein, Tan Sri Khir Johari, Tan Sri Khaw Kai Boh, Tan Sri Ghazali Shafie and Tan Sri Hamzah Abu Samah as the leading lights, with the comfort of having their trusted lieutenants to run the day-to-day affairs.<\/p>\r\r<p>Shaharudin belonged to an era when athletes turned into successful administrators such as N Vasagam, Thong Poh Nyen, Datuk Kwok Kin Keng and later Datuk Sieh Kok Chi.<\/p>\r\r<p>After his retirement as a civil servant in 1994, Shaharudin opened his own bike shop in Shah Alam, with the idea of making the sport accessible while promoting cycling around the Shah Alam Lake.<\/p>\r\r<p>He planned group cycling excursions from Shah Alam to Kajang and vice versa, with the help of Kajang\u2019s Datuk Hassan Nawawi, who once cycled round the globe.<\/p>\r\r<p>Shaharudin was fortunate to have wife Hasmah Ibrahim by his side.<\/p>\r\r<p>While Shaharudin was occupied with the daily grind, Hasmah played the role of chef, mother and tailor all rolled into one.<\/p>\r\r<p>Born in Sitiawan, Shaharudin began his civil service career in the Department of Statistics, before moving to the Welfare Department and later served as a Sports Development Officer with the Selangor Sports Department.<\/p>\r\r<p>Even as a rider, Shaharudin was already active as an administrator, by becoming secretary to the Selangor Cycling Association from 1962 to 1965, the Kedah association from 1966 to 1968, Melaka association 1969 to 1971 before holding the fort as secretary of MNCF for 11 years until 1981.<\/p>\r\r<p>His dream of representing the nation in the Olympics was dashed by an accident ahead of the Mexico Games in 1968. But he succeeded in creating a milestone the following Games in Munich.<\/p>\r\r<p>As team manager of the cycling team, Shaharudin managed to persuade Datuk Harun Idris to lead MNCF and together they initiated the idea of a velodrome for Malaysia.A piece of land at Jalan Timur in Petaling Jaya was identified, with the Selangor State Development Corporation or PKNS tasked to build the facility with an estimated cost of RM100,000 in 1975.<\/p>\r\r<p>The idea finally came to fruition when Velodrom Rakyat in Ipoh was completed in 1988 after a public donation drive in 1986 which raised RM3.25 million. The velodrome in Cheras was completed in 1989. The Nilai Velodrome was completed in time for the 2017 SEA Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Until today, Shaharudin remains animated in discussing cycling. As the father of three and grandfather of 11 rides into the sunset, I wonder who among today\u2019s generation of cyclists could one day lead the national body to greater heights.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3754209,"np_article_id":1481454,"article_title":"New contenders emerge as Arsenal\u2019s momentum slows","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THERE\\u2019S usually a lot of spirit in Arsenal. Players come to each game ready to fight and compete, led by head coach Mikel Arteta, whose sideline energy often sets the tone.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-11-05 07:15:25\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-05 07:15:25\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-11-05 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/11\\\/05\\\/3000885.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/11\/05\/new-contenders-emerge-as-arsenals-momentum-slows","show_image_in_thumb":3000885,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THERE\u2019S usually a lot of spirit in Arsenal. Players come to each game ready to fight and compete, led by head coach Mikel Arteta, whose sideline energy often sets the tone.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/11\/05\/3000886.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 253px; float: left;\" \/>So, when this fixture came around, Newcastle fans expected a revenge game from the Gunners after last season\u2019s result. But the red team from North London didn\u2019t show up for Saturday\u2019s early kickoff.<\/p>\r\r<p>Missing Martin Odegaard could have been a factor, but perhaps this Arsenal squad have hit a breaking point after two seasons of chasing Manchester City.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arsenal looked flat and didn\u2019t pose any real threat to Nick Pope. The only danger came from set pieces, and in open play, Pope didn\u2019t face a single shot on target from the usually formidable frontline.<\/p>\r\r<p>This is concerning because many expected much more from the Gunners. Without Odegaard, creativity was lacking, and the team struggled to make up for it.<\/p>\r\r<p>Newcastle\u2019s defence effectively contained the typically lively Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, with the Magpies dominating the middle of the park. Leandro Trossard looked out of place in the starting eleven, reinforcing the notion that he\u2019s better as an impact player; once again, he was anonymous as a starter.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s back to the drawing board for Arteta, who faces a challenging few weeks to turn this squad around. Arsenal have now secured just one point from their last three games \u2013 certainly not championship form.<\/p>\r\r<p>If Liverpool, the new league leader, keep winning, Arsenal could find themselves in trouble, and questions may arise about whether Arteta is the right man to lead the squad to a title.<\/p>\r\r<p>Despite being backed with summer transfers, the team still heavily rely on their number eight. It\u2019s still early, but if this form continues, expect media scrutiny, especially with Erik ten Hag\u2019s recent departure.<\/p>\r\r<p>Meanwhile, the red half of Merseyside had a first half to forget against Brighton, going into halftime down by a goal.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, Arne Slot\u2019s halftime team talk made all the difference, with Liverpool coming out strong in the second half. A solid 25-minute spell produced an equaliser and then the lead.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mohamed Salah scored the match-winner and is now only 11 goals behind Thierry Henry on the Premier League\u2019s all-time top-scorer list.<\/p>\r\r<p>This was Salah\u2019s 48th match-winning goal in the league \u2013 only five players have more \u2013 a stat that will surely bolster his position in ongoing contract negotiations with Liverpool\u2019s management.<\/p>\r\r<p>Liverpool now lead the Premier League table by two points, thanks to Manchester City\u2019s first loss of the season against Bournemouth. This was Bournemouth\u2019s first-ever victory over City in 15 attempts, and Andoni Iraola\u2019s tactics were spot-on.<\/p>\r\r<p>Bournemouth could have scored even more if not for Ederson\u2019s efforts.<\/p>\r\r<p>With seven points earned from their last three matches against Arsenal, Aston Villa, and City, Bournemouth have marked themselves as a team to watch this season.<\/p>\r\r<p>But the title of \u2018surprise package\u2019 goes to Nottingham Forest.<\/p>\r\r<p>The two-time European champions are now third in the league, steadily climbing the table \u2013 a testament to the excellent work by Nuno Espirito Santo. Santo took over when Forest were sitting in 17th place, and now they\u2019re in a Champions League spot.<\/p>\r\r<p>Could Forest pull off a major surprise? Neutral fans would love it, and with Chris Wood\u2019s current goal-scoring form, it\u2019s not out of reach.<\/p>\r\r<p>Manchester United and Chelsea shared points at Old Trafford as a Moises Caicedo stunner levelled the score between them.<\/p>\r\r<p>In his second game in charge, Ruud van Nistelrooy started Manuel Ugarte, who is still adjusting to the Premier League pace. Ugarte showed moments of quality but was a liability after an early booking.<\/p>\r\r<p>Alejandro Garnacho was wasteful in front of the goal once again, while the United faithful hoped Ruben Amorim could transform Marcus Rashford, who was anonymous aside from a single shot that hit the bar.<\/p>\r\r<p>At Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Spurs built on their League Cup win against Manchester City by beating another top-four contender, Aston Villa.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ange Postecoglou\u2019s side had a memorable second half, led by Dominic Solanke. Even with James Maddison on the bench, Spurs\u2019 attacking threat remains undiminished \u2013 a lesson that Arteta might note down for his squad.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ten games in, and the league table is taking shape. This season promises surprises and could deliver a tight title race for the ages.<\/p>\r\r<p>Can Arsenal sort things out and join Liverpool and City in the title race? Can Forest maintain their momentum and qualify for Europe? Many games lie ahead, and the excitement is only building.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3751792,"np_article_id":1476821,"article_title":"Late shows and injury-time drama steal the spotlight","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"summary\":[\"WEEK nine of the English Premier League ended with plenty of late goals leading to dramatic finishes.\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-29 07:20:21\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-29 07:20:21\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-10-29 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/29\\\/2990172.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/10\/29\/late-shows-and-injury-time-drama-steal-the-spotlight","show_image_in_thumb":2990172,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>WEEK nine of the English Premier League ended with plenty of late goals leading to dramatic finishes.<\/p>\r\r<p>The old saying, \u201cit ain\u2019t over till the fat lady sings,\u201d proved true, and the fat lady was definitely present at Villa Park, the Gtech Community Stadium, and Goodison Park.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/29\/2990173.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Unai Emery seemed poised to claim all three points as the game clock ticked into the 96th minute.<\/p>\r\r<p>Aston Villa were clinging to a one-goal lead in a very entertaining match, and it appeared Emery would emerge victorious against his Basque counterpart, Andoni Iraola. But Evanilson had other intentions.<\/p>\r\r<p>This game highlighted the work both coaches had done and how Spain continued to produce top-level managers in the football world. It\u2019s a model the English FA could learn from if they find themselves short of options for English managers.<\/p>\r\r<p>The best game on Saturday unfolded at the Gtech Community Stadium, where Brentford emerged as 4-3 winners thanks to Bryan Mbeumo\u2019s 96th-minute goal.<\/p>\r\r<p>Brentford had clawed their way back after being two goals down, and Harry Clarke had a debut to forget as he conceded a penalty and got sent off for two bookable offences.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ipswich thought they could leave with a point, but came the late drama as Mbeumo whipped in the winner.<\/p>\r\r<p>At the London Stadium, West Ham secured a win against Manchester United, lifting the pressure off Julen Lopetegui and placing it back on Erik ten Hag. The VAR review awarded the penalty late in stoppage time.<\/p>\r\r<p>United fans may claim there is a conspiracy against them, but if they had taken their chances, especially the one presented to Diogo Dalot, they wouldn\u2019t be pushing this narrative.<\/p>\r\r<p>This marks United\u2019s third consecutive defeat at the London Stadium against West Ham, and as expected, Ten Hag was sacked last night.<\/p>\r\r<p>Crystal Palace ended a nine-game winless streak this season with a 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. Talk about Spurs doing what Spurs do best! Right now, they are consistently inconsistent.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ange Postecoglou needs to address this quickly if he wants to maintain his reputation for winning a trophy in the second season with every team he manages.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was a blockbuster game at the Emirates as Arsenal looked to bounce back from last week\u2019s defeat, while Liverpool aimed to extend their winning run. Mikel Arteta won the psychological battle by claiming all week that Bukayo Saka wouldn\u2019t be available, only for Saka to start.<\/p>\r\r<p>Andy Robertson struggled to cope with Saka throughout the match.<\/p>\r\r<p>The real Declan Rice always shows up in big games, and once again, he delivered an outstanding performance in midfield.<\/p>\r\r<p>The game ended in a draw as Mohamed Salah equalised following a brilliant move involving Darwin Nunez and Trent Alexander-Arnold.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Arsenal players dropping like flies because of injuries, youth players had to step up, including Myles Lewis-Skelly.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s tough for an 18-year-old to defend against a world-class player like Salah.<\/p>\r\r<p>With this draw, Manchester City now sit at the top of the league despite not playing superbly at the moment.<\/p>\r\r<p>City climbed to the top with a 1-0 victory over Southampton, and Erling Haaland was back on the scoresheet.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many expected a rout at the Etihad, but Southampton put on a decent performance.<\/p>\r\r<p>City lead the league by just one point, and for the second year in a row, we could see a three-horse title race.<\/p>\r\r<p>Liverpool fans hope the race goes down to the wire this season and doesn\u2019t end prematurely in March.<\/p>\r\r<p>There are 29 more games to go, and we can expect plenty of twists and turns as the season heats up.<\/p>\r\r<p>Managers need to remind their players that in the Premier League, the game isn\u2019t just 90 minutes \u2013 it can also go beyond and it is best to stay on their toes until the final whistle.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3750756,"np_article_id":1474894,"article_title":"A wake-up call after 2026 C\u2019wealth Games hosts drop Malaysia\u2019s core sports","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"sports box, say, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/26\\\/a-wake-up-call-after-2026-cwealth-games-hosts-drop-malaysias-core-sports\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"GLASGOW has stepped in to host the next Commonwealth Games in 2026.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":615,\"columns\":\"615_1605851998\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"36\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-26 06:18:17\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-26 17:08:29\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Navalan A\\\/L T.Subramaniam\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"36\"}","publish_time":"2024-10-26 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/26\\\/2985754.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/10\/26\/a-wake-up-call-after-2026-cwealth-games-hosts-drop-malaysias-core-sports","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>GLASGOW has stepped in to host the next Commonwealth Games in 2026 but it has come at the expense of Malaysia potentially losing 16 medals.<\/p>\r\r<p>This comes about as the Scottish city has decided to drop sports like badminton, diving, squash, rhythmic gymnastics and table tennis.<\/p>\r\r<p>Badminton has been a popular sport and has never failed to be contested at the Commonwealth Games, so it\u2019s no surprise for a country like Malaysia to cry foul.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/26\/2985754.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 165px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>But on hindsight, it should also serve as a catalyst for Malaysia not to just be dependent on just a few sports and channel focus into other sports.<\/p>\r\r<p>Athletics and swimming have always provided the opportunity to win many medals but they are sports we have lost focus on and are now struggling to be competitive in every multi-Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now should be the time to develop a comprehensive programme so that we do not have to worry when certain sports are dropped from the roster.<\/p>\r\r<p>Instead of being regretful, Malaysia should actually thank Scotland and the Commonwealth Games Federation for hosting and retaining events where we have good gold medal chances like weightlifting, powerlifting and lawn bowls.<\/p>\r\r<p>We have always consistently produced champions in weightlifting and lawn bowls, so it\u2019s not a lost cause for the smaller contingent expected to head to Glasgow.<\/p>\r\r<p>Badminton, diving, and squash have consistently been key contributors to Malaysia\u2019s success at the Commonwealth Games level, with badminton alone delivering 31 of the country\u2019s 67 gold medals.<\/p>\r\r<p>But there were also occasions where Malaysia failed to win a single gold in badminton, such as the 1986 Commonwealth Games edition in Edinburgh.<\/p>\r\r<p>In recent years, India have come up to challenge the domination enjoyed by Malaysia and England in badminton.<\/p>\r\r<p>In diving, Malaysia have won three gold medals, starting with Pandelela Rinong in 2010, but failed to win any at the last Commonwealth Games in Birmingham two years ago.<\/p>\r\r<p>The last time Malaysia won gold in squash was in 2014 through Datuk Nicol David, so it will be a big ask from S. Sivasangari to end the drought given that she is still finding her consistency level up against the top 10 players in the world.<\/p>\r\r<p>In short, Malaysia should stop worrying about the sports that have been dropped and instead focus on those that are going to be contested in Glasgow in two years time.<\/p>","author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","article_byline":"Lim Teik Huat","article_tags":"","author_id":615,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=615_1605851998","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/615.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002621,"np_author_id":615,"author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/615.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"615_1605851998\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"section_id\":0,\"author_title\":\"\",\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3750336,"np_article_id":1473998,"article_title":"Global pathways accelerating new Asian talents to the fore","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, At full swing, Chuah Choo Chiang\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE stars truly aligned for Asian golf during one glorious Sunday in October as three young talents, Kevin Yu of Taiwan, China\\u2019s Wenyi Ding and Kaito Onishi of Japan, put an exclamation point on the importance of the various global pathways that lead to the sport\\u2019s ultimate destination, the PGA Tour.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":746,\"columns\":\"746_1691708057\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"39\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-25 07:51:28\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-25 07:51:28\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"39\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-10-25 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/25\\\/2983701.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":421,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/at-full-swing\/2024\/10\/25\/global-pathways-accelerating-new-asian-talents-to-the-fore","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THE stars truly aligned for Asian golf during one glorious Sunday in October as three young talents, Kevin Yu of Taiwan, China\u2019s Wenyi Ding and Kaito Onishi of Japan, put an exclamation point on the importance of the various global pathways that lead to the sport\u2019s ultimate destination, the PGA Tour.<\/p>\r\r<p>Golf has sustained its international growth following the latest data by The R&A, where Asia remained as the leading region among the affiliated regions for people engaging with the sport with a total adult engagement of 26.2 million.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/25\/2983700.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 197px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>And the multiple initiatives led by the Tour are also beginning to bear their first fruits in recognising and accelerating the careers of aspiring young stars from the Far East.<\/p>\r\r<p>A first case in point is Kevin, who proudly became the first Asian graduate of the innovative Tour\u2019s university programme to win following his breakthrough victory at the Sanderson Farms Championship on Oct 6.<\/p>\r\r<p>The 26-year-old Kevin had graduated in fourth place on the tour\u2019s university in 2021 following a stellar amateur career at Arizona State University to earn Korn Ferry Tour status, before playing his way onto the Tour in the following season by finishing 20th on the KFT points list.<\/p>\r\r<p>Recognising a gap that existed for non-US.collegiate amateur players, the Tour, along with the DP World Tour and R&A, subsequently launched the Global Amateur Pathway (GAP) earlier this year to run in parallel with the university meet, and reward the top-ranked amateur with a DP World Tour card.<\/p>\r\r<p>As a seven-year-old, Kevin, who is teeing up in this week\u2019s Zozo Championship in Japan, learned to play the sport through his father, who was a teaching professional at a local driving range.<\/p>\r\r<p>He blossomed into a leading amateur and won the Asian Games gold medal in the team competition in 2014 as a 16-year-old where he became firm friends with one of his teammates, Pan Cheng-tsung.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was Cheng-tsung who encouraged him to take the US collegiate route to advance his golf career which the former, a one-time Tour winner, spent four years at University of Washington.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe Tour\u2019s university programme provides a clear pathway to the Korn Ferry Tour and eventually the main tour. This is an amazing opportunity. The system in the US is much more streamlined, giving players a faster track to the top,\u201d said Kevin, who became only the third golfer from Taiwan after Chen Tze-yung and Cheng-tsung to win on the Tour.<\/p>\r\r<p>Highly-rated Ding became the first recipient of this exemption after cementing his GAP No. 1 status following a stylish victory at the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship in Japan, coincidentally on the same day Kevin triumphed in Mississippi.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now, all eyes will be on Ding, whom some have touted as a potential major champion, if he follows in Kevin\u2019s trail onto the Tour via the DP World Tour route, which the top 10 players from its Race to Dubai ranking earn dual memberships on the Tour annually.<\/p>\r\r<p>The young Chinese had to give up prized exemptions into next year\u2019s Masters and The Open, but said he was confident of qualifying for those majors as a professional golfer.<\/p>\r\r<p>For a while, Ding, who rose to third position on the World Amateur Golf Ranking, looked certain to take the university option after joining Arizona State University last fall and establishing himself with a NCAA scoring record by posting a 27-under 189 total in a 54-hole event.<\/p>\r\r<p>He was also the first mainland Chinese to win the US Junior Amateur in 2022, but he opted to turn professional via the newly established Global Amateur Pathway.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe Global Amateur Pathway has given me an incredible opportunity,\u201d said Ding, who finished tied 11th in his professional debut on the European Challenge Tour\u2019s Hangzhou Open on home soil last week.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cIt was a hard choice (to give up the major exemptions). But after consulting my family, I believe this will be the right decision. With the Global Amateur Pathway, it has also been really good for non-US collegiate players like me to make that decision.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>There is an old saying that good things come in threes and Onishi made sure of that by locking his top-30 status upon the conclusion of the 2024 Korn Ferry Tour season, also on Oct 6, to earn his PGA Tour card for next year.<\/p>\r\r<p>He will join compatriot Hideki Matsuyama, a 10-time winner, and Ryo Hisatsune on the world\u2019s elite circuit.<\/p>\r\r<p>It will be a matter of time to see if Onishi, who moved to Los Angeles at age nine to advance his sporting dreams, will realise his twin ambition to become World No. 1 and Masters champion.<\/p>\r\r<p>For Onishi, whose idol is three-time winner Shigeki Maruyama, the hard knocks endured on the Korn Ferry Tour toughened him up.<\/p>\r\r<p>As a rookie in 2023, he finished No. 100 to narrowly retain conditional status by 0.49 points which ensured he remained as a KFT member.<\/p>\r\r<p>A subsequent top 10 at the Astara Golf Championship presented by Mastercard in February opened up his playing opportunities and he later won the UNC Health Championship presented by Stitch, to essentially seal his maiden card.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cIt\u2019s a dream come true,\u201d said Onishi, who was in tears when he called his parents and Maruyama after earning his card.<\/p>\r\r<p>And more dreams will certainly be realised in the years to come, thanks to the various global pathways, both for amateurs and professionals alike, that form golf\u2019s eco-system with the PGA Tour being at the centre of it all.<\/p>\r\r<p>*The writer is senior director, marketing & communications \u2013 APAC for the PGA Tour. Fans can watch the tour on Astro Golf Channel and DAZN.<\/p>","author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_byline":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_tags":"","author_id":746,"kicker_name":"At Full Swing","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/at-full-swing?bycat=746_1691708057","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/746.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002695,"np_author_id":746,"author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/746.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"At Full Swing\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"true\",\"forweb_status\":\"true\",\"column_key\":\"746_1691708057\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3748839,"np_article_id":1471327,"article_title":"Seeing Red: How discipline shaped the Premier League weekend","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"football\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"SEEING Red was the theme of the week in Premier League football. Saturday alone saw five red cards, some issued for two yellow cards and others as straight reds! One red card sparked a comeback, while another decided on the outcome of a game.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"32\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-22 07:07:22\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-22 07:07:22\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"32\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-10-22 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/22\\\/2977542.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/10\/22\/seeing-red-how-discipline-shaped-the-premier-league-weekend","show_image_in_thumb":2977542,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/22\/2977541.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/>SEEING Red was the theme of the week in Premier League football. Saturday alone saw five red cards, some issued for two yellow cards and others as straight reds! One red card sparked a comeback, while another decided on the outcome of a game.<\/p>\r\r<p>Most of the red cards were justified, but chatter online suggests that some fans from the red side of North London feel their team are being unfairly targeted, as this is their third red card in eight games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Just to clarify, the referee association do not have an agenda against your team. They are simply enforcing the rules of the game. If you want to be upset, direct that frustration towards the players\u2019 lack of discipline.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was only the 30th minute \u2013 let Evanilson go, and trust David Raya to pull off a miracle. This is where football IQ comes into play. Even if Evanilson scores, there would still be 60 minutes to get back into the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, considering the line-up, that would have been challenging since Mikel Arteta started with three central defensive midfielders and four centrebacks. One might wonder where the goals were supposed to come from.<\/p>\r\r<p>Credit to Bournemouth for putting up a fight. Their first goal was straight from the training ground. To compete in this league, scoring from set pieces, especially against 10 men, is crucial.<\/p>\r\r<p>At Old Trafford, there was supposed to be an audition for Thomas Frank as a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag, but based on Brentford\u2019s performance, Manchester United would be better off sticking with Ten Hag.<\/p>\r\r<p>Frank started with Sepp van den Berg at rightback, who Alejandro Garnacho tormented throughout the game. A top manager would have recognised the problem and adjusted, but Frank did nothing.<\/p>\r\r<p>This was one of United\u2019s better performances, with some clear patterns of play, especially in the second half. It is now crucial for the squad to maintain this level of performance in the upcoming matches and relieve some of the pressure from the media on their manager.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is curious that while Ten Hag\u2019s job has been constantly under threat, there has been little to no scrutiny of Eddie Howe and Julen Lopetegui. Both Newcastle and West Ham suffered defeats, yet their managerial positions receive no media pressure.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s especially surprising for Lopetegui, given that West Ham were competitive in the first half but completely lost their way in the second. Could David Moyes make a return?<\/p>\r\r<p>Newcastle created chances, but could not find the back of the net against Brighton, even with Alexander Isak\u2019s return. Howe made some baffling substitutions, particularly taking off Sandro Tonali, arguably Newcastle\u2019s best player in the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>If this trend continues, Howe may soon feel the heat \u2013 and he can\u2019t even consider the England job now that Thomas Tuchel has taken it.<\/p>\r\r<p>At Molineux, Gary O\u2019Neil was looking at a hard-fought point against reigning champions Manchester City before John Stones snatched all three points with a last-gasp header.<\/p>\r\r<p>As part of the weekend\u2019s comeback stories, City fell behind first before Josko Gvardiol scored a stunning equaliser, and Stones secured the win. Another game passed without a goal for Erling Haaland. Is he missing the supply that used to feed him, or are defenders simply getting better at marking him?<\/p>\r\r<p>At Anfield, John Brooks\u2019 refereeing ruined what could have been a good game. Both sets of fans were \u201cseeing red\u201d at Brooks\u2019 decisions. What could have been an entertaining encounter turned into a tedious affair. Liverpool took the lead from the penalty spot before Chelsea equalised after the break.<\/p>\r\r<p>New dad Curtis Jones secured the win with a silky finish. Pundits might rave about Chelsea\u2019s away performance, but despite all that possession, they managed only two shots on target! Liverpool were more defensively solid, but Arne Slot\u2019s set-up was peculiar. Instead of dominating, his squad were overly cautious and controlled. Some might say this team are Rafa Benitez 2.0. Time will tell whether Slot continues with this approach against other title contenders. We won\u2019t have to wait long, as a big clash with Arsenal is coming up next weekend!<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s great to have football back, and with more midweek Champions League games ahead, it\u2019s only going to get busier.<\/p>\r\r<p>We have just one more international break to interrupt our weeks before the relentless grind of the league resumes!<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3748833,"np_article_id":1471331,"article_title":"Time running out for Zaidatul to upstage Shanti as the Queen of Pace","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"SPRINTER Zaidatul Husniah Zulkifli has entered a small circle of elite athletes who have earned the bragging rights as national record holders following her feat in the Perlis Open recently.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"33\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-22 07:05:33\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-22 07:05:33\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"33\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-10-22 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/22\\\/2977538.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/10\/22\/time-running-out-for-zaidatul-to-upstage-shanti-as-the-queen-of-pace","show_image_in_thumb":2977538,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/22\/2977537.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/>SPRINTER Zaidatul Husniah Zulkifli has entered a small circle of elite athletes who have earned the bragging rights as national record holders following her feat in the Perlis Open recently.<\/p>\r\r<p>Thanks for stopping the clock at 11.49 seconds in the women\u2019s 100m dash, Zaidatul has consigned G. Shanti\u2019s 31-year-old record into the history books. Like Shereen Samson Vallabouy, Zaidatul belongs to the select few listed in the record books as current national record holders.<\/p>\r\r<p>There was also another record shattered in Kangar as Nani Sahirah Maryata broke her own national women\u2019s shot putt record (15.22m) with a throw of 15.39m.<\/p>\r\r<p>Zaidatul \u2019s exploits were quickly shared online, going viral within minutes after her race, in contrast to Shanti\u2019s record-breaking feat on May 7, 31 years ago, covered mainly by the print media in the pre-Internet days.<\/p>\r\r<p>I happened to be at the Merdeka Stadium, covering the pre-SEA Games competition-cum-trial ahead of the biennial event in Singapore the following month. I was there as the third-choice reporter, being the understudy to Norbakti Alias and Jamhariah Jaafar who covered the athletics\u2019 beat for Berita Harian.In clocking 11.50s to beat Siti Kimsah Ansarullah (11.68s) and Noraini Harun (12.26s), Shanti shaved off her previous mark set at the semi-finals of the Asian Championship at the same venue on Oct 20, 1991, by a mere 0.01 seconds. A month earlier, Shanti had erased the 11.61s with a 11.51s run in the Malaysian Open.<\/p>\r\r<p>After swapping her hockey sticks with a pair of spikes in 1987, Shanti, the youngest of 12 siblings from Kuala Kangsar, proved to be adept at running.<\/p>\r\r<p>Finishing third in the 100m behind Thailand\u2019s Ratjai Sripet and fellow Malaysian Sajaratuldur Hamzah in the 1989 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games, Shanti bagged the 200m gold medal in Manila in 1991 in dramatic fashion. As Lydia de Vega, the Filipinos\u2019 favourite young mother surged up strongly at the finish, Shanti appeared to lunge too early, when in fact she stumbled after her spikes got stuck in the track. But the gold was hers.<\/p>\r\r<p>Despite her victory, Shanti who played goalkeeper for the women\u2019s hockey team in the 1986 Asian Games in Seoul, was full of admiration for Lydia who continued winning after giving birth.<\/p>\r\r<p>Little did Shanti realise she would surpass Lydia by grabbing the 100m and 200m double six years later, returning to the track after giving birth to Vinoo Shanaa, born in 1995.<\/p>\r\r<p>Having missed the Hiroshima Asian Games in 1994 due to an eleventh-hour hamstring injury, Shanti took a break in 1995 after tying the knot with footballer R. Kannan. She made a comeback in Kangar, of all places, in 1996 just in time for her to prepare for the golden assault in Jakarta.<\/p>\r\r<p>The image of Shanti, running in Lane 5 with her hands flung in the air at the finish line at Senayan Stadium in 1997, remains etched on my mind when I was there at the media centre in Jakarta.<\/p>\r\r<p>Shanti clocked 11.61s, beating Thailand\u2019s Dokjun Dokjuang and Elma Muros of the Philippines en route to becoming only the fourth Malaysian sprinter to scoop the women\u2019s 100m gold after Carmen Koelmeyer in Bangkok 1959, Cheryl Dorall Bangkok 1967 and Mumtaz Jaffar in Manila 1981.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now 57 and attached to Maybank Bandar Baru Bangi branch, Shanti can look back at her career with immense pride.<\/p>\r\r<p>For all the medals won throughout her glittering career including the National Sportswoman of the Year title in 1998, the sprinting mum is proud to produce two daughters \u2013 Vinoo Shanaa, a medical doctor in Pangkalan Amo, Serian, Sarawak, while Thevisshana is doing dentistry at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). Kannan meanwhile is the manager of the Maybank branch in Subang Jaya.<\/p>\r\r<p>Without taking anything away from her, Zaidatul\u2019s list of achievements pales in comparison to Shanti.<\/p>\r\r<p>For now, Zaidatul, or Adik to her colleagues, needs to outpace another Shanti, Singapore\u2019s Veronica Shanti Pereira, the region\u2019s sprint queen, in order to create a lasting legacy!<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3747771,"np_article_id":1469263,"article_title":"Odense \u2013 a fairyland of many merry happenings","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/19\\\/odense---a-fairyland-of-many-merry-happenings\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IT\\u2019S autumn in Denmark and the weather is truly lovely. The leaves are in different shades of colours \\u2013 golden brown, bright yellow, red, and orange \\u2013 and I feel like I\\u2019m in a fairyland.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"39\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar 2nd Edition\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-19 07:21:23\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-11-16 06:47:08\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"39\"}","publish_time":"2024-10-19 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/19\\\/2973201.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/10\/19\/odense---a-fairyland-of-many-merry-happenings","show_image_in_thumb":2973201,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IT\u2019S autumn in Denmark and the weather is truly lovely. The leaves are in different shades of colours \u2013 golden brown, bright yellow, red, and orange \u2013 and I feel like I\u2019m in a fairyland.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/19\/2973202.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 204px; float: left;\" \/>This is Odense and I am here on the invitation of Gitte Vestermark on behalf of the Odense Municipality and Destination Fyn.<\/p>\r\r<p>Odense is home to some famous names. Hans Kristian Andersen, who wrote all those unforgettable fairy tales like the Little Mermaid, The Emperors New Suit, The Princess and the Pea and many more was born here.<\/p>\r\r<p>I must have read the Little Mermaid to my little niece a hundred times when she was young.<\/p>\r\r<p>Viktor Axelsen, who lived a real fairy tale as Denmark\u2019s greatest player, was also born in Odense.<\/p>\r\r<p>A few media friends and I had the privilege of visiting him at his home in 2009. He was just learning Mandarin and impressed a few in the Chinese media.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now Axelsen, a two-time Olympic Games champion and winner of all major titles, remains a giant in the badminton world.<\/p>\r\r<p>On Thursday, though, he was proof that even giants can fall. Against Alex Lanier of France in the second round of the Denmark Open, he was reduced to vomiting on court. It was painful to watch.<\/p>\r\r<p>But it was also a show of his fighting spirit.<\/p>\r\r<p>The 2021 champion was ill with some viral infection and feeling miserable, but tried to play on before eventually giving up at 19-21, 7-11.<\/p>\r\r<p>Still, he received thunderous applause from his home fans. That\u2019s how the Danish fans are \u2013 always cheering on their players.<\/p>\r\r<p>In fact, the whole set-up of the Denmark Open is different from others. While the top players battle it out like at all other Opens, there are different age-group competitions taking place at the same time around Odense.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThere are many people from different age groups who are involved. And once they are done, the parents and children will come as a family to watch the big matches,\u201d said head of badminton Denmark Kristian Langbak. It is a special sports culture.<\/p>\r\r<p>No wonder that the small European nation with a population of over five million can stand on par with powerhouses like China, Indonesia and South Korea.<\/p>\r\r<p>The area around the Jyske Bank Arena is full of activity and there are young children everywhere.<\/p>\r\r<p>And with Odense being a leading robotics city, there are plenty of robots too. In fact cobots (collaborative robots) will be delivering the shuttlecock to the players in the semi-finals and finals.<\/p>\r\r<p>It has added a touch of class to the World Tour 750 tournament, with technology merging with the traditional methods of doing things.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s not just tech, Denmark is going green, too. They have provided purified tap water for the players, minimising the use of plastic bottles. They have encouraged spectators to carpool and many more small efforts to make a difference in the way they care for the earth.<\/p>\r\r<p>Jakob Staun, the head of events at Destinations Fyn, said: \u201cWe had brought in sustainability experts to help us minimise the effect on environment while we host big events here.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u2018\u2018We look at many things, including food waste, transport, and see how best we can make it better every year.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>This is my seventh trip and I continue to admire the efforts taken by Denmark to look at the big picture. It has also been a special place for some of our players.<\/p>\r\r<p>Lee Chong Wei won it here in 2012 and Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong smashed their way to success in 2016.<\/p>\r\r<p>Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik also won their first-ever World Tour event in Denmark last year.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3745900,"np_article_id":1465669,"article_title":"Death of purity in football: Embracing the capitalist game we helped create","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"UNLESS you\\u2019ve been living under a rock the last couple of days, Juergen Klopp is back in the news. Yes, Erik Ten Hag still has a job, but the former Liverpool manager has come under scrutiny this week after accepting the role as Red Bull\\u2019s global head of football. Klopp\\u2019s decision has sparked outrage from both Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund fans.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"32\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-15 06:52:19\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-15 06:52:18\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"32\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-10-15 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/15\\\/2964720.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/10\/15\/death-of-purity-in-football-embracing-the-capitalist-game-we-helped-create","show_image_in_thumb":2964720,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/15\/2964721.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/>UNLESS you\u2019ve been living under a rock the last couple of days, Juergen Klopp is back in the news. Yes, Erik Ten Hag still has a job, but the former Liverpool manager has come under scrutiny this week after accepting the role as Red Bull\u2019s global head of football. Klopp\u2019s decision has sparked outrage from both Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund fans.<\/p>\r\r<p>Why? Because, to them, joining an organisation like Red Bull goes against the principles Klopp used to stand for \u2013 he\u2019s being labeled a \u201csell-out\u2019\u2019 and \u201cgreedy\u2019\u2019. As for Dortmund\u2019s fans, they don\u2019t even recognise Red Bull as a legitimate club because of their ownership structure. Comical criticism coming from a set of fans who welcomed a weapons manufacturer as a sponsor before the Champions League.<\/p>\r\r<p>As for Liverpool fans, Klopp doesn\u2019t owe you anything. He delivered a league title, a sixth European Cup, and other trophies during his tenure. None of the fans are putting food on Klopp\u2019s table and taking the Red Bull job allows him to stay in the game while waiting for the Germany national team position.<\/p>\r\r<p>The notion of Klopp selling out is flawed because football sold out long ago\u2014when the Premier League accepted the television deal from Sky Sports. That was the day the purity of football died. It\u2019s no longer about the joy of 22 players competing to put the ball in the net; it\u2019s about how many titles a club can win in a season and the amount of revenue they can generate in a financial year. Remember, this is the sport that was \u2018\u2019created by the poor but stolen by the rich.\u2019\u2019<\/p>\r\r<p>And do you know who allowed all this to happen? Us, the fans! With our constant demand for new players, trophies, and competition on the biggest stage, what did we expect? We, the fans, pushed the game to change and shift. Yes, the league authorities enabled this, but we as fans are complicit.<\/p>\r\r<p>We claimed we could do something, but we didn\u2019t because we can\u2019t even boycott games, cancel our TV subscriptions, or resist buying the latest club jerseys. We\u2019re part of the problem. Protests like leaving the stadium early or arriving late have no real impact on a club\u2019s bottom line \u2013 the money has already been recognised.<\/p>\r\r<p>And clubs are smart: the game has grown so large that even if you cancel your season ticket, there are 40,000 people on the waiting list, eager to take your place.<\/p>\r\r<p>So, yes, football\u2019s purity is dead. It\u2019s all about capitalism now. You\u2019ll see this even more when they announce the punishment for Manchester City\u2019s 115 charges. It will probably be just a fine or a slap on the wrist because UEFA, FIFA, and the Premier League need Manchester City (and its wealthy backers) to be part of the league. It\u2019s good for business, even if it\u2019s not good for football.<\/p>\r\r<p>To those fans hoping to see City stripped of titles, you\u2019re daydreaming. Sure, City\u2019s management created an unfair advantage with their financials, but executives don\u2019t win games. As Johan Cruyff once said, \u201cI\u2019ve never seen a bag of money score a goal.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>Yes, City are guilty of financial doping, but they earned their titles because they won on the pitch.<\/p>\r\r<p>People may argue that they bought the title by spending, but Manchester United have spent heavily in recent seasons, and they only have an FA Cup and a League Cup to show for it. Money buys players, but you still need a manager to coach and a team to play and win. So, I believe City won those titles fair and square \u2013 they won them on the pitch.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the end, football is no longer pure. It\u2019s a capitalist sport, and private equity is using it to make money. If you want purity in football, go back to the grassroots \u2013 but capitalism has probably tarnished even that. Instead of fighting it, we as fans might as well embrace it.<\/p>\r\r<p>What we say or do doesn\u2019t matter, because we are too divided. Individually, fans have little influence, but collectively we could make an impact. Until we unite, we can forget about football being pure again.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3745245,"np_article_id":1464291,"article_title":"The hot seat weighs heavily as Syed Yazid inherits a troubled KLFA","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"sport\\\/football\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/13\\\/the-hot-seat-weighs-heavily-as-syed-yazid-inherits-a-troubled-klfa\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"LOW profile businessman Syed Yazid Syed Omar was elected president of the\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"43\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-13 08:07:26\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-13 09:34:18\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"43\"}","publish_time":"2024-10-13 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/13\\\/2961715.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"sport\/football\/2024\/10\/13\/the-hot-seat-weighs-heavily-as-syed-yazid-inherits-a-troubled-klfa","show_image_in_thumb":2961715,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/13\/2961716.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/>LOW profile businessman Syed Yazid Syed Omar was elected president of the<\/p>\r\r<p>Kuala Lumpur Football Association (KLFA) for the 2024-2028 term during their congress-cum-elections in Cheras yesterday and immediately vowed to settle the unpaid salaries of Super League outfit, KL City.As the governing body of all football matters relating to development of talent, referees, competitions and grassroots, KLFA are also the direct owners of KL City.<\/p>\r\r<p>Syed Yazid who is a member of the FA of Malaysia (FAM) executive committee, secured 15 votes to succeed Khalid Samad as president, narrowly defeating challenger Datuk Abdullah Sani Abdul Hamid, who garnered 12.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many of the newly elected executive committee members are aligned with Syed Yazid.<\/p>\r\r<p>They are deputy presidents Datuk Kamarudin Hassan, a veteran in the scene, and Datuk Seri Wong Yeong Chai, along with vice presidents Datuk Ramlan Askolani, Nor Asyikin Jaafar, Datuk Sham Shamrat Sen Gupta and Datuk Hisamudin Yahaya.<\/p>\r\r<p>Hisamudin, a Senator who was aligned to Abdullah Sani\u2019s camp, is also Syed Yazid\u2019s fellow FAM Exco member.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ramlan is a remnant of the past. He is a tangible reminder for Syed Yazid of the storied background of KLFA in the 1980s, when Kuala Lumpur was a force in Malaysian football.<\/p>\r\r<p>And with his election, foremost on Syed Yazid\u2019s mind is to settle the salary arrears before thinking of rediscovering the glorious past of city football.<\/p>\r\r<p>As Malaysian football teams transitioned into privately-owned football clubs, KL City were established as a wholly-owned club of KLFA. One of their former players, Stanley Bernard Samuel, was appointed as the club\u2019s chief executive officer.<\/p>\r\r<p>They enjoyed instant results. Following promotion from the second tier in 2020, KL City produced one of the most famous results in their history as goals from Zhafri Yahya and Paulo Josue saw them beat JDT 2-0 in the 2021 Malaysia Cup final.<\/p>\r\r<p>The City side have come a long way since they competed in their first official national competition in 1979 \u2013 the Malaysia Cup.<\/p>\r\r<p>By the time FTFA rebranded themselves as Kuala Lumpur in 1987, they had already emerged as the kings of Malaysian football by capturing the Malaysia Cup for three consecutive years from 1987 to 1989.<\/p>\r\r<p>Kuala Lumpur were to win every trophy at stake \u2013 triumphing in the Malaysia Cup thrice, the League Cup (1986 and 1988), the FA Cup (1993, 1994 and 1999), the Charity Shield 1988, 1995 and 2000) and the Fairplay Trophy (1991).<\/p>\r\r<p>Of course the personality who took the City to their greatest height was Tan Sri Elyas Omar, the former Lord Mayor of Kuala Lumpur.<\/p>\r\r<p>Elyas had the foresight to send Kuala Lumpur\u2019s best youth footballers to Europe and entice the regional\u2019s best talent to pitch their tent in Malaysia.<\/p>\r\r<p>Under Elyas\u2019 watch, KL became a reservoir of talent. Their top youth players such as Azmin Azram Aziz, T. Gopinath Naidu, Azrul Amri Burhan and Ahmad Sabri Wahab were dispatched to Europe for attachments in England and Germany. Fandi Ahmad, Malek Awab and K. Kannan became crowd-pullers and Cup winners.<\/p>\r\r<p>Those who followed in the footsteps of Elyas were no slouch either.<\/p>\r\r<p>The late Tan Sri Megat Junid Megat Ayob, Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz, Datuk Adnan Md Ikhsan who enjoyed the patronage of Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor as Minister of Federal Territories and Khalid himself were highly influential figures known to the corridors of power.<\/p>\r\r<p>Key to Syed Yazid\u2019s vision is KLFA\u2019s relationship with City Hall, the perennial cash cow. And whether Syed Yazid can convince Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, to help ease the team\u2019s financial burden.<\/p>\r\r<p>If one may recall, under Astaman, KLFA nearly closed shop during the period when the team lost the bulk of their squad as they were relegated from the Super League to the Premier League.<\/p>\r\r<p>As KLFA president, Syed Yazid is burdened not only by the elite team saddled with debts but also an association known for its internal strife.<\/p>\r\r<p>The next four years will weigh heavily on Syed Yazid\u2019s slender shoulders.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3744948,"np_article_id":1463753,"article_title":"We can have best coaches from China, but shuttlers have to do more","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/12\\\/we-can-have-best-coaches-from-china-but-shuttlers-have-to-do-more\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"Just imagine. China\\u2019s Lin Dan and our own Lee Chong Wei coaching our men\\u2019s singles badminton players, with Indonesia\\u2019s Taufik Hidayat or Denmark\\u2019s Peter Gade also in the equation.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"39\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-12 07:40:28\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-12 10:34:14\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Derrick Vinesh S\\\/O Visvanathan\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"39\"}","publish_time":"2024-10-12 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/12\\\/2960624.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/10\/12\/we-can-have-best-coaches-from-china-but-shuttlers-have-to-do-more","show_image_in_thumb":2960624,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/12\/2960624.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 169px;\" \/>Just imagine. China\u2019s Lin Dan and our own Lee Chong Wei coaching our men\u2019s singles badminton players, with Indonesia\u2019s Taufik Hidayat or Denmark\u2019s Peter Gade also in the equation.<\/p>\r\r<p>It would be a dream line-up of coaches. After all, these are all men\u2019s singles legends from the recent era who can easily connect with the current generation of players.<\/p>\r\r<p>The youngsters all look up to them and adore them. These mega stars are all retired now - but that dream line-up will always be a dream. None of them are likely to take up the position as Malaysia\u2019s men\u2019s singles coach.<\/p>\r\r<p>There are many different reasons.<\/p>\r\r<p>Gade may be an exception and could work here as he is the only one still involved in coaching, but he is doing fine in his country. The others are not into coaching.<\/p>\r\r<p>Malaysia, meanwhile, is in need of a good coach and in the past few weeks, many names have been bandied about, and there has been some far-fetched speculation.<\/p>\r\r<p>Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) coaching director Rexy Mainaky did confirm that Kenneth Jonassen of Denmark and Mulyo Handoyo of Indonesia are on his radar but it\u2019s learnt that nothing has been firmed up.<\/p>\r\r<p>Jonassen may struggle with the culture here while Mulyo, who was behind Taufik\u2019s rise to a star, is already 63.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s unsure whether he will be able to lead a bigger group.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mulyo is older than Korean maestro Park Joo-bong, 60, who will also be free by end of this year as Japan did not extend his contract.<\/p>\r\r<p>On the local front, we have plenty to choose from - Datuk Misbun Sidek, Datuk Rashid Sidek, Mohd Hafiz Hashim, Ong Ewe Hock and Foo Kok Keong, just to mention a few.<\/p>\r\r<p>The BAM, however, have made it clear that they want foreign coaches.<\/p>\r\r<p>Besides Rexy, they already have two other Indonesians - Nova Widianto in the mixed doubles and junior coach Jeffer Rosobin - who are doing a great job.<\/p>\r\r<p>I have high respect for Indonesian coaches who are of exceptional quality and my all-time favourite Indonesian coach is the modest \u201cPak\u201d Christian Hadinata and Henry IP (Iman Peirngedi) who are both humble and dedicated coaches.<\/p>\r\r<p>But do we need another Indonesian in the coaching set-up? Why don\u2019t we hire someone from China for a change?<\/p>\r\r<p>After all, China are the badminton powerhouse. They have depth. At any time, when a senior retires, there are several others champing at the bit to take over.<\/p>\r\r<p>We used to have Chinese coaches - remember when we hired Fang Kaixiang, Han Jian, Yang Yang which eventually led to Malaysia winning the Thomas Cup in 1992?<\/p>\r\r<p>Not many know the important role played by another Chinese Zhou Kejian too at the junior level. He built the foundation for our juniors during his stay and under him, we won many junior titles.<\/p>\r\r<p>Malaysia\u2019s last coach from China was Li Mao. And Chong Wei will attest to the fact that he was one of the best around.<\/p>\r\r<p>So, who can we hire from China?<\/p>\r\r<p>I can think of this cool character Xia Xuanze, who beat Wong Choong Hann in the 2003 World Championships final in Birmingham, and did well as a coach for China after his retirement.<\/p>\r\r<p>Xuanze was not only a great No. 1 player but has also shown his prowess as a coach since he and Zhang Jun replaced former tactician Li Yongbo in the national set up. Even a provincial coach has quality in China.<\/p>\r\r<p>The BAM may have to mix it up to add the coaching quality and I\u2019m sure Rexy is having a headache choosing his best team.<\/p>\r\r<p>This is the first time Rexy will get to start from scratch. When he came into the picture the last two times, the structure was already set, and there was little he could change.<\/p>\r\r<p>Rexy knows that a lot has changed in the world of badminton and we need someone who is hands-on and knows the latest trend, technology and even the lingo of this generation of players.<\/p>\r\r<p>We need innovative coaches, who can even come up with new ideas, set new trends, break boundaries and find unique ways of bringing out the best in a player.<\/p>\r\r<p>While it\u2019s important to have great coaches with the team, I\u2019m sure we all agree with Chong Wei on the role of the shuttlers themselves. Chong Wei said that in order to reap success, 90% is down to the efforts of the athlete.<\/p>\r\r<p>Our new national No. 1 Leong Jun Hao agrees. Jun Hao said the determination of the player is the key, especially when they are down.<\/p>\r\r<p>We can have the best coaches but if the players do not play their part, results will not come.<\/p>\r\r<p>Having a good coach and equally determined and talented players will see Malaysian badminton do well.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now, that is the scenario we have to imagine - and make it come true.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3743265,"np_article_id":1460390,"article_title":"Ten Hag\u2019s uncertain fate following a drab draw as race to top heightens","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THEY billed it as the match that would determine Erik Ten Hag\\u2019s employment fate, especially with Sir Jim Ratcliffe in attendance at Villa Park.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-08 08:07:51\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-08 08:07:51\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-10-08 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/08\\\/2952548.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/10\/08\/ten-hags-uncertain-fate-following-a-drab-draw-as-race-to-top-heightens","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/08\/2952547.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/>THEY billed it as the match that would determine Erik Ten Hag\u2019s employment fate, especially with Sir Jim Ratcliffe in attendance at Villa Park.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, what the audience witnessed was a dull 0-0 draw between Manchester United and Aston Villa \u2013 a reminder of how far both teams have fallen. Villa, fresh off their high of beating Bayern Munich, couldn\u2019t raise their game to put up a fight against Ten Hag\u2019s men.<\/p>\r\r<p>What could have been a decisive blow turned into a snooze fest, filled with mistakes and poor end product.<\/p>\r\r<p>Apart from a few saves by Emiliano Mart\u00ednez, there isn\u2019t much to discuss \u2013 other than Ten Hag relying on players from his first season to keep him in the job.<\/p>\r\r<p>Harry Maguire had a decent half before being substituted because of injury. Maguire\u2019s performances in the last two games have certainly outshined the \u2018Dutch Maguire,\u2019 who was once considered the best centreback a couple of years ago.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s shaping up to be a redemption arc for the original Maguire!<\/p>\r\r<p>United now sit 14th in the table with a negative goal difference of minus three. And there could be a decision on Ten Hag from INEOS by next Wednesday.<\/p>\r\r<p>Another victory and clean sheet for Arne Slot\u2019s Liverpool. That makes it six wins in seven games for the red half of Merseyside, with five clean sheets in between.<\/p>\r\r<p>Does \u201cone-nil to the Liverpool\u201d have the same ring as \u201cone-nil to the Arsenal\u201d? Once known for their chaotic, entertaining football, Liverpool have now adopted a more controlled style.<\/p>\r\r<p>Whether Liverpool fans will embrace this new approach remains to be seen, but as long as Slot keeps winning, it\u2019s doubtful that Kopites will complain.<\/p>\r\r<p>For entertainment, look no further than Arsenal. The North London club are probably the most exciting team in the league now. They\u2019re playing so well that they even gifted Southampton an early lead before kicking into gear!<\/p>\r\r<p>Bukayo Saka had probably his best game of the season, registering two assists and a goal.<\/p>\r\r<p>One talking point would be Raheem Sterling\u2019s start \u2013 was it deserved? Sterling clearly wasn\u2019t ready to be in the starting eleven, and Arsenal looked much better after Gabriel Martinelli went in.<\/p>\r\r<p>Going forward, Arsenal are in top form, but their defence remains doubtful. Mikel Arteta will need to find the right balance.<\/p>\r\r<p>Manchester City have equalled their longest unbeaten run in the Premier League (30 matches \u2013 24 wins and 6 draws) following their victory against Fulham.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, a worrying trend for City is the lack of creativity up front.<\/p>\r\r<p>They\u2019re clearly missing Kevin De Bruyne more than Rodri, as they struggled to create chances without their talisman.<\/p>\r\r<p>Erling Haaland received limited service, and against stronger defensive teams, City might struggle to break through. The match could have ended differently had Adama Traore taken his chances when Fulham were leading.<\/p>\r\r<p>But City are the reigning champions, and sometimes champions get the luck they need!<\/p>\r\r<p>The game of the weekend surely belongs to Brighton and Tottenham Hotspur. Once again, it proves that a two-nil lead is never safe in football. Spurs were leading comfortably at halftime, although they had conceded too many chances.<\/p>\r\r<p>As the law of probability would have it, those chances came back to haunt them as Brighton mounted a comeback and won 3-2 in the end.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ange Postecoglou is proud of his style of play, and yes, Spurs are entertaining, but they won\u2019t be winning trophies soon without better game management. In modern football, effective game management is key to success.<\/p>\r\r<p>The league now breaks for the international window, giving teams the perfect opportunity to rest, reset, and work on improving all aspects of their game before the fast and furious fixtures of November and December.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3740684,"np_article_id":1455262,"article_title":"Is time running out for United\u2019s manager after another defeat?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"MANCHESTER United started September with a 3-0 defeat and ended it with another 3-0 loss, this time to Tottenham.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"27\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-01 07:21:35\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-01 07:21:35\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"27\",\"cxense_metatags\":\"\"}","publish_time":"2024-10-01 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/01\\\/2940696.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/10\/01\/is-time-running-out-for-uniteds-manager-after-another-defeat","show_image_in_thumb":2940696,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/01\/2940697.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/>MANCHESTER United started September with a 3-0 defeat and ended it with another 3-0 loss, this time to Tottenham.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s safe to say that Erik Ten Hag\u2019s team are not improving in his third season in charge. Even before Bruno Fernandes\u2019 red card, Spurs were all over United. Six games into the season, with Ten Hag in his third year and backed by INEOS management, you\u2019d expect him to have found the right formula by now. Instead, United\u2019s squad look more clueless than ever.<\/p>\r\r<p>You don\u2019t have to look far to see examples of teams quickly imposing a distinct style of play. Both Arne Slot and Enzo Maresca have done so with just one preseason under their belts. What exactly is Ten Hag doing in training?<\/p>\r\r<p>To make matters worse, Ten Hag can\u2019t blame the players he inherited from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer because six of the starting eleven were his own signings. Nearly \u00a3620mil spent on players he handpicked, yet the team still lack an identity and a cohesive style of play.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ironically, United\u2019s best winger is currently on loan at Chelsea, with three assists in three games \u2013 more than seven United players combined.<\/p>\r\r<p>This Ajax 2.0 project is failing miserably, and if results don\u2019t improve in the next two games, how much longer will Ten Hag last? Could he be the first manager casualty of the season?<\/p>\r\r<p>Most fans would love to see their team play scintillating football while securing three points every week, but we don\u2019t live in an ideal world.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Manchester City dropping two points against Newcastle, both Arsenal and Liverpool took the opportunity to capitalise. Liverpool now top the table, with Arsenal level on points with their closest rivals.<\/p>\r\r<p>Both teams secured their victories without playing attractive football.<\/p>\r\r<p>At the Emirates, Arsenal let a two-goal lead slip and needed a scrappy goal from a corner to secure three points. Even the fourth goal was scrappy. Mikel Arteta won\u2019t mind though, as three points are all that matter.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arsenal\u2019s defence usually looks solid, but a lapse in concentration and a wonder goal from James Justin levelled the match. Kudos to the Gunners for grinding out the result.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the past, an Arsenal team might have dropped their heads and drawn the game. This is the mentality Arteta is instilling in his squad \u2013 you don\u2019t need to play brilliant football to win, just grind until you secure the three points.<\/p>\r\r<p>Liverpool experienced something similar at the Molineux. After getting outplayed for the first 25 minutes, they finally got into their game to secure the win. Liverpool took an early lead via Ibrahima Konate, but he later made a mistake that allowed Wolves back into the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>Fortunately, Diogo Jota won a penalty that Mohamed Salah converted from the spot.<\/p>\r\r<p>Another poor performance from Salah, though. He seems to struggle after international breaks; maybe it\u2019s time for him to consider shaving his head again to recapture his early-season form.<\/p>\r\r<p>Wolves remain rooted to the bottom, and pressure is mounting on Gary O\u2019Neil.<\/p>\r\r<p>At Stamford Bridge, it was the Cole Palmer show, as he left with the match ball after scoring four goals. Palmer could have scored five, but four is certainly enough to delight Fantasy Football managers who captained him over the weekend.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s hard to describe Chelsea\u2019s style of play \u2013 it\u2019s chaotic at the back but precise and speedy up front. Brighton\u2019s high line only played to Chelsea\u2019s advantage. A genuine test awaits Enzo Maresca\u2019s men when they face a more organised defence.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the meantime, if Chelsea are playing and you\u2019re unsure what to watch, I promise you they\u2019re great fun to tune into!<\/p>\r\r<p>Everton, meanwhile, welcomed the news of the Friedkin takeover by securing their first win of the season. The blue half of Merseyside is now out of the bottom three, easing some pressure on Sean Dyche.<\/p>\r\r<p>While Everton had been on the wrong end of comebacks in their previous two games, this victory came from a comeback of their own, with Dwight McNeil the star of the show.<\/p>\r\r<p>Everton will look to build on this win, as Premier League safety could lead to further investment from the Friedkin Group.<\/p>\r\r<p>Another week of goals galore, and the games keep getting better week by week.<\/p>\r\r<p>There\u2019s no clear favourite for the league now, and with 32 games left, everything is still to play for. Whatever happens, we\u2019re here for it!<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3740641,"np_article_id":1455281,"article_title":"Has Le Tour de Langkawi run its course?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"LE TOUR de Langkawi was flagged off at its place of birth in Kuah on Sunday as the National Sports Council (NSC) reinvent the wheel by assuming the role of event organisers.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-10-01 06:55:42\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-01 06:55:42\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":\"\"}","publish_time":"2024-10-01 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/10\\\/01\\\/2940669.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/10\/01\/has-le-tour-de-langkawi-run-its-course","show_image_in_thumb":2940669,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/10\/01\/2940670.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/>LE TOUR de Langkawi was flagged off at its place of birth in Kuah on Sunday as the National Sports Council (NSC) reinvent the wheel by assuming the role of event organisers.<\/p>\r\r<p>After 28 years, with the 2021 race the only edition cancelled due to the pandemic, I believe it is time to reevaluate the objectives and the economic impact of the cycling race, once considered the jewel in our crown.<\/p>\r\r<p>When the race was launched on Dec 8, 1995 and flagged off on Feb 29, 1996, both by the then Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, it was presented as a private sector initiative, with small funding from the Government.<\/p>\r\r<p>Touted to be the third biggest race after Tour de France and the Vuelta as two of the three Grand Tours, LTdL complemented the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) in enhancing the island\u2019s reputation as an exciting and popular holiday destination.<\/p>\r\r<p>Almost all the big names who attended the race as participants or observers during the early years, gave the Tour the thumbs up, with former world road champion and Giro d\u2019Italia winner Francesco Moser, Gianni Bugno and renowned writer Samuel Abt among those extolling its potential.<\/p>\r\r<p>Television commentator and the voice of Tour de France, Phil Liggett, was also a regular feature in the race, lending the race his famous jokes, in depth-knowledge of the peloton and opinions to those who knew little of Langkawi prior to LTdL.<\/p>\r\r<p>I was fortunate enough to be part of the LTdL juggernaut, covering the race on a few occasions, including the second edition in 1997.<\/p>\r\r<p>Although there were transfer hiccups in Kota Kinabalu, Kuching and Johor Bahru in the second edition, most participants, seasoned foreign sportswriters and team officials were impressed with the event.<\/p>\r\r<p>Abt, renowned writer for New York Times and International Herald Tribune who devoted much of his life chronicling the career of Lance Armstrong and Greg Lemond, was impressed with the public support.<\/p>\r\r<p>In our meetings, the bespectacled gentleman said: \u201cIt was an excellent race once the riders got on the way. The roads were good, the weather was challenging, the riders felt secure and there was good support from the crowd.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe actual racing was terrific but I can\u2019t say the same for the organisation. If the weaknesses are rectified, the Tour is capable of becoming one of the world\u2019s main cycling attractions.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>Undeniably LTdL, once broadcast live over 90 countries, had cultivated a culture for cycling in Malaysia.<\/p>\r\r<p>But should NSC, an agency tasked to co-ordinate high performance sports, continue to organise LTdL that has long lost its lustre?<\/p>\r\r<p>For the past decade, there have been calls to remodel the Tour to suit the times.<\/p>\r\r<p>I was part of a small delegation that went to Paris to meet representatives of the Amaury Sports Organisation (ASO) to discuss the way forward for LTdL in 2012.<\/p>\r\r<p>ASO, a subsidiary of the Amaury Group that owns French newspaper L\u2019Equipe, is owner of Tour de France and the Dakar Rally.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many in the cycling fraternity realise LTdL has gone down the pecking order, others like Tour Down Under, the first event outside Europe to join the prestigious UCI ProTour, and the UCI WorldTour like Tours of Qatar, Taiwan, UAE, China and Oman attracting the world\u2019s best.<\/p>\r\r<p>Between 1996 and 2006, LTdL was run by private companies and fully funded through corporate sponsorship before a major bailout package by the Government through the Ministry of Youth and Sports after the organisers ran into debts.<\/p>\r\r<p>The race was then handled by the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) from 2007 to 2010.<\/p>\r\r<p>From 2019 to 2022, a private entity was tasked to run the event before deferred payments to the teams for the year 2022 almost forced the world body UCI to take LTdL off the calendar.<\/p>\r\r<p>For this year\u2019s edition, NSC are projecting expenditure cost of RM15 million, funding which could be disbursed to other associations in need of financial support.<\/p>\r\r<p>There is an urgent need to reinvent the race. If it requires a bigger partnership between the Government and a private event company with massive global and commercial reach, so be it. The private sector, with strong support from the Government, should be the driving force to regain LTdL\u2019s reputation as the biggest race in Asia, failing which we should scrap the event and channel the funding towards sending a Malaysian team to be based in Europe.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong><em>The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of The Star<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3739668,"np_article_id":1453350,"article_title":"The inspiring story of perseverance from our athletes","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/28\\\/the-inspiring-story-of-perseverance-from-our-athletes\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) is just a week away and I\\u2019m already sweating. And it\\u2019s cold sweat.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"off\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"No\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"No\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"No\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"off\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"No\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"Free\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-28 06:43:46\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-12 07:39:15\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"35\"}","publish_time":"2024-09-28 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/28\\\/2936435.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/09\/28\/the-inspiring-story-of-perseverance-from-our-athletes","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THE Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon (KLSCM) is just a week away and I\u2019m already sweating. And it\u2019s cold sweat.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s just a 10km run, under the media challenge, but all I can think about is \u2013 why did I even sign up.<\/p>\r\r<p>Running long distance races needs a lot of practice, a positive mindset and perseverance. Unfortunately, I didn\u2019t practise much but I intend to persevere.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/09\/28\/2936435.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 169px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>I have athletes to inspire me to stay on course, especially this week. One of them is national bowler Sin Li Jane.<\/p>\r\r<p>Li Jane may be 32 but she has been bowling for two decades \u2013 that speaks volume of her endurance as an athlete.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Perakian has made this year spectacular \u2013 winning three professional titles in the United States, including the prestigious US Women\u2019s Open. To make these achievements even more staggering, she managed them with her own funds.<\/p>\r\r<p>She then hit the ground running by winning three golds at the Asian Championships in Bangkok.<\/p>\r\r<p>Li Jane is now the longest serving bowler in the national team in the absence of Shalin Zulkifli. She started bowling when she was just about 10.<\/p>\r\r<p>In her junior days, she used to beat bowlers ranked higher than her. My boss then had, rightfully, pointed out that this Ipoh girl will rule the alleys one day.<\/p>\r\r<p>She did just that. She left her home when she was 14 to join the national youth squad, and by the time she was 16, she was winning titles. She was the first Malaysian to win a pro title in 2017 and first to win a title by beating the men at Euro Med.<\/p>\r\r<p>I remember interviewing her during her tender years. She was soft-spoken, humble and her eyes would simply light up when talking about bowling.<\/p>\r\r<p>Despite the years, Li Jane\u2019s love for the sport has not diminished. In fact, she is almost as exuberant now as she was then.<\/p>\r\r<p>While she has been the mainstay of the national team for the longest time, Li Jane has remained a down-to-earth person.<\/p>\r\r<p>Together with Li Jane, Rafiq Ismail and Co have also been instrumental in the recent Asian meet success when they won the bulk of the golds in the men\u2019s category. It was such an inspiring performance and result.<\/p>\r\r<p>Unfortunately, long-serving and former Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) president Datuk Dr P. S. Nathan did not get to see the grand success. The 90-year-old passed away on Sunday even as the Asian tournament was going on.<\/p>\r\r<p>But he will be remembered as an inspiration for the bowlers and officials, as the man who had stood tall for 50 years and turned the association from its humble outfit to a very successful one.<\/p>\r\r<p>It wasn\u2019t just the alley. There was inspiration from the badminton courts, too.<\/p>\r\r<p>Take mixed doubles player Hoo Pang Ron. He had to undergo two eye operations over the last one year but he refused to give up.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yesterday, he and Cheng Su Yin blew away top seeds Tang Chun Man-Tse Ying Suet of Hong Kong to reach the semi-finals of the Macau Open.<\/p>\r\r<p>Pang Ron, the younger brother of former top women player Vivian Hoo, has translated his dogged determination to make a mark in the mixed doubles event. This attitude will take him far in the sport for sure.<\/p>\r\r<p>Another mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei are also known for their persistence in the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>That\u2019s why I\u2019m confident that Ee Wei, who received 16 stitches after a mishap in the gymnasium recently, will return stronger.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ee Wei fell onto a glass panel after slipping while holding a dumbbell but fortunately, she did not hurt her playing hand.<\/p>\r\r<p>But she is a resolute shuttler, and although it has been announced that she will skip the Arctic Open in Finland and the Denmark Open next month with Tang Jie, don\u2019t be surprised if she boards the plane to Copenhagen for the World Tour 1000 event.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ee Wei is a fighter at every level and will not lay low for too long.<\/p>\r\r<p>And looking at the tenacity and strong resolve shown by these athletes, I see no reason why I should not lace up and head for Dataran Merdeka on Oct 5.<\/p>\r\r<p>My cold sweat has vanished. I\u2019m looking forward to completing the race, and will worry about the pain later.<\/p>\r\r<p>All the best to all those taking part in the half and full marathon races in KL. It\u2019s all about perseverance, just like Li Jane.<\/p>\r\r<p>The writer is Running For A Cause with KLSCM. So, join her and donate to charity organisations. Hers is Teach for Malaysia (TFM).<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3739261,"np_article_id":1452498,"article_title":"Maruyama\u2019s past heroics can fire up International spirit in Presidents Cup","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, At full swing, Chuah Choo Chiang\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"TWENTY six years have passed since Shigeki Maruyama produced a performance for the ages by going a perfect 5-0-0 in his Presidents Cup debut at Royal Melbourne in Australia which sparked what has since become the lone International Team victory to date against the United States Team in the biennial competition.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":746,\"columns\":\"746_1691708057\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"33\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-27 07:21:07\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-09-27 07:21:07\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mohd Shazrin B Mat Shom\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"33\",\"cxense_metatags\":\"\"}","publish_time":"2024-09-27 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/27\\\/2934186.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":416,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/at-full-swing\/2024\/09\/27\/maruyamas-past-heroics-can-fire-up-international-spirit-in-presidents-cup","show_image_in_thumb":2934186,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>TWENTY six years have passed since Shigeki Maruyama produced a performance for the ages by going a perfect 5-0-0 in his Presidents Cup debut at Royal Melbourne in Australia which sparked what has since become the lone International Team victory to date against the United States Team in the biennial competition.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now 54, the three-time PGA Tour winner emerged as an unlikely star in 1998 following a famous 20.5 \u2013 11.5 drubbing over the Americans, who had a prime Tiger Woods in their formidable 12-man squad.<\/p>\r\r<p>Maruyama recounts his heroics with great fondness, as it included a famous Foursomes victory with Craig Parry over Woods and Fred Couples. With the Presidents Cup being played at Royal Montreal in Canada which started yesterday, all eyes will be on the current Asian crop of stars if one of them, including Maruyama\u2019s compatriot Hideki Matsuyama, can emulate a similar feat to power a much-desired International Team victory.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cAs I was a rookie and every American player was a superstar, I was not afraid of the matches,\u201d recalled Maruyama. \u201cI made up my mind, thinking it wouldn\u2019t matter if I lost. So I was not afraid. The only thing in my heart was to defeat the American team,\u201d recalled the Japanese veteran, who subsequently earned the nickname, the \u201cSmiling Assassin\u201d after Royal Melbourne.<\/p>\r\r<p>He recalls International Team captain, the late Peter Thomson, had kept the players relaxed all week in the team room which he thought was a vital ingredient for the win. With Maruyama serving as one of five captain\u2019s assistants to Mike Weir this week, one of his tasks will surely be to keep Matsuyama loose and yet fully focused at the challenge ahead.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cHe (Thomson) wanted to make the team atmosphere better. That\u2019s why I acted very brightly, and I wasn\u2019t so serious and wanted to cheer everyone up. I think I was influenced by Peter. So I would also smile a lot and yell \u2018wow!\u2019 to inspire the team,\u201d said Maruyama, who is only one of six players to own a 5-0-0 record in the Presidents Cup.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cAfter the event was over, I felt like \u2018Ah, how wonderful\u2019. I worked hard and at the end of the week, everyone said to me, \u2018his is five wins!\u2019 and I wondered, was I so good? I didn\u2019t feel I did very well until I was congratulated by everyone. I thought it would be nice to show off, and I remember putting the Cup on my head and shouted happily.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>The responsibility to carry Japan\u2019s flag and provide muscle to the International Team\u2019s challenge at Royal Montreal will fall on Hideki Matsuyama, who won twice on the PGA Tour in 2024 and qualified for a sixth International Team appearance as the No. 1 ranked player. The 31-year-old also became the first Japanese male golfer to win an Olympic Games medal with a bronze showing this past summer, where Maruyama was the team leader in Paris. The other Asians in this International Team include Korean quartet Tom Kim, Im Sung-jae, An Byeong-hun and Kim Si-woo.<\/p>\r\r<p>Maruyama said: \u201cMike felt that Hideki was slightly different from the usual Hideki he was familiar with (during the Paris Olympics). During practice, we tried to keep things light and enjoyable without getting in Hideki\u2019s way. We were giggling, and having a good time. Seeing Hideki laughing like that was unusual for Mike, so he mentioned that my presence was probably significant. I want to support Mike and the International Team in any way that I can.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>With a career 7-10-5 (win-loss-tie) record, Matsuyama will be fired up for an International Team victory. He has been particularly disappointed with his singles record in the last two editions where he gave up leads over Tony Finau and Sam Burns in 2019 and 2022 respectively to settle for ties.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cLooking back, I wish my putting went in a little more. My putting was horrific and I wasn\u2019t able to add points. I was really hoping to get a full point. I feel I struggled to contribute to my team,\u201d Matsuyama said two years ago, where he led 2-up over Burns at the turn. \u201cIn 2019, I had the lead (against Finau) going into those last few holes and let him back in which was really disappointing. We came so close to getting a win. It still frustrates me to think back at how close we came to getting it done.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>The spotlight will also be one of golf\u2019s brightest stars, Tom Kim who enjoyed a spectacular debut at Quail Hollow two years ago. The 22-year-old Korean, who is already a three-time PGA Tour winner, emerged as the team\u2019s unlikely talisman with some gutsy play and youthful exuberance where 2022 captain Trevor Immelman, who will serve as one of Weir\u2019s assistants this week, hailed him as golf\u2019s next global superstar.<\/p>\r\r<p>Two particular golf shots that won Immelman over came during Saturday afternoon\u2019s Fourball session came when Tom and Si-woo teamed up to beat Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele in the last match on the course. With 233 yards to the pin on the 18th hole, Tom rifled a glorious 2-iron approach to set up his team\u2019s winning birdie, which he duly buried and exploded in a massive celebration.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cHe\u2019s been such a tremendous gift to our sport,\u201d said Immelman.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cHe\u2019s about 240 yards out. He\u2019s probably 60 yards behind his opponents.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI look back and I see the who\u2019s who of American golf in golf carts behind him. I see Thomas, I see Spieth, I see Finau, I see Homa, I see Morikawa, all of them sitting on carts 15 yards from him. And this kid hits a 2-iron to 10 feet and makes the putt. To me, that\u2019s impressive stuff, shows some guts.\u201d<\/p>","author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_byline":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_tags":"","author_id":746,"kicker_name":"At Full Swing","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/at-full-swing?bycat=746_1691708057","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/746.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002695,"np_author_id":746,"author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/746.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"At Full Swing\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"true\",\"forweb_status\":\"true\",\"column_key\":\"746_1691708057\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3737943,"np_article_id":1449990,"article_title":"Arsenal\u2019s defence shines, Liverpool climb, and VAR strikes again!","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/a-winning-factor\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/24\\\/arsenals-defence-shines-liverpool-climb-and-var-strikes-again\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"summary\":[\"JUST like last season, the title race looks set to be between Manchester City and Arsenal. Both teams showcased their quality on Sunday, playing to a 2-2 draw, but not without drama.\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-24 07:45:29\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-01 07:18:42\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\"}","publish_time":"2024-09-24 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/24\\\/2928291.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/09\/24\/arsenals-defence-shines-liverpool-climb-and-var-strikes-again","show_image_in_thumb":2928291,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>JUST like last season, the title race looks set to be between Manchester City and Arsenal. Both teams showcased their quality on Sunday, playing to a 2-2 draw, but not without drama.<\/p>\r\r<p>Leandro Trossard\u2019s sending off just before halftime left Arsenal with 10 men to play the entire second half. As fans, we\u2019re not asking for much \u2013 just consistency in refereeing decisions.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/09\/24\/2928292.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Super Sunday highlighted one thing: this Arsenal defence is legit! City might have dominated possession and shots, but most were meaningless until the last moments of the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>If Thomas Partey hadn\u2019t lost track of his defensive assignment, the Gunners might have left the Etihad with all three points, as Gabriel Magalhaes\u2019 header had given Arsenal the lead until the very end.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was almost the perfect redemption arc for Gabriel, who was at fault for Arsenal\u2019s first conceded goal. In fact, Gabriel had a tough first 15 minutes before settling in and marshalling the defence superbly.<\/p>\r\r<p>Erling Haaland scored his 100th goal in 105 games but remained mostly anonymous after that. His goal came from a swift transition move started by Savinho.<\/p>\r\r<p>To unsettle this Arsenal brick wall, teams will need to move the ball quickly and avoid letting the back four settle because once they do, this Gunners defence is hard to break down \u2013 disciplined and full of communication.<\/p>\r\r<p>For 24 hours, Liverpool sat top of the league on goal difference after Arne Slot\u2019s side bounced back from their defeat against Nottingham Forest with a comfortable win over Bournemouth.<\/p>\r\r<p>Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez were on the scoresheet. One thing to note from this game, though, was the atmosphere at Anfield.<\/p>\r\r<p>Slot\u2019s version of football is controlled, focused on patient passing until the right opportunity presents itself \u2013 essentially a calmer version of the \u201crock and roll\u201d football that Liverpool played over the last seven years.<\/p>\r\r<p>This style isn\u2019t for everyone, particularly the fans, as it can feel dull. It produces results but lacks the entertainment value one might expect. This resulted in a subdued crowd throughout the match, especially after going up 3-0.<\/p>\r\r<p>Rival fans often accuse the Anfield faithful of \u201conly singing when you\u2019re winning,\u201d but this game felt different.<\/p>\r\r<p>Anfield was like a library on Saturday, and the locals will probably blame the so-called \u201ctourists\u201d in attendance for failing to create the atmosphere the club desires.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, this was Bournemouth, and Anfield usually rocks for matches against traditional rivals like Manchester United, Manchester City, Everton, and Arsenal.<\/p>\r\r<p>The fear is that one day, the famous Kop End noise could become just a myth!<\/p>\r\r<p>Dominic Solanke scored his first goal for Tottenham Hotspur as Ange Postecoglou\u2019s men bounced back from their North London derby defeat. But the biggest talking point from the game was the role of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) that failed to spot a blatant handball outside the box by Guglielmo Vicario.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was a crucial moment that could have changed the game for Brentford, especially since Vicario made a vital save afterward. Were the referees overseeing VAR at Stockley Park on a tea and crumpets break when it happened? You\u2019d think after last year\u2019s fiasco they would have fixed this issue, but no, it continues to harm the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>Did Aston Villa secretly win the transfer window this summer?<\/p>\r\r<p>The performances of Morgan Rogers and Jhon Duran suggest they might have. Rogers set up two goals, and Duran continued his streak by scoring again! At one point, Villa seemed headed for defeat until Rogers took control of the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>Villa are showing the big clubs that there\u2019s always value in the Championship, as they purchased Rogers from Middlesbrough. For a rumored fee of \u00a38mil, Rogers is proving to be a bargain!<\/p>\r\r<p>Dean Henderson haunted his former club once again, putting in a Player of the Match performance to keep a clean sheet against Manchester United. However, the key talking point from the match was Erik ten Hag\u2019s decision to drop Marcus Rashford.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ten Hag\u2019s decision to leave Rashford on the bench left fans and pundits baffled, especially since he had scored in two consecutive games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Why would you bench a striker on a hot streak? Perhaps Ten Hag needs to consult his assistant manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, who famously said: \u201cGoals are like ketchup. Sometimes they don\u2019t come no matter how hard you try, and then later they all come out at once!\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>Another week of matches, another week full of drama! It will only get better, and we fans can\u2019t wait to see what\u2019s next.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3737524,"np_article_id":1449128,"article_title":"BAM\u2019s 13th president has pretty big shoes to fill","article_custom_fields":"{\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/on-the-line\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/23\\\/bams-13th-president-has-pretty-big-shoes-to-fill\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"summary\":[\"TRUE to his promise, Tan Sri Norza Zakaria did not overstay his welcome as the president of the BA of Malaysia (BAM).\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"37\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-23 07:07:52\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-10-01 06:51:35\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"37\"}","publish_time":"2024-09-23 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/23\\\/2926278.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/09\/23\/bams-13th-president-has-pretty-big-shoes-to-fill","show_image_in_thumb":2926278,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>TRUE to his promise, Tan Sri Norza Zakaria did not overstay his welcome as the president of the BA of Malaysia (BAM).<\/p>\r\r<p>Norza did not leverage on the fact that under his watch, BAM delivered a world title for the first time since 1977.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/09\/23\/2926277.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Neither did he go around and thump his chest for the 36 international titles registered by players under the BAM\u2019s payroll, including 11 in 2023 alone, throughout his presidency.<\/p>\r\r<p>His resignation as the 12th president of BAM since it was established 90 years ago by Ipoh-based lawyer John L Woods in November 1934, was announced officially on Aug 24 during the governing body\u2019s council meeting, five days short of his 58th birthday.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Norza shifting his attention to his presidency at the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) and the vice-presidency of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), history will arguably reflect fairly on his tenure at BAM.<\/p>\r\r<p>A one-time treasurer of the FA of Malaysia (FAM), Norza has left a list of policies in place as his legacy.<\/p>\r\r<p>This includes key performance indicators and merit-based assessment for senior players, establishing the Badminton Academy of Malaysia (ABM) where elite junior badminton players are housed, initiated the AirAsia-BAM Junior League which saw the yearly participation of over 4,000 students from 280 schools and above all he has bequeathed his successor an association in a healthy financial state.<\/p>\r\r<p>His result-oriented leadership was also evident in the unprecedented decision to bring in the consulting arm, Pemandu, to study and recommend changes to BAM\u2019s structure, technology, and people management.<\/p>\r\r<p>Deputy president, Datuk V. Subramaniam, who has been in the system since the 1980s, will serve as acting president until the national body holds their annual general meeting at the end of the council\u2019s current term next year.<\/p>\r\r<p>The incoming 13th president, whether it is Subramaniam or a high-profile corporate figure or a budding politician, will be tasked to continue developing the elite group.<\/p>\r\r<p>But the bigger challenge is to continue to pull in the sponsors.<\/p>\r\r<p>In his seven years at the helm, Norza succeeded in attracting Petronas, Affin Bank and Perodua among a few to bankroll BAM\u2019s activities, that cost RM50mil to operate per year.<\/p>\r\r<p>While the next president focuses on the financial sustainability of BAM, historian Dr Lim Peng Han has urged the secretariat to review their strategy if badminton is to finally land the elusive gold in Los Angeles Olympics.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe Indonesian BA president, Try Sutrisno, implemented three key policies to meet their objective of winning gold medals at the Barcelona Olympics in 1992.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe best coaches \u2013 Tang Hsien-hu, Christian Hadinata and Liang Chu Sia \u2013 each specialist coaches in their own respective areas such as men\u2019s singles, men\u2019s doubles and women\u2019s singles were hired, while a training centre at Cipayung with living quarters was established, and a blanket contract with Yonex to provide all the necessary badminton equipment for the elite men\u2019s and women\u2019s teams was sealed.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cSusi Susanti delivered Indonesia\u2019s first ever gold in the women\u2019s singles before Alan Budi Kusuma won the men\u2019s singles, while Ardy Wiranata and Hermawan Susanto bagged the silver and bronze respectively.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>BAM accomplished a similar strategy to regain the Thomas Cup in 1992.<\/p>\r\r<p>In August 1985, the late Tan Sri Elyas Omar succeeded Tan Sri Khir Johari, took stock of the situation and launched the Thomas Cup-Uber Cup-Olympic Games or TUO Project, modified from a similar project by KLBA of which Elyas was president, in 1986.<\/p>\r\r<p>It bore fruition with the 1992 Thomas Cup victory.<\/p>\r\r<p>With due respect to the present BAM administration, the president has to have a Datuk Punch Gunalan by his side.<\/p>\r\r<p>The late Gunalan, a mechanical engineer by training, was the engineer behind Elyas the architect. While Elyas designed the style and shape of the structure, Gunalan made sure it was sustainable and rock solid thanks to his background as a player, coach, marketing man and a strategist.<\/p>\r\r<p>As chief coach of the victorious 1992 Thomas Cup squad, Gunalan did not leave any stone unturned.<\/p>\r\r<p>Putting his engineering background into practice, Gunalan made modifications to the training courts, so that the team were exposed to sharper drops and shots.<\/p>\r\r<p>To help prepare the shuttlers in reading the flight of the shuttlecock, Gunalan inserted screws into the cork base.<\/p>\r\r<p>But the science of the badminton shuttlecock is much simpler than how the game is governed.<\/p>\r\r<p>All the best to the new president.<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3736930,"np_article_id":1447985,"article_title":"MSSM is where all future top stars are, but where are the scouts?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"sports box, say, column, National Schools championships, MSSM, Lim Teik Huat\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/21\\\/mssm-is-where-all-future-top-stars-are-but-where-are-the-scouts\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IT\\u2019S the school holidays and it\\u2019s also usually the time of the year when the National Schools (MSSM) championships take place.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":615,\"columns\":\"615_1605851998\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"30\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-21 07:24:13\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-09-21 07:40:47\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"30\"}","publish_time":"2024-09-21 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/21\\\/2923778.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/09\/21\/mssm-is-where-all-future-top-stars-are-but-where-are-the-scouts","show_image_in_thumb":2923778,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IT\u2019S the school holidays and it\u2019s also usually the time of the year when the National Schools (MSSM) championships take place.<\/p>\r\r<p>For the younger athletes under the age of 18, there is hardly any rest after the Malaysia Games (Sukma) in Sarawak as they continue with their training.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/09\/21\/2923777.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 214px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>But is anyone aware that the MSSM is going on?<\/p>\r\r<p>While Sukma got good coverage in the media last month, hardly anything is reported about the MSSM which began on Sept 14 and will end tomorrow.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sukma is organised by the National Sports Council while MSSM is handled by the Education Ministry.<\/p>\r\r<p>No fault for the hardworking school teachers who are willing to go out of their way to help run the show but those in the corridors of power in the ministry can do better to spread the message about their biggest annual sports meet.<\/p>\r\r<p>A total of 24 sports are in the MSSM calendar and aquatics take centrestage at the National Aquatic Centre in Bukit Jalil this week but there is scant information on it.<\/p>\r\r<p>There is nothing mentioned in the ministry\u2019s website and there is not even a proper website for the championships.<\/p>\r\r<p>It hardly does justice to a national schools meet and a sad reflection of where we are in the current sports climate in the country.<\/p>\r\r<p>It comes as no surprise that we are failing to even meet our target in the multi-Games in recent years when we can\u2019t even give prominence to our national schools meet.<\/p>\r\r<p>MSSM is where the likes of Datuk Shalin Zulkifli, Datuk Nicol David and Daniel Bego once reigned supreme in their respective sporting discipline before becoming household sporting stars.<\/p>\r\r<p>And talking about grassroots sports, are there any national sports associations dispatching their coaches to scout for future top talents?<\/p>\r\r<p>Scouting talents are so important to sports development but sadly, it is not taken seriously in the last two decades.<\/p>\r\r<p>Is it any wonder why we still cannot produce an Olympic champion when our neighbours have made their breakthrough a long time ago.<\/p>","author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","article_byline":"Lim Teik Huat","article_tags":"","author_id":615,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=615_1605851998","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/615.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002621,"np_author_id":615,"author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/615.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"615_1605851998\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"section_id\":0,\"author_title\":\"\",\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3735585,"np_article_id":1445389,"article_title":"Premier League shockwaves: Reality bites at Anfield and beyond","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"football, Efny Johan, A Winning Factor, Say What\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"LIKE all relationships, the honeymoon period eventually ends. After convincingly beating Manchester United before the international break, Liverpool fans must now decide whether \\u201cthe high was worth the pain\\u201d (Blank Space - Taylor Swift).\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"36\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-18 07:09:06\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-09-18 07:09:06\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"36\",\"cxense_metatags\":\"\"}","publish_time":"2024-09-18 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/18\\\/2917742.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/09\/18\/premier-league-shockwaves-reality-bites-at-anfield-and-beyond","show_image_in_thumb":2917742,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>LIKE all relationships, the honeymoon period eventually ends. After convincingly beating Manchester United before the international break, Liverpool fans must now decide whether \u201cthe high was worth the pain\u201d (Blank Space - Taylor Swift).<\/p>\r\r<p>That high definitely ended when Nottingham Forest rolled up to Anfield and secured their first victory on that ground since February 1969. It was a reality check for Arne Slot as Nuno Espirito Santo\u2019s side pulled off one of the most unexpected wins of the season.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/09\/18\/2917743.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Forest fully deserved the victory, while Slot\u2019s men looked out of sorts, unable to find the right pass in the final third. With this defeat, hopefully, all the talk of Slot being the second coming of Paisley will end. It\u2019s also a reminder that nothing comes easy in the Premier League. No team comes to Anfield to roll over. Slot\u2019s team deservesnothing this weekend, as they must earn every three points.<\/p>\r\r<p>It would be interesting to see Mohamed Salah and his agent\u2019s reaction to the ongoing contract negotiations after this game. It\u2019s easy to negotiate from a position of strength, but after this defeat, they may not be in the position to demand the world from FSG.<\/p>\r\r<p>Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all had a horrendous game, yet all three players played the full 90 minutes against Forest. Is player power still strong at Anfield? Is Slot too afraid to assert authority? If you can\u2019t control the superstars, your reign as manager won\u2019t last long. Sometimes, you need to wield the axe.<\/p>\r\r<p>On the South Coast, 10 pivotal minutes ensured Erik ten Hag\u2019s men bounced back from their poor showing against Liverpool. It started with Andre Onana saving a penalty to lift the team\u2019s spirits, followed by Matthijs de Ligt\u2019s man-of-the-match performance.<\/p>\r\r<p>De Ligt not only scored the go-ahead goal but also kept a clean sheet for United, giving the team confidence. Even Marcus Rashford found the back of the net. Those 10 minutes could define the season for Ten Hag.<\/p>\r\r<p>At the Etihad, it only took 26 seconds for Brentford to take the lead against Manchester City. But this is Erling Haaland\u2019s world, and we\u2019re just living in it. Overcoming personal issues, Haaland started and scored two goals to secure three points and maintain City\u2019s unbeaten start to the season.<\/p>\r\r<p>Pep Guardiola will be relieved Haaland didn\u2019t take the compassionate leave offered to him, as the Norwegian was the difference-maker.<\/p>\r\r<p>Move over Duran Duran, there\u2019s a new Duran in town! Jhon Duran\u2019s stunning goal left even his own goalkeeper breathless as Aston Villa made it two wins on the trot, coming from behind to beat Everton.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sean Dyche\u2019s men, however, suffered their fourth consecutive defeat after squandering a two-goal lead. Ollie Watkins\u2019 brace helped Villa level the game before Duran\u2019s thunderbolt sealed the comeback. If you haven\u2019t seen the goal yet, get on YouTube \u2013 you won\u2019t regret it.<\/p>\r\r<p>No Martin Odegaard, no Declan Rice, no problem for Arsenal. North London is red. You don\u2019t need silky football to win three points \u2013 a solid defence and a set-piece goal were enough. Tottenham Hotspur, even at full strength, struggled to create chances as Arsenal\u2019s defence kept them in check. As mentioned before, this Arsenal defence is one of the best in the modern era. Next week, genuine tests await as William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes will face the red-hot Haaland.<\/p>\r\r<p>Newcastle remain unbeaten after four games, as Eddie Howe\u2019s men came back from a goal down to win at Molineux. Brave tactical changes by Howe at half-time paid off, earning them the desired result. Harvey Barnes\u2019 goal could also rival Duran\u2019s for the goal of the week.<\/p>\r\r<p>With European fixtures midweek, the games are coming thick and fast. Squad rotation will be key for teams hoping to sustain a title challenge. Finding the right balance without sacrificing style or chemistry will be crucial. The team that get it right will challenge for silverware.<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3734563,"np_article_id":1443415,"article_title":"Will NSC relinquish their captaincy to NSAs?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Complimentary\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"TWO captains commanding one ship make it sink.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"44\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-15 07:25:22\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-09-15 07:25:22\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"44\",\"cxense_metatags\":\"\"}","publish_time":"2024-09-15 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/15\\\/2913302.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/09\/15\/will-nsc-relinquish-their-captaincy-to-nsas","show_image_in_thumb":2913302,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/09\/15\/2913303.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/>TWO captains commanding one ship make it sink.<\/p>\r\r<p>That was how the Paralympic Council of Malaysia (PCM) president Datuk Seri Megat Shahriman Zaharuddin described the Malaysian contingent\u2019s failure to meet their four gold medal target in the recently concluded Paris Paralympic Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>President of PCM since 2019, Megat reportedly accused the National Sports Council (NSC) of meddling in the management of the contingent, creating a situation of \u201ctwo captains in one ship\u201d.<\/p>\r\r<p>He claimed PCM had faced similar issues across four events \u2013 the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Para Games, the 2023 Phnom Penh Para Asean Games, and the Paris Paralympics.<\/p>\r\r<p>Malaysia finished 42nd overall, winning two gold, two silver, and one bronze medal.<\/p>\r\r<p>The two gold medals were secured by para badminton champion Cheah Liek Hou in the men\u2019s singles SU5 and powerlifter Bonnie Bunyau Gustin in the men\u2019s 72kg category.<\/p>\r\r<p>Abdul Latif Romly clinched silver in the men\u2019s long jump T20 (intellectual disability), while Ziyad Zolkefli took silver in the shot putt F20 (intellectual disability).<\/p>\r\r<p>The bronze came through Eddy Bernard in the men\u2019s 100m T44 (physical disability).<\/p>\r\r<p>NSC director-general Abdul Rashid Yaakub hit back by saying Megat\u2019s statement was reckless, extreme, and hasty.<\/p>\r\r<p>Although chef de mission Datuk R. Subramaniam quashed the allegation of being bullied by the NSC, it is time for the government agency to conduct an introspective reflection, take a step back and have an honest and open discussion with PCM, or even the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM), custodian of all multi-sports games for the able-bodied.<\/p>\r\r<p>The sports family understand NSC\u2019s role, clearly defined by the NSC Act 1971, which is to coordinate the high performance sports in the country.<\/p>\r\r<p>With NSC using taxpayers\u2019 money to fund Malaysian sports, the agency are having two bites of the apple by undercutting the National Sports Associations (NSAs) by making the corporate sector their sponsors as well.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Federal Government has taken its share from various taxes but NSC continue to entice the corporate sector to contribute to their coffers, while the NSAs struggle to do so.<\/p>\r\r<p>Perhaps NSC may consider reverting to its rightful role of being the facilitator of elite sports and supporter of the NSAs.<\/p>\r\r<p>While NSC continue to grow stronger in terms of their workforce, the NSAs remain reliant on ageing volunteers with little chance of attracting the youth to join them.<\/p>\r\r<p>NSC suffer from the perception they are taking over the role of associations due to their financial muscle.<\/p>\r\r<p>In making the call for NSAs to be more independent, NSC\u2019s centralised planning system and implementation of programmes for sports is not helping at all.<\/p>\r\r<p>As often argued by the former OCM secretary the late Datuk Sieh Kok Chi, NSC cannot and should not continue as both a funding and an implementing agency.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is a conflict of interest that can and may lead to corrupt practices and abuse of power.<\/p>\r\r<p>NSC should only be a funding agency, approving funds to the associations based on programmes prepared in accordance with basic rules and conditions.<\/p>\r\r<p>After granting the funds, NSC should supervise and monitor if the funds are used properly.<\/p>\r\r<p>To this end, the Youth and Sports Ministry \u201cempowerment\u201d method for NSAs that will see the government distribute funding for them every four months (January to April, May to August, and September to December) may be a step towards the right direction.<\/p>\r\r<p>The funds cover athlete and coach management, performance management, development programmes, and support services. And the NSAs\u2019 accounts will be audited by NSC-appointed auditors.<\/p>\r\r<p>The first phase of the programme will support the Podium and national back-up programme for this year. It involves 19 NSAs and 23 sports.<\/p>\r\r<p>The NSAs have agreed to the terms set by the NSC management board where they are required to sign the agreement.<\/p>\r\r<p>Secondly, they must set up a separate account to receive the allocations from the NSC. Thirdly, they must allow the accounts to be audited by NSC-appointed auditors.<\/p>\r\r<p>But it remains to be seen if the NSC are willing to relinquish the captaincy of the ship to the NSAs.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3734247,"np_article_id":1442869,"article_title":"Beng Hee\u2019s dream comes true, but will it be a nightmare for Malaysia?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column, Ong Beng Hee, squash, academy\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"SOME people dream, others make those dreams come true. And former squash player Ong Beng Hee belongs in the latter group.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-14 07:07:43\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-09-14 07:07:43\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":\"\"}","publish_time":"2024-09-14 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/14\\\/2912257.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":405,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/09\/14\/beng-hees-dream-comes-true-but-will-it-be-a-nightmare-for-malaysia","show_image_in_thumb":2912257,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>SOME people dream, others make those dreams come true. And former squash player Ong Beng Hee belongs in the latter group.<\/p>\r\r<p>Beng Hee\u2019s dream to have his own academy is now a reality. However, it\u2019s not in Kuala Lumpur. It is in Beijing, China.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/09\/14\/2912256.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 207px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>This week, his Dream Squash Academy has opened for official training sessions. What makes it special is that the academy is open to players from all countries and will be a hub for the Asian squash community. Even players from Malaysia can go there to train.<\/p>\r\r<p>You could hear the excitement in his voice as he marvelled at how fast everything unfolded.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cAn exciting journey awaits. The vision has become a reality,\u201d exclaimed the 44-year-old Beng Hee when I reached out to congratulate him.<\/p>\r\r<p>It took just four months for the building to go up and finally, the spanking new courts at the sprawling vicinity are ready. They have been certified by the governing body, the World Squash Federation (WSF).<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s the first big academy in China where squash is in its infancy.<\/p>\r\r<p>Unlike other racquet sports like badminton, table tennis and tennis, squash was not really big in China. But that has changed after squash was included as an Olympic Games sport, making its debut in Los Angeles in 2028. Cricket, flag football and lacrosse and squash were named as the new sports in October last year.<\/p>\r\r<p>Just months later, the academy was off the ground.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cDream. Believe. Achieve,\u201d said two-time Asian Games champion Beng Hee. That, incidentally, is also the motto of the academy.<\/p>\r\r<p>The three short words tell the long arduous journey and an amazing story of a young talented and intelligent boy from Malaysia who dared to dream big and went on to make a difference.<\/p>\r\r<p>Beng Hee paved the way for Malaysian men in squash. In fact, he was ranked seventh in the professional circuit during his heyday, a position yet to be overtaken by all his successors.<\/p>\r\r<p>Being a person who dares to take a risk, he ventured out of Malaysia in 2017 as the head coach of Qatar and also had a successful stint as the United States head coach from 2021-2024.<\/p>\r\r<p>All his struggles, highs and lows, and strong will power to prove his coaching credibility toughened him up and taken him where he is now.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many others have ventured out to coach \u2013 like former badminton players Jeremy Gan, Tan Kim Her, Lee Wan Wah (Japan); Mohd Hafiz Hashim (India), Chin Eei Hui and Vountus Indra Mawan (Australia), Lim Pek Siah (Singapore) - but Beng Hee probably is the first to set up a big scale academy in a country where the sport is slowly growing.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s a huge gamble but one that I believe will strike a rich vein. The Chinese have a way of making anything really big.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe opportunity to start this academy arose after I met several enthusiastic parents seeking a better, more systematic training structure for their children,\u201d Beng Hee said.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cTogether with dedicated parents, we founded this academy, with Beijing as our first centre. There are long-term plans to expand to other regions in China.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>I am happy that the boy we used to interview at the squash courts at Jalan Duta and Lakeview Club in Subang decades ago is building a career in China, but there\u2019s a tinge of regret as well.<\/p>\r\r<p>How wonderful it would have been if Beng Hee had started a similar academy right here at home but like they say, the prophet is never recognised in his hometown.<\/p>\r\r<p>He did try to offer his services in Malaysia a few times but it\u2019s learnt that he was offered peanuts compared to foreign coaches here. That did not weaken his resolve. Instead, it made him stronger.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now, our loss is China\u2019s gain.<\/p>\r\r<p>And it could turn to pain if China win a medal \u2013 or even a gold \u2013 in squash at the Olympic Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>The cheerful Beng Hee, however, is not concerned about such rivalry. His main intention is to promote the sport he loves. That\u2019s why his academy is open for all \u2013 from beginner to elite, and from all nations.<\/p>\r\r<p>The academy is also set to open up job opportunities for players who retire one day.<\/p>\r\r<p>And we may see an exodus of more former Malaysian players.<\/p>\r\r<p>Our wait to win a first gold medal in the Olympic Games continued at the recent outing in Paris, and top sporting bodies continued to blame one another after the Paralympics team fell short of their four-gold medal target by winning two.<\/p>\r\r<p>And one of Beng Hee\u2019s charges could deny us of a squash gold in LA.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yet, Beng Hee\u2019s achievement already feels like an Olympic Games gold-medal victory. Continue to dream big, Beng Hee. We are proud of you!<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3731772,"np_article_id":1438165,"article_title":"Privatising the national team a potential banana skin for FAM","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Kim Pan-gon, Ultras Malaya, Merdeka Tournament, FAM, Rizal Hashim, On The Line\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/on-the-line\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/08\\\/privatising-the-national-team-a-potential-banana-skin-for-fam\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"DESPITE the abrupt resignation of Kim Pan-gon and the ensuing boycott of the Ultras Malaya ahead of the ongoing Merdeka Tournament, the FA of Malaysia (FAM) have found themselves in a cushy position financially.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"44\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-08 06:58:24\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-09-15 07:24:52\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"44\"}","publish_time":"2024-09-08 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/08\\\/2901474.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/09\/08\/privatising-the-national-team-a-potential-banana-skin-for-fam","show_image_in_thumb":2901474,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>DESPITE the abrupt resignation of Kim Pan-gon and the ensuing boycott of the Ultras Malaya ahead of the ongoing Merdeka Tournament, the FA of Malaysia (FAM) have found themselves in a cushy position financially.<\/p>\r\r<p>But I assume the piece of random news that the Prime Minister had approved of a RM15mil cash injection for the national team came with a caveat, with the possibility of FAM having to relinquish their autonomy over Harimau Malaya, which remains the final asset of the governing body.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/09\/08\/2901473.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 209px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Before the drama surrounding Pan-gon\u2019s departure, the national team were doing well in terms of progress on paper, objectively speaking.<\/p>\r\r<p>Pan-gon\u2019s immediate predecessor Tan Cheng Hoe, improved Malaysia\u2019s world ranking from 178th to 154th in three years \u2013 from the AFF Cup in 2018 to the 2021 edition.<\/p>\r\r<p>The South Korean saw his charges climb from 154th to 134th in the rankings within two years.<\/p>\r\r<p>Under Cheng Hoe, the team\u2019s build up play was symbolised by the goal by Syahmi Safari against Thailand in the 2018 AFF Cup, which involved seven players and eight passes in 20 seconds.<\/p>\r\r<p>Pan-gon took the team further by injecting his men with a huge sense of self-belief on top of cultivating a high-performance environment around the squad as they reached the 2023 AFC Asian Cup final.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was mainly due to the work of FAM president, the newly-minted Tan Sri Hamidin Mohd Amin, who appointed both Cheng Hoe and Pan-gon.<\/p>\r\r<p>What FAM require now is for the government to fully support the national team financially \u2013 a call that was made exactly 20 years ago but had fallen on deaf ears until recently.<\/p>\r\r<p>While launching the new 2004 football season with a league under a new brand called the Malaysian Super League (MSL), the then Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, deputy president of FAM, pleaded for the fans, relevant bodies and above all, the players \u2013 Sayangi Bola Sepak Malaysia (Be passionate about Malaysian football).<\/p>\r\r<p>Al-Sultan Abdullah urged everyone connected to the game to put their act together to bring the game into the rarefied air of international professionalism.<\/p>\r\r<p>Holding the post of a vice-president of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), he reiterated his stand that only through total government intervention that Malaysia would be able to bridge the gap with the Asian superpowers.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the 15-page speech delivered before the launch on Nov 30, 2004, Tengku Abdullah outlined a number of measures in order to produce a quality league and ultimately a strong national outfit.<\/p>\r\r<p>Among them were:<\/p>\r\r<p>l Reinventing FAM, which required a reorganisation within the national body and the affiliates<\/p>\r\r<p>l Total involvement from the government \u2013 from financing the national team to incentivising companies for sponsorship through tax relief<\/p>\r\r<p>l Corporatisation of the MSL, the marketing arm of FAM that served as the precursor to the FMLLP and now MFL.<\/p>\r\r<p>Elaborating on the idea, Al-Sultan Abdullah said the national team needed a new structure by itself, supported by able and strong technical expertise.<\/p>\r\r<p>But his idea was not to privatise the team.<\/p>\r\r<p>The federal government may consider adopting our national team in total, whereby all expenses in getting the best technical people and overseas exposure are borne by the government.<\/p>\r\r<p>In the Middle East, Japan and South Korea, they have the support from either their governments or corporate multinationals.<\/p>\r\r<p>Internally, FAM have a mechanism to oversee the national team\u2019s progress without having to undergo a privatisation process.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Thailand FA initiated a mini privatisation project run by team manager Thavatchai Sajakul who was given a free rein to put together a dream team in 1994 that featured Kiatisuk Senamuang, Tawan Sripan and Dusit Chalermsan among others by sourcing for private funding.<\/p>\r\r<p>Within two years, the Thais qualified for their first AFC Asian Cup in the UAE.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Thai surge continued under English coach Peter Withe as they reached the semi-finals of the 1998 Asian Games in Bangkok after a historic victory over South Korea in the quarter-finals.<\/p>\r\r<p>In so doing, the Thais had done enough to scale to their best-ever 43rd place in the world rankings.<\/p>\r\r<p>Although Thavatchai was the manager, the Thai FA were the real boss.<\/p>\r\r<p>FAM will err if they decide to hand over the team to a third party who may have vested interest.<\/p>\r\r<p>With the government\u2019s highly valued assistance, all FAM need to do is to conduct business with transparency and sincerity.<\/p>\r\r<p>And for every single sen to be accounted for.<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3729768,"np_article_id":1434246,"article_title":"The power of IQ defines how smart player shapes the season","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"FOOTBALL IQ: A rare commodity.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"30\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-03 08:14:41\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-09-03 08:14:41\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"30\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-09-03 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/03\\\/2892992.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/09\/03\/the-power-of-iq-defines-how-smart-player-shapes-the-season","show_image_in_thumb":2892992,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/09\/03\/2892991.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/>FOOTBALL IQ: A rare commodity.<\/p>\r\r<p>A few players possess it, but if you do, you\u2019d probably be among the top 10 players in the world.<\/p>\r\r<p>Take Lionel Messi as a case in point. You might think he\u2019s just walking and loitering around for the first 10 minutes of each game, but the truth is, he\u2019s assessing the opponents\u2019 defence, figuring out how to unlock it when the opportunity arises.<\/p>\r\r<p>For some, it\u2019s the ability to understand the situation, the score, and the referee\u2019s tendencies to give out cards, all while managing the game to ensure the team secure all three points.<\/p>\r\r<p>Unfortunately, one can\u2019t say the same for Declan Rice. His costly mistake \u2013 trying to bait the opponent \u2013 resulted in a second yellow card and his dismissal.<\/p>\r\r<p>Brighton capitalised on the extra man to equalise, leaving the Emirates with a point. Rice\u2019s dismissal means he\u2019ll miss the upcoming North London derby.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Manchester City winning their third game in a row, Arsenal are already trailing in the title race. So much for setting the pace this season!<\/p>\r\r<p>Previously, it was all about maintaining the points gap, but things could be different this year as Mikel Arteta\u2019s team might need to play catch-up.<\/p>\r\r<p>Who knows, it might work better for them, but it\u2019s hard to see Pep Guardiola\u2019s men dropping points once they establish a significant lead.<\/p>\r\r<p>City comfortably won against West Ham, with Erling Haaland scoring another hattrick.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, things could have been different if Mohammed Kudus\u2019 shot had found the back of the net instead of the post.<\/p>\r\r<p>West Ham certainly had a plan, but couldn\u2019t avoid the inevitable Haaland. Having fast wingers to exploit the space left behind by the fullbacks might be a formula for success for others against City.<\/p>\r\r<p>At Old Trafford, the battle of the two bald Dutchmen ended in a comfortable victory for Arne Slot. Three games in, and Slot has Liverpool playing the way he wants \u2013 in a more controlled manner.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Erik ten Hag, it\u2019s a different story. Three seasons and half a billion spent on players (mostly Ajax or ex-Ajax players), yet Manchester United<\/p>\r\r<p>still look clueless and gain little success when trying to play from the back.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s hard to pinpoint what has gone wrong at United. Jim Ratcliffe had his hand on his face as he watched 25,000 fans leave the stadium after the third goal went in.<\/p>\r\r<p>Does any coaching take place at Carrington? One might wonder, as United appear disjointed.<\/p>\r\r<p>In contrast, Slot has Ryan Gravenberch playing as a proper No. 6 a transformation that only great coaching can achieve.<\/p>\r\r<p>Credit to the Liverpool coaching team for making this change in just a couple of months.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mohamed Salah scored for the seventh consecutive match at Old Trafford, bringing his tally there to 10 goals in nine matches. If Liverpool\u2019s management doesn\u2019t renew Salah\u2019s contract, he will definitely miss playing at Old Trafford.<\/p>\r\r<p>He looks sharp after the summer break and seems poised to wreak havoc in the league!<\/p>\r\r<p>As for the blue half of Merseyside, Everton are clearly lacking a leader who can assess the time left in a game and manage it accordingly.<\/p>\r\r<p>From a winning position, Everton collapsed dramatically, squandering a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 against Bournemouth. Sean Dyche is lucky he\u2019s bald; otherwise, he\u2019d be pulling his hair out as Everton remained pointless after three games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Could this be the year Everton finally go down?<\/p>\r\r<p>At St James\u2019s Park, a high-IQ ball from Joelinton helped carve open Tottenham\u2019s defence as Newcastle secured a win with a goal from Alexander Isak.<\/p>\r\r<p>Once again, Spurs had plenty of possession but failed to capitalise, as their number nine acquisition, Dominic Solanke, is still out injured.<\/p>\r\r<p>Meanwhile, Newcastle secured victory with their own number nine. The Premier League is a league where a quality number nine makes all the difference.<\/p>\r\r<p>The league now goes on an international break for two weeks.<\/p>\r\r<p>City are looking strong at the top, while Liverpool are off to an excellent start.<\/p>\r\r<p>Once the league resumes, the Champions League fixtures will begin, and we\u2019ll see how the teams juggle domestic and European commitments.<\/p>\r\r<p>Squad depth and rotation are key, but having high-IQ footballers and managers definitely helps!<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3729189,"np_article_id":1432823,"article_title":"Malaysian sports plagued by online incivility and toxicity","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/on-the-line\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/01\\\/malaysian-sports-plagued-by-online-incivility-and-toxicity\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IN subscribing to the spirit of independence or jiwa Merdeka, Malaysians must be free from negative influences in manifesting our support for the sports fraternity.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"43\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-09-01 07:25:45\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-09-01 18:50:37\",\"last_modified_user\":\"P Rajessvary a\\\/p Paul Thurai\",\"section_color\":\"#08F304\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"43\"}","publish_time":"2024-09-01 07:00:00","sub_section_id":42,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/09\\\/01\\\/2889536.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":3,"section_name":"Sport","sub_section_name":"Say What","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/09\/01\/malaysian-sports-plagued-by-online-incivility-and-toxicity","show_image_in_thumb":2889536,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/09\/01\/2889536.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 165px;\" \/>IN subscribing to the spirit of independence or jiwa Merdeka, Malaysians must be free from negative influences in manifesting our support for the sports fraternity.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sadly, as social media becomes an inherent part of our lives, Malaysians in general abuse the freedom of expression to spread misinformation and hate on social media.<\/p>\r\r<p>The recently concluded Paris Olympics was a case in point.<\/p>\r\r<p>The netizens\u2019 uncouth behaviour in flooding Japanese cyclist Shinji Nakano\u2019s Instagram account for crashing into Mohd Shah Firdaus Sahrom in the men\u2019s keirin final and the humiliation suffered by Tan Sri Norza Zakaria for taking his family as accompanying guests to watch the badminton competition highlighted the fact Malaysian sports is plagued by online incivility and toxicity.<\/p>\r\r<p>While Malaysian athletes stand as living constellations in the celestial theatre of public recognition, Norza and other sports leaders remain at the behest of the digital nomads of the cyber realm who shape the digital cosmos by spewing heated discussions, hate and rumour spreading with their misguided sense of power.<\/p>\r\r<p>This toxic netizenism as they fight for views, claps and likes, unfortunately, is being condoned by certain sections of the academia who described this despicable act as online activism.<\/p>\r\r<p>A senior lecturer in communications claimed that Norza\u2019s issue was the perfect example of (partially) successful online activism or \u201cethical cyberbullying\u201d and why the new social media licensing regulation could potentially ban this type of citizen activism.<\/p>\r\r<p>Unfortunately, the lecturer failed to differentiate between a civil servant and an elected sports leader like Norza, who remains president of the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) after resigning as president of the BA of Malaysia (BAM).<\/p>\r\r<p>Norza was elected into office by an electorate comprising affiliates of the bodies in a democratic manner.<\/p>\r\r<p>He is a public figure, but not a civil servant.<\/p>\r\r<p>He serves the OCM on a voluntary basis pro bono.<\/p>\r\r<p>An example of a civil servant is the director-general of the National Sports Council (NSC), Abdul Rashid Yaakub, who occupies the position by virtue of appointment by the Sports Minister under the NSC Act 1971.<\/p>\r\r<p>Another example is Ahmad Faedzal Md Ramli, the chief executive officer of the National Sports Institute (NSI). Both are salaried and will withdraw a pension once they retire.<\/p>\r\r<p>Norza, Rashid and Faedzal are public figures subject to scrutiny from the public. All three were in Paris in their capacity as the heads of their organisation.<\/p>\r\r<p>Norza belong to the group of volunteers who think, plan and strategise for their organisation without pay.<\/p>\r\r<p>In return they receive perks. Among them is the much sought after accreditation card or the AD and other entitlements.<\/p>\r\r<p>The purpose of accreditation is to identify people with their roles and allow them the access to perform that role. It is not a privileged status but a necessary working tool.<\/p>\r\r<p>The president and secretary general of every National Olympic Committee (NOC), in this case OCM on behalf of Malaysia, is entitled to accompanying guests to accommodate the spouse or a family member if he or she attends the Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>If athletes from any country participate, the Sports Minister is also entitled to a pass, hence Hannah Yeoh\u2019s presence in Paris.<\/p>\r\r<p>As such their access do not fall under the team accreditation quota at all.<\/p>\r\r<p>Malaysia were not supposed to have a deputy chef de mission for Paris. Why?<\/p>\r\r<p>Because the position is reserved for a contingent that has 50 or more athletes. As we are fully aware, only 26 athletes from nine sports boarded the plane to Paris.<\/p>\r\r<p>OCM made concessions in respect of the stakeholders. In assisting chef de mission Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin, Datuk Nicol Ann David supported the athletes at various venues by using the renowned Paris transportation system without the need for protocol.<\/p>\r\r<p>Lee Zii Jia\u2019s support system meanwhile was given the P access for coaches and support personnel who are not part of the Contingent. After delivering the bronze, Zii Jia thanked all the stakeholders, including the OCM on his Facebook posting, for the accommodation arrangement and sorting out the AD pass allocation during the period.<\/p>\r\r<p>No thanks to so-called activism, Norza\u2019s reputation was tarnished. Nakano meanwhile has lost respect for Malaysian netizens.<\/p>\r\r<p>Admittedly, only a minority of our netizens are willing to engage in a thoughtful discussion as even individuals with journalistic background succumb to the temptation in the public sphere.<\/p>\r\r<p>With low-quality user discussions online and little tolerance towards diverse viewpoints, the power of the better argument will never prevail.<\/p>\r\r<p>We reap what we sow.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3726868,"np_article_id":1428799,"article_title":"The power and perils of invisibility in the English Premier League","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/a-winning-factor\\\/2024\\\/08\\\/27\\\/the-power-and-perils-of-invisibility-in-the-english-premier-league\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"summary\":[\"INVISIBLE is an adjective that describes something unseen with the naked eye. In a game, the invisible player is the one always overlooked or ignored. Invisibility in a game, meanwhile, describes a player who is physically present but concealed.\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"32\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-08-27 07:18:18\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-09-03 08:13:33\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"32\"}","publish_time":"2024-08-27 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/08\\\/27\\\/2879947.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/08\/27\/the-power-and-perils-of-invisibility-in-the-english-premier-league","show_image_in_thumb":2879947,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>INVISIBLE is an adjective that describes something unseen with the naked eye. In a game, the invisible player is the one always overlooked or ignored. Invisibility in a game, meanwhile, describes a player who is physically present but concealed.<\/p>\r\r<p>In game week two, we have instances where \u201cinvisible\u201d and \u201cinvisibility\u201d play a role in the outcomes of games.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/08\/27\/2879948.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p><strong>Marcus Rashford has the power of invisibility!<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>A new season, and the same old Rashford. Once again, Rashford made minimal contributions to the game. What is his actual contribution to the team? Alejandro Garnacho must be feeling invisible in the eyes of Erik Ten Hag, as he cannot get a start.<\/p>\r\r<p>What makes Rashford so untouchable? Is it the \u00a3300,000-a-week salary? His MBE? (Member of the Order of the British Empire) Or just because he is an academy graduate that Ten Hag refuses - or is too afraid - to drop him? Garnacho looked lively in the first game of the season and played a successful role in a goal that was rightfully disallowed. He must be wondering what he needs to do to get a start.<\/p>\r\r<p>What a way to put a stamp on the season, with a game against your biggest rival at home next week. If only he could catch the attention of his manager.<\/p>\r\r<p>Leandro Trossard crafted a blueprint to fight the feeling of being invisible!<\/p>\r\r<p>Trossard contributed greatly last season when Gabriel Martinelli was out injured. He can play across the front three, yet he is invisible to Mikel Arteta. Rather than sulking, Trossardshowcased his ability by scoring the opening goal, celebrating on cue.<\/p>\r\r<p>You might think Arteta knows by now that against a team that sit deep, you need a player who can work magic in limited space instead of a player who needs space to operate. The game\u2019s outcome could have been different if Ollie Watkins hadn\u2019t found the goalpost invisible.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yet to not concede a goal after two games, the Arsenal defence looks invincible at the moment. William Saliba is probably the best defender in the game right now, delivering another masterclass at the back against Aston Villa.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>Erling Haaland was definitely not invisible against Ipswich!<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Against the big teams, Haaland is often invisible, but put him against a promoted side, and he will score a hattrick against you! Overall, the centreforward has now scored 10 hattricks for the reigning Premier League champions.<\/p>\r\r<p>Definitely a flat-track bully, as Ipswich found out the hard way when they scored first against Manchester City. Suddenly, the Etihad was in a full voice as City ran out comfortable winners.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>No Dominic Solanke, no problem!<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Solanke played all 38 games for Bournemouth last season. He must be feeling invisible because of injuries, but after just one game against Tottenham last week, he suffered an injury and had to sit out. Talk about the luck of playing for Spurs.<\/p>\r\r<p>Fortunately, it did not influence the outcome of the game as Ange Postecoglou\u2019s side thrashed Everton 4-0.<\/p>\r\r<p>Back-to-back thrashings for Everton will put some pressure on Sean Dyche. It\u2019s too early for relegation talk, but seven goals conceded, and none scored must be worrying for the blue half of Merseyside. Having limited players to work with in training is also a concern for Dyche.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>Noni Madueke will not be invisible anymore after that performance. <\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Madueke might not be a high-profile signing under Todd Boehly, but after this weekend, every Chelsea fan and Fantasy Football manager will remember his name.<\/p>\r\r<p>A hattrick on his first start this season under Enzo Maresca will put him on the map. Plus, Madueke was involved in an Instagram story controversy by claiming Wolves are a bad place to live.<\/p>\r\r<p>Fortunately for him, his performance did the talking after 90 minutes. Cole Palmer had a hattrick of assists as well, as Chelsea put on an entertaining performance.<\/p>\r\r<p>Defensively, Chelsea are still a work in progress, and a proper test awaits them next week against Crystal Palace.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>Control is no longer invisible under Arne Slot<\/strong>.<\/p>\r\r<p>Chaos was a component of how Liverpool played in the early days of Juergen Klopp. Some measure of control came later as Klopp got better players and had more time to work on the training ground, but things are different under Slot. There is a degree of control in the first two games of his reign. Defensively, things are looking good, and Liverpool only conceded chances via set-pieces against Brentford. Another week and another 2-0 victory for Slot as the big showdown against Manchester United looms next week.<\/p>\r\r<p>There is still a lot of unpredictability in this new season, and many teams are still experimenting with their tactics and line-ups.<\/p>\r\r<p>It will probably take five more match weeks to establish a baseline for how the season will shape up. Whatever happens, it is going to be an entertaining and highly dramatic season!<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3725970,"np_article_id":1427001,"article_title":"If putter stays hot, Matsuyama will gain edge in chase for FedExCup glory","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, At full swing, Chuah Choo Chiang\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"AMERICAN Brad Faxon, an eight-time PGA Tour winner and now a putting guru, tells a funny tale which reinforces the notion that Hideki Matsuyama will leave no stones unturned in his pursuit for perfection.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":746,\"columns\":\"746_1691708057\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"27\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-08-24 07:44:30\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-08-24 07:44:30\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"27\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-08-24 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/08\\\/24\\\/2875579.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":421,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/at-full-swing\/2024\/08\/24\/if-putter-stays-hot-matsuyama-will-gain-edge-in-chase-for-fedexcup-glory","show_image_in_thumb":2875579,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>AMERICAN Brad Faxon, an eight-time PGA Tour winner and now a putting guru, tells a funny tale which reinforces the notion that Hideki Matsuyama will leave no stones unturned in his pursuit for perfection.<\/p>\r\r<p>In fact, don\u2019t be surprised even if he earns the chance at rewriting more golf history by the time the 2024 FedExCup Playoffs conclude.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/08\/24\/2875578.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 197px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>The Japanese star was on the practice green at TPC Southwinds in Memphis before the final round at the FedEx St Jude Championship, the first of three Playoffs event, where he held an overnight five-shot lead.<\/p>\r\r<p>Being a putter nerd, Faxon, who also works as a TV analyst, approached Matsuyama about his new Scotty Cameron putter which he had put in his bag for the first time.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cHe has a five-shot lead, leading the week in putting stats which was incredible, and I said may I look at your putter as I\u2019ve never seen it,\u201d Faxon told SiriusXM PGA TOUR radio.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cHe takes it out of the head cover, hands it to me and then honest to God, Hideki goes \u2018can I have a putting lesson\u2019 and he says it to me in English!<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI started laughing and said \u2018Hideki you\u2019re leading by five, you\u2019re putting first on Tout this week and want a putting lesson?<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI thought it was funny and then Bob Turner (Matsuyama\u2019s agent and interpreter) came up and goes \u2018he\u2019s serious, he wants to know what you like about his putting.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>Over the years, the flat stick has been Matsuyama\u2019s pain and joy.<\/p>\r\r<p>He is renowned for his superb ball-striking abilities which is reflected by his Strokes Gained: Tee to Green third ranking this season. Entering Memphis last week \u2013 which by the way Matsuyama won by two \u2013 he was ranked a lowly 133rd in Strokes Gained: Putting.<\/p>\r\r<p>His past five seasons have seen him ranked 119th, 114th, 175th , 170th and 97th in putting, which makes one wonder how many more Tour wins he could have won if he putted better and more consistently.<\/p>\r\r<p>At TPC Memphis, his new putter got real hot as he gained an astonishing 12.78 strokes over the field and made a total of 453 feet of putts, the second most in his career which now includes 10 Tour titles.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, as he prepares for this week\u2019s BMW Championship, there is no guarantee it will remain his preferred weapon of choice.<\/p>\r\r<p>Such is Matsuyama\u2019s thirst for perfection that he is prepared to keep tinkering with his equipment.<\/p>\r\r<p>As to seeking advice from Faxon, it proves that he is like a sponge, ever ready to absorb all forms of golf knowledge to simply get better.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cUsually I travel with five or six putters,\u201d said Matsuyama.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe putter that I used (in Memphis), I received it from Scotty (Cameron) last year, but I had never used it before. But for some reason when I was at home in Orlando coming to this tournament, I just started feeling that this putter may work on these greens.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>Faxon, whose star pupil is three-time FedExCup champion Rory McIlroy, admitted to being nervous after Matsuyama\u2019s impromptu request.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI\u2019m like how could I dare say anything,\u201d laughed Faxon.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cBefore he starts his stroke, (his putter) is really never stagnant it\u2019s got that little bouncy, it\u2019s almost like the putter head is nervous but I like that fidgetiness.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI definitely didn\u2019t want to say anything technical that might confuse him and I told him what I like is the squareness of his setup. I think the bouncy putter so many great putters have done that, and I don\u2019t like being static over the ball.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>Last season, Matsuyama surprised many with a putting drill where he put a coin on the toe of his putter, which forces him to slow down the movement of the flat stick to avoid the coin from falling off.<\/p>\r\r<p>He is also known to stash 20-over clubs in his golf bag during practice rounds to test certain clubs before competition.<\/p>\r\r<p>Tapping up Faxon for advice before his final round must rank as one of more interesting anecdotes to date about Matsuyama,<\/p>\r\r<p>No Asian golfer has won the FedExCup since its inception in 2007, with Im Sung-jae Im of South Korea coming the closest in 2022 after finishing tied second behind McIlroy.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThere are many players from different countries, and to not yet have a player from Asia win (the FedExCup) is something that motivates me.\u201d Matsuyama said previously.<\/p>\r\r<p>He might do so, especially if his putter remains hot over the next two weeks.<\/p>","author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_byline":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_tags":"","author_id":746,"kicker_name":"At Full Swing","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/at-full-swing?bycat=746_1691708057","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/746.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002695,"np_author_id":746,"author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/746.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"At Full Swing\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"true\",\"forweb_status\":\"true\",\"column_key\":\"746_1691708057\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3724125,"np_article_id":1423525,"article_title":"Some overreactions after an exciting opening week, football is back!","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IT\\u2019S that time of the year again, where 22 men chasing one ball on a weekly basis dictate the emotional wellbeing of fans. Yes, the Premier League is back, and if you\\u2019re a fan, you\\u2019ve already marked the date on your calendar.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"30\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-08-20 08:08:36\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-08-20 08:08:36\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"30\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-08-20 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/08\\\/20\\\/2867658.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":415,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/08\/20\/some-overreactions-after-an-exciting-opening-week-football-is-back","show_image_in_thumb":2867658,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/08\/20\/2867658.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 167px;\" \/>IT\u2019S that time of the year again, where 22 men chasing one ball on a weekly basis dictate the emotional wellbeing of fans. Yes, the Premier League is back, and if you\u2019re a fan, you\u2019ve already marked the date on your calendar.<\/p>\r\r<p>This league gives you so much joy and so much pain. The Premier League marketed it as \u201cThe Kickoff\u201d started with Friday night football, as Manchester United entertained Fulham.<\/p>\r\r<p>It would be great to review every game this weekend, but since it\u2019s only the first match week, I\u2019m just going to cover some overreactions.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>MANCHESTER CITY WILL GO UNBEATEN THIS SEASON<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Another season, same old City. It\u2019s now 25 games unbeaten since their last defeat against Aston Villa in December 2023.<\/p>\r\r<p>No Rodri, no problem, as Mateo Kovacic put on an outstanding performance, capped off with a goal!<\/p>\r\r<p>Enzo Maresca\u2019s team had a brief spell of possession but couldn\u2019t make anything of it as City stamped their authority throughout the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>The costly assembled Chelsea midfield look better than last season but still lack the game time to operate as a proper unit. Give them time, and the midfield engine would purr again.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>ARNE SLOT IS THE SECOND COMING OF BOB PAISLEY<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>You cannot separate prophecy from Liverpool fans.<\/p>\r\r<p>If you ask their diehard base, Juergen Klopp is like Bill Shankly, and now, with the appointment of Arne Slot, they have likened him to the second coming of Bob Paisley, the most successful Liverpool manager after Shankly.<\/p>\r\r<p>We can\u2019t blame them because Slot got off to a winning start in his first game in charge.<\/p>\r\r<p>While it\u2019s promising, don\u2019t expect Liverpool to go unpunished if they play against stronger opposition.<\/p>\r\r<p>Slot is lucky that his first game in charge was against the newly promoted Ipswich.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>EVERTON WILL BE IN A RELEGATION BATTLE AGAIN THIS SEASON<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>New season, same old Everton. The writing is on the wall for the blue half of Merseyside, as they started Ashley Young at rightback against the pacey Kaoru Mitoma.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Everton backline struggled against Brighton\u2019s rapid wingers. After going two goals down, Sean Dyche\u2019s men resorted to pumping the ball as they ran out of ideas to bring themselves back into the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>An ideal start for the league\u2019s youngest manager, 31-year-old Fabian Hurzeler.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>THE FALSE NINE EXPERIMENT SHOULD END AT MANCHESTER UNITED<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>Seven touches is all it took for Joshua Zirkzee to make an impact in the Premier League and win the affection of the Stretford End as United got off to a great start in Erik Ten Hag\u2019s third season in charge.<\/p>\r\r<p>Bruno Fernandes at the false nine created lots of chances, but United couldn\u2019t capitalise on them.<\/p>\r\r<p>Against stronger opponents, the outcome could have been different because in this league, not taking chances invites punishment.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ten Hag is still trying to play out from the back.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn\u2019t. We shall see how long they keep this up before totally abandoning it.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>KAI HAVERTZ WILL BE ARSENAL\u2019S TOP SCORER THIS SEASON<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>\u201c\u00a360mil down the drain, Kai Havertz scores again!\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>The Emirates faithful continued to sing after Havertz gave Arsenal the lead following a wonderful cross by Bukayo Saka.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arsenal dominated the first half but conceded a lot of possession to Wolverhampton before Saka scored the second.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arsenal look defensively solid and might lead the league in clean sheets again this year.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Emirates were awfully muted throughout the game; it must be all the tourists buying the tickets from the season ticket holders. Hopefully, the noise amps up as the season progresses.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mikel Arteta had the best post-game quote as he compared Saka to Lionel Messi. Calm down, sir \u2013 that\u2019s an overreaction on top of an overreaction.<\/p>\r\r<p><strong>VAR IS BETTER THAN EVER AFTER JUST ONE GAME<\/strong><\/p>\r\r<p>New season, and the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) continues to dominate conversations among fans.<\/p>\r\r<p>The referee\u2019s choices and the absence of VAR intervention in the Crystal Palace and Brentford match have left people confused.<\/p>\r\r<p>They should have allowed Eberechi Eze\u2019s goal, and after just one game, we already have a referee apologising to a player for a mistake they made during the match.<\/p>\r\r<p>Overall, it was a fun opening match week in the Premier League, with lots of drama and talking points for fans to discuss. Fans shouldn\u2019t overreact, as teams are still playing their way into form and match fitness. Save the panic for after seven games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Until then, just enjoy and rejoice \u2013 football is back!<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3723099,"np_article_id":1421696,"article_title":"The race to LA28 begins with Sukma, will there be new stars?","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/08\\\/17\\\/the-race-to-la28-begins-with-sukma-will-there-be-new-stars\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"summary\":[\"THE dust has settled after the Olympic Games in Paris. Or has it?\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column, Rajesh Paul\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-08-17 06:53:35\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-08-17 13:07:45\",\"last_modified_user\":\"P Rajessvary a\\\/p Paul Thurai\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"35\"}","publish_time":"2024-08-17 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/08\\\/17\\\/2863485.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/08\/17\/the-race-to-la28-begins-with-sukma-will-there-be-new-stars","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THE dust has settled after the Olympic Games in Paris. Or has it?<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/08\/17\/2863485.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 220px; height: 149px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>After years of self-control and sacrifices, the hype and more than two weeks riding a rollercoaster of emotions \u2013 athletes, coaches, sports associations and governments are going through post-Olympics highs and blues.<\/p>\r\r<p>For now is the time to take stock of what has happened, to re-look the success stories and the defeats, and to draw up plans for the future.<\/p>\r\r<p>For some, life has changed for the better.<\/p>\r\r<p>Pakistan Arshad Nadeem, for one, is an instant hero after winning the country\u2019s first gold in javelin. The athlete from a poverty-stricken family, who was long ignored by the country, is still being feted and showered with gifts of cash, land and even cows.<\/p>\r\r<p>Then there is Turkiye shooter Yusuf Dikec who shot to global stardom for his casual manner of shooting en route to winning a silver. His sangfroid and self-confidence have inspired a flood of online memes.<\/p>\r\r<p>But what won my heart was what Dikec said to Elon Musk after the billionaire on X had shared a video of the former that garnered 170 million views.<\/p>\r\r<p>Said Dikec: \u201cI asked him (Musk) if robots could win a medal with their hand in their pocket. I don\u2019t think so because there are things neither technology nor money can achieve. They require heart.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>But it was all heartache for South Korean shuttler An Se-young en route to her country\u2019s first women\u2019s singles gold.<\/p>\r\r<p>While happy with the smashing end to her first Olympics, the talented Se-young revealed that she had been bullied by her seniors for seven years since she joined the national team at the age of 16.<\/p>\r\r<p>She had to do the laundry and string racquets for her seniors even when she was injured and tired after gruelling training. It was the price she had to pay for being the youngest in the team.<\/p>\r\r<p>But the gold-medal victory has given Se-young the courage to speak up and she has taken her sports association to task, not only for the bullying but also for their outdated training methods, restriction on sponsorship contracts and salary cap for pro shuttlers.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many were shocked with Se-young\u2019s outcry but the Korea Times reported the youngster\u2019s statement: \u201cMy intention is not to fight but to express my desire to focus solely on my sport. I hope my statements are understood in the right context.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>The government has started an investigation but a sports industry insider in Korea has called for a reform, saying: \u201cInstead of focusing on assigning blame, we should use this opportunity to uproot the old-fashioned ways that still exist in the sports world.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>That brings me home to Malaysia. We like to assign blame too. Who are we blaming for the contingent falling short of our gold medal target yet again.<\/p>\r\r<p>Malaysia have won a total of 15 medals \u2013 eight silvers and seven bronzes \u2013 since 1956 (well, since 1992 to be accurate, although we have taken part since 1956.)<\/p>\r\r<p>We were ranked fourth among South-East Asian nations in Paris with two bronze medals that both came from badminton, via Lee Zii Jia (men\u2019s singles) and Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik (men\u2019s doubles). We were 18th in Asia and let\u2019s not even talk about where we stand compared to the United States, China, Japan and Australia. There are light years ahead.<\/p>\r\r<p>Do we blame the Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh and National Sports Council (NSC) for it? Some do. Hannah came under heavy fire when she did not set goals for the SEA Games. Now, she is receiving brickbats for setting a gold target and not meeting it.<\/p>\r\r<p>There have been improvements under Hannah since 2022 but she needs a team of like-minded people.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Road to Gold programme has been good for the athletes, although it did not bring the success it had targeted. National badminton coaching director Rexy Mainaky believes that if not for some of the aid from RTG, even the bronze may not have come.<\/p>\r\r<p>If RTG is given more time, and with a little tweaking, it will give athletes the extra edge at the next Games in LA in 2028. And LA may be where the gold lies.<\/p>\r\r<p>How about the athletes then? Are they to be blamed? Some battled to qualify for the Games, some gave their heart and soul in Paris and fought bravely. And some made mistakes. We can only hope that it will make them hardier for the next assault.<\/p>\r\r<p>Are the officials, associations and Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) to be blamed? These are questions that continue to be asked.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) are already making plans through Pemandu to relook their structure and come out with a four-year plan for next Games. Even the BAM management will have KPIs to meet, like the shuttlers and coaches.<\/p>\r\r<p>Zii Jia has paved the way for professionals to have the self-belief that they too can shine in the Olympics, and it\u2019s time for pro clubs to get cracking. National coach John Beasley is already making plans to find successors for Azizulhasni Awang.<\/p>\r\r<p>Diving is already in the hunt for new heroes and heroines too, with only the truly deserving making it to the next Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Everyone, though, agree that the work starts now. The Malaysia Games (Sukma) which officially begins today in Kuching, is the place where we hope to see the birth of the future stars.<\/p>\r\r<p>These youngsters, given the right guidance, could be our Olympic stars of the future.<\/p>\r\r<p>What\u2019s more important, though, is continuity. From schools, states, clubs, national teams, ministry, sponsors and fans, the support must come for all. If one is not working, everyone will suffer.<\/p>\r\r<p>We have to work together. Change can only happen if all of us have our hearts in the right place.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3720245,"np_article_id":1416129,"article_title":"A heavy burden, but Azizul has the wheel power","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"sports box, say, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"HE has overcome a nasty accident which saw a giant splinter in his calf. He has also overcome a heart surgery but there is yet another huge burden cyclist Azizulhasni Awang has to carry \\u2013 the hopes of an entire nation.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":615,\"columns\":\"615_1605851998\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-08-10 07:07:48\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-08-10 07:07:48\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"35\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-08-10 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/08\\\/10\\\/2851021.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":411,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/08\/10\/a-heavy-burden-but-azizul-has-the-wheel-power","show_image_in_thumb":2851021,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/08\/10\/2851021.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 166px;\" \/>HE has overcome a nasty accident which saw a giant splinter in his calf. He has also overcome a heart surgery but there is yet another huge burden cyclist Azizulhasni Awang has to carry \u2013 the hopes of an entire nation.<\/p>\r\r<p>But if anyone can do it, Azizul can as he goes into battle mode in the men\u2019s keirin event starting today.<\/p>\r\r<p>The keirin competition will be the last involving Malaysian athletes and all eyes will be on whether Azizul, who at 36 is the oldest track cyclist competing in Paris, can fight his way into the main final tomorrow evening.<\/p>\r\r<p>As much as the country prays he can rise to the occasion to deliver the elusive gold medal for Malaysia, we should also not set too high expectations, considering the circumstances surrounding his journey to Paris.<\/p>\r\r<p>His presence in the Paris Olympics is already a personal victory, as he went through open heart surgery just two years ago to correct a natural heart defect.<\/p>\r\r<p>But being the fighter that he is, the near death experience did not deter him but only spurred him to delay his retirement and make another bid for an Olympic medal.<\/p>\r\r<p>He recovered his fitness, gained back the muscle mass he lost while recuperating and was back in the saddle when the Olympic qualification campaign started two years ago.<\/p>\r\r<p>Fast forward to the Paris mission and Azizul certainly has unfinished business \u2013 he wants the gold medal for Malaysia after taking silver and bronze in the last two editions.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s always hard for a small-sized opponent like Azizul \u2013 which earned him the moniker Pocket Rocketman \u2013 in the sprinting world which is dominated by the physically large-sized cyclists.<\/p>\r\r<p>But sprinting is all about acceleration, and the keirin is a totally different kettle of fish.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is still about speed and power but tactical execution matters above everything else.<\/p>\r\r<p>This is where cyclists like Azizul and former Malaysian cyclist Josiah Ng excel and the duo have turned out to be the best keirin racers Malaysia have seen.<\/p>\r\r<p>Coach John Beasley has described Azizul as one of the most gifted athlete Malaysia has ever seen.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now, there is one thing Malaysia wants to see \u2013 the Pocket Rocketman beating the odds and claiming the biggest prize of his career.<\/p>\r\r<p>And that will be the greatest comeback story in the Paris Olympic Games.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","article_byline":"Lim Teik Huat","article_tags":"","author_id":615,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=615_1605851998","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/615.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002621,"np_author_id":615,"author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/615.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"615_1605851998\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"section_id\":0,\"author_title\":\"\",\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3717958,"np_article_id":1412231,"article_title":"Can Guardiola\u2019s trust in youth produce another Class of \u201892?","article_custom_fields":"{\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"summary\":[\"IF you grew up in the 90s and at the start of the Premier League transformation, you would remember the famous Class of \\u201892.\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-08-06 07:12:38\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-08-06 07:12:38\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-08-06 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/08\\\/06\\\/2842962.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":415,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/08\/06\/can-guardiolas-trust-in-youth-produce-another-class-of-92","show_image_in_thumb":2842962,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/08\/06\/2842962.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 167px;\" \/>IF you grew up in the 90s and at the start of the Premier League transformation, you would remember the famous Class of \u201892.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Class of \u201892 refers to a group of six Manchester United players led by David Beckham, who were part of the youth team in the early 1990s and achieved impressive success with the club throughout their careers.<\/p>\r\r<p>The others in this legendary group were Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Phil Neville and Paul Scholes.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Class of \u201892 continues to be celebrated, and some members make regular appearances on television as pundits.<\/p>\r\r<p>Even after over 30 years, Amazon Prime greenlit a documentary titled The Class of \u201892, highlighting this iconic group.<\/p>\r\r<p>You can\u2019t blame them for enjoying the limelight, as they were part of a generational core that achieved remarkable success. No similar group have emerged since then.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arsene Wenger tried to replicate it with Cesc Fabregas and his teammates, but they didn\u2019t achieve the same level of success as their rivals.<\/p>\r\r<p>Liverpool, under Juergen Klopp, have produced talents like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Curtis Jones, but they haven\u2019t formed a group comparable to the Class of \u201892.<\/p>\r\r<p>Only one manager might create a core of players that could rival the Class of \u201892: Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. It is August, and City have made no new signings in this summer transfer window.<\/p>\r\r<p>Guardiola has taken this opportunity to trust a set of young players promoted from the youth squad. Rico Lewis has been in the squad for the last two seasons, while Oscar Bobb contributed significantly to City\u2019s fourth title last season.<\/p>\r\r<p>Expect Josh Wilson-Esbrand, James McAtee, and Nico O\u2019Reilly to feature more in the upcoming season, taking minutes away from the usual suspects in midfield and at leftback. Rodri\u2019s presence will help these young players settle in, especially as City need to address the leftback position.<\/p>\r\r<p>With these names, Guardiola hopes the players he promoted from the youth squad will make an impact in the Premier League, like the Class of \u201892. Guardiola clearly trusts his academy products, recognising their potential.<\/p>\r\r<p>Cole Palmer, for example, was a revelation for Chelsea last season and shone in the England squad at the Euros.<\/p>\r\r<p>After winning four Premier League titles in a row, this could be the challenge Guardiola sets for himself to prove that he is not just a \u201cchequebook manager\u201d.<\/p>\r\r<p>If he can develop a group of players akin to the Class of \u201892 and win a league title, it would cement his legacy as one of the greatest managers of all time. Imagine winning five Premier League titles and another European Cup with a group of young players \u2013 it could rival the legacy of Alex Ferguson.<\/p>\r\r<p>Guardiola won\u2019t have to wait long to test his young players, as they can face the current FA Cup champions in the Charity Shield next week. It will likely be a clash of youth versus experience, with Guardiola resting players who participated in the Copa America and the Euros.<\/p>\r\r<p>As the build-up to the season continues, Liverpool defeated Manchester United 3-0 in a pre- season friendly. Erik Ten Hag continued to insist on playing from the back, but the strategy failed, while Casemiro seemed to underperform.<\/p>\r\r<p>It may not be too late to transfer him to the Saudi League and reinvest.<\/p>\r\r<p>After two seasons, Ten Hag should realise that he doesn\u2019t have the essential players to play out from the back and might be better off adopting Ole Gunnar Solskjaer\u2019s counter-attacking approach, which has proven effective with the current squad.<\/p>\r\r<p>Chelsea struggled still, with Erling Haaland scoring a hattrick against them. The team seem to adjust to a new system under Enzo Maresca, but there are worrying signs, especially regarding communication among the players.<\/p>\r\r<p>They look like strangers on the field. Could the Enzo Fernandez situation be a bigger issue than expected?<\/p>\r\r<p>Is it threatening to derail the season before it starts? Should Frank Lampard be on standby in case Chelsea management needs him?<\/p>\r\r<p>With twelve days left before the season kicks off, the potential drama is tantalising.<\/p>\r\r<p>It promises to be an exciting season, with both new and experienced managers trying to break City\u2019s dominance.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3716732,"np_article_id":1410025,"article_title":"Pearly-Thinaah bring back the roar for women\u2019s badminton","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column, Rajes Paul\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE Chinese shuttlers are usually as cool and sleek as the silk the country produces, and it\\u2019s extremely rare to see the world-class Chinese women players sweat under pressure.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"34\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-08-03 06:54:10\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-08-03 06:54:10\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"34\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-08-03 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/08\\\/03\\\/2838191.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":405,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/08\/03\/pearly-thinaah-bring-back-the-roar-for-womens-badminton","show_image_in_thumb":2838191,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THE Chinese shuttlers are usually as cool and sleek as the silk the country produces, and it\u2019s extremely rare to see the world-class Chinese women players sweat under pressure.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yesterday, though, they did. They did not only sweat, they were rattled. And it was all thanks to Malaysia\u2019s doubles pair Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/08\/03\/2838190.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 207px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>The Malaysians gave the world No. 1 and four-time world champions Chen Qingchen-Jia Yifan a huge jolt before going down fighting in the semi-finals of the Olympic Games in Paris yesterday.<\/p>\r\r<p>After an opening game massacre at 21-12, Qingchen-Yifan were smiling \u2013 but not for long. The smiles soon turned into frowns and even a troubled look.<\/p>\r\r<p>Pearly-Thinaah were the first pair to take a game off the Tokyo Olympic Games silver medallists at the Adidas Arena at Port de la Chapelle.<\/p>\r\r<p>What an awesome ride it has been for Pearly-Thinaah! They are the first Malaysian women pair to reach the semis at the Olympic Games and could yet come home with a bronze medal.<\/p>\r\r<p>I believe they have enough firepower and confidence to beat world No. 4 Nami Matsuyama-Chiharu Shida in the bronze-medal playoff today although they have a poor record against them.<\/p>\r\r<p>Even if they don\u2019t win, they have already won our hearts with their flamboyance and courageous show.<\/p>\r\r<p>They have proven that women\u2019s doubles events are not a bore. They have shown they can execute powerful smashes and even trick their opponents too with their flair and craft.<\/p>\r\r<p>How did they come to this stage?<\/p>\r\r<p>It was coach Chan Chong Ming and former coaching director Wong Choong Hann, who decided to pair up Pearly-Thinaah together in 2021.<\/p>\r\r<p>The results were immediate. The pair went on to win their first Open title - the 2021 Swiss Open.<\/p>\r\r<p>Chong Ming left at the end of 2021, and national coaching director Rexy Mainaky and coach Hoon Thien How came into the scene.<\/p>\r\r<p>They continued the work and the girls went on to win the 2022 Commonwealth Games gold and the 2022 French Open title and who can forget the 211-stroke rally in their second round match against Japan\u2019s Rena Miyaura-Ayaka Sakuramoto in the 2023 Malaysian Masters.<\/p>\r\r<p>The last one year though had been a rollercoaster ride for the duo.<\/p>\r\r<p>Pearly was constantly injured. The girls had a rare misunderstanding too, which is normal in doubles. And the results were scarce.<\/p>\r\r<p>Neither Rexy nor Thien How gave up hope. In fact, the players themselves stood tall amidst their adversities.<\/p>\r\r<p>They knew they needed to be physically stronger and they fought back to qualify for their first Olympics in Paris.<\/p>\r\r<p>Rexy\u2019s ingenious plan to bring three Indonesian men doubles sparring partners for Pearly-Thinaah this year has borne fruit. And Rexy is now singing the praises of the girls.<\/p>\r\r<p>The girls indeed look tougher and meaner. They attack their opponents mercilessly.<\/p>\r\r<p>The National Sports Institute (NSI) experts have done well to improve Pearly\u2019s physical condition while Thinaah has improved much with her attacking shots.<\/p>\r\r<p>One must also not forget psychologist Fred Tan for injecting self-belief in these players. Both Pearly-Thinaah looked fearless on court.<\/p>\r\r<p>More than all these, it is the trust that Pearly and Thinaah have in each other that has taken them this far.<\/p>\r\r<p>They did not let the difference in their colour, culture and creed stop them from achieving success, and that to me, it\u2019s priceless and worth more than the Olympic Games gold.<\/p>\r\r<p>Honestly, I was among those who would take a break when the women\u2019s doubles event gets into action, expecting a boring display. Not any more, and certainly not when Pearly and Thinaah are playing.<\/p>\r\r<p>Thank you Pearly and Thinaah for changing that mindset. You have sparked a dream in every girl child.<\/p>\r\r<p>* The writer also commends the other shuttlers - Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik, Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei and Goh Jin Wei for giving a good fighting performance.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3714536,"np_article_id":1406062,"article_title":"Summer lovin\u2019, transfer frenzy and pre-season preparations","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/a-winning-factor\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/30\\\/summer-lovin-transfer-frenzy-and-pre-season-preparations\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"TECHNICALLY, we are three weeks away from the start of the Premier League. It\\u2019s that time of the year when two topics dominate the summer \\u2013 transfers and pre-season.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"30\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-07-30 07:29:04\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-08-20 08:07:29\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"30\"}","publish_time":"2024-07-30 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/30\\\/2829865.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/07\/30\/summer-lovin-transfer-frenzy-and-pre-season-preparations","show_image_in_thumb":2829865,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>TECHNICALLY, we are three weeks away from the start of the Premier League. It\u2019s that time of the year when two topics dominate the summer \u2013 transfers and pre-season.<\/p>\r\r<p>For some, transfers can be the best part of three months without football. The thought of your team being linked to certain types of players can give you hope for the upcoming season.<\/p>\r\r<p>Conversely, if no players are linked to your team, it can cause anxiety and a period of depression as you contemplate how the team will perform with no fresh additions.<\/p>\r\r<p>Transfers are when agents make their living, and social media figures like Fabrizio Romano use the transfer window to announce the obvious or a scoop; all while growing their number of followers.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many teams aim to complete their transfers early to integrate new players during pre-season. It helps to build camaraderie, chemistry and understanding of the club\u2019s playing style.<\/p>\r\r<p>Integrating a player late in the transfer season can be daunting and may set the player up for failure if the expensive recruit does not shine in the first 10 games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Erik ten Hag and Manchester United mean business this transfer season. Instead of the usual last-minute panic buys, the INEOS group got busy early with the acquisitions of Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee while offloading players such as Mason Greenwood and Willy Kambwala.<\/p>\r\r<p>With Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSRs) kicking into gear, many teams are balancing their purchases with sales, which is what the red half of Manchester are doing to prevent future points deductions.<\/p>\r\r<p>Ten Hag expects both Yoro and Zirkzee to add more depth at the back and up front. Zirkzee had an excellent season for Bologna up front, while Yoro should prevent Johnny Evans from getting any more minutes for the club. Zirkzee also could help ease some of the load on Rasmus Hojlund.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arsenal made the signing of David Raya while looking to boost the left side of their defense by inquiring about Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna.<\/p>\r\r<p>After the season that Bologna had under Thiago Motta, their current squad are being raided by richer clubs in the Premier League.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mikel Arteta is probably still on the lookout for a number nine to give Gabriel Jesus some competition and ease the load on Kai Havertz.<\/p>\r\r<p>As for Liverpool, the Fenway Sports Group (FSG) remain very muted in the transfer market and expect to promote more players from the youth squad for the upcoming season.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arne Slot is considering the return of players from the European Championship as \u201cnew transfers.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>This is not a positive omen for the red half of Merseyside as they kick start life without Jurgen Klopp. The inactivity by FSG in the transfer market is making the Kopites restless in anticipation.<\/p>\r\r<p>Manchester City are also having a low-key summer, with Savinho being the only confirmed signing for this season. This includes the signing of professional contracts for many of their youth squad.<\/p>\r\r<p>Could Pep Guardiola use this season to establish his own version of the Class of \u201894? That will certainly cement his legacy in the Premier League if he wins five in a row with a bunch of kids.<\/p>\r\r<p>It would certainly be a slap in the face to other clubs and shut down the haters and media if he does!<\/p>\r\r<p>Pre-season friendlies kick off with many games happening in the United States as English clubs try to grow their market share in that country. You can\u2019t blame the billionaire owners because this is a business, after all. With \u2018soccer\u2019 growing in popularity year-on-year, it would be criminal not to participate in a variety of friendlies in the land of the free.<\/p>\r\r<p>Don\u2019t fret over the results, as clubs use pre-season friendlies to work on new tactics and bring the players back up to fitness.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is also a time to experiment with different formations and line-ups while giving academy players a chance to stake a claim in the final squad for the season. Pre-season is also used to build bonds between established players and new signings, engage sponsors and create content to satisfy die-hard fans.<\/p>\r\r<p>Football is a business that runs on a twelve-month cycle. Gone are the days when summer was used to rest and reset while we mere mortals catch up with other content on various platforms. These days, football never stops, and I am all for it!<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3713261,"np_article_id":1403856,"article_title":"The young ones inspire Malaysia\u2019s golden dream","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Commentary, Sports box, Olympics, Malaysia, Youth\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/27\\\/the-young-ones-inspire-malaysias-golden-dream\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IT\\u2019S a dream that has remained just that \\u2013 a dream \\u2013 for 68 years. It was in Melbourne in 1956 that Malaysian athletes marched into the stadium with grand hopes.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":464,\"columns\":\"464_1663890104\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"35\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-07-27 07:20:11\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-07-27 07:29:14\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mahandran Sonmugam\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"35\"}","publish_time":"2024-07-27 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/27\\\/2825523.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/07\/27\/the-young-ones-inspire-malaysias-golden-dream","show_image_in_thumb":2825523,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IT\u2019S a dream that has remained just that \u2013 a dream \u2013 for 68 years. It was in Melbourne in 1956 that Malaysian athletes marched into the stadium with grand hopes.<\/p>\r\r<p>There were some great athletes, including M. Harichandra the older brother of the flying doctor Dr Mani Jegathesan and Annie Choong, the country\u2019s first female OIympian.<\/p>\r\r<p>They came back without a medal. Since then, we have managed 13 medals, five silvers and eight bronzes but there has been no gold. And that remains the dream.<\/p>\r\r<p>Of course, it\u2019s an honour just to be at the Olympics. It is the pinnacle of sports. Only about 450 Malaysians or so have been Olympians, since 1956, it\u2019s that rare a feat.<\/p>\r\r<p>This year, 26 men and women will join that number and carry our hopes again, with some eyeing that elusive gold medal.<\/p>\r\r<p>There is national track cyclist Datuk Azizulhasni Awang, competing in his fifth Olympics. At 36, some may think he is past his peak but he has a heart of gold and has shown that he can deliver on the big stage.<\/p>\r\r<p>Then we have shuttlers like doubles pair Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and singles star Lee Zii Jia, both capable of winning on their day. But will it be their day in Paris?<\/p>\r\r<p>Based on what we are seeing at the moment, gold will be a tough ask, but this is the Olympics. You compete by giving your all and not holding yourself back.<\/p>\r\r<p>That would be the motivation of every athlete in the contingent but there is hope. Many of those in the contingent are first-timers which augurs well for the future.<\/p>\r\r<p>Of the 26 athletes, 16 are competing in the Olympics for the first time and it is this group that we need to tap into to ensure that they get to Los Angeles 2028 in much better shape. And of course, we will then have the squash players as well with that sport joining the fray.<\/p>\r\r<p>Of the 16 debutants, there are some rising talents who have it in them to become world beaters.<\/p>\r\r<p>National sprinter Mohd Azeem Fahmi had hoped to go to Paris on his own wind, but he ended up getting the wildcard spot.<\/p>\r\r<p>He has been preparing very hard, hoping to leave a mark at the Stade de France. His coaches want him to break his season\u2019s best of 10.36s, but Azeem is hopeful of nearing his national record of 10.09s.<\/p>\r\r<p>The humble 20-year-old is only just starting out. With his mindset, he could be a star in Los Angeles. He is already a star in Malaysia.<\/p>\r\r<p>Then, there is weightlifter Aniq Kasdan. He looks like a pocket dynamite weighing less than 61kg \u2013 and he can lift a total of 300kg, five times his own weight.<\/p>\r\r<p>The boy from Johor is not as glib as Azeem, but on the stage, every clean and jerk of his epitomises strength and class. In the snatch, the 21-year-old just defies the odds. No weight can take down his small frame.<\/p>\r\r<p>There is a strong belief that he could get a medal in Paris, but even if he doesn\u2019t, LA could be his highlight.<\/p>\r\r<p>Archer Ariana Nur Dania Mohd Zairi is just 19, but seeing the way she carries herself, she could be the new star for the Malaysian team.<\/p>\r\r<p>The South Koreans are mighty in the recurve, but Ariana seems like an athlete who is willing to learn and be better. Paris will be a lesson to bigger successes for her.<\/p>\r\r<p>These young athletes signal hope for our sports. Though we lament the lack of transparency and governance in some of our sports, the emergence of these talents shows that amidst adversity, the youth have a way of pushing the envelope and the cream always rises.<\/p>\r\r<p>The nation is now clamouring to hear the \u201cNegaraku\u201d and to see the Jalur Gemilang hoisted on the biggest stage but the athletes just need to know this \u2013 give your heart and soul and the nation will be with you.<\/p>\r\r<p>The gold will likely come in 2028 \u2013 and these youngsters will inspire that goal.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","article_byline":"T. Avineshwaran","article_tags":"","author_id":464,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=464_1663890104","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/464.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":2005646,"np_author_id":464,"author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/464.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"avinesh@thestar.com.my","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"The Gaffer\",\"column_status\":\"hide\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1564141134\"},\"2\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1663890104\"},\"3\":{\"column_name\":\"Comment\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1703288117\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3710463,"np_article_id":1398512,"article_title":"Olympic Games spirit is about joy, disappointment but not disparity","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column, Rajes Paul, Olympic Games\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THERE\\u2019S this duality about sports. It has always been about ups and downs, winning and losing and joys and bitter disappointments.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"55\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-07-20 06:41:21\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-07-20 06:41:21\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"55\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-07-20 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/20\\\/2812681.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":405,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/07\/20\/olympic-games-spirit-is-about-joy-disappointment-but-not-disparity","show_image_in_thumb":2812681,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THERE\u2019S this duality about sports. It has always been about ups and downs, winning and losing and joys and bitter disappointments.<\/p>\r\r<p>Such is the nature of sports, but sometimes when other humans make the choices, it can be very painful.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/07\/20\/2812680.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 207px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Just recently, two para athletes \u2013 shuttler Cheah Liek Hou and swimmer Zy Lee Ker \u2013 went through such contrasting fortunes.<\/p>\r\r<p>For Liek Hou, it was sheer joy.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Paralympics champion\u2019s life was celebrated in the movie \u201cGold\u201d which tells of how he became the first Malaysian to win the men\u2019s singles gold in the SU5 (upper impairment category) at the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics despite his hardships.<\/p>\r\r<p>The launch of the movie on July 8 was attended by many VIPs, including badminton greats and Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh too.<\/p>\r\r<p>The eight-time world champion truly deserves it. He has been the role model for para athletes for his humility and the respect he has for others despite his huge success.<\/p>\r\r<p>I am so proud of you Liek Hou and wish you all the best as you go out to defend the gold at the Paralympics in Paris.<\/p>\r\r<p>But one has to spare a thought for Zy.<\/p>\r\r<p>His dream of featuring in his first Paralympics from Aug 28-Sept 8 has been dashed. Not that the 17-year-old did not qualify. He did. And not just in one \u2013 he qualified for three events.<\/p>\r\r<p>Still, he was not picked. Instead, another athlete who had qualified in one event got to go because the selectors felt the latter had a better chance of winning.<\/p>\r\r<p>The selectors can only choose two and the slots went to Nur Syaiful Zulkafli and Imaan Aiman Redzuan.<\/p>\r\r<p>I\u2019m no mathematician to understand the law of probabilities but shouldn\u2019t someone with three shots at a medal have a better chance than another in just one? Besides, Zy has a good ranking in all his events.<\/p>\r\r<p>Not surprisingly, Zy was hurt and disappointed.<\/p>\r\r<p>In an emotional video to Hannah, the articulate Zy pleaded for intervention. He spoke with respect and from his heart, but unfortunately, no one came to his rescue.<\/p>\r\r<p>The selectors stuck to their guns. Sadly, that\u2019s how it is with selection.<\/p>\r\r<p>One man\u2019s meat can be another\u2019s poison. People with the authority have the final say \u2013 and whether we like it or not, we have to respect that.<\/p>\r\r<p>Nevertheless, I\u2019m still proud of Zy for standing up for what he thought was right.<\/p>\r\r<p>Zy, keep up your fight. Don\u2019t give up. You are still young and there are many more opportunities ahead of you.<\/p>\r\r<p>I know, no one can even imagine what\u2019s it\u2019s like to be in your shoes but all great sportsmen have one important quality \u2013 perseverance.<\/p>\r\r<p>You will have your moment of glory. One day, just like Liek Hou, you will stand tall.<\/p>\r\r<p>Zy is not the first to be embroiled in selection controversies.<\/p>\r\r<p>I\u2019ve been reporting about sports for 27 years now, and there have always been issues in regard to selection \u2013 whether it\u2019s concerning athletes, coaches, officials and even the presidents!<\/p>\r\r<p>You just need to get one wrong head, and the whole running of the association goes down the drain.<\/p>\r\r<p>In some cases, we have lost good athletes or officials because of unfair decisions or some have left because they have grown tired of the system, which they believe is flawed.<\/p>\r\r<p>No doubt, there are many grey areas in the selection process but it needs to be done with the right intent and transparency.<\/p>\r\r<p>I\u2019m glad though that the wild card selection in athletics between 100m sprinter Mohd Azeem Fahmi and women\u2019s 400m runner Shereen Samson Vallabouy went well before the Olympic Games in Paris from July 26-Aug 13.<\/p>\r\r<p>Azeem was selected as he became the last and 26th Malaysian athlete named for the Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>What made a difference in this selection is that both US-based Azeem and Shereen were professional about it as they knew both have proven themselves in their respective events.<\/p>\r\r<p>Even as the Malaysian Athletics Federation (MAF) were adding suspense and taking their time about deciding, both Azeem and Shereen announced that they would respect any decision and support one another.<\/p>\r\r<p>While Azeem will be accompanied by technical director Robert Ballard, it\u2019s unfortunate that Olympics-bound shuttler Goh Jin Wei will not have her personal coach Nova Armada with her.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Indonesian was not selected because of the limited accreditation quota. So they say.<\/p>\r\r<p>But with all the qualification and selection issues aside, let\u2019s hope our athletes to the Paris Olympics \u2013 just a week away \u2013 will make us proud.<\/p>\r\r<p>Anyone who wins the country\u2019s first gold is set to be a multimillionaire. Many, including several corporate companies, have dangled the carrot. And he or she will surely be immortalised in a movie too like Liek Hou.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, if more than one of them wins, we may have another headache as selectors choose the next Sportsman of the Year. Remember the B. Rajkumar issue of 1985?<\/p>\r\r<p>But that\u2019s a headache for another day. For now, let\u2019s enjoy the Games in the city of love and hope that sports will do what it should do \u2013 unite the people and not be a reason for division.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3707762,"np_article_id":1393177,"article_title":"Looking beyond Paris for Olympic Games success","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"sports box, say, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/13\\\/looking-beyond-paris-for-olympic-games-success\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE Paris Olympics starts in two weeks, and Malaysia will again be going with the hope of ending the country\\u2019s almost 70-year long gold drought.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":615,\"columns\":\"615_1605851998\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"29\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-07-13 07:35:50\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-07-13 09:47:48\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mahandran Sonmugam\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"29\"}","publish_time":"2024-07-13 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/13\\\/2798905.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/07\/13\/looking-beyond-paris-for-olympic-games-success","show_image_in_thumb":2798905,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/07\/13\/2798905.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 165px;\" \/>THE Paris Olympics starts in two weeks, and Malaysia will again be going with the hope of ending the country\u2019s almost 70-year long gold drought.<\/p>\r\r<p>A total of 26 athletes, including three wildcard invites, will be looking forward to their chance to rise to the occasion. The wildcards may just want to impress but there are those who can make the golden dream come true.<\/p>\r\r<p>Track cycling ace Azizulhasni Awang is still among the best in the world, men\u2019s singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia is on the rebound and doubles pair Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik have also stated their intention to win Malaysia\u2019s first gold since the country first participated in the Games back in 1956.<\/p>\r\r<p>Azizulhasni, however, is not getting any younger. At 36, he will be the oldest track cyclist competing in Paris in the competition from Aug 6-11 but he could be pushed by his younger compatriot Muhammad Shah Firdaus Shahrom to a grand finale.<\/p>\r\r<p>Zii Jia was inconsistent for a long time but has shown some promise over the last two months while Aaron-Wooi Yik have the tendency to crack under pressure despite being the most consistent Malaysian elite athletes today.<\/p>\r\r<p>It will still be a touch-and-go affair in Paris. The more important question is \u2013 where do we go after Paris?<\/p>\r\r<p>Do we have the athletes who can be serious medal contenders in Los Angeles four years from now and in Brisbane in 2032?<\/p>\r\r<p>Do we even have what it takes to see athletes qualifying in certain sports?<\/p>\r\r<p>Azizul will certainly not be around while the likes of Zii Jia and Aaron-Wooi Yik will already be in the twilight of their badminton careers.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Youth and Sports Ministry and National Sports Council (NSC) really needs to get to work as soon as the Paris Games end and address the dearth of world class talents coming up.<\/p>\r\r<p>Diving is a good example of how Malaysia\u2019s fortunes have changed. We boasted of having eight diving qualifiers at London Olympics in 2012, but there will only be two in Paris.<\/p>\r\r<p>And one of them - Nur Dhabitah Sabri - can count herself lucky to be awarded one of the reallocated diving quota in the women\u2019s 3m springboard individual. Platform specialist Bertrand Rhodict was the only qualifier before that.<\/p>\r\r<p>NSC and the national sports bodies were content to ride on past glory and rely on the likes of Pandelela Rinong and Cheong Jun Hoong without realising that age would catch up with them.<\/p>\r\r<p>The failure of the diving squad to secure more Olympic slots have led to a complete revamp of the diving programme. It is good that NSC initiated a fast track programme for diving by roping in Bertrand and another promising youngster Enrique Maccartney Harold to groom them for the 2028 LA Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>NSC would do well to take this approach in other sports, especially the ones that are contested at the Olympics like shooting, archery and track cycling.<\/p>\r\r<p>They need to enhance the national back up programme and get good coaches who can polish the athletes further.<\/p>\r\r<p>Track cycling coach John Beasley did the right thing by recommending that Herman Terryn be put in charge of the back-up programme and not the elite squad despite having an impressive resume when the Frenchman was recruited.<\/p>\r\r<p>Beasley will become the technical director for Malaysian cycling and his job will be taken over by Harnizam Basri, whom he has groomed for the last few years.<\/p>\r\r<p>Terryn was the man behind French star Mathilde Gros rise to become the women\u2019s sprint world champion in 2022. And it is this kind of know-how that the back-up cyclists really need.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","article_byline":"Lim Teik Huat","article_tags":"","author_id":615,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=615_1605851998","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/615.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002621,"np_author_id":615,"author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/615.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"615_1605851998\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"section_id\":0,\"author_title\":\"\",\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3707750,"np_article_id":1393156,"article_title":"Golf\u2019s newest bromance may be the key to unlocking Tom\u2019s fullest potential","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, At full swing, Chuah Choo Chiang\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/at-full-swing\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/13\\\/golfs-newest-bromance-may-be-the-key-to-unlocking-toms-fullest-potential\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"SOUTH Korean golf legend Choi Kyung-ju once coined a phrase that would become his life\\u2019s mantra and drive other dreamers from his native country and across Asia to follow his trail in search of sporting greatness.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":746,\"columns\":\"746_1691708057\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"25\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-07-13 07:19:55\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-07-13 07:55:55\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mahandran Sonmugam\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"25\"}","publish_time":"2024-07-13 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/13\\\/2798896.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/at-full-swing\/2024\/07\/13\/golfs-newest-bromance-may-be-the-key-to-unlocking-toms-fullest-potential","show_image_in_thumb":2798896,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/07\/13\/2798896.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 170px;\" \/>SOUTH Korean golf legend Choi Kyung-ju once coined a phrase that would become his life\u2019s mantra and drive other dreamers from his native country and across Asia to follow his trail in search of sporting greatness.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cTo be the best, you\u2019ve got to play with the best\u201d was the buzz line that spurred Kyung-ju into the unknown, where he arrived in the United States over two decades ago to chase for a PGA Tour card and subsequently won eight titles and US$32mil (RM149mil) in prize earnings.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yang Yong-eun followed closely in Kyung-ju\u2019s brazen footsteps and snared Asia\u2019s first major title in 2009, and many other Koreans would ensue \u2013 Kang Sung-hoon, Bae Sang-moon, An Byeong-hun, Im Sung-jae, Kim Si-woo and Lee Kyoung-hoon.<\/p>\r\r<p>Along with the likes of Japanese stars Shigeki Maruyama and Hideki Matsuyama, Taiwan\u2019s Pan Cheng-tsung and Carl Yuan of China, Asia\u2019s glory-hunters understood the necessity of going toe-to-toe with the best, while pushing their own limits and boundaries.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now, Tom Kim, a 22-year-old rising star, is embarking on a slightly different pathway in his dream to become the world\u2019s best golfer, and it is thanks to a growing bromance with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.<\/p>\r\r<p>Not only is Tom battling week in, week out on the toughest professional golf circuit, he practices regularly with Scheffler, gets to pick the brain of the current dominant golfer and hangs out with the likeable American as they live four minutes apart in Dallas.<\/p>\r\r<p>They also share the same birthdate of June 21 \u2013 Tom turned 22 while Scheffler celebrated his 28th birthday last month \u2013 and hold the same Christian faith which have forged their friendship.<\/p>\r\r<p>Scheffler\u2019s wife Meredith is also teaching their new-born son to address Tom as \u201cUncle Tom\u201d.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cIt\u2019s been big. He\u2019s a really good friend,\u201d said Tom, who is already a three-time PGA Tour winner.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI\u2019ve learned a lot from him, obviously not just by watching him but by asking him a lot of things and he\u2019s been so kind to be able to share some stuff.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cBeing as good as he is, I always want to pick his brain. I talk to him a lot about the mental aspects, about how he approaches the game more than the skill aspect.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI\u2019ve gotten to like Scottie more as a person than a golfer. He\u2019s one of the few people that when we\u2019re at home, we still hang out and play a lot of golf together.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>The friendship began to flourish at The Open Championship last summer when Tom approached Scheffler for a practice round at Royal Liverpool.<\/p>\r\r<p>While the American has proven to be ruthless on the golf course \u2013 he has already won six times this year \u2013 he is as nice a person as it gets, and offers Tom valuable nuggets of golf information.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cWe were not as close as we are now and I went up to him and asked, hey, you want to play a practice round and we were a twosome for 18 holes. Things like that, he\u2019s such a humble human being,\u201d said Tom.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cI\u2019ve asked him a million questions and he\u2019s given me a million answers. One of the best advice is you have to be able to kind of go through your processes and trust what you\u2019re doing.<\/p>\r\r<p>This week, Tom returns to the Scottish Open, a joint sanctioned event by the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, where a solo third finish at the Renaissance Club two years ago signaled his arrival on the big stage.<\/p>\r\r<p>He was tied sixth last year and went on to finish runner-up in The Open for his best Major finish to date, despite playing with torn ligaments in his ankle.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many believe it would be a matter of time before Tom challenges Scheffler for the No. 1 position in the world.<\/p>\r\r<p>The young Korean had his first opportunity to go head-to-head with his good friend at the Travelers Championship recently where he forced a playoff with a gutsy 72nd hole birdie before losing on the first extra hole.<\/p>\r\r<p>Scheffler treats Tom like his little brother, and often gives him a hard time as how siblings would.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cHe\u2019s a great player and a great champion. I think of a guy that young already winning three times out here and being the way that he is in the Presidents Cup.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cHe\u2019s got the right attitude to play out here for a long time.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>* The writer is a senior director, marketing & communications \u2013 APAC for the PGA Tour. Fans can watch the PGA Tour on Astro Golf Channel and DAZN.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_byline":"Chuah Choo Chiang","article_tags":"","author_id":746,"kicker_name":"At Full Swing","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/at-full-swing?bycat=746_1691708057","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/746.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002695,"np_author_id":746,"author_name":"Chuah Choo Chiang","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/746.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"At Full Swing\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"true\",\"forweb_status\":\"true\",\"column_key\":\"746_1691708057\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3705853,"np_article_id":1389682,"article_title":"Germany and Spain deliver a final-worthy thriller in quarter-finals","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE semi-finals cast is complete.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-07-09 07:13:35\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-07-09 07:13:35\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-07-09 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/09\\\/2790571.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/07\/09\/germany-and-spain-deliver-a-final-worthy-thriller-in-quarter-finals","show_image_in_thumb":2790571,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THE semi-finals cast is complete.<\/p>\r\r<p>While it would be interesting to discuss the upcoming matches, I would rather review one of the quarter-final games that could have been a magnificent final \u2013 Germany vs Spain.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/07\/09\/2790572.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Both teams were favourites to win coming into the match-up, with Germany having a slight advantage as the home team.<\/p>\r\r<p>Spain had balance, led by two bright wingers, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Germany had their own young stars in Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz. It was surprising that Leroy Sane got the nod ahead of Wirtz in the starting eleven, but Julian Nagelsmann came to his senses at the start of the second half.<\/p>\r\r<p>Both Yamal and Wirtz played epic roles in this match. Regrettably, both teams ended up in the same bracket. If this had been the Euro final, it would have been one of the best!<\/p>\r\r<p>From the start, both teams went on the offence instead of sitting back and absorbing pressure.<\/p>\r\r<p>Spain utilised the speed of both Williams and Yamal on the flanks to pose a threat, while Germany let Toni Kroos dictate proceedings with his gameplay and passing.<\/p>\r\r<p>At 16 years old, Yamal fearlessly took on experienced defenders. This is a kid who is studying and playing at Euro simultaneously. What were we doing at 16? It\u2019s only fitting that Yamal had a part to play in the opening goal as he broke down the left, remained calm, and picked out Dani Olmo for the goal. Funny how the world works ... Olmo was in for Pedri, who got injured by rough tackling from the German players.<\/p>\r\r<p>Would Spain have won this encounter if the German players didn\u2019t injure Pedri?<\/p>\r\r<p>Germany did not let the goal kill their spirit and got a deserved equaliser in the dying seconds of regulation time. Kudos to them for continuing to press and making the right substitutions to chase a goal.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was very brave of Nagelsmann. Of course, the goal had to come from Wirtz, who was in the right place at the right time to latch onto Joshua Kimmich\u2019s knockdown.<\/p>\r\r<p>Even in extra time, both teams continued to play attacking football and looked for the winning goal.<\/p>\r\r<p>Spain got the winner from a cross by Olmo. Imagine if he had still been on the bench; we might have seen Germany in the semis. The Germans probably regretted injuring Pedri in this game.<\/p>\r\r<p>While France and Portugal played to a nil-nil result with only penalties deciding the game, Portuguese fans might wonder whether the outcome could have been different if Roberto Martinez had started the game with Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yes, he is a legend, but this is a team sport. One player at that age could not be a difference-maker. Clubs and countries need to learn how to move on or, better yet, learn how to utilise such legends.<\/p>\r\r<p>You cannot start a player based on their status at the expense of the team. Some would argue that he is still fit, but watching the game again, a younger, faster player could have made the difference for Portugal.<\/p>\r\r<p>As for the Three Lions, one would expect them to put on a decent performance, but we were mistaken. Gareth Southgate\u2019s men put on a dire display. If you have insomnia, just watch England play, and they will put you to sleep.<\/p>\r\r<p>Switzerland were the better team, but fortunately, Bukayo Saka\u2019s brilliance rescued England. What a goal it was to take the game to extra time and eventually penalties.<\/p>\r\r<p>For a team that used to suffer from penalty shootouts, England, under Southgate, seem to have gotten the hang of it as they qualified for the semis.<\/p>\r\r<p>Maybe this is Southgate\u2019s plan after all: to put on a dire performance, lower expectations, and finally win it all, becoming the greatest England manager of the modern era to win something?<\/p>\r\r<p>Time will tell, but it would be hilarious if England won it all!<\/p>\r\r<p>Holland await the Three Lions in the semi-finals, and what a game it will be! The Orangemen survived their game against Turkiye by riding their luck. If only Turkiye had a decent striker or a solid No. 9, it would be a different outcome for the semi-final match-up.<\/p>\r\r<p>The tournament is building up splendidly, and let\u2019s hope we get blockbuster matches in the semis and final for us fans to enjoy!<\/p>\r\r<p>Then it\u2019s back to the summer transfer madness and speculations that will get us football fans through the off-season!<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3705245,"np_article_id":1388398,"article_title":"When elephants clash, the mousedeer dies underfoot","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"WHEN my blogpost came under siege from Kelantan fans for my criticism levelled at Tan Sri Annuar Musa in early 2012 for having delayed an M-League kick-off in Kota Baru for more than half an hour, a few friends reached out to me.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"39\",\"initial_publication\":\"SundayStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-07-07 06:45:57\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-07-07 06:45:57\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Ranjeet Kumar A\\\/L Muthukumar\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"39\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-07-07 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/07\\\/2787906.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/07\/07\/when-elephants-clash-the-mousedeer-dies-underfoot","show_image_in_thumb":2787906,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>WHEN my blogpost came under siege from Kelantan fans for my criticism levelled at Tan Sri Annuar Musa in early 2012 for having delayed an M-League kick-off in Kota Baru for more than half an hour, a few friends reached out to me.<\/p>\r\r<p>One of them was Stuart Michael Ramalingam, now Datuk Stuart.<\/p>\r\r<p>He invited me to join him for an early morning breakfast in Bangsar, knowing full well I was cyber-bullied based on the comments left on my blogpost, mostly from Kelantan fans angered by my open letter to FAM and its stakeholders under the title Surat Buat FAM dan kawasan sekitarnya.<\/p>\r\r<p>Stuart was then the chief executive of the Malaysian Super League Sdn Bhd, a marketing arm of FA of Malaysia (FAM), of which Annuar was the chairman.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThe reason I wanted to touch base with you and to find out how are you doing after the posting,\u201d said Stuart alluding to some of the highly emotional comments which were very threatening in nature.<\/p>\r\r<p>As a man trained in the commercial aspects of the sports industry, Stuart is media savvy and he understands optics and perception.<\/p>\r\r<p>The blogpost was a cause for concern for Stuart because it was a fight between Annuar his boss and I, a media personnel and a stakeholder by virtue of being a TV host with the league\u2019s broadcast partners in a deal the former brokered to a tune of RM30 million per annum.<\/p>\r\r<p>A lot has happened since that meeting in Bangsar. Stuart who turned 47 last month, had gone on to become a director of club competitions and futsal and later director of marketing and social responsibility of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), consultant with Frenz United and later vice-president of Dentsu Sports Asia.<\/p>\r\r<p>An opportunity for me to work with Stuart came up in in 2018 when he was made the FAM general secretary while I was offered by Datuk Hamidin Mohd Amin to head the president\u2019s office.<\/p>\r\r<p>I was given a first-hand look at Stuart\u2019s work ethics, strategic thinking and commercial brains.<\/p>\r\r<p>We got down to work immediately when Stuart was tasked by Hamidin to produce a blueprint that was to be the FAM Roadmap called F:30, which was based on a strategic plan compiled by Abang Zulkarnain Abang Abdurahman, but repackaged with new initiatives and periodical targets.<\/p>\r\r<p>Among other things, the backroom thinkers brainstormed and came up with the Affiliates Capacity Enhancement (ACE) project as a tool for FAM to provide assistance to FAM\u2019s affiliates in terms of technical, competition and human capital through an education module.<\/p>\r\r<p>Stuart was also keen to develop the human capital under his wings. So Ahmad Zakiran Mohd Yoonus, Mohd Alif Mohd Fadzil, Mohd Raimi Fakri Mohd Fuad and yours truly were dispatched to attend the football administration course by AFC to enhance our knowledge - incidentally all four are no longer on FAM\u2019s payroll but enriched by the experience, no doubt.<\/p>\r\r<p>Privately I was awed by Stuart\u2019s ability to juggle between the thankless task of being the head of the FAM secretariat, a loving husband and a doting father of two while also completing his Professional Masters in Football Business from the Swiss-based Football Business Academy (FBA).<\/p>\r\r<p>Today, speculation is rife that his contract as the Malaysian Football League (MFL) chief operating officer (CEO) is not going to be extended.<\/p>\r\r<p>I guess the former Selangor youth player, whose career was cut short due to a broken leg, was caught in the crossfire, much like the proverbial mousedeer dying underfoot when elephants clash.<\/p>\r\r<p>Since he took over as MFL CEO in 2021, the league operators have shown growth and significant economic advancements, with a total of RM64.87 million annual sponsorship as opposed to RM9.32 million in 2019.<\/p>\r\r<p>The viewership trends further highlight MFL\u2019s robust appeal, with a cumulative viewership of 763 million from 2019 to 2023.<\/p>\r\r<p>Under his able stewardship, MFL are committed to delivering unparalleled football experiences by fostering the love of the Malaysian League, with over 30,000 minutes of live content and a steadfast viewership.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sure MFL were insensitive to Selangor\u2019s appeal for the Charity Shield match against Johor Darul Ta\u2019zim (JDT) be postponed following the acid attack on Faisal Halim but that should not take away all the good Stuart has done for MFL.<\/p>\r\r<p>If Stuart\u2019s contract is extended beyond August, well and good. If not, his successor has a big pair of shoes to fill.<\/p>\r\r<p>Stuart is perhaps destined for greater things.<\/p>\r\r<p>Such as one day returning to AFC as the general secretary, a position traditionally reserved for Malaysians since Datuk Koe Ewe Teik assumed the role in 1965.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3704992,"np_article_id":1387844,"article_title":"Golden dreams must begin at the universities","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"say what, sportsbox, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THE Olympic Games is supposed to be the toughest competition in the world. Not for the American swimmers or track and field athletes.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":615,\"columns\":\"615_1605851998\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"29\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-07-06 07:23:58\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-07-06 07:23:58\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"29\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-07-06 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/06\\\/2786789.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/07\/06\/golden-dreams-must-begin-at-the-universities","show_image_in_thumb":2786789,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/07\/06\/2786788.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 214px; float: left;\" \/>THE Olympic Games is supposed to be the toughest competition in the world. Not for the American swimmers or track and field athletes.<\/p>\r\r<p>For them, it\u2019s the Olympic trials that is most nerve-wracking.<\/p>\r\r<p>To earn an individual berth to the Games, a swimmer must finish first or second in his or her event. Everything else is the equivalent to a last-place finish.<\/p>\r\r<p>And every year, there are plenty of feel-good stories \u2013 and painful tales too.<\/p>\r\r<p>No sport boasts an Olympic-selection process as difficult or potentially painful as the one used in swimming or athletics in the US.<\/p>\r\r<p>In track and field, countries can send three athletes per event. In swimming, it\u2019s only two.<\/p>\r\r<p>That one extra spot over swimming is huge, especially given the strength of United States in the pool.<\/p>\r\r<p>And there is no no room for argument. No one can say: \u201cBut I set a world record last month. I am the reigning world champion.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>It doesn\u2019t matter. All that counts is winning in the trials.<\/p>\r\r<p>Take reigning Olympic women\u2019s 800m champion Athing Mu. She will not get a chance to defend her 800m title in Paris after falling in the middle of her race during the US Olympic trials two weeks ago.<\/p>\r\r<p>Her team submitted an appeal but to no avail. She had won women\u2019s 800m event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and claimed the world championship title in 2022 and her absence will be felt.<\/p>\r\r<p>Or maybe, it will not.<\/p>\r\r<p>The colleges and universities in US are breeding grounds for world-class athletes, and another runner could likely step up to replace Mu.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s the American sporting culture. Singapore swimmer Joseph Schooling knows all about it.<\/p>\r\r<p>He improved by leaps and bounds when he was based at the University of Texas and even went on to stun the legendary Michael Phelps to claim Singapore\u2019s first Olympic gold medal.<\/p>\r\r<p>Our own Alex Lim Keng Liat \u2013 Malaysia\u2019s only Asian Games swimming gold medallist \u2013 was sent on attachment with Bolles School in California under the National Sports Council scholarship and the competitive culture there shaped him into the best swimmer Malaysia has ever produced.<\/p>\r\r<p>He even reached the semi-finals of the 100m backstroke at the 2004 Olympics in Athens.<\/p>\r\r<p>In track and field, we have our own sprint hope Mohd Azeem Fahmi now.<\/p>\r\r<p>He has just been confirmed to go for his debut Olympic outing in Paris under the universality ticket \u2013 also known as wild card.<\/p>\r\r<p>Azeem, only 20 and now studying in Auburn University, will get a chance to step up on his performance and hopefully qualify on merit for the next Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is important that Azeem spreads his wings outside the country and embrace the American sports culture. Otherwise, he never get to realise his full potential.<\/p>\r\r<p>Universities in Malaysia cannot hold a candle to their American counterparts.<\/p>\r\r<p>It could be due to a lack of sporting culture, an emphasis on academic qualifications, or just inefficient use of resources.<\/p>\r\r<p>It is no surprise then we still do not have an Olympic champion.<\/p>\r\r<p>They have to be groomed from their university days \u2014 and taught to really compete.<\/p>","author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","article_byline":"Lim Teik Huat","article_tags":"","author_id":615,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=615_1605851998","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/615.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002621,"np_author_id":615,"author_name":"Lim Teik Huat","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/615.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"615_1605851998\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"section_id\":0,\"author_title\":\"\",\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3703173,"np_article_id":1384377,"article_title":"Time for some drama in Germany","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"The thrill of knockouts: England's worst performance but spectacular for others\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/02\\\/time-for-some-drama-in-germany\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"Euro 2024\"],\"summary\":[\"ROUND of 16 is underway, and the best part of the tournament has started! Nothing beats the playoffs in football; it is the best part of any football tournament, whether it is the World Cup or the UEFA Champions League.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"33\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-07-02 07:27:27\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-07-02 07:37:18\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"33\"}","publish_time":"2024-07-02 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/07\\\/02\\\/2778943.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/2024\/07\/02\/time-for-some-drama-in-germany","show_image_in_thumb":2778943,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>ROUND of 16 is underway, and the best part of the tournament has started! Nothing beats the playoffs in football; it is the best part of any football tournament, whether it is the World Cup or the UEFA Champions League.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s from here onwards when the matches bring more drama than the group stages.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/07\/02\/2778944.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 253px; float: left;\" \/>If it was up to me, we should scrap the group stages altogether, but the football organising committee need to make money, hence their inclusion in every tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>To each their own, but playoff football is great.<\/p>\r\r<p>At this stage, getting a draw does not help your team unless you are fantastic at penalty kicks. Playing for a draw is a lottery, and like the lottery, you do not win every round.<\/p>\r\r<p>Teams need to go for the jugular because sitting back and playing for a draw does not mean you will get one point, unlike the group stage matches. With this on the line, will England be expressive and play expansive football?<\/p>\r\r<p>Unfortunately for the general audience, the answer is no!<\/p>\r\r<p>England were laboured and non-creative against Slovakia. It was probably England\u2019s worst-ever performance in the first half.<\/p>\r\r<p>It took a Tony Pulis-type tactic in the 90+5 minutes of regulation time for England to get an equaliser via Jude Bellingham.<\/p>\r\r<p>England got the winner at the start of extra time using similar tactics, and the audience might wonder whether they were in Veltins-Arena or at the Britannia Stadium on a cold, windy night in Stoke!<\/p>\r\r<p>One feels for Slovakia, who played entertaining football and were minutes away from a famous win against a team full of superstars.<\/p>\r\r<p>This underlines a key message in playoff football: you cannot sit back on a one-goal lead. A team need to go for the kill after going a goal up.<\/p>\r\r<p>The late equaliser deflated Slovakia a little, and it became hard for them to get back to their rhythm.<\/p>\r\r<p>Every game is do or die.<\/p>\r\r<p>Just look at that fantastic win by Switzerland who upset the reigning European champions Italy in the Olympiastadion. Make no mistake, it was a dominating performance from the Swiss.<\/p>\r\r<p>With their high line and high-octane pressing, the Azzurri had no answer to the Fondue as the Italian pasta crumbled under pressure. If the Swiss can sustain this level of football in the quarter-finals, expect more upsets along the way.<\/p>\r\r<p>This should be a wake-up call for Luciano Spalletti and the Italian Football Association (FA) as their defence of the Euro title crumbled, just like Napoli\u2019s title defence this year.<\/p>\r\r<p>It will be interesting to see whether Spalletti will keep his job after the tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>As for Germany, they did what they do best: being Germany!<\/p>\r\r<p>Forget their poor friendlies record leading up to the tournament; when the tournament starts, Germany will always perform, and a semi-final berth will always be on the horizon.<\/p>\r\r<p>Julian Nagelsmann got the team playing football, and sure, they rode their luck with some VAR intervention, but Germany were definitely the better team!<\/p>\r\r<p>Spain got an early scare against Georgia but ran out as comfortable winners to book a spot in the quarter-finals with tournament favourite Germany.<\/p>\r\r<p>It will be the battle of Lamine Yamal against Jamal Musiala in the next round.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yamal recorded another assist while Musiala got another goal in the tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>It will be interesting to see how Germany handle the attacking force of this Spain squad.<\/p>\r\r<p>I just love playoff football. The best reason, however, is that each game matters!<\/p>\r\r<p>When the stakes are high, you can either get an entertaining game or a boring nil-nil, but whatever it is, there will be a lot of drama along the way!<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3702116,"np_article_id":1382371,"article_title":"Of ugly outfits, rivalry and royal rumblings","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/sports-box\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/29\\\/of-ugly-outfits-rivalry-and-royal-rumblings\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"IN Germany, players are battling on the football pitch for honour and glory for their country in the European Championships.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"32\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-06-29 05:41:07\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-06-29 07:45:02\",\"last_modified_user\":\"P Rajessvary a\\\/p Paul Thurai\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"32\"}","publish_time":"2024-06-29 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/29\\\/2774865.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/06\/29\/of-ugly-outfits-rivalry-and-royal-rumblings","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>IN Germany, players are battling on the football pitch for honour and glory for their country in the European Championships.<\/p>\r\r<p>There is so much competition and rivalry, but it\u2019s all in good sporting spirit with players and fans wearing their jerseys in full national pride.<\/p>\r\r<p>In Malaysia too, there is competition and rivalry, but there seems to be little sporting spirit. Instead, we are having a field day as drama unfolds off the pitch with bitter spats, little give-and-take and a battle royale looming.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/06\/29\/2774865.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 220px; height: 149px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>As though that was not enough, we also have a controversy over a rather an outfit that\u2019s being slammed as \u201cugly.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>In the middle of it all, is poor Datuk Hamidin Amin.<\/p>\r\r<p>He wears two hats \u2013 he is the chef de mission of the Malaysian contingent getting ready for the Olympic Games in Paris from July 26-Aug 11. He is also the Football Association of Malaysia president. And he has had to take the flak in both positions.<\/p>\r\r<p>When the athletes\u2019 apparel for the Olympics was unveiled \u2013 on rather wimpy-looking mannequins \u2013 it received a massive thumbs down from the netizens. The troll on how ugly and cheap-looking the attire were, went viral.<\/p>\r\r<p>Even former Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin joined the bandwagon to ridicule the design.<\/p>\r\r<p>Hamidin did himself no favours by saying \u201cwhat\u2019s the point of having a good looking attire if the athletes can\u2019t win the gold?\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>He was merely trying to point out what mattered most, but it backfired big-time. And there was more flak.<\/p>\r\r<p>Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh came to Hamidin\u2019s defence, saying he should not be blamed for the fiasco. She is right \u2013 onus is on the Olympic Council of Malaysia and Yonex, who designed the attire.<\/p>\r\r<p>Good sense has finally prevailed. OCM president Tan Sri Norza Zakaria announced yesterday that the design would be improved in line with the Harimau Malaya spirit.<\/p>\r\r<p>While the issue of attires has been ironed out, the spat in football is brewing hot, with royals from Selangor and Johor stepping in.<\/p>\r\r<p>It all started with the Malaysian Football League\u2019s (MFL) shocking announcement on Tuesday about the penalties Selangor faced for withdrawing from playing in the Charity Shield against Johor Darul Ta\u2019zim (JDT) last month.<\/p>\r\r<p>Selangor had good reason to withdraw, as their top player Faisal Halim had been splashed with acid by unknown assailants on May 5. It was traumatising and they had asked for a postponement which was denied.<\/p>\r\r<p>MFL instead decided they had violated their rules and meted a RM100,000 fine and docked them three points.<\/p>\r\r<p>They can\u2019t have any spectators too when they play JDT in the next Super League match and will also have to pay cost incurred by MFL and JDT. It did not go down well.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Sultan of Selangor himself hit it out at the MFL, saying the decision was made \u201cwithout compassion.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>A day later, MFL toned down and lowered the fine to RM60,000 and cancelled the other decisions.<\/p>\r\r<p>As FAM president, Hamidin is seeking an audience with the Sultan to explain but so far, the Ruler is not seeing him.<\/p>\r\r<p>To make matters worse, the Regent of Johor Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim (TMJ) is now unhappy that MFL had backed down.<\/p>\r\r<p>In a sarcastic message on his social media posting, he said this has set a precedent where other states too can go to their royals when they are in trouble.<\/p>\r\r<p>What is going on really? Is there some kind of invisible rivalry going on? Should the royal houses be involved? How did we come to this?<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s time to find a solution to make the football scene thriving again and we can\u2019t do this if decisions are made willy-nilly. MFL and FAM have a lot of soul-searching to do.<\/p>\r\r<p>All these infighting is not doing us any good. We are not even the best in South-East Asia, not by a long shot. So, let\u2019s not shoot ourselves in the foot.<\/p>\r\r<p>The fraternity has to work as one, and it needs compassion and a sense of fair play.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3700271,"np_article_id":1378818,"article_title":"Rising young stars and dark horses keep one awake","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THIS edition\\u2019s European Championships is turning out to be a tournament for the youth. Many expected the established stars to shine, but so far, the youth are taking centrestage in Germany.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"30\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-06-25 07:57:12\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-06-25 07:57:12\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Norimah Binti Musa\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"30\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-06-25 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/25\\\/2766863.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/06\/25\/rising-young-stars-and-dark-horses-keep-one-awake","show_image_in_thumb":2766863,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THIS edition\u2019s European Championships is turning out to be a tournament for the youth. Many expected the established stars to shine, but so far, the youth are taking centrestage in Germany.<\/p>\r\r<p>In every game, there is one upcoming talent trying to make a name for himself.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/06\/25\/2766864.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Jamal Musiala for instance is already an established name in the Bundesliga and the Champions League, but Musiala is taking this opportunity to showcase his talent to the world.<\/p>\r\r<p>With two goals to his name, Musiala has become crucial to Julian Nagelsmann\u2019s system and could be the X- factor for Germany in the knockout stage. Expect a new contract or rumours of a move to other clubs after the tournament ends.<\/p>\r\r<p>Arda Guler put the world on notice when he scored a fabulous goal for Turkiye, as the dark horse put up an entertaining game for the audience. Guler plays for Real Madrid, but he is probably overshadowed by Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo.<\/p>\r\r<p>Guler is using the Euro 2024 platform to establish his name among football fans. The world is on notice now, and just watch this kid glow!<\/p>\r\r<p>Francisco Conceicao is trying to escape the stigma of nepotism by building a name for himself in this tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>As the son of former Portugal star Sergio Conceicao, Francisco scored the winner for Portugal against Czech Republic, emulating his father\u2019s feat almost exactly 24 years after his dad scored a hattrick in a 3-0 win over Germany at Euro 2000.<\/p>\r\r<p>This kid is destined for great things, proving that apples don\u2019t fall far from the tree. If Portugal do well in this tournament, expect Francisco\u2019s value to increase in the transfer market, with clubs looking for a versatile winger knocking at the door!<\/p>\r\r<p>England have their own star boy in Jude Bellingham, but there are other players on the bench for the Three Lions who have not gotten the opportunity to shine in this international tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>One of them is Cole Palmer. Prolific for Chelsea this season but unable to break through to the current England starting eleven. Maybe it is the manager\u2019s fault, and if Gareth Southgate would like to save his job, he should give the youth a chance.<\/p>\r\r<p>Not just Palmer, but Adam Wharton and Kobbie Mainoo are waiting in the wings too! Rather than talking to the press about missing Kalvin Phillips, look to the bench, Southgate; there is a diamond in the rough for you!<\/p>\r\r<p>As for Spain, the country is showing us two young superstars in Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal. These two young players dominate the right and left-hand sides for Spain, taking on defenders at will.<\/p>\r\r<p>Spain dominated against Italy because of the strength of their young wingers. Old-school fans are loving it since it has been a long time since we\u2019ve seen wingers dribble past defenders at will.<\/p>\r\r<p>While it might be a hot boy summer, the most interesting thing about this year\u2019s tournament is the teams that are not favourites. England, France, and Holland are boring to watch, but Slovenia, Austria, Turkiye, Georgia, and Romania are great to watch!<\/p>\r\r<p>Playing an entertaining brand of attacking football, they get the neutrals on their side. Most of the games that kept me awake are those played by the dark horses.<\/p>\r\r<p>A case in point would be Austria. Under the tutelage of Ralf Rangnick, the father of \u201cgegenpressing\u201d, Austria have adopted a style of play that is easy on the eyes.<\/p>\r\r<p>It makes me wonder whether his tenure at Manchester United was a failure of the players or the manager.<\/p>\r\r<p>Looking at Austria, it is the United players who failed Rangnick and not the latter. I hope Austria go far in this tournament and Rangnick gets the redemption story he deserves.<\/p>\r\r<p>There is still a lot to play for in Euro 2024 as teams jostle to finish either top or not in the group to avoid certain traditional rivals.<\/p>\r\r<p>I am absolutely rooting for the dark horses because they make the tournament interesting, while the established nations need to buck up; you are putting everyone to sleep!<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3699361,"np_article_id":1376970,"article_title":"Whither our wonderkids like Yamal \u2013 a dearth of talent in Malaysia","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Box, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"THEY don\\u2019t call Lamine Yamal wonderkid for nothing.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":609,\"columns\":\"609_1605776128\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"32\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-06-22 07:22:41\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-06-22 07:22:41\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"32\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-06-22 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/22\\\/2762355.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":419,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/06\/22\/whither-our-wonderkids-like-yamal---a-dearth-of-talent-in-malaysia","show_image_in_thumb":2762355,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>THEY don\u2019t call Lamine Yamal wonderkid for nothing.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/06\/22\/2762353.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"width: 250px; height: 204px; float: left;\" \/>At 16, the gifted Spaniard has created a buzz at the Euro 2024 by becoming the youngest player to see action in the tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>He danced his way through the tough Croatian defence and became the youngest to assist a goal in the tournament, helping his nation get their third and winning goal in the opening match last week. He is set to be the star of the future.<\/p>\r\r<p>He is also the youngest to play for Barcelona, making his debut at the age of 15 \u2013 and has already scored seven goals! Yet, he will only be 17 on July 13, on the eve of the Euro final.<\/p>\r\r<p>He has been compared to the great Messi when the latter was younger but some experts believe Yamal could even outdo the Argentinian star. So prodigious is Yamal - a gifted talent that doesn\u2019t come very often.<\/p>\r\r<p>In Malaysia too, there have been some exceptional young talents.<\/p>\r\r<p>At 16, bowler Sin Li Jane was the Commonwealth Cham-pionships single gold medal winner in 2008 in Belfast. Even when she was aged between 13 and 15, she was already doing better than her seniors.<\/p>\r\r<p>Now, at 30, she has created history by becoming the first to win the US Women\u2019s Open title, usually dominated by professionals in States.<\/p>\r\r<p>She has won every junior title, national, SEA Games, Asian and World Championships and many Opens.<\/p>\r\r<p>Bowling legend Shalin Zulkifli was 14 when she won her first Asian Games gold in 1998 in Hiroshima while eight-time world champion Nicol ruled the scene since she was not even in her teens, starting off by winning the Under-12 British Open title.<\/p>\r\r<p>Two-time world junior singles champion Goh Jin Wei was drafted into the national badminton team when she was 14 and nicked her first senior title at 15. This year, she will be representing Malaysia at the Paris Olympics.<\/p>\r\r<p>Diver Bryan Nickson Lomas became world junior champion when he was 14 and qualified for the 2000 Olympic Games.<\/p>\r\r<p>He was the youngest participant that year.<\/p>\r\r<p>The last few years, though, Malaysia have been starved of new young talent. Sprinter Mohd Azeen Fahmi, 20, is probably one of the few who has made us smile with his exploits in the men\u2019s 100m.<\/p>\r\r<p>But where are our Yamals, Li Janes and and Jin Weis?<\/p>\r\r<p>One of my colleagues, in jest, said they could still be playing guli (marbles). Malaysians are not maturing fast enough. Joke aside, we must accept the reality that we are short of talent. It\u2019s so hard to find athletes with star quality at a young age.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yesterday, our national Under-16 football players began their international debut in the AFF Cup in Indonesia and Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) technical director Scott O\u2019 Donell was brutal in his assessment.<\/p>\r\r<p>He said Malaysia needs to identify talents and must have more competitive leagues at the development stage to scout for them.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s really sad. People like Yamal, France\u2019s Zaire Emery (18) and Turkey\u2019s Arda Guler, Portugal\u2019s Joao Neves, England\u2019s Kobbie Mainoo (all 19) are playing at the Euros and here we are still talking about starting quality leagues.<\/p>\r\r<p>In badminton too, we are scraping the barrel for fresh talent. The transition from a junior to senior is flawed big time. Some talents make the breakthrough but they don\u2019t last long. They either sink into oblivion or end their careers due to injuries.<\/p>\r\r<p>What is wrong with our talent development? Are we not blessed with gifted athletes? Or are we poor in managing talents?<\/p>\r\r<p>One of my good friends \u2013 a cricket official \u2013 was ruthless in his opinion. He said the current breed of juniors crumble easily under pressure.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cThey are given everything, the best facilities, best support and given good allowances. They have the skills and talents but are not mentally strong,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\r<p>I\u2019ve heard this same reasoning from other sports coaches and managers too.<\/p>\r\r<p>When Datuk Misbun Sidek was coaching the badminton juniors, some could not cope with his gruelling training sessions. Some joked that they have more muscles in their thumbs and fingers as they spend more time on the handphones and gadgets.<\/p>\r\r<p>Yamal started when he was seven. Coming from a family that was poor, football was a way out of poverty.<\/p>\r\r<p>And today, the Spanish teen sensation is reaping the fruits of his hard work, dedication and full devotion to the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>Are our youngsters too pampered to have the grit needed to make it big? And are there youngsters out there ready to make the painstaking journey to be the country\u2019s beacon of hope, or have they all gone soft?<\/p>\r\r<p>I do hope we can find some wonderkids \u2013 and real soon.<\/p>","author_name":"Rajes Paul","article_byline":"Rajes Paul","article_tags":"","author_id":609,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=609_1605776128","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/609.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002615,"np_author_id":609,"author_name":"Rajes Paul","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/609.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"609_1605776128\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3698054,"np_article_id":1374394,"article_title":"Tok Molly makes it jolly good for takraw again","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":710,\"columns\":\"710_1672193468\"}],\"summary\":[\"TO me, Datuk Sumali Reduan or fondly known as Tok Molly is the new architect behind sepak takraw\\u2019s revival in Malaysia.\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, Sports Guru, column\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-06-19 06:52:23\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-06-19 06:52:23\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mahandran Sonmugam\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-06-19 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/19\\\/2755942.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":410,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-guru\/2024\/06\/19\/tok-molly-makes-it-jolly-good-for-takraw-again","show_image_in_thumb":2755942,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/06\/19\/2755942.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 378px; height: 250px;\" \/>TO me, Datuk Sumali Reduan or fondly known as Tok Molly is the new architect behind sepak takraw\u2019s revival in Malaysia.<\/p>\r\r<p>Malaysia pulled off a surprise recently when the national team reached two finals in the ISTAF World Cup against rivals Thailand. They won the doubles and finished second in the team regu at Stadium Titiwangsa.<\/p>\r\r<p>The atmosphere during the finals was electrifying.<\/p>\r\r<p>The 2,000-capacity stadium was bursting at the seams after 2,500 fans crammed into it, taking up every seat, every possible standing space and every inch of the ground meant for walking became an emotionally-charged and tension-filled cauldron.<\/p>\r\r<p>Former national player Futra Ghani said it had been a long time since he enjoyed such an exhilarating experience.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cWe had hoped (for this) and we believed in our team, and nothing can compare to the feeling when we entered the finals in such an atmosphere. Sepak takraw needed this,\u201d said Futra.<\/p>\r\r<p>His sentiment is understandable. Malaysia last won the doubles title 20 years ago.<\/p>\r\r<p>The image of the sport had been in tatters after going through various challenges for years but the recent victory at home had put the Sepaktakraw Association of Malaysia (PSM) back on a pedestal again.<\/p>\r\r<p>And Sumali deserves praise for restoring their status, as the association were almost disbanded in 2022.<\/p>\r\r<p>Since assuming the role as the president, this forward-thinking Pontian-born Tok Molly has turned the crisis-stricken association into a success story.<\/p>\r\r<p>I know Tok Molly since my appointment as the deputy director in MOE (Ministry of Education) and had always supported grassroots development. Malaysia\u2019s sepak takraw has reached a new height under his presidency.<\/p>\r\r<p>As an avid takraw player, he brought the much-needed shake-up in the set-up.<\/p>\r\r<p>He wanted world-class facilities, better sports medicine delivery, and sport science support. His personal touch, guidance and advice brought unity among the coaching staff, players and officials in the team.<\/p>\r\r<p>He invested in quality coaching and sports science resources for athletes development, regular competitions and exposure to international standards.<\/p>\r\r<p>Sumali\u2019s experience, management skills, and approach to sport as an industry are keys to the changes in PSM.<\/p>\r\r<p>Despite the pressures, he persevered.<\/p>\r\r<p>PSM deputy president Datuk Halim Suleiman saw how Sumali rose above two difficult years and gave hope to his players.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cWithin a year, Datuk Sumali was able to reunite all affiliate members and associate members in the PSM family, some of whom had previously left PSM,\u201d said Halim.<\/p>\r\r<p>\u201cIn the midst of turmoil, I saw his boldness to dream big. He seized the opportunity to bid for the hosting of the recent World Cup and it was one of the best decisions.\u201d<\/p>\r\r<p>The outstanding success at the World Cup was proof of Sumali\u2019s visionary leadership and his unwavering commitment to the sport.<\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>\r\r<p> <\/p>","author_name":"Cikgu Suhaimi Sun Abdullah","article_byline":"Cikgu Suhaimi Sun Abdullah","article_tags":"","author_id":710,"kicker_name":"Sports Guru","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-guru?bycat=710_1672193468","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/710.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002680,"np_author_id":710,"author_name":"Cikgu Suhaimi Sun Abdullah","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/710.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Guru\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"710_1672193468\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3697604,"np_article_id":1373593,"article_title":"Quarterly funding a boon for sports fraternity in cutting bureaucratic obstacles","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, On The Line, column, Rizal Hashim\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"JUNE has always been a good month for the power-that-be to splurge on Malaysian sports.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":694,\"columns\":\"694_1662683941\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"23\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-06-18 02:25:00\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-06-18 02:25:00\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Martin Ignatius\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"23\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-06-18 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/18\\\/2754110.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":408,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/on-the-line\/2024\/06\/18\/quarterly-funding-a-boon-for-sports-fraternity-in-cutting-bureaucratic-obstacles","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>JUNE has always been a good month for the power-that-be to splurge on Malaysian sports.<\/p>\r\r<p>Beginning this month, 19 National Sports Associations (NSAs) and 23 sports will enjoy greater liberties in financing their activities.<\/p>\r\r<p>This was following the Youth and Sports Ministry\u2019s decision to reintroduce the \u201cempowerment\u201d method for the NSAs to manage their financial allocations.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/06\/18\/2754110.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 220px; height: 145px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>The funding for these NSAs will be bankrolled on a quarterly basis based on the programme agreed upon and approved by the joint committee comprising the National Sports Council (NSC) and representatives of the NSAs.<\/p>\r\r<p>Funding athlete and coach management, performance management, development programmes and support services will be covered under the scheme.<\/p>\r\r<p>In return for the Government\u2019s initiatives and generosity, the NSAs\u2019 accounts will be audited by National Sports Council (NSC)-appointed auditors, hence the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held last week.<\/p>\r\r<p>A similar direct funding method was successfully executed for the Kita Juara programme from 2016 which led to Malaysia\u2019s most successful outing at the SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur with a massive haul of 145 gold.<\/p>\r\r<p>But this time around, under the agreement, the NSAs must open a separate account to receive direct funding and it must be open to auditing.<\/p>\r\r<p>Through this method, NSAs no longer can complain of red tape and delayed or staggered payments.<\/p>\r\r<p>One of the NSAs\u2019 greatest grouses was NSC\u2019s pay-and-claim method which involved bureaucratic process.<\/p>\r\r<p>In many meetings between the NSAs and Sports Minister, Hannah Yeoh it was highlighted that the red tape made it difficult for them to plan.<\/p>\r\r<p>Virtually all representatives of a cross section of the sports fraternity who participated in a workshop on core sports last year were unhappy with the staggered funding from NSC.<\/p>\r\r<p>Hannah has delivered, now the NSAs must reciprocate.<\/p>\r\r<p>By empowering them, the NSAs will have the luxury of time, flexibility and freedom to plan training programmes, accommodation arrangements and flights for overseas competitions.<\/p>\r\r<p>And by opening themselves up for audit, the NSAs will be forced to practise good governance and transparency in all their financial dealings.<\/p>\r\r<p>The NSC-appointed auditors shall check the accuracy and credibility of financial statements and administrative provisions related to the NSAs and financial accounting operations as well as to check whether the funds are used exclusively to achieve the objectives set out in the programme.<\/p>\r\r<p>This was unlike the first MOA between NSC and the NSAs introduced in 2005.<\/p>\r\r<p>When the Cabinet Committee for Sports Development chaired by the then Deputy Prime Minister approved a budget of RM30 million to develop eight core sports namely aquatics (diving and swimming), athletics, badminton, bowling, football, gymnastics, hockey and squash, an MOA was signed between NSC and the eight associations.<\/p>\r\r<p>The implementation of the programme came directly under the control of the Steering Committee for Core Sports which was headed by Tan Sri Noordin Hassan, with a total of 366 centres and 636 coaches employed for the eight sports under this programme.<\/p>\r\r<p>While hockey and badminton were the biggest recipients of the funding with RM4.5 million and RM3.14 million approved respectively, there were underlying issues that merely sowed the deep mistrust between the Government agency and the non-governmental associations.<\/p>\r\r<p>Back to 2024, for a start, 19 sports will enjoy the quarterly funding direct to the newly-set up bank account.<\/p>\r\r<p>They are aquatics, archery, athletics, badminton, boxing, cycling, gymnastics, hockey, karate, ping pong, sailing, sepak takraw, shooting, silat, squash, taekwondo, tenpin bowling, weightlifting and wushu.<\/p>\r\r<p>The initiative will expand to include sports expected to feature in the upcoming SEA Games in Bangkok and the 2027 edition supposed to be held in Malaysia.<\/p>\r\r<p>For the sports family which had been forced to accept programmes that were watered down or scrapped altogether due to budget issues for the past five years or so, the quarterly funding will ease their financial burden as they bid to be self-sustaining.<\/p>\r\r<p>No more complains after this, one might assume.<\/p>","author_name":"Rizal Hashim","article_byline":"Rizal Hashim","article_tags":"","author_id":694,"kicker_name":"On The Line","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/on-the-line?bycat=694_1662683941","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/694.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002673,"np_author_id":694,"author_name":"Rizal Hashim","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/694.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"On The Line\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"694_1662683941\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3697594,"np_article_id":1373600,"article_title":"Getting a kick out of a balancing act for success in Euro 2024","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column,\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/a-winning-factor\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/18\\\/getting-a-kick-out-of-a-balancing-act-for-success-in-euro-2024\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"INTERNATIONAL football is all about balance!\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"25\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-06-18 01:56:26\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-06-19 10:07:47\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Martin Ignatius\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"25\"}","publish_time":"2024-06-18 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/18\\\/2754104.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/06\/18\/getting-a-kick-out-of-a-balancing-act-for-success-in-euro-2024","show_image_in_thumb":0,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>INTERNATIONAL football is all about balance!<\/p>\r\r<p>From the composition of players to their ages, everything must achieve perfect equilibrium, and achieving this could be the key to winning it all. And Germany look like a team with a balanced squad based on their opening game in Euro 2024.<\/p>\r\r<p>Many feared that Julian Nagelsmann wouldn\u2019t have enough experience with the squad list, but based on the result, it seems he has found the right formula.<img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/06\/18\/2754104.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 220px; height: 149px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>The return of Toni Kroos helped as he ran the show in the middle of the park and rarely wasted any passes.<\/p>\r\r<p>Players up front, such as Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz, made Kai Havertz\u2019s job easy as he looked like a proper number nine in Nagelsmann\u2019s system.<\/p>\r\r<p>An early goal helped the German team settle down. By the time Musiala danced (yes sir, he can boogie) through the Scottish defence, he broke the Tartan Army and forced them to open up to chase the game.<\/p>\r\r<p>The red card didn\u2019t help the Scottish\u2019s team cause, and with an additional man, Germany ran up the score to instill fear in the rest of the teams in the tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>We shall see whether Germany can sustain this in other matches, as Switzerland look like a team that can cause an upset.<\/p>\r\r<p>The most neutral team in the tournament got off to a good start by demonstrating that at this level, you do not need a superstar to win games.<\/p>\r\r<p>Team football will get you far, and being cohesive could cause an upset against the favourites. True tests await, but this Swiss team are showing lots of promise.<\/p>\r\r<p>The neutrals were expecting an entertaining game between Spain and Croatia, but what they got was a one-sided affair as Spain ran out as winners with a comprehensive scoreline.<\/p>\r\r<p>Croatians look old and cannot keep up with the young legs of the Spanish players, especially Lamine Yamal, as he recorded an assist (youngest ever in tournament history) at 16 years old.<\/p>\r\r<p>At 16, I was playing PlayStation, but Yamal is lighting up a tournament!<\/p>\r\r<p>Spain might look like one of the favourites now, but the aging Croatian team contributed to their victory.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Croatian squad appear similar to the one that played in the World Cup final in 2018. You know your squad is old when you are chasing a game and the player you bring in to be the game-changer is 35-year-old Ivan Perisic.<\/p>\r\r<p>Balance is out of the window with the pairing of 38-year-old Luka Modric and 30-year-old Mateo Kovacic. Croatia need some young blood in the middle of the park if they really want to compete. If the team remain the same in the next game, they can start making reservations for Ibiza.<\/p>\r\r<p>Albania created history by scoring the fastest goal in Euro history but could not sustain the lead as Italy came back with two quickfire goals. Gianluigi Donnarumma\u2019s heroics prevented the points from being shared.<\/p>\r\r<p>This Italy team are finding their feet in playing Luciano Spalletti\u2019s way and might need extra sessions in training to ensure that they put up a fight against Spain in the next game.<\/p>\r\r<p>The Three Lions got off to a winning start in the Euro with a 1-0 victory as Jude Bellingham started this tournament with a goal. It is very fitting for a player who is dubbed the \u2018star boy\u2019 of the tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>The only way is up for Jude, and he should grow from here, but the main talking point of the game would be Gareth Southgate\u2019s tactics.<\/p>\r\r<p>England have the tools to win the whole tournament, but not with Southgate in charge.<\/p>\r\r<p>After going one-nil up, England played negatively and sat back to absorb the pressure from the Serbians. England did not take the game by the neck by going for the jugular.<\/p>\r\r<p>This contrasts with the way Germany and Spain played, where one goal is not enough, and both teams will run up the score to entertain the fans. Come on, Southgate! You\u2019ve got fans travelling far to watch England play \u2014 at least make it entertaining for them.<\/p>\r\r<p>If this tactic continues in the second round, England might not go far in this tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>Football has changed \u2014 it is difficult to hold a one-goal lead! You need a second goal to be safe in international football.<\/p>\r\r<p>Balance-wise, Trent Alexander-Arnold looked alright in the middle of the park, but against better opposition, he is a liability.<\/p>\r\r<p>Surprisingly, Harry Kane got a full 90 minutes when Ollie Watkins was on the bench and could have benefited from the space left behind by the Serbian defence.<\/p>\r\r<p>Early days, but England have to play better!<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3696786,"np_article_id":1371926,"article_title":"Tears, rage and a brave comeback by a wronged player Faisal","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Football, Sport box, Commentary, Faisal Halim, Crime, Malaysia, Selangor\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"summary\":[\"AFTER the press conference, many needed a few hours to get over it. The emotions flowed freely \\u2013 hardened newsmen were in tears, other were in a rage.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":464,\"columns\":\"464_1663890104\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-06-15 07:16:43\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-06-15 07:16:43\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Mohd Shazrin B Mat Shom\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"target_page\":\"31\",\"cxense_metatags\":null}","publish_time":"2024-06-15 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/15\\\/2750211.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":620,\\\"image_original_height\\\":417,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/sports-box\/2024\/06\/15\/tears-rage-and-a-brave-comeback-by-a-wronged-player-faisal","show_image_in_thumb":2750211,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>AFTER the press conference, many needed a few hours to get over it. The emotions flowed freely \u2013 hardened newsmen were in tears, other were in a rage.<\/p>\r\r<p>I, for one, could not gather my thoughts well.<\/p>\r\r<p>It was so hard to see a professional football player - one who had graced the field with goals, dribbling and celebrations and who had greeted reporters off-field with a thousand-watt smile - looking so frail, distraught and down in the dumps.<\/p>\r\r<p>Still, there was an air of defiance about Faisal Halim when he made his first public appearance on Wednesday after the tragic acid attack a month ago.<\/p>\r\r<p>Faisal - Mickey to his fans - could light up any stage with his smile but when he took off his cap and shades at the Selangor Football Training Centre, there was an eerie silence.<\/p>\r\r<p>And when images of wounds he suffered were shared, there were gasps of disbelief. It was bad enough seeing him with his scars, but those injuries touched a raw nerve.<\/p>\r\r<p>Who could have committed such an heinous act on such an affable lad?<\/p>\r\r<p>The trauma was obvious. Faisal feared for his life and that of his loved ones.<\/p>\r\r<p>But he was defiant. He did not want to hide forever, but still had questions over how long it would take before he could lead a normal life again.<\/p>\r\r<p>Mickey even suggested that it is time to be \u201carrogant\u201d if that was the best for him. He had been too good with everyone, so approachable even to his enemies.<\/p>\r\r<p>I do not know if he has enemies but it shows how deep the emotional scar is. He needs not just treatment for the wounds but also psychological help to get over the trauma.<\/p>\r\r<p>Returning to the field is one thing, but being normal again is another.<\/p>\r\r<p>The fear, anxiety and anguish were clear for all to see. \u201cI could not hug my son for a month,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\r<p>The child is just four, and the father in him could not bear the separation.<\/p>\r\r<p>And there was anger too. He has not been updated by the police about his case since he was in ICU - and it has been more than a month!<\/p>\r\r<p>A national figure, disfigured by acid and still kept in the dark. The apathy is unbelievable. He has questions, and no answers.<\/p>\r\r<p>All he wanted to do was to play the beautiful game, but he will not be remembered for his genius on the field. Instead, the scars on his face and arm are the permanent memories.<\/p>\r\r<p>He questions his own purpose - is this what all the hard work was for? And he seeks closure - that can only come when the perpetrators are caught and made to pay.<\/p>\r\r<p>So far, the police have been of little help. There have been no updates, no leads. Instead, there have been conflicting stories, even of the attack itself. The fact Selangor had to hire lawyers to get answers says a lot.<\/p>\r\r<p>What Faisal went through should not happen to anyone. Facing the press was the first step in his battle to say that he would not be cowed. He said he wants to return to the field, and the whole nation wants that to happen<\/p>\r\r<p>He is a brave lad on the field, and off it too. A bunch of cowards with some acid are not about to take him down.<\/p>\r\r<p>His comeback story will be in Malaysian football folklore ... We look forward to continuing penning more of his stories, documenting his return and telling these tales to future generation.<\/p>\r\r<p>For now, let\u2019s ensure that our boy, despite his small stature, can achieve his big dreams of playing in the best stages, whether club or international football.<\/p>\r\r<p>Faisal, kamu kuat! We are with you! And we want to see you doing customary celebration, with thousands of Siuuus in the stadiums.<\/p>","author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","article_byline":"T. Avineshwaran","article_tags":"","author_id":464,"kicker_name":"Sports Box","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/sports-box?bycat=464_1663890104","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/464.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":2005646,"np_author_id":464,"author_name":"T. Avineshwaran","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/464.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"avinesh@thestar.com.my","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"The Gaffer\",\"column_status\":\"hide\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1564141134\"},\"2\":{\"column_name\":\"Sports Box\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1663890104\"},\"3\":{\"column_name\":\"Comment\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"464_1703288117\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}},{"cms_article_id":3695085,"np_article_id":1368536,"article_title":"Euro 2024 closes in on England\u2019s redemption and Italy\u2019s defence","article_custom_fields":"{\"\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_keywords\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_description\":[\"\"],\"seo_meta_title\":[\"\"],\"sponsored_flag\":[\"\"],\"offer_flag\":[\"\"],\"featured_article_flag\":[\"\"],\"primary_category\":[\"\"],\"other_keywords\":[\"Say What, A winning factor, Efny Johan, column\"],\"external_link\":[\"\"],\"article_tags\":[\"\"],\"send_to_scmp\":[\"off\"],\"media_gallery_title\":[\"\"],\"media_gallery_flag\":[\"off\"],\"syncad_medrec_top\":[\"\"],\"syncad_megalead\":[\"\"],\"header\":[\"\"],\"stop_cxense_recommendation\":[\"\"],\"permalink\":[\"opinion\\\/columnists\\\/a-winning-factor\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/11\\\/euro-2024-closes-in-on-englands-redemption-and-italys-defence\"],\"origin\":[\"\"],\"agency\":[\"\"],\"review_max_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_rating\":[\"\"],\"review_summary\":[\"\"],\"review\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_end_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news_start_time\":[\"\"],\"breaking_news\":[\"\"],\"branded\":[\"{\\\"is_branded\\\":\\\"0\\\"}\"],\"paywall_package_type\":[\"Metered\"],\"video_source\":[\"\"],\"keyword_tagging\":[\"Euro 2024\"],\"summary\":[\"WE ARE three days away from Euro 2024 in Germany. Just when you thought you were going through withdrawal syndrome from the lack of football, the international tournament for European countries comes running in to give you the fix.\"],\"columnist\":[{\"author\":683,\"columns\":\"683_1661228123\"}],\"byline_email\":[\"\"],\"wide_image\":[\"off\"],\"wide_template\":[\"\"],\"lifestyle_categories\":[\"\"],\"byline_photo\":[\"\"],\"wide_story_template\":[\"\"],\"company_brand\":[\"\"],\"requester\":[\"\"],\"video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_category\":[\"\"],\"is_video_programme\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_start_date\":[\"\"],\"video_programme_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_klik_article\":[\"\"],\"klik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"klik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"is_topik\":[\"\"],\"topik_start_date\":[\"\"],\"topik_end_date\":[\"\"],\"caption\":[\"\"],\"fbia\":[\"\"],\"mstar_status\":[\"\"],\"footnote\":[\"\"],\"is_exclusive\":[\"off\"],\"drupal_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":null,\\\"properties\\\":{\\\"PUBLISHED\\\":0,\\\"PROMOTED\\\":0,\\\"STICKY\\\":0},\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"wp_custom_json\":[\"{\\\"type\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"fields\\\":[]}\"],\"is_branded_article\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_start_date\":[\"\"],\"branded_article_end_date\":[\"\"],\"majoriti_paywall_story_type\":[\"\"],\"cxense_tags\":[\"\"],\"superapp_keyword_tagging\":[\"\"],\"external_source\":[\"\"],\"page_number\":\"31\",\"initial_publication\":\"TheStar\",\"date_created\":\"2024-06-11 07:29:07\",\"date_modified\":\"2024-06-11 08:24:33\",\"last_modified_user\":\"Sri jay\",\"section_color\":\"\",\"cxense_metatags\":null,\"target_page\":\"31\"}","publish_time":"2024-06-11 07:00:00","sub_section_id":33,"image_path":"{\\\"image_path\\\":\\\"uploads\\\/images\\\/2024\\\/06\\\/11\\\/2741873.jpg\\\",\\\"cms_type\\\":\\\"live\\\",\\\"small_image\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"is_updated\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_cropping\\\":{\\\"original_image\\\":{\\\"image_original_width\\\":null,\\\"image_original_height\\\":null,\\\"icd_image_type\\\":\\\"original_image\\\"}},\\\"is_copied\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"media_type\\\":\\\"0\\\",\\\"image_caption\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_alt_text\\\":\\\"\\\",\\\"image_count\\\":\\\"\\\"}","section_id":63,"section_name":"Opinion","sub_section_name":"Columnists","permalink":"opinion\/columnists\/a-winning-factor\/2024\/06\/11\/euro-2024-closes-in-on-englands-redemption-and-italys-defence","show_image_in_thumb":2741873,"a_custom_data":"{\"exclude_from_gallery\":null,\"lead_image_id\":null}","article_body":"<p>WE ARE three days away from Euro 2024 in Germany. Just when you thought you were going through withdrawal syndrome from the lack of football, the international tournament for European countries comes running in to give you the fix.<\/p>\r\r<p>This should be sufficient for football fans since this European competition comprises many players who grace the Premier League.<\/p>\r\r<p><img alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/images\/2024\/06\/11\/2741874.jpg\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/cdn.thestar.com.my\/Themes\/img\/tsol-default-image2023.png'\" style=\"float: left; width: 250px; height: 253px;\" \/><\/p>\r\r<p>Rather than a tournament preview, I will focus instead on selected teams with a lot at stake, starting with England and Italy, the two countries that contested in the last Euro final.<\/p>\r\r<p>Could this tournament be Gareth Southgate\u2019s swansong? Could it really be coming home? Can England bring back a major trophy for the first time since 1966?<\/p>\r\r<p>The finalised squad list shows that this England team are filled with superstars. One might think this is Jude Bellingham\u2019s team, but it still revolves around Harry Kane.<\/p>\r\r<p>Trophyless in his first season with Bayern Munich, Kane has a lot to prove and break his duck in winning anything. What a way to do it in the country where Kane is playing club football. It would be an excellent redemption arc for a player who deserves a winner\u2019s medal.<\/p>\r\r<p>Like any tournament, to go far, a team need to be solid in the middle of the park, and England have that with both Declan Rice and Bellingham.<\/p>\r\r<p>Phil Foden should support the two in the middle, with Rice as the anchor, allowing both Foden and Bellingham to charge forward.<\/p>\r\r<p>Southgate also needs to decide who will start in the left forward position: Bukayo Saka or the red-hot Cole Palmer.<\/p>\r\r<p>Personally, Saka should start because he has international experience in that position.<\/p>\r\r<p>Plus, Saka has more discipline to come back and assist the rightback, and if the right back is Trent Alexander-Arnold, Saka would need to help defensively.<\/p>\r\r<p>Having Alexander-Arnold at rightback, however, has its benefits; he can create from a deep position role and can either move to the middle of the park or bomb down the right to create chances for Kane and the forwards.<\/p>\r\r<p>If Joe Gomez plays in the leftback position, England can convert to a back three while in possession, allowing the rightback to either help the midfield or bomb forward.<\/p>\r\r<p>With only one recognised leftback in Luke Shaw, Southgate might consider this strategy when the tournament starts.<\/p>\r\r<p>It\u2019s an interesting time to be an England manager, and for the sake of their Malaysian supporters\u2019 sanity, many hope that England will go far in this tournament.<\/p>\r\r<p>For the defending champions, it will be a testing tournament since they are in the same group as Spain, Croatia, and Albania.<\/p>\r\r<p>One could say that this Italy squad lack a recognised star name (among casual fans) except for Gianluigi Donnarumma, Jorginho, and Federico Chiesa.<\/p>\r\r<p>However, this Italy squad are under the guidance of coach Luciano Spalletti, the last manager to take Napoli to a Serie A title before resigning.<\/p>\r\r<p>Spalletti will impose a certain style of play on the Italy squad, and we can expect an attacking style of football like the way Napoli played when he won the Serie A title.<\/p>\r\r<p>The question will be whether Spalletti has enough time to mould the current set of players to play the style of football he desires.<\/p>\r\r<p>Never bet against Italy because they are a tournament team and always know when to peak at the right time and win it all, just like Euro 2020.<\/p>\r\r<p>Keep an eye on Italy\u2019s leftback Federico Dimarco, who had a wonderful season for Inter Milan.<\/p>\r\r<p>Somehow, Italy always produce a standout leftback for international tournaments; remember Fabio Grosso? Yes, he was a leftback who won Italy the World Cup and had a successful Euro run.<\/p>\r\r<p>Another weakness that Spalletti needs to address is the centre forward position. Imagine a country that produced Christian Vieri, Filippo Inzaghi, and Francesco Totti not having a star forward coming into this competition.<\/p>\r\r<p>Maybe this could be the tournament for Gianluca Scamacca, who had a splendid tournament in the Europa League for Atalanta. Could Scamacca carry his form into this Euro? Time will tell!<\/p>\r\r<p>Overall, it will be an interesting Euro 24 with many subplots on the horizon.<\/p>\r\r<p>Football fans cannot wait to catch one or two games daily. Many will follow their favourite players from the Premier League and the Champions League to get their football fix.<\/p>\r\r<p>See you next week for more coverage of the Euro!<\/p>","author_name":"Efny Johan","article_byline":"Efny Johan","article_tags":"","author_id":683,"kicker_name":"A Winning Factor","kicker_url":"\/sport\/say-what\/a-winning-factor?bycat=683_1661228123","author_image_src":"https:\/\/apicms.thestar.com.my\/uploads\/authors\/683.webp","author":{"cms_author_id":3002672,"np_author_id":683,"author_name":"Efny Johan","author_image":"uploads\/authors\/683.jpg","cms_type":"live","authorcol":"","slug":"","old_id":0,"is_updated":0,"email":"","author_email":"","author_phone":0,"author_mobile":0,"author_description":"","author_code":"","author_is_columnist":1,"author_columns":"{\"1\":{\"column_name\":\"A Winning Factor\",\"column_status\":\"show\",\"author_status\":\"show\",\"follow_status\":\"false\",\"forweb_status\":\"false\",\"column_key\":\"683_1661228123\"}}","author_extra_fields":"{\"facebook\":\"\",\"twitter\":\"\",\"insta\":\"\",\"url\":\"\"}"}}]; 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