M-League is good for Brunei: HRH

Jason Thomas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Saturday, April 7, 2012

HIS Royal Highness Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah yesterday outlined the importance of keeping the national Under-21 team together, stressing that the side can only grow from the experience.

The Honorary President of the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD), the Prince told The Brunei Times that the association is eyeing a slot in the Malaysia League with the view of strengthening the squad and maintaining the momentum that came from their Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) win last month.

And with talk rife as to whether Brunei will send a team to participate in one of the two Malaysia League (M-League) divisions the top-tier Malaysian Super League (MSL) or Malaysian Premier League even before the 2-0 win over Indonesia in the March 9 final, the Honorary President agreed that playing in the M-League had its benefits.

"If we want to improve ... We have to. The more they play overseas the better they will be," HRH said when asked if there was any possibility of the team playing in the M-League.

"NFABD is looking into it ... We are still in the planning stages," added the Honorary President, who also heads the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council.

It should be no surprise if the move works out.

After all, Brunei's only professional football club DPMM FC, who are currently leading the Singapore League (S-League), were in the MSL until 2008.

Brunei has a rich tradition of participating in Malaysian football, an involvement which reached its climax in 1999 when the national team edged Sarawak 2-1 for the Malaysia Cup.

Brunei saw action in the M-League (then known as the Semi-Pro League) from 1989 to 1993 and will be keen to further its involvement in regional football considering that cross-straits football between Malaysia and Singapore is at an all-time high Harimau Muda (Malaysian Under-23 team) are currently third in the S-League while Singapore Lions XII (Under-28) top the 14-team MSL.

Malaysia has also mooted the idea of Brunei competing in the M-League, with its Minister of Youth and Sports, Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, telling Malaysian news agency Bernama in January that the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and the NFABD could create a mechanism towards Brunei's participation.

Though an NFABD official later said that the FAM had yet to approach the association, he added that "anything is possible".

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam bestowed Decoration Orders on the victorious HBT squad in a ceremony at the Istana Nurul Iman on Thursday, and in his titah, expressed the desire to see the players form the nucleus of the national football team under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS).

"For me, personally, it's a good move," agreed the Prince.

"The NFABD will support it and work together with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports to further develop football in the future," he added during the interview.The Brunei Times

Brunei are HBT champs !

Jason Thomas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Saturday, March 10, 2012

BRUNEI football will never be the same again.

The national team captured the nation's heart last night by claiming the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) after a 2-0 win over Indonesia, a result that only the most fanatic of football fans may have imagined before the start of the fourth edition of the biennial tournament.

The Sultanate's greatest sporting achievement prior to this was the national team's 1999 Malaysia Cup win and last night's triumph trumps that considering the victory came against a national side and one that has long been regarded as one of the region's powerhouses.

Sure, the team had five overage (above 21) players in their ranks, but it was a team effort and a composed all-round play which won Brunei the championship.

Fans filled the 28,000 capacity Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas hours before kick-off, and stormed the pitch after the prize-giving, spent another half an hour taking photos and mingling with the players and coaches a sight that will forever live on in the memories of those present last night.

With His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam presenting his namesake trophy to captain Md Najib Hj Tarif after the match, the smile on the midfielder's face spoke louder than words.

It wasn't always smooth sailing for the hosts though.

Led by their influential captain Andik Vermansyah, Indonesia dominated the opening exchanges and the champions of the inaugural HBT in 2002 looked poised to make it a double if they kept controlling the midfield and starving Brunei strikers of a sight on goal.

But Brunei came out charging in the second half and got their opener from 17-year-old Md Aminuddin Zakwan Tahir in the 48th minute.

Striker Adi Said who was later named the tournament's best player made it 2-0 nearly half an hour later, and a resilient defence would close out the game with a clean sheet despite a late onslaught by the Merah Putih.

Adi's sixth minute shot on target was the first real chance for either side, though Brunei would fail to find their tempo until the half-hour mark while giving away possession cheaply.

Indonesia's Kurniawan had two attempts that were saved by Md Fakhrul Zuhazmi Yussof mid-way through the period, with Brunei's best chance of the half coming from right-back Md Azri Zahari who headed a Md Azwan Ali Rahman free-kick wide of the left post in the 40th minute.

Brunei got a lucky break three minutes after the restart when the Indonesian defence failed to clear a cross from the left, and with Md Aminuddin Zakwan inside the box, the right-winger needed no extra persuading to slot the ball home from close range.

The goal seemed to galvanise the Indonesians though Yosua Pahabol created two chances in quick succession.

Central midfielders Md Hendra Azam Md Idris and Md Nurikhwan Othman were just starting to make their presence felt and the former's injury and the inclusion of centre-back Reduan Hj Petara in the 70th minute didn't seem to affect their new-found rhythm.

Adi who ends the competition with four goals had a hard time finding space or winning aerial challenges, but the former Majra FC player has the hallmark of every deadly striker knowing how to put away chances when they present themselves.

A 75th minute through ball from Md Najib had Adi through on goal on the left and created a two-on-two situation, with Md Najib in support down the middle.

The ever-confident Adi easily dribbled past his marker and slotted past Aji Saka's right, his well-placed shot giving the Bruneian fans the certainty they needed that this would be their night.

Though Andik would threaten late on, the playmaker wasn't able to lift his team on his shoulders like he had throughout the tournament especially with a five-man defense awaiting.

The game's only blemish came after the goal when certain portions of the Bruneian and Indonesian crowd began throwing projectiles at one another, though many Indonesian fans were already streaking out of the stadium by then.

But for Brunei though, nothing can take the gloss away from the most memorable night in Brunei football for years.

The Brunei Times

Can Brunei go all the way?

Yee Chun Leong
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN



Friday, March 9, 2012

WILL it be a fairy tale ending for Brunei?

The national Under-21 football team are only one win away from the ultimate prize in the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT).

They will host Indonesia in the final tonight at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Brunei stunned tournament favourites Myanmar 3-2 in the semi-finals on Wednesday night to set up the encounter.

Indonesia, meanwhile, booked their berth via a 2-0 win against Vietnam in their semi-final matchup.

It is history in the making as this is the first time that the Sultanate have progressed to the final in their own biennial tournament.

National football coach Kwon Oh-Son felt that his boys are ready to rise up to the challenge but believes that it will be a close one to call.

"We have a golden opportunity tomorrow (Friday) but I believe that it will be a very close match and it will be an exciting one," said Kwon in an interview with The Brunei Times yesterday.

"The team morale is very good at the moment but we know that Indonesia are a very strong team. We have prepared our attacking organisation and our set pieces so hopefully we can score because we know that they (Indonesia) have got a strong backline," he added.

"The defenders will have to work hard together because Indonesia have got good players such as Andik (Vermanshah), Yosua (Pahabol) and Miko (Ardiyanto). I believe that the battle in midfield will be a crucial part of the game as well," continued the South Korean.

On the other hand, Indonesia assistant coach Liestiadi Lo believes that they have got what it takes to topple the hosts.

"Our initial target was really on how to make it into the semi-finals but now that we have gone forward, we only want to be champions. We have worked hard and we want to achieve that goal," said Liestiadi.

Asked on what will be key in the final, Liestiadi replied: "All the players on the team will be key in this matchup and we're glad that there are no injuries.

"Brunei have got some senior players on their squad while we have pure under-21 players but we are still optimistic to defeat them," he added.

"Our supporters are our 12th man as well and this is definitely good stimulation for the players," continued Liestiadi.

Indonesia, who won the inaugural edition in 2002, have constantly been getting a huge turnout of Merah Putih supporters and should get some backing once again for tonight's final.

Team manager Hazrul Azwar had confidently declared that they will be champions prior to the start of the competition.

So will there be heartbreak for the young wasps or will Brunei further create history in football?

The match kicks off at 8.15pm.

The Brunei Times

Fans name Andik as biggest threat to Brunei's challenge

Yee Chun Leong & Ak Md Fauzi Salleh
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN



Friday, March 9, 2012

WHO will be crowned the champions of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT)?

The biennial tournament will see hosts Brunei take on Indonesia in the final today at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Fans from both teams have revealed predictions on who they think will be the champions at the end of today.

Aji, an Indonesian working in the private sector, felt that Brunei have got the edge in the match.

"Brunei have made really good progress from the start of the tournament. They have been playing as a team with a lot of passing," said Aji.

"Indonesia are a bit more stagnant and they tend to lose ball possession quite a bit," he added.

Another Indonesian, Darul, feels that it will be an evenly contested game but the Sultanate will have to be cautious of Indonesia's star player.

"Both teams are very good. As Brunei should already know, they will have to be careful of Andik (Vermanshah). He may be physically small but he is a really good player," said Darul.

Azim, 27, is rooting for the home side and trusts that they will lift the trophy.

"Brunei have been playing good but sometimes they can be inconsistent. They didn't show much of a game in the first half against Myanmar but were able to fight back in the second half," said Azim.

"They were able to beat one of the strongest teams in the tournament and Myanmar didn't even lose before that. Brunei will win this final," he declared.

According to Johari Hj Bungsu, the Sultanate will need another strong performance to topple Indonesia, who won the inaugural meet in 2002.

"Brunei have got what it takes to be champions if they can replicate the second half performance that they did against Myanmar," said Johari.

"They cannot give Andik (Vermanshah) and Kurniawan any chances. The duo are the main players and creators for Indonesia," he added.

Ujang Kassim, a 26-year-old Indonesian who works at a retail shop in Kiulap, felt that there were more important issues to the game.

"I will be watching the game tomorrow (Friday) after work with my fellow Indonesian friends, Insyaallah we can win this game. My prediction is 1-0 to Indonesia, it is good to have Brunei in the final, win or lose it is just a game. Indonesians and Bruneians will always have good relationships," he said

Compatriot Faikhul Khalimi, 23, who works at Lof Bakery hopes that his country will put up a show and take it all the way.

"I hope that Indonesia will play a good fair game tomorrow, Andik will be the key player for us. Andik is small but he can beat three to four defenders with his pace and skills, Andik will score two goals for Indonesia, 2-0 to Indonesia," he said.

A Bruneian undergraduate from Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Nina Abd Ghani, is certain that Brunei will create history.

"I hope the Brunei team can drive through the game with the aim of winning the final, and to persevere, they must get the trophy no matter what and we Bruneians will support them 110 per cent! We have full trust in the Brunei team this year," she said

"My prediction is 3-1 to Brunei, and to the Bruneian fans, cheer on the day and wear yellow," she added.

The Brunei Times

Will Brunei end fairy tale run on a high?

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN



Friday, March 9, 2012

WILL Brunei be able to cap off their Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) campaign with a fairy tale ending?

The national Under-21 football team are just one win away from being crowned kings of the tournament but it will be no easy task with Indonesia standing in the way.

The HBT final kicks off tonight at 8.15 at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

It's Brunei vs Indonesia in the final

Yee Chun Leong
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN


Thursday, March 8, 2012


THERE were plenty of reason for Brunei to celebrate last night.

The history-making run continues for the national Under-21 football team as they are through to the final of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) after a 3-2 win over tournament favourites Myanmar in the semi-final last night at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

They will face Indonesia, who defeated Vietnam 2-0 in the other semi-final, tomorrow.

This is the furthest that the team have made in the competition having not progressed into the semi-finals in their past three attempts.

Brunei started off brightly and got their first chance in the ninth minute. Md Shafie Hj Effendy slipped behind the Myanmar defenders but was denied by keeper Pyaye Phyo Aung.

Midfielder Md Azwan Ali Rahman curled another shot almost immediately and it required the keeper to parry it above the crossbar.

Myanmar had their first chance through Thet Naing after he tested Brunei keeper Md Fakhrul Zulhazmi Yussof in the 16th minute.

Kyaw Ko Ko created a chance two minutes later after making his way into the box but Brunei's man in between the posts once again made the save.

Forward Adi Said almost put the home side up in the 20th minute after connecting on a Md Azwan freekick from midfield in the 20th minute but saw his attempt saved.

Pyae Phyo Oo was a constant threat on the left delivering pin point crosses into the box for Myanmar.

In the 25th minute, Mai Aih Naing weaved through the defence and found space but Md Fakhrul Zulhazmi once again made the save.

Myanmar were dominant with ball possession and finally broke the deadlock in the 31st minute.

Phyo Oo set up Aih Naing in the box but saw his shot blocked by a Bruneian defender. The deflected shot, however, fell nicely for Yan Aung Win to slot it down the middle to give Myanmar the lead.

Brunei were constantly on the back foot of the match but found themselves down only 1-0 at halftime.

The match took a turn for the better for the home side after they sent in the duo of midfielder Md Hendra Azam Md Idris and defender Hazwan Hamzah in the 52nd minute.

The former got into the mix quickly. He delivered a freekick three minutes after entering the game to Md Nurikhwan Othman who rose highest to level the scores with his header, sending the Bruneian supporters into a frenzy.

Brunei should have gone in front in the 59th minute after Adi found space but his powerful shot was fumbled by the Myanmar keeper.

Phyo Aung recovered quickly and did just enough to prevent Md Aminuddin Zakwan Tahir to score on the rebound.

The Sultanate took the lead in the 61st minute after Adi played a good throughball for Md Azwan to score on a quick turn.

With the backing of a strong Brunei crowd at the 30,000 capacity stadium, the momentum of the match changed and Brunei were now constantly on the attack.

With high confidence, Brunei put the match to bed when Adi registered his fourth goal of the tournament after connecting on a corner kick by captain Md Najib Hj Tarif in the 79th minute.

Myanmar were pushing forward with time against them but Md Fakhrul Zulhazmi was on hand to ensure they maintain their two-goal cushion.

Myanmar were handed a lifeline after Ko Ko was brought down in the box late into injury time.

Captain Kyaw Zayar Win would step up to convert the penalty but it was too little too late as they were sent packing from the biennial tournament.

The Brunei Times

Final berth brings tears of joy to Brunei team manager

Yee Chun Leong
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN



Thursday, March 8, 2012

THE national under-21 football team are just one game away from the ultimate prize.

They set up a final date with Indonesia tomorrow after a 3-2 win over tournament favourites Myanmar in the semi-finals of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) last night at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

It was the first time in four tries that the Sultanate have made it so far in their own competition, being denied a semi-finals berth in the previous three editions.

Team manager Hj Feisal Hj Eusoff was literally brought to tears at the post-match press conference after all the hard work put in by the boys has paid off.

"We have overcome so many obstacles such as during the start of training and during puasa (fasting month). There were so many barriers but (all our efforts) have paid off," said an emotional Hj Feisal

The manager also didn't fail to credit those who have helped boost the team in the win.

"We would like to thank the Almighty God for helping us win this semi-final match and of course the crowd was fantastic right from the start of the match," he said.

"It really boosted the players and the Royal family really joined in the crowd in supporting us. We are really thankful for that," he added.

"This is the best performance by a Brunei team and we beat a respectable team like Myanmar. We want to salute the players and we were the better team tonight (Wednesday night)," he continued.

Though Myanmar dominated the match for the whole first half, the game changed for the better for the home team after they sent in the duo of Md Hendra Azam Md Idris and Hazwan Hamzah in the 52nd minute.

It proved to be the winning formula with two goals coming within 10 minutes after the substitutions were made.

Assistant coach Hj Md Rosanan Abdullah Samak felt that they had played the cards right for the matchup.

"We were concentrating more on defence in the first half and making it a slow game. That was our strategy," said Hj Md Rosanan.

"We made two substitutions in the second half so that we can go on the attack more and it worked out," added the ex-national player and 1999 Malaysia Cup winner.

Asked on what the half time talk was about in the locker room when they were facing a 1-0 deficit, Hj Md Rosanan simply replied: "We just told them that they can do it."

Myanmar failed to send a representative to the post-match press conference.

The Brunei Times

'Captain Fantastic' downs Vietnam

Ak Fauzi Pg Salleh
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN


Thursday, March 8, 2012


IT WAS Captain Fantastic who came to the rescue for Indonesia yesterday as he inspired his country to a 2-0 win over Vietnam to book a berth in the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy final against Brunei tomorrow.

Andik Vermansah showed why he was elected skipper for his team by playing a hand in both of Indonesia's goals in yesterday's semi-final at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Both teams were evenly match from kick off, each trying to assert dominance and eager to score early on.

Miko Ardiyanto was the first to find the back of the net.

He managed to slip in front of Vietnam's goal keeper to head the ball into the goal following a superb cross by Andik in the 36th minute.

The second half saw Indonesia take control of the game.

Vietnam still had their moments but excellent defending by the Indonesians stifled any offensive momentum that their opponents had.

Andik doubled Indonesia's lead in the 70th minute when he cleverly dribbled past two defenders and slotted the ball into the right corner of the goal to make it 2-0.

Indonesia did not let up despite their lead.

They had the chance to further increase their lead in the 82th minute when Andik found himself in a one-on-one situation from the midfield just to see his shot fly over the bar.

Irvan Eric, a team official from Indonesia was impressed with the team's performance.

"I have seen all the games so far, and in the semi-final it is always a special game. You sometimes see players play better than they normally do because it is only one game, and our boys played very well tonight," he said.

"From what I have seen, Brunei has performed very well... Brunei look very confident," he added.

Indonesia assistant coach Liestiadi Lo, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of team work in last night's 2-0 victory.

"We are not thinking of the opponent (Brunei) that we will be facing in the final, we just going to focus on ourselves to prepare us in the final. We are satisfied with the players' performance tonight, they worked very hard in the game and they really deserved to win," he said.

"People are talking about Andik being the key player for us in this tournament but I think all players are important in this team," he added.

Vietnam assistant coach Pham Nhu Thuan, meanwhile, said they just could not keep up with their opponents' fitness.

"We had three to four players out with injury and our fitness was not at 100 per cent. Our young team of Under-19s were just not strong enough to beat Indonesia. They had very good fitness," said Nhu Thuan.

"It was also difficult because it was very hot. Our previous matches were played at night and the players didnt have enough concentration. But this experience is still good for our future," he added.

The Brunei Times

Brunei won semifinal !

Brunei won the semifinal against Myanmar 3-2 in HBT 2012 today


They face Indonesia in the final

Brunei brace for tough Myanmar test tonight

Jason Thomas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN


Wednesday, March 7, 2012


BRUNEI are fully prepared for what looks to be its biggest match in years.

The Sultanate faces tournament favourites Myanmar in tonight's semi-final at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas, with the game looking to be the largest test for many of the players in their young careers.

In the last four of its own tournament for the first time since the biennial event started in 2002, Brunei will have the hopes of the nation on their shoulders and Kwon Oh-son feels they can handle the pressure.

"It's a very big match for us and the players are all ready and focused," said Brunei's coach, who has led the team into the semis for the first time in three attempts.

"The most important thing for us is defensive organisation as soon as we lose the ball. We need to do that as fast as possible," he said.

"Kyaw Ko Ko is their best player and I know Myanmar head coach Park Sung-hwa has said Ko Ko who won the best player award in his country last year is the best striker in all of Myanmar," said the South Korean.

Another player Brunei will have to watch out for apart from Ko Ko who netted five times at last year's Southeast Asian (SEA) Games is captain Kyaw Zayar Win, the midfielder who currently leads the HBT goalscoring charts with five goals.

Brunei will have their own options in front of goal Adi Said being the deadliest.

Adi and Ko Ko are both tied on three goals heading into tonight's game.

Not only will key midfielder Md Hendra Azam Md Idris be back in the Brunei team, Adi the team's top scorer after netting in each of the three games he has played in will be back from the suspension which kept him out of Brunei's 1-0 win over Timor Leste on Monday.

True enough, Myanmar's manager Soe Moe Kyaw admitted Adi will be one of the players his team will have to watch out for.

"Brunei have four or five good players. Big players. Players like (striker) Adi Said, (midfielder and captain) Md Najib Hj Tarif and (midfielder) Md Azwan Ali Rahman," said the manager yesterday.

"We've worked hard to reach the semis and Brunei also deserve to be here. Brunei is not only tough but have a lot of supporters.

"I'm sure the match will be very tough (but) we will try our best. They play very well and the team has good combination play.

"Ko Ko and Zayar Win will play but they have slight injuries," added the manager.

The Brunei Times

Smile, we made history

Jason Thomas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

THERE was no denying the look on their faces when they walked into the room.

They took their time getting there, but when the trio arrived at the post-match Press conference last night, it was smiles all around.

Kwon Oh-son had just created history after becoming the first coach to lead Brunei to the semi-finals of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT), and the South Korean shared his delight with his assistant Hj Mohd Rosanan Abdullah Samak and the team's manager Hj Feisal Hj Eusoff.

Brunei beat Timor Leste 1-0 to book a place in the Last 4 of its own biennial tournament for the first time in four attempts last night with Kwon overseeing the previous two unsuccessful attempts in 2007 and 2005.

"We played a good game tonight (Monday night)," grinned Kwon at the Press conference at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

"Timor Leste were strong ... We had five players injured ... but we were patient," added the coach.

Queen's seminal "We Are The Champions" rang out the stadium after the match, a song that Hj Feisal felt did not fit the occasion.

"It's not over yet. We face Myanmar in Wednesday's semi-finals," insisted the manager.

"Of course, we feel proud to be in the semis. The teams in the HBT are all very strong," he added.

Md Aminuddin Zakwan Tahir netted the only goal in the 18th minute, and though Brunei had their chances, the second half belonged to Timor Leste.

Brunei seemed content to sit back and soak the pressure, but Hj Mohd Rosanan felt there was nothing wrong with that.

"I'm not saying we were defensive ... We only needed a draw to progress, we were just cautious," said ex-national player and 1999 Malaysia Cup winner.

Despite looking the better team in the second half, Timor Leste's coach Norio Tsukitate failed to find any positives from his team's performance.

"How do I look? Happy? No, I'm crying," he grimaced when asked how he felt about the defeat. "We didn't score, so how can I be happy? It doesn't matter how many chances we created, we didn't score.

"I don't think we played better in the second half. We just switched some players about and that confused the Brunei side," added the Japanese.The Brunei Times

Brunei in HBT semis

Jason Thomas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

AFTER 10 long years the wait has finally ended Brunei are in the semi-finals of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT).

The Sultanate started the biennial tournament in 2002, and after failing to qualify past the group stage during the inaugural edition and again in 2005 and 2007, the pressure was on this year's team to deliver.

Tied on points with Timor Leste but edging them in the standings on goal difference, Brunei only needed a draw against them last night.

Md Aminuddin Zakwan Tahir made sure they went one better, his goal in the 18th minute ensuring Brunei would make it through at the expense of the visitors with a 1-0 result at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

They face Myanmar in tomorrow's semi-finals at the same venue, where another historic win will put them though to Friday's final against either Vietnam or Indonesia.

Captain Md Najib Hj Tarif underlined his importance to the team with the cross from the left which found Md Aminuddin Zakwan in the box, his close-range flick of the boot enough to give Brunei a lead they would valiantly defend until the final whistle.

The home of Brunei football, the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium was filled to the rafters for the epic match with the Royal Brunei Police Force even having to deny spectators entry.

The hosts were winning the midfield battle in the first half, and despite playing without suspended striker Adi Said, were encouragingly able to create chances.

But as expected, Timor Leste's superior physique and build handed them the edge in a defence marshalled by the lanky Raul Dias Monteiro Isac.

Though Brunei did well to press their opponents in the second half, their midfield started to crumble and they surrendered their superiority in possession with tired legs contributing to several astray passes.

Shotstopper Md Fakhrul Zulhazmi Yussof was tested three times in the space of as many minutes around the hour-mark, his toughest test of the tie.

Playing as the lone striker, Ak Md Abd Halim Pg Hj Hassan was guilty for missing at least two genuine goal-scoring opportunities as the half wore down.

Timor Leste were getting increasingly desperate, evident by goalkeeper Emerson Carlos Cesario's decision to head up the field for a corner in the 84th minute which he easily won but was off the mark.

Midfielder Md Hendra Azam Md Idris was sent on late in the game to shore up the five-man Brunei midfield, the experienced playmaker showing no signs of the ankle injury that he picked up during the side's 2-1 loss to Vietnam last week.

With Md Hendra and Adi set to feature again tomorrow, Myanmar better be warned.The Brunei Times

Sea of yellow sinks M'sia

Jason Thomas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN



Sunday, March 4, 2012

HJ FEISAL Hj Eusoff felt the heavens were kind to Brunei last night.

Brunei's 3-0 win over Malaysia in last night's Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) game was their second victory in the competition, and a result which helps them stay in contention for a place in Wednesday's semi-finals.

"Without God I don't think we would have won the game. God was with us tonight (Saturday)," said Brunei's team manager at the post-match Press conference at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

"The supporters were also amazing from the beginning until the end. The players really enjoyed playing with the supporters behind them.

"I hope the supporters will turn out in full force again for our last game against Timor Leste on Monday and wear yellow!

"I also appreciate all the support we got from His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Deputy Sultan, His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Malik and other members of the royal family (who were watching the game).

"The players worked very hard and they deserved to win tonight (Saturday). They were able to score those three goals because they were very confident and settled into the game ... Had a lot of touches," he added.

Despite Malaysia's Muhammad Hadin Azman shown his second yellow card four minutes before the break, Brunei were unable to capitalise on their numerical advantage.

Hj Mohd Rosanan Abdullah Samak didn't think it mattered.

"We didn't play defensively (in the second half). We didn't need a goal what was important is that we were confident holding the ball," said the team's assistant coach.

"It doesn't matter whether it's four goals or five ... It's still three points," insisted the ex-national player.

Last night's defeat leaves Malaysia with just one point from three games and out of the running for a place in the last four, and their head coach felt the crowd at the 25,000-seat stadium which was filled to capacity was Malaysia's downfall.

With eight players promoted to the Under-23 team (Harimau Muda A), who are playing in the Singapore League, Malaysia brought a team of Under-19 players to Brunei and they looked the part. "I'm disappointed but what can I do?" said Ismail Ibrahim.

"Playing against the home team and this kind of crowd ... The pressure was on us. My players are not used to playing in this kind of big stadium. There must have been 25,000 or 30,000 people here tonight (Saturday).

"In the second half we tried to stay compact in the middle (but) Brunei played well."The Brunei Times

Brunei bully Malaysia

Jason Thomas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN


Sunday, March 4, 2012


-Royal support for Team Brunei

THREE goals inside the first 20 minutes paved the way for a crucial 3-0 win for Brunei over Malaysia in last night's Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) match.

The victory, which was their second in three games, puts them tied for second in Group B with Timor Leste making for tomorrow's final group stage game between the two sides all the more enticing.

Brunei lead Timor Leste on goal difference and will only need a draw to progress to the semi-finals for the first time, and after last night's composed display, they can definitely get the job done.

Present to watch Brunei's victory last night were His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Deputy Sultan, and His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Malik.

The 3-0 scoreline must be a surprise to table toppers Vietnam, who Malaysia held to a 0-0 draw during their opener last Saturday. With just one point from three games, Malaysia only have pride left to play for when they take on Cambodia in their final game tomorrow.

The Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas was filled to the brim last night, and the strong home support helped Brunei stamp their mark on the match early on the first goal handing them a grip on the game they wouldn't relinquish until the final whistle.

Adi Said's glancing header after a cross from captain Md Najib Hj Tarif gave Brunei a deserved lead in the eighth minute, and piling on the pressure, the hosts would double their lead 10 minutes later through Md Aminuddin Zakwan Tahir.

Malaysia's defence was in sixes and sevens during another one of Brunei's surging runs forward, and failing to clear their lines, Md Aminuddin didn't need a second invite to pull the trigger from outside the box.

With momentum on their side, Brunei pushed forward in search of a killer third goal.

It took them only seconds to find it.

Adi and Md Aminuddin played some deft one-twos leading to the box, and Jay Han Gan was unlucky to see a shot deflected off him and into the net sparking a Mexican wave which was to be a re-occurring display on the night.

Malaysia's team to the HBT are filled with Under-19 players and they have yet to find their flow failing to string passes together and looking inept during set-pieces.

Their misery was compounded when Muhammad Hadin Azman was sent to an early shower in the 41st minute after Thai referee Mongkolchai Pechsri felt the forward dived when tackled in the box by Ak Md Abd Halim Pg Hj Hassan.

With Brunei continuing to control the game in the second half, a Malaysian comeback never looked likely.

Malaysia found it hard to penetrate Brunei's back-line which was led by a lanky Reduan Hj Petara.

The centre-back playing in place of midfielder Md Hendra Azam Md Idris, who picked up an ankle injury during Brunei's 2-1 loss to Vietnam on Wednesday was also a force to be reckoned with during set-pieces, evident by his three headers which were saved in the second half, which was marked with restraint on Brunei's part.The Brunei Times

End of Hendra's HBT campaign?

Jason Thomas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN



Friday, March 2, 2012

MD HENDRA Azam Md Idris's Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) campaign is at risk after the ankle injury he picked up during Wednesday's 2-1 Group B loss to Vietnam.

A key cog in Brunei's midfield, he was on the wrong end of a two-footed sliding tackle in the 21st minute and left the field at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas long before his side would let in a heart-wrenching injury time goal to tournament favourites Vietnam.

"I'm not sure if I can play in the tournament again," said the midfielder when met at last night's HBT welcoming dinner at The Centrepoint Hotel in Gadong.

"I still can't use my boots and I'm on painkillers at the moment. My foot got swollen and I couldn't continue wearing boots (after the tackle).

"Something's wrong with the tissue. My foot was really swollen this (Thursday) morning, but it has got better now. I'll try wearing boots again tomorrow (Friday).

"I think the chances of me playing (in the HBT) again are 50-50. But, of course, I want to play again we have to win our next game against Malaysia (on Saturday)," insisted Md Hendra.

His first serious injury, the 23-year-old Bruneian was unhappy with not only its timing but the referee's (the Philippines' Jovanie Villagracia) decision not to brandish a card for it.

"He (the Vietnamese player) totally didn't get the ball. He also didn't get a card ... I feel the referee was against us," said Md Hendra.

"I've never been injured before and I feel totally sad about all of this. I was out after just 20 minutes ... that's too early," he sighed.

One of the five players to represent the country at November's Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Jakarta, Md Hendra's absence from the national HBT team will no doubt be a big blow for the side.

However, striker Adi Said who along with Md Hendra, captain Mohd Najib Hj Tarif and defenders Md Azri Zahari and Reduan Hj Petara also saw action in Jakarta felt that the team would still function as a unit if Md Hendra could not feature during the biennial tournament again.

"We can still play as a team even if he isn't in the side, but of course, we hope he will recover in time to play again," said Adi, who sent the home crowd into a frenzy on Wednesday after stunning the Vietnamese side with a header in the fourth minute.

"I'm sad with the final result. It should have been a draw or a win. We had a lot of chances, but finishing was the problem.

"Our focus now is on our next two games against Malaysia and Timor Leste (on Monday). We must win them both,"he added.

The loss, which came courtesy of a Cao Xuan Thang header seconds before the final whistle after Phan Dinh Thang had equalised in the 53rd minute also didn't sit well with Md Azri.

"I'm sad we lost like that ... To a last-minute goal," said the defender.

"Md Hendra is a good midfielder with experience playing at the SEA Games and is an important part of the (national HBT) team," he added.The Brunei Times

Wasteful Brunei gave the game away

Yee Chun Leong
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Thursday, March 1, 2012

BRUNEI should have had it in the bag but were too wasteful and have only themselves to blame.

The Sultanate crumbled in the last minute of the game and succumbed to a 2-1 loss to Vietnam in Group B of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) last night at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

"We had a few good chances but failed to convert. Should we have scored then it would have been a different story. Our players were just not focused and left their player open for a free header in the final play," said Hj Feisal Hj Eusoff, the Brunei team manager, in a post-match press conference.

"It was a 50-50 game and I believe we could have won it. Now we can only look forward and become a better team," he added.

One factor that changed the game was the injury to midfielder Md Hendra Azam Md Idris in the 21st minute after a malicious tackle by one of the Vietnamese players.

The team manager felt that the officiating of the match could have been better.

"We are sad about the judgement of the referee because there was no card given whatsoever when our player picked up a serious injury from the tackle," said Hj Feisal.

"It became a problem because he is one of our senior players. We thought that the referee's decisions at times were bad and some times failed to have the game under control.

"Fouls were even given when the tackle is clean and it distracted the mentality of the players in a way," he said.

The loss may be heartbreaking but assistant coach Hj Md Rosanan Abdullah Samak can seek refuge in the team's performance yesterday.

"I thought we played a good game but we had a slip up just at the end. I thought the stamina of the team was alright as well," said Hj Md Rosanan.

"There are still areas that require improvement in our game especially with the focus and concentration. It is important that we do it for the whole 90 minutes," he added.

The Brunei Times

Heartbreak for Brunei

Yee Chun Leong
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Vietnam triumph with final minute goal

IT WAS total heartbreak for Brunei after Vietnam came away with all three points following a goal late into injury time for a 2-1 victory in Group B of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) last night at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

On a day celebrating the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between both countries, Cao Xuan Thang broke the hearts of all Brunei football fans by heading home a Nguyen Van Manh corner kick in the final minute of the match.

Present to watch the game was His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office.

Also in attendance were Their Royal Highnesses Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah, the Honorary President of the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) and Prince 'Abdul Malik.

The victory also boosts the pre-tournament favourites' chances on making it into the next round with seven points from three games while Brunei only have three points to their name after two outings.

Brunei came out the better team and were focused, going on the attack early.

Hitman Adi Said got the home crowd into a frenzy early after he stunned the Vietnamese side with a goal by heading in a corner from captain Md Najib Hj Tarif in the fourth minute.

They could have doubled their lead just minutes later but a cross by Abd Mu'iz Sisa from the left failed to connect with any of the Bruneian players.

Vietnam almost levelled in the 18th minute after Van Manh had beaten Brunei goal keeper Md Fakhrul Zulhazmi Yussof with his freekick but saw his effort bounce off the post.

It was a blow for the hosts when Md Hendra Azam Md Idris was stretchered off the field in the 21st minute after a strong challenge by Vietnam.

Md Shafie Hj Md Effendy was called in to take over the duties of the midfielder.

The match was physical with the whistle getting blown often, preventing both teams from gaining momentum.

Vietnam came close to equalising in the 36th minute after Xuan Thang whipped in a cross just for Md Azwan Ali Rahman to deflect it towards his own goal but Md Fakhrul was at the right place at the right time to make the save.

Vietnam came out a different side after the break and were playing at a fast pace.

It paid off in the 53rd minute after poor defending by the Bruneian backline saw Phan Dinh Thang equalise from inside the box.

A small Vietnamese crowd started getting behind their team and Brunei found themselves struggling to cope with their opponents' crosses.

Brunei could have easily gone back in front but were wasteful as they had three shot opportunities in the span of three minutes.

Adi should have put Brunei ahead in the 73rd minute but saw his shot cleared off the line by a Vietnamese defender.

Md Azwan had the second attempt but his effort was denied by the post.

Adi had another golden opportunity in the 75th minute but failed to convert in a one-on-one situation against Vietnam keeper Le Van Nghia.

The home team were also fortunate to not lose Md Azri Zahari on a rough tackle on Xuan Thang in the 88th minute.

The match was heading for a draw before Xuan Thang made the Sultanate pay the price.

"We had an inexperienced team out in the first half and they were going for the long ball. We didn't get many chances but we managed to make several changes in the second half for good passing and control to create more chances," said Pham Nhu Thuan, the assistant coach of Vietnam, in a post-match press conference.

"We now have seven points from three games and I believe that we have a good chance on making it into the semi-finals," he added.

The Brunei Times

Support Brunei, wear YELLOW

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

THE national Under-21 football team are calling out to all supporters to head over to the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas to back the team when they play Vietnam in their Group B matchup of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) tonight.

Brunei are coming off a 3-2 victory over Cambodia on Saturday after captain Md Najib Hj Tarif struck with a freekick in injury time for the win.

The opener saw thousands in attendance and team manager, Hj Feisal Hj Eusoff, had correctly emphasised on the 12th man being a factor.

"We would like to have all Bruneian supporters and fans to come out in full force for the match. Who are we without your support?" said Hj Feisal yesterday.

"Come and fill up the stadium to the brim. Please continue to fully support the Brunei team," he added.

The team have also requested the supporters to dress in yellow.The Brunei Times

Brunei skipper: It's the best goal I've ever scored

Jason Thomas
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Monday, February 27, 2012

Curl it like Najib

MD NAJIB Hj Tarif will go down in history as the man who handed Brunei a dramatic 3-2 win over Cambodia at Saturday's Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) curtain-raiser.

Whipping in a free-kick to the top right corner, the captain's injury time winner sealed three vital points for the Sultanate at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

The former AM Gunners midfielder also scored Brunei's only goal during their 2-1 loss to Timor Leste in November's Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Jakarta, but it's understandable why Saturday night's curler ranked higher in his books especially with His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, who earlier officiated at the biennial tournament's opening ceremony, watching from the royal dais.

"I think it was the best goal I've ever scored!" Md Najib told The Brunei Times yesterday.

"I do practise free-kicks and when I stepped up I felt I had a good chance of scoring ... Maybe 80 per cent.

"It was unforgettable because we were playing at home and it was the winner. I'm glad I was able to make all Bruneians happy," said the 24-year-old player.

Insisting that it was a team effort that won them the game, the left-winger also paid tribute to the side's never-say-die attitude.

The inaugural HBT in 2002 saw Brunei play out a 0-0 draw with Cambodia in their opener, but there was to be no repeat of that scoreline come this year's edition.

Trailing as early as the sixth minute after a Prak Mony Udom penalty, Brunei would even the scores just before the break through midfielder Mohd Hendra Azam Mohd Idris. Striker Adi Said gave the hosts the lead in the 75th minute only for Chan Vathanaka to equalise eight minutes later with a free-kick.

"Our mentality won us the game," insisted Md Najib, who has been a policeman for five years.

"We kept on fighting even though we were trailing," said the skipper, who is one of the five overage players starring for Brunei in the Under-21 tournament.

Adi and Mohd Hendra Azam are also on that list, as are defenders Md Azri Zahari and Reduan Hj Petara. All five saw action at the SEA Games.

Though his name might be on every Bruneian football fan's lips at the moment, and cyberspace is abuzz with talk about "that goal", Md Najib isn't about to let all the fame get to his head.

"Am I a hero?" he replied when asked whether he was comfortable with the tag.

"No ... Not yet.

"We have a big game against Vietnam (on Wednesday) and we'll try our best to put up a good fight," added the skipper.The Brunei Times

Brunei Times

Brunei win it for HM

Yee Chun Leong
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN


Sunday, February 26, 2012


-HM opens Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy

CAPTAIN fantastic couldn't have struck at a better time.

Brunei skipper Md Najib Hj Tarif scored a freekick in injury time to give Brunei a 3-2 victory over Cambodia in Group B of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) last night at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

Substitute Ak Md Abd Halim Pg Hj Hassan was brought down just outside the box with minutes before the final whistle. Md Najib stepped up and curled the ball to the top right corner for the win.

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, who earlier officiated at the opening ceremony of the tournament,was also present to witness the match.

Also in attendance was His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office; Their Royal Highnesses Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah, the National Football Association of Brunei Darussalam (NFABD) Honorary President, Prince 'Abdul Malik and Prince 'Abdul Wakeel.

Cambodia had the best of starts after Prak Mony Udom was brought down in the box by Abd Mu'iz Sisa in the sixth minute.

The former took the ensuing spotkick and made no mistake about it to give Cambodia a 1-0 lead.

The home team looked nervous after the early goal and Brunei fans were getting restless as the players were giving the ball away cheaply.

Striker Adi Said got behind the Cambodian backline in the 23rd minute and was brought down in the box, but the referee waved it off as the Brunei bench had their hands up in disbelief.

Boosted by the royal family and fans' support Brunei began to settle, but midfielder Chhin Chhoeun was a constant menace for the Brunei defence with his pace.

Cambodia were relying on their counter-attack and almost doubled their lead when Srey Udom was given space to work on the right but his cross saw Teab Vathanak's attempt inches wide off the Brunei post.

Brunei equallised just before the break after the Cambodian defence failed to clear the ball in the box allowing Md Hendra Azam Md Idris to drill in a low shot that slipped under the arms of Cambodia goalkeeper Sar Sophea.

The hosts came out storming in the second half. They were playing at a faster pace and were continuously on the attack, but they were also too wasteful.

Md Azwan Ali Rahman should have given the Sultanate the lead in the 54th minute, but his shot went just above the crossbar.

They finally found a breakthrough in the 75th minute for the lead. Brunei went on a counter-attack and substitute Md Shafie Hj Md Effendy slotted a perfect throughball for Adi to rifle home and put Brunei up at 2-1.

Md Azwan should have put the match to bed with his attempt in the 80th minute, but his shot was cleared off the line.

Cambodia levelled in the 83rd minute with a freekick by Chan Vathanaka which floated over the Brunei wall and over the outstretched arm of Mk Fakhrul Zulhazmi Yussof.

Both teams looked like they were going to share the spoils before Md Najib turned hero.

"It was a difficult game but the players showed good team organisation and good mentality," said Kwon Oh-son, the Brunei national coach, after the match.

"The defence was good, but our strikers lacked the finishing tonight (Saturday night). We have a short break before our next game (against Vietnam on Wednesday) and we shall prepare ourselves," he added.

THE national football team were 3-2 winners over Cambodia in their Group B game of the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy last night at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas.

And the team felt that they couldn't have done it without the 12th man with the venue packed with thousands of supporters for their opener.

"We would like to thank the crowd for the huge support that they gave us. We hope that they will continuously come to the stadium and pack it to the brim," said Hj Feisal Hj Eusoff, the manager of the Brunei team, after the win.

"Who are we without the supporters? They are definitely one of the reasons for our victory tonight (Saturday night)," he added. The Brunei Times